Do you want the best scope for Barrett 50 Cal? In this post, we will share the pros and cons of the top options to help you make an informed decision.
The 50 Browning Machine Gun (BMG) is a high-powered cartridge and rifle. Many hunters and gun enthusiasts enjoy using this cartridge with their rifles because it is utilized for long-distance shooting.
Shooters look for scopes that are the perfect match for rifles to mount on to improve their shooting ability.
However, finding the ideal scope is more difficult to achieve than expected. So that you don’t have to do the legwork, we’ve compiled a list of 50 BMG-compatible scopes you may mount on your rifle.
To further assist you in understanding the important things you should consider before buying 50 BMG scopes, we have included a checklist after the evaluations. Let’s get down to business, then!
7 Best Scopes for Barrett 50 Cal
1) Vortex Viper PST 5-25x50mm Gen II FFP Riflescope
This FFP scope provides a flexible magnification range (5-25x), so you can shoot from any distance. The reticle offers ten intensity levels with off positions between each setting, allowing for ideal viewing.
You will find all the characteristics you could want from a high-grade scope regarding the construction of its tube and lenses. The scope can withstand harsh weather and environments thanks to the tube’s use of aircraft-grade aluminum, O-ring seals, and Argon purging.
The lens’s XR is completely multi-coated, and Armortek coatings guarantee that it can transmit enough light while also being resistant to scuffs, grease, and dirt. Furthermore, you will adore its laser-etched turrets, adjustable parallax, and RZR zero-stop features if you want to dial turrets to compensate for bullet drop and wind.
The fiber optic rotation indicator included with the sight allows you to monitor your turret location. So, the sight is a good investment for attaching to a 50 BMG rifle.
This scope also comes with a sunshade, making it easier to aim precisely in dimly lit areas.
Pros
- High-Quality Optics
- First Focal Plane Reticle
- Durable Construction
- Zero Stop Turrets
- Generous Eye Relief
Cons
- Heavy
2) Athlon Optics Argos BTR 6-24X50 FFP Riflescope
The best word to describe this scope is dependability. As the product title suggests, its 6-24x magnification range and 50mm objective lens confirm that it can be mounted on a long-range rifle.
Also, because it is an FFP scope, you can adjust the reticle size by moving it to the first focal plane as you vary the magnification range. This raises the likelihood that accurate shots will hit the target.
It contains an illuminated center cross and a 0.5 mil hash mark, making it ideal for long—and mid-range shooting. This reticle system allows you to establish the holdover settings and pinpoint the target rapidly.
This scope’s tube and lens construction is also trustworthy. The scope tube is strong enough to withstand any bumpy or challenging circumstances because it is built of 6061T6 aircraft-grade aluminum. The tube’s Argon purging improves its thermal stability and moisture resistance.
It also boasts multi-coated lenses, which maximize light transmission for sharper, brighter images. Overall, it is a solid scope for 50 BMG.
The scope must offer adequate eye relief to shield your eyes from recoil-related injury. You will have about 3.3″ of eye relief with this scope.
The scope has a side parallax adjustment system. The adjustment’s starting points range from ten yards to infinity.
Pros
- Versatile for multiple shooting applications
- High-quality optics ensure clear images
- Durable with aircraft-grade aluminum
- Affordable compared to similar models.
Cons
- Limited field of view
3) Nightforce SHV 5-20x56mm Zeroset .250 MOA Scope
This one is for you if the technical details are more significant. You may be sure that the Nightforce scopes will work with your long-range shooting guns because experienced hunters designed them.
Thanks to the scope’s 20 MOA MOAR center illumination reticle system, you can accurately aim at the target. A floating crosshair on the reticle makes it simple to use in the field.
The scope also has a zoom-in/zoom-out range of 5-20x, allowing you to locate the target at various shooting distances. The side parallax adjustment helps to guarantee that you see the target clearly and sharply.
The scope contains ZeroSet technology that makes it simple to revert to your initial zero setting regardless of the number of elevation adjustments you have made, so you don’t need to worry about doing it. The scope is extremely comfortable because of the 3.5″ eye relief.
