The Best Shotgun Scopes in 2023

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Not sure what scope to get for your shotgun?

Look no further.

I’ve tested ALL the best shotgun scopes (plus shotgun scope mounts and accessories.)

By the end of this guide, you’ll find the perfect optic for your shotgun.

Let’s get started!

Best Shotgun ScopesBest forPrice
Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33Overall$299.99
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24Turkey Shotgun Scope$450.00
EOTECH EXPS2Duck Hunting$515.00
Nikon 3-9×40 BDCBudget$160.00
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40Deer Hunting$299.99

The 5 Best Shotgun Scope

If you’re pressed on time, here’s a quick list of the best shotgun scopes:

  1. Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33: Best Overall
  2. Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24: Best Turkey Shotgun Scope
  3. EOTECH EXPS2: Best for Duck Hunting
  4. Nikon 3-9×40 BDC: Best Budget Shotgun Scope
  5. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40: Best for Deer Hunting

1. Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33: Best Overall

Are you looking for the best lightweight hunting scope for close to medium range? The Leupold VX-Freedom is ideal.

In fact:

At under $300 you’re getting comparable quality to scopes that cost over $1000.

Not convinced yet?

Keep reading!

Glass Clarity & Reticle

Leupold always offers crisp, clear images with their glass and the Freedom is no exception.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 2-7X33 VISUAL

It sports multi-coated lenses that cut back on irregular colors to provide an accurate, true to life sight picture.

Not only that, but it has the Twilight Light Management system that’s unique to Leupold. This system gives you superior low light visibility for hunting in the dim morning and evening light when prey is more likely to be around.

My favorite thing about this scope is the Duplex reticle.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 2-7X33 RETICLE

The simple crosshair design draws your eye right to the center, making target acquisition quick and easy.

If you’re like me, you’ll love having a minimalist reticle when you’re hunting.

Eye Relief & Eye Box

You’ll get significantly more eye relief from the Leupold VX-Freedom than most LVPOs will give you.

At 4.17-3.7, you’ll never have to worry about eye placement or head positioning.

I found this scope has edge to edge clarity with a nice, wide field of view from the eye box as well.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 2-7X33 OBJECTIVE BELL

This again, lends itself to faster target acquisition of your prey.

Durability

I’ve owned many Leupold scopes over the years because I know they’re a brand that makes highly durable, quality equipment.

The VX-Freedom is made of aircraft quality aluminum, which makes it hard to damage. It also means that it’s very compact and lightweight.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 2-7X33 OVERVIEW

The lenses are scratch resistant and it’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.

All Leupold scopes come with a lifetime warranty and I can attest to their awesome customer service from my own experiences with them.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 2-7X33 WARRANTY

Elevation & Windage Knobs

The turrets are ¼ MOA clicks with 75 MOA total adjustments available.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 2-7X33 TUBE AND ELEVATION TURRET

The one downside for this scope is that I found the turrets to be just a little spongy. It’s not enough to be obnoxious though, and for the price, the scope is still totally worth it.

Zeroing is a quick and painless process and probably only took me a handful of shots.

I’ve banged mine against a tree a few times trekking through the woods and the zero still held true as well.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 2-7X33 TUBE AND ELEVATION TURRET (1)

Parallax & Magnification

The Leupold VX-Freedom has a magnification range of 2-7x.

For 50-300 yard hunting, this scope gives me all the magnification that I need. I use the lower magnifications the most, but like that I can spot something further out when I need to.

It’s the perfect range of magnification for quick target acquisition at those shorter ranges.

This scope has a fixed parallax set at 60 yards and I haven’t had any problems with it.

Mounting & Rings

Since the VX-Freedom doesn’t come with mount or rings, I mounted it on my shotgun with Leupold standard 1” rings.

Leupold Standard Ring Finish: Matte
8 Reviews
Leupold Standard Ring Finish: Matte
  • Forged and Machined steel construction
  • Versatile, and available for many different rifles
  • Windage Adjustable (STD Mounts) - The forward part of the base accepts a dovetail ring, locking it s

In addition, I invested in an Alumina flip back cover to protect my lens.

