High-end tactical rifle scopes can get really pricey, but the good news is that there are several affordable options that are capable of delivering a satisfactory performance for general tactical use, hunting, or range use.

For a budget of under $1,000, you can get excellent tactical rifle scopes that offer advanced features, great glass quality, effective precision adjustments and are durably built for long-term use even in challenging scenarios.

Here is a list of affordable tactical rifle scopes under $1000.

Criteria for Picking

In summary, the rifle scopes on this list have been selected based on a combination of vital features and characteristics such as optics quality, build, features, and value for money.

Here are some of the features we prioritized:

• Quality of the Glass and Optics
• Durability and Materials Used
• Reticle Type and Design
• Magnification Range and Ease of Zoom
• Adjustment Controls.
• Price to Performance Ratio

These rifle scopes all cost under $1000 but are capable of offering excellent performance, in some cases comparable to high-end models with significantly higher price tags.

Our Top Picks

1. Gunnr Odin 1-10x28 FFP LPVO
2. Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24
3. Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24 FFP
4. Athlon Optics Ares ETR 4.5-30x56

Top 5 Affordable Tactical Scopes for 2025

1. Gunnr 1-10x24 LPVO Tactical Rifle Scope

If you are a shooter looking for a solid but budget-friendly optic with sufficient magnification range, the Odin 1-10x LPVO from Gunnr should be the first on your list. Tactical applications where both CQB and mid-range precision are required

Gunnr’s 1-10x24 LPVO is a solid option if you need a versatile magnification range and some incredible tactical features at an affordable price, and it is perfect for tactical applications where both CQB and mid-range precision will be required.

Here’s why you should check this optic out:

i. Impressive Magnification Range

The magnification range is not only wide but really impressive as well. You get true 1x magnification for CQB (Close Quarters Battle) engagements and the option to quickly zoom up to 10x for mid-range precision. 

ii. Excellent Glass Quality

But what makes this optic outstanding on this list is the quality of its optics. 

The Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass element from German SCHOTT with advanced fully multi-layer coatings.

This scope makes it easier to spot details and stay locked onto your target, whether at dawn, dusk, or mid-day.

• You also get a wide field of view (FOV) helps with fast target acquisition.

iii. Reticle Design

The reticle design on this optic is another feature to write home about. The FFP  reticle is designed for quick holdovers at various distances. 

• Gunnr scope's FFP (First Focal Plane) reticle grows and shrinks alongside the magnification, ensuring your holdovers and suspensions remain accurate at any zoom level.  
• With its extended 1 MOA hash marks, this type of reticle facilitates accuracy for windage and elevation adjustments. 
• The Christmas tree design ensures that the crosshairs do not crowd the image but remain visible, with all valuable information spread out and easy to see.
• With five levels of illumination, each more potent than the other, you can use this optic with ease, even during the day.

iv. Durability and Other Amazing Features

• Highly shock resistant: It's been tested to withstand 1,000 impacts at 1,000G and 2,000 live fire rounds.
• The Odin 1-10x is solid and durable, constructed from 7075 aircraft-grade aluminum. 
• With an IP67 rating, this optic is shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof—capable of handling heavy recoil and harsh environments.
• With precise .1 MIL  (1/2 MOA), click adjustments are smooth and efficient
• The locked-in turrets zero-reset turret for a quick return to zero after dialing in adjustments. 

All in all, this LPVO gives you versatile magnification, an illuminated reticle, and rugged durability—all while staying under $1000.If you are an AR-15 owner, this may just be the affordable and reliable optic you need to complete your tactical setup.

2. Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24 ($899)

The Vortex Viper PST Gen II is a popular and well-regarded tactical LPVO. While it has a lower magnification range of 1-6x (compared to the Odin 1-10x), this optic is known for its sharp optics and high-quality construction.

Here’s why it is a great choice for tactical and competitive shooting.

Optics

High-quality glass with fully multi-coated lenses for excellent clarity and light transmission. 

The 1-6x magnification range for close-quarters engagements and mid-range precision.

Reticle Design

The EBR-7C (MOA) or EBR-7C (MRAD) reticle offers accurate holdovers and windage/elevation marks.

The .1 MIL clicks allow for precise and repeatable adjustments, and the fast-focus eyepiece makes target acquisition easier. 

Durability

It is durable: waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.

It's constructed to handle recoil from heavier calibers and is ideal for tactical or competition use.

Who is it For?

If you are into tactical shooting, close-quarters combat, competition, and general-purpose shooting, you might want to check this one out too.

3. Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24 FFP ($399)

The Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24 offers great value with high-end features like a First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle, making it an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable yet premium tactical scope.

Here are some main features:

Optics

Fully multi-coated lenses for better clarity.

The FFP design ensures that the reticle grows and shrinks with magnification, allowing for accurate holdovers at any zoom level.

Reticle

The ACSS Raptor reticle is available in both MIL and MOA versions) 

With BDC and range estimation features, it is specifically designed for tactical and mid-range shooting.

Durability

It is shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof construction.

Adjustments

Comes with click adjustments for precise windage/elevation.

The fast-focus eyepiece helps for quick reticle adjustments.

Who is it For?

If you are a tactical shooter, competitive shooter, or even a hunter who needs versatility and a good FFP reticle at an affordable price, you might want to take a look at this one.

4. Athlon Optics Ares ETR 4.5-30x56 ($849-$900)

The Athlon Optics Ares ETR 4.5-30x56 is a more advanced tactical scope designed for long-range shooting, yet it remains within the sub-$1000 range. It provides high-end features typically found in more expensive optics.

Optics

ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass for superior clarity and light transmission. 

Lenses are fully multi-coated, with advanced light management giving you bright and clear images even at higher magnification levels.

Reticle

The APR-3 MIL reticle is ideal for precise holdovers at long range.

Has a floating center dot for fast target acquisition.

Durability

Shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof, made to withstand heavy recoil and harsh conditions.

Adjustment

1 MIL click adjustments with a zero-stop feature for quick returns to your baseline. 

Precise, repeatable clicks for reliable long-range performance.

Who is it for?

This optic is most suitable if you are a long-range shooter and/or involved in precision rifle competitions.

More From Gogunr

Gunnr LPVOs offer you an FFP reticle with a Christmas tree reticle; your holdovers, wind holds, and range estimations stay consistent as you adjust magnification, so you’re always dead on.

Whether you’re using it in tactical operations, competitive shooting, or hunting, Gunnr LPVOs are engineered for versatility, accuracy, and durability.

Gunnr’s LPVOs come in multiple magnification ranges. You can choose between the Odin 1-6x28, the Odin 1-8x25, and the Odin 1-10x28.

This means you’re ready for anything, whether you’re clearing rooms, hitting a long-range target, or taking on unpredictable field conditions.