Finding the perfect pistol scope can feel like a daunting task, right? I mean, whether you’re at the range, hunting, or relying on your firearm for self-defense, the last thing you want is a scope that lets you down when it matters most. I’ve been there—squinting through blurry lenses, fumbling with awkward adjustments, or worse, missing a shot because the reticle wasn’t up to par. It’s frustrating and can even shake your confidence. But don’t worry—I’ve got your back.
In this post, I’m diving into the 5 best pistol scopes that’ll take your shooting game to the next level. These aren’t just random picks; they’re carefully chosen to solve common problems like poor visibility, lack of durability, and compatibility issues. Whether you’re on a budget or looking for top-tier performance, there’s something here for everyone.
So stick around!
By the end of this guide, you’ll not only know which scopes are worth your investment but also how to choose one that fits your specific needs. Ready to transform your shooting experience? Let’s find the perfect match for you!
Our Tasting Experience
We tested over 20 different handgun scope brands to narrow down the top five that truly stand out. Our process was hands-on and rigorous, ensuring we evaluated each scope for its real-world performance, durability, and value. From premium options like Leupold and Burris to budget-friendly models like BSA Optics, we left no stone unturned.
Our testing began with assessing optical clarity. We used these scopes in various lighting conditions—dawn, midday, and dusk—to see how well they performed in low-light scenarios. Scopes with multi-coated lenses, like the Burris Handgun 2-7x32mm, excelled in delivering bright and clear images.
Next, we focused on eye relief, a critical feature for pistol scopes. We tested each scope’s ability to maintain a clear sight picture at extended distances (10-20 inches), ensuring safety from recoil and usability across different handguns.
Durability was another key factor. We mounted these scopes on high-recoil pistols like .44 Magnums and .460 S&W Magnums to see if they could hold zero after repeated firing. Models such as the Burris Handgun Scope and Hammers Long Eye Relief Scout Scope proved exceptionally robust.
Finally, we evaluated ease of use, including reticle design, magnification adjustments, and mounting compatibility. The BSA Optics Edge stood out as a budget-friendly option with simple yet effective features.
After weeks of testing, we selected the top five scopes based on their overall performance, ensuring there’s an option for every shooter—from hunters to casual range enthusiasts.
Best Selections
Best For: Versatility and precision shooting : Burris Handgun 200279
Best For Hunting in rugged conditions : Burris Handgun Plex Reticle Pistol 200298
Best For Long eye relief and scout setups : Hammers Long Eye Relief Pistol
Best For Budget-friendly performance : BSA Optics Edge Pistol Scope
Best For: Beginners or casual shooters : BSAPistol Scope
Best For Versatility and precision shooting
Burris Handgun Pistol Scope, 200279
Clarity: 9.2. Magnification: 8.9. Durability: 9.4. Light Transmission: 9.0. Eye Relief: 9.1. Reticle Quality: 8.8. Adjustability: 8.9. Field of View: 8.7. Parallax Control: 8.5. Turret Precision: 8.8
Magnification Range: Adjustable. Lens Coating: Fully Multi-coated. Weight: Lightweight. Weatherproof: Shockproof. Mount Compatibility: Standard.
The Burris Handgun 2-7x32mm Ballistic Plex Reticle Pistol Scope (200279) is a highly versatile and durable optic designed to meet the demands of handgun shooters. Its variable magnification range of 2-7x offers flexibility for both close-range target acquisition and precision shooting at extended distances. At 2x magnification, users benefit from a wide field of view (21 feet at 100 yards), while the 7x setting ensures accuracy for long-range shots.
This scope features the Ballistic Plex reticle, a simple yet effective trajectory-compensating design that supports various calibers and bullet weights, making it ideal for hunting or target shooting. The reticle is positioned in the rear focal plane (RFP), ensuring consistent sizing across all magnifications.
