The best best rifle scope for 500 yard shooting is the SIG SAUER Tango-SPR 6-24x52mm, the only one here that combines an oversized 52mm objective lens with a proven MOA BDC-1 reticle and factory-installed flip-back caps and throw lever. It's built for the shooter who wants to dial in fast and hold dead-on from 300 to 500 yards without messing with magnification.
Want a budget-friendly alternative that still reaches 500 yards? The Monstrum G3 6-24×50 gives you a First Focal Plane reticle and illuminated MOA markings for a fraction of the price. But you'll give up the premium glass coatings and the included mount.
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This guide is different because it tells you who should skip this category entirely. If you're hunting thick brush under 100 yards, a 6-24x scope is overkill. If you're a beginner on a tight budget, you might be better off with a fixed-power scope and some ammo.
Everything below comes from current Amazon product data, manufacturer specs, and verified buyer feedback. I haven't personally tested these scopes, but I've analyzed hundreds of reviews and spec sheets to give you a clear, honest picture.
Quick Answer: The Best Rifle Scope for 500 Yard Shooting
The SIG SAUER Tango-SPR 6-24x52mm is the top pick for most shooters who need consistent hits at 500 yards. Here are all eight options ranked:
- SIG SAUER Tango-SPR 6-24x52mm 30mm Tube (Best Overall for 500 Yard Shooting): Exceptional clarity, included throw lever, proven MOA reticle.
- KT12-60X60SAL Long Range Rifle Scope 35mm (Maximum Magnification for Extreme Range): 12-60x zoom reaches far beyond 500 yards.
- DISCOVERYOPT HD 5-30×56 GEN2 PRS FFP (Best for PRS Competition): Zero stop, 34mm tube, HD glass.
- Arken Optics SH4J GEN2 6-24×50 FFP (Best Value FFP for Long Range): AZS zero stop, illuminated reticle, ARK-LOK mount system.
- Monstrum Guardian 6-18×50 AO Rifle Scope (Best Budget AO Scope): Adjustable objective, clear glass, very affordable.
- SIG SAUER Tango-MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Waterproof (Best for Versatile Mid-Range): True 1x and 6x, includes cantilever mount, great for ARs.
- Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal (Best Warranty and FFP Clarity): Lifetime VIP warranty, excellent glass for the price.
- Monstrum G3 6-24×50 First Focal Plane (Best FFP on a Budget): Illuminated MOA reticle, adjustable objective, solid build.
Thinking about a low-power variable or a fixed-power scope instead? Jump to Who Should NOT Buy below before you spend anything.
Comparison Table
Here's the lineup at a glance: photo, product, who it's built for, and our /10 score.
Scroll sideways on small screens to see every column.
SIG SAUER Tango-SPR 6-24x52mm 30mm Tube: Best Overall for 500 Yard Shooting
SIG SAUER Tango-SPR 6-24x52mm 30mm Tube: Best Overall for 500 Yard Shooting
#1
SIGIncluded Throw Lever
9.2OUT OF 10
Optical Clarity9.5
Build Quality9.0
Ease of Use9.3
Owner Verdict9.1
This is the scope that stops you from second-guessing your gear at 500 yards. The 52mm objective lens gathers light like a much bigger scope, so you get a bright, crisp image even in low light. The Second Focal Plane MOA BDC-1 reticle is simple and fast; you don’t need to mess with turrets for every shot. SIG factory-installs flip-back caps and a throw lever, so you can go from 6x to 24x in one hand motion.
According to aggregate buyer feedback, the Tango-SPR holds zero perfectly on medium-caliber rifles like .308 and 6.5 Creedmoor. The 30mm tube gives plenty of elevation adjustment for 500-yard shots, and the eye relief is forgiving at 3.5 inches. Many users report that the glass is on par with scopes costing twice as much.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The turrets are capped, which is fine for hunting but slower for competitive shooting. A few owners wish the illumination was a bit brighter in direct sunlight. Also, the reticle is MOA-based, not MIL, so if you’re a MIL shooter, you’ll want to look at the FFP options below.
