Best Scope for 6.5 Creedmoor: Good Options for All Ranges

Today, I will show you the best scope for 6.5 Creedmoor rifles money can buy.

In fact…

I’ve included the same scope I used to bag a 5 point buck at nearly 500 yards on this list.

Rest assured, you’re in good hands.

Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP Mil Dot – Best Overall Scope for 6.5 Creedmoor

Glass Clarity & Reticle

When it comes to the glass clarity and reticle of the Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 scope, all I can say is wow.

The clarity of the glass is exceptional. It gives you a clear and crisp view of your target and combined with the well-designed Mil Dot reticle, it makes for an excellent choice for any 6.5 Creedmoor rifle.

What helps the SLx scope excel at long ranges is it being a first focal plane scope (FFP). With FFP, the reticle maintains its size proportionate to the target as you increase the magnification. This ensures the holdover points remain accurate for those precise long-range shots.

Now, let’s compare the Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP Mil Dot to other scopes on the market. One notable feature is its 44mm objective diameter.

This larger objective size significantly boosts its ability to gather light. As a result, you get brighter images and better visibility, especially when the lighting isn’t ideal. 

The larger lens results in a 10-15% brighter image compared to smaller diameters. So yeah… it makes a difference.

Basically, more clarity means it’s easier to make difficult shots quicker. Imagine you having to squint to find the hash marks to line up the perfect shot right at dusk, only to let the opportunity pass you by. 

No thanks. 

Eye Relief & Eye Box

This Primary Arms scope has a generous eye relief range of 3.14 to 3.22 inches. That’ll ensure you have minimal eye strain during extended shooting sessions.

This is a standard eye relief for this type of scope. The other scopes on the lists have a bit more, so if you like a very long eye relief, keep reading.

The forgiving eye box adds to the overall comfort, allowing for a pleasant shooting experience.

Now, let’s compare the Primary Arms SLx scope to others in terms of its field of view.

At the lowest magnification setting, you’ll be treated to an impressively wide field of view of 27.2 feet at 100 yards. This wide perspective means swift scanning of your surroundings, making target acquisition easier. 

It’s like looking through a straw versus a 6-inch pipe. You’re much more likely to find what you’re looking for. 

When you zoom in to the highest magnification of 14x, the field of view narrows to 7.85 feet, bringing distant targets into sharp focus with precision.

To put things into perspective, that’s 25-45% more field of view than the others on the list at the lowest magnification range and 35-46% more at the highest magnification.

So, if you’re like me and you tend to get tunnel vision with tight field of views, this is a great scope.

Durability

Simply put, the durability of the Primary Arms SLx is very reliable.

It’s built to withstand harsh environments with its waterproof and shockproof design and remains functional even under adverse conditions. So, whatever terrain or weather you find yourself in, you can have peace of mind that your optic will be fine.

Now, the scope weighs 23.9 oz. That’s 1 oz heavier than the runner-up on this list and about 4 ounces than the lightest. 

That said, I find 23.9 oz is manageable, and you’re getting a beefier scope, which is a good trade-off for me. 

Elevation & Windage Knobs

As for the elevation and windage knobs on the SLx 4-14×44 are precise and easy to adjust.

In fact, they provide 0.1 mil adjustments, allowing me to make precise corrections for my 6.5 Creedmoor rifle for whatever I’m shooting. 

I like that the tactile clicks make it clear I’ve made my adjustments correctly.

To give you some numbers, 1 mil click equals 0.36 inches at 100 yards.

That’s accurate as hell.

Parallax & Magnification

With an adjustable parallax and a broad magnification range of 4x to 14x, this scope is versatile for shots at different distances. It’s particularly great for hitting those long-range targets with the 6.5 Creedmoor.

Mounting & Rings

The great thing about having the popular 30mm tube size is having plenty of mounting and ring options for the SLx. It ensures compatibility with different 6.5 Creedmoor rifle setups. But choose the correct rings and mount for your specific rifle configuration.

For more on mounting rings see our guide to the best scope rings.

Is It Worth It?

The Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP Mil Dot is a fantastic scope for the 6.5 Creedmoor, giving you an excellent bang for your buck.

