10 Best Sniper Rifle Scopes 2026 in the United States

The Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm scope is designed for serious hunters and tactical shooters who want high precision and reliability. Its magnification range from 5x to 25x allows you to clearly see targets both at medium and long distances, which is essential for sniper or long-range shooting. The large 56mm objective lens gathers plenty of light, giving bright and sharp images even in low-light conditions like dawn or dusk. The first focal plane reticle is a big advantage because it stays true to scale across all zoom levels, letting you use holdover points accurately no matter the magnification. The Mil-XT reticle is simple but smart, with clear markings that help quickly estimate distance and bullet drop.

Adjustments are precise with .1 MIL clicks and large internal adjustment ranges, helping fine-tune your aim for different shooting scenarios. The eye relief at 3.5 inches is comfortable for most users and helps protect against recoil. Durability is a key strength here—the scope is waterproof, fogproof, and built tough to handle harsh weather and rough handling in the field.

It weighs 2.4 pounds, which might feel a bit heavy for some, especially if you carry it all day. It also does not have night vision capabilities, so it’s best for daylight or low-light use but not complete darkness. Mounting requires Weaver mounts, which are common but not universal, so compatibility should be checked with your rifle. This scope suits hunters and shooters who need a rugged, high-quality optic with excellent clarity and precise adjustments for long-range accuracy, provided they are comfortable with its weight and daylight-only use.

The Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm scope stands out for its impressive magnification range, from 4x up to 32x, making it very versatile. You can easily switch from close targets to extreme long-range shots without needing a second optic. The large 50mm objective lens helps gather plenty of light, which improves clarity and brightness in various lighting conditions. The MIL-XT reticle in the first focal plane means the aiming points stay accurate regardless of zoom, which is great for precise holds and adjustments. The reticle’s design with numbered Mil-Radian marks and floating dots allows quick and easy range estimation and wind correction, ideal for both competitive and field shooting.

Adjustments are user-friendly: turrets offer fine, repeatable clicks with ZeroStop technology, so you can return to your zero setting quickly, even in stressful situations. Parallax can be adjusted from very close distances (11 yards) to infinity, helping keep your target sharp and in focus at any range. Eye relief is 3.5 inches, which is average but sufficient for comfortable shooting with various firearms. The scope’s durable aluminum build and Dark Earth finish provide solid weather resistance and ruggedness for outdoor use. It also comes with handy extras like flip-up lens covers and a power throw lever for fast zoom changes.

The relatively heavy weight (about 1.8 pounds) and the 30mm tube diameter might require a sturdy mounting setup, and the exit pupil at maximum magnification is quite small (1.6mm), which means aiming can be a bit more challenging in low light at high zoom. This scope is best suited for serious hunters and precision shooters who need flexibility across a wide range of distances and demand reliable performance in tough conditions.

The Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 scope is a high-end option for those serious about long-range precision shooting. Its impressive 7-35x magnification range allows for exceptional versatility, making it suitable for both mid-range and extreme long-range shooting. The 56mm objective lens diameter ensures ample light transmission, which is crucial for clear and bright images in varying light conditions.

The first focal plane (FFP) reticle is a significant advantage, as it maintains consistent reticle values across all magnification levels, which is essential for accuracy at long distances. The MOA-XT reticle is designed for quick and precise holds, with a floating center dot for fine aiming points and clear shooting references even in stressful situations. The ZeroStop feature and Digillum reticle illumination add to the high-performance capabilities, enabling rapid return to zero and user-friendly adjustments in low light conditions.

Additionally, the parallax adjustment down to 10 meters and 100 MOA elevation travel provide considerable flexibility and precision. At 39.3 ounces, it is relatively heavy, which could be a drawback for those concerned with the weight of their setup. The scope's durability and weather resistance are implied through its robust design and quality materials. The high price point may be a limiting factor for budget-conscious users. The Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 is best suited for dedicated long-range shooters and hunters who prioritize performance and precision over cost and weight considerations.