⚠Compatibility: This scope requires a 30mm ring set. Make sure your rifle’s rail and rings are compatible before you buy.
Pros
- ✓52mm objective lens delivers excellent low-light performance
- ✓Included throw lever and flip-back caps save $50+ in accessories
- ✓MOA BDC-1 reticle is intuitive for quick holds at 500 yards
- ✓Proven SIG optical quality with shockproof, waterproof, fogproof sealing
Cons
- ✕Capped turrets are slower for on-the-fly adjustments
- ✕Illumination could be stronger in bright conditions
- ✕MOA reticle not ideal for MIL-based shooters
Best for: Shooters who want a do-it-all scope for 500-yard shooting with the fastest possible magnification changes and premium glass in a proven package.
KT12-60X60SAL Long Range Rifle Scope 35mm: Maximum Magnification for Extreme Range
KT12-60X60SAL Long Range Rifle Scope 35mm: Maximum Magnification for Extreme Range
#2
KT12-60X60SAL60x Zoom
7.8OUT OF 10
Optical Clarity7.0
Build Quality8.0
Ease of Use7.5
Owner Verdict7.8
If you want to see the muzzle flash at 800 yards, this is the scope for you. The KT12-60X60SAL packs a massive 60mm objective lens and a 35mm tube, giving you an extreme 12-60x zoom range. At 60x, you can read the text on a wind flag at 500 yards. It includes scope rings in the box, and the side parallax adjustment lets you dial out to 1,000 yards.
Buyer reviews consistently praise the “surprisingly clear” image at high magnification for the price. The 35mm tube provides a huge internal adjustment range, so you can shoot out to extreme distances without running out of elevation. It’s also fully waterproof and fogproof, with a solid metal construction that feels substantial.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The glass is not as crisp as premium scopes at 60x; you’ll see some chromatic aberration in bright light. The scope is heavy and long, so it’s best suited for a bench rest or prone shooting. Also, the reticle is a simple crosshair, which isn’t as fast for holdovers as a BDC or MIL reticle.
If you prefer a lighter, more versatile scope for 500 yards, the
SIG SAUER Tango-SPR is a better all-around choice.
⚠Weight: At over 2 pounds, this scope will add significant heft to your rifle. Ensure your mount and rings are rated for a 35mm tube.
Pros
- ✓12-60x magnification covers far beyond 500 yards
- ✓60mm objective lens gathers plenty of light
- ✓35mm tube offers huge elevation adjustment range
- ✓Includes scope rings, saving you a separate purchase
Cons
- ✕Heavy and long, not ideal for hunting or carry
- ✕Image quality degrades at max magnification
- ✕Simple crosshair reticle lacks holdover marks
Best for: Bench rest shooters and varmint hunters who need extreme magnification to spot and engage targets well beyond 500 yards.
DISCOVERYOPT HD 5-30×56 GEN2 PRS FFP: Best for PRS Competition
DISCOVERYOPT HD 5-30×56 GEN2 PRS FFP: Best for PRS Competition
#3
DISCOVERYOPTZero Stop FFP
8.5OUT OF 10
Optical Clarity8.8
Build Quality8.5
Ease of Use8.2
Owner Verdict8.5
This is the competition-grade scope that punches above its price class. The 5-30×56 GEN2 PRS FFP uses HD glass for sharp, color-accurate images across the entire zoom range. The 34mm tube and zero stop turrets allow you to dial elevation rapidly and return to zero without counting clicks. The illuminated FFP reticle stays proportional at all magnifications, so your holdovers are always correct.
According to verified buyer reports, this scope is “built like a tank” and handles heavy recoil from .338 Lapua and similar calibers without losing zero. The side parallax adjustment goes down to 10 yards, making it usable for close-range stages too. The red illumination has 11 brightness levels, so it’s visible in any light.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The turret clicks are positive but a bit stiff out of the box; some owners recommend a quick break-in. The scope is longer than many 30mm models, so you’ll need a longer rail or offset mount. A few users noted that the included lens caps are not the best quality.
⚠Mount: Requires a 34mm ring set. Not compatible with standard 30mm rings.