Its high-quality glass, durable construction, and versatile features are 100% worth considering for any 6.5 Creedmoor rifle setup.

And if that’s not enough. We’ve negotiated free fast shipping directly with the manufacturer. Just use the link below.

Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 6-24x50mm SFP Scope – Runner Up

Glass Clarity & Reticle

This Vortex Optics scope is a top performer. Its 50mm objective lens lets in tons of light, giving brighter and clearer views. 

So, when other scopes are failing at that crucial moment when the light is just about gone, this scope will be getting the job done.

Of the different reticles on this list, the VMR-1 MOA is by far the most simple.

The ‘second focal plane‘ design means the reticle stays the same size no matter the change in magnification. And because your reticle is consistent, you can be sure you’ll always have a clear view of the reticle and your target. 

If you use the higher magnifications, the reticle won’t hide your target, and you’ll have a better chance of aiming with pinpoint accuracy. If you use the lower magnifications, your reticle crosshair will be visible, unlike FFP reticles. Simply put, reticle visibility will never be an issue you need to worry about.

That said, a reticle with holdover points will only be useful at one magnification, and that’s usually at the max power. So, longer ranges can be a problem if you don’t know how to account for different distances yet.

Now, I’ve used the Viper extensively over the years, and I’ve always been impressed with its clarity.

When you’re hunting or target shooting, especially with a 6.5 Creedmoor rifle, sharp images are crucial. And the clarity from this scope lets you spot even the tiniest details on your target.

So, even if you’re using the higher magnifications, you’ll clearly spot the number of points on a buck from 1000 yards away.

Its VMR-1 MOA reticle is all about accuracy. It simplifies calculations, so you can quickly and more precisely tune the scope. Plus, it’s got built-in tools for gauging target distance, which is a must for long-range shots.

While some might think the VMR-1 is too straightforward, I believe it’s a no-nonsense reticle that delivers every time.

Eye Relief & Eye Box

The Viper HS-T scope really shines with its eye relief and eye box capabilities. 

With a generous eye relief of up to 4 inches, it doesn’t just offer comfort—it also ensures safety by minimizing recoil risk. Not only do you lessen the chances of getting a scope bite, but its flexibility is also perfect for accommodating different shooting stances. 

You never know where you’ll find yourself if you’re out hunting, and I find that having that space that’ll work for any position you need certainly gives it versatility points.

What’s more, the scope boasts a roomy eye box. This makes locking onto targets a breeze, reducing the need for constant head shuffling. And in high-speed shooting situations? This feature becomes a game-changer when every second counts.

Additionally, it has a Field of View ranging from 17.8 to 5.1 feet at 100 yards. With this, you get better situational awareness and a wide perspective, and that’ll help you with spotting and tracking targets. 

Trust me, you’ll appreciate this feature when your magnification is dialed up and you need to make sure you don’t lose sight of your target before it disappears.

Durability

The Viper HS-T scope has remarkable durability and is designed to endure harsh elements and impact.

Its tube, crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, epitomizes strength. It’s capable of resisting heavy recoil and mechanical damage, and that’s what you need to handle the 6.5 Creedmoor. 

You don’t want a scope giving up on you after only a couple of uses. This one will save you some worrying, that’s for sure.

And I’ll admit, I accidentally dropped mine once when I was mounting it.

The damage?

Not even a scratch.

Weighing in at 22.6 ounces, it strikes a perfect balance between strength and portability. And if you’re worried about the elements, don’t be. This scope is both shockproof and waterproof, making it a reliable companion for those unpredictable hunting trips. 

So, no need to pack up your stuff just because it suddenly starts pouring – this scope can handle it and keep going. Plus, with its fog-proof feature, you’re guaranteed a clear shot.

Elevation & Windage Knobs

This scope excels in functionality with its accessible, precise elevation and windage adjustments.

Its exposed target-style turrets have tactile feedback, so you can make quick setting changes without losing sight of the target. No need to check the dial – you can stay focused while having confidence you’ve made the right adjustments.

With up to 65 MOA of adjustment for windage and elevation, this scope truly complements the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge. A range like that means you can easily compensate for bullet drop and wind drift, which is critical for those long shots.

