Today’s spotlight is on the best scopes for Henry 45-70. In the realm of lever-action firearms, few guns can match the performance and reliability of the Henry 45-70.
With its stunning marksmanship, it commands respect in all shooting applications and when paired with a rifle scope, the Henry 45-70 is a force to be reckoned with.
A rifle scope is an important tool to have if you want to unleash the full potential of the Henry 45-70. From the high-end models to the budget-conscious models, the best scopes for Henry 45-70 come in different designs and configurations to meet the needs of every gun enthusiast out there.
What Makes a Great Scope for 45-70?
When you are making your selection, it is important to know that precision extends beyond mechanics.
The scope you choose to buy should therefore have precise adjustments and a crisp aiming point to ensure that every move you take translates flawlessly to the shots you take.
Another important aspect of a .45-70 scope is durable construction. This straight-walled cartridge produces recoil, and the scope should have a rigid construction to withstand the force. The scope should be made of quality materials to tolerate harsh weather elements for long-term use.
Superior optical clarity is mandatory in a scope for 45-70. The lenses should be constructed of premium glass to ensure maximum light transmission for bright images. Lens coatings are a bonus as they enhance light transmission and provide protection to the lenses.
Lever action rifles aren’t used for tactical purposes and therefore you don’t need a sophisticated reticle. A scope for 45-70 should have a simple duplex reticle or BDC reticle optimized for straight-wall hunting.
Another thing to look for in a scope for 45-70 is adequate eye relief. With the recoil generated by the rifle, your scope must have sufficient eye relief to avoid getting scoped. 3.5 inches and above is good for this cartridge.
8 Best Scopes for Henry 45-70
The market is flooded with scope recommendations for the 45-70 and choosing the best scope for your hunting needs can be taxing. We probed the market and discovered the best scopes for Henry 45-70 to make your search less difficult.
Without further ado, let’s get started.
1) Vortex Crossfire II Straight-Wall 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope
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Vortex Crossfire II rifle scope is one the best scopes for Henry 45-70. This rifle scope has a variable 3-9x magnification power and an array of other cutting-edge features designed to help you unlock the full potential of the Henry 45-70.
The highlight of this rifle scope is low-light performance. It has a massive 50mm objective lens which collects a large volume of light inside and ensures great visibility in low light.
Besides that, the optics are fully multi-coated to ramp up light transmission and maximize image brightness and clarity.
Vortex optics are known for their ruggedized construction and this rifle scope is not any different. It boasts a 1-inch single-piece body tube made from aircraft-grade aluminum.
The sturdy and rigid construction coupled with waterproof, fogproof and dustproof protection make the scope usable in all weather conditions and a broad range of temperatures.
In addition to everything else, this rifle scope has a broad adjustment range of 60 MOA for maximum total travel.
Features
- Variable 3-9x magnification power
- 60 MOA adjustment range
- Fully waterproof and fogproof
- Aircraft-grade aluminum housing
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Large 50mm aperture
- 1-inch body tube
- The second focal plane BDC reticle
- Anodized finish
Pros
- Super low-light performance
- Lightweight and durable
- Long eye relief distance
- Crisp clear glass
Cons
- Non illuminated reticle
2) Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
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The Fullfield E1 is designed to provide the perfect hunting scope for those looking for a budget-friendly solution with excellent performance. This riflescope offers the ultimate balance between performance and versatility making it one of the best scopes for Henry 45-70.
The scope features a variable 3-9x magnification power offered in the second focal plane. It provides a significantly huge field of view at close ranges and rapid target acquisition at medium ranges.
Optically, this rifle scope employs high-grade optical glass which yields brilliantly clear image views even in low-light settings. On top of that, the optics are multi-coated to aid in low-light performance and eliminate glare when you are hunting in bright light.
To cement the superb optical performance, the scope has a durable and stress-free 1-piece body tube that is tough enough to stand up to shock and vibrations. It also has a double internal spring-tension system which helps it hold zero through shock and recoil.
Features
- High-grade optical glass
- 3x optical zoom
- Waterproof and nitrogen-filled
- Finger adjustable windage and elevation turrets
- Aircraft-grade aluminum housing
- Second focal plane reticle
- 1-inch tube diameter
- Index-matched, Hi-Lume multi-coating
Pros
- Clear and bright
- Lightweight
- Ease of use
- Quality construction
Cons
- Narrow eye relief
- Non-illuminated reticle
3) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
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Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope will impress hunters with its robust design, unmatched accuracy and reliability making it one best scopes for Henry 45-70. Leupold has a reputation for making premium-quality and dependable scopes that deliver accurate shots every time.
It is competitively priced to offer great value for money. And though inexpensive, it does not compromise on quality. Instead, it is built with the legendary Leupold ruggedness which promises reliable performance even in the most challenging fields.
