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10 Best Tactical Scopes 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
NIGHTFORCE ATACR 1-8×24mm .1 Mil-Radian Capped Turrets Daylight Visible F1/FFP FC-DMX Reticle 34mm Tube Hunting Gun Scope, Dark Earth (C672)
The NIGHTFORCE ATACR 1-8×24mm scope is designed for serious hunters and tactical shooters. It features a versatile magnification range from 1x to 8x, making it suitable for both close and long-range engagements. The 24mm objective lens and high-quality ED glass ensure excellent clarity and brightness, even in low light conditions, while the FC-DMX first focal plane reticle provides accurate hold points across all magnifications.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,447
Reticle
Eye Relief
Durability and Weather Resistance
Most important from
20 reviews
#2
Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet First Focal Plane Dark Earth Hunting Gun Scope, MIL-XT Reticle (C667)
The Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm scope is a highly versatile option for hunters and tactical shooters needing a wide magnification range. With zoom from 4x to 32x, it allows clear targeting of both close, fast-moving game and distant targets, which is great for varied shooting scenarios. The large 50mm objective lens helps gather plenty of light, improving visibility in low-light conditions. Its MIL-XT reticle is designed with detailed mil-radian markings, useful for quick and precise aiming, especially under pressure, and since it’s a first focal plane reticle, it stays accurate no matter the zoom level.
Rating
10.0
Magnification
Eye Relief
Durability and Weather Resistance
Most important from
12 reviews
#3
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Illum. FireDot Duplex Reticle Riflescope
The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 riflescope is a solid choice for those needing a versatile tactical or hunting optic. Its magnification range of 3 to 15 times provides flexibility for both close and longer-range shots. The 44mm objective lens is a bit larger than average, allowing good light gathering for clearer images, especially in low-light conditions. The illuminated FireDot Duplex reticle makes aiming easier in various light conditions without being overly complex. The field of view at 38.3 feet is decent for tracking moving targets at moderate ranges. Parallax adjustment is handled via a side focus, which is convenient and allows quick, precise focusing from any shooting position, an important feature for tactical use.
Rating
8.8
Magnification
Reticle
Durability and Weather Resistance
Most important from
372 reviews
Top 10 Best Tactical Scopes 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
NIGHTFORCE ATACR 1-8×24mm .1 Mil-Radian Capped Turrets Daylight Visible F1/FFP FC-DMX Reticle 34mm Tube Hunting Gun Scope, Dark Earth (C672)
NIGHTFORCE ATACR 1-8×24mm .1 Mil-Radian Capped Turrets Daylight Visible F1/FFP FC-DMX Reticle 34mm Tube Hunting Gun Scope, Dark Earth (C672)
Magnification: 1x to 8x
Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm
Reticle: FC-DMX first focal plane
Eye Relief: 3.7 inches
Parallax Adjustment: Fixed at 125 meters
Durability and Weather Resistance: Withstand harsh weather conditions
Chosen by 1447 this week
Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet First Focal Plane Dark Earth Hunting Gun Scope, MIL-XT Reticle (C667)
Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet First Focal Plane Dark Earth Hunting Gun Scope, MIL-XT Reticle (C667)
Magnification: 4-32x
Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
Reticle: Mil-XT
Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
Field of View: wide low to narrow high
Parallax Adjustment: 11 yards to infinity
Durability and Weather Resistance: aluminum, weather-resistant
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Illum. FireDot Duplex Reticle Riflescope
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Illum. FireDot Duplex Reticle Riflescope
Magnification: 3-15x
Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
Reticle: Illuminated FireDot Duplex
Field of View: 38.3 feet
Parallax Adjustment: Side focus
Durability and Weather Resistance: Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof aluminum
Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet Parallax Adjustable First Focal Plane Hunting Gun Scope, MOA-XT (C652)
Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet Parallax Adjustable First Focal Plane Hunting Gun Scope, MOA-XT (C652)
Magnification: 4-32x
Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
Reticle: MOA-XT
Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
Parallax Adjustment: 11 yards to infinity
Durability and Weather Resistance: weather-resistant
Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet Parallax Adjustable First Focal Plane Hunting Gun Scope, Moar F1 (C624)
Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet Parallax Adjustable First Focal Plane Hunting Gun Scope, Moar F1 (C624)
Magnification: 4-32x
Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
Reticle: MOAR
Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
Field of View: 26 ft at 100 yards
Parallax Adjustment: 11 yards to infinity
Durability and Weather Resistance: Aluminum, weather-resistant body
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ATN X-Sight 5 LRF Smart Day/Night Gen 5 Scope w/Ballistics Calc, 12MP Resolution, Video Record, Wi-Fi, 14hrs+ Battery
ATN X-Sight 5 LRF Smart Day/Night Gen 5 Scope w/Ballistics Calc, 12MP Resolution, Video Record, Wi-Fi, 14hrs+ Battery
