11 Best Compact and Light Rifle Scopes – 2022 Reviews

Rifle scopes are a complicated topic. Rifle scopes are supposed to be compact, or else you’ll end up with a rifle that feels like it has a brick tied to it.

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.

 For tactical shooting and hard targeting, the compact scopes are your best solution. Having any of these could make you stand a chance for brilliant shots.

There’s a wealth of different types of optics available out there. The different brands and designs available all vary pretty widely in terms of quality, too. Getting a lightweight rifle scope is pretty important since firearms are prone to be heavy. 

Looking for a high quality, compact rifle scopes can pose a bit of a challenge. New buyers are unaware, and they do not know the qualities to look out for when they are making that choice. So if you don’t know what to look out for, you could find yourself wasting money on an unsatisfactory product.

In this regard, we would like to draw your attention to the Best Lightweight & Compact Rifle Scopes. Today, we’re going to review the top 10 scopes, each with its strengths, weaknesses, and qualities that we’re looking for a compact scope.

Compact Rifle Scopes

General features

As the name suggests, these riflescopes are incredibly compact, measuring up to 33 centimeters in length. They weigh below 1000 grams and have a lens diameter of somewhere between 32 and 50 mm.

As these fall into this category, they are equipped with tactical turrets and an FFP reticle (there are some exceptions). Commonly, they feature a MIL/MIL configuration. Even though these riflescopes are small and light, they are packed with tactical capabilities.

Best 11 Compact Rifle Scopes Review Quick List

TOP 11 Best Compact Rifle Scopes

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1. Burris 3-9 x 40mm Fullfield II Ballistic Plex Rifle Scope – Best Compact Rifle Scope for the Money

If lightweight scopes are your thing then you will certainly feel comfortable using this one. Weighing in at just 13 ounces, the Burris Fullfield II is one of the best lightweight scopes in its price range.

This is scope features TAC-2 Low Profile Tactical Adjustment Knobs that ensure ease of operation and accessibility contained this model in a low profile body that makes moving through your combat or sniping terrain with comfort.

Burris’ tacticals have four scales of reference meaning you can easily see your adjustments whether you’re standing, crouching, or hiding on your belly to take the shot. It is  25% to 50% lighter weight than most of the other tactical scopes in their class.

Featuring 3-9x magnification, a 40 mm objective lens, water, shock, and fogproof construction, and an industry-leading lifetime warranty, this is a lot of scope for its price range.

If you are shooting heavier than normal rifle loads, this might be the ideal lightweight scope for you.

Features

– Made using the highest quality materials;

– Full-field II variable power 3x-9x-40 mm matte black plea;

– 1-piece tube construction;

– Water, fog, and shockproof;

– Reinforced quad-seal gas seals and Hi-Luma Multi-coated lenses;

– Covered under warranty for life;

– Durable, integrated-eyepiece design has no-slip grip for easy; adjustment in the field.

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2. UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope, AO, 36-color Mil-dot, Rings

The best lightweight rifle scope for dirt-cheap prices This is one of the most reliable and efficient scopes that is being sold in the market.

Weighing in at just under 13 ounces, this compact scope is ideal for tactical rifle shooters, and folks who prefer a compact scope without much eye relief.

I’d like to note that this model has a one-inch tube, which is a pretty standard in top quality scopes. But this one also has that emerald coating, allowing for max light transmission, helping us see better even in low lighting conditions.

Several other features set the model apart from others. Its outdoor sunshade scope features a red dot, which you can change to green when you want.

This feature makes the product outstanding. If you do not like the location of the red dot, you can transfer it to Picatinny 21 mm rail. When it is high, it is more useful since it makes it more useful for the user.

The fixed four power magnification is ideal for most short and medium-range shooting, and more than sufficient for much common hunting or tactical tasks.

Featuring multicoated optics, a 32 mm objective lens, illuminated reticle, nitrogen purged 1” tube, water, fog, and shockproof construction, flip-up lens caps, and more, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better 4x lightweight scope for the money.

The manufacturer has performed several quality checks on this scope before putting it out for sale. When you take all the features into consideration you will see that it is certainly worth procuring. So not do not hesitate in getting this scope for yourself as it does not disappoint in any way.

