NightForce SHV 3-10x42mm Rifle Scope Review
Whether you're a dedicated hunter, a mid-range precision shooter, or someone just looking for a rugged and versatile optic, the NightForce SHV 3-10x42mm might be exactly what you need. In this review, I’m breaking down everything you need to know—from build quality and optical performance to reticle options and field usability.
Let’s dive in.
Scope Overview
The NightForce SHV (Shooter, Hunter, Varminter) 3-10x42mm is a do-it-all scope built for real-world shooting scenarios. It hits that sweet spot of versatility—perfect for everything from timberline elk hunts to punching paper at 600 yards.
With a magnification range of 3x to 10x, it's great for close encounters as well as moderate-range shots. The scope features:
¼ MOA turret adjustments
30mm main tube
3.5 inches of eye relief
Fixed parallax at 125 meters (on illuminated models)
There are three illumination configurations: non-illuminated, fully illuminated, and center-only illumination. My version is center-illuminated, which I’ve found particularly helpful in low-light timber situations. One important distinction—non-illuminated models come with side parallax adjustment, while the illuminated versions do not.
When it comes to reticles, you get to choose between the MOAR and Forceplex options—both in the second focal plane, meaning reticle size remains constant through magnification. Just remember: your holdovers are only accurate at the max 10x setting.
Build Quality & Design
If there's one thing NightForce is known for, it’s rugged construction—and the SHV delivers. Built from aircraft-grade aluminum, this optic is designed to take a beating and keep performing. Whether you’re out in the rain, snow, or tracking through thick brush, it’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
Specs-wise:
Weight: 22.19 oz (NightForce lists it at 22.2 oz—nice to see they’re spot-on)
Mounting length: 5.1 inches
Overall length: 11.6 inches
While it’s slightly heavier than some other optics in its class, it’s compact and still light enough to carry on a backcountry hunt.
Optical Performance
NightForce optics have a reputation for sharpness and brightness, and this scope lives up to that legacy. The fully multi-coated lenses do a great job transmitting light, which pays dividends during dawn and dusk—the times hunters know matter most.
Edge-to-edge clarity is excellent, and
Color and contrast are solid across the board.
At full 10x magnification, I did notice a minor drop in clarity at the outer edges in very low light, but for a scope at this price point, the performance is seriously impressive.
Adjustments & Turrets
The SHV's windage and elevation turrets offer precise, positive clicks that are easy to feel—even with gloves on. You get:
90 MOA of elevation adjustment
80 MOA of windage adjustment
The turrets are capped, meaning no exposed turrets or zero stop here. While this might be a con for some precision shooters, it also means fewer things to snag or accidentally bump in the field. For hunters who prefer a “set-it-and-forget-it” style optic, this is a plus.
Reticle Options & Field Use
I opted for the MOAR reticle, and it’s been a great fit for both hunting and informal long-range work. With fine lines and additional holdover marks, it offers excellent precision without feeling cluttered.
One of the features I really appreciate is the illuminated center crosshair. It helps tremendously in low-light timber scenarios—perfect for calling coyotes or glassing whitetails in dense cover.
At 3x magnification, the reticle remains simple and fast to acquire targets. Crank it up to 10x, and it becomes a powerful tool for longer shots, especially when you don’t want to fiddle with turrets mid-hunt.
This reticle design makes the SHV a perfect fit for:
Eastern whitetail hunters
Pacific Northwest timber hunters
Idaho or Montana backcountry shooters
Price & Value
The NightForce SHV 3-10x42mm typically retails between $900 and $1,000, depending on the model and retailer.
Is it budget-friendly? Not exactly.
Is it worth it? Absolutely—especially when you consider NightForce’s reputation for build quality, consistency, and long-term reliability.
For the price, you’re getting a scope that can handle nearly any scenario and is built to last season after season.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
Top-notch build quality with durable construction
Excellent optical clarity—even in low light
Smooth, tactile turrets that feel premium
Versatile magnification range
MOAR reticle is ideal for hunters who prefer holdovers over dialing
Cons:
Slight edge clarity drop at 10x in low light
Heavier than some competing scopes in its class
No zero stop or exposed elevation turret—capped design may not suit all shooters
Final Thoughts
To sum it up, the NightForce SHV 3-10x42mm is a rock-solid, field-ready scope for the hunter or shooter who needs versatility, durability, and dependable performance. It may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end tactical scopes, but it doesn’t need to. What it offers is a refined, reliable optic that’s ready to go whenever you are.
Thanks for reading, and remember to stay connected to the wild!
If you found this review helpful, consider subscribing to Ignited by Nature on YouTube for more outdoor gear reviews and adventures. Drop a comment below and let me know what scope you're running, or if you've had any hands-on experience with the SHV.
Until next time—stay wild out there.
– Chris
