The Best Rifle Scopes Under $500-$600 in 2022

Finding riflescopes can be challenging especially if you are on a budget. But because of modern-day technological advancements, you can now afford to have a solid sighting tool at the price point of under $500. This article intends to show you options for the best rifle scope under $500 and under $600.

The better the riflescope the higher its price would be. But you don’t have to worry, that’s exactly why we are here, to help you choose a good scope. We then reviewed some of the best rifle scopes that can surely improve your shooting experience.

Best Rifle Scope Under $500 Reviews of 2022

Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20×50 SFP Riflescope

Ensure your accuracy and precision with a scope that has a mil-dot reticle such as the Vortex Optics Viper SFP. This reticle plays a role in helping estimate range, windage and bullet holdover especially in shooting at long distances. Meanwhile, the SFP helps maintain the same quality of vision at any magnification range.

The Vortex Optics Viper SFP rifle scope at a low price produces clear and HD visuals with its fully multicoated lens. Its glass has a low dispersion property and coupled with a multicoated lens that increases light transmission, this scope has one of the best quality of images.

The fast-focus eyepiece of the high quality Vortex Optics Viper SFP also makes it easier to acquire targets fast. The MAG-Bar in this scope will allow you to make easy and quick adjustments on the magnification power of your scope.

The capped MOA windage and elevation turrets of the Vortex Optics Viper SFP can be easily adjusted as you need. It also has a side knob parallax for making frequent adjustments without having to change your shooting position.

You can never go wrong with the quality that the Vortex Optics Viper SFP has to offer. This scope is made from aircraft aluminum for its sturdy construction. The great rifle scope is nitrogen-purged and o-ring sealed to ensure that your scope is shockproof and waterproof for longer service life.

However, the Vortex Optics Viper SFP does not hold zero well which can be a disadvantage.

Overall, the Vortex Optics Viper SFP is a great riflescope that has all the necessary features to improve your accuracy and overall performance in action. You might want to check it whether you’re looking for one with a long battery life or without a battery scope.

Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14x50mm Riflescope

What makes Leupold riflescopes better than other brands is its Twilight Max Light Managements System. This system allows you to see bright and clear images with your riflescope under any lighting conditions. It adjusts the brightness levels and contrast of your scope so that you can have an unobstructed field of view.

The multicoated lens of the Leupold VX-3i 4.5-18×40 Riflescope has anti-glare properties and provides edge-to-edge clarity and is durable for your greater satisfaction.

You can also make easy and accurate adjustments with the magnification scope as you need with the easy finger click adjustment turrets. This allows you to take better control of any situation.

The durability of the Leupold VX-3i 4.5-18×40 Riflescope is guaranteed. It is made of only the best materials with extreme dedication to delivering a great rifle scope to its customers. This scope is 100% waterproof, fog proof and shockproof so you can use this scope under any outside weather conditions.

With the guaranteed durability of this scope, you can be confident that you are getting the best value of your money.

However, the downside of the Leupold VX-3i 4.5-18×40 Riflescope is that it is priced higher compared to the other scopes on this list.

Despite that, the Leupold VX-3i 4.5-18×40 Riflescope is one of the best rifle scopes under $500 you can find that delivers. You might want to check it out whether looking for a scope with a MOA fingertip windage or not.

Primary Arms SLX 3-18x50mm FFP Rifle Scope

The reticle of the Primary Arms SLX Rifle Scope is what makes this scope an excellent choice for a scope. This reticle is the most advance moving target reticle in the world. With the spot-on capabilities of the high-quality deer rifle scope under $500, you can easily spot and lock on a target without fail even and especially at long shooting distances.

The SLX 3-18x50mm Scope also has a good reticle illumination. This scope has a partial red illumination and has 6 brightness settings you can simply adjust as you please.

You will also not regret your purchase because of the rugged durability of the Primary Arms SLX 3-18x50mm FFP Rifle Scope. This scope is made from high-grade materials and is certified fog proof, waterproof and shockproof for a long-lasting scope.

