Best Scopes for 270 Winchester

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope

Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope
  • Optics: 4.5/5
  • Build Quality: 4.3/5
  • Battery: 3/5

This durable scope is an investment you’ll never regret.

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Best Budget Scope

BARSKA 6.5-20x 50mm AO Varmint Riflescope

BARSKA Varmint Mil-Dot Riflescope Review
  • Optics: 4.2/5
  • Build Quality: 4.5/5
  • Battery: 3/5

This riflescope is not only reliable but is also budget-friendly.

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Best Long Range

Vortex Viper PST Gen II Riflescope

Vortex Viper PST Gen II Riflescope
  • Optics: 4.7/5
  • Build Quality: 4.8/5
  • Battery: 3/5

This scope is recommended by most gun enthusiasts.

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The 270 Winchester is an excellent choice for hunting deer, elk, and even bears. And it works best in small and light rifles, so you can hunt hard without getting worn out. Not sure where to start with finding a 270 scope? We’ve reviewed the best ones and show you where to begin.

Comparison Table of the Best 270 Winchester Scopes

Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Rifle Scope
Barska AC10048 Varmint 6.5-20x50 Rifle Scope Target Dot Reticle...
Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes
Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9x40 BDC
Vortex Optics Viper Parallax Adjustment Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
Model
Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Rifle Scope
Barska AC10048 Varmint 6.5-20x50 Rifle Scope Target Dot Reticle...
Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes
Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9x40 BDC
Vortex Optics Viper Parallax Adjustment Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
Our Score
9.6
9.5
9.6
9.3
9.1
MSRP
-
$71.99
-
-
-
Material
Aluminum
Aluminum
Aircraft-grade aluminum
Chiffon
Aircraft-grade aluminum
Optics
DiamondCoat 2: Ion-assist lens coating
Multi-coated lens
Fully multi-coated lens
Fully multi-coated lens
Fully multi-coated lens
Weight
0.63 Pounds
1.4 Pounds
31.2 Ounces
11 Ounces
21.6 Ounces
Dimensions
14 x 4 x 3 inches
15.95 x 3.43 x 3.15 inches
6 x 6 x 22 inches
15.75 x 3.5 x 4.75 inches
16 x 4.5 x 3.9 inches
Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Rifle Scope
Model
Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Rifle Scope
Our Score
9.6
MSRP
-
Material
Aluminum
Optics
DiamondCoat 2: Ion-assist lens coating
Weight
0.63 Pounds
Dimensions
14 x 4 x 3 inches
More Information
Barska AC10048 Varmint 6.5-20x50 Rifle Scope Target Dot Reticle...
Model
Barska AC10048 Varmint 6.5-20x50 Rifle Scope Target Dot Reticle...
Our Score
9.5
MSRP
$71.99
Material
Aluminum
Optics
Multi-coated lens
Weight
1.4 Pounds
Dimensions
15.95 x 3.43 x 3.15 inches
More Information
Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes
Model
Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes
Our Score
9.6
MSRP
-
Material
Aircraft-grade aluminum
Optics
Fully multi-coated lens
Weight
31.2 Ounces
Dimensions
6 x 6 x 22 inches
More Information
Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9x40 BDC
Model
Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9x40 BDC
Our Score
9.3
MSRP
-
Material
Chiffon
Optics
Fully multi-coated lens
Weight
11 Ounces
Dimensions
15.75 x 3.5 x 4.75 inches
More Information
Vortex Optics Viper Parallax Adjustment Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
Model
Vortex Optics Viper Parallax Adjustment Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
Our Score
9.1
MSRP
-
Material
Aircraft-grade aluminum
Optics
Fully multi-coated lens
Weight
21.6 Ounces
Dimensions
16 x 4.5 x 3.9 inches
More Information

What scope should I put on my 270? – Features to Consider

We want you to choose right the first time. Here’s what we look for in a scope.