Leupold Alumina Flip Back Lens Cover 32-33Mm 59035
58 Reviews
Leupold Alumina Flip Back Lens Cover 32-33Mm 59035
  • Model #59035 - Alumina flip back lens cover in size 32-33mm

Is the Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 worth it?

If you’re looking for the best overall scope for short to medium range hunting, the Leupold VX-Freedom is the answer.

It features:

  • Affordable price
  • Low light visibility
  • Crystal clear glass
  • Significant eye relief
  • Simple Duplex reticle
  • Compact, lightweight
  • Variable magnification

In short:

This scope has all the qualities a hunter needs in an affordable package.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 2-7X33 PACKAGING

Spotting your prey in those dim evening conditions has never been easier than with this scope. The clarity along with the Twilight light system make engaging targets quickly a breeze.

If you’re looking for a scope that will last a lifetime and make you a more confident hunter, try the Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33. You’ll be happy that you did.

Best Overall
Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7x33mm Riflescope, Rimfire MOA Reticle, Matte Finish
97 Reviews
Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7x33mm Riflescope, Rimfire MOA Reticle, Matte Finish
  • Outer lens surfaces are scratch resistant to military standard extreme abrasion specification
  • 1/4 MOA precision finger click adjustments for windage and elevation
  • Versatile 3:1 zoom ratio erector system is ideal for virtually any situation

2. Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24: Best Turkey Shotgun Scope

This Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 is the best turkey shotgun scope.

Although turkey hunting can be accomplished using the standard shotgun bead, it’s not ideal. A good scope makes a turkey hunter point and precisely aim for an accurate, clean shot.

In fact:

I’ve bagged even the meanest gobblers using the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24 plus ducks, pheasants, doves, rabbits and quail as well.

By the end of this shotgun scope review, you’ll know if the Vortex Strike Eagle is for you.

Let’s dive in!

Image Clarity & Reticle

The Strike Eagle’s glass is clear and crisp.

VORTEX STRIKE EAGLE 1-8X24 DAYLIGHT VISUAL

The lenses come with anti-reflective coatings for increased light transmission.

VORTEX STRIKE EAGLE 1-8X24 LENS

The eyepiece is equipped with a fast focus dial, which allows for quick and easy reticle focusing.

Speaking of reticles, the Strike Eagle has an updated BDC reticle placed on the second focal plane, meaning that it won’t change size as you switch between magnification powers. It’s also an illuminated reticle. With 11 illumination settings, it offers flexibility to the hunter.

VORTEX STRIKE EAGLE 1-8X24 RETICLE

Even at its brightest setting, I will say that it wasn’t as bright as I would’ve liked for the Midday sun. But this scope did perform well in low-light shooting conditions, so I’m pretty satisfied.

VORTEX STRIKE EAGLE 1-8X24 MAXIMUM BRIGHTNESS

I think this “horseshoe” reticle offers what hunters need for quick target acquisition, and the crosshairs provide more precise shots out at further distances.

However, if you’re the kind of hunter that prefers a simple red dot, check out my Atibal X 1-10x scope review.

Eye Relief

The Vortex Strike Eagle has a forgiving eye relief of about 4 inches.

VORTEX STRIKE EAGLE 1-8X24 EYE RELIEF

The eye box, however, was tight, especially the higher I went up in magnification.

The solution was easy, though. With a little bit of practice and making sure my cheek weld was consistent, I achieved a correctly centered, full field of view sight picture.

Durability

Vortex is known to have produce optics that are dependable when it comes to durability and ruggedness.

I can confirm that first hand because the Strike Eagle shrugged off recoil, and test drops like nothing.

The aircraft-grade aluminum exterior makes it difficult to break and its Nitrogen purged, and O-ring seals protect it from rain, fog, frost, and snow.

In fact, I’ve used it under various field conditions, and the Vortex Eagle performed like a champ.

The Vortex Strike construction does have a shortcoming: the battery life.

It’s advertised to power the optic for up to 10,000 hours but in my experience, the battery only lasted me about 150 hours, especially when I was using the brightest setting constantly.

The optic has an extra battery compartment below the windage turret cap to hold an extra cr2032 battery. Simple fix in my opinion.

Windage and Elevation

The Strike Eagle comes with durable, capped windage and elevation knobs.

The turrets adjust in ½ MOA increments and provide tactile feedback and audibly click each time you move them back or forth.

