Finding the best extended eye relief scope is crucial for shooters who use heavy recoiling rifles, scout rifle configurations, or need to maintain safe distances from their optics during tactical applications. Extended eye relief scopes, typically offering 9 to 20 inches of eye relief compared to the standard 3 to 4 inches, solve critical safety and comfort issues that many shooters face with powerful cartridges and specialized rifle setups.
The concept of extended eye relief became particularly important with the development of scout rifles, a concept popularized by legendary firearms instructor Jeff Cooper in the 1980s. Cooper envisioned a lightweight, versatile rifle with forward mounted optics that would allow for rapid target acquisition while maintaining situational awareness. This forward mounting position requires scopes with significantly longer eye relief than traditional configurations, typically 9 inches or more.
Extended eye relief scopes serve multiple purposes beyond scout rifle applications. They’re essential for magnum rifle users who want to avoid scope bite, the painful contact between scope and shooter that occurs when heavy recoiling rifles drive scopes backward during firing. Cartridges like the 375 H&H Magnum, 458 Winchester Magnum, and even hard kicking rounds like the 300 Winchester Magnum can cause serious injury if paired with insufficient eye relief.
These specialized scopes also find favor among tactical and law enforcement users who need to maintain shooting positions that don’t allow for traditional cheek welds, hunters using dangerous game rifles where quick follow up shots are critical, and competitive shooters in disciplines that require rapid position changes. The extended eye relief allows for more flexible shooting positions and faster target acquisition in dynamic situations.
Modern extended eye relief scopes have evolved significantly from early designs that often compromised optical quality for functionality. Today’s offerings feature high quality glass, reliable tracking systems, and durable construction that rivals traditional scopes. However, they do present unique challenges including narrower fields of view, more critical eye placement, and typically higher costs due to their specialized optical designs and smaller production volumes.
| Scope | Best For | Eye Relief | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leupold FX-II 2.5×28 Scout | Scout Rifles | 9.5 inches | Proven Reliability |
| Burris 2-7×32 Scout | Versatile Hunting | 9-21 inches | Variable Magnification |
| Nikon ProStaff 2-7×32 Scout | Budget Option | 9.6 inches | Affordable Quality |
| Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout | Modern Features | 9.5 inches | Lifetime Warranty |
| Simmons ProHunter 2-6×32 | Entry Level | 11 inches | Basic Reliability |
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Name | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Leupold FX-II 2.5×28 Scout | 9.5″ Eye Relief, Fixed Power, Proven Design | Check Latest Price |
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Burris 2-7×32 Scout | 9-21″ Eye Relief, Variable Power, Plex Reticle | Check Latest Price |
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Nikon ProStaff 2-7×32 Scout | 9.6″ Eye Relief, Multicoated Lenses, BDC Reticle | Check Latest Price |
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Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout | 9.5″ Eye Relief, Lifetime Warranty, Fast Focus | Check Latest Price |
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Simmons ProHunter 2-6×32 | 11″ Eye Relief, Budget Friendly, Basic Features | Check Latest Price |
These five extended eye relief scopes represent the best options available across different price points and applications. Each has been selected based on optical quality, reliability, eye relief distance, and real world performance in scout rifle and dangerous game applications. From the time tested reliability of Leupold’s fixed power design to the modern features of Vortex’s latest offering, these scopes deliver the extended eye relief performance that specialized shooting applications demand.
1) Leupold FX-II 2.5×28 Scout (Best Extended Eye Relief Scope for Reliability)
The Leupold FX-II 2.5×28 Scout stands as the gold standard for extended eye relief scopes, representing over four decades of proven performance in the most demanding shooting conditions imaginable. Leupold introduced this scope in response to Jeff Cooper’s scout rifle concept, and it has since become the benchmark by which all other extended eye relief scopes are measured. Its fixed 2.5x magnification and rock solid construction have earned the trust of professional guides, dangerous game hunters, and scout rifle enthusiasts worldwide.
What sets the FX-II Scout apart from its competitors is its unwavering reliability under extreme conditions. Built in Leupold’s Oregon facility using the same manufacturing standards as their tactical and military scopes, this optic has proven itself in African game fields, Alaskan wilderness, and competitive shooting venues around the globe. The scope’s fixed magnification design eliminates the complexity and potential failure points associated with variable power systems, resulting in a scope that simply refuses to fail when your life might depend on it.
The 2.5x magnification provides an ideal balance for most extended eye relief applications. This power level offers sufficient magnification for precise shot placement at reasonable distances while maintaining a generous field of view that allows for rapid target acquisition and situational awareness. For dangerous game hunting, where quick follow up shots on wounded animals can mean the difference between life and death, this magnification sweet spot has proven ideal through decades of field use.
