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Although the SKS is known as an easy-to-shoot, powerful and affordable rifle, it comes with a terrible sight (best used under 300 meters).
And to improve its effectiveness, you need to get an optic, particularly an SKS scope.
But how to find the best scopes for SKS rifles?
Follow us, and you will know now!
Quick Answer: Top 10 Best SKS Scopes/Optics
1. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
2. UTG 3-9X32 1" BugBuster Scope
3. Primary Arms 1-6X24mm SFP Scope
4. Aim Sports 4X32 Compact Rangfinder Scope with Rings
5. Pinty 3-9X40 Red Green Rangefinder Illuminated Optical Rifle Scope
6. Sniper Compact Rifle Scope 4x32 with Ring, Hunting Scope
7. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32 Scout Riflescope, Second Focal Plane
8. Leupold 110797 VX-2 3-9x40mm Compact Waterproof Fogproof Riflescope
(**If you don't have time for the details, you can click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.)
Things to Consider Before Buying the Best SKS Scopes
Since the SKS is neither a high-end rifle nor expensive, you can stick to low-cost or average scopes. Also, you need to determine your purpose and how you plan to shoot with it.
Of course, we will mention top scopes for SKS rifles.
But now we want to discuss some considerations that you MUST know for sure. From there, you easily make your decision.
Types of Scopes
Depending on your mounting setup, the kind of scope will be different.
People tend to select a forward mounted rail because of the top ejection port. Besides, the forward mount is much cheaper than a receiver mount.
However, this mount requires a dedicated scout scope.
Scout scopes come with a long eye relief that helps to move the scope farther. It also lets you shoot with both eyes, giving a better sight and broader view. Relying on that, you easily track moving targets.
Meanwhile, the traditional scope offers a high magnification range than the scout one (over 7x). And in this case, you need the receiver mount to attach this scope.
Magnification
How to find the suitable magnifying power of the SKS scope?
It’s best to opt for a magnification that is fit for the range of 300 yards.
If you’re using the 7.62x39mm rifle, 9x power is what you need. Anything more will make you meet troubles to get target fixation.
You even cannot see your target clearly when you want to perform a quick snapshot.
Objective Lens
The objective lens is placed on the far end of the scope. And the last number in the description of the scope is the size of the objective lens.
For instance, a scope with the number of 5.5-22x56mm will include a 56mm objective lens.
So, the bigger the number is, the better you can shoot in low light.
But all in all, the lens that is at least 50mm is highly suggested.
Reticle
Most of the scopes has coated optics and a sealed, nitrogen purged tube; meanwhile, the reticle can make the scope stand out.
In our opinion, you should find the illuminated reticle to help you determine targets in all lighting conditions.
Size and Weight
Since the SKS is a lightweight carbine with an intermediate round, you need to search for the scope that is lightweight and compact.
Relying on that, you won’t ruin the handling characteristics of this rifle and end up with a big package.
Warranty
The scope needs to have a decent warranty to reflect its quality. Avoid buying a scope from a brand that won’t offer service if it breaks.
A Guide of Mounting The Scope for SKS Rifles
The SKS rifle includes an open breech and force spent brass vertically out of the chamber. That means you need to have an offset to lift the height of the scope; that is a scope mount.
And make sure this mount is stable, durable, and secure.
So, how to mount your SKS scope?
Firstly, the scope or any attachment need to be securely fastened to the rifle with minimal movement. This ensures better shooting accuracy when firing.
And to guarantee that the mount is firmly attached, you have to understand the best techniques to mount the scope on the SKS.
Additionally, you need to place the scope according to the optic and mounting base so that it won’t get damaged when the rifle is shot from the ejection port.
Ways to Find a Suitable SKS Scope for Your Firing Style
Since the 7.62x39mm rifle being comparable in power to some 30-30 rounds, the SKS is mainly used as a deer cartridge in some places.
Also, you should notice practical considerations like loading with stripper clips. Or the problems of spent brass, modest magnification mounted on a secure, stable mount or a compact scope with fixed power are highly recommended.
NOTE that the SKS rifles aren’t designed for the sniper-like accuracy.
However, it’s good enough for your hunting.
Now, let’s turn back to what we mentioned from the beginning!
What you need at this time is to find one of the scopes to increase the accuracy of your SKS.
These best SKS scopes in our list below have been selected to fit the basic operational parameters and functionality the rifle is capable of.
Down here to see!
