Finding the best scope for 28 Nosler rifles requires understanding both the cartridge’s exceptional capabilities and the optical demands of long-range precision shooting. The 28 Nosler, introduced by Nosler in 2015, represents one of the most potent non-magnum cartridges available to hunters and precision shooters today. Based on the .404 Jeffery case necked down to .284 caliber, this powerhouse delivers impressive velocities that can push a 160-grain bullet at over 3,300 feet per second.
What makes the 28 Nosler particularly interesting from an optical standpoint is its flat trajectory and retained energy at extended ranges. This cartridge maintains supersonic velocities well beyond 1,400 yards, making it an exceptional choice for long-range hunting applications where precise shot placement is critical. However, to fully capitalize on the 28 Nosler’s ballistic potential, you need a scope that can match its performance characteristics.
The ideal scope for a 28 Nosler should offer several key attributes: crystal-clear glass quality for those critical dawn and dusk hunting moments, reliable tracking for long-range adjustments, sufficient magnification range to engage targets from close quarters to extreme distances, and robust construction to withstand the cartridge’s substantial recoil. Additionally, the scope’s reticle should complement the cartridge’s ballistic profile, offering holdover references or tactical-style markings that align with typical hunting and precision shooting scenarios.
Whether you’re pursuing elk across Montana’s vast landscapes, taking precision shots at distant prairie game, or pushing the boundaries at the range, the right scope transforms your 28 Nosler from merely powerful to truly effective. The scopes we’ve selected represent the pinnacle of optical engineering, each offering unique advantages that complement this exceptional cartridge’s capabilities.
| Scope | Best For | Magnification | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 | Overall Performance | 5-25x | ED Glass & Zero-Stop |
| Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 | Value Performance | 4.5-27x | HD Glass & Lifetime Warranty |
| Leupold VX-6HD 3-18×50 | Hunting Versatility | 3-18x | Lightweight & Twilight Max |
| Schmidt & Bender PM II 5-25×56 | Precision Shooting | 5-25x | Military Grade Reliability |
| Zeiss V6 3-18×50 | Premium Optics | 3-18x | German Engineering |
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Name | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 | ED Glass, Zero-Stop, 34mm Tube | Check Latest Price |
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Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 | HD Glass, Lifetime Warranty, Illuminated Reticle | Check Latest Price |
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Leupold VX-6HD 3-18×50 | Twilight Max, Lightweight, Custom Dial System | Check Latest Price |
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Schmidt & Bender PM II 5-25×56 | Military Grade, Double Turn Elevation, Precise Tracking | Check Latest Price |
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Zeiss V6 3-18×50 | German Engineering, SCHOTT Glass, Ballistic Turrets | Check Latest Price |
After extensive testing and evaluation of dozens of high-end rifle scopes, we’ve narrowed down the field to these five exceptional optics that truly complement the 28 Nosler’s capabilities. Each scope has been selected based on optical clarity, mechanical reliability, feature set, and real-world performance in hunting and precision shooting scenarios. From the proven battlefield reliability of Schmidt & Bender to the innovative engineering of Nightforce, these scopes represent the absolute best options for maximizing your 28 Nosler’s potential.
1) Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 (Best Scope for Long Range Precision)
The Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 stands as the gold standard for precision rifle scopes, and when paired with the 28 Nosler, it creates a combination that’s virtually unbeatable for long-range applications. Nightforce has built their reputation on creating optics that perform flawlessly under the most demanding conditions, and the ATACR series represents the pinnacle of their engineering expertise.
What sets this scope apart is its exceptional ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass that delivers crystal-clear images with virtually no chromatic aberration, even at maximum magnification. The 56mm objective lens gathers substantial light, making those critical dawn and dusk shots possible when game animals are most active. The scope’s 34mm main tube provides maximum internal adjustment range, crucial when working with the 28 Nosler’s long-range capabilities.
The ATACR’s ZeroStop technology is particularly valuable for 28 Nosler shooters who frequently engage targets at varying distances. This feature allows you to return to your zero position with confidence, eliminating the guesswork that can cost you that once-in-a-lifetime shot. The scope’s tracking has been proven accurate to sub-MOA levels, meaning your adjustments will translate precisely to point of impact changes downrange.
Built to withstand the punishment of heavy recoiling cartridges, the ATACR features a robust construction that shrugs off the 28 Nosler’s substantial recoil. The scope has been tested to military specifications and has proven itself in combat situations worldwide. For serious long-range hunters and precision shooters who demand absolute reliability, the ATACR represents an investment in performance that will serve you for decades.
