The Best Long Range Rifle Scopes Under $1000 in 2022

For a lot of shooting enthusiasts,hunting is really a great sport but it also requires making use of the correct equipment. Hitting targets from a distance might be a challenge so this is where the top long-range scope comes into the picture as it can make the difference in picture clarity.

It you are looking for the best long range rifle scope under $1000 then it will be best to do a thorough research first of all the available long range rifle scopes in the market and create a list of your top choices based from your need and additional innovations that you can have.

Do not just get the first scope that includes ‘long range’ on its name. Consider its overall features, built, and performance so you know that it will be worth your $1000 bucks. You also must note that since you are working on a set budget, your expectation levels should be ready for any compromises.

Best Long Range Rifle Scope Under $1000 Reviews of 2021

Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 6-24×50 SFP Riflescope

This scope will provide you with amazing precision, enhanced versatility, quick acquisition, and suave operation. One main advantage of this scope is it provides a generous eye relief of 4 inches at 6x. At 24x magnification, you can still enjoy an eye relief of up to 3 inches.

Magnification also doesn’t distort the quality of the images. Zooming in and out is such a smooth transition that it will not affect your focus on the target since it is using the Prevision-Glide Erector System in making magnification adjustments.

The Viper HST’s optics are the best of the best with its XR fully multi-coated lenses with the light transmission at its optimum so you retain good visibility even in the not so good lighting conditions. The layers are also coated with anti-glaring components to stop shine on the air to glass surfaces.

With the HST, you get to enjoy the Customizable Rotational Stop (CRS) so you can go back to zero once the elevation has been corrected. It also works hand in hand with the Precision-Force Spring system that adjusts very simple.

With a solid construction, a glass clarity that is very clear and dials that are user friendly and at the same time can provide a wide field of view, this is the bomb.

Just a little bummer here is specific to the magnification where the adjustments can be a little hard.

Final thoughts for this are it is the perfect scope for tactical, shooting, and hunting use. The solid built and superb optic is such a steal. Magnification adjustments can soften with frequent use once you get comfortable using the scope so overall, this is a smart purchase that you should be doing now.

Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP Riflescope

Its lenses are fully multi-coated so maximum light transmission is always achieved. Extra low dispersion glass is also used so the lens can deliver the best image. Note as well that the 50mm target diameter lens also provides a great exit pupil at higher magnification.

As one of its stronger features, its 6x-24x magnification is highly recommended for moderate to longer range shooting. Its FFP reticle decreases the need to all those irritating sub-tension forecasting when the power needs to be modified.

It also had a simple Fiber Optic MAG-View Bar provides a clear and simple point of the projected reference for the current zoom configuration which in turn makes it easier to validate and modify the magnification sans the need to shift your head.

To make all even better, it also has an integrated system called Precision Glide Erector Technique which promises uniform and seamless zoom realignment regardless of the operating environment. Designed with overall functionality as the main objective, it is lightweight but made with top of the line materials. It boasts a clear and bright scope that it’s Argon gas-purged.

Also pegged as the best option for tactical operations, this is a PST scope also known as a Precision Shooting Tactical scope which means that it is ready to cope and survive all conditions under all types of environment and situations.

However, it might not be for beginners due to some complicated settings.

This ends with 5 shining stars when it comes to ratings. It is a promise of a high-quality scope with an affordable price. The features and advantages it can offer is amazing and your shooting skills will surely level up with this scope. Even if it is not for newbies, you can always learn and get used to it until you become comfortable and an expert with the Viper PST. It is worth considering whether you’re looking for a duplex reticle or MOA fingertip windage in a scope.

Vortex Optics Viper HS LR 6-24×50 FFP Riflescope

Boasting an advanced optical system of an objective lens with a diameter of 50mm with a 4x magnification versatility with a highest magnification pegged at 21x-30x and a tolerant eye box with a generous eye relief, you can focus in target acquisition easily and faster.

This one is a solid 30mm single machine aluminum tube for better elevation and windage velocity and prime adjustment. To top it off, it also gives an extremely visible reference point for the magnification configuration thanks to its MAG-View Fiber Optic system.

