Discover the Top 15 Air Rifle Scopes for Precision and Accuracy

If you’re a passionate air gun enthusiast, you’ll know that having the right scope can make all the difference in your shooting experience. Whether you’re a pro runner or just starting out, this roundup of top air rifle scopes is designed to help you make an informed decision. Join us as we delve into the world of air rifle scopes and explore the features that set each one apart. From high-powered optical performance to user-friendly interfaces, we’ve got you covered in this comprehensive guide to the best air rifle scopes on the market today!

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Reviews

InfiRay Mini V2 1x 25mm Thermal Imager - Compact and Configurable Clip-On Scope

As a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, I found the InfiRay Mini V2 1x 25mm Thermal to be a reliable and versatile companion on my adventures. Its sleek design makes it perfect for handheld use, but the flexible mounting options allow for seamless transitions to helmet-mounted applications. The 50hz 12m sensor with next-gen Matrix III processing provides a crystal clear and smooth viewing experience, making it a must-have for any serious outdoorsman.

One of the standout features of the Mini V2 is the upgraded AMOLED display that offers exceptional clarity and vibrant color palettes. The user-friendly interface and the option for onboard video and audio recording make capturing and sharing your experiences a breeze. The long run time of 2.5+ hours ensures that you can explore the great outdoors without worrying about the battery life.

While the InfiRay Mini V2 has several benefits, the lack of an advanced digital magnification feature and the limited diopter adjustment range might limit its appeal for some users. Regardless, the InfiRay Mini V2 is a powerful and practical option for those seeking an exceptional handheld or helmet-mounted thermal imager for their outdoor escapades.

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.

AGM Digital Clip-On Air Rifle Scope for Day & Night Vision

I recently had the pleasure of trying out the AGM Neith clip-on digital day & night vision system. This nifty little device proved to be an invaluable addition to my hunting gear, providing me with exceptional clarity and versatility regardless of the time of day or lighting conditions.

The 2560x1440 digital sensor truly stood out in my experience, offering an incredibly crisp and clear daytime color view with a stunning 1000-meter laser rangefinder. The Night Viewing mode, with its infrared sensitivity, also proved to be a game-changer in low-light situations, as my shots were consistently more accurate compared to when using traditional night vision devices.

One of the highlights of this system was the built-in recording capabilities. With features such as image and video capture, 64GB of internal memory storage, and shot-activated video, I found myself thoroughly impressed with the advanced capabilities this compact digital clip-on offered.

The Neith clip-on’s compatibility with various mounting options, including American Defense weaver rail mount and AGM’s daytime riflescope lens adapters, made it incredibly user-friendly and hassle-free to set up. Additionally, the single non-proprietary 18650 rechargeable battery offered 5.5 hours of continuous use in the field, giving me the peace of mind that I wouldn’t have to worry about my device dying in the middle of a hunt.

While there were aspects of the Neith clip-on that impressed me, like its long-range infrared illuminator and OLED screen, there were also elements that could have been improved. For instance, the device did require some adjustment time in regards to getting used to the infrared view and the menu navigation. Overall, though, I would highly recommend this AGM Neith clip-on digital day & night vision system to fellow hunters seeking a top-notch multifunctional device for their hunting adventures.

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!

Athlon Optics Talos 20-60x80 Spotting Scope - Angled Design with Nitrogen Purging and Multi-Coated Lenses

If you’re shopping for a dependable and versatile spotting scope, the Athlon Optics Talos 20-60x80 could be the one you’ve been searching for. With its angled design, this scope boasts an impressive 20x to 60x magnification range, making it suitable for use at the shooting range or when exploring nature.

One of the key elements of this Talos model is its fully multi-coated lenses. These lenses work to provide superior light transmission, ensuring bright and detailed images. Furthermore, the K9 glass prisms in the scope reflect a significant amount of light, helping to maintain image clarity even in challenging weather conditions. Its rugged construction, including waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant features, ensures that it’s a reliable choice for all sorts of outdoor activities.

While the Athlon Optics Talos 20-60x80 is a high-quality spotting scope, it does have some minor drawbacks. Some users have reported that the included tripod was not as sturdy as they preferred. Additionally, the eye relief can feel slightly restricted for certain individuals, making it a bit more challenging to find a comfortable viewing position.

In summary, the Athlon Optics Talos 20-60x80 is a top option for those seeking a dependable spotting scope at an affordable price. Its numerous features and flexible magnification range make it a must-have for any outdoor adventurer. While it does have some minor drawbacks, they are certainly worth overlooking given the scope’s multitude of benefits.

