The 10 Best Rifle Scopes For Deer Hunting | Whitetail or Mule Deer is brought to you by The Old Deer Hunters – Welcome to our search for the 10 Best Rifle Scopes For Whitetail & Mule Deer! We will explore and analyze the features and performance of some popular models, including Leupold , Vortex Optics, Zeiss, and Burris Optics. The list includes scopes for whitetail deer hunting and mule deer hunting from the top manufacturers, but not just the most expensive scopes on the market.
If you’re looking for the best rifle scopes for your type of deer hunting, you’re in the right place. Let’s take a look. Our list has great deer hunting scopes starting at under $300. We will break down the rifle scopes for deer hunting for 2024 not only by price but also try to explain the advantages of each for the place you hunt, the type of deer you hunt, and the value for the price.
As our name implies, we have hunted whitetail and mule deer for over 40 years. We own or have owned all of these brands and have narrowed our list down by type of hunting and cost. We also have numerous scope review videos on our YouTube channel, The Old Deer Hunters. I am an Amazon affiliate so it you purchase these from Amazon I may get a small commission.
The Old Deer Hunters – An Online Resource For Hunters Since 1999!
Choosing The Best Rifle Scopes For Deer Hunting
When choosing the best rifle scope for whitetail deer hunting or mule deer hunting, there are several things to consider. I think the most important things are the area you hunt and the shot distance. Are you hunting in woods, open country, or both. Hunting in the woods where shots are relatively short does not require high magnification. In fact, a high-magnification scope is a hindrance.
For close shots of 100 yards and under, your scope’s base power should be no more than 2-3X. A scope with a magnification range of 2.5-10X is about perfect. It has a wide field of view to help you acquire a moving target quickly, and enough magnification to evaluate the size of a buck or to make the occasional 200-yard shot. I can not over-emphasize the importance of a wide field of view for hunting in heavily wooded areas. Lower magnification gives you wider fields of view.
Hunting open country may require more magnification for identification and longer shots. A scope in the 4-16X category may be your best choice. Mule deer hunting or whitetail hunting on power line rights of way can offer some long shots. I like the 3-15X scopes best. They seem to be right for just about every deer hunter. The drawback to these scopes is cost.
Many hunters are on a tight budget. For those hunters, a standard 3x9x40 scope will do just about everything they need while deer hunting. Even if your budget is unlimited, a good quality 3x9X scope is hard to beat.
Remember to carefully research and read reviews for each scope to assess if it meets your specific requirements and preferences. All of these deer hunting rifle scopes offer exceptional value for their price. Most all have lifetime warranties against defects or even breakage from an accident. You have a lot of very good scopes to choose from, so I am sure you will find one that will serve your needs well for any type of deer hunting you do. Good luck hunting and choose wisely.
My Picks for Best Rifle Scopes For Deer Hunting
Best Rifle Scopes for Deer Hunting Under $300
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm CDS $299 at Amazon
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32MM $129 at Amazon
Burris Fullfield IV 2.5-10x42mm Hunting Scope $169 at Amazon
Best Rifle Scopes for Deer Hunting Under $500
Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope $399 at Amazon
Vortex Optics Viper HS 2.5-10×44 Riflescope $498 at Amazon
Burris Signature HD 3-15×44 Riflescope $479 at Amazon
Best Rifle Scopes for Deer Hunting Under $750
Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14×40 Side Focus CDS-ZL Wind-Plex $749 at Amazon
Vortex Optics Viper HS LR 4-16×50 Riflescope $649 at Amazon
Best Rifle Scopes for Deer Hunting Under $1200
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Save 20% $1169 at Amazon
ZEISS Conquest V4 4-16×44 Riflescope $1099 at Amazon
You might want to scroll down below the scope descriptions to review Scope Buying Considerations
10 Best Rifle Scopes For Deer Hunting Whitetail or Mule Deer 2024
Best Scope For Deer Hunting
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Save 20% $1169 at Amazon
I think the Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 with FireDot reticle is the Best Rifle Scope For Hunting Whitetail or Mule Deer. I have two of these Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 rifle scopes, one on my favorite deer hunting rifle pictured above. This is my favorite scope for whitetails or mule deer. It is great for hunting in woods or open plains and power line rights of way.
