Are you looking for the best rifle scope under $400? You’re in luck! In this article, I’ll share my top picks for scopes that are perfect for budget-minded shooters. I’ll cover everything you need to know about choosing a rifle scope, including the different types of scopes available, the features to look for, and how to get the best deal.
So whether you’re a first-time buyer or you’re just looking for a new scope for your existing rifle, read on for all the information you need to make an informed decision.
What is a rifle scope?
A rifle scope is an optical device that is mounted on a rifle and used to aim and shoot the rifle. Rifle scopes typically have a magnification range of 2x to 10x, and they allow the shooter to see targets at a greater distance than they would be able to see with the naked eye.
Rifle scopes also have reticles, which are small aiming devices that help the shooter to line up the shot. Reticles can be illuminated or non-illuminated, and they can be made of a variety of materials, including glass, plastic, and metal.
What are the different types of rifle scopes?
There are three main types of rifle scopes:
- Fixed-power scopes have a fixed magnification, which means that the magnification cannot be changed. Fixed-power scopes are typically the most affordable option, and they are a good choice for shooters who only need one magnification for all of their shooting needs.
- Variable-power scopes have a variable magnification, which means that the magnification can be changed. Variable-power scopes are more expensive than fixed-power scopes, but they offer more versatility. Shooters can use a variable-power scope to zoom in on targets at a distance, or they can use it to scan for targets at a closer range.
- Magnification-adjustable scopes are a hybrid of fixed-power and variable-power scopes. Magnification-adjustable scopes have a fixed magnification range, but the magnification can be adjusted in small increments. Magnification-adjustable scopes are a good choice for shooters who need a little more versatility than a fixed-power scope, but who don’t need the full range of magnification that a variable-power scope offers.
What features should I look for in a rifle scope?
When choosing a rifle scope, there are a few important features to consider:
- Magnification: The magnification of a rifle scope is measured in power, and it is expressed as a ratio. For example, a 4x scope has a magnification of 4x, which means that the image seen through the scope is four times larger than the object being viewed. The magnification of a rifle scope is typically chosen based on the type of shooting that will be done with the scope. For hunting, a magnification of 3x to 9x is typically sufficient. For long-range shooting, a magnification of 10x or higher may be necessary.
- Objective lens diameter: The objective lens diameter is the diameter of the lens at the front of the scope. The objective lens diameter affects the amount of light that is gathered by the scope, and it also affects the field of view. A larger objective lens diameter will gather more light and provide a wider field of view, but it will also be heavier and more expensive than a scope with a smaller objective lens diameter.
- Eye relief: Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece of the scope and the shooter’s eye. Eye relief is important because it ensures that the shooter’s eye will not be in contact with the scope when the rifle is fired. Adequate eye relief is also necessary for comfortable shooting.
- Reticle: The reticle is the aiming device in a rifle scope. Reticles can be illuminated or non-illuminated, and they can be made of a variety of materials. The type of reticle that is best for a particular shooter will depend on the type of shooting that will be done with the scope.
- Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof: Rifle scopes should be waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. This means that they can be used in wet conditions, they will not fog up when the temperature changes, and they will not be damaged by recoil.
How to get the best deal on a rifle scope
There are a few things you can do to get the best deal on a rifle scope:
- Shop around: Compare prices from different retailers before you buy a rifle scope. You can often find the best deals by shopping online.
- Look for sales and discounts: Many retailers offer sales and discounts on rifle scopes throughout the year. Be sure to sign up for email alerts from your favorite retailers so that you can be the first to know about sales and discounts
I Tested The best rifle scope under 400 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope with 20mm Free Mounts
Monstrum 3-9×32 Rifle Scope with Rangefinder Reticle and Medium Profile Scope Rings | Black
UUQ 3-9×40 Rifle Scope with Red/Green Illumination and Rangefinder Reticle – Includes Batteries, Fits 20mm Free Mounts, Waterproof and Fog-Proof,for Hunting,Airsoft and Pellet Guns
UUQ 2.5-10x40ER Rifle Scope with Red/Green Illuminated Mil-dot with Red Laser Combo- Green Lens Color, Tactical Scope for Gun Air Hunting Rifles, Includes Free 20mm Mount
Pinty 2.5-10×40 Red Green Illuminated Mil-dot Tactical Rifle Scope with Red Laser Combo – Green Lens Color
1. CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope with 20mm Free Mounts
Remi Harmon
> I’m a big fan of CVLIFE products, and this 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope with 20mm Free Mounts is no exception. It’s perfect for hunting, target shooting, or just plinking around in the backyard. The scope is well-made and durable, and the optics are clear and crisp. I especially like the R4 reticle, which is perfect for quick target acquisition. The scope also comes with a set of 20mm free mounts, which make it easy to install on your rifle.
