Riflescope is an utterly important outdoor pursuit for shooting sports everywhere. The use of variable rifle scopes is so common among shooting individuals that they are quite demanding now.
The riflescopes are essential for long-range shooting sports. Hence, it becomes a necessity to look and choose ones with excellent quality.
Considering the fact of how hard it seems to research and find the best one, we’ve come to the rescue. We have analyzed all the details regarding rifle scopes to help you find the best rifle scope under $200.
Best Rifle Scope Under $200 At A Glance
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II – Best Overall
- Vortex Optics Diamondback – Best Value
- Leupold VX-Freedom – Premium Choice
- Bushnell AR Optics
- Nikon Buck masters II
- UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope
- CVLIFE 6-24×50
Expectations in a Rifle Scope Under 200 Dollars
Although there are variations in the price point of rifle scopes, you can still expect to find optimum quality ones. Most rifle scopes for $200 contain all the necessary features.
However, they may lack some of the additional highly defined traits. Nevertheless, they work great in the case of long-range shooting.
However, a rifle scope in this budget would comprise the following:
- Well defined lens piece to ensure better vision and a fast-focus eyepiece for better focusing.
- At least 100 yards of a field of view would be included.
- Waterproof and shockproof to a certain extent.
- The parallax setting must be consisted of at least 100 yards.
- Can also be applicable for target shooting or varmint hunting side by side with long-range shooting.
- Single-piece tube body with an optimum range of diameter.
All these attributes play an essential role in any shooting range; hence these can be considered as fundamental features of a rifle scope indeed.
So, it is vital to keep in mind these basic features while shopping for them.
Best Scope Under $200 Reviews
Finding a good rifle scope is a difficult task indeed. As there are so many options to choose from, the job gets harder.
To aid you in your search for premium quality rifle scopes, we’ve listed some of the useful ones after detailed analysis. This will make your search easier and assist you in making a wise choice.
#1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II
Being an excellent quality scope with amazing focusing, this one has its distinct charm to it. The different features and top-notch quality architecture highly contribute to its performance in shooting ranges. Besides, the visuals and critical controls are also of high quality.
The vortex crossfire scope is perfectly suitable for most shooting ranges and hunting expeditions. It is also applicable for target shooting and varmint hunting games. The controls of this riflescope are ideal for beginners as well as professionals.
Vortex has always been around in the market with the premium quality of essential features in mind. And, this particular crossfire edition by Vortex is no exception to its unique features as well.
With additional layers of anti-reflective coatings, you can enjoy better vision. This is made possible with a minimal amount of glare.
There is a provision of error-free and pinpoint adjustments due to well defined single-piece body. It also has a waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof mechanism that makes it suitable for any weather. The capped reset turrets ensure better functioning.
With such well-defined features and unique characteristics, this is a must-buy. It is indeed an ideal riflescope for someone with glasses due to its accurate adjustments and better focusing. This is a top choice for 338 Lapua Magnum users.
So, you can blindly go for this crossfire edition by Vortex owing to its deluxe traits.
#2. Vortex Optics Diamondback
Another gem by Vortex, the Diamondback Second Focal plane riflescope is a must-have scope for your collection. This one has up to the class performance in both hunting and shooting activities. It is also applicable for big and small game shooting possibilities.
With its advancement in modern riflescope building, Vortex has established superior quality scopes. The Diamondback edition is no less unique in its attributes and features.
Built-in with a single-piece tube body, this scope is equipped with a waterproof and fog proof mechanism. This feature makes it suitable for rough terrains, different weather conditions, and night-time expeditions.
The focusing cannot seem to get any better with every edition of Vortex. This one is provided with a 100-yard field of view and a 40 mm objective.
The optics are fully coated with multiple layers and anti-reflective image quality. The reflection is thus controlled to an optimum level, and the eyesight is protected.
There is a provision of anodized finish to the exterior, making it shockproof under any circumstances. The feel of the capped turrets and windage configurations add an elegant touch to the scope.
A unique feature that it has is a reticle with an SPF. This ensures that the image is erected and does not vary with the magnification.
Considering its unique features, it is in no doubt a remarkable addition to the Vortex family. It provides superiorly versatile magnification and can be regarded as an ideal hunting scope.
#3. Leupold VX-Freedom
A relatively recent addition to the riflescope universe, the VX Freedom series by Leupold is a unique one in terms of quality. With distinct features and high-quality parts, this riflescope is an ideal riflescope for deer hunting.
You may remember the VX1 and VX2 series by Leupold as they made a lot of fame before their suspension.