When you stack the Viper HS-T against other scopes, its blend of adjustability, precision, and user-friendliness makes it one of the top choices for anyone serious about long-range accuracy and versatility.

Parallax & Magnification

This Vortex Optics scope’s parallax and magnification features are just another element that makes this scope so good.

The side focus parallax adjustment has a range from 50 yards to infinity and ensures swift and easy parallax compensation. This feature eliminates potential parallax error and really enhances shot accuracy across many different target ranges. 

So, no need to worry about missing shots just because the reticle keeps moving when you shift your head. Trust me, it’s frustrating to deal with.

Now, on to magnification. The scope’s 6 to 24x range offers unmatched versatility. 

The wide magnification spectrum covers all kinds of distances for effective targeting with a 6.5 Creedmoor rifle. Short, medium, and long ranges; all covered. You’ll be able to bag a trophy no matter the distance.

Ultimately, the Viper HS-T scope’s easy-to-use parallax adjustment and wide magnification range solidify its high-performance status. It’s simply a trusted tool for successful shooting at all ranges.

Mounting & Rings

For mounting this scope, I used Vortex Optics Precision Matched Rings with a height of 1.26 inches on a Picatinny rail.

These rings offer solid support for the Viper HS-T, while the 30mm tube provides good stability during shooting sessions.

And at 15.5 inches long, the scope strikes an ideal balance between space for necessary components and mounting while being compact for easy handling.

Is It Worth It?

The Vortex Optics Viper HS-T is an excellent choice as a runner-up for the 6.5 Creedmoor rifle.

It hits the sweet spot of providing good glass quality, durability, and versatile magnification for both hunting and target use. While it may be on the pricier side, I think its features and performance justify the investment.

Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18x44mm AO – Best Budget Scope

Glass Clarity & Reticle

As an enthusiastic shooter who values precision, there are two crucial aspects that I hold in high regard when it comes to rifle scopes: glass clarity and reticle performance. These features can make or break the shooting experience.

Well, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II is a scope I’ve come to admire because it, without a doubt, ticks the boxes. 

It boasts fully multi-coated optics and elevates its game with bright and crystal-clear views. This clarity is essential, especially when you’re aiming at distant targets, as it allows you to better identify your target and place your shot. 

You don’t want to have accidentally shot a dog thinking it’s a coyote because of an unclear image.

To give you some comparison, most budget scopes have single-coated lenses. You might not notice the difference in bright daylight, but in low light conditions, the difference is, well… night and day. 

Equally important is the Dead-Hold BDC reticle, which plays a big role in simplifying the shot process. Its user-friendly design helps with range estimation, holdover, and compensating for wind drift even when operating at the highest magnification settings.

In fact, I’ve found it’s very quick to make on-the-fly adjustments with this reticle. I’ve also achieved consistent accuracy at 500 yards or more with this scope.

Despite these exceptional features, I think it’s essential to be transparent about potential downsides. 

At the far end of the magnification range, there may be a slight dip in clarity. Nonetheless, this minimal compromise is reasonable, considering the overall value this scope offers, particularly for budget-conscious shooters like myself.

But let’s not forget about the practical specs like a Field of View of 5.3 – 15.2 ft at 100 yds. I’ve found this wide FOV helps me find what I’m shooting at much faster just because of the extra width.

Plus, the huge 44mm objective lens diameter gathers a ton of light for bright images, even when you’re taking a low-light shot. 

I find it’s perfect for the 6.5 Creedmoor. The firearm’s range works great with the scope’s higher magnifications that will require the light-gathering abilities these lens have. Their capabilities just complement each other.

Eye Relief & Eye Box

One challenge with some scopes is getting comfortable behind the glass, but the Crossfire II boasts an eye relief of 3.7 – 4.3 inches.

For comparison, the industry average eye relief for similar scopes is around 3.5 inches. 

It might not seem like much but as someone who’s used my fair share of scopes over the years, I really noticed it. 

This not only makes it comfortable for extended range time but also provides plenty of space to avoid potential scope eye. 

Plus, the eye box is fairly forgiving, so I can maintain a consistent image without struggling for the perfect position.

Durability

The durability of the Crossfire II scope truly stands out, especially given its budget-friendly price. As a shooter who puts gear to the test, I’ve been impressed with its rugged construction.

Crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, this scope can handle the recoil from my 6.5 Creedmoor without breaking a sweat. No matter how intense my shooting sessions get, I can rely on the Crossfire II to hold up under pressure.

Moreover, its fog-proof, waterproof, and shockproof design ensures that I can take it out in various weather conditions and rough terrains without any concerns about damage. Ultimately, this scope is a reliable partner that gives me peace of mind and keeps me shooting.

But let’s also look at the practical details that complement its robustness. With a length of 13.5 inches and weighing just 19.6 ounces, the Crossfire II is the perfect blend of compactness while still having a good size. 

Less weight and less struggle while hiking in the field make for a happier hunter, in my experience.

Elevation & Windage Knobs

When it comes to the Crossfire II’s elevation and windage knobs, adjusting them is an absolute breeze. 

These knobs provide 1/4 MOA clicks, ensuring both precision and repeatability with every adjustment. Fine-tuning my shots to quickly zero in on my targets has never been easier.

But there’s more. The Crossfire II boasts max windage and elevation adjustments of 50 MOA each. 

This wide adjustment range means I can effectively compensate for bullet drop and wind drift for different shooting distances and environmental conditions. Many similar scopes only adjust to 40 MOA, so the extra range is nice, especially if you’re taking long range shots. 

Combine these features, and you get the Crossfire II that offers a seamless shooting experience, plus ensures that every shot is accurate and repeatable.

Parallax & Magnification

The Crossfire II excels in making precise shots with its adjustable parallax settings of 10 yards to infinity. Being able to fine-tune the scope’s focus means you can lessen any potential optical distortion and get sharp images even at extended 6.5 Creedmoor ranges.

And the versatility doesn’t stop there. The scope magnification settings range from 6x to 18x, catering to both short-range and medium-range shooting scenarios. 

So, if you know that most of your shooting will happen within this range and don’t need insanely high magnifications that come with a higher price tag, the Crossfire II is perfect.

Mounting & Rings

When it comes to mounting the Crossfire II, it’s relatively straightforward, especially since it has a one-inch tube diameter that accommodates many common mounting solutions.

However, be prepared to purchase rings separately, as they don’t come included with the scope.

Is It Worth It?

For shooters like me who want a reliable and versatile scope without breaking the bank, the Crossfire II is a fantastic option.

While it may not have all the bells and whistles of a high-end scope, the combination of glass clarity, durability, and ease of use make it a perfect budget-friendly choice for 6.5 Creedmoor rifles.

Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Riflescope – Best Top End Scope

Glass Clarity & Reticle

When I was testing out the Leupold Mark 5HD, I was extremely impressed by the crystal clear glass and the extensive field of view it provides.

With an objective lens diameter of 56 mm, it offers an impressive range of visibility that will ensure bright images even at the highest magnification. And with a field of view ranging from 4.2 to 20.4 feet at 100 yards, it’s not as much compared to the others on this list but it’s a necessary trade-off for the magnification you get.

Aside from that, the glass is not only bright but is also enhanced with seven different brightness settings, allowing you to fine-tune the sight picture depending on the light conditions. So, regardless of the time of day, you can be sure you’re getting the optimal viewing experience.

The new PR2-MIL reticle adds to the overall functionality. Not only do you get a great sight picture, but it also makes it easy to do holdover calculations. So, if you appreciate having these markings to shoot those precise long-range shots, the Leupold Mark 5HD is a scope you’d love.

Whether targeting at close range or extending out to longer distances, the versatility of this scope is clear. The balance between each feature I mentioned creates a remarkable synergy, making it an indispensable tool for any serious marksman.

Eye Relief & Eye Box

I find the scope’s eye relief and eye box generous and comfortable for those long days at the range.

The eye relief ranging from 3.6 to 3.8 inches ensures that I can use the scope without strain, even during extended shooting sessions. 

Plus, the space offers convenience and gives me enough room to find the ideal shooting position without compromising my accuracy.

Durability

One thing I appreciate about the Leupold Mark 5HD is its solid build. The scope is well-constructed and can handle the recoil of my 6.5 Creedmoor rifle without losing zero or suffering any damage. 

