The 6.5 Grendel is a spectacular cartridge, and it deserves to be combined with an equally matched scope. Being an intermediate, mid-range rifle designed for precise shooting in the range of 300 to 400 yards, this AR-15 centric scope needs a little boost when it comes to long-range shooting.
A 6.5 Grendel is popular rifle ammo among enthusiasts because it offers an excellent range of hunting capabilities. Also suitable for mid-range target shooting and tactical operations in some specific settings, this rifle is relatively inexpensive. Thus, buying a scope to get better results is an intelligent investment.
With its commendable accuracy and controllability, it would be a pity not to use this rifle for long-range shots. Therefore, it is essential to get the best scope for 6.5 Grendel to make the most of it. Here are our top 10 picks for the best scope for 6.5 Grendel in 2022:
10 Best Scope for 6.5 Grendel in 2022 – A Quick Comparison Table
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | PRICE |
---|---|---|---|
Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Rifle scope | • Includes new illuminated BDC3 reticle • 1-6x24mm range of magnification • Made from aircraft-grade aluminum | Check Price | |
Nikon M-Tactical .308 4-16X42SF | • 30mm main body tube • Elevated windage & elevation turrets • Side-focus parallax adjustment | Check Price | |
Monstrum G3 6-24x50 First Focal Plane FFP Rifle Scope | • 6-24x50mm magnification • Adjustable objective lens • Contains first focal plane MOA reticle | Check Price | |
Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Rifle scope | • Comes with VMR-1 reticle (MOA) • Includes fully multi-coated ED lenses • 4 inches of eye relief | Check Price | |
Zeiss Conquest V4 6-24x50 Rifle Scope | • 4X zoom ratio • Magnification up to 24X • Tactical MOA turrets | Check Price | |
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 4-12x40mm | • 4-12x40mm magnification • Adjustable objective lens • Capped reset turrets | Check Price | |
Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14x50mm Rifle scope | • Includes a duplex reticle • Magnification range of 4.5-14x50mm • Crafted from 6061-T6 aircraft-quality aluminum | Check Price | |
Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane 2-7x32mm | • 2-7x32mm of magnification • Anti-reflective and fully multi-coated lenses • Maximum elevation adjustment of 60 MOA | Check Price | |
Nikon Black FX1000 | • 4-16x50mm range of magnification • Illuminated FX-MOA reticle • Built from aerospace-grade aluminum alloy | Check Price | |
Feyachi RDS-22 2MOA Micro Red Dot Sight Compact Red Dot Scope | • 22mm objective lens • Unlimited eye relief • Comes with a .83" riser mount | Check Price |
1. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Rifle scope
Quick Summary
- Includes new illuminated BDC3 reticle
- 1-6x24mm range of magnification
- Made from aircraft-grade aluminum
This is a versatile optic that compliments the 6.5 Grendel perfectly. The scope features one of the most all-purpose magnification powers found on rifle scopes and packs a set of phenomenal lenses that provide a good sight picture on each zoom setting. Also, the illuminated reticle on the scope guarantees accurate shots regardless of the surrounding light settings.
Additionally, the BDC reticle allows for the compensation of bullet-drop while shooting long-range shots. This reticle is etched onto the glass of fully multi-coated lenses. These lenses are coated to improve light transmission and protect the optics from grit, fog, and smudges. Owing to the weatherproofing and the nitrogen purged housing, this scope can be used even in the harshest of weather conditions.
Vortex Strike Eagle can be mounted on ring and rail mounting systems. It is also made from aircraft-grade aluminum, which makes it all the more resistant to abuse. To make the use of the scope even more comfortable, there is an additional battery storage compartment to avoid running out of power mid-hunt. In conclusion, this scope is one of the best scopes for 6.5 Grendel.