On top of the premium quality construction, the scope is operable in all weather conditions. It is sealed to lock out moisture, dust and debris.
Additionally, it is fogproof to provide a clear view even in cold and misty conditions and has scratch-resistant lenses to offer extra protection.
The optical performance of this rifle scope is also phenomenal. The Twilight Light Management System optimizes target visibility in low-level light settings and eliminates glare in bright light.
Besides that, the scope has a relatively lightweight construction and generous eye relief that makes it safe and comfortable to shoot even with eyeglasses.
The excellent features and durable construction combine to form the ultimate hunting scope. The rifle scope is reliable and accurate addition to your firearm making it one of the best scopes for Henry 45-70.
Features
- Twilight Light Management System
- Waterproof, fogproof and shockproof
- Scratch resistant lenses
- 3-9x magnification range
- Non-reflective matte finish
- 1-inch main tube
- 25 MOA finger click adjustment value
- Second focal plane reticle
Pros
- Clear glass
- Rock-solid build quality
- Tactile capped turrets
- Generous eye relief
- Low cost
Cons
- Fixed parallax
4) Riton Optics X1 Primal 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
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Riton Optics X1 Primal 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is a mid-powered scope that is perfect for various applications including hunting and tactical shooting.
It offers unmatched precision and accuracy to ensure that you hit your targets consistently, irrespective of the shooting situation.
From the first light of dawn to the fading twilight, the scope high-definition glass delivers high light transmission for enhanced clarity and optimal sight picture. This guarantees that you don’t miss a single opportunity in the hunting fields.
When it comes to construction, the scope is built with a single-piece 1-inch main tube which is durable and sturdy enough to weather abuse.
The turrets are capped to offer additional protection from impacts and to prevent accidental adjustment in the middle of use.
Moreover, the scope is fully protected from water, fog, dust, and other elements to enable safe use in all kinds of weather conditions.
It also brings to the table an integrated throw level for easy magnification adjustment and adjustable parallax from 15 yards to infinity.
Features
- 3-9x magnification
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Capped, zero-resettable turrets
- Waterproof, fogproof and shockproof
- Integrated removable throw lever
- 1/4 MOA adjustment click value
- Fully multi-coated optics
- 1-inch tube diameter
- HD glass elements
- Type III hard anodized finish
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Lightweight
- Accurate
- Clear glass
Cons
- Short eye relief
5) Trijicon Credo CR940 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
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Designed for close and medium-range use, Trijicon Credo CR940 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is your ideal option if you want to take your hunting skills to the next big level. With brilliant optical design, this scope delivers the most precise shooting solution you can rely on in the field.
It is easy to use and packed with all the features you need to find and acquire a game with ease no matter the environment.
This rifle scope provides fast target acquisition on low power and the ability to place shots precisely further downrange.
Across the 3-9x zoom range, the scope offers a wide field of view for quick target finding. It also maintains a generous eye relief to ensure great glassing comfort.
To withstand the abuse of regular use and repeated recoil, the scope features a sturdy and durable 1-piece main tube crafted from 6061 aluminum.
The body is coated with an anodized finish which makes it scratch-proof and anti-reflective. It is also filled with nitrogen and waterproofed for use in all environments.
The other noteworthy features the scope is built with include a repositionable magnification lever, easy-focus eyepiece and low-profile capped turrets.
Features
- 1-inch main tube
- 50 MOA windage and elevation adjustment range
- Waterproof and nitrogen-filled
- 3-9x total magnification
- Second focal plane reticle placement
- Low-profile capped turrets
- Anodized finish
- Repositionable magnification lever
Pros
- Lighted reticle
- Quick and easy adjustment
- Bright and clear optics
- Generous eye relief
Cons
- Comparatively costly
6) SIG SAUER Whiskey3 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
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SIG SAUER Whiskey3 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is the best scope for Henry 45-70 for beginners. It is built with an intuitive and user-friendly design which makes it easy to operate. Additionally, it is lightweight, portable and convenient to shoot with.
This rifle scope has a versatile 3x optical zoom offered in the rear focal plane with multiple reticle options. As a result, it is ideal for hunting a wide range of game in virtually all environments. It is also outfitted with a European-style eyepiece which enables smooth, fast and precise reticle adjustment.
What’s more, the scope features dependable waterproof and fogproof protection to be ready for anything Mother Nature will have in store for the hunt.
On top of that, it is built using durable materials to withstand abuse, and with a non-reflective matte finish which is also scratch-resistant.
Features
- 3x optical zoom
- Low dispersion glass
- European style eyepiece
- LED illumination
- Second focal plane reticle
- IPX-7 water-resistant rating
- 90 MOA adjustment range
- 1/4 MOA adjustment click value
Pros
- Lightweight and durable
- Illuminated reticle
- Long eye relief
- Crystal clear glass
Cons
- Loose focusing ring
7) Vortex Diamondback 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
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When it comes to versatility, it is hard to go wrong with the Vortex Diamondback 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope. It pairs well with the Henry 45-70 where it boosts the shooter’s confidence when aiming at close and medium ranges.
