One of the factors to consider when looking for a rifle scope is the price and the best air rifle scopes under $300 fit into any bracket of affordability.
In the market, it is assumed that the more features a riflescope has, the more expensive it is. However, there are pocket-friendly scopes that are designed to meet your hunting needs.
With advancements in technology, the market has been flooded with affordable scopes that have the most important features for an exciting and memorable hunting trip. If you are looking for affordable air rifle scopes, then you have come to the right place.
Below is a review of the top-recommended scopes that fall under this price category.
Best Air Rifle Scopes Under $300
1) Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Riflescope
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Riflescope has a dead-hold BDC reticle that makes it suitable and efficient for shooting or hunting at varying ranges where estimating holdover is a concern. The fully multi-coated lenses are made from non-reflective material that helps to give a clear view of the target. The long eye relief and ultra-forgiving eye box help the shooter acquire a target faster.
The finger adjustable capped reset turrets have MOA clicks that can be readjusted to zero after sighting in. In addition, the scope’s maximum elevation adjustment is 60MOA, while the tube is constructed from high-grade aluminum to ensure high durability and robust performance.
Key features
- Made from high-grade aircraft aluminum material
- Reticles dead-hold BDC, V-Plex
- Second Focal Plane
- Length: 14 x 3 x 3 inches
- Weight: 1.4 pounds
- Maximum magnification: 7X
- Minimum magnification: 2X
- Objective lens diameter: 32mm
- Maximum Elevation Adjustment: 60MOA
- Eye relief of 3.9-4.7
- Parallax of 50 yards
- It has an adjustment range of 60MOA
Pros
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
Cons
- Small magnification range
2) Nikon P-Tactical .223 3-9×40
With the Nikon P-Tactical .223 3-9×40, your hunting experience is bound to be enjoyable and memorable. It can be mounted on any rifle and the fully multi-coated lens is robust for a long time of performance. The scope’s reticles are P-TACTICAL’S hash-marked MK1-MRAD. They are matched to ergonomic turrets with directional indicators to either go up or come down.
The scope is sealed with O-rings that block any moisture from getting into the tube. It is also nitrogen purged for dependability in any weather. The optical system is designed to brighten the environment when used at night. To acquire a quick target, the smooth-turn aluminum ring allows brisk reticle focus.
Key features
- 100% waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof
- Has a consistent, constant, and generous eye relief
- BDC 600 reticle that gives hash marks from 100-600 yards
- Length: 13.5 x 3.7 x 3.3 inches
- Weight: 1 ounce
- Material: Chiffon
- Objective lens diameter: 40mm
- Spot on ballistic technology
- Quick focus eyepiece
- Spring-loaded instant zero-reset turrets
Pros
- Weatherproof
Cons
- Small magnification range
3) Monstrum G2 1-4×24 FFP Riflescope
The Monstrum G2 1-4×24 FFP Riflescope is a First Focal Plane scope that makes target estimation to be faster. Its magnification ranges from 1-4X which can focus on a target as far as 300+ yards. This makes it one of the best-performing optics with a pocket-friendly price.
The scope has a black reticle that is visible without lighting. However, you can light it in red or green for better visibility in dimly lit environments. It has Honeycomb Sunshade that helps to reduce glare for clear images.
The ½ MOA per click windage/elevation adjustments can be readjusted to zero. To eliminate parallax, and have a perfect focus on the target, the scope has an Adjustable Objective which is controlled by a side focus dial.
Key features
- Made from 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum
- Compatible with rifles with Picatinny Rails
- Length: 11.26 x 3.7 x 3.03 inches
- Weight: 1 pound
- Has a rangefinder reticle; quick range estimation and holdover correction
- Objective diameter: 24mm
- Eye relief: 4-4.5 in short to mid-range of 300+ yds
- 30mm tube diameter
- FOV at 100yards: 103.29- 26.4 feet
- Illuminated BDC reticle
- It comes with 30mm medium profile scope rings, lens cloth, felt cover, honeycomb sunshade, and CR2032A Battery
Pros
- Has a one-year warranty
- Waterproof and fog proof
Cons
- Requires some expertise to use
4) CVLIFE Hunting Rifle Scope 6-24×50 AOE
Equipped with a fully multi-coated lens that ensures maximum light transmission for a clear picture, the CVLIFE 6-24×50 AOE Hunting Rifle Scope is one of the best affordable scopes. It has a durable coating that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
The parallax at the end of the scope is designed to move the Adjustable Objective lens to achieve a clear picture and eliminate parallax. The eyepiece has a dioptric adjustment lens that gets rid of image irregularity and can be used by people with eye problems without needing glasses.
The windage and elevation adjustments are made possible by the well-tailored turrets. The caps can be detached to readjust to zero. It is possible to aim at any time with the 1/8 at 100 yards click adjustment. The scope can be mounted easily on a 20mm Picatinny or weaver rail.
Key features
- Weight: 1.39 pounds
- Length: 17 x 3.1 x 3.1 inches
- Objective lens diameter: 50mm
- Magnification: 6-24X
- Field of view: 28ft at 100yds
- Click value: 1/8 inch at 100yds
- Illuminated reticle (red and green)
- Eye relief of 3.52 inches
- Five brightness settings for adverse environments
- The scope comes with 1 lens cover and 2 scope mounts for 20mm weaver dovetail rail only
Pros
- Fog proof, waterproof and shockproof
- Durable
Cons
- Requires some expertise to use
5) Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope, 1x20mm
The Bushnell TRS-25 1-9×20 Red Dot Riflescope is made from materials that have been tested and used widely, with a 1005 construction that is fog proof and waterproof. It is designed with fully multi-coated optics that provide clear pictures by glare reduction and increased light transmission. This makes it possible to hunt in dimly lit environments.