The Primary Arms SLX 3-18x50mm FFP Rifle Scope is for a lifetime of use which is also a plus. This scope is made of durable materials, so rest assured that you are getting the value of what you have spent.

However, for its downside, the Primary Arms SLX 3-18x50mm FFP Rifle Scope it has a bad glare when the lighting condition is too bright.

Despite that, I think the SLX 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope a high-quality 1000-yard scope under 500. It has all the necessary features for effective shooting at short and long ranges.

Nikon PROSTAFF 5 4.5-18×40 Riflescope

The patented BDC reticle of the Nikon PROSTAFF 5 riflescope allows you to have a good field of view and easily maintain your focus on a target even at long distances. The BDC reticle is good for long-range shootings but maintains the same capacity even at short distances.

When talking about precision, the Spot-On Ballistic Match Technology that Nikon utilizes for its scope offers a great advantage for a target shooter to take full control of any situation. This technology lets you discover the exact aiming points on your reticle so that you won’t miss it.

You will not regret investing in Nikon PROSTAFF 5 riflescope because of the quality images it produces. This scope has a fully multicoated optical system that is anti-reflective and allows optimal light transmission for clear images even at low light conditions.

The quick focus eyepiece of the Nikon PROSTAFF 5 riflescope advantageous as well. Acquiring and maintaining sight on a target has never been easier with this scope.

With the spring-loaded instant zero-reset turrets of the Nikon PROSTAFF 5 riflescope, making needed adjustments is made easy. It is marked and can be easily finger adjusted.

However, for its downside, the Nikon PROSTAFF 5 riflescope crosshairs in this scope is a little thick that can obstruct the field of view at maximum magnification range.

Overall, the Nikon PROSTAFF 5 riflescope is one of the higher quality scopes you can find at such an affordable retail price.

Athlon Optics Helos BTR 6-24×50 FFP Riflescope

The Athlon Optics Helos Riflescope is a high-quality illuminated scope under $500. This scope is equipped with the APMR FFP IR MIL reticle with an illuminated center. This reticle helps so that you can quickly acquire and lock on a target with ease even under harsh lightings.

The bright and crisp images you have always wanted is possible with Athlon Optics Helos BTR 6-24×50 FFP Riflescope. This scope has a fully multicoated lens that reduces glare and increases light transmission for bright and clear images.

The Athlon Optics Helos Riflescope is made of aircraft-grade aluminum housing that is rugged and proven to withstand recoil and shock even after many uses. For even better durability and its heavy-duty performance, the Athlon Optics Helos BTR 6-24×50 Riflescope is argon-purged and is waterproof and fog proof.

Another great feature of the Athlon Optics 6-24×50 sighting tool is its locking turrets. This allows you to lock turrets in place without much hassle on your part.

However, the downside of the Athlon Optics 6-24×50 FFP Riflescope is that it has insufficient eye relief which can be a bother especially during extended hours on the field.

Overall, the Helos BTR Riflescope is a great scope and is highly recommend for anyone on a budget. It is the best low light scope under $500 you can find on the market today so invest in one today. Check it out for yourself now.

SWFA SS 10x42M Tactical Riflescope

The fully multicoated lens of the SWFA SS 10x2M tactical riflescope gives that desirable high-quality images for your accuracy and precision in shooting. It efficiently balances contrast and brightness maintaining bright and clear images for the shooter.

For greater accuracy and ease in shooting, the SWFA SS 10x2M tactical riflescope is equipped with a side focus parallax adjustment. This feature allows you to adjust your focus at different magnification range and distances to achieve clear images at various magnification power.

It is also easy to make frequent adjustments to your scope as you need with its easily adjustable turrets. It is properly marked and is simple and easy to adjust without much effort. This allows you to take charge of any situation without fail.

The SWFA SS 10x2M tactical riflescope is durable and is guaranteed to last for many uses. It is waterproof, fog proof and shockproof for a heavy-duty performance on the outdoors under any weather conditions.

The SWFA SS 10x2M tactical riflescope is also has a stylish look to it with its beautiful matte finish. This scope undoubtedly will complement even the more expensive firearms.

