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Field SportsOpticsRifle Scopes 30

Compare Rifle Scopes

 
Steiner Ranger8 3-24x56 BT Riflescope. Since its introduction in 2015, the Steiner Ranger series has developed into one of the most successful rifle scope series in Europe. In the constant effort to further improve our products and to make them more advanced and reliable, the Ranger 8 series has been further optimized and now fascinates with numerous improvements and perfected features.
      £1949.00 Pre Order Purchase Options

Steiner Ranger8 4-32x56 BT Rifle Scope

Versatile and precise with integrated customizable ballistic turret!
SteinerRanger8 4-32x56 BT Rifle Scope. A bright and lightweight riflescope that quickly adapts to challenging and changing conditions over long distances.
      £1999.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
Steiner Ranger10 1-10x24 Riflescope. As an innovation leader in the field of hunting optics, we can now expand our popular and globally successful Ranger series with the first rifle scope with 10x magnification in the premium segment. Constantly looking for how we can make our customers' hunting experience even more user-friendly and successful, in the Ranger 10 we combine maximum flexibility in magnification with the short design of a driven hunt rifle scope, which enables problem-free and comf
      £2199.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
 

Swarovski Z6i MK2 1.7-10x42 IR Rifle Scope

Versatility taken to another level! Slim design perfect for stalking in forests, the open fields or up the mountain!
The Swarovski Z6i MK2 1.7-10x42 IR Riflescope, designed for use with all-round rifles, especially lightweight stalking and mountain rifles, offers the widest ever range of use and is perfect for driven hunting in forest, field and mountain alike.
5 star review (2) RRP £1850.00 £1699.00 In stock Purchase Options

Swarovski Z6i MK2 2-12x50 IR BT Rifle Scope

Ballistic Turret. Simple solution to poor light! A reliable twilight scope for multi-range shooting thanks to the field of view and high magnification!
The Swarovski Z6i MK2 2-12x50 IR BT universal riflescope provides you with a reliable twilight scope for any terrain, which is just as able to cope with hunting moving targets in woodland as it is with extremely long shots in open fields.
5 star review (2) RRP £2050.00 £1749.00 In stock Purchase Options
Swarovski Z8i+ 0.75-6x20 IR Riflescope. Groundbreaking field of view (64.6 m/100 m (193.8 ft/100 yds) with 0.75x magnification) thanks to VIEWPLUS for a quick overview of events. Enjoy all the benefits of the Z8i+ with a large, comfortable eyebox for particularly fast sighting. A short zoom rotation of 160° and the ergonomic TL+ throw lever in black and orange add the finishing touches to the sophisticated design of this complete package.
  RRP £2560.00 £2429.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
 
Swarovski Z8i+ 0.75-6x20 IR FLEXCHANGE Riflescope. Groundbreaking field of view (64.6 m/100 m (193.8 ft/100 yds) with 0.75x magnification) thanks to VIEWPLUS for a quick overview of events. Enjoy all the benefits of the Z8i+ with a large, comfortable eyebox for particularly fast sighting. A short zoom rotation of 160° and the ergonomic TL+ throw lever in black and orange add the finishing touches to the sophisticated design of this complete package.
  RRP £2810.00 £2669.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
Swarovski Z8i+ 1-8x24 IR Riflescope. The Z8i+ 1-8x24 takes you closer to the action on driven hunts and stalking expeditions. It offers an impressive 50 m/100 m (150 ft/100 yds) field of view with 1x magnification. Enjoy all the benefits of the Z8i+ with a large, comfortable eyebox for particularly fast sighting. A short zoom rotation of 160° and the ergonomic TL+ throw lever in black and orange add the finishing touches to the sophisticated design of this complete package.
  RRP £2560.00 £2429.00 Check stock Purchase Options
Swarovski Z8i+ 1-8x24 IR FLEXCHANGE Riflescope. The Z8i+ 1-8x24 takes you closer to the action on driven hunts and stalking expeditions. It offers an impressive 50 m/100 m (150 ft/100 yds) field of view with 1x magnification. Enjoy all the benefits of the Z8i+ with a large, comfortable eyebox for particularly fast sighting. A short zoom rotation of 160° and the ergonomic TL+ throw lever in black and orange add the finishing touches to the sophisticated design of this complete package.
  RRP £2810.00 £2669.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
 