It has Leupold’s Professional-Grade Optical System that offers unmatched light transmission that’s designed to outperform in the most challenging lighting conditions. It also has the industry-leading glare reduction for a clear image in harsh, direct light, and the resolution and clarity that professional guides and shooters demand in the field.
Plus you get the Illuminate FireDot for those dusk and dawn shots. No buttons for on and off, it has a motion sensor that turns the dot on when you need it. If it is still legal shooting time in the woods on a cloudy day, this illuminated dot can save the day.
The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 with FireDot also comes with Leupold’s CDS-ZL system and a side focus parallax adjustment dial. Additionally, the 5X zoom from 3-15X makes this scope great for whitetail hunters and mule deer hunters. It is equally at home in the woods with a wide 38-foot field of view or in the wide open spaces at 15X using the CDS for long-range shots.
It is the most lightweight and compact scope you will find in this magnification range and it won’t break the bank, even if it is premium-quality scope. All in all, this is a fantastic deer hunting scope that provides high-end performance at a very reasonable price.
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Save 20% $1169 at Amazon
Key Features
- Great for Whitetail or Mule Deer Hunting
- Weight: 19.7 ounces
- Magnification Range: 3-15x
- Tube Diameter: 30mm
- Field of View: 38.3-7.7 feet at 100 yards
- Side adjusting parallax/focus knob
- Wide magnification range
- Excellent quality glass
- FireDot Illuminated reticle
See my Full Review of the Leupold VX-5 3-15×44 FireDot Here
Best Vortex Scope For Whitetail Deer Hunting
Vortex Optics Viper HS 2.5-10×44 Riflescope
Vortex Optics Viper HS 2.5-10×44 Riflescope $498 at Amazon
The Vortex Optics Viper HS 2.5-10×44 Riflescope is another of the 10 Best Rifle Scopes For Deer Hunting for whitetail hunters. It has the perfect magnification range when you are hunting in the woods today and on a long open power line tomorrow. It has good glass, the perfect magnification range for most whitetail hunts, and won’t break the bank.
This scope uses high-quality glass, has a Dead Hold BDC reticle, and a perfectly sized 44mm objective lens. Everything you need without the things you don’t. This scope is designed for deer hunting where most of your shots are around 200 yards or less and that means about 98% of the shots on whitetails. You do not need a parallax adjustment on a 10X scope because at 10X the image will be clear out past 200 yards. You don’t need target knobs because it has the BDC reticle. You get more for your money in the optics instead of the target controls. It’s a deer rifle scope, pure and simple.
- Advanced optical system, the XD glass renders an image that is sharp and clear from edge to edge. XR multi-coated lenses allow you to capture the most light from dawn til dusk.
- The 4x zoom range will pull you close to your target. Featuring capped quick-reset turrets you will be able to quickly reindex your zero after sighting in.
- Built on a 30mm main tube which increases the amount of elevation and windage travel for optimal adjustment.
- Ultra-hard, scratch-resistant Armortek coatings protect the exterior lenses of the scope. Argon purging provides fogproof and waterproof performance. The hard-anodized matte black finish is extremely durable and looks awesome too.
Please note, I am an Amazon Affiliate and may receive a small commission if you purchase a scope.
Key Features
- Weight: 16 ounces
- XR multi-coated Lens
- Magnification Range:2.5-10x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
- Tube Diameter: 30mm
- Field of View: 56.2-10.8 ft/100 yds
Best Rifle Scope for Deer Hunting Under $300
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm CDS Riflescope
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm CDS $299 on AMAZON
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 CDS is an outstanding all-round deer hunting scope. I have Leupold 3×9 scopes on two deer hunting rifles. The VX-Freedom replaced the old VX-1 and VX-2 line of Leupold scopes, and have upgraded glass and coatings for better image quality.
