When you’re stretching a .223 Remington to 500 yards, the scope you pick makes a big difference in clarity, precision, and consistency. In this guide, we will walk you through the best scopes for 223 at 500 yards and help you choose an optic that delivers sharp visuals, dependable adjustments, and confidence with every shot.
Since .223 is relatively flat-shooting but sensitive to wind at that distance, you’ll need a scope with good glass, reliable tracking, and enough magnification without going overboard. Additionally, the scope should be rugged enough to withstand abuse and repeated recoil without compromising performance.
Best Scopes for 223 at 500 yards
Whether you’re target shooting, hunting varmints, or honing your skills at the range, here are the best scopes for 223 at 500 yards.
Let’s take a look!
1. Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm is the best scope for 223 at 500 yards. It is a powerhouse scope that delivers excellent performance for long-range shooters who demand precision and reliability.
The highlight of this rifle scope is its reticle system. Built with a first focal plane reticle, it ensures accurate holdovers and ranging at any magnification, which is especially useful when stretching shots out past 500 yards.
Furthermore, the glass clarity is sharp and bright even in low-light conditions, thanks to fully multi-coated lenses and quality optical engineering. The 30mm tube construction provides ample adjustment range for elevation and windage, while the exposed turrets are crisp, tactile, and easy to zero.
Durability is another strong point of this optic. It is designed and built from aircraft-grade aluminum and sealed to be both waterproof and fog-proof. This ensures consistent performance in rugged field conditions.
Despite its toughness, the scope maintains a refined design that balances weight and usability, making it suitable for both hunting and tactical applications.
Pros
- Intuitive reticle options
- Exceptional image brightness and clarity
- Rugged construction withstands recoil and impacts
- Versatile for hunting and tactical applications
Cons
- Limited eye relief
2. Vortex Diamondback Tactical FFP
This Vortex Diamondback Tactical FFP 4-16x44mm 30mm Tube First Focal Plane Rifle Scope is the ultimate long-range optic for hunting, target shooting, and competitive match events.
It is built with a sturdy 30mm tube and a first focal plane reticle to offer reliable durability and precise holdovers across the magnification range. Furthermore, the glass quality is impressive for its class, delivering crisp and bright visuals even in low-light conditions, while the fully multi-coated lenses enhance clarity and color fidelity.
Regarding magnification, its 4-16x zoom range provides plenty of versatility, making it equally suitable for mid-range hunting, long-range target shooting, and tactical applications. Furthermore, the parallax adjustment and exposed tactical turrets are smooth and precise, giving shooters confidence in their adjustments for elevation and windage.
Another area where the Diamondback Tactical shines is in its usability and value. The first focal plane design ensures that the sub-tensions of the EBR-2C reticle remain accurate at any magnification. Over and above that, the scope tracks reliably and holds zero well, even under heavy recoil, which is essential for consistency in the field.
Pros
- Robust construction to withstand rugged outdoor use without compromising performance
- Excellent light transmission and optical performance
- Streamlined profile
- Great value for the price
- Long eye relief
Cons
- Non-illuminated
3. Burris Droptine 4.5-14x42mm
As one of the best scopes for 223 at 500 yards, the Burris Droptine 4.5-14x42mm SFP Rifle Scope is a well-balanced optic designed with hunters and long-range shooters in mind.
Its magnification range of 4.5-14x offers versatility for everything from close woodland shots to extended-range open country hunts. It is complemented by a 42mm objective lens that provides a bright and clear sight picture, even in lower light conditions, while maintaining a manageable size and weight for easy carry in the field.
Regarding construction, the scope is built on a 1-inch tube. It offers a sleek profile that mounts easily on most rifles without adding unnecessary bulk. Furthermore, the rugged construction is designed to withstand recoil from larger calibers, as well as harsh field conditions. The scope also holds zero consistently and offers smooth, precise adjustments for windage and elevation.
