This is our 7 Best Scopes for Mosin Nagant. The Mosin Nagant is a historic and powerful rifle, renowned for its reliability and effectiveness at medium to long ranges. However, its true potential is unlocked when paired with a high-quality riflescope that complements its accuracy and handling characteristics.
Choosing the right optic requires balancing magnification, reticle type, optical clarity, durability, and weight, while also considering all-weather performance and precise adjustment capabilities. From compact scout scopes to advanced tactical optics with illuminated or first focal plane reticles, the market offers a wide range of options.
Selecting a scope that meets your shooting needs, whether for hunting, target practice, or long-range precision, can significantly enhance both accuracy and enjoyment in the field. its our hope that these 7 Best Scopes for Mosin Nagant will help you.
7 Best Scopes for Mosin Nagant
1. Vortex Crossfire HD Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescopes
The Vortex Crossfire HD 3-9×40 is a versatile riflescope that perfectly balances quality optics, durability, and affordability, making it an excellent choice for Mosin Nagant enthusiasts. Built to perform in demanding field conditions, this scope is ideal for hunting, target shooting, and general-purpose shooting, whether in dense timber or at extended ranges.
At the heart of the Crossfire HD is its HD Optical System, which uses carefully selected glass elements to deliver exceptional sharpness and edge-to-edge clarity. Chromatic aberration is minimised, giving you accurate colour representation and a crisp, clear sight picture.
This ensures that whether you are spotting game in low-light conditions or engaging targets at medium ranges, your image remains vibrant and detailed.
The fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission and reduce glare, improving visibility even during dawn or dusk hunts. The V-Plex reticle is a practical, all-purpose hunting reticle that suits a wide range of applications, providing quick target acquisition and straightforward aiming for both beginners and experienced shooters.
The fast-focus eyepiece enables you to quickly adjust the reticle focus, making it especially useful for fast-paced shooting scenarios or when transitioning between varying light conditions.
Features
- HD Optical System
- Fully Multi-Coated Lenses
- V-Plex Reticle
- Fast-Focus Eyepiece
- Durable Construction
- Matte Black Finish
Pros
- Excellent clarity and edge-to-edge sharpness
- Reduces chromatic aberration for accurate colour
- Fully multi-coated lenses enhance low-light performance
- Simple and versatile V-Plex reticle for multiple applications
- Fast-focus eyepiece allows rapid adjustments
- Durable and weather-resistant construction
Cons
- Limited to 1-inch tube
2. Burris Scout Scope, Compact and Slim Optic with Medium Magnification
The Burris Scout Scope (model 200269, 2.75x20mm, Heavy Plex reticle) is a classic scout‑style riflescope that brings simplicity, durability, and reliable performance to the Mosin Nagant platform. Designed and manufactured in the United States, this optic embodies the traditional scout rifle philosophy: lightweight, long eye relief, and quick target engagement at close to medium ranges, ideal for hunting and general field use.
At a fixed 2.75× magnification, this Burris scope delivers a clear and natural sight picture without the complexity of variable zoom. Its Heavy Plex reticle offers bold, easy‑to‑see crosshairs with thinner centre posts for precise aiming, a setup that supports fast target acquisition, whether you’re stalking game or making quick shots on the range.
The 20mm objective lens and Hi‑Lume multi‑coated optics help maximise light transmission and reduce glare, producing a bright and crisp image even as lighting conditions change.
One of the standout features for Mosin Nagant owners is the generous eye relief, which typically ranges from about 8.5 to 14 inches, allowing the scope to be mounted forward of the ejection port in a scout‑style setup.
This extended eye relief not only improves comfort and situational awareness but also enables both eyes–open shooting, a technique that can be especially handy in dynamic hunting scenarios or when maintaining awareness of your surroundings matters.
Features
- Fixed 2.75× magnification
- Heavy Plex reticle is a bold contrast for fast and intuitive aiming.
- Hi‑Lume multi‑coated optics
- Long eye relief (8.5–14″)
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
- Lightweight and compact
- Precise ½ MOA adjustments
Pros
- Ideal for scout‑style use
- Bright, clear optics with multi‑coated lenses for improved visibility.
- Strong, weatherproof construction
- Lightweight and compact
- Simple reticle and fixed power make for intuitive, no‑nonsense aiming.
- Precise adjustments with ½ MOA clicks for dependable zeroing.
Cons
- Fixed magnification limits
3. Leupold VX-5HD 2-10x42mm Riflescope
The Leupold VX‑5HD 2‑10x42mm Riflescope is a high-performance, versatile optic designed for hunters and marksmen who demand exceptional clarity, durability, and reliability in the field. With its 2‑10× magnification range, this scope offers a perfect balance between wide-field viewing at lower power and precise target engagement at higher magnifications, making it a fantastic companion for Mosin Nagant rifles, whether on the hunt or at the range.