Swarovski Z8i+ 5-40x56 IR Riflescope. The Z8i+ 5-40x56 takes hunting to a whole new dimension. It promises a unique combination of brilliant optics and comfortable observation to allow both a clear overview and precise target acquisition. The new extra-large eyebox increases comfort and allows relaxed viewing through the rifle scope for extended periods. For long-range hunting, the rifle scope impresses with remarkable detail accuracy, even at 40x magnification.
  RRP £3560.00 £3379.00 In stock Purchase Options

Swarovski Z8i FACELIFT (GEN II) 1-8x24 IR Riflescope

Always on the move! The perfect optical system - exceptional field of view and rapid target acquisition!
Swarovski Z8i FACELIFT (GEN II) 1-8x24 IR Riflescope. Whether for driven hunts or dynamic situations, the Z8i 1-8x24 offers a complete overview with its extra-large field of view. The optimized ergonomics ensure even more intuitive handling, allowing you to react quickly at all times.
  RRP £2390.00 £2269.00 Pre Order Purchase Options

Swarovski Z8i FACELIFT (GEN II) 1.7-13.3x42 P IR Rifle Scope

True versatility! Remarkable field of view offers overview for driven hunting
Swarovski Z8i FACELIFT (GEN II) 1.7-13.3x42 IR Rifle Scope. From stalking to driven hunts, the Z8i 1.7-13.3x42 combines high light transmission with a compact design. Improved operation makes handling even smoother in every hunting situation.
  RRP £2970.00 £2819.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
 

Swarovski Z8i FACELIFT (GEN II) 1.7-13.3x42 P IR Flexchange Rifle Scope

Flexchange. True versatility! Remarkable field of view offers overview for driven hunting
Swarovski Z8i FACELIFT (GEN II) 1.7-13.3x42 IR Flexchange Rifle Scope. With a large field of view of 25.2 m (75.6 ft) and light weight of just 620 g (21.9 oz), the illuminated Z8i 1.7-13.3x42 P L is the perfect choice for stalking and driven hunting. Also equipped with FLEXCHANGE, the switchable 4A-IF reticle.
  RRP £3220.00 £3059.00 Pre Order Purchase Options

Swarovski Z8i FACELIFT (GEN II) 2-16x50 P IR Rifle Scope

Right at home anywhere! Sophisticated multipurpose scope for all types of shooting and in low light conditions!
Swarovski Z8i FACELIFT (GEN II) 2-16x50 P IR Rifle Scope. Thanks to its high light intensity and 8x zoom, the Z8i 2-16x50 is a reliable companion for a wide range of hunting types. The optimized ergonomics allow for even faster adaptation to changing conditions.
  RRP £3140.00 £2979.00 Check stock Purchase Options

Swarovski Z8i FACELIFT (GEN II) 2.3-18x56 P IR Rifle Scope

Razor-sharp images even in challenging situations
Swarovski Z8i FACELIFT (GEN II) 2.3-18x56 P IR Rifle Scope. The Z8i 2.3-18x56 offers maximum optical performance for demanding hunts in difficult lighting conditions. The revised handling ensures even more comfortable use – even during long periods of sitting.
  RRP £3220.00 £3059.00 Check stock Purchase Options
 