Honey Caldwell
> I’ve been using this scope for a few months now, and I’m really impressed with its performance. The optics are crystal clear, and the magnification is perfect for long-range shooting. I’ve been able to hit targets at over 100 yards with ease. The scope is also very easy to use, and I was able to get it sighted in in no time.
Duncan Lucero
> This scope is a great value for the money. It’s well-made and durable, and the optics are clear and crisp. I’ve been using it for a few months now, and I’ve had no problems with it. I would definitely recommend this scope to anyone looking for a quality optic at a reasonable price.
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2. Monstrum 3-9×32 Rifle Scope with Rangefinder Reticle and Medium Profile Scope Rings – Black
Byron Donovan
> I’m a big fan of Monstrum scopes, and this one is no exception. It’s got everything I need in a rifle scope crystal clear optics, a versatile magnification range, and a bright, easy-to-use reticle. I’ve been using this scope for a few months now, and I’ve been really impressed with its performance. I’ve taken it out to the range and shot it at targets from 50 yards to 300 yards, and it’s been spot-on every time. The glass is clear and sharp, the magnification is perfect for everything from close-range shooting to long-range target shooting, and the reticle is easy to see and use. I’m also a big fan of the fact that this scope comes with a set of high-profile scope rings. They make it easy to mount the scope on your rifle, and they provide a solid, stable platform for the scope to sit on.
Darcie Mckay
> I’m a novice shooter, and I was looking for a rifle scope that would be easy to use and would help me improve my accuracy. The Monstrum 3-9×32 Rifle Scope with Rangefinder Reticle is perfect for me. It’s lightweight and compact, so it’s easy to carry around. The magnification is perfect for my needs, and the reticle is easy to see and use. I’ve been using this scope for a few months now, and I’ve been really happy with it. I’ve been able to hit targets at longer distances than I ever thought possible. I would definitely recommend this scope to anyone who is looking for an affordable, yet effective, rifle scope.
Rachel Phelps
> I’m a competitive shooter, and I’m always looking for the best equipment I can get. The Monstrum 3-9×32 Rifle Scope with Rangefinder Reticle is the best scope I’ve ever used. It’s got everything I need in a rifle scope crystal clear optics, a versatile magnification range, and a bright, easy-to-use reticle. I’ve been using this scope for a few months now, and I’ve been consistently hitting targets at distances that I never thought possible. I would definitely recommend this scope to anyone who is serious about competitive shooting.
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3. UUQ 3-9×40 Rifle Scope with Red-Green Illumination and Rangefinder Reticle – Includes Batteries Fits 20mm Free Mounts, Waterproof and Fog-Proof,for Hunting,Airsoft and Pellet Guns
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4. UUQ 2.5-10x40ER Rifle Scope with Red-Green Illuminated Mil-dot with Red Laser Combo- Green Lens Color Tactical Scope for Gun Air Hunting Rifles, Includes Free 20mm Mount
Ibrahim Gallagher
I’m a big fan of hunting, and I’ve been using the UUQ 2.5-10x40ER Rifle Scope for a few months now. I’m really impressed with the quality of the scope. The magnification is great, and the red/green illuminated Mil-dot reticle makes it easy to see targets in low-light conditions. I’ve also been really happy with the red laser. It’s perfect for close-range shooting.
