The .243 Winchester is a popular cartridge among hunters and shooters who like precision for target shooting at short- or long-range targets. The best Scope for 243 Winchester makes it versatile for deer, hogs, elk, pronghorns, coyotes, and varmint hunting.
This is a variant of the .308 cartridge, and it measures 6 by 52 mm. It is designed from a necked-down case of .308, making it perfect for target shooting.
Many brands are offering different models for their .243 Winchester scopes. Each of them comes with varying features, including reticle, magnification, multicoated lenses, objective lens diameter, weight, length, and tube size.
Best Scope for 243 Winchester
We have discussed the best scopes for .243 Winchester in this article;
1) Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescopes
Vortex 2-7×32 riflescope is one of the configurations in the Crossfire II line. The Scope features a Dead-Hold BDC reticle ideal for hunting/shooting at varying ranges where estimating holdover is a concern. It has capped reset turrets that are finger adjustable with MOA clicks that can be reset to zero after sighting in.
This Scope is made with a single-piece tube construction of aircraft-grade aluminum for maximum strength and shock-proofing. It is then O-ring sealed and Nitrogen purged for waterproof and fog-proof performance.
The Crossfire II riflescope offers long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box that allows you to quickly get a sight picture and acquire your target. It also has a fast-focus eyepiece which allows quick and easy reticle focusing. The Scope has anti-reflective, fully multicoated lenses for bright and clear images and improved accuracy.
Key features
- The Scope has anti-reflective, fully multicoated lenses for clarity
- It is waterproof and fog proof
- It comes with a fast-focus eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focusing
- It has a long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box
- The maximum elevation adjustment is 60 MOA
2) Nikon Buckmasters II, 4-12x40mm, BDC, Rifle Scope
Nikon Buckmasters II, 4-12x40mm, BDC, Rifle Scope is among the popular long-range riflescopes among deer hunters. The high-power Scope features Nikon’s fully multicoated lenses, which offer maximum light transmission for brighter and clearer images for targets up to 600 yards.
The Buckmasters II scope has generous consistent eye relief that keeps your brow safe, even with the heaviest recoil. It is nitrogen-filled, and O-ring sealed for waterproof, fog proof, and shock-proof performance.
The Scope has a 100-yards parallax setting, and the BDC reticle allows hunters to hold ‘dead-on at ranges exceeding those previously thought possible. In addition, the positive-click reticle adjustments will have you zeroed in quicker and maintain your setting, even with heavy recoil.
Key features
- It has a magnification range of 4-12x
- It has a fully multicoated optical system
- Length: 14″
- Weight: 13.6 oz.
- Field of View @ 100 yds. : 23.6′ at 4x, 7.9′ at 12x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.7inches
- Click Adjustments: 1/4″ @ 100 yds.
- Max. Internal adjustment: 60 MOA
3) Vortex Optics Diamondback Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Vortex Diamondback 1. 75-5×32 riflescope is among the multiple configurations in the Diamondback lineup and is perfect for big game, slug shotgun, and brush hunting applications. It is made with aircraft-grade aluminum alloy construction for strength and durability.
The scope features a Dead-hold BDC reticle, which is ideal for any hunting or shooting at varying ranges where estimating hold-over is a concern. It also comes with extra-low dispersion glass that improves resolution by maximizing shooting light in low-light conditions.
In addition, this Vortex Diamondback has fully multicoated lenses for clear and bright images from dark to dawn. The fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing, while the metal-on-metal precision turrets offer the ability to zero reset after sight-in.
Key features
- The one-piece tube has an iodized finish for increased durability,
- It is durable and shock-proof
- Argon purged, and O-ring sealed for fog proof and waterproof performance
- The scope has XR multicoated lenses for maximizing shooting light
- It has a precision glide erector system for accurate tracking and repeatability
4) Leupold VX-1 3-9x40mm Compact Waterproof Fogproof Riflescope
Leupold VX-1 3-9x40mm is made with Leupold’s proprietary Nitrogen sealing process, making it rugged and completely waterproof. The 1/4 MOA, precision finger click adjustments for windage and elevation offer absolute repeatability and dependability over a lifetime of extreme use.
The scope features a durable yet light construction of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy with a versatile 3:1 zoom ratio erector system ideal for virtually any situation. The 30mm main tubes are spacious enough for lots of features, including wide adjustment ranges.
Additionally, the riflescope has a multicoat 4 lens system for extreme clarity from edge to edge of the visual field, outstanding contrast, and a bright sight picture even in extremely low-light conditions.
Key features
- Made of durable materials
- It is O-ring sealed for complete waterproof performance
- It is fog-proof
- Made with a versatile 3:1 zoom ratio that lets you adapt to different distances
- Optical surfaces are coated for reduced glare and authentic color transmission
5) Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II was made to provide incredible unbeaten performance and rock-solid tactical features. The 2-10×32 first focal plane riflescope is versatile and perfect for close to long-range shooting.
It is a favorite among shooters who seek to keep the upper hand in every situation from close quarters to long-range shots.
The Gen II scope’s illumination dial is cleanly integrated into the side focus adjustment knob for easy access and streamlined performance. The scope also has a glass-etched reticle for highly functional, intuitive, and detailed hold points.
