Your rifle scope is a critical piece of equipment, and its lenses are the window to your target. Protecting that investment from dust, moisture, and scratches is non-negotiable for maintaining a clear sight picture and ensuring long-term reliability. Flip-up scope covers offer a perfect balance of protection and rapid deployment, flipping out of the way in an instant when you need to take a shot.
With numerous options available, selecting the right cover for your specific scope can be a challenge. This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting eight of the most durable and reliable flip-up covers on the market. We have focused on products known for their robust construction, secure fit, and user-friendly features to help you make an informed decision for your gear.
Our Top Picks for Flip-Up Scope Covers
- Monstrum Rubberized Flip-Up Rifle Scope Lens Covers (Objective Bell | 55-62 mm)
- Butler Creek Blizzard See Thru Scope Cover, Size #7
- Vortex Optics Defender Riflescope Flip Cap – Eyepiece & Objective
- Monstrum Rubberized Flip-Up Rifle Scope Lens Covers (Eyepiece | 37-42 mm)
- Monstrum Rubberized Flip-Up Rifle Scope Lens Covers (Objective Bell | 37-42 mm)
- Vortex Optics Flip Caps – 2.8 Inch Ocular & 3.4 Inch Objective
- Butler Creek Flip Open Scope Cover – Objective 02A Size
- Leupold Alumina Flip Back Lens Cover Set – 44mm Objective
Monstrum Rubberized Flip-Up Rifle Scope Lens Covers (Objective Bell | 55-62 mm)
These Monstrum lens covers are designed for a secure and protective fit on your scope’s objective bell. The rubberized construction allows the cover to conform tightly around the scope tube, creating a barrier against dust, dirt, and potential abrasions that could harm your lens coating. This flexible design ensures a snug fit without the need for tools or complicated installation.
It is important to note that sizing is based on the outside diameter of your scope tube, not the lens size itself. Monstrum emphasizes that you must physically measure your scope to select the correct size. Each package includes a single, durable flip-up cover, allowing you to purchase exactly what you need for your setup.
Butler Creek Blizzard See Thru Scope Cover, Size #7
The Butler Creek Blizzard scope cover is a classic choice for hunters and shooters who require a weather-resistant seal. Its design effectively shields your lens from rain, snow, and debris, making it a reliable companion in harsh outdoor conditions. The “See Thru” feature allows for a basic sight picture even with the cover closed, which can be useful in certain situations.
Operation is both silent and intuitive, thanks to a spring-loaded mechanism. The ambidextrous open and close function means the cover is easy to use from either side, providing convenience for all users. This model is built for straightforward, dependable performance when you need it most.
Vortex Optics Defender Riflescope Flip Cap
Vortex markets its Defender flip caps as virtually indestructible, positioning them as a last purchase you will ever need for lens protection. Manufactured in the USA, these caps are engineered for extreme versatility and durability, standing up to rough handling and tough environments. They are built to be a permanent and reliable part of your optics system.
A key feature is the multi-stop positioning enabled by a robust stainless steel spring. The eyepiece cap can be set to vertical, 45 degrees, or 90 degrees, with the vertical position specifically designed to hold an optional dope disk for quick reference. The objective cap also features multiple stop positions, providing secure and flexible operation.
Monstrum Rubberized Flip-Up Rifle Scope Lens Covers (Eyepiece | 37-42 mm)
This Monstrum model is tailored for your scope’s eyepiece, offering the same reliable protection as the objective cover. The rubberized material forms a tight seal around the scope tube, guarding the sensitive ocular lens from dust, fingerprints, and scratches. This simple yet effective design is easy to install and provides peace of mind during transport and in the field.
As with all Monstrum covers, correct sizing is critical. Be sure to measure the outside diameter of your eyepiece tube to ensure a proper fit, as the size does not correspond directly to your scope’s magnification specification. Sold individually, this cover allows you to protect the end of the scope you look through.
Monstrum Rubberized Flip-Up Rifle Scope Lens Covers (Objective Bell | 37-42 mm)
This is another size option in the Monstrum rubberized flip-up line, designed for objective bells measuring between 37-42 mm in outside diameter. The flexible rubber construction ensures a conforming fit that stays in place, protecting the front element of your scope from the elements and physical damage. It is a straightforward solution for maintaining lens clarity.
The product description includes a crucial reminder to measure your actual scope tube for accurate sizing. This particular cover is intended for smaller objective bells, providing a solution for a wide range of popular scope models. Each unit is sold separately for targeted purchasing.
Vortex Optics Flip Caps – 2.8 Inch Ocular & 3.4 Inch Objective
This set from Vortex Optics provides a complete solution for protecting both ends of your riflescope. The caps are engineered for durability and reliable performance, featuring a robust flip mechanism that keeps them securely out of the way when open. The set includes specific sizes for the ocular and objective lenses, ensuring a proper fit for compatible scopes.
Like other Vortex flip caps, these are built to withstand demanding use. The design prioritizes quick access while offering solid protection against impacts and environmental factors. This two-piece set offers convenience for users looking to outfit their entire scope with matching, high-quality lens covers from a trusted optics brand.
