Scopes increase your accuracy and precision at almost any distance. An increase in magnification, even a small amount, can help you identify targets and get a better view of vital areas on live game. Even at 200 yards, a scope is a worthwhile investment.

You can certainly see your target with the naked eye at 200 yards, but any set of iron sights are going to cover it. If you want to make a good shot on the range or while hunting, you’ll need a scope with enough magnification.

How Much Magnification Do You Need To Shoot 200 Yards?

The rule of thumb is that you need 3x magnification for every 100 yards you plan to shoot. In this case, you will need at least 6x magnification to shoot 200 yards. The standard 3 to 9x variable scope will likely be perfect for this kind of rifle, and has more magnification if you want to stretch your shots out to 300 yards.

You will also want to get a scope with a good size objective lens. The larger the lens, the more light it captures, and the more clear your picture will be. Although a larger lens is heavier, and the standard 40mm is plenty to shoot 200 yards. Also make sure your lenses are fully multi-coated so they don’t get scratched.

Common Cartridges For Shooting 200 Yards

Just about any rifle cartridge can shoot out to 200 yards. Most high power cartridges that we might use for hunting big game will shoot extremely flat (aka not have a lot of bullet drop) at this range. One of my favorites is the 308 Winchester. It is what I use for deer hunting, and while I am an eastern hunter that doesn't need to shoot extremely far for whitetail, I have shot a handful of deer over 200 yards with this round. I was using my Burris 3 to 9x scope as well.

Most Affordable 200 Yard Scope: Burris Fullfield II 3-9x 40mm

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If you want an affordable scope that has enough magnification to reach out to 200 yards and farther, the Burris Fullfield II is what you need. It has a 3 to 9x variable magnification, so it can really reach out to 300 yards. Although I like to have a little more magnification that I might need to reach a certain distance. That extra magnification can help me discern a button buck from a doe, or still be able to shoot deer that are a little farther than I planned on shooting.

The objective lens on this scope is 40mm wide, which is a great size that lets in plenty of light. The lenses themselves are fully multi-coated so they will not get scratched, and that also helps with light transmission. The reticle on this scope is the standard second focal plane MOA reticle that you are used to.

The best part about this scope is its price tag. Sometimes you need to spend just as much on the scope as you do the rifle, but at 200 yards, that is not quite necessary. This scope goes for around $150 and comes with the Burris Forever Warranty.

Pros	Cons
Affordable Price Tag Great for Whitetail Guaranteed By The Burris Forever Warranty	Not American Made Like Most Burris Scopes

Pros
Affordable Price Tag Great for Whitetail Guaranteed By The Burris Forever Warranty
Cons
Not American Made Like Most Burris Scopes

Best AR Rifle Scope: Sig Sauer Tango-MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm

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If you are building out an AR and you want to be able to hit mid range targets at 200 yards, the Sig Sauer Tango-MSR Low Power Variable Optic might be the scope for you. It is specifically made for AR’s and has a maximum magnification of 6x which is perfect for shooting at 200 yards. I also like the fact that it goes all the way down to 1x, so you don’t need to worry about having too much magnification for those routine 20 yard shots.

A smaller scope comes with a smaller objective lens at just 24mm, but it has an Ultra Low Dispersion glass coating, and you can be sure that you will get a clear sight picture out of this scope. Plus, the second focal plane MOA reticle is illuminated so you can easily see it in all conditions. This scope is also super durable and easy to use, so for an AR build, you can’t overlook it.

Pros	Cons
Perfect for A Close to Mid Range AR Extremely Durable Easy-To-Use	Not Ideal for Long Range DMR’s

Pros
Perfect for A Close to Mid Range AR Extremely Durable Easy-To-Use
Cons
Not Ideal for Long Range DMR’s

Best Eastern Hunting Scope: Vortex Diamondback 3-9x 40mm

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If you are building out your deer rifle and want a quality optic, the Vortex Diamondback is one that hundreds of users love. It gets great reviews on Sportsman’s Warehouse, and is not terribly expensive. It is about 40% more than the Burris we mentioned earlier, but you get what you pay for in optics.

The Vortex Diamondback has a 3 to 9x variable magnification range, and a 40mm objective lens much like the Burris. It also has fully multi-coated lenses. What you are paying for is the superior build quality. This scope is waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof. Plus, you can pick from two different second focal plane MOA reticles when you order this scope. All and all it is a great scope, especially in the sub $300 range.

Pros	Cons
Waterproof, Fog proof, Shockproof Great Scope for The Price ($200 - $300) High Quality Glass & Coatings Multiple Reticle Options	Not Ideal for Hunting Over 300 Yards

Pros
Waterproof, Fog proof, Shockproof Great Scope for The Price ($200 - $300) High Quality Glass & Coatings Multiple Reticle Options
Cons
Not Ideal for Hunting Over 300 Yards