We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Airgun Scopes 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Illum. FireDot Duplex Reticle Riflescope

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,485
Magnification
Objective Lens Diameter
Reticle Type

Most important from
344 reviews

Magnification
Its FireDot second focal plane reticle and versatile magnification perfectly suit typical hunting distances without overcomplicating the setup.
Objective Lens Diameter
The scope delivers exceptional clarity and is straightforward to adjust, enhancing the shooting experience.
Reticle Type
Its FireDot second focal plane reticle and versatile magnification perfectly suit typical hunting distances without overcomplicating the setup.

The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 riflescope is a versatile and high-quality choice for hunters and shooting enthusiasts looking for a reliable airgun scope. Its wide magnification range (3x to 15x) makes it suitable for both close and more distant targets, while the 40mm objective lens offers a good balance between light gathering and compact size. The illuminated FireDot Duplex reticle helps with quick target acquisition in varying light conditions, though it doesn’t include night vision compatibility.

One of the standout features is the CDS-ZL2 elevation adjustment system with ZeroLock, which allows precise and repeatable dial settings without accidental changes. The side focus parallax adjustment is handy for fine-tuning focus from different shooting positions, improving accuracy. The scope’s field of view is fairly wide at 38.3 feet, giving a good sight picture for improved situational awareness. Durability-wise, this scope is built tough with waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction, plus hydrophobic lens coatings that repel water and dirt, so it stays clear with minimal maintenance. It’s made from aluminum and weighs about 1 pound, which is manageable but slightly heavier than some ultra-light models.

Though the scope lacks night vision compatibility and is positioned at a premium price point, the lifetime warranty and excellent customer support add good value and peace of mind. This scope is a solid pick for serious hunters or shooters who want precise adjustments, clear optics, and rugged reliability in an airgun or rifle scope.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,485
Magnification
Objective Lens Diameter
Reticle Type

Most important from
344 reviews

Magnification
Its FireDot second focal plane reticle and versatile magnification perfectly suit typical hunting distances without overcomplicating the setup.
Objective Lens Diameter
The scope delivers exceptional clarity and is straightforward to adjust, enhancing the shooting experience.
Reticle Type
Its FireDot second focal plane reticle and versatile magnification perfectly suit typical hunting distances without overcomplicating the setup.
#2

Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 (1 inch) CDS Duplex Reticle Riflescope

Rating
8.8
Reticle Type

Most important from
693 reviews

Reticle Type
The Hunt Plex reticle is simple and effective, adding to the overall ease of use.

The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope is a solid choice for hunters and shooters looking for reliability and performance in their optics. One of its main strengths is the versatile magnification range of 3 to 9x, allowing for both close and distance shooting, which can be quite beneficial for various hunting situations. The 40mm objective lens diameter also provides a good amount of light transmission, enhancing visibility during low-light conditions thanks to the Twilight Light Management System, which can add an extra 10 minutes of shootable light while minimizing glare.

The Duplex CDS reticle is user-friendly, making it easier to acquire targets quickly—a valuable feature for both seasoned and novice shooters. Furthermore, the riflescope is built with durable materials; the aircraft-quality aluminum construction ensures that it is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, giving users confidence when using it in harsh weather or rugged environments.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The fixed 1/4 MOA adjustments for windage and elevation might not be as precise as other more advanced systems, which could limit fine-tuning for highly skilled marksmen. Additionally, while the weight of 1.2 pounds is manageable, it might feel a bit heavier for some users who prefer lightweight optics for extended carry. Users also need to note that this scope is not compatible with night vision, so it won’t serve in complete darkness. Despite these points, the Leupold VX-Freedom is well-suited for general hunting and shooting purposes, particularly for those who value durability and ease of use.

Rating
8.8
Reticle Type

Most important from
693 reviews

Reticle Type
The Hunt Plex reticle is simple and effective, adding to the overall ease of use.
#3

Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x50 (1 inch) CDS-ZL Duplex Reticle Riflescope

Rating
8.5
Magnification
Objective Lens Diameter
Reticle Type

Most important from
159 reviews

Magnification
This scope is about as light as they get for this magnification with a 50mm objective. It's lightweight, durable, and has clear glass.
Objective Lens Diameter
This scope is about as light as they get for this magnification with a 50mm objective. It's lightweight, durable, and has clear glass.
Reticle Type
The CDS dials are great for longer shots, and the clean, simple reticle design is a big plus.
Parallax Adjustment
Despite lacking a parallax/focus option, it hasn't been an issue in practice.

The Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x50 CDS-ZL Duplex Reticle Riflescope is a solid choice for hunters and shooters who need a versatile and durable scope. With a magnification range of 4.5x to 14x, it provides flexibility for various shooting distances. The 50mm objective lens diameter allows for excellent light transmission, making it suitable for dawn-to-dusk use.

The Duplex Reticle is simple yet effective for quick target acquisition. The CDS-ZL (ZeroLock) feature is particularly useful for preventing accidental dial movement and allows for precise elevation adjustments tailored to your specific ammunition and shooting conditions. It also includes a removable throw lever for easy magnification changes, adding to its user-friendly design. The eye relief of 3 inches is decent but might be a bit tight for shooters using airguns with heavy recoil.

The field of view is adequate for most hunting scenarios, ensuring you can keep track of moving targets. Constructed from aluminum, it is lightweight (15 ounces) yet robust, being waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. The lifetime guarantee offered by Leupold adds extra peace of mind. The lack of night vision may limit its use in complete darkness. This scope is best suited for hunters and shooters looking for a reliable, high-performance option that can handle various environmental conditions.

Rating
8.5
Magnification
Objective Lens Diameter
Reticle Type

Most important from
159 reviews

Magnification
This scope is about as light as they get for this magnification with a 50mm objective. It's lightweight, durable, and has clear glass.
Objective Lens Diameter
This scope is about as light as they get for this magnification with a 50mm objective. It's lightweight, durable, and has clear glass.
Reticle Type
The CDS dials are great for longer shots, and the clean, simple reticle design is a big plus.
Parallax Adjustment
Despite lacking a parallax/focus option, it hasn't been an issue in practice.

Buying Guide for the Best Airgun Scopes

Choosing the right airgun scope can significantly enhance your shooting experience, whether you're into target shooting, hunting, or plinking. The right scope will help you see your target more clearly and improve your accuracy. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they relate to your specific needs and preferences.
MagnificationMagnification refers to how much closer the target appears through the scope compared to the naked eye. This is important because it determines how well you can see your target at various distances. Scopes come with fixed or variable magnification. Fixed magnification scopes are simpler and often more durable, while variable magnification scopes offer more flexibility. For close-range shooting, a lower magnification (1-4x) is sufficient. For medium-range, consider 5-9x, and for long-range shooting, 10x or higher might be necessary. Choose based on the typical distance you will be shooting.
Objective Lens DiameterThe objective lens diameter is the size of the front lens of the scope, measured in millimeters. This spec is important because it affects the amount of light that enters the scope, impacting the brightness and clarity of the image. Larger diameters (40mm and above) allow more light, which is beneficial in low-light conditions but can make the scope heavier. Smaller diameters (32mm and below) are lighter and more compact but may not perform as well in dim lighting. Consider where and when you will be shooting to decide the right size for you.
Reticle TypeThe reticle, or crosshair, is the aiming point you see when looking through the scope. Different reticle types serve different purposes. Simple crosshairs are good for general use, while more complex reticles with additional markings can help with range estimation and bullet drop compensation. Illuminated reticles are useful in low-light conditions. Choose a reticle that matches your shooting style and needs. For example, hunters might prefer a reticle with range-finding capabilities, while target shooters might opt for a fine crosshair for precision.
Parallax AdjustmentParallax adjustment allows you to correct the parallax error, which occurs when the target and the reticle are not on the same focal plane. This is important for maintaining accuracy, especially at longer distances. Scopes without parallax adjustment are typically set for a specific distance (usually 100 yards). If you plan to shoot at varying distances, a scope with adjustable parallax (often found on the side or the objective lens) can be very beneficial. Consider your typical shooting distances to determine if this feature is necessary for you.
Eye ReliefEye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope at which you can see the full field of view. This is important for comfort and safety, especially with high-recoil airguns. Longer eye relief (3 inches or more) is generally better, as it allows you to maintain a comfortable distance from the scope. If you wear glasses or use a high-recoil airgun, prioritize scopes with generous eye relief to avoid discomfort or injury.
Field of ViewField of view (FOV) is the width of the area you can see through the scope at a specific distance, usually measured in feet at 100 yards. A wider FOV allows you to see more of the area around your target, which is useful for tracking moving targets and situational awareness. Lower magnification scopes typically offer a wider FOV. If you need to track fast-moving targets or want a broader view of your surroundings, opt for a scope with a wider FOV.

FAQ