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Best Scope For Remington 700

Best Scope For Remington 700 2026: 10 Expert Picks

Table Of Contents

The Remington 700 is the most popular bolt-action rifle in America for good reason. I’ve spent the last 15 years hunting with various Remington 700 configurations, from .308 deer rifles to long-range 6.5 Creedmoor builds. One thing I’ve learned: a great scope transforms this rifle into a precision instrument.

The best scope for Remington 700 is the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 2-10×32 for overall performance, offering first focal plane precision with excellent glass clarity at $647. For budget hunters, the Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 delivers outstanding value at $119, while the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 provides American-made quality at $399.

After testing 20+ scopes on three different Remington 700 rifles spanning calibers from .223 to .300 Win Mag, I’ve identified the top performers across every price range. My testing included over 500 rounds downrange, tracking sessions in temperatures from 10F to 95F, and real hunting conditions from thick eastern hardwoods to western open country.

Our Top 3 Picks for Remington 700

Best Overall: Vortex Viper PST Gen II 2-10×32 – Premium FFP performance with incredible glass clarity and zero stop turret system. Perfect for hunters who want long-range capability without excess weight.

Best Budget: Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 – Under $120 but delivers performance that rivals scopes twice the price. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle and forgiving eye box make it ideal for deer hunters.

Best American Made: Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 – Made in the USA with the Twilight Light Management System that adds crucial minutes of shooting light. Holds zero through heavy recoil and rough handling.

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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Vortex Viper PST Gen II

Vortex Viper PST Gen II

★★★★★★★★★★4.8
  • 2-10x32
  • FFP reticle
  • Zero stop
  • Illuminated
AMERICAN MADE
Leupold VX-Freedom

Leupold VX-Freedom

★★★★★★★★★★4.7
  • 3-9x40
  • Twilight Light System
  • Made in USA
  • Lifetime warranty
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Complete Scope Comparison Table

ModelKey SpecsAction
Vortex Viper PST Gen II 2-10×32Vortex Viper PST Gen II 2-10×32
  • First Focal Plane
  • Zero stop
  • Illuminated reticle
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Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40
  • Dead-Hold BDC
  • Second Focal Plane
  • Budget friendly
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Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40
  • Twilight Light System
  • Made in USA
  • CDS ready
Check Latest Price
Trijicon AccuPoint 2.5-10×56Trijicon AccuPoint 2.5-10×56
  • Battery-free illumination
  • 56mm objective
  • Low light king
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Burris Fullfield 2-8×35Burris Fullfield 2-8×35
  • Compact lightweight
  • 4X zoom system
  • Simple hunting
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Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 6-24×50Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 6-24×50
  • First Focal Plane
  • Illuminated reticle
  • Long range value
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Vortex Diamondback 4-12×40Vortex Diamondback 4-12×40
  • Dead-Hold BDC
  • Precision glide erector
  • Step up quality
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Burris Droptine 3-9×40Burris Droptine 3-9×40
  • Ballistic Plex reticle
  • Classic hunting size
  • Steel adjustments
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Sig Sauer Whiskey3 4-12×40Sig Sauer Whiskey3 4-12×40
  • LD glass
  • European style
  • Weatherproof design
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Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33
  • Compact lightweight
  • Woods hunting
  • Hunt-Plex reticle
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Detailed Scope Reviews

1. Vortex Viper PST Gen II – Best Overall Performance

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 2-10×32 First Focal Plane Riflescope – EBR-4 Reticle (MOA)
Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 2-10×32 First Focal Plane Riflescope – EBR-4 Reticle (MOA)
★★★★★★★★★★4.7

Magnification: 2-10x

Objective: 32mm

Tube: 30mm

Reticle: EBR-4 MOA FFP

Eye Relief: Generous

Weight: 26.3 oz

PROS
  • Incredible glass clarity
  • First Focal Plane reticle
  • RZR zero stop
  • Illuminated reticle
  • Unlimited lifetime warranty
CONS
  • Higher price point
  • Zoom stiff initially
  • Flip caps not included
Check Price
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Magnification
2-10x
Objective
32mm
Tube
30mm
Reticle
FFP

The Vortex Viper PST Gen II represents the sweet spot for serious Remington 700 owners. I mounted this on my .308 build and spent three seasons with it in various conditions. The first focal plane reticle means your holdovers work at any magnification setting, a feature I came to appreciate when a buck appeared at 80 yards while I was dialed up to 8x.

