Three-gun competition represents the ultimate test of practical marksmanship, demanding lightning-fast target transitions, precise shot placement under time pressure, and the ability to engage targets from 7 yards to 500+ yards with the same optic. Unlike traditional precision shooting where you can take your time, 3-gun forces you to balance speed with accuracy while the clock is ticking and competitors are breathing down your neck.
The rifle stage in 3-gun competition presents unique optical challenges that separate purpose-built competition scopes from general hunting or tactical optics. You’ll typically encounter targets ranging from close-range steel poppers at 50 yards to precision rifle targets at 400+ yards, often within the same stage. This demands an optic that can transition seamlessly between low magnification for speed and higher magnification for precision, all while maintaining crystal-clear glass and bomb-proof reliability.
What makes a scope excel in 3-gun competition? First, you need a wide magnification range with a low bottom end – typically 1-4x, 1-6x, or 1-8x configurations. The 1x setting provides true both-eyes-open shooting for close targets, while the upper magnification allows precision shots on distant steel. The magnification change must be smooth and fast, as you’ll often need to adjust power multiple times during a single stage.
Glass quality becomes critical under match pressure. When you’re running from position to position with elevated heart rate and adrenaline pumping, inferior optics will cost you points and placement. Premium glass with excellent light transmission helps you clearly identify targets in varying lighting conditions, from shadowy indoor bays to bright outdoor ranges. Edge-to-edge clarity ensures you can spot targets in your peripheral vision without moving the scope.
The reticle must strike the perfect balance between precision and speed. Complex Christmas tree reticles can slow down target acquisition, while overly simple crosshairs lack the precision reference points needed for long-range work. The best 3-gun reticles feature a clean center with just enough subtension marks for holdover work without cluttering your sight picture during rapid fire.
Tracking accuracy and return-to-zero reliability are non-negotiable in competition. You might dial elevation for a long-range target, then return to zero for close work, then dial again – all within a single stage. Scopes that don’t track consistently or fail to return to zero will destroy your match performance and confidence.
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Scope Name | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24 | True 1x, JM-1 BDC Reticle, Daylight Bright Illumination | Check Price |
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Primary Arms GLx 2.5-10×44 FFP | First Focal Plane, ACSS Griffin Reticle, Japanese Glass | Check Price |
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Leupold VX-5HD 1-5×24 | Firedot Duplex, ZeroLock Turrets, Twilight Max HD | Check Price |
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Nightforce SHV 1-8×24 | True 1x, Capped Turrets, ED Glass, Illuminated Reticle | Check Price |
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Steiner P4Xi 1-4×24 | German Glass, Plex S1 Reticle, Bomb-Proof Construction | Check Price |
These five scopes represent the pinnacle of 3-gun performance under $1000, each offering unique advantages for competitive shooters who demand speed, precision, and reliability when every second counts. Let’s examine what makes each one a champion on the competition circuit.
1) Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24 (Best Overall 3 Gun Scope)
The Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24 has become the gold standard for 3-gun competition, dominating match results from local club shoots to national championships. This scope represents the perfect evolution of lessons learned from thousands of competition hours, combining true 1x performance with 6x precision capability in a package that can withstand the rigors of serious competitive shooting.
What sets the Razor apart is its genuine 1x performance that allows true both-eyes-open shooting. Unlike many “1x” scopes that actually start at 1.1x or 1.2x, the Razor provides authentic unity magnification with no tunnel vision or image distortion. This is crucial for rapid target engagement in 3-gun, where every millisecond of target acquisition time impacts your stage placement and overall match performance.
The JM-1 BDC reticle was developed specifically for 3-gun applications in collaboration with champion shooter Jerry Miculek. The reticle features a precise center dot for accuracy with hash marks optimized for common 3-gun distances and .223/5.56 ballistics. The design eliminates unnecessary clutter while providing essential holdover references for shots beyond point-blank range.
Illumination quality is where this scope truly excels. The center dot can be dialed bright enough to use in full daylight conditions – essential for outdoor matches where bright sunlight can wash out dim reticles. The illumination system offers 10 brightness levels with an off position between each setting, allowing precise adjustment for any lighting condition you’ll encounter in competition.