Pros
- ✓HD glass delivers excellent clarity and color accuracy
- ✓Zero stop turrets allow fast, repeatable adjustments
- ✓34mm tube provides a wide elevation range
- ✓Illuminated FFP reticle with 11 brightness levels
Cons
- ✕Turrets feel stiff before break-in
- ✕Longer than many 30mm scopes, needs a long rail
- ✕Included lens caps are basic quality
Best for: PRS competitors and precision shooters who need a rugged, zero-stop FFP scope with HD glass for fast, accurate dialing at 500 yards and beyond.
Arken Optics SH4J GEN2 6-24×50 FFP: Best Value FFP for Long Range
Arken Optics SH4J GEN2 6-24×50 FFP: Best Value FFP for Long Range
#4
ArkenAZS Zero Stop
8.8OUT OF 10
Optical Clarity9.0
Build Quality8.8
Ease of Use8.5
Owner Verdict8.9
This is the FFP scope that gives you pro features without the pro price tag. The SH4J GEN2 comes with Arken’s AZS (Arken Zero Stop) system, which lets you dial elevation for 500 yards and return to zero instantly. The 34mm tube and 50mm objective provide a bright, clear image, and the illuminated VPR or VHR reticle (your choice) is etched on glass for durability. It’s designed for PRS training and long-range practice.
Verified buyer feedback consistently praises the “exceptional value” and “crisp turret clicks” of this scope. The glass is surprisingly good for the price point, with minimal chromatic aberration even at 24x. The ARK-LOK mount system is a nice touch, though you’ll need to buy the mount separately. The scope is also fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The included manual is not the most detailed, so you might need to watch a setup video. A few owners reported that the illumination is not daylight-bright, but it’s adequate for most conditions. Also, the turret caps are plastic, not metal.
⚠Mount: Requires a 34mm ring set. Available separately as the ARK-LOK system.
Pros
- ✓AZS zero stop system for fast, repeatable dialing
- ✓Excellent glass clarity for the price point
- ✓34mm tube provides generous elevation adjustment
- ✓Choice of VPR or VHR illuminated reticle
Cons
- ✕Manual lacks detail; setup may require online help
- ✕Illumination not daylight-bright for some users
- ✕Plastic turret caps feel less premium
Best for: Shooters who want a high-value FFP scope with a zero stop for consistent 500-yard shots without paying premium brand prices.
Monstrum Guardian 6-18×50 AO Rifle Scope: Best Budget AO Scope
Monstrum Guardian 6-18×50 AO Rifle Scope: Best Budget AO Scope
#5
MonstrumAdjustable Objective
7.5OUT OF 10
Optical Clarity7.0
Build Quality7.5
Ease of Use8.0
Owner Verdict7.6
This is the scope that proves you don’t need to spend a lot to hit 500 yards. The Monstrum Guardian 6-18×50 AO gives you an adjustable objective for parallax correction, a 50mm lens for decent light gathering, and a simple, clean reticle. It’s a Second Focal Plane scope, so the reticle stays the same size at all magnifications, which many hunters prefer for fast shots.
Buyer reviews highlight the “surprisingly clear glass” for the price and the smooth zoom ring. The AO adjustment is easy to use and lets you dial out parallax from 10 yards to infinity. The scope is built on a 1-inch tube, which is lightweight and compatible with most standard rings. It’s also shockproof, fogproof, and waterproof.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The max magnification of 18x is lower than many 500-yard scopes, but it’s still plenty for targets at that range. The 1-inch tube limits internal adjustment range compared to 30mm or 34mm tubes. A few owners noted that the eye relief is a bit tight at 18x.
If you want more magnification and a wider tube, the
Monstrum G3 6-24×50 FFP is a step up in both features and price.
⚠Compatibility: Uses a standard 1-inch tube. Works with most budget-friendly ring sets.
Pros
- ✓Adjustable objective eliminates parallax at any range
- ✓50mm objective lens provides good light transmission
- ✓Lightweight and compact on a 1-inch tube
- ✓Very affordable price point for a 500-yard scope
Cons
- ✕Max 18x magnification is lower than other options
- ✕1-inch tube limits internal adjustment range
- ✕Eye relief tightens at higher magnification
Best for: Budget-conscious hunters and range shooters who need a reliable AO scope for 500-yard targets without the premium price tag.
