Judging by the increasing number of firearms and hunting licenses purchased by hunters each year, there can be no doubt that hunting is rapidly growing in popularity among outdoorsmen. In fact, with such a wide range of game species available raging from varmints like Prairie Dogs and Coyotes, to medium sized game species such as Feral Hogs and Whitetail Deer, to large game such as Elk and Brown Bear, hunting is now a year around sport.
However, different sized game species require different sized calibers and cartridges to hunt them effectively and thus, the optics industry has responded to this widely increasing demand for quality optics with specialized hunting scopes designed to handle any caliber or cartridge ranging from a .22 LR to .458 Winchester Magnum and beyond in order to enable hunters to more successfully pursue their chosen quarry.
In fact, in addition to the traditional long range optics, there are now hunting scopes calibrated to specific calibers that calculate and compensate for the bullet’s arced trajectory, scopes designed specifically for hunting dangerous game species in thick cover, and even scopes with integrated laser range finders that display the range to the target on the inside of the scope’s objective lens.
Consequently, modern hunting scopes have evolved so far beyond their original counterparts that comparing a vintage hunting scope to a modern one is like comparing a antique car to a modern Mercedes Benz.
Rifle Optics World Recommendations For Hunting
Scope for 100 to 600 yards – Nikon Monarch 3-12×42 ( Read 9+ Amazon customer reviews )
Scope for stalking in bush, up yo 100 yards – Aimpoint H34L
Scope For Hunting Hogs -Leupold VX Hog 1-4×20 ( Read 6+ Amazon customer reviews )
Most versatile hunting scope – Redfield Revolution 3-9×40 ( Read 49+ Amazon Customer reviews )
Contents
- 2 What Type of Hunting Scope Meets Your Needs?
- 4 Recommended Scopes For Variety of Hunting Situations
Comparing All The Recommended Hunting Scopes
Nikon Monarch | Aimpoint H34L | Leupold VX HOG | Redfield Revolution | |
Type: | Variable Scope | Red Dot | Variable Scope | Variable Scope |
Objective Lens: | 42 mm | 47 mm | 19 mm | 40 mm |
Zoom: | 3-12x | 1x | 1.4-4x | 3.8 – 8.5x |
Length: | 13.1 in | 9 in | 9.50 in | 12.3 in |
Weight: | 18.7 oz | 9.2 oz | 8.1 oz | 12.6 oz |
Rating: | 4 | None | 5 | 5 |
Price: | $$$ | $$$$ | $$$ | $$ |
Product Page: | Click Here | Click Here | Click Here | Click Here |
What Type of Hunting Scope Meets Your Needs?
The first thing you should do is to identify and answer a few questions. What kind of weapon are you using? What kind of ranges are you hunting at? What kind of hunting are you doing? (Tree stand, stalking, blind etc.)
Compatibility With Your Weapon
When it comes to the weapon you need to recognize it’s max effective range. For example rounds like the 30-30 and the 300 Blackout are not designed for long ranges, so is a 18 power scope really necessary for these rounds? However the 338 Lapua or a 30 06 can surely reach out at these ranges.
Powerful rifles require a more durable scope, a powerful rifle can destroy a weak scope, and can rattle it to pieces. A smaller caliber rifle in something like 223 or 243 doesn’t need an incredibly durable scope, and this can aid in saving both money and weight. A scope designed to be used with a 375 H&H magnum is plenty capable but is it necessary? In most cases probably not, but hunting with the 338 Lapua, 338 RUM, the 45-70, etc do need something that won’t rattle to pieces.
Shotgun, bow, and pistol hunters can even use and appreciate optics from companies like Aimpoint and Eotech. These 1x optics on these short range weapons reduce the time from on target to on trigger and make transitioning to multiple targets much easier. Optics like the Aimpoint H-1 can be used on either a shotgun, handgun, or bow with ease, and is specifically designed with the hunter in mind.
You may also be using a nontraditional weapon that does not allow for a ‘regular’ scope. These weapons range from the Mosin Nagant, the Springfield M1A, and, of course, handguns. These scopes need what’s known as eye relief scope. Eye relief on a scope is the distance between your eye and the rear lenses of a scope. Some weapons, like the Mosin, make it difficult to mount a traditional short eye relief scope due to a number of different factors. These rifles require a scope mounted forward of the action, and this requires a long eye relief scope to work.
When shopping for a scope pay special attention when you see the term bullet drop compensator or BDC. These are often designed for a specific caliber and weapon in mind. If your weapon and caliber does not match the scopes, your bullet drop compensator will be useless.
Hunting Range and Necessary Magnification
Similar to our first question, but a bit more in depth. You see a 300 Blackout in an AR platform can be used effectively to 300 yard easily, but you might not be hunting at that range. A blind with 50 to a 100 yards of view is perfect for the short range red dot, but a tree stand covering a few yards of maybe more suited for a 3-9 power variable optic.
3 to 9 power optics are often suitable for most hunters, but not always. Hunters who are stalking or simply brush hunting, need something with a lower variable magnification, more akin to a 1 to 4 power optic. Too much magnification has its own problems, for example it means you simply won’t be able to see your target, and when you can you might not be able to know exactly what part of your target you are seeing.
Long range hunters are going to need a good enough long distance rifle scope to not only see their target but the area around it. They need a level of magnification that allows the hunter to see the small changes in the environments to determine wind calls. So at long range you need enough scope power to see the dirt and dust blowing, or which direction the grass is moving, this gives shooters an appropriate wind call. Another consideration is the legality of the kill, some states have restrictions on the antler length of deer. If you can’t effectively see the antlers of the deer, how would you judge them?
Long range hunters also need a reticle that can allow them to make longer shots with ease. This can be a bullet drop reticle or a mil-dot reticle, hopefully you already know how to use them. Bullet drop compensators have to be specifically dialed into a certain caliber, barrel length, and even bullet weight. Mil-dot reticles are more universal, but require the shooter to understand the bullet drop of their weapon at different ranges.
How Are You Hunting?
These questions all go hand in hand with each other and as you’ll see a hunting method can utterly change the range rapidly. If you are stalking in the bush you’ll need an optic that can rapidly be placed on target, like an Aimpoint Red dot, a Holographic Eotech, or a fixed lower powered optic like the ACOG. Stalking in the fields or mountains however may require a variable optic with both close range settings, and an extension into long range like the Leupold VX-1 with 2-7 power.
In a tree stand you may desire a simple fixed powered optic hat has a wide objective lens. The Millet TRS has a 50mm objective lens, and what this large lens does is gather and use light effectively. If you are hunting in a tree stand in the woods you are likely to have a canopy above you which will block light in already low light prime hunting time. You’ll need all the light you can gather in these situations to make an accurate and effective shot.
