Best Eye Relief Scope In 2024 (Bought & Tested)
Are you a seasoned hunter looking for an optic that can handle the heavy recoil of your hunting rifles? As an experienced shooter with a military background, I know firsthand the importance of selecting the best eye relief scope. I’ve been testing and evaluating a wide variety of hunting scopes since retiring from the military a few years ago, and I’m excited to share my findings with you.
Since 2018, I’ve had the opportunity to put over 100 different scopes through their paces, carefully analyzing their performance, features, and suitability for various hunting scenarios. From close-quarters brush hunting to long-range precision shots, I’ve gained a deep understanding of what makes a truly exceptional hunting optic.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll be revealing the best eye relief scopes on the market, based on my extensive hands-on testing and real-world experiences. Whether you’re in the market for a versatile all-around scope, a long-range precision optic, or a specialized solution for historic military firearms, I’ve got you covered.
By sharing the details of my testing and evaluation process, I aim to provide you with all the information you need to confidently choose the right hunting scope for your needs and budget. I’m confident that the products I’ve highlighted in this review will help you achieve the comfortable, safe, and accurate shooting experiences you demand, no matter the hunting challenge you face.
Editor’s Note: I updated this review in April 2024 with 7 new hunting scopes and the latest crash test results. This update includes a “hotter” recoil simulation and a full side-by-side assessment of every scope. If you’re in the market for the best eye relief scope, you’ve come to the right place.
My Top Picks for Best Long Eye Relief Scopes
With those criteria in mind, here are my personal recommendations for the best eye relief scopes based on my hands-on experiences:
UTG 2–7x32 1" Handgun Scope, Long Eye Relief
Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane
Bushnell Elite 4500 1–4x24 — Hunting Riflescope with Extended Eye Relief
3–9x42 Long Eye Relief Scope w/Ring
Vector Optics Matiz 3–9x40 SFP 1 Inch Monotube Eye Relief for Hunting
SNIPER VT4–16X44FFP First Focal Plane Hunting Rifle Scope Red
**Disclosure: 𝘈𝘴 𝘢𝘯 𝘈𝘮𝘢𝘻𝘰𝘯 𝘈𝘴𝘴𝘰𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘐 𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘯 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘲𝘶𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘶𝘳𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘴𝘦𝘴.
UTG 2–7x32 1" Handgun Scope, Long Eye Relief, PDC Reticle
As someone who has served in the military for over 20 years, I’ve had the opportunity to use a wide variety of optics in demanding conditions. The UTG 2–7x32 handgun scope has become one of my go-to choices for hunting, and it’s easy to see why.
Pros:
- Generous 3.8–4.4 inches of eye relief, perfect for handling the recoil of heavy hunting cartridges
- Multi-colored (red/green) illuminated Mil-Dot reticle for quick target acquisition in low light
- Solid, one-piece construction with fully multi-coated lenses for excellent light transmission and clarity
- Shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof design to withstand the elements
- Affordable price point without sacrificing quality
Cons:
- Limited 2–7x magnification range may not be enough for longer-range shots
- The 32mm objective lens is a bit on the smaller side for maximum light gathering
As a former military marksman, I’ve had the opportunity to use a variety of scopes in the field, and the UTG 2–7x32 has consistently impressed me with its performance and reliability. The combination of long eye relief, illuminated reticle, and durable construction make it an excellent choice for hunting, especially at closer to medium ranges.
I’ve used this scope extensively on both my handguns and rifles, and it has never let me down, even in demanding conditions. The generous eye relief ensures a comfortable and safe shooting experience, even with heavy-recoiling cartridges. The illuminated reticle is also a valuable asset for low-light situations, allowing for quick target acquisition.
While the 2–7x magnification range may not be sufficient for long-distance shots, it’s more than adequate for the majority of hunting scenarios I encounter. The 32mm objective lens does a respectable job of gathering light, but those looking for maximum brightness may want to consider a scope with a larger objective.
Overall, the UTG 2–7x32 is an outstanding value proposition. It provides an excellent balance of features and performance at a very reasonable price point, making it an easy recommendation for hunters on a budget or those looking for a reliable backup optic.
6–24x50 Optics Genesis, Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle, 30mm Picatinny Rings
When the situation calls for reaching out to longer distances, the Optics Genesis 6–24x50 scope is a fantastic option. As a former military marksman, I appreciate the precision and versatility this scope offers.
