Best Air Rifle Scope for Long Range combines precision engineering, high-quality optics, and robust construction to help shooters achieve accuracy over extended distances. Whether you’re targeting small game, honing your skills on the range, or engaging in competitive shooting, the right scope can make all the difference. From advanced reticle designs and high magnification ranges to durable weather-resistant builds and fine-tuned adjustments, these scopes are built to meet the demanding needs of long-range airgun enthusiasts. Understanding what features matter most ensures you choose an optic that delivers both clarity and performance when it counts.
Best Air Rifle Scope for Long Range
1.Leapers UTG 1″ BugBuster 3-12X32 Scope, Side AO, Mil-dot, QD Rings (SCP-M312AOWQ)
The Leapers UTG 1″ BugBuster 3-12X32 Scope, Side AO, Mil-dot, QD Rings (SCP-M312AOWQ) is packed with features tailored specifically for sharpshooters who need performance, clarity, and reliability in any environment. Built to endure harsh recoil and unpredictable weather, this scope offers superior optical and mechanical performance for serious airgun users.
One of its standout qualities is the 1-inch tube construction paired with best-in-class emerald lens coatings, which significantly enhance light transmission and image clarity. This makes the scope incredibly effective in both bright daylight and low-light conditions—perfect for dawn or dusk shooting sessions when targets are most active. The optics produce sharp, high-contrast visuals, enabling better target identification and faster follow-up shots.
For shooters who demand dialed-in precision, the premium zero-lockable and zero-resettable target turrets are a major asset. With 1/3 MOA per click adjustments, the turrets offer some of the most consistent and precise tracking available in air rifle optics. Whether you’re adjusting for wind or elevation, these tactile, audible clicks allow for quick, accurate corrections, making it ideal for long-range shooting.
What sets this scope apart for long-range use is the side wheel adjustable parallax turret, which can be adjusted from 3 yards to infinity. This feature is crucial for eliminating parallax error across varied distances, ensuring pinpoint accuracy whether you’re shooting up close or across the field. The classic mil-dot reticle enhances range estimation and shot placement, especially when dealing with wind drift or bullet drop.
The scope is built on a True Strength Platform—a robust design that is shockproof, fogproof, andrainproof. Completely sealed and nitrogen-filled, it stands up to the rigors of airgun recoil and outdoor elements without compromising performance. Accessories such as a 2-inch sunshade, flip-open lens caps, cleaning cloth, and quick-detach lever-lock medium profile Picatinny rings add convenience and value, making installation and maintenance a breeze.
Specifications:
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Tube Size: 1 inch
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Lens Coating: Emerald multi-coated
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Click Value: 1/3 MOA per click
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Turrets: Lockable and resettable target turrets
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Reticle: Classic Mil-Dot
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Parallax Adjustment: Side turret, 3 yards to infinity
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Build: Shockproof, fogproof, rainproof, nitrogen-filled
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Accessories Included: 2″ sunshade, flip-up caps, cleaning cloth, Picatinny rings
Pros:
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Excellent light transmission with emerald lens coatings
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Highly precise 1/3 MOA turret adjustments
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Side parallax adjustment enhances long-range accuracy
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Durable and weather-resistant True Strength Platform
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Mil-Dot reticle supports advanced range estimation
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Comes with valuable accessories for convenience and protection
Cons:
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Slightly heavier than basic scopes due to added features
2.Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescopes is engineered for serious marksmen who demand consistency and performance in every shot—especially when targets are set at a distance. Packed with high-end features such as an etched illuminated reticle and fully multi-coated optics, it’s designed to excel in challenging light and weather conditions.
One of the standout features of this scope is its first focal plane reticle. Unlike second focal plane scopes, the FFP reticle resizes proportionally as you adjust magnification. This means the holdover points remain accurate across all zoom levels—an invaluable advantage for range estimation and trajectory correction during long-range shooting. It ensures you always have a consistent point of reference regardless of whether you’re zoomed in or out.
Another key advantage is the illuminated glass-etched reticle, which offers exceptional visibility in low-light environments such as early morning or dusk. The reticle is etched directly onto the glass, providing a durable and vibration-resistant base that won’t shift under recoil. Whether you’re targeting game at dawn or shooting at paper targets as the sun sets, this reticle improves visibility without overpowering your sight picture.
