Finding the best scope for gunsite scout rifle requires understanding what makes this platform unique and why Jeff Cooper’s scout rifle concept revolutionized practical rifle design. The Ruger Gunsite Scout Rifle embodies Cooper’s vision of a versatile, general-purpose rifle that handles everything from hunting to defense with equal capability. Chambered in .308 Winchester and featuring a forward-mounted Picatinny rail, this rifle demands optics that complement its scout rifle doctrine rather than fight against it.
Jeff Cooper developed the scout rifle concept in the 1980s, establishing specific criteria that defined the ideal general-purpose bolt-action rifle. The rifle needed to weigh under seven pounds, measure no longer than one meter, and most importantly, mount low-power optics forward of the action. This forward mounting position allows the shooter to maintain situational awareness with both eyes open while still having magnified aiming capability when needed. The Gunsite Scout Rifle honors these principles while incorporating modern manufacturing quality and features that make it accessible to everyday shooters.
What makes scope selection critical for the Gunsite Scout is the forward rail mounting position. Unlike traditional rifle scopes mounted over the action, scout scopes sit ahead of the ejection port and require extended eye relief typically ranging from 9 to 11 inches. This positioning initially feels unconventional to shooters accustomed to traditional scope placement, but it offers significant advantages in the field. You can load the rifle from stripper clips without removing the scope from your face, maintain peripheral vision for situational awareness, and achieve rapid target acquisition that rivals iron sights while gaining magnification benefits.
The ideal scout scope combines long eye relief with moderate magnification, typically in the 2-7x range, though some shooters prefer fixed power optics for simplicity and reliability. The forward position means you’re looking through the scope at a different angle than conventional mounting, which affects how you perceive the sight picture and field of view.
Quality scout scopes account for this with optical designs optimized for extended eye relief use, providing clear, bright images without the tunneling effect that plagues poorly designed long eye relief optics. Weight matters significantly since every ounce added forward of the action affects the rifle’s balance and handling characteristics that make the scout concept so effective. In this guide, we’ll explore five outstanding scopes specifically suited to maximize the Gunsite Scout Rifle’s unique capabilities.
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Name | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Leupold FX-II Scout 2.5x28mm | Fixed 2.5x magnification, 9.4-15.7 inch eye relief, Duplex reticle, compact design | [Link] |
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Burris Scout 2-7x32mm | Variable 2-7x magnification, Ballistic Plex reticle, 9-21 inch eye relief, Hi-Lume coating | [Link] |
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Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Scout | Scout configuration, V-Plex reticle, 9.5-23.6 inch eye relief, fully multi-coated | [Link] |
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Nikon Monarch 1.5-6x42mm | Wide magnification range, 6.5-11 inch eye relief, BDC reticle, quick focus eyepiece | [Link] |
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Bushnell Elite Tactical LRTS 1-6.5x24mm | Illuminated BTR-2 reticle, first focal plane, 3.6-3.9 inch eye relief, tactical turrets | [Link] |
These five scopes represent the best options for the Gunsite Scout Rifle, each bringing unique characteristics that complement the scout rifle concept. From classic fixed-power designs to modern variable optics, you’ll find a scope here that matches your shooting philosophy and field requirements. Let’s examine what makes each of these optics exceptional for forward-mounted scout rifle applications.
1) Leupold FX-II Scout 2.5x28mm (Best Scope for Gunsite Scout Rifle Overall)
The Leupold FX-II Scout 2.5x28mm represents the purest interpretation of the scout scope concept, delivering exactly what Jeff Cooper envisioned when he developed the scout rifle doctrine. This fixed-power scope eliminates unnecessary complexity, providing bulletproof reliability and optical excellence that has made it the gold standard among scout rifle enthusiasts for over two decades.
What immediately sets the FX-II Scout apart is its purpose-built design specifically for forward mounting positions. The 9.4 to 15.7 inch eye relief range is precisely calibrated for scout rail placement, allowing comfortable shooting from various positions without scope shadow or eye relief issues that plague conventional scopes pressed into scout service. The fixed 2.5x magnification represents the sweet spot identified by Cooper himself—enough magnification to identify targets clearly and make precise shots out to 300 yards, yet low enough to maintain situational awareness and rapid target acquisition that makes the scout rifle concept so practical.
The optical system is pure Leupold quality, featuring the Multicoat 4 lens system that maximizes light transmission while virtually eliminating glare and reflections. The 28mm objective lens is sized perfectly for the application, gathering adequate light for dawn and dusk shooting without adding unnecessary bulk or weight forward of the action. Image quality is outstanding with excellent edge-to-edge clarity, natural color rendition, and contrast that helps separate targets from backgrounds in varied lighting conditions. The simple Duplex reticle is ideal for the scout rifle concept—clean, uncluttered, and instantly visible against any background.