- The illuminated reticle provides accuracy advantages no matter the light level
- Eleven different brightness settings for the reticle
- Includes an additional battery storage compartment
- Comfortable eye relief for each magnification setting
- Quick and easy focusing due to the fast focus dial on the eyepiece
- Consists of relatively low upper zoom factors
2. Nikon M-Tactical .308 4-16X42SF
Quick Summary
- 30mm main body tube
- Elevated windage & elevation turrets
- Side-focus parallax adjustment
This Nikon riflescope is one of the best scopes for 6.5 Grendel available in the market today. It is a completely weatherproof scope that is more suited for hunting purposes than any other scope out there. With a durable matte finish resistant to scratching and anti-reflective coating on the body to blend into the scenery, this scope is ideal for the outdoors.
The most notable aspect of this scope is the BDC 800 reticle. Calibrated for the .308, this reticle allows 800-yard long-range shots. Nikon is known for its high-quality glass manufacturing, and the optics of this scope do not disappoint. The 42mm wide objective lens of the scope allows for 95% light transmission in all conditions. Along with its Ultra-Clear coating to protect the lens and increase light penetration, the scope also has other coatings to enhance the image quality.
It comes with 3.7-4 inches of eye relief, generous for a scope of this kind. Here, the turrets are built to suit tactical operations, and it also features a zero-reset function to adjust windage and elevation while acquiring the target. This scope is undoubtedly a perfect long-lasting long-range rifle scope for the 6.5 Grendel.
- BDC 800 reticle allows shooting 800-yard long-range shots
- Superior turret adjustment system because of the automatic zero markers
- Easily adjustable windage and elevation
- Quick target locking in because of the zero-reset built into the torrenting system
- 95% light penetration, which is suitable for all hunting conditions
- Some users complain of a limited line of sight
3. Monstrum G3 6-24x50 First Focal Plane FFP Rifle Scope
Quick Summary
- 6-24x50mm magnification
- Adjustable objective lens
- Contains first focal plane MOA reticle
Monstrum has put forward a high-performance scope suitable for mid to long-distance shooting out to more than 1000 yards. Being a first focal plane riflescope with MOA reticle, the scope guarantees faster estimation and holdover correction despite the magnification change. The wide range of 6-24x50mm magnification helps in better focusing on the target and offers a larger field of view.
This scope is also incorporated with an adjustable objective lens, which makes the target image sharper, and at the same time, it helps in eliminating parallax while aiming. Multiple brightness settings help the shooter to get a better view in low light conditions. Owing to this, the night vision of the scope is exceptional.
Making the purchase even more economical, the package comes with a set of high profile Picatinny scope rings, a detachable honeycomb filter sunshade, a set of spring-loaded flip-up lens covers, and one CR2032 3V battery. With the help of the multi-coated lenses and entirely metal mechanics, this scope has surely earned its title of one of the best scope for 6.5 Grendel.
- Zero is held well, even after back to backfiring.
- Great optical clarity
- Appealing exterior
- Includes mounting rings
- Has excellent night vision
- Some shooters suggest that tracking is not the best
4. Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescope
Quick Summary
- Comes with VMR-1 reticle (MOA)
- Includes fully multi-coated ED lenses
- 4 inches of eye relief
With its solid construction and commendable optics, Vortex Viper HS-T is a versatile scope that can be used for hunting, shooting, and tactical purposes. Coming with a 50mm objective lens, the scope gives the shooter excellent image clarity and a wide field of view. The premium, fully multi-coated, extra-low dispersion lenses bring excellent resolution and color fidelity to the table too.
Made from solid one-piece type-3 hard-anodized aluminum, the scope's body is made more durable by argon purging the housing. The O-ring sealed housing also makes the scope fog-proof and waterproof from the inside. Moreover, the four inches of eye relief are excellent for shooting high-caliber rounds or rifles with heavy recoil.
Another notable feature of this scope is the parallax adjustment adjusted from forty yards to infinity. The VMR-1 MOA reticle used here is ideal for long-range shots. Since the reticle is second plane focused, magnification can be switched from 6X to 24X without affecting the image quality. This scope offers equally good performance in windy conditions and while aiming at moving targets.
