Reaching out to 1,000 yards is a serious challenge that demands equally serious glass. It’s not just about magnification; it’s about optical clarity, precise and repeatable adjustments, and a rock-solid build that can handle recoil and the elements. Whether you’re a competitive long-range shooter or a hunter looking to make ethical shots at extreme distances, the right riflescope is the single most important piece of gear in your setup. Choosing incorrectly can lead to frustration and missed opportunities.
In 2025, the market is filled with fantastic options, but they all cater to different needs and budgets. The best riflescopes for 1,000 yards share common traits like high-quality glass, reliable turrets, and useful reticles designed for holdovers and windage. This guide will walk you through six top-tier scopes I’ve tested and researched, helping you find the perfect match for your rifle and your shooting style without the fluff.
Top Riflescopes for 1,000 Yards in 2025
- Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56 FFP Riflescope
- Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56 F1 Riflescope
- Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56 FFP Riflescope
- Zeiss LRP S5 5-25×50 FFP Riflescope
- Arken Optics EP5 5-25×56 FFP Riflescope
- Primary Arms PLx 6-30×56 FFP Riflescope
Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56 FFP Riflescope
I consider the Vortex Razor HD Gen III a benchmark for what a modern long-range scope should be. The 6-36x magnification range is incredibly versatile, allowing me to spot my own shots at 1,000 yards on high power while still having a low enough setting for closer targets or wider field-of-view scanning. The glass is simply outstanding, with exceptional resolution and color fidelity that makes seeing mirage and trace much easier. The EBR-7D reticle is a workhorse, packed with useful information for wind holds and moving targets.
Where this scope really stands out for me is its turret system. The locking elevation turret is crisp and provides very clear tactile and audible clicks. I never have to second-guess my adjustments. The return-to-zero feature is a nice touch for field shooting. While it’s not a lightweight scope, the heft translates to a feeling of immense durability. It’s built to withstand hard use, and Vortex’s VIP warranty is arguably the best in the business, giving me complete peace of mind.
Pros
- Incredible 6-36x magnification range for maximum versatility
- Top-tier HD glass with excellent clarity and light transmission
- Superb, repeatable turrets with a useful locking and zero-stop system
Cons
- Heavy and bulky, which can be a concern for lightweight rifle builds
- Premium price tag places it at the high end of the market
Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56 F1 Riflescope
If I had to pick one scope known for absolute bomb-proof reliability, it would be the Nightforce ATACR. This thing is a tank. I’ve used it in conditions ranging from dusty deserts to freezing rain, and its performance never wavers. The optical clarity is exceptional, with a notably flat field of view that minimizes edge distortion even at 35x. The Tremor 3 reticle is a complex but incredibly effective tool for experienced shooters who need to make rapid corrections for wind and elevation.
The adjustment turrets on the ATACR are legendary for their precision and repeatability. I trust them implicitly to put my bullet exactly where I want it, shot after shot. The scope holds zero perfectly, even on heavy-recoiling magnum calibers. While the learning curve for the reticle can be steep for beginners, for a seasoned shooter pushing the limits at 1,000 yards and beyond, the ATACR provides every tool needed to succeed. It’s an investment in uncompromising performance.
Pros
- Legendary durability and reliability under the toughest conditions
- Precise and repeatable turrets that inspire total confidence
- High-quality glass with a very flat field of view
Cons
- Extremely high cost, one of the most expensive options available
- Advanced reticles like the Tremor 3 have a significant learning curve
Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56 FFP Riflescope
For shooters who need to keep weight down without sacrificing performance, the Leupold Mark 5HD is a fantastic choice. I’m always impressed by how light it feels compared to its competitors, making it ideal for a rifle you might carry long distances. Don’t let the weight fool you; the Twilight Max HD light management system delivers a bright, clear image even in low-light conditions. The TMR reticle is clean and simple, perfect for those who prefer an uncluttered view.
One of my favorite features is the turret system. Leupold offers several options, but the M5C3 turret with its exposed, tactile clicks is fast and easy to use. The zero-stop is simple to set and very effective. The Mark 5HD strikes a great balance between the ruggedness needed for long-range work and the portability desired by hunters and PRS competitors on the move. It’s a very well-rounded package from an iconic American company.