Butler Creek Flip Open Scope Cover – Objective 02A Size
A staple in the world of scope protection, this Butler Creek flip open cover in size 02A is designed for a specific range of objective lenses. Known for their straightforward and functional design, these covers provide a simple yet effective way to keep your front lens safe from scratches and dirt. The flip-open action is fast and easy when you are ready to shoot.
Butler Creek covers are popular for their widespread availability and proven track record. The 02A size fits a common range of scopes, making it a go-to option for many shooters. Its no-frills approach focuses on delivering essential lens protection with reliable operation.
Leupold Alumina Flip Back Lens Cover Set – 44mm Objective
Leupold’s Alumina series represents a premium option in lens protection. This set is engineered for scopes with a 44mm objective lens, offering a sleek and robust solution. Constructed from durable aluminum, these flip-back covers are built to last and provide superior protection for your high-quality optics.
The flip-back design is both secure and intuitive, staying firmly in place until you need to move it. Leupold’s reputation for precision and quality is reflected in these covers, making them an excellent choice for shooters who want the best possible protection for their investment. This set provides a complete solution for both ends of your scope.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Flip Up Scope Covers
When I’m looking to protect my optics, I don’t just grab the first flip-up scope covers I see. The right pair can mean the difference between a scope that lasts for years and one that gets scratched or fogged up after a few rough outings. My main goal is always to find durable and reliable flip up scope covers that can handle the elements and the knocks. Here’s what I always consider before making a purchase.
First, I think about the material. The body is often made from a hard polymer, but not all plastics are created equal. I look for something like a reinforced nylon or a proprietary polymer blend that feels solid, not flimsy. The hinges are a critical point of failure, so I check that they are robust, often made from metal, and designed to withstand repeated flipping. A weak hinge will break, it’s not a matter of if, but when. The seals are another big one for me. If I’m hunting in the rain or in dusty conditions, I need to know my lenses are safe. I look for covers that have a good O-ring or a similar gasket system to keep out moisture and debris. This is a non-negotiable feature for any serious use.
Next, I consider the mounting system and fit. A loose flip-up cover is worse than no cover at all because it can rattle, obscure my sight picture, or even fall off. Most good covers use a tension-adjustable system, often with screws or a dial, that lets me get a snug, secure fit on my scope’s objective and ocular bells without overtightening and damaging the finish. I always check the manufacturer’s sizing chart to match the inside diameter of the cover to the outside diameter of my scope. Getting the right size is the most basic step, but it’s one that’s easy to mess up if I’m not careful.
Finally, I look at the operational features. How do they flip open? Do they snap back securely? I prefer covers that flip to the side, as flipping straight up can sometimes interfere with my scope caps or mounting rings. The “always on” feature of some models is great because it means I can’t lose the caps in the field. I also pay attention to how they feel in use. The flip action should be positive and smooth, not stiff or loose. When closed, they should sit flush and not add unnecessary bulk. For me, the best flip up scope covers are the ones I don’t have to think about; they just work when I need them to, quietly protecting my investment season after season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are flip-up scope covers really necessary?
From my experience, yes, they are. While a scope’s lenses are tough, they are not impervious. A single scratch on the lens can distort your sight picture and ruin an expensive piece of glass. Beyond physical scratches, they protect against dust, mud, snow, and rain. For the relatively low cost, they provide a huge amount of protection for your optic, which is often one of the most expensive parts of your setup. I consider them essential insurance.
Can I use flip-up covers with lens caps that came with my scope?
You often can, but it depends on the design. Many flip-up covers are designed to replace the factory-installed thread-on or slip-on caps. They mount directly to the scope body. Some models might be compatible, acting as an outer cover, but in most cases, you’ll be removing the original caps. I always check the product description to see if the flip-ups are meant to be a replacement or an addition.
How do I clean my flip-up scope covers?
Cleaning is straightforward. For the polymer body, I just use a soft cloth dampened with a little bit of water or a mild soap solution. For the actual lenses inside the covers (the part that protects your scope’s glass), I treat them the same way I treat my scope lenses. I use a lens pen or a soft microfiber cloth with a dedicated lens cleaning solution. I avoid using my shirt or any abrasive materials that could leave micro-scratches on the protective lenses.
Will these covers fit on any rifle scope?
Not exactly. Fit is all about diameter. You need to know the outside diameter of your scope’s objective bell (the front) and the ocular bell (the rear, where you place your eye). These are usually measured in millimeters. Manufacturers provide sizing charts, so you match your scope’s measurements to the correct cover size. Getting the right fit is crucial for a secure mount that won’t fall off or wobble. I always measure my scope twice before ordering.
What makes a set of flip up scope covers durable and reliable?
For me, durability comes down to a few key things. The material needs to be a high-strength polymer that can take an impact without cracking. The hinges should be metal and feel solid when you flip them open and closed—this is a common failure point on cheaper models. Reliability is about consistent performance: the covers should flip open smoothly and stay open until you close them, and the seals should consistently keep out moisture and dust. A good reputation and warranty from the brand are also strong indicators of a reliable product.
Do I need to worry about the covers affecting my sight picture?
When they are flipped open and to the side, high-quality covers should be completely out of your field of view and will not affect your sight picture at all. The problem arises with poorly designed or incorrectly sized covers that don’t flip fully out of the way or that are so bulky they intrude on your sight line. This is why I stick with well-known brands and ensure I get the correct size; it eliminates this potential issue entirely.