10 Best Scopes 2025 in the United States

The Nikon Monarch FIELDSCOPE 82ED-A W/MEP-20-60 is a well-regarded spotting scope that excels in various outdoor activities such as bird watching, wildlife observation, and even stargazing. With a magnification range of 20x to 60x, it provides versatility for closer and distant subjects, making it suitable for both detailed views and broader landscapes. The advanced Apochromat Optical System with ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass significantly reduces color fringing, resulting in clearer and more vibrant images, which is a crucial feature for those who desire high-quality visuals in their observations.

Another strength is the Field Flattener Lens System, which helps maintain sharpness across the entire viewing area, ensuring that images remain clear even at the edges. The multilayer coating enhances color fidelity, allowing users to see natural hues in their surroundings. Plus, the optimized focusing system allows for quick adjustments, enhancing the user experience.

On the flip side, the Nikon Monarch FIELDSCOPE is relatively heavy at 3 pounds, which may challenge portability for some users, especially during extended outings. Additionally, while it boasts a durable construction, the plastic materials might not appeal to everyone, particularly those looking for a heavier-duty scope. The angled body design, while comfortable for viewing, may not be the preferred style for all users. For those who prioritize optical quality and image clarity, this scope is an excellent choice despite its weight. However, if portability and ruggedness are your top concerns, you may want to explore other options in the market.

The Nikon Prostaff 5 Proscope with its large 82mm objective lens is great for users needing a bright and clear image, especially in varying light conditions. Its 20-60x zoom offers a wide range of magnification, making it versatile for spotting distant objects with good detail. The multicoated optics help deliver sharp, high-contrast views with true colors, which is important for clarity.

Its angled body design and lightweight build make it comfortable to handle during extended use. The scope is also well protected against weather with waterproof and fogproof features, plus a built-in sliding sunshade that reduces glare and keeps the lens clean in tough environments. It is a bit heavier at 4.1 pounds, which could be noticeable on long outings.

This scope suits outdoor enthusiasts or birdwatchers who want a bright, reliable scope with good zoom and weather resistance, though those needing specialized reticle features or extremely lightweight gear might want to consider their specific needs before buying.

The Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm scope is designed for high precision in long-range shooting, making it ideal for serious hunters and competitive shooters. Its extensive magnification range from 7x to 35x coupled with a large 56mm objective lens allows for exceptional clarity and a wide field of view, essential for spotting distant targets. The MIL-XT reticle provides precise markings, aiding in quick target acquisition and adjustment, particularly beneficial in competitive settings.

One of the standout features is its first focal plane design, maintaining consistent reticle proportions across all magnification levels, which is crucial for accuracy at varying distances. The scope is also equipped with ZeroStop technology ensuring a reliable return to zero, and Digillum reticle illumination improves visibility in low-light conditions. Parallax adjustment from as close as 11 yards to infinity adds to the precision at any range.

However, the scope is substantial in weight at 2.46 pounds, and its 34mm tube diameter may require specialized mounting hardware, possibly limiting its compatibility with some rifles. The eye relief is a comfortable 3.6 inches, but at higher magnifications, the exit pupil size becomes quite small, which might challenge those with less steady handling. Durability is a strong point, as the scope is constructed to withstand harsh conditions, yet its premium features come at a hefty price, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. The Nightforce ATACR, therefore, is best suited for those who demand top-tier performance and are willing to invest in a high-quality optic that delivers precision and reliability in demanding shooting scenarios.