Ranking the Assault Scopes in Escape From Tarkov

Today I wanted to do something a little different and rank all the different assault scopes in Escape From Tarkov. According to the wiki, there are a total of 9 assault scopes currently in the game. What is defined as an assault scope? That’s a good question because there isn’t a clear-cut definition. But my guess would by any scope with either one or two zoom levels meant for assault rifles, with options for red dots directly on top of the scope. It isn’t a perfect definition but basically anything that isn’t a Vudu, Razor, Burris, or any scope people would normally use this late into a wipe. Considering there are only 9 options, we are going to rank them based on their reticle, zoom levels, housing, alternate optic options, and price from the vendors. From there, we rank them and see which ones come out as the best, and which ones are the worst.

First up, is the trihawk scope (B). It has a 3.5x magnification with only one zoom level. The reticle is very serviceable, and the overall housing isn’t too constrictive and, in the way, when aiming. The cost is just over 32,000 rubles and is in general a very usable and reliable scope. The one zoom level can be problematic when close to the enemy, but you should avoid those ranges as best as possible, so I’ll say the Trihawk should be ranked as a solid B tier.

Next is a personal favorite, the 2.5x Prism scope (A). This scope has been a go-to of mine for many years now and has only gotten better with time. The reticle used to be a little busy but has been simplified to make it much easier to use. The housing is larger than the Twihawk meaning you see more when aiming down. While the zoom level is lower, and it also doesn’t have another zoom level, I think that could be seen as a good thing because it feels less constrictive to use and is much cheaper than the trihawk at only 20k rubles. I might be a little biased for this optic because I am, but this is an easy high A tier for me.

The smaller little brother, the compact prism scope is next (C). With only a 2x magnification, this scope has its uses, but ultimately feels weaker than most other offerings in the assault scope category. The housing is smaller, and while the reticle is simple it can sometimes get lost in whatever you're looking at because it’s see-through. And for many, man that 2x just isn’t enough most of the time. Early game is fine, but not this late into a wipe. And for over 30k rubles, just get the 2.5x scope, it’s just better. So, this is a C tier for me.

The first of two ACOG scopes is next. This one being the 3.5x magnification scope (B). A simple and effective mono zoom level scope with a simple chevron as your reticle. For the early to mid-game this is a great option with the added option of an RMR on top for a backup red dot. Sadly, the RMR is just utter trash so it will get you killed sometimes, but the ability to swap to it and scan the area around you is huge, so just that alone, plus being sold for just over $200, this scope is a solid B tier.

The 4x ACOG is a simple but noticeable improvement over the previous one (A). An easier reticle to use, a slightly larger zoom and housing for the scope, and having the ability to add both the RMR on top or backup iron sights is a useful tool. Again, the irons are just as if not worse than the RMR but again scouting and scanning is extremely useful. It also comes in a tan version which is cool. At a price of $240, the 4x ACOG is a strong A tier.

The BRAVO Scope is one that has grown on me over the years as I play the game more and use different optics (A). A single zoom 4x scope with the ability to add a few different red dots on top is always going to be useful. The reticle is a little bulky and can sometimes obscure your vision of the target, but it makes sense and feels the most effective on weapons shooting 5.45 for some reason. It’s my go-to ranged option for AKs. At $371, it’s a little pricey and you need PK 4 to use it, and while it’s very similar to the ACOG, but added red dot options puts it above both ACOGs but is still a solid A tier.

The ELCAN is a powerful option in Tarkov (S). A variable 1-4x scope with added irons on top ticks all the boxes for what an assault scope should provide for its user. Flexibility, easy to use reticle, wide housing, and backup irons to boot. The biggest downside to using the ELCAN is having to toggle twice to get to any canted red dot you might have. But that should seldom be an issue because this scope has everything you need all in one. They aren’t amazing, but they are certainly better than the ACOGs backup irons. Coming in both black and FDE, at $286, this scope is our first S tier on the list.