Stalkers, especially those using a handgun, have to be fast. We talked about how short range hunters need less magnification. Overall though they need lighter optics for a variety of reasons. The first and foremost is the fact that a lighter optics makes the weapon lighter, faster, and more maneuverable. Next, long eye relief or zero magnification optics make it easier for shooters to instinctively point the weapon at the target and actually be on target.
Essential Scope Features For Hunting
Something that ties into all optics and all ranges, and all hunting styles is durability. You should look into an optic that has a certain of features that can aid in protecting your optic and give it a long, and nice life. Another factor to consider is the features included with your optic, which can add to a higher overall optic quality and greater satisfaction.
Waterproof – This comes in different levels from rain proof to Navy Seal proof. What kind you need depends on where you’re hunting. Hunting in swamps and marsh you might want something a little stronger. Hunting in normal woodlands? Then something simple works. Either way you’ll want some form of waterproofing. Look for o-ring reinforced seals, and take special note if nothing is mentioned regarding waterproofing. If it’s not mentioned, it’s probably not waterproof.
Shockproof – Hunting can be a sport full of walking, running, jostles, drops, and falls. Where you go your weapon follows. If your scope isn’t shockproof and takes a small tumble you might now have a useless aluminum tube at worst, and a bad zero at best. Losing your zero is something you can expect on an optic not featuring a shockproof element.
Fogproof – Maybe not a durability feature but let’s face it, the prime hunting times are morning and evening. In the morning as the sun comes up and you’ll be facing evaporating dew or as the sun goes down you could be facing a rolling fog. Both can cause an internal fog that doesn’t wipe away.
Construction – Here you’ll be looking for the actual materials needed to build the optic. Is the construction from plastics and polymers? Is it from aluminum, or air craft grade aluminum. Another major construction feature is single piece construction. This means less area of overall weakness, giving you a stronger scope.
The main point of single piece construction is the fact the tube is carved from a single piece of aluminum, which reduces failure points. The scope is also more rigid and less prone to flexing and the inaccuracies associated with flex.
Lense Coating – Coating reduces glare and aids in presenting a clearer and brighter picture. There are a variety of different coatings and the better the coating, the better picture you’ll achieve. . These coating ratings have a variety of different meanings, and involves the difference between coatings on one side or both sides of the lenses, and how many lenses are actually coated. The different coatings listed in order from least to best are,
Coated
Fully Coated
Multicoated
Fully Multicoated (The best you can get)
Adjustment Turrets – Some adjustments may require a coin, a tool, or a bullet casing to adjustment. This isn’t a big deal for short ranges, but at medium to long you may need to dial in your dope. This requires an easy adjustable turret that is both tactile and audible for every adjustment. Without those small clicks to count you’ll have focus every bit of your attention on your adjustments. Your adjustments also need to match your reticle. If your scope is in mils, but your adjustments are in MOA then you are going to know how to convert and use this setup.
Reticles – Reticles are actually quite important when it comes to hunting. A target crosshair is often thin and very easy to see which is great when you’re putting rounds into a white paper target, not so great when you are hunting an animal. Your reticle needs to be thick and easy enough to see in a variety of different environments at a variety of different times of the day.
You’ll also be looking at multiple, primarily dark colors that make up the coat of your chosen game. You need a reticle that is clear, easy to see, and big enough to be eye catching. A good reticle will allow you to take shots without having to make adjustments using the turrets.
Recommended Scopes For Variety of Hunting Situations
Best Scope For 100 to 600 yards:
Nikon Monarch 3 -12 x 42mm Side Focus Rifle Scope –
Nikon is a well known and highly respected optics manufacturer with a long standing reputation for building high quality rifle scopes and their Monarch series is their flagship line.
Featuring a 33 percent more magnification than a 3-9 x 40mm scope combined with an extra large ocular lens, a wide field of view, and the maximum amount of light transition, this scope is an excellent choice for hunters who commonly hunt game at ranges of 100 to 600 yards.
Also, Nikon has designed an optical system that provides the shooter with an extra bright, extra sharp, and incredibly flat sight picture with light transmission up to a theoretical maximum of 95% to enable hunters to hunt from dawn to dusk.
Plus, the Nikoplex duplex reticle provides a simple aiming point that can still utilize Nikon’s Spot On Ballistic technology and an easy-to-reach, side focus, parallax adjustment provides an unmatched sight picture from any shooting position.
Furthermore, the easy to operate reticle adjustment turrets feature 1/4 MOA click-stop moves that enable you to both feel and hear the adjustments without the backlash that can make your shot creep off target and, positive click adjustments enable get you zeroed in quickly and maintain your setting even under repeated recoil.
Specifications:
Magnification: 3x – 12x
Magnification: 3x – 12x
Objective Lens: 42 mm
Exit Pupil: 3.5 – 14 mm
Field of View: 8.4- 33.6 ft. @ 100 yd.
Eye Relief: 4 in.
Eye Piece Outside Diameter: 49.3mm
Parallax Setting: 50 yd.- infinity
Reticle: BDC Carbine
Overall Length: 13.1 in.
Weight 18.7 oz.
Waterproof/fogproof: Yes
Best Scope For Stalking in the Bush, up to 100 yards:
Aimpoint H34L Reflex Sight –
The Aimpoint H34L reflex sight (aka red dot) is one of four sights that comprise Aimpoint’s Hunter series of sights introduced in 2010. Designed to emulate the look of a standard rifle scope, it is the perfect choice for hunters who hunt fast moving and/or dangerous game at ranges out to 100 yards but, it is especially useful when hunting at close ranges in thick cover since the lack of magnification combined with a 2 MOA red dot reticle and a complete lack of eye relief provide extremely quick target acquisition.
Also, the unlike the H34S which is specifically designed for use with lever actions and short actions, the H34L is specifically designed for use with standard and long actions and is specifically designed to withstand the pounding recoil these rifles generate.
Featuring an extra large 39mm, multicoated, objective lens combined with rugged 34mm tube walls and a top mounted 12 position push button brightness adjustment pad, the Aimpoint H34L sight is fully waterproof to enable hunters to hunt in any type of weather. Last, Aimpoint’s ACET technology allows you to turn this sight on and leave it on for up to five years on a single battery!
Specifications:
Magnification: 1X
Magnification: 1X
Objective Lens: 47 mm
Field of View: N/A
Eye Relief: Unlimited
Illumination Settings: 12 manual daylight settings
Parallax Setting: Parallax free
Reticle: 2 MOA Red dot
Overall Length: 9 in.
Weight 9.2 oz.
Waterproof/fogproof: Yes
Best Scope For Hunting Hogs:
Designed with input from Brain “Pigman” Quaca, the Leupold VX HOG 1-4 x 20 mm rifle scope features Leupold’s exclusive, non-illuminated, Pig Plex reticle which is a pig specific reticle designed to provide quick target acquisition and thus, it is ideally suited for framing fast-moving hogs.
