What are the best pistol scopes in 2023? This is a question that many gun enthusiasts are asking as they look to upgrade their firearms. There are a few factors to consider when choosing a scope for your pistols, such as magnification, reticle type, and durability. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best pistol scopes on the market in 2023 and help you make a decision on which one is right for you.
Best Pistol Scopes 2023 Comparison Table
| Photo | Name | Check Price | Brand | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Burris Handgun Plex Reticle Pistol | Check Price | Burris | • High-grade optical glass • Powerful • Light weight • Compact • High quality |
 | BSA 2X20 Edge Series Pistol Scope | Check Price | BSA | • Light weight • Compact • High quality • Ideal size |
 | Burris Handgun 2-7x32mm | Check Price | Burris Optics | • quick target acquisition • flexible • accurate • light weight |
 | NcStar 2.5X30 Pistol Scope | Check Price | NcStar | • Magnification power • Light weight • Compatible • mounting capability • Lens Coating |
 | CVLIFE 4x32 Compact Rifle Scope | Check Price | CVLIFE | • Fog-proof • shock proof • water proof • durable • light weight • mountable • compatible |
 | Burris Handgun Plex Reticle Pistol Hunting Scope | Check Price | Burris Optics | • Powerful • Durable • Compatible • Light weight • High quality |
 | Hammers Long Eye Relief Pistol Scout Scope 2-7X32 | Check Price | Hammers | • Attractive • Light weight • High quality • Compatible • Mountable • Zoom power |
 | Burris Handgun 2-7x32mm Plex Reticle Pistol Scope | Check Price | Burris Optics | • High quality • Light weight • Reliable • Magnification power |
 | Hammers Long Eye Relief Pistol Scout Scope 2-7X32 | Check Price | Hammers | • Zoom power • High quality • Mountable • Compatible • Magnification power |
 | Hammers Elite Compact Handgun Revolver Pistol Scope | Check Price | Hammers | • Compact • lightweight • Waterproof • shockproof • fog-proof • Multi-coated • premium quality optics • mountable |
1) Pistol Silver Nickel Plex Reticle By Burris
The Burris Pistol Silver Nickel Plex Reticle is a great choice for handgun users who need a robust scope that can withstand high recoil. This scope is designed with long eye relief to allow you to comfortably hunt with a powerful handgun, and its 32mm objective lens provides excellent brightness and clarity. The precision-ground lenses offer better light transmission for lasting durability, and the scope is backed by Burris’ Forever Warranty. Furthermore, the reticle is designed to be visible in low light conditions and can be used with both red dot sights and night vision devices.
2) Edge Series Pistol Scope By BSA
The BSA Edge Series Pistol Scope is one of the best pistol scopes on the market. It is made of high-quality aluminum and has a black matte finish. The scope is 2X20 and has a crosshair reticle. It is very easy to mount and comes with a Weaver-style mounting system. The scope is very clear and has a great field of view. It is also very lightweight and comes with a carrying case. Furthermore, the scope is shockproof and fog proof.
3) Ballistic Plex Pistol Scope By Burris
If you are looking for a versatile and affordable pistol scope, the Ballistic Plex Pistol Scope by Burris is a great option. It features a 2-7x32mm magnification range, which is perfect for both close-range and long-range shooting. The quick target acquisition and large field of view make it a great choice for action shooters, while the Ballistic Plex reticle provides accuracy at all magnifications. The scope is also nitrogen-filled and O-ring sealed for waterproof and fog proof performance. It comes with a 1″ main tube, which makes it easier to mount on most pistols. The Burris Ballistic Plex Pistol Scope is a great choice for both novice and experienced shooters.
4) SPB2530B Pistol Scope By NcStar
The SPB2530B Pistol Scope by NcStar is a great choice for a budget-friendly pistol scope. It has a 2.5x objective diameter and a plex reticle. The lens coating is blue, which gives you bright images. The eye relief is long, making it easier to use with a pistol. This scope is made by NcStar and is part of their pistolero series. It has a 30-millimeter objective size, making it a great option for those who want a larger objective size.
5) Crosshair Optics Hunting Gun Scope By CVLIFE
The Crosshair Optics Hunting Gun Scope is a high-quality scope that is perfect for any hunter. It has a magnification of 4x and an objective diameter of 1.26″. The eye relief is 3.3″, which is perfect for those who wear glasses or have sensitive eyes. The length is 7.48″, which makes it perfect for quick moving and mounting on a rifle.
The scope is made from high-strength aluminum alloy and has a one-piece tube construction, which makes it extremely durable. The gas purged design of the scope ensures that it is fog-proof and shock-resistant. The water-resistant design of the scope makes it perfect for any weather conditions.
6) Pistol Hunting Scope By Burris
The Burris Pistol Hunting Scope is a great choice for anyone in the market for a new pistol scope. It is a 1-inch body tube with a simple Plex reticle. The eye relief is long, making it a great choice for those with a powerful handgun. It is also very durable and can withstand shock and vibrations from the heaviest-recoiling calibers. The best part is that it comes with the Burris Forever warranty, so you can be sure it will last a lifetime.
