In long-range shooting, the 28 Nosler is hard to beat. It is a powerful, long-range cartridge that has quickly gained popularity among precision shooters and hunters for its superior ballistic performance. This cartridge requires a quality optic to harness its potential fully and this post sheds light on the best scopes for 28 Nosler.
When selecting a scope for a 28 Nosler, it’s crucial to consider key factors such as magnification range, reticle type, durability, and optical clarity. But with the plethora of models available in the market, it can be overwhelming to know which scope to get
In this buying guide, we have a roundup of the best scopes for 28 Nosler. We’ll also delve into the features that make each scope stand out and help you make an informed decision tailored to your specific shooting needs.
But first, here is our overall ranking of the best scopes for 28 Nosler:
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1. EOTech Vudu 3.5-18x50mm
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2. Leupold VX-6HD
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3. Athlon Optics Ares ETR UHD APRS1 Rifle Scope
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4. BURRIS Eliminator 5 LaserScope
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5. NightForce ATACR 5-25x56mm Rifle Scope
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6. Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm Rifle Scope
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7. Sightron S6 5-30x56mm Rifle Scope
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8. Trijicon Tenmile TM3056 4.5-30x56mm Rifle Scope
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2. Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope
Leupold makes premium optics and the VX-6HD 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope is not an exception. It is designed for hunters and long-range shooters who demand top-tier performance in all situations.
As one of the best scopes for 28 Nosler, this versatile scope features a powerful 3-18x magnification range suitable for everything from close-range shots to extended-range precision. The large 50mm objective lens maximizes light transmission and makes the magnification useful even at the highest settings.
Optically, this rifle scope delivers bright and clear images even in low-light conditions. This is thanks to the Twilight Max HD Light Management System which further enhances clarity by reducing glare and improving contrast.
Furthermore, the scope is equipped with a CDS-ZL2 (Custom Dial System ZeroLock 2) elevation dial that helps shooters customize their elevation settings based on specific ballistics. The FireDot illuminated reticle provides an intuitive aiming point in low-light situations, with multiple brightness settings to match your shooting environment
Regarding construction, the scope is built with durability in mind. It has an aircraft-grade aluminum body that is fully waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof to withstand the harshest conditions without compromising performance.
Pros
- Outstanding durability
- Lighted reticle
- One button brightness control with a high/low indicator
- Reversible throw lever clamps for fast magnification changes, left or right-handed
- Side focus parallax adjustment for fast, easy parallax focusing from any shooting position
- Generous eye relief
Cons
- Expensive
3. Athlon Optics Ares ETR UHD 4.5-30x56mm APRS1 Rifle Scope
The Athlon Optics Ares ETR UHD 4.5-30x56mm APRS1 Rifle Scope suits you if you are looking for a scope engineered for precision shooting. It is easy to use and a top-tier optic for mid-range engagements and extreme long-range shooting.
The selling point of this rifle scope is its optical clarity. It features a 56mm objective lens that enhances low-light performance. Furthermore, it is crafted with high-density, extra-low dispersion (UHD) glass to ensure outstanding light transmission and crystal-clear images even in low-light conditions.
With the Advanced Precision Reticle System (APRS1), the scope provides precise holdover points and windage adjustments. The locking turrets feature a zero-stop system for quick and reliable return to zero, while the side parallax adjustment is essential for fine-tuning focus at any range.
In addition to all these features, the Ares ETR UHD is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum to ensure durability and resistance to recoil. It is also fully waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof, making it ideal for use even in adverse weather conditions.
Pros
- Sharp and clear image views
- Long eye relief that is eyeglass-friendly
- Robust and reliable construction
- Advanced precision reticle system that is illuminated for visibility in low light
Cons
- A bit heavy
4. Burris Eliminator V 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope
Here is another premium-quality optic for the 28 Nosler. The Burris Eliminator V 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope represents the pinnacle of advanced optics technology, merging cutting-edge rangefinding capabilities with a versatile 5-20x magnification and a massive 50mm objective lens.
Designed for serious hunters and long-range shooters, the scope employs a built-in laser rangefinder that can precisely measure distances up to 2,000 yards and provide immediate and accurate ballistic compensation. On top of that, the integrated digital display shows the exact holdover point in real time eliminating guesswork and enhancing shot accuracy.
