Not sure what scope to get for your Marlin 1895?
Look no further.
I’ve tested ALL the best Scopes for Marlin 1895 and I’ve added scope mounts and accessories for your convenience.
By the end of this guide, you’ll find the perfect optic for your Marlin 1895.
Let’s get started!
Best Scopes for Marlin 1895 | Category | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | $149.00 | |
Best for Whitetail Deer Hunting | $145.00 | |
| Best for the Budget | $95.00 | |
Best for Target Shooting | $350.00 |
The Best Scopes for Marlin 1895
If you’re pressed on time, here’s a quick list of the best Marlin 1895 scopes:
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout Scope: Best Overall
- Burris Fullfield II 3-9x40mm Hunting Scope: Best for Whitetail Deer Hunting
- UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope: Best for the Budget
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Scope: Best for Target Shooting
1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout Scope: Best Scopes for Marlin 1895 Overall
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout is the best scope for Marlin 1895.
- The 2-7x32 Crossfire II Scout Riflescope is perfect for Use on your Scout rifle, The V-Plex reticle is a popular all-purpose hunting reticle intended for a wide variety of hunting applications
- With 9. 45" of eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, you'll be able to quickly get a sight picture and acquire your target, The fast focus eyepiece allows quick and easy reticle focusing
- Anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses provide bright and clear views for the user
Period.
The overall best scope is affordable, durable, and packed with amazing features.
The Crossfire II has been my best scope for Marlin 1895 every time I take it out hunting or target shooting.
Here’s why…
Glass Clarity & Reticle
The Vortex Crossfire II comes with superior glass quality.
Thanks to its anti-reflective, fully multi-coated objective lens, I get a bright and clear sight picture every single time.
The reticle is set on the second focal plane, meaning it stays the same size whether you increase or decrease magnification range.
Speaking of the reticle…
The Crossfire II Scout gives you two reticle options: a V-Plex or BDC reticle.
Which is which?
The V-Plex is simply Vortex’s rendition of the standard duplex reticle.
If you plan on doing close-range shooting or prefer the traditional, simple reticle: the V-Plex is for you.
The Bullet Drop Compensation (BDC) reticle is a duplex with additional reference points.
The reticle pattern gives you an idea of how much a bullet will drop at a given range without having to do the math.
For example:
If your rifle is zeroed at 100 yards, each point beneath the crosshair would represent 200, 300, 400, etc.
I know a lot of shooters find it challenging to adjust but with a little bit of practice, the BDC reticle is your best friend for long-range shooting.
Speaking of…
I’ve got a list of the best long-range scopes on the market, go check it out!
Eye Relief & Eye Box
The Vortex Crossfire II Scout features an unbelievable 9.45” of eye relief.
With a powerful round like the 45 70, having extensive eye relief is a must— unless you’re Ironman.
This high-quality scope also has an ultra-forgiving eye box. You’ll get an excellent sight picture even if your eye isn’t perfectly lined up.
Speaking of excellence…
Durability
Like all Vortex products, the Crossfire II Scout is extremely durable.
Built with aircraft-grade aluminum, this optic offers tough construction paired with a stylish design.
The Vortex Crossfire II Scout weighs 12 oz, making it one of the best lightweight scopes for your build.
Additionally:
This scope comes with nitrogen-purged, O-ring seals. I doubt I’ll have to shoot in heavy rain but if I do, the Crossfire II Scout is safe against moisture, dust, and debris.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
The Vortex Crossfire II Scout is built with capped, finger adjustable turrets.
The elevation and windage knobs have audibly crisp MOA clicks and you can easily cap it to make sure it’s not bumped to the wrong setting.
Zeroing was quick and easy. I sighted the scope at 100 yards in less than 10 shots.
After 200 rounds of heavy recoil, the Vortex Crossfire II Scout held zero like a champ on long-range shooting.
Parallax & Magnification
The Vortex Crossfire II comes with 2-7x magnification and a 32mm adjustable objective lens.
In my experience, this optic works best for close-to-medium range shooting. I did notice some distortion on the outer edge of view at 7x power, but it’s a minor setback.
The parallax adjustment is fixed up to 100 yards and the sight picture is sharp from 50 yards to infinity.
Mounting & Rings
Unfortunately, the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm doesn’t come with mounting options.
So I mounted the scope on my Marlin 1895 SBL using the XS Sights Scout rail mount
- Fits: Marlin 1894 (round barrel models)
- Material: anodized aluminum
- Finish: matte black
and Burris 420084 Zee Rings (1-Inch, Medium, Matte Black).
