At 300 yards, even minor imperfections in optical performance can translate to significant deviations on target, and that’s where Nightforce truly stands out. In this guide, we will walk you through the best Nightforce scopes for 300 yards benchrest and help you find the ideal model for your needs.
When it comes to precision shooting at 300 yards, especially in benchrest competitions, every detail counts. Nightforce has carved a reputation for delivering optics uncompromising accuracy, rock-solid durability, and repeatable tracking performance. Additionally, these scopes are designed with the long-range precision shooter in mind, featuring exceptional glass clarity, tactical-style turrets, and fine reticles.
Best Nightforce Scopes for 300 Yards Benchrest
1. NightForce ATACR 5-25x56mm ZeroStop Rifle Scope
The ATACR 5-25x56mm ZeroStop Rifle Scope is the best NightForce scope for 300 yards benchrest.
It is crafted with a 34mm main tube and oversized 56mm objective lens that offer outstanding light transmission and clarity, even in low-light environments. Furthermore, versatile 5-25x magnification range makes it ideal for everything from mid-range shots to extreme long-distance engagements.
Optically, the extra-low dispersion glass delivers exceptional resolution and color contrast, which translates to crisp, bright images at every magnification level. Moreover, the forgiving eye box and generous eye relief enhance comfort and consistency when acquiring targets under pressure.
What truly sets the ATACR apart is its rugged reliability and precision-engineered mechanics. The ZeroStop elevation turret ensures a quick and accurate return to zero, even after multiple adjustments in the field. On top of that, the tactile and audible clicks on the windage and elevation turrets provide a satisfying sense of control.
Above all, the scope holds zero exceptionally well under recoil and its robust construction is waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant.
Pros
- Consistent accuracy and reliable performance
- Outstanding optical excellence
- Built to last
- Generous and consistent eye relief
Cons
- Heavy
2. NightForce Competition 15-55x52mm Rifle Scope
As one of the best NightForce scopes for 300 yards benchrest, the Competition 15-55x52mm is a premium choice for those demanding absolute precision, rugged dependability, and optical excellence.
At its core, this scope offers an impressive magnification range of 15x to 55x, allowing for incredible target detail and precision engagement at extreme distances. Furthermore, the 52mm objective lens ensures excellent light transmission, producing bright and sharp images even at high magnification.
The high-quality ED glass and multi-coated lenses deliver outstanding clarity and minimal chromatic aberration. Moreover, the side parallax adjustment is smooth and accurate, and the turrets are extremely tactile, offering precise 1/8 MOA adjustments.
Another feature that sets this scope apert is its combination of lightweight design and optical performance. Weighing just over 27 ounces, it is surprisingly light for its class, reducing fatigue when mounted on competition rigs.
Moreover, the 30mm main tube offers ample elevation adjustment range while maintaining a sleek, low-profile build.
Pros
- Reliable and easy to set zero-stop function
- A reticle system that is purpose-built for precision work
- Rugged construction
- High-Speed Windage and Elevation adjustments of .125MOA
Cons
- Short eye relief
3. NightForce NX8 Rifle Scope, 4-32X50mm
Next, we have the NightForce NX8 4-32x50mm rifle scope. This optic delivers premium performance in a compact and rugged package.
With a magnification range of 4x to 32x, it provides incredible versatility, whether you’re engaging targets up close or dialing out to extended distances. The 50mm objective lens ensures excellent light transmission, delivering bright, sharp images even in low-light conditions.
Furthermore, the scope is engineered for durability. Built around a robust 30mm main, it provides exceptional durability and repeatable performance under demanding conditions.
Moreover, the ZeroStop elevation adjustment system is a notable feature, allowing for fast and precise return to zero. This rifle scope also features a side parallax adjustment to further enhance accuracy across the entire magnification range.
Pros
- Unmatched clarity and precision under high magnification
- Excellent craftsmanship
- Crisp and highly functional illuminated reticle
- Ample adjustment range
Cons
- Narrow eye relief
4. NightForce SHV 4-14x50mm Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube
If you are looking for a NightForce scope that balances high-end performance with rugged reliability, the SHV 4-14x50mm Rifle Scope suits you.
