A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Acog Scope: Our Top 15 Picks for Precision and Accuracy

Welcome to our review of the best Acog scopes on the market! We’ve spent countless hours researching and testing various Acog scopes to bring you the definitive guide for shooters and hunters alike. Here, we’ll highlight the top-performing models, comparing features, functionality, and value to help you make an informed decision when selecting your next Acog scope.

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Reviews

Celestron Acog Regal M2 100ED Spotting Scope

The Celestron Regal M2 spotting scope series offers top-of-the-line spotting scopes perfect for birdwatching, nature observing, long distance viewing, and casual astronomical observing. These scopes boast an extra low dispersion (ED) glass objective lens, fully multi-coated optics with XLT coating, and a magnesium alloy body that decreases the overall weight compared to previous models.

The scopes also feature a quicker dual focus mechanism and extra-long eye relief. The Regal M2 series is fully waterproof and nitrogen-purged to prevent fogging.

The included carrying case makes these scopes easy to transport and an ideal companion for outdoor enthusiasts.

Athlon Argos HD Spotting Scope: Straight Angle, Fully Multi-Coated Lenses, and Waterproof

The Athlon Argos 20-60x85 HD Straight Angle Spotting Scope is a lightweight and versatile unit designed for a wide range of applications. One of its standout features is the use of high-grade Argon gas in the prisms, which provides excellent fogproof capabilities while maintaining a low thermal conductivity compared to nitrogen gas. The spotting scope also benefits from BaK4 Prisms, which reflect more light to your eyes, giving you a sharper and brighter image.

The Argos spotting scope is equipped with fully multi-coated lenses that produce perfect brightness and color across the entire light spectrum. Its composite chassis is strong yet lightweight, protected by rubber armor that makes it fog proof, waterproof, and filled with nitrogen gas to prevent internal fogging and promote better thermal stability. The Twist Up Eye-Cup allows you to set the eyecup to the perfect eye relief for your eyes, ensuring a comfortable viewing experience.

Athlon Argos is a spotting scope line that offers great optical quality and ease of use at an affordable price. The scope features Athlon’s wind band fully multi-coated lenses and Porro prisms with phased coating, providing excellent clarity and brightness for all enthusiasts. Its lightweight composite chassis, protected by rubber armor, offers fog proof, waterproof, and nitrogen-filled capabilities, ensuring superior thermal stability. The package comes with a soft case that allows you to mount the spotting scope on a tripod and use it with the soft case on at all times.

Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60x85 HD Spotting Scope - 45 Degree

The Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60x85 Spotting Scope is an impressive tool for any outdoor enthusiast. When I first opened the box, I was struck by the attention to detail in its packaging. The scope itself is lightweight, yet sturdy thanks to its composite chassis. This characteristic is essential for the times when I trek through the woods or spend hours at the range.

Using the scope, I noticed its impressive fog-proof capabilities and water resistance. This feature is perfect for those of us who live in regions with unpredictable weather, or for those who love to hunt in wet conditions. Plus, the Argon gas filling offers better thermal stability than nitrogen, ensuring that the scope won’t fog up during the colder months.

The 20-60x magnification range is impressive, allowing me to see targets from a distance. The wideband Advanced Fully Multi-Coated lenses provide excellent clarity and brightness, even at its maximum power. This feature makes it a great spotting scope for both long-range shooting and observing wildlife up close.

However, one downside I’ve noticed is the need for constant focus adjustment when shooting at longer distances, such as 350 yards and above. This can be a bit frustrating when trying to acquire the perfect shot. Also, the scope seems quite heavy, which can be challenging to maneuver when out in the field.

Despite these minor setbacks, the Athlon Optics Argos HD 20-60x85 Spotting Scope has proven to be an excellent investment for an affordable price. Its outstanding features and capabilities make it a great addition to any outdoor enthusiasts’ gear. Just remember to adjust the focus and twist up the eye-cup before heading out for a long day in the field.

Sig Sauer Oscar8 17 Hmr Spotting Scope

The Sig Sauer Oscar8 Spotting Scope offers an impressive 80mm objective lens and a 27x-55x magnification range, boasting enhanced light transmittance and optical performance with its HDX optical system. This feature-packed scope is equipped with Schmidt-Pechen prism and HD glass for superior chromatic aberration correction, resulting in clear, vibrant images.

