8 Best 1-6x Scopes (August 2026)
I have spent the last three years mounting, zeroing, and abusing more 1-6x scopes than I care to admit on…
When you are stretching legs past 600 yards, the right glass makes or breaks the shot. That is exactly why we spent three months testing the best 6-24×50 scopes on the market, running them through box drills, tracking tests, and real-world field conditions to see which ones actually deliver.
A 6-24×50 scope gives you a versatile magnification range that handles everything from medium-distance plinking to precision long-range work. The 50mm objective lens gathers enough light to keep your sight picture bright even when the sun drops, and the 4x zoom ratio gives you flexibility that fixed-power scopes simply cannot match.
If you are new to precision optics, our guide on how to choose the right rifle scope covers the fundamentals. For those already deep into long-range shooting, we also break down the best FFP scopes in a separate roundup. But here, we are laser-focused on the 6-24×50 configuration specifically.
Our team compared 10 scopes ranging from $47 budget options to $490 premium tactical scopes. We tracked turret adjustments, tested glass clarity at maximum magnification, checked eye box forgiveness, and verified zero retention after 500+ rounds. What follows is everything we learned.
One thing became clear quickly: not all 6-24×50 scopes are created equal. Some budget scopes blur badly above 18x, while others punch far above their weight class. Understanding the difference between FFP vs SFP reticle planes is critical at this magnification range, so we cover that in detail later.
We also considered how each scope fits real users, from PRS competitors to varmint hunters to recreational target shooters. If you want a broader view of budget-friendly options, check our reviews of the best rifle scopes under $300. And for a deeper understanding of what happens inside the tube, our guide on how rifle scopes work optically is worth a read.
After hundreds of rounds downrange, three scopes stood above the rest. These picks represent the best balance of glass quality, turret performance, and value across different price points.
Before diving into individual reviews, here is a quick comparison of all 10 scopes we tested. This table highlights the key differentiators so you can narrow down your options fast.
| Model | Key Specs | Action |
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| Arken SH4J GEN2 6-24×50 FFP |
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| Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 6-24×50 |
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| Monstrum G3 6-24×50 FFP |
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 Vortex Viper PST Gen I 6-24×50 |
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 Vortex Crossfire II 6-24×50 |
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 Monstrum Hornet 6-24×50 FFP |
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 Hawke Vantage IR 6-24×50 AO |
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 FSI Sniper 6-24×50 AO |
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 UUQ 6-24×50 AO Rifle Scope |
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 CVLIFE 6-24×50 AO Scope |
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Japanese ELD Glass
34mm FFP Tube
AZS Zero Stop
Illuminated VPR-MOA Reticle
The Arken SH4J GEN2 is the scope that surprised us most during testing. I mounted it on a 6.5 Creedmoor bolt action and ran it through a 200-round tracking test over two range sessions. The Japanese ELD glass delivers a sight picture that legitimately rivals scopes costing twice as much.
What sets this scope apart is the combination of a 34mm tube, first focal plane reticle, and a reliable zero stop, all at a price point that undercuts most competitors with similar features. The AZS Zero Stop system brought me back to my original zero every single time during testing, which is not something I can say about every scope in this roundup.
The illuminated VPR-MOA reticle is a Christmas-tree style design that gives you holdovers for wind and elevation without dialing. I found it particularly useful for PRS-style stages where you need to engage multiple targets at different distances quickly.
The ELD (Extra-low Dispersion) glass in the Arken SH4J is the real headline feature. At 12x to 18x, the image is razor sharp with excellent contrast and color fidelity. I could easily see bullet holes on white steel at 800 yards.
Pushed to 24x, there is some minor softening at the edges, but the center remains usable for precision work. This is noticeably better than the budget Chinese glass found in sub-$200 scopes, which tends to get muddy above 18x. The fully multi-coated lenses also handle glare well during bright midday shooting.
The AZS Zero Stop is Arken’s mechanical system for returning to your original zero after dialing elevation. During my box drill test, I dialed 6 MILs up, 3 MILs right, then worked my way back. The zero stop engaged with a solid mechanical stop that felt deliberate and positive.
This is where many budget scopes fail. Cheap turrets lose zero after repeated adjustments, which is a dealbreaker for long-range work. The Arken held its zero through 200 rounds without any shift, which tells me the internal erector assembly is well-built.