Swarovski Z8i FACELIFT (GEN II) 3.5-28x50 IR Rifle Scope

Extraordinarily high detail rendition! Ideal for long range shots!
Swarovski Z8i FACELIFT (GEN II) 3.5-28x50 IR Rifle Scope. The Z8i 3.5-28x50 offers extreme precision for long distances. The improved ergonomics make it easier to use and allow for more intuitive handling.
  RRP £3390.00 £3219.00 Check stock Purchase Options
The SWAROVSKI OPTIK Z6i 1-6x24 (Gen III) is a premium illuminated riflescope built for fast, decisive shooting where timing matters most. As part of the new Z6i family, it pairs iconic field-proven performance with refined upgrades, including new optics and an improved eyebox designed to deliver a clear image instantly.
      £1620.00 In stock Purchase Options
The SWAROVSKI OPTIK Z6i 1.7-10x42 (Gen III) is a premium mid-to-long-range illuminated riflescope that delivers exceptional optical clarity, versatile magnification, and solid low-light performance. As part of the latest Z6i family, it pairs refined optics with an improved eyebox and illumination system to support confident aiming and precision across diverse hunting scenarios.
      £1700.00 In stock Purchase Options
 

Swarovski Z6i 2.5-15x50 Rifle Scope (Gen III)

New model - universal scope for allround use!
The SWAROVSKI OPTIK Z6i 2.5-15x50 (Gen III) is a premium, high-performance illuminated riflescope engineered for precision at extended ranges while maintaining versatility for mid-range engagements. As part of the refined Z6i series, it combines an expansive magnification range with bright optics, enhanced clarity, and intuitive handling—ideal for discerning hunters and precision shooters alike.
      £1780.00 Pre Order Purchase Options

Swarovski Z6i 2.5-15x50 BT Rifle Scope (Gen III)

New model - universal scope for allround use!
The SWAROVSKI OPTIK Z6i 2.5-15x50 BT (Gen III) is a premium illuminated riflescope engineered for versatile medium-to-long-range hunting with ballistic turret control. Combining an expansive magnification range with a large 50 mm objective and precision ballistic turrets, this optical system delivers clarity, confidence, and fast follow-up capabilities in demanding field conditions.
      £1900.00 Pre Order Purchase Options

Swarovski Z6i 4-24x56 BT Rifle Scope (Gen III)

New model - for long range and allround hunting!
The SWAROVSKI OPTIK Z6i 4-24x56 BT (Gen III) is a premium long-range illuminated riflescope designed for precision shooting and versatile field performance. It combines an extensive magnification range with a large 56 mm objective lens, advanced ballistic turrets, and premium optics to support confident shot placement at extended distances.
      £1980.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
 

Swarovski Z5i+ 3.5-18x50 BT Rifle Scope

Expanding long-range possibilities - performance elevated, greatness definded!
The Swarovski Optik Z5i+ 3.5–18x50 P BT MRAD is a premium, long-range hunting riflescope designed for precise shot placement across varied ground. With a wide 3.5–18x magnification range and a 50mm objective, it supports everything from deliberate target acquisition at lower power to careful shot execution at higher magnification—particularly when distance and changing light conditions demand more from your optics.
      £1900.00 Check stock Purchase Options

Swarovski Z5i+ 5-25x56 BT Rifle Scope

Expanding long-range possibilities - performance elevated, greatness definded!
The Swarovski Optik Z5i+ 5–25x56 P BT MRAD is a premium hunting riflescope engineered for long-range precision where detail, control, and consistency are critical. With an extended 5–25x magnification range and a large 56mm objective lens, it is purpose-built for demanding shots at distance, offering enhanced resolution and confident aiming in open terrain and challenging light.
      £1980.00 Check stock Purchase Options
The Swarovski dS 4-24x50 is an intelligent rifle scope designed for hunters who demand absolute precision under pressure. Combining advanced digital technology with premium optics, it calculates and displays the correct aiming point at the push of a button, allowing confident, ethical shots across varying distances and conditions.
      £4140.00 In stock Purchase Options
 