- Burris 420084 zee Riflescope rings
- 1 inch, medium, matte
- This product is manufactured in United States
Additionally, the scope doesn’t come with flip-up scope covers.
I recommend buying the Monstrum Rubberized Flip-Up Rifle Scope Objective Lens Covers (31-36 mm diameter).
- Rubberized flip-up rifle scope lens covers that conform tightly around your rifle scope tube, protecting your lenses from dust and abrasion
- IMPORTANT: Sizing is not based on the objective lens size of your scope - a 3-9x40mm scope will not fit with a 40mm sized lens cover. For the correct fitting lens cover, you must physically measure...
- Each package includes one Rubberized Flip-Up Lens Cover
Is the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Scout Scope for you?
If you’re looking for a versatile and dependable rifle scope for Marlin 1895, get the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout.
- The 2-7x32 Crossfire II Scout Riflescope is perfect for Use on your Scout rifle, The V-Plex reticle is a popular all-purpose hunting reticle intended for a wide variety of hunting applications
- With 9. 45" of eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, you'll be able to quickly get a sight picture and acquire your target, The fast focus eyepiece allows quick and easy reticle focusing
- Anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses provide bright and clear views for the user
Why? It comes with…
- Long eye-relief
- High-quality glass
- 2-7x Magnification
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Audible, capped turrets
- Holds against heavy recoil
- Rugged yet lightweight construction
What happens if the scope breaks?
I doubt it will but if it does, Vortex’s Lifetime VIP warranty has you covered. Along with excellent customer service, Vortex will repair or replace it without charge— no receipts required.
Whether you’re hunting or in a tough survival situation, the Vortex Crossfire II won’t let you down.
2. Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope 3-9x40mm, Ballistic Plex Reticle: Best Magnification Range for Whitetail Deer Hunting
Let’s face it. We all want to find the best deer hunting scope.
The good news is:
You don’t need to spend hours researching the best scope for Marlin 1895 SBL for whitetail deer hunting. I’ve got it right here.
Let’s talk about the most decorated scope in Burris history: the Fullfield II 3-9x40mm Hunting Scope.
Starting with…
Glass Clarity & Reticle
The Burris Fullfield II 3-9x40mm Hunting Scope boasts outstanding glass quality.
The index-matched, Hi-Lume multi-coating objective lens gives it impressive light transmission in low-light conditions while reducing glare.
The Fullfield II Hunting Scope features the Ballistic Plex reticle designed to be a simple, trajectory-compensating reticle for hunting.
The reticle is crisp and clear. It doesn’t clutter the sight picture like many of the more complex reticles can.
But:
If you’re concerned about correcting for wind drift, you’ll need another reticle since the Ballistic Plex doesn’t have that function.
In that case, look for one that is designed to compensate for bullet drop and wind— like the Primary Arms 4-14x44mm MIL-DOT reticle.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
The Burris Fullfield II Hunting scope comes with 3.1-3.6 inches of eye relief.
I’m not a fan of the small window but with proper mounting, I’ve yet to encounter scope bite.
But if that’s not enough for you, the Burris Scout Scope 2-7x32mm is a great alternative.
As expected, the field of view gets narrower as you zoom in. This isn’t surprising considering the lower price bracket.
But as long as you’re aligned exactly behind the reticle, you’ll be able to see clearly.
Durability
The Burris Fullfield II Hunting scope is well constructed overall.
Made with high-grade aluminum and reinforced quad-seal gas seals, this optic is designed to take heavy recoil from hunting calibers— including the 45 70.
In fact, it handled just as well as the best AK47 scopes in my arsenal.
This particular scope comes with nitrogen-filled tubes, making it fog proof during cold and humid mornings.
Besides that, the Fulfilled II is also waterproof and shockproof. Pretty solid.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Elevation and windage adjustment knobs are good quality but not entirely finger-friendly.
I keep a dime under the elevation cap and it works for me. For under $200, I can accept that.
The knobs are not as tactile as high-end scopes but you can still feel the ¼ MOA clicks.
The Burris Fullfield II comes with capped turrets that protect it while you’re long-distance shooting in various conditions.
I did notice that they aren’t resettable to zero once adjustments have been made. But thanks to the double spring-tension assembly, I’ve had no issues holding zero.
In fact:
Even after a few months of bumping around in my truck, I can still take out a deer at 200-300 yards with no problem.
Parallax & Magnification
The Fullfield II comes with 3-9x magnification and a 40mm objective lens, which lets in plenty of light.
The 3-9x40mm model is for close to moderate distances. I’d figure practical use tops out around 300 yards, depending on skill level.
