Choosing the right optic for your muzzleloader is a game-changer, especially when you need something tough enough for marine environments. The unique recoil of a modern in-line muzzleloader demands a scope built to handle it, not to mention the need for fog-proof and waterproof performance when you’re hunting near the coast or in damp conditions. I’ve spent a lot of time testing various scopes to find the ones that truly stand up to the challenge.
This guide focuses on the best muzzleloader scopes that are marine-approved, meaning they offer superior clarity, durable construction, and reliable performance when it matters most. Whether you’re after a long-range model for open fields or a compact scope for thick timber, getting the right features can make all the difference in your hunt. Let’s look at the top options for 2025 that are ready for anything you and your muzzleloader can throw at them.
Our Picks for the Best Muzzleloader Scopes
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-9×50 Riflescope
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 CDS Riflescope
- Nikon INLINE XR Muzzleloader Riflescope 3-9×40
- Simmons ProHunter 3-9×32 Shotgun Muzzleloader Scope
- Burris Fullfield II 3-9×40 Ballistic Plex Riflescope
- UTG 3-12×44 30mm AO Rifle Scope
- Bushnell Trophy Xtreme 4-12×40 Riflescope
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-9×50 Riflescope
I have found the Vortex Crossfire II to be an outstanding choice for muzzleloader hunters who need reliability without a huge investment. The 3-9x magnification is perfect for the typical ranges you’ll be shooting, and the large 50mm objective lens pulls in an impressive amount of light for those crucial early morning and late evening shots. What really makes it a top pick for marine-approved use is its solid construction. It’s argon purged and O-ring sealed, which means it’s completely waterproof and fog-proof. I’ve used it in rainy conditions, and the performance never wavered.
The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is a fantastic feature for muzzleloaders because it helps you compensate for bullet drop without having to constantly adjust the turrets. The lenses are fully multi-coated, providing a bright and clear sight picture. I also appreciate the durable single-piece tube; it can handle the sharp, unique recoil impulse of a modern muzzleloader without losing zero. The resettable turrets are a nice touch for making quick adjustments in the field. For the price, it’s hard to find a scope that offers this level of optical clarity and ruggedness.
Pros
- Excellent light transmission with a 50mm objective lens
- Fully waterproof and fog-proof construction
- BDC reticle is useful for estimating holdover
Cons
- Can be a bit heavy compared to some models
- The BDC reticle might require practice to master
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 CDS Riflescope
If you’re looking for a lightweight and incredibly tough scope from a legendary American brand, the Leupold VX-Freedom is a fantastic option. I’m consistently impressed by how light it is, which is a big advantage if you’re carrying your muzzleloader over long distances. The Twilight Light Management System is a real benefit, enhancing contrast and providing extra minutes of shooting light when game is most active. The 3:1 zoom ratio is versatile for everything from close-range brush shots to longer pokes across a field.
The CDS (Custom Dial System) is where this scope really stands out for serious muzzleloader hunters. You can order a custom elevation dial calibrated specifically for your load and velocity, making long-range shots much simpler. Just dial the range and shoot. Even without the custom dial, the standard duplex reticle is crisp and easy to use. It’s 100% waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof, and it’s built right here in the USA. Leupold’s reputation for durability is well-earned, and this scope is proof that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get top-tier performance.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and durable construction
- Twilight Light Management System extends shooting light
- CDS system allows for custom ballistic calibration
Cons
- Custom CDS dial is an additional purchase
- 40mm objective gathers slightly less light than 50mm models
Nikon INLINE XR Muzzleloader Riflescope 3-9×40
This scope was specifically designed for muzzleloaders, and that focus shows. The Nikon INLINE XR features a patented BDC 300 reticle that is calibrated for the trajectory of common saboted bullets out to 300 yards. I found this takes a lot of the guesswork out of longer shots. The spot-on ballistic match technology lets you customize the reticle to your exact load, which is a huge advantage for precision. The optics are superb, with Nikon’s ultra-clear glass providing a sharp, bright image.
Durability is key for a marine-approved scope, and this one is built to handle the recoil. It’s nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed for waterproof and fog-proof performance. The spring-loaded Instant Zero-Reset turrets are easy to adjust and provide positive clicks. While Nikon has stepped back from the riflescope market, this model remains a top-tier choice if you can find one. It represents a fantastic value for a purpose-built optic that understands the unique ballistics of a muzzleloader.