Best Pistol Scopes 2023: Buyer’s Guide
Photo Source-Amazon.com
What Are Pistol Scopes?
A pistol scope is a telescopic sight designed to be mounted on a handgun. Pistol scopes are generally smaller and lighter than rifle scopes and have lower magnification. Pistol scopes can be used for a variety of purposes, including target shooting, plinking, and hunting. They can be particularly useful for hunters who want to take the game at a longer range than is possible with open sights.
Pistol scopes are often used in hunting and marksmanship competitions. They can be used on a variety of different pistols, from small caliber to large caliber weapons. Handgunners who want the extra accuracy a scope can provide often use these types of scopes.
Photo Source-Amazon.com
Different Types Of Pistol Scopes
When it comes to choosing a pistol scope, there are different types to choose from. Here is a quick guide on the different types of pistol scopes to help you choose the right one for your needs.
Dot sights
Dot sights are the most popular type of pistol scope. They have a simple red dot that you align with your target. Dot sights are great for rapid target acquisition and are very easy to use. The advantage of dot sights is that they are very compact and lightweight. Another advantage is that they can be used with both eyes open, which gives you a wider field of view.
Reflex sights
Reflex sights are similar to dot sights, but they have a slightly different design. Reflex sights have an LED light that projects a red dot onto a lens. This allows you to see the dot without having to look through the scope. One advantage of reflex sights is that they’re often easier to use than dot sights. They’re also more forgiving if your eye isn’t perfectly aligned with the sight.
Holographic sights
Holographic sights are the newest type of pistol scope on the market. They use a laser to project a red dot onto a holographic image. This allows you to see the dot without having to look through the scope. The advantage of using a holographic sight is that it is very easy to acquire a target. This type of sight is best for close-range shooting.
Magnified scopes
Magnified scopes are designed for long-range shooting. They have a higher level of magnification than other types of pistol scope. Magnified scopes can be used for target shooting and hunting. This type of scope is more expensive than other types of pistol scopes. But it has the advantage of being able to see your target clearly at long range. Another advantage of magnified scopes is that they have a larger field of view. This allows you to see more of your target and make more accurate shots.
Considerations Before Buying Pistol Scopes
Now that we know a little more about these great tools, let’s talk about what to look for before making a purchase. Here are some key considerations:
Magnification
Most pistol scopes will offer between 1x and 4x magnification. The majority of shooters find that 2x or 3x is sufficient for most applications, but your needs may vary. If you plan on using your scope for longer-range shooting, you’ll want more magnification. Conversely, if you’re mostly shooting at shorter ranges, less magnification will do just fine.
Reticle
The reticle is the crosshair or dot in the center of your scope’s field of view. There are a variety of different reticle designs, so choose one that’s best suited for your needs. Some scopes have simple crosshairs while others have more complex designs with Mil-Dot or other ranging features. If you plan on doing a lot of long-range shooting, a more sophisticated reticle will be beneficial. For shorter-range shooting, a simple crosshair will suffice.
Objective Lens Diameter
The objective lens is the large lens at the front of the scope. It’s responsible for gathering light and providing a bright, clear image. A larger objective lens will gather more light, making it ideal for low-light shooting conditions. However, a larger objective lens will also make the scope longer and heavier. If you plan on doing a lot of shooting in low-light conditions, look for a scope with a large objective lens. If weight and size are concerns, choose a scope with a smaller objective lens.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is the distance between your eye and the eyepiece of the scope. It’s important to have sufficient eye relief to avoid getting hit in the eye by the scope when firing. Most pistol scopes have between 2″ and 4″ of eye relief. This is generally sufficient for most applications. However, if you plan on doing a lot of recoil-intensive shooting, look for a scope with longer eye relief.
Mounting Options
Most pistol scopes come with Weaver-style or Picatinny-style mounting rails. These are the most common types of mounting rails found on pistols. If your pistol has a different type of mounting rail, make sure to choose a scope that’s compatible with it.
Size and Weight
Pistol scopes come in a variety of sizes and weights. If weight is a concern, choose a scope that’s made from lightweight materials such as aluminum or carbon fiber.
Weather Resistance
If you plan on using your scope in all kinds of weather conditions, look for one that’s waterproof and fog-proof. This will help to ensure that your scope stays in good condition, even in the most adverse conditions.
Price
Pistol scopes vary widely in price. You can find budget-friendly models for around $100 and high-end models for $1000 or more. It’s important to choose a scope that’s within your budget. However, don’t sacrifice quality for the price. A higher-quality scope will provide a better shooting experience and last longer than a cheap one.
Benefits Of Using A Pistol Scopes
If you are a handgun shooter, then you know the importance of using a good quality pistol scope. A pistol scope can help improve your accuracy and make shooting more enjoyable. Here are some benefits of using a pistol scope:
Improve Your Accuracy
One of the main benefits of using a pistol scope is that it can help improve your accuracy. A pistol scope allows you to see your target more clearly and also makes it easier to line up your shots. With a clearer view of your target, you will be able to shoot more accurately.
