Amidst the myriad choices, the pursuit of the best 56mm hunting scopes is akin to searching for a rare artifact that promises unparalleled precision and clarity.
Venturing into the world of hunting scopes feels akin to embarking on a treasure hunt through a dense forest, seeking that elusive gem that stands out among the foliage.
Picture yourself equipped with a sophisticated tool that not only magnifies your target but also enhances your hunting prowess.
As you delve into this quest for the ultimate 56mm scope, you’ll navigate through a landscape filled with technological marvels, optical wonders, and a thrilling array of features, all designed to elevate your hunting experience to new heights.
Here are our top choices.
Top 8 Best 56mm Hunting Scopes in 2024
- NightForce NXS 5.5-22X56 MOA Scope
- Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm
- Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25X56
- NightForce SHV 4-14×56 .250 MOA Rifle Scope
- Maven RS.4 5-30×56 FFP
- Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56
- Zeiss LRP S5 5-25×56
- Primary Arms PLx 6-30X56 FFP
1. NightForce NXS 5.5-22X56 MOA Scope
The NightForce NXS Tactical Scope in the 5.5-22x56mm configuration stands out as an uncompromising choice for discerning hunters seeking top-tier performance.
Crafted to excel across a spectrum of shooting scenarios, this scope boasts remarkable versatility and a rugged aesthetic that complements its exceptional functionality.
It’s a tool that delivers on its promise, catering to precision shooting even at extreme distances, whether it’s targeting prairie dogs at 1000 yards or beyond.
What sets this scope apart is its consistent high-quality image rendition even at maximum magnification, ensuring a clear and accurate view of your target.
Its SFP (Second Focal Plane), glass-etched, illuminated reticle with 2 MOA tall and 2 MOA wide crosshairs is a standout feature, enabling extreme precision, particularly when aiming at small targets situated at significant distances.
The NightForce NXS comes with a robust 30mm tube, the Hi-Speed Turret System, and the ability to withstand 1250G of force. Notably, its parallax side focus adds to its appeal, enhancing accuracy even further.
Pros
- Unmatched lens clarity
- Illuminated, glass-etched reticle
- Hi-Speed Turret System
- Consistent clarity at maximum magnification
- Parallax side focus
- 30mm tube body
Cons
- Considerable weight
2. Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm
The Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm rifle scope stands tall as a renowned optic with an impressive history of triumph across diverse shooting competitions.
Recognized for its exceptional performance, this scope has consistently proven its worth, earning a reputation as a versatile choice for both long-range shooting and hunting pursuits.
Despite its slightly heavier build, the Razor HD Gen II’s reliability is unquestionable, garnering a strong following and becoming more accessible due to attractive deals over time.
This scope excels in delivering impeccable image clarity and brightness across the entire field of view. Boasting a 6x zoom range and a sturdy 34mm single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube, it ensures durability and robustness.
The advanced L-Tec turret system prevents inadvertent adjustments to the elevation turret, maintaining consistency within the sight-in range.
Noteworthy is its Apochromatic objective lens system, employing index-matched lenses that correct color aberrations for precise color correction throughout the visual spectrum.
Pros
- Locking illumination ring
- Availability of Horus reticles
- Exceptional optical clarity
- Comfortable ample eye box
- High durability
- Effective light transmission
- Precise turret adjustments
Cons
- Considerable weight, possibly not suitable for those preferring a lightweight scope.
3. Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25X56
The Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25X56 deserves its high ranking among long-range scopes.
This new line of Marks stands out as the ultimate tactical scope, ideal for extreme long-range shooting, yet versatile enough for hunting purposes.
The Mark 5 HD is packed with features.
Its optical system allows for dual use, catering to both tactical and hunting needs seamlessly.
This model boasts a Horus-designed reticle in the FFP, known for its productivity and extreme accuracy down to 1/10th of a mil. While some may find the reticle ‘busy,’ it offers exceptional precision.
The scope’s attributes include audible, precise turrets, aircraft-grade aluminum construction, and a European fast-focus eyepiece featuring a magnification throw lever.
These features collectively make this scope a highly desirable addition to the market. However, it does come with a price tag that might be a consideration before making it part of your shooting gear.
Pros
- Throw lever
- High power
- Audible precise turrets
- Wide adjustment range
- Multiple FFP reticles available
- 1/10th MIL
- Fully multi-coated
Cons
- Price
4. NightForce SHV 4-14×56 .250 MOA Rifle Scope
The NightForce SHV (Shooter Hunter Varminter) 4-14×56 mm F1 riflescope is a 30-ounce optic with a 1.3-inch (30 mm) main tube.
