The Best Scopes for 6.5 Grendel in 2022

The 6.5 Grendel rifle can be defined as a low-recoil, accurate, and impressive cartridge designed in such a way that it can extend the AR-15’s range to over a thousand yards. It extends the range at a supersonic speed. The rifle works exceptionally well when used at long-range shooting.

Because it is mainly used for precision-shooting competitions and long-distance hunting, complementing it with the best scope for 6.5 Grendel rifle is essential. It needs a decent scope that showcases the right combination of quick adjustments and power.

Before shopping for a scope for your 6.5 Grendel rifle, though, you have to be aware of its intended use first. Consider what you will be using it for. Figure out whether you plan to use it for bench rest shooting, night hunting, close quarter hunting, precision-shooting competitions, or long-range hunting.

Once you identified the actual purpose of the scope and the rifle, it is time to study and evaluate the different scopes currently in the market. Let us begin with the following scopes for 6.5 Grendel rifles that we have evaluated and reviewed so you will not have a difficult time familiarizing yourself with each of them.

First, let’s take a look at the top-rated 6.5 Grendel scopes, then we’ll talk about how to choose the right one for you in our buying guide below.

Best Scope for 6.5 Grendel Reviews of 2022

Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-9×40 SFP BDC (MOA) Riflescope

I am glad that this 6.5 Grendel scope uses a dead-hold BDC reticle because I noticed how efficient this reticle is when it comes to shooting or hunting at various ranges, especially if one is concerned about holdover estimation. I am also fond of its affordable price without compromising its accuracy and quality.

I am so impressed with the shock-proof and rugged construction of this riflescope. It comes out as a single piece of solid tube constructed out of the strong and anodized aircraft-grade aluminum. I am also thrilled with its matte black finish because it works in camouflaging your position.

It is fully multi-coated, which ensures a better and comfortable viewing whether in darkness and light. You can also anticipate its ability to maximize light transmission and provide you with desirable brightness. I like the adequate sharpness and contrast provided by this rifle, too.

In addition, the multi-coated nature of the lens allows it to have good flare suppression. It can even adequately control distortion, color-fringing aberrations, and distracting field curvature. It can reduce glare when there are glass surfaces as well as the amount of haze, promoting bright colors.

Furthermore, it allows a distinct sight picture, thereby boosting your accuracy. The aluminum construction of this scope is also waterproof. There are even O-rings that can help ensure that unwanted moisture and dirt will not penetrate the tube.

The fact that it is purged with nitrogen gas also prevents internal fogging. With all these effects, I can say that this is the best Vortex scope for 6.5 Grendel that you can completely rely on no matter what the environment is.

However, some say that the eye-box is a bit unforgiving when the scope is used on high magnification.

This 6.5 Grendel BDC scope from Vortex packs a lot of features without sacrificing quality or significantly increasing its price, making it truly worth to check out.

Nikon P-Tactical .308 4-12X40 Matte BDC800

I am greatly satisfied with its 40-mm objective lens as well as its power magnification range, which is around 4 to 12x. It also comes equipped with the famous BDC 800 reticle. I am fond of how this reticle is capable of providing shooters with distinctive hash marks, dots, and open circles that aim from a hundred to eight hundred yards.

I also like the optical system used in this scope because it is fully multi-coated, offering an assurance that any user can enjoy bright views no matter how dismal a specific environment is. Another remarkable advantage of this 6.5 Grendel optics is its versatile 3x zoom ratio.

This is capable of meeting and even exceeding the majority of shooting demands by providing clear details at the high end of the ratio and good field of view when setting it at the low end. I think its ruggedness is also immediately noticeable from its shockproof construction, which is capable of shrugging of heavy use and abuse and hard recoil.

It also boasts of its O-ring sealing, which is a major help in ensuring that moisture does not enter the body of the scope. Furthermore, it is nitrogen-purged, providing complete reliability from thermal shock.

It also promotes ease of reference each time you need to make field adjustments because of the windage and elevation knobs that you can easily reset to zero right after each scenario when you sight it in.

The only complaint I have is that the windage screw is not that strong.

The fact that this item is well-built, durable, easy to zero, and comes with features that can significantly improve your hunting and shooting performance is a proof that it is indeed the best Nikon scope for 6.5 Grendel.

Bushnell AR Optics Drop Zone-223 BDC Ballistic Reticle Riflescope

It utilizes the Drop Zone BDC reticle, which is actually good because it aids in compensating for the bullet drop for a specific round at certain distances. I also like the impressive accuracy of this riflescope when used on mid-range distances even when set at a low magnification setting.

I can also vouch for the amazing physical versatility of this riflescope, which can be attributed to its sturdy and durable built and ability to deliver precision and accuracy no matter how harsh the climatic condition is. As for the windage and elevation, I am thrilled to say that you can conveniently and easily adjust it without the risk of losing your focus on your target.

