What Is Long Range Scope?
It’s a little bit difficult to aim the prey from far, and this problem is possible to overcome with just a long range scope. Long range scope is a rifle scope that helps to see the distant-objects closer and to aim from far. It is one of the most demanding objects for hunting.
A high-quality scope changes how you can relate to a shot. More often than not, new hunters find themselves making a lot of difference in their performance with a scope. There is a lot of long range scope at the different price ranges. From them, we have just picked the best long range scope under $1000.
If you’re not ready to trade-in your favorite car or mortgage your house to get one of the most popular hunting scopes in the world, then all you need to do, get one that fits within your budget. Not all cheap things are fragile. And the ones that we’ve listed below, they will leave you with astonishment.
7 Best Long Range Scope Under $1000 To Buy In 2021 – Our Expert Reviews
- Vortex Optics Viper PST First Focal Plane Riflescopes
- Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
- Bushnell Elite Tactical G2DMR FFP Reticle Riflescope
- Millett 6-25 X 56 LRS-1 Illuminated Side Focus Tactical Riflescope
- Leupold VX-2 4-12x40mm Compact Waterproof Fog Proof Riflescope
- Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20×50 Riflescope
- Vortex Optics Viper HS LR Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

1. Vortex Optics Viper PST First Focal Plane Riflescopes
You feel no uneasiness with this incredible long range scope. With its waterproof abilities, you can make use of it in rainy or snowy conditions without having to worry. Plus, it also has incredible low light capabilities that give you clear vision under the dark setting.
You may not have heard enough about the Vortex Optics Viper PST First Focal Plane Riflescopes, but it seriously has everything that you need. Especially, hunters who have used it, swear by it and plans on sticking to it until they retire. The Viper PST has taken the illuminated reticles way ahead of regular scopes with ten settings. What’s more impressive is the reticle is glass-etched, which is also in the first focal plane too!
You feel no uneasiness with this incredible best long range scope under $1000. With its waterproof abilities, you can make use of it in rainy or snowy conditions without having to worry. Plus, it also has incredible low light capabilities that give you clear vision under the dark setting.
The scope, no matter where you take it to, it will prevent internal fogging. Thanks to the argon gas purged technology, that ensures a worry-free hunting expedition. As for the finish, you can see that the scope has a beautiful black matte finish.
The Vortex Optics Viper PST First Focal Plane Riflescope is extremely handy, and with the turrets that match the reticle, your game becomes much more comfortable. Given all the features, this scope will not disappoint you in any way.
Pros:
- High-quality glass
- Water and fog proof
- Argon gas purged
- Illuminated reticle
Cons:
- A little delicate than other scopes
Also, You can read Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen I vs Gen II before purchase.
2. Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
Another one of the rifle scopes from Vortex makes its way to our list of the best picks. The company started out as a privately-owned retail shop and now holds a globally reputed brand image. Speaking of Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescopes, it’s just brilliant.
Looking at the different other of Vortex’s brilliantly machined scopes, the Viper HS-T (Hunting Shooting Tactical) scope is molded on an extra-strong 30mm aluminum tube. And the improved optical system highlights the 4x magnification versatility.
The Vortex Optics Viper HS-T includes a hashmark-based reticle. It provides incredible precision and durable tactical windage for dialing. This features the scope to be highly versatile for long ranges.
Despite the lighting conditions, the Vortex Optics Viper HS-T delivers the excellent image quality of the target. Incorporating the premium, multi-coated, low-dispersion lens, the scope brings terrific color fidelity and resolution. Moreover, the Armortek coating protects your lenses.
The lens is, apparently, very lightweight, and provides excellent eye relief while using it. In fact, the finger-adjustable clicks make it easier for you to zoom in and out whenever necessary. And it comes with a fast focus eyepiece that enables you to target and shoot appropriately by adjusting the reticle to your eye.
Not to forget that the Vortex Optics Viper HS-T is also O-ring sealed and argon gas purged that ensures 100% water and fog proof performance. This simple, yet versatile riflescope is a must-have for those looking to amplify their hunting experience.
If you are looking for one within a budget, this scope is your way to go!
Pros:
- 4-inch sunshade
- Water and fog proof
- Finger adjustable clicks
- Enhanced light gathering capability
Cons:
- The side focus for parallax is not that great
If you would like to buy one of the Vortex Viper HST Or PST, You can read our Vortex Viper HST vs PST before purchase.
3. Bushnell Elite Tactical G2DMR FFP Reticle Riflescope
We believe that military personnel is experts when it comes to the best rifle as well as scope. The Bushnell Elite Tactical G2DMR FFP Reticle Riflescope was machined with inputs from military personnel and law enforcement. Therefore, it features everything that a shooter would expect from the highest-quality scope.
