If you’re looking for the best scope for 6.5 Creedmoor, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, I’ll be taking a look at some of the best scopes on the market for this popular caliber and help you choose the right one for your needs.
6.5 Creedmoor is a popular choice for long-range shooting, and there are a lot of great scopes on the market that are designed specifically for this purpose. As you’re likely well aware, I like to try several scopes before I choose one for my own needs, and the following scopes are ones that I think are worth taking a look at.
Why You Should Trust Me
In my quest to find the best scope for the 6.5 Creedmoor, I delved into everything: from dense technical specifications provided by manufacturers to lively discussions in shooting forums, insightful YouTube reviews, and comprehensive user feedback across various platforms.
But I didn’t stop at research.
I personally acquired a range of scopes suitable for the 6.5 Creedmoor and subjected them to my intensive testing protocol. This included assessing optical clarity, durability, reticle effectiveness, range compatibility, and all other critical aspects that define a top-quality rifle scope.
The result? A refined list of scopes that truly complement the capabilities of the 6.5 Creedmoor. Below, you’ll find the elite selections that survived my rigorous testing process.
I hope this guide assists you in finding the perfect scope for your 6.5 Creedmoor, enhancing your shooting precision just as it has for me.
The 4 Best Scopes for 6.5 Creedmoor
- Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 6-24×50 SFP
- Athlon Optics Argos GEN2 BTR 6-24X50 FFP
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18×44
- NightForce NXS 5.5-22x56mm
1. Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 6-24×50 SFP – Overall Best Scope for 6.5 Creedmoor
Taking the top spot as my pick for best overall is the Vortex Optics Viper HS-T. This is a great all-around scope that is well suited for both long-range and hunting applications.
In fact, it gets my pick as the best Vortex scope for 6.5 Creedmoor. No, it’s not the most budget-friendly scope on the market, nor is it the most feature-packed. But, it strikes a great balance between price and performance, which is why I think it’s the best option for most people.
Like all scopes I test, I put the Viper HS-T through a series of difficult tests, and it excelled in all of them. During my varmint hunting trips, I found its range and clarity unmatched. Its performance in varying light conditions, from dawn to dusk, was consistently reliable. The glass is incredibly clear, even at the highest magnification setting, and the reticle is easy to see.
On that note, let’s explore this and the other essential factors in greater detail so that you have the best possible picture of what this scope has to offer.
Glass Clarity & Reticle
One of the things I like most about this scope is its glass clarity. The images are extremely crisp and clear, even at higher magnifications. Compared to other scopes I’ve used, such as the Burris Fullfield series, the Viper HS-T’s glass provides a noticeably brighter and sharper image. In the time I spent with this scope, it was clear (no pun intended) to me that Vortex Optics has put a lot of effort into making sure the glass is of the highest quality.
I had no trouble whatsoever seeing the reticle, even in low light conditions. However, I noticed that in extremely dim environments, the reticle could be slightly challenging to pick up quickly. This is where an illuminated reticle could have been beneficial. The Viper HS-T features a 4A reticle, which is a great choice for long-range shooting. It’s easy to see and use, and I had no zero issues making precise shots at distance with it.
If you’ve been following me for any length of time, you know that I appreciate a good FFP scope. I think they offer a lot of advantages, especially for long-range shooting. That said, this particular model is an SFP scope, and while it performs very well, those who prefer FFP may find this to be a limiting factor.
Parallax & Magnification
The parallax on this scope is well managed, even at higher magnifications. During a recent field test, the scope maintained its focus with minimal adjustment, a feature that proved invaluable when tracking moving targets. This is thanks in part to the excellent glass quality but also to the fact that it’s a second focal plane scope.
Speaking of magnifications, this scope offers a generous range of 6-24x. This range allowed me to comfortably engage targets at both medium and long ranges, a versatility that I found quite useful in mixed terrain environments. I found this range to be more versatile than the 3-9x scopes often used for hunting, allowing for more precise shot placement at extended distances. For example, if you’re looking to take down a deer at distance, this scope would be a great option for your 6.5 Creedmoor.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
In terms of the elevation and windage knobs, I was very pleased with their performance. Their tactile feedback and audible clicks provided a reassuring sense of precision during adjustments. The precision of these knobs allowed for accurate and repeatable adjustments, a crucial aspect in long-range shooting. They’re easy to use and have a good amount of adjustment range. This is important because it gives you the ability to make small adjustments as needed when you’re out in the field.