- Comes with a lifetime warranty and desirable affordability
- Excellent field of view and excellent image clarity
- Admirable parallax adjustment settings
- Capless turrets to make usage easier for regular users
- It takes time to break into
5. Zeiss Conquest V4 6-24x50 Rifle Scope
This is one of the most lightweight scopes that packs a punch in terms of construction and performance. With the optical quality being the highest for its price range, this Zeiss scope uses better-quality glass than most of its competitors. The scope exceeds expectations with its performance in low light settings.
Additionally, the illuminated reticle of the scope also aids in low light vision. The positioning of the reticle on the second focal plane minimizes sub-tension too. This scope can zero in on distant targets by magnifying up to 24X, and the feature of a 4X zoom ratio is much appreciated by shooting enthusiasts.
Another feature that sets this scope apart from its competitors is the turrets. The ballistic elevation turret and the standard capped windage turret allow the shooter to adjust the scope to fit any condition. Making the scope more ideal for hunting, the Z-MOA1 reticle can be changed on-the-fly. This Zeiss Conquest V4 is a hunting rifle scope with a record 90% light transmission that promises fun and practicality to long-range shooters.
- Extremely lightweight
- Includes a multi-revolution elevation turret and a ballistic stop
- Great tracking
- Has zero reticle cant
- Impressively weatherproof
- Costlier than the other rifle scopes in the market
6. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 4-12x40mm
The Crossfire II series by Vortex Optics includes exceptionally high-quality scopes. With an adjustable objective lens and a magnification range of 4-12x40mm, this scope is a particular favorite of long-range shooters. Here, the 32mm objective lens and the reticle is located on the second focal plane, so it does not change sizes while swapping between magnification settings.
It is crucial to point out the Dead-Hold BDC nature of the reticle used in this scope. It uses particular holdover points or hash marks along the crosshairs' bottom line to accurately estimate the effect of bullet-drop on the final impact point. This delivers precision and accuracy while shooting at distant targets.
With long eye relief and a forgiving eye box, this scope helps quickly spot and acquire the target. The key feature of an adjustable objective lens eliminates parallax while shooting and better focuses on the image. Quickly adjustable capped turrets and the fully multi-coated anti-reflective lens make this scope worthy of being on the list of the best scope for 6.5 Grendel.
- Can be easily mounted on any mounting system
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle is perfect for long-range shots.
- Forgiving eye box
- Improved light transmission and anti-reflective properties
- Lacks parallax turrets
7. Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14x50mm Riflescope
Quick Summary
- Includes a duplex reticle
- Magnification range of 4.5-14x50mm
- Crafted from 6061-T6 aircraft-quality aluminum
Leupold VX-3i range of rifle scopes come with different types of reticle systems, and our pick for the 6.5 Grendel is the Duplex system. Combined with this reticle, the Ballistics Aiming System helps long-range hunters and shooters get multiple aiming points for longer distances, variable wind speeds, and infinite power selector settings to match with the ballistics of a rifle. Thus, Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14×50 has amazing scope for mid to long-range shooting.
Leupold has incorporated the Twilight Max Light Management System to enhance the light transmission, emphasizing blue and red lights, making dim light vision possible. These high-quality lenses with advanced coatings have blackened edges to reduce diffusion as well as glare. As a result, the resolution and contrast of the images are improved. Thus, it is a preferred choice of hunters who like to hunt in dim light conditions.
Leupold has also incorporated a specialized turret system to customize elevation and windage adjustments. It also includes a zero stop feature that can be easily adjusted, even on the move. Also, the parallax adjustment knob is located conveniently for fine-tuning.
- Perfect dot-to-dot tracking
- Easy to handle
- Well-designed zero stop
- The easily accessible parallax adjustment knob
- Maintains visibility regardless of the rotational range
- Some shooters find the zoom ratio unsatisfactory
8. Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane 2-7x32mm
Quick Summary
- 2-7x32mm of magnification
- Anti-reflective and fully multi-coated lenses
- Maximum elevation adjustment of 60 MOA
Another one of the products of the Vortex Crossfire II franchise. Unlike the previously mentioned Vortex Crossfire II rifle scope, this scope does not have an adjustable objective lens. Nonetheless, it is a popular budget-friendly and entry-level rifle scope with a good reputation. Something that sets this scope apart from the other Vortex scope in this list is its magnification range of 2-7x32mm.