One of the standout features of the VX‑5HD is its illuminated FireDot Duplex CDS reticle, which excels in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk hunting. Paired with Motion Sensor Technology (MOT), the reticle automatically shuts off after 5 minutes of inactivity to conserve battery life, then instantly reactivates with even the slightest movement, ensuring you never miss a shot. This combination of illumination and smart technology makes it a reliable tool for dynamic shooting scenarios.
The scope’s optical performance is backed by Leupold’s Professional Grade Optical System, which delivers outstanding light transmission, reduced glare, and crisp resolution. Whether you are tracking game through dense timber or scanning open fields, the VX‑5HD provides bright, high-contrast images that help you acquire and maintain sight of your target with confidence.
Durability and maintenance are also key advantages of this scope. The Guard-Ion Hydrophobic Lens Coating repels water, dirt, fingerprints, and other contaminants, keeping the lenses clear and reducing the need for frequent cleaning.
Features
- 2–10× magnification
- Illuminated FireDot Duplex CDS reticle
- Motion Sensor Technology
- Professional Grade Optical System
- Guard-Ion Hydrophobic Lens Coating
- Matte Finish & Machined Aluminum Body
- 100% Waterproof, Fogproof, Shockproof
Pros
- Excellent clarity
- Illuminated reticle with Motion Sensor Technology
- Durable
- Hydrophobic lens coating
Cons
- Pricey
4. Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen I Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Vortex Viper PST Gen I 2.5‑10×44 is a precision-engineered riflescope that brings professional-level features to Mosin Nagant shooters seeking high performance in both hunting and tactical applications. This is the best of the 7 Best Scopes for Mosin Nagant.
With a versatile 2.5–10× magnification range, this scope is ideal for medium-range shooting, providing both a wide field of view at low magnification and the ability to engage targets accurately at higher power.
The EBR-1 hashmarked reticle, located in the second focal plane, is designed for accurate ranging, holdover, and windage corrections using MOA-based subtensions. While the reticle subtensions are calibrated at maximum magnification, the design ensures that shooters can quickly estimate distances and apply precise corrections, making it a practical tool for both hunting and target shooting with the Mosin Nagant.
Constructed from aircraft-grade aluminium in a one-piece, 30mm tube, the Viper PST is shockproof and extremely durable. The Customizable Rotational Stop (CRS) ensures reliable return to zero after temporary elevation adjustments, while the precision-force spring system maintains consistent erector tension, giving you repeatable adjustments with minimal effort.
Optical performance is a standout aspect of the Viper PST. Its extra-low dispersion (XD) glass provides sharp resolution and excellent colour fidelity, while proprietary multi-layer anti-reflective coatings enhance light transmission for bright, high-contrast images even in low-light conditions.
The scope also features fibre-optic turret rotation indicators, providing a visible and tactile reference for turret adjustments, a helpful feature for precise shot placement at varying distances.
The Viper PST is designed to withstand the elements, with O-ring seals and argon gas purging offering waterproof and shockproof reliability.
Features
- 2.5–10× magnification
- EBR-1 MOA-based reticle
- Customizable Rotational Stop (CRS)
- Precision-force spring system
- Extra-low dispersion (XD) glass
- Multi-layer anti-reflective coatings
- Fibre-optic turret rotation indicators
- One-piece aircraft-grade aluminium tube (30mm)
- O-ring seals and argon gas purging
Pros
- High-quality optics with sharp resolution and excellent colour fidelity.
- Durable, shockproof, and waterproof construction suitable for Mosin Nagant recoil.
- EBR-1 reticle enables precise ranging, holdover, and windage adjustments.
- Customizable Rotational Stop ensures reliable return to zero.
- Fibre-optic turret indicators make adjustments intuitive and easy to track.
- XD glass and anti-reflective coatings perform well in low-light conditions.
Cons
- Expensive
5. Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane (FFP) 4‑16×44 is a precision-engineered riflescope that offers an excellent blend of performance, versatility, and value for Mosin Nagant enthusiasts. Its 4–16× magnification range makes it a versatile option, suitable for medium to long-range shooting, hunting, and precision target applications.
Optically, the Diamondback Tactical excels thanks to extra-low dispersion (XD) glass and fully multi-coated lenses, which deliver a crisp, bright, and high-contrast sight picture.
The scope is designed to perform in challenging light conditions, providing shooters with excellent clarity and colour fidelity, whether in bright daylight or low-light dawn and dusk scenarios.