To top it all off, the Ballistic Plex reticle is straightforward and effective, giving shooters reliable holdover points without unnecessary clutter.
Pros
- Excellent clarity and dependable performance
- User-friendly functionality at a more accessible price point
- Rugged construction
- Ease of use
Cons
- Built on a 1-inch tube which means limited room for adjustments
4. NightForce SHV 4-14x50mm Rifle Scope
Carrying the renowned NightForce name, the NightForce SHV 4-14x50mm Rifle Scope strikes an excellent balance between affordability and premium features. As a result, it is the go-to option for hunters, tactical shooters.
With a 30mm tube and first focal plane reticle, the scope is built for shooters who demand precision, durability, and clarity in a wide range of environments. From the moment you mount it, the scope feels solid and well-balanced, reflecting NightForce’s reputation for rugged construction.
Furthermore, the glass quality is exceptionally sharp, providing crisp and bright visuals even in low-light conditions. The first focal plane design ensures that reticle sub-tensions remain accurate across the entire 4-14x magnification range, which is a huge advantage for those who rely on quick range estimations or holdovers in the field
In terms of performance, the SHV delivers consistent tracking with reliable and tactile turrets, giving shooters confidence in every adjustment. Additionally, the parallax adjustment and side focus enhance accuracy at varying distances, while the generous eye relief provides comfort and reduces strain during extended sessions behind the rifle.
Above all, the scope is engineered to withstand tough conditions, from recoil-heavy calibers to harsh weather, without losing zero or compromising optical performance.
Pros
- Rugged construction to endure years of demanding use
- Illuminated reticle
- Precision optics
- Holds zero consistently
Cons
- Narrow eye relief
5. Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm Rifle Scope
For hunters seeking a dependable, high-performing optic that balances magnification power with portability, look no further than the Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm. It is built with avid hunters in mind, offering exceptional value and reliability in the field.
Its selling point is the 4.5-14x zoom range. This magnification power makes it versatile enough for both close-to-midrange hunting situations and longer shots across open terrain. Furthermore, the 40mm objective lens, paired with Leupold’s elite HD lenses and proprietary coatings, delivers excellent light transmission, crisp edge-to-edge clarity, and reliable performance in low-light conditions.
Regarding reticle, the second focal plane reticle maintains a consistent size across the magnification range, making it simple to acquire targets quickly without distraction. On top of that, the 1-inch tube keeps the scope lightweight and easy to mount on a variety of rifles.
Durability is another area where the VX-3HD stands out. True to Leupold’s reputation, it is shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof to withstand demanding backcountry hunts and harsh weather conditions.
Pros
- Precise elevation and windage adjustments
- Intuitive and responsive low-profile turrets
- Generous eye relief
- Rugged and reliable build quality
- Lightweight design
Cons
- Non-illuminated
6. Vortex Crossfire II AO 4-16x50mm Rifle Scope
Last but not least, we have the Vortex Crossfire II AO 4-16x50mm. It is a solid choice for hunters and long-range shooters who want clarity and performance without breaking the bank.
As one of the best scopes for 223 at 500 yards, it features an adjustable objective that provides excellent parallax correction, ensuring crisp focus from close distances out to long-range targets. Furthermore, the large 50mm objective lens allows plenty of light transmission, making it easy to acquire a bright sight picture even during early morning or late evening hunts.
Optically, the scope’s fully multi-coated lenses enhance clarity and contrast, while the generous eye relief and forgiving eye box make it comfortable to use during extended sessions. Moreover, the Dead-Hold BDC reticle is particularly useful for compensating bullet drop without constantly adjusting turrets.
With its durable aircraft-grade aluminum construction, the Crossfire II is built to withstand recoil and rugged outdoor conditions. The optical tube is 100% waterproof, fog-proof, and dustproof to deliver consistent performance in different weather conditions.
