Scope Magnification Distance Chart ( 50-1,000+ Yards)
The purpose of a scope magnification distance chart is to help you navigate rifle scopes and choose the best optic for your long-range applications.
Our chart breaks down how scope magnification works at different magnification ranges and also recommends the best long-range magnification scopes as well as the best LPVO optics for short and mid-range magnification.
Stick around as we will also briefly discuss the best uses for some top optics, along with some top shooting scenarios.
Scope Magnification Chart
| Magnification Range | Ideal Shooting Distance | Best Uses | Example Scopes |
| 1x – No Magnification | 0 – 50 yards | Close-quarters combat, self-defense, plinking | Red dot sights, holographic sights |
| 1x – 4x | 0 – 200 yards | Tactical shooting, hunting in thick brush, fast target acquisition | LPVO (1-4x24), ACOG |
| 1x – 6x | 0 – 300 yards | Versatile for both CQB and mid-range precision, 3-gun competition | LPVO (1-6x24), Vortex Razor HD Gen II |
| 1x – 8x | 0 – 400 yards | Extended mid-range shooting, hunting, and tactical applications | LPVO (1-8x24), Trijicon VCOG |
| 3x – 9x | 100 – 500 yards | General hunting, target shooting, all-around versatility | Traditional hunting scopes |
| 4x – 12x | 200 – 600 yards | Medium to long-range precision, varmint hunting | Leupold VX-3i, Vortex Diamondback |
| 6x – 24x | 400 – 1000+ yards | Long-range precision shooting, bench rest, sniping | High-power scopes like Vortex Viper PST |
| 8x – 32x | 600 – 1500+ yards | Extreme long-range, competition shooting | Nightforce, Sightron competition scopes |
Scope Magnification Explained (1x – 4x to 8x-32x)
i. 1-4x magnification
If you are into tactical shooting and short-range engagements, 1-4x optic should be at the top of your list.
1-4x magnification allows you to quickly acquire targets at close ranges while still being able to engage at medium ranges.
It is best for close-quarters combat, self-defense, plinking, and shooting in dense environments like thick brush.
ii. 1x – 6x Magnification
1-6x magnification is best for versatile shooting, including close-quarters and medium-range precision. The 1x setting acts like a red dot for quick target acquisition, while the 6x setting lets you hit targets up to 300 yards.
1-6x magnification is a huge hit in 3-gun competitions, tactical engagements, and hunting.
Moreover, a 1-6x scope is very often light, handy, and generally spectacularly best for all-purpose rifles.
Example Scenario
In a 3-gun match, you need to engage multiple targets at various distances, ranging from 10 yards to 300 yards. The 1x magnification allows for fast reflex shooting, while the 6x magnification enables precise hits on distant targets.
Recommended 1-6x Optic
The 1-6x 28 FFP LPVO from Gunnr.
iii. 3x – 9x Magnification
3x-9x magnification is a great range for hunting medium to large game, long-range target shooting, and recreational use. The 3x magnification is perfect for scanning, and the 9x gives you enough zoom for accuracy on mid-range targets.
Example Scenario
While hunting in the woods, you spot a deer at 150 yards.
You use the 3x magnification for a quick, steady shot, and then switch to 9x to make a precise follow-up shot at a farther target.
Popular Optics
- Leupold VX-3i 3-9x40
- Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40.
iv. 6x – 24x Magnification
6x – 24x Magnification is best for extreme accuracy at distances beyond 400 yards. If you are into competitive long-range shooting and varmint hunting, as well as military and law enforcement sniper operations, this might just be the perfect rifle for you.
Example Scenario
During a long-range shooting match, you need to hit targets at 500-1000 yards.
The 6-24x magnification helps you dial in your shots, allowing for precision even at extreme distances.
Popular Optics
- Vortex Viper PST 6-24x50
- Nightforce SHV 5-20x56.
v. 8x – 32x Magnification
8x-32x magnification is made for precision shooting at 600+ yards. This is the magnification range for competition shooters and snipers who need pinpoint accuracy at incredibly long distances.
Example Scenario
You’re competing in a precision rifle match, engaging targets at distances of up to 1,500 yards.
The 32x magnification provides the clarity and detail necessary for precise adjustments and shot placement at extreme distances.
LPVOs: The Sweet Spot Between Versatility and Precision
LPVOs have simply become the go-to choice for tactical shooters, hunters, and competitors, and when you look at any scope magnification chart, you can easily tell why: they are extremely versatile.
1-6x LPVOs, 1-8x LPVOs, and 1-10x LPVOs give you the quick target acquisition of a red dot sight and the precision of a traditional rifle scope.
With these optics, you get rapid transitions between close-range and medium-range targets, which makes them an ideal choice for dynamic situations.
Conclusion: The Right Magnification for Every Shooter
Whether you need the speed of a 1x magnification for close-range combat or the precision of 24x for long-range shooting, there's a scope for every purpose.
By understanding the benefits of each magnification range and considering your specific needs, you can make an informed decision on which scope will best suit your shooting style.
