The 10 Best Scope Magnification for Deer Hunting In 2022

For anyone who loves hunting, the thrill of the hunt is what powers you. But before you make the perfect shot you have to observe first. This is why the scope magnification is needed. So, what is the best scope magnification for deer hunting? We find out the answer here as well as top recommended scopes suitable for deer hunting.

The scope magnification is what brings the prey closer to you so you can observe your target. The magnification you get will depend on you and on how large you want your target to be. You can get a scope magnification that enlarges an image to more than 10 times its size. This review is going to show you some of the best hunting scope magnification that will make your hunting worthwhile.

Product Photo

Product Name

Magnification

Objective Lens

Weight

Price

SWAROVSKI Z5 3.5-18x44 Ballistic Turret Riflescope with 4W Reticle

1. SWAROVSKI Z5 3.5-18x44 Ballistic Turret Riflescope with 4W Reticle

3.5-18x

44mm

1.5 pounds

2.Trijicon TR22 AccuPoint 2.5-10x56mm Riflescope

2.5-10x

56mm

2.4 pounds

Leupold VX-R Patrol Riflescope

3.Leupold VX-R Patrol Riflescope

3-9x

40mm

15.4 ounces

Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane

4.Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescopes

2-7x

32mm

-

Athlon Optics , Argos BTR, Riflescope, 6-24 x 50 First FocalPlane (FFP) 30 mm Tube

5.Athlon Optics , Argos BTR, Riflescope

6-24x

50mm

15.8 ounces

Bushnell Optics, Drop Zone BDC Reticle Riflescope with TargetTurrets and Side Parallax

6.Bushnell Optics, Drop Zone BDC Reticle Riflescope

3-9x

40mm

1.31 pounds

Burris 200261 Ballistic Plex 2-7x32mm

7.Burris 200261 Ballistic Plex 2-7x32mm

2-7x

32mm

13 ounces

UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope

8.UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope

3-12x

44mm

1.45 pounds

Nikon Buckmasters II, 4-12x40mm, BDC, Riflescope

9.Nikon Buckmasters II, 4-12x40mm, BDC, Riflescope

4-12x

40mm

1.1 pounds

Simmons Truplex Riflescope

10.Simmons Truplex Riflescope

3-9x

40mm

10.1 ounces

Top 10 Best Scope Magnification for Deer Hunting Reviews

If you are into deer hunting, having the best hunting scope magnification can help you achieve successful hunting sessions. Since choosing the right one is not always easy, we have given you reviews and guide to help you pick the best deer hunting scope under $200. Read on and make comparisons to choose the best rifle scope for deer hunting.

1. SWAROVSKI Z5 3.5 18X44 Ballistic Turret Riflescope with 4W Reticle

SWAROVSKI Z5 3.5-18x44 Ballistic Turret Riflescope with 4W Reticle

This riflescope comes with a 44-meter field of view with a 100-meter view. This view gives you great visibility and hunting safety. The riflescope makes it easy to quickly detect an object and precisely thanks to its great point of light.

The Z5 has a zoom range of 3.5-18 times plus a compact construction. The wide diameter lens offers a good view, even in low light. Its case is filled with nitrogen to ensure that there is no fogging up.

The scope is waterproof up to 4-meters deep. It has a sturdy design that makes it flexible yet reliable. The ballistic turret flex has a separate configuration that lets you stay fast on your target according to your distance. You can fix the turret without using tools, and it also has a lock mechanism so that it doesn't turn accidentally when you are using it.

Pros

  • 44-meter field of view that gives visibility and safety
  • The scope can detect an object quickly and with great accuracy
  • Compact, sturdy construction that makes it durable
  • Toolless BTF with a side turret for windage adjustment
  • HD optics for a clearer view

Cons

  • Expensive
  • The reticle does not have a bullet drop compensation

2. Trijicon TR22 AccuPoint 2.5- 10x56mm riflescope

Trijicon TR22 AccuPoint 2.5-10x56mm Riflescope

The Trijicon AccuPoint is the best riflescope when it comes to giving the best light gathering capabilities thanks to the 56mm objective lens. The lens has multiple coatings and high-quality glass. The glass gives maximum light transmission making for good lighting, even in dim light. It has a double illumination system that gives clear and vibrant images.

You can use the scope in all light settings and even the harshest conditions. You can control the light output using the optics during the day. It is filled with nitrogen and is water-resistant to reduce deterioration and remove fogging. The Trijicon has a hard-anodized aluminum built that ensures that it can hold its own in tough conditions.