The scope features a Second Focal Plane, a multi-X crosshair reticle that enables a user to use it during the day or night. The shooter is also able to find and acquire the target with ease.
The turrets, which are capped for protection, have re-adjustable windage and elevation. The reticle can be easily adjusted to the eye by the use of a fast-focus eyepiece. The scope also features eleven various brightness settings that make it possible to use in different light settings.
Key features
- Amber bright high contrast lens coating
- Easy to mount on Picatinny rails
- Parallax: 50
- 3 MOA Dot reticle
- Length: 16.3 x 2.5 x 3.12 inches
- Weight: 13 ounces
- Objective lens diameter: 40mm
- Maximum magnification: 9X
- Minimum magnification: 3X
- Eye relief 3.46 inches
Pros
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
- Handgun, shotgun, rifle compatible
Cons
- Small objective lens
6) Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm Riflescope
The Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm is lightweight and very efficient during hunting. It can be used in dimly lit environments from dusk till dawn, thanks to the Twilight Light Management System which balances light, reduces glare, and image contrast and resolution. It ensures a clear picture in any weather condition or lighting.
The interior of the scope is designed to keep moisture from getting in and hence can be used during rainy weather. The scope has a rugged construction to survive a minimum of 5000 impacts of the punisher. The force of each impact is 3x the recoil of a .308. the scope can survive temperatures of -40 degrees Fahrenheit to 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
In addition, the lenses have a scratch-resistant coating which makes them convenient for the rough environment in which the scope is used. This ensures durability and high-quality images.
Key features
- Twilight light management system
- It is made of 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- ¼ MOA finger click adjustments
- Scratch-proof lenses that are military-grade
- Length: 14 x 3 x 2.75 inches
- Weight: 1.05 pounds
- Magnification range: 1.5-4X
- Main tube diameter: 1 inch
- Eye relief (high); 3.74, eye relief (low); 4.71
- Linear FOV at 100yd per ft: low-74.3; high-29.4
- Versatile 3:1 zoom ratio
Pros
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
- Lightweight
Cons
- A bit heavy
Choosing the Best Air Rifle Scopes Under $300
Illumination
It is vital to purchase a rifle scope that will not limit the environment or time to use it. Scopes with good illumination features allow you to go hunting in high or low light conditions with no difficulty. Scopes with multi-colored lenses are advisable since they provide brilliant image brightness and clarity of the pictures.
Scope lens
It is important to purchase a scope that has a lens coating that will be able to withstand harsh weather conditions. Fully coated lenses are the most recommended since they enhance light transmission that produces clear target views and pictures.
Heavy-duty construction
Aircraft-grade aluminum is recommended as it can withstand rugged terrains and harsh hunting conditions. A durable scope performs great and is also long-serving. A good scope should have weather sealing that can withstand hard impact and can protect the scope against shock.
Magnification
Depending on your intended use, choose a scope that will give you the best possible image of your target. Most air rifles max out at around 100 yards. Choose a higher magnification for long-range shooting. If there is no need for that, pick a magnification that is lower as they are affordable.
Easily adjustable turrets
Finger adjustable turrets are more efficient for making the required adjustments while you are hunting. the rifle scopes under $300 have windage and elevation turrets that will help you zero in on your target with ease and accuracy
The recoil function
The impact of a shot from a rifle can be powerful enough to hit the scope and destroy it. To lessen this, the manufacturers developed a recoil function to help keep the scope safe. When you pull the trigger, the recoil function automatically activates.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are rifle scopes under $300 worth buying?
Yes, they are. Even though they lack some features found in high-end scopes, they are designed to have the essential features necessary for a good performance. These scopes feature excellent quality when it comes to the durability and clarity of the images. Even though they cost less, they are constructed to meet top standards. With the prices the scopes have, at pocket-friendly prices, they provide great value.
- Which scope is best for an air rifle?
Unlike normal rifles, air rifles create recoil that can damage rifle scopes. Having this in mind, it is important to put some factors into consideration. Consider the type of objective lens needed, how to adjust your scope to avoid parallax, type of reticle, and type of mount. After putting the factors into consideration, purchase a scope that you feel will satisfy the needs of your air rifle.
- Why should I choose a rifle scope for less than $300?
The scopes have easily adjustable turrets. The Nikon P-Tactical riflescope for example has high-quality features and aids shooters to achieve impressive performance. The designs are simplified, high quality and the construction is made of rugged, durable material. On top of that, the scopes are pocket-friendly and give you great value for your money.
- How far can the lens see?
The distance of the lens depends on the scope being used. Some scopes can see up to four kilometers away while other scopes can cover up to two kilometers. The range covered by different scopes is not the same, hence making it important to put the lens distance feature into consideration before making any purchase.
Final Thoughts
Despite these scopes having fewer features than the high-end rifle scopes, you will still get a good value for your money. The scopes have the basic features that are mandatory and will give you excellent performance in the field.
These air rifle scopes help you to improve the zooming power of your rifle and make the target clear with dots and the shot precise. The scopes can attach to all kinds of rifles to deliver deadly accurate shots.
It is important to put into consideration all the features that suit your hunting experience. An excellent rifle scope can fulfill your hunting needs and the scopes discussed above definitely fulfill that purpose!
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