VORTEX STRIKE EAGLE 1-8X24 TURRETS

You can set up to 40 MOA in both windage and elevation.

I’ve tested the Vortex Strike Eagle between my 5.56 and .308 rifles during turkey hunting, and zeroing was insanely easy.

I fired over 100 rounds, and this scope never had issues holding zero, plus the return to zero was excellent.

Magnification

This scope provides a magnification range of 1-8x, perfect for traditional turkey hunting or any hunting scenario below 1000 yards.

VORTEX STRIKE EAGLE 1-8X24 MAGNIFICATION 8X

Two minor setbacks:

First, the optic does give you a slight “fish-eye” view when using at 1x with both eyes open. Once you get a little further away, about 20 feet or so, it is true 1x from there on out.

VORTEX STRIKE EAGLE 1-8X24 MAGNIFICATION 1X

Second, the scope is preset for parallax at 100 yards, so you may require a little adjusting to hit accurately if you’re shooting beyond this range.

Overall, still pretty decent for its price.

Mounting & Accessories

The Vortex Strike Eagle doesn’t come with any mounts.

So I mounted mine using Vortex’s Pro Extended Cantilever 30mm Mount.

This scope comes with attached flip-up covers, but they do break easily. To keep the lens clean and protected from scratches, get the Vortex Defender Flip Caps (Eye Piece Size: E-10, 41.5-46mm) (Objective Size: O-24, 28-31mm).

VORTEX STRIKE EAGLE 1-8X24 LENS CAP
Vortex Optics Defender Riflescope Flip Caps
4,538 Reviews
Vortex Optics Defender Riflescope Flip Caps
  • Virtually indestructible, the Defender is the most versatile and durable flip cap on the market, this is the last flip cap you'll ever need
  • A stainless steel spring flips the cap into multiple stop positions at 45 and 90 degrees
  • Made in the USA

Also:

I recommend getting the Aim Assist Scope Throw Lever from Vortex. This really helps in situations where you need to go from 1x to 8x fast.

Is the Vortex Eagle Strike 1-8×24 worth it?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for an affordable yet versatile hunting scope that screams quality and performance, get the Vortex Eagle Strike 1-8×24.

VORTEX STRIKE EAGLE 1-8X24 PACKAGING

Why? It’s got:

  • Clear glass
  • Fast focus eyepiece
  • Solid, capped turrets
  • 1-8 variable magnification
  • Second focal plane BDC reticle
  • 11 illumination settings to choose from
  • Frostproof, fog proof, dustproof, and fully waterproof.

The best part?

Vortex’s Lifetime VIP warranty has you covered if somehow the scope breaks. Their excellent customer service provides hassle-free repairs or returns: no charge, no receipts required.

So if you’re still wondering whether the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 is for you, I say just give it a try. You won’t be disappointed!

If you’re more interested in hunting hogs and are looking for a solid, budget-friendly scope, I’ve got a great review for the Best Scopes For Hog Hunting.

3. EOTECH EXPS2: Best for Duck Hunting

The EOTECH EXPS2 is the best scope for duck hunting.

In fact:

I’ve used this sight for dawn-to-dusk hunting and competitive shooting, and it’s proven to be a valuable weapon in my arsenal.

Also, EOTech holographic weapon sights are some of the fastest close-quarters battle sights around, that’s why it’s been favored by the special forces in the US Military for the last 20 years.

Interested? Keep on reading…

Glass Clarity & Reticle

The optical clarity on the EXPS2 is fantastic.

The sight is offered with two red reticle versions. You can also opt in for a green dot version, which helps greatly if you have astigmatism or nearsightedness.

EOTECH EXPS2 RETICLE

The one I’ve been using has the 68-minute circle with vertical and horizontal stadia and a single 1-MOA aiming dot. You can also get the 68-minute circle with vertical and horizontal stadia and two 1-MOA aiming dots.

The latter option enables the shooter to have a “dual zero” for engaging targets at various distances. You don’t have to worry about holdover distances.

The reticle sports 20 adjustable brightness settings, with setting 12 being the “default brightness.”

EOTECH EXPS2 NIGHT VISUAL

It’s controlled with two pushbuttons located on the left-hand side. The buttons also serve as the on-off switch.