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.

Customizable Air Rifle Scope Lens Combo

The Axcel Avx-31 Scope Lens Combo, a versatile 31mm scope, boasts a modular series design that allows users to customize their archery experience. This customization option comes with several additional components such as sun shades, torque indicators, interchangeable ring pins, and a rheostat cover, perfect for controlling brightness in various lighting conditions.

To make it even more appealing, the combo comes with a #10-32 stainless steel rod, T Connector, and an ambidextrous design. But the pièce de résistance is the Doc’s Choice lens, available in a plethora of powers, making it a perfect addition to any archer’s quiver.

Covert Optics Thermal Black Clip On Thermal Scope

Introducing the Covert Optics ThermX HS1 Thermal Black, a versatile and compact thermal scope that’s perfect for hunting enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Boasting a high-resolution 1.5” OLED color display, this thermal scope offers a crisp and clear viewing experience, especially when it comes to detecting predators, recovering game, or tracking targets. Its wide 14-degree field of view makes it ideal for various situations, and the user-friendly interface allows for easy adjustment of color modes and brightness settings.

The HS1 features an ergonomic and lightweight design, making it perfect for both bowhunters and bigger hunting enthusiasts. Its durable Ultem housing and Germanium lens, combined with an aluminum body, offer enhanced durability and protection against harsh weather conditions. The unit includes a 1x CR123 battery, ensuring long-lasting performance, and is easily weapons mountable for a more streamlined experience.

Weighing just 4.3 oz. , the ThermX HS1 Thermal Black is an excellent option for those looking for an efficient, powerful, and portable thermal scope. With a simple 3-button control system and adjustable windage and elevation settings, operating the device is a breeze, allowing you to take on any hunting adventure with confidence.

Kowa TSN-88S 88mm Prominar Pure Fluorite Air Rifle Scope

The Kowa TSN-88 Prominar series is a remarkable display of Kowa’s devotion to satisfying the desires of spotting scope aficionados with top-notch viewing encounters. Drawing upon their seasoned optical design, this line delivers Kowa’s signature genuine color viewing experience, plus an enhanced light transmittance level throughout the entire color spectrum.

Kowa’s meticulous handling and treatment of fluorite crystal lenses propel the standard of optical performance by almost eliminating chromatic aberration, while maintaining high resolution and contrast. The fresh TSN-88 series also incorporates a dual focus mechanism, giving the user unparalleled control over image focus with swift and seamless adjustments. A magnesium alloy construction ensures durability and portability, all the while maintaining a fully waterproof, nitrogen-sealed casing.

The contemporary aesthetic, combined with an ergonomic design, makes the scope a breeze to use in the outdoors. The TSN-88 Prominar retains its crown as the supreme digiscoping option, boasting the finest long-range photography possibilities with optional smartphone adapters. Additionally, the scope includes a new dual-tripod mounting system, providing added stability and compatibility with accessories, transforming it into a versatile tool for various purposes.

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.

Riton 5 Primal 17 Hmr Scope

The Riton 5 Primal scope has been a game changer for me in the field. As a marksman and hunter, I need an optic that can withstand the challenges of the outdoors. This scope, with its angled body and 15-45x magnification, has proved to be the perfect tool for my adventures.

The fully multi-coated optics, fog and waterproof features, and a price that won’t break the bank are just a few things that make this scope stand out. It’s the perfect companion for those who demand the best when it comes to their gear.

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.

ATN Auxiliary Ballistic Laser 1000 (Mossy Oak Elements Terra) - Range-finding Laser Sight for Hunting

I recently got my hands on the ATN Corporation Auxiliary Ballistic Laser 1000, and from the first day, I knew it was going to be my go-to companion in the field. The Mossy Oak Elements Terra camo finish blended in perfectly with nature, and its sleek design made it feel even more like an integrated part of my rifle.

One of the most impressive features of this range-finding laser was its accuracy - I could aim at a target and trust that the 5-1000-yard/meter range was accurate to within just one yard or meter. It connected seamlessly with my ATN Smart HD day, night, or thermal riflescope, allowing me to effortlessly make adjustments to my scope’s reticle through its intuitive Bluetooth interface.

Despite its advanced technology, the ATN Auxiliary Ballistic Laser 1000 was surprisingly user-friendly, even for someone not overly familiar with laser sights like me. It added the distance to the target to videos of shots I made using the smart scope, providing me with valuable data for future shooting sessions.

