PRS - Precision rifle shooting
When diving into the world of Precision Rifle Series (PRS) shooting, it’s easy to look at the podium finishers, see their setups, and assume you must spend £4000+ on top-tier optics to be competitive. And while there's no denying the performance and craftsmanship of high-end scopes, the truth is: you don’t have to spend that much to shoot well—or even win.
Of course, if you have the budget, you'll likely be very happy with the performance, features, and build quality that premium optics bring to the table. But in this article, I aim to help you understand what to look for in a PRS scope and how to make the best choice for your needs, goals, and budget.
With several years of experience both in the optics industry and on the firing line at various shooting competitions, I’ll be sharing my personal recommendations and insights on the best scopes for PRS—from entry-level to elite.
What is Precision Rifle Series (PRS)?
Precision Rifle Series is a dynamic, fast-paced shooting discipline that challenges shooters to engage targets at varying distances—often from unconventional shooting positions—all under strict time constraints. Competitions take place in all kinds of weather, from hot and dusty to cold, wet, or foggy conditions. This means your gear needs to perform flawlessly in environments that are often less than forgiving.
Key Features You’ll Want in a PRS Scope:
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Variable magnification with a high top-end (typically 5-25x or more)
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First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle for accurate subtensions at all magnification levels
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Detailed reticle with holdover marks, ideally in a “Christmas tree” pattern
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Turrets with tactile and audible clicks, preferably with a zero stop feature
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Sufficient internal elevation adjustment for dialing at long ranges
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Robust build quality that can withstand the rigors of competition
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Parallax adjustment, ideally down to 20–25 yards
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Good glass quality for resolving distant targets and reading wind
Scope Recommendations by Budget
If you’re new to PRS or are looking for a reliable optic to practice with, the Arken EP5 is a fantastic starting point. It offers features typically seen on scopes well above its price bracket: crisp glass, a detailed reticle ideal for holdovers, an illuminated FFP design, and a generous 32 MIL of elevation adjustment—all for a price that's hard to beat
Pros:-
Excellent optical clarity for its class
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Illuminated “Christmas tree” style reticle
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Generous 32 MIL elevation range
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Large 56mm objective for better low-light performance
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Easy-to-read turret markings
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Cost-effective without compromising core features
Cons:
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Turrets are not locking
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Requires an Allen key for turret adjustment
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Minimum parallax distance is 25 yards
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On the heavier side at 39.2oz (approx. 1.1kg)
Best For: New shooters or those looking to get excellent value without breaking the bank.
Mid Level: Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56 FFP EBR-7C MRAD Illuminated Scope
Stepping up, the Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56 offers many of the premium features you’d expect from higher-end scopes, but at a more approachable price point. Though it's often called the “baby Razor,” it punches well above its weight. The EBR-7C reticle provides a very clean yet functional aiming system, and the scope boasts locking turrets, improved turret adjustment tools, and Vortex's industry-leading warranty.
Pros:
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Locking elevation turret for added security
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Illuminated reticle for low-light or dark target situations
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31 MRAD total elevation adjustment
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Long 3.66" eye relief
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Outstanding warranty and customer service
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Clean, feature-rich EBR-7C reticle
Cons:
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Slightly longer than the Arken (14.6” vs. 14”)
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Narrower field of view at 100 yards (24 ft vs. Arken’s 25.3 ft)
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Entry point to Vortex’s high-end optics, so it lacks some features of the Razor line
Best For: Intermediate shooters who want premium features without the premium price.
For those seeking the absolute best in optical performance, tracking precision, and mechanical reliability, the Schmidt & Bender PM II is a legend in the precision shooting world. It’s trusted by elite military units and competitive shooters alike. The clarity, light transmission, turret system, and robust construction make it an ideal tool for serious PRS competitors who demand the best.
Pros:
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Benchmark-setting glass quality and clarity
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Incredibly reliable mechanical tracking and turret feel
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90% light transmission for low-light conditions
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DT/ST turret system with visual indicators for revolution count
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P5FL reticle offers refined aiming precision
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Available in alternate models with higher magnification (e.g., 6-36x)
Cons:
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Heavier than most competitors at 1080 grams (~2.4 lbs)
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Smaller field of view at 100m (5.3m - 1.5m)
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Shorter eye relief than Strike Eagle (3.54” vs. 3.66”)
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Price—this is a serious investment
Best For: Advanced or professional shooters who want uncompromised performance.
Final Thoughts
The right scope for PRS isn’t always about spending the most money—it’s about finding the best balance of features, reliability, and optical quality within your budget. The scopes listed above are just a few standout examples across different price ranges, but the market is full of great options.
When comparing optics, ask yourself:
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Does it have the features I need for competition?
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Will it hold zero and track reliably?
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Is the reticle suitable for precision shooting?
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Can I see and read targets clearly in bad conditions?
Remember: a good scope helps you shoot well in good conditions—a great scope lets you shoot well even when conditions get rough.
If you have any questions or want help deciding which optic is right for you, the team at Optics Warehouse is always here to help.