Ever owned an SKS rifle – the one rifle that almost got into the limelight only to be soon replaced by the AK-47? Let’s check out some of the Best Scopes for SKS. You would remember it for the unique features.
In a very simplistic understanding, SKS is a trustworthy byproduct of Soviet’s Engineering. It was used by the Soviet Army up to the production of AK 47. Nevertheless, the product still managed to hold a place for itself within civilian life. Why is that so? Cause AK 47 was never an advancement on the SKS. Both had their own merits and demerits. It was the need that the shooter had that defined their utility. But that is a discussion for another day.
Top 5 Best Scopes for SKS Rifles
| Name | Specs | USP | Today's Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leapers UTG | 3-9x32 | Weather friendly scope | Click Here |
| Vortex Crossfire II | 2-7x32 | Universal Scope | Click Here |
| Primary Arms SFP Gen III | 1-6x24 | High-Quality Scope | Click Here |
| AIM Sports | 4x32 | Compact and Easy to Carry Around | Click Here |
| Barska Contour | 3-9x42 | Good Optics Scope | Click Here |
Now, if you are reading this, one thing is sure. You either own an SKS rifle, or you intend to get it soon. Provided that is the case, let me give you a piece of good advice: Get a scope too! A good scope will take you and your shot further into glory. The accuracy, durability, and long-range shooting power that an SKS rifle possesses will be doubled under the presence of a good scope. So why don’t we dive into that? Take a look at our listicle on the best SKS scopes and choose wisely what you require.
1. Leapers UTG 3-9×32 Compact CQB Bug Buster Rifle Scope
If you take a look at the dimensions of the scope, you would realize that this Leapers product does not have and out of the world optical world. Rather it adorns a simplistic 32mm objective lens, which is good for decent light transmission. The magnification range of 3 9x is also suitable for a mediocre mid-range shooting. Yet, one thing which enhances the optical quality is the lens coating. The Emerald coated lens optimizes the optical quality by providing ample lighting as well as a good, crystal clear view.
But the scope is commendable for its accuracy and aiming features. To start with, the scope has a Mil-dot reticle that falls in the Second Focal plane. Not only is the reticle model best for aiming and targeting, but it is also simple in its presentation, thereby making it a beginner-friendly reticle.
The scope is weather friendly in two means. One, it has a red and green dual illuminated reticle that keeps you on target regardless of the weather or low light. Second, it has a nitrogen-purged and sealed tube that makes it water, shock, and fog proof, thereby making it resistant to harsh weather.
The scope further ha features that will enhance its accuracy. Like, it has a 3 yard to infinity based parallax adjustment. Couple this with the wide-field view the scope has, and you are nothing less of blessed. It also has zero lockable and resettable turrets that move at 1/4 MOA per clicks. The turrets assure that no accidental changes are being made. It has a commendable eye relief, making it one of the Best Scope for SKS.
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2. Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rifle Scope
Look at any top scope listicle, and you will surely find this guy. With most features on point, the Crossfire optics have become much more popular than any other Vortex optics. Its versatility is not limited to the features it offers. The scope is universal and versatile in the sense that it can be mounted on many a rifle. So why not make it a scope mount for SKS.
This Vortex optics has a 32mm objective lens, which makes it favorable for good light and clarity induced images. Couple this with the fully multi-coated nature of the lens and the glare reduction sunshade, and there you go – you have the perfect optics. The magnification range of 2-7x makes it usable for close to medium-range shooting.
It has a V-Plex reticle placed on the Second Focal Plane, which acts as a versatile reticle with wide field applications. The fast-focus eyepiece will ensure that no target gets missed. The scope is also easy to manage with smooth capped turrets. It also has an exemplary eye relief, making it one of the Best Scopes for SKS and also comfortable.
The one-inch tube is made of aircraft-grade aluminum and is hence fit for rough use. The water, fog and, shock resistant features make the scope more reliable.
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3. Primary Arms 1-6x24mm SFP Gen III Illuminated Rifle Scope
Primary Arms have always saved a seat for themselves within the arena of quality scope. It is not a surprise then to see this Gen III model in our top scope mounts for SKS. Good quality does mean good pricing. Though priced a bit higher than the other scope, this scope is easily affordable.
The scope owns a 24mm objective lens, which lets in ample light for high clarity images. This is enhanced by a complete multi-coating of lenses. The 1-6x magnification makes it suitable for close and medium-range shooting.
A notable and appreciable feature of this scope is the reticle. The illuminated reticle of the scope falls on the Second Focal Plane. The reticle has an Advanced Combined Sighting System. This means that the reticle will take care of estimation, moving target leads, bullet drop compensation, wind hold, and much more. The fast-focus eyepiece helps in quick target acquisition.
Made of 6063 Aluminium, the scope is hard and can withstand unprecedented falls. It is also water and fog-resistant, and its shock resistance helps it function for high power rifles.
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4. AIM Sports 4×32 Compact Rifle Scope
In search of a compact and easy to carry scope? Yup. That is exactly what we have here. One mentionable benefit of a fixed scope is that it will be lightweight and compact. But that does not mean that the scope will let you down in terms of quality. No! Never!