But if you prefer a longer range, you can opt for the 4.5-14x or 6.5-20x magnification model.
The Burris Fullfield II comes with a fast-focus eyepiece. It’s integrated with the power ring to provide faster target acquisition.
The only downside:
You can’t lock the eyepiece to keep it focused. It can be an inconvenience to some shooters since you need to refocus after adjusting the zoom.
Also, it’s initially very stiff, but not overly difficult to adjust.
Mounting & Rings
As with many affordable optics, the Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope doesn’t come with a mounting system.
I personally use the Monstrum Picatinny/Weaver Rail Mount for Marlin 336/1894/1895 Series.
- Picatinny/Weaver rail mount built specifically for Marlin 336/1894/1895 Series lever action rifles
- Scope mount installs directly to receiver via the factory mounting holes and included set screws with no additional hardware required
- Allows for the mounting of Picatinny or Weaver standard scope rings, scope mounts, red dots, or other optics
Combined with the Monstrum Precision Picatinny Scope Rings (0.80 height), you’ll have a sturdy scope mount system.
- Monstrum Precision Scope Rings are precision crafted to a given height specification to match your particular rifle setup and preferred cheek weld
- 1 inch diameter rings for mounting standard 1 inch rifle scope tubes
- Available with either Picatinny or Weaver standard base
It’s also available with three other height options to match your specific rifle setup and desired cheek weld.
The recoil stops are very reassuring and the whole installation process is straightforward.
Is the Burris Fullfield II 3-9x40mm Hunting Scope for you?
If you want a respectable hunting scope that won’t break the bank, get the Burris Fullfield II 3-9x40mm Hunting scope.
Why? It comes with…
- High-quality glass
- Affordable price tag
- Ballistic Plex Reticle
- Hi-Lume Multi-coated objective lens
- Weather-proof construction
- Great performance in minimal light transmission
- Capped windage and elevation turrets
Plus:
The scope is covered by the Burris Forever Warranty. I’ve never had issues with the company repairing or replacing any optic if it’s damaged or defective.
With the Burris Fullfield Hunting Scope, you won’t have to worry about a hefty price tag or tagging your next deer. It’s a win-win.
If you’re looking for the best hog hunting scopes instead, I did a detailed review recently. Go check it out!
3. UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope: Best Rifle Scopes for the Budget
A few years ago, I came across this cheap optic and honestly thought it’s a junker.
Well, I couldn’t be more wrong.
Featuring red and green illumination, comfortable eye relief, and a weatherproof build: the UTG 3-9x32mm turned out to be the best budget scope for Marlin 1895 SBL.
- 1 Inch Tube with Emerald Coating for Maximum Light Transmission, Premium Zero Lockable & Resettable Turrets with 1/4 MOA Per Click Adjustment
- Range Estimating Mil-dot Reticle for Optimal Aiming and Shooting Performance, Adjustable Objective from 3 Yards to Infinity
- Red/Green Dual Illumination for Versatile Applications, Large Field of View and Most Accommodating Eye Relief for Optimum Critical CQB Mission
Why? Keep reading to find out!
Glass Clarity & Reticle
For under $100, I didn’t expect to see mind-blowing clarity with the UTG BugBuster.
Surprisingly:
Its emerald-coated, adjustable objective lens gives a bright and distinct image view that performs much better than most scopes in this range.
The UTG BugBuster comes with a Range Estimating Mil-dot Reticle. It has numerous brightness settings and red or green illumination options.
It’s pretty bright, and the illuminated reticle is adjustable. I find that useful when shooting against bright backdrops, like a setting sun.
Fun fact:
If you look at the typical mil-dot reticles, they usually have 4 dots in each direction of the cross hair, giving you 9 different aiming points for either windage or elevation adjustments.
If we add up the 2 inner tips of the opposite duplex crosshairs, you get a total of 11 aiming points.
With the Leapers/UTG Mil-Dot Tactical Range Estimating Reticle (TRE), you’ll have 9 dots in each direction of the cross-hair. This gives the shooter 19 aiming points or 21 including the inner tips.
Pretty cool, right?
If you want to know more about MOA vs MRAD reticles, check out our complete guide.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
The UTG BugBuster’s eye relief is between 3.2 and 4.2 inches.
It’s a bit tight for the Marlin 1895 but granted that it’s a budget scope, it’s a drawback I’ll take.
This is a short compact scope and will need to be mounted to the rear of your mounting rail to obtain proper eye relief.
Durability
Featuring UTG’s True Strength Platform, the BugBuster is well built and durable.
After 2 years of regular and rugged use, I have never encountered any issues with the scope.