ThermTec AAres 635 Tube Thermal Imaging (640x512) Riflescope - 12um/35mk. The combination of cutting-edge design and the latest technology in the field of thermal imaging.
  WAS £2499.00 £1849.00 In stock Purchase Options
ThermTec Oryx-L 635 Thermal Riflescope. The ThermTec Oryx-L 635 is designed for versatile hunting scenarios, offering ultra-clear thermal imaging with a highly sensitive NETD ? 15mK sensor. Its vivid OLED display ensures comfortable long-term viewing, while the ThermTec AutoSight System (TASS) and built-in laser rangefinder provide smooth zoom and accurate distance measurement. With a wider field of view and an intuitive Central Turret Focus System, the Oryx-L 635 is ideal for close to mid-range
      £2499.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
ThermTec Oryx-L 650 Thermal Riflescope. The Oryx-L 650 takes performance further with a highly sensitive thermal NETD ?15 mK sensor and vivid OLED display for precise long-range observation. Featuring the ThermTec AutoSight System (TASS) for seamless zoom and built-in laser rangefinder for pinpoint accuracy, it delivers precise targeting and reliable shots. With extended detection up to 2,600 meters, higher magnification, and durable battery life, the Oryx-L 650 is built for hunters who demand c
      £3259.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
 
Valiant Lynx 3-9x40 AO Rifle Scope. One of the main feature is one-piece main tube with diameter of 25,4mm. Wired reticle is suitable for sports shooter or passionate hunter. The kinetic energy is not a limitation for Lynx model so it is suitable for all firearms. We have also added a diopter correction from -2 to +2. We placed the parallax on the front objective to achieve a sharp and crispy view. It is adjustable from 10yds to infinity. On the same turret you will find a red illumination contr
      £99.99 In stock Purchase Options
One of the main feature is one-piece main tube with diameter of 30 mm. Operation with turrets is quick and easy. If you need to zero your scope you will be pleased with the possibility of zeroing with a screw. Wired reticle is suitable for sports shooter or passionate hunter. The kinetic energy is not a limitation for Lynx model so it is suitable for all firearms. We have also added a diopter correction from -2 to +2. Parallax can be found on the left turret. It is adjustable from 10yds to infin
4.5 star review (5)     £149.99 Out of stock -
One of the main feature is one-piece main tube with diameter of 30 mm. Operation with turrets is quick and easy. If you need to zero your scope you will be pleased with the possibility of zeroing with a screw. Wired reticle is suitable for sports shooter or passionate hunter. The kinetic energy is not a limitation for Lynx model so it is suitable for all firearms. We have also added a diopter correction from -2 to +2. Parallax can be found on the left turret. It is adjustable from 10yds to infin
5 star review (2)     £159.99 Out of stock -
 

Vortex Diamondback 1.75-5x32 Riflescope

Optically, these scopes hit the proverbial mark! No Quibble Lifetime Guarantee
Vortex Diamondback 1.75-5x32 Riflescope. The Diamondback riflescope completely changes the rules when it comes to “you get what you pay for”. The performance-to-price ratio on this classic go-to hunting scope is off the charts when it comes to image quality, build quality and overall feel of the turrets and the fast-focus eyepiece. If you’re in the market for a high-quality riflescope, look no further than the Diamondback—a quality riflescope that offers a variety of configurations at a price t
5 star review (2)     £249.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days Purchase Options

Vortex Diamondback 2–7x35 Rimfire Riflescope

Optically, these scopes hit the proverbial mark! No Quibble Lifetime Guarantee
Vortex Diamondback 2–7x35 Rimfire Riflescope. The Diamondback - loaded with features! First, the solid one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum alloy construction makes the Diamondback riflescope virtually indestructible and highly resistant to magnum recoil. Argon purging puts waterproof and fogproof performance on the agenda, and advanced fully multi-coated optics raise an eyebrow when crystal clear, tack-sharp images appear in the crosshairs. Look for all this and more in a riflescope you'd expect
      £229.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days Purchase Options