The AccuPoint riflescope has a green dot that gives you a perfect a visible field of view. It makes viewing perfect and is easily adjustable. The adjustments can be made even in the evening hours without overpowering the field of view.

Pros

  • A solid back matte finish that eliminates the light reflection and glare
  • 6061-T6 waterproof aluminium tube
  • Water-resistant and nitrogen filled to remove fogging
  • The reticle doesn't need batteries for it to light
  • Can be used in all light settings and harsh conditions

Cons

  • A little on the expensive side

3. Leupold VX-R Patrol Riflescope

Leupold VX-R Patrol Riflescope

One of the riflescopes that fall under the best rifle scope for deer hunting category is the VX-R patrol riflescope. This riflescope is made for acquiring fast targets and is flexible enough to give a scope that works for patrol applications. Yes, it does say it is a patrol rifle but it works really well when hunting deer.

The riflescope is waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof. This ensures that you can use the rifle in wet conditions without it clouding over. It also has a sturdy build and is shockproof to ensure you can use it even in harsh conditions without it suffering any damage.

The scope has motion sensor technology that extends battery life. It does this by deactivating illumination if it remains unused for 5 minutes. The scope has a Twilight Light management system that increases 10 minutes of extra light.

It is made with 6061-T6 aircraft quality aluminium. It has a lifetime performance that doesn't harm it even with harsh recoil. With a 30mm main tube, the scope gives off strength and has elevation adjustment and an increased rate of windage.

Pros

  • Waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof
  • Motion Sensor Technology that extends lifespan
  • Made from high-grade aluminium for high performance
  • Gives an increased level of windage
  • Has elevation adjustment

Cons

  • The reticle is a bit thick

4. Vortex Optics Crossfire II Riflescope

Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane

The Vortex Crossfire II riflescope is the best deer hunting scope under $200 while still maintaining all the qualities of a good hunting scope. It has multi-coated optics that have many layers of anti-reflective coatings. The numerous coatings reduce the glare while ensuring that optimal light transmission occurs.

The crossfire has a zero-reset turret to protect it whether it is in used, stored, or whether you use it in harsh environments. It is also fog proof and waterproof to protect from any accidents during hunting. It is also shockproof yo, so no harms from sudden falls or into liquids.

The scope also has an eye relief eye box that allows you to get a clear picture and acquiring your target easily together with an eyepiece that makes for easy reticle focusing. This riflescope boasts of being functional and simple. It is good for whitetail deer hunting and is made of high quality.

Pros

  • Has a hard-anodized finish for anti-reflective coatings to reduce glare
  • Zero-reset turret protect it at all times
  • 1-piece tube for adjustment precision and integrity
  • Fast-focusing eyepiece for reticle focusing
  • Can be used in any conditions, even the harshest

Cons

  • Image quality reduces beyond 9x magnification

5. Athlon Optics, Argos BTR 6-24 x 50 Riflescope

Athlon Optics , Argos BTR, Riflescope, 6-24 x 50 First FocalPlane (FFP) 30 mm Tube

For the price, the Athlon Argos glass is of high quality. It is crisp and clear, although it might worsen at 18 times magnification. The Argos has an illuminated reticle that makes it easy to make readings in light, bright, low, or even situations with no light. It also has an 11-setting brightness knob.

The scope is also a first focal plane riflescope, which means that it is good for long-distance shooting. The holdovers do not change whatever the magnification you use. This means you won't have to make adjustments or calculate windage. Its reticle is etched on the glass. This way, you don't need illumination or a battery for operation.

The scope features aircraft-grade aluminium for durability. It is nitrogen purged and is O-ring sealed for extra protection, as it makes it waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof. The scope also has an XPL coating that protects it from dirt, grease, and oil.

Pros

  • Spongy turrets that allow it to move easily
  • Has a versatile 6x-20x magnification that allows for versatile application
  • Sturdy, lightweight and easily adjustable scope
  • Made from aircraft-grade aluminium for durability
  • An etched reticle that eliminates the need for illumination or batteries

Cons

  • Expensive to buy and maintain

6. Bushnell Optics, Drop Zone BDC Reticle Riflescope

This is one of those affordable scopes that do not make you miss out on the features. It has a BDC reticle calibrated for 55-62 grain. The scope has bright multi-coated optics. It is made from high-grade materials to ensure it is durable and long-lasting. The scope has a 24mm objective lens.

The Bushnell BDC reticle riflescope is lightweight. It also has a fast-focus eyepiece that spans from 100-500 yards. The scope has a 30mm tube, making it easy to mount, and has a BDC reticle that keeps its focus even when you change the magnification. The scope has a series of dots representing a bullet drop for 223 rounds.

