6 Best 2022 Riflescopes for 1,000 Yards

Gun owners and hunters who love long-range shooting need specialized riflescopes. A reliable riflescope will compensate for the various factors that negatively affect the bullet’s trajectory, ensuring precision shots. To achieve precision shots at a long distance, you need the best 1,000-yard scope for your rifle.

The 1,000-yard rifle scopes come with several adjustments, which enable shot compensation and guarantee precise shots all the time. However, finding the best 30 06  scopes or any riflescope can be a daunting experience. Gun owners need to consider several vital factors before buying the riflescope.

A high-quality optic is essential for every gun owner. I come from a family with many years of target shooting and hunting tradition in Colorado. For the past two decades, I have used different riflescopes when target shooting and varmint hunting and gained immense professional experience when it comes to picking the best rifle scope.

In this detailed review, we have listed the six best 1,000 yards riflescopes. Our guide also covers the key factors gun owners need to consider when shopping for long-range riflescopes. Various experts have tested and tried the riflescopes in our list before being included.

Here’s the best 1,000 yard scope – Tried & Tested

1. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

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The Vortex Strike Eagle tops the list of the best scopes for 1,000 yards. The scope offers both optimal functionality and affordability to gun owners. Hunters have the following size options when buying this riflescope:

The riflescope is available in two main styles depending on the needs of the gun owner: BDC3 and EBR-4. The design and construction of the scope ensures the riflescope can execute technical shots for medium to long-distance shooting situations. It also offers repeatable performance and rock-solid quality to hunters.

The glass lens is fully multi-coated and produces crisp and bright images; they provide the shooter with easy target acquisition at all times. The SFP (second focal plane) reticle has a glass etching. It gives detailed hold points while remaining visually clean for optimal imagery.

The magnification range of the Vortex Strike Eagle varies depending on the size options. The versatility of the magnification range ensures the magnification needs of various gun owners are met. The scope is suitable for different shooting scenarios.

Related Article: 8 Best Rifle Scope for Your Money 2022

The scope comes with the following magnification ranges depending on the size: 4-24X, 1-6X, and 1-8X. The diameter of the objective lens also varies with the size options. Scopes with a magnification range of 1-6X and 1-8X have a 24mm objective lens, while the 4-24X scope has a 50mm objective lens.

The scope operates using a CR2032 battery and has 11 levels of brightness settings. The 30mm single-piece tube has been constructed using aluminum, while its rugged design can withstand impact and recoil. O-ring sealing and nitrogen purging ensure the scope has waterproof and fog proof capabilities.

Key Specifications:

• Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm and 50mm
• Reticle Focal Plane: SFP (Second Focal Plane)
• Magnification: variable (4-24X, 1-6X and 1-8X)
• Material Construction: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
• Reticle: AR-BDC3
• Illumination Type: LED
• Adjustment Type: MOA
• Lens Material: Glass
• Brightness Settings: 11
• Optical Coating: Fully Multi-Coated
• Adjustment Click Value: 1/2 MOA

Pros

• Vortex lifetime warranty
• Affordable LPVO option
• Illuminated reticle has 11 brightness settings
• Internal turrets adjustment have an extensive range
• Non-clutter reticle
• The back reticle is visible even when the battery is out

Cons

• At 1X, there is a minor fish eye effect
• At high magnification, the eye box is small
• Reticle and turret units of measurements are different

Takeaway: The Vortex Optics Strike Eagle is a fantastic entry point riflescope for long-range shooting. Equipped with plenty of features to ensure the hunter has maximum accuracy and image clarity. Hunters can select the size options that best meet their hunting needs.

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2. Leupold VX-3i LRP 4.5-14x50mm Side Focus Riflescope

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Leupold is one of the top brands in the ammunition industry. The brand has a reputation for making high-quality rifle optics. Hunters looking for rifle scopes to meet their long-range needs will significantly benefit from the Leupold VX-3i LRP.

The Leupold VX-3i LRP has impressive features ranging from the TMR reticle, 50mm objective lens, matte finish, and side focus. It’s compatible with both handguns and rifles. Like all other high-quality scopes from Leupold, the VX-3i LRP has shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof capabilities.