SIG SAUER Tango-MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Waterproof: Best for Versatile Mid-Range
SIG SAUER Tango-MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Waterproof: Best for Versatile Mid-Range
#6
SIGIncludes Cantilever Mount
8.0OUT OF 10
Optical Clarity8.5
Build Quality8.0
Ease of Use9.0
Owner Verdict7.8
This is the scope for the shooter who wants one optic that does everything from close quarters to 500 yards. The Tango-MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm gives you true 1x for both-eyes-open shooting and 6x for reaching out to mid-range targets. It includes a free Alpha-MSR 1-piece aluminum cantilever mount, which saves you around $80. The illuminated horseshoe dot reticle is fast and intuitive.
According to verified buyer feedback, this scope is “crystal clear” at 1x and holds zero perfectly on AR-15 platforms. The 24mm objective is small, but the glass quality from SIG makes up for it. It’s also fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, with a durable anodized finish. The included flip-back lens covers are a nice bonus.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. At 6x, you’re at the low end of what’s comfortable for 500-yard precision shooting. The reticle is a simple horseshoe dot, not a BDC or MIL grid, so holdovers are more of a guess. A few owners wish the illumination was brighter in direct sunlight.
⚠Mount: The included cantilever mount is designed for AR-15 platforms. Check compatibility with your rifle.
Pros
- ✓True 1x magnification for close-quarters shooting
- ✓Includes free Alpha-MSR cantilever mount
- ✓Bright, clear glass with good eye relief
- ✓Illuminated horseshoe dot reticle is fast to acquire
Cons
- ✕6x max is low for precise 500-yard shots
- ✕Simple reticle lacks holdover marks
- ✕Illumination could be brighter in full sun
Best for: AR-15 owners who want a versatile LPVO for both close-range and 500-yard shooting, with a mount included.
Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal: Best Warranty and FFP Clarity
Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal: Best Warranty and FFP Clarity
#7
VortexLifetime Warranty
8.9OUT OF 10
Optical Clarity9.2
Build Quality9.0
Ease of Use8.8
Owner Verdict8.7
This is the scope that gives you peace of mind with a lifetime warranty any owner will love. The Vortex Diamondback Tactical FFP offers a crisp, clear First Focal Plane reticle with an EBR-2C MOA reticle that’s perfect for holdovers and wind corrections at 500 yards. The glass is noticeably bright and sharp for its price range, and the 30mm tube provides plenty of adjustment.
Verified buyer reviews consistently highlight the “excellent glass quality” and “smooth turrets” of this scope. The FFP design means your holdover marks are always accurate, regardless of magnification. The scope is also argon-purged for fogproof performance and built to withstand heavy recoil. The VIP warranty from Vortex is truly no-questions-asked and transferable.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The turrets are capped, which is fine for hunting but slower for competition. Some owners wish the zero stop was included at this price point (it’s not, but the turrets are resettable to zero). The 4-16×44 model is more common, so check the exact magnification you want.
If you want a similar FFP design with a zero stop and a 34mm tube, the
Arken Optics SH4J GEN2 is a strong alternative.
⚠Warranty: Vortex’s VIP warranty is lifetime, transferable, and covers any damage or defect. No receipt needed.
Pros
- ✓VIP lifetime warranty is the best in the industry
- ✓Excellent glass clarity and color accuracy
- ✓EBR-2C MOA reticle is ideal for holdovers at 500 yards
- ✓Argon-purged fogproof performance
Cons
- ✕Capped turrets are slower than exposed tactical turrets
- ✕No zero stop at this price point
- ✕Limited magnification options in the Diamondback Tactical line
Magnification
4-16x / 6-24x
Best for: Shooters who want a reliable FFP scope with a lifetime warranty and excellent glass for consistent 500-yard shooting.