Its 30mm main tube construction provides exceptional durability and robust adjustment ranges, making it ideal for a wide range of calibers and shooting conditions. Furthermore, the variable 4-14x magnification range offers excellent versatility from close-range shots in wooded terrain to long-distance targeting in open fields.
Regarding optics, the 50mm objective lens gathers ample light in low light settings. Combined with NightForce’s proprietary lens coatings, the scope delivers bright, high-contrast images across the entire zoom range.
Moreover, the crisp MOAR or IHR reticle options offer fine aiming precision without clutter, ensuring fast target acquisition and precise shot placement. This rifle scope also boasts crisp and tactile elevation and windage adjustments that allow shooters to confidently dial in their shots without second-guessing the mechanics.
Pros
- Excellent glass clarity and resolution
- Rugged and durable build
- Side parallax adjustment
- Generous internal adjustment range
- Smooth and precise turrets
Cons
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Non-locking turrets
5. NightForce 8-32x56mm NXS Rifle Scope 30mm Tube
Here is one of the best Nightforce scopes for 300 benchrest for professional marksmen and competitive shooters.
The NightForce 8-32x56mm NXS Rifle Scope offers outstanding optical performance with a 56mm objective lens that delivers remarkable clarity and brightness, even in low-light conditions.
Its 8-32x magnification range provides incredible versatility, from mid-range shots to extreme distances, while maintaining edge-to-edge clarity. The scope also features a fast-focus eyepiece, zero-stop turrets, and precise MOA or Mil-R adjustments for quick target acquisition and repeatable accuracy.
Regarding construction, the scope is built with a robust 30mm aluminum tube. It provides ample space for adjustments and engineered to withstand harsh recoil and environmental abuse. On top of that, it is fully waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof to ensure reliable performance in the most demanding field conditions.
Pros
- Solid and tactile turrets
- Elite optical performance
- Unmatched durability
- Speed and accuracy in all situations
Cons
- Big budget
6. NightForce SHV 5-20x56mm Rifle Scope
This scope is not only a tool for precision, it’s an investment in consistency and confidence at extreme ranges.
Built with a large 56mm objective lens, the NightForce SHV 5-20x56mm proves to be a premium scope that gathers exceptional light, delivering crisp and bright images. Besides, its 5-20x magnification range allows for excellent versatility, from mid-range engagements to extreme long-distance shooting.
Regarding construction, the scope features a 30mm main tube that offers ample elevation and windage adjustment while maintaining structural integrity under recoil. Additionally, the tube is fully waterproof and fog-proof for reliable performance under different weather conditions.
Other essential features included are a side parallax adjustment and exposed elevation turret that are smooth and tactile, ensuring quick and accurate dialing for changing conditions.
Pros
- Solid housing built to withstand harsh environments
- Top-tier optical clarity
- Illuminated reticle
- Outstanding precision
- Quick and easy diopter adjustment
- User-friendly controls
Cons
- Comparatively heavy
7. NightForce NF Benchrest Rifle Scope
Last but not least, we have the NightForce NF Benchrest Rifle Scope. As a precision instrument engineered for serious long-range shooters, the scope delivers consistency, optical excellence, and the confidence needed to push your shooting to the next level.
Its standout magnification range of 12x to 42x allows for extreme long-distance targeting, ideal for benchrest competitions and meticulous load development. It is complemented by the large 56mm objective lens which delivers exceptional light transmission, even at higher magnifications.
Furthermore, the scope’s multi-coated lenses and superior glass quality contribute to excellent optical clarity and contrast, allowing the shooter to detect even the smallest details downrange.
Regarding construction, this rifle scope is built with a rugged 30mm main tube. It provides ample elevation and windage adjustment, and its parallax adjustment, located on the objective bell, allows for fine-tuning focus as close as 25 yards to infinity.
Above all, the scope lives up to Nightforce reputation with a robust construction that can handle heavy recoil and harsh environmental conditions without losing zero.
Pros
- Precise and repeatable click adjustments
- Tactile and well-marked turrets
- Purpose-built for precision
- Holds zero consistently
- Speed and accuracy in all situations
Cons
- Narrow eye relief
Why Nightforce scopes for 300 Yards Benchrest?
