The Top 10 Best Compact Rifle Scopes – Compact Rifle Scope Reviews

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compact scopeRiflescopes are supposed to be compact, or else you’ll end up with a rifle that feels like it has a brick tied to it. Your scope isn’t supposed to anchor your gun usually since it’s the one accessory that’s deemed necessary by gun enthusiasts for everyone to get.

A scope shouldn’t just improve how accurate you shoot or make your target bigger by lens magnification so that your chances of missing are diminished. Even true marksmen make use of lenses because their skills are further enhanced with the assistance of these devices, allowing them to shoot at crazy distances that are beyond the telescopic “scope” of their naked eye (pun intended).

Top 10 Best Compact Rifle Scopes

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The Top Compact Best Rifle Scopes Around

  1. Nikon ProStaff Rimfire Black Matte Riflescope: You will see this model of riflescope in many a list, including this one discussing the most high-quality compact scopes you’ll ever find.

It’s all bundled in a nice, compact package that, when shipped, weighs about 1.9 pounds. The riflescope itself comes at a mobile, non-cumbersome, and usable 13.8 ounces. 

The product also comes with the dimensions of 15.2 inches by 4 inches by 3.5 inches. It’s pretty small, which is why it belongs in this list. For something so small, you get a lot out of the scope, plus because it’s small, you’re actually acquiring benefits of ease of use (your rifle won’t weigh a ton when you install this scope).

Nikon ProStaff Rimfire 3-9 x 40 Black Matte Riflescope (BDC 150) also has 150 Bullet Drop Compensation, which means as your bullet drops due to gravity, windage, and long distances, you’ll have this quality Nikon scope compensate for all that automatically, thus ensuring a more accurate shot from what you can see from your scope and its reticle. There’s a lot less guesswork involved, in short.

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2. Nikon ProStaff Black Matte Riflescope: This is another compact riflescope of note. Available for under $200, this scope is a nice and compact one that weighs 12.5 ounces and has a size of 15.5 inches by 4 inches by 3.5 inches.

It’s as lightweight and small as you can get, although the Nikon ProStaff Rimfire Black Matte Riflescope is much smaller than it. As per usual of a Nikon product, this cost-effective scope gets high ratings in Amazon, has 2x to 7x magnification and a 32 millimeter objective lens diameter. Its compactness cannot be denied, but does it have the specs to make more than just a small scope? Yes, it most definitely does.

Sure, it has a shorter range than the ProStaff, but in exchange of that you’ll get a less expensive brand of scope with spring-loaded adjustment knobs and zero-reset turrets. The eye relief for this small scope is also generous at 3.8 inches. You won’t have to worry about recoil while taking a gander at your targeted game, clay pigeon, or varmint.

It also features an optical system that’s fully multicoated for the sake of maximum transmission of up to 98% of available light (a signature Nikon offering). It also covers the standards of fogproof performance by having an O-ring sealed housing that’s filled with dry nitrogen to ensure that no moisture will fog up your lenses.

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3. Monstrum S330P 3X Prism Scope: It should come as no surprise that finding the right scope can be a difficult and expensive task. Luckily, we have sorted through all the options for you. During our research, we have chosen to include this next pick from the Monstrum brand because of its quality and its affordability.

Monstrum Tactical S330P Ultra-Compact 3x Prism Scope (Black)

The Monstrum S330P 3X Prism Scope is rated as one of the best compact rifle scopes by Amazon users because it just has so much to offer at such an affordable price. For starters, this is one of the most compact and lightweight compact scopes on the market as of yet. It only weighs 15 ounces, and it measures in at 5 inches in length.

When it comes to the performance, you will find that it features a heavy duty prism sight with 3X magnification. It also features an objective lens of 30mm. This lense capacity makes it the ideal scope to use if you are looking for rapid and mid range target shooting for distances up to 500 yards.

With the optical system, you will find that it features a glass prism instead of a refracting lens that is found in many traditional scopes This prism optical system allows you to have a better quality of optics when you are on the field without the need of a large tube.

Additionally, you will find that you will be able to benefit from the reticle whether or not you have illumination. This further gives you the versatility of using this scope in a variety of environments.

