Best Bushnell Air Rifle Scopes combine precision engineering, rugged durability, and advanced optics to meet the needs of serious shooters and hunters alike. Known for their exceptional clarity, innovative reticle designs, and reliable performance in all weather conditions, these scopes are built to excel from close-range plinking to long-distance precision shots. With features like ED Prime glass, fully multi-coated lenses, and robust waterproof construction, they deliver the accuracy and confidence required for any shooting challenge.
1.Bushnell Elite Tactical XRS3
The Bushnell Elite Tactical XRS3 stands at the pinnacle of Bushnell’s precision optics lineup, engineered for shooters who demand uncompromising performance at extreme ranges. Known for its cutting-edge optical clarity, robust construction, and advanced turret system, the XRS3 has become a go-to choice for competitive shooters, long-range enthusiasts, and dedicated air rifle marksmen looking for maximum precision.
At the heart of the XRS3 is Bushnell’s ED Prime glass technology, which delivers exceptional color fidelity, contrast, and brightness, even in low-light conditions. This ensures crystal-clear sight pictures from dawn to dusk, giving shooters a distinct edge in changing environments. The large objective lens and finely tuned optical coatings work together to maximize light transmission, while minimizing glare and chromatic aberration.
Built around a rugged 34mm main tube, the XRS3 is designed to withstand heavy recoil, harsh weather, and demanding field conditions. Its elevation and windage turrets feature precise, repeatable adjustments with tactile clicks, making it easy to dial in for long-range shots. The G4P precision reticle offers detailed holdover and windage reference points, perfectly suited for ranging and ballistic compensation in competitive and tactical shooting scenarios.
Whether mounted on a high-powered air rifle or a centerfire precision rig, the Bushnell Elite Tactical XRS3 delivers elite-level accuracy and rock-solid reliability that professionals and serious hobbyists alike will appreciate.
Specifications
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Magnification: 6-36x
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Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
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Tube Diameter: 34mm
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Reticle Type: G4P Precision Reticle (First Focal Plane)
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Optics: ED Prime Glass with advanced multi-coatings
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Turrets: Exposed, locking elevation and windage turrets
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Parallax Adjustment: Side focus
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Construction: Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof
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Length: Approx. 14.8 inches
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Weight: ~39 oz
Pros
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Outstanding optical clarity with ED Prime Glass
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Wide magnification range for versatile shooting scenarios
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Rugged 34mm tube for durability and maximum internal adjustment range
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G4P reticle offers precise hold points for long-range accuracy
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Repeatable and tactile turret adjustments
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Excellent low-light performance
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Designed for professional competition and extreme range shooting
Cons
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Heavier than entry-level scopes, which may affect balance on lighter rifles
2. Bushnell Match Pro ED 5-30×56
The Bushnell Match Pro ED 5-30×56 pushes the limits of precision optics, combining an expanded magnification range, premium ED glass, and competition-focused features to give serious shooters every possible advantage. Designed for both long-range target work and demanding air rifle competitions, this scope delivers the clarity, tracking accuracy, and rugged durability that the Bushnell Match Pro line is known for—now with even more capability.
Its 5-30x magnification and oversized 56mm objective lens gather exceptional light and provide a generous eye box, making it easy to acquire a crisp sight picture even in challenging shooting positions. The 34mm main tube offers an impressive 30 MRAD of elevation travel and 14.5 MRAD of windage, giving shooters the range to connect with distant targets without compromise.
The all-new Illuminated Deploy MIL 2 (DM2) reticle takes precision to the next level. This refined 2/10 MRAD tree reticle features 11 brightness settings, a battery-saving auto shut-off, staggered line weights for better visibility, and a milling section for precise range estimation. Whether dialing or holding, this reticle ensures you stay on target with speed and confidence.
Bold locking turrets with raised, flared crowns provide an excellent grip and quick reading, while the scope’s renowned tracking accuracy guarantees that your adjustments translate perfectly to your point of impact. Combined with the Easy-Set zero stop and tactile Rev-Indicator, you’ll never lose track of your rotations—no more accidental overshooting.
The IPX7 waterproof construction and exclusive EXO Barrier lens protection keep your view clear in rain, snow, or dust. Much like a ceramic coating for your optics, EXO Barrier is permanently bonded to the glass, ensuring debris and moisture slide right off so you can keep shooting when others can’t.