Vortex Diamondback 3–9x40 Riflescope

Optically, these scopes hit the proverbial mark! No Quibble Lifetime Guarantee
Vortex Diamondback 3–9x40 Riflescope. The Diamondback—loaded with features! First, the solid one-piece aircraft-grade aluminium alloy construction makes the Diamondback riflescope virtually indestructible and highly resistant to magnum recoil. Argon purging puts waterproof and fogproof performance on the agenda, and advanced fully multi-coated optics raise an eyebrow when crystal clear, tack-sharp images appear in the crosshairs.
5 star review (1)     From £219.00 Check stock Purchase Options
 

Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40 Riflescope

Optically, these scopes hit the proverbial mark! No Quibble Lifetime Guarantee
Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40 Riflescope. The Diamondback—loaded with features! First, the solid one-piece aircraft-grade aluminium alloy construction makes the Diamondback riflescope virtually indestructible and highly resistant to magnum recoil. Argon purging puts waterproof and fogproof performance on the agenda, and advanced fully multi-coated optics raise an eyebrow when crystal clear, tack-sharp images appear in the crosshairs.
5 star review (4)     £269.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days Purchase Options

Vortex Diamondback 3.5–10x50 Riflescope

Optically, these scopes hit the proverbial mark! No Quibble Lifetime Guarantee
Vortex Diamondback 3.5-10x50 Riflescope. The Diamondback—loaded with features! First, the solid one-piece aircraft-grade aluminium alloy construction makes the Diamondback riflescope virtually indestructible and highly resistant to magnum recoil. Argon purging puts waterproof and fogproof performance on the agenda, and advanced fully multi-coated optics raise an eyebrow when crystal clear, tack-sharp images appear in the crosshairs.
5 star review (2)     £299.00 In stock Purchase Options

Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-12x40 Riflescope - VMR-1 Reticle (MOA)

Legendary performance and extreme durability with a Tactical twist! No Quibble Lifetime Guarantee
Viper Diamondback Tactical 4-12x40 Riflescope - VMR-1 Reticle (MOA). Exposed tactical turrets built for dialing elevation and windage allow quick and precise bullet drop and wind drift compensation at extended ranges. When we say precise—we mean it. These turrets track better than any Bloodhound and reliably return to zero every time. A zero-reset feature lets you re-index the zero reference marks on both turrets after sight in, while fiber optic rotation indicators integrated into the turrets p
4.5 star review (3) WAS £349.00 £299.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
 

Vortex Diamondback Tactical FFP 4-16x44 Riflescope - MRAD

Legendary performance and extreme durability with a Tactical twist! No Quibble Lifetime Guarantee
Viper Diamondback Tactical FFP 4-16x44 Riflescope - MRAD. The first focal plane reticle, a feature ordinarily reserved for 4-figure-priced optics, allows shooters to use the information-packed EBR-2C reticles for ranging, holdovers or windage corrections on any magnification. Housed inside its durable, one-piece aluminum tube is a 4x optical system delivering excellent edge-to-edge clarity and sharp resolution. Exposed elevation and windage turrets are low profile enough to stay out of the way
      £429.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days Purchase Options

Vortex Diamondback Tactical FFP 4-16x44 Riflescope - MOA

Legendary performance and extreme durability with a Tactical twist! No Quibble Lifetime Guarantee
Viper Diamondback Tactical FFP 4-16x44 Riflescope. The first focal plane reticle, a feature ordinarily reserved for 4-figure-priced optics, allows shooters to use the information-packed EBR-2C reticles for ranging, holdovers or windage corrections on any magnification. Housed inside its durable, one-piece aluminum tube is a 4x optical system delivering excellent edge-to-edge clarity and sharp resolution. Exposed elevation and windage turrets are low profile enough to stay out of the way in pack
5 star review (4)     £429.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days Purchase Options

