Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
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Are you finding it difficult to get a shot at small mammals or pests? You can get your target with a varmint scope. Tag along as we go through the top ten best varmint scopes that you can choose from according to your needs. Protecting yourself, your family, and your crops majorly as a farmer can be properly done with the use of a varmint scope along with your rifle. The best varmint scope can make an absolute difference in the hunting of small mammals/pests.
NightForce SHV 5-20x56mm Zeroset .250 MOA, Matte Black
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- NIGHTFORCE SHV 5-20x56 - The most powerful of our SHV series performs beautifully at both close and extended ranges on varmints, big game, and for making tight groups on paper
- SPECS - It features a full 80 MOA of elevation adjustment, side parallax adjustment and ZeroSet technology which allows a quick return to your initial zero setting, regardless of how many elevation adjustments you've made
- WHAT'S IN THE BOX - Rubber Lens Covers, Cleaning Fob/ Cleaning Cloth, Owners Manual, Other Tools (Loose Allen Keys, etc)
- RETICLES - SHV 5-20x56 Scope is available with Forceplex and MOAR - 20 MOA - Center Illumination. This Scope delivers outstanding clarity, crispness and color contrast at every magnification setting
- AVAILABLE MODELS - MOAR Center Only Illumination - C535; Forceplex Center Only Illumination (N. America) - C587; MOAR Non-Illuminated - C534; Forceplex Non-Illuminated (N. America) - C586
Rifles can be used in getting shots at animals but shots at small mammals may not be gotten easily without the use of a varmint scope. Pests can also attack us so we need to get into action with our rifles and a good scope to prevent these attacks.
Table of Contents
If you are in a hurry to purchase the best varmint scopes, and you want to make the best decision, here are our top 3 picks:
Top 3 Varmint Scopes
A day dedicated to hunting can be quite fun but sometimes dangerous when you are not well equipped for your hunting spree. Importantly is hunting of varmints which assists in getting rid of unwanted pests from damaging your property. Although there are different rifles used in hunting, matching a good rifle and a varmint scope is necessary. Hunting of pests or small mammals with a good scope is very vital, to get a good shot at them. A good choice of a varmint scope will assist in getting a long-distance target. It will also grant freedom from these varmints standing as a threat to you and your family.
You need to choose a hunting varmint scope based on the usage, not to be caught on the edge. With a good scope, you can control pests and also gain the advantage of getting shots from long distance. Varmints are disturbing pests ranging from rabbits, some birds like pigeons even squirrels. Using a shotgun with a varmint scope is advisable and appropriate in control of varmints. Mainly agricultural pests are of concern to farmers due to damages caused to crops/livestock. Crops are at risk of these pests as they stand as a threat to human health. There is a need for a good varmint scope in controlling them. In a situation where crops have been affected by these mammals or pests.
Humans are at risk of several diseases as we sometimes may not be aware that what we consumed has been infected. Keeping crops safe for human consumption is important to healthy living. These pests can infect our foods without us being aware, livestock, and also damage properties if we do not control them properly. Varmints vary in sizes, so we need to be extra careful in getting them off our surroundings or farmlands. I suggest you get the appropriate/perfect varmint scope for your rifle in achieving a quality control of these pests/small mammals. Then you can live in a society with fewer pests to worry about.
10 Best Varmint Scopes (Ranked And Reviewed)
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
17.83 x 4.84 x 4.45 Inches
-
Weight:
3.01 Pounds
The NightForce SHV 5-20x56mm Riflescope is perfect and has a well-built SHV. It is durable and of great quality with a non-illuminated MOAR reticle. It also includes MOA turrets for easy adjustments and comes with a 56mm objective lens for maximum light transmission. This Nightscope is good as it has a good glass quality all over its edges and it tracks well. It is one of the best target scopes, with it you can get your aimed target easily. The scope is very clear due to its quality magnification. I recommend the use of a NightForce scope as it can be used in any situation. It is waterproof and fog proof. You don’t have to be worried about clarity while using it in the rain as the aimed image remains clear.it is resistant to water and can be used to attain clarity even when it is foggy.
Positive
- The image or target remains the same size no matter the magnification
- It is water-resistant as it can be used in the rain and also achieves clarity even in a fog
- It comes with a 1 piece quality rubber which stretches over both ends of the scope making it work well with no flips
- The parallax does not go out, it is infinite
- It can handle any caliber if you use the right mount
- Includes lockable turrets
- Super clear and works well
- Able to shoot several yards [700-1000] away
Negatives
- It does not come with a sunshade making it to be fussy when it is sunny
- The warranty does not cover deliberate misuse
- Not military grade
2. Nikon Black FX1000
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
20 x 4.5 x 4.25 Inches
-
Weight:
1.53 Pounds
High quality and durable scope with quick focus eyepiece and side focus parallax adjustment allowing or giving you a fast target acquisition. The Nikon Black FX1000 includes some components such as; riflescope, caps, and sunshades. The reticle of the scope is glass etched and can be used to estimate target range and size at a certain magnification accurately. In a 30mm main body tube, having high-speed turrets providing adjustments per revolution.