Also, this scope employs Leupold’s Quantum Optical System which features lead-free optical glass with a geometry that is maximized via a combination of Ze-max design software and Leupold’s Zygo Interferometer to increase resolution for razor sharp imaging in all light conditions.
In fact, by preserving the mechanical aspects of the popular Vari-X system while repositioning the optical elements and incorporating new lens coatings, the Quantum Optical System delivers up to 94 percent light transmission for superior resolution.
In addition, the large eyepiece makes it easy to find the correct eye relief and to acquire fast moving targets while also making it easier to achieve a full sight picture that completely fills the eyepiece which makes it the perfect choice for hunting dangerous game species in thick cover.
Last, with a tactile power selector, a lockable Fast-Focus Eyepeice, and 1/4 MOA finger click adjustments for windage and elevation, this scope is easy to zero and quick to focus.
Specifications:
Magnification: 1.4x – 4x
Magnification: 1.4x – 4x
Objective Lens: 19 mm
Exit Pupil: N/A
Field of View: 29.8- 74.7 ft. @ 100 yd.
Eye Relief: 3.8 – 4.2 in.
Eye Piece Outside Diameter: N/A
Parallax Setting: N/A
Reticle: Pig Plex
Overall Length: N/A
Weight 8.1 oz.
Waterproof/fogproof: Yes
Most Versatile Hunting Scope:
Redfield Revolution 3-9 x 40m Rifle Scope – Our Review
Redfield is now back in business to the joy of many avid hunters who have owned Redfield scopes in the past! However, they have raised the bar a bit with their new Revolution series rifle scopes. Manufactured at their new facility in Oregon, the Revolution 3-9 x 40mm scope incorporates state-of-the-art American design and manufacturing.
Featuring Redfield’s Illuminator Lens System, the Revolution series combines premium, optical glass, lenses combined with cutting edge, multilayer, vapor-deposition coatings to provide unparalleled image quality, a wider usable field of view, and superior light transmission. Also, extensive research and design has resulted in Redfield’s exclusive Rapid Target Acquisition (RTA) eyepiece which eliminates the eye relief “sweet spot” which results in quick and accurate target acquisition.
In addition, it features your choice of either the 4-Plex reticle or the Accu-Range reticle which provides hold over points out to 500 yards with matchless simplicity and deadly accuracy, while the AccuTrac™ adjustment system ensures the ultimate in reliability and repeatability.
Furthermore, the Redfield Revolution 3-9 x 40mm features a lockable eyepiece and it is completely waterproof, fog proof, shock proof to enable hunters to hunt in any type of weather with any caliber of firearm that they choose without having to worry about creep.
Specifications:
Magnification: 3.8x – 8.5x
Magnification: 3.8x – 8.5x
Objective Lens: 40 mm
Exit Pupil: 4.7 – 12.1
Field of View: 13.1 ft. – 32.9 ft. @ 100 yd.
Eye Relief: 3.7 – 4.2 in.
Eye Piece Outside Diameter: N/A
Parallax Setting: N/A
Reticle:
Overall Length: 12.3 in.
Weight: 12.6 oz.
Waterproof/fogproof Yes
Amazing buying guide and reviews. everyone should to know the impotent fact before the buying a rifle scope. You wrote the awesome impotent fact in this article.
Thanks for sharing
John
Thanks for sharing
John
Contents
Want to buy the best hunting scope for low light conditions? Confuse? because you didn’t know anything about low light hunting scopes. If that’s the reason, then stop searching just now because you have precisely landed at the right place. Here, we will be sharing the best hunting scope for low light conditions list that is picked after proper research and Testing. These low light scope reviews will help you in picking the right scope. So, read the entire article and then decide, which one is ideal for you.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II AO 6-18×44 (Best low light rifle scope under 300)
Technical Specifications:
- Magnification Power: Variable magnification power has a range of 6x to 18x.
- Adjustable Objective: Adjustable Objective lens of this low light rifle scope provides image focus and parallax removal.
- Objective Diameter: It has a 44mm diameter of the objective lens.
- Reticle: V-Brite (MOA) battery-powered illuminated reticle for low light conditions.
- Focal Plane: The V-Brite reticle is placed in the second focal plane accurate range estimation, holdover and wind drift correction even at 18x magnification.
- Eye Relief: This best hunting scope for low light conditions has a constant 3.7 inches eye relief.
- Tube Size: Single-Piece Tube comes with the 1-inch diameter.
- Adjustment Graduation: Adjustment graduation value of the Crossfire II AO 6-18×44 is ¼ MOA at 100 yards.
- Max Elevation Adjustment: Maximum Elevation adjustment of this low light hunting scope is 50 MOA.
- Max Windage Adjustment: Maximum Windage adjustment also has 50 MOA value.
- Field of View (100 yards): At 6x Magnification, the FOV is 15.2 feet and at 18x, it is 5.2 feet.
- Turret Style: The Finger reachable reset turrets are capped.
- Parallax Setting: Its parallax has a setting range from 10 yards to infinity.
- Weight: This best hunting scope for low light conditions weighs 19.6 oz.
- Length: Vortex Optics Crossfire II AO 6-18×44 is 13.5 inches long.
- Construction Material: Built with a solid block of aircraft-grade aluminum for added strength.
- Nitrogen Purged: The Single-Piece Tube is filled with the Nitrogen gas that prevents internal fogging.
- O-ring Sealed: O-ring seals prevent moisture from entering the scope and make it waterproof.
- Finish: Low-glare matte surface hard anodized finish.
- Fast Focus Eyepiece: The Eyepiece of this best low light rifle scope under 300 allows quick and easy reticle focusing.
- Battery: Vortex Optics Crossfire II uses CR2032 battery for reticle illumination.
- Warranty: Vortex offers VIP unlimited Lifetime Warranty.
Product Description:
This rifle scope is engineered for the ultimate hunting experience in low light conditions. The price point and performance of the Vortex Optics Crossfire II AO 6-18×44 is hard to beat. This best low light rifle scope under 300 is loaded with an array of impressive features that serious hunters demand in the field.
The proprietary coated lenses allow the maximum light transmission to provide bright and clear views. Its V-Brite reticle utilizes the V-Plex format along with battery-powered electronics to brighten the center dot that helps you in extra-low light hunting. Reticle stays in the second focal plane to maintain the same ideally-sized appearance from 6x to 18x.
Its 1-inch single-piece tube is constructed from the aircraft-grade aluminum alloy to ensure strength, rigidity, and waterproofness. The Nitrogen gas filling makes it completely fog proof over a wide range of temperatures. The highly durable hard-coat anodized finish of this red dot scope reduces glare to keep your position hidden.