The scope has LRP (long-range precision) target adjustments system. The system enables the hunter to grab the dial easily using the three revolutions of a zero-stop, revolution indicator, and travel. Hence it’s easier for hunters to have target acquisitions in long-range shooting situations.

Leupold has used an FFP (First Focal Plane) reticle on the VX-3i LRP scope model. The reticle and the image magnify concurrently, making it easy for the hunter to estimate the range regardless of the magnification settings. The 50mm objective lens ensures the scope receives plenty of light transmission for enhanced image clarity.

The ultra-lightweight design of the scope makes it easy to transport and use. The scope has dispersed recoil energy, ensuring enhanced performance and unrivaled durability. With the throw lever, hunters get almost instant magnification adjustments.

Leupold has equipped the VX-3i LRP scope model with its patented Twilight Max Light Management System, providing high-quality edge-to-edge imagery. The aluminum construction offers the scope with the needed durability and strength.

Key Specifications:

• Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
• Reticle Focal Plane: FFP (First Focal Plane)
• Magnification: 4.5 – 14X
• Eye Relief: 3.6 – 4.5 inches
• Reticle: CCH
• Material Construction:6061-T6 Aluminum
• Illumination Type: Non-Illuminated
• Adjustment Type: Mil Rad
• Lens Material: Glass
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.1 Mil Rad
• Optical Coating: DiamondCoat 2
• Parallax: Parallax Free

Pros

• Reliable scope at an affordable price
• High-quality FFP (First Focal Plane)
• 50mm objective lens for maximum light transmission
• Has an ultra-lightweight design
• Robust and durable construction

Cons

• ZERO eye relief
• Lacks illumination

Takeaway: Leupold never disappoints when it comes to high-quality rifle optics. The Leupold VX-3i LRP has been customized to provide long-range hunters with the best accuracy and image clarity. The scope offers more than optimal performance with the ultra-lightweight design, high-quality FFP reticle, and generous eye relief.

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3. Steiner T5Xi Tactical Rifle Scope – Close Compact Riflescope for Hunting

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The Steiner T5Xi Tactical scope provides ultimate accuracy. The tactical riflescope has a 34mm tube, which is oversized and offers hunters maximum precision. Additionally, the significant 34mm tube enhances the strength and reliability of the scope.

The Steiner T5Xi Tactical scope comes in the following style options:

• 1-5x 24mm – 3TR 7.62mm Reticle
• 3-15X50mm SCR 34mm
• 3-15X50mm SCR MOA 34mm
• 5-25X56mm SCR MOA 34mm
• 5-25x56mm SCR 34mm

Every style has different features that meet various gun owners’ hunting needs. The scope has an SCR (small competition reticle), specifically designed for proper competition use. The small competition reticle provides the hunter with an extended illumination region, holdover, and windage lines.

Related Article: 5 Best Scope for the Ruger 10/22 in 2022

Steiner has equipped the scope with 0.1 mil ranging brackets for precise ranging. The Steiner T5Xi Tactical scope has one of our list’s most giant objective lens. The 56mm objective lens enables maximum light transmission to the optic and is made from high-quality glass.

Tenebraex LENS COVERS are installed on the scope to protect the glass lens from moisture and dust. The scope’s throw lever allows for a speedier and straightforward magnification adjustment. Steiner has installed an advanced rotation indicator, making it easy to adjust the reticle.

Key Specifications:

• Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
• Reticle Focal Plane: FFP (First Focal Plane)
• Magnification: 5 – 25X
• Eye Relief: 3.5 – 4.3 inches
• Illumination Type: LED
• Brightness Settings: 11
• Parallax: Side Focus
• Adjustment Type: Mil Rad
• Lens Material: Glass
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.1 Mil Rad
• Optical Coating: Yes

Pros

• Unique reticle design for competitive shooting
• The one-piece scope tube is oversized for better precision
• Good quality glass
• 56mm objective lens for maximum light transmission
• Impressive magnification range versatile for different shooting scenarios
• Improved turret adjustment thanks to the rotation indicator

Cons

• Very expensive due to the glass quality

Takeaway: The Steiner T5Xi features one of the best scopes for long-range shooting. However, its impressive features make it suitable for a 500 yards shooting range. One of the best features of the scope is its 56mm objective lens which is made from high-quality glass.

