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A good handgun scope can change your shooting experience completely. It is an important tool that can come in handy in many situations; that is why you should definitely include in your kit.
Now the question is, how does one pick out a good scope for a handgun? And which scope is the one you should invest in?
Well, all these questions are answered in this complete round-up, in which will review the best handgun scopes on the market today. It will also tell you everything else that you need to about a handgun scope. So, without further ado, let's get started!
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Handgun Scopes
- OUR TOP PICK: UTG 2-7X32 1" Handgun Scope
- RUNNER-UP: BSA 2-7X32 Edge Series Pistol Scope
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Hammers Elite Compact
Comparison of the Best Handgun Scopes
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Can Any Scope Be Added to a Handgun?
Nowadays, you can find scopes that are specifically designed for handguns. It is better to use those instead of opting for those that are not. Why? Because using scopes on handguns is a completely different experience than using them on rifles. There are many things that need to be considered.
Riflescopes are constructed specifically with the size of the rifle in mind. Using that for a handgun is not a good idea at all. Apart from that, the recoil is another factor to consider. Scopes that are made for handguns specifically can handle the recoil from a handgun better than a rifle scope.
What to Look For When Buying a Handgun Scope
Now, this is something you should really pay attention to because, at the end of the day, it's the details that matter. The following are a few things that you should look for while buying a handgun scope. All these features are also included in all of our favorite handgun scopes as well.
Magnification
One of the main features of any scope is magnification. While handguns do not need the extra magnification as rifle scopes do, it still plays an important part. Typically the scopes for handguns will have a set magnification power ranging from 2x-4x.
Durability
Another important feature is durability. A scope should be strong enough to withstand general wear and tear. Apart from that, it should be able to take the shock that comes with recoil. It should also be able to stay undamaged even when it is used in a harsher environment. Basically, it should not be able to break easily under any circumstances.
Weight
As far as the weight is concerned, it is best if the scope is lightweight. It should not weigh your handgun down. If the scope is heavy, it will hinder the aiming and shooting process. The size also matters when it comes to handgun scopes.
Review of the Best Handgun Scopes
We have picked some of the top handgun scopes to review in the following section. Each scope will be reviewed in-depth, making sure that all the important details are covered. So, let's look into all these handgun scopes and find out what has made them the best.
Best Overall:
UTG 2-7X32 1" Handgun Scope
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
It's no surprise that buyers find this scope to be very good in the field. Although it is small in size, it is loaded with quality, which users like very much. Apart from that, another feature that is popular among buyers is the variable magnification.
Why it Stands Out to Us
First of all, the UTG 2-7X32 1" Handgun Scope is very well made and does not weigh very much either. It is a straightforward and simple scope that does its job very well. Secondly, the lens makes sure that the user always gets a clear visual on their target, no matter the conditions.
Who Will Use This Most
This scope is pretty easy to mount, so it can be used by most people. Plus, it is fairly easy to use, and even beginners can use it without any problems. However, you should keep in mind that if your handgun is of a higher caliber, this scope may not be the one for you.
Bottom Line
The UTG 2-7X32 1" Handgun Scope has everything that one can look for. It is sturdy and can withstand harsh weather conditions as well as shock. Moreover, it also has a variable magnification power, which helps to widen the shooting range.
Runner-up:
BSA 2-7X32 Edge Series Pistol Scope
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Looking at the recent reviews for this scope will clearly tell you how well-received this shooting tool is. It offers quality at a great value. In addition to that, it is lightweight and easy to handle as well. The dimensions also make sure that it can be mounted on to most handguns with ease.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The BSA 2-7X32 Edge Series Pistol Scope has a full set of features. From the variable magnification to the solid design, it makes sure to include everything that makes a good scope. The eye relief is also long enough to avoid any possible injuries. Apart from that, it does a perfect job of relaying a clear picture of the target even from a distance.
Who Will Use This Most
This scope will be best suited to those who enjoy hunting. Since it has a magnification power ranging from 2x-7x, it can help in targeting from a distance with ease. In addition to that, it does not weigh much, so even if you have to move around a lot, this scope will not feel like extra weight.
Bottom Line
There is no doubt about the fact that the BSA 2-7X32 Edge Series Pistol Scope is definitely worth the buy. It has a multitude of qualities and performs well. Although its lowlight performance is not very great, it works excellently in the day time.
Best for the Money:
Hammers Elite Compact
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers love this scope for its value. It is a high-quality model that sells at an affordable price. Apart from that, the precision of the scope, along with its easy mounting process, has also been complimented by many users.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The BSA 2-7X32 Edge Series Pistol Scope is not to be underestimated. It has many great features, such as the multi-coated lens and a sturdy build. Even though it has a fixed magnification, it performs very well. It makes sure that the user gets a clear and sharp view and is resistant to shock, water, and fog.
Who Will Use This Most
This scope is a great option for those who are looking for a handgun scope on a budget. It offers great quality and can be utilized for a number of outdoors tasks. It can withstand shock; therefore, it can be used in rough terrains and hunting grounds.
Bottom Line
If you happen to be looking for a scope on a budget, you will not find one like the Hammers Elite Compact. There might be other scopes that are low budget, but none can compare to the value of this one.