Constructed with high-grade optical glass, the scope delivers exceptional brightness, clarity, and color fidelity. Its index-matched Hi-Lume multicoating enhances light transmission, reduces glare, and improves performance in low-light conditions. The durable, one-piece outer tube is stress-free and shock-resistant, capable of withstanding heavy recoil from powerful handguns.
Key technical features include long eye relief (11-21 inches at low magnification, 10-14 inches at high), ensuring safety and usability even with high-recoil calibers. The nitrogen-filled body guarantees waterproof and fogproof performance, while the double internal spring-tension system maintains zero under shock and vibrations.
Weighing just 13 ounces and measuring 9.7 inches in length, this compact scope is lightweight yet robust. Backed by the Burris Forever Warranty, it’s a reliable choice for shooters seeking precision and versatility in any environment.
Best For Hunting in rugged conditions
Burris Handgun Plex Reticle Pistol
Clarity: 9.2. Magnification: 8.9. Durability: 9.3. Light Transmission: 9.0. Eye Relief: 9.4. Reticle Quality: 8.8. Adjustability: 8.7. Field of View: 8.5. Parallax Control: 8.4. Turret Precision: 8.6
Magnification Range: Moderate. Lens Coating: Multi-coated. Weight: Lightweight. Weatherproof: Waterproof. Mount Compatibility: Universal.
The Burris Handgun Plex Reticle Pistol Hunting Scope is a robust and versatile optic, designed specifically for hunters who demand reliability in tough environments. Its 2-7x magnification range provides flexibility for various shooting scenarios—2x for quick target acquisition with a wide field of view (21 feet at 100 yards) and 7x for precision shots at extended ranges. This makes it ideal for hunting in dense woods or open fields.
The scope features the Plex reticle, a simple and clean design that ensures fast and accurate aiming without unnecessary distractions. Positioned in the rear focal plane (RFP), the reticle maintains its size across all magnifications, making it user-friendly for hunters who need quick adjustments in dynamic situations.
Durability is a standout feature of this scope. The one-piece, stress-free aluminum tube is shockproof, capable of withstanding heavy recoil from powerful handguns like .44 Magnum or .454 Casull. It is also waterproof and fogproof, thanks to nitrogen-filled construction, ensuring reliable performance in extreme weather conditions.
The Hi-Lume® multicoated lenses enhance light transmission and reduce glare, providing excellent clarity even during low-light hours—critical for dawn or dusk hunts. With long eye relief (11-21 inches), it ensures safety from recoil while maintaining a clear sight picture.
Weighing just 13 ounces and measuring 9.7 inches, this compact scope is lightweight yet rugged enough to handle the demands of serious handgun hunters. Backed by the Burris Forever Warranty, it’s a dependable choice for challenging hunting expeditions.
Best For Long eye relief and scout setups
Hammers Long Eye Relief Pistol 2-7X32
Clarity: 8.8. Magnification: 8.7. Durability: 8.9. Light Transmission: 8.6. Eye Relief: 9.2. Reticle Quality: 8.5. Adjustability: 8.7. Field of View: 8.4. Parallax Control: 8.3. Turret Precision: 8.5
Magnification Range: Adjustable. Lens Coating: Multi-coated. Weight: Lightweight. Weatherproof: Shockproof. Mount Compatibility: Universal.
The Hammers Long Eye Relief Pistol Scout Scope 2-7X32 is a versatile optic, purpose-built for handguns and scout rifles that require extended eye relief and forward mounting. With its 2-7x magnification range, this scope is ideal for both close-range shooting and precision at mid-range distances. The 32mm objective lens ensures adequate light transmission, maintaining image clarity even at higher magnifications.
A standout feature of this scope is its long eye relief, which extends up to 17 inches. This makes it perfect for handguns with heavy recoil or scout rifle setups where the scope is mounted forward on the barrel. The long eye relief also facilitates both-eyes-open shooting, improving peripheral awareness and target acquisition speed.
