Selecting the right optic is a critical decision for any big game hunter. The ideal scope bridges the gap between your skill and the opportunity, providing the clarity, precision, and reliability needed for an ethical harvest. From dense timber to vast mountainous terrain, your scope must perform under pressure and in varied conditions.
This roundup examines nine top-tier hunting scopes, each offering distinct advantages for pursuing big game. Whether you prioritize budget-friendly reliability, cutting-edge digital night vision, or uncompromising optical excellence, there is an option here to match your specific hunting style and requirements.
Our Top Picks for Big Game Hunting Scopes
- Sightmark Wraith HD 4-32×50 Digital Night Vision Riflescope
- CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope
- Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12×40 SFP Riflescope
- Bushnell Trophy Rifle Scope with Multi-X Reticle
- UTG 3-9X32 BugBuster Scope, AO, RGB Mil-dot
- Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm FFP Hunting Gun Scope
- Swarovski Optik Z8i II 2-16x50mm 4A-I Riflescope
- Vortex Optics Razor HD LHT 4.5-22×50 FFP Riflescope
- Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm FireDot Twilight Hunter Riflescope
Sightmark Wraith HD 4-32×50 Digital Night Vision Riflescope
This scope fundamentally changes the game for hunters who operate in low-light conditions. The Sightmark Wraith HD is a versatile digital riflescope that functions in full color during the day and switches seamlessly to high-performance night vision. Its 1920×1080 HD sensor provides exceptional image clarity, allowing you to identify targets with confidence when traditional optics fail.
The 8x digital zoom offers significant magnification, and the ability to record 1080p HD video is a major benefit for documenting hunts. With multiple viewing modes, including classic emerald or black and white for night use, this scope provides a distinct technological advantage for nocturnal predator hunting or extending your hunting hours during big game seasons.
CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope
The CVLIFE 3-9×40 scope represents exceptional value for hunters seeking a reliable, no-frills optic. Its 3-9x magnification range is the classic standard for a reason, offering versatility for shots at varying distances common in big game hunting. The simple crosshair reticle provides a clean, uncluttered sight picture for quick target acquisition.
This package includes 20mm scope mounts, making it ready to install on a compatible rifle. For hunters on a budget, new shooters building their first rifle, or those who need a dependable backup scope, this model delivers core functionality without a significant investment.
Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12×40 Second Focal Plane Riflescope
Vortex’s Diamondback series is renowned for offering high performance at a mid-range price point. The 4-12×40 configuration provides extra magnification over a standard 3-9x scope, which is beneficial for longer shots across open country or for precise shot placement. The fully multi-coated lenses ensure bright, clear images in critical low-light periods at dawn and dusk.
It features the Dead-Hold BDC reticle, which is designed for hunters who shoot at varying ranges without dialing adjustments. The simple, hash-marked reticle offers useful holdover points. Combined with Vortex’s legendary VIP warranty, this scope is a robust and trustworthy choice for serious hunters.
Bushnell Trophy Rifle Scope with Multi-X Reticle
The Bushnell Trophy is a proven workhorse in the hunting scope category. It is built to handle the rigors of the field with a waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof construction. The fully multi-coated optics and Rain Guard HD coating work together to provide 91% light transmission, which maintains a bright sight picture in poor weather conditions.
With a familiar 3-9x magnification and the standard Multi-X reticle, this scope offers a straightforward and effective platform. The generous 4-inch eye relief is a significant safety feature, especially when used on rifles with substantial recoil. It’s a solid, dependable optic from a trusted brand.
UTG 3-9X32 BugBuster Scope, AO, RGB Mil-dot
The UTG BugBuster stands out with features often found on more expensive models. Its key advantage is the adjustable objective (AO) for parallax correction, which can be set from 3 yards to infinity. This makes it exceptionally versatile for varied shooting distances and improves accuracy.
It also includes an illuminated Mil-dot reticle with red and green brightness settings, a useful feature in low light or against dark backgrounds. The included quick-detach (QD) rings add to its convenience. This scope packs advanced functionality into a compact, resilient package for the practical hunter.
Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm FFP Hunting Gun Scope
The Nightforce ATACR represents the pinnacle of long-range precision optics. Built for extreme durability and exceptional performance, it is a top choice for hunters pursuing big game at very long distances or in the most demanding environments. The use of ED glass provides outstanding optical clarity and color fidelity, even at the edges of the field of view.
Its first focal plane (FFP) DigIllum Mil-R reticle ensures that holdover and windage markings remain accurate at any magnification setting. With a 5-25x magnification range and a large 56mm objective lens, this scope gathers ample light for dawn and dusk shooting. It is an investment for the hunter who requires absolute reliability and precision.
Swarovski Optik Z8i II 2-16x50mm 4A-I Riflescope
Swarovski is synonymous with optical excellence, and the Z8i II is a masterpiece for the discerning hunter. Its massive 8x zoom ratio, from 2x to 16x, offers unparalleled versatility in a single scope. You can have a wide field of view for close-range shooting in thick brush and then zoom in for a precise, long-distance shot without compromising optical quality.
