The best long-range rifle scope balances clear glass, precise tracking, and tough build.
You work hard to set your dope, check wind, and trust your hold. But if your scope won’t track true, or the glass washes out at last light, hits at 800+ yards feel like luck. The right optic solves that. It makes dials repeat. It gives you a clean, bright view at high zoom. It holds zero after a rough ride. In this guide, I break down the Best long-range rifle scope options worth your cash in 2026. I focus on real use at the bench and in the field, so you get picks that actually perform.
DISCOVERYOPT HD 5-30×56 PRS Rifle…
High-Performance Optical Clarity：Experience upgraded long range rifle scope with 5-30x magnification and 56mm objective lens, delivering unmatched brightness and razor-sharp clarity for precision long-range shooting. The 34mm tube and 1/4MOA…
Arken Optics EP5 Gen 2…
High Clarity and Low Dispersion: Equipped with Multi-Coated ED Japanese Glass, this scope delivers exceptional clarity and color fidelity, ensuring bright and vivid views with minimal color dispersion. Perfect for…
Monstrum G3 6-24×50 First Focal…
High performance tactical rifle scope with 6-24x magnification for mid to long distance shooting out to 1000+ yards Functionally designed first focal plane MOA reticle, with easy-to-read ranging information that…
DISCOVERYOPT HD Gen-II 5-30×56 FFP (MOA)
The DISCOVERYOPT HD GEN-II 5-30×56 is a feature-rich FFP scope with a 34mm tube. It brings a large 56mm objective and a red illuminated MOA reticle for low light shots. The zero stop is a welcome addition for fast returns to zero after dialing long strings. At 5-30x, you get a wide field at the low end and serious detail at the high end.
I like how the turrets feel. The clicks are distinct and easy to read. The glass is bright for this price class, and the reticle is useful at any magnification due to the FFP design. If you want the Best long-range rifle scope without spending top-tier money, this one earns a look.
Pros:
- FFP MOA reticle stays true for all magnification
- Zero stop makes fast, accurate returns to zero
- 34mm tube gives solid travel for elevation
- 56mm objective helps in low light and high zoom
- Positive, tactile turret feel aids precise dialing
- Red illumination for dawn and dusk holds
Cons:
- Heavier than mid-size options
- MOA-only option may not suit MRAD users
- Illumination can bloom if set too high at night
My Recommendation
This scope fits the shooter who wants full-size capability on a fair budget. It shines for PRS-style practice, steel from 600–1,200 yards, and Western hunting with long glassing shots. If you are building a new setup and want the Best long-range rifle scope for under premium prices, the DISCOVERYOPT HD Gen-II offers a strong mix of clarity, travel, and tracking.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| PRS training and club matches | FFP reticle, zero stop, and reliable turrets |
| Low-light ridge shots | 56mm objective and red illumination help see detail |
| All-around long-range rigs | 34mm tube and 5-30x range cover mid to extreme range |
Arken EP5 Gen 2 7-35×56 FFP (VPR MOA)
The Arken Optics EP5 Gen 2 gives you 7-35x power with a large 56mm objective and an FFP illuminated VPR MOA reticle. It also packs a zero stop and a stout 34mm tube. At high magnification, the detail is strong and the image holds up. The reticle design is clean enough to spot impacts and easy to use at any zoom.
I trust Arken turrets for repeatable tracking in this class. The clicks feel crisp, and the labels are clear. With 35x on tap, it makes small plates at distance easier to see. For shooters who want the Best long-range rifle scope for extreme range and value, the EP5 Gen 2 stands tall in 2026.
Pros:
- 7-35x range for tiny targets at long range
- FFP VPR MOA reticle supports holds and quick reads
- Zero stop saves time returning to base elevation
- Strong 34mm tube for internal travel
- Solid glass for the price with useful illumination
- Good turret feel and consistent tracking
Cons:
- High zoom demands steady form and a stable base
- Hefty size; not ideal for lightweight mountain rigs
- MOA system may not match MRAD shooters’ preferences
My Recommendation
Pick the EP5 Gen 2 if you want big zoom and strong tracking without the flagship price. It is ideal for F-Class practice, tiny steel beyond 1,000 yards, or clear views on small game at long range. If your goal is the Best long-range rifle scope with extreme reach, this 7-35x slot is hard to beat in its bracket.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Extreme distance targets | 35x magnification enhances shot calling and holds |
| Precision practice and tracking tests | Reliable turrets and zero stop |
| Range days in mixed light | Bright 56mm objective and clean illumination |
Monstrum G3 6-24×50 FFP (FDE)
The Monstrum G3 6-24×50 FFP delivers a lot for the money. You get an illuminated MOA reticle in the first focal plane, plus an adjustable objective. The 50mm objective keeps the form factor a bit smaller, yet still gathers fair light. The Flat Dark Earth finish adds a clean look and cuts glare.