The newly added VX freedom is a remarkable version apart from their previous ones. With a duplex reticle and a 3:1 zoom ratio, this scope is ideal for any hunting expedition.
There is a lens provided that is scratch-proof and an upgraded one with multiple coatings.
It ensures highly defined focusing with improved quality of vision so that you can enjoy the premium quality of visuals. The single-piece body tube is equipped with precise adjustments and configurations, making it look sophisticated.
The argon gas makes the scope fog proof while the anodized exterior makes it shockproof.
It comprises the aluminum exterior of aircraft quality and is also developed with a waterproof mechanism. The provision of a twilight light management system controls glare and reflection to a maximum point.
Considering such unique attributes, there is no doubt that Leupold has an essential place in the riflescope territory.
Its remarkable characteristics including its cheaper price point have made it suitable to purchase. It is, therefore, an appropriate option to choose for your gun.
#4. Bushnell AR Optics
The Bushnell AE Optics is a fantastic scope to add to your collection if you’re a novice. You can even pull off as a professional if you don’t get tired of the usual traits. As equipped with target turrets and side parallax, this scope is one of the best ones to purchase.
There is a provision of accurate adjustments, pinpoint configurations, and well-defined structural mechanisms. Besides, it contains the basic characteristics of easy management, reduced glare, and better visuals.
It comes with a BDC reticle and a highly defined eyepiece. The single-piece body tube is also a highly modified structural design.
The optics is multiple coated and devoid of any excess glare and reflection. There is an anti-reflective image quality added to it. The eyepiece is fast-focus with optimum focusing.
Its brightness is adjusted to a moderate level so that you can enjoy better visuals without any fatigue. The eyepiece thus provides maximum reliability compared to other kinds of scopes.
There is also a provision of side focus parallax adjustment which ensures suitability for long-range shooting. The target turrets are less brittle and can be used for specific changes. The scope is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof and has a well-defined built-in structure.
This scope is thus an ideal option for big and small game shooting, hunting, and any long-range shooting. It may also apply to target shooting owing to its superior visuals.
Therefore, it may be a great option under 200 for most individuals to pursue.
#5. Nikon Buck Masters II
Nikon has always been in the market known for its excellent quality yet affordable scopes. Most beginners prefer Nikon for its versatile and easily maneuvering techniques. It comes with a 3-9X magnification and is a great option to choose for hunting.
With the period, Nikon has established itself in the scope community with advanced features. The Buckmasters is no exception to its versatile traits.
Multiple-coated lenses and fast-focus eyepiece contribute to bright sight image quality. The focusing is improved, and there is provision for consistent eye relief. This serves as a dual purpose in case of an enhanced quality of visuals.
The BDC reticle is of premium quality and ensures long-range shooting with shorter-range shots. The positive click reticle adjustment is a unique feature and thus makes it ideal for hunting.
There is optimum light transmission possibly owing to the optics quality. The images turn out brighter and less glaring, which is a plus point.
It can withstand any amount of pressure due to its shockproof and waterproof capability. Thus, it can be suitable for any extreme weather conditions to carry and mount on a gun. Besides the use of argon gas makes it fog proof as well, so you can use it for any hunting.
Thus, it can be said that this particular one by Nikon has highly versatile features that make it qualified for hunting. It can be considered as an ideal varmint scope. Its unique characteristics have placed it significantly in the scope universe as an acclaimed brand.
#6. UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope
A somewhat less renowned brand but has pretty good configurations at this kind of price point. It works well as any of the rifle scopes suited for beginners and primary purposes. It has well-defined characteristics that make it rise like any other rifle scope existing.
This particular scope comes with an adjustable objective and a highly defined lens structure. It is not only suitable for shooting activities but also for hunting games.
Both big and small game, hunting deer and varmint hunting can be accomplished using this particular scope. It also plays a significant role in target shooting as well.
It is designed with a rainproof, shockproof, and fog proof mechanism; comes with a nitrogen gas-filled interior and an entirely sealed exterior.
The diameter of the tube is around 1 inch, with the maximum amount of light transmission, which results from an outer emerald coating providing a matte finish to it. The turrets are zero lockable and are supplied with click adjustments.
There is a provision of a dual illumination system present in this rifle scope as well. Besides, the unique feature is the eye relief accommodation which makes the visuals premium yet comfortable.
The objective is adjustable beginning from 3 yards and ranging towards the infinite distance. There is a sunshade attached to the exterior with a capped lens. The focusing is improved and remarkable.
