Ever wonder what it takes to consistently hit targets way out there, like 500 yards away? It’s not just about having a good rifle; the scope you choose plays a huge role. Picking the perfect 500-yard scope can feel like a maze. You see so many features and prices, and it’s easy to get confused about what really matters when you’re stretching your shots.
Getting the wrong scope means frustrating misses and wasted time at the range. You need clear vision and reliable adjustments to trust your aim at that distance. That’s why we dug deep to find the best options for you.
In this guide, we break down what makes a scope great for 500-yard shooting. You will learn exactly what features to look for and see our top picks to help you buy with confidence. Keep reading, and let’s find the glass that will take your long-range accuracy to the next level.
Top 500 Yard Scope Recommendations
- BUCKMASTERS 3-9X50MM RIFLE SCOPE - The SIG SAUER Buckmasters 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope is a dependable & versatile optic choice for hunters looking to enhance their accuracy and effectiveness in the field; Featuring the high-performance 3x optical system with low-dispersion glass, this shooting scope delivers sharp & clear images across all magnification levels
- BUCKMASTERS BDC RETICLE - This rifle scope comes equipped with a unique Buckmasters Bullet Drop Compensation (BDC) reticle, complete with holdover dots that extend up to a distance of 500 yards; Avid hunters know the upgraded game hunting comes with upgraded equipment
- GREAT CONSTRUCTION -The Buckmasters hunting rifle scope has extra durable construction with a single-piece, 1-inch main tube; For those who appreciate the convenience, it also features an integrated thread in the throw lever which allows for quick magnification changes
- WEATHER RESISTANT - Dependable waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof performance and high-performance optical system with low dispersion glass of the Buckmasters scope makes your hunting season non-stop whatever weather is on the way; See the target with a reliable magnification of 3-9X50mm
- SIG SAUER - In our world-class facilities, we build the toughest, most precise rifles, pistols, optics, suppressors, ammunition, airguns, holsters, and various accessories, while offering the finest guns training - all as a fully integrated system
- The Crossfire HD 1.5-5x32 Scout Second Focal Plane riflescope has an HD Optical System that uses select glass elements to deliver sharp resolution, reduces chromatic aberration, and provides excellent color fidelity with edge-to-edge clarity.
- Fully multi-coated lenses feature anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces to enhance light transmission and improve clarity in low-light conditions.
- Pairs the trusted holdover and windage guidance of the Dead-Hold BDC with an illuminated floating center dot for fast, precise aiming in low light. Designed for use at varying distances where holdover estimation matters.
- The fast focus eyepiece quickly adjusts your reticle focus for rapid target acquisition, whether you're in timber or at the range.
- Built from aircraft-grade aluminum with a low-glare matte black anodized finish; waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for lasting field performance.
- Upgrade Precision Multi-coated Lens: It uses cutting-edge glass and lens coatings. Precision multi-coated optics are the distinguishing feature of the CVLIFE scope line, multi-coated lenses offer clear view for easy target acquisition
- AO Adjustment: The adjustable objective lens allows for elimination of parallax, and range estimation. Fast-focus eyepieces with diopter adjustment, suitable for people with different eyesight
- Illuminated Type of the Riflescope: green and red adjustable lighting can be changed quickly. Reticle etched on the glass of the scope provides excellent backing support for complex reticle design and offers great durability and accuracy
- The rifle scope can provide high-definition aiming at 6-24 times magnification, suitable for close to mid range shooting. Objective diameter: 50 mm, field of view: 28 ft @ 100 yards, click value: 1/8 inch @ 100 yards
- Comes with 6-24x50 AO scope, lens caps, scope rings, wrench, CR2032 battery, lens cloth
- Illuminated MIL 2 Reticle: The Bushnell Match Pro ED 5-30x56 rifle scope features the all-new Deploy MIL 2 reticle — a precise 2/10 MRAD tree design with 11 brightness levels. It includes auto shut-off after 6 hours, staggered line weights, bisected hashes, and a terminated hold-under for a clear view and fine target measurement.
- Improved Magnification: This scope offers an expanded 5-30x magnification range and a large 56mm objective lens for excellent light gathering and a generous eye box. The 34mm main tube allows for 30 MRAD elevation and 14.5 MRAD windage adjustment, giving you reach to the furthest targets.
- Precision Locking Turrets: This Bushnell scope has locking turrets with big bold lettering and a raised flared crown for a solid grip under stress.The Match Pro is known for out-of-the-box tracking accuracy and reliability, and the Match Pro ED carries this forward.