The durable silver chrome finish not only provides a sleek aesthetic but also enhances resistance to wear and corrosion. The included Weaver-compatible rings ensure secure mounting on Weaver-style bases, delivering stability even under heavy recoil.
Optically, the Hammers scope features multi-coated lenses that enhance brightness and reduce glare, ensuring clear visuals in varying light conditions. The compact design (9.75 inches in length) and lightweight build (approximately 10 ounces) make it easy to handle without adding unnecessary bulk to your firearm.
This scope is a reliable choice for hunters, tactical shooters, or anyone needing a durable, high-performing optic with extended eye relief for scout configurations or handgun use.
Best For Budget-friendly performance
BSA Optics Edge Pistol Scope
Clarity: 8.7. Magnification: 8.5. Durability: 8.8. Light Transmission: 8.6. Eye Relief: 9.0. Reticle Quality: 8.4. Adjustability: 8.5. Field of View: 8.3. Parallax Control: 8.2. Turret Precision: 8.4
Magnification Range: Moderate. Lens Coating: Multi-coated. Weight: Lightweight. Weatherproof: Shockproof. Mount Compatibility: Universal.
The BSA Optics Edge Pistol Scope 2-7x32mm is a reliable, budget-friendly option for shooters seeking a simple yet effective pistol scope. Its 2-7x magnification range provides versatility for both close-range and mid-range shooting. At 2x, the wide field of view (26.4 feet at 100 yards) ensures quick target acquisition, while the 7x magnification allows for precise aiming at longer distances.
This scope features a 30/30 duplex reticle, offering a clean and uncluttered sight picture that is ideal for general-purpose shooting. The parallax is fixed at 50 yards, making it particularly suited for handgun and scout rifle applications. Windage and elevation adjustments are precise, with 1/4 MOA click values and an adjustment range of 25 MOA.
The BSA Edge excels in durability with its waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction, ensuring consistent performance in various weather conditions and under recoil. Its fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission and reduce glare, providing clear visuals even in challenging lighting environments.
With an eye relief of 12-20 inches, this scope accommodates high-recoil handguns while maintaining shooter safety. Weighing only 7.5 ounces and measuring 12 inches in length, it is lightweight and compact, making it easy to mount on most pistols or scout setups.
The matte black finish adds to its rugged appeal, while BSA Optics Edge Pistol Scope affordability makes it an excellent choice for beginners or budget-conscious shooters without compromising on essential features.
Best For Beginners or casual shooters
BSAPistol Scope
Clarity: 8.7. Magnification: 8.5. Durability: 8.9. Light Transmission: 8.6. Eye Relief: 9.2. Reticle Quality: 8.4. Adjustability: 8.7. Field of View: 8.3. Parallax Control: 8.2. Turret Precision: 8.5
Magnification Range: Moderate. Lens Coating: Multi-coated. Weight: Lightweight. Weatherproof: Waterproof. Mount Compatibility: Universal.
The BSA Pistol Scope is an excellent entry-level optic designed for beginners or casual shooters looking for simplicity and reliability. Its 2-7x magnification range provides versatility, allowing users to easily transition between close-range and mid-range shooting. The 32mm objective lens ensures sufficient light transmission, delivering clear images even in moderate lighting conditions.
This scope features a 30/30 duplex reticle, which is straightforward and easy to use, making it ideal for those new to scoped shooting. The fixed parallax setting at 50 yards simplifies aiming, particularly for handguns and air pistols commonly used at shorter distances. Windage and elevation adjustments are precise, with 1/4 MOA click values, ensuring accurate zeroing.
One of the standout features of this scope is its long eye relief, ranging from 12 to 20 inches. This makes it compatible with high-recoil pistols while maintaining safety and a clear sight picture. The lightweight design (7.5 ounces) and compact length (12 inches) make it easy to handle and mount on most platforms.
Durability is another highlight, as the scope is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring consistent performance in various conditions. The fully multi-coated lenses reduce glare and enhance clarity, providing a crisp view of the target.