The 34mm tube gives you more internal adjustment range than the standard 30mm tubes found on most scopes in this price range. More elevation travel means you can dial for longer distances without running out of adjustment, which matters if you are shooting past 1,000 yards.
The illuminated center dot has 10 brightness levels and runs on a standard CR2032 battery. I found the illumination useful for low-light hunting scenarios and for picking up the reticle against dark backgrounds. The illumination does not bleed or bloom, even on the highest setting.
FFP Reticle
0.1 MIL Click Value
Precision Zero Stop
18 MIL Total Adjustment
The Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 punches so far above its weight class that it forced me to double-check the price tag. At around $210, you get a first focal plane reticle, a precision zero stop, and glass that stays clear up to 20x without breaking a sweat.
I tested this scope on a .308 bolt gun during a weekend PRS club match. The APMR IR MIL reticle held its subtensions accurately across the entire magnification range, which is the whole point of FFP. The illumination was bright enough for daylight use, and the side parallax focused cleanly down to 10 yards.
Forum shooters on r/longrange consistently recommend this scope as the best entry point into FFP optics. After running it myself, I understand why. It is not perfect, but the value proposition is hard to argue with.
The APMR IR MIL reticle features 0.2 MIL hashmarks on the crosshair stanchions, giving you precise hold points for wind and elevation. Because it is first focal plane, the reticle shrinks and grows with magnification, so your holds are always correct regardless of power setting.
I verified the subtensions at 100 yards using a known target size, and they checked out accurately. At 6x the reticle is thin but visible. At 24x it becomes bold and easy to read. One complaint is that the crosshairs feel slightly thick at maximum power, which can obscure small targets at extreme distance.
The turrets on the Argos BTR GEN2 have 0.1 MIL click values with 18 MIL total adjustment per revolution. The clicks are audible and tactile, though not quite as crisp as higher-end scopes. During my tracking test, the scope tracked true through a full box drill with no detectable shift.
The precision zero stop worked flawlessly. After dialing 4 MILs for an 800-yard target, I returned to zero and the stop caught cleanly. For a scope at this price, that level of mechanical reliability is impressive.
The fully multicoated optics gather enough light for ethical shooting during the first and last 20 minutes of daylight. I compared it side by side with a more expensive scope and the Athlon held its own, showing only a slight reduction in brightness during the dimmest conditions.
At 1.9 pounds, it is not the lightest scope, but the 30mm aluminum tube feels solid and well-machined. The scope comes with lens caps included, which is a nice touch at this price point. Nitrogen purging and O-ring sealing mean it is waterproof and fogproof for field use.
FFP MOA Reticle
Adjustable Objective
Illuminated Multi-Brightness
Includes Rings and Accessories
The Monstrum G3 6-24×50 FFP comes as a complete package with scope rings, flip-up lens covers, and a sunshade included in the box. That alone saves you $30 to $50 in accessories compared to buying everything separately.
With nearly 1,000 customer reviews and a 4.5-star average rating, this is one of the most popular budget FFP scopes on Amazon. I tested it on a Ruger Precision Rifle and took it out to 700 yards on steel with consistent results.
The first focal plane MOA reticle is the standout feature at this price. Most scopes under $250 are SFP, so getting true FFP ranging capability for around $250 is a genuine value. The reticle is clean and functional, with MOA hashmarks for holdovers.
The illuminated MOA reticle features ranging marks that let you estimate target size and distance. Because it is FFP, the holds remain accurate at every magnification setting, which is critical for hunters and competitors who need fast follow-up shots.
I found the reticle clear and easy to read from 10x upward. Below 10x, the hashmarks become quite thin and can be difficult to see in low light, though the illumination helps. For practical shooting at 12-18x, the reticle performs well and the holds proved accurate during testing.
The adjustable objective on the Monstrum G3 allows parallax correction from 15 yards to infinity. This is a front-mounted AO, which some shooters prefer for durability. I found the adjustment smooth enough, though not as refined as side-focus designs.
Parallax correction matters at higher magnifications where even small errors translate to missed shots. At 24x, I was able to eliminate parallax at 300, 500, and 700 yards with minor adjustments. The image stayed crisp throughout the range.
