10 bestCheap Rifle Scopesof April 2025
112M consumers helped this year.
1

Paike Rifle Scope 4x32 with Red & Green &Blue Illuminated Reticle with Top Fiber Red Dot Sight
Paike

10.0
2

Hawke Airmax First Focal Plane 6-24×50 SF IR Riflescope 30mm
Hawke

10.0
3

Vortex Viper 6.5-20x50 PA Rifle Scope Mil Dot Reticle Multi Coated Waterproof
Vortex

9.9
4

BSA EMD 3-9x40 Essential TELESCOPIC Air Gun Rifle SCOPE Sight + 11mm 3/8" Mounts
BSA

9.8
5

Fast Mount Riflescope 3-12x50 AO Mil Dot
Fast Mount

9.7
Other
6

Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x50 AO Rifle Scope, Dead-Hold BDC Reticle (MOA)
Vortex

9.6
7

Paike 4-16x40 AOE Rifle Scope Red and Green Illuminated Scope with Mount
Paike

9.4
8

Fast Mount Riflescope 6-24x50 AO Mil Dot
Fast Mount

9.3
9

Hawke Fastmount 4-16x50 AO IR Air Rifle Rimfire Scope with Mounts
Hawke

9.1
10

Feyachi R122 Rifle Scope 4x32 Red-Green-Blue Illuminated Rapid Range Reticle Scope with 2 Top Fiber Optic Sight with 4 Magnification and 20mm/22mm Picatinny Rail Mount for Hunting
Feyachi

8.9
A Guide to Selecting the Best Cheap Rifle Scopes
Choosing the right rifle scope can significantly enhance your shooting experience, whether you're hunting, target shooting, or engaging in competitive shooting. The key is to understand the various specifications and how they align with your specific needs. Here are some important specs to consider when selecting a rifle scope.
Magnification
Magnification refers to how much closer the target appears through the scope compared to the naked eye. This is important because it determines how well you can see your target at different distances. Scopes typically come with fixed or variable magnification. Fixed magnification scopes are simpler and often more durable, while variable magnification scopes offer more flexibility. For close-range shooting (up to 100 yards), a magnification of 1-4x is usually sufficient. For medium-range (100-300 yards), 4-9x is ideal. For long-range shooting (beyond 300 yards), you might need 9x or higher. Choose based on the typical distance you will be shooting.
Objective Lens Diameter
The objective lens diameter is the size of the front lens of the scope, measured in millimeters. This spec is important because it affects the amount of light that enters the scope, impacting the brightness and clarity of the image. Larger objective lenses (40mm and above) allow more light, which is beneficial in low-light conditions but can make the scope heavier and bulkier. Smaller objective lenses (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.
Reticle
The reticle, or crosshair, is the aiming point you see when looking through the scope. This is crucial for accuracy. There are various types of reticles, including duplex, mil-dot, and BDC (bullet drop compensator). Duplex reticles are simple and great for general use. Mil-dot reticles are useful for estimating range and windage, making them popular for tactical and long-range shooting. BDC reticles help compensate for bullet drop over long distances, which is helpful for hunting. Choose a reticle based on your shooting style and needs.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope at which you can see the full image. This is important for comfort and safety, especially with high-recoil rifles. Scopes with longer eye relief (3.5 inches or more) are better for high-recoil firearms, as they reduce the risk of the scope hitting your face. For low-recoil rifles, shorter eye relief may be acceptable. Consider the type of rifle you are using and your comfort level when choosing eye relief.
Field of View
Field 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. Lower magnification scopes generally have a wider FOV, while higher magnification scopes have a narrower FOV. If you need to track moving targets or require a broad view of the area, opt for a scope with a wider FOV. For precision shooting at long distances, a narrower FOV may be sufficient.
Parallax Adjustment
Parallax adjustment helps to eliminate the parallax error, which occurs when the reticle appears to move in relation to the target when you move your head. This is important for accuracy, especially at longer distances. Some scopes come with fixed parallax, usually set at a specific distance (e.g., 100 yards), while others offer adjustable parallax, allowing you to fine-tune the focus for different distances. If you plan to shoot at varying distances, a scope with parallax adjustment can be beneficial. For consistent short-range shooting, fixed parallax may be sufficient.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Durability 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 are important for maintaining clarity and functionality in various weather conditions and environments. If you plan to use your scope in rugged outdoor conditions, prioritize these features to ensure reliability and longevity.

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