Best Rifle Scope for 500 Yards: Top Picks and Expert Advice
Rifle scopes play a significant role in the precision and accuracy of long-range shooting. The ideal scope enhances a shooter’s ability to spot and hit targets at considerable distances, like 500 yards.
Scopes come in a wide range of styles and features to cater to the diverse preferences and needs of hunters and marksmen. Choosing the right one is crucial in determining the success of your long-range shooting experiences.
A 500-yard rifle scope should provide a clear sight picture, precise targeting, and efficient turrets for easy adjustments.
The key factors to consider when purchasing a rifle scope for this distance include magnification, the size and type of reticle, overall build quality, durability, and of course, ease of use. These factors will have a significant impact on the performance of your scope, and subsequently, on your shooting accuracy.
Additionally, you may want to consider factors such as the objective lens diameter for light transmission and the quality of the glass for higher-resolution images. These aspects will determine the scope’s ability to provide clear and bright images in various lighting conditions, ultimately affecting the success of your shots.
Price is another essential consideration, as higher-quality scopes tend to be more expensive, but the investment is often worth it for improved shooting experiences and results.
After careful research and hands-on testing, we’ve compiled a list of the best rifle scopes that will make your 500-yard shooting precise and effective. These top performers stand out for their excellent combination of features, reliability, and value for money.
Now, let’s dive into the specific features and attributes that make each of these scopes a top choice for discerning marksmen.
Best Rifle Scopes for 500 Yards
We have compiled a list of the best rifle scopes for 500 yards to enhance your shooting accuracy and precision. Check out our top picks below.
Monstrum 3-9×32 AO Rifle Scope
This Monstrum 3-9×32 AO Rifle Scope will suit your needs, providing outstanding accuracy and performance for those long-distance shots up to 500 yards.
Pros
- Adjustable magnification and illuminated reticle
- Adjustable objective lens for sharp image and range estimation
- Durable aircraft-grade aluminum construction
Cons
- Included Allen wrench may be insufficient
- Not a high-end brand
- Unverified scope mounts
We recently tested the Monstrum 3-9×32 AO Rifle Scope on our hunting trip and were impressed by its features and performance. The adjustable magnification allowed us to target efficiently up to 500 yards and beyond, while the illuminated reticle with five brightness levels in both red and green made it easy to focus even in low light conditions.
The adjustable objective lens provided a clear and sharp target image, which helped in the elimination of parallax and precise range estimation. Additionally, the range finder reticle with markings was extremely useful for estimating range and compensating for bullet drop.
However, it’s essential to note that the included Allen wrench might be too small. We had to use our own to properly mount the scope. Also, although Monstrum is not a high-end brand like EOtech or Trijicon, the value offered by this scope is incredible. The only other slight issue we faced was that we couldn’t verify the quality of the provided scope mounts.
We would recommend the Monstrum 3-9×32 AO Rifle Scope to anyone looking for an affordable, durable, and functional option for long-range accuracy up to 500 yards.
Monstrum 3-12×42 AO Rifle Scope
This Monstrum 3-12×42 AO Rifle Scope is an excellent investment for those seeking an effective and reliable scope for shooting at 500 yards and beyond.
Pros
- Adjustable 3-12 times magnification for versatile shooting ranges
- Illuminated reticle with 5 brightness levels in both red and green
- Adjustable objective lens for sharper focus, eliminating parallax, and range estimation
Cons
- Possible stiffness in the zoom ring
- Inaccurate markings for side AO
- Crosshairs might appear too thin for some users
We were instantly impressed by the Monstrum 3-12×42 AO Rifle Scope’s build quality. Made from aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum, the scope body is well suited for harsh environments thanks to its sealed, nitrogen-charged tube providing water and fog resistance. Having tested this in a recent hunting expedition, we found the scope maintained its clarity even during damp conditions.
Using the scope, we appreciated the adjustable 3-12 times magnification, which allows for targeting out to 500 yards and beyond with ease. Additionally, the adjustable reticle illumination with 5 brightness levels in both red and green proved quite useful in low-light environments, enabling us to maintain a clear view of our targets.
The mil-dot reticle’s markings, designed to estimate range or compensate for bullet drop, were another standout feature that enhanced the overall shooting experience.
The adjustable objective lens also ensures a sharper focus on the target image while eliminating parallax and allowing for more accurate range estimation.
That being said, we did encounter a few setbacks. Some users might experience stiffness in the zoom ring, making it difficult to adjust smoothly. Additionally, the side AO markings were found to be slightly inaccurate during our test. Lastly, the crosshairs may appear too thin for some users, making it hard to see.
The Monstrum 3-12×42 AO Rifle Scope is an excellent choice for shooters looking to enhance their long-range shooting experience. With its versatile features, solid construction, and overall reliability, this scope is a worthy investment.
Pinty 3-9X40 Rifle Scope
The Pinty 3-9X40 Rifle Scope offers versatility and clarity for those seeking a quality scope for shooting 500 yards.
Pros
- Unsurpassed light transmission and clarity
- Hand-turn MOA adjustments and zero locking function
- Value combo: includes riflescope, flip-up covers, mounts, and sunshade tube
Cons
- Illuminated reticle options may not be useful for everyone
- Battery not always included as advertised
- May not hold zero well for high recoil calibers
We recently tested the Pinty 3-9X40 Rifle Scope and appreciated its clarity and light transmission. The adjustable magnification from 3 to 9 times allowed for flexibility in various shooting scenarios, and the fully multi-coated lens made it water, fog, and shockproof.