The optics are fully multi-coated, significantly enhancing light transmission and reducing glare. This results in a brighter, crisper image with improved contrast—especially beneficial when spotting targets at longer distances or in dim conditions. Whether you’re hunting varmints or punching tight groups at 100 yards, the clarity this scope provides gives you a distinct advantage.
Durability is not compromised for performance. The solid construction and advanced internal design ensure the scope handles air rifle recoil and varying weather conditions effectively. It’s ideal for those who need an optic that performs just as well in the real world as it does on paper.
Specifications:
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Reticle Type: First focal plane, glass-etched, illuminated
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Zoom Functionality: Reticle resizes with magnification
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Optical Coating: Fully multi-coated for enhanced light transmission
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Light Performance: Excellent in low-light (dawn/dusk) conditions
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Build Quality: Durable construction with recoil-resistant design
Pros:
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FFP design ensures accurate holdovers at all magnification levels
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Illuminated reticle improves target visibility in low-light settings
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Glass-etched reticle enhances durability and precision
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Fully multi-coated lenses provide a bright, glare-free image
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Ideal for both hunting and long-range target shooting
Cons:
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FFP scopes are generally more expensive than SFP models
3.Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane 4-16×44
the Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane 4-16×44 delivers an exceptional balance of clarity, durability, and long-range functionality. Built with premium materials and boasting tactical features often reserved for higher-end scopes, it’s designed to serve shooters who need repeatable precision across varied distances.
At the heart of this scope lies extra-low dispersion (ED) glass paired with fully multi-coated lenses, providing a crystal-clear, high-contrast sight picture. These coatings enhance light transmission while minimizing glare, which is particularly important for long-range shooting during early morning or late evening hours. This optical clarity makes it easier to track moving targets or identify fine details at extended ranges.
What truly sets the Diamondback Tactical apart is its first focal plane (FFP) glass-etched reticle. Unlike second focal plane optics, the FFP design allows the reticle to scale with magnification. This keeps holdovers, windage marks, and subtensions consistent across the 4-16x zoom range—a crucial advantage for accurate range estimation and shooting under changing field conditions.
The scope also features exposed tactical turrets and a side parallax adjustment knob, empowering shooters to make quick and accurate adjustments for elevation, wind, and target distance. The precision-glide erector system ensures that zooming is smooth and consistent, even under rough handling or harsh environmental conditions. A fast-focus eyepiece rounds out the design, enabling rapid reticle focusing so you can engage targets without delay.
Constructed from a single-piece 30mm aircraft-grade aluminum tube, this scope is shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof. Nitrogen purging and O-ring seals protect internal components, ensuring reliable performance in all weather conditions. Vortex further supports the scope with its VIP Lifetime Warranty, which reflects their confidence in this optic’s long-term durability and reliability.
Specifications:
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Magnification: 4-16x
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Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
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Tube Diameter: 30mm
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Reticle Type: First focal plane, glass-etched
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Optics: Fully multi-coated with ED glass
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Adjustments: Exposed tactical turrets, side parallax knob
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Construction: Single-piece aluminum tube; nitrogen-purged, O-ring sealed
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Warranty: VIP Lifetime Warranty (fully transferable, excludes loss/theft)
Pros:
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First focal plane reticle maintains accuracy across all zoom levels
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Crystal-clear sight picture with ED glass and multi-coated lenses
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Exposed tactical turrets allow for quick, precise adjustments
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Rugged construction ensures waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof performance
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Smooth magnification changes with the precision-glide erector system
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Excellent warranty coverage with lifetime, unconditional protection
Cons:
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Slightly heavier and larger than entry-level scopes
4.UTG 4-16×44 30mm Scope
the UTG 4-16×44 30mm Scope offers an outstanding balance of advanced technology, rugged construction, and crystal-clear optics. Built to perform under demanding conditions, this scope provides exceptional reliability and precision for serious shooters and hunters alike.
Starting with its True Strength Platform, this scope is shockproof, fogproof, and rainproof, making it dependable in the harshest environments. Its 30mm tube is nitrogen-filled and completely sealed, offering increased durability and superior internal space for enhanced adjustment range. The Emerald lens coatings are among the best in class, maximizing light transmission for bright, sharp imagery even in low light.