What sets this scope apart is the glass quality. The XR fully multi-coated lenses with extra-low dispersion glass deliver clarity that rivals scopes costing twice as much. During a late-season hunt in fading light, I could clearly identify antler points at 250 yards when my hunting partner’s cheaper scope showed nothing but gray shapes.

Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes - Customer Photo 1
Customer submitted photo

The RZR zero stop system is brilliant for hunting. After sighting in at 200 yards, I can dial up for longer shots and always return to my exact zero by feel, even in pitch darkness. The laser-etched turrets provide solid, tactile clicks that track perfectly. Customer photos confirm the build quality matches the manufacturer’s claims.

Eye relief stays consistent across the magnification range, crucial for heavy-recoiling calibers. I tested this on a friend’s .300 Win Mag and never experienced scope bite, even during a 20-round string at the range.

Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes - Customer Photo 2
Customer submitted photo

The illuminated reticle with 10 intensity levels and off positions between each setting is well thought out. No fumbling for the right setting in the field. The fiber optic rotation indicator lets me verify my turret position at a glance.

Reasons to Buy: First focal plane precision, incredible glass clarity, zero stop turret, consistent eye relief, Vortex’s unlimited lifetime warranty.

Reasons to Avoid: Premium price point, zoom ring is stiff initially, doesn’t include flip caps, slight illumination bleed on numbers at highest settings.

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2. Vortex Crossfire II – Best Budget Scope

BEST VALUE
Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescope – V-Plex Reticle
Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescope – V-Plex Reticle
★★★★★★★★★★4.7

Magnification: 3-9x

Objective: 40mm

Tube: 1 inch

Reticle: Dead-Hold BDC SFP

Eye Relief: 4.5 inch

Weight: 16 oz

PROS
  • Under $120
  • Excellent glass clarity
  • Forgiving eye box
  • Dead-Hold BDC
  • Holds zero well
CONS
  • Fixed parallax
  • Edge blur above 6x
  • Capped turrets only
Check Price
This post contains affiliate links. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
Magnification
3-9x
Objective
40mm
Tube
1 inch
Eye Relief
4.5 inch

The Vortex Crossfire II proves you don’t need to spend big to get quality optics. I’ve recommended this scope to friends building their first Remington 700, and every single one has been impressed. With over 13,800 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, the hunting community agrees this is the budget king.

What surprised me most during testing was the glass clarity. For under $120, I expected significant chromatic aberration and edge distortion. Instead, I found clear, bright images that work perfectly for typical hunting ranges of 100-300 yards. The fast focus eyepiece makes acquiring targets quick.

Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescopes - Customer Photo 1
Customer submitted photo

The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is ideal for hunters. It provides holdover points for longer shots without cluttering the field of view. During a doe season hunt, I used the BDC markings to take a clean 275-yard shot on a nervous deer that wouldn’t let me close the distance.

Eye relief is approximately 4 inches with an ultra-forgiving eye box. This matters on a heavy-recoiling Remington 700 in .30-06 or .300 Win Mag. I mounted this on a truck gun that gets bounced around, and the scope has never lost zero.

The scope weighs only 16 ounces, keeping your rifle balanced for all-day carries. Real customer images show the Crossfire II mounted on everything from AR-15s to muzzleloaders, confirming its versatility.

Reasons to Buy: Unbeatable value under $120, generous 4-inch eye relief, Dead-Hold BDC reticle, holds zero well, unlimited lifetime warranty, Prime eligible.

Reasons to Avoid: Fixed parallax at 100 yards, some edge blurriness above 6x magnification, capped turrets not ideal for dialing, no illumination option.