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4. Primary Arms SLX 4-14x44mm FFP Rifle Scope – ACSS-Orion

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The Primary Arms SLX is the top-performing scope series produced by Primary Arms. The SLX scope series is top-rated among Primary Arms customers. The Primary Arms SLX- ACSS-Orion scope has plenty of features and helpful technology for long-range shooting.

The Primary Arms SLX- ACSS-Orion riflescope is equipped with the Primary Arms ACSS-Orion reticle. The reticle stays accurate to the scope’s magnification throughout the scope’s magnification range. Hunters who hunt for coyote or deer-sized targets will benefit from the calibrated quick-ranging and wind holding features.

The pre-calibrations on the scope make it easy for hunters to use the scope without doing any calculations for better accuracy. Thanks to the parallax adjustment knob mounted on the scope’s side, the reticle remains parallax-free at all times. The parallax adjusts knob also keeps the image sharp at long-range shooting scenarios.

Hunters enjoy an impressive magnification range of 4 – 14X. At 4X, the scope is high-speed and very precise at 14X. The ACSS Orion reticle has various wind holds (2.5, 5, and 10 mph) at all the ranges, enhancing the scope’s accuracy.

The scope lacks an illuminated reticle; gun owners will be required to purchase sun shade PA4-14SS separately. With the aluminum construction, the scope’s body has the needed strength and durability sought for by every gun owner. Primary Arms has used nitrogen purging and O-ring sealing to ensure the scope has waterproof and shockproof capabilities.

Key Specifications:

• Objective Lens Diameter: 44 mm
• Reticle Focal Plane: FFP (First Focal Plane)
• Magnification: 4 – 14X
• Eye Relief: 3.14 – 3.22 inches
• Reticle: ACSS Orion
• Illumination Type: Non-Illuminated
• Lens Material: Glass
• Adjustment Type: MOA
• Optical Coating: Fully multi-coated
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 MOA

Pros

• The scope has an ACSS Orion reticle.
• Impressive magnification range of 4 – 14X.
• Very durable and robust.
• Generous eye relief suitable for gun owners wearing glasses.
• 44mm objective lens for maximum light transmission.
• Parallax-free thanks to the parallax adjustment knob.

Cons

Takeaway: An affordable and reliable entry-level optic. The Primary Arms SLX scope is one of the best budget scopes for long-range shooting scenarios. Hunters are guaranteed solid durability, plenty of magnification, and excellent image clarity. 

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5. Burris Xtreme Tactical XTR II 8-40x50mm Precision Rifle Scope

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The Burris Xtreme Tactical XTR II is designed explicitly for long range shooting both for target hunting and competitive shooting. The scope is equipped with tactical-appropriate reticles, user-friendly adjustment knobs, and excellent resolution optics. All these features work together to achieve easy and speedy target acquisition. 

Unlike most long-range scopes, the Xtreme Tactical XTR II has an enormous magnification range of 8 – 40X and a 3.5 – 4.25 inches eye relief. The scope has a versatile zoom system which gives gun owners a wide field of view (FOV) at close range. The system also enables better target acquisition for hunters during long-range shooting situations.

Related Article: 9 Best Scopes for the .30-30 Rifles: Tested and Reviewed 2022

Thanks to the easy-to-use and accessible parallax adjustment, and the scope’s ergonomic side focus, users are provided with enhanced accuracy at a long-range. Hunters can adjust the parallax from a distance of 50 yards to infinity. 

The adjustment knobs have a Zero Click Stop mechanism, allowing the initial yardage setting to reset with no need for counting clicks. The Zero Click Stop mechanism is user-friendly. Burris has used advanced elevation and windage adjustments mechanisms for repeatable and accurate reticle adjustments. 

The scope features a 50mm objective lens. The lens is made from high-quality optical glass, which provides clarity with prolonged durability and excellent brightness.  