Nightforce scopes are a top choice among competitive shooters, with a strong track record in precision shooting disciplines, including 300-yard benchrest. They stand out in the following ways:
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Exceptional Optical Clarity: Nightforce scopes are renowned for their superior glass quality. They offer crisp, high-resolution images crucial for precisely seeing tiny targets at 300 yards.
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Reliable Tracking and Adjustments: The best Nightforce scopes for 300 yards benchrest provide highly repeatable, precise turret adjustments This is an essential feature for benchrest shooting where consistent performance is critical.
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High Magnification Options: Nightforce scopes offer versatile magnification ranges tailored for benchrest shooting across vast ranges.
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Rugged and Durable Construction: Furthermore, these scopes are built to withstand recoil and harsh conditions. The excellent craftsmanship also maintain zero and reliability over time, even with frequent use.
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Repeatable Zero and Zero Stop: Features such as zero stop and return-to-zero mechanisms allow shooters to confidently dial in and return to exact settings during matches.
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Nightforce Scopes for 300 Yards Benchrest
Optical Clarity and Glass Quality
At 300 yards, precise target acquisition and shot placement rely heavily on superior optics. Nightforce is known for its exceptional glass quality, and when choosing a scope for benchrest shooting, look for models with high-definition, ED glass and fully multi-coated lenses. These features ensure bright, clear, and sharp images.
Magnification Range
For 300-yard benchrest shooting, a mid-to-high magnification scope is ideal. Too much magnification can lead to a narrow field of view and image distortion, while too little won’t provide the precision needed for tight groupings. Look for a Nightforce scope that offers a magnification range in the 15x to 32x zone. The right range ensures you can focus clearly on your target and adjust as needed based on lighting and mirage.
Reticle Type
A fine and precise reticle is essential for benchrest accuracy. Nightforce offers a variety of reticles designed with competitive shooters in mind. These reticles offer clean aiming points without obstructing the target, and some include hash marks or dots for more precise elevation and windage corrections.
Tracking Accuracy and Turrets
The best Nightforce scopes for 300 yards benchrest feature reliable and repeatable turret adjustments for dialing in precise corrections. For this application, you’ll also need turrets that provide audible, tactile clicks with precise MOA or MIL adjustments and a zero-reset feature to simplify return-to-zero after adjustments.
Parallax Adjustment
At 300 yards, parallax can introduce noticeable aiming errors if not corrected. A scope with a side parallax adjustment, helps you fine-tune the reticle focus relative to the target. This feature is especially beneficial for ensuring that your point of aim and point of impact align exactly.
Price and Value for Money
When considering price, think long-term investment. Nightforce scopes are built to last and often outshine similarly priced competitors. Choose a model that fits your budget while offering the specific features you need for benchrest accuracy at 300 yards
Build Quality and Durability
Lastly, consider build quality and durability. Even in a benchrest environment where recoil and abuse are minimal, you want a scope that maintains zero under all conditions. The best Nightforce scopes for 300 yards benchrest are built with rugged materials to withstand recoil and abuse. The best models are also waterproof and shock-resistant.
Best Nightforce Scopes for 300 Yards Benchrest FAQs
- What magnification is best for 300-yard benchrest shooting?
A magnification range in the 15x to 32x zone is ideal. It allows you to clearly see bullet holes or tight groupings on target at 300 yards, which is crucial for making precise adjustments and shot calls.
- Should I go for a first focal plane (FFP) or second focal plane (SFP) scope?
For benchrest shooting, second focal plane scopes are preferred because the reticle stays the same size regardless of magnification, offering a finer aiming point at high zoom levels.
- Is zero stop important for benchrest shooting?
Yes, a zero stop feature is very useful. It ensures you can quickly return to your exact zero after making elevation adjustments during a match or practice.
Final Words
To wrap it up, Nightforce scopes are renowned for their exceptional optical clarity, rugged construction, precise tracking, and repeatability. These key features are required in precision disciplines like 300-yard benchrest shooting.
Look at the attributes that each rifle scope brings to the table and choose the model that delivers repeatable precision and optimal performance for 300-yard benchrest shooting.