Are you in the market for the best varmint scopes? this comprehensive buying guide covers the best varmint scopes available today.
Varmint hunting requires precision at varying distances, often beyond 300 yards. Unlike deer or big-game hunting, shots are usually smaller and more sensitive to wind. A good varmint scope maximizes accuracy, target clarity, and long-range performance.
What Magnification Do You Need?
For the best Varmint scopes, the ideal magnification range depends on the type of varmint hunting you’re doing, the typical distance you’ll be shooting.
4-12x is the recommended close-range magnification for varmint hunting up to 100–150 yards. This range allows fast target acquisition and sufficient detail to make precise shots without excessive shake.
On the other hand, 12–20× is recommended for medium to long-varmint hunting. It provides the ability to see smaller targets clearly.
Best Varmint Scopes
1. Vortex 3-12×56 Adjustable Objective Hog Hunter
The Vortex 3-12×56 Adjustable Objective Hog Hunter Crossfire II riflescope is the best varmint scope. It excels hunting in the lowest light with a V-Brite reticle and over-sized objective that allow hunters to operate from the brush with the utmost confidence.
The scope features an adjustable objective that provides image focus and parallax removal. Furthermore, it has anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses that provide bright and clear views, even in low light settings.
With long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, you’ll be able to quickly get a sight picture and acquire your target. Besides, the fast focus eyepiece allows quick and easy reticle focusing.
Another feature that makes the scope stand out is its build quality. It features a single-piece tube constructed from aircraft grade aluminum. The tube ensures strength and shockproof performance. It is also O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged to delivers waterproof and fog-proof performance.
Pros
- Exceptional low light performance
- Versatile 3-12x magnification
- Rugged build to withstand hard use
- Illuminated reticle for precise aiming under low-light conditions
- Generous eye relief
Cons
- Lacks advanced features found in higher-end models
2. Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope, Ballistic Plex Reticle
The Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope with the Ballistic Plex reticle is an exceptional choice for hunters seeking reliability and precision without overcomplicating their setup.
Its optical clarity is impressive, delivering bright and sharp images across a wide range of lighting conditions, from dawn to dusk. Furthermore, the Ballistic Plex reticle is thoughtfully designed, allowing for accurate holdovers at various distances without the need for complex calculations.
Adjustments are smooth and intuitive, with precise windage and elevation turrets that provide a satisfying tactile feedback. This makes zeroing in on targets straightforward and consistent.
Another standout feature of the Burris Fullfield II is its versatility. The scope balances weight and durability, making it comfortable for long hunting trips without compromising on stability or sturdiness.
Furthermore, the multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission, giving hunters a clear view of game even in low-light situations. The overall design is user-friendly, whether you’re a seasoned marksman or a novice hunter, with straightforward mounting options and minimal fuss in the field.
Above all, the scope is built with a rugged, aircraft-grade aluminum construction, making it resistant to recoil, moisture, and fog for dependable performance in all weather conditions.
Pros
- Rugged construction
- Exceptional optical quality
- Intuitive reticle design
- Reasonably lightweight design
Cons
- Non-illuminated
3. BARSKA Varmint Crosshair Reticle Precision Riflescope
As one of the best varmint scopes, the BARSKA Varmint Crosshair Reticle Precision Riflescope is an impressive addition to any hunter’s arsenal, particularly for those on a budget.
The highlight of this rifle scope is its build quality. It is solid and well-constructed, with a durable, matte-finished tube that resists glare and minor scratches. Furthermore, the mounting system is straightforward, ensuring a secure fit on most rifles, and once sighted in, it holds zero well, even after repeated handling.
Optically, the lens is clear and bright, providing crisp images even in low-light conditions. This is essential for early morning or late evening hunts. The crosshair reticle is finely tuned for accuracy, offering precise aiming without overwhelming the target, and the magnification range allows for a versatile approach to varying distances.
More importantly, adjustments for windage and elevation are smooth and predictable, giving users confidence in making accurate shots at extended ranges. Over and above that, it’s lightweight yet rugged, easy to use, and provides the accuracy needed for varmint hunting and precision shooting without the complexity of more advanced optic.
Pros
- Bright and clear optics
- Lightweight design
- Ease of use
- Value for money
Cons
- Falls apart quickly after rough, repeated use
4. ATN X-Sight LTV 3-9x30mm Day/Night
The ATN X-Sight LTV 3-9x30mm Day/Night Hunting Rifle Scope delivers a remarkable combination of versatility and performance for hunters looking to take varmint hunting a notch higher.
One of its most impressive features is its seamless day and night functionality. It allows for clear visibility in a variety of lighting conditions.
Furthermore, the 3-9x magnification range offers excellent flexibility for both close- and mid-range shots, while the 30mm objective lens ensures a bright, sharp image. Also integrated are digital enhancements like range estimation and ballistic calculators that make precise targeting simpler, even in low-light environments.
Another highlight of the X-Sight LTV is its intuitive interface and user-friendly controls. The scope’s menu system is straightforward for hunters to quickly adjust settings without fumbling in critical moments. On top of that, the reticle is crisp and clear, and its illumination options improve visibility during dawn or dusk hunts.
The scope also includes video recording capabilities, which is a great tool for reviewing hunts or sharing experiences. Mounting is secure and stable, ensuring that zero holds well under repeated use.
Pros
- Reliable, all-weather build quality
- Dual day and night functionality
- Lightweight design
- Easy to mount
- Straightforward to operate
Cons
- Limited battery life
5. Vortex Viper HD 3-15×44 Rifle Scope
Vortex optics are revered for their versatility, build quality, and value for money, and the Viper HD 3-15×44 Rifle Scope is no different. With a 30mm tube and second focal plane reticle offers an impressive combination of clarity and rugged design.
