Do you want to buy the best shotgun scope? In today’s comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 5 of the best options to elevate your shooting experience.
Shotguns are mostly used for turkey and big game hunting. They are also ideal for competitive shooting and tactical shooting.
However, if you want to improve your shooting experience, consider adding a reliable scope. This will help you improve your precision and accuracy skills, especially in low-lighting conditions.
Without wasting much time, let us look at the pros and cons of these scopes.
5 Best Shotgun Scopes
1) Burris Scout 2.75x20mm 1in Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope
The best shotgun scope is the Burris Scout 2.75x20mm because it has many impressive features that improve your shooting experience. It is an exceptionally reliable and versatile scope for your shotgun.
The exceptional feature of this scope is its top-grade optical glass, complete with a Hi-Lume Multi-Coating. This ensures excellent brightness and clarity, setting it a notch above other scopes.
In addition, it has a fixed magnification of 2.75x and an objective lens diameter of 20mm. It provides a crystal-clear field of view of 15 feet at 100 yards.
This scope is made with aircraft-grade aluminum to ensure it lasts long. It’s waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof, making it an ideal companion for weather conditions.
We recommend this scope because it comes with a Heavy Plex reticle that is simple and incredibly effective for long-range accuracy. With a reticle located at the second focal plane (SFP), the size remains constant, making targeting quicker and easier.
Pros
- Hi-Lume Multi-Coated lenses
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Heavy Plex reticle simplifies targeting
- Perfect for long-range shooting
- Forward mounting design
- Nitrogen-filled body prevents internal fogging
Cons
- Fixed 2.75x magnification
2) Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm Rifle Scope
The Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm is another excellent option if you are searching for a reliable, high-quality scope. It is constructed from 6061-T6 Aircraft Quality Aluminum, ensuring a durable and robust product that can withstand the harshest conditions.
This scope features Leupold’s unique Twilight Light Management System, designed to maximize light transmission for brighter, clearer images in low-light conditions. The scratch-resistant glass lenses enhance the visual experience, allowing for unparalleled clarity and sharpness.
In addition, the scope comes with MOA click turrets that facilitate accurate and easy adjustments, helping you dial in your shots effortlessly.
We recommend it because it offers a variable magnification range from 1.5x to 4x. This makes it an excellent choice for close and medium-range shooting.
Pros
- Twilight Light Management System
- Made from 6061-T6 aircraft-quality aluminum
- 1.5 – 4x magnification range
- User-friendly adjustments
- Lightweight design
- Coated lenses
Cons
- Limited objective lens size
3) Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm 1in Tube Second Focal Plane Rifle Scope
When it comes to achieving precision and clarity on your hunting or shooting adventures, you can’t go wrong with the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope. This powerful optic tool is engineered for both close and medium-range applications.
Most avid shooters recommend this scope because of its durable construction. The ArmorTec coating provides an ultra-hard, scratch-resistant layer that protects the exterior lenses.
The Vortex Crossfire II offers fully multi-coated optics that ensure bright, clear imagery even under less-than-ideal lighting conditions. The glare-reducing sunshade will keep your target in sight, whether it’s dawn or dusk.
With capped turrets and a single-piece tube, this rugged scope can withstand the recoil and impacts of any high-caliber firearm. It’s also waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof, making it the perfect companion for any environment.
We recommend it because it comes with a VIP warranty.
Pros
- 2-7x variable magnification
- Built from aircraft-grade aluminum with an anodized finish
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Quick-reset windage and elevation turrets
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
- Lightweight design
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
4) Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm 1in Tube Second Focal Plane Rifle Scope
The Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm is another excellent scope from Vortex Optics. It is made with aircraft-grade aluminum to withstand heavy recoil from your shotgun. Not only is it shockproof, but its hard-anodized finish also adds an extra layer of protection, making it resistant to scratches and corrosion.
Thanks to its Argon gas purging, this scope guarantees fog-proof and waterproof performance, providing you with crystal-clear images in various weather conditions. The fully multi-coated lenses offer bright and vivid imagery, crucial when tracking moving targets.
The V-Plex reticle is designed for all-purpose hunting, allowing you to adapt to any hunting scenario. In addition, the reticle maintains an ideally-sized appearance, allowing for more accurate shooting at varying distances.
With a 2-7x zoom range, this scope is ideal for short to medium-range shots. Whether you’re out hunting game or hitting clay pigeons, the Vortex Diamondback has got you covered.
Most avid shooters recommend this scope because of its wide linear field of view ranging from 19.3 to 64.3 feet at 100 yards. It also has a comfortable 3.1-3.5 inches of eye relief.
