Ever stood in the woods, waiting for that perfect shot, only to realize your iron sights just aren’t cutting it? Many deer hunters face this exact problem. Shotguns are powerful tools for close-range deer hunting, but without the right optic, you might miss that crucial opportunity. Choosing the best shotgun scope can feel like a maze. Do you need a red dot, a low-power variable optic (LPVO), or a fixed magnification scope? The wrong choice means less accuracy and more frustration when the moment counts.
This confusion is common, but it doesn’t have to stop your success. We are here to clear up the fog surrounding shotgun scopes for deer hunting. By the end of this guide, you will understand exactly what features matter most, how different scopes perform in the field, and which one fits your specific hunting style best. Get ready to ditch the guesswork and learn how to equip your scattergun for ethical, precise harvests. Let’s dive into finding the perfect glass for your next hunt.
Table of Contents
Top Shotgun Scopes For Deer Hunting Recommendations
- BEST PERFORMANCE - The Buckmasters Rifle Scopes were inspired by Jackie Bushman to bring the performance of SIG SAUER Electro-Optics to a value that is within reach for every hunter; This scope for rifles available with various magnification options to bring freedom of choice
- BUCKMASTERS BDC RETICLE - This rifle scope comes equipped with a unique Buckmasters Bullet Drop Compensation (BDC) reticle, complete with holdover dots that extend up to a distance of 500 yards; Avid hunters know the upgraded game hunting comes with upgraded equipment
- GREAT CONSTRUCTION -The Buckmasters hunting rifle scope has extra durable construction with a single-piece, 1-inch main tube; For those who appreciate the convenience, it also features an integrated thread in the throw lever which allows for quick magnification changes
- WEATHER RESISTANT - Dependable waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof performance and high-performance optical system with low dispersion glass of the Buckmasters scope makes your hunting season non-stop whatever weather is on the way; See the target with a reliable magnification of 3-9X40mm
- SIG SAUER - In our world-class facilities, we build the toughest, most precise rifles, pistols, optics, suppressors, ammunition, airguns, holsters, and various accessories, while offering the finest guns training - all as a fully integrated system
- Designed for newer hunters looking for quality gear without complexity, the Triumph HD 3-9x40 riflescope kit simplifies setup and delivers confidence in the field. It includes a riflescope, new 1" Hunter Rings (0.90" Low Height) and a neoprene case.
- The HD optical system is optimized with select glass elements to deliver exceptional resolution, cut chromatic aberration, and provide outstanding color fidelity, edge-to-edge sharpness, and light transmission.
- Fully multi-coated lenses with anti-reflective coatings provide increased light transmission for greater clarity and low-light performance. The fast-focus eyepiece and simple setup make it ideal for hunters seeking performance without complexity.
- The Dead-Hold BDC reticles uses a customized hashmark design helps eliminate guesswork on holdover and windage corrections. Good for use at varying ranges, where estimating holdover is a concern.
- Built from aircraft-grade aluminum with a low-glare matte black anodized finish; waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for lasting field performance.