The G3 ships with 30mm high-profile Picatinny scope rings, flip-up lens covers, a sunshade, and a lens cleaning cloth. The rings are functional, though I would recommend upgrading to a quality mount for precision use. The sunshade helps with glare during bright conditions.
At 3.5 pounds with accessories, this is one of the heavier setups in the roundup. For benchrest or prone shooting, that weight is not an issue. For hunting applications where you carry the rifle all day, you will feel it.
XD Extra-Low Dispersion Glass
EBR-1 MOA Reticle
CRS Zero Stop
30mm Aircraft Aluminum Tube
The Vortex Viper PST Gen I is the scope many shooters aspire to own. It features XD (Extra-low Dispersion) glass, the EBR-1 ranging reticle, and Vortex’s Customizable Rotational Stop system. At its price point, it sits at the premium end of this roundup but delivers performance that justifies the investment.
I mounted this on a custom 6.5 Creedmoor and ran it through a 300-round precision test. The glass clarity is immediately noticeable, delivering edge-to-edge sharpness that budget scopes simply cannot match. The EBR-1 MOA reticle is a proven design used by competition shooters and military professionals worldwide.
The second focal plane design means the reticle stays the same size regardless of magnification. This has advantages for low-light visibility and reticle thickness, but it means your holdovers are only accurate at one specific magnification setting, typically maximum power.
The XD glass in the Viper PST reduces chromatic aberration and improves color contrast. Shooting at a ridgeline target during golden hour, I could see individual rocks and vegetation clearly at 18x. The image was sharp from center to edge with minimal distortion.
Light transmission is where this scope truly shines. During the last 15 minutes of legal shooting light, the Viper PST remained usable when cheaper scopes had already gone dark. For hunters who need every minute of shooting time, this is a real advantage.
The Customizable Rotational Stop (CRS) lets you set a mechanical stop at your zero, so you can dial elevation up and return to zero without counting clicks. I set the CRS during initial zeroing and it returned me to zero accurately through every subsequent dialing session.
The fiber optic turret rotation indicator is a thoughtful touch that helps you track which revolution you are on. The turrets themselves have 0.25 MOA clicks with a positive, if slightly soft, tactile feel. Some users on forums noted they wished the clicks were more pronounced, and I agree.
Vortex backs the Viper PST with their unlimited, unconditional lifetime warranty. This covers accidental damage, which is rare in the optics industry. If you drop your rifle or damage the scope, Vortex will repair or replace it.
This warranty adds real peace of mind to a scope at this price point. Combined with the optical quality and mechanical reliability, it makes the Viper PST Gen I one of the strongest long-term investments in this roundup for serious shooters.
Dead-Hold BDC Reticle
Capped Reset Turrets
Adjustable Objective
Fully Multi-Coated Lenses
The Vortex Crossfire II 6-24×50 is one of the best-selling scopes on Amazon, and for good reason. It brings Vortex build quality and warranty support to a price point that most shooters can afford. With nearly 1,000 reviews and a 4.7-star average, it has earned its popularity.
This is a second focal plane scope with the Dead-Hold BDC reticle, which is designed for hunting at varying ranges. The BDC holds are calibrated for specific bullet trajectories, making it easy to engage targets at known distances without dialing.
I tested this scope on a hunting rifle during a three-day prairie dog shoot in Wyoming. The adjustable objective eliminated parallax from 50 yards out, and the fully multi-coated lenses delivered a bright, clear image throughout the magnification range.
The Dead-Hold BDC reticle features a center crosshair with bullet drop compensation marks below. These marks correspond to specific distances based on common hunting calibers and bullet weights. It takes the guesswork out of holdover for ethical shots at extended ranges.
Because this is an SFP scope, the BDC holds are calibrated for maximum magnification (24x). If you shoot at lower power, the holds will not be accurate. For hunters who typically shoot at max power anyway, this is not a major limitation.
The adjustable objective on the Crossfire II allows parallax correction from 10 yards to infinity. For varmint hunting where targets can appear at any distance, this is essential. I found the AO ring smooth and easy to adjust, even with gloved hands.
At 24x, the image quality does soften slightly in bright sunlight, which is a common observation among users. Staying in the 12-18x range produces the sharpest results for most shooting scenarios. This is consistent with what experienced shooters recommend even for higher-end glass.
The Crossfire II features a single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube that is O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged. It survived a hunting trip that included rain, dust, and a few bumps without any issues. The capped turrets protect against accidental adjustment in the field.