Mechanically, the FX-II Scout is built to withstand anything you can throw at it. The one-piece tube is machined from aircraft-grade aluminum, providing exceptional strength while keeping weight to just 8.7 ounces. The scope maintains its waterproof and fog-proof integrity across extreme temperature ranges from Arctic cold to desert heat. The adjustment system offers precise 1/4 MOA clicks, though most shooters zero this scope and trust it for the rifle’s service life. Leupold’s legendary reliability means this scope will maintain zero through thousands of rounds and years of hard field use.
The FX-II Scout preserves the Gunsite Scout Rifle’s quick-handling characteristics that make it such an effective field rifle. Unlike heavier, more complex scopes that can make the rifle front-heavy and slow to maneuver, the FX-II maintains the balance and pointability that define the scout rifle concept. Whether you’re tracking game through thick brush, engaging targets at varied distances, or simply appreciating the elegance of a perfectly matched rifle and scope combination, the FX-II Scout delivers exactly what the platform demands without compromise.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2.5x (Fixed) |
| Objective Lens | 28mm |
| Reticle Type | Duplex |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Eye Relief | 9.4-15.7 inches |
| Adjustment Graduation | 1/4 MOA |
| Length | 8.6 inches |
| Weight | 8.7 oz |
Pros
- Purpose-built scout scope design optimized specifically for forward mounting positions
- Exceptional optical quality delivering clear, bright images across all lighting conditions
- Perfect magnification for scout rifle applications from close range to 300+ yards
- Legendary Leupold reliability proven across decades of hard field use
- Lightweight construction preserves rifle balance and handling characteristics
- Lifetime warranty backed by Leupold’s outstanding customer service reputation
Cons
- Fixed magnification lacks the versatility of variable power scopes for shooters wanting zoom options
When you mount a Leupold FX-II Scout on your Gunsite Scout Rifle, you’re creating the rifle-scope combination that Jeff Cooper envisioned when he developed the scout rifle concept. This pairing has proven itself in the hands of hunters, guides, and practical riflemen worldwide who trust their success to equipment that works every single time. Whether you’re hunting elk in the mountains or defending your homestead, this combination delivers the precision, reliability, and rapid effectiveness that defines the scout rifle doctrine at its finest.
Check Price on Amazon2) Burris Scout 2-7x32mm (Best Variable Magnification Scope for Gunsite Scout Rifle)
The Burris Scout 2-7x32mm brings variable magnification versatility to the scout rifle platform without compromising the extended eye relief essential for forward mounting. This scope has become the choice of hunters and shooters who appreciate the adaptability that variable power provides while maintaining the rapid handling characteristics that make scout rifles so effective in dynamic field conditions.
Burris specifically engineered the Scout series for extended eye relief applications, resulting in an impressive 9 to 21 inch eye relief range that accommodates the Gunsite Scout’s forward rail position perfectly. This extended eye relief remains consistent throughout the magnification range, meaning you can dial from 2x to 7x without repositioning your head or losing your sight picture. At 2x, the wide field of view facilitates rapid target acquisition for close-range work in heavy cover, while 7x provides enough magnification for precise shot placement on distant game or targets.
The Ballistic Plex reticle adds practical functionality for hunters who engage game at varying distances. The fine crosshair center provides a precise aiming point for careful shots, while the lower stadia lines offer holdover references calibrated for common hunting cartridge trajectories. With .308 Winchester, these holdover points work remarkably well once you’ve confirmed them at the range with your specific ammunition. The reticle remains visible without being overly bold, striking an excellent balance between precision and visibility across lighting conditions.
Optically, the Scout delivers impressive performance with Hi-Lume multicoating on all air-to-glass surfaces that maximizes light transmission and provides crisp, clear images. The 32mm objective is sized appropriately for scout mounting, gathering sufficient light for effective hunting during dawn and dusk without creating excessive bulk. Color rendition is natural and contrast is good, helping you distinguish targets against varied backgrounds. The optical system maintains consistent image quality across the magnification range without the edge distortion that affects cheaper variable scopes.
