Varmint hunting at extended ranges demands precision, clarity, and confidence in every shot. This is where the best long-distance varmint hunting scopes come in handy.
These specialized scopes combine advanced optics, durable construction, and precise adjustment features to ensure consistent accuracy. From adjustable parallax settings to crisp, illuminated reticles, they enhance both performance and confidence, turning every hunt into a strategic and successful experience.
What to Look for in the Best Long-Distance Varmint Hunting Scopes
Whether you are targeting prairie dogs, groundhogs, or other challenging varmints, look for a scope that features:
1. High Magnification. High and variable magnification of 10x and above allows precise targeting of small varmints at extended ranges.
2. Objective Lens Size. Larger objective lenses of 40–56mm gather more light for a brighter, clearer image, especially in low-light conditions.
3. Optical Clarity and Quality. Furthermore, the scope should have fully multi-coated lenses and high-quality glass to reduce glare and distortion for sharp, detailed images.
4. Reticle Type. Fine, precise reticles are important as they help with accurate holdovers and range estimation.
5. Parallax Adjustment. Moreover, the scope should have side or adjustable objective parallax correction to ensure the target stays sharp at long distances, reducing aiming errors.
6. Durability & Weather Resistance. Long-distance varmint hunting scopes should be waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant. This ensures the scope performs reliably in harsh outdoor conditions.
7. Eye Relief. Lastly, the scope should have sufficient eye relief of above 3. 5 inches to prevent scope impact injuries and ensure comfortable shooting positions.
Best Long-Distance Varmint Hunting Scopes
1. Barska AC11084 Varmint 10–40×50
The Barska AC11084 Varmint 10–40×50 is the best long-distance varmint hunting scopes.
Its 10–40× magnification range allows for close-range spotting as well as detailed long-distance observation, while the large 50mm objective lens gathers ample light to deliver a bright, clear image even in low-light conditions.
Furthermore, the scope features a fully coated optical system that minimizes glare and enhances contrast, providing sharp visuals of small targets. Additionally, the fast-focus eyepiece ensures quick adjustments, letting shooters maintain accuracy without losing sight of their target.
Reticle-wise, its precision mil-dot reticle is useful for estimating range and bullet drop, making it practical for both seasoned shooters and those newer to long-range shooting.
Durability and reliability are other key strengths of the Barska AC11084. Constructed from a rugged aluminum alloy, it is shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof, allowing it to perform in challenging outdoor conditions. The scope also offers adjustable windage and elevation, giving shooters precise control over their shots.
Pros
- Fully coated optics reduce glare and improve contrast
- Precision mil-dot reticle aids in range estimation and bullet drop compensation
- Rugged aluminum construction is shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof
- Adjustable windage and elevation for precise shot control
- Fast-focus eyepiece allows quick reticle adjustments
- Affordable price for a high-magnification scope
Cons
- Limited field of view at maximum magnification
2. Schmidt & Bender PM II 5–45×56
The Schmidt & Bender PM II 5–45×56 is a precision riflescope designed for extreme long-range hunting and tactical applications.
Its optical clarity is exceptional, providing sharp, high-contrast images even at maximum magnification. Furthermore, the 56mm objective lens ensures excellent light transmission, allowing for superior performance in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk when varmints are most activie.
To complement the optical finesse, the scope features a wide magnification range, making it versatile for both close and distant targets. Furthermore, turrets are highly precise, providing consistent, repeatable adjustments, which is crucial for long-range accuracy.
Construction-wise, the build quality is rugged, with a robust, aircraft-grade aluminum body. The optical tube is fully waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant, capable of handling the harshest environments without compromising performance.
In addition to everything else, the PM II 5–45×56 excels with an illuminated reticle that is clear and precise, aiding fast target acquisition while maintaining fine detail for long-range shots.
Pros
- Exceptional optical clarity and contrast
- Large 56mm objective lens for excellent low-light performance
- Highly precise, repeatable turret adjustments
- Rugged, waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant construction
- Illuminated reticle for fast target acquisition
- Smooth parallax adjustment
Cons
- High cost
- Relatively heavy compared to mid-range scopes
3. Vortex Viper PST 6–24×50
Carrying the renowned Vortex name, the Viper PST 6–24×50 is a high-performance riflescope designed for precision shooting at medium to long ranges.
Its versatile 6–24× magnification range provides excellent flexibility, allowing shooters to engage targets accurately at both moderate and extended distances.
