Choosing the best turkey hunting scope can enhance the accuracy and efficiency of your hunt. As technology continues to improve, staying up to date on the best scope can be challenging. We’ve got you!

Picture this: It’s a crisp spring morning, and you’re nestled against an old oak tree. The woods are waking up, and suddenly, you hear it – a distant gobble that sets your heart racing. You’ve done your homework, called that tom in close, and now he’s strutting into view. This is the moment of truth. But wait – can you see him clearly enough to make that perfect shot?

That’s where a quality turkey hunting scope comes into play, folks.

Hey there, fellow turkey hunters! I’m [Your Name], and I’ve been chasing gobblers for over two decades. Let me tell you, in all those years, I’ve learned that while skill and patience are crucial, having the right equipment can make or break your hunt. And when it comes to equipment, few things are as important as your scope.

Now, you might be thinking, “Do I really need a specialized scope for turkey hunting?” The short answer? Absolutely. Here’s why:

Turkey hunting often happens in low-light conditions – dawn and dusk when birds are most active.
Precise shot placement is crucial for ethical, clean kills on these tough birds.
Turkey’s small vital area demands enhanced accuracy, especially at longer ranges.

In this post, we’re going to dive deep into the world of turkey hunting scopes. We’ll cover:

Why turkey hunting demands specialized optics
The key features to look for in a turkey hunting scope
Our top 5 picks for the best turkey hunting scopes on the market
Tips on how to choose the right scope for your specific hunting style and shotgun

Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to upgrade your gear, or a newbie trying to set up your first turkey gun, you’re in the right place. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what to look for in a turkey hunting scope and which ones are worth your hard-earned money.

So, grab your favorite turkey call, settle in, and let’s talk scopes. Trust me, your next trophy tom will thank you for paying attention!

The 5 Best Turkey Hunting Scopes

Best Overall: Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane

Best for: All-around performance, balance of features and price
Magnification: 4-12x50mm
Reticle: Turkey Plex
Pros: Excellent light transmission, precise magnification range, illuminated reticle, high-quality construction, lifetime warranty
Price ranges from $330

Best Value: Burris Fullfield E1 Turkey Scope

Best for: Budget-minded hunters who prioritize value
Magnification: 3-9x40mm
Reticle: Ballistic Plex Turkey, illuminated
Pros: Affordable price, fog-proof and water-resistant, good range
Cons: Limited magnification compared to some other options, warranty is not as comprehensive as Vortex
Retail: $159

Best for Long Shots: Leupold VX-Freedom RDS Turkey Dot

Best for: Hunters who encounter turkeys at longer distances
Magnification: 1-4x28mm
Reticle: Turkey Dot, illuminated
Pros: Precise magnification for longer shots, rugged and reliable construction, good value for the features
Cons: Larger and heavier than some other options, red dot sight might not be ideal for close-range encounters
Retail: $300

Best for Fast Action: Trijicon MRO Patrol

Best for: Hunters who need lightning-fast target acquisition
Magnification: 1x
Reticle: Red dot
Pros: Extremely fast target acquisition, bright and clear red dot, durable and waterproof construction, excellent battery life
Cons: No magnification, more expensive than some other options
Retail: $620

Best for Gobblers with Beards: Bushnell Engage 4-12x50mm Turkey Scope

Best for: Precisely judging beard size and ensuring ethical harvests
Magnification: 4-12x50mm
Reticle: Multi-X BDC Turkey, illuminated with multiple aiming points
Pros: Affordable price, good light gathering for the price, fog-proof and waterproof
Cons: Reticle might not be as precise as some higher-end options, warranty is not as comprehensive as some other brands
Price ranges from $140 to $375

Buyer’s Guide to Choosing the Right Turkey Scope

Regarding turkey hunting, having the right scope can make all the difference between a successful hunt and a missed opportunity. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the perfect scope for your needs? Let’s break it down.

1. Magnification

For turkey hunting, you typically don’t need high magnification. Most shots are taken within 50 yards.

Look for scopes with a 1-4x or 1-6x magnification range.
Variable power scopes offer flexibility for different hunting situations.
Fixed power scopes (like a 3x) can be simpler and more robust.

Pro Tip: Higher magnification isn’t always better. It can limit your field of view and make it harder to acquire targets quickly.

2. Reticle Type

The right reticle can help you estimate distance and aim precisely.

Circle reticles are popular for turkey hunting. They help you quickly center on the bird’s head.
Some scopes offer specialized turkey reticles with multiple aiming points for different distances.
Illuminated reticles can be helpful in low-light conditions.

Remember: You can use the best reticle instinctively without overthinking.

3. Objective Lens Size

The objective lens affects light gathering and the overall size of the scope.

A 28-32mm objective lens is usually sufficient for turkey hunting.
Larger objectives (40mm+) gather more light but add weight and bulk to your setup.

Consider: Will you be hunting in dense woods or more open areas? This can affect your lens size choice.

4. Eye Relief

Eye relief is crucial for comfortable shooting, especially with heavy recoiling shotguns.

Look for at least 3-4 inches of eye relief.
Generous eye relief helps prevent scope eye and allows for quicker target acquisition.

Safety First: Adequate eye relief is not just about comfort; it’s about preventing injury from recoil.

5. Durability and Weather Resistance

Turkey hunting can involve rough conditions, so your scope needs to be tough.

Look for scopes that are fogproof, waterproof, and shockproof.
Quality scopes use nitrogen or argon purging to prevent internal fogging.

Think Long-term: A durable scope might cost more upfront but will serve you well for many seasons.

6. Weight and Size

Remember, you’ll be carrying this scope in the field.

Lighter scopes (under 10 oz) are easier to carry and maneuver.
Consider the balance of your shotgun when choosing a scope size.

Ask Yourself: How far do you typically walk during a hunt? This can influence how much weight you’re willing to add to your gun.

7. Mounting System

Ensure the scope is compatible with your shotgun’s mounting system.

Many turkey guns come drilled and tapped for scope mounts.
Some scopes come with rings, while others require separate purchases.

Don’t forget to factor in the cost of a quality mount when budgeting for your scope.

8. Price and Warranty

Quality optics are an investment, but they don’t have to break the bank.

Set a budget, but remember that quality optics are worth the investment.
Look for brands that offer lifetime warranties.

Pro Tip: Sometimes, it’s worth spending a bit more for a scope from a reputable manufacturer with excellent customer service.

9. Additional Features

Some scopes offer extra features that might be useful:

Parallax adjustment can be helpful for precision at varying distances.
Some scopes offer ballistic turrets calibrated for specific turkey loads.

Consider: Which features enhance your hunting, and which are just nice?

Remember, the best scope for you depends on your specific hunting style, the terrain you hunt, and your personal preferences. Take your time, do your research, and if possible, try out different scopes before making your decision.

Happy hunting, and may your new scope bring you many successful turkey seasons!