However, for its downside, the SWFA SS 10x2M tactical riflescope has some blurry issues, as reported by some users.

Despite that, I think the SWFA SS 10x2M tactical riflescope is a great hunting rifle scope for less than $500. It has all the necessary features to ensure your accuracy and precision for you to better enjoy your time in your hunting trip and shooting pursuits.

Burris Predator Quest 4.5-14X42mm Riflescope

It is true, you can still have a scope of high-quality at below $500. The Burris Predator Quest riflescope is equipped with great features to help you improve your performance on your craft.

The tube diameter of the Burris Predator Quest riflescope is made of high-grade materials that ensure solid and sturdy construction. Its durability is guaranteed to last for repeated uses under harsh conditions. You can save money from having to buy a new replacement because this one is long-lasting.

The Burris optics system is also highly regarded by our dedicated shooters and hunters. It provides bright and crisp images for better target acquisition and shooting power. Its lens is durable and scratch-resistant so you can have an unobstructed field of view.

The Burris Predator Quest riflescope also looks the coolest among the options listed in this portion. Its camo design and elegant finish is a plus. If you want a scope that looks good and is guaranteed to deliver relentless performance, then this scope is your best bet.

The extreme durability of the Burris Predator Quest riflescope also has got you covered so you can be more confident with your purchase.

However, the Burris Predator Quest riflescope also has a downside. This scope’s parallax is a bit hard to adjust.

Overall, the Burris Predator Quest riflescope is an excellent choice for a scope. It is durable, reliable and most importantly affordable.

Best Rifle Scopes Under $600 Reviews of 2020

Vortex Viper PST 6-24×50 FFP Riflescope

You can trust the rugged durability of the Vortex Viper PST riflescope. This scope is made from high quality, aircraft-grade aluminum material for its solid tube construction. It is tested and proven to last for repeated use under harsh shooting conditions. It is also O-ring sealed and nitrogen-purged for a waterproof, fog proof and shockproof riflescope.

The enhanced battle reticle of the Vortex Viper PST riflescope is advantageous for our tactical shooters. It is effective in ranging, holdover and windage corrections for better accuracy and precision in aiming as well as shooting.

You can consider the Vortex Viper PST riflescope as the best hunting rifle scope under $600 with its great optics and conveniently easy adjustments. This scope is equipped with extra-low dispersion glass for crisp and sharp images. Its lens coating reduces glare and increases light transmission for high quality visual.

Necessary adjustments can also be made with the easily adjustable turrets of the Vortex Viper PST riflescope. What’s even better is that being has a customizable rotation stop which aids in return to zero and does hold true zero well.

However, the downside of the Vortex Viper PST riflescope is that its magnification ring is a little hard to adjust because of the design.

Despite that, the Vortex Viper PST riflescope is a great scope for less than $600. It is reliable, durable and works as intended. With its quality, you know you are getting the best value of your money.

Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 4-16×44 SFP Riflescope

One of the great features that the Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 4-16×44 SFP riflescope has is its VMR- MOA reticle. This is reliable and efficient for accurate holds at extended ranges even at moving targets. The second focal plane reticles also help maintain the same appearance of your images at various magnification.

The fully multicoated and extra-low dispersion lenses of the Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 4-16×44 SFP riflescope is also preferred by many of our hunters and shooters. It ensures high quality and bright images without fail at various lighting conditions.

The exposed target-style turrets allow frequent adjustments while in action. It is ideally designed for precise and repeatable finger-adjustable clicks for you to take advantage of any situation. The CRS Zero Stop in this scope also allows for a reliable return to zero after adjusting.

The fast-focus eyepiece of the Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 4-16×44 SFP riflescope also helps for fast and accurate target acquisition. Coupled with a side focus parallax adjustment, this scope gives you optimal image clarity at various magnification.

You can also trust that the Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 4-16×44 SFP riflescope will last for a long time. It is made from the best materials and is o-ring sealed and argon-purged to prevent any external element to enter your scope.

