Deer Stalking Scopes

Stalking in Britain is mostly a low-light business at modest range: roe standing in a woodland ride at first light, muntjac and Chinese water deer in thick cover, reds on the open hill where the shot may be a good deal further. What that asks of a scope is a genuinely usable bottom-end magnification, glass that still gives you a picture in the last twenty minutes of shootable light, and turrets or a reticle you can use without taking your eye off the beast. Every optic on this page is a magnified variable in the 2.5-12x to 5-30x band — the range that covers British stalking from a high seat out to the hill.

Mount it properly: see rifle scope mounts and rifle scope rings in 30mm and 34mm. For the wider ranges browse rifle scopes, Burris rifle scopes, EOTech Vudu rifle scopes and SIG Sauer rifle scopes. A rifle bipod earns its keep on a hill rifle, and a handheld torch earns its keep on the walk back.

Frequently Asked Questions

What magnification is right for UK deer stalking?
In woodland most stalkers spend their time at the bottom of the range, so a scope that starts at 2.5x or 3x is more use than one that tops out high. On the open hill a 4-12x or 3-18x gives you more to work with. A 3-9x32 or 2.5-12x42 remains the classic all-round British choice.

Should I choose first or second focal plane?
Second focal plane keeps the reticle the same apparent size at every magnification, which many stalkers prefer for a quick shot taken at low power. First focal plane keeps the reticle subtensions true at any magnification, which matters more if you hold off for range or wind. Both are represented here — check the specification on the listing before you order.