Pistol scopes are essential accessories for any gun enthusiast, whether you’re a hunter, a competitive shooter, or just enjoy target practice. These scopes are designed to improve accuracy and precision, and they come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit different needs. In this article, we’ll be exploring the best pistol scopes on the market and what you should look for when purchasing one.
When it comes to pistol scopes, the most critical factor to consider is the size of the scope. Pistol scopes are generally much smaller than rifle scopes, and they need to be lightweight and compact to fit onto a handgun. Additionally, the scope must be durable and able to withstand the recoil of the gun. Other factors to consider include the magnification level, the reticle style, and the type of mounting system.
We spent hours researching and testing the top pistol scopes on the market to identify the ones that provide the best accuracy and ease of use. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting, our guide will help you find the perfect pistol scope for your needs.
Top 3 Best Pistol Scopes
1. Burris Handgun Plex Reticle Pistol Hunting Scope 2X20mm Silver Nickel
2. BSA Pistol Scope One Size Black Matte
3. BSA 2X20 Edge Series Pistol Scope
We have researched and tested various pistol scopes to bring you the best options for accurate and precise aiming. A good pistol scope can make all the difference when it comes to hitting your target with ease. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced shooter, our roundup of the best pistol scopes will help you find the perfect one for your needs. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the list and find the best pistol scope for you.
Burris Handgun Plex Reticle Pistol Hunting Scope 2X20mm Silver Nickel
We highly recommend the Burris Handgun Plex Reticle Pistol Hunting Scope 2X20mm Silver Nickel for those looking for a durable and reliable scope for their handgun.
Pros
- The simple Plex reticle makes aiming fast and easy.
- The long eye relief is perfect for hunting with a powerful handgun.
- The durable, one-piece outer tube can withstand heavy recoil.
Cons
- The fixed 2X magnification may not be suitable for all hunting situations.
- Some users have reported difficulty with the eye relief at higher magnifications.
- The scope may be heavier than other options on the market.
This scope is a great option for those who need a reliable and durable scope for their handgun. The simple Plex reticle allows for quick and easy aiming, and the long eye relief is perfect for hunting with a powerful handgun. Additionally, the durable, one-piece outer tube can withstand heavy recoil and keep the scope accurate.
In terms of drawbacks, the fixed 2X magnification may not be suitable for all hunting situations, and some users have reported difficulty with the eye relief at higher magnifications. Additionally, the scope may be heavier than other options on the market.
Overall, the Burris Handgun Plex Reticle Pistol Hunting Scope 2X20mm Silver Nickel is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and durable scope for their handgun.
BSA Pistol Scope One Size Black Matte
If you’re looking for a simple yet effective pistol scope, the BSA Pistol Scope might be just what you need. With its multi-coated optics and generous eye relief of 12-20 inches, this scope allows for almost instant target acquisition. It’s also waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof, making it a durable option for any hunting trip.
Pros
- The 1/4 MOA click value and 25 MOA windage and elevation adjustment range make it easy to adjust and zero in on your target.
- The compact size and 1″ diameter tube make it a versatile option that can be used on a variety of handguns.
- The clear sight picture and parallax set for 50 yards make it easy to acquire your target quickly.
Cons
- The field of view is fairly small, which may be a drawback for some users.
- The quality of the scope is average, with the tube being slightly larger than 1″, making it difficult to fit into some scope rings.
- The scope is made in China, which may be a concern for those looking for a higher quality product.
In our experience, the BSA Pistol Scope is a solid option for those in need of a simple and affordable pistol scope. While it may not be the highest quality option on the market, it gets the job done and is a durable choice for any hunting trip.
Overall, we would recommend the BSA Pistol Scope for those looking for a budget-friendly and reliable option for their handgun.
BSA 2X20 Edge Series Pistol Scope
If you’re looking for a simple yet effective pistol scope, the BSA 2X20 Edge Series Pistol Scope is a great option. With parallax set for 50 yards and windage and elevation adjustments set for 1/4 MOA, it’s easy to make precise shots. The multi-coated optics provide a clear sight picture that allows for almost instant target acquisition. Plus, with a generous eye relief of 12-20 inches, this versatile scope can double as a scout scope.