Overall, the UTG scope is a favorite among hunters and tactical shooters looking for the best results. It can provide the precision and accuracy needed for a great shot and a rewarding hunting experience.

Features

– The scope Built on True Strength Platform, Completely Sealed and Nitrogen Filled, Shockproof, Fogproof and Rainproof;

– 1 Inch Tube with Emerald Coated Lens for Crystal Clear View with Maximum Light Transmission;

– Premium Zero Lockable and Zero Resettable Target Turrets with Consistent and Precise 1/4 MOA Per Click Adjustment;

– Range Estimating Mil-dot Reticle for Optimal Aiming and Shooting Performance;

– Adjustable Objective from 3 Yards to Infinity to Achieve Parallax-free View;

– Red/Green Dual Illumination for Versatile Applications and Weather/Light Conditions;

– The magnification goes up to 7x;

– The objective lens is 32mm.

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3. Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Circle-X Reticle Riflescope

Whether you’re hunting or sniping at other targets, you know your shots will rarely come in a perfect time or with perfect lighting. If you don’t want to confine your shooting to the daylight hours then the Bushnell Banner sniper rifle scopes are the best choice for you.

The Banner series of scopes are designed specifically for early-morning and late-evening light shooting. Bushnell’s trademarked Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated scope lenses allow brightness and clarity in even the most unfavorable lighting conditions.

Although there are numerous sniper rifle scopes in this series, they all share some of Bushnell’s best scope features. These include fast-focus eyepieces, 1/4 M.O.A. fingertip, resettable windage and elevation adjustments, multi-coated optics, water proof and fog proof construction, and sturdy one-piece sniper rifle scope tubes.

The Banner specialty scopes work equally well with rifles for big game and varmint hunting, and black powder, .22 rimfire, shotgun and slug rifles.

The Bushnell reticle designs available for these rifles include the Circle-X, Multi-X, Illuminated, and Mil Dot.

The Illuminated riflescopes feature a selectable red or green illuminated reticle – the green is optimal for low light and the red is visible even in bright light.

The 50mm objective increases the optimum brightness the scope can provide. The Mil Dot reticle is bright enough for high-powered extreme range shooting.

Features

-Circle-X reticle;

– Extended Eye Relief;

– 2nd Focal Plane;

– One-piece Tube;

– Dry-nitrogen Filled;

– Fast-focus Eyepiece;

– 1/4 MOA Fingertip Windage and Elevation Adjustment;

– Shotgun riflescope with 4x magnification and 32mm objective lens;

– Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multicoated lenses for clarity and brightness;

– 100-percent waterproof/fogproof construction;

– 3.3 inches of eye relief;

– Fast-focus eyepiece; measures 11.3 inches long.

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4. Leupold VX-1 2-7x33mm Compact Waterproof Fogproof Riflescope

Looking for the Best Lightweight & Compact Rifle Scopes? Well, this one will certainly meet your expectations. This is created to help the users achieve accuracy every single time. You will certainly not have any regrets after using this. It is one of the topmost brands and that is why it makes the list.

If you want to get the best in hunting expedition then you must learn how to use this product. When it comes to features, it has everything you require to be on top of your game.

The VX-1 offers multicoated lenses that deliver a brilliant field of view in every light condition and the sharpness of the edge-to-edge view is revolutionary.

The scope offers the Duplex reticle not available on any other rifle scope – regardless of price. The Duplex gives you an unobstructed aim at even the smallest targets at the longest distance and extremely fast and accurate target acquisition at close range.

Besides, it is fog proof and waterproof and you can use it in any weather without worries. The aluminum housing makes it the most durable in the market. It is also lightweight making it comfortable to use.

The lightweight hunting scope is also with a 3:1 zoom ratio that allows it to stay versatile to keep up with what you need for all hunting conditions. 

The 33 mm objective lens saves weight and reduces the profile of your scope, making this ideal for hunters who have to take long hikes in dense or steep terrain.

These and more are why the Leupold is chosen by hunters and tactical professionals worldwide.