Its optical features also include an XR fully multi-coated lens that helps in increasing the light transmission complete with anti-reflective coatings. You can also be guaranteed of high color resolution and fidelity thanks to its Extra low dispersion (XD) glass. This one always make the images sharper and crisp. Its first focal plane reticle also stays in proportion even if the image is zoomed. The continuous sub tensions permit precise holdover and stretching at all levels of magnification.

This scope is also designed with longevity in mind. It is waterproof with O-seals to stop moisture, debris and dust from getting into the riflescope. It is also Argon gas purged to make it fog proof so there would be no negative effects with the drop and rise of temperature. Lastly, it is shock proof so it can withstand multiple heavy recoils and even impact. Its Tactical Elevation Turret also gives quick and accurate elevation adjustments.

With everything that it can offer, a slight compromise will just be its lack of an illuminated reticle.

Bottom line, this is a highly recommended scope. The lack of an illuminated reticle is a workable compromise because with all the packed advantages of this scope, with or without one, this is still a powerful accessory when out hunting. This is surely one of the best rifle scope under $1000.

Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20×50 Riflescope

Known for its superb clarity, the Accupoint uses tritium illumination that automatically regulates to the conditions automatically while at the same time, manual adjustments can also be applied. It has a fully adjustable 5-20x magnification so targets from 1,000 yards can still be seen with utmost clarity since the images are still viewed without any distortions or flaws.

There are also three reticles available for you: the duplex crosshair, mil-dot crosshair and a triangle post reticle that is patterned to Tricon’s ACOG sights. All these reticles can be in either green or amber illumination. The triangle sight is available in red too.

It is made of 6061-T6 aluminum housing that has an anti-glare hard anodized finish beneficial because it won’t reflect light thus will not give away your position or would it scare your targets in the field. The hard coat meanwhile makes it resistant to rust, corrosion, and weather elements.

Another advantage of the AccuPoint is it provides generous eye relief that will enable you to mount it away from your eyes. If you are using a powerful rifle where the recoil is possibly stronger, then you need not to worry about injuring yourself.Definitely, this scope can help you achieve a great hunting trip.

With everything that this scope can offer, the only downside is its lack of scope rings.

There are a lot of resources when it comes to acquiring scope rings so it not being included is not huge deal breaker. With all its pros, it is no wonder why it is one of the best scopes within the one thousand budgets. It is also reliable to offer image quality all the time. It is also at a reasonable price tag.

Nikon Black FX1000 6-24×50 Riflescope

It has 10 power settings for its illumination with an option to turn it off between each setting. This feature would ensure that in any situation, you are sure to find a setting that will work for you. The reticle is a real beauty as well because it uses MRAD based reticles so calculations are very easy.

The FX1000 also placed its parallax adjustment on the side so it is very easy and convenient to just get dialed wherever distance you are at. Adjusting the turrets are also indicated by very audible clicks so you would know that tweaks are already applied without you needing to shift your head to validate.

As for the lens, this is Nikon that we are talking about so the basic expectation is it delivers crystal clear images that Nikon was able to deliver. It is fully multi-coated and with an objective lens of 50mm, the light transmission is at its finest.

Completely shock proof, fog proof, and waterproof, this is perfect for rough terrains regardless of weather and light conditions. It is your best bet for the best low light rifle scope under $1000. It looks nice with its flat matte look with a magnification power of 6-24x.

During the first uses, you will notice that the magnification adjustments are stiff that may come as a surprise.

It is normal for any adjustment dials or levers to be stiff with new optics but it usually eases up as you get comfortable using it. It also softens up as you use it more so it is not a big deal. This Nikon optic is highly recommended with a huge thumbs up.

Athlon Optics Midas TAC 6-24×50 Riflescope

The reticle is also etched in glass so it gives great backing maintenance for complex reticle design that gives resilience and a greater shock resistance to the frequent recoil. Aside from being fully multi-coated, it is also XPL coated for that added protection for the outside stretches, dirt, and oil. It is also a great scope for brightness levels and settings.

