5 Best Scope for Big Bore Air Rifle

The UTG 4-16×44 30mm Compact Scope is engineered for shooters who demand durability, accuracy, and adaptability—especially when it comes to big bore air rifles. With its True Strength Platform, this scope is built to handle the punishing recoil of large-caliber air rifles like .357, .45, and .50 with ease.

What truly sets this scope apart is its 30mm tube construction with best-in-class emerald lens coatings, delivering maximum light transmission and crystal-clear visuals in all lighting conditions. Whether you’re hunting at dawn, shooting targets in low light, or scanning through dense brush, clarity remains uncompromised.

The 4x to 16x magnification range provides versatile performance—from close-range target acquisition to long-distance precision. A quick power selector ring makes it easy to adjust zoom on the fly, while the EZ-TAP Illumination Enhancing (IE) System offers a choice of red/green dual-color mode and 36-color multi-mode illumination to suit virtually any environment or lighting.

For those who demand exact adjustments, the zero-lockable, zero-resettable turrets with 1/4 MOA click values ensure precise windage and elevation control. The Side Wheel Adjustable Turret (SWAT) system allows for parallax correction from a mere 10 yards to infinity, which is ideal for airgun use.

Whether you’re punching paper or taking down small game, the mil-dot reticle with integrated sunshade and Picatinny-compatible UTG Max Strength mount round out a scope package that’s purpose-built for performance, even in rugged field conditions.

Specifications:

• Magnification: 4x – 16x

• Objective Lens: 44mm

• Tube Diameter: 30mm

• Lens Coating: Emerald-coated for maximum light transmission

• Reticle Type: Mil-dot, illuminated

• Illumination: Dual-color red/green + 36-color multi-mode

• FOV @ 100 Yards: 24.4 ft (4x) – 6.8 ft (16x)

• Eye Relief: Approx. 3 – 3.4 inches

• Turrets: Zero-lockable, resettable, 1/4 MOA per click

• Parallax Adjustment: SWAT side turret, from 10 yards to infinity

• Build: True Strength Platform, nitrogen filled, sealed

• Weatherproofing: Shockproof, fogproof, rainproof

• Mounts Included: UTG Max Strength Twist Lock Picatinny rings

• Extras: Built-in sunshade, flip-up lens caps

Pros:

• Exceptional Clarity: Emerald lens coating maximizes brightness and image sharpness

• Rugged Durability: Built to handle heavy recoil from big bore air rifles

• Advanced Illumination: 36-color reticle illumination for all light/weather conditions

• Versatile Magnification: 4-16x range works well for both close and long-range shooting

• Parallax Adjustment: SWAT turret allows precision focus from 10 yards to infinity

• Zero Lock/Reset Turrets: Maintains consistent zero, even after rough handling

• Integrated Sunshade: Reduces glare and improves accuracy in bright conditions

• Includes Strong Picatinny Mounts

Cons:

• Weight: Slightly heavy, may affect balance on lightweight air rifles

3.Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescopes

 

TheArgos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescopeschecks all the boxes for air rifle enthusiasts looking for premium-level features at a competitive price.At the heart of this optic lies its first focal plane (FFP) reticle design, allowing your holdover points and range estimations to remain accurate throughout the entire zoom range. Whether you’re dialing in at 6x or 24x, the reticle adjusts proportionally with your target, which is a critical advantage for long-range airgun shooting—especially with the steep ballistic curves of .357, .45, or .50 caliber air rifles.

In low-light situations such as dawn, dusk, or shadowed woodland, the illuminated reticle stands out brilliantly, giving you acrisp aiming point even when visibility is compromised. The etched glass reticle not only enhances visibility and detail but also ensures long-term durability and structural support—no shifting or fading, even after repeated heavy recoil.

The image quality is further enhanced by fully multi-coated optics, which reduce glare and maximize light transmission. The result is a bright, sharp image with excellent contrast, even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. Whether you’re punching paper or bringing down game, this scope offers a visual edge that big bore air rifle users will appreciate.

