Contrary to popular belief, you needn’t spend thousands of dollars to get a quality scope for your rifle. Advances in optical glass manufacturing technologies, lens grinding, and CNC milling have brought the cost of excellent scopes well within most shooters’ budgets.
Often the trick is separating the wheat from the chaff in the scope market. We are here to help you get a head start on that selection process.
Competition in the rifle scope market, especially for rifle scopes costing under $300, is fierce.
What this means for you is there are some great opportunities to put very high-quality optics on your rifle for an amazingly affordable cost. On the downside, it also means there is a lot of, well, junk in the marketplace as well. You need to be an informed buyer to be able to spot those scopes that are questionable in quality and performance.
Before we get to our actual list of what we consider the best rifle scope under $300, you need to be familiar with the criteria we use to judge the scopes on our list, the features and specifications we believe are the most important, and some of the terminology that we will use when discussing these rifle scopes.
SKIP AHEAD
Rifle Scope Basics
Discussing rifle scopes can be confusing, especially regarding the terminology used to describe the various parts and functions. Just so we know that we are all talking about the same things, these are the terms that we commonly use to describe the parts, functions, and design of a rifle scope.
Objective Lens
When mounted on your rifle, the objective lens of your rifle scope is the end of the scope furthermost from your eye and closest to your target.
The objective lens gathers the light that is ultimately transmitted through the scope to your eye. Many shooters incorrectly associate the objective lens’s size with the scope’s quality, but this is an incorrect assumption.
Scope Tube or Body
The scope tube is the main structural component of the scope. The ocular assembly, objective assembly, and erector assembly are supported by the scope tube. Most scopes feature a one-piece aluminum scope tube, but some high-end rifle scopes feature a two-piece tube structure.
Erector Assembly
The turrets on the erector assembly handle your scope’s windage and elevation adjustments. On some scopes, a third turret on the erector assembly allows is for the parallax adjustment. In some scopes with reticle illumination, the intensity controls may also be located on the erector assembly.
Note: Most scope manufacturers offer scopes calibrated with a mil dot reticle or an MOA reticle and adjustments.
Magnification Ring and Assembly
Variable scopes give you a range of magnification options. The magnification assembly, like the erector assembly, is housed in the scope tube. Changes to the magnification range are made using the magnification ring. Some scopes will include a raised blade or a lever attached to the magnification ring to aid in making changes.
Fully multi-coated lenses are a must-have feature on any scope used in the field.
Ocular or Diopter Adjustment
On the end of the scope nearest your eye, you find the ocular lens assembly. Better scopes will have another focus ring near the ocular end of the scope that allows you to focus the scope for your eye. This allows a shooter to use the scope without needing their eyeglasses.
What Things Should You Consider When Choosing a Rifle Scope?
Before you even begin shopping for a rifle scope, there are some things you should have well fixed in your mind.
These things can significantly impact your scope choice and will help you narrow the crowded offerings currently in the rifle scope market.
How Will You Use Your Rifle and Scope?
Competitive long-distance target shooting demands a different set of scope characteristics than hunting varmints or feral pigs. You should have a thorough understanding of how you intend to use your rifle scope after it is mounted on your rifle.
If you primarily do short-range shooting, there is no need to mount a scope with a 24X magnification range on your rifle.
What Kind of Rifle Do You Have?
Your rifle choice is as much a part of selecting a scope as the magnification ranges.
A large caliber rifle demands a scope designed to handle the recoil generated by the cartridge. A scout-style rifle needs a scope with a long eye relief to accommodate the forward mounting position. A tactical-style rifle may better suit a red dot or holographic sight than a traditional optical sight.
What is Your Budget for a Scope?
This question is almost moot in the case of this article. Since we are looking at the best scopes under $300, we have pre-defined the budget cap in this case.
You can spend almost as much as you wish on a scope. However, for most shooters, the wisest option is to find the best ratio of features and quality to the price that fits within your pre-established budget. For example, adjustable parallax scopes usually cost much more but there are some less expensive scopes with this feature.
My Choices for the Best Rifle Scope Under $300
To create this list, I surveyed the market for firearm scopes under $300.