Overall, the Nightforce 50 BMG scope offers all the ideal technical characteristics we seek in long-range scopes. The reticle has a central illumination system and is a 20 MOA MOAR. And you may find it on the scope’s second focal plane.
The company also offers rubber lens coverings with accessories like a cleaning cloth, an owner’s guide, loose Allen keys, etc. This scope will fit well with the 30mm scope rings. However, make sure the ring height is medium-high.
Pros
- High-quality glass ensures clear images
- Versatile magnification for various scenarios
- Easy to adjust with the Zeroset feature
- Durable and designed to withstand harsh conditions
- Covered by a limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Higher price point than some competitors
4) Vortex Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Scope
This scope has a 44mm objective lens and a 4-16x magnification range, making it a good candidate to attach to a long-range weapon. Additionally, it boasts a first focal plane, a glass-etched reticle that maintains sub-tension accuracy over a 4x zoom range.
You can aim for long-range targets with the greatest accuracy using the exposed tactical turrets and a side parallax knob.
Due to the aluminum used in its construction, the scope tube is durable and light. Even better, the tube features O-ring seals and nitrogen purging to ensure it can function in all weather.
The scope’s fully multi-coated lenses and extra-low dispersion glass permit adequate light transmission, making the object clear and bright. The precision-glide erector system’s zoom lens also combines premium components to provide seamless magnification changes under any challenging circumstances.
This is a terrific selection if you’re looking for a 50 BMG scope with a sturdy and straightforward build.
The three heights available for scope rings are low, medium, and high. It would help to use scope rings of a reasonable height for bolt-action weapons.
Pros
- FFP reticle adjusts for distance and magnification
- Clear and bright optics with multi-coated lenses
- Durable aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Versatile magnification range for various shooting distances
- Easy-to-use exposed tactical turrets
Cons
- Relatively expensive
5) SWFA SS 10×42 Tactical Mil-Quad Reticle Riflescope
After much thought, we determined that this SWFA SS tactical sight will be a fantastic option for beginning long-range target shooters. Even if you are an experienced target shooter, you will appreciate the simplicity of this 50 BMG-compatible scope.
The scope has a fixed 10x magnification range, enabling you to see the target clearly in the distance. The Mil-Quad reticle on the second focal plane lets you quickly and accurately aim at the target.
The sturdy structure of the scope tube makes it resistant to powerful recoils. The optic lens includes a full array of coatings to transmit the most light possible through the lenses, ensuring a clear and bright image of the target.
With this scope, you’ll even have plenty of eye relief. You can get about 3.9″ of eye relief with it. In light of this, we think it would be a good alternative if you prefer uncomplicated and user-friendly long-range scopes.
You must buy 20mm size covers if you want to flip-up covers for the eyepiece. Look for 30mm coverings if the objective lens is involved. You will also receive a lifetime guarantee with the item.
The parallax adjustment system is crucial for long-range scopes. The scope is designed with a rear focus, which begins to correct parallax at 20 yards.
Pros
- Ideal 10x magnification for long-range shooting
- Durable, waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant construction
- Mil-Quad reticle for precise aiming and range estimation
- Relatively affordable compared to similar models
Cons
- Limited field of view with a 42mm objective lens
6) Swarovski Z3 4-12×50 BT Riflescope
The Swarovski Z3 4-12×50 BT Riflescope is relatively light despite having a 1″ tube diameter. Thanks to the 4-12x magnification range, you can aim for long-range objects effortlessly.
Nevertheless, unlike many high-quality long-range scopes, this one lacks the additional benefit that the FFP scope provides because the reticle is located on the second focal plane.
The scope is extremely well built to endure strong recoils and is guaranteed to be waterproof and shockproof. The scope lens will enable you to see the target clearly and in greater brightness. It features a SWAROCLEAN coating to keep it free of smudges and water droplets.
Also, the ballistic turrets are helpful when shooting at a long distance. Thanks to them, you can alter windage and elevation with 14 MOA clicks.
This scope’s Plex reticle allows you to aim in dimly lit areas. It also provides adequate eye relief, with about 3.54″ of eye relief.
