Recently, long range shooting is becoming popular because of long range shooting competitions and longer range hunting applications. And if you’re searching for the best rifle scope for 500 yards, ask yourself how far away your target will be, and then ask more questions once you’ve determined the answer to this.
That said, it can also be overwhelming and confusing to select a good scope for this line without an idea of what to check in the options available. At the same time, it would also be wise to consider a versatile scope for shooting targets 500 yards or below or even much more.
An optic system with a good shot placement for this distance and also one that is sufficiently flexible for shorter ranges is a good idea. In this case, you’ll be able to use a scope that can perform in most shooting ranges. And eventually, this will save you money for not having to buy two different rifle scopes for shooting and then for hunting.
Buyer’s Guide
Whether you’re buying your first long range scope for shooting or hunting or adding to an existing one, here’s a guide to help you with the factors to consider when selecting from a wide range of choices you’ll find online.
Magnification
Do you really need much magnification? Some people think that having a scope for 500 yards that have 24X magnification power is what they need to hit their target at least 500 yards away.
But then, this might not be the case in the real world provided that you practice regularly. In fact, you can have a good quality scope with 10x magnification range to help you shoot at a long distance range. Thus, you don’t need 24x to hit your target that is this far.
Rifle scopes manufactured and offered to shoot at least 500 yards typically have enough magnification from 4x, which can be okay if you’re using your scope for the 500 distance range.
However, you might have to pay more attention to magnification and power if you’re using your scopes for different ranges to get a clear image.
But remember that with a longer magnification, you will get a shorter eye relief, which is essential to prevent the scope bite. An eye relief of 3.5 inches above is important.
Reticle options
Aside from accurate adjustments that you should be getting in a rifle scope for 500 yards, consider its reticle, which must be comfortable for your intended applications, like competition shooting or hunting. For instance, do you need accurate shot placement for hunting?
For long range shooting, reticle will have a duplex reticle. Let’s say, a Primary Arms target scope would have a mil dot reticle.
So when it comes to reticles, consider if you need an illuminated one to support you in low lighting conditions to prevent eye strain or a BDC reticle to help in over hold situations.
Your choice of reticle will affect the accuracy of your shooting considering that at 500 yards the image might be blurry or obscured because of the high power range of your scope.
Intended target
Whether hunters or competition shooters, considering the best scopes that will be applicable for the intended targets in mind is essential.
So, would you be shooting small or large targets? If you’re planning to use your scope for 500 yards for smaller targets like birds, you should find a scope for 500 yards that will help and support you with that.
A scope with 14X power may be a lot to shoot a big game with your scope. However, you might have to use up to 18x of magnification to shoot at competition targets.
Then, I suggest that you get a scope with a more straightforward reticle if you’re target shooting so that you can make quick and accurate adjustments easily.
Remember, shooting at 500 yards is harder than shooting at 100 yards. That’s why you really need to consider your target in relation to the type of reticle of the scope which will increase your chances of getting accurate results.
Ruggedness
Aside from long range accuracy and crisp and clear images that the 500 yard scope can deliver, it should also be tough enough to deal with the harsh weather conditions, heavy use, and whatnot it will encounter out there.
And of course, you’re more likely than not using a large caliber like a 6.5 Creedmoor for 500 yards. I don’t need to emphasize this but a scope with high resistance to recoil should be one of the first things you must look for in your rifle scope. Check for strong construction like aircraft grade aluminum, too.
Weather resistance
Hunting or shooting conditions vary. Your shooting environment might not be the same every day. So when looking for the best scope, you must check if it’s an all-weather sighting device.
Is it nitrogen purged and o ring sealed? This is to ensure that it can deliver efficient performance even in foggy, rainy, or snowy conditions. Thus, it must be able to keep moisture out of the scope so that you can still see your target clearly no matter the weather condition.
Plus, there are scopes for short or long distance shooting that are waterproof-rated at a certain depth and length of time. You might also want to check on that to ensure that the scope is resistant to water and that it can keep up with submersion up to a certain amount of time.
Objective lens size
Better light transmission is always better because you won’t know what’s waiting for you out there, like in situations wherein there is low light condition. It would help to get a larger objective lens, like 56mm, which will be able to capture more light versus a smaller 40mm or 30mm objective lens size.