- 4X32MM COMPACT RIFLESCOPE - Take aim with the Truglo 4 x 32 Compact Riflescope that ensures a bright, clear view, even during harsh conditions in the field; Upgrade your shooting performance with a compact yet effective 4 x 32 riflescope by TruGlo
- GREAT CONSTRUCTION - This versatile scope has an aircraft-grade aluminum tube with a scratch-resistant, non-reflective matte finish; Get a 4 x 32mm Compact scope that delivers years of reliable service for every avid hunter or shooter
- DIAMOND RETICLE - The diamond reticle is designed for shotgun hunting and is perfect for turkey & deer while fully-coated lenses provide maximum brightness, clarity, and contrast and make this tactical riflescope for avid hunters your next favorite
- BEST COMPATIBILITY - This TruGlo 4x32MM Compact scope comes with Weaver-Style Rings included, making it a perfect addition to shotguns; This construction offers a reliable mounting capability and brings amazing precision in aiming
- WEATHER RESISTANT - Fog-proof design featured with waterproof construction provides durability in harsh conditions; Be sure, with 4x32MM Compact riflescope you can be ready to face any weather; It also comes with an elastic lens cover included
- BUCKMASTERS 3-9X50MM RIFLE SCOPE - The SIG SAUER Buckmasters 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope is a dependable & versatile optic choice for hunters looking to enhance their accuracy and effectiveness in the field; Featuring the high-performance 3x optical system with low-dispersion glass, this shooting scope delivers sharp & clear images across all magnification levels
- BUCKMASTERS BDC RETICLE - This rifle scope comes equipped with a unique Buckmasters Bullet Drop Compensation (BDC) reticle, complete with holdover dots that extend up to a distance of 500 yards; Avid hunters know the upgraded game hunting comes with upgraded equipment
- GREAT CONSTRUCTION -The Buckmasters hunting rifle scope has extra durable construction with a single-piece, 1-inch main tube; For those who appreciate the convenience, it also features an integrated thread in the throw lever which allows for quick magnification changes
- WEATHER RESISTANT - Dependable waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof performance and high-performance optical system with low dispersion glass of the Buckmasters scope makes your hunting season non-stop whatever weather is on the way; See the target with a reliable magnification of 3-9X50mm
- SIG SAUER - In our world-class facilities, we build the toughest, most precise rifles, pistols, optics, suppressors, ammunition, airguns, holsters, and various accessories, while offering the finest guns training - all as a fully integrated system
- A high quality small lightweight scope with plenty of powers
- Fine line circle x reticle for quick targetting
- Zoom power from 2x - 7x
- Resettable finger tight windage and elevation adjustment screws
- Turret adjustments are locked in place after sighting in in to avoid accidental movement
- TRADITIONAL RED-DOT SIGHT - The Traditional Red-Dot Sight is designed for your hunting season; The Sight offers the 5-MOA reticle is made for quick acquisition featuring a 1x30mm objective lens size; All these for unlimited eye relief & wide field of view
- TRUSTWORTHY RETICLE - This versatile Red-Dot Sight has a Traditional Red-Dot 5-MOA reticle color, that will contrast perfectly with your aim; If you are looking for an ultimate classic dot sight TruGlo Optic Dot Sight is the perfect choice for hunters
- GREAT CONSTRUCTION - Featuring CNC-machined aircraft grade aluminum construction, the Traditional Red-Dot Sight is lightweight and at same time durable delivering years of use; It is easy to mount with an integrated weaver-style mounting system
- ADJUSTABLE - This Traditional Red-Dot Sight features windage and elevation adjustments with a click; For even more versatility during hunting brightness settings are rheostat controlled; Ideal for different guns, airguns, and crossbows
- WEATHER RESISTANT - Not only waterproof and fog proof but also shock resistant, the durable Traditional Red-Dot Sight by TruGlo is ready to withstand all weather; Available in colors and with different lens caps to deliver more versatility
- BUCKMASTERS 3-9X40MM RIFLE SCOPE - The SIG SAUER Buckmasters 3-9X40mm Rifle Scope is a dependable & versatile optic choice for hunters looking to enhance their accuracy and effectiveness in the field; Featuring the high-performance 3x optical system with low-dispersion glass, this shooting scope delivers sharp & clear images across all magnification levels