The riflescope also takes pride in its indispensable target turrets specifically built to promote high-precision adjustment and pinpoint precise adjustments that are extremely helpful when used on long-range shooting. In addition, it boasts of fully multi-coated optics that ensure clarity of vision and amazing brightness even if you are using it in a dismal lighting situation.

This promotes ease when using the rifle in long-range shooting or hunting applications because you will be able to get a sharp, crisp, and clear view of your target. It also boasts of its fast-focus eyepiece, which guarantees rapid and dependable target acquisition.

However, it does not come with a mount, which many consider a disadvantage.

To conclude, the Bushnell AR Optics 3-9x40mm Drop Zone BDC Reticle Riflescope showcases an incredible combination of value at an acceptable price point without compromising important aspects and features that should be present in a good scope for 6.5 Grendel AR.

Primary Arms 4-16×44 SFP Riflescope

In fact, it is capable of switching from long-range to short-range viewing or vice versa with ease. The illuminated mil-dot reticle used in this riflescope is one reason behind such capability. This specific reticle also promotes ease in getting a clear view of your aimed target, giving you an idea of what exactly it is.

Alternatively, it also makes use of crosshairs with dots at the center, not a solid line. What is great about the dots is that they promote ease in making visual adjustments on the distance or windage without the need to make adjustments on the actual riflescope. I am also very delighted with its multiple brightness settings.

Another reason to love this option is that it acts as a high magnification scope, allowing you to have a clear view of your target even at a distance. It also looks and feels good as it is well-built and boasts of a nice matte finish. You can also take advantage of its twelve reticle adjustments that are easy to use, providing you with a nice and clear view regardless of the lighting condition.

I can also vouch for the ability of this scope to function with the lowest risk of getting damaged by the harsh elements. It is because of its nitrogen-purged construction, making it fog-proof, waterproof, and shockproof.

Furthermore, it is equipped with a side-mounted parallax knob for adjustment, which you can use in eliminating parallax from the reticle.

However, some users say that the reticle is a bit thin, making it prone to getting lost in busy and hectic environments.

As expected, this riflescope delivers an incredible and fantastic performance when used in whatever range, which is the reason why many perceive it as the best Primary Arms scope for 6.5 Grendel today.

Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18×44 AO SFP Riflescope

It comes in a one-inch tube, promoting ease in mounting it in appropriate mount, rings, and bases. This tube works in strengthening the scope while also promoting great accuracy so you can enjoy a more precise viewing experience.

Constructed out of aluminum, I am one hundred percent sure that you will love the durable and lightweight nature of this scope. I am also thrilled to say that it is capable of locking the lenses when you are searching for a view, making it shockproof.

The lenses are removable and come with a sunshade, providing a nice view each time you decide to hunt. With this, you can easily see your target regardless of where it is with precision. The adjustable objective (AO) featured in the Crossfire II riflescope is also a major contributor in fine-tuning the scope while reducing parallax error to improve viewing accuracy.

With the adjustable objective, it is also possible to enjoy an amazing and dependable zoom capability as well as a better reticle focus. I am so satisfied with the optical system of this riflescope, too, as it is equipped with multi-coated lenses that aid in transmitting maximum light with the least amount of reflection.

However, the optical bell used in adjusting the parallax is a bit challenging to use, which is one of its downsides.

Considering its features and benefits, the Crossfire II 6-18×44 AO SFP Riflescope from Vortex is more suitable for target shooting and hunting as the things integrated here perfectly suit the natural environment.

Leupold Rifleman 4-12x40mm Riflescope

The scope boasts of just around 1.8-inch diameter when set at the widest end, which eliminates worries when it comes to looking for high-profile rings that you can use when mounting it. It also takes pride in its 40-mm objective lens, which is already good in terms of letting in just the right amount of light.

When used for shooting at large loads, I am sure that you will be able to enjoy its eye relief and awesome eye box. Both of these make it possible for you to obtain a full view of your target without worrying about annoying full-circle bruises that often appear when you are shooting with the scope being excessively close to your eye.

I am also thrilled to announce that this scope is genuinely fog-proof, shockproof, and waterproof, making it as tough and rigid as possible. With that, it is safe to assume that it has that ability to withstand even the most damaging and extreme conditions.

Another praiseworthy benefit is its compactness, which makes it suitable for scouting and field hunting. I love the friction-style turrets integrated here because it promotes finer and simpler scope adjustments.

It is also one great choice for the best long-range scope for 6.5 Grendel considering the fact that it has a 12x zoom, which is helpful in case you want to shoot at a longer distance.

However, while it is easy to mount, the box/packaging does not include any scope ring for that purpose, which is a disappointment for those on a budget.

