This is our comprehensive analysis of the 6 Best Scopes for SCAR 20S. The FN SCAR 20S is a semi-automatic precision rifle renowned for its reliability, accuracy, and versatility, making it a popular choice among long-range shooters, tactical marksmen, and hunters alike. To fully harness the capabilities of the SCAR 20S, selecting the right optic is essential.
A quality scope not only enhances accuracy and target acquisition but also complements the rifle’s performance across various distances and conditions. With a range of options available from low-power variable optics (LPVOs) for dynamic engagements to high-power scopes for extreme precision, finding the ideal scope requires careful consideration of magnification, optical clarity, reticle design, and durability.
Choosing the 6 Best Scopes for SCAR 20S is about balancing performance with practicality. Optics must handle the rifle’s recoil, provide consistent tracking, and deliver clear sight pictures in both bright and low-light environments. Features such as first focal plane reticles, robust turret systems, illumination options, and reliable mounting compatibility all play a critical role in ensuring that each shot is precise and repeatable.
6 Best Scopes for SCAR 20S
1. NIGHTFORCE SHV 5-20x56mm Zeroset .250 MOA Scope
The Nightforce SHV 5-20x56mm ZeroSet earns its place among the best scopes for the FN SCAR 20S by delivering the rugged reliability Nightforce is famous for, paired with magnification and adjustment range that perfectly suit a precision-oriented semi-auto rifle.
As the most powerful optic in the SHV series, this scope is built to perform equally well at mid-range and extended distances, exactly where the SCAR 20S shines in .308 or 6.5 Creedmoor.
Optically, the SHV 5-20x56mm impresses with outstanding clarity, crisp resolution, and strong colour contrast across the entire magnification range. Whether you’re engaging steel at distance, printing tight groups on paper, or stretching out on varmints and big game, the large 56mm objective helps deliver a bright, confidence-inspiring sight picture.
On a precision gas gun like the SCAR 20S, this clarity translates directly into better target identification and more consistent shot placement.
From a mechanical standpoint, this scope is purpose-built for serious dialling. It offers a full 80 MOA of elevation adjustment, giving SCAR 20S shooters ample room for long-range work without pushing the limits of the turret system.
The .250 MOA click adjustments are tactile, repeatable, and precise traits that matter when you’re constantly transitioning between distances. The side parallax adjustment further refines accuracy by allowing fine focus control from close ranges all the way out to long-range targets.
One of the standout features is Nightforce ZeroSet technology, which allows a quick and reliable return to your original zero regardless of how many elevation adjustments you’ve made. For SCAR 20S owners who frequently dial for distance, this feature reduces mental load and speeds up corrections under time pressure.
It’s a practical advantage whether you’re shooting matches, training, or running structured range sessions.
The SHV 5-20x56mm is offered with proven reticle options, including Forceplex and MOAR (20 MOA), both with centre-only illumination. These reticles are clean, effective, and well-suited to the precision role of the SCAR 20S, providing clear aiming references without cluttering the sight picture.
Pros
- Exceptional optical clarity and colour contrast at all magnifications
- 5-20x magnification range
- 80 MOA of elevation adjustment for serious distance shooting
- Reliable ZeroSet technology for fast return to zero
- Proven Nightforce durability suitable for hard-running semi-autos
- Clean, effective reticle options with centre illumination
Cons
- Pricey
2. Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Side Focus Riflescope
The Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Side Focus Riflescope is widely regarded as one of the best scopes for the FN SCAR 20S, and for good reason. Built to meet the demands of military, law enforcement, and serious long-range shooters, this optic delivers elite-level precision while keeping weight remarkably low, an important advantage on a semi-auto precision rifle like the SCAR 20S.
With its Front Focal Plane PR1-MIL reticle, premium glass, and rugged construction, the Mark 5HD is engineered for shooters who expect consistency shot after shot.
One of the defining strengths of this scope is its 5–25x magnification range, which perfectly complements the SCAR 20S in both .308 Win and 6.5 Creedmoor. Whether you’re engaging targets at mid-range or stretching well beyond 1,000 yards, the Mark 5HD provides excellent clarity, resolution, and edge-to-edge sharpness.
The large 56mm objective lens enhances light transmission, delivering a bright and detailed sight picture even in challenging lighting conditions.
The First Focal Plane (FFP) design ensures the PR1-MIL reticle scales with magnification, allowing accurate ranging, holds, and wind calls at any power setting.
This is a major advantage for SCAR 20S shooters who transition between distances quickly or prefer holding rather than dialling for every shot. The reticle itself is clean, precise, and optimised for modern long-range shooting without overwhelming the sight picture.