Specifications
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Magnification: 5-30x
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Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
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Tube Diameter: 34mm
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Elevation Travel: 30 MRAD
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Windage Travel: 14.5 MRAD
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Reticle: Illuminated Deploy MIL 2 (First Focal Plane)
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Brightness Settings: 11 levels with auto shut-off after 6 hours
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Turrets: Locking, bold numbering, raised & flared crowns
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Parallax Adjustment: Side focus
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Glass Type: ED Prime with EXO Barrier coating
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Waterproof Rating: IPX7
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Zero Stop: Easy-Set with tactile Rev-Indicator
Pros
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Wide 5-30x magnification range for versatile shooting
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Large 56mm objective for superior light gathering and eye box
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DM2 illuminated reticle with advanced design for fast, accurate holds
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Outstanding 30 MRAD elevation and 14.5 MRAD windage travel
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Positive, locking turrets with excellent grip and clear markings
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Permanent EXO Barrier coating keeps lenses clear in adverse weather
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Easy-Set zero stop with revolution indicator for reliable returns to zero
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Proven Bushnell tracking accuracy
Cons
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On the heavier side, which may affect balance on lightweight rifles
3.Bushnell Elite Tactical DMR3
The Bushnell Elite Tactical DMR3 is the next evolution in Bushnell’s renowned DMR riflescope series, offering top-tier performance in a compact, long-range precision package. Designed for shooters who demand accuracy, ruggedness, and crystal-clear optics, the DMR3 incorporates new upgrades such as the G4P reticle, a multi-position Throwhammer magnification lever, and enhanced turret markings for faster adjustments in the field.
Whether you’re targeting small game at close range or engaging steel beyond 1,000 yards, this scope’s 6x magnification ratio ensures flexibility without compromising size or weight. Its 25-yard parallax setting makes it equally adept at short-range precision and extreme-distance shooting.
The DMR3 boasts Bushnell’s most advanced optical system to date. Combining ED Prime glass, Fully Multi-Coated (FMC) elements, EXO Barrier protection, and a new reticle element coating, it increases light transmission by 2% over the DMR II Pro. The result is unparalleled image clarity, color accuracy, and edge-to-edge sharpness — letting you see the difference between a near miss and a perfect hit.
Built for the harshest conditions, the IP67-rated, aircraft-grade aluminum body ensures water and dustproof durability. With argon-purging to eliminate internal fogging, it’s a scope that stands up to any environment while maintaining peak performance.
Specifications
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Magnification Ratio: 6x
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Optics: ED Prime glass, Fully Multi-Coated elements
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Reticle: G4P Precision Reticle
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Parallax: Adjustable, 25 yards minimum
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Tube Size: 34mm, billet-machined aircraft-grade aluminum
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Protection: EXO Barrier lens coating, IP67 waterproof & dustproof
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Special Features: Multi-position Throwhammer lever, bold turret markings
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Weight: Compact and lightweight for long-range capability
Pros
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Exceptional optical clarity with ED Prime glass
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Increased light transmission for low-light performance
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Rugged IP67-rated waterproof and dustproof construction
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Versatile 25-yard parallax for short and long-range shooting
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Smooth magnification adjustment with Throwhammer lever
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Compact and lightweight despite high-performance features
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Bold, easy-to-read turret markings for quick adjustments
Cons
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Premium quality comes with a higher price point
4.Bushnell Banner 4-12×40 Rifle Scope
The Bushnell Banner 4-12×40 Rifle Scope Matte Multi-X is part of the renowned Banner Dusk & Dawn (DDB) series, built for hunters and shooters who demand exceptional clarity and brightness during low-light hours. Designed with Bushnell’s signature Dusk & Dawn Brightness multi-coated lenses, this riflescope ensures that your target remains sharp and visible whether you’re out at first light or waiting until the very last shooting minute of the day.
Engineered for precision, the 4-12x magnification range makes it perfect for long-range centerfire shooting while also being robust enough for use with adult break-barrel airguns. Its fully multi-coated optics deliver bright, high-contrast images, and the argon-purged fog-proofing ensures reliable performance across a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions. With IPX7 waterproof construction, you can trust the Banner to withstand unexpected downpours or accidental submersion without compromising optical performance.
Whether you’re targeting distant game or shooting on the range, the Bushnell Banner 4-12×40 balances power, clarity, and durability, making it a dependable companion for any air rifle enthusiast.
Specifications
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Magnification: 4-12x
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Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm
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Reticle: Multi-X
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Lens Coating: Fully Multi-Coated (DDB multi-coated lenses)
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Fogproofing: Argon-purged
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Waterproof Rating: IPX7 (submersible in 3 feet of water for up to 30 minutes)
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Construction: O-ring sealed, matte finish
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Use Case: Long-range centerfire shooting & adult break-barrel airguns
Pros
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Excellent low-light performance thanks to DDB multi-coated lenses
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Versatile magnification range for both medium and long-range shooting
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Durable, weatherproof design (IPX7 rated)
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Fog-proof performance via argon-purged optics
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Crisp and bright image clarity in various lighting conditions
Cons
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Slightly heavier compared to compact scopes
5. Bushnell AR Optics 1-4×24 Riflescope
The Bushnell AR Optics 1-4×24 Riflescope with Illuminated BTR-1 Reticle is a versatile, rugged, and precision-engineered optic ideal for short to mid-range shooting. Designed for tactical, hunting, and competitive scenarios, it offers a first focal plane (FFP) illuminated BDC reticle for accurate holdovers out to 500 yards with 5.56 NATO, as well as a second focal plane (SFP) illuminated BTR reticle option for enhanced clarity in varying conditions. This combination of reticle choices ensures that shooters can enjoy both precise ballistic compensation and a clear aiming point across magnification ranges.