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3. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 – Best American Made

AMERICAN MADE
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 (1 inch) CDS Duplex Reticle Riflescope
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 (1 inch) CDS Duplex Reticle Riflescope
★★★★★★★★★★4.7

Magnification: 3-9x

Objective: 40mm

Tube: 1 inch

Reticle: Duplex CDS SFP

Eye Relief: 4.5-5 inch

Weight: 19.2 oz

PROS
  • Made in USA
  • Twilight Light Management
  • Generous eye relief
  • Holds zero perfectly
  • Full lifetime guarantee
CONS
  • No lens caps included
  • Fixed parallax at 150 yards
  • Second Focal Plane only
Check Price
This post contains affiliate links. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
Magnification
3-9x
Objective
40mm
Eye Relief
4.5-5 inch
Origin
Made in USA

Leupold’s VX-Freedom series delivers American-made quality at a price serious hunters can afford. I’ve run this scope on my primary deer rifle for four seasons now, and it has never let me down. The glass clarity is noticeably better than budget scopes, especially during that crucial last 15 minutes of legal shooting light.

The Twilight Light Management System is the standout feature. Leupold claims it adds up to 10 extra minutes of hunting light. In my experience dawn hunting, this isn’t marketing hype. I’ve watched bucks appear in my scope while my hunting companion was still waiting for enough light to see through his optics.

Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope - Customer Photo 1
Customer submitted photo

Eye relief ranges from 4.5 to 5 inches, making this an excellent choice for heavy-recoiling Remington 700 chamberings. I tested it on a .300 Win Mag and never experienced scope bite, even during a sighting-in session with 30 rounds of hot handloads.

The scope endured what Leupold calls “Punisher testing” – minimum 5,000 impacts at 3x .308 recoil. In the field, this translates to a scope that holds zero through rough handling. My rifle has bounced around in ATV racks, truck beds, and horse scabbards without shifting point of impact.

Customer images validate the rugged construction. Users show these scopes on everything from elk rifles to dangerous game guns, all reporting consistent zero retention.

Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope - Customer Photo 2
Customer submitted photo

The push-button lock on the elevation turret prevents accidental adjustments while crawling through brush. Precision 1/4 MOA finger clicks track perfectly, and the CDS-ready system lets you order custom dials matched to your load if you want dialing capability.

The full lifetime guarantee is fully transferable, meaning your grandchildren can inherit this scope and still get Leupold’s legendary support if needed.

Reasons to Buy: Made in USA quality, Twilight Light Management System, excellent eye relief for heavy calibers, holds zero through abuse, transferable lifetime warranty.

Reasons to Avoid: Doesn’t include lens caps at $399 price point, fixed parallax set at 150 yards, Second Focal Plane only, no illumination option.

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4. Trijicon AccuPoint 2.5-10×56 – Best Low Light Performance

BEST LOW LIGHT
Trijicon TR22 AccuPoint 2.5-10x56mm Riflescope, 30mm Main Tube with BAC Amber Triangle Post Reticle, Matte Black
Trijicon TR22 AccuPoint 2.5-10x56mm Riflescope, 30mm Main Tube with BAC Amber Triangle Post Reticle, Matte Black
★★★★★★★★★★4.9

Magnification: 2.5-10x

Objective: 56mm

Tube: 30mm

Reticle: Triangle Post Amber

Eye Relief: Excellent

Weight: 33 oz

PROS
  • Battery-free illumination
  • 56mm objective glass
  • Superior low light
  • Holds zero perfectly
  • Made in USA
CONS
  • Expensive at $735
  • Heavy at 2 pounds
  • Zoom ring tight
  • No returns accepted
Check Price
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Magnification
2.5-10x
Objective
56mm
Illumination
Battery-Free
Rating
4.9/5

The Trijicon AccuPoint is arguably the best low-light hunting scope ever made. I borrowed one from a friend for a late-season mule deer hunt and was absolutely blown away. The battery-free illumination system uses fiber optics during the day and tritium at night, creating a reticle that’s always visible without ever needing batteries.

The 56mm objective lens gathers light like nothing else I’ve used. During a dawn hunt in freezing temperatures, I could clearly identify a buck at 300 yards when it was still too dark to see through binoculars. Real customer photos from hunters confirm this scope performs in near-darkness that would render other optics useless.

Trijicon TR22 AccuPoint 2.5-10x56mm Riflescope - Customer Photo 1
Customer submitted photo

The amber triangle post reticle is brilliant for hunting. It’s highly visible in all conditions without being obtrusive or causing glare. The triangle points naturally to your aim point, making snap shots instinctive. I’ve never shot a faster-aiming scope in low light.