However, for its downside, the Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 4-16×44 SFP riflescope does not come with a lens cap which others might not prefer.

Overall, this scope is of great quality, durable and guaranteed to deliver for your unparalleled performance on the field.

Nikon Black FX1000

One of the features that make the Nikon Black FX1000 a great scope is its Black FX-MRAD illuminated reticle. This optimizes the field of view and is perfect for ranging, holdover and windage correction much to the shooter’s satisfaction. Its great quality optics balances contrast and brightness under any light conditions to optimize your sight picture.

The Nikon Black FX1000 allows quick adjustments to be made with its high-speed turrets with integral zero stop. You can easily adjust the settings of your scope while you are in action. It also rapidly returns to zero for your advantage.

The quick focus eyepiece of the Nikon Black FX1000 helps in quick and accurate target acquisition. To better improve your focus on a target, this scope’s side parallax knob allows you to adjust improve your view without having to change your position.

The generous eye relief of the Nikon Black FX1000 is also advantageous. You can be more confident that your brows and eyes are protected with a good eye piece so you can better enjoy your time on the field.

The Nikon Black FX1000 also has rugged durability. It is waterproof, fog proof and shockproof guaranteed to last for many uses. It comes with lens covers, cloth and sunshade.

However, the downside of the Nikon Black FX1000 it is hard to zero in.

Despite that, the Nikon Black FX1000 is of great quality and reliable for less than $600. You don’t need to look far; this one does the job.

Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14x40mm Side Focus Riflescope

The Twilight Max Light Management System in Leupold scopes offers a great advantage in shooting even under dim light conditions. It gives you that laser sight and adds up to 20 extra minutes of shooting life so you can continue until dusk.

Another great feature of the Leupold VX-3i side focus riflescope that ensured relentless performance is its Diamond Coat 2 or ion-assist lens coating for its lens. It increases light transmission for bright and clear images.

The finger clicks adjustable turret of the Leupold VX-3i side focus riflescope also offers a great advantage. You can easily make quick and accurate adjustments to your scope as you need.

The Leupold VX-3i side focus riflescope also offers a free CDS elevation dial that can be customized for your rifle and ammunition. This simplifies longer shots much to your advantage.

The rugged durability of the Leupold VX-3i side focus riflescope should also be noted. This scope is guaranteed to last and provides longer service life. But even with its sturdy and rugged construction, this scope is still lightweight and easy to use.

However, the Leupold VX-3i side focus riflescope also has a downside. Some people reported of unclear images when used at a high magnification.

Overall, the Twilight Max Light Management System Leupold VX-3i side focus riflescope is well-made and reliable. It is the best rifle scope under 600 dollars. It is fully functional and affordable.

Trijicon RS29 AccuPower 4-16×50 Riflescope

What do you get for your 600 dollars? A scope with superior clarity. The Trijicon RS29 AccuPower riflescope is equipped with multicoated lenses that have an optimal light transmission with zero distortion. This ensures that you have bright and precise images for better accuracy.

The Trijicon RS29 AccuPower riflescope also has adjustable 11 brightness settings. You can easily set it to which setting you like or you can completely turn it off as you please.

The second focal plane reticle of the Trijicon RS29 AccuPower riflescope also helps in improving your performance. It allows no distortion and the quality of the image quality remains constant even at maximum magnification. With a duplex reticle, you can be more precise with your aim and shooting.

The durability of the Trijicon RS29 AccuPower riflescope is also guaranteed. This scope is made from aircraft-grade aluminum housing for rugged durability. With its durability, there is no need for you to look for a new replacement for a long time. This scope also comes with necessary accessories such as lens caps and lens cloth.

However, for its downside, the Trijicon RS29 AccuPower riflescope has insufficient eye relief.

Overall, the Trijicon RS29 AccuPower riflescope is a great scope that can help you reach your full potential in hunting and shooting. With its quality and reliability, this hunting scope is a total bang for your buck.