Nikon Black FX100 is O-ring sealed to prevent the liquid substance from entering the body. It is also fog proof and shockproof as it is well constructed for easy utilization. You can relieve your eyes and keep your brows safe with the use of this scope. Clarity of images/pictures is guaranteed even from different shooting positions and posture. I suggest the use of the Nikon Black FX1000 in getting a good sight shot at pests/ small mammals in any shooting position.
Positive
- The glass is so good, you can read wind in an illusion at several yards
- The return to zero stop works perfectly well
- Adjustments are accurate making it easy to use
- It has the best long-range and also tracks well
- It is resistant to water, shock, and fog
- Even at full magnification, your target will not be out of sight or look faint
- It includes eye relief depending on the magnification setting
- Illumination can be turned on or off
Negatives
- Clicks are not so audible when utilized
- Nikon Black turrets may be caliber specific, but you can use a ballistic app to know how much to adjust depending on the load
- Efficacy is more about the rifle than the scope, a good scope like Nikon Black cannot help a bad rifle that much
- Expensive to purchase but worth it
3. ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart Day/ Night Rifle Scope
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
13.8 x 3 x 3 Inches
-
Weight:
2.1 Pounds
A highly advanced technological scope including an ultra HD sensor, ballistic calculator, and ultra-low power profile for easy usage. It comes with a removable SD card and built-in memory. With the ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart Day/ Night Rifle you can worry less about the darkness as it has night vision capabilities. This scope is up to standard. It will automatically record a video before and after you take a shot. The ultra HD sensor can zoom to any distance for a clear image in achieving your aimed target. I would recommend the use of ATN X-Sight as it relieves the eye and allows fast viewing. At night, a shooter is at an advantage as there is no need to worry about missing your target.
Positive
- Barometer pressure, altitude, and temp are entered automatically by the sensors in the scope
- The scope has an internal rechargeable battery and can last for close to 18hrs
- It includes night vision capabilities giving a night shooter an advantage
- The scope comes with sunshade, unlimited eye relief, charger cord, IR light, and mount for quality utilization
- It records before and after a shot is achieved
Negatives
- Batteries do not come with the illuminator
- The resolution is not good after 100 yards
- It is quite expensive to purchase
- Getting a clear shot depends mainly on the weather
4. Burris 200261 Ballistic Plex 2-7x32mm
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
12 x 3 x 3 Inches
-
Weight:
368.54 Grams
The Burris 200261 Ballistic Plex 2-7x32mm is designed to match scout rifle scopes, perfect for a close to the mid-range target. It is one of the best variable power and accurate scout scope which comes with repeatable audible clicks that can be adjusted. The scope is built-well making it water, fog, and shockproof. It allows for full eye relief with both eyes open while aiming a target. It includes a forward mounting design allowing mounting in front of the ejection port. Targets can be acquired quickly with both eyes opened. Its lens is multi-coated making it durable and also comes with double internal spring force. I suggest the use of the Burris 200261 Ballistic Plex in acquiring your targets faster.
Positive
- It comes with eye relief even with two eyes open allowing quick target acquisition
- The optics are very clear in retaining a clear picture
- It requires no bore-signing beyond looking down the barrel at the target and aligning the scope
- Holds a zero
- Bought at a lower price than other scopes
- It can be mounted on a Springfield SOCOM 16
- It is waterproof, shockproof, fog-proof, and nitrogen filled
Negatives
- When you see a bright light or color it reflects in the scope’s glass making the picture look faint
- It can see through several yards but not highly magnified
- The reticle is not illuminated
- The scope does not come with mounts or scope rings
- Cannot be mounted both high and low with one set of strings
5. Vortex Optics Crossfire 11 3-12×56 Adjustable Objective Hog Hunter Riflescope
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
14.5 x 2 x 1.73 Inches
-
Weight:
0.6 Kilograms
The Vortex Optics Crossfire 11 3-12×56 Adjustable Objective Hog Hunter Riflescope offers a higher level of performance and reliability. Includes a multi-coated optic with anti-reflective coating allowing shots to be placed in the worst light condition. In the lowest light, the Vortex Optics Crossfire 11 3-12×56 Adjustable Objective Hog Hunter Riflescope works well as it illuminates itself. It comes with a V-Brite illuminated MOA reticle allowing shooters to take shots in low light conditions. The optics on the scope are very clear aiding you with a good view at your target with eye relief attached. The illuminated center dots of the reticle provide a particular aiming point. I recommend the Vortex Optics Crossfire 11 3-12×56 Adjustable Objective Hog Hunter Riflescope. It is good for hunters while aiming in a low light condition.