To make the magnification useful even at the highest settings, the scope features a 50mm objective lens that gathers ample light, producing bright, clear images even in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk.
Furthermore, the first focal plane reticle ensures that holdovers and range estimations remain accurate across all magnification levels.
Additionally, its rugged construction is both waterproof and fog-proof for reliable use in harsh weather conditions.
Other features the Vortex Viper PST is coupled with include turrets that offer tactile, precise adjustments, a fast-focus eyepiece, and generous eye relief.
Pros
- High-quality glass with excellent clarity and sharpness
- Wide 6–24× magnification range for flexibility at multiple distances
- First focal plane reticle ensures accurate holdovers at any zoom level
- Durable, waterproof, and fog-proof construction
- Precise, tactile turrets for fast adjustments
- Illuminated reticle for low-light conditions
Cons
- Slightly heavier compared to some competition scopes
- Eye relief requires careful adjustment for high-recoil rifles
4. Leupold VX-5HD 5–25×56
As one of the best long-distance varmint hunting scopes, the Leupold VX-5HD 5–25×56 excels in speed and precision.
Its 5–25× magnification range makes it versatile for both mid- and long-distance shooting, allowing for precise target acquisition in varied terrain. The scope also features Leupold’s renowned optical clarity and light transmission, producing bright, sharp images even in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk.
Regarding construction, the scope is built with a rugged, aircraft-grade aluminum body. It is fully waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof, ensuring reliable performance in harsh weather or challenging hunting environments.
In addition, the VX-5HD is equipped with a first focal plane reticle, allowing for accurate holdovers at any magnification. The precision windage and elevation adjustments are tactile and repeatable, making it easier to dial in exact shots.
Above all, its Twilight Max Light Management System enhances low-light performance, while the tactical-style turrets provide quick, intuitive adjustments in the field.
Pros
- Excellent optical clarity and brightness
- Wide magnification range for versatile shooting
- Durable, waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof construction
- First focal plane reticle for consistent holdovers
- Smooth and precise adjustment turrets
- Enhanced low-light performance
Cons
- Premium price point for some budget buyers
5. Nightforce SHV 5–20×56
The Nightforce SHV 5–20×56 is a high-performance riflescope built for versatility and long-range precision.
Its 5–20× magnification range provides excellent flexibility for both close and distant targets, making it suitable for varmint hunting.
Optically, the 56mm objective lens ensures outstanding light transmission, delivering bright, crisp images even in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk. Furthermore, the glass is fully multi-coated, providing sharp images with minimal glare and excellent contrast across the field of view.
The scope’s rugged construction is designed to withstand heavy recoil, rough handling, and harsh weather, offering consistent performance in demanding environments. Additionally, its precise, zero-stop turrets and reliable adjustments allow shooters to make quick and accurate elevation and windage changes.
Pros
- Superior low-light performance
- Rugged, weather-resistant construction
- Smooth, precise turrets with zero-stop adjustments
- High-quality optical clarity with fully multi-coated lenses
Cons
- High price point
6. Athlon Ares BTR 6–24×50
Designed and built with the avid hunter in mind, the Athlon Ares BTR 6–24×50 combines high-end features with an affordable price point to fit the budget of virtually all hunters.
Its 6–24× magnification range offers a perfect balance between mid-range and extreme-range targeting, making it suitable for both hunting and competitive shooting. Furthermore, the 50mm objective lens delivers a bright, clear image, even in low-light conditions, while fully multi-coated optics enhance contrast and clarity for crisp target acquisition.
The scope’s rugged, one-piece aluminum construction ensures durability and reliability under heavy recoil, while the sleek matte finish reduces glare and keeps it stealthy in the field.
Another standout feature of the Ares BTR is its BTR reticle. This reticle allows for precise holdovers and range estimation without the need for complex calculations. Additionally, the exposed, capped turrets offer smooth and repeatable adjustments, giving shooters confidence in zero retention.
To top it all off, the scope is nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed for consistent performance in harsh environments.
Pros
- Bright, clear optics with excellent low-light performance
- Durable, one-piece aluminum construction
- BTR reticle for precise holdovers and range estimation
- Waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant
- Smooth, repeatable turret adjustments
Cons
- Heavier than some comparable scopes
7. Bushnell Elite Tactical XRS3 6-36x56mm
Last but not least, we have the Bushnell Elite Tactical XRS3 6-36x56mm. This high-performance riflescope is designed for precision shooting at long ranges.
