Outdoor Gear and Equipment

Best Medium Range Scope

CVLIFE 2.5-10x402

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Are you on the hunt for the best medium range scope? You have come to the right place. This guide highlights the best scopes for taking shots at medium ranges.

When it comes to hunting and shooting, the key to having a successful expedition is having a clear view of the subjects you are after. This is where a scope comes in. A good scope guarantees you will get right once you head out to hunt or shoot.

Whether you are an avid hunter/tactical shooter or just a beginner, a scope is a valuable accessory. It will help you find the targets easily, even in the toughest situations, and enhance your shooting speed and accuracy. A good scope will also boost your shooting confidence and hone your shooting skills.

With all that said, let’s get started.

7 Best Medium Range Scope

1) Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

Speed and versatility are the best features to describe the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 Second Focal Plane Riflescope. It harbors a plethora of shooter-friendly features, which make it ideal for both hunting and shooting.

The scope features a variable 1x to 8x zoom power, allowing you to engage targets at close and medium ranges out to 600 yards. To complement the ultra-versatile zoom range, the scope features a BDC3 reticle and thread-in throw the lever to ensure you will be on target rapidly.

Moreover, the scope features a fast-focus eyepiece designed to help you adjust the focus of the reticle quickly. In terms of construction, it features a 30mm single-piece tube crafted from aircraft-quality aluminum. The sturdy construction shrugs off recoil and impact to enhance durability.

The scope is also ideal for use under any weather condition and has anti-reflective lens coatings that provide for increased light transmission and superb low-light performance.

Features

  • 1-8x magnification range
  • Fast focus eyepiece
  • 30mm main tube
  • Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
  • Illuminated BDC3 MOA reticle
  • Thread-in throw lever

Pros

  • Capped turrets
  • High-quality construction
  • Decent eye relief
  • Exceptional accuracy

Cons

  • The parallax is fixed

 

2) CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope

CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope

The CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope is what you need to take your hunting skills a notch higher. It is easy to use and suitable for use in virtually any situation.

This variable power scope has an adjustable magnification that spans from 2.5x to 10x. This magnification offers the best combination of a large visual field at close quarters and rapid acquisition of targets at extended distances.

It also has a large 40mm objective lens, providing quality sight pictures across the whole zoom range.

The scope is built to offer unmatched visibility even in poor light settings. It has an illuminated reticle with 5 intensity levels to enhance the image and reticle contrast in all light settings. It also employs multi-coated green optics that optimize light transfer for bright, clear, and color-accurate image views.

Features

  • Robust aluminum housing
  • 5-10x magnification
  • Red and green reticle illumination
  • Multi-coated green lens

Pros

  • Good low-light visibility
  • Smooth magnification adjustment
  • The turrets are tall and easy to operate

Cons

  • Loose construction

 

3) Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope

Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope

If you are looking for a medium-range scope that offers unbeatable performance and great value for money, you have found it in the Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope. This all-around rifle scope offers relentless performance, in the hunting fields or shooting range.

With its versatile 3.5-10x magnification, the scope will get the job done in virtually any situation. It has a lightweight design for convenient portability and a duplex that is extremely accurate and easy to use.

Another facet that makes the scope shine is its high-end optical system. It offers unmatched light transmission, glare reduction, and resolution for superb performance in any lighting condition. Furthermore, the scope utilizes a ZeroLock custom dial system which simplifies medium-range shooting by doing away with the need for holdovers or ballistic calculations.

Above all, the scope has robust aluminum housing that is 100% waterproof, dustproof, fog proof, and shockproof.

Features

  • ZeroLock custom dial system
  • 1-inch main tube
  • Duplex CDS-ZL reticle
  • Matte finish
  • Leupold’s Elite optical system
  • Fully waterproof and fog proof
  • Variable 3.5-10x magnification

Pros

  • Ultra-lightweight and portable design
  • Long eye relief
  • Crisp clear optics

Cons

  • Small field of view
  • It is a 1-inch tube scope

 

4) Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope

Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Adjustable Objective Riflescope

The Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope is the best medium-range scope for budget buyers. It is remarkably affordable yet quality, reliable, and ideal for a wide range of hunting applications.

The scope features a second focal plane reticle Multi-X reticle for rapid and straightforward reticle illumination. When it comes to construction, it is crafted from high-quality materials to optimize durability. The scope also has a waterproof and fog-proof construction for all weather conditions.

Moreover, this rifle scope offers stunning HD clarity thanks to the quality optics it employs. It also brings a fast-focus eyepiece and 0.25 MOA fingertip adjustments for windage and elevation.

Features

  • Dusk & Dawn multi-coated lenses
  • 100% waterproof and fog proof
  • 3-9x variable magnification
  • Quality optics
  • Multi-X second focal plane reticle
  • 1/4 MOA windage and elevation adjustments

Pros

  • Budget-friendly
  • Superb HD clarity
  • Stunning low-light performance
  • Lightweight and compact design

Cons

  • Non-illuminated reticle
  • The eye relief is short

 

5) Burris Signature HD Hunting Scope

Burris Signature HD Hunting Scope

Next on our list of the best medium-range scope is the Burris Signature HD Hunting Scope. Built with premium features and ease of use in mind, this scope will help you make the most from your hunting and shooting expedition.

Unbeatable optical clarity awaits you when you get this scope. It uses premium, multi-coated glass, which produces crisp and bright images. It also possesses a large 44mm aperture which maximizes low-light performance.