The proprietary coated lenses allow the maximum light transmission to provide bright and clear views. Its V-Brite reticle utilizes the V-Plex format along with battery-powered electronics to brighten the center dot that helps you in extra-low light hunting. Reticle stays in the second focal plane to maintain the same ideally-sized appearance from 6x to 18x.
Its 1-inch single-piece tube is constructed from the aircraft-grade aluminum alloy to ensure strength, rigidity, and waterproofness. The Nitrogen gas filling makes it completely fog proof over a wide range of temperatures. The highly durable hard-coat anodized finish of this red dot scope reduces glare to keep your position hidden.
- Crossfire II AO 6-18×44.
- Sunshade.
- Removable Lens Covers.
- Lens Cleaning Cloth.
- User Manual.
Pros and Cons of Vortex Optics Crossfire II (Best low light rifle scope under 300)
- High Power: High Magnification Power that ranges from 6x to 18x.
- Reticle: Very clear and bright illuminated reticle scope.
- Warranty: Backed by the Vortex Optics VIP lifetime warranty.
- Clear and Accurate: Extremely precise scope with outstanding clarity.
- Adjustable Objective: Comes with the adjustable objective for parallax removal with ease.
- Price: Best low light rifle scope under 300 by Vortex Optics.
Nikon Black FX1000 (Best Hunting Scope for Low Light Conditions)
Technical Specifications:
- Power: Magnification power of the Nikon Black FX1000 ranges from 6x to 24x.
- Objective Diameter: Comes with a massive objective lens of 50mm diameter.
- Tube Diameter: The main tube of this best low light scope under 1000 has 30mm diameter.
- Reticle: Features an Illuminated X-MRAD reticle that is designed to optimize the sight picture.
- Focal Plane: The reticle of the Nikon Black FX1000 is placed in the first focal plane.
- Illumination levels: There are 10 intensity levels that make it the best hunting scope for low light conditions.
- Illumination Color: The illumination color of the reticle is red.
- Weight: Nikon Black FX1000 has 24.5 oz weight.
- Overall Length: Overall this best low light scope for the money is 15.2 inches long.
- Maximum Internal Adjustment: Maximum internal adjustment is 17 MRAD.
- Adjustment per Revolution: The Windage and elevation adjustment turrets give you 10 MRAD adjustments per revolution.
- Eye Relief: At 6x, the eye relief is 4 inches while at maximum magnification, the eye relief is 3.5 inches.
- Adjustment Type: Adjustment type of this low light rifle scope is Mil Rad.
- Adjustment Click Value: The one adjustment click moves the point of impact 0.1 Milrad at 100 yards distance.
- Exit pupil: Exit pupil ranges from 2.1mm to 8.3mm.
- Linear Field of View: At minimum power, the linear field of view is 18 feet and at max power, it is 4.5 feet at 100 yards.
- Optical Coating: Multilayer coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces for maximum brightness and contrast.
- Parallax: Parallax setting ranges from 50 yards to infinity.
- Battery: The Nikon Black FX1000 requires CR2032 battery for illumination.
- Finish: This best hunting scope for low light conditions has type III hard coat anodized finish.
- Shockproof: It has fully shockproof construction.
- Fogproof: Nitrogen purged for total reliability against internal fogging.
- Waterproof:
Main tube is O-ring sealed to be waterproof in the field. - Zoom Range: 4x Zoom Range for maximum versatility and unfailing performance.
- Turrets: Exposed adjustment turrets are clearly marked for quick adjustments.
- Warranty: Nikon offers Lifetime repair or replacement warranty.
Product Description:
Purchasing Nikon Black FX1000 low light scope will be one of the best experience ever as it offers consistent performance in the field and is backed by the Lifetime repair or replacement warranty. The Nikon Black FX1000 allows you to deliver your longest shots with confident precision from dawn to dusk.
It is equipped with the Lead and Arsenic-free glass having multilayer coatings to transmit maximum light for an ultra-sharp image of the target in any light condition. It also comes with the high-speed Windage and elevation turrets with an all-new integral zero stop for quick adjustments and rapid return to zero.
The Nikon’s proprietary BLACK FX-MRAD illuminated reticle is created expressly for the first focal plane to optimize the sight picture and gives you highly functional, advanced tools necessary for ranging, holdover and windage corrections. You also have the privilege of choosing among the 10 brightness levels of the reticle.
It is equipped with the Lead and Arsenic-free glass having multilayer coatings to transmit maximum light for an ultra-sharp image of the target in any light condition. It also comes with the high-speed Windage and elevation turrets with an all-new integral zero stop for quick adjustments and rapid return to zero.
The Nikon’s proprietary BLACK FX-MRAD illuminated reticle is created expressly for the first focal plane to optimize the sight picture and gives you highly functional, advanced tools necessary for ranging, holdover and windage corrections. You also have the privilege of choosing among the 10 brightness levels of the reticle.
- Nikon Black FX1000 low light rifle scope.
- CR2032 Battery.
- Lens Covers.
- Allen Key.
- Warranty Card.
- Sunshade.
- Instructions.
Pros and Cons of Nikon Black FX1000 (Best Hunting Scope for Low Light Conditions)
- Powers Down: Automatic powers down feature saves battery.
- High-Speed Turrets: Engraved Windage & Elevation Turrets offer smooth, repeatable adjustments.
- Sunshade: This low light rifle scope comes with the sunshade.
- Brightness Levels: There are 10 illumination settings for FX-MRAD reticle.
- Warranty: Lifetime repair or replacement warranty by the Nikon.
- Price: Pricey scope but quality comes with the price.
- Eye Relief: At 24x, eye relief is a little short.
Monstrum Tactical G3 6-24×50 low light scope review
Technical Specifications:
- Reticle: Comes with the illuminated custom FFP Type-H reticle for better reticle visibility in low light environments.
- Focal Plane: The reticle is positioned in the first focal plane for faster range estimation and holdover correction.
- Adjustable Objective: Features an adjustable objective that allows for sharper focus, parallax elimination,
and range estimation. - Lens Coating: Lenses are treated with the Full Multilayer coatings.
- Magnification: Comes up with a 6x to 24x magnification power that is ideal for mid to long distance shooting.
- Objective Lens Size: Ultra-wide 50mm objective lens.
- Construction Material: Construction material of the main tube is 6061 Aircraft Grade Aluminum.
- Scope Range: It is a long range scope and works best for up to 1500 yards.
- Adjustment Graduation: The per click adjustment value is ¼ MOA at 100 yards distance.
- Field Of View (100 yards): For Minimum Magnification, the Field of View at 100 yards is 18.6 feet while for maximum magnification, it is 4.84 feet.
- Max Adjustments: Maximum adjustment for Windage and Elevation is 80 MOA.
- Tube Size: The ultra-wide main tube has a 30 mm diameter.