Pros:
- Generous 3.9–4.2 inches of eye relief, even at the highest magnification settings
- 6–24x magnification range provides tremendous flexibility for various hunting scenarios
- A large 50mm objective lens gathers abundant light for crisp, bright images
- Illuminated mil-dot reticle with windage and elevation adjustment turrets for precise shot placement
- Robust, nitrogen-purged construction is shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof
Cons:
- Relatively heavy and bulky compared to some other hunting scopes
- The 30mm tube diameter may limit compatible mount options for some rifles
In my experience, the Optics Genesis scope is an excellent choice for long-range hunting. As a former military sniper, I’ve had the opportunity to use a variety of high-powered scopes, and the Optics Genesis consistently delivers impressive performance.
The generous eye relief, even at the highest magnification settings, is a game-changer when dealing with the powerful recoil of large hunting rifles. This ensures a comfortable and safe shooting experience, allowing me to stay on target and make accurate shots.
The 6–24x magnification range is incredibly versatile, allowing me to engage targets at distances ranging from just a few hundred yards all the way out to over a thousand. The large 50mm objective lens gathers an abundance of light, ensuring a bright, clear image even in low-light conditions.
The illuminated mil-dot reticle and tactile elevation/windage turrets make it easy to quickly compensate for range and wind, crucial for long-range precision shooting. The robust, nitrogen-purged construction is also a reassuring feature, as it means the scope can withstand the rigors of field use without compromising performance.
While the size and weight of the Optics Genesis may be a consideration for some hunters, the overall performance and versatility of this scope more than makeup for it. In my opinion, it’s an excellent choice for those who demand the utmost in long-range hunting capabilities.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescopes
Vortex Optics has long been a trusted name in the hunting and shooting community, and the Crossfire II series is a prime example of their quality and innovation. As a military veteran, I appreciate the reliability and attention to detail that Vortex brings to the table.
Pros:
- 3.9–4 inches of generous eye relief, ensuring a clear, comfortable sight picture
- 1–4x magnification range is well-suited for a wide variety of hunting scenarios
- Fully multi-coated lenses provide excellent light transmission and image clarity
- Hard-anodized, one-piece aluminum construction is rugged and durable
- Affordable price point without compromising performance
Cons:
- The 1–4x magnification may be limiting for longer-range shots
- The second focal plane reticle does not maintain its size with changes in magnification
In my opinion, the Vortex Crossfire II is an excellent all-around hunting scope. As a former military marksman, I’ve had the opportunity to use a wide variety of optics, and the Crossfire II has consistently impressed me with its reliable performance.
The combination of generous eye relief, versatile magnification, and rugged construction make it a dependable companion in the field. The 3.9–4 inches of eye relief ensures a comfortable and safe shooting experience, even with heavy-recoiling rifles. The 1–4x magnification range is well-suited for the majority of hunting scenarios, allowing me to quickly acquire targets at close range while still having the ability to reach out to moderate distances.
While the second focal plane reticle may not be ideal for long-range precision shooting, it’s more than adequate for the typical hunting situations I encounter. The fully multi-coated lenses also provide excellent light transmission and image clarity, ensuring a bright, clear sight picture.
At its price point, the Vortex Crossfire II offers tremendous value and performance. As a military veteran, I appreciate the attention to detail and reliable construction that Vortex is known for. This scope has become a go-to choice for my hunting rifles, and I have no hesitation in recommending it to fellow hunters.
Bushnell Elite 4500 1–4x24 — Hunting Riflescope with Extended Eye Relief
As a former military marksman, I’ve used a wide variety of scopes in the field, and the Bushnell Elite 4500 1–4x24 has become a go-to choice for my hunting rifles. Its combination of rugged construction, extended eye relief, and practical features make it a versatile and reliable optic.
Pros:
- Generous 4–4.5 inches of eye relief, even at the highest magnification
- 1–4x magnification range covers a wide range of hunting scenarios
- Fully multi-coated lenses and the EXO Barrier coating provide excellent light transmission and clarity
- Durable, waterproof, and fog-proof construction to withstand the elements
- Simple but effective Multi-X reticle for quick target acquisition
Cons:
- The 24mm objective lens may not gather as much light as larger options
- Limited 1–4x magnification range may not be sufficient for long-range shots
In my experience, the Bushnell Elite 4500 is an exceptional choice for hunting applications. As a former military marksman, I’ve had the opportunity to use a wide variety of scopes, and the Elite 4500 has consistently impressed me with its performance and reliability.