Construction-wise, the scope is built with durability and reliability in mind. It has robust, waterproof, and shockproof housing to withstand harsh environments and the rigors of demanding hunts.
Furthermore, the ergonomic design features a user-friendly interface, allowing quick adjustments and easy calibration for various calibers and bullet types. This rifle scope also brings to the table high-grade optical glass that delivers crystal-clear clarity and superior brightness and multi-coated lenses for reducing glare and improving light transmission.
Pros
- Exceptional low-light performance
- Bluetooth Remote for easy use
- Versatile 5-20x magnification
- All-in-one: Rangefinder, inclinometer, smart dope card, and precision riflescope
Cons
- Big budget
5. NightForce ATACR 5-25x56mm Rifle Scope
The NightForce ATACR 5-25x56mm Rifle Scope is a premium optic designed for medium and long-range shooting. It is designed and built to offer uncompromising performance in the most challenging conditions.
The highlight of this rifle scope is its advanced optical technologies. It has a large 56mm objective lens that complements the 5-25x magnification and provides crisp, clear images even in low-light environments. Moreover, the ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass used in the construction minimizes chromatic aberrations, delivering a true-to-life color representation and superior edge-to-edge sharpness.
Durability is another feature that makes this optic one of the best scopes for 28 Nosler. It is built to withstand the harshest environments with a robust 34mm tube that ensures maximum durability and resistance to recoil. Additionally, the optical tube is sealed for unimpeded performance in any weather condition.
The other essential features included are a parallax adjustment knob located on the side of the scope, an illuminated reticle available in multiple configurations, and ZeroStop turret system.
Pros
- Sound mechanics
- Standard adjustments w/ Hi Speed ZeroStop
- Illuminated reticle
- Superior optical clarity and low-light performance
- Operability in any weather condition
Cons
- Heavy at 38 oz
6. Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm Rifle Scope
Carrying the renowned Vortex name, the Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm Rifle Scope is the pinnacle of long-range precision optics. It is engineered for serious marksmen who demand superior performance in extended ranges.
The scope features a 4.5-27x magnification range for both medium and extended-range shooting. The large 56mm objective lens complements the magnification and ensures maximum light transmission in low-light situations. Besides, the scope is built with an advanced HD (High Density) optical system and multi-coated lenses to provide exceptional resolution and color fidelity.
Well, that’s not all. This rifle scope is built to last. It is constructed from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, offering exceptional durability and strength. On top of that, it is argon-purged and O-ring sealed for reliable performance in any weather condition.
This versatile rifle scope has precision turrets that are equipped with Vortex’s L-Tec™ Zero Stop system for easy and reliable return to zero after making elevation adjustments. It also boasts an illuminated reticle featuring 11 brightness settings. This ensures optimal performance in varying light conditions.
Pros
- Long eye relief
- Durable and reliable construction
- Illuminated reticle featuring 11 illumination settings
- Optically indexed lenses that optimize image sharpness and brightness from edge to edge
Cons
- Large size and profile
7. Sightron S6 5-30x56mm Rifle Scope
The Sightron S6 5-30x56mm Rifle Scope is a premier choice for long-range hunters and shooting enthusiasts. It excels in virtually all lighting conditions at medium, long, and extreme distances.
This high-performance rifle scope features a 56mm objective lens which provides exceptional light transmission and clarity. It works together with the HD optical system to deliver outstanding resolution and contrast, enhancing the shooter’s ability to identify and engage targets with confidence.
More importantly, the scope is built with a robust 34mm tube which is large enough to provide ample room for adjustments. Its durability and rigidity also make it capable of withstanding the recoil and harsh environments associated with high-caliber rifles.
The Sightron S6 is built with ease of use in mind. It is equipped with a zero-stop elevation turret and a side parallax adjustment, which offer precise and repeatable adjustments for elevation and parallax correction, respectively. Additionally, it is easy to mount and use, even for beginners.
Above all, this rifle scope has an illuminated reticle, available in both MOA and MRAD options, for rapid and accurate aiming in various lighting conditions.