I see this as a budget-friendly way to start in long-range. The turrets are usable and the reticle is simple to learn. The adjustable objective lets you tune parallax from the bench. If you want the Best long-range rifle scope on a tight spend, this is a smart entry point.
Pros:
- Great value for an FFP, illuminated scope
- MOA reticle with clear marks for holds and wind
- Adjustable objective helps sharpen focus and parallax
- Flat Dark Earth finish reduces glare
- Manageable weight for a 6-24x build
- Solid starter option for dialing practice
Cons:
- Glass is decent but not top-tier at max zoom
- Turret feel is good, not premium
- Limited feature set compared to high-end models
My Recommendation
If you want to learn holds, do a box test, and stretch past 600 yards, the Monstrum G3 makes sense. It is a beginner-friendly path that still gives FFP value. For those who want the Best long-range rifle scope but need to keep costs low, you can train well and upgrade later as your skills grow.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Budget long-range setups | FFP, illumination, and AO at an entry price |
| New shooters learning to dial | Simple MOA reticle and readable turrets |
| Casual range days | 6-24x range covers mid to long distance |
CVLIFE 6-24×50 AOE Illuminated Scope
The CVLIFE 6-24×50 AOE gives red and green illumination and includes a mount. It uses an adjustable objective to fine tune parallax and focus. The 50mm objective helps in mixed light and supports high zoom. It is a simple, budget long-range optic for light rifles or practice rigs.
Use this if you are stepping into long range and want to test the waters. The turrets do the job for basic dialing. The illumination has useful brightness steps for dusk or shaded lanes. For a first scope while you learn what “Best long-range rifle scope” features you care about most, this is a low-risk start.
Pros:
- Very affordable path to 6-24x performance
- Red/green illumination for varied backgrounds
- AO parallax lets you sharpen the image
- Includes a mount to get you on the range fast
- Lightweight compared to 56mm options
Cons:
- SFP reticle does not scale with zoom for holds
- Turret precision is basic; not for serious matches
- Glass is serviceable but not pro-grade at 24x
My Recommendation
This scope suits the new shooter or the budget hunter building a first long-range setup. It is not a match scope, but it gets you learning holds and wind calls. If you chase the Best long-range rifle scope later, you can pass this to a backup rifle and step up after you build skill.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Beginners testing long range | Low cost, easy setup with included mount |
| Hunting on a budget | Illumination and 50mm objective help at dawn/dusk |
| Backup or loaner rifle | Reliable enough for casual range use |
UUQ 6-24×50 AO Scope with Mount
The UUQ 6-24×50 AO is built for versatile use across rimfire, pellet, and centerfire. You get a red/green illuminated reticle, long eye relief, and a 20mm mount in the box. The AO front ring dials parallax for better focus at set distances. The scope aims to cover a wide range without a high cost.
In my hands, it is an easy setup option for a budget build. The reticle is simple and the illumination levels help with dark targets. It is not a pro match scope, but it can get you on steel at medium to long ranges with basic dope. For many, that makes it the Best long-range rifle scope under a very tight price ceiling.
Pros:
- Great value with mount included
- AO front parallax adjustment for crisp focus
- Long eye relief for comfort on lighter rifles
- Illuminated reticle for varied light and shadows
- Works across air guns, rimfire, and some centerfire
Cons:
- SFP reticle; holds are accurate at one set magnification
- Turret tracking is basic; check zero often
- Glass clarity drops at very high zoom
My Recommendation
Choose the UUQ 6-24×50 AO if you want a simple, wide-use optic to start with. It makes sense for air rifles, .22 LR trainers, and light centerfire work at the range. It can fill the role while you learn the skills that matter for the Best long-range rifle scope, like reading wind and running a data card.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| New shooters and youth rifles | Long eye relief and easy setup reduce fuss |
| Airgun and rimfire training | AO parallax helps at closer distances |
| Budget long-range practice | Illumination and 6-24x power for learning |
BESTSIGHT 4-16×44 SFP with Mounts
The BESTSIGHT 4-16×44 SFP is a compact optic with mounts and a sunshade in the box. It features a standard crosshair-style reticle with simple marks and an SFP layout. The 44mm objective keeps weight down while still giving usable light. The zoom range from 4x to 16x is fine for most hunting and mid-range targets.
This is not a full-on PRS tool, but it works well for field rifles and mid-range steel. The included mounts are handy if you want a fast build. I see it as a “get on paper, then get confident” scope for real-world shots out to several hundred yards. It can be a stepping stone before you buy the Best long-range rifle scope in a higher class.