The scope features an illuminated 4A-I reticle that is glass-etched for durability. The handling is designed for speed and intuition, with a throw lever included for rapid magnification changes. For hunters who seek the absolute best in light transmission, clarity, and mechanical smoothness, the Z8i II is a premier option.
Vortex Optics Razor HD LHT 4.5-22×50 FFP Riflescope
The Vortex Razor HD LHT is engineered for the long-range hunter who values both high magnification and lightweight design. “LHT” stands for Light Hunter Tactical, and it delivers a formidable feature set in a relatively lightweight package. The 4.5-22x magnification range is ideal for precise shooting at extended distances, while the first focal plane reticle ensures consistent subtensions.
It utilizes high-density (HD) glass for superior resolution and color fidelity. The turrets offer tactile and audible clicks for reliable adjustments in the field. This scope strikes an excellent balance between the robust features needed for long-range work and the weight considerations of a hunter covering ground on foot.
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm FireDot Twilight Hunter Riflescope
Leupold’s VX-5HD series is built to maximize performance in the critical minutes of low light. The Twilight Hunter HD Light Management System is designed to provide a brighter sight picture at dawn and dusk when big game is most active. The 3-15x magnification range offers great versatility for most hunting scenarios.
It includes the FireDot illuminated reticle, which places a bright red dot at the center of the reticle for fast target acquisition against dark backgrounds. The scope is also incredibly rugged, waterproof, and backed by Leupold’s lifetime guarantee. It is a top-tier all-around hunting scope from an iconic American brand.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Hunting Scopes for Big Game
Picking the right optic for elk, moose, or bear isn’t just about magnification. I’ve learned through experience that a scope is a critical link between you and a clean, ethical shot. The wrong choice can leave you fumbling in low light or missing a vital opportunity. Let’s talk about what really matters when you’re looking for the best hunting scopes for big game.
First, consider the objective lens size and overall light transmission. For big game, you’re often shooting at dawn or dusk. A larger objective lens (like 44mm or 50mm) gathers more light, giving you a brighter image when that trophy steps out in shadow. But remember, bigger lenses mean a heavier scope and higher mounting. It’s a balance. I always prioritize quality glass coatings over raw size; premium fully multi-coated lenses make a bigger difference in clarity and brightness than an extra millimeter or two.
Next, think about magnification range. A classic 3-9x40mm is a legendary standard for a reason—it’s incredibly versatile for most North American big game. If you hunt in more open country, a 4-12x or 4-16x gives you more flexibility for longer shots. My advice? Don’t over-magnify. A super high top-end like 20x or 25x often comes with a narrow field of view and can exaggerate mirage and your own wobble. For most shots inside 400 yards, you won’t need more than 12x.
Durability and reliability are non-negotiable. Your scope must hold zero through rough travel, temperature swings, and the recoil of a magnum rifle. Look for scopes built with a one-piece tube (30mm or 34mm tubes are robust and allow for more internal adjustment) that are nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed for waterproof and fog-proof performance. The turrets should feel crisp and track accurately if you need to make a dialed shot.
Finally, consider the reticle. A simple duplex is fast and uncluttered for close-range, brush-country hunting. For longer ranges or varied terrain, a reticle with holdover marks (like a BDC or Mil-based system) is a huge help. I prefer illuminated reticles for those last few minutes of legal light, where a black crosshair can disappear against a dark animal. Choose what simplifies the shot, not complicates it.
FAQ
What magnification scope do I really need for elk hunting?
For most elk hunting, especially in timber or mountains, a 3-9x or 4-12x scope is perfect. You’ll spend 99% of your time on the lower end for quick shots in cover, but having that 9x or 12x available is great for assessing antlers or making a careful shot across a meadow. I find ultra-high magnification is more of a hindrance than a help in typical elk country.
Is a 30mm tube better than a 1-inch tube?
Generally, yes, for a serious big game scope. A 30mm main tube allows for more internal windage and elevation adjustment (critical for long-range shots), and it often houses larger lenses for better light gathering. It’s also more robust. While excellent 1-inch scopes exist, if you’re investing in a premium optic, the 30mm platform offers more performance headroom.
How important is an illuminated reticle?
It’s become one of my most valued features. In low-light conditions—which is when big game is most active—a black reticle can vanish against a dark animal’s hide. A faint, adjustable red or green dot at the center lets you place your shot precisely. You don’t need a complex lit-up Christmas tree; a simple illuminated center dot is incredibly effective.
Can I use a long-range target scope for hunting?
You can, but with big caveats. Target scopes are often very heavy, have parallax adjustments, and may lack the durability for field knocks and weather. They’re also usually set on higher magnification. For a dedicated hunting rifle, I choose a scope built for hunting: lighter weight, simpler controls, and a magnification range that favors the low end for speed. The best hunting scopes for big game balance precision with ruggedness.
What does “field of view” mean and why does it matter?
Field of view is the width of the area you can see through your scope at a specific distance, usually measured in feet at 100 yards. A wider field of view is crucial for tracking moving animals or quickly acquiring a target in dense cover. As you increase magnification, your field of view shrinks. That’s another reason I avoid excessive top-end magnification—it can make finding an animal in the scope like looking through a straw.