9 Best Side Focus Air Rifle Scopes

The best side focus air rifle scopes are specially designed for hunters and shooters who demand the best. Hunting is more fun if you are armed with a decent scope.

Side Focus riflescopes have the advantage of adjusting parallax while behind the scope because it’s always within reach.

 

Best Side Focus Air Rifle Scopes-Our Top Picks

 

#1) Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18×44 AO, SFP Riflescope – Dead-Hold BDC Reticle (MOA)

 

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Pros

The Vortex Crossfire II 6-18×44 AO scope has unique features to offer true insights when hunting. If you are a devoted hunter, this is the scope for you.

Starting with its anti-reflective lens that allows maximum light transmission, your hunting adventures will be transformed for the better. The scope is specially designed to offer the highest levels of performance and reliability.

This scope is made using aircraft-grade aluminum and the anodized finish help in camouflaging while hunting. The scope is weatherproof through its nitrogen-filled O-rings that keep the lens safe.

The scope’s magnification is impressive. It is able to magnify 6x to 18x augmenting the primary duty of any scope. When combined with the multi-covered focal points, the powerful magnification makes your outdoor outings blissful. Parallax adjustment from 10 yards to infinity.

When it comes to hunting or shooting at varying ranges, this scope performs exemplary well. Its customized hashmark design removes guesswork on holdover and windage corrections.

Its single-piece tube helps maximize alignment for improved accuracy and optimum visual performance. The rugged construction aids in recoil reduction so the scope is able to maintain accuracy even when used with the most powerful rifles.

Features

 

 

#2) Hammers 4-16×50 Side Focus First Focal Plane FFP Rifle Scope

 

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Pros

The Hammers 4-16X 50 FFP scope as one of the best side focus air rifle scopes is furnished with important features to enhance hunting and plinking activities. The scope uses a strong glass etched reticle to acquire the target with the highest degree of accuracy.

The scope is of first plane design and is built with target turrets and range finding reticle. The reticle small cross can be illuminated in either red or green light. The scope has a quick side focus wheel mounted on the turret side allowing the user easy access.

For maximum light transmission, this scope uses a premium quality multi-coated lens. The 50mm objective lens allows enough light through the scope and the result is a brighter image. Protecting the lenses are black flip-open lens covers.

This hunting/shooting marvel has 0.5 Mil increments for the reticle cross lines. With a zoom wheel at a certain high power, the reticle lines can estimate the target distance and allow you to maintain the image clarity.

The scope’s parallax adjustment from 12 yards to infinity makes it ideal for long-range shooting.

Features

 

 

#3) Mueller Target Rifle Scope, Black, 8-32 x 44mm

 

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Pros

The Mueller 8-32X 44 Target Scope brings edge-to-edge clarity to your hunting expeditions. It hosts a number of good features that enhance its effectiveness.

The scope has a fast-focus eyepiece for quick acquisition of moving targets. Clarity is enhanced by clear optics giving you an excellent view even from a long distance.

Additionally, the scope’s high magnification helps in giving the shooter a vivid view. With this scope chances of missing targets are almost zero.

Another great feature of the scope is the perfect target dot that comes in handy to minimize the odds of missing the target. The brightness and clarity of this scope are remarkable.

The large 44mm lens allows enough light to pass through the scope leading to the creation of a bright image in all types of lighting.

To supplement the lens, the 32X magnification provides clear POI for longer rages. It has exposed target turrets that allow accurate targeting.

When it comes to construction, the scope is solid. It features a sturdy construction that can withstand any rigors experienced in the field. Its black finish offers good eye relief. The scope is suitable for various applications.

Features

 

 

#4) Vortex Optics Diamondback 6-24×50 Tactical FFP Riflescope

 

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Pros

This scope boasts of optic performance like no other in its class.

The scope is designed to meet the needs of tactical professionals and hunters with ease. Its zoom range makes it perfect for mid to long-range shooting.

It has a 50mm lens that draws ample light to keep views bright and clear in all lighting conditions. The lens is made of extra-low dispersion XD glass and anti-reflective multi-coated surfaces that augment the views further.

Missing targets, even the smallest of them will be outdated with this riflescope. This tactical riflescope as one of the best side focus air rifle scopes uses the MOA scale with exposed finger adjustable turrets for fast impact point correction in the field.

