10 Best Tactical Rifle Scopes 2025 in the United States

The Nightforce ATACR 4-20x50mm is a high-quality tactical rifle scope designed for both military and civilian shooters who need reliable precision and versatility. Its 4-20x magnification range covers a broad spectrum—from wide views for quick target acquisition at lower magnifications to precise long-range shots at 20x. The large 50mm objective lens ensures good light gathering, which helps maintain a bright and clear image even in low-light conditions. The reticle, a Horus TREMOR3 illuminated design in the first focal plane, is excellent for quick ranging and wind adjustments, making it a strong choice for tactical and hunting applications. Eye relief is comfortable at 3.5 inches, allowing safe and consistent eye positioning during shooting. The field of view is wide enough at 4x (23.6 feet at 100 yards) for situational awareness but narrows significantly at 20x for detailed aiming.

Durability is a major strength here: the scope is waterproof, fogproof, and built with rugged materials to withstand tough environments and handling. Its 34mm tube diameter and compact 12.6-inch length make it adaptable for many rifle setups without excess bulk. On the downside, the scope’s weight at 2.2 pounds is on the heavier side, which may be a consideration for those prioritizing lightweight gear. Additionally, its premium build and features come with a higher price point, which might be more than casual shooters need.

This scope is suited for serious hunters, tactical shooters, or precision marksmen looking for a dependable optic that performs well across various conditions and distances.

The Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 rifle scope is designed for serious hunters and long-range shooters looking for high precision and versatility. Its impressive magnification range of 7-35x and large 56mm objective lens diameter provide excellent visibility and detail at various distances, making it suitable for extreme long-range shooting. The scope features a first focal plane (F1) reticle that allows for accurate range estimation and holds, which is highly beneficial in fast-paced shooting scenarios. A standout feature is its parallax adjustment that works down to 10 meters, ensuring you can shoot accurately at both short and long ranges. The MOA-XT reticle is designed for quick target acquisition, with clear markings that help maintain focus under pressure. Plus, the ZeroStop function allows for quick adjustments back to your zero distance, enhancing usability in different shooting conditions.

On the downside, the ATACR is relatively heavy, weighing in at 39.3 oz, which could make it cumbersome for some users, especially on lighter rifles. The eye relief of 3.6 inches is decent but may be a bit restrictive for those who prefer a longer eye relief, particularly when using powerful cartridges. Additionally, while its price point reflects its premium quality, it may be a barrier for casual shooters or newcomers to the sport. Weather resistance and durability are also important for tactical scopes, and the Nightforce ATACR delivers on that front, being built to withstand tough environments. However, keep in mind that this scope is not equipped with night vision capabilities, so it is primarily designed for daytime use.

The AGM Global Vision RattlerV2 19-256 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope is a versatile thermal scope designed primarily for hunting. It features a strong 2.5x base magnification with a digital zoom range up to 20x, which should be sufficient for most mid to long-range shooting scenarios. The 19mm Germanium lens and 256x192 resolution thermal sensor provide clear thermal imaging, with a detection range of up to 950 yards, making it ideal for spotting game in various conditions. The 9.3° x 6.9° field of view (49 feet at 100 yards) offers a good balance between situational awareness and detail, which is crucial for hunting applications.

Additionally, the scope has a 50 Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth and lag-free imaging, even when tracking moving targets. The improved focus ring with a short throw enhances the ease of focusing quickly in the field. The device maintains a lightweight profile at just 6.34 ounces and is constructed from durable polycarbonate material, promoting ease of handling and robust usage in outdoor conditions. Despite some limitations, such as the 19mm objective lens diameter which may not gather as much light as larger lenses, the RattlerV2 comes with a 5-year manufacturer warranty. The inclusion of necessary accessories, such as a mount, USB cable, and lens cloth, further adds to its value.

The AGM Global Vision RattlerV2 19-256 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope is a solid option for hunters seeking a reliable and effective thermal scope for various hunting conditions.