Last updated on December 29th, 2024
The definitive guide to the best hunting scopes for 2025 is here. Particularly for those of you who are giving thought to hunting at long distances. There’s a truck load of optics out there, with every company churning out new models faster than you possibly keep up with. But don’t worry, I’ve waded through the latest that the optics world has to offer. Bringing you a list of eight top notch hunting scopes.
Now, these aren’t just any scopes. They’re the best of the best, chosen with the modern hunter in mind. We’re talking about gear that can handle the harshest of environments without falling apart. Gear that’s light enough that hopefully you won’t feel like you’re lugging around an 18″ naval gun.
Remember, this list is just the beginning. Most of these scopes come in various configurations, with different magnification ranges and reticles to suit your personal taste. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the best of the best.
Table of Contents
- Best Overall Hunting Scope: Maven RS.4 5-30×56
- Best Long Distance Hunting Scope: Steiner Predator 8 4-32×56
- Most Durable Hunting Scope: Schmidt & Bender Exos 3-21×50
- Most Modern Hunting Scope: Burris Eliminator 6 4-20×52
- Most Slimline Hunting Scope: Swarovski Z8i 3.5-28×50
- Most Popular Hunting Scope: Leupold VX-6HD 4-24×52
- Best Value Hunting Scope: Vortex Razor HD LHT 4.5-22×50
- Best Field of View Hunting Scope: Zeiss Victory V8 4.8-35×60
Best Overall Hunting Scope
Maven RS.4 5-30×56

Maven Optics are a company hailing from Wyoming in the USA. Maven has really made a name for itself in the hunting optics world by focusing on top notch quality without that retail markup. Enter the Maven RS.4, a shining example of their knack for combining quality components with innovative design to create a scope that for me has been nothing short of exceptional.
The RS.4 is tailor made for hunters who crave reliability and quality in the rifle scopes. What really sets Maven apart from the rest is their unique direct to consumer model. By selling their gear directly through their website, they chop out the traditional retail middleman, delivering high end optics at a fraction of the price. This smart approach not only slashes costs but also builds a direct, personal connection between the company and the buyer. So, if you’re after a scope that ticks all the boxes without breaking the bank, Maven’s worth considering.

The Maven RS.4 5-30×56 is the scope that long-range hunters like myself have been dreaming of. This piece of kit combines top tier specs with features that anyone could use, making it a heavyweight champion in the precision hunting optics arena.
First off, it’s a first focal plane design and a magnification range that stretches from 5x to 30x. This FFP setup is absolutely vital for shooters who need dead on holdovers no matter the magnification. With a 56mm objective lens and a 34mm tube, you’re getting a stellar field of view and superb light-gathering capability. And if that wasn’t enough, it boasts a light transmission rate of 91.84%, ensuring you get that bright, crystal clear image Maven scopes are renowned for.
In short, the RS.4’s design perfectly blends functionality with cutting edge technology, making it one of the best hunting rifle scopes you can get your hands on today.

The scope’s compact size and high build quality is reflected in its dimensions and weight. At 325mm in length and weighing 35.4oz, it’s made to offer a compact durable package without overburdening the rifle. It’s capable of still working up to 3m below water, along with a nitrogen purged tube, make it both waterproof and fogproof, suitable for use in what ever weather conditions you find yourself in.
The RS.4 is equipped with an extensive internal adjustment range, with 120 MOA/35.5 MIL for elevation and 50 MOA/14.6 MIL for windage, more than enough for long distance shots and varying wind conditions for those that prefer to dial. The turrets are tactile and as with all high end optics track consistently.
The scope’s compact design is comfortable and easy to use. The eye relief varies from 78-92mm at 5x magnification to 86-92mm at 30x, providing a good range, even for those that wear glasses. The field of view at 100 yards ranges from 23.3ft at 5x to 3.9ft at 30x magnification, which gives a broad overview at lower magnifications and more detailed focus at the higher end. The RS.4 features a glass etched reticle which is available in several different variants including MOA-2, SHR-W, SHR-MIL, and CFR-MIL, catering to different preferences. The illuminated reticle is adjustable in red and green and is a great feature on a hunting scope to enhance the reticle under varying light conditions, adding to the scope’s hunting versatility.
Comparatively its slightly heavier than other optics on the list but the RS.4 is still one of the best hunting scopes available in 2025 due to its short tube and huge 120 MOA elevation adjustment. As I use a Maven RS.3 on my hunting setup, I can tell you that when Maven says the RS series have an ‘Exceptionally Clear, Bright, High Contrast Image’ they aren’t lying.
Quick Stats: Maven RS.4
Glass | Japan |
Magnification | 5-30×56 |
Weight | 35.4oz / 1004g |
Eye Relief | 3.62” / 92mm |
Illumination | Yes |
Best Long Distance Hunting Scope
Steiner Predator 8 4-32×56

