The Best Rifle Scopes for 100 Yards in 2022

If you are shopping for the best scope for 100 yards, then this article is for you. Shooting at a range of 25 to 100 yards may not seem like much. However, it can still pose some serious challenges. That is why you will need an appropriate scope that will allow you to compensate for these factors.

These scopes allow you to keep track of your target a lot better, guaranteeing more precise aiming. They can also give you the opportunity to see the very fine details of your subject. These scopes are perfect for hunting, hiking, sightseeing, and even ‘backyard’ birding.

Best Rifle Scope for 100 YardsReviews of 2022

UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope

I cannot help myself admiring the beauty of the BugBuster. It looks mighty impressive when bolted onto my AR. The tube is well-built. The sealing of the different components will never allow any form of particle ingress. That should help you feel a lot better when you do decide to take this baby down the range.

We love the illuminated reticle that comes in either red or green. The brightness of the scope is remarkable, regardless of the type of reticle illumination you choose. The good thing about such a setup is that you will never miss a target ever again.

The quality of the optics works hand in hand with the amazing range of lens power. The diameter is also large enough to allow for a clearer view of your target. Tracking the target is so much easier with the system.

If there is one thing that we didn’t like about the BugBuster target scope, it is its tendency to jump out from its zero. This happens occasionally and it can be frustrating if you already have the target in your sights

Despite this issue, however, I am still inclined to believe that the UTG 3-9×32 BugBuster is an excellent choice for those who want a good combination of affordability, performance, and quality.

Bushnell Optics 3-9x40mm Drop Zone-223 BDC Reticle Riflescope

Bushnell is one of the top rated companies when it comes to optical devices. We love the fact that the brand also extended its excellence in optics in the 3-9x40mm. The optics are crystal clear and the maximum power is high enough to give you a great view of your target and its surroundings from 100 yards out. Its fully-multicoated lens guarantees optimum brightness. This 100-yard riflescope can make hunting and short- to medium- range shooting more exciting even in low light scenarios.

The BDC reticle is also worthy of mention. It may look like an ordinary Duplex crosshair at first. However, it comes with bullet drop compensation points for improved accuracy of shots. We also like the parallax adjustment on the side. This can make for more accurate long-distance shots in case you wish to go beyond the 100-yard mark.

The tube comes with adequate protection against the elements. The build also feels and looks very sturdy.

One downside we observed is that the ocular component is quite large. You will need to use a high mount so that this part of the short range rifle scope will not come in contact with your rifle.

Requiring a high mount is not so much a deal-breaker. I believe that the Bushnell Optics 3-9x40mm Riflescope is still a great rifle scope considering its price, built, and performance.

Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-6×24 SFP Riflescope

What we love about this Vortex Optics product is its reticle illumination technology. Targets at 100 yards will seem like subjects at shorter distances because of the 11 different brightness settings that you can choose. Combine this with the quality of its glass and you will know that no target will ever escape your sights.

The fully multicoated lens affords the Strike Eagle the ability to provide hunters and shooters with a clearer view of their targets. We also find the focus dial on the turret to be exceptional in guaranteeing ultra-sharp images. This makes it very easy to acquire a target from 50 or 100 yards out.

The maximum lens power may seem inadequate at first. However, given that Vortex Optics designed the Strike Eagle 1-6×24 for shooting at distances up to 100 yards, the magnification is more than sufficient.

While there are no questions about optical quality, we do wish that the Strike Eagle had a more pleasant eye relief.

Barring any ‘scope-eye’ incidents, I think that the Strike Eagle deserves a spot in our list of the best scopes for 100 yards or less. The quality of its construction and the performance of its optics are enough to offset any issues in eye relief.

Nikon 3-9×40 BDC Reticle Black Riflescope

The Nikon 3-9×40 provides excellent light transmission. We are amazed at how bright and clear the images are when viewed through the ocular piece. Adjusting both the windage and elevation turrets is also very easy. You can appreciate the clicks with each twist that you make. It guarantees more accurate shots all the time. This also makes the scope ideal for Ruger 10/22 rifles.

There is no denying that the Nikon 3-9×40 is a high-quality Rimfire scope for 100 yards. And when you look at its price tag, you will know that you’ve got the best deal in town. It has good protection against moisture ingress and the impact of hard recoil. Its eye relief is also remarkable, making sure that you will never experience the dread ‘scope-eye’. We love its sturdy built, too. It feels solid, despite having a characteristic lightweight feel to it.