Another impressive feature of the scope is that it is built on a legacy of reliability and durability. It has shockproof housing to weather any rough handling that comes it’s way. It is also fully waterproof and fog proof for all weather conditions.

Features

  • 3-15x magnification
  • Premium, multi-coated lenses
  • Zero stop on all target knobs
  • Waterproof and fog proof construction
  • 1-inch main tube
  • Ballistic plex reticle

Pros

  • Backed by Burris forever warranty
  • Manageable weight
  • Good glass
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • The compact tube length makes it hard to mount

 

6) Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12x40mm Scope

Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope

As one of the best medium-range scopes, the VX-Freedom 4-12x40mm offers great performance and dependability in a lightweight package. It is available at a great price and is suitable for hunting and shooting in the range.

Featuring a vast 4x to 14x magnification, the scope is ideal for medium to long-range applications. It is built around Leupold’s advanced Optical System to deliver quality image views in any situation. It also has a large 44mm objective lens which offers a large viewing angle and great low-light performance.

This VX-Freedom is built with the legendary Leupold ruggedness. It is scratch-resistant for greater protection and a shockproof body to withstand any punishment. You can also use it in rain, fog, and a wide range of temperatures thanks to the weather-resistant construction.

Features

  • Versatile 3:1 zoom ratio
  • Advanced optical system
  • Matte finish
  • Creedmoor reticle
  • Scratch resistant lenses
  • Waterproof and fog proof

Pros

  • Ultra-lightweight design
  • American made quality
  • Clear and bright optics
  • Stunning accuracy

Cons

  • No zero stop

 

7) Burris Fullfield E1 Hunting Scope

Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope

Last but not least, we have the Burris Fullfield E1 Hunting Scope. Designed for hunting enthusiasts, the scope delivers admirable performance in any hunting ground. It is also very simple to use, even for beginners.

The scope is built to offer a lifetime of field use. It has an ultra-rigid housing to withstand everyday use, heavy recoil, and harsh vibrations. Better yet, it is fully waterproof and nitrogen filled to prevent fogging while hunting in the cold and rain.

For added convenience, the scope has a lightweight design, a power ring that is easy to grip and turn, and an ergonomic side focus adjustment knob for parallax-free views from 50 yards to infinity. It also employs a ballistic plex E1 reticle, which is highly accurate and easy to use.

Features

  • Finger adjustable low profile turrets
  • Double internal spring-tension system
  • High-grade optical glass
  • Waterproof and fog proof
  • Ballistic plex E1 reticle
  • 3-9x magnification

Pros

  • Burris forever warranty
  • Easy to use and beginner-friendly
  • Lightweight design
  • Solid construction
  • Easy on the wallet

Cons

  • The parallax and zoom are slightly stiff to adjust

 

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Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Medium Range Scope

Magnification

The first thing to take into account is magnification. For medium-range hunting and shooting, a moderate-powered scope will do. Any variable scope with 10x magnification or less will be enough for all your expeditions.

Glass Quality

If the scope you are using provides dull and less clear image views, it will not help you. To avoid look for a scope that employs the best glass quality you can afford. Additionally, the scope should have a quality lens to be in line with the overall scope and glass quality.

Reticle

A reticle is the heart of every scope, providing the aiming point. When choosing a reticle, consider how you will be using the scope and the lighting conditions you will be shooting in mainly. This will guide you in making the right reticle selection.

Durability

Another important factor to consider when purchasing the best medium-range scope is durability. A durable and reliable scope will withstand fierce recoil, harsh vibrations, and shock to offer a lifetime of field use.

Weatherproof

Ensure that the scope you select is built to be usable in all weather conditions. This is irrespective of the application you will be using the scope for. A scope that is O-ring sealed and filled with inert gas will offer a lifetime of field use irrespective of the weather conditions.

Weight

The best medium-range scope is lightweight for easy use and mobility convenience. When hunting, a light scope goes a long way in ensuring that you have a successful expedition. It will be convenient to traverse within the field looking for a game. Besides, lightweight scopes tend to be more effective at scattering recoil.

Eye Relief

Irrespective of whether you wear eyewear, ensure that you pick a scope that offers generous eye relief. This is the maximum distance from the scope’s eyepiece to your eye. A scope with 3.5 inches of eye relief or more will help you find targets easily and keep your eye safe from fierce recoiling rifles.

Cost

Lastly, consider the cost. Like any other item, expect to pay more for a top-notch model. But if you are on a budget, you can still find a quality yet cost-effective scope that serves your needs.

 

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Best Medium Range Scope FAQs

1) How far can you see with a 3-9×40 scope?

This will depend on the type and quality of scope you are using and the environmental condition. On average, you can shoot out to 1,000 yards if your scope has decent optics, good turrets, and if the environmental factors are favorable.

2) What magnification do I need for the medium range?

For medium-range hunting and shooting, it is difficult to determine the optimal magnification level as our needs are all different. On average, a fixed power scope with 4x magnification will do. A variable power scope with not more than 9x magnification will also be ideal.

3) What is the best scope for hunting?

The best scope for hunting is one that works for your individual needs, hunting habits, and the type of game you hunt.

Final Thoughts

The best medium-range scope will help enhance your chances of acquiring the target effortlessly. This is irrespective of the shooting and hunting application you will be engaged in. Go through the features that make each scope unique, then use this guide to find a model that works for you and your hunting/shooting needs.

 

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