- Waterproof & Fogproof: Rated IPX7 waterproof and fogproof, this rifle scope performs in any weather. Bushnell’s EXO Barrier acts like a permanent protective coating, repelling rain, snow, oil, and dust — giving you a clear image when other hunting rifle scopes can’t.
- Zero Stop & Rev Indicator: The Easy-Set zero stop lets you return to zero quickly and confidently. The Rev-Indicator shows red on the second rotation and stainless steel on the third, ensuring you always know your elevation position — no more over-rotations or missed shots.
- Eye Relief: 3.3-2.7" With the locking turret, the CVLIFE tactical rifle scope is a great choice for hunting and shooting.
- Completed with the fully coated optical glass, the scope would give you a bright and high-contrast image.
- Made of high-strength aluminum alloy and with its one-piece tube construction, the gun scope is definitely for greater strength and durability.
- Coming with the sunshade, you can use the tactical rifle scope in any light condition.
- 20mm rail mounts included making the scope can be installed conveniently and work well.
- Enhanced BDC Reticle for Precise Targeting: The CVLIFE 4x32 rifle scope features a specialized BDC reticle designed for quick and accurate aiming at distances of 200, 300, 400, and 500 yards. No need to adjust the elevation turret – just lock onto your target effortlessly
- Comfortable Long Eye Relief: With a generous 3.9 inches of eye relief, this scope ensures comfortable and extended shooting sessions. Equipped with high-definition optics and fully multi-coated lenses, it offers edge-to-edge clarity and improved low-light visibility for a crisp view
- Compact and Lightweight Design: Measuring only 7.5 inches in length and weighing just 10.8 ounces, this scope is remarkably portable while preserving the essential attributes needed for accurate and efficient targeting. Its 1/4 MOA elevation and windage turrets provide precise adjustments for medium to long-range targeting
- Rugged Shockproof and Waterproof Construction: Crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, this 4x scope is both sturdy and lightweight, still holding zero after 500 rounds of .22lr through it. Equipped with an O-ring seal, fog resistance, and waterproof capabilities, it ensures long-lasting durability
- Easy to Install: This 4x32 compact scope comes with 20 mm picatinny rails included, offering a solid and stable mounting capability
- True 1-6x Magnification with Second Focal Plane (SFP) Reticle: Maximize your versatility with fast target acquisition at 1x and precision shot placement at 6x. The SFP reticle allows you to focus on the target and not the reticle.
- Triton ED Glass: See the Difference Experience superior light transmission, true color representation, and razor-sharp images thanks to our Extra-Low Dispersion glass. Dominate in low-light conditions and spot targets easily.
- Argon-Purged & Ready for Anything: The Mariner's aircraft-grade aluminum body, sealed construction, and argon purging guarantee absolute reliability. Shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof, this scope will handle it all.
- Enhanced Illuminated Reticle for Rapid Acquisition: The illuminated reticle features a distinct "+" shaped center dot for quick, precise aiming, even in challenging lighting. The thick outer circle further aids in fast target acquisition.
- BDC Reticle Optimized for .223/5.56/.308: Achieve long-range accuracy with the our black-etched BDC-S Bullet Drop Compensation (BDC) reticle. Calibrated holdover points aid in rapid target acquisition and shot placement out to 900 yards. This reticle also features wind hold dots so that you can account for cross-winds up to 10 mph.
- Adjustable 6-24x magnification with integrated throw lever for smooth adjustments
- Newly designed first focal plane reticle for faster range estimation and holdover correction with 6 levels of illumination. Available in MOA or MIL reticle versions.
- Improved adjustment turrets with 1/8 MOA/click windage and adjustment knobs with an easy-to-use zero stop mechanism. Set zero stop at your designated elevation setting and return to zero effortlessly at any time.
- The package also includes: a set of Monstrum Next Level Series high profile 30mm scope rings with an integrated level bubble, a detachable aluminum sunshade for reducing glare, a set of bikini lens covers for protecting your scope lenses when not in use.
- All Monstrum products are backed by a lifetime guarantee
Choosing Your Perfect 500-Yard Scope: A Buyer’s Guide
Finding the right scope for shooting accurately at 500 yards makes a big difference. This guide helps you pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a scope meant for 500-yard shooting, certain features really matter.
- Magnification Range: You need enough zoom. Look for scopes that go up to at least 14x or 16x. Some excellent choices offer 20x or more. Higher magnification helps you see small targets clearly at long distances.