The VX-Freedom series uses Leupold’s Advanced Optical System for tried-and-true light transmission for extended glassing sessions, probably the best in class glare reduction in harsh light. This optical system is engineered to maximize light transmission and minimize glare and reflection. The glass on this scope is not quite as good as what you’ll find on the VX-3HD but is the best I have found in this price range.
This particular Leupold VX-Freedom scope has the Leupold CDS-ZL system so there is no guessing on longer shots. Leupold offers a free custom CDS-ZL turret matched to your favorite hunting caliber. Using this custom dial, after you zero your scope at say 100 yards, you can just dial the distance with the CDS dial, hold dead on, and make the shot.
The magnification range of this scope is ideal for whitetail deer hunting where shots are short to medium range and longer on few occasions. If I were mule deer hunting in an area where long shots are the norm, I would opt for the Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12×40 CDS-ZL at just a few dollars more.
I don’t think you can beat the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 CDS for the Best Rifle Scope For Deer Hunting under $300. Light-weight, compact, great image, and Lifetime Warranty for $299.
Key Features
- Weight: 12.2 ounces
- Magnification Range: 3-9x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm
- Tube Diameter: 1-inch
- Field of View: 33.1-13.6 feet at 100 yards
- Parallax/Focus: Fixed at 150 yards
- Knob Style: Capped Windage & CDS-ZL Elevation
- Illuminated Reticle: Available at higher cost
100% Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
Made with 6061-T6 aircraft quality aluminum and tested to guarantee a lifetime of performance even under the harshest recoil
Twilight Light Management System – Adds up to 10 extra minutes of shooting light and reduces glare for crisp image quality
Precision 1/4 MOA finger click adjustments for windage and elevation offer absolute repeatability and dependability over a lifetime of extreme use
Setting VX-Freedom apart
 |  |  |
|---|---|---|
| Lasting and dependable The bodies of VX-Freedom scopes are made of durable 6061-T6 aircraft grade aluminum. These scopes are waterproof, fogproof and shockproof, with their scratch resistant lenses further ensuring lasting quality. | Optical finesse Multi-coated lenses reduce color aberrations to provide a bright, true-to-life image. And Twilight Light Management System offers decent visibility even in those critical first and last near-dark minutes of the day when game is often most active. | Versatility Each scope in the line features 3:1 zoom ratio. It lets you switch from observation and target acquisition to long-range precision aiming with just one turn. And the vast adjustment ranges for windage and elevation let you compensate for wind and bullet drop, helping you thrive at any distance, in any weather. |
Best Rifle Scope for Deer Hunting Under $400
Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope
Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope $399 at Amazon
This is one of the best rifle scopes for whitetail or mule deer hunting, and Amazon has reduced the price by $100. I bought one of these scopes last year and the price was $499.
You will not find a rifle scope at this price that is better for deer hunting. It is lightweight and compact with a 1″ tube and weighs only 13 oz. Leupold’s Elite Optical System gives you great multi-coated glass, and it has the CDS system to dial in the range for long shots. Made in the USA with a lifetime warranty.
The magnification range makes it good for hunting in any terrain for whitetail deer, mule deer, or varmint hunting. The Duplex reticle is perfect for quick shots and even estimating the range if you do not have a range finder. You just can not go wrong with this scope that is why it is one of the Top 10 Best Rifle Scopes For Deer Hunting For 2024.
- Model #180617 – VX-3HD 3.5-10×40 Riflescope with a Duplex Reticle, CDS-ZL, and a Matte finish
- The CDS-ZL (ZeroLock) provides quick dialing of elevation adjustment while eliminating accidental dial movement with the push-button ZeroLock system. It also features Leupold’s award-winning Custom Dial System (CDS), which allows shooters to order a laser-marked bullet-drop dial to match their exact ballistics and conditions.