Leupold’s M5C3 turrets are a standout feature on this optic. These low-profile, 0.1 MIL-per-click dials provide a massive 30 MILs of elevation adjustment across just three revolutions.
Visual and tactile revolution indicators make it easy to track your position on the turret, preventing costly mistakes during fast-paced or high-stress shooting. For a rifle like the SCAR 20S, often used for precision and repeatability, this turret system inspires real confidence when dialling elevation.
Despite its professional-grade capability, the Mark 5HD is up to 20 ounces lighter than many competing scopes in its class. This reduced weight improves rifle balance, speeds up target transitions, and reduces shooter fatigue during long sessions.
Pros
- Excellent optical clarity and light transmission
- 5–25x magnification ideal
- Lightweight design
- Precise M5C3 turrets with clear revolution indicators
- First Focal Plane PR1-MIL reticle
Cons
- No illumination on some configurations
3. Steiner 5119 T6Xi 3-18x56mm SCR2
The Steiner 5119 T6Xi 3-18x56mm SCR2 stands out as a rugged, versatile optic that pairs exceptionally well with the FN SCAR 20S platform. German-engineered and built to perform in critical situations, the T6Xi SCR2 brings a blend of durability, optical clarity, and tactical flexibility qualities that are especially valuable on a precision semi-automatic rifle like the SCAR 20S.
One of the core strengths of the Steiner 5119 T6Xi is its 3–18× magnification range, which provides a wide operational spectrum. At lower magnification, the scope offers an excellent field of view for scanning and faster target acquisition, while the high end of the range allows you to work effectively at long distances, ideal for maximising the SCAR 20S’s capable ballistic performance out past 800 yards.
The generous 56mm objective also enhances light-gathering ability, delivering bright, high-contrast imagery in varied lighting environments.
True to its German engineering pedigree, the 5119 T6Xi is designed with toughness in mind. Built to perform in any condition, this Steiner optic can withstand the shocks, recoils, and environmental stresses that come with serious shooting.
The SCR2 reticle further enhances the scope’s adaptability. Designed for tactical precision, it provides intuitive aiming points that support holdovers and wind corrections without cluttering the sight picture. For SCAR 20S shooters, this means actionable data at a glance, whether dialling for distance or making quick adjustments between targets.
In terms of build quality, the Steiner T6Xi series emphasises rugged reliability and long-term durability. Its robust housing and precision-crafted internal components ensure repeatable performance, shot after shot.
This level of engineering confidence is invaluable for shooters who rely on their equipment in high-stakes scenarios, whether in competition, duty use, or serious long-range training.
Pros
- known for robustness and long-lasting performance
- Wide 3–18× magnification range
- 56mm objective lens
- SCR2 reticle
- All-condition performance
Cons
- Slightly heavy
4. Nightforce SHV 4-14x50mm F1 30mm Tube Hunting Scope
The Nightforce SHV 4-14x50mm F1 is a standout option among the best scopes for the FN SCAR 20S, especially for shooters who want a balance of precision, durability, and real-world versatility. Designed as a hunting-focused optic but built with Nightforce’s proven ruggedness, this scope pairs extremely well with the SCAR 20S platform, whether it’s used for field shooting, steel, or practical long-range work.
At the heart of this scope is a 4–14x magnification range, offering an excellent blend of a wide field of view at lower power and strong resolving capability at higher magnification. This range makes it easy to engage closer targets quickly while still providing enough magnification for precise shot placement at extended distances.
The 50mm objective lens enhances light transmission, ensuring a bright, clear image during early morning, late evening, or overcast conditions—times when the SCAR 20S is often pushed into service.
The First Focal Plane (FFP) design is a major advantage for precision-minded shooters. Because the reticle scales with magnification, you can hold accurately for elevation and wind at any power setting, using the reticle’s built-in data rather than relying solely on turret adjustments.
This capability is particularly valuable on a semi-auto precision rifle like the SCAR 20S, where fast corrections and follow-up shots matter.
Built with avid hunters and serious shooters in mind, the SHV 4-14x50mm F1 features a 30mm main tube that delivers an impressive 90 MOA (26 MILs) of total adjustment. Depending on reticle choice, adjustments are available in ¼ MOA or 0.1 MIL clicks, offering precise, repeatable control.
The power zoom ring allows fast, smooth magnification changes, while the fast-focus eyepiece makes reticle sharpening quick and intuitive in the field.