The construction emphasizes durability while keeping weight reasonable at 12.2 ounces. The one-piece tube provides strength and maintains zero reliably through the .308’s recoil. The waterproof and fog-proof design protects internal elements in harsh weather, while the relatively compact 9.7-inch length keeps the scope from extending too far forward on the rail. The magnification ring operates smoothly with positive detents, and the adjustment turrets offer crisp 1/4 MOA clicks. Burris backs this scope with their Forever Warranty that covers any defects or damage for life.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2-7x |
| Objective Lens | 32mm |
| Reticle Type | Ballistic Plex |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Eye Relief | 9-21 inches |
| Adjustment Graduation | 1/4 MOA |
| Length | 9.7 inches |
| Weight | 12.2 oz |
Pros
- Variable magnification provides versatility for different shooting distances and situations
- Excellent extended eye relief perfectly suited for scout rail mounting
- Ballistic Plex reticle offers practical holdover references for hunting applications
- Quality optics delivering clear images with good light transmission
- Durable construction proven reliable across multiple platforms and calibers
- Forever Warranty provides lifetime coverage for peace of mind
Cons
- Heavier than fixed power options which slightly affects the rifle’s forward balance and handling
The Burris Scout 2-7x32mm transforms your Gunsite Scout Rifle into a truly versatile hunting and shooting platform that adapts to whatever conditions you encounter. From jump-shooting whitetails in thick timber to carefully stalking pronghorn across open prairie, this scope gives you the magnification flexibility to excel in any scenario. If you want a single scope that handles everything from 50 to 400 yards with equal capability, the Burris Scout delivers the adaptability and performance that maximizes your rifle’s practical effectiveness.
Check Price on Amazon3) Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Scout (Best Budget Scout Scope for Gunsite Scout Rifle)
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Scout delivers remarkable performance at a price point that makes quality scout optics accessible to every Gunsite Scout Rifle owner. Vortex has built a reputation for punching above their weight class, and this scout scope exemplifies their commitment to providing shooters with premium features and solid reliability without requiring a premium investment.
What makes the Crossfire II Scout particularly appealing is how Vortex packed genuine scout scope functionality into an affordable package that doesn’t compromise on the features that matter. The generous 9.5 to 23.6 inch eye relief range is among the most forgiving in any scout scope, accommodating the forward rail position comfortably while providing flexibility for shooters with different facial structures and shooting styles. The 2-7x magnification range covers the ideal scout scope spectrum, offering close-range capability at low power and sufficient magnification for precise medium-range work.
The fully multi-coated lenses represent a standout feature in this price category. While budget scopes often skimp on lens coatings, resulting in dim images and reduced contrast, Vortex applies quality coatings to all air-to-glass surfaces in the Crossfire II. The result is bright, clear images with natural color reproduction and good resolution that rivals scopes costing significantly more. The V-Plex reticle is clean and functional, featuring a fine center crosshair surrounded by heavier posts that remain visible even in challenging lighting or against busy backgrounds.
The mechanical design prioritizes reliability and user-friendliness. The one-piece tube construction provides the structural integrity necessary for maintaining zero through extended shooting sessions and field use. The fast focus eyepiece allows quick reticle adjustment without tools, and the magnification ring turns smoothly throughout its range. The adjustment turrets provide crisp 1/4 MOA clicks with good tactile feedback, making zeroing straightforward and adjustment tracking reliable. At 14.3 ounces, it’s noticeably heavier than dedicated fixed-power scout scopes, but the weight penalty buys you magnification versatility.
What truly elevates the Crossfire II above its price point is Vortex’s VIP warranty, which is simply unmatched in the optics industry. This unlimited, unconditional lifetime warranty covers any damage, defects, or issues regardless of cause and transfers to future owners. Drop your scope on a rock? Vortex fixes or replaces it. Develop an internal issue after years of use? Vortex handles it without question. This warranty provides peace of mind that your investment is protected for life, making the already impressive value proposition even more compelling.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2-7x |
| Objective Lens | 32mm |
| Reticle Type | V-Plex (MOA) |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Eye Relief | 9.5-23.6 inches |
| Adjustment Graduation | 1/4 MOA |
| Length | 11.6 inches |
| Weight | 14.3 oz |
Pros
- Exceptional value providing premium features at budget-friendly pricing
- Outstanding eye relief range among the most forgiving for scout mounting
- Quality glass with fully multi-coated lenses delivering clear, bright images
- Versatile magnification handling close to medium-range shooting effectively
- Industry-leading VIP warranty with unlimited lifetime coverage
- Reliable performance backed by Vortex’s proven track record
Cons
- Heavier than dedicated scout scopes affecting rifle balance more than lightweight fixed-power options
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Scout proves that shooters on a budget don’t need to settle for subpar optics or compromise on essential features. This scope has earned praise from countless Gunsite Scout owners who discovered they could equip their rifle with genuine scout scope capability without stretching their budget. Whether you’re outfitting your first scout rifle or adding capability to your existing setup, the Crossfire II delivers the performance, versatility, and warranty protection that makes it an easy recommendation for value-conscious shooters.