- Eye Relief: Its generous eye relief ranges from 4 inches to 4.5 inches.
- Length: Overall length of this Monstrum Tactical G3 6-24×50 is 15.75 inches.
- Weight: This ultra lightweight hunting scope weighs only 14 oz.
- Color: It comes in three colors that are Black, Flat Dark Earth, and Olive Drab Green.
- Warranty: Comes up with the 2 Year Warranty.
- Fog & Water Resistance: Nitrogen purged and sealed scope to be fog and water resistance.
- Finish: Type III Hard-Anodized finish makes it scratch resistant.
- Brass Mechanics: All adjustment assemblies are built with the brass for smoother functionality.
Product Description:
Another best hunting scope for low light conditions is Monstrum Tactical G3 6-24×50. It comes in an affordable price range and delivers at it best compared to other over-priced low light scopes on the market. It will not let you down even in the harshest conditions. Let’s take a closer look at the unbiased review of this low light rifle scope.
With its high power magnification of 6-24x, it is quite capable of close to long range targeting. It works best at distances of up to 1500+ yards. The adjustable objective lens of this best hunting scope for low light conditions allows for a sharper target image, parallax elimination, and correct range estimation.
This scope carries an illuminated custom Type-H etched reticle that is placed in the first focal plane and remains constant regardless of the magnification power. The red color illumination of this reticle gives better visibility at night or in low light conditions. Illumination Control Knob allows you to choose from multiple brightness intensities.
With its high power magnification of 6-24x, it is quite capable of close to long range targeting. It works best at distances of up to 1500+ yards. The adjustable objective lens of this best hunting scope for low light conditions allows for a sharper target image, parallax elimination, and correct range estimation.
This scope carries an illuminated custom Type-H etched reticle that is placed in the first focal plane and remains constant regardless of the magnification power. The red color illumination of this reticle gives better visibility at night or in low light conditions. Illumination Control Knob allows you to choose from multiple brightness intensities.
- Monstrum Tactical G3 6-24×50 low light rifle scope.
- CR2032A Battery.
- Lens Cleaning Cloth.
- Flip-Up Lens Caps.
- Honeycomb Sunshade.
- Heavy Duty Scope Rings.
- Manual.
Pros and Cons of Monstrum Tactical G3 6-24×50 (Best Low Light Rifle Scope for Deer Hunting)
- Colors: Comes in Black, Flat Dark Earth, and Olive Drab Green shadings.
- Weight: These are Ultra lightweight low light hunting scopes by the Monstrum.
- All Brass Mechanics: All adjustment assemblies are built with the brass for smoother functionality.
- Price: Offers uncompromising performance at an affordable price range.
- Range: Works best at distances of up to 1500+ yards.
- Warranty: They offer only two years warranty.
- Length: This low light scope is a bit longer than other scopes.
Bushnell Tactical 6-24X50 Low Light Rifle Scope
Technical Specifications:
- Magnification Power: It has an extremely wide magnification power that ranges from 6x to 24x.
- Objective Lens Size: The size of the objective lens of this low light scope is 50mm.
- Eye Relief: Features a constant and generous 4 inches eye relief.
- Exit Pupil: The Exit pupil is 7.5 millimeters at 6x magnification and at 24x, it is 2.1mm.
- Field of View at 6x: At Minimum 6x magnification, the field of view is 17.5 feet (100 yards).
- Field of View at 24x: At maximum 24x magnification, its field of view is 4.5 feet.
- Main Tube Diameter: 30mm main tube allows you to mount it on many different rifles.
- Click Value: The per click adjustment value is 0.1 inches at 100 yards.
- Adjustment Range: The adjustment range of this best hunting scope for low light conditions is 70 inches at 100 yards.
- Length: This compact Bushnell scope is 13.5 inches long.
- Weight: Bushnell Tactical 6-24X50 Low Light Rifle Scope has
weight of 27 ounces. - Mounting Length: Its mounting length is 6 inches.
- Reticle: Comes with an Illuminated Mil-Dot aiming reticle that is ideal for use in low light conditions.
- Focal Plane: The Bushnell Tactical 6-24X50 is a first focal plane scope.
- Fog Proof: Uses RainGuard HD anti-fog technology to be fog proof in the field.
- Argon Purging: Its main tube is filled with the Argon gas for long-term reliability.
- Target Turrets: The exposed target turrets improve the accuracy over long ranges.
- Lens Coating: Ultra Wide Band Coating for image clarity.
- Rugged Construction: Built with quality materials and tested extensively for unfailing performance.
- Finish: Blacked-out cosmetic finish won’t reflect light to give away your position.
- Warranty: It carries a limited Ironclad lifetime warranty.
Product Description:
The Bushnell Tactical 6-24X50 combines the exceptional performance of the Illuminated Mil-Dot reticle with the quality optics to bring out rich color and the finest details even in low light conditions. Its lenses are treated with the RainGuard HD anti-fog coating that keeps the moisture off the lens for a clear view in any cold or wet condition.
This best hunting scope for low light conditions is built for unfailing reliability and optical precision for a wide range of applications. Bushnell has packed this low light scope into a high-grade aluminum housing that’s 13.5 inches long and weighs 27 ounces. It also has passed several tests to deliver uncompromising performance in the field.
Another highlight found in this best hunting scope for low light conditions is its adjustable power. It comes with a variable magnification that ranges from 6x to 24x and is powerful enough to give you long range precision on very small targets. This scope also carries a full lifetime Ironclad Warranty which covers defects in materials and workmanship.
This best hunting scope for low light conditions is built for unfailing reliability and optical precision for a wide range of applications. Bushnell has packed this low light scope into a high-grade aluminum housing that’s 13.5 inches long and weighs 27 ounces. It also has passed several tests to deliver uncompromising performance in the field.
Another highlight found in this best hunting scope for low light conditions is its adjustable power. It comes with a variable magnification that ranges from 6x to 24x and is powerful enough to give you long range precision on very small targets. This scope also carries a full lifetime Ironclad Warranty which covers defects in materials and workmanship.
- Bushnell Tactical 6-24X50 Low Light Rifle Scope.
- Three Inches Sunshade.
- Lens Cleaning Cloth.
- Lens Caps.
- Manual.
Pros and Cons of Bushnell Tactical 6-24X50 Low Light Rifle Scope
- RainGuard HD Coating: RainGuard HD Coating on lens exterior keeps the moisture off.
- Magnification Range: Comes with a wide range of magnification from 6x to 24x.
- Unbeatable Warranty: It is backed by an
amazing warranty and customer service. - Durability: Unrivaled durability and performance in the field.
- Turrets: Target turrets with clear turret markings for easy adjustments.
Burris Veracity 4-20×50 (Best low light scope under 1000)
Technical Specifications:
- Reticle: Comes with the customized version of Ballistic Plex E1 reticle for serious big game hunting.