Pros
- Significantly lighter than many competitors, great for hunting setups
- Excellent low-light performance thanks to the Twilight Max HD system
- Clean, simple reticle options and user-friendly turrets
Cons
- Lower maximum magnification than some top-tier competitors
- Some users might prefer a more feature-rich reticle for competition
Zeiss LRP S5 5-25×50 FFP Riflescope
Zeiss is synonymous with exceptional optics, and the LRP S5 lives up to that reputation. The first thing I notice when I look through this scope is the color contrast and sharpness; the image just pops. It’s one of the clearest scopes I’ve used, which is a huge advantage when trying to see a small target at 1,000 yards through heat mirage. The ZF-MRI reticle is well-designed, providing all the necessary holdover points without being overly busy.
The turret system on the LRP S5 is a highlight. The clicks are very distinct, and the large, easy-to-read numbers make quick adjustments simple. I appreciate the integrated bubble level, which is a small but valuable feature for ensuring your rifle is perfectly level for those long shots. While the 50mm objective is slightly smaller than the 56mm on some rivals, the superior glass quality more than makes up for it in most lighting conditions. This scope is a top contender for the shooter who prioritizes optical perfection above all else.
Pros
- Superlative German glass with outstanding clarity and color contrast
- Excellent, user-friendly turrets with a great tactile feel
- Includes a handy integrated bubble level
Cons
- Higher price point, similar to other premium European brands
- 50mm objective may not gather quite as much light as 56mm models in very low light
Arken Optics EP5 5-25×56 FFP Riflescope
The Arken EP5 is the scope that has completely changed the game for budget-conscious long-range shooters. The value for money here is astonishing. For a fraction of the cost of the high-end options, you get features that were once reserved for premium scopes: a first-focal-plane reticle, a zero-stop elevation turret, and solid glass. I’ve found the turrets to be surprisingly good, with clear, audible clicks that have held up well to use.
Is the glass as good as a Vortex Razor or Nightforce? No, but it is far better than anything else in its price class. The illumination is bright and the build quality feels robust. For someone just getting into long-range shooting or on a tight budget, the Arken EP5 provides a fantastic platform to learn on without breaking the bank. It proves that hitting targets at 1,000 yards doesn’t necessarily require a four-figure scope.
Pros
- Exceptional value, offering high-end features at an affordable price
- Includes a functional zero-stop and illuminated FFP reticle
- Solid performance that belies its low cost
Cons
- Noticeably heavier than most other scopes in its magnification range
- Optical clarity is good but not on par with the top-tier options
Primary Arms PLx 6-30×56 FFP Riflescope
Primary Arms has built a strong reputation with its innovative reticles, and the PLx series represents their top-tier offering. The 6-30x magnification is excellent for 1,000-yard work, and the Japanese-made glass is very sharp and clear. What really sets this scope apart for me is the reticle choice, particularly the Apollo. It’s a highly functional design that helps with rapid ranging and wind holds without being overly complicated.
The build quality feels premium, and the turrets are crisp and reliable. I find the overall ergonomics to be well thought out, from the magnification ring to the parallax adjustment. The PLx competes directly with scopes that often cost significantly more, making it a strong value in the high-performance category. For shooters who appreciate a smart, purpose-built reticle and want a reliable, high-magnification scope without the absolute top-shelf price, the PLx is a compelling option.
Pros
- Excellent, innovative reticle designs like the Apollo for advanced shooting
- High-quality Japanese glass provides a bright, clear image
- Competitive pricing for a feature set that rivals more expensive brands
Cons
- Brand recognition is still growing compared to established giants like Nightforce or Vortex
- Some may find the specific reticle designs take some time to master
Buying the Best Riflescopes for 1,000 Yards in 2025
Reaching out to 1,000 yards is a serious challenge, and your riflescope is the most critical link between you and the target. It’s not just about magnification; it’s about clarity, precision, and repeatability under varying conditions. Having tested a lot of glass, I know that cutting corners here will cost you hits on paper and money in the long run. Let’s talk about what actually matters when you’re picking a scope for long-range work.
