The best scopes for 45 70 guide gun rifles must handle one of America’s most legendary cartridges while complementing the compact, fast-handling characteristics that make guide guns so effective in close-quarters hunting situations. The .45-70 Government, originally adopted by the U.S. Army in 1873, has earned its reputation as one of the most versatile and powerful cartridges ever developed. When chambered in a guide gun configuration, this combination creates the ultimate tool for dangerous game hunting, thick timber work, and situations where stopping power trumps everything else.
The guide gun concept originated from the practical needs of Alaskan hunting guides who required rifles that could deliver devastating power in a compact, maneuverable package. These rifles typically feature 18.5-inch barrels, making them significantly shorter than traditional hunting rifles while maintaining the .45-70’s impressive terminal ballistics. A 405-grain bullet traveling at 1,330 feet per second delivers over 1,500 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle, creating bone-crushing power that can stop a charging brown bear or drop a massive bull moose in its tracks.
However, the guide gun’s short barrel and powerful cartridge create unique optical requirements. The compact rifle demands equally compact scopes that won’t upset the gun’s balance or quick-handling characteristics. Most guide gun applications involve shots under 200 yards in heavy timber or brush, making low to moderate magnification ideal. The substantial recoil requires scopes built to withstand punishment, while the cartridge’s rainbow trajectory benefits from bullet drop compensation features.
Selecting the right scope for your .45-70 guide gun involves balancing several critical factors: compact dimensions that maintain the rifle’s handling qualities, robust construction to handle magnum-level recoil, appropriate magnification for close to medium-range work, and reliable tracking for follow-up shots. Whether you’re hunting dangerous game in Alaska, still-hunting whitetails in thick Eastern forests, or need a reliable backup rifle for guide work, your scope choice can mean the difference between success and disaster when it matters most.
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Name | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Leupold VX-3i 2.5-8x36mm | Compact design, Twilight Max system, CDS turrets | Check Price |
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Vortex Diamondback HD 2-8x32mm | Lightweight construction, HD glass, capped turrets | Check Price |
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Nikon MONARCH 3 1-4x20mm | Low magnification, illuminated reticle, compact profile | Check Price |
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Burris Scout 2-7x32mm | Long eye relief, scout mounting, intermediate eye relief | Check Price |
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Trijicon AccuPoint 1-4x24mm | Fiber optic illumination, rugged construction, battery-free | Check Price |
The following five scopes represent the best options for .45-70 guide gun applications. Each scope has been selected for its ability to complement the guide gun’s compact dimensions while providing the reliability and performance needed for serious hunting situations where failure is not an option.
1) Leupold VX-3i 2.5-8x36mm (Best Overall Scope for 45 70 Guide Gun)
The Leupold VX-3i 2.5-8x36mm represents the gold standard for guide gun optics, offering the perfect balance of compact dimensions, proven reliability, and optical excellence that serious hunters demand. This American-made scope delivers everything you need for .45-70 guide gun applications while maintaining the lightweight profile essential for preserving your rifle’s quick-handling characteristics. With over seven decades of proven performance behind the Leupold name, this scope has earned its place on countless successful hunts in the world’s most demanding conditions.
The 2.5-8x magnification range proves ideal for guide gun work, providing low-power capability for close encounters in heavy timber while offering enough magnification for precise shot placement at moderate ranges. The 2.5x minimum magnification delivers a wide field of view essential for tracking moving game in thick cover, while the 8x maximum power provides sufficient detail for confident shots out to 200 yards where most guide gun work occurs. This magnification range perfectly matches the .45-70’s effective hunting envelope.
What sets this scope apart is Leupold’s Twilight Max Light Management System, which maximizes available light during those critical dawn and dusk periods when big game is most active. The proprietary lens coatings provide exceptional light transmission while eliminating glare and internal reflections that can compromise your sight picture in challenging lighting conditions. This optical advantage can mean the difference between success and failure when that trophy bull steps out in fading light.
The 36mm objective lens strikes the perfect balance between light-gathering capability and overall scope profile. Unlike larger objective lenses that require high rings and compromise cheek weld, the 36mm size allows for low mounting while still providing adequate light transmission for most hunting conditions. This maintains the clean sight picture and natural pointing qualities that make guide guns so effective.