The Rifleman carries with it the ruggedness, incredible performance, waterproof integrity, and power unique to the Leupold brand, which proves that it is indeed a sound investment.

Burris 4.5-14x42mm Fullfield II Ballistic Plex Riflescope

I am so glad that this riflescope is lightweight while also sporting a short length overall as it promotes ease in mounting it in the most popular rifles today. I super like the Ballistic Plex reticle utilized in this Burris riflescope because it is considered as the most elegant and effective and the simplest reticle compensating for the trajectory that anyone can use for all hunting applications.

What I love even more about this riflescope is that you can match it with any bullet weight or caliber, which means that it does not act as a limited .308 scope for 6.5 Grendel. With its ability to match various bullet weights and calibers, I can safely say that it is one amazing and versatile piece of a riflescope.

I love the 1-piece tube construction of this scope as it makes it easy to manage. It is also built to showcase great durability with its well-reinforced quad-seal gas seals as well as its shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof nature. The design is simple, making it easy to use while still promoting good accuracy even when used at a long range.

Another of the best features it carries is the multi-coated optic, which, I think, is truly advantageous because it promises better light transmission even if you are hunting or shooting in spaces that are dim. It is also possible for you to do some parallax adjustments to further improve the accuracy of this scope at long distances.

The only issue I noticed here is that its finish is not as scratch-resistant as the ones used in other brands, like Leupold and Vortex.

Despite that, I am still contented with the overall performance of this riflescope from Burris, making it a great-performing and high-quality scope already for its price point.

Athlon Optics Neos 4-12×40 SFP Riflescope

It is a good scope for those searching for features and great quality while sticking to their budget. I am glad to say that the reticle is solidly etched on the glass, making it capable of offering reliable backing support in case of complex designs for reticles.

This riflescope showcases amazing durability, too. In fact, it provides great shock-resistance in terms of recoil. Combine that with the aircraft-grade aluminum material used in its tube and I am sure that you will instantly notice how exceptional its strength is.

I am satisfied with its mechanical integrity, too, because I find it superior in terms of protecting it from heavy uses and the harsh elements. The lenses used in this scope are also completely multi-coated. This contributes a lot in enhancing the transmission of light and bringing out maximum brightness and genuine colors regardless of the lighting situation.

The fact that it is nitrogen-purged is also a huge advantage because it significantly lessens the moisture within the tube. With that, it is capable of retaining the waterproof and fog-proof nature of the riflescope.

I can also say that it is a beautiful and well-made scope, which boasts of clear glass while having the ability to maintain zero nicely. It also supports making parallax adjustment.

The only downside I sensed in this scope is it is slightly heavy.

With Athlon Optics Neos SFP Riflescope, you can increase your chances of success when hunting using a good scope that still fits your budget.

What Makes a Great 6.5 Grendel Scope?

The 6.5mm Grendel is a low-recoil, high-accuracy ammunition that is specifically designed for use by the AR-15 tactical rifle. It has a maximum effective range of 200 yards (the distance where you do not need to compensate for bullet drop), which means it can benefit from a good medium-range rifle scope.

This also means that a scope with a magnification power of up to 16x will allow you to accurately shoot the Grendel at targets beyond 200 yards. The “best” scope to use with the Grendel will depend on your intended use for it. For instance, if you will be using your AR mostly for target shooting down in your local range, then you might want to use a long-range scope so you can test the limits of your rifle and ammunition.

On the other hand, if you will be using the Grendel ammo for hunting then you will benefit the most from a scope with a magnification of 4x to 12x. A medium-range scope will allow you to get close enough to your target to ensure a solid hit but still far enough that your target will not notice you.

To find a great Grendel scope, you need to take into consideration not just the capabilities of the ammunition but also what you will be using it for most of the time.

What Magnification Do You Need?

The 6.5 Grendel has an effective range of 200 yards but it can still go as far as 300 yards with a bit of bullet drop, so you will need a sufficiently powerful scope to make full use of its capabilities. The Grendel is primarily designed for tactical rifles, specifically the AR-15, and that means it is proficient in close quarters combat, short-range, and medium-range shooting.

It is also appropriate for long-distance shooting up to 600 yards or so but you will need to compensate heavily for bullet drop and windage. For CQB, you will find reflex sights or red dot sights quite beneficial because they allow you to aim at your targets quickly. You just raise the rifle and place the red dot at the targets center of mass, which you can do in just a fraction of a second if you’re good.

Reflex sights are great if you are planning on joining shooting competitions, like shooting galleries, or speed shooting events. For short and medium range shooting, a variable magnification scope is ideal. A rifle scope that has a range of 3-9x or 2-12x magnification is the usual choice as these are best for plinking.