Leupold’s Multicoat 4 lens system ensures maximum light transmission and image clarity despite the scope’s compact size. The 28mm objective lens, while modest by modern standards, gathers sufficient light for most hunting and tactical applications while keeping the scope’s weight and bulk to a minimum. This is particularly important for scout rifle applications where the forward mounted scope can significantly affect the rifle’s balance and handling characteristics.
The scope’s 9.5 inches of eye relief provides adequate safety margin for most applications while remaining forgiving enough for quick target acquisition under stress. Unlike some extended eye relief scopes that require precise eye placement, the FX-II Scout offers a relatively generous eye box that accommodates slight variations in cheek weld and shooting position. This forgiveness becomes crucial in dynamic shooting situations where perfect scope alignment may not always be possible.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2.5x Fixed |
| Objective Lens | 28mm |
| Eye Relief | 9.5 inches |
| Field of View | 34.1 feet at 100 yards |
| Weight | 8.6 ounces |
| Length | 8.8 inches |
| Special Features | Multicoat 4, Nitrogen Filled, Proven Design |
Pros
- Four decades of proven field reliability
- Fixed magnification eliminates complexity and failure points
- Generous eye box for quick target acquisition
- Lightweight design ideal for scout rifle applications
- American made quality with lifetime warranty
- Time tested 2.5x magnification perfect for most applications
Cons
- Fixed magnification limits versatility for varying shot distances
Experience the reliability that has made Leupold the choice of professionals for over 100 years. The FX-II 2.5×28 Scout delivers unwavering performance when failure is not an option.
Check Price on Amazon2) Burris 2-7×32 Scout (Best Extended Eye Relief Scope for Variable Power)
The Burris 2-7×32 Scout revolutionizes the extended eye relief category by offering variable magnification without compromising the generous eye relief that specialized applications demand. Burris, with their long history of innovative scope design dating back to 1971, has created a scope that addresses the primary limitation of most extended eye relief optics: the restriction to fixed magnification systems that limit versatility in varying shooting conditions.
The scope’s remarkable 9 to 21 inches of eye relief range sets it apart from all competitors in the extended eye relief category. This extraordinary eye relief variation allows the scope to function effectively in multiple mounting positions and shooting scenarios, from traditional scout rifle forward mounting to more conventional positions on dangerous game rifles. The variable eye relief accommodates different stock designs and shooting styles while maintaining the safety margin that extended eye relief scopes are designed to provide.
Burris has engineered the 2-7x variable power system to maintain consistent optical quality throughout the magnification range, a significant challenge in extended eye relief designs where optical compromises are typically necessary. The 2x low end provides an excellent field of view for close range encounters and rapid target acquisition, while the 7x high end offers sufficient magnification for precise shot placement at moderate to long ranges. This magnification range proves ideal for hunting applications where shot distances can vary dramatically.
The 32mm objective lens represents an optimal balance between light gathering capability and scope compactness. While larger than the traditional 28mm objectives found on most extended eye relief scopes, the 32mm lens provides noticeably improved low light performance without adding excessive weight or bulk to the forward mounted scope. This becomes particularly important during dawn and dusk hunting periods when dangerous game animals are most active.
The scope’s Plex reticle design provides clean, uncluttered aiming references that work effectively across the entire magnification range. The reticle thickness varies appropriately with magnification changes, maintaining optimal visibility and precision at all power settings. For hunters who need to make quick shots at varying distances, this reticle design eliminates the guesswork and allows for instinctive aiming under stress.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2-7x Variable |
| Objective Lens | 32mm |
| Eye Relief | 9-21 inches |
| Field of View | 52-15 feet at 100 yards |
| Weight | 12.8 ounces |
| Length | 10.3 inches |
| Special Features | Variable Eye Relief, Hi-Lume Coatings, Plex Reticle |
Pros
- Revolutionary variable eye relief accommodates multiple mounting positions
- 2-7x magnification range provides excellent versatility
- Hi-Lume coatings maximize light transmission
- 32mm objective improves low light performance
- Reliable Burris construction with solid warranty
- Plex reticle works effectively at all magnifications
Cons
- Higher weight than fixed power alternatives affects rifle balance
Discover unmatched versatility in extended eye relief optics with the Burris 2-7×32 Scout. This innovative scope delivers variable power performance without sacrificing the safety and positioning advantages of extended eye relief design.
Check Price on Amazon3) Nikon ProStaff 2-7×32 Scout (Best Extended Eye Relief Scope for Value)
The Nikon ProStaff 2-7×32 Scout delivers impressive optical performance and reliability at a price point that makes extended eye relief technology accessible to budget conscious shooters without compromising essential features. Nikon’s legendary expertise in optical manufacturing, developed through decades of camera and binocular production, translates directly into rifle scope technology that punches well above its price class in terms of clarity and durability.