The Bushnell Elite Tactical G2DMR FFP Reticle Riflescope has magnification up to 21x and 50mm objective lens. It is, therefore, able to deliver high levels of accuracy even when your target is several hundred yards away from you.
Of course, you’ll get a crystal-clear view in under extreme weather. However, the Rainguard HD lens makes everything easier. Meanwhile, the ultra-wideband coating improves your vision under low light conditions. So, now you can go hunting during dusk or dawn without having to worry.
The Bushnell Elite Tactical G2DMR FFP Reticle Riflescope has an overall length of 13.2 inches, which makes it a long-lasting product. On top of that, a 3-inch sunshade incorporates making your life much easier during hunting!
This scope, with its solid construction, has won the heart of many hunters. With great functionality, the large 34mm diameter provides more strength. You now have more room in making vertical and horizontal adjustments.
The Bushnell Elite Tactical G2DMR FFP Reticle Riflescope is hands down one of the best scopes out there to make your hunting expedition much adventurous. Convenient for shooting long ranges, versatile and durable, this scope is just all you want.
Pros:
- Argon gas purged
- Rainguard HD keeps lens clearer
- Solid construction; durable
- Larger knobs make it easier to adjust
Cons:
- Limited warranty
4. Millett 6-25 X 56 LRS-1 Illuminated Side Focus Tactical Riflescope
Never judge a book by its cover. Similarly, you may see the Millett 6-25 X 56 LRS-1 Illuminated Side Focus Tactical Riflescope as an ordinary scope, but did you know what it’s capable of doing? Let us enlighten you.
For shooters looking for an incredible optic within a budget, this scope will draw your attention. With its great 140 MOA adjustment and a huge 35mm tube, the job of it is to scope up your skills.
The eye relief on this scope is about 3.5 inches. It may not be THE greatest eye relief in the entire world, but it gets the job done perfectly. It also helps in preventing glare, which in turn improves image under bright light.
The Millett 6-25 X 56 LRS-1 Illuminated Side Focus Tactical Riflescope is very sturdy, and you’ll have no difficulty in finding zero no matter how much you’ve already shot. The good part about this scope is its clarity and the reticle that is fast and easy to figure out.
The Millett 6-25 X 56 LRS-1 Illuminated Side Focus Tactical Riflescope is mounted smoothly. The clear lens with green, bright mil dots makes it user-friendly. You can easily hit your target 1000 yards away, and it won’t be a problem.
Needless to say, that the distinctive, bold look of the scope on your rifle will leave you speechless. Who says that beauty and functionality can’t go hand in hand? The bulletproof design will enhance your accuracy greatly.
We have got to admit that shooters who are serious about hunting long ranges with precise shots, you should pay close attention to this scope. Now, this is a story of God’s Unbelievable Mercy.
Pros:
- Extremely strong
- Rings included in the pack
- A wider view of the field
- Clearer, crisper and brighter image
Cons:
- Tacking is not as accurate as other brands
5. Leupold VX-2 4-12x40mm Compact Waterproof Fog Proof Riflescope
Why do you think you should pay more when you can get something as quick and easy as the Leupold VX-2 4-12x40mm Compact Waterproof Fog Proof Riflescope just under $1000 to flex around in the field? Before we proceed to highlight all the features, let us tell you that this scope has the highest magnification among all for its price.
The Leupold VX-2 4-12x40mm Compact Waterproof Fog Proof Riflescope gives you effortless elevation dials with its Custom Dial System (CDS). Perfect for quick and custom adjustment in different sight-in ranges that matches to the specific ballistics information.
The reticle itself is praiseworthy. It maintains a high level of clarity regardless of the weather. This makes it particularly the best hunting scope for hunters who push themselves through rough climates. And of course, the scope itself is very durable.
If the online ratings don’t really convince you, here’s more we have to explain.
Once again, we are dealing with a scope that is lightweight, compact and rugged and is therefore ideal for hunting. With this scope as your gear, you no more have to cancel your plans just because the weather doesn’t seem good. It’s 100% water and fog proof.
Did we mention that the scope has a duplex reticle, which makes it a crowd-pleasing scope among all the other similar VX models? Ah, now you know.
The eyepiece provides a healthy amount of relief for which it goes well with your high recoil rifle. The generous design and sturdy construction protect the lens from abrasive damage. Allowing for ¼ MOA finger click adjustment without any additional gear, you’ll not have any trouble targeting your shots.
Are you looking for something new to buy? Go for this scope. You’ll seriously never regret the decision.
Pros:
- Fast and easy parallax adjustment
- ¼ MOA finger click adjustment
- Superb quality optics
- Duplex reticles
Cons:
- The adjustment could be an issue
6. Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20×50 Riflescope
Whenever you hear the name Trijicon, some related to the military comes in mind. Trijicon has been around in delivering the best long-range scope ever since, and now it has even managed to pave its way to our best scopes.
