8 Best Shotgun Scopes

People sometimes have challenges in choosing a good shotgun scope. Now you can drift faraway those worries in the ocean, as I have a list of suitable top shotgun scopes you can choose from based on necessity.

Most shotguns don’t come with an optic, and rear sight will help you get an accurate lead on your target. Using shotguns without a scope is not advised. Consider getting a good and reliable one.

Choosing a shotgun with a durable scope and a perfect optic will help you get your shots accurately. Shotguns scopes can assist you in aiming correctly to reach your target point without missing.

Usually, scopes are always needed for rifles that are used for long-range shots. It is advisable to use a red dot on your shotgun for better target acquisition to engage targets easily. Shotgun scopes can be used on some, not all rifles.

When you use a shotgun scope, you get shots quickly and easily in short-range focus, but it is best to use a red dot. It will give you more focus on the front sight or rear sight to hit your target appropriately.

Shotgun scopes can serve different purposes. They can be used in hunting, for house defense, and controlling of varmints. It is better to use optics with lower magnification in improving accuracy when you aim at targets.

Are you looking to buy an quality shotgun scope but need help doing so? Here are our top three picks of the best shotgun scopes.

Top 3 Best Shotgun Scopes

Aimpoint PRO Red Dot Reflex Sight with QRP2 Mount and Spacer – 2 MOA – 12841

Designed to deliver premium performance under harsh conditions; 2 MOA dot with 10 brightness settings

$445.00

HOLOSUN – HS510C Reflex Red Dot Sight for Longer Barrels (2 MOA Dot, 65 MOA Circle)

$309.99

Nikon Prostaff P3 Predator Hunter 3-9X40 Bdc Predator Riflescope

Fully Multicoated Optical System; BDC PREDATOR Reticle; Hand-Turn 1/4 MOA Adjustments and Spring-Loaded Instant Zero-Reset Turrets

I suggest you choose an optic that suits your rifle. The marksmanship of scope is better to be considered than accuracy. A rugged shotgun optic is a good option for hunters hunting, especially in the woods at night/noon.

With a scope on your rifle, you can prevent missing targets and hunt/meet your targets quickly. The scope is suitable for use when you are out hunting for deers in the woods. You can get a clear and perfect shot in any kind of weather with a good optics attached.

Most shotguns are used in short-range, but you can use a good optic with it. A red dot optic is the right choice in getting a long-range shot accurately without missing. You must check the information stated by the manufacturers well enough to prevent the selection of a shotgun scope that is not good enough.

Before going into the review, let me provide you with tips on what to consider in choosing a shotgun scope.

What to consider for a shotgun scope?

In purchasing a good quality shotgun scope, there are essential/vital things to consider to avoid visible issues while using your shotgun/rifle’s scope.

Price and reliability

Checking the scopes’ warranty is very crucial in choosing a very reliable scope. When you miss out on this information, you may not get what you thought you have initially wanted.

Shotgun scopes are easy to purchase because they are cheaper than other scopes. You are even at an advantage when you get a shotgun scope since you don’t have to purchase something expensive and later regret it.

Some scopes may be expensive and not of high quality, while some may be affordable and worth every penny. I suggest that you find a scope with a full lifetime warranty that also covers damages to be on a safer edge of usage.

Accuracy and Magnification

The magnification of the scope is of high quality as you can quickly get your targets without stressing too much. With the scope, target acquisition is a piece of cake, as you can get them accurately without missing.

A higher magnification level will be needed if you are engaging in long-range shooting with a distance close to 1000yards. It is advisable to choose a scope with a high level of magnification for long-range shots acquisition.

Range

When you want to purchase a scope, you have to look at its construction. Using a scope with larger tubes will increase the range of adjustment, which is vital in getting long-range shots quickly.

Eye-relief

Getting a scope with eye-relief is advisable if you don’t want to strain or get your eye bruised when aiming at shoots. When your scope has eye relief, you can quickly look through the reticle with both eyes with no worries about having your eyes stressed.

Some come with infinite/long eye relief allowing you to look or sight in with both eyes, and some do not come with eye relief. You need to access the product well before picking it.

Quality lens coating

When a lens is well coated, the light reflection will be reduced, and there will be an increase in light transmission within the lens. A good scope must have a quality coated lens.

Construction

In different weather conditions, especially when it is foggy or raining, you can aim accurately even in the rain and when it is foggy. Selecting a waterproof, shockproof scope, and fog proof is highly recommended to enjoy hunting even during the night.

A scope that is well constructed can be used in all kinds of situations. For instance, when submerged in water, maybe you are a marine soldier, you can still sight in your targets. And your scope is safe underwater too since it is water-resistant.