- Focal Plane: Its Ballistic Plex reticle is positioned in the first focal plane.
- Magnification: Power has a range of 4x to 20x.
- Objective Lens Diameter: The objective lens diameter of the Burris Veracity is 58mm.
- Clear Objective Lens Diameter: Its clear objective lens diameter is 50mm.
- Ocular Lens Diameter: The Ocular lens diameter of this best hunting scope for low light conditions is 44.25mm.
- Main Tube Size: features a 30mm wide main body tube.
- Field of View (At Min Magnification): Field of view is 26 feet at 100 yards.
- Field of View (At Max Magnification): The field of view is 5.5 feet at 100 yards distance.
- Exit Pupil: Exit pupil is 12mm at low magnification and 2.5mm at high magnification.
- Eye Relief: The eye relief of this low light scope for hunting ranges from 3.50 inches to 4.25 inches.
- Elevation Adjustment: Total elevation adjustment capability of this Burris Veracity scope is 70 MOA.
- Windage Adjustment: Maximum value of the windage adjustment is 40 MOA.
- Adjustable Parallax: Parallax can be adjusted by side focus parallax adjustment from 50 yards to infinity.
- Finish: Matte black anti-glare finish.
- Length: It is 15 inches long low light scope.
- Weight: This best hunting scope for low light conditions weighs 27.2 oz.
- Nitrogen-filled Tube: Nitrogen filling prevents internal fogging in all weather conditions.
- Hi-Lume Multi-coating: Multi-coating lenses of this best hunting scope for low light conditions give you low-light performance and glare elimination.
- Zero Click Stop: Zero stop knob allows for a quick, easy return to the zero.
- Adjustment per rotation: Travel per rotation value is 15 MOA.
- Warranty: The Burris Veracity 4-20×50 is covered by the Burris forever warranty.
- 1-piece outer tube: Single-piece outer tube withstands shocks and vibrations.
Product Description:
If you are looking for a solid low light rifle scope with an astonishing design then Burris Veracity 4-20×50 is an ideal candidate for you. You will like this scope’s feature-rich design. It is designed and engineered with strength, lightness, and durability in mind. We’ll give you a quick glimpse at the most interesting features of this best hunting scope for low light conditions.
The guys at Burris take accuracy seriously as the scope carries a Ballistic Plex E1 first focal plane reticle. The reticle crosshairs are very fine in the middle and thicker at edges for ultra-fast target engagement. It gives you correct measurements regardless of magnification power setting. It helps you in determining the size of the target, distance to the target, and trajectory compensation.
All the internal assemblies are hand-fitted and precision gauged to maintain consistency through the entire magnification range. It also comes with the double internal spring-tension system that helps in holding zero regardless of shock and vibration. The side mounted focus knob allows you to adjust the parallax from 50 yards to infinity.
The guys at Burris take accuracy seriously as the scope carries a Ballistic Plex E1 first focal plane reticle. The reticle crosshairs are very fine in the middle and thicker at edges for ultra-fast target engagement. It gives you correct measurements regardless of magnification power setting. It helps you in determining the size of the target, distance to the target, and trajectory compensation.
All the internal assemblies are hand-fitted and precision gauged to maintain consistency through the entire magnification range. It also comes with the double internal spring-tension system that helps in holding zero regardless of shock and vibration. The side mounted focus knob allows you to adjust the parallax from 50 yards to infinity.
- Burris Veracity 4-20×50 Low light scope under 1000.
- Sunshade.
- Lens Cleaning Cloth.
- Flip-up scope caps.
- User Manual.
Pros and Cons of Burris Veracity 4-20×50 (Best low light scope under 1000)
- Reticle: Ballistic Plex is very precise for measuring distance and determining target size.
- Zero Stop: This feature allows easy return to the original yardage setting.
- High-grade Glass: High-grade optical glass with index matched, Hi-Lume coatings provide excellent brightness and clarity.
- Magnification & Objective: Long magnification range with a massive 50mm objective lens make it an ideal scope for long range hunting.
- Turrets: The turrets clicks are hard to distinguish.
Related
When it comes to hunting, having the best gear is one of the essential things. This entails having the best crossbow scope and right hunting cloth among others.
Investing in a good scope will enable you to have a good clarity and crisp images while in hunting. A good quality scope should have advanced features which will enable you to acquire a target and make a perfect shot with ease.
A scope will improve your field of view, vision in low light situations and also reduce glare in stray light. When choosing the right crossbow scope, it is good to take into consideration factors such as the quality, the type of hunting and the price.
Here are the best crossbow scopes based on real users, design, quality, dimension, and magnification.
Best Crossbow Scope – Reviews
Nikon 8461 Bolt XR Crossbow Scope
This crossbow scope from Nikon has a great design which features bright multicoated 3x optics, 3.4 inches eye relief, large ocular and quick force eyepiece.
The large ocular enables you to have a wide view while the quick focus eyepiece comes with -/+4 diopter adjustment which ensures that you make a perfect shot.
The fully multi-coated layers allow the user to enjoy maximum brightness, light transmission and contrast up to 92 percent.
This cope has a 150 MOA adjustment range and a precise of a 1⁄4 inch at 20 yards. The Zero-Reset turrets enable you to sight-in, lift the adjustment knob, rotate it to zero and then re-engage at 20 yards.
The field adjustment is as simple as dialing in the subsequent ranges and is parallax-free at 20 yards; thus enabling you to have an optimum accuracy.
This crossbow scope also features a lightweight, compact design which is waterproof, shockproof and fog proof. It usually comes with Nikon windage, lens caps, and elevation caps.
Nikon 8461 is 8.1 inches long, and at the widest point, it has a diameter of 2 inches. It weighs 11.2 ounces; this means it adds about one pound to your overall crossbow weight. It also has a 3X magnification which enables the user to zero in on the target even in 60 yards away.
Excalibur Tact-Zone Illuminated Scope
This ultra-compact Tact-Zone is one of the ideal scopes which feature the new updated reticle design, red/green rheostat illumination, 30 mm tube and a multi-coated lens. The fully multi-coated optics enables the user to have exceptional clarity even in adverse weather conditions.
The rainwater floats away, and the nitrogen-charged barrel in this scope prevents the occurrence of fogging. At 20 yards, this model features the 4-inch click adjustments for easy sighting in.
When it comes to accuracy, Tact-Zone scope has an eyepiece which has a quick focus that enables you to spot your target with ease. It has an etched reticle which is illuminated with red or green, and each color has five levels. The compensation markers enable you to fine-tune your crossbow during the sighting in.
Regarding dimensions and specification, this scope measures 13 inches long and weighs less than a pound. It looks great, and the crossbow case fits nicely when mounted on the crossbow. The tube has a diameter of 30 mm and an objective lens of 32 mm optic.