Using the criteria listed above and with a $300 budget, these are the scopes under $300 that I recommend for the specified purposes. I currently use or have used most of the scopes on this list. Your situation and needs may be different.
1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II Rifle Scope – Best Overall Rifle Scope Under $300
If you want all of the features that you would normally only expect to get on a much more expensive scope, you want to look at the Vortex Optics Crossfire II Rifle Scope.
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II is a versatile scope that can be used for long-range shooting or at shorter ranges for brush-style hunting. This is one of the best scopes under $300 that is available on the market today. Very few scopes in this price range feature parallax adjustment and the quality of optical glass used by Vortex.
When you consider price vs. features, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II scope comes in ahead of the pack. These feature-rich optics perform above and beyond what you might expect for a weapons scope under $300.
VOrtex Optics Crossfire ii Features
- 50 mm objective lens that delivers excellent light transmission with little loss of clarity and true color transmission.
- An adjustable objective lens for parallax adjustment for long-range shooting.
- The Crossfire II is equipped with the Vortex Optics Dead-hold BDC reticle for easy bullet drop compensation calculations.
- Fully multi-coated lenses increase image clarity, enhance low-light transmission, and ensure protection for the optical glass in your Vortex Optics Crossfire II scope.
- Excellent eye relief allows you to fit these scopes to almost any rifle in various configurations.
- A fast-focus eyepiece ensures that you won’t miss out on a target opportunity.
- Capped turrets feature finger adjustments with clicks calibrated in MOA and a reset to zero feature.
- A single piece aircraft grade aluminum tube that is O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged for fog proof, waterproof, and shockproof use.
Factory Specifications
- Magnification – 6-24X
- Objective lens diameter – 50mm
- Reticle – Deash-hold BDC reticle
- Focal Plane – Second Focal Plane Reticle
- Eye relief – 4.0 inches
- Turret style – capped
- Tube size – 30 mm
- Adjustment per click – 1/4 MOA
- Maximum windage and elevation adjustments – 40 MOA
- Length overall – 14.5 inches
- Weight – 23.6 inches
- Field of View – 17.3 – 4.4 feet @ 100 yards
My Thoughts About the Vortex Optics Crossfire II
In my opinion, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-24X50 AO Second Focal Plane scope is one of the best values on the market in the under $300 range.
If you look at the Vortex Optics website, you will see that the MSRP is above $300. However, the going street price is just below the three-hundred dollar mark, getting it onto my list.
- The 6-24x50 Adjustable Objective Crossfire II riflescope is one of many configurations in the...
- The adjustable objective provides image focus and parallax removal. Anti-reflective, fully...
Last update on 2024-04-15 at 11:13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. Athlon Optics Talos 6-24×50 Rifle Scope – Runner Up Best Overall Scope Under $300
I discovered Athlon Optics while I was shopping for a long-range shooting solution for a new rifle build. I ultimately purchased an Athlon scope, and I have been pleased with the results of my decision. That led me to the Athlon Optics Talos 6024×50 rifle scope for this list of weapons scopes under $300.
The question then becomes: Why I didn’t put Athlon at the top of the list?
My personal project was to build a good long-range shooting rifle with a scope for under $1000 total. This put a pretty serious cap on my optics budget. The Athlon choice was my best option to meet my project goals.
Athlon Optics 6-24X50 Features
- The 6-24X magnification range offers the ability to work at closer ranges and move out to longer-range shooting or hunting with the same scope. This is an important feature in a scope that I classify as an all-around optic.
- A 50 mm objective lens provides a wider field of view at higher magnifications than smaller objective lenses, which can be a huge advantage if you track a moving target at high magnification ranges.
- Aircraft-grade aluminum is used in a single-piece tube construction along with nitrogen purging during assembly to ensure fog-free, waterproof operation.
- The fully-multicoated lenses provide exceptional image clarity and low-light transmission characteristics that provide better target acquisition in marginal light and weather conditions.
- The Athlon Optics Talos 6-24X50 rifle scope is equipped with the Athlon ATMR1 Second focal plane reticle that provides mil-dot accuracy for both close-range and long-range use.
- An illuminated reticle aids in target acquisition and accuracy in marginal light conditions.