Positive
- It boosts light providing extra minutes of shooting as day turns to night
- Can aim at targets in a long-range accurately based on the settings
- It is waterproof and fog proof and includes a sunshade
- Always clear and bright even at full magnification
- Has MOA clicks that can be reset to zero after sighting in
- The adjustable objective provides image focus and parallax removal while anti-reflective with long eye relief
- The scope is a good match for any rifle
- Quick and easy reticle focus is achieved with a fast-focus eyepiece
Negatives
- It is weighty
- Mainly used by hunters as it discriminates between hunters and shooters
- Selecting a mount for this scope depends on what you are mounting it to
6. Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Adjustable Objective Riflescope
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
17.7 x 2.9 x 2.4 Inches
-
Weight:
1.13 Pounds
Strongly built and durably designed making it ideal for long-range varmint target shooting. Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Adjustable Objective Riflescope is fully multi-coated and with argon purged fog-proofing. Getting a Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Adjustable Objective Riflescope is highly recommended in keeping fog out. It is also waterproof aiding its usage even while it is raining. I suggest the use of the riflescope as it includes dusk & dawn brightness multicoated lenses for clarity and brightness. You can take a shot at a varmint at night accurately with the scope. Give 3.5inches eye relief when you have focused on a target for too long.
Positive
- It works perfectly well during daylight, dawn, and dusk
- 100% waterproof, O-rings sealed optics stay dry inside even when immersed totally in water and it is also fog proof
- It holds zero well and also has a yardage adjustment at the end
- It offers clarity
- It does not come with a scope mount
- Aids long-range shooting
Negatives
- No sunshade is included
- Eye relief is not too long when used on a black powder gun
7. Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire Riflescope
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
14 x 3 x 2.75 Inches
-
Weight:
1.1 Pounds
Strongly built and durably designed making it ideal for long-range varmint target shooting. Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Adjustable Objective Riflescope is fully multi-coated and with argon purged fog-proofing. Getting a Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Adjustable Objective Riflescope is highly recommended in keeping fog out. It is also waterproof aiding its usage even while it is raining. I suggest the use of the riflescope as it includes dusk & dawn brightness multicoated lenses for clarity and brightness. You can take a shot at a varmint at night accurately with the scope. Give 3.5 inches eye relief when you have focused on a target for too long.
Positive
- The Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire Riflescope can be used on any type of rifle
- The reticle does not get bigger and thicker as you power up
- Freedom rimfire rifle scopes are great for target shooting
- With a twilight light management system, glare is reduced for good image quality in any lighting condition
- Lifetime warranty
- Performs well when exposed to extreme climate
Negatives
- Not cheap but worth the money
- They do not come with lens covers
- Turrets cannot be reset to zero after sighting in
- Rings and mounting rails are not included
8. BSA Optics Sweet 17 SP 6-18 x 40mm Side Parallax Rifle Scope .17 HMR
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
18.5 x 4 x 3 Inches
-
Weight:
1.2 Pounds
The BSA Optics Sweet 17 SP 6-18 x 40mm Side Parallax Rifle Scope .17 HMR is durable and long-lasting. Made specifically for .17HMR with adjustable parallax including a zoom ring and 17gr turret drums used in hunting. This scope includes glass lens material fully multi coated lenses, 3″ sunshade, and fast focus on targets. It is resistant to fog, water, and shock. Using the BSA Optics Sweet 17 SP 6-18 x 40mm Side Parallax Rifle Scope .17 HMR is advisable, it is a nice clear scope and holds zero as it should. With the scope, you can adjust your parallax to achieve your aim point without missing your target. I recommend this scope for hunters/shooters to assist you in meeting your target.
Positive
- With a BSA Optics Sweet 17 SP 6-18 x 40mm Side Parallax Rifle Scope .17 HMR you can bring in clear and bright images
- From a long-range, you can still achieve clarity/sharpness
- It comes with lens covers and a sunshade
- The side parallax is accurate allowing the shooter to aim correctly
- It lasts long
- Focus adjustment is from zero to infinity
Negatives
- No eye relief
- It does not have a rubber coating like the old ones
- This scope does not include scope rings
9. Tasco Target/Varmint 6-24x42mmx40mm
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
18 x 4 x 4 Inches
-
Weight:
19.6 Ounces
Made up of a Mil-Dot reticle, 42-millimeter objective lens, and high-quality multi coated optics producing clear and bright images. Tasco Target/Varmint 6-24x42mmx40mm is made in the US. The scope is quite expensive but it is of high quality. I suggest its usage as it has a good flare control in achieving clarity. It is easy to carry because of its lightweight and has a very good close-range focus.