- Leupold’s Elite Optical System offers excellent dawn-to-dusk light transmission for a bright image when it matters most, elite-level glare reduction in harsh light and the resolution and clarity that diehard hunters and shooters demand.
- The removable, low-profile throw lever makes changing magnifications quick and easy. It includes a thread protector plug to use when the lever is removed.
- Designed, Machined, and Assembled in the USA. 100% Waterproof, fog proof, shockproof, and backed by Leupold’s legendary customer care
Best Budget Deer Hunting Scope
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32MM
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32MM $129 at AMAZON
If you need a good quality whitetail deer hunting scope and you are on a budget, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32MM should be on your shortlist. Topically, most whitetail deer hunting is done at ranges of 100 yards or less. Most hunters do not realize that a wide field of view is more important than high magnification on most hunts.
This scope gives you a very good optic with multi-coated lenses and a lifetime warranty. That is more than you get with any no-name scope on the internet. This scope is rated 4.9/5 on the Vortex website by people who use this scope. Try to find any scope in this price range with an incredible 4.9 user rating.
- The 2-7×32 Crossfire II riflescope is one of many configurations in the Crossfire II line.
- The Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- Dimensions 14″ x 3″ x 3″
- With long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, you’ll be able to quickly get a sight picture and acquire your target. The fast-focus eyepiece allows quick and easy reticle focusing
- Anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses provide bright and clear views for the user; Max Elevation Adjustment: 60 MOA
- Capped reset turrets are finger adjustable with MOA clicks that can be reset to zero after sighting in
- A single-piece tube constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum ensures strength and shockproof performance. O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, the Crossfire II delivers waterproof and fog proof performance
Key Features
- Weight: 12 ounces
- Magnification Range: 2-7x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 32mm
- Tube Diameter: 1″
- Field of View: 42-12.6 ft/100 yds
AR15 Mount For Standard 1″ Scopes
- Dual ring scope mount for mounting standard 1 inch tube rifle scopes
- Mounts to any flat-top Picatinny rail-equipped rifle
- 2 inches of forward extension allows extra flexibility for optimum eye relief and shooting position
- Lightweight 6061 grade aluminum construction
- All Monstrum Tactical optics mounts come with a lifetime guarantee
Standard-style rifle scopes require an AR15 tall mount. The Monstrum AR15 puts the scope at the correct eye level and gives you proper eye relief for your AR15 RIFLE.
30MM size also available
Monstrum Offset Cantilever Dual Ring Scope Mount Only $28 at AMAZON
Awesafe Gun Safe, Biometric Gun Safe for Pistols*
Awesafe Single Bedside Gun Safe $99 at AMAZON
Best Deer Hunting Rifle Scope From Burris Optics
Burris Signature HD 3-15×44 with Premium Multi-Coated Glass
Burris Signature HD Scope/ Premium Multi-Coated $479 at Amazon
The Burris Signature HD Hunting Scope with Premium Multi-Coated Glass may be the best value in our list of 10 Best Rifle Scopes For Deer Hunting for mule deer hunters. It comes with all the premium features I look for in a top-of-the-line 3-15×44 rifle scope.
3-15X magnification range, For Ever Warranty, Target Knobs, side focus, large objective, premium glass for under $500. No other rifle scope company offers this much of a scope at this price range. This is not the entry-level Burris Optics scope, this is the premium Signature Series.
You just can not go wrong with this scope!
