Are you trying to find the 7 Best Shotgun Scopes? Then you’re in the proper location. The top shotgun sights that offer an incredible experience at the range or in the field are thoroughly reviewed in this post.
Shotguns are multipurpose weapons with a wide range of uses. They are well known for their exceptional capacity to ward off intruders, kill small and large games, and hit targets and skeets with extreme precision. A quality shotgun scope significantly improves accuracy and facilitates quick target acquisition.
Factors to consider when choosing the 7 Best Shotgun Scopes
The unique requirements of shotgun use, such as durability, flexibility to various shooting situations, and shorter-range accuracy, must be taken into account while choosing the 7 Best Shotgun Scopes. These important factors will help you make your decision.
Magnification
A scope with low to intermediate magnification is excellent for shotguns, which are frequently employed at shorter ranges. For example, scopes with magnifications of 1-4x or 1-6x are appropriate for the majority of hunting and shooting situations in which shotguns are effective, such as target shooting and deer hunting. Since shotguns don’t work well at extremely long range, more magnification is usually not required.
Reticle Type
Accurate targeting depends on the reticle. A duplex or circle-dot reticle is a good choice for shotguns. Circle-dot reticles are appropriate for fast-paced games because they enable rapid target acquisition. Conversely, duplex reticles offer clarity without obstructing the vision and are adaptable to a variety of circumstances.
Objective Lens
Since shotgun scopes are frequently used at closer ranges, they typically don’t require large objective lenses. Good light transmission can be achieved with a lens diameter of 20–32 mm without needless bulk. The scope is easier to operate in low light thanks to fully multi-coated lenses that improve light gathering.
Size and Weight
Shotguns are made for fast-action, close-range shooting, so a small, light scope is perfect. The shotgun’s balance may be upset by heavier sights, making it more difficult to control. Tracking clays or game that moves quickly is made easier with a small, light scope that guarantees improved mobility and quicker target acquisition.
7 Best Shotgun Scopes
1) Vortex Optics Diamondback 1.75-5×32
This of our first choice of the 7 Best Shotgun Scopes. Compact and adaptable, the Vortex Optics Diamondback 1.75-5×32 riflescope is renowned for its utility, clarity, and longevity in hunting and shooting situations. This scope, which can handle a variety of shooting distances, is particularly well-liked by hunters who require a low-powered variable optic (LPVO) with a streamlined design for rapid target acquisition in close-to-mid-range situations. A lightweight and manageable configuration without sacrificing light transmission is guaranteed by the 32mm objective lens, and the 1.75-5x magnification provides versatility for both short and slightly longer exposures.
The Diamondback’s glass quality and fully multi-coated lenses deliver excellent clarity and color fidelity, which translates to bright and sharp images. The lens coatings help minimize glare and improve visibility in low-light conditions, which is crucial for early morning or late evening hunting. The scope features a fast-focus eyepiece, allowing quick reticle focusing, an essential feature for hunters who need to rapidly transition between targets or environments.
The Diamondback 1.75-5×32 comes with a V-Plex reticle, Vortex’s all-purpose reticle designed to accommodate various hunting situations. The reticle is uncluttered and intuitive, making it easy for shooters to quickly align shots without unnecessary distractions. The capped reset turrets allow easy adjustments and re-zeroing, and they are low-profile to prevent snagging, making this scope ideal for rugged, fast-paced environments. The turrets offer audible clicks with a ¼ MOA adjustment for precise fine-tuning.
Specifications
- 1.75–5x magnification
- The diameter of the objective lens is 32 mm.
- 3.5 inches is the eye relief.
- 1/4 MOA is the adjustment graduation.
- 100 MOA is the maximum elevation adjustment.
- 100 MOA is the maximum windage adjustment.
- It is 10.2 inches long.
- This weighs 12.8 ounces.
- Completely covered in layers to enhance light transmission
- Aluminum of aircraft quality for longevity
2) Trijicon 1.5x16S Compact Dual Illuminated ACOG Scope
An excellent optic, the Trijicon 1.5x16S Compact Dual Illuminated ACOG scope is well-liked for its combination of portability, robustness, and dependability. The 1.5x16S model of the ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight) family, which is well-known for its fixed power scopes, provides a magnification that strikes a balance between situational awareness and close-range accuracy. In high-stakes situations, speed is crucial, and the fixed 1.5x magnification offers a crisp, magnified image without compromising it. Despite being smaller, the 16mm objective lens captures enough light to maintain a bright image while enabling a compact construction.
The scope’s reticle is engineered to enable quick target acquisition. Depending on the model, it might have a crosshair, dot, or chevron reticle that is best suited for both close-quarters and long-range shooting. Additionally, it boasts a broad 2.4-inch eye relief, which is rather accommodating for a small scope and enables shooters to maintain a full sight picture while keeping a safe distance.
The 1.5x16S is adaptable enough for a range of shooting platforms, including AR-15s and other tactical rifles, thanks to its small size and simplicity of usage. It is perfect for users who require mobility without compromising accuracy because of its low-profile design, which minimizes weight and bulk.
Specifications
- It is 1.5x magnified.