The windage and elevation adjustments are made at ¼ MOA per click. The reticle in this scope is able to maintain its sub tensions at all magnifications. As a result, the user can make corrections without touching the turrets and estimate the range to and size of the target.

Its side adjustment correction allows parallax settings from 10 yards to infinity. This riflescope features a sturdy 30mm single tube that offers a solid platform.

The tube is made of a durable aluminum alloy that is anodized with a scratch-resistant matte black finish. To make the scope weatherproof, the tube is nitrogen-filled. The O-ring is sealed to make it waterproof and fog-proof.

Features

 

 

#5) Mueller Tactical 8-32×44 Side Focus Mil-Dot Reticle Scope

 

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Pros

The Mueller Tactical 8-32X44 Mil-Dot reticle scope brings exceptional clarity to your hunting escapades. Its variable magnification makes it ideal for short-range and long-range shooting.

The quality optics brings the utmost clarity for better target focusing. Its true mil-dot reticle allows for simple calculation for bullet trajectory.

The Mildot reticle has multiple aiming points to compensate for drop or windage compensation with the dots covering ¼-inch of the prey at 100 yards. The scope has fully multi-coated lenses to provide bright images with lots of contrast.

The scope has finger adjustable turrets that allow for easy windage and elevation adjustments. For quick reticle clarity adjustments, the scope has a fast-focus eyepiece. If you are looking for a long-range varmint hunting scope, this scope is terrific at it.

You get a weatherproof scope whose performance is uninterrupted by weather elements. The scope is dry-nitrogen filled and its construction is 100% waterproof and fog proof.

Additionally, the scope has a rugged construction making it shockproof. This scope has 1/8 MOA fully exposed target-style windage and elevation adjustments.

Features

 

 

#6) Athlon Optics Talos 4-16×40 SFP Riflescope

 

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Pros

This Athlon Talos 4-16X40 Second Focal Plane Riflescope as one of the best side focus air rifle scopes is great for the big game, varmint, MSR’s, and 22 rimfires, black powder, and turkey hunting.

The scope is specially designed to excel in all light conditions. Whether it is early morning or late evening the scope performs diligently. The scope’s 4-16X magnification range offers shooters great versatility. You will be able to hunt in the thick forests or wide-open fields with ease with this scope.

The windage and elevation turrets can be set to zero after sighting in the scope so that you make quick on-the-fly adjustments to make a shot and then easily return to zero.

Parallax adjustment is through a side knob wheel and its parallax setting is from 15 yards to infinity. Such a parallax setting provides unmatched image clarity at any range. When it comes to construction, the aluminum-grade tube provides strength and mechanical integrity to protect the scope from any rigors.

The tube has nitrogen purging that helps reduce the moisture inside and maintains fog-proof and waterproof properties.  Moreover, the heated treated one-piece tube offers the scope of extra strength.

The scope’s incredible performance is augmented by fully multi-coated optics that reduce reflected light and increase light transmission for a brighter image. It also packs a Mil-Dot reticle that allows accurate range estimation of the target. Thanks to this reticle, shots made are more impactful.

Features

 

 

#7) UTG 4-16X56 30mm Scope, AO, 36-color Glass Mil-dot, w/ Rings Scope

 

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Pros

UTG 4-16X56 AO Rifle Scope brings precision to your hunting through its laser etched-glass reticle. The reticle helps you get more accuracy from your rifle.

In addition, the reticle is illuminated by EZ-TAP illumination enhancing technology with red-green-black. The illumination eliminates any distractions that can interfere with the shooting. The variable power increases the versatility of the scope.

Whether you are shooting in close proximity or far targets, the scope has the right magnification for every job. The 30mmm tube packs the best in class multi-coated lenses to allow maximum light transmission for the best clarity.

The scope also has a 36-color multi-color mode to give the best view in any light conditions. This scope is specially designed to upgrade your shooting. It is fitted with premium zero locking and zero resetting target turrets to allow high fidelity target acquisition.

It also includes a side wheel adjustable turret for parallax adjustment from 10 yards to infinity. It uses 1-click technology for quick access to preferred color and brightness in the reticle.

When it comes to construction, the scope has a sturdy TS platform. The tube is completely sealed and nitrogen purged making it shockproof, fog proof, and rainproof.  Also integrated into the scope is a sunshade that aids in optimal aiming and shooting performance.

