So, you have decided to buy the best SKS scope. There is no need to spend more money if you are getting the best quality scope for your SKS rifle at a cheap price. That’s why we are here to give you the proper guideline for choosing your SKS scope. We are the experienced one here and spend almost 48 hours of research and considered 25 best models.
There are so many brands and models of SKS scope available in the market. Among them choosing the best one is a difficult job but don’t worry. Our research team makes a difficult job easy for you. In this article, we’re reviewing a range of the best SKS scope out there.
There are different SKS scope types and numerous key factors that helped aid our compilation. The construction material, finishing, capacity, durability, performance, price, and warranty are other important features that you need to consider before buying. If you are in a hurry, just go through the comparison table and make the buying decision quickly.
Top 5 Best Scopes For SKS Rifle Reviews 2023
Research-wise, we have done everything necessary to ensure that this article provides all the key elements you need to know before buying the best SKS scope.
Therefore, we are pretty confident that with the help of our comparison table, detailed reviews of the best products, complete buying guide, and FAQ section, you will be able to choose the top genuine product according to your need as long as you adhere to the tips provided here.
Name and Features | Image | Rating | Price |
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1. Primary Arms 1-6x24 Best scope for SKS rifle with aluminum construction | ![]() |
Overall Best Pick ![]() |
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2. Vortex Optics Scope Best SKS red dot scope with lifetime warranty | ![]() |
Best Luxury Pick ![]() |
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3. UTG 3-9X32 Scope Best tactical scope for SKS with great parallax adjustment | ![]() |
Best Value Pick
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4. Sniper Rifle Scope Best 4X32 compact tactical scope with compact mil-dot range | ![]() |
Best Budget Pick
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5. BARSKA 3-9x42 IR Best sniper rifle scope with red and green mil-dot reticles | ![]() |
Best Professional Pick
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1. Primary Arms 1-6×24 – Best Scope For SKS Rifle
Brand: Primary Arms
- Magnification: 1-6X
- Material: Aluminum
- Reticle: ACSS
- Illumination: Red
- Battery Type: CR2032
- Warranty: Lifetime
- Weight: 1.7 pounds
- Price: $$$$$$
OVERALL RATING: 9.9 out of 10
Primary Arms is one of the popular brands that provide quality scope, red dot sight, and other accessories. Primary Arms tactical rifle scope is a great scope that fully follows the ACSS standard.
It provides 1-6X24 second focal plane scope which is generation III. This scope has integrated lots of features like bullet drop compensation, wind holds, moving target leads, and range estimation. That's why this scope is very easy to use.
What We Like:
- Lifetime warranty
- Precision glass clarity
- Aluminum construction
- Scratch resistance
- Water & fog resistance
- ACSS reticle
What We Don't Like:
- Price is high
First of all, Primary Arms scope provides an instinctive sighting system which makes it very fast from 0-300 yards and very accurate from 300-800 yards. This Gen III scope is will not be a tough act to follow like the flagship Gen II. It is also 18mm shorter and weighs 1.88 ounces less than the older model.
You will need 1 CR2 battery and it includes CR2032 battery which is a bonus. This scope has multi-coated lenses with nitrogen purged, fog resistant, and IP67 waterproof as well. The Primary Arms SKS scope has a heavy-duty construction with aircraft-grade aluminum 6063 scope body. The hard coat anodized has made it long-lasting.
The illumination is red with 11 brightness settings. It has capped turrets which is low profile and finger adjustable as well. It has a very lightweight design and covered by a lifetime manufacturer warranty. The warranty is only available for defects due to materials, workmanship, or normal wear, and tear.
Finally, the Primary Arms scope is one of the best SKS scopes in the market right now. There are some downsides to the products. The price is higher than most of the average scope. The reticle of the scope is not being straight up and down.
The MOA clicks should be less for more precise adjustment. This is without any doubt our Editor’s Choice and the best SKS scope on this list.
FAQ About Primary Arms 1-6x24 SFP Tactical Rifle Scope (Gen III)
2. Vortex Optics Scope – Best SKS Red Dot Scope
Brand: Vortex Optics
- Magnification: 1-6X
- Reticle: BDC MOA
- Travel per Rotation: 44 MOA
- Adjustment Graduation: 1/2 MOA
- Parallax Setting: 100 yards
- Warranty: Lifetime
- Weight: 8 ounces
- Price: $$$$$$
OVERALL RATING: 9.7 out of 10
Vortex Optics is one of the popular brands that provide quality scope, binoculars, red dot sight, tripods, and other accessories. Vortex Optics tactical rifle scope is a great scope that has speed and versatility.
