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Best Scopes For 500 Yards (2025 Updated)

If you’re looking for the perfect scope for 500 yards, there are several factors that you need to consider before making your purchase. A good scope should be able to handle long-range shots while providing clear and precise images of your target. However, with so many scopes available on the market, it can be difficult to know where to start.

When shopping for a scope, one of the most important factors to consider is the magnification. A scope with a high magnification will allow you to see your target more clearly, but it may also reduce your field of vision. You’ll also need to consider the objective lens size, as this will impact the amount of light that enters the scope and the image brightness.

To make your search easier, ask yourself a few questions before making your purchase. Will you be using the scope for hunting, target shooting, or both? What type of shooting will you be doing – long-range, mid-range, or short-range? What’s your budget for the scope? By answering these questions, you’ll be better able to determine which scopes are the best fit for your needs.

In conclusion, finding the best scope for 500 yards can be daunting, but with careful consideration of your needs and budget, you can find the perfect scope for your shooting style. Be sure to do your research and ask questions to ensure that you make an informed decision on your purchase.

10 Best Scopes For 500 Yards

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for bird watching, target shooting, archery range and other outdoor activities with a waterproof scope, tripod and digiscoping adapter.
2
Ideal for birdwatching, hunting and viewing targets at a long distance.
3
The spotting scope is ideal for outdoor activities such as bird watching, hunting, and target shooting.
4
The product is ideal for improving accuracy and range finding capabilities while shooting.
5
The product (a spotting scope) is ideal for activities such as hunting, target shooting, bird watching, and astronomy.
6
Ideal for hunting and shooting with advanced features like thermal imaging, range finder, ballistics calculator, and image stabilization.
7
The product is ideal for enhancing night vision capabilities of scopes/optic sights with 38-44mm eyepieces up to 300m.
8
Ideal for long-range wildlife observation, bird watching, target shooting, and other outdoor activities that require high magnification and clarity.
9
The product is ideal for outdoor activities such as birdwatching, hunting, and wildlife observation.
10
The product is ideal for outdoor activities like bird watching, hunting, stargazing, and sports events.
Ideal for bird watching, target shooting, archery range and other outdoor activities with a waterproof scope, tripod and digiscoping adapter.
Ideal for birdwatching, hunting and viewing targets at a long distance.
The spotting scope is ideal for outdoor activities such as bird watching, hunting, and target shooting.
The product is ideal for improving accuracy and range finding capabilities while shooting.
The product (a spotting scope) is ideal for activities such as hunting, target shooting, bird watching, and astronomy.
Ideal for hunting and shooting with advanced features like thermal imaging, range finder, ballistics calculator, and image stabilization.
The product is ideal for enhancing night vision capabilities of scopes/optic sights with 38-44mm eyepieces up to 300m.
Ideal for long-range wildlife observation, bird watching, target shooting, and other outdoor activities that require high magnification and clarity.
The product is ideal for outdoor activities such as birdwatching, hunting, and wildlife observation.
The product is ideal for outdoor activities like bird watching, hunting, stargazing, and sports events.

1. Gosky Waterproof Spotting Scope With Tripod & Adapter

The Fully multi-coated 80mm green film objective lens, eyepiece and quality prism inside, make this spotting scope a great choice for birdwatching, watching wildlife and scenery. The lens system guarantees brighter, clearer and crisp images. It has a variable 20x to 60x magnification and dynamic lens focusing system which makes it easy to zoom in on your target. The spotting scope also features a durable Magnalium Framework and Rubber Armor, which provides tight fitting protection and makes it usable to withstand the toughest weather conditions. The shock-absorbing rubber armor offers maximum protection and the eyepiece shield can be stretched out to protect the eyepiece. The waterproof design of the spotting scope ensures the living waterproof function, making it perfect for use in any weather condition. It comes with a digiscoping adapter for digiscoping, and for all spotting scopes, the original picture is in a circle, please zoom the camera to get a full screen picture. Additionally, it comes with a Carrying Case, Eyepiece and Lens Protection Covers, Cleaning Cloth and handy Straps.

The spotting scope is a great choice for nature enthusiasts who want a clear and vivid image of their surroundings. Its variable magnification and dynamic lens focusing system allows the user to easily zoom in on their targets. The durable Magnalium Framework and Rubber Armor provides protection against tough weather conditions, while the waterproof design ensures that it can be used in any weather condition.