Pros
- The optics on this scope are crystal clear, providing a crisp image at any range.
- The scope is easy to zero in and holds its zero well.
- The generous eye relief makes it comfortable to use as a pistol scope or a scout scope.
Cons
- The view through the scope is narrow, which takes some getting used to.
- The small tube on the scope can make it difficult to see where you’re shooting from in some positions.
- The scope feels a bit fragile in comparison to some other pistol scopes.
We were impressed with the clarity of the optics on the BSA 2X20 Edge Series Pistol Scope. It was easy to zero in and held its zero well, even after several rounds of shooting. The generous eye relief made it comfortable to use as a pistol scope or a scout scope, and we appreciated the versatility. However, the narrow view through the scope took some getting used to, and the small tube on the scope made it difficult to see where we were shooting from in some positions. Overall, though, we think this is a solid pistol scope for the price.
Hammers Long Eye Relief Pistol Scout Scope 2-7X32 Silver Chrome with Weaver Rings
If you’re looking for a versatile pistol scope that can be used for both target shooting and as a forward mounting “scout” scope on rifles, the Hammers Long Eye Relief Pistol Scout Scope 2-7X32 Silver Chrome with Weaver Rings is worth considering.
Pros
- The long eye relief of 9”-9.5” makes it comfortable to use for pistol target shooting or forward mounting on scout rifles.
- The fine line 4plex reticle provides pin-point accuracy, ensuring you hit your target every time.
- The premium quality optics offer a clear and sharp view, making it easier to aim and shoot accurately.
Cons
- The windage and elevation click value of ¼”@100yds may not be precise enough for some shooters.
- The scope rings included in the set may not fit all types of weaver scope bases and rails.
- The silver chrome matte finish may not be to everyone’s taste.
We were impressed with the Hammers Long Eye Relief Pistol Scout Scope 2-7X32 Silver Chrome with Weaver Rings during our testing. The long eye relief made it comfortable to use for extended periods, and the fine line 4plex reticle ensured our shots were accurate. The premium quality optics provided a clear and sharp view, even in low light conditions.
One thing to keep in mind is that the windage and elevation click value of ¼”@100yds may not be precise enough for some shooters, so you may need to make adjustments more frequently. Additionally, the scope rings included in the set may not fit all types of weaver scope bases and rails, so you may need to purchase additional rings separately.
Overall, we think the Hammers Long Eye Relief Pistol Scout Scope 2-7X32 Silver Chrome with Weaver Rings is a solid choice for those looking for a versatile pistol scope that can also be used as a forward mounting “scout” scope on rifles.
Burris Handgun 2-7x32mm Plex Reticle Pistol Scope, Matte Black – 200291
If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality pistol scope, the Burris Handgun 2-7x32mm Plex Reticle Pistol Scope is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The scope is free at 100 yards and is manufactured in the United States, ensuring complete quality and reliability.
- The 2-7X32mm, Plex, matte, 1 inch tube provides excellent clarity and precision for a variety of shooting situations.
- The scope is compatible with handguns and is lightweight, making it easy to maneuver and handle.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the reticle twisting and fluid leaking from the front lens.
- The eye relief may not be suitable for those who hold their arms extended while shooting.
- The scope may not be as durable as some other models on the market.
Overall, we believe that the Burris Handgun 2-7x32mm Plex Reticle Pistol Scope is a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable and accurate pistol scope. However, it’s important to keep in mind the potential issues with the reticle and durability.
Hammers Elite Compact Lightweight Handgun Revolver Pistol Scope 2X20 w/Weaver Rings
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly pistol scope that delivers on performance, the Hammers Elite Compact Lightweight Handgun Revolver Pistol Scope 2X20 w/Weaver Rings is a solid choice.
Pros
- The fine line cross-hair provides pin-point accuracy, making it ideal for target pistol shooting and hunting use.
- The multi-coated premium quality optics deliver a clear and sharp view, even in low light conditions.
- The scope is waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof, ensuring durability and reliability in any weather condition.
Cons
- The 2X fixed power may not be sufficient for long-range shooting.
- The eye relief of 12 1/2 inches may not be suitable for those with glasses or for single-handed shooting.