A larger size will be able to help you hunt or shoot at long distance ranges. However, take note that your scope for 500 will be heavier and bulkier. You might also have a problem mounting your scope lower for proper eye alignment.
In this case, you’ll need an adjustable cheek rest. But then, a large objective lens diameter is still preferred by many for long range hunting or shooting.
First or second focal plane reticle
Whether you’re buying an expensive or affordable scope, you’ll need to consider the reticle position – is it first or second focal plane? Think about this depending on the application you intend to use the scope for.
This is interesting. The focal plane is important for long range as it is in short ranges. When buying a scope, you’ll get either a first or second.
With scopes in the first focal plane, the reticle will appear to change the size when you adjust the zooming options. When you zoom it out, the reticle will appear smaller. And when you zoom it in, it’ll appear bigger.
This means the reticle will appear too thick if you choose the max zooming in option. It might obscure the image of the target.
On the other hand, it might be too thin when you choose the max zooming out option. However, the lines will always be the same relative distance apart. The dots will also be one millimeter apart no matter the zooming you select on the scope if you’re using a mil dot reticle scope.
In the case of second focal plane rifle scopes, the reticle will stay the same size even if you make adjustments in the zoom.
But then, it doesn’t mean you need to use a particular zoom setting to get the marks on the right size. It’s another thing to think about before shooting. Still, many people prefer this to avoid issues about the reticle being too thin or too thick.
Visual clarity
Aside from thinking about maximum magnification or minimum magnification in a long range scope, consider the visual clarity you’ll be getting in a great scope. A poor quality scope with poor light transmission is a recipe for disaster.
That’s why you should choose a scope that’ll allow you to see clear and crisp images. It’ll also help to get a rifle scope that will let you track your hits and misses.
Choose an optics system made of quality glass and excellent lens coating. Typically, higher quality glass and lens coatings can also make for an expensive scope.
Meanwhile, the lens coatings of a scope are there for different reasons that include reducing glare, repelling water and moisture, and resisting scratches. Basically, there are four types of coatings that companies use.
Both coated and multi coated lens means that the lens has either one or more coatings on one or more of the lens.
On the other hand, fully coated and fully multi coated lenses are preferred by more shooters because they feature at least one coating on all surfaces air-to-glass. I suggest a fully multi coated lens because this aids better for a clear sight picture, offering excellent performance even in poor lighting conditions.
According to the experts, high quality scopes for 500 yards will also include a parallax adjustment knob/diopter to eliminate or at least reduce parallax.
This parallax phenomenon is characterized by a reticle that changes position or moves whenever you move your head. That said, if you want super precise image clarity, it is important to eliminate parallax to significantly improve the sight picture.
Other features
Scopes for long distance shooting should have fully multi coated lenses, fast focus eyepiece, large objective lens, generous eye relief, ultra forgiving eye box, and low dispersion glass.
This scope for 500 might not also have a lot of extra features because it should be simpler and more straightforward to use – very particularly with the quality of the glass.
It would help if the rifle scope for 500 yards has a side focus parallax adjustment knob in the lens. Then, it is also essential that the scope you select ideally has low MOA adjustment clicks. Typically, the standard for long range scopes will be .25 MOA, but some can also have .1 mil click that is almost similar to a 1/3 MOA.
10 Best Rifle Scope for 100 to 500 Yards – In Depth Review
1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18×44 AO, SFP Riflescope
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II is for serious hunters and shooters who want nothing less than shooting their targets with utmost precision. After all, it’s why we’re using scopes – to improve shot placement and shooting accuracy.
Shooting from 100 to 500 yards would be more pleasant with the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18X44 with adjustable objective lens because it has the features you’ll need for it.
This scope can offer a reliable performance in that it can deliver bright and clear images, which are what will help you aim at your target better and increase your chances to make a clean shot even at a long distance.
I found out that the Vortex optics scope also has a dead hold BDC reticle. Its hashmark design can remove any guesswork in the equation when it comes to windage corrections and holdover. I find it supportive at short or long range especially when you’ll encounter an issue with estimating holdover.
This Vortex scope also features a second focal plane reticle that remains the same in size even when you change the zooming settings. It also has subtensions listed so that users can easily calculate for wind drift correction, holdover, and range at a specific magnification.
A good rifle scope like this also has adjustable objective lens, offering parallax removal and superb image focus. This is a characteristic of the best scope that will improve the chances of hitting the target.