 Specifications:

• Magnification: Variable (commonly 6–24x or 4–16x depending on model)

• Objective Lens: 44mm or 50mm (varies)

• Reticle Type: First Focal Plane (FFP), glass-etched

• Reticle Illumination: Yes – ideal for low-light environments

• Optical Coating: Fully Multi-Coated

• Turrets: Precise adjustment, typically 1/4 MOA per click

• Parallax Adjustment: Side focus or adjustable objective depending on model

• Build Quality: Shockproof, fogproof, waterproof

• Finish: Matte black

• Mount Compatibility: Standard Picatinny or Weaver rings (not always included)

Pros:

• First Focal Plane Reticle: Accurate at all magnification levels

• Etched Glass Reticle: Durable and precise with no internal shift

• Illuminated Reticle: Clear aiming in dawn/dusk and shadowed terrain

• Bright Image Quality: Fully multi-coated lenses improve clarity and contrast

• Excellent for Long Range: Ideal for air rifles shooting at 50–150+ yards

• Built for Recoil: Durable construction withstands big bore airgun kickback

• Tactical Styling: Sleek, modern design fits a wide variety of rifles

 Cons:

• FFP Learning Curve: May be unfamiliar to new shooters

4. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 350 Legend (Model #177910)

The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 350 Legend (Model #177910) delivers in every category. This scope is an outstanding match for big bore air rifles thanks to its rock-solid build, intuitive reticle design, and legendary optical performance—all proudly designed, machined, and assembled in the USA.

At the core of the VX-Freedom is Leupold’s Advanced Optical System, which provides excellent light transmission for extended glassing sessions and superior glare reduction in harsh lighting. Whether you’re hunting in the open fields at midday or stalking through shaded woods at dawn, the image remains bright, clear, and distortion-free.

The Duplex reticle, a Leupold classic, offers a perfect balance of speed and precision. With bold outer posts for quick target acquisition and thin center lines for precise shot placement, it excels in fast-paced field scenarios and low-light environments. It’s a reticle built for hunters and serious airgunners alike—simple, effective, and reliable.

What makes this scope especially appealing for high-powered air rifles is its military-grade scratch-resistant lenses and 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction. It’s engineered to endure not only the elements but also the recoil forces of powerful calibers—making it an ideal optic for .357, .45, and .50 caliber air rifles.

 Specifications:

• Model Number: 177910

• Magnification: 3x – 9x

• Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm

• Reticle Type: Duplex Reticle

• Finish: Matte black

• Optical System: Leupold Advanced Optical System

• Lens Protection: Military-standard scratch-resistant coating

• Field of View @ 100 Yards: ~33.7 ft (3x) to ~13.6 ft (9x)

• Eye Relief: 3.66 – 4.17 inches

• Tube Size: 1 inch

• Build Quality: Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof

• Origin: Designed, machined, and assembled in the USA

• Compatibility: Optimized for .350 Legend but highly suitable for big bore air rifles

Pros:

• Crystal-Clear Glass: Excellent light transmission and glare control

• Duplex Reticle: Fast, intuitive targeting in any light condition

• Durable Build: Shockproof and recoil-resistant—great for big bore air rifles

• Scratch-Resistant Lenses: Military-grade protection against field damage

• Lightweight & Balanced: Doesn’t overwhelm mid-size or bullpup air rifles

• Made in the USA: High manufacturing quality and lifetime support

• Backed by Leupold’s Warranty: Legendary customer service and durability

Cons:

• No Parallax Adjustment: Fixed parallax may be limiting for extreme close-range airgun shots

5. Vortex Viper PST Gen II 2-10×32 FFP.

 

The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 2-10×32 FFP. Designed for shooters who demand tactical precision across a wide range of distances, this scope is an outstanding option for those using hard-hitting .357, .45, or .50 caliber airguns.

At the core of this scope’s appeal is its First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle, which ensures that holdovers, wind corrections, and range estimations remain accurate throughout the magnification range. From close-quarters shooting at 2x to precision targeting at 10x, the PST Gen II remains crisp and responsive, making it an ideal optic for both short and extended-range scenarios.

The laser-etched turrets, RZR Zero Stop, and adjustable parallax give you full control when dialing for elevation and windage corrections—perfect for airgunners who want to push their rifles to 100 yards and beyond. The fiber optic rotation indicator is a welcome touch, allowing you to track turret movement at a glance, preventing accidental over-rotation during field use.

Optically, this scope stands out with extra-low dispersion glass for excellent resolution and true-to-life color, while XR fully multi-coated lenses maximize light transmission. The Armortek coating protects your lenses from scratches, dirt, and oil—essential for rough hunting environments.

Housed in a single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube, the Viper PST Gen II is argon purged and O-ring sealed for fogproof and waterproof reliability, ensuring it stands up to the demands of any big bore airgun setup.