- 16 mm is the objective lens diameter.
- The reticle has two lights.
- 39 feet at 100 yards @ 100 meters is the field of view.
- 2.4 inches (61 mm) is the eye relief.
- The pupil exits at 10.7 mm.
- It is 4.5 inches (114 mm) long.
- It weighs 5.1 ounces.
3) Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm Rifle Scope
The VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm’s 1.5-4x magnification range is one of its best qualities; it makes it perfect for near to mid-range shooting. At the lower end of the spectrum, 1.5x magnification provides a broad field of view, which facilitates rapid target acquisition, particularly in situations involving close quarters or dense forests when quick target acquisition is crucial. The scope is adaptable enough for a variety of shooting applications, such as hunting or self-defense, when it is cranked up to 4x, which allows precise aiming at mid-range targets.
The VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm scope is designed to survive challenging conditions. At just 9.6 ounces in weight, it is sturdy and lightweight due to its construction from aircraft-grade aluminum. It can function dependably in a variety of weather conditions thanks to its sturdy construction, which is shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof. The scope’s ability to withstand severe recoil without sacrificing performance has been demonstrated by Leupold’s Punisher testing, which is particularly helpful for users using larger calibers.
The 20mm objective lens makes the scope lightweight and small, which is perfect for hunters who wish to keep their equipment organized and easy to use. The scope’s generous eye relief of 4.17 to 3.74 inches, despite its small size, allows for mounting versatility and ensures safety, especially when using heavy-recoiling weapons.
Leupold offers this scope with different reticle options, including the Duplex and Pig-Plex, catering to different shooting needs. The adjustments are easy to operate, with 1/4 MOA click adjustments for windage and elevation, allowing precise tuning. The turrets are capped, which protects against accidental adjustments in the field.
Specifications
- Use ¼ MOA to finger-click turrets.
- 1.5–4x magnification
- The diameter of the objective lens is 20 mm.
- The diameter of the main tube is one inch.
- Range of Elevation and Windage Adjustment
- The fixed parallax adjustment is 150 yards.
- It weighs about 9.6 ounces (272 grams).
- It is 9.35 inches long.
- Shockproof, fogproof, and waterproof
4) ATN ThOR 4 4.5-18x50mm Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope
The ATN ThOR 4 4.5-18x50mm Thermal Smart HD Rifle Scope is a state-of-the-art thermal imaging tool made for hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and tactical operators that need cutting-edge technology for long-range shooting.
The ThOR 4 produces crisp thermal images even in total darkness because to its 384×288 thermal sensor and 50mm objective lens. Its sophisticated thermal sensor detects heat signatures from objects, vehicles, and living things, giving hunters and tactical operators a clear edge in low-visibility situations including hazy atmospheres, deep woodlands, and dark nighttime. With the ability to engage at different ranges thanks to the 4.5-18x zoom, users may detect targets from astounding distances.
This guarantees that the scope provides exceptional sharpness and contrast, particularly in low light. Users can adjust the display’s brightness and color schemes to best fit their needs.
This thermal scope has an advanced ballistic calculation that takes altitude, wind, and humidity into consideration. Users can greatly increase shooting accuracy by entering the proper parameters, which will yield extremely accurate holdover points and windage adjustments.
The ATN Obsidian 4 Smart Processor, which powers the ATN ThOR 4, guarantees lag-free, fluid performance. This CPU offers a smooth user experience during shooting or surveillance by supporting real-time ballistic calculations, streaming HD video, and other clever functions.
The ATN ThOR 4 is designed with extended battery life, offering up to 16 hours of continuous use on a single charge. This makes it suitable for long hunting trips or extended tactical missions without worrying about running out of power. Additionally, the scope’s power management system ensures the most efficient use of the battery.
Specifications
- Recoil Activated Video
- Ballistic Calculator
- One Shot Zero
- Objective Lens is 50mm
- ATN Obsidian IV Smart Processor
- Smart Mil-Dot Reticle
- Magnification is 4.5x to 18x
5) Konus Konushot 3 3-12×40 Rifle Scope
The Konus Konushot 3 3-12×40 Rifle Scope is a cost-effective and adaptable optic made to satisfy the demands of both inexperienced and seasoned hunters.
The Konushot’s completely multi-coated lenses improve light transmission while lowering glare. This helps to provide crisp, vibrant views of your objective by enhancing the image’s overall brightness and clarity.
We created the Konus Konushot 3-12×40 with longevity in mind. It can survive harsh situations, whether you’re hunting in rain, snow, or extremely cold temperatures, thanks to its shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof construction. Because of this, it’s a dependable option for a variety of environmental conditions that could affect your shooting experience.
The Konus Konushot 3-12×40 has a variable magnification range of 3x to 12x. Whether you’re doing long-range precision shooting or close-range target acquisition, this makes it perfect for a range of shooting situations. A larger field of view is possible with the 3x setting, and you can increase precision by zooming in on far-off objects with the 12x magnification.
The 40mm objective lens strikes a reasonable compromise between compactness and light transmission. It is appropriate for hunting at dawn or dusk since it produces images that are bright and clear even in low light. The diameter of the lens is sufficiently large to collect enough light without making the rifle unduly heavy or bulky.