The hand-turn MOA adjustments were easy to use, and the zero-locking function provided added confidence in maintaining accuracy. We also really liked the value-added features included, such as the flip-up covers, mounts, and sunshade tube, which contributed to an overall positive experience.
However, we did notice some limitations with this scope. The illuminated reticle options were not particularly useful for us, and the absence of a battery in some cases was an inconvenience. In addition, some users might find that the scope doesn’t hold zero well for higher recoil calibers.
The Pinty 3-9X40 Rifle Scope is a suitable choice for shooters seeking a versatile, clear, and durable scope within an affordable price range. While it may not be perfect in every aspect, its overall performance and value make it a worthy contender for those shooting at 500 yards.
CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope
The CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope provides excellent value, making it suitable for various rifle types, especially for mid-range shooting.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Clear optics
- Easy mounting with free mounts
Cons
- Not highly specialized for specific rifles
- Struggles with extreme conditions
- Possibly less durable than high-end scopes
We recently tested out the CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope and found that it offers clear and crisp images throughout its 3-9x magnification range. The 40mm objective lens allows for a good amount of light transmission, which helps improve image clarity.
The scope is also relatively easy to mount thanks to the included free mounts. We appreciated that we didn’t have to make any additional purchases to install the scope on our rifles. However, it’s important to note that these mounts might not fit every type of rifle.
One downside we noticed during our time with the product is that it might not be the best option for specialized rifles or those used in extreme environmental conditions. While it worked well for our casual target practice, it likely wouldn’t meet the needs of professional marksmen.
In terms of durability, the scope held up well during our tests, but given its affordable price, we suspect that it might be less rugged than high-end options. This might not be an issue for casual users, but it’s something to consider for more demanding situations.
We can confidently recommend the CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope as a solid choice for mid-range shooting, particularly for those on a budget. It offers clear optics, easy mounting, and a versatile magnification range for various shooting scenarios.
CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope with Green Laser
The CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e is a reliable and budget-friendly option for achieving precise shots at 500 yards.
Pros
- Integrated bright green laser for enhanced precision
- Red/green illumination with 5 brightness levels
- Upgraded precision multi-coated lens for clear views
Cons
- Green laser might be overpowering in some conditions
- Reticle markings may be too small for some users
- Possible parallax issue in some scopes
We recently had the chance to test out the CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope with Green Laser, and we were impressed with its ease of use and performance. The integrated bright green laser works exceptionally well in various lighting conditions and offers enhanced precision for fast-moving and close-range targets. Moreover, the green spot remains visible even in low-light situations or under bright sunlight.
One of the standout features of this scope is its red/green illumination, with 5 brightness levels. The intricate reticle designs are highly functional and durable, ensuring accuracy while aiming.
Furthermore, the black reticle can be easily used without activating the illumination. We found the view to be clear, regardless of whether it was a bright or low-light environment, thanks to the upgraded precision multi-coated lens in this scope.
The CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e scope boasts high-definition imagery and a wide field of view, making it easier to spot targets at 500 yards with ease.
However, we noticed that the green laser might be overpowering under certain conditions, so be cautious not to rely on it too much. The reticle markings may also be a bit small for some users, affecting their usage experience.
Lastly, there could be a potential issue with parallax in some scopes, impacting performance.
Nevertheless, considering the overall functionality and affordable price of the CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope with Green Laser, we would confidently recommend it for those seeking an efficient and budget-friendly rifle scope for 500 yards.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best rifle scope for 500 yards, there are several important factors to consider. In this buying guide, we will outline the key features to look for in order to select the ideal product without mentioning specific brands or products.
Magnification: For 500-yard shooting, a scope with a magnification range of about 10x to 20x should be sufficient. This will allow for clear target identification and precise shot placement at that distance.
Objective Lens Diameter: A larger objective lens diameter allows for more light transmission, resulting in a brighter and higher-quality image. We recommend an objective lens diameter of at least 40mm for optimal performance.
Reticle: The choice of reticle depends on personal preference and the intended shooting application. Some popular options include:
- Mil-Dot: Allows for easy range estimation and holdover adjustments.
- BDC (Bullet Drop Compensating): Provides pre-calculated holdover points for different distances.
- Duplex: Simple crosshairs that are easy to use for quick target acquisition.
First vs Second Focal Plane: First focal plane (FFP) scopes have the reticle size changing with the magnification, maintaining the same subtensions at all levels. This is useful for ranging targets and holdovers at varying magnifications. Second focal plane (SFP) scopes have the reticle staying the same size regardless of magnification. SFP scopes are generally less expensive and less complicated to use.
Adjustment Turrets: Look for exposed turrets with clearly marked adjustments that are easy to operate. This will ensure simple and precise windage and elevation adjustments when needed.
Durability: The rifle scope should have a solid construction, be made from quality materials, and be able to withstand recoil and harsh weather conditions.
Budget: Determine your budget and prioritize the features that are most important to you. There’s a wide range of prices available, so find the best scope that meets your needs within your budget.
Remember to carefully research and compare various options before making a decision. By considering these factors, you’ll be well on your way to selecting the ideal rifle scope for 500 yards.