Lastly, what customers love about the Monstrum S330P 3X Prism Scope is the fact that it comes with such a good warranty. With any Monstrum tactile rifle scope that is purchased, you can look forward to a one year warranty coverage.

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4. UTG 3 – 9×31 One Inch Bug Buster Scope:In the scope world, the brand UTG is known for making some of the best rifle scopes there are. From accurate shots to well-crafted designs, the brand UTG is one that customers come back to time and time again. This next compact riflescope is certainly no exception. 

Bushnell Trophy Scout Rifle Scope with Multi-X Reticle, 2-7 x 36mm, Matte Black

The UTG 3 – 9X31 One Inch Bug Buster Scope is one of the best scopes to have on hand if you are looking for something dependable and durable. Not only that, but this is a great scope to aim for if you need something versatile that works in all types of hunting environments. The construction of the UTG 3 – 9X31 One Inch Bug Buster Scope is where the scope really shines. It is a 1 inch tube that features an emerald coating on the lenses for maximum light transmission.  

The tube is completely sealed and filled at 100% with nitrogen. Because it is sealed it remains well protected from the elements. The durability really shines through in the fact that the UTG 3 – 9X31 One Inch Bug Buster Scope is shockproof, fog proof, and rainproof. This allows you to use it in a range of environments as well as weather conditions without fail. 

When you are not using your UTG 3 – 9X31 One Inch Bug Buster Scope, you will find the 2 inch sunshade and quality flip open lens cap to keep your lenses nice and safe from any scratches or debris.

On the tube, you will find a premium zero lockable and resettable turrets. The turrets feature a ¼ MOA  per click adjustment. These well designed turrets will give you the ability to calculate the precise windage and elevation adjustment needed time and time again. And with its locking and resetting capabilities, you do not have to mess with resetting your adjustment each time. This will also give you the proper capability for zeroing in on your target as well. 

With your reticle, you can expect to find RGB side wheel illumination. This illumination offers you red and green reticle illumination to complement you in whatever environment you find yourself in. The RGB side wheel illumination replaces the traditional and more bulky rheostat that was located on the eye piece. This adjustment in design is great because it allows you to have ease of access when it comes to the light from your reticle. 

Speaking of the reticle, users are sure to love the range estimating mil-dot reticle. The brand UTG is known for developing and refining the unique tactical range estimating or TRE mil-dot reticle. This technology is something that you will find on many UTG scopes including the UTG 3 – 9X31 One Inch Bug Buster Scope. While there is a learning curve with the TRE,  users will find that once they have practiced it a bit, they can get an overall improvement in their shot when it comes to accuracy.

With the UTG 3 – 9X31 One Inch Bug Buster Scope, users can look forward to nine different aiming points that are related to the different windage and elevations.  If you count the intercepts and the duplex crosshairs, then you can get up to 21 to print aiming points. Regardless, having This type of versatility in your shot is something that not many compact rifle scopes can provide.

While the UTG 3 – 9X31 One Inch Bug Buster Scope is great, there are many different accessories that you can add on to help accentuate your overall experience with this scope. Some of the most commonly used accessories include the flip-open lens cap and 2 inch sunshade. While you typically have to purchase these accessories separately, you will find that with your UTG 3 – 9X31 One Inch Bug Buster Scope,  you can look forward to the added accessory of a pair of medium profile maximum strength heavy-duty rings. 

Overall, if you are looking for a dependable and durable compact scope, the UTG 3 – 9X31 One Inch Bug Buster Scope is one of the best scopes on the market that does not disappoint.  Lastly, the cherry on top is the fact that this scope is one of the more reasonably priced options on the market right now. 

If you do buy this product online, be sure to make sure that you are purchasing from the company directly. There are many phony UTG 3 – 9X31 One Inch Bug Buster Scopes on the market that try to mimic the real deal but do not. If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, then this could be an indication of why users love this scope so much. 

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5. NIKON BDC 600 8489 Riflescope: The NIKON M-223 BDC 600 8489 3-12x42SF Riflescope (Black) is as compact but weighty, offering 1.2 pounds of mobile action from a frame with dimensions of 15 inches by 3 inches by 3 inches. It’s small but heavy, but not too heavy.