Monstrum G3 6-24×50 First Focal Plane: Best FFP on a Budget
Monstrum G3 6-24×50 First Focal Plane: Best FFP on a Budget
#8
MonstrumIlluminated FFP MOA
8.2OUT OF 10
Optical Clarity7.8
Build Quality8.0
Ease of Use8.5
Owner Verdict8.1
This is the scope that brings FFP features to a price that almost anyone can afford. The Monstrum G3 6-24×50 FFP gives you a true First Focal Plane reticle with an illuminated MOA grid, an adjustable objective for parallax correction, and a 50mm objective lens. The illuminated reticle is red and has multiple brightness settings, making it usable in low light and bright conditions. The scope is built on a 1-inch tube, keeping it lightweight and compatible with standard rings.
According to aggregate buyer reviews, the G3 offers “impressive value” and a “clear, usable reticle” for the price. The AO adjustment works well for dialing out parallax from 10 yards to infinity, which is crucial for 500-yard accuracy. The FFP design means your holdover marks are always correct, regardless of where you set the magnification. Many owners use it on .308 and 6.5 Creedmoor rifles with good results.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The glass is not as bright or sharp as premium scopes, especially in low light at 24x. The 1-inch tube limits internal adjustment range, so you may need a 20 MOA rail for 500-yard shooting. A few owners reported that the illumination is not daylight-bright, but it’s fine for shaded ranges.
If you want a brighter image and more adjustment range, the
Arken Optics SH4J GEN2 offers a 34mm tube and a zero stop for a moderate increase in price.
⚠Compatibility: Uses a standard 1-inch tube. Works with most budget-friendly ring sets.
Pros
- ✓True FFP reticle with illuminated MOA grid
- ✓Adjustable objective for parallax correction
- ✓Very affordable price for a 6-24x FFP scope
- ✓Lightweight and compact on a 1-inch tube
Cons
- ✕Glass clarity is lower than premium scopes
- ✕1-inch tube limits internal adjustment range
- ✕Illumination not daylight-bright for all users
Reticle
Illuminated FFP MOA
Best for: Budget-minded shooters who want a true FFP scope with an illuminated reticle for 500-yard shooting without breaking the bank.
Buying Guide: Magnification, Reticle, Tube and Budget
Choosing the best rifle scope for 500 yard shooting comes down to four key decisions. Let's walk through each one with the numbers that matter.
What Magnification Do You Really Need for 500 Yards?
A common misconception is that you need 24x or more to hit 500 yards. The truth is that 10x to 16x is plenty for a standard 12-inch steel target at 500 yards. A 6-24x scope like the SIG SAUER Tango-SPR gives you the flexibility to zoom in for precise aiming or zoom out for a wider field of view.
For hunting, 6-18x is often ideal. For bench rest shooting, the KT12-60X60SAL at 60x lets you see bullet holes at 500 yards. But at 60x, mirage and heat waves become a real problem, so 24x is a practical sweet spot for most shooters.
First Focal Plane vs. Second Focal Plane: Which Is Right for You?
First Focal Plane (FFP) scopes keep your reticle proportional to the target at all magnifications. This means your holdover marks are always correct. The Vortex Diamondback Tactical and Arken SH4J GEN2 are excellent FFP options.
Second Focal Plane (SFP) scopes keep the reticle the same size regardless of magnification. The SIG Tango-SPR and Monstrum Guardian are SFP. For 500-yard work, FFP is generally preferred if you plan to use holdovers at different magnifications.
If you mostly shoot at a single magnification, SFP is simpler and often cheaper.
Tube Size and Internal Adjustment: 1 inch, 30mm, or 34mm?
The tube diameter determines how much elevation adjustment you have. A 1-inch tube like the Monstrum G3 or Monstrum Guardian typically offers 30-40 MOA of total adjustment. A 30mm tube like the SIG Tango-SPR or Vortex Diamondback offers 40-50 MOA.
A 34mm tube like the DISCOVERYOPT or Arken SH4J offers 50-60 MOA. For 500-yard shooting with a 100-yard zero, you need roughly 20 MOA of elevation. All tube sizes can handle that, but a 34mm tube gives you headroom for longer ranges or a 20 MOA rail.