- Highly versatile gun scope for shooters needing bright, clear views at a wide range of distances
- The choice of either the Ballistic E3 Illuminated or Plex reticle delivers accurate shots both near and far; Plex reticle provides a clean, simple aiming device that is highly visible and lets you zero in on animals of nearly any size
- Built with a 1-inch nitrogen-filled tube and includes new push/pull locking turrets and a zero stop feature that automatically stops the elevation turret at your zero distance, making setting the zero stop easier than ever
- 5x zoom system with premium, multi-coated glass for crisp, bright image; Waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof and comes with the Burris Forever Warranty
- Covered by the Burris Forever Warranty. We will repair or replace your Burris optic if it is damaged or defective. Warranty does not cover loss, theft, deliberate damage or cosmetic damage that does not hinder the performance of the product
Key Features
- Great for Whitetail or Mule Deer Hunting
- Weight: 17 ounces
- Magnification Range: 3-15x
- Tube Diameter: 1″
- Side adjusting parallax/focus knob
- Wide magnification range
- Excellent quality glass
- For Ever Warranty
Best Rifle Scope For Mule Deer Hunting Under $750
Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14×40 Side Focus CDS-ZL Wind-Plex
Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14×40 Side Focus CDS-ZL Wind-Plex at Amazon $749
This is the best rifle scope for Mule Deer Hunting on the market. I have used a Leupold VX-3 4.5x14x40 rifle scope for over 20 years and the current version pictured above on my Tikka 243 is the best for several reasons. First, the glass and multi-coated lenses are better than ever, and the Leupold CDS system makes the long shots much easier than ballistic reticles. The side focus gives you a clear image at any range. The new Wind-Plex makes crosswind shots easier. You dial up the elevation with the CDS and hold into the wind with the Wind-Plex reticle. The hash marks of the WindPlex are one MOA apart at 14X, making it easy to hold properly. The CDS system makes it much easier than guessing where to hold on a trophy buck at 450 yards with a 10 MPH crosswind.
It is also perfect for antelope hunting, varmint hunting, or whitetail deer hunting across bean fields. If you are faced with a lot of long shots on your hunts, this is the best deer hunting scope available on the market for under $750. If you can not afford a Leupold VX5HD, this is the next best scope. One of the best of the Top 10 Best Rifle Scopes For Deer Hunting for Deer Hunting.
- VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm Side Focus Riflescope with Wind-plex CDS-ZL finish
- Illuminated Firedot Twilight Hunter – FireDot technology brings your eye to the center of the reticle for quick target acquisition
- ZeroLock CDS-ZL (Custom Dial System) – Simplifies longer shots by eliminating the need for holdovers or ballistic calculations by using a dial that is customized to your gear
- Leupold’s Elite Optical System – delivers unparalleled light transmission, glare reduction, and resolution for superior performance in any conditions
- Design, Machined, and Assembled in the USA. 100% Waterproof, fog proof, shockproof, and backed by Leupold’s legendary customer care
Best Rifle Scope for Mule Deer Hunting Under $750
Vortex Optics Viper HS LR 4-16×50 Riflescope
Vortex Optics Viper HS LR 4-16×50 Riflescope $649 at Amazon
This is Doug’s favorite rifle scope for deer hunting. The magnification range makes it ideal for mule deer as well a whitetails in most terrains. The advanced optical system with XD glass gives you a super clear image and the multi-coated 50mm lens blocks glare and lets you see those wise old bucks at dusk and dawn.
Exposed elevation turret lets you quickly make adjustments for long shots, or use the Deadhold BDC reticle. The zero lock makes sure you stay zeroed. Fast Optical focus for clear crosshair focus setting if the scope is used by more than one person.
- A subset of the Viper HS line, the Viper HS LR 4-16×50 Second Focal Plane scope is perfect for when you need to extend your range and drop and wind drift compensation are crucial.
- The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is good for hunting at varying ranges where estimating hold-over would be a concern.
- In the advanced optical system, the XD glass renders an image that is sharp and clear from edge to edge. There are XR multi-coated lenses allowing you to capture the most light from dawn til dusk. The 4x zoom range will pull you close to your target.
- The HS LR offers exposed target-style elevation turrets for dialing elevation at extended ranges. The CRS Zero Stop allows you to get back to referencing zero even after coming up several revolutions on the turret.