Its angled eyepiece and rotating tripod collar provide versatile viewing angles, while the waterproof and fogproof design ensure dependable performance in any conditions. Adjustable eyecups offer customizable eye relief for comfortable use with or without glasses. A FDE rubber armor exterior secures a non-slip, durable construction, making it an excellent choice for sporting enthusiasts seeking top-notch performance.

Nikon Prostaff 5 Angled Scopes for Precise Viewing

The Nikon ProStaff 5 16-48x60 angled spotting scopes have become an essential addition to my birding kit. The perfect balance of optical performance and portability makes these scopes stand out. The 60mm objective lens diameter with 16-48x zoom eyepiece provides crystal-clear images, with the 4m 13.1 field of view allowing me to easily spot even the smallest birds.

Multicoated optics ensure maximum brightness and neutral color bias, making it an ideal choice for birding enthusiasts like me. Weighing just over 30 ounces, the compact ProStaff 5 Fieldscope is both lightweight and durable, making it a great companion for my outdoor adventures.

One feature I particularly appreciate is the broad field of view, which allows me to quickly spot and track birds without losing sight. The scopes are also fully waterproof and fog-proof, making them suitable for use in various weather conditions.

While the Nikon ProStaff 5 16-48x60 angled spotting scopes have many strengths, there is still room for improvement. For instance, the focusing knob’s placement feels slightly awkward, and the neoprene cover can be loose in some areas. Nonetheless, overall, I am highly satisfied with the performance and quality of these spotting scopes.

Athlon Ares G2 UHD Spotting Scope: Enhanced Clarity and Brightness for Precise Observations

I recently tried out the Athlon Spotting Scope Ares G2 - 20-60x85 UHD 45 Degree, and I must say, it lived up to its high standards. The scope is well-rounded, with a beautiful finish and angled design that made it convenient for me to use in various scenarios.

One of the first things I noticed was the scope’s exceptional low chromatic fringe, which provided me with an image that was clearest and sharper than anything I’d seen before. With its advanced ESP Dielectric Coating, it reflected nearly 99% of the light to my eyes, offering a bright and vibrant image. The Apochromatic lens system was also a game-changer, as it perfectly converged refracting colors into a single focus point, resulting in stunning contrast, sharpness, and color definition.

The BaK4 prisms in the Ares G2 spotting scope worked wonders by reflecting an astounding 99% of light to my eyes, giving me a sharper, brighter image that was truly a joy to behold. I especially appreciated the advanced fully multi-coated lenses because they produced perfect brightness and color across the entire light spectrum, making everything I viewed appear crystal clear.

Lastly, the aluminum alloy chassis was both sturdy and lightweight, making it a breeze to carry around wherever I went. While there were no glaring negatives to report during my experience, I believe a slightly higher magnification range might have made the scope even more versatile for various situations.

Overall, the Athlon Spotting Scope Ares G2 - 20-60x85 UHD 45 Degree is a fantastic choice for bird-watchers, shooters, or anyone looking for a high-quality spotting scope that won’t break the bank. Its exceptional performance, coupled with a sleek design, makes it a worthwhile addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s collection.

Athlon Optics Cronus G2 UHD Spotting Scope: Advanced Fully Multi-Coated for Superior Clarity

I’ve been using the Athlon Cronus G2 for weeks now, and I must say, it’s a game-changer when it comes to spotting scopes. The 20-60x86mm magnification is perfect, providing me with a crystal-clear view without any glare or distortion. I particularly love the smooth single focus wheel; it effortlessly pulls the focus into sharping detail, which has been crucial in spotting wildlife or identifying bird species.

One highlight that I couldn’t live without is the advanced fully multi-coated lens. The sharp contrast it provides helps me separate my subject from its backdrop, making the task of scanning vast landscapes much easier. The quality of this product can’t be doubted, and its lightweight design combined with its durability adds to its overall appeal.

While there’s little to complain about, the scope case does need work. It seems like a simple inconvenience to have to take it completely off to use the scope, but I guess that’s a small price to pay for the awesome features this scope offers. In conclusion, the Cronus G2 has surpassed my expectations and solidified its spot in my hunting kit. Great job, Athlon!