Optically, the Razor delivers premium glass performance that justifies its position at the top of the price range. The HD glass provides exceptional clarity and light transmission, while the APO objective lens system virtually eliminates chromatic aberration. Colors appear natural and vibrant, while edge-to-edge sharpness remains consistent across the entire field of view.
The scope’s mechanical precision is legendary among competitors. The turrets track perfectly and return to zero consistently, even after rapid adjustments during stages. The side focus parallax adjustment allows quick elimination of parallax error when transitioning between different target distances – a feature that becomes more important as target distances extend beyond 200 yards.
Construction quality reflects Vortex’s commitment to competition-level durability. The single-piece 30mm tube is machined from aircraft-grade aluminum and can handle the rapid manipulation and occasional bumps that occur during dynamic shooting sports. The scope has proven itself reliable through tens of thousands of rounds without losing zero or developing tracking issues.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 1-6x |
| Objective Lens | 24mm |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Reticle | JM-1 BDC (Illuminated) |
| Adjustment | ¼ MOA clicks |
| Eye Relief | 4.0 inches |
| Weight | 17.6 oz |
| Length | 10.5 inches |
Pros
- True 1x magnification for both-eyes-open shooting
- JM-1 reticle optimized specifically for 3-gun competition
- Daylight-bright illumination visible in all conditions
- HD glass delivers exceptional optical clarity
- Proven reliability through thousands of competition rounds
- Side focus parallax adjustment for varied distances
Cons
- Premium pricing at the top of the budget range
The Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24 represents the ultimate evolution of 3-gun optics, combining proven competition features with optical excellence that has made it the choice of champions. This scope will transform your match performance by providing the speed and precision needed to excel in modern 3-gun competition. When you’re ready to take your competitive shooting to the next level and join the ranks of serious competitors, this scope provides the competitive edge that separates winners from participants.
2) Primary Arms GLx 2.5-10×44 FFP (Best First Focal Plane for 3 Gun)
The Primary Arms GLx 2.5-10×44 FFP represents a revolutionary approach to 3-gun optics, challenging the conventional wisdom that 1x magnification is essential for competition success. This scope proves that a slightly higher low-end magnification paired with extended upper range can provide competitive advantages in modern 3-gun stages that increasingly emphasize precision rifle skills.
The ACSS Griffin reticle is purpose-built for 3-gun competition, featuring an illuminated center chevron for rapid target acquisition paired with ranging and holdover capabilities for precision work. The reticle’s design eliminates the guesswork from long-range shots while providing a clean, uncluttered sight picture for close work. The auto-ranging feature allows quick distance estimation on unknown-distance targets common in modern 3-gun stages.
Being a first focal plane scope, the reticle subtensions remain accurate at any magnification level. This is particularly valuable in 3-gun where you might engage close targets at 2.5x for better field of view, then zoom to 8-10x for precision shots without losing reticle accuracy. The ranging marks and holdover points work correctly regardless of your magnification setting.
The Japanese glass used in this scope delivers optical performance that rivals scopes costing significantly more. Light transmission is excellent, providing bright, clear images even in challenging indoor lighting conditions common at many 3-gun venues. Color reproduction is natural and accurate, while contrast remains high enough to clearly distinguish target scoring zones at distance.
The 2.5-10x magnification range offers unique advantages for modern 3-gun competition. While 2.5x is slightly higher than true 1x, it provides better target resolution for precision shots while still allowing reasonably fast target acquisition. The 10x upper range gives you significant advantage on long-range precision stages where many competitors struggle with insufficient magnification.
Mechanically, this scope is built to competition standards with turrets that track precisely and return to zero consistently. The locking turrets prevent accidental adjustment during dynamic movement, while the tactile clicks provide positive feedback for intentional adjustments. The side focus parallax adjustment is smooth and precise, allowing quick elimination of parallax error at any distance.