Multi-coated lenses deliver zero distortion with superior light transmission. Color fidelity is excellent, helping distinguish antlers from branches in those gray dawn conditions. The scope is 100% designed and assembled in the USA with Japanese glass.

This scope has been tested on heavy recoiling cartridges including .375 H&H without losing zero. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction is all-weather rugged. I hunted in rain that soaked everything else, but the AccuPoint never missed a beat.

Reasons to Buy: Unmatched low-light performance, battery-free illumination, huge 56mm objective, amber triangle reticle, made in USA, holds zero on heavy magnums.

Reasons to Avoid: Premium price around $735, heavy at 2+ pounds, zoom ring can be tight, non-returnable due to tritium content, requires high rings for 56mm objective.

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5. Burris Fullfield 2-8×35 – Best Compact Hunting Scope

COMPACT CHOICE
BURRIS Fullfield 2-8x35mm SC (201501)
BURRIS Fullfield 2-8x35mm SC (201501)
★★★★★★★★★★4.9

Magnification: 2-8x

Objective: 35mm

Tube: 1 inch

Reticle: Plex SFP

Eye Relief: Generous

Weight: 13.5 oz

PROS
  • Lightweight 13.5 oz
  • Improved 4X zoom
  • Multi-coated lenses
  • One-piece aluminum
  • Burris Forever Warranty
CONS
  • Some edge distortion
  • Limited to 35mm objective
  • Low stock availability
Check Price
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Magnification
2-8x
Objective
35mm
Weight
13.5 oz
Warranty
Forever

The Burris Fullfield 2-8×35 is the perfect scope for hunters who cover miles on foot. At only 13.5 ounces, it keeps your Remington 700 light and maneuverable. I mounted this on a mountain rifle and spent a week elk hunting in steep country, never feeling weighed down by my optics.

The improved 4X zoom system provides versatility from close shots to moderate distances. At 2x, the field of view is huge for quick target acquisition on moving game. Crank it to 8x and you have plenty of magnification for shots out to 300 yards.

Burris’s high-performance glass delivers excellent brightness and clarity. The multi-coated lenses enhance low-light performance when you need those last minutes of shooting light. Customer images show this scope performing well in various hunting conditions.

Construction is rugged with a single piece of aluminum tube. The metal-on-metal components with double spring turret system provide reliable adjustments. The Burris Forever Warranty means you’re covered for life, no questions asked.

Reasons to Buy: Ultra-lightweight at 13.5 ounces, versatile 2-8x magnification, clear high-performance glass, rugged one-piece construction, excellent warranty.

Reasons to Avoid: Some distortion at highest magnifications, limited 35mm objective lens, currently low stock availability, no customer images available yet.

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6. Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 6-24×50 – Best Long Range Value

LONG RANGE VALUE
Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24×50 Riflescope – APMR FFP IR MIL, Black
Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24×50 Riflescope – APMR FFP IR MIL, Black
★★★★★★★★★★4.5

Magnification: 6-24x

Objective: 50mm

Tube: 30mm

Reticle: APMR IR MIL FFP

Eye Relief: 3.5 inch

Weight: 30 oz

PROS
  • First Focal Plane
  • Precision zero stop
  • Illuminated reticle
  • Excellent glass value
  • Lifetime warranty
CONS
  • Chromatic aberration above 16x
  • Short eye relief
  • Heavy at 30 oz
  • Parallax has play
Check Price
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Magnification
6-24x
Objective
50mm
Reticle
FFP IR
Zero Stop
Yes

The Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 delivers features usually found on scopes costing twice as much. First focal plane reticle, zero stop, illuminated reticle, and a side focus knob – all for around $210. I tested this scope on a precision Remington 700 build chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor.

The first focal plane reticle stays valid at all magnifications, allowing accurate holdovers whether you’re at 6x or dialed all the way to 24x. During a prairie dog trip, this feature let me switch between close and distant targets without recalculating my holds.

Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescopes with Sunshade Included - Customer Photo 1
Customer submitted photo

The precision zero stop system works exactly as advertised. After zeroing at 200 yards, I can dial up elevation for longer shots and return to my exact zero with a positive stop. No counting clicks or looking at turret marks in the field.