CDS (Custom Dial System) compatibility represents a significant advantage for .45-70 shooters. Leupold will create custom elevation turrets calibrated specifically for your rifle and load combination, transforming the .45-70’s curved trajectory into simple dial adjustments. This feature proves invaluable when you need to make quick range adjustments for shots at varying distances.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2.5-8x |
| Objective Lens | 36mm |
| Weight | 12.6 oz |
| Length | 11.6 inches |
| Eye Relief | 4.4 inches |
| Field of View | 44.4-14 feet at 100 yards |
| Turret Style | Finger-adjustable with CDS option |
| Made In | USA with lifetime warranty |
Pros
- Perfect magnification range for guide gun applications
- Compact, lightweight design preserves rifle balance
- Twilight Max system excels in low light conditions
- American-made quality with lifetime warranty
- CDS turrets available for trajectory compensation
- Proven reliability in harsh hunting conditions
Cons
- Premium pricing reflects high-end construction and features
The VX-3i 2.5-8x36mm delivers everything serious guide gun hunters need in a scope: compact dimensions, reliable performance, and optical excellence that can handle any hunting situation you might encounter. This scope transforms your .45-70 guide gun into a precision hunting instrument ready for whatever the wilderness throws your way.
Check Price on Amazon2) Vortex Diamondback HD 2-8x32mm (Best Value Scope for 45 70 Guide Gun)
The Vortex Diamondback HD 2-8x32mm delivers exceptional performance and features at a price point that makes high-quality optics accessible to every guide gun owner. This scope proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get reliable, clear optics that can handle the demands of .45-70 guide gun hunting. With Vortex’s legendary VIP warranty backing every scope, you get lifetime protection and customer service that’s second to none in the industry.
The HD glass construction throughout the optical system delivers clarity and brightness that rivals scopes costing significantly more. The extra-low dispersion glass elements minimize chromatic aberration while providing sharp, high-contrast images across the entire magnification range. Fully multi-coated lenses maximize light transmission for clear sight pictures even in challenging lighting conditions common during prime hunting hours.
At just 11.2 ounces, this scope maintains the lightweight characteristics essential for guide gun applications. The compact 11.1-inch length ensures the scope won’t overwhelm your rifle’s proportions or upset its natural balance. The 32mm objective lens provides adequate light gathering while allowing for low ring mounting that preserves proper cheek weld and natural pointing qualities.
The 2-8x magnification range perfectly matches most guide gun hunting scenarios. Two-power provides an excellent field of view for close-range encounters in thick timber, while 8x offers sufficient magnification for precise shot placement at moderate ranges. This magnification spread covers the vast majority of situations where .45-70 guide guns excel, from dangerous game encounters to whitetail hunting in heavy cover.
Capped turrets protect against accidental adjustment while providing reliable 1/4 MOA clicks when you need to make corrections. The turrets track consistently and return to zero reliably, building confidence in your equipment. The side focus parallax adjustment ensures sharp images at any distance within the .45-70’s effective range.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2-8x |
| Objective Lens | 32mm |
| Weight | 11.2 oz |
| Length | 11.1 inches |
| Eye Relief | 4 inches |
| Field of View | 52-13 feet at 100 yards |
| Glass Type | HD extra-low dispersion |
| Warranty | VIP Lifetime Warranty |
Pros
- Exceptional value with HD glass construction
- Lightweight design preserves rifle handling
- VIP lifetime warranty provides ultimate protection
- Perfect magnification range for guide gun work
- Reliable tracking and consistent performance
- Excellent customer service and support
Cons
- Slightly less eye relief than some premium alternatives
The Diamondback HD represents outstanding value for guide gun hunters who want reliable, high-quality optics without breaking the bank. With HD glass construction and Vortex’s legendary warranty support, this scope delivers performance and peace of mind that will serve you well for years of hunting adventures.
Check Price on Amazon3) Nikon MONARCH 3 1-4x20mm (Best Low Power Scope for 45 70 Guide Gun)
The Nikon MONARCH 3 1-4x20mm delivers ultra-compact dimensions and lightning-fast target acquisition that makes it the ultimate choice for dangerous game hunting and close-quarters situations where speed trumps magnification. This scope recognizes that many guide gun applications involve shots under 100 yards in heavy cover where a wide field of view and quick target acquisition are more valuable than high magnification. The 1-4x range provides the perfect balance for hunters who prioritize speed and reliability over long-range precision.
The true 1x magnification at the low end creates an almost red dot-like experience when both eyes are open, allowing for instinctive shooting that can prove lifesaving during dangerous game encounters. At 1x, the scope provides an enormous field of view that makes tracking moving targets effortless, while the illuminated reticle ensures your aiming point remains visible even in the darkest timber. This capability transforms your guide gun into a precision instrument for fast, close-range work.