NIKON M-223 BDC 600 8489 3-12x42SF Riflescope (Black)

This dense package of a BDC 600 riflescope includes the ever-dependable Bullet Drop Compensation 600 reticle that has hash marks and open circle aiming points galore for 100 to 600 yards, which means marksmen don’t have to make guessed estimates thanks to how detailed their targeting crosshairs are. Its magnification range is wider than the average (and recommended) range of 3x to 9x—it’s instead 3x to 12x.

There are three levels extra magnification included. What’s more, the scope also comes with 92% light transmission (weaker than the 98% of other models, but it’s still close) from its multi-coated optics and a long eye relief so that you won’t have to worry about scope recoil damaging your eye and whatnot.

It’s also quite tough because its tube is made of aircraft-grade aluminum. In other words, it’s a scope that uses the same light yet durable material that you find in airplanes everywhere. Any rifle action you might have regardless of caliber, the scope should be able to mount it. Even if you’re dealing with magnum-length actions, the compact Nikon BDC 600 8489 Riflescope should have it covered.

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6. UTG 3 – 12×44 30mm Compact Scope: Another one of the best compact scopes to choose from is this next compact scope from the popular brand UTG. UTG is known for making some of the best scope and scope accessories on the market. The UTG 3 – 12×44 30mm Compact Scope is no exception. 

Bushnell Trophy Scout Rifle Scope with Multi-X Reticle, 2-7 x 36mm, Matte Black

With the UTG 3 – 12×44 30mm Compact Scope, there are a couple of things that you can look forward to. The first is the durability and strength of the scope. You will find that the UTG 3 – 12×44 30mm Compact Scope is constructed out of a 30 millimeter tube that is both sleek yet maintains the rugged construction that harsh environments demand. The scope is mounted on a true strength platform and it is sealed and nitrogen filled. Because of this, you will find that the UTG 3 – 12×44 30mm Compact Scope is shockproof, fog proof, and rainproof. 

When it comes to the lenses, you will find that the UTG 3 – 12×44 30mm Compact Scope features best in class emerald coated lenses that are multi coated. They also feature an integrated angled front sunshade that is also equipped with a flip open lens cap for further protection of your lenses. 

Though the construction of the scope is durable, so is its ability to perform. There is a special circuit and housing design that was meant to withstand the shock of a recoil, as well as 100% total uninterrupted illumination. 

On the sides of your UTG 3 – 12×44 30mm Compact Scope you will find the turrets that will adjust both your windage and elevation. These turrets provide premium zero lockings and zero resettings. This ability will give you the most consistent and the most precise adjustments possible for when you are shooting. 

Lastly, one of the best aspects of this scope is the fact that it comes with a lifetime warranty. 

Overall, customers appreciate the durability, dependability, and accuracy that the UTG 3 – 12×44 30mm Compact Scope provides them for when they are out on the field

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7. Primary Silver Arms 3 x 32 Gen II Prism Scope: The Primary Silver Arms 3 x 32 Gen II Prism Scope is one of the most compact scopes on our list. It is also one of the lightest as it only weighs in at two pounds. When it comes to the construction, users will find that the Primary Silver Arms 3 x 32 Gen II Prism Scope is rather bulkier than many of its sleek counterparts. This makes it a great option to go with if you are looking for a scope that was built with a rugged construction. The tube is made out of a durable 6061 aluminum with a durable matte black finish that is anodized. You will find that this durability will serve you will in a range of environments, especially since the Primary Silver Arms 3 x 32 Gen II Prism Scope is fog resistant, waterproof, and nitrogen purged. With the Primary Silver Arms 3 x 32 Gen II Prism Scope, you will find that it is the premier scope in its line up.

Like many of the scopes in this brand, the Primary Silver Arms 3 x 32 Gen II Prism Scope is known for having some of the best lenses in the industry. There is a love 3X magnification that is used in conjunction with a bright illuminated reticle that allows you to have a quick and easy time spotting and honing in on your target. Not only that, but you will be able to aim through the lens with both eyes open or just one eye. 

