The 260 Remington is one of the most versatile rifles that’s ever been made, making headway in both competitive shooting and your regular small animal hunting. This 1997 creation is also a great medium to long-range shooting companion and provides relatively low recoil compared to other similar rifles.
As with any good rifle, to get the most out of it, you will need to maximize optics by pairing it with the right riflescope. With the right rifle scope, you can be sure that the precision of your shots is always up to par. However, before we look at the specific scopes that make for the best Remington scopes, let’s have a look at how to choose the best scope for a 260 Remington;
How to choose the best 260 Remington scopes
Magnification
First off you need to consider the magnification of the scope. This will be largely influenced by the range at which you will be shooting. Given that the 260 Remington works well for both long and medium-range shootouts then you need to dig deep into what exact range you hope to be shooting at while also giving room for a little less or more. That said the best 260 Remington scopes should give you a very versatile variable magnification. Thus a 6:1 or a 4:1 magnification ratio would be ideal, this ensures you can be comfortable with both mid-range shooting and long-range shooting.
Reticle
Another thing you need to consider when choosing the best 260 Remington scopes is the type of reticle. The type of reticle you will choose will either be a first focal plane or a second focal plane reticle. An FFP reticle is ideal for long-range competitive or target shooting on relatively unoccupied terrain while an SFP reticle is ideal for close to mid-range hunting on busy terrain. So depending on what you intend to use your 260 Remington on, hunting or target shooting, you can choose the scope that meets your needs.
Illumination
Illumination is another important factor to consider when choosing the best 260 Remington scopes. If you intend to use your 260 Remington for long-range shootouts then consider an illuminated scope especially with an FFP reticle as this ensures you have a clear view of the fine crosshairs on the reticle. Additionally, an illuminated reticle on the scope will also ensure you have great views even in low light conditions and some scopes get bright enough to allow for night vision.
Glass quality
Finally, when choosing the best scope for 260 Remington, you can never compromise on glass quality especially if you are using your 260 Remington for long-range shooting. High-quality glass will ensure minimal distortion of images and reticle crosshairs on the higher magnification as well as optimum light transmission to provide you with clear crisp and bright images. So always test the glass before you purchase it by getting your eyes on the scope
With that said in this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive overview of eight of the best 260 Remington scopes that meet all of the above-mentioned criteria;
| Product | Features & Price |
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1. Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 Rifle Scope
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2. Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 3-12x56mm Rifle Scope
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3. Sight Mark Citadel 3-18×50 LR2 Rifle Scope
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4. Vortex Viper HS 4-16x50mm SFP Rifle Scope
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5. NightForce SHV 4-14x50mm F1 FFP Rifle Scope
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6. 6. Steiner Predator 4 4.4-16x50mm Rifle Scope |
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7. SIG SAUER Buckmaster 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope
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8. Sightron S-TAC 3-16x42mm SFP Rifle Scope
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1. Trijicon VCOG 1-6x24 Rifle Scope
First, we have the Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 Rifle Scope, being a Trijicon scope it almost speaks for itself. It is one of the best scopes on the market owing to its indestructible nature, this is because it goes through military-grade MIL-STD-810G testing standards before it gets to you.
It comes with a conservative magnification range of 1-6x, making it an excellent choice for those medium-range shoot-outs. This however doesn’t mean that it won’t work well in longer distances as it is quite reliable up to 600 yards out. Its First focal plane reticle further enhances its capabilities, especially in competitive shooting and in those vast clear terrain hunting situations, which is what the 260 Remington is made for.
While this scope doesn’t come with the widest objective lens, its light transmission is not one to be trifled with. The scope more than compensates for its narrow 24mm diameter objective lens by having top-of-the-line glass, which gives it superior light-gathering abilities. This ensures clear undistorted images even at the highest magnification.
Trijicon optics does more than its competitors when it comes to reticles by providing you with 12 different options to choose from. The reticles are illuminated in either green or red, and this ensures the scope’s performance is top-notch even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. Additionally, the scope offers 6 brightness settings which is more than ideal.
