10 Best Sniper Scopes 2025 in the United States

The ATN Thor 5 Smart HD Thermal Scope is designed for hunters who want advanced technology to improve spotting and shooting accuracy, especially in low-light or nighttime conditions. Its magnification range of 3-12x offers flexibility for different distances, while the thermal sensor with a 320x240 resolution and 12-micron pixel size helps detect heat signatures clearly. The high-resolution OLED display enhances visibility with richer colors, which makes it easier to identify targets.

This scope includes a customizable reticle system, allowing you to create and share unique reticles, which is a fun and practical feature for tailoring your shooting experience. The built-in ballistic calculator helps you make more accurate shots by providing precise shooting data, reducing guesswork. It also features recoil-activated video recording (RAV) that automatically captures your shots in HD, so you can review your performance or share memorable moments. Additional perks include WiFi and smartphone app control, which modernize the scope’s usability and convenience.

The scope weighs about 1.93 pounds and is somewhat bulky, which might be heavy for some users during extended hunts. It does not have a built-in laser rangefinder (LRF), so you may need an external device for distance measurement. The ATN Thor 5 combines innovative features suitable for serious hunters seeking thermal imaging and smart capabilities, though it might be more than needed for casual users or those preferring simpler optics.

The Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 is a high-end sniper scope designed for serious hunters and long-range shooters who need top precision and flexibility. Its wide magnification range from 7x to 35x lets you zoom in closely for distant targets or keep a broader view when needed. The large 56mm objective lens gathers plenty of light, ensuring clear and bright images even in low-light conditions, which is great for dawn or dusk hunting. The MOAR F1 reticle is placed in the first focal plane, meaning its markings stay accurate at any zoom level, helping with precise aiming and range calculations. This reticle includes illuminated features to improve visibility in varying lighting.

Parallax adjustment can be fine-tuned from 11 yards to infinity, which reduces image distortion and helps maintain a sharp target focus at different distances. The scope’s field of view is wide enough at lower magnifications to spot targets quickly, but it narrows significantly at higher zoom levels, which is typical for scopes with high magnification. Eye relief is about 3.6 inches, offering enough comfort and safety from recoil for most shooters. The turrets support quick and accurate adjustments, with a ZeroStop feature allowing you to return swiftly to zero settings in the field.

This scope is robust and built from durable metal, though it is on the heavier side, which might affect handling during long hunts. Its price and features make it best suited for experienced users or those needing extreme long-range capability rather than casual shooters. The scope excels in precision, clarity, and advanced features, making it a strong choice for long-range hunting and tactical use, while potentially exceeding the needs of beginner or casual users.

The ZEISS LRP S3 6-36x56 First Focal Plane MOA Riflescope is a high-end option designed for long-range shooting and hunting. It offers a wide magnification range from 6x to 36x, making it versatile for different distances. The 56mm objective lens diameter helps in gathering more light, which is beneficial in low-light conditions. The advanced optics, including Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass and ZEISS T* multi-coated lenses, ensure excellent clarity and 90% light transmission.

The illuminated reticle, visible in daylight, provides precise aiming with five intensity levels and options for red or green illumination. The first focal plane reticle allows for accurate holdovers at any magnification level, which is crucial for long-range shooting. It also features a robust design with a 34mm main tube and can withstand significant shock, making it durable in various conditions. The Ballistic Stop and External Locking Windage Turret enhance accuracy by ensuring a true return to zero and easy windage adjustments.

However, at 39.1 ounces, it is relatively heavy, which might be cumbersome for some users. Additionally, it lacks night vision capabilities, which could limit its use in total darkness. With a price reflecting its premium build and features, it might not be the best choice for casual shooters or those on a budget.