Steiner is a name synonymous with high quality optics built to withstand harsh conditions, and the Predator 8 is no exception. This scope firmly secures its spot among the best hunting scopes of 2025. Having extensively tested Steiner’s tactical optics, I was keen to see how their hunting optics stacked up. Thanks to a loan from Beretta, I got some hands on time with the Predator 8.
The highlight of the Predator 8 for me is its customizable ballistic turret. This feature lets hunters set custom distances with movable rings, ensuring lightning fast and pinpoint elevation adjustments. The scope offers an impressive field of view at 100 meters, ranging from 1.18m (3.8ft) at the highest magnification of 32x to 9.46m (31.03ft) at 4x. This wide range ensures excellent target acquisition at close range and superior target identification at longer distances.

The eye relief comes in at 95mm / 3.7 inches, giving a good range to get comfortable behind the scope. Measuring in at 15.1 inches in length and weighing 27.3 ounces, the Steiner Predator 8 is fairly long but does bring with it the large mag range. It’s nitrogen filled to prevent internal fogging, a must have for changing temperatures and conditions in when out hunting.
The wind and elevation click value of 1/4 MOA allows for good adjustment and packs an elevation and wind range of 32 MOA. This is a decent range when dialing for bullet drop and wind drift. The parallax adjustment starts at 20m and goes out to infinity. The huge magnification range, low weight and solid construction make the Steiner Predator 8 a contender for being one of the best hunting scopes available.

Quick Stats: Steiner Predator 8
Glass | Germany |
Magnification | 4-32×56 |
Weight | 27.3oz / 773g |
Eye Relief | 3.7” / 93mm |
Illumination | Yes |
Most Durable Hunting Scope
Schmidt & Bender Exos 3-21×50

The priciest optic on our list, the Schmidt & Bender Exos is a prime example of the old adage that you get what you pay for. My long distance target rifle is kitted out with a Schmidt & Bender because, quite frankly, it’s the best glass I’ve ever used. And it’s built like a tank. The Exos boasts a magnification range from 3 to 21x, making it versatile enough for both close and long range targets. The 50mm objective lens offers a generous field of view, narrowing from 13m at the lowest magnification to 1.9m at the highest.
Weighing in at 925g and measuring 340mm in length, the Exos has a robust 34mm tube diameter, ensuring a rock solid scope body that’s designed specifically for use in harsh environments when hunting. It also provides a comfortable 90mm eye relief. True to Schmidt & Bender’s reputation, the Exos delivers over 90% light transmission, that has a clear and bright view even in dim conditions. The scope features adjustment options of 0.1 MRAD or ¼ MOA click values, giving you precise control.

To handle the most punishing environments, the Schmidt & Bender Exos operates in temperatures ranging from –25 to +55 °C. Whether you’re braving the frozen mountains or scorching deserts, this scope is designed to work.
The Exos 3-21×50 also features an illumination option for enhanced reticle visibility in low light conditions. The scope comes in a variety of reticles, including the D7 (SFP) and LRH-MOA (SFP), depending on your preference. The true color glass quality, high quality customizable turrets, and rugged military grade construction come together to form one of the best hunting scopes available. The turret design, with its incredibly tactile clicks, is arguably the best on the market at this time.
If you ever get the chance, get hands on with the Schmidt & Bender Exos. Once you do, you’ll understand why it commands such a premium price, it’s worth every cent.