Burris has ensured that the internal parts of the scope are hand-fitted and precision-gauged to maintain the point of impact. The aluminum construction of the scope guarantees strength and durability of the scope at all times. 

Key Specifications:

• Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
• Reticle Focal Plane: SFP (Second Focal Plane)
• Magnification: 8 – 40X
• Eye Relief: 3.5 – 4.25 inches
• Reticle: F Class MOA
• Material Construction: Aluminum
• Adjustment Type: MOA
• Illumination Type: LED
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.125 MOA
• Lens Material: Glass
• Adjustment Range: 70 MOA
• Optical Coating: Hi-Lume Multi-Coated
• Windage/ Elevation Travel at 100 yards: 70 MOA

Pros

• Zero-stop turrets are easy to adjust
• Bright reticle enables better aiming
• Rugged with an all-weather scope construction
• Premium-quality optics provide clear imagery across all magnification
• Extensive and versatile magnification power range 

Cons 

Takeaway: The Burris Xtreme Tactical XTR II is the best rifle scope for hunters new to long-range shooting. The scope comes with plenty of reliable features useful for long-distance shooting, which are user-friendly. Additionally, it’s affordable despite having modern optic features. 

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6. Mueller Target Rifle Scope, Black, 8-32 x 44mm

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The Mueller is not very well-known compared to other brands in our list like Vortex, Leopold, and Burris, but the brand has pretty good reliable riflescopes. The Mueller Target Rifle Scope is equipped with plenty of impressive features, uncommon in most riflescopes in its class. At an affordable price, you can enjoy high-performance optics and at an affordable price.

If you are looking for a reliable, lower-cost alternative riflescope for long-range shooting, then the Mueller Target Rifle Scope will fit the description. With the scope, you efficiently practice long-distance shooting, thanks to the edge-to-edge image clarity achieved by the scope.

Related Article: 7 Best Rifle Scope for .30-06 in 2022

The scope features a 44mm objective lens, which isn’t as large as other scopes in our list, which features a 50mm objective lens. Additionally, the 3.2 inches of eye relief is fixed with a magnification range of 8 – 32X. Despite having a fixed eye relief, the eye relief is generous enough to provide a clear image for the hunter. 

The 8 – 32X magnification range is impressive and provides ample versatility for users. Hunters can use different magnifications depending on the type of applications. Even during low magnification, the scope offers clear and bright images. 

The lens is fully multi-coated for enhanced light transmission. Additionally, the scope holds zero exceptionally well. 

Key Specifications:

• Objective Lens Diameter: 44 mm
• Reticle Focal Plane: SFP (Second Focal Plane)
• Magnification: 8 – 32X
• Eye Relief: 3.2 inches
• Reticle: Target Dot
• Illumination Type: Non-Illuminated
• Lens Material: Crystal
• Adjustment Type: MOA
• Parallax: 10 yards to infinity
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.125 MOA
• Optical Coating: Fully Multi-Coated

Pros

• Has a generous fixed eye relief. 
• Clear and bright images at very low magnification.
• Holds zero exceptionally well.
• Very affordable despite having many features.
• Impressive magnification range 8 – 32X. 

Cons 

• Lacks image clarity under high magnification.

Takeaway: If you are looking for budget scopes for your rifles, Muller has the best options. The Mueller Target Rifle Scope provides modest performance for long-range shooting needed by novice hunters. With such a price tag, the scope gives buyers value for their money. 

Why Do You Need Scopes for 1,000 Yards?

The rifle scopes for 1,000 yards enhance the view of the target. 1,000 yards will prove challenging, primarily when you target something one foot away. Even hitting a big target like a car might be challenging. 

Bullet’s trajectory plays an essential role in successfully shooting the target. When bullets are in the air, they lose their momentum, making them vulnerable to the force of gravity. As a hunter, you might assume you have successfully zeroed your target, only for the bullet to fall a few yards from your target.

Wind can also affect whether you will shoot the target or not. You might not be in a windy environment, but an unexpected wind gust will easily deflect your bullet from its path. 

With the 1,000 yards scopes, hunters can quickly make precise shots. Hunters are provided with a clear view of the target and detailed wind strength indicators. So they can make accurate judgments about the elevation and windage and make the necessary adjustments. 