Now, if you will be using the rifle for hunting, a fixed magnification scope might be better as it allows for faster target acquisition and does not need any turret adjustment whatsoever. These scopes are usually raised a bit from the rail, so you can still use the iron sights of the rifle. For hunting, usually a 3x to 9x fixed magnification scope is the popular choice.

It is a bit difficult but you can still use the Grendel to shoot at targets up to 500 yards. You just need the right scope to do so. For that distance, a scope that has a magnification of 16x to 20x will suffice.

In addition, the reticle should have bullet drop compensation and windage because the bullet tends to drop by quite a bit after 400 yards. It is also important to set your rifle on a stable base because when you are shooting that far, every little shake will seem like an earthquake when viewed through the scope.

Factors to Consider when Buying a Scope for 6.5 Grendel

If you are looking for the best optics for 6.5 Grendel rifle, but you do not know what you need to keep an eye out for, the following guide will be of great help. The following items are the main factors that you need to take into consideration when you are out shopping for a new scope for your rifle:

Magnification

The magnification of the scope that you need to buy will mainly depend on what you will usually be using the rifle for. There is no such thing as a Jack-of-all-trades rifle scope. Some claim that they can do everything but when put to the test, they all come out as average. You need to figure out first what kinds of activities you will be using your rifle for.

If you will be using the rifle mainly for plinking or target shooting in your local gun club’s range, you can use a scope that has variable magnification – either 2-12x or 3-9x will work well. Although not advisable, you can also use the Grendel for long-distance shooting. For that, you can use optics that go up to 18x or 20x.

On the other hand, if you originally bought the gun for home defense or for prepping, then you need something that will allow you to acquire targets quickly, something that you do not have to adjust. For this purpose, a reflex sight or a red dot sight is your best bet. When the enemy is just a few yards away, the last thing that you want to do is close one eye and have the other one look through a scope.

For hunting purposes, you need a scope with a fixed medium-range magnification. If you will be hunting small game, a 9x fixed scope will be fine for your needs. It will allow you to get a good look at your target prey but not so close that you can scare it away.

Eye Relief

The eye relief is the minimum distance between your dominant eye and the focal lens that can still result in a clear sight picture. It is important because it prevents the scope from crashing into your eye after a particularly strong kickback from the rifle.

The 6.5 Grendel is actually designed to be low recoil, which means a scope with a short eye relief will work. However, if you still want to play it on the safe side, you should get a scope with an eye relief of at least 4.5 inches or so.

Reticle

Just like the magnification, when choosing the reticle design of your scope, you need to consider what you will be using it for. For close quarters, you need something that you can use to aim quickly, so a red dot reticle is perfect. You do not have to actually aim properly. Just center the red dot on the target’s center of mass.

For short and medium-range shooting, which means you will most likely be shooting up to 200 yards away, the maximum effective range of the Grendel ammunition, you can use the basic Duplex reticle. This reticle will allow you to center your aim properly and maybe even make some slight flight corrections.

In addition, if you will be using the scope in low-light conditions, then you need to get a scope that has an illuminated reticle. In any case, if you just want good visibility in any lighting condition, then this kind of reticle is your best choice.

Objective lens size

The objective lens is the one in front of the scope. This is the part that lets light into the scope, thus providing you with a brighter sight image. The larger the objective lens, the more light it lets into the scope. However, the caveat is that it also adds quite a lot of weight to the scope.

If you will mainly be using your firearm on the firing range, then there is nothing stopping you from getting a scope with a 50mm objective lens. On the other hand, if you will be using the rifle for hunting, the maximum should be around 30mm, as every gram of weight counts when you are in the wilds.

Lens coating

The lens coating is the film, or layers of film, applied on the objective and focal lenses to make them anti-reflective and prevent glare. The more layers of anti-reflective film there is, the better it performs.

Waterproofing and fog-proofing

These qualities are important if you will be using your scope for hunting purposes. You need to make sure that the scope you get actually has decent waterproofing and fog-proofing.

Usually, what manufacturers do is make sure that the body of the scope is completely air tight then fill it with an inert gas, usually nitrogen, before sealing the ends. This prevents fog from forming inside the lens. The waterproofing comes from the strong seals that prevent the nitrogen from escaping.

Conclusion

The 6.5 Grendel is one of the most popular ammunition for tactical rifles and for good reason. This ammunition is not just extremely accurate. It also has a low recoil, which makes it easy to use, even for beginners. As accurate as the Grendel ammunition is, it can only benefit more if you pair it with a good scope.

With the best scope for 6.5 Grendel rifle, you can effectively increase the range of the Grendel ammo, which means you can hit target that are as far as 500 yards. If you want to make the most use out of your Grendel rifle, you need to get the right scope that fits your needs and intended uses.

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