Looking for the best 3-9×40 scopes to pair with your hunting or shooting rifle? You are in the right place. This is your ultimate guide to finding a scope with the popular 3-9×40 configuration that is the right fit for your needs.
Rifle scopes come in different sizes, shapes and designs. The size is largely determined by the size of the objective lens and the magnification power, both of which are shown by the rifle scope’s configuration. One of the most popular configuration is the 3-9×40 size. The popularity of this rifle scope size is due to its versatility which makes it ideal for a wide range of shooting and hunting applications across varying ranges and in different environments.
If you are an avid hunter or a gun enthusiast, adding a 3-9×40 scope to your optics arsenal will transform how you hunt/shoot for the better. Its magnification power fits the hunting sport perfectly and the variations in zoom make it ideal for taking shots at close to long ranges.
Understanding the 3-9×40 Rifle Scope Configuration
If you are buying a 3-9×40 rifle scope for the first time, you are probably wondering what the 3-9×40 numbers in the configuration represent. The 3-9x show the magnification power of the scope. It means that you can adjust it from 3x up to 9x depending on the kind of shooting you are doing and how far your target is.
The number after the “x” represents the size of the objective lens. The objective is the lens that you look into when you use the scope and its primary role is to collect light into the optics. In this rifle scope, the objective lens has a diameter of 40mm.
What Makes a Great 3-9×40 Scope?
The good thing about 3-9x40mm scopes it that they do basically the same thing as they have the same zoom power and objective lens. But there are other important attributes that set apart a quality scope and cheap one.
Firstly, a great 3-9×40 scope should have a premium build quality. It should be made with high-quality materials that guarantee strength and rigidity. It should also be shockproof to weather any fierce recoil and rough handling you subject it to.
Furthermore, the best 3-9×40 scopes are made with premium glass such as ED or HD to increase resolution and color fidelity. It should also boast proper lens coating to increase light transmission and reduce glare for clarity and brightness even in low light conditions.
To ensure comfortable glassing, the scope should have a long eye relief of 3.5 inches and above. Moreover, a great 3-9×40 scope has a reticle that is simple to use, and a lightweight design to ensure easy handling. It should also feature a waterproof, fog proof and dustproof body that guarantees unimpeded field use in all sorts of weather conditions.
7 Best 3-9×40 Scopes – Our Top Picks
Regardless of whether you are a beginner at hunting or shooting, or you are a professional in these sports, finding the right 3-9×40 scope is important if you want to have a successful hunting or shooting trip.
We have compiled a list of the best 3-9×40 scopes that are available on the market today to help you make an informed purchase. Let’s take a look.
1) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9X40mm Riflescope
Leupold is a household name in the industry of optics. It makes heavy duty and highly efficient scopes and the VX-Freedom 3-9X40mm Riflescope is not any different. This versatile and easy to use rifle scope comes with a ton of features that make it one of the best 3-9×40 scopes out there.
The scope has a Custom Dial System that laser etches its elevation dial to match your load, velocity as well as the shooting conditions. With this system, all you have to do is range the target, turn on the dial to that number and place the shot.
Furthermore, the scope is made to be virtually indestructible. It has a robust 6061-T6 aluminum housing that is shockproof and impact resistant. Besides, it has a scratch-resistant lenses that provide additional protection when you are in the field and a matte black finish that camouflages your position when hunting in direct sunlight.
Another outstanding feature of this rifle scope is the low light performance. It boasts a Twilight Light Management System, an optical system that provides stunning image brightness even in low light settings. It is also waterproof and fog proof for usability in all weather conditions.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle
- Twilight Light Management System
- Custom Dial System
- Water, fog and shock proof
- 1-inch main tube
- Scratch resistant lenses
- 6061-T6 aluminum housing
Pros
- Long eye relief
- Decent price
- Quality glass
- Outstanding durability
Cons
- Non-illuminated
2) Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope
Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope is by far one of the best 3-9×40 scopes for hunting. It is simple to operate and loaded with a multitude of super impressive features that are ideal for hunting game in virtually any weather and lighting condition.
With a weight of 13oz only, the scope is easy to maneuver with in the field as you look for game. The lightweight design makes it easy to shoot with more accurately. It also scatters recoil from heavy caliber weapons more effectively and makes the scope multi-platform friendly.
Optically, this rifle scope has high-grade optical glass that provides excellent brightness and clarity with outstanding durability. The index-matched, Hi-Lume multi-coating aids in low light performance by enhancing light transmission and reducing light loss through reflection.
When it comes to construction, the scope has a rugged 1-piece outer tube that is toughly built to withstand shock and vibrations from the high recoiling rifles. The tube is also nitrogen filled to prevent fogging and sealed to provide reliable waterproof and dustproof properties.
The other essential features included are a second focal plane reticle that can be matched with any caliber, positive steel-on-steel adjustments and an integrated eyepiece design with no-slip grip.