Additionally, the reticles are bullet drop compensating ensuring you can quickly and accurately estimate your range and utilize the right hold. It also features an integrated dial fin that is easy to rotate to the different magnification settings and offers a very forgiving and constant eye relief of up to 4 inches.
As mentioned earlier this scope is indestructible, this is owing to its aircraft aluminum alloy housing along with rugged construction that makes it shockproof. It is also waterproof to 66 feet as well as fog proof, so you can be sure of unobstructed views in rainy and chilly weather
The one downside to this scope is the fact that you will have to dig very deep into your pockets to own one of these, but I can assure you it is worth it
Pros
- Long battery life
- Easy to use
- Excellent light transmission
- Unbeatable clarity
Cons
- Very expensive for its class
- Low magnification versatility
2. Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 3-12x56mm Rifle Scope
Next, is the Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 3-12x56mm Rifle Scope. When you think of reliability at a fair price then the Hawke Vantage should be what pops up in your mind. This scope is just right for mid to long-range shooting and hunting, making it one of the best 260 Remington scopes.
This scope has a versatile magnification range of 3-12x, which when coupled with its second focal plane reticle, makes it a perfect hunting rifle scope, especially in busy terrain. It also offers a very wide field of view that ensures you have the perfect awareness of your surroundings and very forgiving eye relief for optimum comfort while aiming.
Featuring a wide 56mm diameter objective lens the scope allows for optimal light transmission, which along with its 11-layer fully multi-coated lenses delivers optimum clarity and image crispness. Additionally, the reticle of this fine scope is illuminated in the color red, with 5 brightness levels. This provides you with the confidence to make the perfect shot even in low-light conditions.
Finally, the durability of this scope is not one to be questioned as it is nitrogen purged to keep it fog and moisture-proof, has well-fitted seals to keep it waterproof, and is shockproof to protect it from recoil. To add to this the scope utilizes a special erector system to ensure the highest possible internal stability.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Lightweight
- Great light transmission
- Durable
- Easy to use
Cons
- Haziness on the higher magnification levels
3. Sight Mark Citadel 3-18x50 LR2 Rifle Scope
Sight Mark hit the mark on this one. The Citadel 3-18×50 LR2 Rifle Scope is a scope perfect for both medium and long-range scope and can be used for both competitive shooting and hunting. It is also made easy to use for both beginners and professionals. The most alluring thing about this scope is that it won’t break the bank making it one of the best 260 Remington scopes.
This scope comes with a 3-18x magnification that gives enough room for both medium and long-range shooting. Additionally, the scope comes with a First Focal Plane reticle giving you the convenience to range and use holdovers at all magnification levels.
The Citadel 3-18×50 also featured unbeatable optical prowess with a red reticle 11-level illumination that allows for great shots in low lighting; wide objective and fully multi-coated lenses that allow optimum light transmission. All these give you excellent image clarity and you don’t have to worry about any image distortion on the edges. Moreover, when shooting in direct light the scope comes with a reliable sunshade to protect you from glare.
Its ease of use is a product of its exposed above-level locking turrets that enable you to make adjustments quite easily. It’s as simple as pulling up to adjust and pressing down to lock.
Finally, the scope is durable as it is waterproof, shockproof and fog-proof.
Pros
- Great in low light conditions
- Versatile magnification
- Reliable clarity
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
- Very affordable
Cons
- Relatively short battery life
- Poor eye relief
4. Vortex Viper HS 4-16x50mm SFP Rifle Scope
Next, we have the Viper HS 4-16x50mm SFP Rifle Scope by Vortex optics. Vortex although new to the game, has yet to disappoint. This scope is made for target shooting and hunting. With its 4:1 magnification ratio, you can be sure that those long-range shots come in easily, this makes it a great choice as one of the best 260 Remington scopes.
The scope features a 50mm objective lens that offers unmatched light-gathering capabilities. This wide objective coupled with vortex’s extra-low dispersion glass and XR fully multicoated glass increases image resolution and color clarity, ensuring that the scope provides sharp and crisp images.
The reticle of this scope is on the second focal plane which makes it ideal for hunting, with its sub-tensions for holdover and wind drift correction being precise to 16x magnification.