Best Handgun Scope for 44 Mag:
Redfield Revolution 3-9x40mm
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A majority of buyers find this scope to be very useful. The reviews detail that it is made from high-quality materials and performs really well too. It easy to use and does not need a lot of getting used to as the manual is included with the scope.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Redfield Revolution 3-9x40mm is definitely a good option for anyone looking for a handgun scope. It has a variable magnification power, which allows shooting from a distance. Apart from that, it is quite sturdy and is resistant to shock, fog, and water as well.
Who Will Use This Most
This scope will be just perfect for hunting in rugged terrains and will even do well in uphill hunting. Plus, it can also be mounted onto handguns with heavy recoil and has a 3x-9x magnification power so it can cater to those who want a variable magnification.
Bottom Line
Overall, this is a really great scope with a lot of features. It is well-built and has a really smooth and solid design. It does not feel cheap or flimsy at all. Plus, it is sturdy enough to take the impact of recoil and withstand fog and moisture too.
Best Leupold Handgun Scope:
Leupold FX-II Handgun 4x28mm
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers find this scope to be very useful in many ways. In fact, it is so well received that there are hardly any negative reviews for it. The design and performance are two main aspects that are praised. Apart from that, its chic matte finish has also been mentioned in several reviews.
Why it Stands Out to Us
There are a number of reasons as to why the Leupold FX-II Handgun 4x28mm has made our list. It provides a clear view of the target without any blur or haziness, it is well built, and it follows military standards. It can take recoil well because it is a sturdy piece of equipment
Who Will Use This Most
This high-quality scope is built to take on wear and tear. Therefore, it would be best utilized for people who often hunt in a rougher terrain or in an environment with wet or cold weather. It will make sure that your aim is not disturbed in any condition.
Bottom Line
This is a good example of what a handgun scope should be like. It performs well even in difficult conditions and is made in such a way that it is easy to use and handle.
Best Burris Handgun Scope:
Burris Handgun 2-7x32mm - 200279
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This scope has accumulated a lot of positive reviews. The reason for this, as buyers report, is that it helps with accuracy and always helps you to get the best shot possible. In addition to that, mounting this scope is very easy, which is also why it is praised.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The positives of this scope are just one too many. The magnification power is 2x-7x, which is more than the average for a handgun scope. Plus, it can resist recoil from the strongest of handguns. The lens is also of high quality and is multi-coated, so it can avoid reflections and provide a clear image.
Who Will Use This Most
The only specification the Burris Handgun 2-7x32mm - 200279 has is that it is a handgun scope. Apart from that, there are no hard and fast rules that dictate who can or cannot use this. It is a great tool that surely caters to the wider population, especially those who enjoy hunting and target shooting.
Bottom Line
Basically, if you want a handgun scope that performs well and has variable magnification, this is an excellent option to consider. It is also a great scope for beginners who need more practice with shooting.
7. Nikon Force XR 2x20
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers are very satisfied with their purchase of the Nikon Force XR 2x20. It is different from most scopes, which makes it unique. A lot of buyers like that it performs really well, and many of the reviews detail how well it works after using it in the field.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Nikon is a very well-known name in the market and is renowned for its quality products. This one is no different. It's built to take on the impact of the strongest of recoils. In addition to that, it is a lightweight scope that is durable and well-made overall.
Who Will Use This Most
This is a great tool to have when you go hunting. It can really make a difference in the accuracy of your shot, and accuracy is a must for all hunting expeditions. Apart from that, it can also be used in competitive play, for example, target shooting.
Bottom Line
Nikon does not disappoint with this scope. Not only is it a bit different from all the other scopes on this review, but it also features an interesting set of specifications. The Nikon Force XR 2x20 is a great option if you are looking for something sturdy that will help you with the accuracy of your shot.
Types of Handgun Scopes
As you probably know by now, not all handgun scopes are the same. Each one is different from the other. To make things clearer and easier to understand, this section will talk about the types of handgun scopes. This will make it easier to discover the one that you feel best suited to you.
Fixed Magnification
These are quite easy to find and best used for target shooting. The magnification power for this scope, as the named suggests, is fixed or not adjustable. Usually, with these, you will find magnification powers of 2x, 3x, or 4x. A great benefit of fixed magnification scopes is that they almost always have more brightness in comparison to those with variable magnification.
Variable Magnification
These can offer a bit more variety as the magnification power is adjustable. These types of scopes will feature magnification powers from 2x-4x, 2x-7x, or even 3x-9x. Since the magnification power is adjustable, it comes in handy when one is hunting since they can close up on their target without getting closer than necessary.
Reticle
Different scopes will have different reticles. These aid in finding and targets objects. There is the duplex crosshair one where the lines go from broad to narrow as you near the center. Apart from that, we also have the etched glass, the wire crosshair, and many more.
Can You Really Find a Quality Scope That's Affordable?
Before we answer this question, there is one thing that you need to keep in mind. Cheap is not always good, and expensive does not always guarantee quality either. If you are looking for an affordable scope, then choose one on the basis of value. There are scopes, and some are even mentioned in the review, that have pretty affordable price tags, but they provide all the important features that a scope needs. A cost-benefit analysis is essential when you are looking to invest in things like a scope, so always remember to compare the value and not the price.
Conclusion
Wrapping things up, let's take a brief look at what we have learned about these handy little handgun scopes. The first thing we learned was things to look out for in scopes, and that is magnification power, durability, and weight. Then we discussed all the best scopes and, after that, learned a bit more about these little tools. We hope that all of this has helped you make the right decision for yourself and find the best scope for your handgun.
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