Features
- High grade optical glass
- Second focal plane reticle
- Waterproof and fog free
- Quality precision ground lenses
- Index-matched, Hi-Lume multi-coating
- Positive steel-on-steel adjustments
- Aircraft grade aluminum housing
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight and durable
- Simple to operate
- Stunning low light visibility
Cons
- Short eye relief at max power
- Non illuminated
3) Simmons 510513 Truplex Riflescope
The Simmons 510513 Truplex Riflescope is a 3-9×40 scope that is as easy on the wallet as it is on the eye. It is made with high-quality features that offer greater performance than any other rifle scope in its class and guarantee innumerable years of field use.
This sighting tools comes with fully-coated optics that enhance the transmission of light collected to provide for a bright and clear image even in low light settings. The QTA eyepiece ensures quick target acquisition and with the 1/4 MOA SureGrip audible-click windage and elevation knobs, you are guaranteed of effortless adjustment in the field.
For use in all weather conditions, the scope is fully waterproof and fog proof. Besides, it is recoil proof to provide outstanding precision after every shot, even when you are firing rapidly in the most challenging environments.
Features
- Truplex reticle
- Fully coated optics
- Waterproof and fog proof
- 1/4 MOA SureGrip audible-click windage and elevation adjustments
- Shockproof and recoil proof
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Good eye relief
- Lightweight design
- Accurate
Cons
- Less durable
4) Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
Vortex makes top-quality and high performing scopes and this is clear in the Crossfire II 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope. This moderately powered rifle scope is good for hunting and tactical applications where it provides stunning accuracy at close to medium ranges.
It is equipped with professional-grade optics that make it the ideal solution for low light situations. Besides, it employs fully multi-coated options that optimize light transfer and deliver incredibly bright sight pictures at any range, even in the critically low light settings.
Another outstanding feature of the scope is its durability. It is made of aircraft quality aluminum which is tough enough to cart around in deep wilderness. The body is highly resistant to fatigue and has a scratch resistant hard anodized finish that won’t reflect sunlight and give away your shooting position.
Furthermore, the scope utilizes capped windage and elevation turrets for added protection from bumps and accidental adjustments. It has a fast focus eyepiece for simple and speedy reticle focusing, and a built-in sunshade that makes it more comfortable to use on sunny days.
Above all, the scope is waterproof and fog proof so it is safe to use in the rain, cold and misty environments.
Features
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Hard anodized finish
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Adjustable objective
- Single-piece 1-inch body tube
- Waterproof, fog proof and shock proof
- Capped reset turrets
- Second focal plane reticle
Pros
- Incredible optical clarity
- Affordability
- Solid construction
- Generous eye relief
Cons
- Non illuminated
5) Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
Next up, we have the Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope. Built with the avid hunter in mind, this variable powered scope is ideal for all round hunting. It works great for muzzleloaders and centerfire rifles and is suitable for hunt all types of game no matter the size.
Built with the Dusk & Dawn Brightness multi-coated lenses, the scope casts clarity and brightness no matter the lighting condition you are hunting in. Besides it is fully waterproof and nitrogen filled to drive out moisture, keep the lenses free of fog and ensure that you have a clean field of view in all environments.
This rifle scope has a weight of 13oz only. The lightweight design makes it easy to mount on a wide range of rifles and simple to operate even for the beginners. Apart from that, the scope has 1/4 MOA fingertip windage and elevation adjustment that help fine tune your shooting accuracy and a fast focus eyepiece that allows for quick and simple focusing of the reticle.
Features
- 1-piece tube
- Fully waterproof, fog proof and shock proof
- Multi-coated optics
- Fast focus eyepiece
- 1/4 MOA fingertip windage and elevation adjustment
- Second focal plane multi-x reticle
Pros
- Great scope for low light settings
- Lightweight and durable
- Crisp clear optics
Cons
- Short eye relief
6) Vortex Optics Diamondback 3-9×40 Riflescope
When it comes to versatility and reliability, it is hard to go wrong with the Vortex Diamondback 3-9×40 Riflescope. This classic rifle scope offers incredible image quality in nearly all environments and is suitable for all kinds of shooting and hunting applications.
It is built for maximum durability in a 1-inch body that is hard anodized to be rust proof and scratch resistant. The shockproof housing guarantees reliable performance in any environment and maximizes durability even when you subject it to rough handling. Better yet, the scope is argon purged and O-ring sealed to deliver a lifetime of fog proof and waterproof performance.
With this rifle scope, you get to choose a model with a Dead-Hold BDC reticle or V-Plex reticle. Both reticles are put on the second focal plane so they always maintain the same appearance. Besides that, the scope has a fast focus eyepiece for easy reticle focusing and quick target acquisition.
