SHOT Show 2025 revealed a new generation of optics for hunters and shooters alike. (Photo by Greg Duncan)
January 30, 2025
By Barb Melloni
Burris Fullfield 4-16x50 Photo courtesy of Burris The newly updated Burris Fullfield 4-16x50 brings rugged reliability and crystal-clear precision to shooters who demand top-tier performance without breaking the bank. Featuring an upgraded optical system with multi-coated lenses, this SFP riflescope delivers sharp, edge-to-edge clarity, even at higher magnifications. The large 50mm objective lens ensures optimal light transmission for those low-light hunting hours, while the side parallax adjustment and push/pull locking turrets make fine-tuning a breeze. Whether you're dialing in for long-range shots or tracking moving targets, the Fullfield 4-16x50 is built to perform.
Armasight Jockey 640 Compact Thermal Clip-On Photo courtesy of Armasight The Armasight Jockey 640 Compact Thermal Clip-On is like adding a superpower to your favorite scope—effortlessly turning it into a thermal imaging marvel without the hassle of re-zeroing. Designed to clip right onto your daytime optics (especially under 5x magnification), this little powerhouse is perfect for nighttime hunts when spotting heat signatures is the name of the game.
Powered by the ArmaCORE 640 thermal core and a snappy 60Hz refresh rate, it delivers crisp thermal imagery ideal for .308 rifles, rimfire guns, air guns and even crossbows. Compact, lightweight and packed with practical features like multiple color palettes and video recording, the Jockey 640 is every hunter’s dream for navigating low-light conditions and taking their hunting game to the next level. It’s as easy to use as it is impressive.
Riton 5 Primal 3-18x50 Crossover Scope Photo courtesy of Riton Optics When versatility meets precision, you get the Riton 5 Primal 3-18x50 Crossover Scope . This FFP optic is a jack-of-all-trade and built for hunters and long-range shooters alike. With its wide 3-18x magnification range, this scope seamlessly transitions from close brush hunts to dialing in distant targets both clearly and precisely. The 50mm objective lens maximizes light transmission for a bright, crisp sight picture, even in low-light conditions, while the integrated throw lever ensures quick magnification adjustments when seconds matter. With its durable, robust construction and fully multi-coated lenses, the 5 Primal is ready for both the range and the field.
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Steiner ePredator 8 3-24x50 Photo courtesy of Steiner Optics Steiner is raising the bar once again with the ePredator 8 3-24x50 SFP riflescope , combining durability and technology for the ultimate end-user experience. Featuring an integrated real-time ballistics calculator and Heads-Up Display (HUD), this scope eliminates guesswork by providing instant bullet drop compensation and environmental data right in your sight picture.
With a magnification range of 3x-24x, HD glass and a fiber dot illuminated reticle, the optic ensures confidently placed shots in any lighting condition. This scope can also be paired via Bluetooth to Steiner's ePredator 10x42 LRF Binoculars for quick and easy range adjustments. Whether you’re dialing in for long-range precision or taking quick shots in the field, the ePredator 8 is built to deliver accuracy, speed and confidence when it matters most.
AGM: Evolver 1280 Thermal Scope Photo courtesy of AGM Global Vision The AGM Evolver 1280 Thermal LRF Scope is a game-changer for hunters and tactical shooters who demand unparalleled thermal clarity and precision in the field. Packed with a high-resolution 1280x1024 thermal sensor, this scope delivers razor-sharp imaging, ensuring you never miss a shot, even in total darkness or harsh weather conditions. The integrated laser rangefinder (LRF) takes the guesswork out of range estimation, while multiple reticle and color palette options let you customize your view for any scenario. Built to withstand rugged conditions and complete with Wi-Fi streaming and onboard recording, the Evolver 1280 is more than just a thermal optic; it’s a high-tech advantage that allows you to see what others cannot.
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Telson Optics ARC 2.5-15x44 Photo courtesy of Telson Optics The Telson Optics ARC 2.5-15x44 SFP riflescope is built for shooters who need versatility, precision and reliability in one sleek package. With its wide 2.5-15x magnification range, this optic is just as effective for close-range engagements on predators as it is for engaging distant steel targets. The fully multi-coated lenses provide crisp clarity, while the illuminated second focal plane reticle ensures fast target acquisition in low-light conditions. Add in rugged construction, precise and repeatable turret adjustments, and smooth parallax control, and the ARC 2.5-15x44 proves to be a serious contender for hunters and marksmen looking for reliable performance without breaking the bank.
Buk Ops Cycloptic-X Primetime 1-5x25 Crossbow Scope Photo courtesy of Buk Ops Designed specifically for modern crossbows, the Buk Ops Cycloptic-X Primetime 1-5x25 Crossbow Scope features crystal-clear glass, a versatile 1-5x magnification range and a calibrated ballistic reticle for pinpoint accuracy at varying distances. This optic forgoes thermal and IR imaging and instead utilizes Buk Ops’ proprietary Primetime Color Vision technology for enhanced performance in low-light conditions. The wide field of view ensures quick target acquisition and tracking, while the durable, shockproof construction stands up to inclement weather conditions. In short, the Cycloptic-X Primetime helps you make confident and accurate shots.
Leupold: VX-6HD Gen 2 6-18x50 Riflescope Photo courtesy of Leupold The Leupold VX-6HD Gen 2 6-18x50 riflescope takes precision shooting to the next level with its crystal-clear glass, versatile 6-18x magnification and rugged durability. Built for hunters and long-range shooters alike, this scope features Leupold’s elite HD glass and Twilight Max Light Management System, ensuring a bright, crisp image in low-light situations. The ZeroLock CDS-ZL2 turret system makes dialing in shots effortless, while the motion-sensing FireDot illuminated reticle provides rapid target acquisition.
Swarovski Z5+ 2-10x42 Riflescope Photo courtesy of Swarovski The Swarovski Z5+ 2-10x42 riflescope is a perfect blend of premium components, lightweight design and all-terrain versatility. Whether navigating dense woods or taking a precise shot across an open field, the crystal-clear HD glass and 2x-10x magnification range ensure sharp, bright images at any distance. This scope comes with your choice of either the BRS or BRW reticle with holdovers to allow for windage corrections or Swaro’s Plex reticle for a more simplified option. The refined elevation turret and SWAROTOP lens coatings maximize light transmission, giving hunters a serious edge during first and last light. Built with Swarovski’s renowned craftsmanship, the Z5+ 2-10x42 delivers unmatched clarity and reliability when it matters most.
EOTech Vudu 3-9x32 Photo courtesy of EOTech The EOTech VUDU 3-9x32 is redefining the classic mid-range riflescope with rugged durability, premium glass and a compact design that’s perfect for hunters and tactical shooters alike. Built on a lightweight, aircraft-grade aluminum body, this optic delivers crystal-clear clarity and a versatile 3-9x magnification range, making it a versatile optic packing a ton of value in a super short and compact package. The HC1 reticle, located in the second focal plane, ensures consistent holdovers, while EOTech’s ultra-forgiving eye box and XC High-Density glass provide a bright, sharp sight picture in less than forgiving light conditions.