Factory Specifications
- Magnification – 6-24X
- Objective lens – 50 mm
- Tube size – 1 inch
- Turrets – Capped
- Eye Relief – 3.11 inches
- Field of View – 16.8 – 4.5 feet @ 100 yards
- Adjustment per Click – 1 mil
- Maximum elevation and windage adjustment – 18 mil
- Parallax Adjustment – Side Focus parallax adjustment from 10 yards to infinity
- Length – 13.9 inches
- Weight – 23 ounces
My Thoughts About the Athlon Optics Talos 6-24X50 SFP Rifle Scope
This was a close call between the Vortex and the Athlon scope. I think the Vortex is a slightly better value, even at a few dollars more, because of the reputation of Vortex optics and their customer service.
You do get a few more features in the Athlon scope, such as reticle illumination. For some shooters, this may be an important factor to consider.
3. Monstrum Guardian 6-18X50 Rifle Scope – Best All-Around Budget Rifle Scope Under $300
If you are on a strict budget, and you’re looking for a long range rifle scope, be sure to check out the Monstrum Guardian.
Monstrum Tactical began in 2008 as a project to design and build quality tactical gear for AR platform rifles. Since that time, they have expanded to include a wide variety of accessories for many types of firearms as well as a line of optics products.
Monstrum Tactical sources their rifle scopes from China, as do most other discount or budget scope retailers.
There is always some question in my mind about the quality of the optical glass in this category of scopes, but I have found the Monstrum scopes to be above average for the price range. These scopes provide features that come only on much more expensive scopes.
Monstrum Guardian 6-18X50 Rifle Scope Features
- The 3-16X magnification is generous enough to allow accurate long-range shooting on most rifles out to 600 yards. The lower range 3X allows using these scopes under 150 yards, where most small game and deer hunting takes place.
- You won’t find many rifle scopes in this price range that feature an adjustable objective lens for parallax adjustment and correction.
- The illuminated reticle is graduated in MOA increments for rapid and accurate range estimation, bullet drop compensation, and precise focus.
- The magnification ring includes an integrated throw lever to make increasing and decreasing the magnification level easy and precise, even when wearing gloves.
- Each Monstrum Guardian 3-18X50 rifle scope package also includes a set of scope rings compatible with Picatinny or Weaver rails, a set of flip-up lens covers and a CR2032 battery for the illuminated reticle.
- Crisp, clear images are ensured by the fully multi-coated lenses and the nitrogen-purged construction that makes these scopes fog proof and waterproof.
Factory Specifications
- Magnification – 6-18X
- Objective lens diameter – 50mm
- Tube size – 1 inch
- Focal Plane – Second Focal Plane Reticle
- Reticle – MOA Graduated Crosshairs
- Illumination – Illuminated reticle
- Battery Size – CR2023
- Turrets – Capped
- Adjustment per click – 1/4 MOA per click
- Length – 14 inches
- Weight – 15 ounces
- Eye relief – 3.8 inches
- Field of View – 27.3 – 10.1 feet @ 100 yards
My thoughts on the Monstrum Guardian 3-18X50 Rifle Scope
I will admit that this is not a scope I would want to bet my life on.
However, for the average shooter or hunter, you will be hard-pressed to find optics that work as well as this scope works for a price that can often be found under $150. This is no precision long-range firearm scope, but it is a good hunting scope.
- Adjustable 6-18 times magnification, for targeting out to 1000 yards and beyond
- An adjustable objective lens or AO - that allows for sharper focus of the target image, elimination...
Last update on 2024-04-15 at 11:13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. Vortex Optics Crossfire II Scout Scope – Best Scout Scope Under $300
If my first choice for an all-around scope is the Vortex Optics Crossfire II, the scout scope version of this same weapon scope is also my pick for the best scout scope under $300.
There are a few differences between these two scopes, but you still get the basic Vortex Optics features, the great warranty, and the knowledge of the reputation for great products.
This scope is designed to meet the critical requirements of a scout scope, including a generous eye relief of over nine inches. In keeping with the philosophy of the scout rifle creator Jeff Cooper, these scopes are compact and lightweight but tough. There are no lack of features here just to cut cost or weight.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II Scout Scope Features
- The Vortex Scout Scope is fitted with the Vortex V-Plex reticle on the second focal plane. This reticle is simple, clean, and allows quick target acquisition.