- Ultra-hard, scratch-resistant Armortek coatings protect the exterior lenses of the scope. Argon purging provides fogproof and waterproof performance. The hard-anodized matte black finish is extremely durable and looks awesome too. The best mule deer hunting scope of the Top 10 Best Rifle Scopes For Deer Hunting.
Best No-Frills Rifle Scope For Deer Hunting
Burris Fullfield IV 2.5-10x42mm Hunting Scope
Burris Fullfield IV 2.5-10x42mm Hunting Scope $169 AT AMAZON
The Burris Fullfield IV 2.5-10x42mm Hunting Scope makes it possible to have one of the best deer hunting scopes for an affordable price. This is not a cheap scope. Burris provides you a very good scope at an affordable price. The magnification range is perfect for an AR-15 rifle or a bolt-action rifle. It is compact and lightweight plus it has multi-coated lens and a lifetime warranty.
- Traditional hunting riflescope at an affordable price; High-grade optical glass provides excellent brightness and clarity with lasting durability
- Improved 4x zoom system with premium, multi-coated lenses for edge-to-edge clarity and low light performance; Durable, integrated-eyepiece design has no-slip grip for easy adjustment in the field
- Sleek new design with finger adjustable turret knobs; Wide selection of reticles for both hunting and long-distance target shooting
- Positive steel-on-steel adjustments assure repeated accuracy
- Nitrogen-filled 1-inch scope tube prevents fogging, even in cold and rain, and is waterproof; Guaranteed by the Burris Forever Warranty
Best Optics Quality of Top 10 Rifle Scopes For Deer Hunting
ZEISS Conquest V4 4-16×44 Riflescope
ZEISS Conquest V4 4-16×44 Riflescope $1099 at Amazon
Zeiss is known around the world for fine optics. The ZEISS Conquest V4 4-16×44 Riflescope is without doubt one of the finest rifle scopes you can buy. German high-definition glass with Zeiss T*Coating gives you bright images with brilliant true-to-life colors. It also reduces glare and extends shooting light long after you can not see with lesser rifle scopes. ZEISS LotuTec lens coating repels water so rain and snow will not be a factor with the Zeiss Conquest.
The 4-16X magnification makes this scope great for any type of deer, antelope, elk or varmint hunting. The side parallax adjustment lets you focus clearly at any distance. You can count the points on a buck and evaluate trophy status from hundreds of yards away. Best glass of Top 10 Best Rifle Scopes For Deer Hunting list.
The ZEISS Conquest V4 4-16×44 Riflescope is as good as it gets for under $1200.
- 90% LIGHT TRANSMISSION: Higher-definition glass produces 90% to-the-eye light transmission, great low-light performance and excellent target resolution across the entire magnification range.
- ZEISS T* COATING: Guaranteed brilliant, high-contrast images, particularly in adverse light conditions and twilight. The coating is tuned to each lens individually for maximum clarity.
- A CLEAR VIEW IN ANY WEATHER: There are always exciting things to be seen in the world of nature, even in wet weather. ZEISS developed LotuTec as a coating for binoculars and scopes that enables a clear and unhindered view in all weather conditions.
- RETICLE #20 NON-ILLUMINATED: The Reticle #20 has fine crosshairs for precise aiming for long-range and in daylight. The posts are in the shape of arrows pointing to the fine lines, making it possible to aim with greater precision at smaller targets.
Features;
- Great for Whitetail or Mule Deer Hunting
- Weight: 22 ounces
- Magnification Range: 3-15x
- Tube Diameter: 30mm
- Field of View: 28-7 feet at 100 yards
- Side adjusting parallax/focus knob
- Wide magnification range
- Superior quality glass
- Superior lens coatings
In conclusion, the best rifle scope for your deer hunting adventures may be different than mine, but I am sure one of the scopes above is sure to fit your needs and your budget. Each model offers unique features and benefits tailored to different hunting preferences and budgets. These are some of the best optics you will find in each price range. Thanks for visiting The Old Deer Hunters.