As one of the best long-distance varmint hunting scopes, its 34mm main tube allows for increased light transmission and enhanced durability.
Being a first focal plane scope, the reticle scales with magnification, allowing shooters to make accurate range estimations and holdovers at any power setting. Furthermore, the optical system delivers bright, clear images with exceptional edge-to-edge clarity, even in low-light conditions.
To complement the optical clarity, its rugged construction is fully waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. This guarantees reliable performance in harsh field conditions or extreme recoil situations.
The scope also features precision target turrets with audible and tactile clicks for repeatable adjustments and a side focus parallax adjustment that allows for consistent long-range shooting with minimal guesswork.
Pros
- First focal plane reticle for accurate range estimation at all magnifications
- Exceptional optical clarity and light transmission
- Durable 34mm tube construction, waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof
- Precision turrets with zero stop for repeatable adjustments
- Illuminated reticle
Cons
- High price for casual shooters
Key Factors to Consider when Choosing Long-Distance Varmint Hunting Scopes
1. Magnification Power
Firstly, consider magnification power. When hunting small, fast-moving varmints at long distances, the magnification of your scope is crucial. High magnification allows you to see tiny targets clearly and make precise shots, but extremely high magnification can reduce the field of view and make the image shakier. A scope with adjustable magnification, such as 6–24x or 4–16x, is often ideal for balancing clarity and situational awareness.
2. Objective Lens Diameter
Next, the size of the objective lens determines how much light the scope can gather, which affects brightness and clarity. Larger lenses, like 50mm or more, are better for low-light conditions at dawn or dusk when varmints are most active. However, bigger lenses also add weight and bulk, so you need to balance performance with portability.
3. Reticle Type and Precision
For long-distance varmint hunting scopes, a precise reticle is essential. Fine crosshairs or mil-dot reticles help estimate distance and holdover, allowing for accurate shots without guessing. Some hunters prefer illuminated reticles for low-light scenarios, but the illumination mustn’t obscure the fine details of small targets.
4. Parallax Adjustment
Parallax significantly affects accuracy at long distances. A scope with side-focus or adjustable parallax allows you to align the target image and reticle precisely at various distances, reducing aiming errors. This feature is particularly important for varmint hunting, where even slight misalignment can mean a missed shot.
5. Durability and Weather Resistance
Long-distance hunting often takes place in unpredictable environments. A scope that is shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof ensures consistent performance in rain, dust, or extreme temperatures. Furthermore, durable scopes maintain zero even after repeated recoil from high-velocity rifles used in varmint hunting.
6. Eye Relief and Comfort
Furthermore, comfortable eye relief is vital for long shooting sessions. A scope with sufficient eye relief prevents scope bite from recoil and allows the shooter to maintain a natural, relaxed position. Adjustable magnification and focus, combined with consistent eye relief, help reduce fatigue and improve accuracy over long periods.
7. Mounting and Zero Retention
Finally, a stable mounting system that holds zero is essential for precision shooting. Long-distance varmint hunting scopes should consistently retain zero even after being removed or transported, save time, and maintain accuracy. Pairing your scope with quality rings and bases also ensures the setup remains reliable, particularly during long-range varmint hunts where precision is everything.
FAQs
- What magnification is ideal for varmint hunting?
For most long-distance varmint hunts, scopes with adjustable magnification between 4–16x or 6-24x work best. Lower magnification gives a wider field of view, while higher magnification helps spot small targets at extreme distances.
- Do I need an illuminated reticle for varmint hunting?
Yes. Illuminated reticles are useful in low-light conditions, like dawn or dusk, when varmints are active. However, for daytime hunting, a non-illuminated fine reticle is often sufficient.
- How do I maintain zero on my scope?
To maintain zero on your scope, use quality rings and mounts, avoid overtightening, and check zero periodically. Durable scopes designed for recoil-heavy rifles help maintain consistent accuracy over time.
Parting Shots
In conclusion, we hope that you have found this post insightful. The ideal scope for varmint hunting combines high-quality optics, precise reticle design, adjustable magnification, and reliable parallax correction to ensure pinpoint accuracy on small targets. Invest in a scope that meets these criteria to confidently engage varmints at long ranges while enjoying a more efficient and rewarding hunting experience.