CategoryLeupold VX-3HDBARSKA AO Varmint Vortex Viper PST Gen II Athlon Midas TACVortex Optics Diamondback 4-16×44 Category Average
Overall Score3.283.542.923.063.143.19
Ergonomics2.21.61.11.41.61.58
Optics4.54.24.74.84.54.54
Build Quality4.24.54.84.54.54.5
Battery333333
Value2.54.411.62.12.32

Optics

270 scope

Decide on your scope’s magnification first because it will do more to limit your shooting accuracy than anything else. If you’re regularly engaging targets at a wide variety of ranges, you’ll want a scope with variable magnification so you can use your scope for close-range and long-range shooting. A scope with adjustable parallax is also a big plus for shooting long distances. If you like doing CQB drills or shooting steel at common self-defense ranges, a 1x optic is faster than any magnified scope since it’s a natural sight picture for your eye. You can easily keep both eyes open and maximize your situational awareness.

Clear Sight Picture

Optical clarity is a must for scopes. So look for an optic with an objective lens of at least 30 mm diameter to let plenty of light in (larger is better for hunting in low-light conditions). Fully multi-coated lenses made from high-density glass are also important for sight picture quality. This will guarantee zero distortion, high light transmission, and improved glare reduction when sighting in a wide range of conditions.

Reticle

No matter how flat the 270 Winchester’s trajectory is, you’ll still encounter bullet drop. So using a scope that compensates for that and wind drift will help you extend your effective shooting range. If you have a reticle with holdover points, you won’t have to dial in your ranges and can shoot more quickly.

How do we rate it?

High marks go to scopes that offer a view so clear it feels like you’re looking through a freshly cleaned window, not a piece of equipment. Low-light performance and the ability to maintain a sharp, bright image under various conditions also score high.

Build Quality

Accidents are part of target shooting and game hunting. So your scope needs to be sturdy enough to survive drops and bumps, as well as stay dry in rain and snow. You won’t have a hard time finding a durable optic with this list, because all the scopes featured in this guide are shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof.

How do we rate it?

Is it waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof? A high rating in this category means your scope is the tank of the optics world—reliable, tough, and ready for anything Mother Nature throws at it.

Ergonomics

In the world of scopes, ergonomics refers to how well the scope fits you and your shooting style. Can you make all the adjustments easily? Does the scope feel like an extension of your eye when you’re lining up a shot? If the answer is “Yeah, kinda like how my hand fits into a bag of chips,” then you’re on the right track.

Adjustment knobs allow you to dial in your scope and have better accuracy. Be sure to get fractional MOA adjustments that are small enough to match the type of shooting you’re doing. It’s also critical to know that once you set your zero, it remains unchanged until you adjust your point of aim.

Eye Relief

Man Shooting With Sniper

Choose a scope with generous eye relief so you can have sighting flexibility and a large field of view. A long eye relief also protects your eyes from recoil, especially if you’re using a powerful firearm. That can be important with a 270 if you have a lot of clothes in winter or are forced to shoot from an odd position.

How do we rate it?

Is the scope’s weight balanced, or does it make your rifle feel like you’re lugging around a medieval weapon? A top-rated scope in ergonomics should feel intuitive like it’s an extension of yourself rather than an awkward appendage.

Battery

If your scope has any electronic components, like an illuminated reticle, then battery life is your new best friend. There’s nothing worse than getting ready for the perfect shot only to find your reticle as dark as your chances of hitting the target without it. Long battery life is a must. You should also have easy access to replace batteries and shouldn’t have to think about it much until you need it.

How do we rate it?

We give lower scores to scopes that require battery changes more often than you change your socks. High ratings go to models with efficient power usage and long-lasting battery life, ensuring you’re always ready for the shot, day or night.

Value

Value is not only about the price tag, it’s also about getting the most bang for your buck. Sure, you could drop a small fortune on a scope, but is it overkill? A good scope should fit both your budget and your needs, offering the features you’ll actually use without the fluff you won’t.

How do we rate it?

A high rating in value means the scope offers the best blend of quality and features for its price point, striking that sweet balance between cost and functionality. Think of it as the difference between a deal and a steal.

