Best New Riflescopes: The Complete List 2022

This comprehensive review by Keystone Carry's host, a former Vortex dealer, compares the Vortex Optics Crossfire, Viper, Venom, Strike Eagle, and Razor HD rifle scopes. It delves into the critical differences between First Focal Plane (FFP) and Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticles, explains various reticle types like V-Plex and Dead-Hold BDC, and provides recommendations based on budget and intended use, from entry-level precision with the Venom to premium performance with the Razor HD.

The scope industry's budget market is dominated by a few OEMs in China, with many brands re-badging the same scopes. While this reduces unique engineering in lower-priced models, it has drastically increased value and affordability for consumers. High-quality optics that once cost $2,000 are now available for under $600, offering superior performance. Consumers should compare prices and warranties on similar OEM products.

This review of the Aquilifer EP 5-25x56 FFP scope highlights its budget-friendly price point (around $360) and impressive optical performance for the cost. While offering good clarity, color accuracy, and minimal chromatic aberration across its magnification range, the scope features a notably tight and unforgiving eye box. It includes useful features like a zero stop and bright illumination, but its weight and limited adjustment range are noted tradeoffs.

This video from Moondog 2A highlights Athlon Optics' new line of 54 second focal plane hunting rifle scopes, including the Neos HMR series. A key takeaway is the company's strategic manufacturing relocation from China to the Philippines, indicating a significant operational change.

This review assesses the Aquilifer HT 3-12x56 scope's performance at an extreme 1500-yard distance, mounted on a Ruger Precision Rifle Rimfire. The scope demonstrates good color accuracy and edge-to-edge clarity at 3x magnification, with minimal chromatic aberration at 7x. While slight softening occurs at 12x, the reticle illumination is functional with 11 settings. The analysis comes from an experienced optics reviewer.

This video reviews the March-FX Gen II PRS 5-42x56 FFP scope, highlighting its design by a Pro PRS shooter and innovative features. It features an in-depth look at the scope's capabilities, including a field test, turret tests, and resolution assessment. The video also includes an interview with March and concludes with the reviewer's final thoughts. It is sponsored by Venice.ai and features an Area 419 Tactical Scope Mount.

This video details the evolution of Glock pistol generations from Gen 1 to Gen 5, highlighting key design changes and features. It covers the introduction of polymer frames, improved ergonomics, accessory rails, dual recoil springs, and the latest nDLC finish and Marksman Barrel. The comparison emphasizes how each generation built upon the last, adapting to market demands and technological advancements while maintaining Glock's core reliability.

This comprehensive review covers the top 10 best pocket pistols for 2023, focusing on concealability and self-defense utility. It details models like the ultra-thin Beretta Pico, the reliable Ruger LCP II, and the iconic Walther PPK, alongside options from Glock, Colt, Kahr Arms, Kimber, Kel-Tec, SIG Sauer, and Smith & Wesson. The video emphasizes key features such as width, capacity, caliber, and ergonomics, providing a valuable resource for choosing a compact firearm for everyday carry.

This review explores the world's most powerful handguns, often called 'hand cannons,' which offer rifle-like ballistics. The top-ranked Pfeifer-Zeliska .600 Nitro Express delivers immense energy, while other contenders like the Magnum Research BFR in 45/70 and the Smith & Wesson .500 Magnum also showcase extreme power. The video contrasts these with powerful semi-automatics like the Desert Eagle .50 AE and iconic revolvers such as the S&W Model 29 .44 Magnum, highlighting their unique strengths and applications.

This review highlights five 'stupid' holsters, emphasizing critical safety and functionality guidelines for concealed carry. Poorly designed holsters like the Urban Carry, Bicep Holster, Versacarry, and Uncle Mike's are criticized for inadequate trigger protection, unreliable retention, and difficult draw mechanics. The video stresses that investing in a quality holster is crucial for safe and effective concealed carry.