- Objective Lens Diameter: This is the big lens at the front. Bigger numbers (like 50mm or 56mm) let in more light. More light means a brighter picture, which is crucial when the sun starts setting.
- Turret Adjustments (Clicks): Turrets are the knobs you turn to adjust for wind and distance. Make sure the adjustments are precise. “MOA” (Minutes of Angle) or “MRAD” (Milliradians) are common units. For 500 yards, you want turrets that click clearly and hold their zero (stay accurate).
- Reticle Type: The reticle is the crosshair pattern inside the scope. For long range, simple crosshairs often aren’t enough. Look for Mil-Dot or BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles. These help you aim above or below your target when gravity pulls the bullet down.
Important Materials and Durability
A good scope needs tough materials to handle recoil and weather.
Most quality scopes use aircraft-grade aluminum for the main tube. This material is strong but light. The lenses inside must be high quality.
- Glass Quality: Better glass means clearer sight pictures. Look for scopes advertised with “Fully Multi-Coated” lenses. This coating reduces glare and improves light transmission. Poor glass makes the image look fuzzy or dim.
- Sealing: Your scope must resist the elements. Scopes rated as waterproof and fog-proof are essential. They usually have internal gas (like nitrogen or argon) pumped inside to stop moisture from building up when temperatures change quickly.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one scope better than another? It usually comes down to precision and construction.
Quality Boosters: Precise tracking on the turrets is a huge quality booster. If you dial up 10 clicks, the scope must move exactly the amount it promises. Excellent edge-to-edge clarity on the lenses is also a sign of a high-quality scope.
Quality Reducers: Cheap plastic parts reduce quality significantly. If the adjustment knobs feel mushy or loose, the scope will not hold zero reliably. Scopes with narrow eye relief (the distance your eye must be from the scope) can also reduce quality because they make it hard to get a full picture quickly.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the scope affects what you should buy.
Hunting vs. Target Shooting: If you use the scope for hunting deer at 500 yards, you need a scope that handles low light well and is relatively light to carry. If you are strictly target shooting (plinking on a range), you can choose a heavier scope with more extreme adjustment capabilities.
Ease of Use: For a beginner shooter, a simple BDC reticle might be easier to learn than a complex Mil-Dot system. Experienced long-range shooters prefer fully adjustable turrets and often zero-stop features, which help you return quickly to your zero point after making major adjustments.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About 500-Yard Scopes
Q: What magnification do I really need for 500 yards?
A: You should look for a scope that zooms up to at least 14x. Many shooters prefer 16x or higher for better target identification at that distance.
Q: Is a first focal plane (FFP) or second focal plane (SFP) reticle better?
A: FFP reticles stay accurate at all magnification levels. SFP reticles are usually cheaper but only have accurate holdover points at one specific magnification setting. FFP is generally preferred for serious long-range work.
Q: How much should I expect to pay for a reliable 500-yard scope?
A: You can find entry-level scopes around $300, but for guaranteed tracking and excellent glass for 500 yards, expect to spend between $500 and $1000.
Q: What does “Eye Relief” mean?
A: Eye relief is the safe distance your eye must be from the eyepiece to see a full sight picture. If it is too short, the scope can hit your eyebrow during recoil (scope bite).
Q: Should I get MOA or MRAD adjustments?
A: It does not matter much as long as you stick to one system. Match your turret clicks to your reticle markings (MOA turrets with MOA reticles, or MRAD turrets with MRAD reticles).
Q: What is “Parallax Adjustment”?
A: Parallax adjustment lets you correct for an optical illusion that happens at long range. It makes the reticle look like it moves off the target. Most good long-range scopes have an adjustable objective or side focus knob for this.
Q: Do I need illuminated reticles?
A: Illumination helps you see the reticle against dark targets or in low light. It is a nice feature, especially for hunting, but not strictly required for daytime target shooting.
Q: How does scope weight affect my shooting?
A: Heavier scopes often have more robust internal mechanisms, which helps them hold zero better. However, a very heavy scope tires you out if you have to carry it a long way.
Q: What is “Tube Diameter” (like 30mm vs 1 inch)?
A: Most modern scopes built for long range use a 30mm tube. This larger tube allows for more internal adjustment range, which you need for long-distance shooting.
Q: How often should I check if my scope still holds zero?
A: You should always shoot a few rounds to confirm zero after mounting the scope, after transporting the rifle roughly, or if the rifle has been dropped. Regular checks are smart shooting practice.