Specifications:

• Magnification: 2x – 10x

• Objective Lens Diameter: 32mm

• Reticle: First Focal Plane (FFP), illuminated

• Turrets: Laser-etched, tactical style with RZR Zero Stop

• Parallax Adjustment: Side focus

• Reticle Illumination: 10 brightness settings with off positions between

• Glass Type: Extra-low dispersion (XD) glass

• Lens Coating: XR fully multi-coated + Armortek protective coating

• Tube Size: 30mm

• Construction: Aircraft-grade aluminum, single-piece tube

• Sealing: Argon purged, O-ring sealed (fogproof & waterproof)

• Length: ~12.75 inches

• Weight: Approx. 26 oz

Pros:

• True FFP Reticle: Holdovers remain accurate at all magnification levels

• Premium Glass Clarity: XD glass and XR coatings enhance brightness and color fidelity

• Zero Stop Turrets: Easy and reliable return to zero

• Illuminated Reticle: 10 brightness settings for all light conditions

• Rugged Build: Durable and weatherproof—perfect for demanding airgun use

• Compact and Versatile: Ideal balance of size and performance for air rifles

• Protected Lenses: Armortek coating resists scratches, oil, and dirt

Cons:

• Premium Price Point: Higher cost, though justified by the feature set

Also read;5 Best Big Bore Air Rifle with Longest Effective Range

Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Scope for Big Bore Air Rifle

1. Recoil Durability

Big bore air rifles produce significantly more recoil than standard airguns—often comparable to that of powder-burning firearms. As a result, your scope must be shockproof and recoil-rated to withstand this force. Many scopes not designed for airguns will lose zero, shift internally, or even break under the pressure. Look for scopes built on reinforced platforms (like UTG’s True Strength or aircraft-grade aluminum tubes) that are specifically tested for heavy recoil resistance.

2. Reticle Type and Focal Plane

The reticle design plays a major role in how quickly and accurately you can acquire and hold on a target. Duplex reticles are great for quick target acquisition, while Mil-Dot or MOA-based reticles allow for more precise range estimation and holdover. Additionally, scopes come with either First Focal Plane (FFP) or Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticles. FFP reticles scale with magnification, keeping holdovers accurate at any zoom level—ideal for long-range shooting. SFP reticles remain the same size, which can be simpler for beginners but require calculations at specific magnifications.

3. Magnification Range

The right magnification range depends on how you plan to use your big bore air rifle. For general hunting and medium-range target shooting, a 3-9x or 4-16x scope offers great versatility. If you’re aiming to stretch your air rifle’s range (100–200+ yards), consider higher magnification scopes like 6-24x. However, too much magnification can reduce your field of view and light transmission—so balance is key.

4. Optical Clarity and Coatings

Big bore air rifles often get used for hunting or precision shooting, where clarity and light transmission are critical. Fully multi-coated lenses, especially with coatings like Leupold’s Advanced Optical System or Monstrum’s emerald coating, enhance brightness, contrast, and clarity. These coatings also reduce glare and reflection, ensuring a clearer sight picture in dawn, dusk, or bright sunlight—vital for quick, ethical shot placement.

5. Durability and Weatherproofing

Since big bore air rifles are frequently used outdoors—whether for pest control, hunting, or competition—your scope must be able to withstand the elements. Look for scopes that are waterproof, fogproof, and nitrogen- or argon-purged to prevent internal fogging. A scope with scratch-resistant lenses and a tough exterior finish (such as matte anodizing) is also better suited for rough terrain and inclement weather.

6. Parallax Adjustment

Big bore air rifles are commonly used at a wide range of distances—from close-range hunting to long-range target practice. Scopes with Adjustable Objective (AO) or Side Focus parallax adjustment allow you to fine-tune focus and eliminate parallax error at various distances. This is especially important when shooting at targets under 50 yards or beyond 100 yards, where parallax issues are more pronounced.

7. Turret Precision and Zero Retention

Precision shooting with a big bore air rifle demands reliable, repeatable turret adjustments. Scopes with tactical turrets, zero-resettable and zero-locking features are excellent for making fast elevation and windage changes, especially for long-range shooting. Look for audible and tactile clicks (usually ¼ MOA or 0.1 MRAD) that allow you to confidently dial in corrections without second-guessing your adjustments.

8. Illumination and Low-Light Performance

Many hunting scenarios or field conditions occur in low light—at dawn, dusk, or in shaded forest environments. A scope with an illuminated reticle, preferably with adjustable brightness and color settings, allows for better visibility of your aiming point. Multi-color systems (like UTG’s 36-color IE system) or dual-red/green reticles help shooters maintain accuracy regardless of background lighting or contrast.