Getting Ready For Deer Season – Leupold 3-9X40 Scope
10 Best Rifle Scopes For Deer Hunting – Scope Buying Considerations
When buying a scope for deer hunting, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
Magnification Range: Consider the magnification range you require. For short range shooting, a low-magnification scope or a red dot sight may be sufficient. If you plan to engage targets at longer distances, you may want a scope with higher magnification capabilities. magnification levels are important.
Reticle Type: Decide on the type of reticle that suits your needs. Popular options include duplex, mil-dot, BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation), and illuminated reticles. Each type offers different features and benefits, so choose one that helps you aim accurately and quickly in your shooting conditions.
Optical Clarity: Look for a scope with high-quality glass that provides excellent optical clarity. This ensures a sharp and clear image, allowing you to spot targets and make precise shots.
Eye Relief: Eye relief is the distance between your eye and the ocular lens while maintaining a full field of view. Ensure that the scope offers sufficient eye relief to prevent any potential eye injuries caused by recoil.
Adjustments: Check the ease and precision of the scope’s adjustments for windage, elevation, and parallax. Smooth and precise adjustments are crucial for accurate aiming.
Budget: Determine your budget range and look for scopes that offer the best features and quality within that range. It’s important to find a balance between your budget and the performance you require.
Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews from reputable sources and seek recommendations from experienced shooters or professionals. Their insights can provide valuable information about the performance, reliability, and overall quality of different scope options.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and select a scope that suits your shooting needs and preferences for your Deer Hunting needs.
Is A Larger Objective Always Better?
I prefer 40-44MM Objectives On My Deer Hunting Scopes
I do not think that a larger rifle scope objective lens is always better for several reasons. Popular rifle scopes objective lenses run from about 24mm to 56mm with 40mm usually the standard. So even though a 50mm lens lets in more light, why use a rifle scope with a 40mm objective lens?
The first issue is the physical size of the 50mm scope. It has to be mounted higher above the barrel on bolt action rifles. That extra height makes it more difficult to align your eye behind the scope for a steady shot. For AR-type rifles, it is not an issue.
The second is that the scope weighs more and more bulky. Do you really want to carry that bulky scope around on your sleek bolt action rifle? I know I don’t. I want my deer rifle to be a lightweight and sleek shooting machine.
The third reason is that they always cost more. A Leupold VX3HD 3.5x-10×50 costs $100 more than the same scope with a 40mm lens. That is about 20% more $$$ for the average deer hunting scope.
The last reason and most critical to your hunting is that a scope with a 40mm objective lens will generally have a longer depth of field compared to a scope with a 50mm objective lens, assuming all other factors are equal.
The depth of field of a scope is longer with 40mm than a 50mm objective lens. At higher magnification, there is more depth in the image with the 40mm. If an animal is walking away from you or toward you, it will appear to be in focus for a longer distance with a smaller objective lens. Depth of field is very important for most deer hunting scopes, because they do not have a side focus like target scopes have.
Key factors influencing depth of field:
- Objective lens size: Smaller objective lenses have a longer depth of field.
- Magnification: Higher magnification reduces the depth of field.
- Distance to the target: Closer distances decrease the depth of field.
Therefore, a 40mm objective lens, with its narrower cone of light, will naturally have a longer depth of field than a 50mm objective lens. This can be advantageous in situations where you need to keep both the target and its surroundings in focus, such as:
- Hunting in low-light conditions: A longer depth of field allows you to see the target and its surroundings more clearly, even when there is less light available.
- Shooting at short distances: A longer depth of field is helpful when shooting at targets that are close to you, as it ensures both the target and any potential obstacles are in focus.
- Using a wide field of view: A longer depth of field can be beneficial when using a wide field of view scope, as it allows you to keep more of the scene in focus.