Well, if are an all-in-one kind of person then this scope would probably interest you.
The Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20×50 Riflescope is a win with its ACOG series of optics. It offers you the AccuPoint technology that is conveniently built for long distance precision of shooting.
Very versatile, there’s no doubt on that. But what’s more unique about this scope is that it uses both tritium and fiber optics in order to illuminate a tiny dot at the center. The credit goes to this red dot that makes the eyepiece different and has the added control, which is not commonly found in traditional scopes. The Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20×50 Riflescope also gives the shooter the freedom to adjust the amount of light entering the fiber optics.
The scope has a sliding ring that comfortably grips the fiber optic and helps in adjustment. It doesn’t put too much force but is stiff enough that holds it in place and prevents it from moving unintentionally.
We also would like to highlight the 12 MOA adjustment of revolution. Each of these clicks is widely spaced. With every click, there’s no mushiness, and the knob behind the scope makes it so much easier to click it.
Overall, this piece is quite impressive, compared to its price. You get a 15 MOA scope to zoom in about 1000 yards away. Definitely, one of the most affordable yet high-quality gear you can add to your hunting pack.
Pros:
- Unobstructed view of target image under any light
- Standard duplex crosshair
- Battery-free illumination
- Enhanced fiber tritium optics
Cons:
- You need to make the green illumination work manually
7. Vortex Optics Viper HS LR Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
Our final product on our list for this article is the Vortex Optics Viper HS LR Second Focal Plane Riflescopes that we wanted to end with a bang! This scope will blow off your mind as the advanced optical system of the leaves you with nothing but a clear and sharp image from edge to edge.
The Vortex Optics Viper HS LR Second Focal Plane Riflescopes is better than the best. It is an excellent scope for tactical use and is equipped to suit hunting in open plains. But before you pout, let us tell you about the XR multi-coated lenses that capture the light brilliantly from dusk till dawn. The Viper HS can zoom up to 4x and pull your sniper close to your target. Amazing, huh?
The Vortex Optics Viper HS LR Second Focal Plane Riflescopes will take you through storm and back and still look good as new. That’s because it’s sturdy on a different level and the scratch-resistant Armortek coatings protect it from all evil.
Now, let’s talk about its waterproof abilities. Drop it in water, and it’s going to come out as if nothing has happened. The hard-anodized matte black finish makes it extremely durable and fog and waterproof too. Nonetheless, all-inclusive, the luxurious matte black scope makes it stand out.
It is very comfortable and light for you to carry around anywhere as it weighs only 2.1 pounds. With the 50mm tube, you should not be having any trouble viewing your target. Great for the ones who are looking for something simple, yet heavy-duty.
Hence, you get 1 scope that delivers extreme windage and elevation for optimal adjustment. The Vortex Optics Viper HS LR Second Focal Plane Riflescope is definitely a great and subtle scope that serves what it is intended for. Worth each and every penny!
Pros:
- Easy adjustment
- Extremely durable
- Very clear optics
- Argon purged
Cons:
- Might be a little challenging to use for amateur hunters
Things To Consider About Best Long Range Scope
Lens Quality:
Speaking of lenses, of course, quality is essential. Many expert hunters often miss shooting their prey just because the glass of their lens got foggy and couldn’t get a better view. If you’re getting your scope from online, it is advisable that you go by its reputation. Stick to brands that sell good quality lenses.
Reticle Marks:
For long-range scopes, the reticle mark is a must. Without the horizontal and vertical axes, you won’t have a clear division. You don’t have to depend on it. However, these are just essentials in counteracting the winds and bullet drops from your target. You don’t have to be insecure about your shots anymore. One simple rule of hunting is to match the units on the reticle to the ones on the turrets. Otherwise, it would be difficult math for you to do in the field.
Magnification Levels:
Ah, yes! This will determine how better you can look through the lens to your target. If you aim through your scope and the zoom level is not high enough, your field of view is going to be too small. The long-range scope is all about having a better view of the target from afar behind the yard.
Final Words:
And that’s all. There you have the 7 best long-range scopes for hunting and everything you need to know about it all. Long-range scopes are not that difficult to choose, but when it comes to fitting it into a specific budget, that’s when it hits your head. However, we’ve put the smallest of every detail that you need to know when buying the affordable scopes and we have that will help you understand.
Our reviews about the scopes with some of the tips and tricks mentioned above are going to make your hunting expedition much easier. We’ve listed down everything from basic to high-end that will fit well into your budget.
We hope this blog helped you to buy the best long range scope under $1000. Thanks for reading it through. Happy hunting!
Read more about Best Rangefinder For Bow Hunting Reviews.