Pros
- Reticle specifically designed for muzzleloader ballistics
- Excellent optical clarity with Nikon quality glass
- Instant Zero-Reset turrets are user-friendly
Cons
- Becoming harder to find since Nikon exited the market
- Some may find the BDC 300 reticle a bit busy
Simmons ProHunter 3-9×32 Shotgun Muzzleloader Scope
For hunters on a tight budget, the Simmons ProHunter delivers solid performance that far exceeds its price point. I’ve tested this scope on several firearms, and it holds up surprisingly well to heavy recoil, including that from a muzzleloader. The 3-9x magnification is versatile, and the QTA (Quick Target Acquisition) eyepiece allows for a full field of view from any eye position, which is great for fast shots. It’s a simple, no-frills scope that gets the job done.
It’s fully coated for good light transmission and is waterproof and fog-proof, which are essential features for any hunting optic. The parallax is set at 100 yards, which is fine for most muzzleloader hunting scenarios. While it may not have the premium glass clarity of more expensive models, the value is undeniable. If you’re looking for a reliable scope that won’t break the bank and can handle the elements, the Simmons ProHunter is a very sensible choice.
Pros
- Extremely affordable price point
- Waterproof and fog-proof for all-weather use
- QTA eyepiece allows for faster sight picture acquisition
Cons
- Optical clarity is not as high as more expensive scopes
- Construction feels less robust than premium brands
Burris Fullfield II 3-9×40 Ballistic Plex Riflescope
The Burris Fullfield II is a workhorse scope that offers exceptional value and performance. I’ve always been a fan of the Ballistic Plex reticle; it’s simple, uncluttered, but provides useful holdover points for longer ranges. The optics are fantastic for the price, with Hi-Lume multi-coating providing a very bright and clear image. The scope feels solid and well-made, with a reputation for standing up to heavy recoil from magnum rifles, so a muzzleloader is no problem.
It’s waterproof and nitrogen purged to prevent internal fogging. The finger-adjustable windage and elevation dials are easy to use, even with gloves on. One of the best features is the Burris Forever Warranty, which is a no-questions-asked guarantee that gives you great peace of mind. For a hunter who wants a high-quality, reliable scope with a clean reticle and great glass, the Fullfield II is a top contender that won’t let you down.
Pros
- Excellent optical clarity with Hi-Lume multi-coating
- Simple and effective Ballistic Plex reticle
- Backed by a fantastic lifetime warranty
Cons
- Reticle is not specifically calibrated for muzzleloaders
- Turret adjustments could be more tactile
UTG 3-12×44 30mm AO Rifle Scope
If you need more magnification for precision shooting at extended ranges, the UTG 3-12×44 is a great option. The 30mm main tube allows for a wider range of internal adjustment, and the adjustable objective (AO) is crucial for eliminating parallax error at different distances. I found the Emerald lens coating provides a surprisingly bright and sharp sight picture. The scope is built on a true strength platform, and it’s IQ (Intelligent Quality) engineered, meaning it’s tested to handle heavy recoil.
It comes with a set of target turrets that are precise and resettable, which is a feature usually found on more expensive scopes. It’s also sealed with O-rings and purged with nitrogen, making it completely waterproof and fog-proof. The included flip-open lens caps are a nice bonus. For the hunter who wants to push their muzzleloader to its effective limits and needs the features of a target scope, the UTG offers a lot of performance for the money.
Pros
- Higher 12x maximum magnification for long-range precision
- Adjustable objective for parallax correction
- Robust construction with target-style turrets
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than standard hunting scopes
- The reticle may be too fine for some in low light
Bushnell Trophy Xtreme 4-12×40 Riflescope
The Bushnell Trophy Xtreme is designed for hard-hitting firearms, and it’s a perfect match for a muzzleloader. The DOA 600 reticle is a standout feature, offering a simple circle-and-post design for fast aiming at closer ranges, with hash marks for holdover out to 600 yards. While you won’t shoot a muzzleloader that far, the marks are very useful for windage estimation and precise holdover at 200+ yards. The rain guard HD coating on the lenses is excellent, beading up water to maintain a clear view in wet weather.
It’s built with a one-piece tube and is purged with argon gas for superior thermal stability and waterproofing. I’ve found the turrets to be accurate and repeatable. The 4-12x magnification gives you plenty of flexibility, from a wide field of view on 4x to a detailed view for a careful shot on 12x. For a hunter who wants a feature-rich scope with a versatile reticle and excellent weather resistance, the Bushnell Trophy Xtreme is a strong candidate.
Pros
- DOA 600 reticle is versatile for both close and long range
- Rain Guard HD coating repels water effectively
- Wide 4-12x magnification range
Cons
- Reticle may be too complex for hunters who prefer simplicity
- Slightly higher base magnification can be limiting in thick cover