Pros
- High and versatile magnification range
- Superior light transmission and clarity in low-light conditions
- Zero Stop Turret
- Illuminated reticle
- Durable construction
Cons
- Relatively heavy
8. Trijicon Tenmile TM3056 4.5-30x56mm Rifle Scope
Lastly in our list of the best scopes for 28 Nosler, we have the Trijicon Tenmile TM3056 4.5-30x56mm Rifle Scope. Trijicon has a reputation for making high-performance optics and this rifle scope is not any different.
It is designed to deliver exceptional accuracy and clarity at extended ranges with its versatile 4.5-30x magnification range. Furthermore, the large 56mm objective lens ensures a bright and clear sight picture, even in low-light conditions.
The reticle of this rifle scope is housed on the first focal plane reticle. It maintains consistent sub- tensions throughout the entire zoom range for precision aiming. Additionally, it is illuminated for easy visibility in low-light conditions.
Rugged construction is another facet that makes this rifle scope stand out. It is constructed with robust aircraft-grade aluminum to withstand the harshest environments and recoil forces. The scope is also fully waterproof, dustproof, and fog-proof for all-weather use.
Pros
- Versatile zoom
- Superior image clarity
- LED reticle illumination
- Durable aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Finely tunable elevation and windage adjustments
Cons
- Narrow eye relief at maximum magnification
What Magnification Do You Need?
The 28 Nosler is a high-performance long-range cartridge. To get the most out of it, you’ll need a scope with significant magnification and utilize its capabilities. A good starting point is a quality rifle scope with a magnification range of at least 4-16x.
If you are a veteran shooter looking for more precise long-range shooting, it is best to get a scope with higher magnification range like 5-25x or even 6-30x, depending on your needs and shooting distances. The high zoom range allows for detailed target acquisition and precise shooting at extended distances.
How to Choose the Best Scope for 28 Nosler
Choosing the best scopes for 28 Nosler rifles involves considering several factors to match your individual shooting needs and preferences. Here are some key criteria to take into account:
Magnification Range
The .28 Nosler is designed for long-range shooting. This calls for a scope with a higher magnification range. Look for scopes with a magnification range of 4-16x, 5-25x, or even higher depending on the distance and environment you will be shooting.
Objective Lens Size
A large objective lens is paramount for long-range shooting. It allows more light to enter the scope, which is important for clarity and brightness, especially in low-light conditions. An objective lens size of 50mm or greater is often recommended for the best scopes for 28 Nosler.
Reticle
The next important thing to consider is the reticle. It is vital to choose a reticle that suits your shooting needs and style. Popular reticles for long-range shooting are mil-dot or BDC. They help with range estimation and bullet drop compensation.
Build Quality
Opt for a scope that is rugged and weatherproof. Look for features like robust construction from premium materials like aircraft-grade aluminum. The best scopes for 28 Nosler should also be fully waterproof and fog-proof for use in various environmental conditions.
Parallax Adjustment
Parallax adjustment is important in long-range shooting. It helps ensure that your scope is focused at different distances, reducing parallax error.
Reticle Focal Plane
Last but not least, consider the reticle focal plane. FFP (First Focal Plane) scopes allow the reticle to scale with magnification, which is useful for ranging and bullet drop compensation at various distances. SFP (Second Focal Plane) scopes on the other hand have a reticle that remains the same size regardless of magnification.
FAQs
- What is the ideal objective lens size for a .28 Nosler scope?
An objective lens size of 50mm or larger is recommended. It allows a large volume of light to enter the scope, improving clarity and brightness, especially in low-light conditions.
- What reticle type is best for the .28 Nosler?
Reticles like the mil-dot, MOA (Minute of Angle) grid, or BDC reticles are an excellent choice for the .28 Nosler. They help with range estimation and bullet drop compensation, which are vital for accurate aiming and shooting at long ranges.
Final Words
Hopefully, this article has given you some insight into the best scopes for 28 Nosler. All the rifle scopes we have listed above are optimized for medium and long-range shooting where this cartridge excels. Opt for a model that blends best with your needs and shooting habits to utilize the .28 Nosler’s capabilities fully.