Quick Stats: Schmidt & Bender Exos
Glass | Germany |
Magnification | 3-21×50 |
Weight | 32.6oz / 924g |
Eye Relief | 3.54″ / 90mm |
Illumination | Yes |
Most Modern Hunting Scope
Burris Eliminator 6 4-20×52

I’ve been lucky enough to get my hands on the latest Burris Eliminator 6, and let me tell you, for those that embrace technology, this scope is an absolute must have. What sets the Eliminator 6 apart from the rest is its built in ballistic calculator. With the push of a button, you get the distance to your target and the exact point of aim, all displayed right inside the scope. It’s like having a personal assistant telling you, “Aim here”. Best of all its alot less uglier than the previous Burris Eliminator 5.
The Eliminator 6 boasts a magnification range of 4-20x, paired with a substantial 52mm objective lens diameter. This ensures exceptional light gathering, providing you with a bright, crystal clear image that’s almost unfair to the game you’re hunting. The X177 Eliminator 6 Reticle in the Rear Focal Plane is the magic behind the ballistic calculator, allowing for dead on calculations. You’ve got maximum elevation and windage adjustments of 40 MOA, giving you a good range for whatever distance you fancy. Despite all this wizardry, the Eliminator 6 weighs in at a very manageable 30 ounces, balancing the tech and weight combo well.

This scope is built for long range hunting, having a rather high maximum range of up to 2,400 yards/2,194 meters. Once you’ve calibrated it to your ammunition, all you need to do is press a button and the firing solution dot appears on the reticle. The parallax adjustment starts at 25 yards and goes all the way to infinity. The ballistic computer needs a little bit of juice, and runs on a CR123A battery for the scope and a CR2032 battery for the remote.
The Burris Eliminator 6 4-20×52 is the ultimate choice for hunters who want to harness the latest ballistic technology. If you get the chance, take it for a spin and see you all the help you can get at the click of a button.

Quick Stats: Burris Eliminator 6
Glass | USA |
Magnification | 4-20×52 |
Weight | 30oz / 850g |
Eye Relief | 3.4” / 86mm |
Illumination | Yes |
Most Slimline Hunting Scope
Swarovski Z8i 3.5-28×50

If someone was the ask me about the very best of the best of hunting rifle scopes the Swarovski Z8i is the one. This isn’t just any scope, this is the Bentley of hunting optics. Made in Austria, a country that is renown for producing excellent optics, the Z8i has been turning heads since it rolled off the production line in 2019. And why wouldn’t it? It’s got a pedigree that makes it the go to choice for hunters who want nothing but the best.
First off, the glass on this thing is so clear, you’ll be blown away. Hunters around the world rave about its rugged build and its easily some of the best glass you can get your hands on today. It’s not just talk either, this high end piece of kit has a 10 year warranty. That’s a decade of reassurance that you’re holding the apex of optical engineering in your hands.

The Z8i gives you a magnification range from 3.5x all the way up to 28x. Whether you’re stalking deer in the woods or taking down a pronghorn in the open plains, this scope is up to the job. The field of view is impressive too, ranging from 1.5 meters at 100 meters on the high end to a sweeping 12.1 meters on the low end.
With 95mm of eye relief theres plenty of room to get comfortable behind the scope. The turret is lockable, giving you precise adjustments with each click at 0.1 MIL. The multi turn elevation turret offers a great 14 MRAD or 50 MOA of elevation and 7 MRAD or 25 MOA windage adjustment. The reticle, sitting comfortably in the second focal plane, stays consistent no matter your magnification.