We recommend this scope for seasoned hunters and recreational shooters.
Pros
- Crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum
- Argon gas purging and fully multi-coated lenses
- Magnification range of 2-7x
- V-Plex reticle is extremely user-friendly
- Generous field of view
- Offers 3.1-3.5 inches of eye relief
Cons
- Limited for long-range shooting
5) Mueller Optical 2-7x32mm Multishot Waterproof Rifle Scope
Last on our list is the Mueller Optical 2-7x32mm Multishot Waterproof Rifle Scope. We included it because it is affordable but does not compromise on quality.
This scope comes with a unique multipurpose crosshair that aids in versatility. The outer circle of the reticle is designed for shot-type loads, making it ideal for shotguns. This feature can act as a rangefinder and compensate for bullet drop in slug guns and muzzleloaders.
This scope has Euro-coated, fully multi-coated camera-quality crystal lenses to ensure unmatched brightness and contrast.
One of the standout features is the illuminated center dot designed for big game hunting. It covers just 1 inch at 100 yards, and its brightness can be adjusted through eleven different intensity settings.
The scope also boasts a 1-inch tube with a matte black finish that minimizes glare. It is waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-proof, ensuring longevity and optimal performance in all weather conditions.
We recommend this scope because of its specialized reticle, durability, and premium optics.
Pros
- Multipurpose crosshair reticle
- Euro coated, fully multi-coated crystal lenses
- Center dot illumination feature
- Waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-proof materials
- Fast-focus and high-torque power
- 3.5-inch eye relief
Cons
- Limited parallax setting
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Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Shotgun Scope
Lens Quality
The lens’s quality will greatly influence your view’s clarity and brightness. Coated lenses offer reduced glare and better light transmission. The larger the objective lens, the more light it can gather, making your scope bulkier.
Magnification
Choose the level of magnification based on your intended use. A low magnification or even a red-dot sight may be sufficient for close-range shooting. You may want to consider a scope with higher magnification options for longer ranges.
Reticle Type
There are various types of reticles, such as crosshairs, dots, and BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator). Choose one that fits your shooting style and requirements. For example, a BDC reticle is helpful for long-range shooting, while a simple dot may be suitable for close-range.
Durability
The scope should be made from high-quality, durable materials that can withstand the recoil of a shotgun. Features like shock resistance, waterproofing, and fog-proofing are also worth considering.
Weight and Size
The scope should not make the shotgun too heavy or unwieldy. A bulky scope could negatively impact your shooting experience, so balance features and size.
Mounting Options
Check what type of mounting options are available for your shotgun. Whether it’s a Picatinny or Weaver rail or a specific mount for your shotgun model, ensure the scope is compatible.
Adjustability
Consider scopes with user-friendly features like easy windage and elevation adjustments. Turrets should be easily manipulated, even under stressful conditions or wearing gloves.
Mounting Options
Before buying, ensure the scope is compatible with your shotgun model. Some scopes come with integrated mounts, while others require purchasing them separately. The mounting should be robust enough to withstand the recoil without losing zero.
Eye Relief
This is the distance from the rear lens to your eye, where you can still see the entire field of view. Longer eye relief is generally better, especially for high-recoil firearms like shotguns.
Price and Warranty
Lastly, your budget plays a crucial role. Scopes can range from budget-friendly to high-end. It’s often advisable to go for the best scope you can afford.
See Also
- Best Scope for 22lr Rabbit Hunting
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- 6 Best Reloading Kits for 6.5 Creedmoor- 6.5 Creedmoor Reloading Equipment
Frequently Asked Questions On The Best Shotgun Scope
1) Do I really need a scope for my shotgun?
While shotguns are often used at close ranges where a scope isn’t strictly necessary, having one can improve accuracy, especially for specific hunting or shooting scenarios. A scope can also be advantageous in low-light conditions.
2) What magnification is suitable for a shotgun scope?
Shotgun scopes don’t require high magnification. A 1x to 4x range is often adequate for most hunting and shooting activities with a shotgun.
3) Are red dot sights good for shotguns?
Red dot sights can be very effective for shotguns, particularly for quick target acquisition in close-quarters situations. They are commonly used in turkey hunting and tactical applications.
4) What is a good eye relief for a shotgun scope?
Given the recoil associated with shotguns, an eye relief of at least 3.5 inches is generally recommended to prevent injury.
Conclusion
By now, we are sure you’ve selected the best shotgun scope for your hunting, sport shooting, or home defense needs. These scopes will enhance your accuracy and provide a better shooting experience.
We hope this post helped you invest in a high-quality scope.
Happy shooting!
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