This scope also has a variable zoom of 25X to 6X magnification which allows the user to identify the target at a low zoom and to focus on a precision shot. With this model, clarity and resolution are good at all levels thus enabling you to hunt in all conditions.
BSA Red Dot Scope with 5 MOA
BSA scope has been greatly designed for rimfire, rifles, shotguns, crossbows among others. It features a 5 MOA center dot, and a 3-volt lithium battery which is easily charged when depleted.
The brightness in this scope can be adjusted in 11 different ways allowing you to set relative brightness on the dot based on the lighting condition.
The BSA scope has the optics which is relatively good. It has an excellent objective lens and a red dot which is clear and crisp. The red dot in this scope is ideal for medium-range shooting.
When it loses focus, you simply adjust the brightness down, and the problem will be solved. It has diverse adjustable brightness settings which enable the user to adjust the brightness based on the light conditions easily.
This scope is 30 mm wide does not have any specifications. The field of view is relatively good, and you will be able to see a 68 inches area from 100 yards. The parallax setting is at 50 yards; this enables you to spot and bring down the target with more ease. It also comes with 5/8 to 3/8 mounting system which is easily mounted.
UTG 4X32 Crossbow Scope
UTG 4X32 is a crossbow scope which features the 5-step reticle, broadband lens coating, side wheel illumination and a one-inch tube. It has a wide field of view of about 27.2 feet at 100 yards.
This enables you to spot and acquire your target with more ease. Mounting of this scope is also easy especially if your crossbow is Picatinny rail or standard weaver.
This scope features fully multicoated optics or the broadband lens coating. The reticle has been designed well with brightness settings. It has a 32 mm light transmission which is excellent in low light conditions, and you can configure the illuminations to either green or red.
This scope uses 2 CR2 batteries, always make sure you charge fully or carry a spare in case you are doing low-light hunting. This scope weighs 123 ounces and measures 8.19 inches long.
It has the standard one-inch fare tube with a width of about 1.65 inches at the sunshade end. The objective lens is made of 32 piece mm piece of glass and eye relief of 3.8 inches. This scope is also designed to have a parallax free at 50 yards.
Top Low Light Scope Review
Barnett 4X32 Crossbow Scope
This is a scope which features multi-reticle crosshair and five-point system for quick target acquisition. It is water resistant, shockproof and compatible with most of the crossbows. It usually comes with 0.875-inch mounting rings.
The optics in Barnett scope is multi-coated; this makes this scope resistant to glare and reflection. It gives excellent contrast and image quality compared to similar scopes. The multi-reticle design allows a user to shoot at different yards which include 25, 35, 40, 45 and 50.
In poor light conditions, this scope still gives images which are clear, crisp and full of more contrast.
This cope has a 4X magnification and measures 32 mm long from the archery gear marker. It weighs 0.8 ounces but usually comes with a shipping weight of 12.8 ounces. The images produced in this scope are also very crisp, clear and detailed compared to the similar scopes.
Final Verdict
When choosing the best crossbow scope in the market, it is usually good to be well conversant with the specifics. There are red dot scopes which are relatively smaller compared to the optical scopes and requires a battery. The red dot usually doesn’t have the magnifications and transmit simple light.
The optical scopes are the ones mostly in the hunting rifles. It offers great magnifications and clarity compared to the red dot. Based on your preferences, always choose the scope which gives you more accuracy and clarity.
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Any hunter knows the woods come alive at night as the majority of game animals are nocturnal while others are semi-nocturnal. The majority of tracking takes place in the early hours of the morning or at dusk. This is where the best low light rifle scope gives you versatility while hunting.
A low light riflescope is a great tool helping you to hunt in darker conditions giving you the right light on your gun. Compared to other models available, this piece of intelligent equipment gathers maximum light and has an illuminated reticle.
They feature 40mm or larger objective lenses and have a 30mm body instead of a 1-inch body. The low light scope can make a huge difference when pursuing animals compared to the traditional scope. To make your life a little easier we have compared different low light scopes.
View our comparison table to make your optic selection a breeze. Find detailed low light rifle scope reviews of each device to make an informative choice when in need of buying one.
Our Top Picks
Product Name | Magnification | Objective Lens | F.O.V @ 100 Yards | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X | 4 - 12x | 40 mm | 29 Feet @ 4x and 11 Feet @ 12x | |
Monstrum Tactical | 3 - 9x | 32 mm | N/A | |
Nikon Buck Master II | 4 - 12x | 40 mm | 23.6 Feet @ 4x and 7.9 Feet @ 12x | |
BARSKA Hunt Master Pro | 1.5 - 6x | 42 mm | 44 Feet @ 1.5x and 16 Feet @ 6x | |
Vortex Optics Strike Eagle | 1 - 6x | 24 mm | 116.5 - 19.2 feet/100 yards | |
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Circle-X | 3 - 9x | 40 mm | 78.1 Feet @ 1x (1,000 yards) and 24.9 Feet @ 4x (1,000 yards) | |
Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 | 1x | 25 mm | Unlimited | |
Leupold VX-6 | 3 - 18x | 50 mm | 38 - 7 Feet |
Factors to Consider Before Purchase
The first question you need to ask yourself is how far you are planning to shoot. Second, what type of game animals are you going to shoot?
Distance and Size
The distance you are planning to shoot is important as this helps you to decide what type of magnification you need in the optic you plan to buy. The size of the animals also important as the magnification helps to bring the image closer and makes it clearer for a perfect shot.
If you plan to hunt large game found in dense forest, the chance is you will be close to the target. The low light optics reviewed in our comparison table offers you both fixed and variable magnification and ideal for any type of situation ranging from 3 – 8x magnification.
Hunting in large open spaces while shooting at small targets further than 600 feet away requires choosing an optic in the 12 – 20x magnification range.
With the reviewed scopes found here, each one offers you the versatility to shoot game from close and far away. However, if you are not sure you can settle for a 3-9x 40 scopes, as it is an all-rounder to use in any type of situation.
Objective Lens Size
In general, optics are all about gathering light. It is doubly important to do so well when you are starting out in a low light condition. One of the easiest measures of how much light a scope can collect is its objective lens size. This is normally measured in mm and is the last number listed in a scope’s name.
So, a 3-9x 40 would sport a 40mm objective lens. If the lens quality remains the same a large lens gathers more light.
Reticle Choice
All riflescope have visual markers known as the crosshair or reticle. These markers show you where the shot will go once you pull the trigger and make it easier for you to get a precise shot. Further, it helps to increase your chance of hitting the target.
There are any number of different styles available today. You will want to consider one that not only is easy for you to see but also can be illuminated in darker settings.
How far and what time of day will you be hunting?