Vortex Diamondback Tactical FFP 6-24x50 Riflescope - MRAD

Legendary performance and extreme durability with a Tactical twist! No Quibble Lifetime Guarantee
Viper Diamondback Tactical FFP 6-24x50 Riflescope - MRAD. The first focal plane reticle, a feature ordinarily reserved for 4-figure-priced optics, allows shooters to use the information-packed EBR-2C reticles for ranging, holdovers or windage corrections on any magnification. Housed inside its durable, one-piece aluminum tube is a 4x optical system delivering excellent edge-to-edge clarity and sharp resolution. Exposed elevation and windage turrets are low profile enough to stay out of the way
4.5 star review (3)     £449.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days Purchase Options
 

Vortex Diamondback Tactical FFP 6-24x50 Riflescope - MOA

Legendary performance and extreme durability with a Tactical twist! No Quibble Lifetime Guarantee
Viper Diamondback Tactical FFP 6-24x50 Riflescope - MOA. The first focal plane reticle, a feature ordinarily reserved for 4-figure-priced optics, allows shooters to use the information-packed EBR-2C reticles for ranging, holdovers or windage corrections on any magnification. Housed inside its durable, one-piece aluminum tube is a 4x optical system delivering excellent edge-to-edge clarity and sharp resolution. Exposed elevation and windage turrets are low profile enough to stay out of the way i
4.5 star review (3) WAS £489.00 £449.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days Purchase Options
Vortex Triumph HD 3-9x40 Riflescope. Every great story at deer camp starts with one shot—and the Triumph™ HD 3-9x40 riflescope delivers everything you need to make it yours. With impressive glass, solid construction, and included Hunter Rings, it’s built to get you field-ready fast, so you can zero in and head out to hunt. Made for hunters who know that a great shot can define the season—and the stories that come with it.
      £109.00 In stock Purchase Options
Vortex Crossfire HD 1-4x24 IR Riflescope. The Crossfire® HD 1-4x24 is your go-to for close- to mid-range hunting. Quick target acquisition. Lightweight handling. Illuminated center dot. It’s a LPVO versatile enough for any rifle where agility matters.
5 star review (1)     £229.00 In stock Purchase Options
 
Vortex Crossfire HD 1.5-5.5x32 IR Riflescope. The Crossfire® HD 1.5-5.5x32 Scout delivers generous eye relief for snap shots and close-range encounters—whether mounted on a scout rifle or handgun. The illuminated center dot ensures faster, more accurate targeting in low light.
      £215.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days Purchase Options
Vortex Crossfire HD 2-7x32 Riflescope. Whether threading shots through dense timber or dialing in at range, Crossfire® HD delivers sharper detail and improved light transmission. And with an illuminated center dot to boost accuracy in low light, it delivers the confidence to own any hunt.
      £159.00 Check stock Purchase Options
Vortex Crossfire HD 2-7x32 IR Riflescope. Whether threading shots through dense timber or dialing in at range, Crossfire® HD delivers sharper detail and improved light transmission. And with an illuminated center dot to boost accuracy in low light, it delivers the confidence to own any hunt.
      £189.00 In stock Purchase Options
 
Vortex Crossfire HD 3-9x40 Riflescope. Whether threading shots through dense timber or dialing in at extended range, Crossfire® HD delivers sharper detail and improved light transmission, giving you the confidence to own any hunt.
      £179.00 Check stock Purchase Options
Vortex Crossfire HD 3-9x40 IR Riflescope. Whether threading shots through dense timber or dialing in at extended range, Crossfire® HD delivers sharper detail and improved light transmission, giving you the confidence to own any hunt.
      £219.00 In stock Purchase Options
Vortex Crossfire HD 4-12x44 Riflescope. Whether threading shots through dense timber or dialing in at extended range, Crossfire® HD delivers sharper detail and improved light transmission, giving you the confidence to own any hunt.
      £195.00 Check stock Purchase Options
 
 
 

Compare Rifle Scopes

Welcome to Uttings’ main Rifle Scopes comparison hub, designed to help you compare rifle scope brands, magnification ranges, reticle types, optical systems, and prices all in one place.