This is a high-quality scope with multi-coated lenses to deliver a clear, crisp sight picture and optimal low light performance. It provides 11 illumination settings to accommodate for changing light conditions.
What We Like:
- Lifetime warranty
- Multi-coated lenses
- Decent quality caps
- Glass-etched BDC reticle
- Waterproof and shockproof
- Lightweight design
What We Don't Like:
- Expensive
- Eyebox is tight
First of all, the Vortex Optics scope provides fast focus dial on the eyepiece which is really helpful to ensure your reticle is always sharp. The magnification of the scope is 1-6X. The travel per Rotation is 44 MOA adjustment graduation is 1/2 MOA. The parallax setting of the scope is 100 yards.
It has a waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof feature that ensures reliability in all weather conditions. The Vortex Optics SKS scope has a heavy-duty construction with a very lightweight design. The weight of the scope is only 8 ounces. This is a great scope for executing technical, short, and long-range shots.
It is also perfectly suited for an extremely wide range of applications. The price of the scope is higher than most of the average SKS scope. This scope is backed by a lifetime warranty.
Finally, the Vortex Optics scope is one of the best SKS scopes for the money. There are some downsides to the product. The price is higher than most of the average scope. The eye box on this scope is tight.
The illumination isn't bright enough, even at its highest setting for a sunny day. Overall, this is without any doubt our luxury pick and the best SKS scope on this list.
FAQ About Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
3. UTG 3-9X32 Scope – Best Tactical Scopes For SKS
Brand: UTG
- Magnification: 3-9X
- Range: 3 Yards to Infinity
- Illumination: Red & Green
- Battery Type: 2 Lithium Metal
- Length: 8-inch
- Dimensions: 9.8 x 3.4 x 3.9 inches
- Weight: 13.9 ounces
- Price: $$
OVERALL RATING: 9.6 out of 10
UTG is another popular brand that provides quality scope, LED light, Picatinny rings, and other accessories. UTG Bug Buster scope is a great scope that is completely sealed and 100% nitrogen filled. This scope provides dual red and green illumination.
It has accommodating eye relief feature which makes this scope a no brainer for all shooters in any environments and weather conditions. You will get a 2-inch sunshade, quality flip-open lens caps, and quick detachable rings with this scope.
What We Like:
- Great parallax adjustment
- Decent price
- High-quality lens caps
- Quick-detachable rings
- Shock, fog & rainproof
- 2 lithium batteries included
What We Don't Like:
- Ring lever slightly loose
- Made in China
First of all, the UTG scope provides a very heavy-duty design because of the innovative True Strength(TS) platform. It is very reliable and long-lasting with precise and responsive elevation adjustment over time. The scope has been tested several times on actual user input.
It has premium lockable and resettable turrets that protect and complement the optic for proper zeroing. The parallax-free view of the scope is 3 yards to infinity. The UTG SKS scope provides RGB side wheel illumination which allows the scope to use under diverse environments and lighting conditions.
It has a lightweight design and the weight of the scope is only 13.9 ounces. You will get a lot of accessories with this scope. It includes rings, with a saddle height of 15mm, fit on Picatinny/Weaver rails and are secured with patented, fully adjustable quick detach lever locks. The price of the scope is pretty low than most of the average SKS scope.
Finally, the UTG scope is one of the best SKS scopes for the money. There are some downsides to the product. The scope rings that come with the package have these quick detach levers and the levers seem to be slightly loose.
Also, the dust cover for the front objective lens is too loose if you install the sunshade. The scope is not the US made. Overall, this is without any doubt our best value pick and the best SKS scope on this list.
FAQ About UTG 3-9X32 1" BugBuster Scope, AO, RGB Mil-dot, QD Rings
4. Sniper Rifle Scope – Best 4X32 Compact Tactical Scope
Brand: Sniper
- Model: LT4x32MR
- Magnification: 4X
- Length: 19cm
- Rings: 5/8" Picatinny
- Parallax Setting: 100 Yards
- Warranty: Limited
- Weight: 13.6 ounces
- Price: $
OVERALL RATING: 9.3 out of 10
Sniper is another popular brand that provides quality gun-related products and other accessories. Sniper compact riflescope is a great scope built with emerald multi-coated which has made it fog, shock, and rainproof.
This scope provides enough brightness and clarity as well. It has premium aircraft-grade aluminum alloy construction with a hard anodized finish.
