The Best Fixed Power Scopes for Hunting, Long-Range & More

The best fixed power scopes are often overlooked, simply because they don’t offer various magnifications as most other scopes do. However, a fixed 4-power scope or higher can come in handy if the shooter has a specific task they use it frequently for, whether it be hunting, competitive or tactical.

Fixed power rifle scopes are easy to use and only require little adjustment. 4x scopes (or higher) are usually very simple in design, since fewer adjustment knobs are available, making the scope all-over lighter and quick to install or switch on guns. We’ve made a list of the best fixed power scopes available. Now, let’s begin.

First, here’s a summary table.

	Leupold FX-II Fixed Power Riflescope	Premium quality Generous eye relief Durable and lightweight design Expensive	$550 Shop NowClick to read my review
	Bushnell Tactical 10x40 LRS Scope	Crystal clear images Anti-fog and waterproof Accurate and durable No parallax adjustment	$160 Shop NowClick to read my review
	SIG Sauer Bravo 3 3x24 Battle Sight	Durable and compact prism design Removable Picatinny rail Provides 40% wider field of view Requires batteries	$290 Shop NowClick to read my review
	Leupold FX-I Rimfire 4x28mm Scope	Durable and can withstand weather conditions Scratch-resistant lens with military specs Crystal clear image No zero stop for windage and elevation reset	$300 Shop NowClick to read my review

Fixed vs Variable Scope

First, let’s differentiate between fixed and variable scopes.

Fixed scopes have only one number in their description. For instance, 3×32, or 10×40. On the other hand, variable scopes have a range of numbers, offering more than one magnification. An example is a 3-9×32 scope.

But which is better? None. It depends on your needs and purpose. Choose a variable scope, such as the finest LPVO, if you hunt at varying distances. Otherwise, go for a fixed-power scope. A fixed power scope often has better quality, is more affordable, and allows faster aiming. However, remember that you can only fire from a fixed range, rather than a variety of different ones.

How Much Magnification Do You Need?

Choose a scope with magnification suitable for your intended shooting distance. We’ve compiled a handy table to help you choose the optimal magnification for your needs.

Buyer’s Guide to the Best Fixed Power Scopes

Magnification

You’re buying a fixed scope, so getting the right magnification is important. The 3-9x magnification is ideal for hunters who engage moving targets at distances of less than 100 yards.

Scopes with a greater magnification range, like 5-30x, might be ideal if you’re aiming to hit targets at 750 yards. If you’re hunting animals that are always on the move, like pigs or varmints, a low-powered variable magnification rifle sight might be a good choice.

Lens Size

The objective lens diameter is the lens’s distance from the barrel and stock. It’s indicated by the number after the x in a rifle scope’s name. The amount of light that can pass through a scope depends on the size of its objective lens. More light can enter a scope with a bigger objective lens, leading to a more vivid image. However, this will make the scope heavier.

Weight

Determine where you’ll be spending most of your time shooting. A larger scope may not be too much of a problem if you plan to use a bipod or sandbags to steady your rifle when shooting from a great distance.

However, a lighter riflescope may be ideal if you’ll be doing a lot of trekking between shots when deer stalking in the mountains, as doing so might be strenuous on your arms and shoulders.

Tube Size

If you’re just starting out, knowing the tube size is crucial so that you can buy the appropriate mounting rings for your scope. It is important to determine the diameter of your tube before purchasing mounting rings to ensure that your scope fits properly.

Most tubes come in either 30mm or 1-inch diameters. A bigger tube doesn’t necessarily let more light in, but all it does is increase the adjustment range inside. Keep in mind that one-inch tubes are the standard for most riflescopes sold in the United States.

Reticle

The reticle, often referred to as the “crosshair,” is the part of the riflescope that determines the trajectory the bullet will take. Like eye relief, reticle preferences are entirely subjective, and shooters can pick from a wide range of options. The thickness of the crosshairs has a direct impact on the accuracy of your aim. Pick a reticle that fits your eye and your shooting style.

The crosshairs on many reticles have posts or scales. These tiny increments are measured in milliradians or minute of angles and are used to account for the bullet’s drop at higher ranges. However, depending on the focal plane the reticle is calibrated for, not every tick mark will be correct at every range.

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The 4 Best Fixed Power Scopes

Leupold FX-II Fixed Power Riflescope

Since the release of the first Huntsman riflescope model in 1947, Leupold has been consistently making high-quality scopes. More of their long-range optics are used by the US military than those of any other company.

Lightweight and straightforward, the Leupold FX-II riflescope is ideal for long days in the field. For those who want a smaller scope, this is the best alternative, and it’s straightforward to use. It has a compact size and light weight–just 11.4 ounces for a 10-inch tube–and has an impressive 6-power magnification and crystal clarity.

The FX-eyepiece II’s provides an above-average 4.3 inches of eye relief, giving you plenty of room to compensate for heavy recoiling cartridges. Plus, you’ll be able to scan the higher ground with ease.

The lenses’ outer surfaces are designed to withstand extremely high levels of wear, making them ideal for use in the military. There is also a Twilight Max Light Management System built in by Leupold. With this function, you can get up to 20 minutes more shooting time, even in dim conditions. Improved clarity from corner to corner is only one of the ways that glare is diminished.

Bushnell Tactical 10×40 LRS Scope

With a magnification of 10x and an objective lens diameter of 40mm, the Bushnell BT1040 Tac Optic Tactical Riflescope is a versatile choice for any tactical situation. The Argon gas purging makes this high-quality, 1-inch, one-piece tube absolutely dustproof and waterproof. An Ultra Wide Band coating method was used to fully multi-coat the extremely efficient exterior lenses, which results in exceptional light transmission and, as a result, superb image quality.

This Bushnell model features anti-fog technology called RainGuard HD. This clever construction ensures that the scope’s lenses remain unobscured no matter the weather. It measures 11.80 inches in length and weighs 15 ounces, and provides eye relief of 3.40 inches at maximum magnification.

The Mil-Dot reticle makes figuring out windage and BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) much less hassle. It has a repeatable accuracy of up to 300 yards, which can be accomplished repeatedly.

SIG Sauer Bravo 3 3×24 Battle Sight

The SIG Sauer BRAVO3 Battle Sight combines modern technology with classic design by offering a bullet drop compensator (BDC) and a horseshoe dot illuminated reticle with wind grips. This scope was made with both military and civilian MSR/AR shooters in mind, and its design offers a more expansive field of view than standard combat sights.

The housing is made of lightweight but durable magnesium, and it has a Picatinny top rail for adding accessories like MRDs and lasers. You can use it in all weather conditions, and it features a +/- 2 diopter correctable eyepiece that is both fog and water-resistant.

Leupold FX-I Rimfire 4x28mm Scope

Leupold scopes are known for their durability, and this one is no exception. This compact scope features a sturdy 1-inch main tube without compromising portability. Leuopold’s Argon-Krypton purge technique makes this scope completely resistant to moisture, fog, and impact.

Leupold’s proprietary DiamondCoat II lens coating stands out from the competition. It allows in plenty of light, giving you a clear and bright vision at all times. Furthermore, the precise 1/4 MOA click adjustments for elevation and windage provide rapid and efficient target acquisition. The lenses are scratch-resistant and provide 4.5 inches of eye relief, so you can see your targets well for years to come.

Wrap Up

Our top pick is the Leupold FX-II Fixed Power Riflescope. It’s arguably the best fixed riflescope available in the market, and its price justifies its value. It’s lightweight, durable, reliable, and can withstand the elements.

How about you? What is your favorite fixed scope on our list? Let us know in the comments section below.

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