The turrets do lack a locking feature though, which I’ve found useful in other high-end scopes to prevent accidental adjustments. This omission led to a couple of instances where I inadvertently bumped the settings, though this was a minor issue and easily corrected. I will say that the travel on the turrets isn’t quite up to par with some other scopes I’ve used, but is that really an issue when you’ve got an otherwise excellent scope? I certainly don’t think so, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention it.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
The eye relief on this scope is very good, coming in at 4 inches. This generous eye relief was particularly appreciated when using I was shooting with my 6.5 Creedmoor rifle. It provided a comfortable shooting experience, even during long sessions, and was especially beneficial when shooting from awkward positions. The eye box is also quite forgiving, which is always a plus.
However, the eye box could feel a bit cramped at the highest magnification settings, requiring more precise head placement. This limitation became apparent when tracking fast-moving targets at long distances, where rapid eye positioning is critical. With some practice, I had no trouble whatsoever getting a clear and crisp image, even at the highest magnification.
Durability
This scope is built like a tank. I specifically tested its durability by exposing it to various weather conditions, including rain and snow, and it held up exceptionally well. It’s constructed from the highest-quality aluminum for this application and is designed to be resistant to both shock and vibration. This makes it ideal for use in rugged and demanding environments.
Moreover, recoil is not an issue with this scope. I tested it on several different firearms, including a 6.5 Creedmoor rifle, of course, and it held up just fine.
Is the Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Worth It?
All in all, I think the Vortex Optics Viper HS-T is an excellent scope for the 6.5 Creedmoor. It offers great performance in a variety of different areas, and it’s built as solid as they come. If you’re looking for a high-quality scope that will serve you well in both long-range and hunting applications, this is the one I recommend. It would be one of the best sniper scopes as well.
Pros
- Excellent glass quality
- Crisp and clear images
- Good eye relief
- Forgiving eye box
- Durable construction
- Resistant to recoil and vibration
Cons
- Minimal turret travel
- Slightly challenging reticle visibility in low light
- Lack of locking feature on turrets
- Cramped eye box at high magnifications
2. Athlon Optics Argos GEN2 BTR 6-24X50 FFP – Best Scope for 6.5 Creedmoor under $500
Next up is Athlon Optics’ Argos GEN2 BTR 6-24x50mm. This is a great option for those of you who are looking for a high-quality scope that won’t break the bank.
As the name suggests, this scope has a 6-24x magnification range, which is perfect for long-range shooting. During a recent hunting expedition, I found this range extremely effective for varmint hunting at extended ranges, where precise shot placement is critical. The 50mm objective lens also does a great job of gathering light, and the first focal plane reticle is very easy to see.
To ensure that the Argos BTR could hang with the big boys, Athlon Optics gave it some impressive features, like a 30mm tube, an illuminated reticle, and side focus. Comparatively, these features put it on par with more expensive models like the Vortex Viper PST Gen II, albeit at a more budget-friendly price point. In my opinion, this makes it one of the better scopes on the market for 6.5 Creedmoor.
The illuminated reticle, in particular, proved useful during twilight conditions, enhancing visibility and target acquisition. However, the illumination control could be more user-friendly, as it requires a bit of fiddling to get the right brightness setting.
The only downside to this scope is that it’s a bit on the heavy side, weighing noticeably more than some of its competitors. This added weight can be a factor during long hunting trips or when quick target acquisition is required. In testing, the added weight didn’t pose any problems, and I was still able to make accurate shots, but it’s god to have it in mind.
Overall, I think the Athlon Optics Argos BTR is a great option for those of you looking for the best scope for 6.5 Creedmoor under $500. It is also one of the best .300 Win Mag scopes.
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Athlon is no stranger to making high-quality optics, and the Argos BTR is no exception. The glass quality is comparable to scopes costing twice as much, offering a bright and clear field of view. The level of detail and contrast in the image was particularly impressive, especially in lower light conditions. However, there was a slight chromatic aberration at the edges of the view at higher magnifications. Still, the glass is extremely clear, and the illuminated reticle is easy to see, even in low light conditions.
In some instances, the reticle almost seemed too far away, but adjusting the diopter setting resolved this for me. However, I think that’s more of a personal preference than anything else.