That’s not all because this Vortex scope is also made with fully multi coated and anti-reflective lenses, offering excellently bright views even in low lighting situations.
I’d also like to mention that these scopes for 500 yards from Vortex feature an ultra forgiving eye box and generous eye relief. That said, this model will be able to help improve target acquisition with a clear sight picture, while also protecting your eye from heavy recoiling caliber.
I also appreciate that the scope for competitive shooters is made with a fast focus eyepiece that aids me in adjusting and focusing the reticle without any hassles.
In addition, this unit is designed with capped reset turrets, which are also finger adjustable. The MOA clicks that it comes with also allow resetting to zero after you sight the scope in.
When it comes to durability, this scope is created using aircraft grade aluminum, a standard material in high quality scopes. What makes it the preferred material among rifle scope manufacturers is that it’s durable to deal with even the harshest of conditions. Adding to the scope’s integrity are its nitrogen purging and o ring sealing.
These compositions make it more resistant in whatever the outdoor conditions are, especially with the changing weather. The scope can deliver fog proof and waterproof performance.
What’s more is that every purchase comes with the Vortex hat.
The 1-inch tube Crossfire II is a good rifle scope that you can count on regardless of the weather and outdoor condition. It will not fail you. The only downside it has for some users is its heavier weight versus other rifle sighting devices for 500 yards.
Pros
- Durable aircraft grade aluminum
- Fog proof and waterproof performance
- Variable power for all shooting ranges
- Anti reflective and fully multi coated lenses
- Forgiving eye box and long eye relief
Cons
- On the heavier side
2. Vortex Optics Crossfire II Adjustable Objective Riflescope
A top-rated Dead-Hold BDC style rifle scope for long distance competitive shooting, the Vortex Crossfire II AO scope is another consideration for shooting at 500 yards. It is an economical scope that doesn’t fall short when it comes to performance.
The lens is high quality and it can deliver bright and crisp images even when used in a low lighting situation or hunting or shooting at dusk or dawn.
The scope is a part of the Crossfire II series or line, but this one’s magnification range is between 1x and 4x. It is adjustable based on what is comfortable for the shooter.
Another thing that makes it a standout is its affordability. While it is not an expensive sighting device, it meets the standards of professional shooters.
The scope is made with fully multi coated lenses, delivering bright and clear images. This will allow you to see a better sight picture, while also giving you a fog proof and waterproof performance. The anti-reflective coatings also reduce the glare while supporting optimal light transmission.
In addition, the Vortex Crossfire II optics system has other superior features, like a fast focus eyepiece, allowing for quick and accurate adjustments of the reticle especially in situations when you need to have a quick view of your target.
In terms of user safety, the best rifle scopes like this one are designed with a forgiving eye box and a long eye relief, which are especially useful when using large caliber for 500 yards or more.
This Vortex rifle scope is designed with battery-powered electronics for illuminating the center dot that adds to its superior performance when used in low light conditions.
Now, you may be wondering about its durability? Let me tell you that this model is made of aircraft grade aluminum, delivering rugged performance no matter what you throw at it.
This also makes the sighting unit for long range hunting or shooting reliable in terms of shockproof performance, so it can resist bumps, shocks, and drops. This also means that it can retain its integrity for the years to come, giving you the most value for your money.
Overall, the Vortex Crossfire 1-4x rifle scope is dependable, rugged, and efficient in delivering a solid performance you can always count on. For its downside, it has a limited magnification range, but it is one of the best in terms of delivering bright sight picture.
Pros
- Rugged and shockproof for durability
- Bright and clear sight picture
- Fog proof and waterproof all-weather scope
- Generous eye relief
- Lightweight and less bulky
Cons
- Limited magnification range
3. Primary Arms Classic Series 4-16x44mm SFP Rifle Scope
This Primary Arms rifle scope is another reliable scope. It is a second focal plane rifle scope that has an illuminated reticle, allowing me to see my target especially during low light situations, like in dusk or dawn.
I also liked that this one has a broad magnification, which also makes it versatile for different ranges, including short, middle, and long distances.
Moreover, this scope has a side mounted parallax adjustment dial, keeping its reticle parallax-free. This means that when your sight is on the target and then you move your head, your reticle will remain the same position in that it will not move.