Nikon’s proprietary multicoated optical system maximizes light transmission while minimizing glare and reflections, producing images with exceptional clarity and color fidelity despite the scope’s budget friendly pricing. The fully multicoated lenses ensure consistent performance in varying light conditions, crucial for hunting applications where shot opportunities often occur during marginal lighting periods. This optical quality rivals scopes costing significantly more while maintaining the extended eye relief necessary for specialized applications.
The 2-7x magnification range provides excellent versatility for most hunting and tactical scenarios where extended eye relief is required. The 2x low end offers a wide field of view that facilitates rapid target acquisition in close quarters situations, while the 7x high end provides sufficient resolution for precise shot placement at moderate ranges. This magnification range proves particularly effective for dangerous game hunting where shots typically occur within 200 yards but require absolute precision for safety.
The scope’s 9.6 inches of eye relief provides adequate safety margin for heavy recoiling rifles while remaining forgiving enough for quick target engagement under stress. Unlike some budget extended eye relief scopes that suffer from extremely critical eye placement requirements, the ProStaff Scout offers a reasonably generous eye box that accommodates slight variations in shooting position and cheek weld consistency.
Nikon’s BDC (Bullet Drop Compensating) reticle adds significant value to this scope by providing holdover references that work effectively with common hunting cartridges. The reticle features hash marks that correspond to approximate bullet drop at various ranges, eliminating guesswork for shots beyond point blank range. For hunters using the scope on dangerous game rifles or scout rifle configurations, these holdover references can prove invaluable for making quick, accurate shots at varying distances.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2-7x Variable |
| Objective Lens | 32mm |
| Eye Relief | 9.6 inches |
| Field of View | 50-14.4 feet at 100 yards |
| Weight | 13.4 ounces |
| Length | 11.2 inches |
| Special Features | Multicoated Lenses, BDC Reticle, Budget Friendly |
Pros
- Outstanding value proposition for extended eye relief features
- Nikon optical quality delivers clear, bright images
- BDC reticle provides useful holdover references
- 2-7x magnification range suits most applications
- Reliable construction handles heavy recoil
- Generous eye relief maintains safety margin
Cons
- Basic feature set lacks some premium scope amenities
Get premium optical performance without the premium price with the Nikon ProStaff 2-7×32 Scout. This scope proves that quality extended eye relief optics don’t have to break the budget.
Check Price on Amazon4) Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout (Best Extended Eye Relief Scope for Modern Features)
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout represents the latest evolution in extended eye relief scope technology, combining traditional scout rifle functionality with modern features and Vortex’s industry leading customer service and warranty support. Vortex has revolutionized the optics industry by offering premium features at accessible prices while backing every product with their legendary VIP warranty that covers everything from manufacturing defects to accidental damage.
The scope’s fast focus eyepiece allows for quick diopter adjustments that accommodate different shooters or changing light conditions without tools or complicated procedures. This feature becomes particularly valuable in extended eye relief applications where precise eye placement is more critical than with traditional scopes. The fast focus system allows shooters to quickly optimize the reticle focus for their individual eyesight, ensuring maximum precision under varying conditions.
Vortex’s fully multicoated lens system maximizes light transmission while providing excellent image quality that rivals much more expensive optics. The advanced coatings reduce glare and reflections while enhancing contrast and color fidelity, crucial factors when engaging targets during marginal light conditions. The optical system delivers consistent performance throughout the 2-7x magnification range, maintaining clarity and brightness even at maximum power.
The V-Plex reticle provides clean, uncluttered aiming references that work effectively across the entire magnification range. The reticle design emphasizes rapid target acquisition while providing sufficient precision for accurate shot placement at extended ranges. For scout rifle and dangerous game applications where quick shots are often necessary, this reticle design promotes instinctive aiming while maintaining the accuracy needed for ethical shot placement.
The scope’s construction reflects Vortex’s commitment to durability and reliability in field conditions. The single piece aluminum tube construction provides maximum strength while maintaining reasonable weight for forward mounted applications. The scope is nitrogen purged and sealed to prevent internal fogging, crucial for reliability in varying environmental conditions where condensation can render a scope useless when you need it most.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2-7x Variable |
| Objective Lens | 32mm |
| Eye Relief | 9.5 inches |
| Field of View | 47.1-13.4 feet at 100 yards |
| Weight | 13.9 ounces |
| Length | 11.2 inches |
| Special Features | Fast Focus, VIP Warranty, Nitrogen Purged |
Pros
- Fast focus eyepiece allows quick diopter adjustments
- VIP unconditional lifetime warranty provides complete protection
- Fully multicoated lenses deliver excellent optical quality
- V-Plex reticle optimized for rapid target acquisition
- Nitrogen purged construction prevents internal fogging
- Modern features enhance traditional scout scope functionality
Cons
- Newer design lacks the proven track record of older competitors
Experience the future of extended eye relief optics with the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout. This scope combines proven scout rifle functionality with modern features and unmatched warranty protection.