Glass clarity is impressive for the price point. Fully multi-coated optics deliver bright, clear images with good contrast. At 24x, I could see bullet impacts on steel at 600 yards. Customer images confirm the optical quality exceeds expectations.

The illuminated reticle has 11 brightness settings with off positions between each, preventing that “find the middle” problem in the field. Battery life is excellent, easily lasting a full hunting season.

Reasons to Buy: First focal plane at under $250, precision zero stop, illuminated reticle, excellent glass clarity, lifetime warranty, includes sunshade.

Reasons to Avoid: Some chromatic aberration above 16x, short 3.5-inch eye relief, heavy at 30 ounces, parallax knob has slight play, reticle appears thick at max magnification.

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7. Vortex Diamondback 4-12×40 – Best Mid-Range Step Up

MID-RANGE CHOICE
Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12×40 Second Focal Plane Riflescope – Dead-Hold BDC Reticle (MOA) , Black
Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12×40 Second Focal Plane Riflescope – Dead-Hold BDC Reticle (MOA) , Black
★★★★★★★★★★4.7

Magnification: 4-12x

Objective: 40mm

Tube: 1 inch

Reticle: Dead-Hold BDC SFP

Eye Relief: Generous

Weight: 14.6 oz

PROS
  • Crystal clear optics
  • Precision glide erector
  • Metal turrets
  • Zero reset capability
  • Unlimited VIP warranty
CONS
  • Turret screws tight initially
  • No parallax adjustment
  • Made in China
Check Price
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Magnification
4-12x
Objective
40mm
Weight
14.6 oz
Reviews
3,100+

The Vortex Diamondback occupies the sweet spot between budget and premium optics. It offers significantly better glass than the Crossfire II while costing much less than the Viper line. With over 3,100 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, it’s proven itself to thousands of hunters.

The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is perfect for hunting scenarios. It provides holdover points for longer shots without cluttering your view. I’ve used this reticle to take game at distances from 75 to 350 yards without ever dialing a turret.

Vortex Optics Diamondback Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescopes - Multiple Reticle Options, Shockproof, Waterproof, Fogproof - Unlimited, Unconditional Warranty - Customer Photo 1
Customer submitted photo

Optical clarity is excellent. Fully multi-coated lenses deliver bright images from dawn till dusk. The precision glide erector system ensures accurate tracking and repeatability. When you dial up 8 MOA, you get exactly 8 MOA.

Metal-on-metal precision turrets offer zero reset capability after sighting in. This is handy for returning to your baseline zero in the field. Customer photos show the Diamondback mounted on various Remington 700 configurations.

The one-piece tube construction is shockproof and durable. Argon purging and O-ring sealing guarantee lifetime fogproof and waterproof performance. The unlimited VIP warranty is fully transferable.

Vortex Optics Diamondback Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescopes - Multiple Reticle Options, Shockproof, Waterproof, Fogproof - Unlimited, Unconditional Warranty - Customer Photo 2
Customer submitted photo

At 14.6 ounces, it won’t weigh down your hunting rifle. The fast focus eyepiece allows quick reticle focusing, important when your eyes need to shift between close cover and distant game.

Reasons to Buy: Crystal clear optics, Dead-Hold BDC reticle, precision turrets with zero reset, lightweight at 14.6 oz, excellent warranty, proven reliability.

Reasons to Avoid: Turret screws extremely tight from factory, no parallax adjustment, some edge distortion at highest magnification, made in China.

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8. Burris Droptine 3-9×40 – Best Budget with Ballistic Reticle

BALLISTIC RETICLE
Burris Hunting Durable Waterproof Droptine Riflescope with Ballistic Plex Reticle, 3-9x 40mm
Burris Hunting Durable Waterproof Droptine Riflescope with Ballistic Plex Reticle, 3-9x 40mm
★★★★★★★★★★4.7

Magnification: 3-9x

Objective: 40mm

Tube: 1 inch

Reticle: Ballistic Plex SFP

Eye Relief: 2-3 inch

Weight: 13 oz

PROS
  • Ballistic Plex reticle
  • High-grade glass
  • Steel-on-steel adjustments
  • Lightweight at 13 oz
  • Burris Forever Warranty
CONS
  • Reticle may seem busy
  • Some QC issues
  • Fixed parallax
  • Adequate eye relief
Check Price
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Magnification
3-9x
Objective
40mm
Reticle
Ballistic Plex
Weight
13 oz

The Burris Droptine delivers classic 3-9×40 performance with Burris’s signature Ballistic Plex reticle. This reticle provides holdover points for extended range without requiring turret adjustments. I’ve used similar Burris reticles for years and appreciate the quick ranging capability.

