How are you going to find the best 3 gun scopes for you?
3 gun is one of the fastest growing shooting competitions in America. It is also the only one that combines all the skills, and weapons platforms, you will need in a real world self defense situation. Many clubs and ranges are organizing these gun competitions so there is probably one near you.
If you are new to 3 gun, or just need to upgrade your equipment, a quality scope is probably high on your wish list. We have reviewed the best 3 gun scopes on the market and narrowed it down to the best of the best 3 gun scopes.
Our Six Best 3 Gun Scopes
1. Vortex Optics Razor HD Scope
This includes one of Vortex's more advanced 3 gun scopes. But what makes it so popular is its versatility. The 1-6x magnification allows you to take multiple ranges. The illuminated reticle includes 11 different setting for use in any lighting and the image is very high quality.
At 2.38 lbs. Vortex has shaved almost a 1/4 lb. from the earlier model in an attempt to offer a lightweight 3 gun scope. The illuminated center dot and JM-1 BDC reticle are accurate to 600 yards. All lenses are high density, low dispersion glass for a clear image edge to edge. The lenses are also coated with XR Plus anti-reflective coatings.
The second focal plane reticle, streamline resettable turrets and one click adjustments provide quick, easy changes for various ranges. Even at close range targets will be engaged easily. The generous eye relief and forgiving eye box permits use in even unconventional positions.
Each scope is a single piece 30mm tube, O-ring sealed and argon purged. This combination will allow it to withstand heavy recoil, fog and water.
Like all Vortex products this scope is backed by a lifetime warranty and excellent customer service.
The Vortex Razor is the best 3 gun scope in the mid-cost range.
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The AR Drop Zone is the best budget 3 gun scope and perfect for beginners or shooters on a budget. Plus, you get plenty of features without giving up too much that you need.
The aluminum alloy construction provides a lightweight scope that is still durable enough to withstand abuse. Large, well marked turrets and magnification ring make for easy, fast corrections on the go. There is also a large eye box and moderate eye relief for those tricky angles a 3 gun competition is sure to include.
The 14x magnification is more than most 3 gun shooters will need. However, this is offset by the excellent performance delivered at closer ranges.
The only drawbacks are lack of a second focal plane and illuminated reticle. These are minor inconveniences and can be overcome through use of lower magnification on smaller targets and practice.
The Bushnell Drop Zone is the best scope for those new to 3 gun competition.
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This scope features a 30mm single piece tube with argon purged lenses, aggressive knurling on power adjustment and true one power at lowest setting. Plus, optional illumination with the shooter's choice of red or green reticle.
The lenses are high-quality with edge to edge clarity. All lenses are also multi-coated to protect against fogging, grease and scratching. Plus, extra batteries for the illumination feature are included so you will not go dark in the middle of a competition.
This is a great budget scope that combines the benefits of a red dot scope at close range and a precision scope when attacking farther targets. Although it features a first focal plane reticle, the overall design compensates for the typical drawbacks. The smaller center dot, illuminate choices and true 1x magnification allows this to be a well functioning 3 gun scope.
The Weaver Tactical Close Intermediate scope is the best first focal plane scope we reviewed.
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Swarovski set the standard with the Z6i. Not only is it the best scope in its class, it also revolutionized what is desired in a 3 gun scope.
The slim 30mm tube is perfect for running and gunning. The illuminated second plane reticle easily draws the shooter's eye to the target. Large eye box and eye relief optimizes the field of view and visibility during low light conditions.
The SWAROLIGHT illumination system offers compact controls and an auto-switch-off feature. When the rifle is tilted, a sensor detects the movement and turn the system one. When no more movement is detected the same sensor shuts it off to save battery life.
If you want the best 3 gun gun scope it is hard to beat the Z6i. Second focal plane, 1-6x24 magnification, illuminated reticle and large eye box with optimized eye relief. You get a durable, easy to use scope. Pair this with a quality AR and you will take your ability to compete in 3 gun competitions to a new level.
There is little doubt that the Z6i deserves a place on any list of the best 3 gun scopes.
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AccuPoint has built a reputation of providing quality, economical scopes and the TR24R is no exception.