The Konushot provides generous eye relief, which is essential for shooters using high-recoil rifles. This feature helps ensure that the shooter’s eye remains safe from the scope, preventing any injuries caused by recoil while maintaining a comfortable shooting position.
Specifications
- 30.2 ft at 3x is the field of view.
- 3–12x magnification
- 40mm is the objective lens diameter.
- The tube has a 1-inch diameter.
- Completely multi-coated lenses
- 3.5 inches is the eye relief.
- Water- and fog-proof
- It weighs about sixteen ounces.
- Turrets with finger adjustments
6) Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
The Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is a dependable and reasonably priced optic made for hunters and shooters looking for quality and accuracy at a reasonable cost.
The Banner 3-9x40mm scope is made of a sturdy, single-piece tube and was developed with longevity in mind. Because it is fog-proof, shock-proof, and waterproof, it is a great option for hunters who must contend with harsh conditions and erratic weather. Even in damp situations, fogging is avoided thanks to the nitrogen purging, which keeps the scope’s inside dry. In addition to lowering glare, the matte black treatment applied to the outside improves its resistance to adverse weather conditions.
The Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm is appropriate for both close-range and mid-range shots because to its flexible 3x to 9x magnification range. The scope’s 40mm objective lens collects enough light for sharp sight shots even in dimly lit areas, like at dawn or dusk for hunting. For targeting at different ranges, the multi-coated lenses aid in improving image brightness, contrast, and clarity. Users can swiftly adjust to various hunting situations with the 3x to 9x magnification, whether they are observing a prey at close range or at a greater distance.
The Multi-X reticle, a straightforward crosshair design with a center aiming point, is included with the Bushnell banner. Hunters may easily acquire and track targets with this reticle’s simplicity. Particularly in low light, the striking crosshairs offer a striking contrast to both dark and bright backgrounds. Many people believe that this reticle style works well for general-purpose hunting and shooting because it provides quick target acquisition without needless distractions.
Specifications
- Magnification range of 3x to 9x
- It is shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof
- Features Parallax Adjustment set at 100 yards
- Eye Relief is 3.3 inches
- Tube Diameter is 1-inch
- Weight is Approximately 12.6 ounces
- Length is 12 inches
7) Bushnell RSX-100 Reflex Sight RXS100
The Bushnell RSX-100 Reflex Sight is a premium, long-lasting red dot sight made for sporting and tactical uses from our list of the 7 Best Shotgun Scopes. Its main goal is to give customers a dependable and adaptable aiming solution for AR-style rifles, pistols, shotguns, and other firearms.
The Bushnell RSX-100 Reflex Sight is compact, lightweight, and built with a sturdy aluminum housing, making it capable of handling the recoil and harsh conditions typically encountered in shooting sports and tactical scenarios. The sight weighs just 2.4 ounces, allowing for easy mounting and minimal added weight to the firearm. The sight’s low profile ensures that it won’t interfere with other accessories or obstruct the shooter’s line of sight.
The RXS100 features Picatinny and Weaver mount compatibility, making it compatible with a wide variety of firearms. Its quick-detach system ensures fast and easy mounting and removal, without requiring tools for installation. This allows users to easily attach or detach the sight depending on their shooting needs.
Additionally, the sight is waterproof, rated for IPX7 standards, meaning it can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. It is also shockproof, making it suitable for high-recoil firearms, including shotguns and AR-style rifles. These features ensure that the RXS100 will perform reliably even under challenging conditions.
Specifications
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Lightweight and durable
- IPX7-rated waterproof
- Uses a CR2032 battery
- Windage and Elevation adjustments
- Weight is Approximately 1.5 oz
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FAQs of the 7 Best Shotgun Scopes
- What is the best magnification for a shotgun scope?
A magnification range of 1x to 4x is often optimal for shotguns. This makes it possible to strike a reasonable balance between rapid target acquisition in dynamic shooting situations and accuracy at near to medium range.
- Can a shotgun be used with a rifle scope?
Although rifle scopes can be used with shotguns, their field of view and recoil may make them less than optimal. Shotgun scopes are made especially to manage shotgun recoil and offer a larger field of view for rapid aim.
- What features ought to be present in a shotgun scope?
A large field of view for rapid target acquisition, low magnification (usually 1x to 4x for shotguns), durability (shockproof and waterproof), and an objective lens with strong light transmission for clear visuals are all important considerations when selecting a shotgun scope.
- Should I zero my shotgun scope?
Yes, zeroing your shotgun scope is crucial. For accuracy at a distance, shotguns usually use slugs, and zeroing the sight guarantees that your bullets will strike the target where the reticle is aimed.
Final Thoughts
The 7 Best Shotgun Scopes are those that can survive the recoil and harsh handling that come with shotguns while still offering clear, accurate aiming.
The 7 Best Shotgun Scopes listed above are all excellent investments. They will significantly improve your shotgun’s accuracy, allowing you to have an amazing hunting or shooting experience. After zeroing, shotguns usually don’t need much modification, but having windage and elevation controls can help you fine-tune the shot for particular conditions or distances.