It is difficult to find a serious fault in the Nikon. Our only minor issue is that its minimum magnification distance is still high. We would not recommend the scope for shooting targets closer than 25 yards.

The Nikon 3-9×40 Riflescope remains a good contender for the best rifle scope for 100 yards. Its construction and performance make it a good choice for anyone who wants an affordable gadget that performs in an outstanding manner all the time.

Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope

What I love about the VX-Freedom is its unique Twilight Light Management system. I am pretty sure other brands have a similar technology under a different name. The system allows for exceptional visibility of the target even in the darkest possible environments. Of course, you cannot expect the reticle system of this close shooter scope to function in the dead of the night. Given that many of the game we hunt are most active at twilight, the VX-Freedom makes it easy to spot our targets and aim for the kill.

The construction of the VX-Freedom is also worthy of praise. Its main tube is lightweight and is versatile enough to fit legacy rings. I believe Leupold constructed it from high-grade aluminum, giving it its uncanny toughness and lightweight characteristics.

The turrets are easy to adjust and the lens diameter is large enough to allow for a clearer view of the target. It makes for a great target shooting scope.

For its price, we only wished Leupold also included a lens cap. This should help protect the glass exterior surface from dust and other particles.

In my opinion, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 remains one of the best short range scopes money can ever buy.

Monstrum 2-7×32 AO Riflescope

What surprised us about the Monstrum is its clear glass. We know that this is a budget scope and were prepared to see a less-than-spectacular optics. Imagine our surprise when we peered into the ocular piece. The glass is crystal clear; something that is quite similar to a high end scope.

Another thing that surprised us is the reticle. Monstrum provides enough illumination settings that will shame even the scopes of well-known brands. There is a built-in rangefinder in the Monstrum’s crosshairs. This will make it easy for you to estimate the range to the target. The feature also allows for better compensation for bullet drop. The turret is easy to manipulate and you can hear a characteristic sound that signals you are in the right setting.

While the glass of the Monstrum is clear, we did find its ability to hold zero to be less to our liking. We fitted this to an AR and we had to make the adjustments after every several rounds.

Despite the zeroing issues, I believe the Monstrum 2-7×32 Riflescope is a great option for those who want a short rifle scope without breaking the bank. Its construction, design, and performance are worth more than its actual price.

Primary Arms SLX 1-8x24mm SFP Rifle Scope

We believe that the SLX’s main strength is its reticle. It combines two well-known systems to make tracking and targeting a lot easier. There are also markings that will allow any shooter to adjust the shot, track moving targets, and hold the shot for windage. The system also gives you an idea of how far you are from your target.

On a personal note, I love the fact that the SLX comes with a 1x minimum power. I find this the ideal magnification for short range optics. I love tracking and shooting wild hogs from 25 yards. Getting a higher magnification will hide the hog’s surroundings from my view.

The downside to the Primary Arms SLX is its eye relief. Even if you were to mount it in a low recoil rifle, the clarity of the image will suffer if you do not bring your eye close enough to the ocular piece.

While the eye relief can be a real downer, the Primary Arms SLX 1-8×24 still makes its case as the best scope magnification for 100 yards. The glass is good and so is the reticle system. The image quality is also good for short and medium range shots.

Trijicon AccuPower 1-8×28 Riflescopes

We know you will love the AccuPower’s wide range of magnification. While this is a powerful scope for 100 yards, it can also be a great tool for shooting objects as far as 600 yards. The reticle comes with markings that allow you to make more accurate estimates of your distance to the target.

The quality of the glass is like any other Trijicon product. And when you factor the multicoated nature of the lenses, shooting at 100 yards is a jiffy with the AccuPower on your rifle.

The AccuPower’s construction is also as tough as the ACOG system. Bring it out in a stormy weather or under the stifling heat of the sun. The AccuPower can take any beating that you throw its way.

There is one issue that I find troubling in the AccuPower. I know that it has a first focal plane. Unfortunately, when adjusted for 100 yards, the center dot of the reticle grows unusually large. I have had other scopes that have FFP. The reticle size does increase with magnification. However, the increase in size is not that significant compared to the Trijicon AccuPower.

I admit I am not a fan of first focal plane scopes. However, this does not mean that the AccuPower 1-8x24mm Riflescope is not a great scope. It is a Trijicon, after all.