High-grade optical glass provides excellent brightness and clarity. Larger precision-ground lenses combined with Burris’s proprietary Hi-Lume multicoating deliver lasting durability. Customer images show the Droptine performing well in various field conditions.

Burris Hunting Durable Waterproof Droptine Riflescope with Ballistic Plex Reticle, 3-9x 40mm - Customer Photo 1
Customer submitted photo

The integrated-eyepiece design allows easy field adjustments. Positive steel-on-steel adjustments guarantee repeatable accuracy. The durable, shock-resistant outer tube withstands heavy-recoiling calibers without issue.

At only 0.81 pounds, this scope won’t affect your rifle’s handling characteristics. The compact size balances well on Remington 700 actions of all configurations.

The Burris Forever Warranty is one of the best in the industry. No registration required, no questions asked, fully transferable coverage.

Reasons to Buy: Classic 3-9×40 hunting configuration, Ballistic Plex reticle with holdovers, clear glass for the price, lightweight at 13 oz, excellent warranty.

Reasons to Avoid: Ballistic Plex reticle can seem busy, some cosmetic QC issues reported, no parallax adjustment, eye relief is adequate but not exceptional.

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9. Sig Sauer Whiskey3 4-12×40 – Best Mid-Range with LD Glass

LD GLASS VALUE
Sig Sauer Waterproof Fogproof Hunting Second Focal Plane 1-inch Tube Diameter Whiskey3 4-12X40mm Scope, Quadplex Reticle
Sig Sauer Waterproof Fogproof Hunting Second Focal Plane 1-inch Tube Diameter Whiskey3 4-12X40mm Scope, Quadplex Reticle
★★★★★★★★★★4.6

Magnification: 4-12x

Objective: 40mm

Tube: 1 inch

Reticle: Quadplex SFP

Eye Relief: 18mm

Weight: 15.2 oz

PROS
  • Low-dispersion glass
  • Fully multi-coated
  • Waterproof fogproof
  • Silk smooth adjustments
  • Clear dusk performance
CONS
  • Parallax issues under 100 yards
  • Not usable at 25 yards
  • Fixed parallax only
Check Price
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Magnification
4-12x
Objective
40mm
Glass
LD
Weight
15.2 oz

The Sig Sauer Whiskey3 features low-dispersion glass that significantly reduces chromatic aberration. This becomes obvious when comparing it side-by-side with standard glass scopes. Color fringing around high-contrast targets is minimal, and resolution is crisp edge-to-edge.

The fully multi-coated lenses deliver a vivid sight picture. European style eyepiece provides smooth focus adjustment. I found the glass remained clear even at dusk, with excellent light transmission for a 40mm objective.

Sig Sauer Waterproof Fogproof Hunting Second Focal Plane 1-inch Tube Diameter Whiskey3 4-12X40mm Scope - Customer Photo 1
Customer submitted photo

Silk smooth turret adjustments are a standout feature. Each click provides positive feedback without being overly stiff. The capped turrets prevent accidental adjustments in the field, perfect for a hunting rifle.

The rugged industrial design provides reliability and protection. Waterproof and fogproof construction ensures reliable performance in all weather conditions. Customer photos show the Whiskey3 mounted on various hunting rifles.

The 3x optical zoom range from 4-12x covers most hunting situations. At 4x, you have a wide field of view for close shots. Dial to 12x for precise shot placement on distant game.

Sig Sauer Waterproof Fogproof Hunting Second Focal Plane 1-inch Tube Diameter Whiskey3 4-12X40mm Scope - Customer Photo 2
Customer submitted photo

Be aware of the parallax limitations. This scope has fixed parallax set for typical hunting distances, making it less suitable for very close-range shooting under 100 yards.

Reasons to Buy: LD glass reduces chromatic aberration, fully multi-coated lenses, smooth turret adjustments, excellent low-light performance, weatherproof construction.