I’ve tested the EOTECH EXPS2 during dawn, dusk, high noon, even on a hot humid day. I had no problem hunting a variety game with this sight.

The best part?

A full 1.2″ x .85″ of space means your iron sights will be visible and usable without removing the optic.

I think the only big limitation of EOTech EXPS2 is it can’t be used at night. Other than that, it’s pretty solid.

Eye Relief & Eye Box

The eye relief is unlimited.

EOTECH EXPS2 LENS EYE RELIEF

The field of view is approximately 30 meters at a distance of 100 yards.

Zeroing was a breeze, and the sight had no issues holding zero.

Durability and Weight

The EXPS2 is extremely rugged and durable.

It measures 3.8×2.3×2.9 inches and weigh 11.2 ounces. It’s heavier than other popular red dot sights in the market, such as the Bushnell TRS-25, but it’s not a dealbreaker.

The EXPS2 has a very solid protective hood made of high-grade aluminum all around the body of the lens.

EOTECH EXPS2 LENS

The unit is nitrogen purged then sealed with O-rings making it resistant to fogging. It’s also rated submersible to 33 feet of water. In short, the EXPS2 can stand up to the harshest conditions.

There is one minor setback:

The EOTECH EXPS2’s battery life is subpar compared to other optics in its price range.

Powered by a lithium CR123 battery, it only lasts 600 hours of continuous use at setting 12.

However, it does come with eight-hour auto-shutdown or a four-hour auto-shutdown depending on which button you use to turn on the sight. It also has an auto battery check indicator, warning you right away when it needs fresh juice.

Elevation & Windage

The adjustment dials on the EXPS2 are very user-friendly.

You can easily adjust windage and elevation via two easy-to-access screws on the unit’s right-hand side.

EOTECH EXPS2 OVERVIEW

Each click adjusts the reticle 0.5 MOA, and there is 40 MOA of travel.

EOTECH EXPS2 MAGNIFICATION BUTTON

Parallax & Magnification

This sight comes with a fixed 1x magnification, completely parallax free.

Bear in mind, you are purchasing an optic designed only for close range. So you may have to add a magnifier, which I did do as well.

With a transverse mounted battery, the EXPS2-0 takes up a maximum of 2 3/4″ of rail space.

On my AR-15, that gave me plenty of room left over to throw on my G33 magnifier without interfering with operating or adjusting the sight.

Mounting & Rings

The EOTECH EXPS2 comes with a Quick Detach lever. It fits 1″ Weaver and MIL-STD 1913 Rails. Installation and removal were super easy — only taking me around 5 minutes.

EOTECH EXPS2 BUILT-IN MOUNT

Is the EOCTECH EXPS2 worth it?

Overall, the XPS2 is an excellent holographic sight with a wide array for features for a reasonable price tag.

Why? It’s got…

  • Clear optics
  • Wide field of view
  • Unlimited eye relief
  • Long-lasting battery life
  • Rugged and durable construction

And to top it all off, all EOTECH Holographic sights come with a 2-year warranty. EOTECH will promptly repair or replace the product without charge, so long as the product is covered under warranty.

So If you’re looking to bag more birds on your next hunting trip, the EOTECH EXPS2 is the clear winner. It’s a versatile scope that you can use on different shooting applications too.

Best for Duck Hunting
EOTECH EXPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight
794 Reviews
EOTECH EXPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight
  • EOTECH EXPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight
  • Side Button Operation - Compact design and side button operation consumes minimal rail space and is ideal for use with a G33 Magnifier
  • Mount - Quick Detach lever fits 1" Weaver and MIL-STD 1913 Rails

Lastly, don’t forget to check out my new review of the Best Sights for Glock 34.

4. Nikon 3-9×40 BDC: Best Budget Shotgun Scope

The Nikon 3-9×40 BDC is hands down one of the best scopes I have found for my shotgun.

The scope comes in at an incredibly low price and outperforms competitors with a much higher price tag. Don’t let the unbelievable price tag fool you:

This scope will last you years and outwork scopes over two times the price. Whether you are a Nikon connoisseur like I am, or new to the optic world all together… I promise the Nikon 3-9×40 BDC will not disappoint.