- 2-7X magnification offers a perfect blend of low power for close-range shooting and higher magnification ranges for those longer shots. The 7X maximum magnification matches the effective range of most scout rifles.
- Mounting your scope forward in a Scout Rifle configuration is no problem with the generous 9.45 inches of eye relief. A generous eye box makes using this scope in this mount easy and comfortable.
- The Vortex Scout Scope has the same fully multi-coated lens system used in all Vortex scopes to provide protection and the best light transmission available.
- Vortex-capped turrets protect the integrity of your Vortex Scout Scope. Adjustments are calibrated in MOA for quick and precise changes in windage and elevation.
- The turrets are finger adjustable and can be reset to zero after sighting in.
- O-ring seals and nitrogen gas-purged aluminum tube construction ensure waterproof and fog-proof operation under the most extreme conditions.
Factory Specifications
- Magnification – 2-7X
- Objective lens diameter – 32 mm
- Reticle – Vortex V-Plex Reticle calibrated in MOA
- Focal Plane – Second focal plane reticle
- Eye Relief – 9.45 inches
- Turret Style – Capped
- Tube Size – 1 inch
- Adjustment per click – 1/4 MOA
- Parallax Setting – 100 yards
- Maximum windage and elevation adjustments – 60 MOA
- Field of View – 18.3 – 5.2 feet @ 100 yards
- Weight – 12 ounces
My Thoughts on the Vortex Optics Crossfire II Scout Scope
It stands to reason that I pick the Scout Scope version of the Vortex Optics Crossfire II scope as the best scope in the scout scope category under $300.
Not only does the Vortex scout scope meet the requirements for a scout scope, it is also a great hunting scope as well as a versatile tactical scope.
- The 2-7x32 Crossfire II Scout riflescope is perfect for use on your scout rifle. The V-Plex reticle...
- With 9.45" of eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, you'll be able to quickly get a sight...
Last update on 2024-04-15 at 11:53 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5. Burris Scout Scope 2.75-20mm – Runner Up Best Scout Scope under $300
This scope is the only fixed magnification scope that made my list. I usually recommend a variable magnification scope under almost any circumstances.
However, this Burris Scout Scope is such a steal that it had to be on my list. Some shooters prefer a fixed magnification scope based on the principle of keeping things simple means fewer things to break or go wrong.
Whatever your feelings are, Burris got it right with this scout scope design. This is one of the best low-light scope choices you can make for under $300. This certainly isn’t among the long-range scopes but for medium to close-range work, these are among the best rifle scopes you can find.
Burris doesn’t skimp on the features side to keep the price down.
Burris Scout Scope 2.75X-20mm Features
- Straightforward design in a fixed magnification scope for durability and dependability.
- This scope is designed specifically for scout rifles requiring a forward mount position and long eye relief scope.
- Burris matches this scope with the Heavy Plex Reticle that provides an uncluttered target image, yet gives precise aiming and quick target acquisition.
- Burris has some of the best optical glass clarity available in a budget scope.
- Internally, all adjustment mechanisms feature steel-on-steel operation. This ensures a rugged scope that can endure the tough conditions of extended hunts on rough terrain.
- The erector mechanisms are precision gauged and hand-fitted for the most precise operation to maintain accuracy.
- These scopes are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry. When mounted on your scout rifle, the impact on the center of gravity is negligible.
Factory Specifications
- Magnification – 2.75X
- Objective Lens diameter 2omm
- Reticle Style – Heavy Plex
- Focal Plane – Rear focal plane design
- Tube Size -1 inch
- Turret Style – Capped
- Adjustment per click – 0.5 inches per click at 100 yards (app. 1/2 MOA @ 100 yards)
- Maximum elevation and windage adjustment – 140 inches @ 100 yards
- Eye Relief – 8.5 to 14 inches
- Field of View – 15 feet @ 100 yards
- Length – 9.2 inches
- Weight – 7.0 ounces
My Thoughts on the Burris Fixed Magnification Scout Scope
If you prefer a fixed magnification scout-style scope, you can’t beat this deal from Burris. The sight picture quality is outstanding. This may be the best hunting scope in the fixed magnification category you buy for under $300.