Positive
- Achieves good clarity
- It is lightweight making it easy to use
- The adjustments are very audible
- It works perfectly well and is worth the money
- Turrets work as good as the parallax adjustment does
- Has a lifetime warranty
- The scope has a very clear adjustable objective
- It includes waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof construction
Negatives
- Image brightness is not good past 12x
- With the use of a Tasco Target/Varmint 6-24x42mmx40mm tracking is not very consistent as it should be
- In conditions short of optimal clarity shots can only be gotten at higher magnification
10. ATN X-Sight II HD 5-20 Smart Day/Night Rifle Scope
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
11.36 x 3.45 x 3.5 Inches
-
Weight:
4.4 Pounds
The ATN X-Sight II HD 5-20 Smart Day/Night Rifle Scope is durable and of high quality. It includes a lot of advanced components namely; a ballistic calculator, smart range finder, and record HD video. The scope is a really good one that can be utilized at any time or situation. Its optics technology allows you to use the scope both day and night with no worries. I suggest the use of this scope in getting clear images, day or night. For a hunter who prefers hunting at noon, the ATN X-Sight II HD 5-20 Smart Day/Night Rifle Scope is advisable to use. It has night vision mode attached to it. The scope provides quality and clear images irrespective of the lighting condition. The scope has a recoil activated video allowing you to record and save your outings/shots at the hunting ground. It also includes a rangefinder for any distance which allows you to get a perfect shot at all times.
Positive
- Night vision capabilities
- The scope can be used at any time of the day and in any kind of situation
- With the scope rangefinder, you can hit your target accurately from a long or short distance
- It includes an IR illuminator that works with your night vision device to help illuminate the scene or image well
- Does not emit light that can scare off aware animals
- It comes with weaver mounts and a control system making it easy to operate
- It functions well
Negatives
- It is heavy most especially when it is to be used on small caliber rifles
- Drains battery quickly
- The scope cannot hold a zero
- No guarantee that it lasts long
- It cannot be used if the batteries are dead
- No remote included
- It does not prevent fog from fogging up on the lens
FAQs
Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
Many times shooters complain about not getting clearer images and shots at their aimed targets due to fog, rain or shock. These inders the reticle or lens from viewing an image clearly
Some varmint scopes have night vision capabilities allowing them to be used efficiently in achieving a clean shot, especially for hunters in the woods. I recommend that you choose a varmint scope that is fog proof and has night vision mode for better performance.
Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
Hunters/ shooters try to shoot from a long-range close to 1000yards and they may hit or miss a target depending on their choice of scopes to use. The varmint scopes are good to use in this aiming at several yards but it depends on their quality and accuracy.
Varmint scopes shoots can be the flattest depending on the product and how well you can adjust it. It comes with different settings which makes the scope adjustable based on your preference.
Conclusion
Getting an appropriate varmint scope is very important in control of vermits/pests. These pests cause a whole lot of damage to things that we sometimes think they cannot even go near. You can assist yourself by picking the product that best suits your condition. For instance farmers are at the verge of losing all their crops due to the pests/small mammals infesting on them. They need alternatives in laying off all these animals off their farmlands. I recommend the use of a varmint scope in controlling and putting an end to the savaging of crops by these pests. To be on a safer and healthy edge it is better to get one of the best varmint scope to prevent and also improve a healthy diet.
Varmint scopes vary as there are different products produced by several manufacturers. Selecting a good product that is suitable for your needs is advisable. Do not pick randomly. Climate conditions can dictate if a scope is appropriate for usage or not. Trying to get a shot at a target while it is sunny may not be possible as the image may be faint/unclear. Clarity is basic in achieving a good shot at your aimed point. Some varmint scopes have night vision mode or adjustable settings. You just need to choose rightly. I suggest that you note your needs first and prepare for any kind of situation. There are alot of scopes and several calibers that these varmint scopes can fit. Using a particular scope on a perfect and accurate rifle is very important to how you can get your aimed target without missing.
Our Research Process
Our curated list of products has been provided to you by our experienced team of researchers and writers at Ballachy who have tested and scrutinized product recommendations on the market. Our experience in the field, in-depth research and hands-on approach has allowed us to objectively analyse products for years and continuously providing value for buyers who are looking to get accurate and unbiased reviews. If you would like to know more about our research methods, we welcome you to visit our page here detailing how our recommendations are done. Furthermore, as we are always looking keep our guides updated and welcome any feedback from readers regarding different experiences or recommendations to adjust our list. If you consider that we have missed on some important recommendations, please let us know here, so we can add-on any valuable feedback.
Author Profile
- Gabriel Tackett
- Gabriel Tackett is an experienced shooter and hunter for over 15 years with a degree in Engineering from the University of Minnesota. He is also a certified National Rifle Association (NRA) officer for 10 years And his passion lies in teaching others how to safely enjoy the hobby by recommending the best practices & products in the gun industry.