Check Price on Amazon4) Nikon Monarch 1.5-6x42mm (Best Wide Range Scout Scope for Gunsite Scout Rifle)
The Nikon Monarch 1.5-6x42mm brings a different perspective to scout rifle optics with its ultra-wide magnification range that extends capability both lower and higher than traditional scout scopes. While not marketed specifically as a scout scope, the Monarch’s eye relief and optical excellence make it a compelling choice for Gunsite Scout owners who want maximum versatility from their optic.
The magnification range is what sets the Monarch apart in scout rifle applications. At 1.5x, this scope approaches true red dot speed for target acquisition while maintaining the benefits of a magnified optic and traditional reticle. This low-end capability excels for close-range situations where you need to engage targets quickly, whether tracking wounded game in heavy cover or handling defensive scenarios where speed matters more than precision. Dial it up to 6x and you have sufficient magnification for careful shots at extended distances that push the practical limits of the scout rifle concept.
The eye relief of 6.5 to 11 inches sits at the shorter end for scout mounting but remains workable on the Gunsite Scout’s forward rail with careful positioning. The larger 42mm objective delivers exceptional light-gathering capability that extends your effective shooting window well into dawn and dusk conditions. This light transmission advantage becomes particularly noticeable when hunting during the magic hours when game is most active. The BDC reticle provides holdover references that work well with .308 Winchester once you’ve confirmed the holdpoints at various distances.
Nikon’s optical reputation is well-earned, and the Monarch series showcases their expertise with fully multicoated lenses that deliver outstanding clarity, resolution, and color fidelity. The image quality is simply excellent with bright, crisp views that reveal fine details at distance. The quick focus eyepiece allows rapid reticle adjustment, and the magnification ring operates smoothly with positive detents. The optical performance remains consistent across the entire magnification range without the clarity loss or edge distortion that affects lesser scopes.
The construction is robust with a one-piece tube that maintains zero reliably and waterproof, fog-proof seals that protect internal components. At 14.8 ounces, the Monarch is among the heavier scout scope options, and the 42mm objective adds noticeable weight forward of the action. This weight affects the rifle’s quick-handling characteristics somewhat, though the trade-off brings substantial optical benefits. Nikon backs the Monarch with their excellent limited lifetime warranty, providing assurance of quality and company support.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 1.5-6x |
| Objective Lens | 42mm |
| Reticle Type | BDC |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Eye Relief | 6.5-11 inches |
| Adjustment Graduation | 1/4 MOA |
| Length | 11.5 inches |
| Weight | 14.8 oz |
Pros
- Ultra-wide magnification range from near red dot speed to precision magnification
- Exceptional optical quality with Nikon’s renowned glass and coatings
- Large objective providing superior light gathering for low-light shooting
- BDC reticle offers practical holdover references for .308 Winchester
- Versatile capability handling close-range speed and distance precision equally
- Outstanding image clarity revealing fine details for target identification
Cons
- Eye relief on the shorter side for scout mounting requiring careful positioning on the rail
The Nikon Monarch 1.5-6x42mm offers a unique proposition for Gunsite Scout owners who prioritize optical excellence and maximum magnification versatility over traditional scout scope conventions. This scope excels when you need both close-range capability and extended distance precision from a single optic. If your shooting demands range from thick timber whitetails to open country mule deer, and you value supreme optical quality, the Monarch delivers performance that extends your effective range while maintaining the adaptability that makes scout rifles so practical.
Check Price on Amazon5) Bushnell Elite Tactical LRTS 1-6.5x24mm (Best Tactical Scout Scope for Gunsite Scout Rifle)
The Bushnell Elite Tactical LRTS 1-6.5x24mm represents a modern tactical approach to scout rifle optics, bringing first focal plane technology and illuminated reticles to the platform. While this scope stretches the traditional scout rifle doctrine with its shorter eye relief and tactical features, it offers compelling capabilities for shooters who want to maximize the Gunsite Scout’s versatility for tactical and competitive applications.
What immediately distinguishes the LRTS is its true 1x capability combined with an illuminated BTR-2 reticle that provides genuine red dot speed at minimum magnification. With both eyes open at 1x, target acquisition is lightning fast with no tunneling effect or loss of situational awareness. The illumination is daylight bright and offers multiple intensity settings, allowing you to balance visibility against battery life. As you increase magnification toward 6.5x, the first focal plane reticle scales proportionally, maintaining accurate subtensions for holdovers and wind corrections at any power setting.