If you want to learn why this became the only scope I use throughout whitetail season, stick around.

Glass Clarity & Reticle

The glass clarity on the Nikon 3-9×40 BDC is impeccable. Even at the highest magnification, everything is crystal clear.

NIKON 3-9X40 BDC DAYLIGHT VISUAL (1)

I primarily use the scope for hunting, therefore; I need the scope clarity to be consistently clear at long distances.

NIKON 3-9X40 BDC MAGNIFICATION (1)

The Nikon 3-9×40 BDC does not disappoint.

I have been a longtime Nikon supporter and I must say they have outdone my expectations. Nikon has made a remarkable product for an even better price.

With clarity like this, I have been using this scope all the way to 300 yards. This range could easily be extended but that’s as far as my home range goes.

NIKON 3-9X40 BDC MAGNIFICATION

This scope usually stays on my shotgun, however; every once in a while it will end up on my 30-06 or AR10 and work flawlessly.

NIKON 3-9X40 BDC DAYLIGHT VISUAL

The Nikon 3-9×40 BDC has a bullet drop compensating reticle. Any scope without one is a dealbreaker in my book. Pair this with a reliable rangefinder and you won’t be second guessing a shot ever again.

NIKON 3-9X40 BDC RETICLE

In addition to this, there is a Nikon Spot app that is helpful when dealing with different types of ammo.

Eye Relief & Eye Box

From my own testing, I have found the eye relief to be around 4 inches which is perfect for my setup.

NIKON 3-9X40 BDC EYE BOX TEST 3X

The Nikon 3-9×40 BDC is always on my slug shotgun when hunting whitetail. A 12ga slug will give you a good kick, but the scope will never get close enough to my eye that I get worried.

I’ve had scopes that are sub 3” eye relief and I would never trust that while using a 12ga slug.

Durability

The Nikon 3-9×40 BDC is crafted of aircraft-grade aluminum and finished with an impressive anodized finish.

NIKON 3-9X40 BDC OVERVIEW

Although it pains me to admit, I slipped on some ice while shoulder carrying and fell with the scope taking a brutal impact. Besides some minor scratches, the scope held up beautifully.

I need a scope that can deal with my clumsy moments and this scope does just that. There is no doubt in my mind that this scope could take another fall like that.

Although, I really hope it doesn’t happen again!

I certainly wouldn’t recommend falling on top of your scope, but it is good to know it can take a hit and keep on chuggin along.

Elevation & Windage Knobs

The turrets on the Nikon 3-9×40 BDC have been very reliable for the months I have been using the scope. I use them occasionally when I am swapping the sight out on different firearms. Although this isn’t too often I have had no issues zeroing.

The adjustment is satisfactory and can even be done with a finger. This is great when I am swapping and need a quick re zero.

There is a very distinct movement and audible click with each twist. This gives me a great sense of how much I am adjusting.

As I said earlier, I have taken a spill with the firearm. Even after this big fall the scope didn’t lose a zero. The consistency is on par with some far more expensive scopes I have owned.

Parallax & Magnification

The Nikon 3-9×40 BDC has magnification up to 9X which is plenty for my use. I have never felt like I needed any more even at the 300 yard range.

While using a shotgun slug to hunt, I try to keep all my shots within about 150 yards. With this scope, I honestly don’t even need 9X. Although it is definitely better to have the option!

Parallax on this scope has been very minimal. With some more expensive scopes I will get slight distortion past 100 yards, however; with the Nikon 3-9×40 BDC it has been practically nonexistent.

Mounting & Rings

When I purchased the scope, I also purchased a set of mounts. I bought a set of Leupold detachable mounts with a 1” diameter fit. They work great on my shotgun and look fantastic.

Sturdy enough to take a strong kickback, but easy to get on and off moderately quick.

I would also recommend getting Monstrum Rubberized Flip-Up Lens Covers (Objective Lens: 37-42mm).

Monstrum Rubberized Flip-Up Rifle Scope Lens Covers
5,533 Reviews
Monstrum Rubberized Flip-Up Rifle Scope Lens Covers
  • 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 Nikon 3-9×40 BDC worth it?

For a budget scope, there is nothing budget about the Nikon 3-9×40 BDC. The scope delivers some amazing stats in all categories.