Parallax & Magnification
The parallax adjustment on this scope is very easy to use, and it has a good range of adjustability. This made it particularly useful in situations where I had to quickly switch between targets at varying distances. The side focus knob for parallax adjustment was intuitive and precise, although a bit stiff initially. The magnification range is also great for long-range shooting, and I had no trouble making accurate shots at 24x.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
The elevation and windage adjustment knobs on the Argos BTR are very easy to use, and they have a good range of adjustability. I found the clicks to be precise and consistent, which gave me confidence in making adjustments, especially under field conditions. The markings on the knobs are clear and easy to read, but they could benefit from being a bit more pronounced for better visibility in low-light conditions. I had no trouble making the adjustments I needed, and I was able to get my shots on target quickly and easily.
I really appreciate the travel and feedback that these knobs provide. Their robust construction and tactile feel are a testament to the scope’s overall quality and durability.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
The Athlon Optics Argos BTR has a generous amount of eye relief, and the eye box is very forgiving. This was particularly noticeable when using а 6.5 Creedmoor rifle, where maintaining a consistent sight picture is crucial. I had no trouble getting a clear sight picture, and I was able to make accurate shots without having to adjust my position.
Durability
The Argos BTR is built like a tank, and I think it would be able to withstand a lot of abuse if you use it as your primary sight. Its rugged design held up well during my tests in various environmental conditions, including rain and dust. The 30mm tube is very solid, and the overall construction is very good. In my opinion, this scope would be a great option for anyone looking for a durable scope.
Is the Athlon Optics Argos BTR Worth It?
Given the sub-$500 price tag and stellar performance, I think the Argos BTR is an excellent value for the money. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a high-quality scope, and I think it would make an excellent addition to any 6.5 Creedmoor rifle. It certainly gets my pick as the best scope for 6.5 Creedmoor under $500.
Pros
- High-quality glass
- First focal plane reticle
- Illuminated ret
- Generous eye relief
- Good range of adjustability
Cons
- A bit on the heavy side
- Reticle might take getting used to
- Illumination control could be more user-friendly
3. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18×44 – Best Budget Scope for 6.5 Creedmoor
Sometimes, you just need a reliable scope that you can pick up for a great price. That’s where the Vortex Optics Crossfire II comes in. It’s a great budget option that doesn’t sacrifice too much in terms of quality or features.
The Crossfire II is a second focal plane scope, which means that the reticle doesn’t change size when you adjust the magnification. While this design is often considered less versatile than a first focal plane reticle for varying distances, it is simpler and more intuitive for those new to scopes. This isn’t a deal-breaker by any means, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a first focal plane scope.
The optics are clear, and the reticle is easy to see, even at higher magnifications. Its performance was impressive when I used it for target shooting at a range of 200 yards. The clarity remained consistent throughout its magnification range, though I did notice some edge distortion at the higher end. I first used this scope late in the evening for some plinking testing, and I was surprised at how well it performed in low light.
I then took it out in the early morning hours for some sunrise coyote hunting, and it again proved to be a great option. However, during midday under bright sunlight, I observed some glare on the lens, which slightly hindered target acquisition. The Crossfire II has a 10-yard to infinity parallax adjustment, which is more than adequate for most shooters. The parallax adjustment worked smoothly, allowing me to focus on targets with ease, but the knob felt a bit stiff compared to higher-priced models.
Overall, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II Adjustable Objective is a great budget option that is perfect for those who don’t need all the bells and whistles.
Glass Clarity & Reticle
You can almost always go right with Vortex glass. The company doesn’t like to cut corners, and it shows in the clarity of its optics. The Crossfire II is no exception. When compared to higher-end models like the Vortex Viper, it’s evident that the Crossfire II’s glass is not as bright or sharp, but it’s cheaper as well, so that is to be expected.
I liked the fact that the reticle is placed in the second focal plane. This made it easier to maintain a consistent aim, as the reticle size remains constant regardless of the magnification. This can be a desirable trait for some shooters.
The reticle itself is a simple duplex crosshair, and I found it to be easy to see in all lighting conditions. The simplicity of the duplex reticle was particularly useful for quick target acquisition, though it lacks the detailed markings of more advanced reticles used for bullet drop compensation. If you’re looking for something more complex, you might want to look elsewhere. But for a budget scope, the reticle is more than adequate.