Features                                                    

– Micro-friction windage and elevation adjustment dials with 1/4 MOA click rate are easy to set and reset;

– A versatile 3:1 zoom ratio erector system that is ideal for virtually any situation;

– Leupold’s classic lockable eyepiece keeps focusing steady and constant;

– Rugged and waterproof everywhere you go1″ tube mounts to most riflescope rings and bases;

– The tactile power indicator identifies your magnification with a touch;

– Absolute waterproof and fogproof integrity: ready for a lifetime in the field, in all conditions.

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5. Swarovski Z5 3.5-18×44 Riflescope

While not cheap, this is probably the single best lightweight rifles cope money can buy. Swavorski is world-famous for some of the finest optics made anywhere in the world, and the just under 16 ounces Z5  may be the pinnacle of the scope maker’s art.

This is scope featuring 3.5 to 18 power magnification, a 44 mm objective lens, waterproof to 4 meters, amazingly clear optics, precision windage, and elevation adjustment, and a unique ballistic turret that allows you set zero for up to four predetermined distances, and much more.

It has the side focus, the 4-point coil spring system, low profile, and the ballistic turret or reticle to outshine all other scopes.

The Swarovski Z5 3.5-18X44 BT rifle scope has a generous power range that can enable you to change your scope settings for the wooded forest or the vast, open plains.

The Z5 is designed to be the ultimate lightweight rifle scope and is suitable for all types of hunting, sport shooting, or even precision sniping.

Features

– Low weight;

– 5x zoom in a 1-inch rifle scope;

– Maximum image quality due to completely innovative design of the optic;

– Large field of view for greater overview;

– Rectangular adjustment range for greater range of elevation;

– Patented SWAROVSKI OPTIK 4-point coil spring system for absolute certainty of hitting your target shot after shot;

– Slim, stylish design;

– All aluminum outer parts are anodized to be scratch-resistant.

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6. NcSTAR 4×30 Compact Riflescope

NcStar is not new in this kind of product. They have several of them in the market but this model is one of the lightest brands.

This scope has a lightweight and compact design that makes it ideal for more applications and uses.

A multi-coated lens will magnify your target 4 times giving you a clear and bright scenario and allow you to shoot with much better precision.

By choosing the scope, you will not only have a reliable scope but also a compact and solid one that can perform for your needs.

If you are looking for a product that does not disappoint, then you can always consider this model. The model is compatible with the air gun and comes with a lens cover. It is easy to mount and operate and is with durable and top-quality materials.

Features

– Includes lens covers;

– Compact tactical design;

– Fixed power magnification;

– Multi coated lenses;

– Adjustable focus ring for a clearer image; 

– Fog,water & shock proof;

– 1″ one piece main tube body;

– P4 sniper reticle;

– NcStar lifetime warranty.

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7. Vortex Optics Razor HD LH Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

Shooters and hunters need a long-range rifle and corresponding scopes to achieve the precise target.

However, the problem is, top-notch long-range scopes are heavier than other ones due to their tube construction, large magnification, and other features. In addition, if you carry a heavy scope and rifle for a long time you will get tired and face many challenges out there.

Here is the catch for Vortex Razor HD LH 3-15×42, because this long-range scope is very much lightweight. In short, this amazing scope features all the premium qualities while weighing very little comparatively. We sincerely suggest that you should give this scope a shot. Infact, this can be the perfect match for your lightweight rifle.

This high-quality scope incorporates High Density (HD) extra-low dispersion glass that delivers incredible resolution and color fidelity for sight picture. The lenses are optically indexed so that they can optimize the sharpness and brightness of the sight image edge to edge.

When it comes to longevity this model is durable because it is hard anodized and this makes it more durable.

O-ring seals prevent moisture, dust, and debris from penetrating the riflescope for reliable performance in all environments.

Argon gas purging prevents internal fogging over a wide range of temperatures. Furthermore, it is highly reliable because of the Arbortech coating. This product lenses are protected.

Features

– Magnification 3-15x

– Objective Lens Diameter 42 mm

– Eye Relief 8 inches

– Field of View 8-7.1 ft/100 yds

– Tube Size 1 inch

– Turret Style Capped

– Adjustment Graduation 1/4 MOA

– Travel Per Rotation 15 MOA

– Max Elevation Adjustment 55 MOA

– Max Windage Adjustment 55 MOA

– Parallax Setting 20 to infinity

– Length 5 inches

– Weight 5 oz

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8. Nikon ProStaff 2-7 x 32 Black Matte Riflescope (Nikoplex)

The Nikon ProStaff  rifle scope is called the ProStaff for one reason: It was extensively tested in the field by Nikon ProStaff members and was not approved until it proved itself for accuracy, outstanding features, ease of use, and compatibility with multiple weapons including standard rifles, shotguns, and rimfire.