Turrets and adjustments

The knob on the right side of the scope is an adjustment for windage. Both the windage and elevation knobs adjust the reticle and help you match your aim point of the firearm with the crosshairs.

If you are a hunter, choosing a scope with high quality and reliable turrets is essential not to be caught halfway in urgent situations. A scope with an easy parallax adjustment can allow you not to miss targets if you adjust it well.

A scope with a right turret gives you an advantage, as you can adjust windage and elevation appropriately. Getting a scope with a tight windage and elevation adjustment is advised.

Weight

In selecting a good shotgun scope, it is necessary to consider the weight. The weight of a scope can determine whether it can be mounted well on a rifle/shotgun. A lightweight scope is highly recommended for easy mounting on all types of guns.

Scopes come in different sizes and weights; the components added can either make it heavy or light. Having a scope that is lightly weighted is preferable for easy movement and use.

8 Best Shotgun Scopes(Reviewed and Ranked)

1. Aimpoint PRO Red Dot Reflex Sight with QRP 2 Mount and Spacer

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 6.75 x 4.63 x 3.38 inches
Weight: 0.49 pounds

The Aimpoint PRO Red Dot Reflex Sight is made of high-quality materials with 30000hours/3years constant battery life making it a right sight choice to mount on your rifle. It comes with 4-night vision capability settings and 6 daylight settings and includes front and rear flip-up lens cover to protect the sight.

With an Aimpoint PRO Red Dot Reflex Sight, you can aim at targets at any time. It has several night vision settings and light for easy target acquisition when sunny and even at night, especially for those who prefer a shot out at night.

The optic is perfect to use and worth the money; it is the lowest price professional Red Dot sight available. Designed to perform exceptionally well in harsh conditions. I suggest this sight/scope as it includes a rugged Aimpoint QPR2 mount and a removable spacer for adjusting the sight.

Aimpoints are reliable and proven optics for great usage. This sight is of good value and can be used indoors because of its perfect light setting.

For instance, when you need to be on the lookout when it is not safe in your area/environment. It is ideal for defending your home. Also ensures safety when you are in danger in the woods, especially at night.

With the Aimpoint PRO Red Dot Reflex Sight, you can get your targets at several yards easily without missing your shot. It comes with 2 MOA Red Dot for accuracy at all times, and it can be submerged into water to 150feet.

Pros

Allows for enhanced speed on target and increased first shot hit probability
It comes with protective flip-up lens covers, allowing the sight to be used even with the caps not flipped up for easy use in bright sunlight
It will work well with a 3x magnifier
It is night site compatible
The durability of the sight is fantastic
It comes with 2 MOA Red Dot mount that works well
Easy to mount and works well on the AR
Batteries are included with it and last longer
It has an off switch, but you can leave it on if you like
It is very affordable and, at the same time, of very high quality
It is parallax free and also has unlimited eye relief

Cons

2. Holosun HS510C 2 MOA Dot Or A 65 MOA Open Reflex Circle Dot Solar Power Holographic Red Dot Sight

HOLOSUN – HS510C Reflex Red Dot Sight for Longer Barrels (2 MOA Dot, 65 MOA Circle)

SOLAR FAILSAFE: Holosun’s Solar Power Failsafe Technology allows the red dot sight to remain reliably powered if your battery ever fails in a critical situation. The battery life can last up to 50,000 hours depending on settings.
AUTOMATIC BRIGHTNESS ADJUSTMENT: With the Solar Failsafe feature, the reticle will automatically become bright if you are under the sun, and will automatically dim down when you move indoors to match ambient lighting conditions.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 4.75 x 3.62 x 3.12 inches
Weight: 8.3 ounces

Using a Holosun HS510C 2 MOA Dot is advisable as it has an unlimited field of view, powered by both battery and solar. The sight is a new advanced technology allowing it to be used for up to 50,000hours of operation on one CR2032 battery for easy use.

The sight is shock resistant and titanium alloy, making it durable to use in aiming at targets in any situation. Its reticle will give you fast acquisition at a closer range, and the mount can be easily released with the convenient latch keeper.

It is the best reflex sight to opt for, and the reticle is very sharp with zero parallax allowing you to hit targets more accurately. I recommend the Holosun HS510C 2 MOA Dot as you can still use it without a battery because it is solar powered due to its advanced quality.

It is very affordable and, at the same time, of high quality. If you need a sight for home defense, the Holosun HS510C 2 MOA Dot is very bright and reliable.