Performance-wise, Nightforce equips this optic with ZeroSet technology, allowing a rapid and reliable return to zero from any distance. The exposed elevation turret enables quick dialling for range, while the capped windage turret protects against accidental adjustments during movement or transport.
Parallax is adjustable from 25 yards to infinity, making the scope effective for everything from close-range applications to long-distance shooting. An external illumination dial with 12 brightness settings ensures visibility of the reticle in a wide variety of lighting conditions.
The MIL-R F1 reticle further elevates the scope’s precision capability. Designed for accurate ranging when target size is known, it features a floating centre crosshair measuring 1.0 mil across, supported by whole, half, 0.2, and 0.1 mil graduations. A 15-mil scale below centre aids in elevation holds, while centre-only illumination keeps the sight picture clean and distraction-free.
Pros
- Versatile 4–14x magnification
- First Focal Plane reticle allows accurate holds at any magnification
- Excellent light transmission from the 50mm objective lens
- Large adjustment range (90 MOA / 26 MILs) with precise clicks
- ZeroSet feature enables fast, reliable return to zero
- MIL-R F1 reticle supports accurate ranging and wind/elevation holds
- Rugged Nightforce construction suited for the SCAR platform
Cons
- Expensive
5. Vortex Razor HD Gen III First Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Vortex Razor HD Gen III First Focal Plane Riflescope has earned a reputation as one of the best scopes for the FN SCAR 20S, especially for shooters who want a seamless blend of speed, durability, and long-range precision.
Designed to bridge the gap between close-quarters efficiency and extended-range capability, the Razor HD Gen III is exceptionally well-suited to the SCAR 20S platform, which excels in dynamic, multi-distance shooting environments.
At the core of this optic is the 1–10x magnification range, delivering accurate holdovers across the entire spectrum from point-blank engagements all the way beyond 1,000 yards.
This wide range allows SCAR 20S shooters to stay on low power for rapid target acquisition, then dial up magnification instantly for precision work at distance. Because it’s a First Focal Plane (FFP) scope, the reticle remains true at every magnification, enabling consistent ranging and holds without mental math or magnification-specific limitations.
The Razor HD Gen III is built like a tank. Its 34mm aircraft-grade aluminium tube is shockproof and engineered for maximum strength and rigidity, making it more than capable of handling the SCAR’s recoil impulse and hard use.
The anodised stealth shadow finish provides a low-glare, matte surface that minimises reflections, an important advantage in both tactical and hunting scenarios. Designed to meet IPX7 waterproofing standards and argon gas purged, the scope remains fog-free and reliable across extreme temperature swings and harsh weather conditions.
Optically, the HD optical system delivers exceptional resolution with impressive colour fidelity and light transmission. Chromatic aberration is well controlled, and Vortex’s proprietary anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces enhance contrast and clarity.
Index-matched lenses further optimise image sharpness and brightness, giving SCAR 20S shooters a clean, detailed sight picture whether they’re scanning terrain or refining a precise shot.
Illumination is another standout feature. The Razor HD Gen III offers true daylight-bright illumination with 11 intensity levels, providing red-dot-like speed on the lowest magnification settings.
The lockable illumination dial, conveniently positioned on the left side of the turret housing, prevents accidental changes while remaining easy to access. For fine-tuning adjustments, the included L-TEC tool allows precise turret setup, reinforcing the scope’s precision-focused design.
The EBR-9 BDC MRAD reticle is purpose-built for long-distance performance. It enables effective ranging, elevation holds, and windage corrections, making it ideal for shooters who prefer holding rather than dialling or a combination of both.
This reticle complements the SCAR 20S’s role as a versatile precision semi-auto, capable of rapid transitions and accurate follow-up shots.
Pros
- Extremely versatile 1–10x magnification range
- First Focal Plane reticle with accurate holds at all magnifications
- Daylight-bright illumination with 11 intensity levels
- Outstanding HD glass with excellent clarity and colour fidelity
- Rugged 34mm aircraft-grade aluminium construction
- Waterproof, fogproof, and built for harsh environments
Cons
- Heavy
6. Trijicon Credo 1-8x28mm LPVO 34mm Tube Rifle Scope
The Trijicon Credo 1-8x28mm LPVO stands out as one of the best scopes for the FN SCAR 20S for shooters who prioritise speed, situational awareness, and battle-proven durability. Designed to perform across a wide range of engagement distances, this low-power variable optic pairs exceptionally well with the SCAR 20S when the mission demands rapid transitions from close-range targets to mid-distance precision.
