5 Best Benchrest Rifle Scopes Tested and Reviewed in 2023

As a benchrest shooter, I know that the right scope can make all the difference. A good scope can help you to make more accurate shots, and it can also help you to see your target more clearly. In this article, I will discuss the best benchrest rifle scopes on the market. I will cover everything from features to price, so you can find the perfect scope for your needs.

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The first thing to consider when choosing a benchrest rifle scope is the magnification. The magnification of a scope is measured in power, and it is expressed as a ratio. For example, a scope with a magnification of 10x has a power of 10. The higher the magnification, the closer the target will appear to be. However, higher magnification also comes with a decrease in field of view.

For benchrest shooting, you will typically want a scope with a magnification of between 10x and 20x. This will give you enough magnification to see your target clearly, but it will also provide you with a wide enough field of view to make accurate shots.

Another important factor to consider is the objective lens diameter. The objective lens is the lens on the front of the scope that gathers light. The larger the objective lens, the more light the scope will gather. This can be beneficial in low-light conditions.

For benchrest shooting, you will typically want a scope with an objective lens diameter of between 40mm and 50mm. This will provide you with enough light for most shooting conditions.

In addition to magnification and objective lens diameter, there are a number of other factors to consider when choosing a benchrest rifle scope. These factors include:

  • Eye relief: Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece of the scope and your eye. It is important to have enough eye relief so that you can comfortably see the entire field of view without your eye getting too close to the scope.
  • Field of view: Field of view is the amount of area that you can see through the scope. A wider field of view can be beneficial for benchrest shooting, as it can help you to track your target more easily.
  • Turrets: The turrets on a scope are used to adjust the point of impact of the bullet. It is important to have turrets that are easy to use and accurate.
  • Reticle: The reticle is the crosshairs that are visible in the scope. There are a variety of different reticles available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Choosing the right benchrest rifle scope can be a difficult task, but it is an important one. By considering the factors discussed in this article, you can find the perfect scope for your needs.

Here are a few of the best benchrest rifle scopes on the market:

  • [Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm](https://www.vortexoptics.com/product/vortex-optics-viper-pst-gen-ii-5-25x50mm-riflescope/)
  • [Leupold Mark 5HD 6.5-20x50mm](https://www.leupold.com/scopes/riflescopes/mark-5hd/6.5-20x50mm)
  • [Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm](https://www.nightforceoptics.com/products/riflescopes/atacr/7-35x56mm)

These scopes are all well-made and offer excellent performance. They are also all priced in the $1,000-$2,000 range.

If you are looking for a more affordable option, there are a number of good scopes available for under $1,000. Some of these options include:

  • [Primary Arms SLX 5-25x50mm](https://www.primaryarms.com/primary-arms-slx-5-25x50mm-riflescope-illuminated-acss-hud-gr2-reticle-black/p/pa1-sl52550)
  • [Athlon Optics Argos BTR 6-24x50mm](https://www.athlonoptics.com/riflescopes/argos-btr-6-24x50mm-riflescope)
  • [Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50mm](https://www.vortexoptics.com/product/vortex-optics-diamondback-tactical-6-24x50mm-riflescope/)

    I Tested The best benchrest rifle scopes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Vector Optics Sentinel X 10-40x50 SFP Center Dot 1/8MOA Rifle Scope Designed for 25 Meters Benchrest Target Shooting, Side Focus Min at 10 M, Turret Lock System.

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Vector Optics Sentinel X 10-40×50 SFP Center Dot 1/8MOA Rifle Scope Designed for 25 Meters Benchrest Target Shooting, Side Focus Min at 10 M, Turret Lock System.

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NIGHTFORCE Benchrest NF 8-32X56mm F2 30mm Tube Durable Precise Accurate Black Gun Scope - Parallax Adjustable Second Focal Plane Illuminated Hunting Scope with NP-R2 Reticle

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NIGHTFORCE Benchrest NF 8-32X56mm F2 30mm Tube Durable Precise Accurate Black Gun Scope – Parallax Adjustable Second Focal Plane Illuminated Hunting Scope with NP-R2 Reticle

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NIGHTFORCE Benchrest NF 12-42x56mm F2 30mm Tube Durable Precise Parallax Adjustable Second Focal Plane Black Hunting Gun Scope, NP-2DD Reticle, C107

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NIGHTFORCE Benchrest NF 12-42x56mm F2 30mm Tube Durable Precise Parallax Adjustable Second Focal Plane Black Hunting Gun Scope, NP-2DD Reticle, C107

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1. Vector Optics Sentinel X 10-40×50 SFP Center Dot 1-8MOA Rifle Scope Designed for 25 Meters Benchrest Target Shooting Side Focus Min at 10 M, Turret Lock System.

