The Best Varmint Scopes for Precision Shooting
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If you are comparing options for best varmint scope, this guide focuses on the details that matter before you buy.
When you’re out trying to bag those pesky groundhogs or prairie dogs, the last thing you want is a rifle scope that lets you down. Missing a shot because your optics weren’t clear enough, or your adjustments were imprecise, is incredibly frustrating. I know, because I’ve been there. That’s why I dove deep into the world of varmint scopes, looking for models that offer exceptional clarity, precise aiming capabilities, and the ruggedness to handle field conditions. My goal was to cut through the noise and find the best varmint scope options that deliver accuracy without breaking the bank. This guide will walk you through what I found, helping you choose the right optic for your next hunt or range session.
Table of Contents
best varmint scope: Top Picks and Buying Advice
| Image | Name | Editor’s Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | BARSKA Varmint Precision | ★★★★★ | CHECK PRICE |
 | BARSKA Varmint 4-16x | ★★★★★ | CHECK PRICE |
 | BARSKA Varmint 10-40×60 | ★★★★★ | CHECK PRICE |
 | BARSKA Varmint 6-24×50 | ★★★★★ | CHECK PRICE |
 | BARSKA Varmint 5-20×50 Illuminated | ★★★★★ | CHECK PRICE |
1. BARSKA Varmint Precision
This BARSKA varmint scope offers a versatile package for hunters and target shooters alike, featuring an adjustable objective for precise parallax correction and fully multi-coated optics for enhanced brightness. It’s designed for accurate long-range shooting and comes with easy-grip turrets for fine-tuning your aim.
Adjustable Objective for Pinpoint Focus
The adjustable objective (AO) is a standout feature here, allowing you to eliminate parallax error at various distances. This is critical for varmint hunting where precise shot placement on small targets is paramount. The turrets are designed for easy grip, making on-the-fly adjustments simpler.
Optical Clarity and Brightness
With fully multi-coated optics, this riflescope aims to provide bright and clear views, even in lower light conditions common during dawn or dusk hunts. The large objective lenses contribute to gathering more light, which is always beneficial for spotting distant targets.
Versatility in Magnification and Reticles
Available in several sizes and reticle types, this scope can be tailored to different shooting preferences and distances. Whether you’re engaging targets at medium range or stretching out for longer shots, there’s likely a configuration to suit your needs.
Warranty Support
It comes with a limited lifetime warranty, offering some peace of mind regarding its long-term durability and performance. This suggests the manufacturer stands behind the product’s construction.
No specific rating or review count provided.
2. BARSKA Varmint 4-16x
This BARSKA varmint scope offers a 4-16x magnification range with a 30/30 reticle, designed for precision aiming. It features multi-coated optics for clarity and is specifically built to withstand the recoil of airguns, making it waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
Precision Aiming with 1/8 MOA Clicks
The 4-16x magnification is well-suited for varmint hunting, and the 1/8 MOA click adjustments allow for very fine-tuning of your point of impact. This level of precision is essential for hitting small targets at extended ranges.
Quality Optics and Construction
With multi-coated optics, you can expect good viewing clarity. The 1-inch tube diameter is standard for many rifle setups. The scope is built to be waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, which is a significant advantage for field use.
Airgun Recoil Resistance
A key feature is its construction to withstand reverse recoil from airguns. This means it’s built to be exceptionally robust and less prone to damage from recoil, making it a reliable choice for airgun enthusiasts.
Included Accessories
It comes with essential accessories like scope caps and a lens cloth, which are practical additions for maintaining the scope’s condition and usability right out of the box.
No specific rating or review count provided.
3. BARSKA Varmint 10-40×60
This high-magnification BARSKA scope boasts a 10-40x zoom and a large 60mm objective lens for maximum light gathering. It features the Trace MOA V2 reticle and an adjustable objective, making it ideal for extreme long-range varmint hunting and precision shooting.
Extreme Magnification for Distant Targets
The 10-40x magnification range is substantial, allowing you to clearly see and engage targets at very long distances. This is where a large objective lens like the 60mm really shines, gathering ample light to keep the image bright even at maximum zoom.
Trace MOA V2 Reticle and AO
The Trace MOA V2 reticle is designed for ranging and holdovers, complementing the scope’s long-range capabilities. Combined with the adjustable objective for parallax correction, this setup offers serious precision for varmint hunters who need to account for distance.
Rugged Design for All Conditions
Built for all types of shooting, including varmint hunting and long-range precision, this scope is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. This ensures reliable performance regardless of the weather or shooting environment.