The spotting scope's digiscoping adapter makes it easy to capture images and videos of birds, wildlife and scenery. The Carrying Case, Eyepiece and Lens Protection Covers, Cleaning Cloth and handy Straps provide users with a convenient and practical way to transport and protect their spotting scope.

Pros

  • Fully multi-coated 80mm green film objective lens, eyepiece and quality prism inside guarantees brighter, clearer and crisp images.
  • Variable 20x to 60x magnification and dynamic lens focusing system allows users to easily zoom in on their targets.
  • Durable Magnalium Framework and Rubber Armor provides protection against tough weather conditions.
  • Waterproof design ensures that it can be used in any weather condition.
  • Digiscoping adapter makes it easy to capture images and videos of birds, wildlife and scenery.
  • Comes with a Carrying Case, Eyepiece and Lens Protection Covers, Cleaning Cloth and handy Straps.

Cons

  • – None

2. Maven Cs.1 15-45×65 Spotting Scope Gray/orange Ed Lens (Angled)

Experience the ultimate viewing experience with the powerful CS.1 scope from Maven. Designed with a well-balanced lightweight polymer frame, this scope boasts of crystal clear extra low-dispersion (ED) glass and fully multi-coated lenses, delivering an exceptionally bright, high-contrast image with excellent color reproduction.

Whether you're a hunter, bird watcher or outdoor enthusiast, the CS.1 scope is the perfect companion for you. It's waterproof, fogproof, and scratch-resistant lens coatings ensure unimpeded field use, making it ideal for use in any weather condition.

At Maven, we are committed to providing you with the best optics for your money. Our direct-to-consumer, no retail-markup business model ensures that you get the best binoculars for your buck. Additionally, all our optics come with an unconditional lifetime warranty. If your optic becomes damaged or defective, contact us immediately for repair or replacement – no questions asked.

Pros

  • Extra low-dispersion (ED) glass for crystal-clear viewing experience
  • Fully multi-coated lenses for a bright, high-contrast image with excellent color reproduction
  • Waterproof, fogproof, and scratch-resistant lens coatings for unimpeded field use
  • Lightweight polymer frame that's well-balanced and easy to carry
  • Unconditional lifetime warranty for added peace of mind

3. Athlon Optics Ares G2 20-60×85 Uhd Spotting Scope – 45 Degree

This sporting goods product has a package dimension of 15.0" L x 3.0" W x 6.0" H and weighs 8.0 pounds. It is made in China, a country known for its manufacturing capabilities and expertise in producing sporting goods products.

The product is designed with quality and durability in mind, ensuring that it will last for a long time. It is made from high-quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear of regular use.

This product is perfect for sports enthusiasts who are looking for reliable equipment to support their active lifestyle. Whether used for recreational or professional purposes, this sporting goods product is sure to deliver excellent performance and functionality.

Pros

  • Made from high-quality materials for durability
  • Designed with quality and reliability in mind
  • Suitable for both professional and recreational use

4. Monstrum 3-9×32 Ao Rifle Scope With Illuminated Range Finder Reticle And Parallax Adjustment | Black

Experience accurate and precise targeting with the Adjustable Magnification Rifle Scope. It has a magnification range of 3-9 times, making it perfect for targeting objects even beyond 500 yards. The adjustable objective lens or AO helps in focusing the target image, eliminating parallax, and estimating range. You can also compensate for bullet drop with its range finder reticle that has markings for easy estimation. The reticle illumination feature can be adjusted to 5 brightness levels in both red and green for better visibility in low light environments. The scope body is made of aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum, ensuring durability and longevity. It is also nitrogen-charged and sealed to resist water and fog, making it perfect for use in all weather conditions.

Whether you are a beginner or a professional, this rifle scope is perfect for you. Its easy-to-use features will help you improve your accuracy and precision when targeting objects at long distances. Its durable body ensures that it can withstand harsh environments and last for a long time. Get this rifle scope now and take your shooting skills to the next level.

Pros

  • Adjustable magnification range of 3-9 times for accurate targeting
  • Adjustable objective lens or AO for sharper focus of the target image
  • Range finder reticle with markings for easy estimation of range or bullet drop compensation
  • Reticle illumination feature with 5 brightness levels in both red and green for better visibility in low light environments
  • Aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum scope body for durability and longevity
  • Sealed and nitrogen-charged tube for resistance to water and fog, making it perfect for use in all weather conditions

5. Xp 20×60 Ed Spotting Scope Kit

The spotting scope tripod combo is perfect for target shooting and hunting with its extra-low dispersion glass that prevents chromatic aberrations and ensures perfect image quality at 60x magnification. It is easy to use with two fine focus knobs that allow for clear and precise focusing even at a distance of 500 yards. The scope is waterproof and anti-fog, making it ideal for use in harsh weather conditions. The O-ring sealed outer shell protects the interior optical lens from fogging and keeps it dry. The fully multi-coated lenses are scratch-resistant and non-reflective, providing you with a clear image every time. The set includes a tripod that is compatible with Vortex, Leupold, Nikon, and Bushnell tripods, a protective case, a phone adapter, and a photo clicker to take pictures from great distances.