The scope’s fully multi-coated optics use multiple layers of anti-reflective coating on all air-to-glass surfaces, producing bright, high-contrast images even in low light. Built to endure demanding field conditions, it is shockproof and waterproof, making it a reliable companion in unpredictable weather.
A standout feature is the throw-down power change lever, which allows near-instant magnification changes—even with gloves on—ensuring you never lose precious seconds when adjusting your zoom. Paired with exposed turrets, shooters can make quick and accurate windage and elevation adjustments on the fly. This level of functionality and durability cements Bushnell’s reputation as a leader in sports optics, providing dependable, high-performance products since 1948.
Specifications
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Magnification: 1-4x
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Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm
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Reticle: Illuminated FFP BDC & SFP BTR-1
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Ballistic Calibration: 223 Rem/5.56 NATO (55–62 grain bullets)
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Optics: Fully Multi-Coated (anti-reflective layers on all air-to-glass surfaces)
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Construction: Shockproof & Waterproof
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Adjustment: Exposed turrets for quick windage and elevation changes
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Special Features: Throw-Down Power Change Lever (adjustable length)
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Effective Range: Up to 500–600 yards (depending on reticle use)
Pros
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Dual reticle options (FFP BDC & SFP BTR) for flexible shooting needs
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Illuminated reticle enhances low-light performance
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Fully multi-coated optics deliver sharp, bright images
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Quick magnification changes via throw-down lever
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Rugged waterproof and shockproof construction
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Accurate ballistic holdovers out to 500–600 yards
Cons
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Smaller 24mm objective lens limits maximum light intake compared to larger scopes
Also read;5 Best Leapers UTG Air Rifle Scope
factors to consider when choosing the best Bushnell air rifle scopes
1. Optical Clarity and Glass Quality
Look for ED Prime glass and fully multi-coated lenses for superior image sharpness, minimal color fringing, and improved light transmission, especially in low-light conditions.
2. Magnification Range
Choose a magnification range suited to your shooting style — for example, a wide 6x zoom ratio is versatile for both short-range precision and long-range target engagement.
3. Reticle Type
Consider reticles like the G4P Precision Reticle for accurate holdovers, windage adjustments, and fast target acquisition. First focal plane (FFP) designs are ideal for consistent subtensions across magnifications.
4. Parallax Adjustment
A low minimum parallax setting (such as 25 yards) allows the scope to be used effectively for both close and long-range shooting, which is important for air rifles.
5. Durability and Weather Resistance
Ensure the scope has an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, with a rugged aircraft-grade aluminum build and gas purging to prevent internal fogging.
6. Turret Design and Adjustments
Look for bold, easy-to-read turret markings and tactile clicks for precise adjustments in the field. Zero-stop or locking turrets can be an added advantage for long-range accuracy.
7. Weight and Size
Choose a compact and lightweight scope that won’t upset the balance of your air rifle, especially for extended shooting sessions or hunting trips.
8. Special Features
Extra features like a multi-position Throwhammer magnification lever make quick magnification changes easy, while lens coatings like EXO Barrier protect against dirt, oil, and water spots.
Frequent Asked Question Best Bushnell Air Rifle Scopes
1. Are Bushnell air rifle scopes suitable for both hunting and target shooting?
Yes. Many Bushnell scopes, such as the Elite Tactical DMR3, are designed with versatile magnification ranges, precision reticles, and adjustable parallax, making them equally effective for hunting small game and long-range target shooting.
2. Can Bushnell rifle scopes handle the recoil of high-powered air rifles?
Absolutely. Bushnell scopes are built with rugged aircraft-grade aluminum bodies and tested to withstand recoil from both high-powered air rifles and centerfire rifles, ensuring durability and long-term performance.
3. What makes ED Prime glass important in a Bushnell scope?
ED Prime (Extra-Low Dispersion) glass significantly reduces chromatic aberration, resulting in sharper, more color-accurate images. This is especially important for precise shot placement and identifying fine details at long distances.
Conclusion
In conclusion best bushnell air rifle scope can transform your shooting experience, offering sharper visuals, precise adjustments, and dependable performance in any condition. By focusing on optical clarity, durability, reticle design, and ease of use, you ensure every shot is backed by confidence and accuracy. Whether you’re practicing at the range or pursuing game in the field, the right scope becomes a trusted partner, helping you push your skills further and achieve consistent results shot after shot.