The illuminated reticle options, including the popular MOAR and Mil-R reticles, provide excellent holdover references that align perfectly with the 28 Nosler’s ballistic trajectory. Whether you’re calculating wind drift on a 600-yard antelope shot or holding for elevation on an elk at 800 yards, the ATACR’s reticle system gives you the tools to make precise shots with confidence.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 5-25x |
| Objective Lens | 56mm |
| Tube Diameter | 34mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 38 ounces |
| Length | 15.1 inches |
| Special Features | ED Glass, ZeroStop, Illuminated Reticle |
Pros
- Exceptional optical clarity with ED glass
- ZeroStop technology for reliable return to zero
- Proven durability under extreme conditions
- Precise and repeatable tracking
- Excellent low-light performance
- Wide magnification range suitable for all distances
Cons
- Premium price point reflects professional-grade construction
Ready to take your 28 Nosler to the next level? The Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 represents the ultimate fusion of optical excellence and mechanical precision. Don’t settle for anything less than the scope that professionals trust their lives with.
Check Price on Amazon2) Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 (Best Scope for Versatile Performance)
The Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 delivers professional-level performance at a price point that makes premium optics accessible to serious hunters and shooters. Vortex has revolutionized the optics industry by providing scopes with features and build quality that rival scopes costing twice as much, and the Razor HD Gen II exemplifies this philosophy perfectly.
The scope’s HD glass system produces images with exceptional clarity and color fidelity that rival much more expensive European optics. The 56mm objective lens, combined with Vortex’s advanced lens coatings, provides outstanding light transmission that extends your effective shooting hours well into twilight conditions. This is particularly valuable for 28 Nosler hunters who often find themselves pursuing game during those magical first and last light periods.
What truly sets the Razor HD Gen II apart is its impressive magnification range. The 4.5-27x range provides incredible versatility, allowing you to engage close-range targets at lower magnifications while still offering the high-end power needed for extreme long-range shots. This wide range makes it an ideal choice for 28 Nosler rifles that might see duty from timber hunting to open country precision work.
The scope’s 34mm main tube provides ample internal adjustment range, essential when working with the 28 Nosler’s long-range potential. The turrets feature positive tactile and audible clicks that allow for confident adjustments even in challenging conditions. The elevation turret includes a revolution indicator, preventing the confusion that can occur when making large elevation adjustments for long-range shots.
Vortex’s legendary VIP warranty backs this scope with an unconditional lifetime guarantee that covers everything from manufacturing defects to accidental damage. This warranty, combined with Vortex’s reputation for outstanding customer service, provides peace of mind that your investment is protected regardless of how hard you use your equipment in the field.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 4.5-27x |
| Objective Lens | 56mm |
| Tube Diameter | 34mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.7 inches |
| Weight | 48.5 ounces |
| Length | 15.6 inches |
| Special Features | HD Glass, VIP Warranty, Illuminated Reticle |
Pros
- Outstanding price-to-performance ratio
- Wide magnification range for versatility
- Unconditional lifetime VIP warranty
- Excellent optical clarity with HD glass
- Robust construction handles heavy recoil
- Precise tracking and reliable adjustments
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some competitors in its class
Experience the perfect balance of performance and value with the Vortex Razor HD Gen II. This scope delivers premium features without the premium price, making it an excellent choice for discriminating shooters who demand quality.
Check Price on Amazon3) Leupold VX-6HD 3-18×50 (Best Scope for Hunting Applications)
The Leupold VX-6HD 3-18×50 represents the perfect marriage of traditional American craftsmanship and cutting-edge optical technology, specifically designed for the serious hunter who demands both performance and reliability. Leupold’s century-plus legacy in optical manufacturing shines through in every aspect of this scope, from its crystal-clear glass to its bombproof mechanical construction.
At the heart of the VX-6HD lies Leupold’s proprietary Twilight Max HD Light Management System, which maximizes available light transmission to extend your effective hunting time. This technology becomes particularly valuable when hunting with the 28 Nosler, as many of the cartridge’s target species are most active during low-light conditions. The system’s advanced lens coatings and precision manufacturing ensure that you’ll see your target clearly even when lighting conditions are less than ideal.
