Unlike binos, camo patterns, and muzzle brakes, our hunting scope is paramount to success.. It’s “THE TOOL” that determines where your bullet is going to impact, which will result in either a dead animal or not. 

So if you are a hunter who typically hunts in broken terrain and has invested more money into gear than you’re comfortable sharing, it’s critical that you choose the best hunting scope. I’m not talking about the best warranty policies and the best bang for your buck. Im talking about violently reliable scopes. Scopes that consistently show up and show out more than Ricky Bobby’s Shake and Bake…………”Slingshot Engaged!!!”

Our 2025 Hunting Scope Recommendations 

• Best Overall – Maven RS1.2
• Most Durable – Nightforce ATACR 4-16x42mm F1
• Cheapest – SWFA 6×42 SS

1. SWFA 6×42 Fixed Scope

Starting strong, the SWFA 6x Fixed stands out for its simplicity and durability. Ideal for both beginners and experienced shooters, this scope is essentially “bomb-proof.” With an uncomplicated design, once you get behind it, you are ready to start shooting with precision up to a thousand yards. This scope has been drop tested on rokslide and retains zero consistently, providing reliability and rugged performance.

Why would you want a fixed focal length? It’s the same reason photographers love shooting an entire event with a 35mm lens, or a bro who only wears a black t-shirt and jeans everyday. See when your 1996 Toyota Tacoma is pushing 400k and you havent had to replace the back up camera once, you’re just happy. It’s simple (No Tech = No Problems)  (More tech = More problem). 

The second reason a fixed scope is amazing for hunters is “BOOM” out of nowhere there’s a bear sitting on a rock at 50 yards. It’s impossible to accidentally leave the scope on 32 power. The same is true for second round impact, a fixed 6 promotes spotting your impact and maintaining visuals on the animal, so that you’re in a position to easily deliver a quality second round impact.

Pros:

• Simple and user-friendly
• Extremely durable
• Lightweight (20.6 oz)
• Affordable (~$300)

Cons:

• Fixed magnification
• Limited features

2. NightForce ATACR 4-16×42

Known for its robustness, the NightForce ATACR is possibly the toughest scope in the market. Though on the pricier side, it is worth the investment. With a clean MIL-C reticle, the absence of excessive lines makes it user-friendly, although it could perform better in low light as a first focal plane scope. Despite the weight, this scope can withstand a lot, making it a top choice for those prioritizing durability and clear optics.

Pros:

• Very durable
• Accurate MIL-C reticle
• Versatile magnification range

Cons:

• Heavy (32 oz)
• Expensive
• Subpar low-light performance

3. NightForce NX8 4-32×50

The NightForce NX8 offers a great balance for an all-around long-range set-up. At 28 ounces, it’s manageable considering its capability and durability. While most users find excessive magnification unnecessary, the option to go up to 32x is a plus for some. Although the reticle isn’t a personal favorite, the overall functionality and build make it a strong contender for long-range scopes.

Pros:

• High magnification range
• Reliable build
• Good weight for performance (28 oz)

Cons:

• Pricey

4. Trijicon Tenmile 3x18x44

A true signature hunting scope that rightfully deserves a spot on the leaderboard.This is an extremely desirable option for hunters as it only comes in at 24.4 oz, that’s only 4 oz heavier than the fixed 6 SWFA, while boasting a 200% increase in power. Despite the Trijicon having a tree reticle it did redeem itself by including a floating dot which is easily one of my favorite features of a scope.

Pros:

• Good low-light performance
• Durable construction
• Quick target acquisition

Cons:

• Heavier than some options
• Higher price
• Christmas tree…

5. Maven RS.1 3-15×44

Compact and reliable, the Maven RS.1 earns the top spot because of its SHR-MIL reticle, providing clarity in various lighting conditions and across its magnification range. Weighing 26.5 ounces, it strikes a balance between weight and functionality. The reticle’s visibility under different conditions crowns it is the true MVP, offering both durability and optical precision.

Pros:

• Clear reticle
• Compact and lightweight (26.5 oz)
• Durable build

Cons:

• Heavier 

Conclusion

Whether you’re budget-conscious or seeking premium performance, these scopes cater to a variety of needs. The SWFA offers an extremely usable scope for a mere $350. The Nightforce ATACR provides the best durability money can buy, and the Maven RS 1.2 combines everything into the overall best package. Regardless of your choice, these top 5 hunting scopes for 2025 won’t disappoint in terms of performance, durability, and usability. Just remember if it ain’t drop tested it aint worth it. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the drop test, check out the evaluation standards below, and give the articles on Rokslide a read!

What is the Rokslide Scope Field Eval and Standards?