First, magnification is a big one, but it’s often misunderstood. You might think you need a massive 25-50x scope, but in reality, most shooters find a top end of 18x to 25x is plenty for seeing and hitting a target at 1,000 yards. Higher magnification can exaggerate mirage (heat haze) and make the image shaky. A solid range like 5-25x or 6-24x is a fantastic sweet spot, giving you a wide field of view on the low end for finding targets and enough power on the high end for precise shots.
The next non-negotiable is the turrets. You will be dialing your elevation constantly. You need turrets that are tactile, accurate, and track perfectly. Look for models with a zero-stop feature. This allows you to quickly return to your zero distance after dialing for a long shot without having to count clicks. The turrets should feel crisp, with clear, audible clicks. If they feel mushy, it’s a sign of inferior internals.
Optical quality is paramount. The goal is to see your target clearly, even in low-light conditions at dawn or dusk. This comes down to the quality of the glass and the lens coatings. High-quality glass provides better resolution and color fidelity, while advanced coatings increase light transmission and reduce glare. A bright, sharp image makes spotting bullet holes or target details at extreme range much easier.
Finally, consider the reticle. For precision shooting, a First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle is my strong preference. With an FFP reticle, the subtensions (the measurements in the reticle like MILs or MOA) remain accurate at every magnification level. This is crucial for making accurate windage and holdover corrections on the fly. A christmas-tree style reticle with plenty of holdover points is a huge advantage for engaging targets at unknown distances or in windy conditions. Getting the right setup is the first step to consistent performance with the best riflescopes for 1,000 yards in 2025.
FAQ
Is MOA or MIL better for 1,000-yard shooting?
This is a classic debate, but the honest answer is that both are perfectly capable. It’s more about personal preference and consistency. MIL (Milliradian) is based on the metric system (1 MIL = 10 cm at 100 meters) and is widely used in military and competitive shooting. MOA (Minute of Angle) is an imperial measurement (1 MOA is roughly 1 inch at 100 yards). Many find MILs a bit easier for mental math because it’s a base-10 system. The most important thing is to choose one system and stick with it for your scope, rangefinder, and ballistic calculator. Mixing them is a recipe for confusion and missed shots.
What is the minimum magnification I need for 1,000 yards?
While you can technically see a man-sized target at 1,000 yards with as little as 10x magnification, for precise shooting on a smaller target, I would not recommend going below a top-end magnification of 18x. The sweet spot for most long-range shooters is in the 20-25x range. This provides enough detail to see your target clearly and make precise adjustments without the image degradation and exaggerated mirage that often comes with ultra-high magnification settings above 30x.
Why is a First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle so important?
A First Focal Plane reticle is a game-changer for long-range shooting because the size of the reticle changes as you zoom in and out. This means the measurements within the reticle (whether MIL or MOA) are always correct, no matter what magnification you’re on. If you need to hold over 2 MILs for a shot, it’s 2 MILs at 5x power and 2 MILs at 25x power. With a Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticle, the reticle subtensions are only accurate at one specific magnification (usually the highest), which can lead to major errors if you forget to max out your zoom.
How much should I expect to spend on a good 1,000-yard scope?
This is the big question. You can find entry-level options that claim long-range capability for around $500, but for a scope that will deliver reliable, repeatable performance at 1,000 yards, you should be looking in the $1,500 to $3,000 range. At this price point, you get proven turret tracking, superior glass clarity, robust construction, and important features like a zero-stop. Think of it as an investment. A cheaper scope that fails to track properly will cost you more in wasted ammunition and frustration than a quality optic from the start.
Can I use a hunting scope for precision shooting at 1,000 yards?
Some high-end hunting scopes can perform well, but they often lack features that make precision shooting easier. Hunting scopes are typically lighter and may have simpler reticles. They might not have exposed, tactile turrets that are easy to dial, or a zero-stop feature. While the glass might be excellent, the internal mechanism may not be designed for the constant, large adjustments in elevation that 1,000-yard shooting requires. A dedicated precision or tactical riflescope is built for this specific task and is generally the better tool for the job.