Another impressive feature of the scope is the optical clarity. It has premium quality lenses that are fully multi-coated to offer crystal clear, bright images from sunrise till when the sun sets. It is also equipped with a precision glide erector system that ensures accurate tracking and repeatability.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle
- 1-inch body tube
- Hard anodized finish
- Precision glide erector system
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Metal on metal precision turrets
- Side focus parallax adjustment
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Easy to use and good for beginners
- Inexpensive
- Quality construction
- Accurate
Cons
- Short eye relief
7) Bushnell Trophy XLT Multi-X Reticle Riflescope
Lastly on our list, we have the Trophy XLT Multi-X Reticle Riflescope from Bushnell. This rifle scope is built to deliver the right combination of stunning image clarity, light transmission and affordability. This makes it one of the best 3-9×40 scopes for hunting.
The compact form this scope has stays out of your way when hunting, while the lightweight construction makes it simple to mount and convenient to carry in the field. Besides, it incorporates RainGuard HD lens coatings that provides a clean and clear field of view in all weather conditions. With a clean field of view, the odds of you making an ethical kill and enhanced.
Furthermore, the scope has fully multi-coated that provide bright, clear and color rich sight pictures even in critically low light settings of dawn and dusk. The fast focus eyepiece makes focusing the reticle a simple task and increases your speed of acquiring the targets. Also included is a side parallax adjustment that enhances your shooting accuracy by eliminating parallax.
Regarding construction, the XLT rifle scope is made with premium quality materials that maximize its durability and reliability. It is also filled with dry nitrogen and sealed to be 100% fog proof, waterproof and dustproof.
Features
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Second focal plane Multi-X reticle
- Waterproof and fog proof
- 1-piece tube with integrated saddle
- 1/4 MOA windage and elevation adjustment
Pros
- Long eye relief
- Wide field of view
- Lightweight, compact and portable
- Great accuracy and clarity
- Easy to zero
Read Also
- Best Thermal Scopes for AR-15
- Best Scopes for Varmint Hunting
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- Best Vortex Scopes for Deer Hunting
What Range is a 3-9×40 Scope Good For?
Moderately powered scopes with the 3-9x magnification power are good for both hunting and shooting at close to medium ranges. At close quarters, the scopes provide a wide field of view which is essential when hunting as it helps you find targets with ease. You also get to increase your speed of target acquisition by ramping the magnification up to 9x.
When you are using a rimfire round, a quality 3-9×40 scope is effective at a range of 50 to 300 yards. Any target that is far than this range might be hard to acquire accurately and you will need a more advanced scope for long range shooting.
Criteria for Buying a 3-9×40 Scope
Regardless of whether you are buying a 3-9×40 scope for the first time or you are in the market for a better model, here are the important factors you should consider before settling on any scope.
Build Quality
A rifle scope is an investment and you will want to get a quality model that lasts long. Look for a scope that is made to offer outstanding durability. That way, it will be able to thrive under any condition and offer stunning performance either in the hunting field or shooting range.
Another important aspect to consider is relation to durability is weatherproofing. The best 3-9×40 scopes use nitrogen or any other dry inert gas to keep the optics free of fog. They are also sealed with beefy O-rings to be fully waterproof and dust proof.
Weight
The weight of a scope determines how portable and easy to use it will be. A scope that is big and bulky will be cumbersome to carry around and in most cases, it will come in your way of shooting/hunting.
To avoid such, look for a scope that is durable and not more than 2 pounds in weight. Light scopes are simple to use, easy to maneuver with in the field and more effective at dispersing recoiling from high caliber weapons.
Reticle
The reticle shape and pattern in rifle scopes varies from one product to the other. Generally, the reticles in most scopes are based on one of these three main types: duplex, mil-dot and BDC.
When looking for the best 3-9×40 scopes, get a model that is made with a reticle that is simple to use. This is irrespective of your shooting skills or experience. A good scope will also have a reticle that remains clear and visible under virtually all lighting and weather conditions.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is another important factor to consider keenly when buying a 3-9×40 scope. It is important in that is determines how snug you will be when using the scope. A tip is to get a scope that offers a long eye relief of at least 3.5”. Such a scope will not only be comfortable to shoot with, but also safer to use with heavy recoiling weapons.
Lens Coating
Ensure that you get a scope that has quality lens coatings applied on the lenses and all air to glass surfaces. Lens coatings play an important role of maximizing light transmission in the optics. With optimal light transmission, the images generated will be bright, clear and tack sharp even in dismal lighting conditions.
Furthermore, the best 3-9×40 scopes are built with high-quality glass like extra-low dispersion glass or high density glass. Such scopes offer stunning color accuracy and resolution by cutting any chromatic aberration.
Final Thoughts
There is no doubt that the best 3-9×40 scopes make a handy sighting tool for both hunters and tactical shooters. It will broaden your vision, help you shoot accurately at close to medium ranges and make your expeditions at the range or hunting fields more competitive.
Finding the right scope for your needs calls for some through research, but irrespective of what your needs or budget are, there is a product out there for everyone.