Parallax & Magnification
The Crossfire II has a 6-18x magnification range. This range was sufficient for medium-range hunting and target shooting, offering enough versatility for most typical shooting scenarios. Though it lacked the higher magnification needed for extreme long-range shooting.
The parallax adjustment is located on the left side of the scope, and it has a 10-yard to infinity range. I appreciated its accuracy and ease of adjustment, which facilitated quick transitions between targets at different distances. I found the parallax adjustment to be easy to use and accurate.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
The Crossfire II has covered windage and elevation adjustment knobs. The caps provided an added layer of protection, though they did require removal for adjustments, which could be inconvenient in the field. The caps also protected the knobs from accidental adjustments, which was beneficial during rugged outdoor activities. I also like covered adjustment knobs because they help to keep debris and moisture out of the internals of the scope.
The elevation knob has a 60 MOA range, while the windage knob has a 50 MOA range. The click adjustments were not as crisp as those on premium models, but they were still precise enough for accurate shooting. The lack of tactile feedback was noticeable, but it didn’t significantly impact the overall usability. I found both to be accurate and easy to use.
If you happen to own a .30-06 rifle, this would be one of the best 30-06 scopes.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
The Crossfire II has a generous 3.5 inches of eye relief. This was comfortable enough for the 6.5 Creedmoor, providing ample space to avoid recoil injury. This eye relief was particularly beneficial for rapid-fire scenarios where quick repositioning is required. This is more than enough for most shooters, and I didn’t have any issues with the eye box being too small.
Durability
One area where the Crossfire II shines is in its durability. Despite its budget-friendly price, it felt rugged and reliable under various shooting conditions. It’s constructed from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, and it’s nitrogen-purged and o-ring sealed for waterproofing.
The scope is also shockproof, so you don’t have to worry about it being damaged if you drop it or bang it around a bit.
The only potential drawback to this robust build quality is that it’s heavy. This added weight, while contributing to its sturdiness, could be a factor for those looking for a lightweight setup. It handles recoil well, however, so the weight is worth it, in my opinion.
Is the Vortex Optics Crossfire II Worth It?
No question about it. The Crossfire II is a great scope that offers clear optics, a durable construction, and easy-to-use adjustment knobs. It’s also a great value for the money. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Crossfire II should definitely be at the top of your list for your 6.5 Creedmoor.
Pros
- Great optics
- Durable construction
- Easy to use adjustment knobs
- Great value for the money
Cons
- It’s heavy
- Reticle and magnification range might be limiting for advanced users
- Glare under bright sunlight
4. NightForce NXS 5.5-22x56mm – Best Hunting Scope for 6.5 Creedmoor
Hunters, rejoice. The NightForce NXS 5.5-22x56mm is an excellent scope for those of you who like to take your 6.5 Creedmoor out into the field. It’s got a good bit of magnification (5.5-22x), which is perfect for long-range shots, and the 56mm objective lens offers superb light-gathering capabilities. During a recent elk hunting trip in dim forest conditions, this scope allowed me to accurately engage targets at various ranges, demonstrating its versatility. In other words, this scope is designed for hunters who like to shoot in different conditions.
I made sure to put this scope’s claims to the test, and I have to say that I was very impressed with the results. Compared to other high-end scopes, such as the Leupold Mark 5, the NightForce NXS matched or even exceeded in terms of clarity and low-light performance. While using it, the optical clarity across its magnification spectrum was remarkable, with minimal distortion even at the highest zoom levels. The glass is incredibly clear, and the reticle is very easy to see, even in low light. The scope also did a great job of handling parallax, which is always a plus.
Not only is this the best scope for hunting, but it’s also the best long-range scope for 6.5 Creedmoor. I’ve used it in several long-range shooting competitions, and its accuracy and reliability have consistently given me an edge. Thanks to its incredible clarity and magnification, it’s perfect for making those difficult shots. And as an added bonus, the scope is also very durable. I had no problem with it holding up to heavy use.
If you’re looking for the best hunting scope for 6.5 Creedmoor, the NightForce NXS 5.5-22x56mm will impress as few others can. However, its size and weight might be a drawback for those who prefer a more compact or lighter scope. That said, you can expect to pay a pretty penny for this scope.