Make Shooting More Enjoyable
Another benefit of using a pistol scope is that it can make shooting more enjoyable. When you can see your target more clearly, you will be able to enjoy the experience of shooting more. If you are not enjoying the act of shooting, then using a pistol scope can help you get more out of it.
Help You Shoot in Low Light Conditions
Another benefit of using a pistol scope is that it can help you shoot in low-light conditions. If you are having trouble seeing your target in low light, then a pistol scope can help you out. A lot of scopes come with an illuminated reticle which makes it easier to see your target in low light conditions.
Convenience
Another benefit of using a pistol scope is that it is more convenient than using open sights. With open sights, you have to align your front and rear sights every time you want to take a shot. This can be time-consuming and frustrating. You can just look through the scope with a pistol scope and take your shot. You don’t have to worry about aligning your sights every time you want to shoot.
How To Prolong The Life Of A Pistol Scopes?
Pistol scopes are essential for anyone who wants to improve their accuracy when shooting. But, like all optics, they need to be properly cared for in order to function at their best. Here are a few tips on how to keep your pistol scope in top condition:
Keep it clean
Just like any other optical device, a pistol scope can get dirty. Dirt, dust, and even fingerprints can affect the clarity of the image. So, it’s important to keep your scope clean.
Be careful when adjusting
When you’re making adjustments to your scope, it’s important to be gentle. Over-tightening the screws can damage the internals of the scope. And, if you’re making elevation or windage adjustments, be sure to use a coin or a flat-head screwdriver – not your fingernails.
Avoid sudden temperature changes
Sudden temperature changes can cause condensation to form on the lenses of your scope. So, if you’re coming in from the cold, give your scope a chance to adjust to the new temperature before using it.
Store it properly
When you’re not using your pistol scope, be sure to store it in a dry, safe place. And, if you’re going to be storing it for an extended period of time, consider removing the batteries to prevent damage from leaks.
By following these simple tips, you can help to prolong the life of your pistol scope and keep it working properly for years to come.
How To Clean A Pistol Scopes?
When you are out in the field, you will be exposing your pistol scopes to all kinds of elements that can cause them to get dirty. Here are some tips on how to clean your pistol scopes so that they will be ready for action when you need them.
- Use a soft cloth or brush to remove any loose dirt or debris from the lenses and body of the scope.
- For more stubborn dirt, you can use a mild soap and water solution to clean the lenses and body of the scope. Be sure to rinse the scope thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
- To remove fingerprints or other oily residues from the lenses, you can use a lens cleaning solution or rubbing alcohol.
- Once you have cleaned the lenses and body of the scope, you can use a lens cloth or cotton swab to remove any remaining dirt or debris.
Tips When Installing A Pistol Scopes
- It is important to make sure that your pistol is unloaded before attempting to install a scope. Most people know this, but it is still worth mentioning.
- The next thing you want to do is decide which side you want the scope on. This decision is usually based on personal preference, but there are a couple of things to consider. For example, if you are right-handed and plan on using the handgun for self-defense, you may want to install the scope on the left side so that you can acquire your target faster.
- Once you have decided which side to mount the scope on, you will need to choose the appropriate rings. There are many different sizes and styles of rings available, so it is important to select the ones that will fit your particular handgun and scope.
- Most people prefer to use Weaver or Picatinny-style rings, but there are also a few other options available. If you are unsure which type of rings to use, it is always best to consult with a professional or read the instructions that came with your scope.
- After you have chosen the appropriate rings, it is time to install them on the handgun. It is important to make sure that the rings are properly aligned before tightening them down.
- If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, there are many gunsmiths and scope mounting services that can do it for you.
- Once the rings are installed, you can now place the scope in the rings and tighten it down. Again, it is important to make sure that the scope is properly aligned before tightening the rings.
- Once the scope is installed, you will need to Sight it in. This process can vary depending on the type of scope you are using, but most scopes will need to be sighted in at a range of 25 yards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Worth It To Buy A Pistol Scopes?
Yes, it is definitely worth it to get a pistol scope. A good quality pistol scope can help improve your accuracy and range, making it an essential piece of equipment for any serious shooter.
How Often Should I Clean My Pistol Scopes?
You should clean your pistol scope after every use. This will help to keep the lenses clear and free of dirt and debris, which can impact your visibility and accuracy.
Can I Use A Rifle Scope On My Pistol?
Yes, you can use a rifle scope on your pistol, but you will likely need to make some adjustments to the eye relief and mounting. It is important to consult with a professional before making any changes to your setup.
Final Thoughts
A pistol scope should last for many years. Depending on the model and make, some scopes may even have a lifetime warranty. We hope our guide has helped you choose the best pistol scope for your needs. If you have any unanswered questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. And remember, the most important factor in choosing a scope is finding one that works best for YOU.
Hi, I’m Jon Johnson and I’m the founder of Scopespage.com – your one-stop blog for all things optics! Here you’ll find everything from reviews on binoculars and microscopes to articles about astronomy, photography, and more! I’m passionate about helping people explore the world through optics, so join me as I share my knowledge and experience with you!