The 10 Best SKS Scopes/Optics Reviews
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The truth is that we are a BIG fan of Vortex Optics because of two things including innovative and value-driven. Their products come with high-quality feature and parts that support you best.
And here is the Strike Eagle 1-6x24.
This scope is made exclusively for precision shooting or bench rest. You can get everything including 30mm tube, an illuminated reticle, and a single glass on a carbine.
But what makes us love this product is its magnification. Ranging from 1x to 6x, it offers a high-quality and multi-coated lens for clear sight and optimal low light performance.
Wonderfully, you can try pairing it with the glass-etched BDC reticle and then you can shoot further than the 7.62x39mm rifle.
Is there anything else?
Well, the Strike Eagle from Vortex Optics has the fast focus dial on the eyepiece to keep your reticle sharp. More importantly, it guarantees reliability in all weather conditions.
How about a warranty?
This product DOES come with Vortex lifetime warranty. But you might never need it because you might destroy your rifle before damaging the scope.
Pros
Cons
The Best SKS Scopes and Optics have sophisticated features that are upper user-friendly. This model will surely grab your attention. This can be mounted with the help of a Picatinny rail. This scope is very compatible with assault rifles.
Unlike most other scopes that are sold in the market, this offers parallax-free pictures starting from 3 yards up to infinity. The adjustments on this scope are quite sophisticated. Users will face no problem performing a rotation with the ring to achieve the desired magnification.
You will be happy to know that this scope is rainproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. The dual green and red illumination and an above-average eye relief make this a perfect choice for any shooter. This comes with lens cap with flip-open lids and removable rings.
This is one scope that should not be given a miss for anything in the world. In terms of quality, the construction is mighty strong and it will last for a long time. With so many beautiful features, it hard to stop yourself from acquiring this excellent device.
Pros
Cons
Although Primary Arms is a new kid in the firearm industry, this company is famous for their top optics for the rifles.
Among, the Primary Arms 1-6x24mm SFP scope is what you need, guys.
For this product, all the lenses are multi-coated. These coatings are vital for gathering and transmitting light. So, the result is that you can get sharper and brighter images.
Having the second focal plane design is also a BIG point. It’s because this kind of design offers better performance at all times.
Even if you alter the power, the reticle of the scope remains the same size. And this is good for getting fast target acquisition and better accuracy.
The eye relief of this model is rather impressive (from 3.3 to 3.5 inches). That means the scope will dig into your eye socket every time you shoot.
Additionally, its aluminum body construction is anodized a hard finish, offering better durability and excellent weather resistance.
Of course, Primary Arms offers a great lifetime warranty for any defect of workmanship or materials.
Pros
Cons
Are you game for acquiring a compact scope that will make your hunting experience a pleasurable one? Have a look at this model, this is nothing short of technological brilliance.
Packed with delightful elements, and backed by reliable performance, this is a must-have for all hunting enthusiasts.
The reticle on this is very useful as it gives you the advantage of zooming in on your target for a long-range shot. This also helps you locate your target in half the time. It boasts of premium optics which is also one of the reasons as to why this is on everyone’s list.
The construction is rock-solid, and yes, this will be of service to you for many years down the road. The durable aluminum body gives you that reassurance time and again.
Well, it is time to add this to your shopping list with further ado.
Pros
Cons
Don’t want to stay stuck with a rickety product? Good for you, now is the time for you to make that switch and start using this product. There is no doubt that this scope can help you improve your shooting expertise by a couple of notches.
The scope has a generous magnification that goes up to 9x; this is quite impressive as compared to the other scopes. The Achromatic eyepiece is what facilitates smooth magnification, thereby allowing you to locate your target fast.
Worried about the durability? The best thing is that this is made from quality materials that add to the strength of the product. The scope is fog-proof, shockproof, and waterproof. The reticle has green and red illumination. There are five different settings to adjust the intensity of the brightness.
The rangefinder on the reticle allows for accurate shooting for different distances. So by now, you are well versed with the fabulous aspects of this scope. It is time that you add this to your list. This could very well be your new best friend on your shooting adventures.
Pros
Cons
Were you looking for a substantial scope without having to pay a bomb? This is what you should be looking at. With this scope, you will be able to get the best out of every shot that you fire.
Though this may be a basic model, it does pack in quite a performance that leaves you anything but disappointed.
Want to enhance your level of expertise? The rangefinder on the reticle gives you the thrill of achieving accuracy for long-range shooting.
