You don’t have to spend a fortune to tag game at 400, 600, or even 1,000 yards. Today’s budget-friendly long range scopes bring real clarity, repeatable tracking, and features hunters could only dream of a decade ago. If you want to stretch your shots without emptying your wallet, this guide covers the top long range hunting scopes under $500–$600, with full reviews, a buyer’s guide, and an FAQ to help you buy with total confidence.
Quick Picks
- Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44 FFP — Best Overall
- Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP — Best Value
- Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 — Best for Maximum Zoom
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing a Budget Long Range Hunting Scope
Budget optics have come a long way. You just need to know what features matter most for long range hunting. Here’s what to look for:
- Magnification Range: For hunting, 4-16x or 4-14x is perfect. 6-24x is great for open country or target work, but more zoom isn’t always better in the field.
- First Focal Plane (FFP): FFP scopes keep reticle subtensions accurate at any zoom—ideal for holdovers and dialing at long range. Many affordable models now offer this.
- Tracking & Adjustments: Crisp, repeatable turrets and positive clicks help you dial accurately and return to zero every time.
- Objective Lens Size: 44mm to 50mm is the sweet spot—plenty of light without making your rifle too top-heavy.
- Reticle Style: Go for clean BDC, MOA, or mil-dot reticles for easy holdovers and wind calls. Avoid super-busy “tactical” reticles for hunting.
- Durability: Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction are must-haves—especially for rough hunts or bad weather.
- Warranty: Trusted brands offer real warranties. Look for “no questions asked” coverage if possible.
Full Reviews — Top Budget Long Range Hunting Scopes
Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44 FFP
Who it’s for: Hunters who want a field-tough, first focal plane scope with great glass and reliable turrets—for less than you’d expect.
- Key Benefits:
- 4-16x zoom covers timber to open country
- First focal plane EBR-2C reticle for accurate holds at any zoom
- Side focus parallax adjustment
- Fully multi-coated lenses for sharp, bright images
- Pros:
- Excellent glass for the price
- Turrets are crisp and repeatable—tracks true
- Rugged, waterproof, and backed by Vortex’s VIP warranty
- Cons:
- Heavier than simpler hunting scopes
- No illumination
- Final Verdict: For a budget-minded hunter ready to stretch their shots, the Diamondback Tactical FFP is tough to beat. Click to see deals and specs:
See Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44 FFP Price
Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP
Who it’s for: Shooters wanting a first focal plane, mil-dot reticle, and simple controls—ideal for practical field hunting and targets.
- Key Benefits:
- 4-14x zoom works for deer, varmints, and steel
- ACSS HUD DMR reticle makes rangefinding and holds fast
- Sturdy, shockproof build
- Side parallax adjustment for sharp focus at any range
- Pros:
- Excellent reticle design for real hunting
- Affordable but reliable
- Primary Arms lifetime warranty
- Cons:
- Not as bright as more expensive glass
- Adjustment turrets are capped (less tactical, but fine for hunting)
- Final Verdict: For budget hunters and shooters, the SLx FFP offers high-end features without a big price tag. Click for current price and reviews:
See Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP Price
Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50
Who it’s for: Open country hunters, varminters, and long range shooters who want more zoom for big fields or wide-open shots.
- Key Benefits:
- 6-24x zoom is excellent for long shots on small game
- Big 50mm objective lens for max brightness
- Side parallax adjustment and Ballistic E3 reticle
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Pros:
- Plenty of zoom for prairie dogs, coyotes, or steel
- Easy holdover and windage references
- Burris Forever Warranty
- Cons:
- More zoom means a narrower field of view at low power
- Bigger and heavier than a basic deer scope
- Final Verdict: If you want to see your target up close at distance, the Fullfield IV 6-24×50 is a top-value scope with all the reach you need. Check prices here:
See Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 Price
Monstrum G3 6-24×50 FFP
Who it’s for: Budget shooters who want maximum features—FFP, illumination, side focus, and tactical turrets—without paying premium prices.
- Key Benefits:
- 6-24x first focal plane, illuminated MOA reticle
- Zero-reset turrets and locking adjustments
- Side parallax focus
- Includes sunshade and lens covers
- Pros:
- All the features of high-end scopes at a bargain price
- Great for both range and field use
- Solid warranty and support
- Cons:
- Heavier and bulkier than many hunting scopes
- Not as crisp as top-tier glass, but excellent for the price
- Final Verdict: For under $300, you get FFP, illumination, and serious dialing features—perfect for learning long range hunting on a budget. See deals below:
Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 6-24×50 FFP
Who it’s for: Shooters who want true precision—first focal plane, side focus, and advanced reticle—without breaking the bank.
- Key Benefits:
- 6-24x zoom with full FFP reticle
- Fully multi-coated lenses and etched reticle
- Side focus for crisp images at any range
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Pros:
- Excellent tracking and repeatability
- Built for both hunting and range work
- Athlon’s lifetime warranty
- Cons:
- Some users report stiffer turrets out of the box
- Heavier than minimalist hunting optics
- Final Verdict: Athlon Argos BTR gives you nearly everything the pros use, at a price you can actually afford. Click for pricing:
See Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 6-24×50 Price
Comparison Table
| Name | Magnification | Objective Lens | First Focal Plane | Key Features | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vortex Diamondback Tactical | 4-16x | 44mm | Yes | FFP, side focus, rugged | Check Price |
| Primary Arms SLx FFP | 4-14x | 44mm | Yes | ACSS reticle, simple, light | Check Price |
| Burris Fullfield IV | 6-24x | 50mm | No | Ballistic E3, warranty | Check Price |
| Monstrum G3 | 6-24x | 50mm | Yes | FFP, illuminated, value | Check Price |
| Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 | 6-24x | 50mm | Yes | Advanced reticle, durable | Check Price |
FAQ — Budget Long Range Hunting Scopes
What’s the best magnification for budget long range hunting?
For deer or elk, 4-16x or 4-14x works for most shots. If you target coyotes or varmints at 400+ yards, 6-24x lets you see more detail—but field of view narrows at higher zoom.
Is first focal plane (FFP) worth it for hunting?
Yes, if you dial or use holdovers at different magnifications. FFP keeps your reticle accurate no matter the zoom, making long shots and wind calls easier.
Are cheap long range scopes reliable?
Top budget brands like Vortex, Burris, Athlon, and Primary Arms offer scopes that hold zero and track accurately for years. Always check warranty and real-world reviews.
Should I get an illuminated reticle?
Illumination is helpful for low light, but not essential for all hunters. If you hunt dusk and dawn, or in dark cover, it’s worth considering.
What about warranty and customer support?
All scopes listed here include strong warranties—some are lifetime “no questions asked.” This is a huge plus for any scope, budget or not.
Conclusion & Call to Action
You don’t need to spend a fortune to hit targets or game at distance. Any of the scopes above will get you dialing, holding over, and making clean, ethical shots farther than you ever thought possible—all without breaking the bank. Click any link to see today’s best deals and get ready for your most successful long range season yet!