Magnification: 3-15x
Reticle: Multiple reticle types
Parallax Adjustment: Included
Durability and Weather Resistance: Aluminum, weather resistant, outdoor use
Leupold VX-5HD 4-20x52 (34mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Illum. FireDot Duplex Reticle Riflescope
Leupold VX-5HD 4-20x52 (34mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Illum. FireDot Duplex Reticle Riflescope
Magnification: 4-20x
Objective Lens Diameter: 52 mm
Reticle: Illuminated FireDot Duplex
Parallax Adjustment: Side focus
Durability and Weather Resistance: Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof, coating
EOTECH Holographic Weapon Sight EXPS3-0ODGRN
EOTECH Holographic Weapon Sight EXPS3-0ODGRN
Reticle: 68 MOA ring, 1 MOA dot
Durability and Weather Resistance: Aluminum, durable for rugged use
Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 34mm Tube Precise Illuminated First Focal Plane Dark Earth Hunting Gun Scope, Moar F1 Reticle, C689
Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 34mm Tube Precise Illuminated First Focal Plane Dark Earth Hunting Gun Scope, Moar F1 Reticle, C689
Magnification: 7-35x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
Reticle: MOAR F1 with DigIllum PTL
Eye Relief: 3.6 inches
Parallax Adjustment: down to 10 meters
Durability and Weather Resistance: aluminum body, weather-resistant finish
#10
ATN X-Sight-4K, 3-14x Pro Edition Smart Day/Night Hunting Scope
ATN X-Sight-4K, 3-14x Pro Edition Smart Day/Night Hunting Scope
Magnification: 3x to 14x
Objective Lens Diameter: 30 mm
Reticle: Digital
Durability and Weather Resistance: Aluminum, works -20°F to 120°F
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Buying Guide for the Best Tactical Scopes
Choosing the right tactical scope can significantly enhance your shooting experience, whether you're a hunter, a competitive shooter, or someone who enjoys target practice. The right scope will improve your accuracy, range, and overall performance. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your specific needs and preferences.MagnificationMagnification refers to how much closer the target appears compared to the naked eye. This is crucial because it determines how well you can see your target at various distances. Scopes typically have fixed or variable magnification. Fixed magnification scopes are simpler and often more durable, while variable magnification scopes offer flexibility for different shooting scenarios. For close-range shooting, a lower magnification (1-4x) is sufficient. For medium-range, consider 5-9x, and for long-range shooting, 10x or higher is ideal. Choose based on the typical distance you will be shooting.
Objective Lens DiameterThe objective lens diameter is the size of the front lens, measured in millimeters. This spec is important because it affects the amount of light that enters the scope, impacting image brightness and clarity. Larger diameters (40mm and above) allow more light, which is beneficial in low-light conditions but can make the scope heavier. Smaller diameters (below 40mm) are lighter and more compact but may not perform as well in dim lighting. Consider where and when you will be using the scope to determine the right size for you.
ReticleThe reticle, or crosshair, is the aiming point you see when looking through the scope. Different reticle designs serve different purposes. Simple crosshairs are great for general use, while more complex reticles with hash marks or dots can help with range estimation and bullet drop compensation. Illuminated reticles are useful in low-light conditions. Choose a reticle that matches your shooting style and the conditions you expect to encounter.
Eye ReliefEye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope where you can see the full field of view. This is important for comfort and safety, especially with high-recoil firearms. Scopes with longer eye relief (3-4 inches or more) are better for high-recoil guns, while shorter eye relief (less than 3 inches) can be sufficient for low-recoil firearms. Ensure the eye relief is comfortable for your shooting stance and firearm.
Field of ViewField of view (FOV) is the width of the area you can see through the scope at a specific distance, usually measured in feet at 100 yards. A wider FOV allows you to see more of the target area, which is beneficial for tracking moving targets and situational awareness. Higher magnification typically reduces FOV. If you need to track moving targets or require a broad view of your surroundings, opt for a scope with a wider FOV.
Parallax AdjustmentParallax adjustment helps to ensure that the reticle remains on target even if your eye position shifts slightly. This is particularly important for long-range shooting where small errors can be magnified. Scopes without parallax adjustment are typically set for a specific distance (usually 100 yards). If you plan to shoot at varying distances, a scope with adjustable parallax will provide greater accuracy. Consider your shooting distances and whether this feature will benefit your accuracy.
Durability and Weather ResistanceDurability and weather resistance are crucial for ensuring your scope can withstand harsh conditions and rough handling. Look for scopes that are waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. These features ensure that your scope will perform reliably in various weather conditions and environments. If you plan to use your scope in rugged outdoor conditions, prioritize these durability features.