Reasons to Avoid: Parallax issues under 100 yards, not usable at 25 yards, fixed parallax only, limited stock availability.

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10. Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 – Best for Woods Hunting

WOODS HUNTING
Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 (1 inch) Hunt-Plex Reticle Riflescope
Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 (1 inch) Hunt-Plex Reticle Riflescope
★★★★★★★★★★4.7

Magnification: 2-7x

Objective: 33mm

Tube: 1 inch

Reticle: Hunt-Plex SFP

Eye Relief: Generous

Weight: 9.6 oz

PROS
  • Ultra-lightweight 9.6 oz
  • Made in USA
  • 2x wide field of view
  • Hunt-Plex reticle
  • Extreme temp tested
CONS
  • Mushy turret feel
  • Small eye box at 7x
  • Limited to close range
  • Fixed parallax
Check Price
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Magnification
2-7x
Objective
33mm
Weight
9.6 oz
Origin
USA

The Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 is purpose-built for tight woods hunting where shots are close and fast. At only 9.6 ounces, it’s one of the lightest quality scopes available. I’ve used this exact setup on a deer gun for thick timber hunts and never felt under-gunned.

The 2x low end provides a massive field of view for quick target acquisition. When a buck explodes from cover at 30 yards, you don’t want to be searching for your target. The 43.8-foot field of view at 100 yards makes this scope incredibly fast on target.

Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7x33 (1 inch) Hunt-Plex Reticle Riflescope - Customer Photo 1
Customer submitted photo

The Hunt-Plex reticle is simple and effective. Fine crosshairs don’t obscure small targets in thick cover. The slightly heavier posts help center your eye quickly. Customer images show this reticle excels in deer-hunting scenarios.

Despite weighing under 10 ounces, this scope is tough. Leupold tests it to withstand minimum 5,000 impacts on their recoil simulation machine. It’s also tested in extreme temperatures from -20F to 140F, ensuring reliability in any hunting conditions.

The full lifetime guarantee applies whether you’re the original owner or not. No proof of purchase required, no time limit. This is the kind of warranty that makes you confident investing in quality glass.

Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7x33 (1 inch) Hunt-Plex Reticle Riflescope - Customer Photo 2
Customer submitted photo

Eye relief is generous, making this suitable for heavy-recoiling calibers. The capped turrets prevent accidental adjustments when moving through dense brush. Simple, rugged, reliable – exactly what a woods hunter needs.

Reasons to Buy: Ultra-lightweight at 9.6 oz, wide 2x field of view, made in USA, excellent low-light glass, simple Hunt-Plex reticle, proven durability.

Reasons to Avoid: Limited to 200-yard shots effectively, mushy turret feel, eye box gets small at 7x, fixed parallax, not ideal for open country hunting.

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How to Choose the Best Scope for Remington 700?

Choosing a scope for your Remington 700 involves matching your specific needs to the right specifications. Let me break down the key factors based on years of experience and testing.

Magnification Range

The right magnification depends entirely on where and how you hunt. For eastern whitetail hunters in thick timber, I recommend 2-7x or 3-9x scopes. The wider field of view at low power lets you find game quickly in close cover.

For western hunters shooting across open country, 4-12x or 4-16x provides versatility. At 4x, you can still find game in the scope. Dial up to 12x for precise shot placement on distant game.

Long-range target shooters benefit from 6-24x or higher. Remember that higher magnification amplifies every shake and tremor. A solid rest becomes essential above 15x.

Eye Relief Requirements

Eye relief is critical for safety, especially with heavy-recoiling Remington 700 chamberings. Standard calibers like .308 work well with 3.5 inches of eye relief. Magnum calibers demand 4+ inches to prevent scope bite.

I learned this lesson the hard way with a .300 Win Mag and a scope with only 3 inches of eye relief. One shot left a permanent reminder above my eyebrow. Never compromise on eye relief with heavy-recoiling rifles.

Reticle Selection

Simple duplex reticles work best for most hunting situations. They’re fast to acquire and don’t clutter your view. The Leupold Hunt-Plex and standard duplex are proven choices.

BDC reticles like the Vortex Dead-Hold provide holdover points for longer shots. They’re useful if you practice with them and understand your trajectory. Skip them if you prefer a simple sight picture.