This scope includes all of the features you look for in a 3 gun scope. The 30mm tube is lightweight, well constructed and sure to stand up to the abuse of competition. The multi-coated lenses offer superior light gathering ability and edge to edge clarity. The 1-4x magnification and stationary reticle provides the ideal set up for a multitude of ranges.
But the star of the show is the illumination system. Based on the fiber optic system that Trijicon is famous for, the TR24R does not require any batteries. Instead, light is gathered via multiple layers of fiber optic material and tritium. The resulting red triangle reticle is highly visible and draws the eye quickly to the center of the scope.
For a lower mid-range scope the Trijicon TR24R is one of the best available.
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Sig Sauer has entered into almost every arena of sport shooting from ammunition to accessories. In the last few years, their products have seen great success, including acceptance by the U.S. military. This includes the Tango 6, which was selected to replace the Trijicon ACOG after almost 20 year of service.
Now, there is a civilian version of the Tango 6 and it is perfect for the 3 gun completion circuit. The 1-6x magnification is equally adapt at targeting spitting distance plates or far off silhouettes. All Tango 6Ts are built on a 30mm tube for a lightweight, compact scope that is specifically designed for the AR platform.
Aside from the magnification, there are a wide range of other features available in over a dozen different variations.
Users have their choice of first or second focal plane and four different illuminated reticle options. Turrets are either capped or tall and the finish is available in black or gun metal grey.
Why is this one of the best 3 gun scopes? Because it was specifically built for building clearing, engaging targets at multiple ranges and doing so with minimal adjustments. These are the real world situations that 3 gun is meant to simulate so it goes without question that the gear used by our troops would be an excellent choice.
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What Is A 3 Gun Competition?
As the name implies, 3 gun competitions involve using three different platforms - a modern sporting rifle (AR platform), a pistol and a shotgun. Shooters move through a course that simulates a building, neighborhood street, commercial complex, etc. At each stage the shooter will engage in a variety of targets from various shooting positions and often transition from one firearm to another. The target can be almost any size and at any range.
Although many matches are governed by the International Multi-Gun Association (IMGA) or United States Practical Shooting Association (USPA) the specifics of each competition can vary greatly. Of course, this is what makes 3 gun competitions so exciting. Just like real life, there is no defined set of rules and things can be different every day.
Different Types of 3 Gun Competitions
There are 5 recognized divisions, or classifications, of 3 gun competitions. Although the main difference is the type of equipment that is permitted, however, experience level also comes into play.
1. Limited
This is the most basic, entry level division. Despite being considered entry level it can be a lot of fun and, because it requires very little specialized equipment, great for shooters who want to use the guns they carry every day. The equipment limitations are listed here:
Rifles
No bipod permitted. May only utilize non-magnifying optic such as a red dot or iron sights. This prohibits the use of a scope.
Shotguns
You may use either a semi-automatic or pump configuration. No porting or optics are permitted. Limited to 8+1 capacity but may not be equipped with a detachable magazine. All reloading must be done by hand and without a speed loader.
Handguns
The shooter has a choice of calibers, however, no porting or optics are permitted. There is a maximum magazine length of 141.25mm.
2. Tactical
This is probably the most popular division. It also contains some of the most competitive shooters. The only difference between the tactical and limited division is the rifle optics. Tactical division shooters may use a magnifying optic, rather than only a red dot or iron sights. This makes it very easy to move from limited to tactical after gaining a little bit of experience. This is the first division that allows shooters to use a scope during competition.
3. Heavy Metal (HeMan)
As the name suggests, this is where the heavy duty equipment gets to come out and play.
Rifle
This must be chambered in 7.62 x 51 or larger. No optics permitted, iron sights only. Again, this means a scope is not permitted.
Shotgun
Only 12 gauge pump designs are permitted. No porting is permitted. As with the earlier divisions, all reloads must be completed by hand and without the aid of a speed loader.
Handgun
Must be of .45 ACP or larger. May not include porting. No optics are permitted.
4. Open
This division is where shooters get to open their range bags and pull out almost all of their goodies. Almost any modification is permitted, so this is where you will see the high end race guns coming out.