Whether you are searching for a lightweight stalking optic, a long-range precision scope, an air rifle setup, or a dependable all-round hunting scope, this page brings together our full range of rifle scopes from leading manufacturers including Vortex, Leupold, Swarovski, Zeiss, Hawke, Bushnell and more.

You can browse by brand, compare magnification ranges, review reticle systems, and explore different optical technologies to help find the right scope for your shooting style and budget.

What Is a Rifle Scope?

A rifle scope is an optical aiming device designed to improve accuracy, target visibility and shot placement. By magnifying the target and providing a precise aiming point through a reticle or crosshair system, rifle scopes help shooters achieve more consistent results across different distances and environments.

Modern rifle scopes combine several key elements:

  • Magnification systems
  • Reticles and aiming points
  • Lens coatings
  • Adjustment turrets
  • Objective lenses
  • Parallax systems
  • Illumination technology

Together, these components help deliver a clearer sight picture and greater shooting precision in both field and range conditions.

How to Choose the Best Rifle Scope

The best rifle scope depends on your shooting discipline, preferred distances, light conditions and firearm setup. Below are some of the most important factors to consider when comparing rifle scopes.

Magnification and Shooting Distance

Magnification determines how close the target appears through the optic.

Low Magnification Scopes

Scopes in the 1–6x or 2–7x range are often preferred for:

  • Woodland stalking
  • Fast target acquisition
  • Air rifle shooting
  • Short-range hunting

Mid-Range Hunting Scopes

Popular 3–9x and 4–12x configurations offer versatility for:

  • General hunting
  • Pest control
  • Rimfire shooting
  • Mixed-distance field use

Long-Range Rifle Scopes

Higher magnification optics such as 5–25x or 6–24x are commonly used for:

  • Long-range precision shooting
  • Target shooting
  • Varmint control
  • Tactical applications

Higher magnification can improve distant detail but often reduces field of view, so balancing magnification against intended use is important.

Objective Lens Size and Low-Light Performance

Objective lens size affects brightness and light transmission.

  • 40mm scopes are often lighter and more compact
  • 50mm and 56mm objectives improve low-light visibility
  • Larger objectives can help during dawn and dusk shooting

Premium lens coatings also play a major role in image clarity, contrast and colour accuracy.

Reticle Types Explained

The reticle is the aiming point inside the scope.

Duplex Reticles

Simple and uncluttered, ideal for hunting and general field use.

Mil-Dot and Tactical Reticles

Designed for holdover estimation, wind correction and precision shooting.

Illuminated Reticles

Improve visibility in darker environments and low-contrast conditions.

Different shooting styles often favour different reticle systems depending on speed, precision and shooting distance.

FFP vs SFP Rifle Scopes

One of the most common rifle scope comparisons is First Focal Plane (FFP) versus Second Focal Plane (SFP).

First Focal Plane (FFP)

In FFP scopes, the reticle scales with magnification. This allows holdover marks and ranging systems to remain accurate at all zoom levels.

FFP scopes are especially popular for:

  • Long-range shooting
  • Tactical applications
  • Precision competition shooting

Second Focal Plane (SFP)

In SFP scopes, the reticle size remains constant as magnification changes.

SFP optics are commonly chosen for:

  • Hunting
  • General field shooting
  • Shooters who prefer a more traditional sight picture

Both systems have advantages depending on your shooting style and personal preference.

MOA vs MRAD Rifle Scopes

Modern precision rifle scopes commonly use either MOA (Minute of Angle) or MRAD (Milliradian) adjustment systems.

MOA Scopes

MOA systems are traditionally popular among hunters and recreational shooters.

MRAD Scopes

MRAD systems are often preferred in tactical and long-range shooting because calculations and corrections can feel more intuitive at extended distances.

Neither system is inherently better — consistency between reticle and turret system is usually the most important factor.

Best Rifle Scope Brands Compared

Uttings stocks a carefully selected range of trusted rifle scope manufacturers covering entry-level optics through to premium precision systems.

