Choosing the best scope for 500 yards is simpler and more convenient nowadays. More brands have come up with a wide range of rifle scopes that are unique in terms of features and technology incorporated. In our post today, we will shed light on the top-performing scopes ideal for long-range use up to 500 yards.
Whether you are hunting or shooting targets in the range, you need an optic that will bring you closer to the action and maximize your shooting accuracy. 500 yards in a common range for those looking to hone their shooting skills and the scope you get will improve your accuracy and make every expedition more competitive and rewarding.
When looking to buy a scope for 500 yards, it is important to consider the activity you will be using the scope for, the quality of construction, and the type of glass used. We have scoured the market and put together a comprehensive guide on the best scopes for 500 yards.
These rifle scopes offer versatile magnification suitable for your application. They also employ the best quality glass and other features to meet and surpass your needs in the hunting field or shooting range.
So, without wasting any more time, let’s jump right in.
What Size Scope is Best for 500 Yards?
Best Scopes for 500 Yards
1) Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm Rifle Scope
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Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm is by far the best scope for 500 yards. It excels in all lighting and weather conditions fine-tunes your aim and delivers incredible accuracy. The versatile 5-25x optical zoom is complemented by a large 56mm objective that makes it useful even at the highest settings. It is built in a first focal plane reticle that is illuminated and protected between two layers of glass for optimum durability. Another facet that makes the scope stand out is durability. It has a rugged construction that is shockproof to withstand recoil and impacts. Additionally, the scope has ultra-hard scratch-resistant lenses for extra protection in the field. Not only is the durability of the scope excellent, but also is optical performance. It employs extra-low dispersion glass which increases resolution and color accuracy. Besides that, it has fully multi-coated lenses which amplify the transfer of light in low-light environments. Features
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2) Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Rifle Scope
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Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Rifle Scope is built with avid hunters in mind. It is designed and built with a variable 3-15x magnification and an array of other features that make it good for hunting in all kinds of environments. The build quality of this rifle scope is outstanding. It has a tough 6061-T6 aluminum housing to withstand repeated use and rough handling. The exterior lenses are scratch-proof for additional protection and have a hydrophobic layer that repels dust, dirt, and fingerprint stains. To complement the excellent build quality, this rifle scope has a professional-grade optical system that offers unmatched light transmission. As a result, the scope will outperform even in the most challenging light conditions. Furthermore, this rifle scope has a custom dial system which gives you the ability to customize your turret to match your exact ballistics and environmental conditions. The other essential features included are a zero lock dial system and a side focus for parallax adjustment. Features
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3) Trijicon AccuPoint TR-23 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope
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If you want to take your long-range shooting skills a notch higher, you need a powerful and reliable optic like Trijicon AccuPoint TR-23 5-20x50mm. This rifle scope has a purpose-driven design that makes it intuitive and easy to use. Built-in a 30mm tube, the scope guarantees strength and rigidity. The generous windage and elevation adjustment enable maximum total travel and with the ruggedized construction, the scope will withstand extreme conditions and last long. Optically, the scope yields superior edge-to-edge clarity across the 5-20x zoom. This is made possible by the top-tier glass elements and the fully multi-coated lenses. Other than that, the scope has an illuminated reticle which provides a clear point of aim in low light. In addition to everything else, the Trijicon AccuPoint TR-23 5-20x50mm riflescope has multiple adjuster and knurling types to suit a variety of applications. Features
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4) NightForce 5.5-22×56 NXS Rifle Scope
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Coming in fourth is the NightForce 5.5-22×56 NXS Rifle Scope. This high and variable-powered optic harbors an array of high-end features that meet and surpass the needs and demands of long-range shooting enthusiasts out there. The selling point of this long-range scope is construction quality. It has robust housing that is sturdy enough to weather any abuse. The excellent craftsmanship coupled with reliable weather protection make the scope usable in all kinds of environments. Furthermore, this optic provides a broad field of view for easy target identification. The long eye relief accommodates all users with or without eyewear and complements the large field of view. This rifle scope also features a 100 MOA adjustment range to help you achieve stunning accuracy at any distance. Features
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5) Burris Xtreme Tactical 5-25x50mm Rifle Scope