5 Best 270 Scopes

Best Overall: Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope

CategoryLeupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm RiflescopeCategory Average
Ergonomics2.21.58
Optics4.54.54
Build Quality4.24.5
Battery33
Value2.52.32

Score: 3.28/5

We picked the VX-3i Riflescope because it guarantees lifetime durability and reliability despite its affordability. This scope offers incredible image quality. Its lenses are covered with DiamondCoat 2 for ultimate protection against abrasion. It also features Leupold’s impressive light management system which is well-known for the ability to hunt no matter the lighting condition. As one of Leupold’s best, the VX-3i Riflescope lives up to its brand’s “Relentless Performance” tagline.

Pros

  • Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
  • Affordable
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Excellent light transmission
  • Second lightest pick (20.4 oz)

Cons

  • Adjustment knob clicks are not that audible

What Customers Say

“Great value. Clear optics. Hold zero well. Made me much more accurate. Love it. Only wish the adjustment knobs were more “clicky”. Nice that no coin or tools required to adjust.”

Robert J Kurelic Jr

Best Budget Scope: Barska 6.5-20x 50mm AO Varmint Riflescope

CategoryBarska 6.5-20x 50mm AO Varmint RiflescopeCategory Average
Ergonomics1.61.58
Optics4.24.54
Build Quality4.54.5
Battery33
Value4.42.32

Score: 3.54/5

The Barska AO Varmint Riflescope has a wide magnification range because it’s specifically designed for hunting. It guarantees razor-sharp images, especially at low magnification levels. Its second focal plane fine crosshair reticle guarantees quick target acquisition, so it’s great for all types of shooting. This scope also increases your accuracy with the help of its easy-grip high turrets and adjustable objective for parallax correction. Despite these incredible features, the Barska Varmint Riflescope is very affordable compared to other brands.

Pros

  • Objective lens parallax adjustment
  • Limited lifetime warranty
  • Waterproof, fog proof, shockproof
  • Lighter than most scopes (22.3 oz)

Cons

  • Small eye box

What Customers Say

“This is a very nice scope for the money. My friends bust on me because I think the rule of spending as much on your optic as your rifle is BS. Mine functions very nicely. The AO, turrets, magnification, & focus all feel solid and work well.”

Peter Ardell

Best Long-Range Option: Vortex Viper PST Gen II Riflescope

CategoryVortex Viper PST Gen II RiflescopeCategory Average
Ergonomics1.11.58
Optics4.74.54
Build Quality4.84.5
Battery33
Value12.32

Score: 2.92/5

Our next pick features an illuminated reticle, anti-reflective lens coating, and adjustable parallax. Its reticle is equipped with detailed hold points, 1/4 MOA click adjustments, and 10 brightness levels with off positions between each setting. That’s why it’s perfect for long-distance shooting. The Vortex Viper PST Gen II is also constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum with a low-glare matte black hard anodized finish, so it’s extremely durable and shockproof. This scope also comes with a sunshade, lens cloth, and Allen wrench.

Pros

  • Lifetime warranty
  • High-quality glass
  • Waterproof, shockproof, fog proof
  • Fast focus eyepiece

Cons

  • Exposed turrets
  • Heaviest pick (31.2 oz)

What Customers Say

“It’s a good FFP SCOPE for the price. It doesn’t have the quality of glass or reticle that my 5×25 Kahles but it cost 75% less. I love FFP scopes and this one is built solid and has a lifetime warranty. I am certain I will be happy with this scope for shooting coyotes with but it may fall short shooting PRS TARGETS at 1200 yards.”

B. McLauchlin

Athlon Midas TAC 6-24×50 First Focal Plane Riflescope

CategoryAthlon Midas TAC 6-24×50 First Focal Plane RiflescopeCategory Average
Ergonomics1.41.58
Optics4.84.54
Build Quality4.54.5
Battery33
Value1.62.32

Score: 3.06/5

The Athlon Midas TAC 6-24×50 first focal plane riflescope is a great option if you’re looking for a lot of features without breaking the bank. It has high-definition glass that gives you clear and sharp images, which is really important for accurately shooting your 270 Winchester. This scope is built to last with a glass-etched reticle, which also helps you aim more precisely. The zero-stop feature is very handy because it lets you quickly return to your original setting after making adjustments.