It has a magnification power of 6-24x with a high precision erector system being processed by highly accurate CNC machines with +/- 0.0001mm level of tolerance so you can have the most precise power settings with the smoothest magnification transmission.

This scope is also expected to be reliable with a longer lifespan because it is designed as waterproof, fog proof, and shock proof with its lenses purged in Argon to prevent from any moisture to get in the tube. Aside from these, it is also made of aircraft grade aluminum so it can surely withstand the use and abuse it will be exposed to.

With an eye relief of 3.7 inches, your focus will just be on the target without the need for slight movements to relieve pain. The parallax adjustments are also very user friendly coupled with audible click turrets and zero stops.

It would have been better if there was a lens cover included on this Midas package.

Sans the lens cover, this is still a great purchase. You get value for your money and with a decent price limit, you get a scope with high quality glass that provides consistent clarity each time for 600-1000 yards.

Nightforce Optics 4-14×56 SHV Riflescope

Its lens is extremely remarkable with its huge size of 56mm objective lens that can provide outstanding picture each time. Its magnification range is not removed as advanced compared to other long-range scopes but is decent enough especially for long range scopes within this budget of $1000. With the Nightforce, you can shoot in long distances.

It also features ¼ MOA elevation along with windage click adjustments of 100 MOA of elevation and 70 MOA for windage. Note that the Nightforce Optics come into variants; one that non-illuminated model and the other with retile illumination.

The target shooter scope is all-black with a 30mm tube made of quality aluminum alloy. In addition, the smoothness and the materials of this long-range scope is of higher quality and a little showier compared to other scopes of the same price range.

It boasts a magnification power of 4-14x where the low-end magnification range is ideal for times when an all-out field of view is needed. This is especially the case when hunting in thick lumber or along river bottoms. It weighs less than 2 pounds and provides an approximately 3.5 inches of eye relief and 4 inches at 14x.

Like any of the Nightforce Optics, this also comes with the well-established durability.

Zeroing the Nightforce SHV is very simple and straightforward but can be a little on the heavier side.

The final evaluation for this scope is it is indeed value for money. It is very much worth its price point. Although it rather on the bulky side, it is still a great accessory to have crystal clear images of those long-range targets.

Leupold VX-3i LRP 8.5-25x50mm Side Focus Riflescope

The name also speaks for itself. It is a Long-Range Precision scope built with superb precision and repeatability. This high-quality value rifle scope under $1000 has two options for first and second focal points, either MOA or MIL adjustments with several magnification settings.

The VX-3i has an easy to grab ¼ MOA dial with each travel having three revolutions, a zero non-stop, and an indicator for the revolution. It also has user friendly and easy to read dials with an incorporated quick turn throw lever. It also follows the 3:1 zoom ratio erector principle that is best for a wide range of situations.

It also has the Twilight Max Light Management System so from dusk until dawn, you can be on your best performance as it gives you an additional 20 minutes of shooting light. When this is activated, it is proven to effectively remove 85% of glare producing lost light compared.

You will also have that additional blanket of security knowing that this riflescope has passed the Punisher, Leupold’s very own recoil simulation machine. Successfully passing 5,000 impacts from the Punisher is an indication of how solid and tough this scope is. This scope also can deliver a clear sight picture that is good for deer hunting, too. I liked that it also has great MOA windage and elevation features.

Absolutely fog proof and waterproof, you can have this along with you on all weather conditions without having to worry that it will affect its image quality and performance.

A little recommendation to make this an ever-better scope is if it could also provide a generous eye relief.

Overall, the Leupold VX-3i is highly recommended for it is a great scope and a bang for the buck. It has great visuals and is one of the best FFP scope under $1000. The eye relief being a con is well compensated with all the pros with interest.