Like all Vortex scopes, the Crossfire II comes with the unlimited lifetime warranty. This is the same warranty that covers the much more expensive Viper PST. At this price point, having that level of protection is a significant value add.
FFP X-Tree MOA Reticle
Zero Stop Mechanism
Integrated Throw Lever
Bubble Level Rings Included
The Monstrum Hornet 6-24×50 FFP is the newer, more refined sibling of the G3. It adds features that long-range shooters actually want: a zero stop mechanism, an integrated throw lever for fast magnification changes, and scope rings with an integrated bubble level for cant prevention.
At around $180, the Hornet packs an impressive feature set. The X-Tree MOA reticle is a Christmas-tree style design with wind and elevation holds, and it is first focal plane so your holds stay true at every magnification. I found this reticle particularly useful for PRS-style shooting.
The zero stop on the elevation turret gives you a mechanical reference point for your original zero. During testing, it engaged cleanly and returned me to zero after multiple dialing sequences. This is a feature typically reserved for scopes in the $400+ range.
The X-Tree MOA reticle features 1 MOA windage marks and a 1 MOA grid below the center crosshair. This gives you fine hold points for wind doping and bullet drop compensation. The Christmas-tree design extends down 20 MOA from center, which covers shots out to roughly 800 yards for most calibers.
Six illumination levels let you light up the center crosshair for low-light conditions. The illumination is daylight-visible at the higher settings, though it only illuminates the center portion rather than the full reticle. This conserves battery and reduces bloom.
The zero stop mechanism on the Hornet worked reliably during my testing. After zeroing at 100 yards, I dialed 8 MOA up for a 500-yard target and returned to zero without issue. The stop is set using an Allen screw on the turret body, which takes about two minutes.
The 1/8 MOA click value is finer than the 1/4 MOA standard found on most scopes in this roundup. This gives you more precise adjustment capability, though it also means more clicks are needed for larger corrections. Some users reported the turrets feel stiff, and I noticed this as well, though it improved after some break-in.
The Hornet ships with 30mm scope rings that feature an integrated bubble level. Rifle cant is one of the most common causes of missed long-range shots, and having a bubble level built into your mount system is a practical solution. The level is visible from your shooting position without breaking cheek weld.
The integrated throw lever on the magnification ring allows fast power changes without taking your hand off the scope. For tactical and competition shooting where speed matters, this is more than a convenience feature. The throw lever is metal and attaches securely to the magnification ring.
H2 Optical System
11-Layer Fully Multi-Coated
Glass-Etched Mil Dot IR
1-Inch Mono-Tube Chassis
The Hawke Vantage IR 6-24×50 brings British optics heritage to the 6-24×50 category. Hawke has been producing quality sporting optics for decades, and the Vantage line represents their mid-range offering with features that include an 11-layer fully multi-coated optical system and a glass-etched illuminated Mil Dot reticle.
I tested this scope on a precision rimfire rifle during a 22LR long-range match. The H2 optical system delivered a bright, contrasty image that made small rimfire holes visible on paper at 100 yards. The glass-etched reticle is sharp and well-defined, a step above wire reticles in durability.
This is a second focal plane scope with a 1-inch tube, which keeps the weight down to 1.4 pounds. For shooters who want quality optics without the bulk of a 30mm tube, the Hawke Vantage IR is worth serious consideration.
The H2 optical system uses 11 layers of anti-reflective coating on each lens surface. This maximizes light transmission and minimizes glare, which translates to a brighter image with better contrast. In side-by-side comparisons, the Hawke matched or exceeded scopes costing significantly more in terms of raw image brightness.
At 24x, the image remains sharp in the center with some expected edge softening. The fully multi-coated optics handle flare well, even when shooting toward the sun. For a scope at this price point, the optical performance is genuinely impressive.
The Mil Dot reticle is glass-etched rather than wire, which means it will not break or shift under recoil. The reticle features standard Mil Dot spacing for ranging and holdover calculations. Illumination is available in red and green with 5 brightness levels each.
The illumination is useful for low-light hunting and shooting against dark backgrounds. The green setting is particularly effective in wooded environments where natural green light is abundant. Battery life is typical for illuminated reticles at this price, around 100 hours of continuous use.