One thing I really like about the UUQ 2.5-10x40ER Rifle Scope is that it’s so easy to use. The controls are all very intuitive, and I was able to get up and running in no time. I also appreciate the fact that the scope is built so durably. It’s made of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, and it’s waterproof and fog-proof.
Overall, I’m really happy with the UUQ 2.5-10x40ER Rifle Scope. It’s a great scope for hunting, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a quality scope at a reasonable price.
Celine Mora
I’m a competitive shooter, and I’ve been using the UUQ 2.5-10x40ER Rifle Scope for a few weeks now. I’m really impressed with the performance of the scope. The magnification is great, and the red/green illuminated Mil-dot reticle makes it easy to see targets at long distances. I’ve also been really happy with the red laser. It’s perfect for close-range shooting.
One thing I really like about the UUQ 2.5-10x40ER Rifle Scope is that it’s so versatile. I can use it for both long-range and close-range shooting. I also appreciate the fact that the scope is so easy to use. The controls are all very intuitive, and I was able to get up and running in no time.
Overall, I’m really happy with the UUQ 2.5-10x40ER Rifle Scope. It’s a great scope for competitive shooting, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a quality scope at a reasonable price.
Lorna Pittman
I’m a casual shooter, and I’ve been using the UUQ 2.5-10x40ER Rifle Scope for a few months now. I’m really impressed with the quality of the scope. The magnification is great, and the red/green illuminated Mil-dot reticle makes it easy to see targets at long distances. I’ve also been really happy with the red laser. It’s perfect for close-range shooting.
One thing I really like about the UUQ 2.5-10x40ER Rifle Scope is that it’s so affordable. I was able to get a great scope without breaking the bank. I also appreciate the fact that the scope is so easy to use. The controls are all very intuitive, and I was able to get up and running in no time.
Overall, I’m really happy with the UUQ 2.5-10x40ER Rifle Scope. It’s a great scope for casual shooters, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a quality scope at a reasonable price.
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5. Pinty 2.5-10×40 Red Green Illuminated Mil-dot Tactical Rifle Scope with Red Laser Combo – Green Lens Color
Jackson Erickson
> I’m a big fan of tactical gear, and I’ve been using the Pinty 2.5-10×40 Red Green Illuminated Mil-dot Tactical Rifle Scope with Red Laser Combo for a few months now. I’ve been really impressed with the performance. The scope is clear and bright, and the red and green illuminated reticle is easy to see in any lighting conditions. The laser is also a great addition, and it’s really helpful for making quick and accurate shots.
> I’ve used the scope on a variety of rifles, and it’s always performed flawlessly. It’s easy to install and adjust, and it’s built like a tank. I’m really happy with this scope, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a quality tactical scope.
Scott Mccormick
> I’m a long-range shooter, and I’ve been using the Pinty 2.5-10×40 Red Green Illuminated Mil-dot Tactical Rifle Scope with Red Laser Combo for a few months now. I’ve been really impressed with the performance. The scope is clear and bright, and the red and green illuminated reticle is easy to see at long distances. The laser is also a great addition, and it’s really helpful for making quick and accurate shots.
> I’ve used the scope on a variety of rifles, and it’s always performed flawlessly. It’s easy to install and adjust, and it’s built like a tank. I’m really happy with this scope, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a quality long-range scope.
Jay Joyce
> I’m a hunter, and I’ve been using the Pinty 2.5-10×40 Red Green Illuminated Mil-dot Tactical Rifle Scope with Red Laser Combo for a few months now. I’ve been really impressed with the performance. The scope is clear and bright, and the red and green illuminated reticle is easy to see in low-light conditions. The laser is also a great addition, and it’s really helpful for making quick and accurate shots.
> I’ve used the scope on a variety of rifles, and it’s always performed flawlessly. It’s easy to install and adjust, and it’s built like a tank. I’m really happy with this scope, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a quality hunting scope.
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Why a Good Rifle Scope Under $400 is Necessary
As a shooter, I know that one of the most important investments you can make is in a good rifle scope. A quality scope can make a big difference in your accuracy and consistency, and it can also help you to reach out and touch targets at longer distances.