Pros

  • Extra-low dispersion glass for perfect image quality without chromatic aberrations
  • Waterproof and anti-fog construction for use in harsh weather conditions
  • Scratch-resistant and non-reflective fully multi-coated lenses for clear images every time
  • Two fine focus knobs for clear and precise focusing even at a distance of 500 yards
  • Comes with a tripod, protective case, phone adapter, and photo clicker

6. Atn Thor-Hd: The Ultimate Thermal Rifle Scope.

The night vision scope is equipped with a 384×288 sensor which detects heat energy, making it an ideal tool for seeing clearly in complete darkness. The scope provides excellent image performance, ensuring that you can easily spot your target. The ballistic calculator is a unique feature of this scope, which allows you to calculate the trajectory of your bullet. This helps you to improve your shot placement by adjusting your Point of Impact. The built-in smart rangefinder is another useful feature that makes your life easier than ever. It helps you to improve your target shooting skills and become an expert at the range. The scope has an angle of view of 12 x 9.5, which provides a wide field of view that enables you to spot your target easily. The smooth zoom feature lets you magnify your target without losing what's in your FOV like with step zoom systems. The scope also comes with high-resolution HD video recording and photos, recoil-activated video (RAV), and Wi-Fi streaming. These features allow you to record all of your hunting trips and use your phone or tablet as a viewfinder. The scope is firmware upgradeable, which ensures that you can always take advantage of the latest features and improvements.

Pros

  • The scope provides excellent image performance, ensuring that you can easily spot your target.
  • The ballistic calculator allows you to calculate the trajectory of your bullet, improving your shot placement.
  • The built-in smart rangefinder helps you to improve your target shooting skills and become an expert at the range.
  • The scope has a wide angle of view of 12 x 9.5, which provides a broad field of view.
  • The smooth zoom feature lets you magnify your target without losing what's in your FOV like with step zoom systems.
  • The scope comes with high-resolution HD video recording and photos, recoil-activated video (RAV), and Wi-Fi streaming.
  • The firmware is upgradeable, ensuring that you can always take advantage of the latest features and improvements.

7. Night Vision Scope – See 300m In Dark!

Experience a clearer view of your hunting ground with the Night Vision Scope's 1080P HD display. With a resolution of 1920*1080 pixels, you can take pictures and videos with stunning detail. The upgraded connection barrel features a quick-release mechanism that comes with three mounting rings (A, B, C), making it compatible with all scopes.

The newly improved 850NM IR comes with a 3-level brightness adjustment, providing a visible distance of up to 300 meters at night. The Night Vision Scope also features an upgraded function button that allows for easy switching between day and night modes, IR levels, photo and video modes, as well as zooming in and out.

Please note that the usage time of the device will depend on the capacity of the battery. Turning on the IR will consume more power, so it is important to bring extra batteries when hunting at night. The Night Vision Scope also comes with a 32GB memory card and a card reader. Please note that the battery and scope are not included.

Pros

  • High-definition 1080P display for clear pictures and videos
  • Compatibility with all scopes thanks to the quick-release connection barrel
  • Improved 850NM IR for better visibility at night
  • Function button with various modes and settings
  • Comes with a 32GB memory card and card reader

Cons

  • – Battery and scope not included
  • – Power consumption increases with the use of IR

8. Vortex Optics Razor Hd Spotting Scope 27-60×85 Straight , Dark Grey

The Razor HD 27-60×85 Straight Spotting Scope is an exceptional piece of optical technology that offers unmatched resolution, color accuracy, and clarity. It boasts a Triplet Apochromatic lens and high-density, extra-low dispersion glass that together deliver unparalleled performance. The lenses are treated with XR Plus anti-reflective coatings that maximize brightness and enable critical low-light glassing.

The scope is designed with a smooth helical focus that allows for razor-sharp resolution and easy packing. It also features a multi-position eyecup that twists up to accommodate proper eye relief, whether the user wears glasses or not. The scope can be rotated to acquire the best viewing angle, thanks to the locking collar, and it comes with a built-in sunshade that reduces glare.