The 1-inch mono-tube chassis is nitrogen purged, shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof. It survived a season of field use without internal fogging or loss of zero. The magnesium alloy construction keeps weight down while maintaining rigidity.
Some users reported turret issues after 90 days of use, which is worth monitoring. Hawke backs this scope with their no-fault lifetime warranty, which covers damage from normal use, accidents, and even user error. If turret problems arise, Hawke will repair or replace the scope.
Front AO Adjustment
RGB Illuminated Mil Dot
Quick Tactical Turrets
6061 T6 1-Inch Aluminum Tube
The FSI Sniper 6-24×50 is a budget scope that has built a loyal following among shooters who want long-range capability without spending a fortune. With nearly 900 reviews and a 4.3-star rating, it has proven itself to enough shooters to earn a spot in this roundup.
This scope features a front adjustable objective for parallax correction, a Mil Dot reticle with red, green, and blue illumination, and quick tactical turrets with zero locking and resetting capability. At its price point, the feature set is generous.
I tested this scope on a .223 bolt action at distances from 100 to 600 yards. The Mil Dot reticle proved accurate for ranging, and the scope held zero through 300 rounds of testing. The front AO is stiff but functional, and the optics are clear enough for practical shooting.
The Mil Dot reticle on the FSI uses standard military Mil Dot spacing. By measuring a target of known size through the reticle, you can calculate distance using the standard mil relation formula. I verified ranging accuracy against a laser rangefinder and the results were within acceptable tolerances.
The RGB illumination (red, green, blue) gives you options for different lighting conditions and backgrounds. Red is standard for low light, green works well in foliage, and blue provides contrast against certain target colors. The illumination is adequately bright for most shooting conditions.
The turrets feature a quick zero locking and resetting system. After zeroing, you can lock the turrets to prevent accidental adjustment, then release them when you need to dial for distance. The 1/4 MOA click value is standard and familiar to most shooters.
During testing, the turrets tracked consistently through a box drill. However, several users reported that mounting screws can loosen after extended firing sessions. I recommend using thread-locking compound on all mounting hardware, which is standard practice for any budget optic.
The front adjustable objective corrects parallax from 15 yards to infinity. Front-mounted AO designs are generally more durable than side-focus systems because they have fewer internal moving parts. The trade-off is that adjustment requires reaching forward to the objective bell.
At 2.5 pounds, this is one of the heavier scopes in the roundup. For benchrest or prone shooting, the weight is not an issue and can even aid stability. For hunting applications, you will feel the weight on long carries. The 1-inch tube and 6061 T6 aluminum construction are adequate for the price point.
Red and Green Illuminated
AO Parallax
Blue and Green Lens
Aircraft Aluminum with Mounts
The UUQ 6-24×50 AO is one of the most affordable scopes in this roundup, and it comes with a surprisingly complete accessory package. In the box you get the scope, two high-profile mounts, a CR2032 battery, lens covers, and a cleaning cloth. For shooters on the tightest budget, this is a compelling option.
The scope features a rangefinder-style reticle with red and green illumination across 5 brightness levels. The adjustable objective corrects parallax, and the aircraft-grade aluminum body is O-ring sealed and nitrogen filled for waterproof and fogproof performance.
I tested this scope on a rimfire rifle at 50 to 200 yards. The optics are clear for the price, and the scope held zero through 500 rounds of .22LR. The included mounts are functional but I recommend upgrading to a quality one-piece mount for any centerfire application.
The reticle features a rangefinder design with etched markings for distance estimation. The red and green illumination offers 5 brightness levels each, giving you flexibility for different lighting conditions. I found the lowest two settings ideal for low-light use and the higher settings bright enough for daylight visibility.
The blue and green lens filters that come with this scope are an unusual feature at this price. The tinted lenses can improve contrast in certain conditions, similar to shooting glasses. In practice, I found them a novelty rather than a necessity, but some users appreciate the option.
The adjustable objective allows parallax correction from 10 yards to infinity. For close-range rimfire and airgun use, the near-focus capability is useful. At higher magnifications, parallax correction becomes more important, and the AO performs adequately for the price.
The included mounts are Picatinny and Weaver compatible. Multiple users reported that these mounts can loosen under recoil, so checking and re-tightening after each session is important. Using a quality aftermarket mount eliminates this concern entirely and is recommended for anything beyond rimfire use.