Pros
- High-quality optics ensure clear, bright images
- Versatile 4-12x magnification for various ranges
- Ballistic turret system for quick adjustments
- Durable, waterproof, and fog-proof construction
Cons
- High price may deter budget-conscious shooters
7) Sightron SIII SS 6-24×50 Long Range Riflescope
The Sightron SIII SS 6-24×50 Long-Range Riflescope is another excellent option. We have discovered that it offers several characteristics not found in other long-range scopes.
For example, the scope is constructed with an ExacTrack windage and elevation system. This system permits perfect alignment between the erector tube and the windage/elevation system by maintaining the same steady and exact pressure point at zero or extreme changes.
The scope lens features Zact-7 Revcoat multi-coatings to maximize the anti-reflection performance of the lenses. The scope tube is also IPX7-rated to make it moisture-resistant.
Do you know the scope has a total travel of 100 MOA, which is enough for targets beyond 1000 yards? However, we think it is named a “Fast Focus Rifle Scope” for a reason!
However, it doesn’t feature an illuminated reticle system. Yet the Mil-Dot reticle is adaptable enough for long-range hunting or target shooting as it contains a crosshair visible in dim lights.
The reticle is located on the second focal plane, which allows the focus to remain steady in different magnification settings.
Pros
- Exceptional optical quality for clear, bright images
- Multiple reticle options for various needs
- Durable construction with aircraft-grade aluminum
- Precision adjustment turrets for accurate shots
- Ideal for long-range shooting with 6-24x magnification
Cons
- High price due to premium quality
Guide On Purchasing the Best Scope for Barrett 50 Cal
The following list of criteria demonstrates what it takes for a scope to be deemed the appropriate scope for your long-range rifles:
Magnification
Long-range rifles should be equipped with optics that offer the best magnification. Hence, when purchasing a scope, be sure it has a large magnification range—at least 10x.
Durability
The use of high-quality materials in the scope’s construction is crucial. Otherwise, it won’t be able to handle rocky or bumpy hunting terrains. To prevent damage, the scopes must also resist dampness or water.
Glass Architecture
The scope lens should have several coatings to optimize the amount of light passing through the lenses. The lenses must also be built tough to withstand strong impacts or recoils.
Reticle
You have control over which reticle you use. Check to determine if the scope has the reticle style you choose while shopping for one. If you like, you can also use scopes with illuminated reticles because they can offer more precise aiming in dim lighting.
It would be preferable to purchase FFP scopes because the 50 BMG scopes are intended for long-range shooting. As a result, your targeting will become faster and more flexible.
Focusing Lens
It should be clear that longer objective lens diameter scopes are necessary for long-range guns. More optical clarity for a large field of view will be provided.
Eye Comfort
Confirming the scope’s eye relief is crucial before purchasing a .50 BMG scope. Look for scopes with 3-4″ eye relief to protect your eyes even during powerful recoils.
FAQs on the Best Scope for Barrett 50 Cal
1) Can It Shoot Far?
Under ideal circumstances, a .50 BMG bullet can travel around five miles. It barely moves as it lands on the ground. The .50 BMG is prohibited at several ranges due to this distance.
2) Is it Lawful?
The .50 BMG is permitted in several locations, but California has laws against it. Gun manufacturers created the .50 DTC, a slightly smaller variant of the .50 BMG, to circumvent the California prohibition. The .50 DTC EUROP is a slightly modified variant for use in Europe.
3) What is the Best Scope for a Barrett 50 Cal?
The best scope for a Barrett 50 Cal will depend on the shooter’s specific needs and preferences. Some popular options include the Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 F1, the Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56, and the Schmidt & Bender PMII 5-25×56.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mounting a proper scope on your 50 BMG will allow you to increase the precision of your aiming. Since it is a high-power round, any ordinary scope won’t work. As a result, we have provided you with some of the top 50 BMG scope suggestions that may be used with these caliber rifles.
Also, we have a buying guide that you should read before choosing a sight for your rifle. We hope that this guide helped you narrow your search!
You can also check the 4 Best Scopes for 460 XVR.