In addition to regular knocks, jolts, and scrapes, the UTG BugBuster has proven strong enough for the scope destroying recoil of the 45 70.
The tube is completely sealed and nitrogen-filled— making it shockproof, fog proof, and rainproof.
I’ve taken the BugBuster out in diverse environments and weather conditions, I can confirm the above statement is true.
It does seem like there can be occasional quality control issues, which is normal for any manufacturer.
I suggest making sure you buy from a reputable source.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
The UTG BugBuster comes with crisp, consistent, and precise windage and elevation adjustments.
These turrets are also lockable and resettable to zero so after you’ve got your rifle sighted in.
Zeroing was very easy. I took the BugBuster to the range and zeroed in within 50 rounds.
I’ve seen a lot of complaints about this scope not being to hold zero. I’ve shot at least 500 rounds without issues.
As I’ve always mentioned, proper mounting is key. You’ll find all you need in my “How to adjust a rifle scope” guide.
Parallax & Magnification
The UTG BugBuster’s 3x-9x range is good for the vast majority of shooting applications.
I appreciate the fact that the UTG designed the BugBuster with an adjustable objective for parallax adjustment.
It can be set as close as 3 yards, and, out to infinity.
Mountings and Rings
The UTG 3-8x32mm BugBuster ships with a complete set of accessories.
The package comes with sturdy, medium profile Quick-Detach scope rings plus a 2″ Sunshade, decent Flip-open Lens Caps, and 2 lithium metal batteries.
The rings can be mounted on any Picatinny Rail. But if you have a different rail or size, you’ll have to buy separate rings to get the BugBuster on there.
UTG did well by going the QD route because I can remove and reinstall the scope without needing to re-zero.
Unfortunately, the lens caps don’t fit snug if you have the sunshade on.
Easy solution:
A little electrical tape on the inside of the cap will do the trick. Don’t put it on the scope body as it can leave an annoying residue.
Is the UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope for you?
If you’re looking for a reliable yet affordable Marlin 1895 SBL scope, the UTG 3-9×32 BugBuster Scope is a no-brainer.
- 1 Inch Tube with Emerald Coating for Maximum Light Transmission, Premium Zero Lockable & Resettable Turrets with 1/4 MOA Per Click Adjustment
- Range Estimating Mil-dot Reticle for Optimal Aiming and Shooting Performance, Adjustable Objective from 3 Yards to Infinity
- Red/Green Dual Illumination for Versatile Applications, Large Field of View and Most Accommodating Eye Relief for Optimum Critical CQB Mission
Here’s a recap…
- Mil-dot reticle
- 3-9x Magnification
- Good-quality glass
- Adjustable objective
- Durable construction
- Fog-proof
- Smooth Magnification ring
- Red and green illumination
Additionally:
The UTG BugBuster comes with Leaper’s Lifetime Warranty. They’ll repair or replace the optic if it becomes defective.
This warranty is a great added benefit, especially on a budget optic. For the money, I don’t think you can beat the UTG 3-9x32mm BugBuster scope.
But if you want to splurge on your Marlin 1895, you can check out my best rifle scopes under the $500-$600 review.
4. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Scope: Best Scope for Target Shooting
Whenever I head out to the range, I know the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm hits the target every time.
- Package dimension : 8.4 cm x 9.3 cm x 35.7 cm
- Product type : AIMING SCOPE SIGHT
- Package weight : 0.564 kg
This scope has never failed to deliver optical clarity, accuracy, and durability. Being a crowd favorite, it’s one of the best scopes under $300.
If you’re looking for the best scope for Marlin 1895 SBL for target shooting, you’ve found it.
Keep reading to find out why…
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Leupold is a household name when it comes to clear and bright optics.
This Leupold scope is equipped with a duplex reticle. This is a popular all-purpose hunting reticle intended for a wide variety of shooting applications.
However, a lot of shooters don’t like its thin crosshairs. It wasn’t a dealbreaker to me but that’s something to keep in mind.
The reticle is placed on the second focal plane, so it always maintains the same appearance regardless of your magnification setting.
By the way:
If the duplex reticle is not your cup of tea, many of the best Leupold rifle scopes offer mil dots and ballistic reticles as an option.
The VX-Freedom also comes with Leupold’s signature Twilight Light Management System.
It executes beautifully at dawn or dusk and gathers in all of the available light transmission.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Eye relief on the VX-Freedom ranges between 3.7-4.2 inches.
Although it’s as forgiving as a higher-end model, it’s doable on the Marlin 1895.
It comes with a forgiving eye box. I can shoot with both eyes open, allowing fast target acquisition and engagement with this high-quality scope.