With variable magnification from 4x to 16x, it’s versatile enough for mid to long-range shooting. The Quick Power Selector Ring allows seamless magnification changes, ideal for tracking fast-moving targets or zeroing in for a precision shot. The EZ-TAP Illumination Enhancing (IE) System elevates visibility with a dual-color red/green mode and an impressive 36-color multi-color mode, accommodating all lighting and weather conditions.
Precision is a core strength here, thanks to zero lockable and resettable target turrets, offering 1/4 MOA per click adjustments. These turrets are designed for quick, consistent correction without the risk of accidental shifts. The Side Wheel Adjustable Turret (SWAT) feature enables parallax adjustment from as close as 10 yards to infinity, making it ideal for airguns and long-range firearms alike.
The mil-dot reticle provides accurate range estimation and holdovers, while an integrated sunshade reduces glare and enhances performance in bright conditions. To complete the package, the scope comes with high-quality flip-up lens caps and UTG Max Strength twist lock Picatinny/Weaver rings, making it ready to mount right out of the box.
Specifications:
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Magnification: 4x – 16x
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Tube Diameter: 30mm
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Lens Coating: Emerald Fully Multi-Coated
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Reticle: Mil-Dot with Dual/36-Color Illumination
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Parallax Adjustment: Side Wheel (10 yards to infinity)
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Turret Adjustment: 1/4 MOA per click; Lockable and Resettable
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Field of View @ 100 yards: 24.4 ft – 6.8 ft
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Included Accessories: Picatinny/Weaver rings, flip-open lens caps, sunshade
Pros:
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Exceptional clarity with premium emerald lens coatings
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Durable and weatherproof True Strength Platform
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Advanced EZ-TAP dual/multi-color illuminated reticle for any light condition
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Parallax adjustable from 10 yards — ideal for air rifles
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Precise zero lock/reset turrets with tactile 1/4 MOA adjustments
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Comes with quality rings and lens caps for easy installation
Cons:
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Slightly bulky compared to minimalist scopes
5.Hawke Sidewinder 30 SF 6-24×56
The Hawke Sidewinder 30 SF 6-24×56 is a premier long-range air rifle scope engineered for shooters who demand top-tier optics, precision engineering, and rugged durability. Designed with features normally found in high-end tactical and competition scopes, the Sidewinder delivers pinpoint accuracy for varmint hunting, field target shooting, and long-distance plinking.
At the core of its performance is the high-grade, low-dispersion crown glass coupled with 18-layer fully multi-coated lenses that deliver exceptional image clarity and light transmission. The 56mm objective lens ensures maximum brightness, even in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk. The 30mm aluminum tube enhances internal adjustment range while maintaining strength and reliability.
This model boasts side focus parallax adjustment from 10 yards to infinity, making it ideal for air rifles and long-range shooting alike. A removable index-matched 4″ sidewheel allows for precise distance readings, especially valuable when rangefinding at extended distances. The ultra-wide-angle field of view and high-volume eyebox make target acquisition smooth and forgiving, even at higher magnifications.
The 20x second focal plane (SFP) half mil IR reticle is etched on the glass and features multiple intensity levels of red LED illumination. It offers clear aiming points, including .2 mil outer markings and enhanced lower reticle crosses for extended holdovers. Paired with resettable, locking turrets (with witness windows) and 1/10 MRAD click adjustments, shooters get highly repeatable and accurate zeroing.
Other key touches include a fast-focus eyebell with lock ring, removable zoom magnification throw lever for smooth power changes, and 102mm (4”) eye relief with a generous eyebox that helps maintain a comfortable sight picture under recoil.