I was also impressed by the rugged construction - with its hardened aluminum alloy housing, it easily withstood the recoil of high-caliber rifles. The built-in sunshade was another thoughtful feature that protected the device from glare and unwanted light. Battery runtime was a solid 12 hours of continuous operation, making it ideal for long hunting trips.

However, there were a couple of areas where this device could be improved. First, the attachment system with two screws felt a tiny bit snug for my liking. A more secure connection would have been appreciated. Second, the Bluetooth 4.1 functionality could have been faster when integrating with the riflescope.

Overall, the ATN Auxiliary Ballistic Laser 1000 is a powerful and highly versatile device for any serious hunter. Its accuracy, ease of use, and reliability make it a valuable addition to any rifle setup, despite minor design flaws.

Killer Instinct Lumix 4x32 IR-E Crossbow Scope - Black, Clear Optics & LED Illumination

As I embarked on a hunting trip, I was eager to test out the Killer Instinct Lumix 4x32 IR-E Crossbow Scope. I mounted it on my crossbow, adjusted the sights and speed ring, and headed out into the woods. The scope’s multicoated optics provided exceptional clarity, allowing me to spot my target with ease. The fast focus eyepiece made adjustments swift and simple, ensuring that I could make accurate shots.

One feature that stood out to me was the scope’s illumination. The blue and red LED lights were adjustable and bright enough to see clearly in low light conditions. This was particularly useful during the early morning hunt, providing a much-needed boost to my sight. The adjustment click value of 0.5 inches at 100 yards ensured that I could make precise adjustments to my shots, further enhancing my accuracy.

However, I did encounter a minor issue with the speed ring. It proved to be a bit tricky to adjust, making it slightly more challenging to fine-tune my shots. Despite this, I was overall impressed with the scope’s performance and would definitely recommend it to other crossbow enthusiasts looking for a reliable and feature-packed accessory.

Excalibur Dead-Zone Compact Rimfire Scope for Crossbows

This compact Excalibur Dead-Zone Crossbow Scope is a game-changer for those crossbow enthusiasts seeking premium quality within a relatively affordable price range. Suitable for crossbows that operate at shooting speeds of 300-410 fps, the scope can accommodate a 32mm objective lens and features a 1” tube for outstanding light transmission. Its fully-coated lenses ensure crisp visuals, while the variable multi-reticle design ensures optimal viewing experience.

The reviewers seem incredibly pleased with the scope’s level of accuracy, reliability, and ease of adjustment. Some even claim it’s all they’ll ever need from a scope, praising the clarity and light-gathering capabilities. However, a small minority have faced some minor hassles, such as a stubbornly tightening set screw, although these instances do not seem to significantly mar the overall positive sentiment.

The only downside reported by a few users is the difficulty in distinguishing the reticle when the sun sets, but all agree that the high-end construction and excellent performance easily justify the purchase of this scope. It’s not simply an accessory, but a valuable tool for serious crossbow users, providing unrivaled precision and efficiency.

Buyer’s Guide

Choosing the right air rifle scope can significantly enhance your shooting experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced shooter, selecting a high-quality scope is essential for accuracy, consistency, and enjoyment. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll discuss important features, considerations, and general advice to help you make an informed decision about your air rifle scope purchase.

Important Features to Consider

When shopping for air rifle scopes, consider the following features that contribute to better performance and overall satisfaction with your purchase:

1. Magnification: The magnification power of the scope, typically displayed as “x”, is a crucial aspect. Higher magnification allows for better target identification and precision, but it may decrease the field of view.

Durability and Waterproofing

2. Durability and Waterproofing: A good air rifle scope should be built to withstand the elements, making it a reliable choice for outdoor use. Look for models that have a durable construction and are waterproof or fog-proof to ensure optimal performance in various weather conditions. 3. Lens Coatings: High-quality scopes often have lens coatings to minimize glare and enhance image clarity. Opt for scopes with fully multi-coated lenses for improved light transmission and a brighter, sharper sight picture.

Reticle Types and Adjustments

4. Reticle Types and Adjustments: Different reticle types cater to different shooting styles and situations. Familiarize yourself with popular reticle types like the duplex, mil-dot, and cross-hair, and consider which one suits your needs best. Additionally, adjustable turrets are a valuable feature, allowing you to fine-tune your shot grouping and compensate for wind or elevation changes.