Here’s why:

  • Durable
  • No parallax
  • Unbelievable quality
  • Bullet drop compensating reticle

In short: The Nikon 3-9×40 BDC is an unbelievably capable budget shotgun scope that will get the job done whenever you need it.

If you’re not too sure if the Nikon 3-9×40 BDC is right for you, give it a try. You won’t be disappointed.

Best Budget Shotgun Scope
Nikon 3-9x40 BDC Reticle Black Riflescope (16558)
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Nikon 3-9x40 BDC Reticle Black Riflescope (16558)
  • Multiple Layers of Anti-Reflective Coating maximize light transmission, brightness and contrast for an extremely bright sight picture.
  • Constructed of Aircraft-grade aluminum with Type-III hard anodizing surface finish for maximum strength-to-weight ratio and optimum ruggedness.
  • Positive-1/4-inch click adjustments get you zeroed in quicker and maintain your setting even with heavy recoil

5. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40: Best for Deer Hunting

If you’re looking for the best scope for deer hunting, look no further than the Leupold VX-Freedom.

Not only is it great for muzzleloaders, it is one of the best shotgun scopes for deer hunting.

It’s the only scope I feel comfortable making low light shots with complete confidence.

Why?

Keep reading…

Glass Clarity & Reticle

The glass on the Leupold VX-Freedom is crystal clear and sharp.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 3-9X40 CLARITY

If you’re an avid hunter, you know that deer and other prey tend to be out more in the morning and evening, when the low light makes it hard to spot them.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 3-9X40 VISUAL

That’s why the Twilight Light Management system, which reduces glare and gathers light, is so amazing. It reduces glare and gathers in light, so you get an extra 10-20 minutes of visibility.

If you’re a new hunter, you may want to check out the 7 steps to prepping for deer season.

The heavy Duplex reticle also stands out in low light and draws your eye to the center of the target, which means you’ve got another advantage when it comes to deer hunting.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 3-9X40 RETICLE

Eye Relief & Eye Box

The eye relief on the Leupold VX-Freedom is pretty substantial at 4.17 for low magnification and 3.66 for high magnification.

When you’re trying to make a quick shot to take down a deer, the last thing you want to worry about is eye or head positioning, like you would with less eye relief.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 3-9X40 OVERVIEW

You get a nice, wide field of view from the eyebox, letting you cover a bigger area to spot your prey.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 3-9X40 OBJECTIVE BELL

Durability

Leupold is well known for making quality products and the VX-Freedom is no exception.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 3-9X40 PACKAGING

Not only is it made from aircraft quality aluminum, Leupold tests all their products in the harshest conditions to make sure they’ll hold up.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 3-9X40 COATING

I’m hard on my scopes, as I tend to drop them and throw them in the back of the truck, and the VX-Freedom has held up better than any I’ve ever owned.

On top of that, Leupold offers a lifetime warranty, just in case something does go wrong.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 2-7X33 WARRANTY

Elevation & Windage Knobs

The turrets are precise ¼ MOA click adjustments.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 3-9X40 TURRETS

The one downside for this scope is that the turrets are a little mushier than some of the other Leupold scopes I’ve owned, like the Leupold VX-R, but I still found them to be clear and predictable.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 3-9X40 WINDAGE KNOB

One of my favorite things about the Leupold brand is that they’re very quick and easy to zero. I was able to get the VX-Freedom done in a handful of shots.

I’ve taken it on numerous hunting trips and have yet to have to readjust it, so it holds zero exceptionally well.

Parallax & Magnification

With a 3-9x magnification range, you’ll be set for hunting at short to medium ranges.

The variable magnification means I can spot prey up to 300 yards if necessary. Although, with this scope, I’m usually taking down targets in the 70-150 yard range.

When you are trying to choose the best rifle scope, you need to look out for parallax.

Luckily, this scope has a fixed parallax at 60 yards and doesn’t create any distortions at all.

Mounting & Rings

For the price, this scope comes with a lot of great features, but it is missing a few extras like a mounting system and lens covers.

LEUPOLD VX-FREEDOM 3-9X40 TUBE

I went with the Leupold standard 1” rings and that worked perfectly for me.

