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Field SportsOpticsRifle Scopes 30

Compare Rifle Scopes

 

Leica Amplus 6 3-18x44i BDC Rifle Scope

Performance to rely on. An attractive entry into the premium class!
Leica Amplus 6 1-6x24i Riflescope. The Leica Amplus 6 1-6 x 24i is the riflescope for hunters who have to rely completely on their hunting optics under the demanding conditions of a driven hunt. In the 6x zoom class, it offers outstanding optical performance that is particularly helpful when hunting fleeting game – and has a decisive influence on success. The wide field of view and the very large exit pupil, which boosts viewing comfort, ensure safe handling when fast target acquisition and a h
  RRP £1450.00 £1249.00 Pre Order Purchase Options

Leica Fortis 6 i 1-6x24 IR Riflescope

The perfect combination of performance and design!
Leica Fortis 6 i 1-6x24 IR Riflescope. With the Fortis 6 1–6 x 24 i, Leica combines the puristic riflescope design with high optical imaging performance. The superior, large exit pupil and the particularly large wide-angle field of view offer a decisive advantage at 1x magnification – especially when fast target acquisition and a hunting overview are required.
  RRP £1670.00 £1449.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days Purchase Options
Leica Fortis 6 1.8-12x42i Riflescope. With the Fortis 6 1.8-12 x 42 i, a real all-rounder joins the successful Fortis 6 family. Its particularly compact design makes it the ideal choice for night hunting in conjunction with a thermal imaging attachment. But its “inner values” are also impressive: A large 6.7x zoom, generous field of view, and high optical imaging performance make it ideal for all types of hunts. A very large exit pupil and parallax compensation ensure reliable viewing. Whether s
  RRP £1850.00 £1599.00 In stock Purchase Options
 
Leica Fortis 6 1.8-12x42i BDC Riflescope. With the Fortis 6 1.8-12 x 42 i, a real all-rounder joins the successful Fortis 6 family. Its particularly compact design makes it the ideal choice for night hunting in conjunction with a thermal imaging attachment. But its “inner values” are also impressive: A large 6.7x zoom, generous field of view, and high optical imaging performance make it ideal for all types of hunts. A very large exit pupil and parallax compensation ensure reliable viewing. Wheth
  RRP £2060.00 £1799.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days Purchase Options

Leica Fortis 6 i 2-12x50 IR Riflescope

The perfect combination of performance and design!
Leica Fortis 6 i 2-12x50 IR Riflescope. With the Fortis 6 2–12 x 50 i, Leica combines the puristic riflescope design with high optical imaging performance. The excellent detail recognition, the large wide-angle field of view and the uniquely high contrasts provide great observation comfort from the first to the last shooting light. The large magnification range makes the flexible, versatile use perfect in every hunting situation.
  RRP £2010.00 From £1749.00 Check stock Purchase Options

Leica Fortis 6 i 2.5-15x56 IR Riflescope

The perfect combination of performance and design!
With the Fortis 6 2–12 x 56 i Riflescope, Leica combines the puristic riflescope design with high optical imaging performance. The excellent detail recognition, the large wide-angle field of view and the uniquely high contrasts provide great observation comfort from the first to the last shooting light. The large magnification range makes the flexible, versatile use perfect in every hunting situation.
  RRP £2190.00 £1899.00 Check stock Purchase Options
 

Leica Magnus i 1-6.3x24 IR Riflescope

Astoundingly wide field of view! Great target aquisition!
Leica Magnus i 1-6.3x24 IR Riflescope. Due to its combination of maximum resolving power, an extremely broad overview and an astoundingly wide field of view of 44 metres at 100 metres, the Magnus 1?6.3x24 i ensures significantly greater safety and hunting success.
  RRP £2150.00 £1949.00 Check stock Purchase Options