The optic comes with a red illumination. Perfect for daylight and it even has an auto turn off feature to save battery. Weighing a mere 665 grams and measuring 381mm, it’s light enough to carry all day without feeling like you’re lugging a lead pipe through the woods. It’s nitrogen filled too, so no worries about fogging up or getting water inside.
With fully multi coated lenses, you get an impressive 93% light transmission. That’s some of the best transmission levels in any optics in the world. And with a 30mm tube diameter, it’s a solid, standard choice for any hunter. In conclusion, the Swarovski Z8i is the epitome of lightweight, compact design paired with the unparalleled quality of European glass. If you’re looking for the best hunting scope available in 2024, this is it.

Quick Stats: Swarovski Z8i
Glass | Austria |
Magnification | 3.5-28x |
Weight | 23.5oz / 666g |
Eye Relief | 3.74″ / 94mm |
Illumination | Yes |
Most Popular Hunting Scope
Leupold VX-6HD 4-24×52

The Leupold VX-6HD 4-24×52 has built a reputation as being the reliable partner of hunting optics world. If Leupold were a car, it would be a Land Rover Defender tough, reliable, and designed to survive anything you can throw at it. The VX-6HD series is loved by long range hunters all over the world, and for good reason. The price to quality ratio what impresses with this scope. You’re getting top shelf performance without having to remortgage your house.
One of the standout features and this is brilliant is the push button locking mechanism on the turrets. So when your out in the field with adrenaline pumping, the last thing you need is your turrets having moved on you. With this mechanism, your turrets stay locked in place until you say otherwise. Then there’s the electronic reticle level indicator, which is a nice addition. This little gadget alerts you if your scope is off center. If it’s tilted even by a single degree, the illuminated reticle gives a blink to snap you back to reality.

Comfort is key when you’re out hunting for hours, and the VX-6HD delivers with a generous 3.7 inches of eye relief. Add to that the illuminated reticle, and you’re ready for anything from dawn to dusk. Of course, it’s waterproof and fogproof like the others here on the list. Making it a reliable partner no matter the conditions you face.

The glass is one of the surprisingly good features of this scope for the price point. It’s bright and crisp and it gives the European scopes a run for their money. Rugged construction and high end optics make the VX-6HD a force to be reckoned with. The Leupold VX-6HD 4-24×52 is the ultimate workhorse of the hunting optics world. It’s reliable, packed with smart features, and built to last.

Quick Stats: Leupold VX-6HD
Glass | USA |
Magnification | 4-24×52 |
Weight | 25.9oz. / 734g |
Eye Relief | 3.7″ / 93mm |
Illumination | Yes |
Best Value Hunting Scope
Vortex Razor HD LHT 4.5-22×50

Looking for something on the lower end of the price scale but still wanting reliability and performance? Enter the Razor HD LHT 4.5-22×50 from Vortex. This scope is remarkably lightweight, weighing a mere 21.7 ounces. The Razor is built from a single piece of aircraft grade aluminum, making it tough enough to handle anything nature throws at it. The 30mm tube houses a great HD optical system that delivers good performance.
The magnification range of 4.5-22x provides a versatile range, perfect for everything from spotting deer in dense woodland to picking off targets at long distances across open fields. The 50mm objective lens soaks in light, ensuring high contrast images in the dimmest dawn or duskiest twilight.

But what truly sets this scope apart is the XLR-2 reticle in the first focal plane. It provides precise holdovers and adjustments that scale perfectly with your zoom. Whether you prefer MOA or MRAD, the Razor HD LHT has both covered, and the reticle can even be illuminated for those tricky low light situations. The RevStop Zero System is highly regarded, allowing for a quick and reliable return to zero with a flick of the lever, ensuring you never miss a beat or a shot. The exposed elevation turret locks securely, while the capped windage turret ensures you don’t accidentally mess up your settings. Adjustments are as crisp and satisfying as biting into a fresh apple. Each click is a testament to Vortex’s commitment to quality.