As for the elevation and windage they are adjustable at the turn of a knob. The good thing is you do not need any dedicated tool to make modifications.
The scope has a magnification fixed at 4x, and the lens diameter is 32mm. The lenses have been given a distinctive coating that aids in brilliant transmission of light, giving the users clear pictures.
Expect this to last for a long time as it boasts of a solid build made from premium materials.
Pros
Cons
Are you passionate about shooting or hunting? You might take a look at this neat scope. This has gained quite a bit of popularity based on its reliability and popularity. This has all the features that any gun lover would dream of finding in a scope.
Made from strong aluminum, this shows no signs of wearing out prematurely. So, do consider giving this a shot as it does not fail by a long shot.
Clearly, the manufacturer has left no stones unturned while incorporating some major improvements in its design. The scope has turrets which can be reset, this is a very positive aspect of the scope. This has O-ring seals that make the scope fog-proof, and waterproof.
The eye relief measures about 9.45 inches, and it does a brilliant job in helping you locate your target. So, you have gathered that this scope has many features which help you out on your hunting trips.
This scope has been tried out by many professionals and it passed with flying colors.
Pros
Cons
Similar to Vortex Optics, Leupold has been a popular company when it comes to best SKS rifle scopes on the market. And if you are interested in this brand, you cannot go wrong with the Leupold 110797 VX-2.
One of the first brilliant points that we extremely love is its high-quality built.
This scope is made of 6061 T6 aircraft grade aluminum, giving a sturdy construction as well as a minimal weight. Also, it’s filled with a blend of Krypton and Argon, which makes it resistant to fog and waterproof.
The next best thing is all about delivering clear and bright images. With great light transmission of up to 94%, the quality of images is significantly improved.
Moreover, the VX-2 is equipped with multicolored optics, allowing you to use even in poorly lit zones. And thanks to DiamondCoat lens coatings, the glasses will be scratch-resistant to prevent visible damages.
With the ¼ MOA finger click adjustments, you can easily make quick changes by your fingers without using additional tools.
And you never worry about defective or damaged scopes since Leupold offers an excellent lifetime guarantee.
Pros
Cons
If you want a scope that is easy to use then you could very well settle with this one. This has controls that are super easy to use at all times. The controls are al digitals so you can dial up your desired settings in a jiffy.
When it comes to the longevity of the product, it must be added that it is made of robust magnesium alloy. That just proves the manufacturer likes to give customers the best for their money. This durable scope will stop you from going out and seeking a replacement for quite a few years.
Unlike other scopes, this does not consume too much battery and can provide performance close to 1,000 hours. The specially created hood offers sufficient protection against recoil. The lenses feature a parallax correction technique that offers a great deal of accuracy.
The scope comes 8 settings to control the brightness during the day and 6 settings to control the intensity during the night. This is the coolest scope in the market right now.
Pros
Cons
Lock on to your target faster than ever with this scope. If you are looking for the Best SKS Scopes and Optics then do not give this compact scope a miss.
This created to help you get the very best out of your gun and make each shot count. This features digital controls located very conveniently at the rear, and they user-friendly too.
The construction is rugged and built to last. The body is made from premium grade aluminum, so you can be assured that it can withstand impact and go without sustaining a dent. The scope is fog-proof, waterproof, and shockproof.
The O-rings are nitrogen purged and decently hold things together.
The good thing is that this has ten different settings to tweak the levels of brightness. The lenses have multiple coatings that allow proper light transmission. The windage and elevation can be adjusted to the fullest.
If you take a look at the features you will realize that the possibilities with this scope are endless.
Pros
Cons
Let’s Make Your Decision!
As long as you follow us from the beginning, finding the best scopes for SKS rifles is not a challenge.
Among the ten listed above, we highly suggest the Leupold 110797 VX-2 scope. This model boasts one of the brightest and durable scopes in the firearm field. And importantly, it comes with an affordable price if you have a tight budget.
It’s time to get your hands on an excellent scope and enjoy your next hunting with your SKS rifle! Be fun!
Read more: Best SKS Mods
I am Jerry Gonzalez, and my heart beats for the great outdoors, especially in the breathtaking landscapes of Helena, Montana. Engaging with fellow enthusiasts online and at local hunting clubs has been a rewarding experience, and I find great joy in sharing knowledge and experiences with like-minded individuals. My goal is to empower my fellow hunters with well-informed choices, regardless of their experience level.