The Razor HD is built to withstand harsh conditions, with O-ring sealing and argon purging that delivers waterproof and fog-proof performance. Additionally, Armortek coatings protect the lenses from oil, scratches, and dirt. The rubber armor enhances durability and provides a non-slip grip.

The Razor HD 27-60×85 has a close focus distance of 16.4 feet, making it ideal for bird-watching, wildlife observation, and long-range shooting. With its exceptional optical performance, ease of use, and rugged design, the Razor HD is a top-of-the-line spotting scope that will exceed the expectations of even the most demanding users.

Pros

  • Exceptional resolution, color accuracy, and clarity
  • XR Plus anti-reflective coatings maximize brightness and enable critical low-light glassing
  • Smooth helical focus allows for razor-sharp resolution and easy packing
  • Multi-position eyecup accommodates proper eye relief with or without glasses
  • Locking collar enables rotation for the best viewing angle
  • Built-in sunshade reduces glare
  • O-ring sealed and argon purged for waterproof and fog-proof performance
  • Armortek coatings protect lenses from oil, scratches, and dirt
  • Rubber armor enhances durability and provides a non-slip grip
  • Close focus distance of 16.4 feet

9. Sme Wifi Spotting Scope Camera

The target shooting experience just got better with the ability to view each shot or group of shots. Multiple users can now shoot the same target and save and review each shot sequence to analyze their shooting sessions. The system generates its own Wi-Fi hotspot, ensuring seamless connectivity. The target manager app is a full-featured software application that is available for free, making it accessible to everyone. Users are advised to always accept the permissions after installing the app on their phone to enjoy a smooth and uninterrupted experience.

Pros

  • Ability to view each shot or group of shots
  • Multiple users can shoot the same target
  • Seamless connectivity with the system's own Wi-Fi hotspot
  • Full-featured software application available for free

10. Compact Night Vision Binoculars For Outdoor Enthusiasts

Experience a whole new level of clarity and brightness with these powerful binoculars featuring a 26mm eye lens diameter and 50mm objective lens diameter, providing a large field of view. These binoculars are perfect for adults who enjoy bird watching, hunting, camping, hiking, sports, and stargazing. The 26mm eye lens collects more light than other binoculars, delivering a clearer and brighter view compared to 10×25, 12×25, 10×21 binoculars, and even ordinary 10×42 and 12×42 binoculars.

With multiple layer coated aspherical lenses elements, these binoculars minimize distortion, providing better image brightness, contrast, and quality, even in low light conditions. The Bak-4 prism has a perfectly round exit pupil, so you can see a bright, clear, and razor-sharp view. The sleek and solid metal structure weighs 1.76lb (800g), providing greater stability. The rubber finish provides shock resistance and a firm, comfortable grip, making these binoculars durable and long-lasting. They are also waterproof and fog-proof, ensuring they can withstand various weather conditions. However, they should not be used in heavy rain for an extended period or soaked in water.

These binoculars are super easy to use. You can focus by adjusting the right eyepiece focus wheel and center wheel. They can also be used with a tripod, making them convenient when watching something for an extended period. These binoculars make for the perfect gifts for Christmas Day, birthdays, Father's Day, Children's Day, and more. You can shop with confidence as the manufacturer provides a 3-year replacement guarantee. If you have any issues with the binoculars, simply contact them for a free replacement or a full refund. They have joined the Transparency Plan, which enables you to verify authenticity.

Pros

  • 26mm eye lens diameter and 50mm objective lens diameter providing a large field of view
  • Multiple layer coated aspherical lenses elements minimize distortion and provide better image brightness, contrast, and quality
  • Sleek and solid metal structure weighing 1.76lb (800g) provides greater stability
  • Rubber finish provides shock resistance and a firm, comfortable grip, making these binoculars durable and long-lasting
  • Waterproof and fog-proof, ensuring they can withstand various weather conditions
  • Super easy to use and can be used with a tripod for convenience
  • Perfect gifts for various occasions
  • Manufacturer provides a 3-year replacement guarantee and has joined the Transparency Plan, which enables you to verify authenticity

Cons

  • – Cannot be used in heavy rain for an extended period or soaked in water

Best Scopes For 500 Yards FAQs

Can a scope with a lower magnification be effective at 500 yards?