Retro Typewriter Wireless Mechanical Keyboard for Desktop PC/Laptop/Phone - Black

I recently had the chance to try out the Athlon Optics Talos 20-60x80 Spotting Scope in green, and I must say, it exceeded my expectations. One of the first things that stood out to me was the K9 glass prisms with the silver coating. Not only did it reflect a great amount of light to my eyes, but it also gave me a very bright image. The fully multi-coated lenses were another highlight, as they offered fantastic light transmission and brought bright images to my eyes.

The nitrogen purging was a game-changer in terms of waterproofing and thermal stability. It’s always great to know that my device is fully protected, even in harsh weather conditions or if I accidentally submerge it underwater. The rotating ring was a nice touch too, as it allowed me to rotate the scope around the tripod supporting ring into the most comfortable and convenient angle for observation.

However, there were a couple of minor cons. First, I noticed that the lens caps were a loose fit and tended to fall off. While it’s not a major issue, it could be a bit annoying at times. Second, the zoom control was a bit stiff, making it difficult to adjust the magnification without accidentally knocking the scope off its target. Overall, though, these cons were outweighed by the excellent features and value of the Athlon Optics Talos 20-60x80 Spotting Scope.

Leupold SX-4 Pro Guide HD Angled Spotting Scope: Enhanced Clarity and Waterproof Design

The Leupold SX-4 Pro Guide 20-60x85mm HD Angled Spotting Scope is a versatile and lightweight option for those in search of an efficient viewing experience. With a wide range of magnification options, the scope offers incredible clarity at all magnification levels, thanks to the fluoride lenses.

The smooth focusing system allows for fine adjustments, while the built-in 1/4-20 rotatable tripod adapter port makes mounting easy and convenient. The twist-up eyecups and generous eye relief ensure comfortable extended viewing.

The scope is built to withstand harsh environments, featuring scratch-resistant lenses and being waterproof and fog resistant. The Twilight Max HD Light Management System provides additional shooting light and eliminates more stray light than the competition, offering high-definition edge-to-edge clarity.

Swarovski HD Spotting Scope for Sharp Images

I recently had the chance to try out the Swarovski ATS-65 HD 20-60x65mm Spotting Scope with Eyepiece, and I have to say, it exceeded my expectations in a few ways. One of the highlights of this scope was its bright, high contrast view, thanks to the SWAROCLEAN non-stick lens coatings. The 20-60x magnification range was perfect for me, as I was able to catch the finest details even at the highest magnification.

The angled design of the scope was another great feature. The lightweight construction made it easy to carry around, perfect for long days outdoors. The ergonomic design added to the comfort and ease of use, allowing me to take quick, effortless shots.

However, there was one aspect of the scope that I wasn’t thrilled about. The price point did seem a bit steep for the features it provided. I’ve used other scopes in a similar price range that offered a bit more bang for the buck.

Overall, I found the Swarovski ATS-65 HD 20-60x65mm Spotting Scope with Eyepiece to be a reliable and versatile tool for both hunting and bird watching. Despite a few drawbacks, the pros definitely outweighed the cons, making this a top choice for those looking for a quality spotting scope.

Athlon Optics Ares G2 UHD 20-60x85 Acog Spotting Scope

The Athlon Optics Ares G2 UHD 20-60x85 Straight Spotting Scope is a top-notch option for those seeking a high-quality spotting scope at an affordable price. This device features extra-low dispersion glass, which ensures vivid clarity and resolution in a full-size spotting scope. Furthermore, the scope boasts a powerful combination of Advanced Fully Multi-Coated lenses, BaK4 Prisms, and ESP Dielectric Coating, all working together to deliver a clear, bright image with accurate color reproduction.

Its aluminum alloy chassis is not only durable but also adds to the overall aesthetic appeal.

Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 Spotting Scope: The Ultimate AIM Sports Scope Experience

The Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 spotting scope offers a powerful zoom to bring distant subjects in close and a large objective lens that keeps images bright and vibrant, even in low light conditions. Its magnification and objectives are complemented by iconic T anti-reflection multi-coatings and LotuTec hydrophobic exterior lens coatings, providing comfortable viewing in all positions.