30mm Tube for Enhanced Light Transmission
The 30mm main tube diameter allows for greater internal adjustment range and, importantly, more light transmission compared to standard 1-inch tubes, further enhancing its performance in challenging light.
No specific rating or review count provided.
4. BARSKA Varmint 6-24×50
This BARSKA varmint scope offers a versatile 6-24x magnification with a 50mm objective lens and a classic Mil-Dot reticle. It features an adjustable objective for parallax correction and is designed to be waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, making it a solid choice for many varmint hunting scenarios.
Classic Mil-Dot Reticle for Ranging
The Mil-Dot reticle is a staple for many shooters, offering a reliable system for estimating range and holdover points. This is particularly useful for varmint hunting where quick adjustments are often necessary.
Balanced Magnification and Objective Size
The 6-24x magnification range provides a good balance for most varmint hunting situations, from closer shots to those requiring more reach. The 50mm objective lens is a good compromise, offering better light gathering than smaller lenses without excessive bulk.
Robust and Weather-Resistant Build
Like other BARSKA varmint models, this scope is built to withstand the elements. Being waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof means you can rely on it in various weather conditions and terrains without worry.
Airgun Recoil Durability
Specifically constructed to handle the reverse recoil of airguns, this scope is engineered for durability. This robust design translates to reliability for any firearm it’s mounted on.
No specific rating or review count provided.
5. BARSKA Varmint 5-20×50 Illuminated
This BARSKA varmint scope stands out with its illuminated MOA reticle, offering flexibility in various lighting conditions. It features a 5-20x magnification, a 30mm tube for better light transmission, and zero-reset turrets for easy field adjustments.
Illuminated Reticle for Low Light
The ability to illuminate the reticle in either red or green is a significant advantage for hunting during dawn, dusk, or in heavily shaded areas. This feature helps maintain target acquisition when a standard black reticle might disappear.
Zero Reset Turrets for Convenience
Zero reset turrets are a practical feature that allows you to easily return your scope’s zero to its original point after making adjustments. This simplifies re-sighting if you’ve made significant changes for windage or elevation.
30mm Tube and Fully Multi-Coated Optics
The 30mm main tube diameter contributes to better light transmission and a wider range of internal adjustments. Coupled with fully multi-coated optics, this scope is designed to provide a bright, clear image across its 5-20x magnification range.
Durable and Versatile Design
Constructed to be waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, this scope is ready for the demands of varmint hunting. Its adjustable objective ensures parallax correction for accurate shots.
No specific rating or review count provided.
6. Vortex Optics Crossfire II
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II is a popular choice for its balance of performance and value, featuring a Dead-Hold BDC reticle for estimating holdover. It offers long eye relief, fully multi-coated lenses for clarity, and a robust, aircraft-grade aluminum construction.
Dead-Hold BDC Reticle for Range Estimation
The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is specifically designed to help hunters estimate holdover at varying ranges, simplifying shots where you can’t make quick turret adjustments. This is a practical feature for many hunting scenarios.
Forgiving Eye Box and Fast Focus
With generous eye relief and an ‘ultra-forgiving eye box,’ acquiring a sight picture is quick and easy, even under pressure. The fast-focus eyepiece allows for rapid reticle focusing, ensuring you can get on target swiftly.
Bright and Clear Fully Multi-Coated Lenses
The anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses provide bright, clear, and sharp views. This optical quality is crucial for identifying small varmint targets at a distance.
Rugged, Waterproof, and Fogproof Construction
Constructed from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, the Crossfire II is built for strength and shockproof performance. It’s also O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged for reliable waterproof and fogproof operation in any weather.
Vortex VIP Warranty
Vortex backs this scope with their unlimited, unconditional, lifetime VIP Warranty. This is a significant trust signal, promising repair or replacement if the scope becomes damaged or defective.
No specific rating or review count provided.
7. BUCKMASTERS Scope 3-9×40
Inspired by Jackie Bushman, the BUCKMASTERS 3-9×40 scope aims to deliver SIG SAUER Electro-Optics performance at an accessible price point. It features a unique Buckmasters Bullet Drop Compensation (BDC) reticle with holdover dots up to 500 yards and a durable, weather-resistant construction.
Buckmasters BDC Reticle for Holdover
The BDC reticle is the star here, offering holdover dots designed for distances up to 500 yards. This makes it easier for hunters to make accurate shots without needing to adjust turrets constantly, especially when dealing with fast-moving varmints.
Accessible Performance
This scope is positioned to bring high-performance optics to a wider range of hunters. The 3-9x magnification is a versatile choice for many hunting scenarios, and the 40mm objective lens offers a good balance of light gathering and size.