The BTR-2 reticle is a sophisticated Christmas tree-style design that provides extensive information for wind holds and trajectory compensation. While more complex than traditional scout scope reticles, tactical shooters quickly learn to extract exactly the information they need without distraction. The numbered mil lines and wind holds facilitate precise shooting at distance and rapid communication when shooting with partners. The reticle design represents a significant departure from Jeff Cooper’s simplicity doctrine, but it brings capabilities that extend the platform’s practical effectiveness.
Optically, the LRTS delivers excellent performance with Ultra Wide Band coating technology that enhances light transmission across the visible spectrum. The 24mm objective keeps the scope compact and relatively lightweight at 18.5 ounces, though this represents the heaviest option in our lineup. The image quality is crisp with good color rendition and contrast. The 3.6 to 3.9 inch eye relief is considerably shorter than traditional scout scopes, requiring mounting over or very near the rear of the forward rail to achieve proper eye relief. This positioning somewhat compromises the stripper clip loading advantage of scout mounting.
The exposed tactical turrets offer precise 0.1 mil adjustments with excellent tactile feedback, and they track accurately for dialing elevation and windage corrections. The side parallax adjustment is positioned for easy reach. The one-piece tube construction is extremely robust, and the scope maintains its waterproof integrity even under demanding tactical use. Bushnell backs the Elite Tactical series with a lifetime warranty that demonstrates their confidence in the scope’s reliability.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 1-6.5x |
| Objective Lens | 24mm |
| Reticle Type | Illuminated BTR-2 (First Focal Plane) |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.6-3.9 inches |
| Adjustment Graduation | 0.1 mil |
| Length | 10.3 inches |
| Weight | 18.5 oz |
Pros
- True 1x capability providing red dot-like target acquisition speed
- First focal plane reticle maintaining accurate subtensions at any magnification
- Illuminated reticle effective across all lighting conditions from bright daylight to darkness
- Tactical turrets offering precise adjustments with reliable tracking
- Sophisticated BTR-2 reticle providing extensive holdover and wind correction information
- Robust construction proven reliable in demanding tactical applications
Cons
- Short eye relief requires mounting position that compromises traditional scout rifle advantages
The Bushnell Elite Tactical LRTS 1-6.5x24mm appeals to Gunsite Scout owners who view their rifle through a tactical or competitive lens rather than strictly adhering to traditional scout doctrine. This scope transforms the platform into a modern tactical rifle capable of engaging targets from contact distance to several hundred yards with precision. If you’re running your Scout in three-gun competitions, using it for tactical training, or simply want cutting-edge technology on a classic platform, the LRTS delivers capabilities that expand what’s possible with this versatile rifle.
Check Price on AmazonConclusion
Selecting the best scope for your Gunsite Scout Rifle ultimately depends on whether you embrace the traditional scout rifle doctrine or prefer to adapt the platform to modern shooting demands. Each scope we’ve examined brings distinct advantages, from the pure scout simplicity of the Leupold FX-II to the tactical sophistication of the Bushnell LRTS. What unites all these optics is their ability to enhance the Gunsite Scout’s practical effectiveness while respecting the rifle’s intended purpose as a versatile, general-purpose tool.
The Gunsite Scout Rifle represents one of the most thoughtfully designed production rifles available, embodying Jeff Cooper’s vision of the ideal practical rifle for hunters, ranchers, and citizens who need a single rifle that handles varied tasks competently. When you mount the right optic on this platform, you create a rifle system capable of performance that exceeds what most shooters imagine possible from a general-purpose bolt gun. The extended eye relief and forward mounting position initially feel unconventional, but most shooters quickly appreciate the advantages in terms of situational awareness, rapid target acquisition, and practical field handling.
Traditional scout scope enthusiasts gravitate toward fixed-power optics like the Leupold FX-II that honor Cooper’s original vision with simplicity and bulletproof reliability. Modern shooters often prefer variable magnification that provides adaptability across different scenarios, accepting modest weight increases for enhanced versatility. Your choice should reflect your predominant shooting applications, personal preferences regarding complexity versus simplicity, and whether you value tradition or modern capability more highly.
Regardless of which scope you choose, proper mounting with quality rings and careful positioning on the forward rail will reward you with a rifle system that handles beautifully and shoots accurately. The Gunsite Scout Rifle with appropriate optics becomes more than just another bolt-action rifle—it transforms into a trusted tool that accompanies you across hunting camps, shooting ranges, and anywhere you need a capable, reliable rifle. Mount your chosen scope securely, zero it carefully, and prepare to discover why the scout rifle concept has earned devoted followers worldwide who understand that sometimes the most practical solution is also the most elegant.
See Also: 5 Best Quick Detach Scope Mounts
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