Objective Lens Size and Light Gathering
The objective lens size affects how much light enters the scope. A 50mm or 52mm objective is ideal for 500-yard shooting in low light. The SIG Tango-SPR at 52mm and the DISCOVERYOPT at 56mm are excellent choices.
A 24mm objective like the SIG Tango-MSR is fine for daytime use but will struggle in twilight. The trade-off is that larger objectives add weight and require higher rings.
Who Should NOT Buy Best Rifle Scope for 500 Yard Shooting
This category is the wrong purchase for three kinds of buyers. Here's who they are, and what to look at instead.
You Hunt in Thick Brush Under 100 Yards
If you're hunting in dense woods where shots are 50 to 100 yards, a 6-24x scope is overkill. You'll have a narrow field of view and slow target acquisition. Instead, look at a low-power variable optic (LPVO) like the SIG SAUER Tango-MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm which gives you a true 1x for close shots and 6x for longer ranges.
Or consider a fixed 4x or 3-9x scope for lighter weight and faster handling.
You're a Beginner on a Very Tight Budget
If you're just starting out and your total budget for a scope is limited, a 6-24x scope might not be the best investment. You'll also need quality rings, a level, and possibly a 20 MOA rail. Instead, buy a used or entry-level 3-9×40 scope and spend the rest on ammunition and training.
The Monstrum Guardian 6-18×50 AO is a affordable option, but if even that is too much, a fixed 10x scope will serve you well at 500 yards.
You Need a Scope for a Lightweight Hunting Rifle
Many 500-yard capable scopes are heavy, with 34mm tubes and 56mm objectives adding 2+ pounds to your rifle. If you're hiking miles into the backcountry, a lightweight 3-9×40 or 4-16×44 on a 30mm tube is a better choice. The Vortex Diamondback Tactical in 4-16×44 is a good compromise between weight and capability.
Final Verdict
The SIG SAUER Tango-SPR 6-24x52mm is the best best rifle scope for 500 yard shooting for most shooters. It combines a large 52mm objective, a fast throw lever, and a proven MOA BDC-1 reticle in a package that's ready to mount out of the box. The included flip-back caps and throw lever save you money and hassle.
Want a First Focal Plane scope with a lifetime warranty? The Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical is your best bet. Need a zero stop for competition?
The Arken Optics SH4J GEN2 delivers pro features at a value price. On a strict budget? The Monstrum G3 6-24×50 FFP gives you a true FFP reticle for the lowest cost.
If none of these fit your hunting or shooting style, scroll back up to the Who Should NOT Buy section. It's better to buy the right tool for your actual use case than to force a 500-yard scope into a role it wasn't designed for.
FAQ
What's the best Rifle Scope for 500 Yard Shooting overall?
The SIG SAUER Tango-SPR 6-24x52mm is the top pick. It offers excellent glass, a fast throw lever, and a proven MOA BDC-1 reticle that makes holdovers intuitive at 500 yards.
Do I need a First Focal Plane scope for 500 yards?
Not necessarily. FFP is helpful if you use holdovers at different magnifications. If you shoot at a single magnification, SFP is simpler and often cheaper.
Both work well at 500 yards.
What magnification is best for 500 yards?
10x to 16x is plenty for a standard 12-inch steel target at 500 yards. A 6-24x scope gives you flexibility to zoom in for precision or zoom out for a wider field.
Can I use a 1-6x LPVO for 500 yards?
Yes, but it's at the low end of what's comfortable. At 6x, you can hit a 12-inch target, but precise shot placement is harder. The SIG SAUER Tango-MSR LPVO is a good option if you also need close-range capability.
What tube size do I need for 500 yards?
A 30mm tube is the sweet spot for most shooters. It offers enough internal adjustment for 500 yards without adding too much weight. A 1-inch tube works but may require a 20 MOA rail for longer ranges.
How important is the objective lens size?
For 500 yards in daylight, a 44mm or 50mm objective is fine. For low light, a 52mm or 56mm objective like the SIG Tango-SPR or DISCOVERYOPT makes a big difference. Larger objectives add weight, so balance your needs.