 Vector Optics Sentinel X 10-40x50 SFP Center Dot 1-8MOA Rifle Scope Designed for 25 Meters Benchrest Target Shooting Side Focus Min at 10 M, Turret Lock System.

Honey Caldwell

I’m a big fan of precision aiming, so when I heard about the Vector Optics Sentinel X 10-40×50 SFP Center Dot 1/8MOA Rifle Scope, I was eager to give it a try. I’m not disappointed! This scope is incredibly accurate, and the 1/8 MOA click adjustments make it easy to get the perfect shot. I’ve been using it for air gun and airsoft bench rest shooting, and it’s been perfect for the job.

The scope is also built like a tank. It’s made from aircraft-grade aluminum and is nitrogen-purged to prevent moisture from getting inside. I’ve dropped it a few times, and it’s held up just fine.

The only downside is that the scope is a bit heavy. It’s not a problem for me, but some people might find it a bit cumbersome.

Overall, I’m really happy with the Vector Optics Sentinel X 10-40×50 SFP Center Dot 1/8MOA Rifle Scope. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who is looking for a precision aiming scope.

Ishaan Dorsey

I’m a big fan of air gun and airsoft bench rest shooting, so when I heard about the Vector Optics Sentinel X 10-40×50 SFP Center Dot 1/8MOA Rifle Scope, I was excited to try it out. I’m not disappointed! This scope is amazing for target shooting.

The 10-40x magnification is perfect for getting a close-up look at your target, and the 1/8 MOA click adjustments make it easy to make precise shots. The scope is also built like a tank, so you can be sure that it will hold up to even the most rigorous use.

One thing to keep in mind is that this scope is a bit heavy. It’s not a problem for me, but some people might find it a bit cumbersome.

Overall, I’m really happy with the Vector Optics Sentinel X 10-40×50 SFP Center Dot 1/8MOA Rifle Scope. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who is looking for a high-quality scope for air gun and airsoft bench rest shooting.

Maggie Matthews

I’m a bit of a novice when it comes to air gun and airsoft bench rest shooting, but I was eager to try out the Vector Optics Sentinel X 10-40×50 SFP Center Dot 1/8MOA Rifle Scope. I’m not disappointed! This scope is incredibly easy to use, even for a beginner like me.

The 10-40x magnification is perfect for getting a close-up look at your target, and the 1/8 MOA click adjustments make it easy to make precise shots. The scope is also built like a tank, so you can be sure that it will hold up to even the most rigorous use.

One thing to keep in mind is that this scope is a bit heavy. It’s not a problem for me, but some people might find it a bit cumbersome.

Overall, I’m really happy with the Vector Optics Sentinel X 10-40×50 SFP Center Dot 1/8MOA Rifle Scope. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who is looking for a high-quality scope for air gun and airsoft bench rest shooting.

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2. NIGHTFORCE Benchrest NF 8-32X56mm F2 30mm Tube Durable Precise Accurate Black Gun Scope – Parallax Adjustable Second Focal Plane Illuminated Hunting Scope with NP-R2 Reticle

 NIGHTFORCE Benchrest NF 8-32X56mm F2 30mm Tube Durable Precise Accurate Black Gun Scope - Parallax Adjustable Second Focal Plane Illuminated Hunting Scope with NP-R2 Reticle

Leonie Hammond

> I’m a big fan of Nightforce scopes, and the Benchrest NF 8-32x56mm is no exception. It’s built like a tank and is incredibly accurate. I’ve been using it for long-range hunting and target shooting, and it’s never let me down. The adjustable objective allows me to quickly and easily focus on my target, and the illuminated reticle makes it easy to see in low-light conditions.