- ILLUMINATED RETICLE - Equipped with the second focal plane (SFP) Hellfire Buckmasters BDC Illuminated reticle with 6 brightness settings, this 1-inch maintube riflescope allow hunters to fine tune the reticle for shaded timber or twilight hours with ease; The Buckmasters BDC reticle has holdover dots out to 500 yards and is also compatible with the Buckmasters 1500 Rangefinder (sold separately)
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION - Designed for rugged outdoor use, this IPX6-rated shooting rifle scope boasts dependable waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof performance, ensuring resistance in various weather conditions; The lay-flat flip-back lens covers are included to protect your hunting scope when not in use
- ADAPTABILITY & PRECISION - This F2 riflescope offers a 3-9x magnification range, providing the flexibility to zoom in for detailed target acquisition or zoom out for a broader field of view; To facilitate quick and smooth magnification changes, the shooting rifle scope comes with an integrated thread-in throw lever, making it easy to adjust on the fly
- SPECS - Magnification: 3-9x; Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm; Main Tube Diameter: 1 Inch; Reticle: Hellfire Illuminated Buckmasters BDC; Field Of View (High/Low): 11.3 to 34.1 Feet at 100 Yards; Eye Relief (High/Low): 98 to 106mm; Exit Pupil (High/Low): 4.4 to 13.3mm; Waterproof Rating: IPX6; Total Travel: >60MOA in Windage and Elevation; Travel Per Rotation: 16 MOA; Adjustment Increments: 1/4 MOA per click; Overall Length: 12.4 inches (314mm); Weight: 14.7oz (418g)
- BUCKMASTERS 3-12X44MMRIFLE SCOPE - The SIG SAUER Buckmasters 3-12x44mm Rifle Scope is a dependable & versatile optic choice for hunters looking to enhance their accuracy and effectiveness in the field; Featuring the high-performance 3x optical system with low-dispersion glass, this shooting scope delivers sharp & clear images across all magnification levels
- BUCKMASTERS BDC RETICLE - This rifle scope comes equipped with a unique Buckmasters Bullet Drop Compensation (BDC) reticle, complete with holdover dots that extend up to a distance of 500 yards; Avid hunters know the upgraded game hunting comes with upgraded equipment
- GREAT CONSTRUCTION -The Buckmasters hunting rifle scope has extra durable construction with a single-piece, 1-inch main tube; For those who appreciate the convenience, it also features an integrated thread in the throw lever which allows for quick magnification changes
- WEATHER RESISTANT - Dependable waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof performance and high-performance optical system with low dispersion glass of the Buckmasters scope makes your hunting season non-stop whatever weather is on the way; See the target with a reliable magnification of 3-12x44mm
- SIG SAUER - In our world-class facilities, we build the toughest, most precise rifles, pistols, optics, suppressors, ammunition, airguns, holsters, and various accessories, while offering the finest guns training - all as a fully integrated system
Choosing the Best Shotgun Scope for Deer Hunting
Picking the right scope makes a big difference when you are hunting deer with a shotgun. A good scope helps you see your target clearly and hit it accurately. This guide will help you understand what to look for before you buy.
Key Features to Look For
Several important features make a shotgun scope great for deer hunting. Think about these things when you shop.
Magnification Power
Shotgun scopes often have lower magnification than rifle scopes. This is because shotgun slugs are usually used for shorter to medium ranges. Look for scopes with variable power, like 1-4x or 1-6x. This lets you use a low power for fast target acquisition in thick brush and higher power for clearer shots at slightly longer distances.
Eye Relief
This is very important for shotgun scopes. Shotgun slugs kick much harder than rifle bullets. Good eye relief means the scope moves back safely when you shoot, keeping your eyebrow away from the scope’s eyepiece. Aim for at least 3 to 4 inches of eye relief. Too little eye relief can cause painful “scope bite” on your forehead.
Reticle Type
The reticle is the crosshair inside the scope. For deer hunting, illuminated reticles are very helpful. They glow, usually red or green, which makes them easy to see against dark deer hide or in low light, like dawn or dusk. Some scopes also have BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles designed specifically for common slug drop patterns.
Durability and Weatherproofing
You will hunt in all kinds of weather. Make sure the scope is waterproof and fog-proof. This usually means the scope body is sealed with O-rings and filled with nitrogen or argon gas inside.