Leica Magnus i 1.5-10x42 IR Riflescope

Universal all-rounder - a truly versatile scope!
Leica Magnus i 1.5-10x42 IR Riflescope. Thanks to its 6.7-fold zoom factor, the Magnus 1.5-10x42 i is as multi-faceted as hunting itself. This riflescope is a universal all-rounder for stalking, shooting from blinds or driven hunts, at close or long range, and offers maximum versatility and superior accuracy in every hunting situation.
  RRP £2300.00 £2099.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days Purchase Options

Leica Magnus i 1.8-12x50 IR Riflescope

Universal all-rounder - a truly versatile scope!
Leica Magnus i 1.8-12x50 IR Riflescope. The new Magnus 1.8–12x50 i is an ideal addition to our high-quality Magnus line. Thanks to its compact dimensions and a large, 50 mm objective lens, it is an extremely versatile riflescope for hunting from blinds and when stalking. Its outstanding zoom factor and a minimum magnification of 1.8x also make it the ideal choice for driven hunts.
  RRP £2490.00 From £2229.00 Check stock Purchase Options
 

Leica Magnus i 2.4-16x56 IR Riflescope

For the most demanding hunter - convincing in all light condition
Leica Magnus i 2.4-16x56 IR Riflescope. In contrast to other riflescopes, the particularly low vignetting of the Magnus 2.4–16x56 i ensures extra brightness at low magnification factors. Its large-diameter front lens, a highly effective entrance pupil at mid-range magnification, and the highest, outstanding transmission value of around 92% ensure optimum identification up to the last minutes of shooting light.
  RRP £2700.00 From £2429.00 Check stock Purchase Options

Leica PRS 5-30x56i Riflescope

For optimum performance in long-range shooting!
Leica PRS 5-30x56i Riflescope. When it comes to accuracy at a distance, long-range shooters can rely on the uncompromising technology of the new Leica PRS 5–30 x 56 i riflescope. Its generous magnification range of 5 x to 30 x offers a wide array of uses – at various distances and under the most difficult conditions. Thanks to the high-quality metal components, the PRS 5–30 x 56 i is extremely rugged and precise, while the powerful optics deliver light transmission of over 90 % as well as high-
  RRP £2610.00 £2299.00 Check stock Purchase Options

Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 Rifle Scope

Legendary Leupold performance and dependability with a host of new and improved feature! Lifetime Guarantee!
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 Rifle Scope. The VX®-Freedom® 3-9x40mm delivers legendary Leupold® performance and dependability for hunters and shooters in one of the most popular magnification ranges available. This rugged and lightweight riflescope can get the job done on whatever rifle you have in your safe.
      £349.00 In stock Purchase Options
 

Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 CDS Rifle Scope

Legendary Leupold performance and dependability with a host of new and improved feature! Lifetime Guarantee!
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 CDS Rifle Scope. Simplicity meets accuracy in one easy-to-use package. Make short work out of long-range shots with our VX®-Freedom® 3-9x40mm, equipped with the Leupold® Custom Dial System® (CDS). This system is easy to install and even easier to use.
      £449.00 Pre Order Purchase Options

Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 Rimfire Rifle Scope

Legendary Leupold performance and dependability with a host of new and improved feature! Lifetime Guarantee!
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 Rimfire Rifle Scope. The new VX-Freedom defines what a rifle scope should be: reliable, accurate, and extremely clear and bright. We’ve taken decades of American manufacturing combined with unbeatable optical performance and rolled it in to a scope that is guaranteed to get the job done every time. With a host of new features, the VX-Freedom lets you unleash your rimfire, dominate from your tree stand, or stretch across an open draw with all the confidence in the world.
4.5 star review (8)     £399.00 Out of stock -

Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x33 EFR Rifle Scope

Compact scope - close focus - ideal small calibre optic! Legendary Leupold performance and dependability with a host of new and improved feature! Lifetime Guarantee!
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x33 EFR Rifle Scope. Whether it's for training or just for fun there's something about shooting rimfire or air rifle that puts a smile on your face, and our VX-Freedom 3-9x33mm EFR is purpuse built to get the most out of either one. With an external focus ring that allows you to focus down incredibly close and a compact size this scope is the ideal small-caliber optic.
5 star review (5) WAS £529.00 £499.00 In stock Purchase Options
 