Nikon’s proprietary multicoating system delivers exceptional light transmission and contrast despite the compact 20mm objective lens. The smaller objective allows for extremely low mounting, creating a clean sight picture that feels natural and intuitive. This low profile also reduces the scope’s vulnerability to damage from brush or rough handling during demanding hunts.
The illuminated reticle system provides a significant advantage in low-light conditions common during prime hunting times. The reticle brightness can be adjusted to match ambient lighting conditions, ensuring your aiming point remains visible without washing out your view of the target. This feature proves particularly valuable during dawn and dusk encounters when big game animals are most active.
Construction quality reflects Nikon’s commitment to reliability and precision. The scope is fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof to handle the punishment of magnum-level recoil and harsh field conditions. The nitrogen-filled tube prevents internal fogging, while O-ring seals keep moisture and debris out of the optical system.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 1-4x |
| Objective Lens | 20mm |
| Weight | 13.4 oz |
| Length | 10.8 inches |
| Eye Relief | 4 inches |
| Field of View | 105-26.3 feet at 100 yards |
| Reticle | BDC illuminated |
| Special Features | True 1x magnification |
Pros
- True 1x magnification for instinctive shooting
- Ultra-compact profile maintains rifle balance
- Illuminated reticle excels in low light
- Extremely wide field of view at low power
- Fast target acquisition for dangerous game
- Rugged construction handles heavy recoil
Cons
- Limited maximum magnification for longer shots
The MONARCH 3 1-4x20mm excels in situations where speed and reliability matter more than magnification. For dangerous game hunting, thick timber work, or any scenario where fast target acquisition is critical, this scope transforms your .45-70 guide gun into the ultimate close-range hunting tool.
Check Price on Amazon4) Burris Scout 2-7x32mm (Best Scout Scope for 45 70 Guide Gun)
The Burris Scout 2-7x32mm represents a unique approach to guide gun optics, offering extended eye relief that allows for forward mounting on the rifle’s barrel or receiver bridge. This scout scope configuration provides several distinct advantages for .45-70 guide gun applications, including faster target acquisition, better peripheral vision, and the ability to use iron sights as backup. The scout mounting system has proven itself in countless hunting situations where speed and versatility are paramount.
Extended eye relief of 9.75-21 inches allows the scope to be mounted well forward of the traditional position, creating a unique sight picture that many hunters find faster and more intuitive than conventional scope mounting. With the scope mounted forward, you maintain better peripheral vision while keeping both eyes open for target acquisition. This proves particularly valuable in dangerous game situations where awareness of your surroundings can be critical.
The forward mounting position also preserves the guide gun’s quick-handling characteristics by keeping weight closer to the rifle’s balance point. Traditional scope mounting can make a rifle feel muzzle-heavy, but the scout configuration maintains the natural balance that makes guide guns so effective in tight quarters. The compact scope dimensions further enhance this balance advantage.
The 2-7x magnification range provides excellent versatility for guide gun applications. Two-power offers a wide field of view for close-range work in heavy timber, while 7x provides adequate magnification for moderate-range shots. This range covers the vast majority of scenarios where .45-70 guide guns excel, from dangerous game encounters to hunting in thick cover where most shots occur under 150 yards.
Burris Plex reticle design keeps things simple and fast, with bold outer posts that draw the eye quickly to the center while fine crosshairs provide precision for careful shots. The reticle design works well with the .45-70’s trajectory characteristics and provides good visibility against various backgrounds common in guide gun hunting situations.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2-7x |
| Objective Lens | 32mm |
| Weight | 12.6 oz |
| Length | 9.5 inches |
| Eye Relief | 9.75-21 inches |
| Field of View | 18-5.1 feet at 100 yards |
| Mount Position | Forward/Scout mounting |
| Reticle | Plex |
Pros
- Extended eye relief allows forward mounting
- Faster target acquisition with both eyes open
- Maintains rifle balance and handling qualities
- Allows use of backup iron sights
- Excellent field of view for close-range work
- Proven scout scope advantages
Cons
- Requires specialized mounting system and setup
The Scout 2-7x32mm offers a proven alternative to traditional scope mounting that provides distinct advantages for guide gun applications. The scout configuration delivers faster target acquisition and better situational awareness, making it an excellent choice for hunters who value speed and versatility in their optics.