Bushnell Tactical 4.5-30×50 Rifle Scope

As the name signifies, XRS stands for Extreme Range Scope so yes, this scope is one that can survive the toughest of the tough. Starting with its 50mm objective lens to its 34mm forged aluminum tube, huge tactical turrets and an impressive 30x magnification, everything about the Bushnell Tactical scope is massive. This one is your best scope under $1000.

Since it has a huge objective lens, it means that it gets 50% more light compared to those usually pegged at only 42mm. It also utilizes a G2 reticle on the first focal plane. The scope reticules enlarge as you zoom in and when completely zoomed out, the magnification will be down to 3.5x.

The adjustments of this big guy are simple too. The turrets provide repeatable POI adjustments. It has locking tactical with an adjustable zero stop at .1 mil per click, 10 mils per turn. The fit and its finish are flawless.

Overall, this is one of the best riflescopes that you can have and take advantage of.

Although its huge size is its biggest advantage, it can also be its con because it weighs more and is a bit massive so you need a special mounting ring that it can be compatible with.

The Bushnell Tactical is a force to reckon with and it can boost your confidence massively. Since this is a highly popular model, there are special mounting rings that are readily available. Its massive size is more of an advantage and overtime, the weight will no longer be an issue once you find the perfect accessory to pair it up with. Overall, it has a nice field of view and can offer fog proof performance, too. It also has a great magnification power and quality lens coating.

SWFA SS 3-15×42 Tactical Rifle Scope

The Mil-Quad first local place reticle makes it extremely convenient to hold for wind overall disregard of the settings in the power. It will also allow you to pause ½-thousand marks with diamond of reticle more accurately for clear-cut targeting. Magnification adjustments are also made easier because there is a small lever on the ring magnification that will provide an enhanced grasp so you can tweak the magnification easily.

Ever since it became available in the market last 2013, this long-range tactical scope boasts more features compared to those of the same price range and even those that cost more. It has a fluted blocky ocular turret made from 30mm aircraft quality aluminum tube so it is lightweight and proven for its reliability. With its matte finish, it looks professional and very stylish.

The high end scope under 1000 dollars has simple windage and elevation adjustments which would mean modified shots depending on your environment. Also, the scope also good at 800 yards is adaptable to whatever conditions you might expose it to as it is completely waterproof, fog proof and shockproof with the ideal sealing so the scope is always protected from any potential damages.

With a parallax knob that comes in very handy complete with graded markings, it makes it very range setting very easy when it comes to any tactical set-ups. It will remove any possible mishaps during the critical hours.

Overall, it is a solid scope and a very usable and practical design for activities like varmint hunting. With an affordable price, this is a smart buy.

The only downer for this is the glass clarify can even be better. The coating to help with the contrast can cause some images to appear darker when working in other light conditions.

The quality of the images is still clear and crisp and despite the instances where images appear darker than usual this is still a great purchase. It works well and has excellent features. With its unbelievably good MOA adjustments and clicks, this is definitely a great addition to your collection. Overall, you should check it whether finding a scope that comes with a lens cloth or lens covers or not. It also has a good magnification range and a standard lens diameter.

What to Expect from the Long Range Rifle Scope Under $1000

A thousand bucks is a pretty decent budget for a long range rifle scope and you should know that the right scope can truly make the needed difference when you are a newbie, an expert hunter or a shooter that is somewhere in between. With that budget, you can get a nice deal of magnification scope with better features to help you up your shooting prowess.

Most if not all long rifle scopes that fall under $1000 can be expected to have a scope body made of aluminum. The body of your optics matter and aluminum is the best choice as it is both lightweight and resilient. Usually, aside from the scope being waterproof, it will also be fog proof and shock proof to withstand all weather conditions and terrain.

It is also a basic expectation for the lens to be already fully multi-coated. The lens would also usually have anti-reflective layers that could further assist in ensuring that visibility on the target is locked and reliable. For scopes within this price range, you get to have a clear view with easy adjustability. Some might also offer an illuminated sight and even red dots again for convenience and ease of use. The best ones also can also work in any lighting conditions to ensure that it can work on any light conditions. For that, the best scope within this price range also has an optimal light transmission.