The scope’s housing is made of lightweight but durable magnesium alloy, reducing weight without sacrificing strength, while the focus collar and zoom wheel are easy to manipulate even with gloves on. The housing is nitrogen filled for fog-proof performance and sealed against water damage, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions.

The universal tripod mount allows the scope to be used with most photo, video, and field tripods, making it a versatile and reliable choice for observing the natural world without disturbing wildlife.

Vortex Razor HD Spotting Scope: High-Power Long Range Sight

As a weekend hunter, I’ve always found it challenging to balance the need for premium optics with the limited space in my backpack for hunting trips. Enter the Vortex Razor HD 13-39x56 Spotting Scope – a product that fits the bill perfectly.

With its compact construction and straight eyepiece, this spotting scope manages to deliver premium optics without sacrificing portability. The helical focus wheel is a standout feature, offering a snag-free design and easy access to the scope’s wide field of view. The Arca-Swiss compatibility is also a major plus, seamlessly fitting most tripods right out of the box.

However, the Razor HD does have some drawbacks. The 9.2’ close focus distance on the scope might be a bit of a stretch, and edge-to-edge sharpness can be improved upon for a truly premium experience.

In sum, the Vortex Razor HD 13-39x56 Spotting Scope is a solid choice for hunters seeking a balance between portability and premium optics. With its impressive field of view and Arca-Swiss compatibility, it’s ideal for those who value both convenience and high-quality performance.

Ravin Integrated Xero X1i Crossbow Scope by Garmin - Perfect for X1 Crossbow

As I stepped into the game, the Ravin Xero X1i by Garmin became my trusty companion. Its 3.5x magnification provided a crystal clear view of my target, and I was amazed at how effortlessly it ranged my game and reflective targets. The ballistic info integrated with my Ravin crossbow was a game changer, as it made my aimpoint both accurate and consistent.

However, the product’s weight seemed to be on the heavier side. Still, it was lightweight enough to be conveniently carried around. The custom Ravin reticle with adjustable brightness was an added bonus, as it helped me maintain a steady hand even when shooting in low light conditions.

Overall, the Ravin Xero X1i was an impressive and reliable crossbow scope that made all the difference in achieving precision and accuracy in my hunting endeavors. With features like rangefinding, angle compensation, and an integrated level, it was a fusion of accuracy and capability that no other product in the market could match.

Bushnell T Series FDE 15-45x60 Hunting Scope with Mil Hash Reticle

Bushnell’s 15-45x60 spotting scope has been a fantastic addition to my outdoor gear collection. The spotting scope’s 50mm objective lens offers a wide field of view, making it great for tracking moving targets over long distances.

One of the standout features for me is the Mil-Hash reticle, which works seamlessly with Mil-Base riflescope reticles to speed up the zeroing process. Additionally, the scope’s Fully Multi-Coated Optics system ensures crisp, clear images with minimal eye strain. The weather-resistant design with the water-repellent RainGuard HD coating is also a major bonus.

However, there were a couple of drawbacks to the scope. The weight of 23.4 oz might be challenging for prolonged use, especially in hunting or birdwatching situations. Also, the front lens cap’s Velcro stitching failed immediately, and the scope’s case seems too small for the product, making storage less convenient.

Overall, I find this spotting scope well worth the investment, as long as one is aware of its weight and packaging limitations.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our buyer’s guide for Acog Scopes! Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a newcomer to the world of optics, this guide will provide you with valuable information to help you make the right decision when purchasing an Acog scope. Acog scopes are known for their high-quality, durability, and accuracy, making them a popular choice among professional shooters and enthusiasts alike. Let’s dive into the key features, considerations, and advice to help you find the perfect ACOG scope for your needs.

Types of ACOG Scopes

ACOG scopes come in various configurations, including ACOG HAMR, ACOG HM, ACOG T, and ACOG XR, among others. The main differences between them lie in the type of reticle, magnification range, and other performance-enhancing features. It’s essential to consider the intended use of the scope and your personal preferences when choosing between these models.

Reticle Design

There are various reticle designs available in ACOG scopes, such as the Mil Dot, Milling Radius (MRAD), BDC, and Illuminated reticle. Each design offers different advantages, depending on the shooting scenario and personal preferences. Make sure to choose a reticle that aligns with your shooting style and allows for quick and accurate aiming.