Leupold Standard Ring Finish: Matte
8 Reviews
Leupold Standard Ring Finish: Matte
  • Forged and Machined steel construction
  • Versatile, and available for many different rifles
  • Windage Adjustable (STD Mounts) - The forward part of the base accepts a dovetail ring, locking it s

Even though the lenses are scratch resistant, I wanted something more to protect them, so I got an Alumina flip back cover as well.

Leupold Alumina Flip Back Lens Cover 32-33Mm 59035
58 Reviews
Leupold Alumina Flip Back Lens Cover 32-33Mm 59035
  • Model #59035 - Alumina flip back lens cover in size 32-33mm

Is the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 worth it?

For deer hunting season, the Leupold VX-Freedom is the scope to use.

It has:

  • Light weight
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Crystal clear glass
  • Significant eye relief
  • Durable, quality craftsmanship
  • Twilight Light Management System

In other words:

You get all the features you need for deer hunting in a high quality, affordable package.

With an extra 10-20 minutes of low light visibility, you’ll be able to spot your prey in those early morning and late evening times when deer are more prevalent.

And as an added bonus, the frame is lightweight, so it’s easier to carry around when you’re trekking through the woods. With a lifetime warranty, this scope will help you bag deer for years to come.

If you want to be the envy of all your hunting friends, try the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40.

Now It’s Your Turn

These are the best shotgun scopes of 2021.

Best Shotgun ScopeCategoryPrice
Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33Best Overall$300
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24Best Turkey Shotgun Scope$450
EOTECH EXPS2Best for Duck Hunting$550
Nikon 3-9×40 BDCBest Budget Shotgun Scope$160
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40Best for Deer Hunting$300

So as a recap:

If you’re looking for the best overall scope, get the Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33.

Looking for the best turkey shotgun scope? I’d recommend Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24.

How about the best scope for duck hunting? Then opt-in for EOTECH EXPS2.

Best for Duck Hunting
EOTECH EXPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight
794 Reviews
EOTECH EXPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight
  • EOTECH EXPS2 Holographic Weapon Sight
  • Side Button Operation - Compact design and side button operation consumes minimal rail space and is ideal for use with a G33 Magnifier
  • Mount - Quick Detach lever fits 1" Weaver and MIL-STD 1913 Rails

If you’re looking for the best budget shotgun scope, get the Nikon 3-9×40 BDC.

Best Budget Shotgun Scope
Nikon 3-9x40 BDC Reticle Black Riflescope (16558)
184 Reviews
Nikon 3-9x40 BDC Reticle Black Riflescope (16558)
  • Multiple Layers of Anti-Reflective Coating maximize light transmission, brightness and contrast for an extremely bright sight picture.
  • Constructed of Aircraft-grade aluminum with Type-III hard anodizing surface finish for maximum strength-to-weight ratio and optimum ruggedness.
  • Positive-1/4-inch click adjustments get you zeroed in quicker and maintain your setting even with heavy recoil

Lastly, if you are looking for the best scope for deer hunting, I’d recommend Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40.

Now I want to turn it over to you:

Which scope will you pick for your shotgun?

Let me know by leaving a quick comment down below.

5 thoughts on “The Best Shotgun Scopes in 2023”

  1. I just picked up a Savage 220 20 gauge bolt action. I am trying to figure out what BDC scope I should buy. Can you please let me know your thoughts?
    Thank you

    Reply
  2. Regrettably, Nikon ceased making rifle scopes as of January, 2020 – they are now as rare as (proverbial) hens’ teeth.

    …you find one? Buy it. They are top-notch.

    Reply
  3. While Nikon may not build a scope for that hunter going forward, its advertising agency says the brand will serve nearly every other need. “Nikon will remain a leader in the laser rangefinder, spotting scope, and binocular sectors,” says Russell.Jan 20, 2020 looks like you really should look into what you write about. Since Nikon stopped making scopes years ago

    Reply
  4. I’m looking for a shotgun scope to put on a Youth Express model Remington 870, 20 gauge, using a shotgun mount. We will be deer hunting with no shots ranging over 100 Yds. The shooter is young and small framed. Scope bite is a concern of mine, but has not happened so far with another shotgun. I have a few ideas, but would like to hear from others. Thanks.

    Reply

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