What Makes a Great Scope for 1,000 Yards?

There are specific qualities that make a great 1,000 yards scope. The scope must be equipped with high-quality lenses. High-quality lenses will provide clear and bright images regardless of the magnification setting.

The lens should also allow optimal light transmission. Optimal light transmission is achieved by the size of the lens and the coatings of the lens. A large, fully multi-coated lens will create more explicit and brighter target images.

The weight and durability of the scope is another important factor. The riflescope must have nitrogen purging and O-ring sealing to achieve weatherproof capabilities. These capabilities ensure high image quality through the ocular.

A reliable 1,000 yards scope should be equipped with snappy adjustment turrets. Easy to use adjustment turrets provide auditory and tactile feedback. The feedback is helpful when the user wants to compensate for elevation, wind deflection, and parallax.

An extensive zoom range is essential for versatility socially for hunters who want to use the scope for different shooting situations. Finally, the best 1,000 yards scope should maintain repeatability of the turret adjustments and hold zero. The adjustments on the turrets should match with the reticle adjustments.

Buying Guide: Important Factors when choosing 1,000 Yards rifle scope

Long-range shooting requires scopes, which are specifically designed for long-distance shooting. If you want to achieve successful long-range shooting, then you need to buy the best scope for your rifle. There are many scopes in the market, from different brands, equipped with a wide variety of features.

When shopping for the best 1,000 yards rifle scopes, it’s essential to consider the following key factors:

Lens Quality

The lens should provide you with the most precise and bright image of the target. The image clarity shouldn’t be affected by the changing magnification. When you have a clear picture at high magnification, you can effectively understand the wind’s effect on your shot.

The best lens quality will achieve maximum light transmission. To ensure you buy a scope with the best lens quality, go for scope brands with a reputation for making high-quality optics.

Magnification

Your sight will determine the best magnification range to go for. Some hunters will require a much higher magnification to make a successful shot at 1,000 yards, while others will require a lower magnification range of 1-4X.

The use of the scope is also important. Will you be using the scope for target shooting or varmint hunting? The best magnification range is 3-25X since it comes with plenty of versatility, suitable for all hunters targeting long-range shooting.

Reticle Type

While the Duplex-type reticle and the standard German crosshair will work well for short to medium shooting ranges, with 1,000 yards shooting, you will need assistance. The 1,000 yards scope reticle should be equipped with dots and markings, which are vertically and horizontally spread. The markings help the reticle adjust based on the target elevation and wind direction.

Fixed or Variable Scopes

Fixed scopes are the best options if you are looking for simplicity, consistency, and user-friendly capabilities. Sadly the fixed scopes come with the limitations of only using the scope in situations allowed by the magnification.

Variable scopes, on the other hand, come with great versatility. They are most suitable for hunters who plan to use the scope on different shooting ranges.

Adjustments

The bullet drop is high when the distance is longer. Hunters need more significant elevation adjustments when the target is very far. The same case applies to wind elevation. A reliable long-distance scope should have ample adjustments (windage and elevation) to make a successful shot.

The parallax also increases with distance. A parallax adjustment on the side knob is better than placing it on the objective. A side knob parallax adjustment is easier to use.

FAQ’s

What is the best long-range rifle scope?

The best long-range riflescope is Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Rifle Scopes..

What magnification do you need for 1,000-yard shots?

It’s best to get an extensive magnification range, preferably a 3-25X magnification range.

Final Verdict

The exceptional optical clarity is essential when looking for the best 1,000 yards scope. The scope should also have adequate adjustment mechanisms, allowing the user to make precise and accurate aims.

The Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane is the best scope for 1,000 yards. It features an impressive 4-24X magnification range and a massive 50mm objective lens for maximum light transmission. The lens is made from high-quality glass material and is fully multi-coated. Vortex has also equipped the scope with internal turret adjustment with an extensive range.

When shopping for a good 1,000 yard scope, it’s essential to consider the magnification, lens type, adjustments, and reticle types. The scope you pick should meet your shooting needs and match your shooting style.