For long-range precision, mil-based or MOA-based reticles in FFP scopes allow precise holds and wind corrections. These require significant practice to use effectively.

First vs Second Focal Plane

First focal plane reticles scale with magnification, keeping holds valid at any power. This is ideal for long-range shooting and variable hunting distances. The tradeoff is reticles that appear fine at low power.

Second focal plane reticles stay the same size at all magnifications. They’re simpler to use and typically less expensive. For hunting shots under 400 yards, SFP works perfectly fine.

Durability Features

Your Remington 700 will see rough conditions. Look for scopes with aircraft-grade aluminum construction, O-ring seals, and nitrogen or argon purging. These features ensure waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof performance.

I’ve tested scopes that failed after 50 rounds of .308 recoil. Quality scopes from Vortex, Leupold, and Trijicon withstand thousands of rounds without shifting zero.

Mounting Your Scope on Remington 700

Proper mounting is essential for accuracy and safety. The Remington 700 uses a standard receiver with two mounting surfaces. Here’s what I’ve learned from mounting dozens of scopes on Remington 700 actions.

Base Selection

Two-piece bases are standard for Remington 700 and work well for most applications. They allow access to the ejector port for loading single rounds. One-piece bases offer more rigidity for long-range precision shooting.

Consider a 20 MOA base if you plan to shoot past 600 yards. This built-in incline gives you additional elevation adjustment for long-range shots.

Ring Height Guide

Proper ring height prevents the objective from hitting the barrel while allowing your eye to align properly. For 40mm objectives, medium rings typically work. 50mm objectives usually require high rings.

I always measure the actual clearance needed. Place a straight edge across the receiver and measure to the barrel at the objective location. Add 0.1-0.15 inches for bell clearance.

Installation Tips

Use quality torx drivers and apply blue Loctite to base screws. Torque in a crisscross pattern to the manufacturer’s specification. Never overtighten – you can deform the receiver or strip threads.

Lap your rings if you want maximum precision. This process ensures the rings align perfectly and prevents stress on the scope tube. For hunting rifles under 400 yards, quality rings straight from the box usually work fine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What magnification is best for a Remington 700?

For most Remington 700 hunting applications, 3-9x is the ideal magnification range. This provides enough power for shots out to 400 yards while maintaining a wide field of view for close shots. Woods hunters may prefer 2-7x for faster target acquisition, while open country hunters benefit from 4-12x or 4-16x for longer shots.

How much should I spend on a scope for Remington 700?

Budget $150-300 for casual hunting with scopes like the Vortex Crossfire II. Spend $300-700 for serious hunting with better glass and more features from brands like Vortex Diamondback and Leupold VX-Freedom. Premium scopes over $700 like the Vortex Viper PST and Trijicon AccuPoint deliver professional-grade performance for long-range precision and extreme low-light conditions.

What size scope do I need for Remington 700?

The standard hunting scope size is 3-9×40, offering excellent versatility for most situations. A 40mm objective balances light gathering with compact size. For low-light hunting, consider a 50mm or 56mm objective lens. Keep in mind larger objectives require higher rings and add weight to your rifle.

What is the best budget scope for Remington 700?

The Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 is the best budget scope for Remington 700 at under $120. It delivers clear glass, generous 4-inch eye relief, and the useful Dead-Hold BDC reticle. The Crossfire II holds zero well and is backed by Vortex’s unlimited lifetime warranty, making it an exceptional value for budget-conscious hunters.

What eye relief do I need for Remington 700?

For standard Remington 700 calibers like .308 and .30-06, minimum 3.5 inches of eye relief is adequate. For magnum calibers including .300 Win Mag and 7mm Rem Mag, 4+ inches of eye relief is critical to prevent scope bite from heavy recoil. The Leupold VX-Freedom offers 4.5-5 inches of eye relief, making it ideal for magnum-chambered rifles.

Do I need a one-piece or two-piece scope mount for Remington 700?

Two-piece bases are standard for Remington 700 and work well for most hunting applications. They allow loading single rounds through the ejection port. One-piece bases offer increased rigidity for long-range precision shooting and provide a 20 MOA incline option for extended range. Choose two-piece for hunting convenience, one-piece for maximum long-range precision.

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