To ensure optimal image focus and parallax removal the Viper HS has a left-side adjustment that is easily accessible while in the shooting position. Additionally, it features a fast-focus eyepiece that makes it convenient to focus the reticle, especially in those multiple-shot situations.
The scope is also very durable as it’s made of a single 30mm solid block of aluminum, this ensures it has maximum accuracy and further enhances its waterproofness. The scope is also fog proof as it is argon purged to ensure that the lenses remain clear in cold weather. The construction is also rugged to ensure it is capable of withstanding recoil from the 260 Remington.
Pros
- Excellent image clarity
- Easy to use
- Very durable
- Lightweight
- Great light transmission
Cons
- Quite expensive
- Not illuminated thus poor performance in low light
5. NightForce SHV 4-14x50mm F1 FFP Rifle Scope
The Night Force SHV is up next, this scope has all you can ever need in a mid-range scope. Night force optics are known for their uncompromising quality with most of their scope assembly being done by hand and avoiding the errors that could occur from mass production.
It offers a versatile 4-14x magnification and a reticle on the first focal plane making it a great option as one of the best 260 Remington scopes as you can be confident with those mid-range to low long-range shots.
Its 4-14x magnification allows for a very wide field of view that gives you an upper hand during hunting season. Additionally, the scope features a 50mm diameter objective that allows for maximum light transmission, and coupled with its 12-level setting illumination, you can be sure images are bright and clear at any time of day.
This night force optics scope also features zero set tech, which makes it easy to return to zero in whatever conditions or distance. The windage turrets are capped to prevent accidental adjustments and the elevation turrets are exposed for quicker access. The parallax of this scope is adjustable from 25 yards to infinity.
Finally, the scope has a rugged construction to protect it from recoil and its one-piece main build keeps its lenses protected as well as providing some degree of protection from the elements.
The one con of this scope is its weight of 30 ounces, while this is not that heavy it is hard to compete with other manufacturers like Vortex optics who have ensured almost all their scopes are below the 500g mark.
Pros
- Illuminated reticle
- Excellent brightness
- Holds zero well
- Great value for money
- Great clarity
Cons
- Quite heavy
- Poor eye relief
6. Steiner Predator 4 4.4-16x50mm Rifle Scope
We have the Predator 4 by Steiner optics next. The durability of this scope is one of the best in the market and it is also very lightweight making it very convenient for a long hunting trip and one of the best 260 Remington scopes.
The scope features a second focal plane reticle that allows for completely visible crosshairs on any magnification. It also has a wide mid-magnification range of 4-16x making it a great option for hunting with your 260 Remington, especially in thick and busy terrain.
The scopes wide 50mm objective lens that allows for optimum light transmission, as well as its illuminated reticle with 11 brightness levels (5 day and 6 night), ensure that you have clear, crisp and bright images all day and night.
The SFP reticle of this scope features BDC holdover marks for every 100-yard increment and 5 miles per hour and 10 miles per hour cross wind marks of reference for every 100-yard increase.
Finally, the scope is very durable as it is shockproof as well as water and fog proof. The lenses also have a diamond coating that protects the lenses from dirt and oil ensuring your view is unobstructed in whatever conditions.
Pros
- Excellent image sharpness
- Great value for money
- Night vision enabled
- Lightweight
- Best-in-class light transmission
- Reliable warranty
Cons
- Quite blurry on the highest magnification setting
7. SIG SAUER Buckmaster 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope
Next, we have the SIG SAUER Buckmaster 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope, which is part of SIG SAUER Electro-optics line. The scope is built to bring out the ultimate performance of every avid hunter and it comes at one of the most budget-friendly prices of all the scopes listed in this article, making it one of the best 260 Remington scopes available on the market today.
First, this scope comes with a reticle on the second focal plane and features a BDC that possesses holdover dots out to 500 yards. Additionally, this scope comes with low-lying capped turrets to ensure that there are no unwanted adjustments once you lock in. It also comes with a fast-focus eyepiece that gives you the convenience of fast target acquisition.