Thus, it also translates to a better sight picture for you, and this is essential especially if you’re shooting a target at a long distance. It also means that the image remains clear and crisp.
Out there, the best rifle scopes for 500 yards will meet different conditions, so you’ll need a tough scope h that can deal with the harshest conditions, including weather changes. Some days, it can be rainy, and other days, it can be foggy.
If your scope is not made of quality lens and doesn’t have what it takes to perform in harsh weather, you’ll get a blurry image. I’ve tested this sighting device during a rainy day, and it still performed well. That’s thanks to its fog proof and waterproof performance, allowing it to deliver bright images even when the weather can be unforgiving.
The scope also has locking turrets along with a resettable zero that gives tactile and audible ¼ MOA clicks. In addition, it is made in the second focal plane while also featuring a mil dot, which works perfectly for ranging targets far away.
More so, the duplex dot illuminated reticle rifle scope is suitable for plinking and hunting. And before I forget, I liked that it comes with 12 different brightness settings, making it versatile for use no matter the time of the day. Also, it is made with multi coated lenses, improving light transmission.
Overall, the rifle scope is one of the most effective sighting devices out there for most types of hunting or shooting, especially for its variable power settings, which make it flexible for all distances you might have to use it.
Pros
- Waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof
- Simple mil dot reticle ideal for beginners
- Broad magnification
- Illuminated center mil dot with 12 brightness settings
- Zero resettable turrets and audible click adjustments
Cons
- Might not be for people with vision problems and looking for a clearer image
4. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Rifle Scopes
Vortex optics has long been known for offering shooters and hunters with reliable scopes that are made of high quality glass, lens coatings, and durable components.
One of its market offerings is the Strike Eagle 1-6×24 scope that offers a true 1X on its low end, while being suitable for a wide range of applications. This scope allows users to target at varying ranges.
In addition, the sighting unit now has an updated magnification ring along with a thread-in lever. Without coming off the scope, we can now see the magnification indicators easily. That’s quite an improvement.
I also liked that the Strike Eagle scope is with a BDC3 reticle, allowing for faster aiming because it can get my eyes to the target quickly.
The low variable power scope has a magnification from one to six and a smaller objective of 24mm. It has flexible magnification, which is an attractive feature.
When used at 1x, this affordable scope can work as a holographic or red dot, allowing you to aim and acquire your target at a short distance without magnification.
For the eye relief, this one has 3.5 inches, which is quite good to protect you from heavy recoiling caliber commonly used in long distance shooting.
It also has a smaller tube that is 30 mm than the typical one inch tube of most scopes. This translates to a higher number of mounting options you have for scope rings or using a cantilever mount.
How about the MOA, turrets, and adjustments? It has capped turrets, allowing us to remove any dust or debris away.
For every click of the turret of this scope for 500 yards, the adjustment available in ½ MOA that’s quite good for this power optic. One hundred forty MOA (140 MOA) is the max adjustment you have for the windage and elevation, which can help you target using any platform where you want to mount this Vortex on.
Regarding the size and weight of the rifle scope, it is lightweight at 17.6 ounces and measures 10.5 inches long. And in the box, you’ll receive flip caps, lens cloth, two pieces of batteries, and a user manual.
Overall, this scope is dependable for all types of weather and is easy to operate, although it might not be the clearest optic for long distances.
Pros
- Lightweight and less bulky than other scopes
- Beginner-friendly system
- Reputable brand
- Long eye relief
- BDC3 reticle for quick aiming
Cons
- Not the clearest optics for long ranges
5. CenterPoint Optics LR416AORG2 Rifle Scope
High magnification and long range precision are two qualities of this rifle scope. The minimum magnification you’ll get is 4x and the maximum is 16x in a 40mm objective lens scope.
This scope is also made with a one-inch solid tube, which is nitrogen filled, making it waterproof and resistant to moisture. It can keep your view clear despite the weather condition. In this case, you’ll be able to hunt or practice even in a foggy, rainy, or snowy condition without worrying about getting a blurry image.
In addition, I liked that this rifle scope is shockproof, translating to ruggedness no matter the outdoor condition it will meet in the field or wild. It can resist bumps and shocks and can definitely resist the drops and heavy recoil. This is durability that you must be looking for when buying a new scope aside from thinking about first or second focal plane, quick target acquisition, or small or large objective lens.