Rifles
Customization is permitted, included oversized grips or light triggers. Shooters may combine both magnifying (scope) and non-magnifying optics (red dot).
Shotguns
This is where you will find long feed tubes and speed loaders make an appearance. Optics are also permitted, either a scope or red dot.
Handguns
Extended barrels, oversized grips and a wide array of other custom features are permitted. Optics are also allowed, either a scope or red dot.
5. Outlaw Open
If it is not allowed in either of the other divisions the Outlaw Open is your chance to give it a try. The only limitations here are related to safety. If it can be used safely it will be permitted. Of course, this division is not for everyone and many clubs or organizers do not offer matches in this division. Shooters in this division may use a scope or red dot on any or all of their firearms.
What To Look For When Buying a 3 Gun Scope
There are some key features that need to be considered when purchasing your 3 gun scope. Although many are shared with your hunting or target shooting scope, the benefit they provide during 3 gun competitions is different.
1. Reticle
During 3 gun competitions you will be shooting fast and engaging multiple targets at different ranges. This requires a reticle that draws the shooter's eye to the center of the scope. At the same time, the reticle needs multiple aim points that allow the shooter to tackle the long range target.
The best reticle in a 3 gun scope is one that is uncluttered, requires little or no adjustment for varying ranges and includes a colored center that stands out easily.
2. Illuminated Center
Having an illuminated center, similar to those found on a red dot, can provide a significant advantage. Not only does it draw the shooter's eye to the reticle, it also facilitates shooting with both eyes open. At close distances a 1x illuminated reticle can be used similar to a red dot sight. When magnification is used the illuminated reticle will still allow for faster target acquisition.
3. Eye Relief/ Eye Box
Many hunting rifle scopes include a small eye box and long eye relief. This prevents injury due to recoil but requires precise head & eye placement . The best 3 gun scopes will include a large eye box and wider eye relief. Injury is generally not a concern as most 3 gun shooters use .223/5.56 caliber rifles that have light recoil.
This combination will permit shooting from odd angles and with a less than perfect gun position. It will also allow the shooter to pick up the next target quicker.
4. Focal Plane
When it comes to 3 gun, there is really no question concerning focal plane. Second focal plane is the preference, although there are some first focal plane scopes that made our list.
Generally speaking a first focal plane scope is harder to use in a 3 gun competition. At close range the reticle will be too small to draw your eye to the target. As range increases so will the reticle size, eventually becoming so large it covers small plates making precision shooting impossible.
A non-magnifying second focal plane reticle will provide the best performance both near and far.
Red Dots vs Scopes for 3 Gun
With the exception of the open class, 3 gun shooters are limited to a single optic. The problem is that you never know at what range the target will be. Plus, that range will be different at each stage or even change during a stage.
The optic you select must be suitable at a variety of ranges. It also needs to be easily adjusted. Remember, these are timed events so you can not spend too much of it twisting dials.
A quality red dot sight seems to fit the bill rather well. They are simple to use, permitted in all divisions and specifically designed to fast target accusation. However, there is one drawback - no magnification.
When permitted, magnification can be an invaluable tool. Remember, there are no pre-set rules pertaining to target range. This means that the match you shoot today could have a maximum range of 50 yd. The one you shoot tomorrow could stretch out as far as 600 or 800 yards. You will not even see the red dot at the range.
Once you move to a division that allows optics equipped with magnification, it is hard to beat a scope. If you select a scope that is a true 1x there will be no magnification at the lowest setting. This will allow you to maintain your speed when engaging short range targets. As the target range increases a 4x or 6x will provide the the ability to see and engage a target at increased ranges.
Conclusion
So what is our top pick out the best 3 gun scopes? While each of these scopes are sure to provide excellent performance, the best of the best is the Swarovski 1-6x24 Z6i Scope.
The Z6i was the first 1x16 magnification scope designed specifically for 3 gun shooters. When on the lowest setting, the true 1x provides a clear, easy to pick up view. Turn it up to 6x and you can easily engage targets as far as 600 -800 yards. Illumination allows shooting in all light conditions and the quality construction will allow it to last for many years.