The 44mm objective lens provides excellent light gathering capability, crucial for indoor ranges and low-light competition conditions. The larger objective also contributes to better resolution at higher magnifications, making it easier to clearly identify targets and scoring zones at extended ranges.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2.5-10x |
| Objective Lens | 44mm |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Reticle | ACSS Griffin (First Focal Plane) |
| Adjustment | ¼ MOA clicks |
| Eye Relief | 4.0 inches |
| Weight | 20.8 oz |
| Length | 13.2 inches |
Pros
- ACSS Griffin reticle eliminates long-range guesswork
- First focal plane maintains reticle accuracy at all magnifications
- Extended magnification range excels on precision rifle stages
- Japanese glass delivers exceptional optical clarity
- Auto-ranging capability for unknown distance targets
- Excellent value for first focal plane performance
Cons
- 2.5x low end may slow close-range target acquisition
The Primary Arms GLx 2.5-10×44 FFP challenges conventional 3-gun optics wisdom while providing compelling advantages for precision-oriented competitors. This scope excels for shooters who prioritize long-range performance and appreciate the benefits of first focal plane design. If you compete primarily on courses with significant precision rifle requirements and want cutting-edge reticle technology, this scope will give you a distinct competitive advantage over traditional 1-6x alternatives.
3) Leupold VX-5HD 1-5×24 (Best American-Made Competition Scope)
The Leupold VX-5HD 1-5×24 brings over a century of American optical excellence to the 3-gun competition world, delivering the legendary reliability and precision that has made Leupold the choice of serious competitors who demand unwavering performance when championships are on the line. This scope represents the perfect balance of proven design and modern competition features.
What immediately distinguishes this scope is its true 1x performance combined with Leupold’s renowned optical clarity. The 1x setting provides genuine both-eyes-open shooting capability without the slight magnification or tunnel vision found in many competitors. This authentic unity magnification is crucial for rapid close-range engagement common in 3-gun pistol-to-rifle transitions.
The Firedot Duplex reticle represents simplicity perfected for competition use. The illuminated center dot provides precise aiming point visibility in any lighting condition, while the duplex crosshairs frame targets without obscuring scoring zones. This clean design eliminates the visual clutter that can slow target acquisition under match pressure, allowing your brain to focus on fundamentals rather than reticle interpretation.
Leupold’s Twilight Max HD light management system delivers exceptional performance in challenging lighting conditions common in competition venues. The advanced lens coatings maximize light transmission while virtually eliminating glare and reflections that can compromise target identification. Whether you’re shooting in bright outdoor sunlight or dimly lit indoor bays, the image remains consistently bright and clear.
The ZeroLock turret system provides the mechanical precision demanded by competition shooting. The turrets can be locked in position to prevent accidental adjustment during dynamic movement, then unlocked for intentional corrections. The ¼ MOA clicks are crisp and positive, with tracking accuracy that has been proven through decades of field use by serious competitors.
Construction quality reflects Leupold’s commitment to American manufacturing excellence. Every scope undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it meets the demanding standards required for competition use. The lightweight aluminum construction provides durability without unnecessary weight, while the compact profile balances well on modern 3-gun rifles.
The 1-5x magnification range covers the vast majority of 3-gun target engagement distances. At 1x, you can rapidly engage close targets with both eyes open. At 5x, you have sufficient magnification for most precision rifle work, though some competitors may find the upper range limiting on extremely long shots.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 1-5x |
| Objective Lens | 24mm |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Reticle | Firedot Duplex (Illuminated) |
| Adjustment | ¼ MOA clicks |
| Eye Relief | 4.2 inches |
| Weight | 17.1 oz |
| Length | 10.8 inches |
Pros
- True 1x magnification for both-eyes-open shooting
- Legendary Leupold reliability and precision tracking
- Twilight Max HD system excels in varied lighting conditions
- ZeroLock turrets prevent accidental adjustment
- American-made quality with lifetime warranty
- Clean Firedot reticle eliminates visual clutter
Cons
- 5x upper magnification may limit long-range precision capability
The Leupold VX-5HD 1-5×24 proves that American optical craftsmanship remains world-class while meeting the specific demands of modern 3-gun competition. This scope delivers the reliability, precision, and optical excellence that serious competitors depend on when every stage counts toward championship results. When you need a scope that will perform flawlessly match after match while supporting American manufacturing, the VX-5HD represents an outstanding choice that will serve your competitive career for decades.