So you’d think that economical sniper rifle scopes can’t offer all the features that Nikon has built into their more expensive rifle scopes – but you’d be wrong. Look at this impressive list of features:

Versatile Magnification Range: This feature give you the flexibility you need for any type of hunting situation, whether you’re hitting your mark from heavy timber or open prairies and all-terrain in between;

Nikon’s exclusive multicoated lenses, which can boost light transmission up to 90%;

Precise, 1/4-MOA Click Adjustments: Zero your reticle in quickly and maintain your scope setting despite recoil;

Bright Sight Picture: when conditions are not optimal for you to snipe your shot, this scope will still provide high-resolution images.

Overall, it is one of the best in the category for its solid built, fully multicoated lenses, waterproof performance, clear view field Nikoplex reticle, nitrogen purging, and o-ring sealing. It only makes sure that it can work well no matter the weather conditions.

Unheard-of options for the price and accuracy beyond belief – the Nikon Prostaff rifle scope is a great way to outfit your sniper rifle.

Features

– Compact rifle scope with 2 to 7x magnification and 32 mm objective lens;

– A Fully multicoated optical system transmits up to 98 percent of available light;

– Zero-reset turret with spring-loaded adjustment knob;

– 3.8 inches of eye relief;

– Nitrogen-filled, O-ring-sealed housing for waterproof, fog proof performance;

– Nikoplex reticle; quick-focus eyepiece; measures 11.5 inches.

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9. CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope

The lightweight scope for AR 15 has a top-quality structure on both its outer and inner parts, designed to control the inner and outer tubes interaction. Such can provide us with long-lasting reliability. It can also make sure that the scope’s reticle won’t rotate when being adjusted.

CVLIFE’S Fully-Multi coated lenses can deliver an amazing 95 percent light transmission across 300 percent more of the visual light spectrum for a high-contrast and color-accurate picture, ensuring that the picture stays visible by keeping fog, rain, and dirt off the lenses, so you never miss a moment.

This air rifle scope features waterproof, fog proof, and even shockproof capabilities, so you can take it with you during rainy or misty weather and the scope will still do its work.

Another feature of the attachment is its flexibility. Users can mount it on a broad span of rifles like air rifles, 22LRs, CO2 rifles, the kind used in airsoft as well as the Gamo and Crosman Springer kinds.

Thanks to CVLife, shooters can finally have a scope that meets their budget price mark and at the same time, maximize their rifle’s power by using a said attachment.

Features

– Fully multi-coated glass provides over 90% light transmission, brilliant images, and exceptional color contrast.

– Scratch-resistant coating protects exterior lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt.

– Built on an ultra-strong 1-inch machined-aluminum tube.

– Completely sealed and 100% nitrogen filled makes it fog and rainproof. This tactical scope could be used under any weather condition.

– The scope includes a Special inner and outer structure to control the interaction between the inner and outer tubes of the scope, which provides long-lasting reliability in this interaction and ensures the reticle would not rotate when adjusting. This smart design makes the scope shockproof and provides more precise windage and elevation adjustment.

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10.Simmons Truplex .22 Mag Riflescope

Simmons Truplex is another superior quality riflescope you can buy with money. It is ultralight. This makes the list because it is one of the best since it comes with all the features you desire from this kind of product.  I would also like to note that this item is with proven and tested quality materials to last for years.

This Simmons .22 Mag TruPlex Reticle scope has been getting a lot of positive customer reviews for its very affordable price. Other users point out that this scope is very easy to use.

This features HydroSheild coating on the lens that provides a very clear sight, which means that no matter what the climate is you can still get the best out of your hunting sessions. This has a parallax correction feature that goes from about 50 yards up to infinity.

It has a very solid construction that belies its budget-friendly price tag. This scope has a length of 12 inches and weighs just 13.2 ounces. It can be considered as an average-sized scope.