For those concerned with practicality, the Razor HD LHT 4.5-22×50 isn’t just about looks and performance. It comes with all the bells and whistles you’d expect, tethered lens covers, a sunshade, a lens cloth, and even a CR2032 battery for that illuminated reticle. And the best part? Vortex’s VIP warranty means you’re covered for life, no matter what happens.
In conclusion, the Vortex Razor HD LHT 4.5-22×50 isn’t just a riflescope, it’s a fantastic example of modern scope engineering at a great price point. Its designed to give you everything you need without breaking the bank. It’s the perfect blend of form, function, and indestructible build quality, all wrapped up in a sleek, matte black package. If you’re serious about hunting and aren’t looking to break the bank, this is the scope you want by your side.
Quick Stats: Vortex Razor HD LHT
Glass | Japan |
Magnification | 4.5-22×50 |
Weight | 21.7oz / 615g |
Eye Relief | 4” / 101mm |
Illumination | Yes |
Best Field of View Hunting Scope
Zeiss Victory V8 4.8-35×60

Brace yourselves for what might seem like a telescope compared to the competition, the Zeiss Victory V8 4.8-35×60. If you’re the kind of hunter who likes to spot and shoot your game from the next county over, this is your first choice. With a mind bending magnification range of 4.8 to 35×, the Victory V8 puts almost all other hunting scopes to shame.
The Zeiss has a colossal 60mm objective lens. Combined with the robust 34mm tube, making it a veritable beast in the world of scopes. The massive objective lens is not just for show, it delivers an astounding 92% light transmission. That means you can see your target a little easier at dawn or dusk when the light is low and the game is most active.

Now, you’d think something with this kind of firepower would weigh a ton. But no, the Zeiss Victory V8 is surprisingly light at just 35.1 ounces / 995 grams. It’s not quite a featherweight champion in the world of optics but it is manageable for the magnification it brings. And it’s not just about the weight, the scope has a huge eyebox for rapid target acquisition, which is crucial when every second counts.
It has a parallax setting that starts at 50 meters and stretches out to infinity, which is perfect for those long range shots. It’s also equipped with Zeiss’s LotuTec water repellent coating, ensuring your view remains clear even in the worst weather conditions. The Victory V8 also has a ballistic turret and ASV for quick and precise elevation adjustments. And there’s more, the scope comes with FL (fluoride) lenses for brilliant color fidelity and image definition. Combine that with it six layer transmission coating and you’re looking at some amazing clarity and brightness. It’s also nitrogen filled to prevent fogging, and it’s waterproof up to 400 mbar.

In short, the Zeiss Victory V8 is a well thought out long distance hunting scope. It’s tailor made for those moments at dawn and dusk when you need to see clearly and shoot accurately. So, if you’re serious about your long distance hunting shots and demand nothing but the best, the Zeiss Victory V8 is your weapon of choice.

Quick Stats: Zeiss Victory V8
Glass | Germany |
Magnification | 4.8-25×60 |
Weight | 35.1oz / 995g |
Eye Relief | 3.62” / 92mm |
Illumination | Yes |
Things to Look For in a Long Range Hunting Scope
When looking at high end long range hunting scopes, there are several critical factors to consider. Each hunter has their own requirements and preferences, ranging from the need for high magnification and lightweight design to a specific price point. Understanding each aspect helps in making an informed decision. Here are each of the key areas of what most people look for in a long range hunting scope.