It’s definitely not the most budget-friendly option on this list. But if you’re serious about hunting and long-range shooting and you want the best scope money can buy, the NightForce NXS is worth the investment. It’s also one of the best scopes for .338 Lapua.
Glass Clarity & Reticle
With its steep price tag, you’d expect the NightForce NXS 5.5-22x56mm to offer superb glass clarity and an easy-to-see reticle, and it doesn’t disappoint. The multi-coated lenses provide outstanding light transmission, making the image bright and clear in a variety of lighting conditions. The reticle’s design is intuitive, aiding in quick target acquisition and accurate shot placement, especially at longer distances. Its etched glass reticle is also a significant advantage in durability and visibility under challenging light. The glass is incredibly clear, even at the highest magnification setting, and the reticle is very easy to see in all lighting conditions.
Parallax & Magnification
The scope’s parallax adjustment is very easy to use, and it does a great job of eliminating parallax error. Its precision was particularly noticeable when shifting focus between targets at different ranges during a shooting session. As for magnification, the 5.5-22x power range is perfect for long-range shots.
During my testing, including sessions in varying weather conditions, the scope maintained its accuracy and clarity. I found the higher magnification particularly useful for precision shooting at longer ranges, where details are critical. I had no problem making accurate shots out to 600 yards with this scope.
And to ensure that you can make the most of the scope’s magnification, the objective lens is a whopping 56mm in diameter. This size, while contributing to the scope’s weight, significantly enhances its performance in low-light conditions, a crucial factor for dawn and dusk hunting scenarios.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
The scope’s elevation and windage turrets are very easy to use, and they offer a good range of adjustability. The zero-stop feature is a notable addition, allowing me to quickly return to the original zero after temporary adjustments. The tactile feedback from these knobs provides confidence in adjustments, even when wearing gloves. I had no problem making the necessary adjustments to compensate for wind and elevation.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
If you’re familiar with my shooting preferences, you know I like my scopes to have a generous amount of eye relief. And the NightForce NXS 5.5-22x56mm doesn’t disappoint in this regard. The consistent eye relief across the entire magnification range is a standout feature, reducing the need for head repositioning. It offers a generous amount of eye relief at 3.7 inches, even at the highest magnification setting, which makes it ideal for the 6.5 Creedmoor.
As for the eye box, it’s very forgiving. This aspect is particularly helpful for quick repositioning in dynamic hunting situations, allowing for swift target re-engagement. I had no problem getting a clear sight picture, even when I wasn’t looking through the scope perfectly.
Durability
As I mentioned earlier, this is one tough scope. Its solid construction and quality materials have proved impervious to the usual wear and tear associated with rigorous outdoor activities. Its rugged construction stood up to various environmental challenges, including rain and extreme temperature variations, without any performance issues. I had no problem with it holding up to heavy use. And thanks to its durable construction, I have no doubt that it will continue to perform flawlessly for many years to come.
Is the NightForce NXS 5.5-22x56mm Worth It?
It’s true that this is a pricey scope, but I don’t think that should deter you from considering it. For the dedicated hunter or long-range shooter, the investment in the NightForce NXS can be justified by its superior performance and robustness. If you’re serious about getting the best hunting experience possible, you’re going to want to give this one a look. It’s got all the makings of a top-of-the-line scope, and it’s sure to impress.
Pros
- Excellent clarity
- Eliminates parallax error
- Perfect for long-range shots
- Objective lens is 56mm in diameter
- Durable construction
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy and large, which might not suit all preferences
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Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best scope for 6.5 Creedmoor. I encourage you to use the criteria I listed above to help you choose the right scope for your needs.
My best overall pick goes to the Vortex Optics Viper HS-T SFP. This scope offers great glass clarity, an easy-to-use reticle, and good elevation and windage adjustment knobs. It’s also durable and can withstand heavy use.
If you’re specifically looking for the best long-range scope for 6.5 Creedmoor, then my pick goes to the NightForce NXS 5.5-22x56mm. This scope excels in hunting applications and goes a stellar job of handling parallax and magnification.
Whatever scope you ultimately decide on, I hope you have success in your 6.5 Creedmoor endeavors. Thanks for reading!
Jerry Miculek is an experienced firearms and optics expert. Guns are not just a hobby for him, they are his passion and life. You can learn more about Jerry on our About us page.