4) Nightforce SHV 1-8×24 (Best Extended Range Competition Scope)
The Nightforce SHV 1-8×24 brings the legendary precision and durability of Nightforce optics to the 3-gun competition world at a price point that makes sense for serious competitors. This scope represents a no-compromise approach to competitive optics, delivering the same mechanical precision and optical excellence found in Nightforce’s premium tactical lines while optimizing features specifically for multi-gun competition.
The true 1x magnification provides authentic both-eyes-open shooting capability that’s essential for rapid close-range target engagement. Unlike some scopes that claim 1x but actually start at 1.1x or higher, the SHV delivers genuine unity magnification with no perceptible tunnel vision or image distortion. This allows natural target acquisition with both eyes open while maintaining precise shot placement capability.
The 8x upper magnification sets this scope apart for modern 3-gun competition where precision rifle stages increasingly demand higher magnification for success. While many competitors struggle with insufficient magnification on long-range targets, the SHV provides the optical power needed to clearly identify distant steel and make precise holdover calculations. This extended range capability can provide significant competitive advantages on precision-heavy stages.
Optically, the SHV features Nightforce’s renowned ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass that virtually eliminates chromatic aberration while providing exceptional clarity and resolution. The multi-coated lenses deliver excellent light transmission, ensuring bright, clear images even in challenging indoor lighting conditions. Colors appear natural and accurate, while edge-to-edge sharpness remains consistent across the entire field of view.
The illuminated reticle system provides daylight-bright illumination that remains visible in full sunlight conditions. The center dot can be adjusted across multiple brightness levels to match any lighting condition encountered in competition. The illumination control is positioned for easy access without breaking your shooting grip, allowing quick adjustments between bright outdoor and dim indoor stages.
Mechanically, this scope embodies Nightforce’s reputation for precision and reliability. The capped turrets prevent accidental adjustment during dynamic movement while providing precise ¼ MOA adjustments when needed. The tracking accuracy is exceptional, with the scope consistently returning to zero after adjustments – crucial for competitors who might dial elevation for long shots then return to zero for close work.
The compact, lightweight design balances well on modern 3-gun rifles without adding unnecessary bulk or weight. The scope’s profile allows use of standard height rings while providing adequate clearance for bolt manipulation and charging handle operation on AR-platform rifles.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 1-8x |
| Objective Lens | 24mm |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Reticle | IHR (Illuminated) |
| Adjustment | ¼ MOA clicks |
| Eye Relief | 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 17.5 oz |
| Length | 10.1 inches |
Pros
- True 1x magnification for both-eyes-open shooting
- 8x upper range provides significant long-range advantage
- Nightforce ED glass delivers exceptional optical clarity
- Legendary mechanical precision and reliability
- Daylight-bright illumination visible in all conditions
- Compact design balances well on competition rifles
Cons
- Limited eye relief may challenge some shooting positions
The Nightforce SHV 1-8×24 delivers uncompromising optical and mechanical performance that serious competitors depend on for consistent match results. This scope excels for shooters who regularly encounter long-range precision stages and demand the reliability that only comes from proven Nightforce engineering. When you need maximum magnification range combined with legendary durability, this scope provides the competitive edge that can make the difference between winning and placing in the middle of the pack.
5) Steiner P4Xi 1-4×24 (Best German Engineering for Competition)
The Steiner P4Xi 1-4×24 brings legendary German optical engineering to American 3-gun competition, delivering the precision and durability that has made Steiner the choice of military and law enforcement professionals worldwide. This scope represents old-world craftsmanship applied to modern competitive shooting, offering features and performance that exceed expectations for its price point.
What immediately sets this scope apart is its exceptional build quality and reliability. German engineering principles emphasize precision manufacturing and long-term durability over flashy features, resulting in a scope that performs consistently through thousands of rounds and years of competitive use. The mechanical components are built to tolerances that ensure reliable tracking and zero retention even under the stress of rapid manipulation during dynamic stages.
The Plex S1 reticle exemplifies German design philosophy – clean, functional, and precisely executed. The illuminated center provides excellent visibility in any lighting condition, while the crosshair design offers precise aiming capability without visual clutter. This simplicity proves advantageous under match pressure when complex reticles can slow target acquisition and decision-making.