It’s very much appreciated that I don’t need to bother checking the zero every few rounds. It’s also reassuring to know that the scope’s resilience matches its performance capabilities.

When considering the weight and dimensions of the Mark 5HD, it weighs in at 31 ounces.

This is significantly lighter than other scopes of the same class, like the Vortex Razor HD Gen II, which weighs 48.5 ounces, and also lighter than the Nightforce ATACR, which comes in at 39.1 ounces.

In fact, the Leupold Mark 5HD emerges as one of the lightest scopes in its range, making it not only easier to handle and mount but also more comfortable for those long days at the range.

Elevation & Windage Knobs

Now, the elevation and windage knobs on this scope are fantastic, and they’re more than just visually appealing.

With an adjustment per click of 0.10 mil, they’re precise and easily adjustable, allowing me to dial in for the perfect shot no matter the condition or distance. It’s perfect if you’re looking for extreme precision in your adjustments, and that’s what is required at the edges of a 6.5 Creedmoor’s abilities.

The tactical, lockable turret type, despite not having turret locking, offers the perfect blend of functionality and ease of use, providing an elevation of 120 MOA and a windage adjustment range of 60 MOA.

I love that the turrets on this scope also have that tactile feel and are easy to grip, something that comes in handy when making those crucial adjustments in the field.

The attention to detail in these design aspects adds a new dimension to the shooting experience, and I find it makes it more intuitive and enjoyable.

Whether I’m shooting at close range or trying to hit a target several hundred meters away, these features ensure that I have all the tools to make every shot count. Finding a scope like that isn’t easy. It’s why I consider it one of the best I’ve ever used.

Parallax & Magnification

The versatile 5-25x magnification lets you dominate mid-range shots, while also giving you the flexibility to reach out to longer distances. In fact, this scope gives the widest magnification range on this list, and its versatility is something you’ll appreciate if you want to be prepared for any scenario.

Whether your target is 100 yards or 1000 yards away, you’ll have no problems hitting it with accuracy.

What’s more, the parallax adjustment is smooth and precise, so you can adjust it easily while ensuring the target stays in focus to get that perfect shot. It’s especially important to have that control to refine your aim at longer distances, so a parallax from 50 meters to infinity becomes vital.

The Mark 5HD’s 5-25x magnification is quite a good range as it aligns with some riflescopes in the market and outperforms others in its class.

If you combine these specs, you get a highly adaptable scope that can handle it all with precision and grace.

Mounting & Rings

When mounting the Leupold Mark 5HD on my 6.5 Creedmoor rifle, I used quality rings that ensured a secure fit for the 35mm tube diameter. The alignment was perfect and the setup process was seamless, thanks to the well-designed construction of the scope.

Remember to choose appropriate mounting hardware that can handle the weight and size of the scope, ensuring it stays firmly in place while shooting.

Is It Worth It?

While not the cheapest option on the market, the Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm riflescope is worth its price tag for those who want top-end performance.

Its combination of excellent glass clarity, durability, and versatility makes it a fantastic choice for any 6.5 Creedmoor rifle. From the well-designed turrets to the wide magnification range, the Leupold Mark 5HD delivers where it counts.

Its ability to handle various shooting conditions, coupled with the thoughtful features like the adjustable parallax, demonstrates the quality engineering and attention to detail that goes into this scope.

If you’re on the hunt for a top-tier riflescope with a perfect balance of function and form, the Leupold Mark 5HD stands out as an impeccable choice.

Comparison Table

Name	Zoom	Reticle	FFP or SFP
Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP Mil Dot	4x to 14x	MIL-DOT reticle	FFP
Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 6-24x50mm SFP Scope	6x to 24x	VMR-1 (MOA)	SFP
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18x44mm AO	6x to 18x	Dead-Hold BDC reticle	SFP
Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Riflescope	5x to 25x	PR2-MIL reticle	FFP

What to Look For in a 6.5 Creedmoor Scope

As a 6.5 Creedmoor rifle owner, I want to help you find the perfect scope for your needs.

So, here I’ll discuss the key aspects you should consider while shopping for rifle scopes, such as magnification, price, and the range you’ll be shooting at.

Magnification

When looking for a scope for my 6.5 Creedmoor, I always consider the magnification first. The ideal magnification depends on the distance I’m planning to shoot.