Check Price on Amazon5) Simmons ProHunter 2-6×32 (Best Extended Eye Relief Scope for Entry Level)
The Simmons ProHunter 2-6×32 provides an accessible entry point into extended eye relief optics, delivering basic functionality and reliability at a price that won’t strain the budget of new shooters or those seeking to experiment with scout rifle configurations. While lacking the premium features and optical refinement of more expensive options, the ProHunter offers sufficient performance for recreational shooting and hunting applications where extended eye relief is required.
Simmons has designed the ProHunter to provide reliable service under normal hunting and recreational shooting conditions while maintaining affordability as its primary selling point. The scope’s construction, while basic, incorporates fundamental features necessary for extended eye relief applications including adequate optical quality, reliable tracking, and sufficient durability to withstand the recoil of common hunting cartridges. For shooters seeking to explore extended eye relief benefits without significant investment, the ProHunter represents a reasonable starting point.
The 11 inches of eye relief provided by the ProHunter exceeds most other options in this category, making it particularly suitable for heavy recoiling rifles where maximum separation between scope and shooter is desired. This generous eye relief also provides extra forgiveness in scope positioning and mounting, beneficial for shooters who are new to extended eye relief configurations and still learning optimal positioning techniques.
The 2-6x magnification range covers the essential needs for most extended eye relief applications. The 2x low end provides adequate field of view for close range shots while the 6x high end offers sufficient magnification for moderate range precision work. While not as versatile as higher end variable scopes, this magnification range handles the majority of situations where extended eye relief scopes are employed.
The ProHunter’s TrueZero windage and elevation adjustment system provides basic tracking capability suitable for recreational shooting and hunting applications. While not offering the precision or positive feel of premium scope turrets, the adjustment system proves adequate for zeroing and basic field adjustments. The simple Truplex reticle provides clean aiming references without unnecessary complexity.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2-6x Variable |
| Objective Lens | 32mm |
| Eye Relief | 11 inches |
| Field of View | 50-16.5 feet at 100 yards |
| Weight | 11.8 ounces |
| Length | 11 inches |
| Special Features | Budget Friendly, Generous Eye Relief, Basic Features |
Pros
- Most affordable entry into extended eye relief category
- Generous 11 inches of eye relief provides maximum separation
- 2-6x magnification covers most essential applications
- Simple operation ideal for beginning scouts rifle users
- Adequate optical quality for recreational use
- Basic reliability suitable for normal hunting conditions
Cons
- Limited features and refinement compared to premium alternatives
Start your extended eye relief journey with the Simmons ProHunter 2-6×32. This scope provides an affordable introduction to scout rifle optics while delivering the basic performance needed for recreational shooting applications.
Check Price on AmazonConclusion
Choosing the right extended eye relief scope requires careful consideration of your specific shooting applications, experience level, and budget constraints. Each of these five scopes addresses different needs within the extended eye relief category, from the proven battlefield reliability of the Leupold FX-II to the innovative variable eye relief design of the Burris Scout scope. The key is matching the scope’s capabilities with your intended use while ensuring adequate eye relief for safety and comfort.
For shooters who prioritize absolute reliability and proven performance, the Leupold FX-II 2.5×28 Scout remains the gold standard with its four decade track record of flawless performance in the world’s most challenging hunting conditions. Its fixed magnification design eliminates complexity while delivering the dependability that dangerous game hunters and tactical professionals demand when failure is not an option.
Those who need the versatility of variable magnification will find the Burris 2-7×32 Scout’s innovative variable eye relief design opens up new possibilities for scope positioning and shooting flexibility. Budget conscious shooters should consider the Nikon ProStaff 2-7×32 Scout, which delivers impressive optical quality and useful features at a fraction of the cost of premium alternatives. The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout combines modern features with traditional scout rifle functionality, all backed by the industry’s best warranty.
Finally, the Simmons ProHunter 2-6×32 provides an affordable entry point for shooters wanting to explore extended eye relief benefits without significant financial commitment. While basic in features, it offers the fundamental performance needed for recreational applications and serves as an excellent learning platform for scout rifle concepts.
Extended eye relief scopes represent specialized tools designed for specific applications, and selecting the right one can dramatically improve your shooting experience while enhancing safety during recoil intensive shooting. Whether you’re building a scout rifle, taming a dangerous game rifle, or need tactical flexibility, these scopes provide the eye relief distance necessary for comfortable, safe, and accurate shooting in demanding conditions.
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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