Features

 

 

#8) Vortex Optics Crossfire II AO, SFP, 30mm Tube Riflescope

 

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Pros

Vortex Crossfire II riflescope does not compromise when it comes to performance. It uses fully multi-coated optics to increase light transmission for brighter images.

With multi anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces, you can rely on this scope for a clearer view of the targets. The scope uses a second focal plane V-Brite reticle that uses the V-Plex format with battery-powered electronics to illuminate the center dot.

This helps the user when hunting or shooting in low-light conditions. For faster target acquisition, the Crossfire II riflescope has a long eye relief and ultra-forgiving eye box.

This scope tops the charts when it comes to convenience. It has a fast-focus eyepiece to enable quick and easy reticle focusing. Another hallmark of these riflescopes is the MOA turrets.

The capped reset turrets are finger adjustable with MOA clicks that can be reset to zero after sighting in. The riflescopes are made with aircraft-grade aluminum assuring you strength and rigidity.

The scopes’ O-ring seals prevent moisture, dust, and debris from penetrating ensuring reliable performance in all environments.

Features

 

 

#9) Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope with Truplex Reticle

 

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Pros

Simmons 8-Point 3-9X50 is a useful riflescope with high-quality features. It is ideal for both tactical shooters and hunters.

It is very popular because it is friendly to the wallet and performance-wise it delivers. The scope has a 50mm objective lens that delivers a magnification power of 3-9X making it useful for short to medium-range shooting. It has a Truplex reticle that delivers outstanding precision.

The scope uses fully coated optics that provide higher contrast and a brighter image for daytime shooting. The coating also comes in handy when shooting in low lighting as they make the images appear sharper.

A knob found in the middle of the scope does windage and elevation adjustments. To ensure the settings remain firm at zero in rough shooting conditions, the scope is fitted with protective caps.

This feature is very helpful as it helps in focusing on any type of condition. The scope does not compromise when it comes to construction. It has a rugged design made with high-quality materials.

The quality construction confers waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof properties giving you the freedom to go on your shooting adventures in different weather conditions.

Being an entry-level riflescope, beginners and shooters who are still learning stand to benefit the most from it because of its low cost and limited range. Improve your hunting vision and shooting skill with Simmons 8-point 3-9X 50mm riflescope.

Features

Specifications

• 3-9X magnification
• 50mm objective lens
• 4 feet field of view at 100 yards at 3X power
• 5 feet field of view at 100 yards at 9X power
• 75 inches of eye relief
• 6-5.6 mm exit pupil
• 2 ounces weight
• 60 inches adjustment range at 100 yards

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Side Focus Air Rifle Scopes

• Airgun Rating

An airgun-rated riflescope is able to withstand the bi-directional recoil of spring-piston-powered air rifles. Airgun rating is a selling point and appears in the product description. An airgun-rated scope is ideal, as you are sure, the recoil will not destroy the scope.

• Parallax Adjustment

The ability to adjust parallax is an important factor to consider when hunting for a riflescope. Parallax is defined as an optical error in which the focal plane of the scope is offset from the reticle leading to misguided aiming.

A parallax adjustable scope is able to remove the error and allow for a more precise target acquisition. The scopes in question here have an adjustable side wheel on the left side.

The wheels are smoother and easier to adjust. The side focus lets the user adjust while the rifle is still shouldered. This makes it possible to aim at moving targets quickly.

• Air Rifle Reticle

This is another crucial feature to consider when shopping for the best side focus air rifle scopes. Reticles help long-range shooters estimate target ranges and also provide aiming points to deal with wind drift and projectile drop.

• Magnification

Riflescopes can have variable or fixed magnification. Each type of magnification has its upside and downside but most shooters prefer variable magnification.

The first two numbers show the range and the other numbers represent the objective lens diameter. A larger scope transmits more light and so forms a brighter image.

It is worth mentioning that large scopes require higher mounts. Scopes of sizes 32mm to 44mm stand out because they offer the best compromise of optical brightness and keep the scope close to the barrel.

• Tube Size

Tube refers to the non-tapered area on either side of the turrets where the scope rings or mounts go. The tube sizes are only two 30mm and 1 inch. 30mm tube is thicker and more durable.

It also accommodates large lenses and so has better optical performance. Tactical scopes have a 30mm tube as it improves airgun precision.

With a wide selection of side focus air rifle scopes, finding the best side focus air rifle scopes can be a daunting task. This review gives an insight into some of the best riflescopes in the market to make your hunt for the best side focus air rifle scopes easy.