The windage and elevation adjustments are also easy because adjusting requires no special tools. More so, the 500 yard scope comes with a quick focus eyepiece, allowing fast reticle adjustment, which is helpful when the target surprises you.
I’d also like to mention that the CenterPoint optics is designed and made with a bullet drop reticle, which greatly helps when it comes to estimating holdovers. This also means that you can eliminate any guesswork when aiming even at a long distance.
It also has a TAG reticle, which can handle distances up to 600 yards. Each scope in the line is also designed with a bullet drop compensating reticle that can be calibrated quickly to a bullet or load combination.
Not to forget, I find the optical system quite impressive for giving me crisp and clear images, and that’s thanks to the multi coated lens it has.
Every purchase also comes with Picatinny rings and lens covers. In addition, the scope includes a limited lifetime warranty, which can give you peace of mind in your purchase.
Overall, the CenterPoint Optics LR416AORG2 is a reliable scope for hunters and shooters looking to aim at long distance targets, although it has no night vision. You might want to check it out for a high performance scope.
Pros
- Long distance shooting scope
- Broad magnification and power
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Good light gathering capabilities
- Quality lens for visual clarity
Cons
- No night vision
6. Athlon Optics Neos 6-18×44 Second Focal Plane Riflescope
Right off the box, take two to three shots, and this riflescope will warm your heart. You might fall in love with it if you’re an aspiring hunter on a tight budget. To say the Neos is a good scope is an understatement. I’d agree with many users – This scope is a steal.
Hunters will love its fully multi-coated lenses that deliver surprisingly exceptional optical quality for its price. The image is bright and clear, perfect for executing a one-shot, one-kill.
Landing a kill shot on a deer or wild hog should be easy with this riflescope’s illuminated reticle. The glass guarantees maximum light transmission to make tracking and targeting more precise. I would not be surprised if you could hit your game even at dusk. You can effortlessly activate the illumination switch to make the image friendlier to the eyes. Target shooting should also be a breeze.
Thanks to this riflescope’s thoughtful and snappy elevation and windage adjustments. Its parallax side focus adjustment should make target shooting beyond 300 yards a cinch. You will also never fret about repeatability because this scope retains its center like a charm.
I am surprised this riflescope only weighs 1.03 pounds yet offers commendable waterproofing, shock-proofing, and fog-proofing (thanks to its nitrogen-purged design). The eye relief is also noteworthy, freeing you from the risk of going home with a “scope eye.”
It’s challenging to fault this SFP riflescope, except for a few issues with quality control. Reading customer experiences, a few users complained of the reticle dropping out or optics not measuring up to their expectations.
For starters, it’s not a thousand-dollar riflescope. So, folks might want to tone down their expectations a bit. If they can do that, I guarantee this riflescope can blast other budget-friendly scopes on the market.
For a budget-friendly riflescope, the Neos offers enough features to make it a trustworthy scope for seasoned and beginner hunters and target shooters.
Pros
- Exceptional glass quality
- Commendable lightweight yet robust construction
- Good amount of eye relief
- Thoughtful adjustments
- Outstanding repeatability for its price
Cons
- A few issues with inconsistent quality control
7. Leupold VX-5HD 3-15X56mm Riflescope
Here’s another riflescope vying for the best rifle scope for hunters and target shooters. And with a brand name like Leupold, it’s never surprising to see thisscope reaches the top. Sealing the deal with this riflescope is easy because of its ZD2 Zero Lock system. You can sight your rifle by loosening the elevation turret and setting the scope’s zero-stop button. You’ll never worry about your zero straying off the mark.
And here’s the thing. Leupold cares so much about your hunting adventures that it’s ready to customize a turret to match the scope to your preferred ammunition ballistics. You’ll have a trustworthy scope for 500 yards and beyond that will never miss its target.
Not all scopes feature high-definition (HD) optics, making this rifle scope on a different plane. Images are free from distortions and crystal clear from edge to edge. I commend the Guard-ion hydrophobic lens coating technology that removes oils, fingerprints, dirt, moisture, and other impurities from the lens.
Its Twilight Max Light Management System is also impressive. This technology is proprietary and optimizes light transmission. Viewing and tracking a target at dusk or dawn should not be a problem, allowing hunters to bag the trophy instead of returning empty-handed.