Considering the unique and outstanding features, this scope is of better quality than most other scopes available. Moreover, it includes versatile traits that make it suitable for use in hunting and shooting activities without any technical obstacles.
#7. CVLIFE 6-24×50
Another remarkable new addition to the rifle scope universe, this one works wonders but is still underrated.
It is one of the necessary beginner scopes to use in terms of its great aiming controls and superior quality visuals. It is a must-have for hunting beginners as well as professionals.
With a magnification of 6-24X, this riflescope is best suited for big game hunting and in some cases, target shooting. It can be considered a premium quality scope for long-range shooting as well. It has the upper hand in hunting, owing to its aiming controls.
The tube diameter is around 1 inch equipped with subtle adjustments and precise configurations. The diameter of the objective is approximately 50mm, and the field of view is 100 yards. There is a battery included with it for better maneuvering.
There are a fast-focus eyepiece and supreme lens, ensuring better focusing and vision. The images are of optimum quality with enhanced brightness.
There are red and green intensities of illumination present. The glare is kept minimal, and the reflection of light is controlled to a certain level.
Besides, there is a unique feature of 3.5 inches of eye relief present. It ensures both superior visuals and deviation from any eye fatigue as well.
Considering all its distinct features, it is, therefore, a proper quality scope to invest in. Its features are quite basic and versatile yet underrated to a certain extent.
So, it can be considered as an ideal rifle scope to purchase that will suit your needs.
Related: Best Rifle Scopes Under $400
Before You Buy, What to Look for
It can always be unnerving to look for good-quality rifle scopes when there are so many options to choose from in the market. Different brands have come up with premium quality scopes to mount on your guns.
All these rifle scopes differ from one another in terms of better visuals or additional benefits. But it is always important to figure out which features suit your needs best.
This is because you can get what you’re paying for. It is vital to keep specific options open and individual traits in mind while shopping for rifle scopes.
If you are not sure about your budget, you can find the following reviews interesting:
So, all the specified features of each rifle scope should be adequately studied beforehand in case you don’t miss anything. Some of the features that you should consider before buying a rifle scope are:
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Durability
The durability of the material plays a significant role in crossing out your choices. When selecting a rifle scope, you do not want a cheap quality scope. You need a scope that will withstand any form of weather condition or rough terrain.
A durable scope will withstand uneven terrain, rough weather conditions, and so on. Besides, a durable scope will need to be waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof.
The presence of argon gas and also nitrogen gas in some cases makes it fog proof. So, the vision will not be impaired due to the hazy lens.
Further, it will withstand any extreme pressure due to its shockproof capability. These points must be checked to verify their durability.
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Coating
The optics of the riflescope must be equipped with multiple and well-defined coats. The anti-reflective coatings help in reducing glare and controlling the optimum amount of reflection.
So, the more the number of coatings is included, it becomes a plus point in the case of a rifle scope. It serves as a basic characteristic in pointing out better image quality by a rifle scope.
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Focusing
Improved and superior quality of focusing is essential in the case of a rifle scope because the visuals and aiming depend solely on how well the scope can focus. For this, the lens and eyepiece are to be checked well before purchasing.
The objective should be adjustable, and the eyepiece should be a fast focus. The lens should be of premium quality and should aid in better focusing. The objective lens should range from 40-45 mm to aid good focusing.
Lens size should not be too large or too small for your scope. A smaller size may deteriorate optimum vision while a larger size may cause difficulty in holding the scope. Any rifle tends to be heavy and uncomfortable to hold due to the presence of a larger lens size.
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Eye Relief
Eye relief should be present in a scope with a minimum of 3 inches. This will prevent any eye fatigue and black eye while using a rifle scope. You should also be careful while selecting the exit pupil so that the eye relief functions pretty decently.
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Field of View
At an area of at least 100 yards, the field of view is a significant feature to look for in a rifle scope. It is adjusted according to the adjustment of magnification.
A magnification of 3-9X or a 4-12X is essential in choosing the correct field of view. The field of view is very important for the shooter so that his aim is precise and accurate. It is one of the determining features of a well-defined scope.
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Reticles
The reticle of a rifle scope can be of either SPF or BDC characteristics. The SPF ensures that the image is erected. In most cases, images tend to vary with magnification.
The attribute of this second focal plane reticle is that the image does not change with magnification. Thus, it remains fixed and unchanged.
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Side Focus Parallax Adjustment
An additional feature to be included in a rifle scope is the side-focus parallel adjustment. This ensures that the scope is suitable for long-range shooting.
It is essential to determine long-range accuracy. It is a fairly unique feature, but it works decently. If you buy a scope under $500, you will definitely get this feature.