Scopes on the market that fall under this budget can also offer you a magnification power ranging from 3x up to 24x depending on the brand. Zooming in and out can also be a seamless experience with the quality of the picture being retained, such as at 1000 yards.

Some high quality scopes would also offer you the additional peace of mind by ensuring built to last scopes. If you get lucky, accessories might also come with your purchase of this excellent choice scope.

How to Choose the Best Long Range Rifle Scope Under $1000

Committing to one thousand bucks to purchase atop rated riflescope at below $1000 is an indication that you are really committed in getting a good deal and that you are keen to quality to level up your overall shooting experience. Getting the best sniper rifle scope under $1000 is feasible. Once you have all the information you need for a good scope that can keep true zero, you can have a list of your top options then from there, you can evaluate and compare and eventually choose a great rifle scope based from your needs and preferences. Below are some recommendations for you to consider so choosing the scope under $1000 can be an easier and less daunting task for you.

Look at the lenses

The lenses or also called the glass of the scope less than $1000 is the first thing you must be critical about when choosing a rifle scope. If the lenses are of poor quality, you pretty much have a useless scope especially when you are to use it for long-range shooting. Also choose a lens that will provide you a level of clarity that is consistent regardless of the light conditions and the magnification level. The lens primarily dictates the price difference so there is very minimal room when it comes to making compromise if it is the lens that you are looking at in the quality scopes to increase chances of a target acquisition and a good shooting experience.

Best Body Buy

You should choose a quality rifle scope whose body is made of top-quality materials because this will greatly affect its toughness and adaptability to the weather conditions that the scope will be exposed to. The standard of the materials should already be above average to excellent so never settle for anything but an aircraft grade aluminum which is proven to be durable. It is also the best choice because although reliable, it is still lightweight and maintains a compact size. For lenses, select one which is Nitrogen or Argon purged, weatherproof, shock proof and fog proof. These contributes to the scope’s longevity. You must also find one with a good tube diameter or tube construction. You should also check for one with durable aircraft aluminum.

Reticle Rule

Rule of thumb for a scope within the retail price budget is that your reticle should at least feature single dots or hash marks spread horizontally and vertically. Additionally, the measurement for the reticle should be in a mil-dot reticle or MIL but equally separated.

Focal Focus

Apart from the reticle, the focal place of the hunting rifle scope also has a huge impact in the accuracy of targeting and shooting. With the first focal place (FFP) scope, its reticle’s going to adjust the dimension as the magnification changes. On the second focal plane (SFP) scope, the reticle is constant, no matter the magnification. In addition, consider a laser sight scope with a quick focus eyepiece, but make sure that the scope is at a price range that you are willing to spend.

Adjustment Amiable

You also must consider how easy and simple will it be to adjust on the knobs and levers of very nice scopes. You should choose a scope where you can adjust the turrets on fly. Adjustments re expected to be done swiftly without having the need for you to pause or even shift your head before the tweaks can be completed. If you do target practice, you should consider this feature for a good target shooting experience. It should also have brightness settings.

Other considerations you might want to consider include a long battery life, and good customer service to ensure that you can get help when there are quality control issues, for instance. You must also check for one with a generous eye relief. It should also be able to deliver image clarity. Also check for lens caps, if possible.

Aside from these recommendations, also consider as a best buy a scope for target shooters that can provide you with either customer service support. A hunting scope having a red dot and an illuminated reticle should also make it on top of our choices. If you can get your hands on a scope that has night vision then all the better too. Consider these things whether you’re buying a low price or high price scope for gun enthusiasts.

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Conclusion

With competitive and high-quality riflescopes readily available for you with each boasting its own pros and cons, it is up to you to decide which of your choices is the best long range rifle scope under $1000. You must know your needs and those that you can sacrifice or compromise. You also must know your skill as a shooter.

Most importantly, you also must know the kind of weapon you will mount the scope to. Knowledge and awareness are for the coolest scope is key to become successful in deciding but bottom line is, you can surely end up with the best long-range rifle scope when you make decisions smartly.

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