Operating on the First Focal Plane (FFP), this scope’s unique feature is its automatic reticle size adjustment based on the magnification setting, a notable addition to the SHV product line.
Featuring a tactical MOA turret, the NightForce SHV 4-14×56 introduces the ZeroSet turret in its Elevation Feature, allowing for a hassle-free return to the ‘zero’ setting even after multiple adjustments.
This scope comes equipped with NightForce’s Power Throw Lever, offering swift and effective magnification adjustments, ensuring adaptability under various shooting conditions.
This NightForce scope is versatile across different applications and pairs well with most rifles.
Its wide magnification range and expansive field of view allow for rapid and precise adjustments.
With 12 brightness settings, it handles varying lighting conditions, from dim to shaded or cloudy environments, providing clarity in each scenario.
Pros
- Waterproof and fog-proof
- Ample eye relief
- Wide field of view
- Magnification ranges from 4x to 14x
- Illuminated reticle
- Utilizes a supplied Lithium-ion battery
- Large 56mm objective lens
Cons
- The visibility of the red reticle isn’t distinctly clear
5. Maven RS.4 5-30×56 FFP
The Maven RS.4 is a precision-engineered optic tailor-made for the demands of long-range shooting.
Engineered to deliver exceptional optical and mechanical performance, this scope stands out with its remarkable capabilities.
Boasting a magnification range of 5-30x and exceptional light transmission, this scope ensures true-to-color visuals even at maximum power.
The optical quality of the glass is truly outstanding, meeting the stringent requirements of PRS (Precision Rifle Series) competitions and surpassing expectations for various other shooting applications.
One of the standout features is its spacious 34mm tube, providing ample room for precise adjustments.
With a first focal plane (FFP) glass-etched reticle, shooters can rely on consistent holds at any magnification level.
Additionally, the dual illumination feature ensures visibility in varying light conditions.
The side focus feature offers a minimum setting of 15 yards, catering effectively to long-range engagements. While shooters focused on extended distances might find the range below 100 yards unnecessary, it proves beneficial for users employing the RS.4 in diverse shooting scenarios.
The RS.4’s exposed, sizable, and tactile turrets enhance ease of use, allowing for quick and precise adjustments.
Its robust construction ensures water and fog resistance, making it suitable for tackling challenging weather conditions.
Pros
- Tactile turrets
- 5-30x magnification
- FFP glass etched reticle
- Robust construction
- ED Japanese glass
- 34mm tube
- Dual illumination
Cons
- Too many parallax markings
6. Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56
The NIGHTFORCE ATACR 5-25x56mm isn’t a night vision scope as the name might suggest; instead, it’s a high-quality, long-range riflescope designed to accommodate a wide array of rifles while excelling in durability and magnification capabilities.
Crafted from aluminum, this scope prioritizes durability. Its internal nitrogen purging prevents fogging, ensuring clear vision even in diverse weather conditions.
Moreover, its waterproof feature protects against moisture, a common cause of internal fogging, making it reliable in various environments. NightForce has ensured shockproofing to handle powerful rifles for long-range shooting.
The lenses are a focal point of excellence. NightForce employs multiple coatings on the glass lenses to optimize brightness and durability while offering scratch resistance for long-lasting reliability.
The 56mm objective lens efficiently gathers ample sunlight, enhancing visibility during shooting.
Pros
- Capped windage adjustments
- Robust build quality
- Audible and tactile turrets
- Clear glass for enhanced visibility
- Easy zeroing capabilities
- Great light transmission through the 56mm objective lens
Cons
- Considerable weight
- Higher price point
7. Zeiss LRP S5 5-25×56
Designed with precision shooters in mind, the Zeiss LRP S5 rifle scope stands as a potential game-changer for those engaged in PRS/NRL competitions.
Boasting a suite of features including a throw lever, positive zero stop, and a lockable windage turret, it offers distinct advantages to competitive shooters and enthusiasts focusing on long-range hunting.
Zeiss, recognized for its top-tier optics often associated with premium price tags, maintains its reputation for quality with the LRP S5.
The scope impresses with its exceptional mechanical precision and high-performance capabilities.
Its accuracy is notable, complemented by prominently visible markings on the turrets and side focus—a crucial factor for users dealing with challenging lighting conditions or aging eyes.