The 3-18x magnification range strikes an ideal balance for hunting applications. The low end provides a generous field of view for close encounters in heavy timber, while the high end offers sufficient magnification for those long-range shots that the 28 Nosler excels at. This range is particularly well-suited for western hunting scenarios where shots can vary dramatically based on terrain and game behavior.
One of the VX-6HD’s standout features is its remarkably lightweight construction. At just 21.6 ounces, this scope won’t burden your rifle during long hunting expeditions. The weight savings become particularly noticeable during mountain hunts where every ounce matters. Despite its lightweight design, the scope maintains the rugged durability that Leupold is famous for, easily handling the 28 Nosler’s substantial recoil.
The Custom Dial System (CDS) available with this scope deserves special mention for 28 Nosler users. Leupold will create a custom elevation dial calibrated specifically for your rifle, cartridge, and preferred bullet, eliminating guesswork for long-range shots. This feature transforms complex ballistic calculations into simple dial adjustments, dramatically increasing your effective range in hunting situations.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-18x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Eye Relief | 4.4 inches |
| Weight | 21.6 ounces |
| Length | 13.6 inches |
| Special Features | Twilight Max HD, Custom Dial System, Lightweight |
Pros
- Exceptional low-light performance with Twilight Max HD
- Lightweight design ideal for hunting
- Custom Dial System for precise long-range shots
- Proven reliability in field conditions
- Generous eye relief accommodates various shooting positions
- American-made quality and craftsmanship
Cons
- Limited to 30mm tube diameter reduces internal adjustment range
Transform your hunting experience with the Leupold VX-6HD 3-18×50. This scope combines legendary reliability with modern performance, giving you the confidence to make that perfect shot when it matters most.
Check Price on Amazon4) Schmidt & Bender PM II 5-25×56 (Best Scope for Tactical Precision)
The Schmidt & Bender PM II 5-25×56 represents the absolute pinnacle of precision rifle optics, earning its reputation as the scope of choice for military snipers and competitive shooters worldwide. When German engineering meets the demanding requirements of precision shooting, the result is a scope that sets the standard by which all others are measured. For 28 Nosler shooters who demand nothing but the best, the PM II delivers uncompromising performance.
Schmidt & Bender’s legendary reputation for optical excellence is immediately apparent when you look through the PM II. The scope’s glass clarity is simply in a class of its own, with virtually no distortion even at maximum magnification. The company’s proprietary lens coatings produce images with stunning contrast and color reproduction that make target identification effortless even at extreme ranges. This optical superiority becomes crucial when using the 28 Nosler for precision shooting applications where the smallest details can mean the difference between success and failure.
The PM II’s mechanical precision is equally impressive. The scope’s tracking accuracy has been tested and proven to deliver sub-0.1 MOA precision, meaning your adjustments will translate exactly to point of impact changes downrange. The double-turn elevation adjustment system provides an enormous range of elevation adjustment while maintaining the precision that tactical applications demand. For 28 Nosler shooters who regularly engage targets at varying distances, this level of mechanical reliability is essential.
What truly sets the PM II apart is its proven performance under the most demanding conditions imaginable. This scope has been battle-tested by military forces around the world and has consistently performed flawlessly in environments that would destroy lesser optics. The scope’s robust construction easily handles the 28 Nosler’s substantial recoil while maintaining zero shot after shot. The internal components are built to tolerances that ensure decades of reliable service.
The PM II’s reticle options, including the popular P4F and MSR reticles, are specifically designed for precision shooting applications. These reticles provide holdover references and wind compensation marks that align perfectly with modern ballistic calculators, making long-range shooting with the 28 Nosler both more accurate and more intuitive.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 5-25x |
| Objective Lens | 56mm |
| Tube Diameter | 34mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 35.3 ounces |
| Length | 15.75 inches |
| Special Features | Military Grade, Double Turn Elevation, Precision Tracking |
Pros
- Unmatched optical clarity and contrast
- Military-proven durability and reliability
- Precise tracking accurate to sub-0.1 MOA
- Double-turn elevation system for extensive range
- German engineering and quality control
- Battle-tested performance under extreme conditions
Cons
- Premium German engineering comes with accordingly high price
Experience the ultimate in precision optics with the Schmidt & Bender PM II 5-25×56. This scope represents the absolute best in German engineering, delivering the uncompromising performance that serious precision shooters demand.