At the heart of the Credo LPVO is Trijicon’s Bindon Aiming Concept (BAC), featured in its illuminated reticles. BAC allows the shooter’s eye to naturally draw to a bright, clear aiming point for extremely fast target acquisition at low magnification, while still maintaining the precision needed as magnification increases.
On a rifle like the SCAR 20S, this translates into confident, fluid engagement, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios where speed matters just as much as accuracy.
The 1–8x magnification range offers impressive flexibility. At true 1x, the Credo behaves much like a red dot, providing an extra-wide field of view that enhances situational awareness and target tracking.
As magnification increases, the optic provides enough precision for accurate distance shots, making it a strong choice for shooters who want a single optic capable of covering multiple roles without compromise.
Illumination is handled through user-selectable LED brightness settings, with an “off” position between each setting.
This thoughtful design allows fast adjustments to lighting conditions without unnecessary scrolling, whether you’re shooting in bright daylight or low-light environments. The illumination system complements the reticle without overpowering the sight picture, maintaining clarity and focus.
Mechanically, the Credo emphasises simplicity and reliability. Crisp, precise windage and elevation adjusters require no tools, making on-the-fly adjustments straightforward. Depending on configuration, capped, locking, or zero-stop adjusters help prevent accidental shifts, an important feature for a hard-running platform like the SCAR 20S that may be transported or handled aggressively.
Optically, the scope features fully multi-coated, broadband anti-reflective glass, delivering excellent light transmission, true detail, and accurate colour with virtually zero distortion.
Pros
- Bindon Aiming Concept (BAC)
- Versatile 1–8x magnification range
- Clear, distortion-free glass with excellent light transmission
- User-friendly illumination with off positions between settings
- Tool-less, secure windage and elevation adjustments
- Rugged, military-tested construction
- Intuitive controls and low-glare matte finish
Read Also:
Factors to consider when choosing the 6 Best Scopes for SCAR 20S
Optical Quality
High-quality glass is essential for getting the most out of the SCAR 20S’s accuracy potential. Superior optics provide better resolution, contrast, and colour fidelity, allowing you to identify targets clearly and make precise shot placements at distance.
Magnification
The SCAR 20S is capable of accurate fire from close and intermediate distances out to extended long range, especially in .308 Win or 6.5 Creedmoor. Your scope’s magnification should match how you plan to use the rifle.
Durability
The SCAR platform is known for its unique recoil impulse, and not all optics handle it equally well. A scope intended for the 6 Best Scopes for SCAR 20S should have a rugged construction, shockproof internals, and a reputation for durability. Features like aircraft-grade aluminium tubes, military-tested designs, waterproofing, fogproofing, and strong mounting interfaces ensure the optic holds zero and performs reliably in harsh environments.
Weight
While the 6 Best Scopes for SCAR 20S are already a substantial rifle, scope weight still matters. Heavier optics can affect balance, slow transitions, and increase shooter fatigue during extended sessions. Lighter scopes, especially those that maintain durability and optical performance, help keep the rifle manageable without sacrificing capability.
FAQs of the 6 Best Scopes for SCAR 20S
- Can the SCAR 20S damage scopes?
The SCAR platform has a unique recoil impulse that can stress lower-quality optics. Choosing a rugged, well-built scope from a reputable manufacturer designed to handle heavy recoil and semi-auto platforms greatly reduces this risk. Proper mounting with a quality one-piece mount is also essential.
- Should I choose MIL or MOA adjustments for my scope?
Both work well on the SCAR 20S; the choice comes down to personal preference. MIL-based systems are popular for long-range and tactical shooting due to easier math and standardised communication. MOA systems remain common among traditional shooters. The most important rule is to match your reticle and turret system (MIL/MIL or MOA/MOA).
- How important is illumination on a SCAR 20S scope?
Illumination is very important for low-light conditions and fast target acquisition. LPVOs benefit from daylight-bright illumination for red-dot-like speed, while precision scopes typically use centre-only illumination to maintain a clean sight picture while improving visibility in dim light.
- What objective lens size is ideal for the SCAR 20S?
Objective lenses in the 44mm to 56mm range are ideal for the SCAR 20S. Larger objectives (50–56mm) provide better light transmission and clarity at higher magnifications, which is helpful for long-range shooting and low-light conditions, though they can add size and weight.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the 6 Best Scopes for SCAR 20S comes down to selecting an optic that matches the rifle’s precision-focused design, robust recoil characteristics, and intended role. Whether you prioritise the speed and versatility of an LPVO, the balanced performance of a mid-power optic, or the long-range dominance of a high-magnification precision scope, the right choice will offer excellent glass clarity, reliable tracking, durable construction, and a well-designed reticle.