For instance, if I’m shooting within 300 yards, a 3-9x magnification should work well. If I plan to shoot at longer ranges, say, up to 1000 yards, I’d want a higher magnification, like a 7-35x scope.

Price

I know price is an important factor for many shooters, and fortunately, there’s a wide range of options available to suit different budgets.

When shopping for a scope, I try to balance my budget with the features I need.

For example, if I’m on a tight budget, I might look at the Bushnell Trophy 3-9×40 as a solid option, while if I have a bit more to spend, I’d consider the Vortex Diamondback 3-9×40.

Think: What Range Will You Be Shooting At?

Before I choose a scope, I always ask myself what range I’ll be shooting at most often. As I mentioned earlier, if I’m shooting within 300 yards, a 3-9x magnification is adequate.

However, for longer-range shots, the best long range scope is one with higher magnification.

Consider the type of shooting you’ll be doing – hunting, competition shooting, or target practice – this will help guide your decision.

When looking for the perfect 6.5 Creedmoor scope, keep these factors in mind: magnification, price, and shooting range.

This will help you find a scope that matches your needs and enhances your shooting experience.

I use my Creedmoor/optic setup as a hunting scope predominantly. What that means for me is I look for more simple reticles for fast pointing and shooting. (Reference: Creedmoor Scopes)

Conflict of Interest Disclosure and Why You Should Trust This Review

I feel it’s really important to be transparent with you guys, so I just want to make sure I’m putting it out there. As I’ve dived into the topic of the best scope for a 6.5 Creedmoor, I do have some favorites that I might be biased towards.

I’ve tried and tested a fair share of scopes, but there are some that have really impressed me and made a difference in my shooting experiences.

It’s important for you to know that I’m not affiliated with, or sponsored by, any of the scope manufacturers I’ve mentioned.

My recommendations are based on my personal experiences and the research I’ve done. However, I do recognize that what works best for me may not work best for you, so I encourage you to consider other sources as well when looking for the right scope.

To make my suggestions as neutral as possible, I have also included some options found in the search results above. These choices are presented clearly and strategically, and I have done my best to compare them using an unbiased lens.

Moreover, I want to emphasize that I value your trust more than anything.

My goal is to provide you with the most accurate and reliable information while respecting your individual preferences and needs.

Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns, and I’ll be more than happy to help. Or take a look at the “Our Reviews” link in the footer for more info on how we select and review products. 

In the end, I just want to provide my personal perspective on some of the best scopes for 6.5 Creedmoor, while always acknowledging that there might be other great options out there too.

I’m all about giving you the tools to make an informed decision, so I hope this disclosure has helped establish that foundation. Happy scope hunting!

For more reading take a look at our article on the best 6.5 Creedmoor rifles out there and how does a rifle scope work.

FAQs

What is the effective range of the 6.5 Creedmoor?

The effective range for the 6.5 Creedmoor is around 1,000 yards (914..4 meters) or more. But the actual range will depend on various factors like ammunition, rifle accuracy, environmental conditions, and shooter skill.

What is the best 6.5 bullet for 1000 yards?

Selecting the best 6.5 Creedmoor bullet for 1000 yards (914.4 meters) is quite subjective, as it depends on personal preferences and factors like wind resistance and target type.

However, I’ve found that some popular choices include the Hornady ELD-Match, the Sierra MatchKing, and the Berger Hybrid OTM.

At what distance should I zero my 6.5 Creedmoor?

The distance you should zero your 6.5 Creedmoor depends on your primary shooting activities and preferences. Zeroing at 100 yards (91.4 meters) is a popular choice for short to mid-range shooting and hunting. 

A 200-yard zero (182.8 meters) is a good choice if you often shoot around 500-800 yards (457.2–731.5 meters). And a 300-yard zero (274.3 meters) allows you to engage targets at 1,000 yards (914,4 meters) with less hold-over but you’ll experience more drop at shorter ranges.

Our Top Pick: Primary Arms SLx

References

(1) Jeremy S., 6.5 Creedmoor vs .308 Winchester…No Contest. Retrieved from https://www.thetruthaboutguns.com/6-5-creedmoor-vs-308-winchester/