Selecting the right handgun scope can significantly enhance your accuracy and effectiveness, whether for competitive shooting, hunting, or personal defense. A well-chosen optic provides a clear sight picture and reliable performance in various conditions. Investing time in understanding key features will lead to a more satisfying and successful shooting experience.
- 2-7x32mm provides handgun shooters a wide, flexible range
- 2x low end magnification offers quick target acquisition and a very large field of view
- 7x zoom at the top provides accuracy at handgun stretching distances
- 200279 uses the Ballistic Plex reticle, in matte black
- Built on true strength platform, completely sealed and Nitrogen filled, shockproof, Fogproof, and rainproof
- UP to 25 inch of Eye relief allowing for effective Use on handguns
- Projectile drop compensation reticle assists Shooting at difference distances
- Adjustable power pistol scope
- 1 inch tube
- Long eye relief
- Solid one piece tube
- 2-7 variable power
- 2-7x32 scope for pistols;1/4 MOA click value
- 25 MOA windage and elevation adjustment range
- 1" diameter tube
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof contruction
- Features the Ballistic Plex reticle, the most simple, effective, and elegant trajectory-compensating reticle for hunting
- Long-range accuracy in a simple design that’s easy to use
- Can be matched with any caliber or bullet weight
- Compact designed for handgun hunters who need a robust scope to handle the harshest recoil
- Burris Forever
- Designed for handgun hunters who need a robust scope to handle the harshest recoil
- Long eye relief, ideal when hunting with a powerful handgun
- High-grade optical glass for excellent brightness and clarity and lasting durability
- Quality, precision-ground lenses are larger than comparable scopes for better light transmission
- Magnification: 2.5x objective dia. (Mm) 30.00
- Plex reticle (non-illuminated)
- Lens Coating: blue
- Long Eye relief for extended mounting capability
- Made by NcStar
- Includes the pistolero series
- Generous 30 millimeter objective size produces bright images
- Burris 200291 handgun scope
- 2-7X32mm, plex, matte, 1 inch tube
- Free at 100 yds. This product is manufactured in United States
- Tested for complete quality and reliability
- Zoom power from 2x-7x
- Long eye relief for use in pistol target shooting or forward mounting on scout rifles
- Fine line 4plex reticle
- Attractive silver chrome finish
- Matching weaver mounting rings included
This article is part of our complete guide Fishing & Hunting — browse all our comparisons and buying guides.
Last update on 2026-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How to Choose the Best Handgun Scopes
Magnification Needs
Consider the intended use of your handgun scope. For close-range defense or general plinking, lower magnification (1-4x) is often sufficient, allowing for a wider field of view and faster target acquisition. For longer-range shooting, such as hunting or precision target practice, higher magnification (4-12x or more) becomes beneficial to identify targets and make precise aiming decisions. Variable magnification offers versatility, adapting to different shooting scenarios.
Objective Lens Diameter
The objective lens is the front lens of the scope. A larger objective lens (e.g., 32mm, 40mm) gathers more light, resulting in a brighter image, especially in low-light conditions like dawn or dusk. However, larger lenses can add weight and bulk to the handgun. For most applications, a balanced size between 20mm and 32mm offers a good compromise between light-gathering capability and portability.
Reticle Types
Reticles come in various designs, each suited for different purposes. Simple crosshairs offer a clean aiming point. Dot reticles, especially illuminated ones, are excellent for quick target acquisition in any lighting. Bullet drop compensating (BDC) reticles feature markings to help estimate holdover for different distances, useful for long-range shooting. Choose a reticle that complements your shooting style and the distances you typically engage targets.
Durability and Mounting
Handgun scopes must be robust enough to withstand recoil. Look for scopes built with durable materials like aircraft-grade aluminum and sealed construction for water and fog resistance. Ensure the scope you choose is compatible with your handgun's mounting system. Common mounting options include Weaver or Picatinny rails, so verify the scope's mount type matches your firearm's receiver or accessory rail.