Important Materials and Construction
The materials used determine how long your scope lasts and how well it handles recoil.
- Lens Glass: High-quality glass gives you clearer, brighter images. Look for scopes with multi-coated or fully multi-coated lenses. This coating cuts down on glare and lets more light through.
- Tube Material: Most good scopes use aircraft-grade aluminum for the main tube. This material is strong but lightweight. It needs to handle the heavy recoil of a shotgun without bending or losing its zero (the point of aim).
- Turrets: The knobs you turn to adjust windage (left/right) and elevation (up/down) should feel solid. Capped turrets protect your settings from bumps and weather.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the price tag. Good design makes a scope better.
What Improves Quality:
Light Transmission: A scope that transmits more light (over 90%) gives you a brighter picture, especially when the sun is low. This is a huge quality booster.
Field of View (FOV): A wide FOV lets you see more of the area around your target. This helps you track moving deer quickly. Scopes with lower minimum magnification (like 1x) usually have a wider FOV.
What Reduces Quality:
Poor Adjustments: If the windage and elevation turrets feel mushy or don’t click firmly, the scope will be hard to zero and keep zeroed. Cheap scopes often have poor tracking.
Parallax Error: While less common on low-power shotgun scopes, if the image shifts when you move your eye slightly, it means the scope has parallax issues. This can cause you to miss shots.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the scope matters most.
Close Range Brush Hunting (Thick Woods)
If you hunt in very thick woods where shots rarely exceed 50 yards, you need speed. Choose a low-power variable scope (like 1-4x). You want a large exit pupil for a bright, fast sight picture, almost like a red dot sight on the lowest setting.
Medium Range Open Field Hunting
If you sometimes shoot out to 100 or 125 yards, a slightly higher magnification, such as a 1-6x, works well. You will benefit from a BDC reticle if you plan to shoot slugs consistently at these longer ranges. Always practice with your specific shotgun and slug load to confirm your sight settings.
Remember, practice is key. Even the best scope will not help if you do not practice mounting it quickly and confirming your aim under pressure.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Shotgun Scopes for Deer Hunting
Q: Do I need a scope for a shotgun when hunting deer?
A: Yes, a scope helps you aim small targets accurately, especially with modern slugs that shoot very flat. It greatly improves your chances of a clean, ethical shot.
Q: What is the best magnification range for deer hunting with slugs?
A: Most hunters find a 1-4x or 1-6x variable power scope works best. This covers common shotgun ranges effectively.
Q: Is eye relief more important on a shotgun scope than a rifle scope?
A: Absolutely. Shotguns produce much heavier recoil, so you must have long eye relief (3 inches or more) to prevent the scope from hitting your face.
Q: What does “waterproof” mean for a scope?
A: It means the scope has been sealed, usually with O-rings, so water cannot leak inside and ruin the lenses or fog up the interior when it rains or you cross a stream.
Q: Should I get an illuminated reticle?
A: It is highly recommended. Illumination helps the crosshairs stand out when aiming at dark deer hide or during low-light hunting hours.
Q: Can I use a rifle scope on my shotgun?
A: You can, but you must ensure the scope is rated to handle the heavy recoil of a shotgun. Many rifle scopes are not strong enough.
Q: How do I mount the scope correctly?
A: You need proper scope *rings* that fit the base or rail on your shotgun. The rings must be tight enough to hold the scope but not so tight they crush the tube.
Q: What is a BDC reticle used for?
A: BDC stands for Bullet Drop Compensator. It has extra hash marks below the center to help you aim correctly when the slug drops at longer distances.
Q: How often should I check my scope’s zero?
A: Always check your zero after transporting the shotgun a long distance or if the gun takes a hard knock. Otherwise, checking once a season is usually enough.
Q: Does lens coating matter a lot?
A: Yes. Fully multi-coated lenses give you a brighter, clearer picture, especially when the sun is low in the morning or evening, which are prime hunting times.