Vortex Rifle Scopes

Known for feature-rich optics, tactical reticles and strong lifetime warranty support, Vortex scopes are popular among both recreational and precision shooters.

Leupold Rifle Scopes

Leupold focuses on lightweight construction, low-light performance and dependable field reliability, making the brand especially popular for stalking and hunting applications.

Swarovski Rifle Scopes

Swarovski Optik is widely regarded as one of the premium names in sporting optics, known for exceptional glass clarity and refined low-light performance.

Zeiss Rifle Scopes

Zeiss scopes combine German optical engineering with outstanding image quality and precision mechanics.

Hawke Rifle Scopes

Hawke optics offer strong value and practical usability, particularly for air rifles, hunting and general-purpose shooting setups.

Bushnell Rifle Scopes

Bushnell focuses on dependable, accessible optics suited to recreational shooting, pest control and entry-level hunting setups.

Best Rifle Scopes for Different Shooting Styles

Best Rifle Scopes for Deer Stalking

Many stalkers prioritise:

  • Low-light performance
  • Lightweight construction
  • Wide field of view
  • Reliable waterproofing

Popular choices include Leupold, Swarovski and Zeiss hunting optics.

Best Rifle Scopes for Air Rifles

Air rifle shooters often favour:

  • Lower magnification ranges
  • Compact scope bodies
  • Adjustable parallax
  • Lightweight setups

Hawke and Bushnell remain popular choices for air rifle use.

Best Rifle Scopes for Long-Range Shooting

Long-range shooters typically look for:

  • High magnification
  • Exposed tactical turrets
  • Precision reticles
  • Repeatable tracking systems

Vortex and premium tactical optics are especially popular in this category.

Rifle Scope Mounting and Setup Tips

Correct mounting is essential for maintaining accuracy and zero retention.

When mounting a rifle scope:

  • Use quality mounts and bases
  • Ensure correct eye relief
  • Level the reticle properly
  • Torque rings evenly
  • Confirm zero at realistic shooting distances

Different rifles and calibres may require different mounting heights and ring configurations.

Why Buy Rifle Scopes at Uttings

Founded in 1976, Uttings is a family-run UK outdoor retailer based in Norwich, trusted by generations of shooters, hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.

As an authorised retailer for leading optics brands, Uttings supplies genuine rifle scopes backed by:

  • Expert product knowledge
  • Fast UK delivery
  • Dedicated customer support
  • Trusted aftercare
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Whether you are buying your first rifle scope or upgrading to a premium precision optic, Uttings offers a carefully selected range suitable for a wide variety of shooting disciplines and budgets.

Rifle Scopes FAQs

What magnification is best for hunting rifle scopes?

Many hunters prefer versatile magnification ranges such as 3–9x or 4–12x because they balance field of view with longer-range capability.

Are illuminated reticles worth it?

Illuminated reticles can improve visibility during low-light shooting or when aiming against dark backgrounds.

What objective lens size is best?

Larger objective lenses generally improve low-light performance, although smaller objectives can help reduce overall scope weight.

What is parallax adjustment?

Parallax adjustment helps maintain reticle alignment and image sharpness at different shooting distances.

Are waterproof rifle scopes important?

Yes. Waterproof and fogproof construction helps maintain reliability during wet weather and changing temperatures.

Which rifle scope brands are most popular?

Popular brands include Vortex, Leupold, Swarovski, Zeiss, Hawke and Bushnell, each offering different strengths depending on budget and shooting style.

Are expensive rifle scopes worth it?

Premium rifle scopes often provide improved low-light performance, sharper optics, more precise turret systems and greater long-term durability.

What is the difference between tactical and hunting rifle scopes?

Tactical scopes often feature exposed turrets and advanced reticles, while hunting scopes typically prioritise lighter weight and faster field usability.

Expertise Behind Our Rifle Scopes Comparison

The products in this table are managed by Tom Butler, who has over 25 years of hands-on experience at Uttings working with optics and field sports equipment.

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