Although its magnification range is only 3-15x, it’s versatile enough for short-and long-range shots without straining the eyes. The illuminated FireDot Duplex reticle also guarantees precision shooting.
Its one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum construction with a matte-black finish features advanced fog-proofing and waterproofing technologies. This scope will never fail you, regardless of preferred hunting grounds.
Most riflescope manufacturers only offer a limited warranty for their products. You’ll feel more confident with Leupold since it never reneges on its promise to honor any scope issues for life.
Unfortunately, that often translates to a heftier price tag. But then again, this riflescope’s impressive technological features and unmatched performance make it worth every penny.There’s no denying the VX-5HD is one of the best rifle scopes for hunters. Of course, budget-conscious folks can always get more affordable options.
Pros
- Unmatched zeroing
- High-quality optics
- Exceptional image quality
- Robust construction
- Lifetime guarantee
Cons
- Pricey
8. Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x/24mm Riflescope
It’s not easy to pick a great scope with a dependable low-power variable optic (LPVO), making this riflescope a surprising find. The Bushnell AR Optics 1-4X hits the sweet spot with its ingenious drop zone reticle designed for the 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington rounds. It’s a dependable scope for close-quarters action, short-range, and medium-range shooting.
Although unnecessary for riflescopes with less than 8x magnification, I appreciate this scope’s parallax adjustment. Hunters and target shooters should find it more convenient to manage optical illusion when they have their sight on the target.
The target turrets are crisp and snappy, ensuring pinpoint precision when adjusting for elevation and windage. Landing a kill shot or hitting the bull’s eye should not be that too complicated. I wouldn’t be
surprised if you could deliver a dead-center shot from 500 yards.
Looking through the glass is safe and comfortable while giving hunters renewed confidence in bringing home the prize. Image quality is clear and bright, even at 4X magnification. Interestingly, the optics produce zero chromatic aberration and other distortions.
The generous eye relief is also noteworthy, ensuring an “intact” face after several rounds at the shooting alley. Its nitrogen-purged technology also guarantees fog proof optics, allowing you to view targets without moisture obstructing the image.
Shooting targets at dawn or dusk is never an issue. Although this riflescope doesn’t have an illuminated reticle, its high-quality glass ensures optimal light transmission in low-light situations. You’ll never grope in the dark, putting your target in the crosshairs.
Although this scope weighs as light as the Athlon Optics Neos, some folks find its 1.06-pound heft a little overbearing. I understand their concern because this riflescope only has a four-level magnification. On the bright side, I should feel more confident about this riflescope’s glass and body quality.
Bushnell’s cutting-edge optics deliver unquestionable performance in an LPVO scope. It’s an excellent riflescope with commendable versatility for close-quarters combat and medium-range shots. Quality is a guarantee, too.
Pros
- Exceptional low-light performance
- Fantastic image quality
- Dependable target turrets
- Ideal for short and medium-range shots
- Solid build quality
Cons
- A bit heavy
9. Burris Optics Fullfield E1 Riflescope
Buying a scope, one of the things to look for is its ability to deliver a bright and clear image. It is what will help you aim at your target with better visibility. Burris Optics is an affordable scope that will help you achieve that.
This matte black rifle scope features a long range MOA reticle to deliver you with precise details for applications like competitive shooting and hunting. I also discovered that the sighting device is for users looking for a great reticle that offers excellent accuracy.
Another thing to like about the Burris Optics scope is its durability for lifetime of use. It is made to remain rugged and tough for vibration and heavy recoil. The brand also includes the Burris Forever Warranty with this scope.
The scope for military, tactical, and hunting uses is also lightweight at only 0.01 ounces. It will not add the unnecessary bulk and will not ruin the balance of your rifle. This is something to consider especially if you’re using it for hours.
In addition, the Burris scope also has a broad magnification from 3x to 14x, making it suitable for distances from short to long range. It also translates to savings because you don’t have to buy at least two scopes if you’re planning to shoot or hunt at different distances. Nevertheless, the maximum magnificationsettings allows you to use a versatile scope.
The brand has also added a trajectory-compensating technology in this optics system along with cascading dots that makes it helpful in compensating for wind drift. What’s more is that it has an easily accessible side focus parallax adjustment starting from 50 yards up.