The 32mm lens is the best fit for the 4x fixed scope. The lens provides good lighting and clarity, and the magnification adds up to provide good medium-range shooting. The lens is multi-coated and has features that help in reducing internal reflection. The lens is also scratch-resistant.
The reticle placed in the Second Focal Plane has the perfect amount of thickness for a 4x shot. The good optics combined with a better reticle makes the scope useable for precise and accurate long-distance shots.
The scope is made of the best quality Aluminium and is nitrogen purged and sealed. It is also water, fog, and shock-resistant.
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5. Barska Contour 3-9x42mm IR Rifle Scope
What happens when innovations meet reliability? You get the Barska Contour Rifle Scope. Barska Optics have been since the beginning known for their unique, innovative features. This particular model tops in that category and is probably the most advanced of the lot.
Lets us start with the 42mm objective lens, which is the biggest of the five scopes discussed so far. This, along with the fully coated optics, assures better light transmission and clear images. The 3-9x magnification is best suited for exemplary medium-range shooting.
The scope has dual illuminated reticle – green or red dot MIL reticle – placed in the second focal plane. This reticle is the best for accuracy and aiming and, at the same time, makes shooting in low lighting easier. It is also built with five brightness intensity dials for all-weather and all-lighting use. It has an appreciable eye relief.
Like the AIM scope, the Barska Contour is also compact. But this does not ploy with its strength and durability. The one-inch tube is purged with nitrogen and sealed. The scope is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof.
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The Ultimate Buyers Guide: Things to Keep an Eye Out For
Though we are looking for specific SKS rifle scopes, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind before purchasing a scope. These can be specifically applicable for SKS rifles or any scope purchases in general. Read and keep it in mind before you cart a scope away.
Optical Quality
Well, there are two factors we must keep in mind with respect to the optical quality. One is the lens size: the bigger the lens size, the better the light transmission. The light transmission will make sure that the image you see is clear, crisp, and targetable. The next thing you should look for is lens coating. These may be categorized according to the intensity. A better lens coating or anti-glare features will again increase light transmission. Basically, good optics will ensure bright and clear images.
Magnification
Now, this solely depends on the kind of shooting you are going to engage in. But in the case of an SKS scope, a medium or a mediocre long-range scope would do. This means that the magnification range should be roughly around 3 to 9x. That would do.
Reticle Function
The reticle is what helps you get hold of an aim on your target. The concepts of accuracy and precision can be manifested only through a reticle. Two things you can look into here are – crosshair types and illumination. Crosshairs, depending on your need and expertise, will prove to be of good help while aiming. Like a BDC reticle is best for accuracy while a Mil-Dot would be better suitable for a beginner. Likewise, an illuminated reticle will make the scope usable in dim-lit or low light situations.
Eye Relief
Who would like to get hurt while shooting? Definitely not me! A sufficient eye relief will ensure that the equipment does not bang you on the forehead during recoil action.
Durability
Who doesn’t want worth for their money! Durability depends on a lot of things like – the material of the scope, protective layers, extra coatings, resistance features, and so on.
FAQ
Here are a few answers to a few questions that might be boggling your mind. I hope you get what you are looking for.
What magnification is ideal for the SKS scope?
With an SKS scope, your maximum viable target would be around 150 yards. So keeping that as your shooting distance, you can opt for a short-range or a medium-range magnification. A short-range would be a range of 3-6x, while a medium-range would have a magnification of 2-9x. Also, going long range with the SKS rifle scope would be a hard task and a miracle. So let us not get into that.
SKS or AK 47?
This is a never-ending debate. But within the view of this listicle, let me tell you that both are equally good. What makes one better than the other are factors that are totally subjective and personal. That being said, many do agree that both SKS and AK47 fall under the same line when it comes to efficiency. While AK 47 is deemed to be more accurate on paper, in practice, SKS seems to outrun AK 47 on accuracy. But AK47 makes up for this through its versatility. So again, at the end of the day, the choice is yours to make! What do you need?
Is SKS a good hunting rifle?
Yes, provided that you are shooting animals of the size of a deer. SKS may not be a categorized deer hunting rifle. But it is a popularly used rifle for mid-range deer hunting. The rifle’s power to hunt down an animal makes it suitable as a deer hunting scope.
Will SKS rifle kill a bear?
Nor really. Well, it would if you are lucky enough to aim at a spot that will pierce in a bullet. But, essentially no. The SKSD rifle is not meant for hunting down animals of the like of a bear. It does not have that much strength.
Conclusion:
Well, if you have come so far, then you would clearly know what scope you need and why. What are you waiting for then? Keep in mind your needs – purpose of use, hunting time, specifications – before bagging the scope. Also do check our in-depth Review of Primary Arms ACSS, you’ll regret not reading it. The best scopes have already been listed. Now it is your turn to find the best scope for your SKS rifle. Cart away your needs—also, Happy Hunting.