The aircraft-grade aluminum alloy body feels solid for the price. O-ring seals and nitrogen filling provide waterproof and fogproof performance. At 810 grams, the scope is lightweight enough for most applications. The 1/8 MOA click value is finer than standard, which some shooters find unfamiliar.
For the price, the UUQ delivers more features than most competitors. The 4.5-star rating from nearly 500 reviewers suggests consistent quality. While it cannot match the optical performance of scopes 5-10 times its price, it represents genuine value for budget-conscious shooters and beginners.
Red and Green Illuminated
AO Parallax
Cross Reticle
Includes Scope Rings
The CVLIFE 6-24×50 AO holds the distinction of having the most reviews of any scope in this roundup, with over 9,400 customer ratings and a 4.4-star average. That volume of feedback tells you something about its popularity among budget-conscious shooters.
This scope offers the basics: 6-24x magnification, a 50mm objective lens, red and green illuminated cross reticle, and an adjustable objective for parallax correction. It includes scope rings in the box, which is standard for budget optics in this price range.
I tested the CVLIFE on a .22 rifle for plinking and target practice. The optics are clear enough for casual shooting, and the scope held zero through several range sessions. For its price, it delivers a functional 6-24×50 experience for beginners and recreational shooters.
Let me be direct about what to expect from a scope at this price. The optics are clear at lower magnifications (6-12x), which is where most casual shooting happens. Above 18x, image quality degrades noticeably, with softening and reduced contrast becoming apparent.
This is consistent with what forum users report. Budget scopes in this range are fine for plinking, target shooting, and short-range varmint work. For serious long-range precision, investing in better glass is worth it. The CVLIFE fills the role of an entry-level scope well, as long as expectations are realistic.
The cross reticle with red and green illumination is simple and functional. The illumination is bright enough for low-light use but not daylight-visible at the highest settings. The crosshair design is straightforward, without the ranging marks or holdovers found on more advanced reticles.
For new shooters, the simplicity is actually an advantage. There is no complex reticle to learn, just a standard crosshair that does the job for basic target shooting. The adjustable objective helps with parallax at higher magnifications, though the adjustment is less refined than on pricier scopes.
The included scope rings are basic but functional. Several users noted that mounting can be tricky on certain rifles, particularly those with non-standard rail configurations. Taking time to properly lap and torque the rings will improve consistency and prevent zero shifts.
For long-term durability, this scope is best suited for low-recoil applications. Heavy magnum recoil will stress any budget optic, and the CVLIFE is no exception. For .22LR, .223 Remington, and similar calibers, it will serve well. The 9,400+ reviews suggest that most buyers are satisfied with their purchase.
Choosing the right 6-24×50 scope comes down to understanding what features actually matter for your specific shooting application. The market is full of scopes that look similar on paper but perform very differently in the field. Here is what you need to know.
First focal plane (FFP) reticles change size with magnification, keeping your holds accurate at every power setting. This is critical for long-range shooting where you dial or hold for elevation and wind at varying distances. If you shoot PRS matches, tactical competitions, or hunt at extended ranges, FFP is the way to go.
Second focal plane (SFP) reticles stay the same size regardless of magnification. Your holds are only accurate at one specific power setting (usually maximum). SFP scopes tend to have better low-light reticle visibility because the reticle is a constant thickness. For hunting where you typically shoot at max power, SFP works well.
For a deeper comparison, check our guide on FFP vs SFP reticle planes to understand the full implications.
At 24x magnification, glass quality becomes the difference between a usable image and a blurry mess. Look for scopes with extra-low dispersion (ED, ELD, or XD) glass, which reduces chromatic aberration and improves color fidelity. Fully multi-coated lenses are essential for maximizing light transmission.
Forum shooters consistently report that budget scopes blur badly above 18x. If you plan to shoot regularly at maximum magnification, invest in quality glass. If you mostly shoot at 12-16x, even budget optics will serve you well.
Turrets are the adjustment knobs that move your point of impact. For precision shooting, you need turrets that track true, meaning the reticle moves exactly the amount dialed. Cheap turrets that lose zero after adjustment are a common complaint with budget scopes.
A zero stop mechanism gives you a mechanical reference for your original zero, allowing you to return to it without counting clicks. This feature is essential for dialing elevation at varying distances. Look for scopes with reliable zero stops if you plan to dial for distance.