What to Expect from the Rifle Scope Under $500-$600

The $500 and $600 price range for a scope might be a little low and suspicious for some. Others would think that there might be a catch with such low-priced scopes. But that is not exactly the case. With technology advancing, manufacturing scopes are not that expensive anymore. With advanced technologies, quality scopes are made more affordable for consumers.

But what exactly can you expect from a rifle scope under $500 or $600? As you might have seen on the reviews, rifle scopes under $500, $600 are already of great quality complete with advanced features that can help a hunter or shooter in his outdoor pursuits.

With a $500 to $600 budget, you can already afford very nice scopes with great optics and quality lenses that can give you crisp and high definition quality of images. Scopes at this price limit can already give you optimal light transmission. The field of view is clear even at various magnification ranges.

You can also expect a sturdy and durable rifle scope that is long-lasting and worth your money’s value. Riflescopes are now waterproof, fog proof and shockproof much to our enthusiasts’ delight. They can be used under any outside weather condition without you having to worry about damaging it at the slightest impact.

Scopes at this price range also looks good and can come on par with the more expensive scopes in terms of appearance.

With that said, you don’t have to force yourself to go over your budget just to have a good quality scope. Even scopes at $500, $600 can provide you with the same quality and performance on the field.

How to Choose the Best Rifle Scope Under $500-$600

As mentioned, looking for best rifle scope under 500 dollars or 600 dollars is not the real challenge, the real one is choosing the best out of your long list of options. To better guide you in making your choice, here is a list of the considerations you need to note before taking your pick.

Objective lens

One of the basic considerations in choosing a scope is the size of the objective lens. The bigger the lens diameter the more light is gathered and the brightness level of the images is increased which ultimately affects your precision in sighting and target shooting.

Great quality optics and glass

The glass and optics are another important factor to take notice of in looking for a quality rifle scope. The glass quality affects the overall quality of the images produced by your scope. You need to look for a scope with high-quality glass that is durable and will not be easily scratched to ensure a clear field of view.

Superior light transmission

It is also important to consider the light transmission that a scope offers. With superior light transmission, you can be afforded some extra shooting light so that you will be able to enjoy your craft from the morning up until dusk.

Magnification power

The magnification of your scope will ultimately depend upon your intended use. Generally, if you intend to use your scope for long-range shooting or varmint hunting then you would need a higher magnification.

But of course, the higher the magnification the more expensive it is so if you do not think you would need that much magnification you can go for a lower magnification which is also more economical.

Generous eye relief and exit pupil

To make sure that your brows are protected from recoil and to prevent straining your eyes you must pay attention to the exit pupil and the eye relief a scope offers. This will allow you to fully enjoy your time on the field even for extended hours without having to worry about any unwanted injuries.

Easy mounting

We don’t want any frustration to take a lot of time when mounting a scope. It is why we have to find a quick to set up scope. Good thing is that we can rely on the scopes featured here. While some can take some time to become familiar with its use, we can rely on them for mounting without any frustration.

Fast focus eyepiece

A quick focus eyepiece is advantageous in acquiring targets fast and accurately. You can easily lock on a target and maintain focus on such giving you the obvious advantage in any situation.

Durable Construction

Take note of the material of the scope. You will have no problem looking for a scope that is waterproof, fog proof and shockproof for these are common features among rifle scopes.

Reliable customer service

Reliable customer service can be your lifesaver when you encounter some quality control issues with your scope. Make sure that a company’s customer support is easy to reach and contact and one that can help you with your questions regarding your product.

Those are just some of the important considerations you need to look for before choosing your rifle scope. Although it is not exhaustive, if you follow this guide and checked them, we can assure you that you are at best getting the value of your money.

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Conclusion

The price of a product often dictates our final decision on which one to choose. You don’t always have to spend a lot just to have a high end scope. Today, the market is full of inexpensive yet still quality options for those who are in a budget.

In this article, we have given you the options you have for the best rifle scope under $500 and under $600and the important considerations to look for in choosing the best. We hoped this had helped you in some way and made your decision much easier. Enjoy and continue improving in your craft with your new and reliable scope.

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