Budget Considerations
The price of hunting scopes vary significantly, but overall reflecting the quality of materials, construction, and tech features it offers. For instance, consider the comparison between the Vortex Razor HD LHT and the Schmidt & Bender Exos. The Vortex, priced at least $2,000 less than the Schmidt & Bender. Making it more accessible to hunters at a lower price point but does not match the S&B in terms of glass quality and construction.
Expensive scopes generally offer advanced features like superior lens coatings, better construction, and finer/more adjustment capabilities. These features can significantly enhance a hunting experience by giving you a clearer image and more reliable protection from the element in the field. However, a higher priced optic doesn’t always guarantee a better scope for every hunter’s needs. The more budget friendly Vortex Razor HD LHT can still offer excellent functionality, and it’s important to balance the cost with the specific features you need for your hunting style.
When considering the price, also factor in the potential need for additional accessories, which can add to the overall cost. Mounts, lens covers, and other enhancements can be necessary for the optimal use of the scope. In summary, while higher-priced scopes often offer superior quality and features, hunters should assess their specific needs and budget to find the best scope that offers the most value for their investment.
Maven RS.4 | 1800 USD |
Steiner Predator 8 | 1999 USD |
Schmidt & Bender Exos | 4340 USD |
Burris Eliminator 6 | 2500 USD |
Swarovski Z8i | 3699 USD |
Leupold VX-6HD | 2299 USD |
Vortex Razor HD LHT | 1499 USD |
Zeiss Victory V8 | 3999 USD |
Glass Quality in Hunting Scopes
The quality of the glass in a hunting scope shouldn’t be overlooked, especially for long range shots. It’s the glass that dictates the clarity, colour fidelity, and overall visual experience when looking through the scope. Renowned glass manufacturers like those in Germany and Austria produce some of the world’s finest optics, contributing to the higher price of scopes using these materials.
High quality glass gives you better light transmission, which is crucial in low light conditions such as dawn or dusk which are common times for hunting. Superior glass quality also reduces chromatic aberrations, resulting in clearer, sharper images.
Another aspect where glass quality plays a crucial role is in the coating technologies used. Advanced coatings on the lenses can significantly improve light transmission, reduce glare, and make a clearer image. Multicoated lenses are now standard in high end scopes as the multiple layers of coatings make such a big difference in image quality.
However, high quality glass and advanced coatings come at a price. You should consider the environment and times you will most frequently hunt in to decide how much to invest in glass quality. For instance, if most of your hunting is done in bright, daylight conditions, the highest quality glass might not be needed.
Maven RS.4 | Japan |
Steiner Predator 8 | Germany |
Schmidt & Bender Exos | Germany |
Burris Eliminator 6 | USA |
Swarovski Z8i | Austria |
Leupold VX-6HD | USA |
Vortex Razor HD LHT | Japan |
Zeiss Victory V8 | Germany |
Hunting Scope Magnification Range
The magnification range determines how well you can see targets at distance and how detailed the image. Scopes like the Zeiss Victory V8 and Steiner Predator 8, which have high magnification ranges, are worth considering if you are looking at hunting at long distances. A larger magnification range provides greater capability for long range.
A good shooting position becomes important when using the higher end of the magnification in these scopes. However, high magnification isn’t always necessary and will depend on your intended hunting situation. For some hunters, especially those who shoot in thick scrub or wooded areas, lower magnifications are alot more practical.
Luckily the scopes listed here have great glass but some high magnifications in cheap optics can amplify any imperfections in the glass, affecting the image clarity. While high magnification scopes like the Zeiss Victory V8 and Steiner Predator 8 offer some good advantages for long distance shooting, it’s important to consider the type of hunting and the typical shooting distances you will be engaging in.

Maven RS.4 | 5-30×56 |
Steiner Predator 8 | 4-32×56 |
Schmidt & Bender Exos | 3-21×50 |
Burris Eliminator 6 | 4-20×52 |
Swarovski Z8i | 3.5-28×50 |
Leupold VX-6HD | 4-24×52 |
Vortex Razor HD LHT | 4.5-22×50 |
Zeiss Victory V8 | 4.5x35x60 |
Weight
The weight of a hunting scope shouldn’t be overlooked. Especially if you are spending long hours in the field or trekking through rough terrain. A heavy scope can add significant weight to the rifle setup, leading to fatigue and affecting your performance. The balance between the weight of the rifle, bipod, and optic can significantly impact your mobility and endurance. Lightweight scopes, like the Vortex Razor HD LHT, offer the advantage of reduced strain during long hunting trips. They are easier to handle and quicker to manoeuvre, which can be crucial in dynamic hunting situations. However, lighter scopes might compromise on some features like larger objective lenses or a more robust construction.