I also found out that the Fullfield E1 scope is a preferred unit for hunting varmints and predators at long distances. Moreover, it can hold to zero quite well, which is a relief for me, and I think even competition shooters will agree. The clarity is also impressive even if it’s not the most expensive scopes out there.
Overall, I liked the versatility of the Fullfield E1 rifle scope. It is one of the high quality rifle scopes for 500 yards that you might want to check out if you’re looking for the best value for your money, although might not be for users looking for more bells and whistles.
Pros
- Affordable, beginner-friendly scope
- Solid build and construction to last for years
- Clear and bright images
- Lightweight, doesn’t add bulk to rifles
- Resistant to vibration and recoil
Cons
- Might not be for users looking for more high-end features
10. Bushnell 1-4x AR Optics
Not to forget in this list of the finest rifle scopes for 500 yards is our last entry, the Bushnell AR Optics with 1x to 4x magnification range. First, I noticed the clear and bright images that it can deliver, so I am recommending this for visual clarity, which is a primary consideration when buying a rifle scope for long distance shooting.
Another thing worth noting is the illuminated reticle, which can aid the shooting eye especially when using it in low light conditions. This improves the sight picture, so it would be useful if you’re hunting at dusk or dawn. Such illumination of the BDC reticle also allows for quick holdover shooting up to a distance of 600 yards.
This model is also made with fully multi coated optics, delivering clear views of your target each time.
Moreover, I appreciate the waterproof construction of the scope for 500 yards, meaning I can use it regardless if it’s foggy or rainy. This also ensures that it can offer an all-weather performance. Part of that, it also means that I can use it without issues about blurriness because the scope can keep water and moisture out of the internal components.
In addition, I liked that it has an adjustable length for its throw lever, allowing for quick adjustments of the magnification even if I’d be wearing gloves. It is also a lightweight unit that will not add much weight to your rifle, while keeping it balanced.
And if you’re a first time scope user, you don’t need to worry because it comes with easy to follow instructions.
On the downside, there were some issues to remain focused throughout the magnification. Nevertheless, this Bushnell AR Optics is one of the best scopes for 500 yards. It is rugged and high-performing to cater to your demands and needs. You might want to check it out for yourself if you’re looking for dependable optics for hunting or competitive shooting.
Pros
- Illuminated reticle gives clear views of the target
- Adjustable length throw lever
- Waterproof construction
- Fully multi coated optics
- Quick holdover shooting
Cons
- Issues not keeping focus throughout the magnification range
FAQs
What magnification do I need for 500 yards?
The magnification you’ll need for this distance depends significantly on your personal preference. But if you’re shooting long ranges most of the time, you’ll need at least 10 times the magnification power.
It could also go a little more if you want to use your rifle scope at distances beyond this. In this case, it would help to get a scope at least 12 times magnification.
However, do you plan to use your rifle scope for 500 yards also for shorter range shooting? If yes, make sure that the sighting device also comes with lower magnification settings. Some versatile and affordable scopes will have from 4x to 12x magnification settings.
Some shooters prefer one with magnification from 3x to 9x, but it might not be the best decision because you will probably need more than that to avoid running into problems.
What power rifle scope for 500 yards?
At the very least, you’ll need a minimum of 5X power for almost all types of target at this distance. For maximum magnification range, again you might want to get a rifle scope with up to 10 times power to achieve a good shot placement.
However, depending on the situation, it might call for a higher magnification level when you’re shooting in low light condition and your target is smaller, and at 500 yards shooting, this will need a higher magnification.
So overall, you might want to opt for a scope with 5-20X power for smaller targets and you want more precision. But if you’re shooting 500 yards and above or even beyond 1000 yards, check out rifle scope that can help you with plenty of seeing, typically those with 24X and 32X power or magnification.
Final Thoughts
So, what’s the best rifle scope for 500 yards? The guide and reviews earlier should be able to help you pick your long range scope for hunting or shooting.
Each of them has specific features, like first or second focal plane, high magnification settings, fully multi coated optics, weatherproof performance, and/or aircraft grade aluminum, and more. Weigh your options well because one that works well for a fellow shooter might not be the one for you.
Because after all, we have our preferences on things, scope for 500 yards included. And at the end of the day, what matters is you choose a scope that will help you see a bright and clear image and be comfortable for your eyes. Good luck and happy long distance range hunting or shooting!
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