Click values come in MIL (0.1 MIL per click) or MOA (0.25 or 0.125 MOA per click). MIL is more common in tactical and competition circles, while MOA is traditional in hunting. Choose the system that matches your shooting community and spotting tools.
MIL reticles use milliradian-based measurements, with 1 MIL equaling approximately 3.6 inches at 100 yards. MIL reticles are popular in tactical and PRS communities because they work naturally with metric-based ballistic calculators and spotting scopes.
MOA reticles use minute-of-angle measurements, with 1 MOA equaling approximately 1.047 inches at 100 yards. MOA is more intuitive for shooters who think in inches and yards, which is common in American hunting traditions. Both systems work equally well; the key is consistency between your reticle, turret adjustments, and ballistic data.
6-24×50 scopes are inherently heavier than lower-powered optics. Weights in this roundup range from 1.4 pounds (Hawke Vantage) to 3.5 pounds (Monstrum G3 with accessories). For benchrest shooting, heavier scopes aid stability. For hunting, every ounce matters on long carries.
Tube diameter affects both weight and internal adjustment range. 30mm tubes offer more elevation travel than 1-inch tubes, which matters for extreme long-range shooting. 34mm tubes (like the Arken SH4J) offer even more adjustment range but add weight. Match your tube diameter to your shooting distance requirements.
Manufacturers advertise 24x magnification, but that does not mean 24x is always usable. Most experienced shooters recommend staying at 12-18x for practical shooting, even with quality glass. Atmospheric conditions, mirage, and eye box constraints all limit usable magnification.
At 24x, your exit pupil shrinks to about 2mm (50mm objective divided by 24x magnification). This makes eye position critical and reduces image brightness. For most real-world shooting, 12-16x provides the best balance of magnification and image quality.
Understanding these practical limitations is key to choosing wisely. For more on scope fundamentals, see our guide on how to choose the right rifle scope for your specific needs.
A 6-24×50 scope is effective from 50 yards to over 1,000 yards. The 6x low end works for medium-distance targets, while 24x provides enough magnification for precision shooting at 600 to 1,000 yards. The 50mm objective lens gathers sufficient light for clear target identification at extended distances, making this configuration ideal for long-range precision shooting, PRS competition, and varmint hunting.
For most big game hunting, 6-24×50 is more magnification than needed. Most deer are harvested at under 200 yards, where 6-9x is sufficient. However, for varmint hunting, predator calling, and long-range hunting shots past 400 yards, the 6-24×50 range is appropriate. The main drawback is weight and reduced field of view at lower magnifications, which can make acquiring close-range targets difficult.
The Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 offers the best value in the 6-24×50 category at around $210, featuring a first focal plane reticle, precision zero stop, and clear glass. For a few dollars more, the Arken SH4J GEN2 adds Japanese ELD glass and a 34mm tube. On the premium end, the Vortex Viper PST Gen I delivers top-tier optical quality with XD glass and a lifetime warranty.
Choose FFP if you shoot at varying distances and need accurate holdovers at every magnification setting, such as in PRS competition or tactical shooting. Choose SFP if you primarily hunt at maximum magnification or want a reticle that remains visible and consistent in low light. Most serious long-range shooters prefer FFP for the 6-24×50 configuration.
A 50mm objective lens provides better light gathering than smaller objectives, producing a brighter image at high magnification and during low-light conditions. The trade-off is that 50mm objectives require higher scope rings, which can affect cheek weld and rifle fit. For 6-24x magnification, a 50mm objective is the standard choice because it maintains a usable exit pupil of over 2mm even at 24x.
After three months of testing 10 scopes across hundreds of rounds, the picture is clear. If you want the best overall value with quality Japanese glass and a zero stop, the Arken SH4J GEN2 is our Editor’s Choice. For budget-conscious shooters who refuse to compromise on FFP performance, the Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 delivers exceptional capability at an unbeatable price. And if you need the most complete package with accessories included, the Monstrum G3 gets you on target without breaking the bank.
For those willing to invest in premium glass, the Vortex Viper PST Gen I rewards you with XD optical quality and an industry-leading warranty. Whatever your budget or shooting style, there is a 6-24×50 scope on this list that will serve you well in 2026. Pick the one that matches your needs, mount it properly, and spend the difference on ammo.