Heavier scopes, such as the Maven RS.4, can come with added benefits. These include larger lenses for better light gathering, a more durable construction, and additional features such as more turret adjustment.
When choosing a scope based on weight, consider the type of hunting you do most. If you’re often on the move, stalking over a long distances or anything to do with climbing mountains, a lighter scope would be beneficial. For stationary or hide based hunting, where the scope’s weight is less of an issue, a heavier model with more features might be better for you.
Maven RS.4 | 35.5oz / 1004g |
Steiner Predator 8 | 27.3oz / 773g |
Schmidt & Bender Exos | 32.6oz / 924g |
Burris Eliminator 6 | 30oz / 850g |
Swarovski Z8i | 23.5oz / 666g |
Leupold VX-6HD | 25.9oz. / 734g |
Vortex Razor HD LHT | 21.7oz / 615g |
Zeiss Victory V8 | 34.2oz / 970g |
Importance of Eye Relief
Eye relief refers to the distance between the shooter’s eye and the rear lens of the scope at which the full field of view is visible. Good eye relief is needed for comfort and safety, especially when using high caliber rifles with significant recoil. For hunters who wear glasses, longer eye relief is also important for comfortable viewing. It allows you to maintain a proper sight picture without having to worry about pressing glasses against the scope. The right amount of eye relief varies from hunter to hunter, depending on personal preference, the type of rifle used, and the typical shooting positions adopted.

Maven RS.4 | 3.62” / 92mm |
Steiner Predator 8 | 3.7” / 93mm |
Schmidt & Bender Exos | 3.54″ / 90mm |
Burris Eliminator 6 | 3.4” / 86mm |
Swarovski Z8i | 3.74″ / 94mm |
Leupold VX-6HD | 3.7″ / 93mm |
Vortex Razor HD LHT | 4” / 101mm |
Zeiss Victory V8 | 3.74” / 95mm |
Illumination in Hunting Scopes
Illuminated reticles are a significant feature in modern hunting scopes, especially useful in low light conditions, such as dawn or dusk. Illumination helps highlight the reticle against the target, making sure that the crosshairs are visible, regardless of the background or lighting conditions.
All of the scopes listed, including the high-end models like the Zeiss Victory V8 and the more budget-friendly options like the Vortex Razor HD LHT, come equipped with illuminated reticles. This standardisation across various price points shows the widespread understanding of the importance of illumination in modern hunting.

Maven RS.4 | Yes |
Steiner Predator 8 | Yes |
Schmidt & Bender Exos | Yes |
Burris Eliminator 6 | Yes |
Swarovski Z8i | Yes |
Leupold VX-6HD | Yes |
Vortex Razor HD LHT | Yes |
Zeiss Victory V8 | Yes |
Summing Up
When it comes to selecting the best hunting scope for 2025, it’s clear that a number of key factors are essential. From considering your budget and balancing it with the necessary features, to understanding the pivotal role of glass quality for clear, long range engagements, each element plays a role. Navigating through the price points, from cheaper options like the Vortex Razor HD LHT to high end such as the Schmidt & Bender Exos, it’s important to consider what’s most important to you.
Finding the best hunting scope in 2025 is about striking the right balance across these key features. It involves a careful consideration of what you value most, ensuring that the chosen scope meets your expectations and allows you the best tool for the job.
LONG DISTANCE HUNTING PICK
Steiner Predator 8 4-32×56
High magnification with clear glass for low light hunting.
MOST DURABLE
Schmidt & Bender Exos 3-21×50
Built like a battleship, the Exos wont let you down in the field.
CLASSIC PICK
Leupold VX-6HD 4-24×52
One of the most popular hunting optic brands in the world. Solid build, good glass and reliable tracking.
DUSK AND DAWN SPECIALIST
Zeiss Victory V8 4.8-35×60
Huge objective lens for capturing light and massive
If you are looking for a long distance target or competition scope checkout the best premium scope list.
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