Durability
When it comes to the Leupold VX-Freedom, the quality and craftsmanship are unparalleled.
Thanks to its aircraft-grade aluminum, gas-purged, and O-ring sealed construction: VX-Freedom delivers a shockproof, fog-proof, and weatherproof performance.
After hand testing and torturing it for hours, the Leupold VX-Freedom took the beating like a champ.
Weighing 12 ounces, this rifle scope works well if you don’t want to add much weight to your rifle.
In fact:
It’s one of my best M&P 15-22 scopes that I use to stalk and hunt game for hours.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
The Leupold VX-Freedom’s windage and elevation adjustments are sturdy.
I’ve read some people don’t like the “clicks” or lack thereof. They aren’t really “clicks” as much as mild stops.
Keep in mind the VX-Freedom was primarily designed for hunting so they’re more of a set it and forget it. Although they’re not tactical clicks they’re plenty pronounced for adjustment purposes.
Leupold also comes with a custom dial service (CDS) turret. They’ll customize your turret to your ballistic specifications.
In less than ten rounds, I was pounding away at 200-yard steel plates.
I’ve had no issues with holding zero— even with all the heavy recoil or accidental bumps.
Parallax & Magnification
The Leupold VX-Freedom sports a 3-9x variable magnification and 40mm objective.
The higher magnification range provides versatility— hence why it’s one of the best rimfire scopes I have, and the light transmission means I can do so almost any time.
In fact:
I’ve been hitting accurate shots on 200-300 yard targets. I’m convinced the best scope will perform well past that.
Mounting & Rings
Since the Leupold VX-Freedom doesn’t come with mounting options, I used the Monstrum One-Piece Scope Mount for Marlin 336/1894/1895 (Low profile, I inch diameter).
- Dedicated scope mounting platform built specifically for Marlin 336/1894/1895 Series lever action rifles
- Rings are 1 inch in diameter for precision mounting of standard 1 inch tube rifle scopes
- Scope mount base installs directly to the Marlin factory mounting holes via the included set screws with no additional mounting hardware required
If you already have rail and just need a good set of rings, I recommend the Leupold Dual Dovetail 1” Medium Rings.
- Forged and machined steel construction
- Versatile, and available for many different guns
- 2-Piece bases offer maximum accessibility to the breech area of your gun
Also:
For anti-reflection and glare reduction, I bought the Leupold 2.5” 40mm Lens shade which worked perfectly for the VX-Freedom.
- Model #56187 - Alumina lens shade in size 2.5"--40mm and Matte finish
Lastly, if you want a better set of bikini caps, get the Leupold Alumina Cover Kit.
- Model #59055 - Alumina flip back lens cover kit in standard EP
Is the Leupold VX-Freedom Scope for you?
If you want peace of mind with a high-performing rifle scope, then the Leupold VX-Freedom is for you.
- Package dimension : 8.4 cm x 9.3 cm x 35.7 cm
- Product type : AIMING SCOPE SIGHT
- Package weight : 0.564 kg
Here are some highlights…
- High-end glass
- Works great with light transmission
- Excellent warranty
- Forgiving eye relief
- Extreme recoil tested
- Zero stop CSD turrets
- Lightweight, fog-proof, and compact
- Rugged and solid construction
To top it all off:
Leupold’s Full Lifetime Warranty is unmatched. If the best scope breaks or it doesn’t perform, you can get it replaced or repaired for free.
Even if you aren’t the original owner or no longer have the warranty card, Leupold has got you covered.
This may be the most expensive scope on our list, but the Leupold VX-Freedom is the best scope for target shooting you’ll ever need to buy.
Now It’s Your Turn
I hope you enjoyed my Best Scopes for Marlin 1895 guide.
Now I want to turn it over to you:
Which rifle scope will you pick for your Marlin 1895? Or perhaps you already have one and would like to share your thoughts.
Either way, let me know by leaving a quick comment down below.
FAQ:
Yes, the Marlin 1895 is a versatile firearm. In fact, Marlin calls it a “ hard-hitting, big game-dropping powerhouse”. You can easily tackle both big and smaller games like deer or hogs.
If you want to know more about this rifle’s features, check out this neat video!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bq5G2CB8kdg&ab_channel=hickok45
I shoot factory Winchester and Remington 300gr. JHP and have no problem keeping a 4-inch group at 100 yards. You should have great groups with any other brand you find.
Marlin’s modern Model 1895 is chambered in .45-70 Gov’t.
The Marlin 1895 is manufactured by Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. They’re currently based in North Carolina.