If you choose this scope, long ranges are off the table, but for close to mid-range shooting, you will be rewarded with the right firearm scope for the job.
- burris 200269 scout riflescope
- 2.75x20mm, heavy plex, matte, 1 inch
Last update on 2024-04-15 at 11:13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
6. UTG 2-7X44mm Scout Scope – Best Budget Scout Scope Under $300
UTG scopes often get passed over when review time comes up.
I think many people are missing a great bet if they don’t consider UTG scopes, especially if you are on a budget and looking for feature-rich products at economical prices. These scopes are made in China with Chinese optical glass, so the glass’s clarity may be a little questionable. However, the UTG scopes I have used have above-par image quality for the price.
The UTG Scout Scope won’t break the bank. If you want features, this is the scope to consider.
This is the only scout scope to make my list with reticle illumination. UTG also packages its scopes with mounting rings and other handy accessories. This only adds to the value.
UTG 2-7X30mm Scout Scope Features
- The 30 mm tube is constructed from a single piece of aluminum to provide the highest level of structural rigidity and durability.
- Each UTG scope is sealed and nitrogen purged for waterproof and fog-proof operation in even extreme conditions.
- The illuminated reticle features the UTG EX-TAP control system giving your complete fingertip control of all the illumination functions, including selecting the reticle color, the intensity level, or turning the illumination off.
- Built-in memory function returns the scope to the last settings you used when the scope is powered up.
- The turrets feature zero locking and zero resetting target-style knobs calibrated for 1.4 MOA adjustments per click.
- UTG uses an emerald lens coating that gives maximum light transmission without losing clarity.
- The reticle is in the second focal plane and is glass etched for precision shooting.
- The adjustable objective lens with a side focus parallax adjustment keeps your target images clear and on the same focal plane.
Factory Specifications
- Magnification Range – 2.7X
- Objective lens diameter – 44 mm
- Field of View – 32 – 10 feet @100 yards
- Eye relief – 11 – 9.5 inches
- Adjustment Per Click – 1/4 MOA @ 100 yards
- Parallax Adjustment – 10 yards to infinity
- Battery – one CR2032 (included)
- Illumination – 36 color options with 10 intensity level settings
- Length – 11.5 inches
- Weight – 25.4 ounces
- Focal Plane – Second focal plane
- Reticle – MOA hash marks on a standard crosshair
My Thoughts on the UTG 2-7X44 Scout Scope
Up front, you must understand that there are better scopes for not much more money in this category.
However, what you do get with the UTG Scout Scope is an illuminated reticle, adjustable parallax, and good image quality. The glass quality may be a bit questionable, and this may not be the best low-light scope you can find. However, for the price, this is a great scope.
- Emerald Lens Coatings; TS Platform with Shockproof, Fogproof and Rainproof; Practical TactEdge...
- Provides Up To 11'' Eye Relief for Shooters to Effectively Use on Any Firearm Where the Optics...
Last update on 2024-04-15 at 11:13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
7. Monstrum G3 5-25×50 First Focal Plane FFP Rifle Scope – Best First Focal Plane Scope Under $300
Finding the best rifle scope with a first focal plane reticle under $300 is a challenge.
First focal plane scopes tend to be much more expensive scopes than second focal plane designs. However, Monstrum has met the challenge with its Monstrum G2 5-25X50 FFP scope. If you are on a budget but prefer a first focal plane scope, this is a great scope for long ranges.
Monstrum is rapidly building a solid reputation for making some of the best hunting scope models in the budget scope category. The Monstrum limited lifetime warranty and sold construction translates into a scope you can buy confidently.
The Monstrum scope line will fill your needs if you are feature conscious.
Monstrum G3 FFP Scope Features
- This scope works well as both a long-range precision scope and for tactical shooting.
- The aircraft-grade aluminum tube provides a rigid platform for the scope mechanisms that ensure precise and accurate performance at any distance
- A first focal plane reticle allows the target image and the reticle image to maintain their relationship so that hash marks are always correct.