Leupold VX-3HD 1.5-5x20 IR (30mm) CDS-ZL Rifle Scope

Rugged, reliable and versatile! Lifetime Guarantee!
Leupold VX-3HD VX-3HD 1.5-5x20 IR (30mm) CDS-ZL Rifle Scope. The VX-3HD 1.5-5x20mm delivers legendary performance and extreme clarity in an incredibly tough, lightweight package. It's the perfect workhorse for those close to mid-range shots.
      £899.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days Purchase Options

Leupold VX-3HD 2.5-8x36 (1 Inch) CDS-ZL Rifle Scope

Rugged, reliable and versatile! Lifetime Guarantee!
Leupold VX-3HD 2.5-8x36 (1 Inch) CDS-ZL Rifle Scope. The VX-3HD 2.5-8x36mm delivers legendary performance and extreme clarity in an incredibly tough, lightweight package. It's the perfect workhorse for timber hunting and mid-range shots.
      £649.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days Purchase Options

Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40 IR (30mm) CDS-ZL Rifle Scope

Rugged, reliable and versatile! Lifetime Guarantee!
Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40 IR (30mm) CDS-ZL Rifle Scope. The VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm delivers legendary performance and extreme clarity in an incredibly tough, lightweight package. Its versatile magnification can get the job done in almost any scenario.
5 star review (1)     £899.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
 

Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40 (30mm) SF Rifle Scope

Rugged, reliable and versatile! Lifetime Guarantee!
Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40 (30mm) SF Rifle Scope. The VX®-3HD 4.5-14x40mm delivers legendary performance and elite optical clarity in an incredibly tough, lightweight package. Its extremely popular magnification range is perfect for timber and western mountain hunting.
5 star review (1)     £949.00 Pre Order Purchase Options

Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x50 IR (30mm) CDS-ZL Rifle Scope

Rugged, reliable and versatile! Lifetime Guarantee!
Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x50 IR (30mm) CDS-ZL Rifle Scope. The VX-3HD 3.5-10x50mm delivers legendary performance and extreme clarity in an incredibly tough, lightweight package. Its versatile magnification can get the job done in almost any scenario.
5 star review (1)     £999.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days Purchase Options

Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x50 IR (30mm) CDS-ZL Rifle Scope

Rugged, reliable and versatile! Lifetime Guarantee!
Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x50 IR (30mm) CDS-ZL Rifle Scope. The VX®-3HD 4.5-14x50mm delivers legendary performance and elite optical clarity in an incredibly tough, lightweight package. Its extremely popular magnification range is perfect for timber and western mountain hunting.
5 star review (1)     £1149.00 In stock Purchase Options
 

Leupold VX-5HD 1-5x24 (30mm) Rifle Scope

Rugged, reliable and versatile! Lifetime Guarantee!
Leupold VX-5HD 1-5x24 (30mm) Rifle Scope. Don’t let its small stature fool you, this scope is big game ready. At only 13.4 ounces, our VX-5HD 1-5x24 rifle scope was built for long days in the wilderness. But it’s 1-5 magnification range also makes it a great choice for competition shooters or tactical applications.
      £1499.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 30mm CDS-ZL2 SF Rifle Scope. This scope is made for anything and everything. Its 3-15 magnification range lets you take full advantage of any situation. Crank the power down to three for thick timber hunting, ratchet it up to 15 for your trek across the open plains, or go anywhere in-between during your range days. The VX-5HD 3-15x44 has the versatility to dominate them all.
5 star review (1)     £1499.00 Pre Order Purchase Options

Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x56 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 SF Rifle Scope