The scope also features some very high great optics. This is attributable to its wide objective that ensures optimum light transmission and that images are bright. Its fully multi-coated lenses on the other hand, ensure you have images that are clear and sharp.
While the scope’s reticle is not illuminated, this takes nothing away from the reticle clarity. However, it might be a bit difficult to see the reticle in very low light conditions. Additionally, this scope has no sunshade, making it a tad bit challenging to use in direct sunlight.
Finally, this scope is very durable as it is shock, water and fog proof.
Pros
- Great clarity in normal light
- Excellent light transmission
- Long eye relief
- Wide field of view
- Very affordable
Cons
- Poor clarity in low-light conditions
8. Sightron S-TAC 3-16x42mm SFP Rifle Scope
If you are a hunter then the Sightron S-TAC 3-16x42mm SFP Rifle Scope is a scope that will call to you. It can however still be used in other different shooting situations. The scope is also quite moderately priced making it an even better pick as one of the best 260 Remington scopes.
The scope comes with a second focal plane duplex reticle which is one of the most favorable hunting reticles. Instead of hash marks the reticle of this scope comes with thick bars that cross vertically and horizontally, and become thinner as they approach the center.
This Sightron creation is also built around one of the best optical formulas that reduce chromatic aberrations, provide great color and allow for the highest level of light transmission. All this ensures you have very clear and sharp images. To take its light transmission to a whole other level the scope’s lenses are subjected to Zact-7 Revcoat multi-coatings that ensure the lenses are anti-reflective.
With this scope, drift is something you never have to worry about as this scope comes with an ExacTrack windage and elevation system. This system gives you the right alignment between the erector tube and adjustment by applying the same pressure at zero and extreme adjustments.
Finally, the scope is durable owing to its IPX7 waterproofing standards; its nitrogen-purged nature that ensures its fog proof and, its shockproof nature that ensures its internal structures are protected from recoil.
Pros
- Great light transmission
- Good value for money
- Excellent clarity
- Very durable
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Poor performance in very low light conditions
What makes a good 260 Remington scope?
Exceptional optical performance
A good 260 Remington scope as with any scope should have the best optics. The objective should be wide enough for maximum light transmission and the lenses should be coated to ensure light is not reflected. This ensures you have exceptional images that are bright and undistorted.
Cost
Any good 260 Remington scope should come at a reasonable price that matches its features. The scope should range anywhere between 200 to 1500 dollars. With a scope in that price range, you can expect excellent durability, great optical prowess and ease of use. This however doesn’t mean that you should rule out the more highly-priced scopes as they might have that one edge you need to be above the rest come hunting season or on the shooting range.
Durability
A good 260 Remington should be durable. First, it should be rugged and made of a single-piece tube, this ensures it is shockproof, and while the 260 Remington doesn’t produce as much recoil as most of the other long-range rifles, that recoil could still shatter your lenses if you have a poorly constructed scope.
Furthermore, the scope should be waterproof meaning that it has well-fitted O-rings in all the necessary areas and fog-proof, meaning that it is gas purged, most commonly it will either be nitrogen or argon gas. Being water and fog-proof will ensure you have clear views when it’s cold and rainy.
Easy to use
The easier the scope is to use the better. When the scope has too many controls and special features it might make it harder to make adjustments, especially as a newbie. Many controls make it difficult to make those quick transitions that one has to make especially with moving targets. Also, too many features on a scope will ideally mean that it will be heavier and no one wants a scope weighing them down. So all ways go for the simpler scope.
What is the effective range of a 260 Remington?
The 260 Remington is described by its manufacturers as a versatile medium to long-range rifle. However, 260 Remington performs best when used for medium-range shootouts between 200 to 400 yards.
Conclusion
The 8 reviewed best 260 Remington scopes are all very reliable for both hunting and other types of shooting. They come at different price points with the more conservatively priced scopes having all the best features you would want in a scope but with a bit of moderation on those more advanced features. The highly priced scopes just happen to have all that you could need and more. All in all, these rifle scopes are all top tier and you can’t go wrong with any of them. This review should make it easier to ass your needs and make the right choice for your 260 Remington.