Thus, this Crossfire II scope is an excellent choice for hunting engagements between 200 yards and 700 yards. Its minimal magnification range of 2x makes this scope suitable for tactical or urban combat engagements also. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle ensures ultimate precision when hitting targets above 500 yards. Also, the magnification range and reticle system are in tune for a hunting rifle like the 6.5 Grendel.
Easily adjustable turrets and zero resetting features are the trademark features of this brand. The lack of parallax adjustment is countered with the help of the low upper magnification power. Great quality lenses and an ergonomic design make this one of the best scopes for 6.5 Grendel rifles.
- Great image clarity
- Commendable bullet-drop compensation
- Finger adjustable windage and elevation adjustment turrets
- Affordable
- Four inches of eye relief
- Seems to come on the bulkier side
9. Nikon Black FX1000
Quick Summary
- 4-16x50mm range of magnification
- Illuminated FX-MOA reticle
- Built from aerospace-grade aluminum alloy
Nikon Black FX1000 is one of the most popular tactical optics in the market. This lightweight scope incorporates a diopter adjustable optic along with a rubberized eye guard. Keeping up the reputation of the brand Nikon, this scope uses high-quality materials and has a sleek appearance.
Manufacturers have included an adjustable zero stop that makes the scope extremely practical and suitable for field use. There is also a parallax knob that can be tuned from fifty yards to infinity. It also includes an easy-to-find 3V single CR2032 battery, which is strategically placed in the brightness dial. This scope has ten levels of brightness settings to fit the external lighting conditions. It does not interfere with the field of view, and these brightness levels do not get dampened by the extreme changes in magnification.
To save battery life, the illumination controls power down after an hour of non-operation. Since the etched reticle is located on the first focal plane, the crosshairs' size keeps changing with the chosen magnification. The scope's optical performance is appealing, which makes it one of the best scopes for 6.5 Grendel. This Nikon scope is one of the top long-range tactical or hunting scopes in the market to hit a target at over 1,000 yards.
- The clearest image even at the highest magnification
- No color fringing or aberration on edges around the image
- The optimum level of sub-tensions
- Extensive settings to adjust the brightness
- Easily usable parallax knob
- Insufficient eye relief for some users
10. Feyachi RDS-22 2MOA Micro Red Dot Sight Compact Red Dot Scope
This Feyachi Red Dot scope is one of the most affordable scopes in the market that provides exceptional service without compromising the quality. Fully multi-coated lenses are used in this scope, and these coatings enable better light transmission and provide protection to the gear from various elements.
With unlimited eye relief and eleven illumination settings to accommodate the surrounding lighting conditions, the scope's optical performance is outstanding. The Red Dot reticle promotes tracking and allows precision during low light shots. It also helps in quicker target acquisition.
The scope can withstand some harsh treatment thanks to the shockproof aluminum body and the nitrogen purged housing O-ring sealed. Moreover, this waterproof scope has matte finishing to resist scratches and keep a low profile while hunting outdoors. Compactly sized, this scope is easy to transport and suitable for hunting, tactical scenarios, and precision shooting.
- Compact size
- Extremely cheap
- Comes with a lightweight mount
- Allows shooting with both eyes open
- Shockproof black anodized body
- Less accurate than the high-end Red Dot counterparts
What Makes The Best Scope for 6.5 Grendel
Searching for the best scope for 6.5 Grendel can be overwhelming. There are a ton of amazing options in the market, each better than the other. While shopping, to make the best choices, here are some factors that you should look for to get the most of your money:
- Eye relief
Eye relief can vary between brands and models of scopes. If the scope's eye relief is not sufficient, the top of the scope will hit the eyebrow. Moreover, the rifle's recoil throws the scope backward, and to prevent recoil related injuries, longer and adjustable eye relief should be sought out.
Typically, the more magnification a scope provides, the shorter its eye relief. Nonetheless, since 6.5 Grendel is a low recoil rebound, choosing a scope with slightly shorter eye relief will not cause much harm to the shooter.