Optically, the P4Xi features premium German glass with advanced multi-coating technology that delivers remarkable clarity and light transmission. The glass quality rivals scopes costing significantly more, providing bright, contrasty images that allow clear target identification even in challenging lighting conditions. Edge-to-edge sharpness remains consistent, ensuring you can spot targets in your peripheral vision without moving the scope.
The 1x setting provides true unity magnification that allows natural both-eyes-open shooting for close-range targets. The transition to 4x is smooth and precise, providing sufficient magnification for most 3-gun precision work while maintaining a wide field of view that aids in rapid target acquisition. This magnification range covers the majority of competitive scenarios effectively.
Illumination quality is outstanding, with the center reticle remaining visible in bright daylight conditions while offering low-light visibility for indoor stages. The illumination controls are intuitively positioned and operate smoothly even when wearing gloves. Battery life is exceptional, easily lasting through multiple seasons of competition use.
The scope’s compact profile and lightweight construction make it ideal for 3-gun applications where rifle balance and handling characteristics are crucial. The short length allows use of standard ring spacing while providing adequate eye relief for various shooting positions common in competition.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 1-4x |
| Objective Lens | 24mm |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Reticle | Plex S1 (Illuminated) |
| Adjustment | ¼ MOA clicks |
| Eye Relief | 3.5-3.8 inches |
| Weight | 16.6 oz |
| Length | 10.2 inches |
Pros
- German engineering delivers exceptional build quality and reliability
- Premium glass provides outstanding optical clarity
- True 1x magnification for both-eyes-open shooting
- Clean Plex S1 reticle eliminates visual clutter
- Lightweight, compact design balances well on competition rifles
- Excellent illumination quality and battery life
Cons
- 4x upper magnification limits long-range precision capability
The Steiner P4Xi 1-4×24 proves that German optical engineering remains the gold standard for precision and reliability in competitive optics. This scope excels for competitors who value proven performance over flashy features and need an optic that will perform consistently through years of serious competition use. When you demand the reliability and precision that only comes from world-class German engineering, this scope delivers the uncompromising performance that serious competitors depend on for consistent match results.
Conclusion
Selecting the perfect 3-gun scope under $1000 requires balancing speed, precision, and reliability while considering your specific competitive needs and shooting style. The five scopes reviewed here represent the pinnacle of competitive optics performance, each offering distinct advantages that can elevate your match results and overall competitive experience.
The Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24 earns our top recommendation for its proven competition pedigree, combining true 1x performance with Jerry Miculek-designed reticle and daylight-bright illumination that has dominated match results nationwide. The Primary Arms GLx 2.5-10×44 FFP offers revolutionary first focal plane capability with extended magnification range that excels on precision-heavy stages. For shooters prioritizing American craftsmanship, the Leupold VX-5HD 1-5×24 delivers legendary reliability with clean reticle design that eliminates visual clutter under pressure.
The Nightforce SHV 1-8×24 provides maximum magnification range for long-range precision work while maintaining true 1x capability for close engagement. Finally, the Steiner P4Xi 1-4×24 offers German engineering excellence with bombproof reliability for competitors who demand unwavering performance match after match.
Consider your typical competition venues and stage designs when making your selection. If you regularly encounter long-range precision stages, higher magnification becomes valuable. For speed-focused courses with primarily close to medium range targets, lower magnification ranges with excellent 1x performance prove more beneficial. The reticle design should match your shooting style – complex holdover systems benefit precision-oriented shooters, while clean designs excel for pure speed applications.
Remember that the scope is just one component of a competitive shooting system. Proper mounting, zeroing, and extensive practice with your chosen optic are essential for realizing its full potential. Invest time learning your scope’s reticle system and practicing transitions between magnification levels under time pressure. With the right scope and dedicated training, you’ll have the optical tools needed to compete at the highest levels of 3-gun competition while staying well within your budget constraints.
Richard Brown is a long-range shooting enthusiast and competitive shooter with extensive experience in scopes across multiple disciplines. He hunts regularly across the Midwest and has built his expertise through years of hands-on testing in both competitive shooting and hunting. Richard also instructs youth rifle shooting, which has given him perspective on scopes at every price point and skill level. He combines technical knowledge with practical field experience to provide honest reviews – contact me