The scope’s ability to provide clear and easily discernible references owes much to its generously sized turrets, adhering to the philosophy that “bigger is better.”
With a 5x zoom, a sizable 56mm lens, a robust 34mm tube, a first focal plane (FFP) illuminated reticle, and the hallmark quality of Zeiss optics, this scope is built for uncompromising long-range excellence.
The use of premium components like Schott glass, fluoride lenses, T* coatings, LotuTec coatings, and a fast-focus eyepiece contribute to delivering exceptionally clear and sharp images, enhancing the shooter’s visual experience.
Featuring illuminated ZF-MRi and ZF-MOAi reticles designed with a Christmas-style pattern containing hash marks and numbers, the LRP S5 prioritizes fast and intuitive visual reference for precision long-range shooting.
Pros
- Excellent optics
- FFP illuminated reticle
- Precision mechanical integrity
- Locking turrets
- MRAD & MOA models
Cons
- Price
8. Primary Arms PLx 6-30X56 FFP
The Primary Arms PLx 6-30X56 FFP isn’t your run-of-the-mill budget scope from Primary Arms. It is one of the best 56mm hunting scopes.
As part of their elite Platinum Series, this Japanese-made optic stands out with a comprehensive set of features, catering specifically to the discerning long-range shooter.
The PLx, denoting the Platinum Series, signifies the pinnacle of Primary Arms’ offerings, boasting an exhaustive list of functionalities essential for precision shooting.
Sporting a substantial 56mm aperture and a wide magnification range of 6-30x, this scope ensures versatility but does tip the scales at 38.2 ounces, nearly 2 pounds, making it slightly heavier compared to its 5-25x counterparts.
Its robust 34mm tube enhances durability while maximizing travel adjustment capabilities, offering 27.6 MIL elevation and 13.1 MIL windage adjustments in precise 0.1 MIL clicks.
Nestled within the optical housing is an illuminated reticle placed in the first focal plane, with the reticle brightness adjustment conveniently integrated into the outer ring of the side focus knob.
The tactical-style turrets are oversized and exposed, featuring zero reset and zero stop capabilities, as expected in this price range.
The Athena Ballistic Precision MIL Reticle (BPR) exemplifies intricate detailing without cluttering the field of view. At its center lies a chevron tip surrounded by 0.2 MIL hash marks, extending further with 0.5 MIL hash marks below.
The mystery behind how Primary Arms managed to offer such an extensive scope at this price point remains intriguing.
Pros
- Japanese Glass
- wide magnification range
- FFP reticle
- Durability
- 34 mm tube
- Exposed tactical-style turrets
- Illuminated reticle
- Auto-ranging
Cons
- Heavy
Summary
In the vast expanse of hunting scopes, the quest for the finest 56mm optic feels like a treasure hunt, navigating through a dense forest of choices
Each scope presents a distinct blend of technology, optical brilliance, and features aimed at elevating the hunting experience to exceptional levels.
Among the top contenders in the landscape of 56mm hunting scopes, certain names shine brightly. The NightForce NXS impresses with its unparalleled image clarity and versatility, catering to precise shooting even at extreme distances.
Vortex Razor HD Gen II stands tall as a reliable choice for long-range shooting and hunting, delivering exceptional optical clarity and durability.
The Leupold Mark 5HD showcases its tactical and hunting prowess, featuring an array of innovative attributes but at a higher price point.
NightForce SHV embraces automatic reticle size adjustment and impressive ZeroSet turret capability, excelling in versatility and rapid adjustments across different applications.
Maven RS.4 impresses with its precision-engineered design, exceptional optical quality, and rugged construction, tailored for demanding long-range shooting scenarios.
The Nightforce ATACR embodies durability and reliability, designed to excel in diverse weather conditions and offer exceptional clarity through its lenses.
Zeiss LRP S5 stands as a potential game-changer with its precision features, top-tier optics, and robust build for competitive shooting.
Finally, the Primary Arms PLx emerges as a surprise package, offering a comprehensive set of features at a competitive price point.
In conclusion, the pursuit of the best 56mm hunting scope leads to a diverse landscape of choices, each catering to specific preferences, needs, and shooting styles.
Whether prioritizing optical brilliance, durability, precision, or a blend of these aspects, the top contenders in this realm offer an impressive range of features, showcasing excellence and innovation in the world of hunting optics.
The ultimate choice among these exceptional scopes rests on aligning individual requirements with the specific capabilities and features each optic offers.