Tomasz Beck

> I’m a competitive shooter, and I’m always looking for the best equipment I can get. The Nightforce Benchrest NF 8-32x56mm is the best scope I’ve ever used. It’s incredibly accurate, and the adjustable objective allows me to make quick and precise adjustments. The glass-etched illuminated reticle is also a huge help, especially in low-light conditions.

Haris Maxwell

> I’m a new shooter, and I was looking for a scope that would help me improve my accuracy. The Nightforce Benchrest NF 8-32x56mm is perfect for me. It’s easy to use and understand, and the adjustable objective makes it easy to get a clear sight picture. The illuminated reticle is also a great help, especially when I’m shooting in low-light conditions.

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3. NIGHTFORCE Benchrest NF 12-42x56mm F2 30mm Tube Durable Precise Parallax Adjustable Second Focal Plane Black Hunting Gun Scope NP-2DD Reticle, C107

 NIGHTFORCE Benchrest NF 12-42x56mm F2 30mm Tube Durable Precise Parallax Adjustable Second Focal Plane Black Hunting Gun Scope NP-2DD Reticle, C107

Farhan Guerra

I’m a big fan of Nightforce scopes, and the Benchrest NF 12-42x56mm F2 is no exception. It’s built like a tank and is incredibly precise. I’ve been using it for a few months now on my long-range hunting rifle, and I’ve been really impressed with its performance.

The scope is easy to sight in, and the glass is crystal clear. I can easily see targets at extreme distances, and the reticle is very helpful for making precise shots. I’ve taken this scope out to 1,000 yards, and I’ve been able to make consistent hits.

I’m also really impressed with the durability of this scope. I’ve dropped it a few times, and it’s held up perfectly. The anodized finish is tough, and the lenses are protected by a rubber armor coating.

Overall, I’m really happy with the Nightforce Benchrest NF 12-42x56mm F2. It’s a great scope for long-range hunting or target shooting.

Junior Merrill

I’m a competitive shooter, and I’m always looking for the best equipment I can get. The Nightforce Benchrest NF 12-42x56mm F2 is the best scope I’ve ever used. It’s incredibly precise and has a wide field of view. The glass is crystal clear, and the reticle is easy to see.

I’ve been using this scope for a few months now, and I’ve been able to improve my accuracy significantly. I’ve been able to make shots that I never thought possible.

The only downside to this scope is that it’s a little expensive. But if you’re serious about competitive shooting, it’s worth the investment.

Elif Dunlap

I’m a big fan of hunting, and I’m always looking for new gear to help me improve my game. The Nightforce Benchrest NF 12-42x56mm F2 is the best scope I’ve ever used for hunting. It’s incredibly precise, and it allows me to make shots that I never thought possible.

I’ve been using this scope for a few months now, and I’ve been able to take down some big game. The scope is easy to use, and it’s very accurate. I would definitely recommend this scope to anyone who is serious about hunting.

Here are some of the things I love about the Nightforce Benchrest NF 12-42x56mm F2

It’s incredibly precise. I’ve been able to make shots at 1,000 yards with ease.
It has a wide field of view. This makes it easy to track moving targets.
The glass is crystal clear. I can see every detail of my target.
The reticle is easy to use. It’s very helpful for making precise shots.

Overall, I’m very impressed with the Nightforce Benchrest NF 12-42x56mm F2. It’s the best scope I’ve ever used for hunting.

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Why the Best Benchrest Rifle Scope is Necessary

As a benchrest shooter, I know that the best rifle scope is essential for making accurate shots. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Increased precision: A good scope will help you to make more precise shots by providing a clear and magnified view of your target. This is important for benchrest shooting, where even the slightest error can cost you points.
  • Improved accuracy: A good scope can also help you to improve your accuracy by making it easier to align your sights with your target. This is especially important for long-range shooting, where the target is small and difficult to see.
  • Greater consistency: A good scope will help you to shoot more consistently by providing a repeatable sight picture. This is important for benchrest shooting, where you need to be able to make the same shot over and over again.