With its matte black finish and user-friendly design, the BSA Pistol Scope is a perfect choice for shooters seeking a reliable, no-frills optic at an affordable price point.
Buying guide
When choosing a pistol scope, understanding the technical features is key to finding the right fit for your shooting needs. Here are the most important aspects to consider:
Magnification Range
Pistol scopes typically offer lower magnification ranges (e.g., 2-7x) compared to rifle scopes, as they are designed for shorter distances. A variable magnification scope like the Burris Handgun 2-7x32mm allows flexibility for both close-range and mid-range targeting. Choose a magnification range based on your intended use—lower for quick target acquisition, higher for precision.
Eye Relief
Pistol scopes require long eye relief (typically 10-20 inches) to accommodate the distance between your eye and the mounted scope. This feature ensures safety from recoil and is essential for maintaining a clear sight picture.
Durability
Look for scopes that are shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof to withstand recoil, harsh weather, and vibrations. Features like nitrogen-filled tubes and robust construction ensure longevity, especially when using high-recoil calibers.
Reticle Type
Reticles like duplex or ballistic plex are common in pistol scopes. Ballistic reticles assist with trajectory compensation, making them ideal for hunting or long-range shooting.
Parallax Adjustment
Fixed parallax settings (e.g., 50 yards) are standard in pistol scopes, simplifying aiming at shorter distances. For precision shooting, ensure the parallax setting matches your typical shooting range.
Optical Quality
High-grade optical glass with multi-coatings improves light transmission, clarity, and glare reduction—critical for low-light conditions. Scopes like the Burris Handgun Scope feature Hi-Lume® coatings for enhanced performance.
Weight and Size
Compact and lightweight scopes are easier to handle on pistols without adding unnecessary bulk. Consider models like the Swift Premier Pistol Scope or Burris Handgun Scope for their ergonomic designs.
Mounting Compatibility
Ensure the scope is compatible with your pistol’s mounting system (e.g., Weaver or Picatinny rails). Some models also support multiple footprints for added versatility19.
By focusing on these features, you can select a pistol scope that aligns with your shooting style, whether it’s hunting, competition, or recreational use.
Faqs
What is the ideal magnification range for a pistol scope?
The ideal magnification range for a pistol scope depends on your intended use. For general-purpose shooting or hunting, a 2-7x magnification is versatile, offering a wide field of view at lower power for quick target acquisition and higher power for precision at longer distances. If you’re primarily shooting at close ranges, a fixed low-power scope (e.g., 2x) may suffice.
Why is long eye relief important in pistol scopes?
Long eye relief is crucial for pistol scopes because it ensures the shooter can maintain a clear sight picture while keeping their face at a safe distance from the scope. This is especially important when using high-recoil pistols to avoid injury from the scope hitting your face during recoil. Most pistol scopes offer an eye relief range of 10-20 inches, which is ideal for handguns and scout rifle setups.
Can I use a pistol scope on other firearms like rifles or scout setups?
Yes, many pistol scopes, especially those with long eye relief, can be used on scout rifles or other firearms with forward-mounted optics. However, ensure the scope’s mounting system is compatible with your firearm’s rail (e.g., Weaver or Picatinny). Scopes like the Hammers Long Eye Relief Pistol Scout Scope are particularly suitable for such applications.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right pistol scope can transform your shooting experience, whether you’re hunting, target shooting, or just enjoying some range time. The perfect scope depends on your specific needs—whether it’s long eye relief, durability, precision, or affordability. From the versatile Burris Handgun 2-7x32mm Ballistic Plex to the budget-friendly BSA Optics Edge, each of the top five scopes we reviewed offers unique features tailored to different shooters. Remember to consider factors like magnification, eye relief, and build quality when making your decision. With the right scope, you’ll enjoy improved accuracy, confidence, and performance every time you shoot!
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