Windage and elevation on this scope are easily adjustable without losing focus, and it is great at mid-range precision. The turrets have a 0.1 click value and are adjustable using a fingertip. With a matte finish, the scope is scratch, fog, water, and rustproof. This makes it the best scope for woods hunting as it can withstand the surroundings.

Pros

  • Offers an impressive accuracy even at mid-range distances
  • Has a BDC drop zone reticle
  • The make of the scope makes it sturdy and durable
  • Multi-coated lenses for light transmission and eye relief
  • Tactile, audible and fingertip adjustable turrets

Cons

  • Only works up to 1.4 times magnification
  • Doesn't include a mount

7. Burris 200261 Ballistic Plex 2- 7x32mm

Burris 200261 Ballistic Plex 2-7x32mm

The Burris scope is versatile, and it still maintains its features. It is lightweight and yet compact. It is not top-heavy and doesn't overwhelm the rifle. You can mount it in a forward position that gives you 9-12 inches of eye relief. This allows you to look at wider spaces without having to strain your eyes.

Unlike most riflescopes, this one has a hand-fitted lens assembly. This assembly is done to ensure that the internal glass and other components are protected. It ensures that the lens holds and doesn't shift even during hard recoil or vibrations. It has a minimal power magnification of 2x and a maximum of 7x.

This scope rifle is made for instant action with hash marks up to 500 yards. It comes at an affordable price with low power. Add to this a Ballistic Plex that is easy to see and draws your eye to the center for the perfect and precise shot.

Pros

  • It is affordable with high-quality features
  • Has a lightweight and compact design that allows you to use it for a long time
  • Hand-fitted lens assembly that protects the lens and the internal components
  • A ballistic reticle that makes it easy to see
  • Is weatherproof and can be used under any circumstances

Cons

  • Has no lens cap included

8. UTG 3- 12X44 30mm Compact Scope

UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope

The UTG compact scope is a basic rifle scope and it has good quality materials and falls in an affordable price range. It has precise adjustment with zero locking target turrets. The scope has a 30mm SWAT 3-12X44 IE making it one of the best in its field. This scope helps in estimating the distance of the target to help you get more accurate shots.

The scope's mil-dot system can easily calculate the target distance. It also has a compact design that makes it easy to store and transport, and it is lightweight, making it easy to carry around. The 30mm tube is sealed and filled with nitrogen making it shockproof and waterproof.

This scope also has emerald-coated lenses that make it functional when using the scope. The emerald coating protects the lenses from damage when in use. It also has a 36-color 36-EZ tap reticle that helps you make accurate shots.

Pros

  • Good circuit housing that provides illumination despite heavy recoil
  • Has a strong, durable, shockproof and fog proof tube
  • Has locking features that prevent you from losing your settings
  • Can be used by anyone, despite your expertise
  • Versatile; can be used in any situation

Cons

  • It is heavy

9. Nikon Buckmasters II, 4-12x40mm, BDC Riflescope

Nikon Buckmasters II, 4-12x40mm, BDC, Riflescope

The Nikon Buckmasters II is made for deer hunting. It has a multi-coated optical system made of several layers on each side of the glass. The optical system has anti-reflective composites on each glass layer to give light transmission, no matter the time of day. The light transmission is the only thing that changes without compromising the clarity of the view.

The scope also has resettable turrets that improve the quality and brightness of the scope. The Buckmasters has 3.6 inches of eye relief. The eye relief prevents fatigue and strain on the eyes, even with the rifle recoils. This also allows you to use it for a long time without straining your eyes.

Not only are these features what make the rifle scope one of the best, but it has an extra feature. The feature is that it can provide two magnifications; 3-9x40 and 4-12x40 letting you choose the one you are comfortable with. It also has a non-slip grip that makes the adjustments easier. It also falls within an affordable price range, even with all the top-notch features.

Pros

  • Affordable pricing
  • Has Nikon's BDC reticle
  • Has fully multi-coated optics
  • Two magnification settings
  • Light transmitting composites that let you use it no matter the amount of light

Cons

  • The initial mounting is hard

10. Simmons Truplex Riflescope (3-9x40 Matte)

Simmons Truplex Riflescope

And to close us off on this review is the Simmons Truplex riflescope. It is a lightweight design that is compatible with almost all firearms. Its scope magnification ranges from 3x to 9x while still maintaining its clarity and contrast. It is fully coated, giving you an anti-reflective and anti-glare vision, all the while without ruining the view.