Yes, a scope with lower magnification can be effective at 500 yards. However, it depends on various factors like the size of the target, lighting conditions, and shooter's skill level. A scope with a magnification range of 2x-7x or 3x-9x would be suitable for shooting at 500 yards. These scopes are versatile and can be used for a wide range of shooting applications, from short-range to medium-range shots. The lower magnification allows for a wider field of view, making it easier to track moving targets. It also helps in faster target acquisition, which is critical for shooting at longer ranges. However, it is essential to choose a scope with good quality optics, as this can greatly impact the clarity and brightness of the image. Ultimately, the effectiveness of a scope at 500 yards depends on the shooter's ability to use it effectively, regardless of the magnification.

How important is the quality of the glass in a scope when shooting at 500 yards?

The quality of the glass in a scope is extremely important when shooting at 500 yards. The further the distance, the more important it is to have clear and precise optics. A high-quality glass will provide the shooter with a clear and bright image, which is essential for accurate shooting. It will also reduce eye strain and fatigue, allowing the shooter to stay focused on their target for longer periods of time.

A scope with poor quality glass can lead to distorted images, reduced clarity, and even cause eye strain and headaches. This can significantly affect the shooter's accuracy and ability to hit their target. Therefore, investing in a scope with high-quality glass is crucial for long-range shooting.

In summary, when shooting at 500 yards, the quality of the glass in a scope is paramount for accuracy and precision. It is worth investing in a high-quality scope with clear and precise optics to ensure a successful shooting experience.

What are the best scopes for shooting at 500 yards?

Shooting at 500 yards requires a scope that is capable of providing clear and precise images of the target. The best scopes for shooting at this range are those that offer high magnification, excellent clarity, and advanced reticle features.

One of the best scopes for shooting at 500 yards is the Vortex Viper PST Gen II. It offers a magnification range of 5-25x, which makes it ideal for long-range shooting. The scope features a first focal plane reticle, which means that the reticle's size changes as you increase or decrease the magnification. This feature allows you to make accurate long-range shots easily.

Another excellent scope for shooting at 500 yards is the Nightforce SHV 5-20×56. This scope is equipped with a high magnification range, a large objective lens, and an illuminated reticle. The scope's advanced features make it easy to shoot accurately at long ranges.

The Leupold VX-6HD 4-24×52 is also a great scope for shooting at 500 yards. It has a high magnification range, advanced reticle options, and excellent image quality. The scope's Twilight Max HD Light Management System ensures that you get clear and bright images, even in low light conditions.

In conclusion, the best scopes for shooting at 500 yards are those that offer high magnification, advanced reticle features, and excellent clarity. The Vortex Viper PST Gen II, Nightforce SHV 5-20×56, and Leupold VX-6HD 4-24×52 are all great options for long-range shooting.

What is the ideal reticle for shooting at 500 yards with a scope?

The ideal reticle for shooting at 500 yards with a scope will depend on various factors such as the type of firearm, ammunition, and personal preferences. However, some of the most commonly used reticles for long-range shooting are the Mil-Dot reticle, the BDC reticle, and the MOA reticle.

The Mil-Dot reticle is a popular choice for precision shooting as it provides multiple aiming points for different ranges. This reticle features dots spaced at one milliradian intervals, allowing shooters to estimate the range of the target and make adjustments accordingly.

The BDC or Bullet Drop Compensator reticle is designed to compensate for bullet drop at specific ranges. This reticle features markings that correspond to different distances, and the shooter can use these markings to adjust their aim.

The MOA or Minute of Angle reticle is another popular choice for long-range shooting. This reticle features hash marks that correspond to specific MOA values, allowing shooters to make precise adjustments for windage and elevation.

In summary, the ideal reticle for shooting at 500 yards with a scope will depend on various factors, and shooters should choose a reticle that suits their needs and preferences.

What is the maximum effective range for different types of scopes when shooting at 500 yards?

The maximum effective range for different types of scopes when shooting at 500 yards can vary depending on several factors. The type of scope, caliber of the rifle, and the shooter's skill level all play a role in determining the effective range.

For example, a high-quality long-range scope can provide effective targeting up to 1000 yards or more, while a basic hunting scope may only be effective up to 300-400 yards. Additionally, the caliber of the rifle can impact the effective range, with larger calibers typically having a longer effective range.

The shooter's skill level is also important, as even the best equipment can only go so far if the shooter is not proficient in using it. Proper training and experience are essential for maximizing the effective range of a rifle and scope combination.

In summary, the maximum effective range for different types of scopes when shooting at 500 yards can vary greatly depending on the scope, caliber, and shooter's skill level. It is important to have the proper equipment and training to achieve the best results.

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