When it comes to the aim, users appreciate that the ACSS CQB reticle can range out to 600 yards with full accuracy so that you can easily get your target in your line of sight. When you are shooting in close quarters, you will find the outer horseshoe that is etched into the glass to be very helpful. Even with moving targets, you will be aided with the two dots on either side of the inner chevron that allow you to aim exactly where you need to. For greater control, you will, of course, be able to use the windage and elevation knobs to adjust your shot. 

When it comes to the purchase of a Primary Silver Arms 3 x 32 Gen II Prism Scope, there are two things you can look forward to. The first is the accessories that come with your scope. You can expect to find one CR2032 3V Lithium Coin Battery and a pair of flip up lens overs that will keep your lenses nice and safe. The second is the great warranty on your scope. You will find that the Primary Silver Arms 3 x 32 Gen II Prism Scope is covered by a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty that covers defects due to the materials used and the workmanship. The warranty also covers the normal wear and tear that your Primary Silver Arms 3 x 32 Gen II Prism Scope will undergo. 

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8. Vortex® StrikeFire Red Dot Rifle Scope: This $99 value of a riflescope for guns like the AR-15 is available to you at 7.2 ounces, making it quite the light and compact scope to have.

Of course, if lightness is the only thing you’re looking for in a scope, then these reviews would be much shorter and would probably be mostly reduced to charts and tables.

What the Vortex StrikeFire Red Dot Rifle Scope brings to the table other than AR-15 suitability includes the ability to switch colors of your light and the dot intensity of your reticle or crosshairs (which can have the diameter of 4 MOA if you wish). This adjustability depends on your surroundings.

If you have to deal with different viewing conditions, having color adjustments can be beneficial for those instances as well. One particular benefit in Vortex StrikeFire that you won’t see in a Nikon, UTG, and Bushnell is its unlimited eye relief (usually something that’s present in an open sight) that allows you to quickly acquire your target as soon as you see any sign of it in your scope.

Aside from parallax adjustment, you’re ensured of parallax-free operation past 50 yards. This unique compact scope also has a 2x double to provide more detailed viewing, although obviously this means you can’t do long-range shooting with this scope and certain other close-range scopes even have better ranges than this one.

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9. FSI Sniper 6-24x50mm Rifle Scope: It’s probably the heaviest compact scope here at2.5 pounds. It’s still quite the compact scope, though.

FSI Sniper 6-24x50mm Scope W Front AO Adjustment. Red/Blue/Green mil-dot Reticle. Comes with Extended Sunshade and Heavy Duty Ring Mount

It got into this list because it has a huge magnification range (and requisite parallax safeguards) from 6x to 24x. It also costs under $100, which is a good deal for a scope that’s called the FSI Sniper 6-24x50mm Scope withFront AO Adjustment.

In other words, you’ll have your fill of quality specs galore, from its huge 50-millimeter objective diameter to its AO adjustment with Mil-Dot reticle that has three color options (red, blue, and green). It also comes complete with a heavy duty ring mount and extended sunshade to boot.

The price and the smallness so it won’t make your rifle weigh a ton aren’t the only things that the FSI Sniper 6-24x50mm Rifle Scope has going for it. It works on many calibers and rifle types, like the Rem 700 .30-06.

Its magnification is quite impressive too; many times higher than what you’d get from a standard Nikon. It also has four screws per ring for its set of rings, has ruggedness that allows for a good ergonomic grip, and offers everything you need is in the box. You can try it with turrets or without (just don’t forget the turret locks that needs relocking after every adjustment).read-full-review-button

Conclusion

Nikon dominates the list with its continuous budget offerings that never feel like downgrades thanks to propriety multi-coated lenses that you can also see in their world-famous cameras.

There’s also a couple of UTG offerings and separate ones from Bushnell, Vortex, and FSI. At any rate, a good scope ensures that every shot is easily adjustable, from elevation to windage, thus the guesswork of shooting is removed, leaving you with only precision action. What’s more, just because it’s compact doesn’t mean it should break from use and recoil. Finally, choose your scope in accordance to your needs and the type of rifles you have.

Click here for the Best Compact Scopes available in 2019!