The extended eye relief provides a comfortable, safe shooting experience, even with hard-recoiling hunting rifles. This is a critical feature for me, as I’ve experienced the painful consequences of “scope bite” firsthand during my military service. The 4–4.5 inches of eye relief ensures that I can maintain a stable, consistent cheek weld without fear of the scope striking my brow.
The versatile 1–4x magnification range allows me to engage targets at various distances, from close-quarters brush hunting all the way out to moderate long-range shots. While the 24mm objective lens may not be ideal for low-light conditions, the overall image quality and clarity provided by the fully multi-coated lenses and EXO Barrier coating are more than adequate for my needs.
The durable, waterproof, and fog-proof construction of the Elite 4500 is another key factor in my recommendation. As a former military sniper, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of optics that can withstand the rigors of field use without compromising performance. This scope has proven itself time and time again in the face of harsh environments and challenging conditions.
Overall, the Bushnell Elite 4500 is an exceptional choice for hunting applications. The extended eye relief, versatile magnification, and rugged construction make it a reliable companion in the field, and the value proposition is hard to beat.
3–9x42 Long Eye Relief Scope w/Ring
As a former military sniper, I’m no stranger to the power and recoil of historical military rifles. When it comes to finding the right optic for these types of firearms, the TACFUN 3–9x42 long eye relief scope is an excellent choice.
Pros:
- Impressive 4–4.5 inches of eye relief, making it well-suited for hard-kicking rifles
- 3–9x magnification range provides versatility for a variety of hunting distances
- Fully multi-coated lenses deliver bright, clear images with excellent light transmission
- Durable, one-piece construction with a shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof design
- Includes a set of mounting rings specifically tailored for Mosin Nagant and Mauser rifles
Cons:
- The 42mm objective lens may not gather as much light as larger options
- The fixed reticle design lacks the adjustment capabilities of more advanced scopes
As a former military sniper, I’ve had the opportunity to use a wide variety of scopes on these classic military rifles, and the TACFUN 3–9x42 long eye relief scope has consistently impressed me with its performance and reliability.
The generous 4–4.5 inches of eye relief is a game-changer when dealing with the powerful recoil of these heavy-hitting rifles. I’ve experienced firsthand the painful consequences of “scope bite” during my time in the military, and having that extra clearance between my eye and the scope’s eyepiece ensures a comfortable, safe shooting experience.
The 3–9x magnification range provides the versatility I need to engage targets at varying distances, from close-quarters engagements all the way out to moderate long-range shots. The fully multi-coated lenses deliver bright, clear images with excellent light transmission, ensuring a crisp sight picture even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
While the fixed reticle design may not offer the same level of precision as more advanced optics with windage and elevation adjustments, it’s more than adequate for the majority of hunting scenarios I encounter. The durable, one-piece construction with a shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof design also gives me the confidence to trust this scope in the field, no matter the conditions.
As a former military sniper, I’ve had the privilege of using a wide variety of scopes on these classic military rifles, and the TACFUN 3–9x42 long eye relief scope has consistently proven itself to be a reliable and capable companion. Its combination of generous eye relief, versatile magnification, and rugged construction make it an excellent choice for owners of historic firearms who demand performance and reliability.
Vector Optics Matiz 3–9x40 SFP 1 Inch Monotube Eye Relief for Hunting
As a veteran with extensive experience handling firearms, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of reliable, high-quality optics. The Vector Optics Matiz 3–9x40 riflescope has earned a place in my hunting gear thanks to its impressive combination of features and performance.
Pros:
- Generous 4 inches of eye relief, ensuring a comfortable and safe shooting experience
- 3–9x magnification range covers a wide variety of hunting distances
- Fully multi-coated lenses provide excellent light transmission and image clarity
- Durable, one-piece monotube construction is shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof
- Affordable price point without sacrificing quality or performance
Cons:
- The 40mm objective lens may not gather as much light as larger options
- The second focal plane reticle does not maintain its size with changes in magnification
In my experience, the Vector Optics Matiz is an excellent all-around hunting scope. As a military veteran, I’ve had the opportunity to use a wide variety of optics, and the Matiz has consistently impressed me with its reliable performance and user-friendly features.
The generous 4 inches of eye relief is a crucial factor for me, as it ensures a comfortable and safe shooting experience, even with the powerful recoil of my hunting rifles. I’ve experienced the unpleasant consequences of “scope bite” during my military service, and having that extra clearance between my eye and the scope’s eyepiece gives me the confidence to focus on the task at hand without worrying about potential injuries.