Mounting and Eye Relief

5. Mounting and Eye Relief: A secure mounting system is crucial for maintaining accuracy and preventing scope movement. Additionally, ensure that the scope provides sufficient eye relief (the distance between your eye and the lens) to provide a comfortable and clear sight picture. Look for scopes with adjustable eye relief for a customized shooting experience.

FAQ

What are the different types of air rifle scopes and their primary uses?

There are two main types of air rifle scopes: fixed power scopes and variable power scopes. Fixed power scopes offer a specific power rating, which means the magnification remains constant. These scopes are ideal for shooting at close to midrange distances. On the other hand, variable power scopes allow you to adjust the magnification, which makes them versatile for different shooting distances.

Variable scopes often have a lower maximum magnification than fixed scopes. However, you can find a higher maximum power rating with fixed scopes. In terms of primary uses, fixed scopes are more suitable for target shooting and hunting, while variable scopes are more commonly utilized in long-range shooting applications or hunting at various distances.

What should I consider when choosing an air rifle scope?

Several factors should be taken into account when selecting an air rifle scope. The first factor is your budget. Consider how much you want to spend on the scope, keeping in mind that higher quality scopes typically cost more. Next, decide the power rating you need, depending on your shooting range and preferred style. If you engage in shooting at different distances, a variable scope would be the better option.

Consider the scope’s parallax setting. Parallax is the deviation of the image from the shooter’s view due to the mismatched distances between the scope and the target. Scopes that have adjustable parallax settings are preferred over fixed magnification scopes, as they enable clear and sharp images at any shooting distance. Finally, look for a scope with a good field of view (FOV) to improve your target acquisition capabilities.

What is the difference between first focal plane (FFP) and second focal plane (SFP) scopes?

The primary difference between first and second focal plane scopes relates to how the reticle and magnification function together. In second focal plane scopes, the reticle’s appearance appears to diminish in size when magnification is increased. With first focal plane scopes, the reticle appears to remain the same size as the magnification increases. This means that the reticle will always cover the same distance regardless of the scope’s magnification.

FFP scopes can provide a more accurate holdover and aiming capability than SFP scopes at higher magnification. This is because the first focal plane scope allows the reticle to move with the shooter’s eye, ensuring that it remains on target, while the reticle does not move in an SFP scope. Some shooters prefer the constant appearance of the reticle in SFP scopes, making it harder for them to choose between FFP and SFP designs.

What features should I look for in a high-quality air rifle scope?

Several features make a high-quality air rifle scope, including waterproof and fog-proof construction, a durable and strong design, and precise adjustment knobs. High-quality scopes often have multiple layers of lens coatings to minimize glare and provide better light transmission. The optics should offer clear and sharp images without distortion at the maximum magnification setting.

Some high-end scopes come with illuminated reticles, which can be advantageous for low-light shooting scenarios. They typically use batteries for power, so be sure to consider the battery life and availability of spare batteries. Lastly, the scope should have an adjustable parallax setting, as mentioned earlier, to ensure a clear and sharp image at any shooting distance.

How do the field of view (FOV) settings affect my shooting performance?

The field of view (FOV) is crucial in determining the target acquisition capabilities of an air rifle scope. A larger FOV allows the shooter to observe a more extensive area without having to move the eyepiece. This can improve situational awareness by enabling you to spot potential targets more quickly. However, a wide FOV will have a lower level of magnification, making it more difficult to focus on distant targets.

It’s essential to find a balance between a wide FOV and a high level of magnification that suits your shooting style. While a FOV of 100 feet or more makes hunting easier, a FOV of 30-40 feet is preferable for competition shooting, as it can provide sharper and clearer images at greater distances. The FOV you choose should depend on your intended target distance and the shooting activity.

What is the difference between red dot and holographic sights?

Red dot and holographic sights are both optics devices designed to improve a shooter’s accuracy without adjusting the scope’s magnification. The primary difference between them lies in their operation and technology. Red dot sights have a single point of illuminated crosshair, which remains constantly lit. These sights are simple and easy to use, making them a popular choice for close to midrange target shooting.

Holographic sights, on the other hand, use a laser reference to display its image or hologram. This image is a replica of the target landscape, which includes the surrounding area and the target itself. Unlike red dot sights, the holographic crosshair is not always visible, allowing the user to focus on the actual target image, providing greater situational awareness. This makes holographic sights more suitable for dynamic shooting situations and long-range hunting.

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