What Makes A Good Side Focus Riflescope?

Due to technological advancements, the riflescopes being introduced into the market feature top-quality facets that enhance their performance.

Today, riflescopes come fitted with superior glass, best-in-class optics, and sturdy construction. These incredible features have revolutionized the hunting experience.

When buying a riflescope for the first time, these features may overwhelm and confuse you. For that reason, we have rounded up the important features to look for in a side focus scope. Let’s have a look:

1. Adjustable Parallax

When focusing on a target, you may notice that the target and the reticle are on different planes. This phenomenon is known as parallax.  Parallax makes the target appear out of focus when you move your eye slightly to the left or right. The illusion occurs mainly when focusing on higher magnification. Parallax decreases the accuracy. Unless corrected, parallax may result in missed shots.

A high-quality riflescope must have a way to adjust the parallax. Adjusting parallax helps to eliminate the optical illusion by fixing the reticle crosshairs on the target.

For this reason, adjustable parallax is an important spec as it helps shooters aim better. It also improves shooting accuracy. The best side focus riflescopes have included this innovative feature. The side focus is swift at aiming targets from varying distances.

2. Magnification

The power of a riflescope is one of the things hunters consider when hunting for a scope. Riflescopes come with either fixed power or variable power. The choice will be determined by the application and preference of the buyer. Side focus with variable power is preferred by most hunters as they are more flexible in terms of application.

3. Turrets

Riflescopes can either have exposed turrets or capped turrets. Exposed turrets allow manual adjustments in the heat of action while capped turrets are only adjusted once when zeroing the air rifle.

Most shooters use exposed turrets because they give them the freedom to correct for wind drift and elevation when the target moves. These adjustments make the difference between a successful hunt and an unsuccessful hunt.

Uncapped turrets are great for hunters who hunt animals that are constantly moving. Another group of hunters who stand to benefit from exposed turrets is hunters who hunt in changing climates. This is because in changing weather, the wind speed fluctuates, and having the ability to adjust for windage quickly helps deliver a fruitful hunt.

If you participate in shooting/hunting in similar conditions almost all the time, a riflescope with capped turrets will do the job. This is because your zero will always deliver a fruitful hit. Also, if you hunt in an area with constant climates, capped turrets will benefit you. In such areas, there is no need to change your zero.

4. Focal Plane

Riflescope manufacturers locate reticles either on the First Focal Plane (FFP) or Second Focal Plane (SFP). In FFP scopes, the reticle is located in the front of the tube towards the objective lens while in SFP riflescopes, the reticle is found near the ocular lens at the back of the tube.

As a prospective buyer, you might be wondering which is better between the two. You are not alone in this as the debate of FFP vs SFP has been doing rounds for a long time now.

The majority of the riflescopes in the market have their reticle on the Second Focal Plane. The main reason why SFP scopes are so common is that the reticle appears to be of the same size across all powers.

First Focal Plane scopes entered the market recently and were introduced for long-range shooting. With this design, the reticle size varies as the magnification changes. It starts small at low power and gets larger as the magnification power is increased.

Long-range shooters and hunters prefer the FFP reticle because the holdover values remain constant with scope power. Hence more precision when shooting from a distance.

FAQs

Q: How Does Side Focus on a ScopeWork?

A: The side focus’s main job of a riflescope is to offer maximum accuracy when shooting from a distance. It optimizes the accuracy by correcting the parallax error. Parallax error in a riflescope describes the noticeable shift of the crosshair in relation to the target.

Q: What is Parallax Adjustment?

A: Parallax happens when the target and the reticle are not on the same plane on the scope. Riflescopes made for long-range shooting are fitted with a parallax adjustment setting. The setting is either an adjustable ring on the objective lens or an adjustable knob on the side of the scope.

Q: What Does AO Stand for on a Scope?

A: AO means an Adjustable Objective. A scope with AO scribed to it means it has parallax adjustment.

Q: Do I Really Need Parallax Adjustment?

A: Definitely yes. Having parallax adjustment helps remove optical illusion while aiming. It causes the crosshairs to appear fixed on the target no matter how you move your eye. Any user will benefit from the parallax adjustment as it makes aiming easier and helps improve the accuracy of shooting.

Conclusion

Best Side Focus Air Rifle Scopes have many great features to make your hunting experience better. The riflescopes above are the clear leaders in this category and we hope our analysis was informative and helpful.

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