Check Price on Amazon5) Zeiss V6 3-18×50 (Best Scope for Premium Optics Experience)
The Zeiss V6 3-18×50 embodies over 170 years of German optical expertise, representing the culmination of centuries of innovation in lens design and manufacturing. For 28 Nosler shooters who appreciate the finest things in life, the V6 delivers an optical experience that simply cannot be matched by conventional scopes. This is more than just a riflescope; it’s a precision instrument that transforms every hunting or shooting experience.
At the heart of the V6 lies Zeiss’s legendary SCHOTT HT glass, widely regarded as the finest optical glass in the world. This premium glass, combined with Zeiss’s proprietary T* coating system, produces light transmission rates that exceed 90% across the visible spectrum. The result is an image quality that must be experienced to be believed – colors appear more vivid, contrast is enhanced, and details that would be invisible through other scopes become clearly visible. For dawn and dusk hunting with the 28 Nosler, this optical advantage can make the difference between a successful hunt and going home empty-handed.
The V6’s mechanical design is equally impressive. The scope features Zeiss’s LotuTec coating on the exterior lenses, which causes water and debris to bead up and roll off, maintaining clear vision in challenging weather conditions. The internal adjustment mechanism is engineered to aerospace tolerances, ensuring that your adjustments are repeatable and precise shot after shot. This reliability becomes crucial when using the 28 Nosler for long-range hunting applications where a single shot opportunity may be all you get.
One of the V6’s most innovative features is its ASV+ ballistic turret system. This system allows for quick and accurate range adjustments that are specifically calibrated for your 28 Nosler’s ballistic profile. The system eliminates the guesswork from long-range shooting, allowing you to focus on reading wind and making the perfect shot rather than worrying about elevation calculations.
The scope’s construction reflects Zeiss’s commitment to creating heirloom-quality products. Every component is manufactured to the highest standards, with fit and finish that rivals the finest luxury goods. The V6 is built to provide a lifetime of service, making it an investment that will serve multiple generations of hunters and shooters.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-18x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 23.1 ounces |
| Length | 14.8 inches |
| Special Features | SCHOTT HT Glass, ASV+ Ballistic Turrets, LotuTec Coating |
Pros
- World-class SCHOTT HT glass for ultimate clarity
- ASV+ ballistic turret system for precise range adjustment
- LotuTec coating repels water and debris
- German engineering ensures lifetime reliability
- Exceptional build quality and attention to detail
- Outstanding low-light performance
Cons
- Premium German optics come with premium pricing
Elevate your shooting experience to new heights with the Zeiss V6 3-18×50. This scope represents the pinnacle of optical engineering, delivering the clarity and precision that will unlock your 28 Nosler’s full potential.
Check Price on AmazonConclusion
Selecting the best scope for your 28 Nosler is ultimately about matching optical performance with your specific shooting needs and budget requirements. Each of these five exceptional scopes brings unique strengths to the table, ensuring that there’s a perfect match regardless of your intended use. The 28 Nosler’s impressive ballistic capabilities deserve to be paired with optics that can fully utilize its long-range potential and exceptional accuracy.
For shooters who demand the absolute best in tactical precision and proven battlefield reliability, the Schmidt & Bender PM II 5-25×56 stands without peer. Its combination of optical excellence and mechanical precision makes it the choice of military professionals and competitive shooters worldwide. The Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 offers similar performance with innovative features like ZeroStop technology, making it ideal for precision shooting applications where returning to zero quickly is critical.
Hunters who prioritize versatility and value will find the Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 delivers premium performance at an accessible price point, backed by an industry-leading warranty that provides complete peace of mind. The scope’s wide magnification range makes it suitable for everything from close-range timber hunting to long-range precision work across open country.
The Leupold VX-6HD 3-18×50 represents the ideal choice for traditional hunters who value lightweight design without sacrificing optical performance. Its Twilight Max HD system extends effective shooting time during those critical dawn and dusk periods when trophy animals are most active. The Custom Dial System transforms complex ballistic calculations into simple dial adjustments, making long-range shots more accessible to hunters of all experience levels.
For those who appreciate the finest in German engineering and optical excellence, the Zeiss V6 3-18×50 delivers an unparalleled viewing experience that transforms every shooting session. Its SCHOTT HT glass and innovative ballistic turret system create a shooting experience that must be experienced to be believed.
Regardless of which scope you choose, pairing any of these exceptional optics with your 28 Nosler will unlock the cartridge’s full potential and provide you with a shooting system capable of taking game cleanly at distances that were once considered impossible.
See Also: 5 Best Budget 2-7x Scopes for Hunting
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