Pros
- Smooth and precise adjustments
- Capped reset turrets that make zeroing straightforward and reliable
- Sharp optics
- Dependable and long-lasting build quality
- Affordable
Cons
- Lacks the advanced features of higher-end optics
Key Factors to Look for in the Best Scopes for 223 at 500 Yards
When choosing the best scope for a .223 rifle at 500 yards, consider the following key factors:
Magnification
One of the first features to consider is magnification power. A range of 4–16x or 6–24x strikes the right balance, offering enough zoom to clearly identify and engage targets at distance without sacrificing too much field of view. Extremely high magnification may look appealing on paper, but it often reduces image brightness and makes it harder to maintain situational awareness.
Objective Lens
The objective lens size also plays a critical role in performance. A lens in the 40–50mm range provides sufficient light transmission for a bright and clear image, especially in varying lighting conditions. Going much larger only adds unnecessary weight to your rifle setup, which can be a drawback if you plan to carry it over long distances.
Turret and Tracking System
Another important factor to consider is the turrets and tracking system. For shooting at 500 yards, exposed and tactical-style turrets are ideal because they allow for precise adjustments on the fly. The best scopes for 223 at 500 yards should also have reliable and repeatable clicks. This ensures your scope can track accurately when dialing for elevation and windage.
Reticle
The choice of reticle can make or break your shooting experience. Options like BDC, MRAD, or MOA reticles are well-suited for 500-yard shooting because they feature holdover marks. These reference points help you quickly compensate for bullet drop and wind drift without always needing to adjust the turrets. Furthermore, a well-designed reticle saves time and boosts accuracy when engaging targets at varying distances.
Eye Relief
The eye relief and eye box are also worth considering. At high magnifications, a generous eye relief of at least 3.5 inches and a forgiving eye box make it easier to acquire targets quickly and maintain comfort during extended shooting sessions. This is especially important if you’re shooting from different positions or using a rifle with noticeable recoil.
Parallax Adjustment
Another factor is parallax adjustment, which becomes more critical at longer ranges. A side-focus or adjustable objective allows you to eliminate parallax error at 500 yards, ensuring your crosshairs stay on target even if your head position shifts slightly. This fine-tuning helps deliver more accurate shots over extended distances.
Weight and Balance
Next, consider the weight and overall balance of the scope. While larger scopes with high magnification offer better clarity at 500 yards, they can also add unnecessary bulk to your rifle. For the best scopes for 223 at 500 yards, find a model that strikes the right balance between performance and portability. This will ensure that your .223 remains versatile, whether for target shooting, varmint hunting, or tactical applications.
Glass Quality
Finally, the quality of the glass cannot be overlooked. At 500 yards, the clarity and crispness of your optic are essential for spotting impacts and making precise shots. High-quality glass reduces eye strain and enhances detail recognition, giving you an edge when conditions are less than ideal. The best scopes for 223 at 500 yards should also feature premium coatings and resolution to ensure that what you see downrange is as sharp and accurate as possible.
Best Scopes for 223 at 500 Yards FAQs
- Can a .223 rifle shoot accurately at 500 yards?
Yes. While the .223 is not primarily designed as a long-range cartridge, with the right barrel twist, match-grade ammo, and a quality scope, it maintains accuracy at 500 yards and above.
- What magnification scope is best for shooting .223 at 500 yards?
A scope in the 4-16x or 6-24x range is recommended. Higher magnification helps with target identification, but clarity and glass quality matter more than just magnification.
- Should I use a first focal plane (FFP) or second focal plane (SFP) scope?
It depends on your use case and shooting preferences. For long-range shooting at 500 yards, an FFP scope is preferred because the reticle’s holdovers stay accurate across all magnifications. However, SFP works best for hunting.
Parting Shot
Hopefully, you have found this buying guide comprehensive and insightful. When shooting a .223 at 500 yards, precision, clarity, and durability matter the most in your choice of scope. Look at the features that each rifle scope brings to the table and choose wisely.