One of the best features is the large uncapped 10 mil per turn zero stop elevation adjustment. This means you can make precise and easy adjustments for elevation, which is especially useful for long-distance shooting. However, there are a couple of downsides. The reticle isn’t illuminated, which might be a problem in low-light conditions. Also, while the scope performs well, it might not have the same optical quality as more expensive models like the Athlon Ares BTR 4.5-27x50mm.

Pros

  • Zero-stop feature
  • High definition glass
  • Glass-etched reticle
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • No illumination
  • Second heaviest pick (26.3 oz)

What Customers Say

I zeroed it at 50 then 100 yards then spent the day shooting at 100 yards. The glass is clear, the zoom is smooth, and the turrets are easy to use with a audible clicks. Looking in the store at other scopes that are way more expensive I dont see why you would pay more and I definitely wont for my next one either. I think I will be sticking with Athlon.

Brian Z.

Vortex Optics Diamondback Scope

CategoryVortex Optics Diamondback ScopeCategory Average
Ergonomics1.61.58
Optics4.54.54
Build Quality4.54.5
Battery33
Value2.12.32

Score: 3.14/5

The Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical FFP 4-16x44mm scope is a great all-around option for various rifles, including the .270 Winchester. It’s versatile and well-suited for different shooting scenarios. This scope features a side focus that helps you fine-tune your view, and the 44mm objective lens ensures you only get clear images. With a 30mm scope tube, this Diamondback model offers good internal travel for windage and elevation adjustments, so we recommend it as a solid choice for long-range shooting. The Diamondback Tactical line, including this 4-16×44 model, is known for its reliable performance and ease of use.

Overall, the Vortex Diamondback Tactical FFP 4-16x44mm scope is an excellent choice for a .270 Winchester rifle. It provides the right magnification and clarity needed for hunting or shooting at various distances. However, one downside is that the turrets can feel a bit mushy, which might make precise adjustments a bit tricky at times.

Pros

  • Long eye relief (3.8 inches)
  • Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
  • Side focus adjustment
  • Affordable
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Heavy (23.1 oz)
  • No illumination
  • Mushy turrets

What Customers Say

This is a very well made scope that allows for very good accuracy. It consistently permits shots beyond 200 yds with a good rest. Good glass and nice functional reticle.

WoodyG

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best scope magnification for 200 yards?

The scope magnifications intended for use at 200 yards are in the 8-24x range. High magnification really lets you focus and correct your aim on a smaller scale for greater accuracy. Keep in mind that how large of a sight picture you need will vary with the mobility of your target. Even if an elk is standing still for your first shot, you may need to make a quick follow-up shot afterward. So, too much magnification is also possible for a situation.

How far can you shoot with a 270?

The 270 Winchester is effective up to 300 yards. But you can extend its effective range up to 500 yards if you pair it with a reliable scope.

What’s the best magnification for a hunting scope?

When it comes to magnification on hunting scopes, less is more. A 3x or 4x magnification is often enough for you to have a clear but wide field of view at close distances. This doesn’t mean you’ll only be using that magnification level. If you’re taking long-distance shots, you’ll need higher magnification but get help from a steady bench rest if possible.

We suggest you get a scope with variable magnification of 3-9x, 3-15x, or 4-12x. This will give you flexibility while hunting.

Conclusion

The 270 Winchester is a light-kicking cartridge that’s perfect for big game hunting. And it will do wonders with good placement and with the help of an excellent scope. If you’ve already picked from our list above, that’s great! You’ll never regret that decision.

If you’re also looking for a reliable brass catcher, here’s an article where you can find one.

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Last update on 2025-02-17 / Images from Amazon Product API