- Mid-range magnification
Since 6.5 Grendel is utilized more for target shooting and hunting purposes, the scope's magnification has to fit these purposes. The 6.5 Grendel cartridge is potentially significant for shooting up to 1000 yards, and for this, 10X-12X magnification would suffice.
It is recommended for shooting at targets and firing-oriented gaming sessions to get at least 4X magnification at 300 yards. It helps to aim for smaller targets at mid-range, but higher magnifications can be used to spot moving animals.
- Reticle
BDC reticles, which can compensate for bullet drop and help in landing a shot from afar is used or illuminated reticles used to provide excellent accuracy during the dusk or dawn hours of the day; one should always try to find scopes with premium-quality reticles to improve the odds of success for their future hunting adventures.
Mil-dot reticles provide more clarity, especially when it is combined with the 6.5 Grendel. Suitable for long-range or competition shooters, it allows shooters to minutely correct elevation, both up and down, and also windage.
- Adjustability
Good scopes should have easily adjustable elevation and windage. Very few scopes offer proper elevation and windage correction along with parallax adjustment. The turrets for these adjustments should not be stiff. They should be easy to rotate, and at the same time, they should not easily change when dropped or bumped against something.
Also, the dials for magnification should be sturdy as well. It should be easy to use and must be adjustable for the shooter while moving. Remember, shooters usually prefer scopes that have audible and tactile clicking movements while adjusting.
- Image clarity
In general, the larger the objective lens, the more light enters the scope. This means more comfortable shooting in lower light conditions. Apart from the size, the lens should also be clear without tinting for the best light transmission.
It is always better to choose a lens with multiple coatings. Also, the lenses should be free of warps to avoid image distortion.
- Lens coatings
The best scope for 6.5 Grendel should have excellent lenses with multiple coatings. These coatings can be in place to prevent damage from moisture, dirt, and scratches. They can also protect the lens from the weather and harsh lighting that damages the image.
Be sure to look for lenses that are coated with defensive substances that protect the image from glare and chromatic aberration. Looking for scopes with lenses enhanced in such ways makes shooting more precise and smoother.
- Durability
Since the 6.5 Grendel is a low recoil rifle, shockproofing is less important than other rifles. That does not mean shockproof scopes should be ignored. Since it is better to be safe than sorry, a shockproof scope is a better bet because bumping and dropping of the scope can occur at any time.
Also, make sure that the body of the scope is made from a lightweight and durable material. A lot of the scopes in the market are made from aircraft-grade aluminum, and it is a safe choice. Fog-proofing and waterproofing the scope also increases the durability of the scopes.
- Focal plane
There are two focal planes, and depending on where the reticle is located, the functioning of the scope changes slightly.
- In a first focal plane scope, the reticle is placed in front of the magnification lenses. This means that the reticle itself will grow and shrink in size on changing the magnification on a variable power scope. First focal plane scopes are usually more expensive than second focal plane scopes due to the difficulty involved in manufacturing processes.
- On the other hand, second focal plane scopes have their reticle located behind the magnification lenses. Since whatever the scope is viewing has already been magnified, the reticle appearance does not change as magnification power is adjusted. The reticle appears the same at any power setting.
Second focal plane scopes are better suited for hunting, but the first focal plane scope is ideal for long-range shooting. Thus, it all comes to personal preference while choosing the reticle positioning of the scope.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this article helps you in your quest to purchase the best scope for 6.5 Grendel. Most of the scopes suggested in this article are excellent mid-range and long-range scopes. These scopes pair well with the stopping power and accuracy of the 6.5 Grendel.
Our top pick is the Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane rifle scope. Owing to its durable and robust build, along with the illuminated reticle and eleven different brightness settings for different light conditions, this scope is undoubtedly a match for the efficient 6.5 Grendel.
Based on your preferences and needs, choose a wonderful scope for the effective cartridge that 6.5 Grendel offers. Our pick may not fit all your requirements, so give it a good thought and purchase the scope that would suit your style the best.