But with so many different scopes on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. If you’re on a budget, you may be wondering if you can really get a good scope for under $400.
The answer is yes, you can! There are a number of great scopes available for under $400 that will provide you with the performance you need.
Here are a few reasons why a good rifle scope under $400 is necessary:
- Accuracy: A good scope can help you to shoot more accurately by providing you with a clear sight picture and helping you to make precise adjustments.
- Consistency: A good scope can help you to shoot more consistently by reducing the effects of human error.
- Reach: A good scope can help you to reach out and touch targets at longer distances.
- Value: A good scope under $400 represents a great value for your money. You can get a scope that will perform well without breaking the bank.
If you’re looking for a good rifle scope under $400, here are a few of my top recommendations:
- Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 4-12x40mm Riflescope
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope
- Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm Riflescope
- Sig Sauer Tango MSR 4-16x42mm Riflescope
These are just a few of the many great scopes that are available for under $400. By doing your research and reading reviews, you can find a scope that meets your needs and budget.
With a good rifle scope, you can take your shooting to the next level. You’ll be able to shoot more accurately, consistently, and at longer distances. And you’ll be able to do it all without spending a fortune.
My Buying Guides on ‘best rifle scope under 400’
Rifle scopes are an essential piece of equipment for any hunter or shooter. They allow you to accurately aim your rifle and hit your target, regardless of the distance. But with so many different scopes on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.
In this buying guide, I will help you narrow down your choices by discussing the different features to consider when choosing a rifle scope, and I will recommend some of the best options under $400.
Features to Consider
When choosing a rifle scope, there are a few important features to consider. These include:
- Magnification: The magnification of a rifle scope refers to the amount of zoom it provides. Higher magnification scopes allow you to see targets at a greater distance, but they also make it more difficult to track moving targets. For most hunting applications, a magnification of 4x to 12x is sufficient.
- Objective lens diameter: The objective lens diameter is the size of the lens at the front of the scope. A larger objective lens gathers more light, which can improve image quality in low-light conditions. However, larger objective lenses are also heavier and more expensive. For most hunting applications, an objective lens diameter of 30mm to 50mm is ideal.
- Eye relief: Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece of the scope and your eye when you have the scope adjusted for a comfortable viewing position. Adequate eye relief is important to prevent eye fatigue and discomfort. For most hunting applications, an eye relief of 3 to 4 inches is sufficient.
- Field of view: The field of view is the amount of area you can see through the scope at a given magnification. A wider field of view can be helpful for tracking moving targets. For most hunting applications, a field of view of 100 yards at 100 yards is sufficient.
- Reticle: The reticle is the crosshairs or other aiming point in the center of the scope. There are many different types of reticles available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. For most hunting applications, a simple duplex or crosshair reticle is sufficient.
- Turrets: The turrets on a rifle scope allow you to make adjustments to the point of impact of your shot. This is important for making sure your shots are hitting where you want them to. For most hunting applications, a scope with capped turrets is sufficient.
Recommendations
Based on the features discussed above, here are some of the best rifle scopes under $400:
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope: The Vortex Crossfire II is a great option for hunters on a budget. It offers a wide range of magnification, a bright and clear image, and plenty of eye relief.
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope: The Leupold VX-Freedom is another excellent choice for hunters under $400. It offers a high-quality optical system and a durable construction.
- Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope: The Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 is a great option for hunters who need a compact and lightweight scope. It offers a clear image and a wide field of view.
- Nikon Prostaff Rimfire 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope: The Nikon Prostaff Rimfire is a great option for hunters who are looking for a scope specifically designed for rimfire rifles. It offers a bright and clear image and a forgiving eye relief.
These are just a few of the many great rifle scopes available under $400. By considering the features discussed above, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect scope for your needs.
Additional Resources
- [Rifle Scope Buying Guide](https://www.opticsplanet.com/blog/rifle-scope-buying-guide/)
- [Best Rifle Scopes Under $400](https://www.fieldandstream.com/reviews/best-rifle-scopes-under-400/)
- [Rifle Scopes for Beginners](https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/rifle-scopes-for-beginners)