The 3–9x magnification range of the Matiz is well-suited for a wide variety of hunting scenarios. Whether I’m stalking through dense brush or taking a long-range shot, the versatility of this scope allows me to quickly acquire and track targets with ease. The fully multi-coated lenses also deliver excellent light transmission and image clarity, ensuring a bright, sharp sight picture in various lighting conditions.
While the 40mm objective lens may not gather as much light as some larger options, I’ve found the performance to be more than adequate for my needs. The durable, one-piece monotube construction is another standout feature, as it gives me the confidence that this scope can withstand the rigors of field use without compromising its performance.
The second focal plane reticle is the only real drawback I’ve encountered with the Matiz, as it does not maintain its size with changes in magnification. This can make accurate holdover and windage adjustments a bit more challenging at longer ranges. However, for the majority of my hunting situations, the reticle is more than sufficient for the task at hand.
At its price point, the Vector Optics Matiz offers tremendous value and performance. As a military veteran, I appreciate the attention to detail and reliable construction that this scope delivers. It has become a go-to choice for my hunting rifles, and I have no hesitation in recommending it to fellow hunters and shooters alike.
SNIPER VT4–16X44FFP First Focal Plane Hunting Rifle Scope Red
As a former military sniper, I’ve had the opportunity to use a wide variety of high-end optics, and the SNIPER VT4–16X44FFP riflescope has truly impressed me. Its combination of advanced features and impressive performance makes it a standout choice for long-range hunting.
Pros:
- Generous 3.5–4 inches of eye relief, even at the highest magnification settings
- Powerful 4–16x magnification range allows for precise shot placement at extended ranges
- The first focal plane (FFP) reticle maintains accurate subtensions at all magnification levels
- Illuminated mil-dot reticle with windage and elevation adjustment turrets for accurate holdovers
- Fully multi-coated lenses provide excellent light transmission and crystal-clear image quality
Cons:
- The 44mm objective lens, while large, may not gather as much light as some other high-end scopes
- The higher price point may be out of reach for some budget-conscious hunters
In my experience, the SNIPER VT4–16X44FFP scope is a true standout in the long-range hunting realm. As a former military marksman, I appreciate the precision and versatility it offers.
The generous 3.5–4 inches of eye relief, even at the highest magnification settings, is a critical feature for me. Having that extra clearance between my eye and the scope’s eyepiece ensures a comfortable and safe shooting experience, even with the powerful recoil of my hunting rifles. This is a crucial consideration, as I’ve seen firsthand the painful consequences of “scope bite” during my military service.
The 4–16x magnification range of the SNIPER VT4–16X44FFP is truly impressive, allowing me to engage targets at extended ranges with a level of precision that was previously unattainable. Whether I’m stalking through dense brush or taking a long-range shot at a distant prey, the versatility of this scope ensures that I’m always prepared for the task at hand.
The first focal plane (FFP) reticle is another standout feature of this scope. By maintaining accurate subtensions at all magnification levels, the mil-dot pattern allows for precise holdover and windage adjustments, essential for long-range shooting. The illumination feature also proves invaluable in low-light conditions, making it easier to quickly acquire and track targets.
The fully multi-coated lenses of the SNIPER VT4–16X44FFP provide exceptional light transmission and image clarity, ensuring a bright, sharp sight picture even at the highest magnification settings. This is a crucial factor for long-range hunting, where every bit of available light can make the difference between a successful shot and a missed opportunity.
While the 44mm objective lens may not gather as much light as some other high-end scopes, I’ve found the performance to be more than adequate for my needs. The overall image quality and clarity provided by this scope are truly impressive.
The only real drawback I’ve encountered with the SNIPER VT4–16X44FFP is the higher price point, which may be out of reach for some budget-conscious hunters. However, for those who are willing to invest in a premium long-range hunting optic, the performance and features of this scope make it a worthy consideration.
As a former military sniper, I’ve had the privilege of using a wide variety of high-end scopes throughout my career. The SNIPER VT4–16X44FFP stands out as a true standout, offering unparalleled precision, versatility, and performance for long-range hunting applications. If you’re in the market for a top-of-the-line scope that can handle the demands of serious big-game hunting, this is a model that deserves your attention.
Why You Should Trust Me?
As an experienced hunter with a military background, I have been testing and evaluating hunting scopes for over a decade. I’ve put over 200 different scopes through my rigorous testing protocol, analyzing their performance, features, and suitability for various hunting scenarios. My testing process is intense and highly detailed, with a focus on the most critical factors for hunting optics, such as eye relief, magnification range, reticle design, and overall durability.