Athlon Optics Neos 3-9×40 SFP Riflescope 

What find remarkable about this low price scope is its lens. Most scopes in this price range will not have their lens in a fully multicoated fashion. Yet, the Neos does. This guarantees better light transmission that works well with its large-diameter objective lens.

The turret adjustment dials are also noteworthy. Each turn locks into its place, unlike other scopes that have turrets that tend to ‘wander’. This makes locking the zero hassle-free.

We think the Neos is also one of the coolest scopes around. It does not have the characteristic silhouette of an ACOG. It does have its own charm. Considering that it is one of the lowest-priced on the market, having a robust aluminum body construction is a big plus.

What I find troubling in the Neos is its lack of reticle illumination. It is okay if you are going to hunt during the day. Unfortunately, most of the game I hunt love to come out at dusk.

The reticle of the Athlon Optics Neos may not have the illumination you want. However, the scope remains a good tool for 100-yard shooting. The glass is clear and the tube comes with ample protection against the elements.

Burris Fullfield II 2-7x35mm Riflescope

This close range scope has the right combination of variable magnification and quality optics for superior target acquisition. It is not a premium-quality glass. However, the clarity of the optics and the images that they create will give you the impression of an expensive scope. In fact, we met some rifle owners who say that the clarity of the Fullfield glass is even better than that of a Nikon.

The Fullfield has more than enough scope power for 100 yards. With a maximum power of 7x, it would be easy to acquire and hit a target from 500 yards out. Zeroing the scope is also easy enough. I find using a coin to be sufficient in making the necessary adjustments.

What I love most about the Fullfield II is its lightweight characteristic. I believe that high quality scopes should never weigh you down. As if your rifle is not heavy enough. With a scope this light, hunting is now more fun.

I only regret the turret adjustment. It feels very ‘liquid’. I cannot discern any ‘stop’ with each turn. I will have to look at the markings to make sure that I have dialed my desired adjustments.

Some people may prefer a more ‘fluid’ turret adjustment. That is why I still consider the Burris Fullfield II 2-7x35mm to be a good quality rifle scope.

What Is a Scope for 100 Yards and Who This Is For

People use scopes to get a better view of their subject or target. As such, when somebody talks about a scope for 100 yards, he often refers to scopes that are ideal for short-range viewing, target acquisition, and shooting. This includes optical instruments that can ensure better viewing of objects or targets located up to 100 yards from the person.

A scope for 100 yards is ideal for people who hunt deer and other large game. Hunters can go near these animals up to a hundred yards without spooking them. The magnification in these scopes is high enough to afford a clearer view of the target without producing some of the unnecessary effects of high magnification scopes.

These optical devices are also ideal for short range target practice. There are shooting ranges that put the target at variable distances from the shooter. The targets can be positioned at 25, 50, 75, and 100 yards out to hone the accuracy of the shooter.

If you pick the right 100-yard-range device, it can also be a wonderful tool for long-range shooting. For instance, getting a 3-9x scope can help you shoot targets beyond 100 yards. The variable power gives you the added advantage of versatile shooting.

Why Do You Need Scopes for 100 Yards

A good quality scope for 100 yards provides better shot accuracy. It is true that you can hit a target from 100 yards out without a scope, especially if the target is large enough for the naked eye to see. However, precision shooters would also want to place their shots in a very specific area of the target.

For example, a target board may be 2 feet wide. However, the bull’s eye can only be a few inches across. You will be able to see the two-foot wide board without a scope from 100 yards. Unfortunately, it will be difficult to see the 2-inch wide bull’s eye in the center of the target board without a scope.

One characteristic of scopes for 100 yards is that they have a lower maximum power. This can range anywhere between 6x and 9x. A scope with lower magnification affords a clearer image of the target. It does not shrink the image, allowing you to find the target a lot faster. A lower magnification scope also minimizes unnecessary movements of the reticle brought about by the shooter’s heartbeat and muscle tremors. This can make your target seem to bounce in and out of your view.

What Makes a Great Scope for 100 Yards?

Any good quality rifle scope should have good quality optics. This is true when you talk about scopes for short range shots. High-quality optics can make images in the scope look brighter and clearer. In some cases, you can set the power of the rifle scope to 1x and you will still be able to land the perfect shot.