Easily co-witnesses with the pop-up sights, and the reflex ability is pretty good. It turns itself off and then back on when you move the gun, saving battery. It is a perfect optic for easy usage. Has an excellent optic preferable for accurate shots at targets.

Pros

Cons

3. Nikon Prostaff P3 Predator Hunter BDC Predator Riflescope

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 4.92 x 0.79 x 0.79 inches
Weight: 0.94 pounds

The Riflescope feature allows you to sight your target at whatever range you like. It includes an aluminum quick focus eyepiece making it easy for accurate target acquisition.

With the Nikon Prostaff P3 Predator Hunter BDC Predator Riflescope, you can be assured of consistent eye relief. I suggest that you purchase a BDC Predator Riflescope as it can meet long-range targets of up to 400yards.

This reticle scope is designed for hunting. For deer hunters, the Riflescope is an excellent sight to opt for. The scope is made with Nikon’s quick range finding reticle for hunting and can be used in varmint/pest control.

Pros

Cons

4. TRUGLO GOBBLE-STOPPER 30mm Turkey Hunting Dual-Color Dot Sight

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 9.3 x 7.2 x 1.7 inches
Weight: 1 pounds

This scope is an excellent scope with specially designed reticles for hunting turkey. It includes detachable sunshades, 3V-CR2032 batteries, both main and spare. It is light weighted and easy to mount.

TRUGLO GOBBLE-STOPPER 30mm Turkey Hunting Dual-Color Dot Sight with Weaver Rings is well constructed of CNC-machined aircraft-grade aluminum of high quality. The reticle has dual-color [red and green] to choose from in sighting targets more accurately.

The sight is very suitable to use as it can be used in all kinds of situations. It is affordable with long-lasting batteries and can be easily adjusted, giving a shooter a vast advantage. It also includes unlimited eye relief, an adjustable rheostat for controlling brightness level, and flip-up lens covers.

Pros

Cons

5. Hammers Cantilever Barrel Deer Slug Shotgun Scope 2-7×32 with Weaver Rings

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 3.2 x 2.3 x 4.5 inches
Weight: 1 pounds

The scope is a high quality small, lightweight, and powerfully built with turret adjustment that can be locked in place after sighting to avoid accidental movement. It includes zoom power from 2x-7x, fine line circle x reticle for meeting targets quickly.

The Hammers Cantilever Barrel Deer Slug Shotgun Scope 2-7×32 with Weaver Rings has a field of view at 100yards with eye relief. I suggest that you use this scope as it is a great choice and quality scope worth every penny.

I recommend this scope for shooters to mount on their shotguns as long-range shots can be achieved with the Hammers Cantilever Barrel Deer Slug Shotgun Scope.

Pros

Cons

6. Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 5.4 x 3.4 x 2.2 inches
Weight: 0.23 pounds

Well constructed sight to perform at a high level for all types of shooters. It is a small, compact red dot with a durable metal housing. The Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope is easy to mount on and works well with most Picatinny rails.

This sight can be used for various kinds of activity, for instance, if you are shooting in the woods or spending a day at the range to practice shooting. Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope has extended battery life, allowing you to worry less about it going off.

It includes an O ring sealed optics, which makes it resistant to water, 3 MOA Dot reticle with 11 brightness settings. Getting a Rifle Scope is advisable because it is durably built to withstand bumps, bangs, or drops, especially those going to real battle or those caught in an urgent situation.

The dial to brightness control works perfectly well, making it easy for shooters to adjust even in darkness and bright sunlight. It is cheap to purchase and can maintain its accuracy for a lifetime. It has a one-year limited warranty for materials and workmanship.

Pros

It comes with a long-lasting battery
It can be used on air guns
It has unlimited eye relief for easy two eye use
It includes nitrogen purged waterproof/fog proof construction
All types of shooters can make use of this sight
Compatible with pistols, shotguns, rifles, muzzleloaders, and more
You can easily adjust the red dot brightness with an adjustment dial in tuning the brightness for any situation
The red dot does not wobble when aiming
Has an amber lens

Cons

7. TRUGLO 4X32mm Compact Rimfire and Shotgun Scope Series

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 0.5 x 0.5 x 6. inches
Weight: 1.05 pounds

The TRUGLO 4X32mm Compact Rimfire and Shotgun Scope Series are very reasonable and affordable for deer and turkey hunting. It comes with a fully coated lens providing appropriate brightness, clarity, and contrast.

The reticle is a diamond reticle model, including a Weaver-style scope mounting rails for easy mounting on rifles and shotguns. It is specially designed for shotgun hunting and is perfect for hunters who would like to hunt for deers and turkeys.