The coating is also water-resistant, so you won't be interrupted while working. It has a 40mm objective lens with a light transmission ranging from 90-93%. The scope has a wide field of view with 31.4 inches with a 3-time zoom capability that lets you keep track of your target even if there are other movements.

The scope is waterproof and fog proof, which, as mentioned before, means you can use it without getting ruined by water. It can also withstand shock from different rifles or shotguns easily. It is also made out of high-grade aluminium to make it durable.

Pros

  • Durable and reliable
  • Offers great clarity and contrast
  • Has a wide field of view
  • Waterproof, shockproof, fog proof and shock absorbent
  • Has quick Target Acquisition technology

Cons

  • Lacks illumination

Things to Consider Before Buying best scope for deer hunting

best hunting scope magnification

Before looking at some of the best scope magnification, let us first look into what makes it the best. Here we are going to look at some of the features you should look out for when purchasing. These features are what is going to ensure you get a high-quality product that will not fail you.

Magnification

Magnification is the first thing you should look at. The kind of magnification you choose should depend on how close you want your target to be. A 10x magnification will make the object seem like they are 1o times closer. If you are a game hunter who hunts for up to 600 yards, a 10 times magnification is enough. If you want something that is up to 1000 yards away, then you should consider getting a scope with a wider range. The bulkier the scope magnification, the heavier the rifle will be.

Weight

As mentioned above, the size of the magnification you get will determine the size of the rifle you have. The opposite is also true. Heavy rifles and heavy scopes go hand in hand. The size of the rifle you get is going to depend on how much weight you can handle. If you are a beginner, you might have to consider getting a smaller rifle with a smaller scope magnification and move on from there.

Shooting precision

Riflescopes have crosshairs or reticles. These are individual markers that show you where your shot will go if you pull the trigger. These crosshairs make your shooting precision easier and increase the chances of you making the shot. You should find a scope magnification that has them for better precision.

Illuminated reticle

From the above point, reticles or crosshairs, are what makes precision better. Illuminated reticles make a huge difference between shooting in high light and low light. The illuminated reticles reflect more light, making it easier for you to see low light in times.

The downside of these reticles is the weight. They make the rifles heavier, so you have to be ready when using them. They are also expensive to maintain and repair. This is because they demand a lot of money for them to repair once the moving part fails.

Objective lens size

Big objective lenses bring more light, but the bigger the objective lens, the heavier, bigger, and more expensive it will be. Some of the recent scopes even have anti-reflection coats that show crosshairs even against dark animals after the sun has gone down. This will all come at a price, however.

Scope tube diameter

There are different scope tube diameters in the market. The most common are the 1 inch and 30 mm tubes. The former is more natural and cost less than the others while the latter is more widely known. Reviews show that they show natural pictures.

Light intensity

Scopes use the available light to show images, giving images brighter than those visible to the naked eye. Riflescopes are good for use in the morning and evening, where there is just enough light for you to use without blinding you.

Don’t forget to check out our latest review on 10 Best Long Range Rifle Scopes in 2020.

Optics

To get a correct view of your object, the quality of optics is also an essential factor. You should make sure you get quality optics to ensure that you get a good outlook, which will give you a clear picture.

Price

And of course, to tie everything up, the price. You cannot go out of your way to buy a scope magnification. Many affordable ones don't require you to compromise on the features. You can get good, high-quality scope magnifications that are affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do rifle scopes fit with all rifles?

A: No, not all scopes are made for all rifles. Some scopes do fit with almost all rifles, but not all are made like that. You can find a scope that fits with your rifle, but you have to measure. Measuring the size will ensure you get the correct fit for better use.

Q: What magnification is good for deer hunting?

A: Deer hunting is a serious game for some people. Big game hunters can use scopes with magnifications more than 30 times. But you have to make sure that you get a clear view even with high magnification. The magnification will also be determined by the size of the rifle you have.

Q: Do I need a big gun for deer hunting?

A: A big gun is not a necessity when deer hunting. As long as you can get good magnification and a good view of your target, it is okay.

Final Words

So to recap, we have looked at the best scope magnification for deer hunting. These 10 ranks among the bestsellers. This is because they are not only affordable, but they come with features. These features make deer hunting easy and fun. You won't have to do a lot of work yourself, let the scope do the work for you. Get these scopes for yourself and happy hunting! don’t forget to check out our list of best recurve bow reviews for 2020.

Matt Bartlett
 

Outside is always better .I'm an avid Traveler, Cyclist, Paddler,Hiker, Outdoor Adventurer, Sports Lover & Wannabe Runner. I write about adventures and share them on my website and for other outdoor publications. . Wannabe Runner Love being outdoors.I enjoy sharing outdoor experiences with others.

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