Based on these remarkable features, you should make your choice wisely before buying a rifle scope. You should identify which characteristics would be beneficial for you.
You should also point out for which purpose you are seeking a scope as there may be scopes designed solely for shooting purposes. There may also be others that are designed for hunting. So, you should study all the specifics before purchasing a rifle scope.
Different Types of Scopes
Scopes range within variations of categories but the primary classification is distinct. It is essential to know which type each scope belongs to so that the task of choosing one becomes more effortless.
This is because each category of scope serves a different and specific purpose.
The basic categories of scopes are as follows:
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Variable Scope
These kinds of scopes are reasonably common among sniper rifles and other long-range shooting rifles. These kinds of rifles are best suited for long-range shooting purposes than hunting ones.
The special feature of this scope is that you can adjust the magnification according to the target. The variable magnification applies to its name for which it is known as variable scope.
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Fixed Scope
These scopes are easy to handle and maneuver based on easy configurations. They do not come with a variable magnification system. Instead, the magnification of the target remains the same.
So, they are not useful in the case of most shooting ranges. They may be sued occasionally or with specified and definite firearms.
They may be suitable for hunting now and then, but they cannot be used for regular usage. So, their use is less diverse than the variable scopes.
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Night Vision Scopes
These best night vision scopes are designed for professionals and those who can operate at night. They are also used for low light and dark shooting sessions and for those who go hunting after dark.
Their magnification falls in the variable category but under low light. It is not advised to use by beginners as it may be complicated. These scopes are also very heavy and not preferable for those wanting lightweight scopes.
It is, therefore, quite important to know the basic types of rifle scopes to make the selection wisely and appropriately.
Brands That Make the Best in Budget
There are many brands to choose from while selecting supreme-quality rifle scopes. Even at a budget of 200 dollars, it gets pretty tiring to list so many brands of rifle scopes that suit your needs.
But according to trusted reviews, some of these brands are very advanced in high-quality scopes.
Five of these best brands are:
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Vortex
Vortex is the leading brand when it comes to choosing premium quality rifle scopes. It has always been acquainted with making scopes at affordable prices but with high quality.
They are durable, long-lasting, with great visuals and better focusing. They are indeed everything you can expect a good quality scope to have.
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Nikon
Nikon has always been one step ahead when it comes to inexpensive yet unique rifle scopes. They have enhanced brightness in their images, and the configuration is marvelous. Nikon has evolved over the years bringing additional features in their scopes now and then.
Starting from improved focusing and image quality to durability, Nikon has surpassed all.
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Leupold
The adjustable objectives, supreme quality lens, and better focusing are the key points of Leupold scopes. They are famous among most professionals due to their durable and long-lasting scopes. They tend to maintain high quality despite such an affordable rate.
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CVLIFE
It is one of the most underrated brands for rifle scopes there is. Moreover, their scope quality is truly appreciated despite the massive difference in price point. Starting from improvised focusing on eye relief and the addition of better structure, they have it all.
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UTG
A recent brand, but they are improving with their basic and optimum quality of features. They have a fast-focus eyepiece and improve the quality of the lens. They are also equipped with better image quality so that the shooter can aim well.
All these brands may differ for a few additional features, but all have better functioning. So, no matter what you choose based on our reviews, you will never be disappointed. All these rifle scopes have been designed well to meet your purpose individually.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Once the scope is zeroed, can it be removed and reinstalled?
Yes, it may be, but the consequences of reinstalling can be a bit tricky. You will need to make sure that the locks for the turrets are arrested. The adjustments on the scope should also not be moved. Otherwise, it might not be reinstalled back.
- Is it normal if the magnification adjustment ring is hard to turn?
Yes, it’s normal. It has been made hard to turn to avoid frequent slipping away. So, you need to apply a little more strength to turn it on. In this way, it stays well protected.
- Which one is suitable to use as a night vision scope?
The Vortex Crossfire is a remarkable scope to use in the case of night vision. It helps minimize the glare and controls optimum reflection. It thus allows one to see better and shoot in a poor concentration of light.
- What type of crosshairs does the Vortex have?
The scope has dual crosshairs along with three BDC reticles included.
- What does SPF mean?
It means the second focal plane. It refers to the maintenance of image size according to the magnifications and scale of the reticle.
Conclusion
To sum up, it can be said that it is not easy to discover the best rifle scope under $200. But based on our reviews on some high-quality scopes, it will be possible for you.
Our reviews will assist you in knowing details about all the individual scopes. In this way, you will not be disappointed after you buy a rifle scope.