Check Price on Amazon5) Trijicon AccuPoint 1-4x24mm (Best Premium Scope for 45 70 Guide Gun)
The Trijicon AccuPoint 1-4x24mm represents the pinnacle of guide gun optics, delivering military-grade construction with innovative fiber optic illumination that never needs batteries. This scope brings proven battlefield reliability to civilian hunting applications, offering the ultimate combination of durability, performance, and innovative features that serious guide gun hunters demand. When your life might depend on your equipment’s reliability, the AccuPoint delivers confidence that comes from knowing your scope will function flawlessly regardless of conditions.
The fiber optic illumination system sets this scope apart from every competitor. Unlike battery-powered systems that can fail at the worst possible moment, the AccuPoint’s tritium and fiber optic combination provides automatic illumination that adjusts to ambient light conditions. In bright conditions, the fiber optic system provides a bright, easy-to-see aiming point. As light fades, tritium takes over to maintain reticle visibility throughout the night. This system operates for years without maintenance or battery changes.
True 1x magnification at the low end creates an essentially unlimited field of view that makes target acquisition incredibly fast and natural. With both eyes open, the shooting experience becomes instinctive, allowing for lightning-fast shots on moving targets or during dangerous game encounters where speed is critical. The 4x maximum magnification provides adequate detail for precise shots at moderate ranges while maintaining the wide field of view essential for guide gun work.
The 24mm objective lens provides excellent light transmission while maintaining compact dimensions that won’t upset your rifle’s balance. Trijicon’s fully multi-coated lenses deliver exceptional clarity and contrast even in challenging lighting conditions. The rugged construction includes aircraft-grade aluminum housing that easily handles the punishment of heavy recoil and rough field use.
Military heritage ensures this scope will function reliably in the most extreme conditions. The AccuPoint series has proven itself in combat situations around the world, providing the ultimate test of reliability and durability. This same military-grade construction translates to civilian hunting applications where equipment failure is simply not acceptable.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 1-4x |
| Objective Lens | 24mm |
| Weight | 17.5 oz |
| Length | 10.3 inches |
| Eye Relief | 3.2-3.6 inches |
| Field of View | 105-26 feet at 100 yards |
| Illumination | Fiber optic and tritium |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
Pros
- Battery-free illumination system never fails
- Military-grade construction and reliability
- True 1x magnification for fast target acquisition
- Exceptional optical clarity and contrast
- Proven performance in extreme conditions
- Lifetime warranty coverage
Cons
- Premium pricing reflects military-grade construction
The AccuPoint 1-4x24mm represents the ultimate guide gun scope for hunters who demand the very best in reliability, performance, and innovation. When failure is not an option and you need equipment that will perform flawlessly regardless of conditions, this Trijicon delivers the confidence that comes from military-proven reliability.
Check Price on AmazonConclusion
Selecting the right scope for your .45-70 guide gun represents one of the most critical decisions you’ll make in building the ultimate hunting rifle. This legendary cartridge and rifle combination has proven itself in the world’s most demanding hunting situations, from Alaskan brown bear encounters to dangerous game hunting in thick African bush. Your scope choice directly impacts your ability to make fast, accurate shots when it matters most, whether you’re facing a charging animal or trying to place a precise shot on a trophy bull in fading light.
The Leupold VX-3i 2.5-8x36mm emerges as our top overall choice, delivering American-made reliability with the perfect magnification range and compact dimensions that complement the guide gun concept. For budget-conscious hunters, the Vortex Diamondback HD 2-8x32mm provides exceptional value with HD glass construction and Vortex’s legendary warranty support. The Nikon MONARCH 3 1-4x20mm excels in dangerous game situations where ultra-fast target acquisition trumps magnification.
The Burris Scout 2-7x32mm offers a unique approach with forward mounting capabilities that provide distinct advantages for certain hunting applications, while the Trijicon AccuPoint 1-4x24mm delivers military-grade reliability with innovative battery-free illumination for the ultimate in dependability.
The .45-70 guide gun’s role as the ultimate close to medium-range hunting tool demands optics that match its proven performance and reliability. Whether you’re hunting dangerous game where your life depends on equipment reliability, working thick timber where fast target acquisition is critical, or need a dependable backup rifle for guide work, the right scope choice ensures you’ll be ready when opportunity or danger presents itself. Remember that in guide gun applications, reliability and speed often matter more than maximum magnification, making these five scopes the perfect partners for this legendary hunting combination.
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