Magnification Range

ACOG scopes come with different magnification ranges, which affect the scope’s overall performance and functionality. It’s crucial to choose a magnification range that suits your needs, whether you’re shooting at close range or from a distance. Consider factors like the scope’s adjustability, field of view, and light-gathering capabilities when selecting the right magnification for your ACOG scope.

Quality, Durability, and Maintenance

When purchasing an ACOG scope, it’s essential to prioritize quality and durability. Look for scopes with high-quality materials and construction, such as aircraft-grade aluminum or titanium. Additionally, consider the scope’s ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, moisture, and other environmental factors. Proper maintenance and care can ensure a long-lasting, high-performance scope that continues to provide accurate and reliable shooting performance.

FAQ

What are Acog Sights?

Acog Sights, also known as ACOG Scopes, are optical sight devices primarily used by the United States Military and special forces. These sights are designed to offer a quicker aiming point than traditional red dots and provide shooters with improved accuracy and speed in close quarters combat situations.

The acronym “ACOG” stands for “Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight.” This term signifies the primary use of these sights in military and law enforcement applications. Although they are not as popular in the civilian shooting market, they are still considered a top-notch option for those who require reliable and robust optics for hunting, competition, or tactical use.

What are the main features of Acog Sights?

The low-profile design of Acog Sights allows them to be mounted directly to rifle barrels without requiring additional rail systems. This feature enables fast sight alignment with the barrel, resulting in quicker target acquisition and increased accuracy.

Additionally, Acog Sights are built using high-quality materials and optical components to ensure durability and clarity in a variety of lighting conditions. They feature a fixed 1x magnification which doesn’t zoom in or out, making them easier to use in high-stress situations. Some Acog Sights also include a built-in bullet drop compensator that allows shooters to make more accurate shots at longer distances.

Which models of Acog Sights are available?

There are several Acog Sight models available, each tailored for different applications and firearms. Some of the most popular models include the ACOG 4x, ACOG 1x, and ACOG 5x. Within these models, there are variations based on reticle design, illumination settings, and color options, among other factors. It’s crucial to choose the right model for your specific needs, firearm, and intended use. Consult with an expert or research the specific capabilities of each model to make an informed decision when purchasing an ACOG sight.

How do I mount an Acog Sight on my rifle?

Mounting an Acog Sight typically involves several steps. First, determine the appropriate space for mounting the scope by measuring the distance between the scope’s objective lens and the rear of the scope. Next, choose the correct base plate, which should be made from materials such as aluminum or steel. The base plate should be drilled and tapped to match the diameter of your firearm’s barrel.

Ensure that the mounting surface is clean and free of debris. Apply Loctite threadlocker to the threads of the base plate and screw it onto the barrel, making sure that the screws are tightened evenly and securely. Some Acog Sights may also require a riser or adaptor to ensure proper height for the sight line. Consult the scope’s manual or manufacturer for specific mounting instructions for your chosen model.

What are the advantages of using an Acog Sight over other optical sights?

Acog Sights offer several advantages compared to other optical sights. Their low-profile design allows them to mount directly to the barrel without the need for additional rail systems, resulting in quicker target acquisition and increased accuracy. Furthermore, Acog Sights are built using high-quality materials and optical components to ensure durability and clarity in various lighting conditions.

The fixed 1x magnification means that users do not have to worry about adjusting magnification, making Acog Sights a solid choice for close-quarters combat and fast-paced shooting scenarios. Additionally, some Acog Sights have a built-in bullet drop compensator, which can help shooters make more accurate shots at longer distances. Overall, Acog Sights are a reliable and effective option for shooters seeking a high-quality, durable, and versatile optic.

How do I maintain and clean my Acog Sight?

Regular maintenance and cleaning of your Acog Sight are essential to maintain its performance and longevity. First, ensure that the sight is securely mounted on the firearm and disassemble it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Clean the exterior with a soft cloth and a cleaning solution designed for firearms, being cautious not to scratch the finish.

When cleaning the interior lenses, use a lens cleaning solution and a soft microfiber cloth. If there are any persistent spots or debris, a soft-bristled brush can be used to gently remove them. Always reassemble the sight according to the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure that it is securely mounted on the firearm.

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