The selling point of this rifle scope is its high-definition optical system. It delivers crisp, bright images across a wide range of magnifications. Additionally, the scope’s fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission and reduce glare, resulting in excellent low-light performance during dawn or dusk hunts.
Regarding construction, the 30mm main tube provides ample internal adjustment for elevation and windage, while the second focal plane reticle ensures that the sub-tensions remain consistent, simplifying holdover calculations at higher magnifications.
Above all, the Viper HD’s robust construction is both shockproof and waterproof, allowing it to withstand harsh weather conditions and the recoil of powerful rifles without losing zero.
Pros
- Competitive price point
- Versatile 3-15x magnification range
- Lightweight for its size, which makes it easy to carry during long treks
- Rugged durability
- Sharp optics
Cons
- Short eye relief
6. NightForce NXS 5-22x56mm Zero Stop Rifle Scope
The NightForce NXS 5-22x56mm Zero Stop Rifle Scope is our last recommendation for the best varmint scopes.
It is a precision-engineered optic that excels in both versatility and clarity, making it a top choice for hunting enthusiasts. The 5-22x magnification range offers a perfect balance between close-range engagement and extreme long-distance precision, allowing hunters to adapt to varying environments with ease.
More importantly, the optics are impressively clear, even in low-light conditions. This is thanks to the fully multi-coated lenses that enhance light transmission and reduce glare. Additionally, the large 56mm objective lens collects ample light, making dawn and dusk hunts far more productive.
Beyond optical finesse, the scope features a ZeroStop feature that is intuitive and reliable, enabling users to return to their zero quickly without guesswork. The turrets are crisp and precise, offering tactile feedback that makes dialing in adjustments quick and confidence-inspiring.
Durability is another standout attribute of the NightForce NXS. It is built from aircraft-grade aluminum that is rugged enough to withstand heavy recoil, harsh weather, and rigorous field use without losing performance. The optical tube is also 100% waterproof, fog-proof, and dustproof.
Pros
- Straightforward mounting process
- Exceptional optical performance
- Long, eyeglass-friendly eye relief
- Rock-solid construction
- User-friendly features
Cons
- On the heavier side compared to other scopes in its class
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Varmint Scopes
When selecting a varmint scope, consider these key factors before settling for any particular model:
Magnification Range
One of the most critical factors is magnification range. Varmint hunting often involves shooting small targets at long distances, so a scope with a high and adjustable magnification is essential. Scopes that offer a wide magnification range, such as 6-24x or 4-16x, allow hunters to accurately identify and engage targets at both short and extreme ranges. A higher magnification also helps in observing subtle movements and spotting small varmints in open fields.
Objective Lens
Another important consideration is the objective lens diameter, which directly affects light transmission and image clarity. Larger objective lenses, such as 40mm or 50mm, gather more light, producing a brighter and sharper image, especially during low-light conditions like dawn or dusk. However, larger lenses can add weight and bulk to your rifle, so finding a balance between clarity and portability is crucial.
Reticle Type
Furthermore, reticle type is also a major factor for varmint scopes. Choosing the right reticle depends on your shooting style and the distances you intend to engage. Hunters targeting extremely small varmints may prefer a simple, thin reticle to avoid covering the target. On the other hand, a fine crosshair or a mil-dot reticle allows for precise aiming on small targets without obscuring them, while illuminated reticles can be useful in dim lighting.
Optical Clarity
Next, consider optical clarity and lens quality. High-quality glass with anti-reflective coatings ensures sharp images, excellent contrast, and minimal distortion. Furthermore, clear optics make it easier to identify subtle movements in the field, which is crucial when dealing with alert and cautious varmints. The best varmint scopes should also have multi-coated lenses for superior performance, especially in varied lighting conditions.
Adjustment Precision
Moreover, adjustment precision is another factor that greatly influences accuracy. Scopes designed for varmint hunting should have reliable windage and elevation turrets that allow for precise clicks, ideally in quarter or eighth MOA increments. This level of adjustment helps compensate for bullet drop and wind drift over long distances, which is common when hunting small game in open areas.
Build Quality
Durability and build quality are essential considerations. The best varmint scopes must withstand harsh outdoor conditions, including extreme temperatures, moisture, and rough handling. A scope made from aircraft-grade aluminum, with waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof features, ensures longevity and consistent performance in the field.
Weight and Size
Finally, weight and overall size play a significant role, especially for hunters who carry their rifles over long distances. A heavy or bulky scope can affect balance and make it tiring to carry the rifle for extended periods. Conversely, compact and lightweight designs that maintain high optical performance provide a good compromise between portability and functionality, ensuring comfort without sacrificing accuracy.
FAQs
- Are illuminated scopes necessary for varmint hunting?
Not strictly. They’re helpful in dawn, dusk, or dense foliage, but most varmint hunting happens in daylight, so non-illuminated scopes are usually sufficient.
- Should I choose a fixed or variable power scope?
Variable power is the best for varmint hunting. You can use lower magnification for tracking moving targets up close and higher magnification for precise long-range shots.
- What magnification is best for varmint hunting?
Variable scopes like 4-16x or 6-24x are the best for varmint hunting as they provide flexibility for different terrains. This range also allows you to spot and accurately shoot small targets at long distances.
Final Words
To wrap it up, choosing the best varmint scope comes down to precision, clarity, and adaptability. Whether you’re targeting coyotes, prairie dogs, or other small game at varying distances, a quality scope ensures accurate shot placement and a more successful hunt. Look at the feature each rifle scope is equipped with and settle for a model that suits your environment and shooting style.