What We Like:
- Price is low
- Easy to set up
- Compact design
- Best for Ruger explorer
- Waterproof and shockproof
- Lightweight
What We Don't Like:
- No warranty
- No included information
- Not great for long-range shots
First of all, the Sniper scope provides 5/8 inch Picatinny rings with the magnification of 4X. The compact mil-dot range is really helpful for finding the target estimation reticle. The tube diameter is 1-inch and the the objective diameter is 33mm.
The parallax-free view of the scope is 100 yards. The eye relief is 3.0 inch and the exit pupil is 8mm. The overall length of the scope is 19cm. The Sniper SKS scope provides a very lightweight design and the weight is only 13.6 ounces. You will also get scope mount with this scope but they are very small.
The scope also comes with slide over caps. You can also use this scope with the crossbow because it provides a better optic. You can get this scope at a very cheap price. If you have a low budget, you should definitely give this awesome scope a try.
Finally, the Sniper scope is one of the best SKS scopes for the money. There are some downsides to the product. The scope does not back by any kind of warranty.
There is no included information as to the separation of horizontal bars on the reticle. The scope is not perfect for long-range shots. Overall, this is without any doubt our best budget pick and the best SKS scope on this list.
FAQ About Sniper Compact Rifle Scope 4x32 with Ring, Hunting Scope
5. BARSKA 3-9X42 IR – Best Sniper Rifle Scope
Brand: Barska
- Magnification: 3-9X
- Length: 10 inches
- Reticle: Mil-Dot IR Dual Color
- Tube Diameter: 1 Inch
- Warranty: Lifetime
- Dimensions: 12 x 4 x 4 inches
- Weight: 1.25 pounds
- Price: $$
OVERALL RATING: 9.1 out of 10
Barska is another popular brand that provides quality riflescopes, spotting scopes, telescopes, and other accessories. Barska sniper riflescope delivers high-end optics while remaining a strong value.
This 2nd generation scope is great for target shooting or hunting. It is very precise and easy-to-use for tactical environments. Another great thing is it provides bright, clear, high contrast views in all types of lighting and weather conditions.
What We Like:
- Lifetime warranty
- Decent price
- Clear images
- Holds zero well
- Waterproof and shockproof
- Lightweight design
What We Don't Like:
- Not great for long-distance
- Difficult to sight in
- Optics are a little murky
First of all, the Barska scope provides illuminated red and green mil-dot reticles which have made the targeting easy in any light condition. The scope has ergonomic rubber design which protects the scope and offers a secure non-slip grip. It is 100% waterproof, fog-proof, and built with extra-rigid shockproof construction.
It also provides parallax adjustment with 1/4 MOA click adjustment and a fast focus eyeball. The Barska SKS scope provides a lightweight design and the weight is only 1.25 pounds. The magnification of the scope is 3-9X with a length of 10 inches.
This scope provides lots of accessories like scope caps, mounting rings, lens cloth, and battery. The price of the product is pretty low than most of the scope on our list. It is also backed by a limited lifetime warranty which is a bonus.
Finally, the Barska scope is one of the best SKS scopes for the money. There are some downsides to the product. The optics of the scope are a little murky. It is not great for long-distance shooting.
This scope may be a little bit difficult to sight in as well. It can be perfect for an AR-15 style rifle, but not great for AR-10. Overall, this is without any doubt our best professional pick and the best SKS scope on this list.
FAQ About BARSKA 3-9x42 IR 2nd Generation Sniper Riflescope
Buying Guide
Choosing the best SKS scope is one of the hard decisions you need to make if you have no experience with SKS scope or rifle scope. It can take a lot of time to get the experience and then find out the best SKS scope. We are the experienced one here and do the work for you. We have reviewed almost every brand of scope and find out the best one. So, let's dive in...
What Is A Rifle Scope
According to Wikipedia, A rifle scope is some kind of viewing instrument that you can use in your gun or rifle for getting a better view of shooting, hunting, etc. Different scope works better with a different rifle.
The rifle scope provides some form of graphic image pattern mounted in an optically appropriate position in their optical system to give an accurate aiming point.
Features to consider before buying a scope
Do you know the specific features you need with your SKS scope? Normally, the quality of the material, lens, and the magnification that works best for your SKS is the first thing you need to consider. There are some other characteristics that are also need to consider to find out the best SKS scope.
Types of Scopes
The scopes are different depending on the mounting setup. There are mainly 6 different types of scope available and they are...
- Scope Cross Hairs
- Duplex Reticle
- Mil-Dot Reticle
- Leupold Reticle
- BDC Reticle
- Christmas Tree Reticle
Different scope types provide a different kind of range and accuracy. You should always choose the scope according to your needs.
Magnification
The magnification power is another thing you need to consider carefully if you are serious about shooting or hunting. You should choose the magnification properly so that you can get the shooting range of 300 yards at least.