The precision-glide erector system ensures smooth and reliable magnification changes even under field conditions, while the exposed tactical turrets and side parallax adjustment knob provide precise control over windage, elevation, and parallax.
This makes the Diamondback Tactical especially suitable for Mosin Nagant users looking to push their rifles to longer ranges with confidence. The fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle adjustments, helping shooters acquire their target rapidly in dynamic conditions.
Durability is a hallmark of this riflescope. Constructed from a single-piece 30mm tube, the Diamondback Tactical is shockproof and can withstand the recoil of high-powered rifles. O-ring seals and nitrogen purging guarantee that the scope is both waterproof and fogproof, ensuring consistent performance in all weather conditions.
Features
- Flexible range for medium to long-range applications.
- Glass-etched for accurate holdovers and ranging throughout the zoom range.
- Crisp, bright, and high-contrast images.
- Smooth magnification changes under harsh conditions.
- Precise control for windage, elevation, and parallax.
- Quick and easy reticle focusing.
- Shockproof and rugged construction.
- Waterproof and fogproof.
Pros
- First focal plane
- Excellent clarity and colour fidelity with XD glass
- Multi-coated lenses.
- Durable, shockproof, and weather-resistant construction.
- Exposed turrets and side parallax knob enable precise long-range adjustments.
- Smooth magnification changes via precision-glide erector system.
- Fast-focus eyepiece allows rapid reticle adjustment.
Cons
- Heavy
6. UTGLeapers Inc., UTG BugBuster Scope, 3-9x32mm, 1″, RGB
The UTG BugBuster 3‑9x32mm scope is a compact, versatile optic that combines affordability with solid performance, making it an excellent choice for Mosin Nagant rifles. It’s 3–9× magnification range strikes a balance between short- and medium-range shooting, while the 1-inch tube design allows for easy mounting and minimal impact on rifle balance.
The scope is completely sealed and nitrogen-filled, making it shockproof, fogproof, and rainproof, capable of withstanding the recoil of the Mosin Nagant and performing in harsh field conditions.
This rugged construction is ideal for hunters or target shooters operating in variable weather, providing peace of mind that the scope will retain zero over time.
The scope features reinforced windage and elevation adjustment components, designed to enhance zero retention and precision. These components allow shooters to make fine adjustments with confidence, ensuring consistent shot placement.
The Emerald Lens Coatings applied to the optics provide maximum light transmission and improved clarity, resulting in bright, crisp images with high contrast even in low-light conditions such as early morning or late evening hunts.
In addition to its rugged design and optics, the UTG BugBuster comes with RGB illuminated reticle options, allowing shooters to choose from multiple colours for better visibility in varying light conditions. The fast-focus eyepiece ensures quick reticle adjustment, making it easy to acquire targets rapidly and maintain accuracy.
Features
- Versatile for short- to medium-range shooting.
- Compact design compatible with most Mosin Nagant mounts.
- Durable, shockproof construction built for recoil.
- Fogproof, rainproof, and reliable in harsh conditions.
- Enhance zero retention and precision.
- Maximises light transmission and optical clarity.
- Customizable colours for improved visibility in different lighting.
- Quick and easy reticle focusing for rapid target acquisition.
Pros
- Durable, weatherproof construction suitable for Mosin Nagant recoil.
- Good optical clarity and brightness thanks to Emerald Lens Coatings.
- Compact and lightweight, minimising impact on rifle balance.
- Adjustable RGB reticle enhances low-light visibility.
- Reinforced turrets maintain zero reliability under repeated use.
- Affordable, offering excellent value for the price.
7. Firefield Agility II Riflescope
The Firefield Agility II Riflescope is designed for shooters who demand rugged reliability, versatile optics, and consistent performance on mid-range rifles such as the Mosin Nagant. With a 3–9× magnification range and a 40mm objective lens, this scope strikes the perfect balance for hunting, target shooting, and tactical applications, offering both clarity and flexibility in a compact design.
Built for rugged reliability, the Agility II features high windage and elevation adjustment ranges with precise ¼ MOA clicks, enabling shooters to maintain consistent accuracy shot after shot. This makes it ideal for Mosin Nagant rifles, which can produce significant recoil, ensuring that zero remains dependable even during repeated firing sessions.
The scope’s durable construction is anchored by a solid aluminium body, making it shockproof and capable of handling high-calibre rifles up to .300 Winchester Magnum. This rugged build guarantees longevity and consistent field performance, giving Mosin Nagant owners confidence in both harsh and routine shooting environments.
For all-weather performance, the Agility II is nitrogen-filled and fogproof, while its IPX5 waterproof rating ensures reliable operation in wet or rainy conditions. This makes it a versatile companion for hunting or shooting in diverse climates, from early morning dew to unexpected rain.