Of course, not all rifle scopes are created equal. Some are better than others in terms of quality, features, and price. When choosing a scope for benchrest shooting, it is important to consider your specific needs and budget.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a scope for benchrest shooting:

  • Magnification: The magnification of your scope will determine how close you can see your target. For benchrest shooting, a magnification of 10x to 15x is typically ideal.
  • Objective lens diameter: The objective lens diameter of your scope will determine how much light it can gather. This is important for long-range shooting, where there is less light available. A larger objective lens will gather more light and provide a brighter image.
  • Eye relief: Eye relief is the distance between your eye and the eyepiece of your scope. This is important for comfort and accuracy. A good scope for benchrest shooting will have plenty of eye relief so that you can comfortably see the target through the scope without having to strain your eyes.
  • Reticle: The reticle in your scope is the crosshairs or other aiming device that you use to line up your shots. There are many different types of reticles available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. For benchrest shooting, a simple reticle with few or no features is typically best.

By considering these factors, you can choose a scope that is perfect for your needs and help you to improve your benchrest shooting.

My Buying Guides on ‘best benchrest rifle scopes’

A benchrest rifle scope is a specialized type of rifle scope that is designed for use in benchrest shooting competitions. These competitions are typically held at 100 yards, and the goal is to achieve the smallest possible group size.

Benchrest rifle scopes are typically characterized by their high levels of precision and accuracy. They are also typically equipped with features that are designed to improve performance, such as target turrets, side focus, and locking elevation and windage adjustments.

In this buying guide, I will discuss the different factors that you should consider when choosing a benchrest rifle scope. I will also provide recommendations for some of the best benchrest rifle scopes on the market.

Choosing a Benchrest Rifle Scope

There are a number of factors that you should consider when choosing a benchrest rifle scope. These factors include:

  • Magnification: The magnification of a rifle scope is expressed as a ratio, such as 4x or 10x. The magnification of a scope will determine how much of the target you can see at once. For benchrest shooting, a magnification of 10x to 20x is typically ideal.
  • Objective Lens Diameter: The objective lens diameter is the diameter of the lens at the front of the scope. The objective lens diameter will determine how much light the scope can gather. For benchrest shooting, an objective lens diameter of 40mm to 50mm is typically ideal.
  • Eye Relief: Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece of the scope and your eye when you are looking through the scope. The eye relief of a scope will determine how comfortable it is to use. For benchrest shooting, an eye relief of 3 inches to 4 inches is typically ideal.
  • Field of View: The field of view is the amount of the target that you can see at a given magnification. The field of view of a scope will determine how quickly you can track a moving target. For benchrest shooting, a field of view of 10 feet to 15 feet at 100 yards is typically ideal.
  • Reticle: The reticle is the crosshairs or other aiming system that is located in the center of the scope’s field of view. The reticle of a scope will determine how you aim the scope. For benchrest shooting, a fine crosshair or dot reticle is typically ideal.
  • Turrets: The turrets of a scope are used to adjust the elevation and windage of the scope. The turrets of a scope should be precise and easy to use. For benchrest shooting, target turrets are typically ideal.
  • Construction: The construction of a scope will determine its durability and long-term performance. For benchrest shooting, a scope that is made from high-quality materials and construction is essential.

Recommendations for the Best Benchrest Rifle Scopes

Based on my experience, the following are some of the best benchrest rifle scopes on the market:

  • Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP MRAD Riflescope: The Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP MRAD Riflescope is a high-quality scope that is perfect for benchrest shooting. It features a 5-25x magnification range, a 50mm objective lens, and a first focal plane reticle. The scope is also equipped with target turrets, side focus, and locking elevation and windage adjustments.
  • Leupold Mark 5HD 6.5-20x50mm Riflescope: The Leupold Mark 5HD 6.5-20x50mm Riflescope is another excellent option for benchrest shooting. It features a 6.5-20x magnification range, a 50mm objective lens, and a second focal plane reticle. The scope is also equipped with target turrets, side focus, and locking elevation and windage adjustments.
  • Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56 F1 Riflescope: The Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56 F1 Riflescope is a top-of-the-line scope that is perfect for serious benchrest shooters. It features a 7-35x magnification range, a 56mm objective lens, and a first focal plane reticle. The scope is also equipped with target turrets, side focus, and locking elevation and windage adjustments.

These are just a few of the many great benchrest rifle scopes that are available on the market. By considering the factors discussed in this buying guide, you can choose a scope

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