- This scope has parallax adjustment to allow you to adjust the target and reticle images for perfect focus even at high magnification ranges.
- The reticle illumination system is dial controlled, giving you complete control over the reticle’s brightness for the best visibility, no matter the light levels.
- Monstrum includes a set of high-profile Picatinny scope rings, a detachable honeycomb glare filter, a sunshade, and a pair of spring-loaded flip-up lens covers in each package.
Factory Specifications
- Magnification – 2-25X
- Objective lens diameter – 50 mm
- Reticle – Custom Type-H
- Tube diameter – 30 mm
- Eye relief – 4.5 inches
- Focal Plane – First focal plane reticle
- Illumination – Illuminated reticle with 11 intensity settings
- Field of View – 58.2 – 12.8 feet @ 100 yards
- Lens Protection – Fully multi-coated lenses to reduce glare and increase light transmission
- Turrets – Tactical style locking turrets finger adjustable
- Adjustment per click – 1/4 MOA per click with zero reset
My Thoughts on the Monstrum G3 Rifle Scope
If you are looking for a 1,000-yard scope for under $300, the Monstrum G3 5-25X50 FFP scope is probably your best bet. You will find it difficult to source a first focal plane scope with parallax adjustment and illuminated reticle, including rings, for under $300.
It isn’t a Leupold or a Ziess, but this scope will take you out to the long ranges for the right money.
- High performance tactical rifle scope with 5-25x magnification for mid to long distance shooting out...
- Functionally designed first focal plane MOA reticle, with easy-to-read ranging information that...
Last update on 2024-04-15 at 11:13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
8. Leupold Freedom RDS – Best Red Dot Scope for Under $300
A traditional optical scope may not be the best scope for your needs, especially if you are involved in tactical types of shooting.
In many cases, the better option is a red dot scope.
Red dot scopes bring a different set of advantages for aiming a rifle. One of the biggest of these advantages is the ability to use the optical sight with both eyes open for rapid target acquisition and a wider field of view.
Without much argument, Leupold is one of the world’s premier optics producers. Their Freedom RDS sight barely squeaks under our $300 cap. That is fortunate since it means you can put a Leupold on your rifle and still meet your budget. You won’t sacrifice the features that you expect from a Leupold product at this price.
Leupold Freedom RDS Features
- Built entirely from Aircraft grade aluminum, these sights are tough enough to go anywhere under any conditions and perform flawlessly.
- The center dot on these scopes is precise, clear, and sharp, giving you almost instant target acquisition and recognition.
- Leupold integrates the mount with the red dot scope for the most rigid and secure installation possible on your rifle.
- Completely adjustable for windage and elevation to ensure that your Leupold scope is always on target.
- Motion sensing technology deactivates the illumination after 5 minutes of inactivity but comes back on with the slightest movement of the firearm to conserve battery power.
- Made completely in the USA.
Factory Specifications
- Center Dot Size – 1 MOA Dot
- Controls – Push button
- Daylight bright illumination – Yes
- Windage Adjustment Type – Finger click
- Re-zero System – Resettable Index Ring
- Battery – CR2032
- Adjustment per click – 1/4 MOA
- Maximum windage and elevation adjustment – 15 MOA
- Objective Lens diameters – 34 mm
- Battery Life – Up to 1,000 hours at medium intensity
- Illumination settings – 8
My Thoughts on the Leupold Freedom RDS Rifle Sight
The Leupold Freedom RDS is a premier, first-class, top-tier red dot sight. If you want to mount a red dot on your rifle, this is an excellent choice and still keeps you under our $300 cap on price.
Most other red dot sights in this price range feature 3 or 4 MOA dots. The one MOA dot on the Leupold is a definite advantage.
- Model #180092 - Freedom RDS, 1.0 MOA and Matte finish w/Mount
- Leupold’s Professional-Grade Red Dot Optical System offers unmatched light transmission that’s...
Last update on 2024-04-15 at 11:13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Final Thoughts – Best Rifle Scopes Under $300
When all is said and done, finding the best scope for your needs under $300 can be a challenge.
I hope that my selections give you a better idea of where to start looking for your scope and what features and specifications you can find in that $300 price range.