Optically, the Agility II features a Duplex reticle, fully multi-coated lenses, and parallax settings fixed at 100 yards, providing sharp, bright, and high-contrast images. The scope also includes a single-piece tube, capped turrets, and a windage/elevation adjustment range of 60 MOA, giving shooters the tools needed for precise adjustments over varying distances.
Features
- Versatile range for medium-distance shooting.
- Simple, intuitive aiming for hunting and target scenarios.
- ¼ MOA clicks with 60 MOA range for precise shot placement.
- Shockproof and capable of withstanding high-calibre recoil.
- Nitrogen-filled, fogproof, and IPX5 waterproof.
- Rugged, reliable construction with protected adjustments.
- Enhanced clarity and light transmission.
- Suitable for medium-range engagements.
Pros
- Durable and shockproof
- High-precision ¼ MOA adjustments
- Fogproof, nitrogen-filled
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Versatile 3–9× magnification
- Simple Duplex reticle allows intuitive aiming.
- Single-piece tube
Cons
- Lacks illumination for low-light shooting scenarios.
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Factors to consider when choosing the 7 Best Scopes for Mosin Nagant
Magnification
The 7 Best Scopes for Mosin Nagant are typically used for medium-range shooting, so choosing a scope with an appropriate magnification range is crucial. For general hunting and target shooting, 3–9×, 2–10×, or 4–16× scopes work well, offering flexibility between a wide field-of-view at low magnification and precise aiming at higher magnification.
Reticle Type and Focal Plane
The reticle design directly affects aiming and ranging capability. First Focal Plane (FFP) reticles scale with magnification, allowing subtensions to remain accurate at any zoom, which is ideal for long-range shooting. Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticles maintain the same size regardless of magnification, often making them simpler to use for hunters who don’t need advanced ranging.
Optical Quality and Lens Coatings
Optical performance is a critical factor for clarity, brightness, and colour fidelity. Look for extra-low dispersion (XD) or HD glass and fully multi-coated lenses, as seen in scopes like the Vortex Crossfire HD or Diamondback Tactical.
Quality coatings improve light transmission and reduce glare, especially important during dawn or dusk hunts. Clear optics not only enhance target visibility but also reduce eye strain during prolonged shooting sessions, ensuring a better overall shooting experience with your Mosin Nagant.
Durability
The 7 Best Scopes for Mosin Nagant are powerful rifles with notable recoil, so the scope must be shockproof and rugged. Consider scopes with aircraft-grade aluminium or solid aluminium tubes, like the Viper PST or Leupold VX‑5HD.
Features like sealed nitrogen-filled tubes or O-ring seals protect against shock, fog, and moisture. Durable construction ensures that your scope maintains zero over repeated firing, even in harsh outdoor conditions, making reliability a top priority.
Weatherproofing
Hunting or shooting often exposes the rifle to rain, fog, or extreme temperatures. A quality Mosin Nagant scope should be waterproof, fogproof, and nitrogen-purged to ensure consistent performance. Scopes like the Firefield Agility II or UTG BugBuster are designed for all-weather reliability, allowing you to hunt in wet or humid conditions without worrying about lens fogging or water damage. This factor is especially important if you plan to use your Mosin in diverse environments.
FAQs of the 7 Best Scopes for Mosin Nagant
- Should I choose a first or second focal plane reticle?
First Focal Plane (FFP) reticles scale with magnification, keeping subtensions accurate at all zoom levels, ideal for range estimation and holdover at longer distances. Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticles remain the same size at all magnifications, making them simpler for general hunting where quick target acquisition is more important than precise range calculations. Your choice depends on how you plan to use the Mosin-Nagant scope.
- How important is weatherproofing in a Mosin-Nagant scope?
Weatherproofing is very important, especially for hunting or shooting in varying conditions. Look for fogproof, nitrogen-filled, and waterproof scopes, like the Firefield Agility II or UTG BugBuster, which perform reliably in rain, humidity, and fog. This ensures the scope maintains clarity and zero errors even in harsh environments.
- Can a Mosin Nagant handle high-end tactical scopes?
Yes, Mosin Nagants can handle quality tactical scopes, but consider weight and mount compatibility. Larger scopes, like the Vortex Diamondback FFP or Viper PST, provide advanced features but may affect rifle balance or require sturdy mounts.
Conclusion
Finding the 7 Best Scopes for Mosin Nagant ultimately depends on your specific shooting style, environment, and performance requirements. With the right scope, the Mosin Nagant becomes an even more capable rifle, ready to perform in any hunting or shooting scenario.