The balance of power against the efficient 40mm objective lens makes this rifle scope an excellent option for hunting in low light. Besides, the optical system is fully multi-coated to ramp up light transmission and offer the finest line of sight.
On any hunt, you can count on this rifle scope to perform. It is carefully constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum which is durable yet lightweight.
On top of that, the scope is fitted with a precision adjustment system which allows for a generous amount of correction. It is also purged with argon gas for flawless all-weather performance.
Features
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Low profile turrets
- 1-inch single-piece main tube
- XR multi-layer coated lenses
- Waterproof and argon-purged
- Precision glide erector system
- Second focal plane Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- Matte black finish
Pros
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Lightweight
- Crisp clear glass
- Good, crisp turrets
Cons
- Narrow eye relief
8) Trijicon Accupoint TR-34 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope
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Lastly, we have the Trijicon Accupoint TR-34 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope. Whether you are hunting at close or long ranges, this rifle scope will help you find the game with ease and fine-tune your shooting precision.
The selling point of this rifle scope is optical finesse. It is built with a big 50mm objective lens to enhance low-light performance.
On top of that, its optics are fully multi-coated to ensure high-light transmission which is vital for the production of bright, clear and color-accurate target views.
Trijicon makes its optics with durability in mind and this rifle scope is not any different. It has a 30mm tube main tube which is built from high-strength aluminum.
The entire housing is then purged with nitrogen and sealed to offer a lifetime of waterproof, fogproof and shockproof performance.
To top off everything else, the Trijicon Accupoint TR-34 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope features a repositionable throw lever on the magnification ring to accommodate different shooting styles and positions.
Features
- Fully broadband multi-coated optics
- Second focal plane reticle
- Repositionable magnification throw lever
- 6061-T6 aluminum housing
- 30mm main tube
- Black satin finish
- Waterproof and nitrogen-purged
- 1/4 MOA impact point correction
- Exposed turrets
- 60 MOA adjustment range
Pros
- Great magnification range
- Illuminated reticle
- Good eye relief
- Quick and easy adjustments
- Relatively heavy
Cons
- Expensive
Further Reading
Criteria for Choosing the Best Scopes for Henry 45-70
Irrespective of whether you are buying a scope for Henry 45-70 for the first time or you are in the market for an upgrade, take into account the following factors.
Usage
This is the first and most important thing to consider. Do you anticipate using the scope for hunting, target shooting, or both?
Being activity-specific will make your selection process smooth and also ensure that you find the best scope for your needs.
Magnification
Another key consideration when choosing a rifle scope is the magnification power. It’s a measure of how close you can see an object compared with the naked eye.
Magnified scopes help you see distant targets allowing you to take down prey from far away.
The best scopes for Henry 45-70 should have variable magnification to give you the versatility to hunt from varying distances.
The ideal magnification range is the one that matches the range you will be shooting at. For the Henry 45-70, a scope magnification of 3-9x is perfect.
Read: Best Vortex Scopes for 350 Legend
Durability
To unlock the full potential of the Henry 45-70, you need a scope that is built with durability in mind. We recommend scopes made with aircraft-grade aluminum or any other hard-wearing material.
On top of that, the best scope for Henry 45-70 should have full protection from weather elements to enable use in all environments.
Eye Relief
Considering the recoil the Henry 45-70 rifle scatters, it is important to get a scope with generous eye relief to reduce the risk of scope-related injuries. Opt for a scope that has more than 3.5 inches of eye relief distance.
Read: Best Leupold Scope for 350 Legend
Reticle System
Another important thing to consider is the reticle system. For the best scope for Henry 45-70, we recommend that you get a model with an intuitive, uncluttered and illuminated reticle.
Duplex, Bullet Drop Compensating and Mil-Dot are some of the most common reticle types suitable for this lever-action rifle.
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Best Scopes for Henry 45-70 FAQs
Q: What Type of Scope is Best Suited for Henry 45-70?
The best scope for Henry 45-70 comes with all the features you need to make the most out of your hunting or shooting excursions. It should be rugged, versatile and able to provide clear views of targets, even in low-light situations.
Q: What is the Ideal Scope Size for Henry 45-70?
3-9x. The Henry 45-70 lever-action rifle shoots well up to 200 yards. For such a range, a variable-powered scope with a 3-9x magnification range is the most ideal.
Conclusion
A lever-action rifle as iconic as the Henry 45-70 demands a scope that is versatile, durable and reliable. When making your selection, keep in mind that what you plan to use the scope for highly determines the model that you get. Hopefully, you have found this article insightful and you are now able to make the right purchase.