It’s not exactly compact but not big for a scope as well. With its size, it fits easily into a rifle case. It is also shockproof and fog proof, hence you won’t hesitate in bringing this scope to the woods.

Furthermore, the model comes with hydro shield lens coating and that makes for clear sight, and you can see even in bad weather.

Most importantly, the product is easier to use and this is because of the Sure-Grip rubber feature. The importance of this is that you can adjust the focus as you shoot.

Features

– Quality HD optics;

– Eye-catching design;

– Tough and reliable;

– Parallax correction preset;

– HydroShield lens coating;

– Waterproof/fogproof/shockproof;

– QTA quick target acquisition eyepiece;

– True Zero windage and elevation dials;

– Includes rimfire 3/8 – inch dovetail mounting rings;

– SureGrip rubber surfaces to make adjustments easy;

– Exceptional quality with fully-coated optical glass lenses;

– One-piece tube construction to ensure lighter handling;

– Length -12″;

– Weight – 10 ounces.

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11. Aim Sports 4X32 Compact Rangefinder Scope

This riflescope weighs 10.9 ounces, and is 7.75” long. Its compact design should allow it to fit easily in your rifle case mounted to your rifle, which will allow you to transport your rifle with the scope mounted.

This scope provides a fixed 4X magnification, which should be sufficient for shooting out to 50-60 yards. Of course, AIM Sports advertises using this scope out as far as 100 yards or more, but the reticle is too thick for fine-tuned shooting at that distance. You could shoot that far out, but not small targets.

It is milled from a solid piece of aircraft-grade aluminum and is very solid and durable. The housing fog proof and shockproof scope that you can take outdoors, especially in the woods.

This is It gets good grades for its ease of use, and the ability to hold zero for a long time.  It is a decent choice for its great design and solid construction.

Features

– Milled from one solid piece of aircraft grade aluminum to withstand constant heavy recoil;

– Fog proof and shock-resistant housing;

– Nitrogen charged with weather-resistant seals;

– Blue fused multi-coated lens provides superior light transmission, resolution, and scratch resistance;

– Windage and elevation adjustment;

– 3″ eye relief provides safety from heavy recoil and enables fast target acquisition;

– Weaver / Picatinny 1913 ring mounts included.

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Buyers Guide for the Best Compact Rifle Scope

How do you find the right scope that will match your needs, skill level and budget? Among the scopes out there, which one is suitable for your hunting or shooting style? Chances are you’re one of those hunters looking for a good riflescope, whether as a new or as the first scope to buy.

We’ve compiled an advisory list below. This list details some of the key things you should look out for when trying to purchase rifle optics online. We’ve made zero recommendations on where to shop to ensure this guide is as universal as possible.

Eye relief

Eye relief is sort of tossed out of the window when you settle on a prism scope. There’s not much room for eye relief in these compact sights, unfortunately. 3 inches or slightly above is something you’ll likely have to settle on.

Magnification

Consider carefully what kind of distance you’re planning on shooting at. If you’re into close range target shooting, perhaps competitively, you might consider a 1x scope. Planning on putting rounds further downrange? Anywhere up to 4x/5x is a practical choice. 2x and 3x are great options to ensure you get the best of both worlds.

Adjustments

In the same way, you must opt for a product you can easily adjust. The ease of adjustment is one of the key features you must consider when you are making a choice. The adjustment makes it easier to use, and it is easier to focus on your target as well.

Prices

When finding the right compact optics system, you must also find one that is suitable for your budget. In this case, you will be able to narrow down your choices and avoid spending much money in the process just because you ended up buying a more expensive scope with the features you do not really need.

By determining your budget from the beginning, you can also save effort and time, and be able to narrow down your choices based on how much your budget can afford.

Conclusion

It is not easy to choose the best lightweight compact rifle scope in the market. Several products are competing for your attention.

You may get a ton of scopes to pick from, but these name brands will always stand out. In case, you are serious about installing the Best Lightweight & Compact Rifle Scopes, then you cannot get a better bargain than these.

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 with your needs and the type of rifles you have.

For other rifle and scope types check:

Scopes for Ruger 10/22 Best NcStar Scopes Review Best Scopes For M&P 15-22