However, it’s important to remember that depth of field is just one factor to consider when choosing a scope. Other factors, such as light-gathering ability, field of view, and eye relief, may also be important depending on your specific needs and shooting preferences.
Ultimately, the ideal objective lens size depends on your individual needs and how you plan to use the scope.
High Definition Glass (HD)
High Definition Glass (HD): A “high definition glass lens” typically refers to a lens, often used in optical devices like rifle scopes that is crafted with high-quality materials and precision to deliver clear, sharp, and detailed images. The term “high definition” (HD) in this context indicates superior optical performance, characterized by a high level of clarity and resolution.
Here are some key features and characteristics associated with high-definition glass lenses:
- Clarity: High-definition lenses are designed to minimize optical aberrations, distortions, and color fringing, providing a clear and accurate representation of the viewed scene.
- Resolution: These lenses are engineered to capture fine details and maintain sharpness across the entire field of view, contributing to a more detailed and lifelike image.
- Multicoating: High-quality coatings are often applied to the lens surfaces to reduce glare, and reflections, and to enhance light transmission. This results in improved contrast and color reproduction.
- Premium Glass: The use of premium optical glass materials contributes to the overall quality of the lens. Specialized glass types, such as extra-low dispersion (ED) glass, may be employed to further reduce chromatic aberrations.
- Anti-Reflective Coatings: High-definition lenses often feature anti-reflective coatings that minimize light loss due to reflections, ensuring a bright and clear image even in challenging lighting conditions.
- Durability: The materials used in high definition lenses are chosen for their durability and resistance to scratches and abrasions, helping to maintain optical performance over time.
- Precision Manufacturing: These lenses are crafted with precision and attention to detail to ensure that all optical elements are aligned correctly, contributing to the overall performance of the lens.
It’s worth noting that the term “high definition” can vary in its application across different manufacturers and industries. In the context of optical devices, it generally signifies a commitment to delivering superior image quality through advanced optical technologies and quality materials.
10 Rifle Scopes for Deer Hunting Summary
In closing, our goal was to help you find the best scopes for deer hunting within certain a price point. Some of the best things about all these scopes are that they have clear glass, 40-50 mm objective lens size for early morning and late afternoons in low light conditions, advanced features, but different options to suit your personal preference. We have long-range scopes for open fields and longer range and lower magnification scopes for woods hunting. The best scope magnification for your hunting style is covered and some of the best hunting scopes made today are represented.
Some of the windage adjustments and elevation adjustments are capped and some have target knob adjustments. If you are on a tight budget or a first time buyer, we have included lower priced scopes like the Vortex Crossfire II that are still very good deer hunting scopes and we think that is a good thing.
Good scopes like the Sig Sauer Sierra, Leupold Mark series, Primary Arms Six, Nikon Prostaff, and Burris Fullfield E, Vortex Razor HD LHT, Zeiss Conquest V, and Vortex DiamondBack Tactical were not listed but are still good scopes. We thought any scope over 16 X magnification was too much magnification for deer hunting.
Big game hunting in open country is not a long range shooting sport. Take your Leupold VX Freedom 3-9x scopes with duplex reticles and enjoy the stalk. Long-range shooting is not usually necessary while deer hunting. FFP reticles are another thing that should be avoided because a low power, it is hard to see the reticle. Late evening and first thing in the morning 2-3 power scope are better than iron sights or even the naked eye. Choose you scope wisely for the best luck for a big buck.
We have lower magnification range scopes for hunting in dense forests, and higher powered scopes for long range shooting. Higher quality scope s like the Leupold VX-6 and Swarovski z were not mentioned because most deer hunters choose not to spend over $1000 on a deer hunting rifle scope. We think any of these scopes would be a good choice..no, an excellent choice
Some of the other options like a laser range finder, objectives larger than 50 mm lens were not an important factor for deer hunting. The simple duplex reticle that so many hunters like was an important factor as was low-light performance, magnification range and a great price.
Thanks for visiting The Old Deer Hunters.
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