In addition, it features 10 intensity levels with off positions between each setting but remains uncluttered for optimal viewing and features.
Key features
- It has an adjustable parallax and the RZR zero stop
- The fiber optic rotation indicator allows you to keep track of your turret position easily
- Extra-low dispersion glass increases resolution and color fidelity
- It features XR fully multi-coated lenses for clear images
- It is O-ring sealed and argon purged for waterproof and fog-proof performance
6) Bushnell Trophy XLT Multi-X Reticle Riflescope
The Bushnell Trophy riflescope has unmatchable features, including a class-leading 91% light transmission and a nearly indestructible one-piece tube. The scope has fully multi-coated optics that provide ultra-bright images from dusk to dawn.
It offers rigorous recoil that is dependable in the field and includes Butler Creek flip-up caps to keep your lenses from precipitation and fogging.
The Trophy XLT Riflescope is an all-around big-game hunting scope designed and built for accuracy in the field. It has a sturdy, one-piece tube construction and is dry Nitrogen purged, and o-ring sealed for 100 percent water and fog proofing.
In addition, the XLT Trophy Riflescope has a 40-millimeter objective lens with fully multicoated optics providing 91 percent light transmission. It also offers adjustable magnification from 3 to 9x and has a fast-focus eyepiece for easy adjustments.
The 1/4 MOA fingertip windage and elevation adjustments and the Multi-X reticle deliver high-level accuracy for big game hunting.
Key features
- It features a one-piece tube w/integrated saddle
- The scope has fully multicoated optics
- It is 100% waterproof, fog proof and shock-proof
- Variable magnification: 3 to 9x magnification
- Weight: 14.1 ounces / 400 grams
- Length: 11.9 inches / 302 millimeters
- Mounting Length: 5.5 inches / 140 millimeters
- The objective lens diameter is 40-millimeter with Multi X aiming reticle
- A limited lifetime warranty supports the scope
- Eye Relief: 4 inches / 101 millimeters
- Exit Pupil: 13.3 millimeters
- Click Value: 0.25 inches at 100 yards / 7 millimeters at 100 meters
- Adjustment Range: 80 inches at 100 yards / 2 meters at 100 meters 1.7
7) Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope comes with high-quality optics with stunning HD clarity. The Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) fully multicoated optics provide maximum clarity and brightness in all light conditions.
This is a low-light rifle scope that provides a 3 to 9x magnification and a 40-millimeter objective lens. It has a Multi-X reticle to ensure a classic sight picture and a second focal plane (SFP), a Multi-X crosshair reticle for easy target acquisition even at dusk and dawn.
The scope also has a waterproof construction that prevents fogging and ensures a crisp, clear image. It is ideal for hunting during low-light conditions and features a fast-focus eyepiece that allows quick reticle adjustment to your eye for easy focusing.
Key features
- It is made with 100 percent quality materials
- It is 100 percent waterproof and fog-proof
- It measures 12 inches long
- 3.3 inches of eye relief
- It provides 3 to 9x magnification
- 40-millimeter objective lens
- Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multicoated lenses
- Multi X reticle with 1/4 MOA fingertip windage and elevation adjustments
- Measurements: 12 inches long
Choosing the Best Scope for .243 Winchester
Construction
Before choosing a riflescope for your .243 caliber, it is crucial to check on the scope body construction. The tube is usually 25mm, 34mm, or 30mm depending on the scope type and brand. The best scopes are argon or Nitrogen purged to prevent any fogging. They are also shockproof and waterproof.
Magnification
When choosing a riflescope, you should also look for a magnification power that will help by providing clear images for easy target acquisition. Lower magnification scopes are suitable for short-distance targets.
For example, the 3-9x magnification range can be used by hunters shooting at 100 yards or less. However, if shooting at a long distance, you will need to zoom for at least 12X if using a full-scale rifle and at least 10x if off-hand shooting with a lower-powered scope.
Focal plane and reticle
It is also important to compare scopes for the .243 rifles through their retile and focal plane. There are different types of reticles, including the BDC reticle or mil-dot reticle. It would help if you also chose the reticle position that can be on the first or second focal plane.
Price
Another important factor to consider when choosing the best Scope for 243 Winchester rifle is the price. This will make your shopping easy as you will not waste time going through products above your budget range. You can also compare each of their features, which can help you better buy your first Scope.
Objective lens
A larger objective lens diameter ensures high light transmission for better image quality even at low-light conditions. Most scopes have an objective lens diameter ranging between 20mm and 72mm. Your lenses should be protected with lens coating to achieve maximum brightness and must have layers on all surfaces, air to glass (fully multicoated lenses).
Eye relief
The .243 Winchester is a high-caliber weapon that is likely to have heavy recoil. You should therefore consider a riflescope with generous eye relief for added eye safety. Scopes with only up to 3.5 inches of eye relief might not be enough for this rifle.
Final Thoughts
As a powerful rifle, you can be sure that your .243 Winchester will give you the best experience when hunting or in any form of shooting. The rifle however can provide better results when accompanied by a good-quality scope. That is why we have given you this buying guide.
The scopes discussed in this review are made with high-quality materials that ensure a lifetime of reliable performance. They are reasonably priced to suit your budget and have weatherproofing features for handling all harsh weather.
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