- The magnification may be closer to 1.5X than 2X.
We found that the Hammers Elite Compact Lightweight Handgun Revolver Pistol Scope 2X20 w/Weaver Rings is an excellent value for the price. The compact and lightweight streamlined low profile design makes it easy to handle and maneuver, while the long eye relief provides comfort during extended use.
The scope set includes bungee corded see-thru lens caps and a pair of vertically split scope rings that fit onto weaver scope base and rail, making it easy to install and use. The finger adjustable windage and elevation screws of 1/4moa click allow for precise adjustments, while the quick focus ring at the end of the eyepiece ensures easy and quick focusing.
Overall, we would recommend the Hammers Elite Compact Lightweight Handgun Revolver Pistol Scope 2X20 w/Weaver Rings to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable pistol scope that delivers on performance.
Hammers Elite Compact Handgun Revolver Pistol Scope
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly pistol scope, the Hammers Elite Compact Handgun Revolver Pistol Scope is a great option. It’s a compact and lightweight scope with a streamlined design that makes it easy to use and carry.
Pros
- The extra-long eye relief is great for target shooting and hunting use.
- It’s waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof, so you can use it in any weather conditions.
- The finger-adjustable turret screws make it easy to adjust the scope quickly and accurately.
Cons
- The multi-coated premium quality optics are not as clear as some higher-priced models.
- The crosshairs are slightly canted, which can be a minor annoyance for some users.
- The ocular lenses are larger than average, which can cause issues with certain mounting platforms.
We mounted the Hammers Elite Compact Handgun Revolver Pistol Scope on our .22 Ruger Hunter MKIII and were immediately impressed with its performance. The scope maintained zero and held up well during several hundred rounds of use. The stainless silver finish with matching scope rings also adds a nice touch to the overall look of the pistol.
One of the standout features of this scope is the extra-long eye relief, which is great for target shooting and hunting use. It’s also waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof, so you can use it in any weather conditions without worrying about damage. The finger-adjustable turret screws make it easy to adjust the scope quickly and accurately, which is essential for any shooting situation.
However, the multi-coated premium quality optics are not as clear as some higher-priced models, which can be a drawback for some users. Additionally, the crosshairs are slightly canted, which can be a minor annoyance for some users. The ocular lenses are larger than average, which can cause issues with certain mounting platforms.
Overall, the Hammers Elite Compact Handgun Revolver Pistol Scope is a solid budget-friendly option for those looking for a reliable pistol scope. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-priced models, it gets the job done and is a great value for the price.
UTG 2-7X32 1″ Handgun Scope, Long Eye Relief, PDC Reticle
If you’re in the market for a pistol scope, the UTG 2-7X32 1″ Handgun Scope is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Built on true strength platform, completely sealed and Nitrogen filled, shockproof, Fogproof, and rainproof, making it a durable and reliable option.
- Up to 25 inches of eye relief allowing for effective use on handguns, even for those with glasses or other visual impairments.
- Projectile drop compensation reticle assists shooting at different distances, making it easier to hit targets accurately.
Cons
- The eye relief may be too long for some users, making it difficult to get a clear picture of the target.
- The reticle may be too thick for some users, making it difficult to see smaller targets or aiming points.
- The scope may be a bit heavy for some users, making it less ideal for those who prioritize lightweight equipment.
Overall, we would recommend the UTG 2-7X32 1″ Handgun Scope for those looking for a durable, reliable, and accurate pistol scope. The long eye relief and projectile drop compensation reticle make it a great choice for target shooting or hunting. However, the weight and reticle thickness may not be ideal for everyone.
Crimson Trace Brushline Pro Riflescope
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable pistol scope, the Crimson Trace Brushline Pro Riflescope is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The second focal plane, non-illuminated, CT Custom BDC Pro Pistol reticle with 1/4″ click value and zero reset capped turrets allows for accurate shooting.
- Windage and elevation knobs are capped and can be easily adjusted when sighting in at the range without any tools.
- Constructed of lightweight anodized aluminum with multi-coated lenses, making it waterproof, shockproof, and nitrogen purged to prevent fogging.