Durable Construction and Quick Magnification
It features a durable, single-piece 1-inch main tube. The integrated thread for a throw lever (though not always included) suggests a design focused on quick magnification changes, which can be crucial in the field.
Weatherproof Performance
The scope is built for dependable waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof performance. This ensures it can handle various weather conditions, making your hunting season more reliable.
No specific rating or review count provided.
Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right best varmint scope involves understanding a few key factors that directly impact your accuracy and effectiveness in the field.
Magnification Range
For varmint hunting, you’ll typically want a scope with a magnification range that covers both closer shots and longer distances. A 3-9x is versatile for general hunting, while 6-24x or higher is better for extreme long-range work. An adjustable objective (AO) is crucial for maintaining a clear, parallax-free image at these higher magnifications.
Objective Lens Diameter
The objective lens diameter (the front lens) affects light gathering. Larger lenses, like 50mm or 60mm, gather more light, resulting in a brighter image, especially in low-light conditions. However, they also add bulk and weight and may require higher scope mounts.
Reticle Type
Common reticles for varmint scopes include the simple crosshair, the ranging Mil-Dot, and specialized BDC (Bullet Drop Compensating) reticles. Illuminated reticles can be very helpful in low light, offering red or green options.
Construction and Durability
A good varmint scope needs to be rugged. Look for scopes that are waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. Materials like aircraft-grade aluminum for the main tube ensure strength and durability. Many scopes are also designed to withstand the specific recoil patterns of airguns.
Turrets and Adjustments
Precise adjustments are key. Look for scopes with 1/8 MOA click adjustments for fine-tuning. Features like zero reset turrets add convenience, allowing you to easily return to your original zero after making adjustments for windage or elevation.
Who Should Buy What
For general varmint hunting and target practice, a versatile scope like the Vortex Optics Crossfire II or the BARSKA Varmint 6-24×50 offers a good balance. If you’re focused on extreme long-range shooting, the BARSKA Varmint 10-40×60 provides the necessary magnification. For low-light conditions, the BARSKA Varmint 5-20×50 Illuminated is a strong contender.
What To Avoid
Avoid scopes with unclear magnification ranges or those that aren’t explicitly rated as waterproof and fogproof if you plan to hunt in variable weather. Also, be wary of scopes with very low-quality optics that produce dim or blurry images, especially at higher magnifications, as these will hinder your ability to make accurate shots.
How These Products Compare
The BARSKA models offer a wide range of magnifications and features, often at competitive price points, while the Vortex and BUCKMASTERS scopes emphasize robust construction, specific reticle designs, and strong warranties.
Dialing Turrets vs. BDC Reticles
For serious long-range varmint hunting, consider how you’ll manage bullet drop. Scopes with target turrets allow precise adjustments for windage and elevation, which you can then reset. Alternatively, a BDC reticle offers pre-marked holdover points, which can be faster in the field but require knowing your specific ammunition’s trajectory.
Frequently Asked Questions
What magnification is best for varmint scopes?
For most varmint hunting, a magnification range of 3-9x is versatile. However, for longer ranges or smaller targets, higher magnifications like 6-24x or even up to 40x are beneficial. An adjustable objective is crucial for maintaining clarity at higher magnifications.
Do I need an adjustable objective (AO) on a varmint scope?
Yes, an adjustable objective is highly recommended for varmint scopes, especially those with higher magnification. It allows you to correct parallax error, ensuring the reticle stays aligned with the target regardless of your eye position, which is critical for precision shooting.
What is the difference between MOA and Mil-Dot reticles?
MOA (Minute of Angle) and Mil-Dot are both measurement systems used for reticles. MOA adjustments are typically in 1/4 or 1/8 MOA increments, while Mil-Dot reticles have dots spaced at one Mil intervals (approximately 3.6 inches at 100 yards). Both can be used for ranging and holdovers, but Mil-Dot is often favored for its direct correlation with MOA adjustments.
Are scopes designed for airguns suitable for regular firearms?
Yes, scopes designed to withstand the reverse recoil of airguns are generally very robust and suitable for regular firearms. Their construction is often more durable, making them a reliable choice for various shooting applications.
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Conclusion
Finding the best varmint scope means balancing magnification, optical clarity, reticle design, and rugged construction. For a solid all-around performer with a great warranty, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II is hard to beat. If you need extreme magnification for very long shots, the BARSKA Varmint 10-40×60 is a powerful option. For those prioritizing low-light performance, the BARSKA Varmint 5-20×50 Illuminated offers a distinct advantage. I encourage you to review these options based on your specific hunting needs and budget to make an informed choice for your next outing.