Rugged, reliable and versatile! Lifetime Guarantee!
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x56 30mm CDS-ZL2 SF Rifle Scope. Let there be light! VX-5HD 3-15x56 gives you all of the flexibility of its 44mm counterpart, but with the 56mm objective bell, it maximizes as much exit pupil light as your eye can handle. From the mountains, to the open plains, to range day, this scope has the ability to dominate them all.
5 star review (2)     £1899.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
 
Leupold Mark 4HD 4.5-18x52 (34mm) SF (M1C3 Turrets) Riflescope. Ready your rifles with a versatile Mark 4HD. We took the legendary performance of its predecessors and gave it a slimmer maintube that’s been packed full of professional-grade features. Whether you’re a dedicated enthusiast or a seasoned expert, the Mark 4HD’s optical clarity and lightweight design will get the job done at the range or in the field.
      £1649.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
Leupold Mark 4HD 4.5-18x52 (34mm) SF (M5C3 Turrets) Riflescope. Ready your rifles with a versatile Mark 4HD. We took the legendary performance of its predecessors and gave it a slimmer maintube that’s been packed full of professional-grade features. Whether you’re a dedicated enthusiast or a seasoned expert, the Mark 4HD’s optical clarity and lightweight design will get the job done at the range or in the field.
      £1649.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
Leupold Mark 4HD 4.5-18x52 IR (34mm) SF (M1C3 Turrets) Riflescope. Ready your rifles with a versatile Mark 4HD. We took the legendary performance of its predecessors and gave it a slimmer maintube that’s been packed full of professional-grade features. Whether you’re a dedicated enthusiast or a seasoned expert, the Mark 4HD’s optical clarity and lightweight design will get the job done at the range or in the field.
      £1899.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
 
Leupold Mark 4HD 4.5-18x52 IR (34mm) SF (M5C3 Turrets) Riflescope. Ready your rifles with a versatile Mark 4HD. We took the legendary performance of its predecessors and gave it a slimmer maintube that’s been packed full of professional-grade features. Whether you’re a dedicated enthusiast or a seasoned expert, the Mark 4HD’s optical clarity and lightweight design will get the job done at the range or in the field.
      £1899.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
Leupold Mark 4HD 6-24x52 (34mm) SF (M1C3 Turrets) Riflescope. Ready your rifles with a versatile Mark 4HD. We took the legendary performance of its predecessors and gave it a slimmer maintube that’s been packed full of professional-grade features. Whether you’re a dedicated enthusiast or a seasoned expert, the Mark 4HD’s optical clarity and lightweight design will get the job done at the range or in the field.
      £1779.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
Leupold Mark 4HD 6-24x52 (34mm) SF (M5C3 Turrets) Riflescope. Ready your rifles with a versatile Mark 4HD. We took the legendary performance of its predecessors and gave it a slimmer maintube that’s been packed full of professional-grade features. Whether you’re a dedicated enthusiast or a seasoned expert, the Mark 4HD’s optical clarity and lightweight design will get the job done at the range or in the field.
      £1779.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
 
Leupold Mark 4HD 8-32x56 (34mm) SF (M1C3 Turrets) Riflescope. Ready your rifles with a versatile Mark 4HD. We took the legendary performance of its predecessors and gave it a slimmer maintube that’s been packed full of professional-grade features. Whether you’re a dedicated enthusiast or a seasoned expert, the Mark 4HD’s optical clarity and lightweight design will get the job done at the range or in the field.
      £1899.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
Leupold Mark 4HD 8-32x56 (34mm) SF (M5C3 Turrets) Riflescope. Ready your rifles with a versatile Mark 4HD. We took the legendary performance of its predecessors and gave it a slimmer maintube that’s been packed full of professional-grade features. Whether you’re a dedicated enthusiast or a seasoned expert, the Mark 4HD’s optical clarity and lightweight design will get the job done at the range or in the field.
      £1899.00 Pre Order Purchase Options

Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44 IR (35mm) Rifle Scope

Legendary Leupold performance and dependability with a host of new and improved feature! Lifetime Guarantee!
Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44 IR (35mm) Rifle Scope. Pick up a Mark 5HD™ 3.6-18x44mm and you'll feel the difference. It's up to 20 ounces lighter than other riflescopes in its class, giving you an advantage in the field or at the range. The versatile 3.6-18x magnification range helps you engage close targets, while also giving you the flexibility to reach out to long distances.
      £3149.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days Purchase Options
 
Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56 M5C3 (35mm) FFP Rifle Scope. Pick up a Mark 5HD™ 5-25x56mm and you'll feel the difference. It's up to 20 ounces lighter than other riflescopes in its class, giving you an advantage in the field or at the range. The versatile 5-25x magnification lets you dominate midrange shots, while also giving you the flexibility to reach out to long distances. With three revolutions of elevation adjustment and multiple reticle options, this scope will max out the performance of the la
      £2699.00 Pre Order Purchase Options

Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56 35mm Rifle Scope

Superior in all aspects! Lifetime Guarantee!
Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56 35mm Rifle Scope. Pick up a Mark 5HD™ and you’ll feel the difference: it’s up to 20 ounces lighter than other scopes in its class. Get behind one and you’ll see the difference, from the superior edge-to-edge clarity and extreme low-light performance, to the versatility of the Combat Competition Hunter reticle. With three revolutions of elevation adjustment, the Mark 5HD was built to max out the performance of the latest long-range rifles and ammo. Ergonomically designed
      £2699.00 Pre Order Purchase Options
Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56 M5C3 IR (35mm) FFP Rifle Scope. The Mark 5HD™ 7-35x56mm riflescope gives you the extra magnification you need to take advantage of the distances that modern precision rifles can shoot. With the right glass, no target is out of reach. And with the same dimensions and only 3 more ounces than its 5-25x56mm counterpart, you don't have to pay a weight penalty for the extra magnification.
      £3799.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days Purchase Options
 

Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56 IR 35mm Rifle Scope

Superior in all aspects! Lifetime Guarantee!
Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56 IR 35mm Rifle Scope. Pick up a Mark 5HD™ and you’ll feel the difference: it’s up to 20 ounces lighter than other scopes in its class. Get behind one and you’ll see the difference, from the superior edge-to-edge clarity and extreme low-light performance, to the versatility of the Combat Competition Hunter reticle. With three revolutions of elevation adjustment, the Mark 5HD was built to max out the performance of the latest long-range rifles and ammo. Ergonomically design
      £3399.00 Pre Order Purchase Options

MTC Optics Copperhead F2 3-12x44 Rifle Scope

A new super-compact line that goes long on performance!
MTC Optics Copperhead F2 3-12x44 Rifle Scope. A super compact telescopic sight that will appeal to shooters who wish for a short, lightweight 30mm tubed scope.
5 star review (17) RRP £312.00 £249.00 In stock Purchase Options

MTC Optics Copperhead F2 4-16x44 Rifle Scope

A new super-compact line that goes long on performance!
MTC Optics Copperhead F2 4-16x44 Rifle Scope. A super compact telescopic sight that will appeal to shooters who wish for a short, lightweight 30mm tubed scope.
5 star review (8) RRP £328.00 £259.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days Purchase Options
 

MTC Optics Copperhead F2 4-16x44 SAFARI EDITION Rifle Scope - Bronze

A new super-compact line that goes long on performance!
MTC Optics Copperhead F2 4-16x44 Safari Edition Rifle Scope. A super compact telescopic sight that will appeal to shooters who wish for a short, lightweight 30mm tubed scope. In a striking bronze finish that complements the Daystate Safari rifles, and in particular the Alfa Wolf with its bronze anodized action.
5 star review (6) RRP £348.00 £279.00 In stock Purchase Options