Cons
- The 9″ long eye relief may not be suitable for all users.
- The scope caps provided may not fit perfectly.
- The zero reset capped turrets require a tool for resetting.
The Crimson Trace Brushline Pro Riflescope is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and durable pistol scope. The scope’s lightweight anodized aluminum construction and multi-coated lenses make it waterproof, shockproof, and nitrogen purged to prevent fogging. The second focal plane, non-illuminated, CT Custom BDC Pro Pistol reticle with 1/4″ click value and zero reset capped turrets allows for accurate shooting. Windage and elevation knobs are capped and can be easily adjusted when sighting in at the range without any tools.
The 9″ long eye relief may not be suitable for all users, and the scope caps provided may not fit perfectly. Additionally, the zero reset capped turrets require a tool for resetting. Overall, however, the Crimson Trace Brushline Pro Riflescope is a solid choice for those in need of a reliable and durable pistol scope.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a pistol scope, there are certain features that you need to consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. Here, we will discuss the most important factors that you should look for when buying a pistol scope.
Magnification
The magnification of a pistol scope is one of the most important factors to consider. It determines how close your target will appear when you look through the scope. The magnification power that you need will depend on the type of shooting that you do. If you shoot at close ranges, you may not need a high magnification power. However, if you shoot at long distances, you will need a higher magnification power to see your target clearly.
Objective Lens Diameter
The objective lens diameter is the size of the front lens of the scope. It is measured in millimeters. A larger objective lens diameter means that more light can enter the scope, which results in a brighter image. However, a larger objective lens diameter also means that the scope will be heavier and bulkier.
Reticle
The reticle is the crosshairs that you see when you look through the scope. There are different types of reticles, including duplex, mil-dot, and BDC. The reticle that you choose will depend on your personal preference and the type of shooting that you do.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece of the scope and your eye. It is important to choose a scope with a sufficient eye relief to avoid getting hit by the scope when the gun recoils.
Durability
Durability is an important factor to consider when buying a pistol scope. You want a scope that can withstand the recoil of your gun and the elements. Look for scopes that are made of high-quality materials and are waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best pistol scope for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top features to look for in a handgun scope for target shooting?
When looking for a handgun scope for target shooting, there are several features to consider. First, you should look for a scope with a high magnification level to help you focus on your target. Second, a scope with a large objective lens will allow more light to enter the scope, making it easier to see your target in low light conditions. Third, a scope with an illuminated reticle can be helpful in low light conditions as well. Finally, you should look for a scope with a durable construction that can withstand the recoil of your firearm.
How does the Leupold VX-3 compare to other handgun scopes on the market?
The Leupold VX-3 is a top-of-the-line handgun scope that is known for its high-quality optics and durability. It is comparable to other high-end handgun scopes on the market, such as the Trijicon RMR and the Burris Fastfire. However, the Leupold VX-3 is often considered to be the best option for those who are looking for a scope with a high magnification level and a large objective lens.
What are the best options for handgun scopes priced under $100?
While there are many handgun scopes on the market that are priced under $100, it can be difficult to find a scope that is both affordable and high-quality. Some of the best options for handgun scopes priced under $100 include the UTG 2-7X32, the Bushnell Trophy TRS-25, and the Vortex Crossfire II.
Which scopes are considered the most compact for easy pistol mounting?
When it comes to finding a compact handgun scope that is easy to mount on your firearm, there are several options to consider. Some of the most popular compact handgun scopes on the market include the Burris Fastfire III, the Trijicon RMR, and the Vortex Venom.
Which handgun scopes are recommended for high recoil firearms like the 44 magnum?
When using a high recoil firearm like the 44 magnum, it is important to choose a handgun scope that can withstand the recoil. Some of the best handgun scopes for high recoil firearms include the Leupold VX-3, the Burris Fullfield II, and the Nikon Prostaff.
What are the advantages of using a red dot sight over a traditional scope on a pistol?
One of the main advantages of using a red dot sight on a pistol is that it allows for faster target acquisition. Red dot sights are also easier to use in low light conditions and are less affected by parallax error than traditional scopes. However, red dot sights are generally not as effective at longer distances as traditional scopes.