Specifications:
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Magnification: 6-24x
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Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
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Tube Size: 30mm
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Reticle: 20x SFP Half Mil IR (etched glass, red illumination)
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Field of View @ 100 yds: 21.3 ft – 5.4 ft
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Parallax Adjustment: Side Focus, 10 yds to infinity
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Eye Relief: 102mm (4″)
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Adjustment Range: 20 MRAD Elevation/Windage, 1/10 MRAD clicks
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Length: 14.3″
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Weight: 27.3 oz
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Lens Coating: 18-layer fully multi-coated
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Construction: Nitrogen-purged, shockproof, waterproof, fogproof
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Extras: Removable 4″ sidewheel, zoom throw lever, fast focus eyepiece
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Warranty: Hawke No-Fault Lifetime Warranty
Pros:
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Outstanding clarity with 18-layer coated lenses and high-grade glass
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Massive 56mm objective lens for low-light performance
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Precision side focus with index-matched sidewheel for accurate rangefinding
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Lockable, resettable turrets with witness windows for reliable adjustments
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Illuminated etched reticle with detailed markings for long-range holdovers
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Built to handle tough environments — waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
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Comes with high-end extras like zoom lever and rangefinding sidewheel
Cons:
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Heavier than standard scopes at over 27 oz
Also read;5 Best BSA Air Rifle Scopes
Factor to Consider when Choosing Best Air Rifle Scopes for Long Range
1. Magnification Range
For long-range shooting, a higher magnification (e.g., 4-16x, 6-24x, or beyond) allows you to clearly identify and engage distant targets. Look for scopes with adjustable zoom so you can switch between wide-field scanning and detailed aiming.
2. Objective Lens Size
A larger objective lens (e.g., 44mm or 56mm) lets in more light, which is crucial for long-distance accuracy, especially in low-light conditions. It provides a brighter, clearer image and better field of view.
3. Reticle Type
Choose a mil-dot, MOA, or BDC reticle that supports range estimation and holdover calculations. First Focal Plane (FFP) reticles are great for maintaining accurate subtensions across zoom levels, while Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticles remain the same size regardless of magnification.
4. Parallax Adjustment
Parallax becomes more noticeable at long distances. A side parallax knob or adjustable objective (AO) allows you to eliminate parallax error and maintain accuracy by fine-tuning the focus to the exact target range.
5. Optical Clarity and Coatings
Scopes with multi-coated or fully multi-coated lenses reduce glare and enhance light transmission, delivering a clear, bright image even at high magnification. Look for lenses made from ED (extra-low dispersion) or HD glass for superior image sharpness.
6. Build Quality and Durability
Long-range air rifle scopes should be shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof. A rugged, one-piece 30mm or 34mm tube offers better strength and allows for greater adjustment range—important for extreme elevation or windage corrections.
7. Turret Precision and Zeroing Features
Look for exposed, tactical turrets with audible and tactile clicks, preferably with zero-reset or zero-lock capability. These features help make precise adjustments and quickly return to your zero after making elevation/windage changes.
8. Eye Relief and Exit Pupil
A comfortable eye relief (ideally 3.5″ or more) ensures safety and comfort during extended shooting. A wider exit pupil helps you maintain a full field of view even if your head position shifts slightly—a big advantage for field use.
Frequent Asked Question Best Air Rifle Scopes for Long Range
1. What magnification range is best for long-range air rifle shooting?
For long-range shooting, a magnification range of 4-16x, 6-24x, or even 8-32x is ideal. Higher magnification helps in accurately identifying and targeting distant objects, but make sure it aligns with your air rifle’s capabilities and shooting distance. Variable zoom offers flexibility across different shooting scenarios.
2. Is a first focal plane (FFP) or second focal plane (SFP) reticle better for long-range shooting?
FFP reticles are generally preferred for long-range shooting because the reticle’s subtensions remain accurate throughout the magnification range. This allows for precise range estimation and holdovers at any zoom level. However, SFP reticles can be easier to see at lower magnifications and may be more suitable for casual shooters.
3. Why is parallax adjustment important in a long-range air rifle scope?
Parallax error can significantly affect accuracy at long distances. A scope with side focus or adjustable objective (AO) allows you to fine-tune the focus at different distances, eliminating parallax and ensuring the reticle stays on target even if your eye position shifts slightly.
Conclusion
In conclusion Best Air Rifle Scope for Long Range shooting can significantly enhance both accuracy and overall shooting performance. A well-designed scope offers the necessary magnification, clarity, and reticle support to consistently hit distant targets. Durability, weather resistance, and precise adjustment features ensure the scope can handle varying field conditions without compromising performance. By carefully evaluating the key features and aligning them with your shooting style and environment, you can make a confident investment in optics that deliver reliable and accurate results over extended distances.