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Burris Xtreme Tactical 5-25x50mm Rifle Scope marks our fifth pick of the best scope for 500 yards. Using this scope for long distance hunting and shooting will guarantee precision in all lighting and weather conditions. It is designed with index-matched Hi-Lume multi-coating that boosts light transmission in low-light settings. The coatings reduce glare in bright light to ensure comfortable glassing. They also provide extra protection from scratches in the field. Not only is the optical performance of the scope good, but also the build quality. It is designed and built with a one-piece tube which is incredibly durable and tough to handle repetitive use and harsh recoil. This rifle scope is also filled with nitrogen gas and sealed to be fully waterproof and fogproof. In addition to the solid construction, the Burris Xtreme Tactical 5-25x50mm Rifle Scope has a triple internal spring tension system that holds zero consistently no matter the recoil or vibrations. Features
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6) Primary Arms Slx Series 4-14x44mm Rifle Scope
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Primary Arms Slx Series 4-14x44mm is your ideal option if you are a beginner in long-range shooting. It is perfect for accurate ranging in the field or range and is very easy to operate. This rifle scope has a reticle housed in the front focal plane. It remains true across the 4-14x magnification power and provides accurate range estimation. Other than that, the scope has a fast-focus eyepiece for easy focusing of the reticle and target. Sturdy and durable construction is another feature that makes this scope stand out. It is made with high strength aluminum 30mm body which offers superior sturdiness and rigidity. The optical tube is also waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. Over and above that, the scope features exposed tactical-style turrets with zero reset and audible clicks. Features
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7) Vortex Crossfire II AO 6-18x44mm Rifle Scope
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Lastly in our list of the best scope for 500 yards is Vortex Crossfire II AO 6-18x44mm Rifle Scope. If you are a budget-conscious buyer, this scope suits you. It is affordable yet rich in features that will enhance your overall performance in the range or hunting fields. The scope excels even in low-light settings. It is outfitted with a large 44mm objective that works together with fully multi-coated optics to offer more light-gathering ability in low light. It also comes with an illuminated second focal plane reticle for accurate shooting in a dismal environment. Construction-wise, the scope is a 1-inch tube made from aircraft-grade aluminum. It is hard anodized against scratches, corrosion, and reflection when you are using it in broad daylight. Furthermore, it has reliable water, mist, and fog protection for all weather use. What’s more, the scope comes with an adjustable objective for easy parallax correction and image focusing. It also brings to the table a fast-focus eyepiece and capped reset turrets which are MOA resettable. Features
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How Much Magnification Do You Need?
When it comes to hitting the target at a distance of 500 yards, you need a scope with a bit of magnification. Following the rule of 3x for every 100 yards you shoot, you will need a variable power scope with about 15x maximum magnification. So, if you want to stretch out past the 500-yard, you are going to require a high-powered scope with 15x zoom power and above.
Criteria for Choosing a Scope for 500 Yards
Whether you are a seasoned long-range shooter or not, here are the most important features you need to consider when shopping for the best scope for 500 yards.
Glass Quality
The first and most important factor to consider is lens quality. Hitting targets at a range as far as 500 yards requires you to have a clear view of the target. This is where glass elements come into play.
A scope for shooting targets at long ranges should have high-quality glass elements like ED or UHD to optimize resolution and detail. The best scope for 500 yards should also be fitted with premium-quality lens coatings for bright and clear images.
Durability
Invest in a scope that is made with the most durable materials. It will withstand the abuse you subject it to and give you many years of service. With solid and sturdy construction also comes dependable and uninterrupted performance in all environments.
Weight
The next thing to consider is weight. The type of glass and material used to make a rifle scope determine how heavy it weighs. For both hunting and shooting applications, we recommend that you settle for the lightest scope possible.
Reticle
The best scope for 500 yards should have a reticle that fits the kind of shooting you will be doing. For shooting in the range, we recommend a duplex or mil-dot reticle. On the other hand, you are better off with a duplex reticle for hunting. If you intend to use the scope in low-light settings, it is wise to get a scope with an illuminated reticle.
Related
- 6 Best Vortex Scopes for 30-06
- 6 Best Vortex Scopes for Elk Hunting
- 6 Best Vortex Binoculars for Hunting
FAQs On The Best Scope for 500 Yards
1) What magnification is best for 500 yards?
For most hunting and shooting at 500 yards, a scope with 3-15x magnification power is more than adequate. It will get you closer to the faraway targets and ensure that you don’t leave anything undiscovered.
2) What do numbers in scope represent?
The two numbers in a rifle scope configuration represent the magnification power and the diameter of the objective lens/aperture respectively.
Final Words
There are many long-range scopes that are good for hunting and shooting out to 500 yards. Remember to look at the quality of the optics and clarity of the lenses as they can make or break your shooting experience.
Choosing the best scope for 500 yards requires one to do their homework well, but irrespective of what your budget and shooting habits are, there is a scope out there for everyone.
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