Pros:
- Compact and lighter than many long-range scopes
- Comes with mounts and sunshade for quick setup
- 4-16x range is ideal for field use
- Simple reticle works for clean sight pictures
- Good entry pick for hunting and mid-range steel
Cons:
- SFP design means holds are set for one magnification
- Turret system is basic for long dialing
- Not aimed at extreme-distance precision
My Recommendation
I recommend the BESTSIGHT 4-16×44 for a hunter or casual shooter who wants a clean, light optic. It offers enough zoom for 300–600 yards with good fundamentals. If you want the Best long-range rifle scope later, this model can move to a hunting rifle and keep serving well in the field.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Hunting rifles | Light, simple, and bright enough for field shots |
| Mid-range steel shooting | 4-16x zoom and clear crosshair |
| Fast-budget build | Includes mounts and sunshade to save time |
UUQ 4-16×44 AO SFP with Locking Turrets
The UUQ 4-16×44 AO brings locking turrets, RGB illumination, and a front parallax ring. It includes a 20mm mount and a sunshade, which saves you time. The SFP crosshair is clear and easy to see against mixed backgrounds. For cost, you get a lot of features for practical use.
Locking turrets are a plus on a budget scope. They help keep your zero safe during travel and field use. The AO ring sharpens close and mid-range focus, which is nice for airsoft, pellet guns, and rimfire too. If your plan is a capable all-around scope that can stretch, this is a fair pick while you learn what the Best long-range rifle scope feels like.
Pros:
- Locking turrets reduce accidental movement
- RGB illumination supports varied light and targets
- AO parallax tuning improves clarity
- Includes mount and sunshade for quick install
- Versatile for airgun, airsoft, and rimfire practice
Cons:
- SFP reticle limits accurate holds to one magnification
- Not designed for advanced match work
- Glass performance is modest at 16x
My Recommendation
Use the UUQ 4-16×44 AO if you want a flexible scope for a mixed platform setup. It fits training use and light long-range work out to mid distances. When you move to the Best long-range rifle scope in the future, keep this one on a trainer and keep grinding good reps.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Budget field rifle | Locking turrets protect zero during carry |
| Multi-platform training | AO and RGB illumination adapt to different guns |
| Casual long-range starts | 4-16x covers mid to long for learning |
How I Pick the Best long-range rifle scope
Before I dial, I look for five core traits. These traits decide if a scope belongs on a long-range rifle. They also decide if it is worth your money in 2026. Here is how I judge each optic in this review.
- Tracking and turrets: Clicks must match the marks. I run a tall target test and a box test. If it fails, it fails.
- Glass and image: At max zoom, can I spot impacts, read mirage, and see trace? Edge clarity matters too.
- Reticle design: FFP is ideal for holds. MOA or MRAD is fine; pick what matches your data and brain.
- Build and zero stop: A good zero stop saves time. The tube should be true and the scope should hold zero.
- Ergonomics: Eye box, eye relief, and parallax control need to be smooth. If it fights me, I move on.
I also think about the role. A mountain hunter needs a lighter scope. A PRS shooter needs fast reads and a wide FOV. A bench shooter might want max zoom for tiny groups. The Best long-range rifle scope for you fits your job, not mine.
Real-World Tips That Help You Hit More
These are simple tips that I give to friends at the range. They make a big difference fast. Use them with any scope you buy here.
- Match units. If your reticle is MOA, get an MOA ballistic app. Keep your world in one language.
- Set parallax first. Then set magnification. Then lock your cheek weld and build your natural point of aim.
- Dial less, hold more. On movers or fast stages, holds are faster than dialing. That is why FFP is so useful.
- Use a data card. Tape it to your stock. Trust data. It frees your brain and calms your shot.
- Check zero often. One slip of a ring screw can cost a day. Confirm before the big hunt or match.
Follow these, and even a budget scope can punch above its price. Add a solid mount and torque to spec. The Best long-range rifle scope is only as good as the setup around it.
FAQs Of Best long-range rifle scope
What magnification is best for long-range shooting?
A 5-25x or 6-24x is a sweet spot for most uses. Go 7-35x if you want extreme zoom, but keep in mind mirage and eye box get tougher.
Is FFP better than SFP for long range?
For holds, yes. FFP keeps reticle values true at any zoom. SFP can work, but holds are exact at one magnification only.
Do I need a zero stop?
It helps a lot. A zero stop lets you return to zero fast and avoid getting lost on the turret during stress or low light.
Which is better: MOA or MRAD?
Both work. Pick the one your friends use or your match scene uses. What matters is learning one system and sticking to it.
How important is parallax adjustment?
Very important. It sharpens the image and reduces aim error at distance. Set parallax first for the clearest shot.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
For the Best long-range rifle scope with top reach and value, the Arken EP5 Gen 2 7-35×56 is my pick. It tracks, it sees, and it dials back to zero clean.
If you want a strong all-rounder with a lower price, choose the DISCOVERYOPT HD Gen-II 5-30×56. It covers most needs and still feels pro at the range.