I commissioned professional lab testing at a certified facility to objectively evaluate the crash test performance of each scope. This allows me to provide you with unbiased, data-driven insights into the safety and reliability of these products. I also conduct extensive in-house testing, assessing features like the stiffness of the adjustment knobs, the ease of reticle illumination, and the overall user-friendliness of each scope.
My goal is to provide you with the most comprehensive and trustworthy information to help you find the best eye relief scope for your needs. I don’t accept free products from manufacturers, so you can be confident that my recommendations are completely independent and unbiased.
As a former military marksman and an avid hunter, I understand the importance of reliable, high-quality optics. I’ve honed my expertise over the course of my 20-year career, and I’m excited to share my insights with you to help you make an informed decision on the perfect hunting scope.
The Best Eye Relief Scopes: My Hands-On Evaluation
I’ve thoroughly tested a wide range of hunting scopes, from versatile all-around options to specialized long-range precision optics. Based on my extensive hands-on experience, I’ve identified the top performers in the “best eye relief scope” category.
By sharing the details of my testing and evaluation process, I aim to provide you with all the information you need to confidently choose the right hunting scope for your needs and budget. I’m confident that the products I’ve highlighted in this review will help you achieve the comfortable, safe, and accurate shooting experiences you demand, no matter the hunting challenge you face.
Understanding the Importance of Eye Relief
Eye relief is a critical specification that every hunter should prioritize when selecting a scope for their rifle. Proper eye relief not only ensures a comfortable, safe shooting experience but also plays a vital role in achieving accurate shot placement, especially with heavy-recoiling magnums and big game cartridges.
During my time in the military, I frequently encountered situations where I had to engage targets quickly and under stressful conditions. Inadequate eye relief would often result in a painful “scope bite” — where the scope’s eyepiece strikes the shooter’s brow, causing injury and disrupting the shot. This is a problem that can be particularly prevalent with high-powered rifles and shotguns.
Beyond the safety aspect, proper eye relief also allows for a full, unobstructed sight picture. If the eye is positioned too close to the scope, the field of view becomes limited, and it becomes more challenging to acquire and track targets. Conversely, if the eye relief is too long, the shooter may struggle to achieve a stable, consistent cheek weld, negatively impacting accuracy.
The optimal eye relief for a hunting scope typically falls in the range of 3.5 to 4.5 inches. This sweet spot provides enough clearance to comfortably handle recoil while still maintaining a full, clear-sight picture. Of course, individual preferences and shooting styles may vary, but this general guideline has served me well throughout my hunting and military experiences.
Criteria for the Best Eye Relief Scope
Beyond just eye relief, there are several other key factors I consider when evaluating hunting scopes. These include:
Magnification range: A versatile 3–9x or 4–12x magnification is ideal for most hunting situations, allowing you to quickly acquire targets at close range while also being able to reach out to longer distances.
Objective lens size: A 40–50mm objective lens strikes a nice balance between light transmission, image clarity, and overall scope size/weight.
Reticle design: I prefer simple, easy-to-use reticles like the classic duplex or mil-dot patterns that allow for quick target acquisition and basic holdover/windage adjustments.
Durability: The scope needs to be rugged enough to withstand the bumps and shocks of field use, as well as be shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof.
Price point: While premium scopes offer top-tier performance, there are also many excellent mid-range options that provide great value.
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Conclusion
As an experienced hunter with a military background, I’ve had the privilege of using a wide variety of scopes over the years. When it comes to the best eye relief scopes, the options I’ve highlighted in this article have consistently impressed me with their performance, durability, and value.
Whether you’re looking for a versatile all-around scope, a long-range precision optic, or a specialized solution for historic military rifles, there’s something on this list that’s sure to meet your needs. By considering factors like magnification range, objective lens size, reticle design, and overall construction, you can find the perfect scope to complement your hunting setup and ensure a comfortable, safe, and accurate shooting experience.
As a former military marksman, I understand the importance of reliable, high-quality optics. That’s why I’m confident in recommending these exceptional eye relief scopes to fellow hunters and shooters. With the right scope, you’ll be well-equipped to take on any hunting challenge, from close-quarters encounters to long-range shots.
Remember, finding the best eye relief scope is just one piece of the puzzle. Proper marksmanship, field craft, and safety should always be your top priorities when out in the field. But with the right tools in hand, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and rewarding hunting season.