In our list, the Primary Arms and Vortex Optics provide 1-6X magnification which is enough for most of you. But if you want high magnification power, the UTG and Barska brand can be a great choice. They provide 3-9X magnification. The Sniper scope brand provides 4X magnification which has a Parallax Setting of 100 yards.
Objective Lens
The objective lens is the last item of the scope. You should always choose a scope that has a bigger objective lens. The bigger objective lens can make the shooting easier.
In our list, the Barska scope brand has the biggest objective lens with a size of 42mm. Primary Arms and Vortex Optics have a 24mm lens. The UTG and Sniper brand provides a 32mm objective lens.
Ease Of Installation
Installation is another important feature you need to consider before using the scope. If you don't install the scope properly, it will not give you an accurate result or make your hunting job difficult. Most of the popular mound brands provide installation guides as well to make the process easy.
Performance And Reviews
Another vital consideration you need to make is if the scope has better performance or not. The performance depends on the features available in your scope such as lens, different magnification options. The multi-coated lenses are great to deliver a clear, crisp sight picture and optimal low light performance.
You should also look for the reviews of the product if possible. The reviews given by the customers are the gemstone while buying your best products. We have done the review job for you and made the best product list. Just choose the best one according to your needs.
Durability
Apart from performance, you should also check the durability of the product. Most of the quality SKS scope is built with a different kind of aluminum.
Almost all of the popular scope brands provide hardened anodized finish as well. You should choose the products that properly follow strict quality control guidelines.
Ease Of Use
Most of the SKS scope is very easy to use. First of all, you need to do the installation properly and check either every setup is OK or not. Then you are good to go for real hunting. There are different kinds of magnification options available to make better use of the scope.
Weight
Weight is another important feature while choosing your best scope for the SKS rifle. Most of the popular scope selected by us are very lightweight.
You should choose the scope that is light in weight and heavy-duty as well. In our list, the Vortex Optics scope is the most lightweight with a weight of 8 ounces.
Price
Price is the first thing to consider while choosing your best SKS scope. Our top pick, Primary Arms brand provides a high-quality product but the price is higher as well.
If you have a low budget, you should definitely stick between the UTG, Sniper, or Barska. But if you have a high budget, you can definitely choose between Vortex Optics or Primary Arms scope.
Warranty
Though we are talking about the warranty of the products at the last of our buying guide section, it is another feature you need to consider wisely. Most of the popular brands provide a decent amount of warranty. Any product backed by a warranty can give you mental satisfaction and can save you a lot of money.
You should also consider how good or bad their customer care services are. In our list, Primary Arms, Vortex Optics and Barska scope brand provide a limited lifetime warranty. The other brands have limited or no warranty. Please note that any damage, failure, or defect made by you does not come under the shade of the warranty.
Extra features
Fundamentally, before investing or buying a product, you have to consider the full specification and extra features given by the brands. Most of the popular brands in our list provide the following features...
- Bullet drop compensation
- Wind holds
- Moving target leads
- Range estimation
- Multi-coated lenses
- Glass-etched BDC reticle
- Shock, fog & rainproof
- Parallax adjustment
- Compact lightweight design
You should always check the features in your SKS scope before buying. Make a checklist of the features you need and then find out the best product that fulfills your demand.
SKS Scope Installation Tips
The SKS scope is really helpful to maximum eye relief if you move the scope further back in the rings. So, there are some scope tips that you need to know before start shooting or hunting.
How to mount your scope correctly?
To get a better experience, you need to know how to mount your scope correctly. You need to place the mount and scope properly before using it. Watch the awesome video below to get the full idea...
FAQ
Final Verdict
In our list, Primary Arms scope is a great product that fully follows the ACSS standard. Using this scope, you can shoot very accurately from 300-800 yards. It's very heavy-duty because of the aircraft-grade aluminum 6063 construction. If you have a decent budget but want the best selling product, you should definitely add this scope to your arsenal.
In second place is the Vortex Optics SKS scope which is a high-quality scope with multi-coated lenses. It has a very lightweight design with a Glass-etched BDC reticle feature. The price of the product is very high and that's why it is our best luxury pick. It is backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
The UTG 3-9X32 Scope is our best value pick with great parallax adjustment. If you have a low budget, you can choose the Sniper rifle scope which is our best budget pick. But, if you love warranty and have a decent budget as well, then the Barska scope can be the best choice for you.
If you are still confused just go through the comparison table again and choose the best product according to your needs. Shoot us a comment below about any questions or opinions you have. Please let us know which SKS scope is best according to you.