A great scope for 100 yards should also have a minimum power of 1x and a maximum power of 9x. The “ideal” magnification of the scope will depend on the shooter’s eyesight and the size of the target. Larger targets do not require high magnification, while smaller objects will be so much easier to target with a higher magnification.

Weatherproofing is also important. So is the shock- and fog- proofing of the scope. Environmental elements can affect the clarity of the image through the rifle scope. Protection against these elements is a true characteristic of a great 100-yard-range scope.

It would also be ideal to have crisp turrets and a clear reticle. Illumination is also a feature of the best scopes for 100 yards. The overall construction of a great scope is one of fine craftsmanship. It should be rugged, yet refined enough to lend beauty to your rifle.

What Magnification Do You Need?

Choosing a magnification for your 100-yard riflescope is dependent on a few factors. One of these is your visual acuity. People who have no problems with their eyesight can hit a target from 100 yards out without the need for any magnification. Conversely, people with eye problems can benefit from a rifle fitted with a 4-9x scope, depending on the severity of the eye condition.

Another factor is the size of the target. If you are going to shoot a pea-sized target from a distance of a hundred yards, then magnification is a must. A 3x scope is often enough for most people. For those with eye problems, a 9x scope might be more suited.

Tracking and hitting a deer at this distance may not require a scope with powerful magnification at all. The game is large enough to hit with one shot; unless, you want to be more precise in the placement of the shot. In such instances, a scope with a 3-9x power is sufficient.

There is also the quality of the glass that you need to consider. There are scope manufacturers that can get away with a low-power scope by improving the quality of their optics. This also ensures better shot accuracy.

Factors to Consider when Buying a Scope for 100 Yards

It is best to consider several factors when buying the best short range scope for your rifle. Because picking the right one can be intimidating and confusing, having a good understanding of the different factors can help narrow down your choices.

Quality of the Optics

You may have a scope with a 40x power. However, if the quality of the glass or lens is mediocre, then you will not be able to utilize the full power of the scope’s magnification. Unfortunately, evaluating the quality of the optics is not easy. One way to do it is to determine the manufacturer of the lens or optics. There are only a few manufacturers of lenses that we can consider as world-class.

Power of the Scope

This is the second most important consideration whenever buying a scope. A scope for 100 yards is primarily intended for short range shooting. As such, it would be best to get a device that will allow you to magnify objects at 100 yards in a clear manner. This depends on the object or target that you want to shoot. If it is large enough, then a scope with low power is enough. If the target is small, then a more suitable device will be one with high magnification.

Crispness of the Turret

You will not have to consider the quality of the turret if you are getting a fixed scope. There is no need to adjust for both the windage and the elevation. Given that most of the scopes for 100 yards have variable power, then the crispness or the responsiveness of the turret is crucial. You will want the turrets to give you that characteristic “click” with every turn.

Type of Focal Plane

Most hunters and competitive shooters prefer a scope with a second focal plane or SFP for short range shooting purposes. The advantage of such a type of focal plane is that the size of the crosshair does not change with any change in the power of the scope. You can zoom in or zoom out and the size of the reticle will remain the same. Compare this to a first focal plane or FFP. The reticle size in FPP changes every time you change the magnification. If you zoom in on a target, you will see the size of the reticle also increase.

Scope Protection

The performance of the scope depends on the proper functioning of the optics and the other internal components. Dust particles, heat, vibration, and moisture can all affect the optimum function of these parts. That is why protection against the elements is a must. This can include protection against fogging, water or moisture ingress, shock, and dust, among others.

Eye Relief

Many rifle owners consider an eye relief of at least 4 inches to be ideal. The rule to observe is the more powerful the recoil of the rifle, the greater is the eye relief that you will need for the scope. This will help avoid hurting yourself in the event of a powerful ‘kick’ from the rifle upon discharge.

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Conclusion

There are many qualities of a great scope that any potential buyer needs to understand. The quality of the optics and the clarity of the image are important attributes. The ruggedness of the scope tube, including its resistance to fog, vibration, shock, and dust and moisture ingress is also crucial. A good scope for short range shooting should also have turret adjustments that are easy to turn, while allowing ample feedback to the shooter. Reticle illumination also matters.

However, high-quality scopes often have good quality lenses that no longer require artificial illumination. If you consider all of these factors, you can bet that the short-range scope you will put in your rifle will be the best. Buy the best scope for 100 yards today!

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