MTC Optics King Cobra F1 4-16x50 IR Rifle Scope

A perfect strike even in the lowest light!
MTC Optics King Cobra 4-16 x 50 F1. New to the MTC Optics range is the King Cobra 4-16×50 F1. This super-clear and bright scope comes adorned with luxurious appointments throughout, not least its copper embellishments that affirm MTC’s premium status in the optics world.
5 star review (1) RRP £379.00 £299.00 In stock Purchase Options

MTC Optics King Cobra F2 4-16x50 IR Rifle Scope

A perfect strike even in the lowest light!
MTC Optics King Cobra 4-16 x 50 F2. New to the MTC Optics range is the King Cobra 4-16×50 F2. This super-clear and bright scope comes adorned with luxurious appointments throughout, not least its copper embellishments that affirm MTC’s premium status in the optics world.
5 star review (2) RRP £345.00 £279.00 In stock Purchase Options
 

MTC Optics King Cobra F1 6-24x50 IR Rifle Scope

A perfect strike even in the lowest light!
MTC Optics King Cobra 6-24 x 50 F1 – a telescopic sight that will appeal to shooters who favour higher-powered First Focal Plane (FFP) scopes, where the relationship between target and crosshair size remains constant throughout the scope’s entire magnification range.
5 star review (7) RRP £415.00 £329.00 In stock Purchase Options

MTC Optics King Cobra F2 6-24x50 IR Rifle Scope

A perfect strike even in the lowest light!
MTC Optics Cobra F2 6-24x50 IR Rifle Scope. Featuring click-stop adjustments in MILs (1 click =1cm at 100m), actuated via lockable, fingeradjustable elevation and windage turrets, the scope is finished with distinctive a copper-coloured accents including a front band, side plates and a new copper coloured MTC Optics logo.
5 star review (1) RRP £375.00 £299.00 In stock Purchase Options

MTC Optics King Cobra F1 8-32x50 IR Rifle Scope

A perfect strike even in the lowest light!
MTC Optics King Cobra F1 8-32x50 IR Rifle Scope. The King Cobra 8-32×50 F1 has been crafted for long range shooters who need extra magnification as well as the ability to dial in at extended ranges, perhaps having to compensate for a greater trajectory curve. To help with this, the 8-32x is fitted with a new AMD2 reticle and patented ‘SMART’ turret which contains a micro gearbox. Rotating at a 2:1 ratio, three rotations of the top turret translate to a single rotation of the indicator drum, maki
5 star review (1) RRP £440.00 £399.00 In stock Purchase Options
 
MTC Optics Mamba Lite 3-12x42 IR Rifle Scope. The original MambaLite was developed by MTC optics in cooperation with Optisan and was made until 2014. The MambaLite soon became a jewel in the range and was to become especially popular with airgun shooters, though firearm shooter worldwide soon came to appreciate its light weight and bright optics.
4 star review (16) RRP £270.00 £229.00 Out of stock -
MTC Optics Mamba Lite 4-16x42 IR Rifle Scope. The original MambaLite was developed by MTC optics in cooperation with Optisan and was made until 2014. The MambaLite soon became a jewel in the range and was to become especially popular with airgun shooters, though firearm shooter worldwide soon came to appreciate its light weight and bright optics.
4.5 star review (12) RRP £281.00 £249.00 In stock Purchase Options

MTC Optics Mamba Ultra Lite 3-10x40 Rifle Scope

All the key features found in MTC's bigger scopes, but in a pared down package!
MTC Optics Mamba Ultra Lite 3-10x40 Rifle Scope. With riflescopes seemingly getting bigger and heavier, MTC Optics’ new UltraLite line offers shooters the option to keep their combos light and manageable. The inaugural 3-10x40 UltraLite weighs in at just 538 grams (1lb 3oz) yet maintains an array of practical features MTC scopes have become so renowned for.
5 star review (2) RRP £208.00 £179.00 Order Now - 7-10 Days 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
  • Over 45,000 verified five-star Trustpilot reviews

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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