I suggest the use of this scope, especially for hunters. It comes with a rubber eye guard, which is very durable, preventing scratches. The duplex reticle model includes ⅜” scope mounting ring ideal for rimfire and air rifles.

Pros

Cons

8. StrongTools Waterproof Green Dot Laser Sight Adjustable Sight for Rifles & Shotguns with Mounts and Cable Press Switch

Sale

StrongTools Waterproof Green Dot Laser Sight Adjustable Sight for Rifles & Shotguns with Mounts and Cable Press Switch (Rifle-Green)

【Caution】: Avoid the eyes to be exposed to the beam directly
【Advantages】: Comes with a cable pressure switch to easily control laser on and off; Complementary 1″ barrel/scope clamp mount and gun mount to make this laser compatible with any 20mm width weaver base. Waterproof design works well in any weather conditions.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Dimensions: 6.38 x 5.16 x 1.69 inches
Weight: 144 g

The StrongTools Waterproof Green Dot Laser Sight is durable and of high quality. It comes with a cable pressure switch to control laser on and off, and it is perfect for novice shooters as well as professionals. Very reliable to be used in all kinds of shooting activities.

Made of aerospace-grade aluminum with anodized finish. I recommend this scope for a shotgun as you are at an advantage even when shooting competitively. It includes a highly visible green laser that can be used in any environment with improved accuracy.

With this scope, you can meet your Aimpoint up to 100 yards during the day and at night without missing your target. A complimentary 1” barrel/scope clamp mount is attached to make the green laser compatible with any 20mm width weaver base.

It is well constructed with quality materials allowing it to be used in any weather or condition; it is resistant to water. The use of a high-quality laser module like the green laser with qualified electronic components will support the scope for a lifetime. The laser can be adjusted based on the direction your target is located.

Pros

The beam is bright enough, but not too bright
Has solid construction with a rugged body tube
The adjustment screws allow pointing alignment in a snap
The green laser can be used in daylight or at night
It is designed to be waterproof
It comes with an on and off switch installed
Easy target acquisition is guaranteed; the performance stays consistent
The lens is a high clear glass lens, very bright to sight in even at night
It will fit the weaver style or Picatinny rail systems
Laser keeps a zero on an AR-style semi-auto 12 gauge shotgun
Includes two mounts, 1 Picatinny mount, and 1 shotgun mount

Cons

FAQs

Is shotgun scope best for 1000 yards?

Using a shotgun scope for a shotgun is highly recommended, as you can get shots quickly from a long-range without missing. It is the best choice for 1000 yards.

Can you easily adjust shotguns, or can you face difficulties?

Yes, but this depends on the kind of product purchased. I suggest you choose a good quality shotgun scope that best suits your needs.

What are the main points I should remember when buying a shotgun scope?

In purchasing a good shotgun scope, you need to check if its construction is of high quality, if the scope has an adjustable turret and auto on/off switch, and battery life is essential.

Can I use a shotgun scope on a slug gun?

It depends! Being able to use a shotgun scope on a slug gun relies solely on the mounting system. It is better to check the product details and reviews well to decide if it can be used.

Conclusion

In acquiring your target as a shooter, it is good to use a suitable gun/rifle with a high-quality scope. Sometimes, you may not be sure of the scope that should go with your shotgun/rifle.

Mounting the right shotgun scope for your shotgun can be done by selecting the appropriate scope from a series/list of different products by several manufacturers. The first thing to check when you want to purchase a scope is its lens/reticle and construction.

Importantly, you need to check the yardage of the scope so as to be assured of an accurate shot at your target from a long-range angle. Being able to shoot from a long-range is one of the major concerns of shooters, especially hunters.

Some shotgun scopes can be used with all types of guns and in any kind of situation. I recommend that you pick a scope that is resistant to shock, water, and fog. With a scope that can be used in any condition and weather, you are at an advantage.

Hunters are at an advantage as some shotgun scopes can be used for hunting deers and turkeys easily. I recommend the use of shotgun scopes to be mounted on shotguns for accurate shots at targets even at night or in urgent situations.

With sharp and accurate optics, a hunter’s speed is increased, allowing for faster target acquisition. Shotgun scopes are mostly designed for hunting birds, deers, coyotes, and controlling varmints.

I suggest you get a good shotgun scope to hit your target more accurately without missing at all times. Different manufactures have different specs available for you to choose from; you just need to pick a reliable and reasonable spec that best suits your needs.

Gabriel Tackett

Double major in Engineering and Geology at the University of Minnesota. Experienced shooter & hunter for over 15 years. Certified NRA officer for over 10 years working as a writer at Ballachy.com .