The distance you travel and time of day is just as important as it determines the size of the objective lens you need.
Here are the reasons why this is vital:
- Making use of a large objective lens increases the size & weight of the optic – for long distance walking the best is to choose one with a lighter compact size and small objective lens diameter
- For low lighting conditions, a large objective lens is better as it gathers more light producing clear visible images for the best shot. These types of riflescopes give you a large field of view than a smaller one. Choosing one with a 40mm objective lens is perfect to use in all lighting conditions.
Reviews of the Best Low Light Riflescopes
Now that you have answered, the above questions make sure to read our detailed reviews. We have rounded up some great choices and have given you the information that you’ll need to make an informed decision on which is the best choice for your hunting style.
Bushnell Banner Multi-X
Price: Approx. $250
Magnification: 4 – 12x
Objective lens: 40 mm
Length: 12 inches
Reticle pattern: Multi-X
Specific features: Dusk & dawn brightness coatings, adjustable objective lens, multi-coated, fast focus eyepiece, ¼ moa windage & elevation adjustment
Included: One-year warranty
Best use: Suitable low-light hours when hunting
The Bushnell Banner Multi-X has everything you need for hunting game. For brightness and clarity, the Banner has a DDB (Dusk & Dawn Brightness) multi-coating. With the versatility of this riflescope, you can hunt as short and long distances as you would like with the adjustable objective.
The build of the optics is durable and made with a one-piece tube and has a ¼ MOA finger adjustable windage & elevation. The tube diameters one inch and has a matte finish with hardwearing shock resistant exterior.
Other standout characteristics are the F.O.V and are 29-feet at 100 yards when using 4-time magnification while the 12X magnification offers you 11 feet @ 100 yards. The eye relief is 3.3-inches and has a second focal plane with an adjustment range of 60-inches at 100 yards.
Further, the adjustments knobs you can reset to zero, once the optics sighted.
PROS:
- Well built
- Impressive optics
- Clear and visible images in low lighting conditions
- Affordable
- Fits a .22 up to a rifle
- Available in two magnification selections to choose 4-12x40mm and 6-18x50mm
CONS:
- Can be a bit annoying to adjust the focus for distance
Related: Suitable to use with the Utg High Profile Mounts in order to give you a high and easily viewed scope picture.
Monstrum Tactical AO
Price: Approx. $80
Magnification: 3 – 9x
Objective lens: 32 mm
Logic confessions of a dangerous mind download. Length: 9.3 inches
Reticle pattern: Adjustable and range finder
Specific features: Illuminated reticle with 5 levels of brightness in red and green, adjustable objective lens D or AO, BDC (Bullet Drop Compensated), fog, and waterproof
Included: One-year warranty, 1-inch scope rings, 3V CR2032 battery, and lens caps
Best use: Hunting, target, and tactical shooting
The Monstrum Tactical AO has amazing features for any type of shooter. The optic has an adjustable reticle with five levels of brightness. For better visibility to use in low light environments it has two illuminated colors you can choose to use red and green.
The windage and elevation dials are adjustable with a ¼ MOA included locking turrets. The objective lens adjusts allowing for a sharper focus eliminating the parallax and estimation of range. For estimating, the range and compensating the bullet drop the rangefinder reticles markings are a great help.
The riflescope has a durable aluminum construction making the optic lightweight to carry over longer distances. No matter what the weather permitted for the day the scope is nitrogen purged for fog and water.
For mounting the scope you, need a mount with a 0.5-inch clearance and for ease of use; the supplier has included one making this an affordable buy. The illuminated light works with a 3V CR2032 battery.
PROS:
- Easy to use
- AO adjustment is superb
- Clear images in low light conditions
- Accurate estimate for distance
- Red and green reticle to use
- Affordable
CONS:
- Users found the optic difficult to sight in when used the first time
Nikon BuckMaster II
Price: Approx. $130
Magnification: 4 – 12x
Objective lens: 40 mm
Length: 14.1 inches
Reticle pattern: BDC
Specific features: Multi-coated optical system, zero-rest turret, quick-focus eyepiece, o-ring sealed, and has a spring-loaded adjustment knob
Included: Lifetime warranty
Best use: Deer hunters
The Nikon BuckMaster II is any hunters dream, especially for low light conditions. The lenses are multi-coated and give you a superb eye relief of 3.7-inches with a 100-yard parallax setting. The popular Bullet Drop Compensator reticles available in the sight are a see-through circle and great for long-range shooting.
For shorter-range shots, the crosshair is the aiming point. You can use the optic with the Nikon Spot on Ballistic Match Technology. This allows you to discover the exact aiming points when used at different yardages while using certain ammunition.
There is no need of worrying about the rain as the riflescopes made with a durable aluminum exterior, is shockproof and nitrogen-purged to keep out moisture and water.
PROS:
- Glass is clear
- The BDC reticle is spot on
- The Spot-on app is amazing to use
- Can shoot out to 600 yards
- No need of using tools when adjusting the reticle
CONS:
- Image gets a bit fuzzy when using the higher magnification
Top 5 Low Light Scopes
Related: The Nikon Sunshade will help to keep down glare that can give away your position when you are out in the field.
Barska IR Hunt Master Pro
Price: Approx. $70
Magnification: 1.5 – 6x
Objective lens: 42 mm
Length: 13 inches
Reticle pattern: 30/30 IR Cross
Specific features: Fast focus eyeball, parallax-free @ 100 yards, and ir reticle with 11-brightness settings
Included: Lifetime warranty and scope caps
Best use: Hunters
The Barska IR Hunt Master Pro is any hunters dream scope to use out in the field. With the 1.5-6 X magnification and 42 mm objective lens, you will spot any game animals from near too far. The optic is shockproof, fog and waterproof helping with weather conditions from the sun to rain.
With the fast, focus eyeball feature you will not lose your target when moving the eyes and it is parallax-free out to 100 yards. Further, it has advanced technology as the reticle has eleven brightness settings and great to use in low-light conditions.
The aluminum construction’s durable and it has a black matte exterior with a tube diameter of 1-inch. The optics multi-coated and the package include scope caps with a superb warranty.
PROS:
- The reticle settings are handy to have
- Zooms to 6.5 is helpful
- Lightweight
- Inexpensive
- Can see the reticle even if the battery is dead
Vortex Strike Eagle Riflescope
Price: Approx. $350
Magnification: 1 – 6x
Objective lens: 24 mm
Length: 10.5 inches
Reticle pattern: AR-BDC
Specific features: Multi-coated, second focal plane reticle, glass-etched reticle, illuminated reticle
Included: Lifetime warranty
Best use: Hunters, tactile and target
The Vortex Strike Eagle Riflescope has the versatility and speed a hunter needs when tracking animals during the day or night. This optic is perfect for AR shooters who need to shoot at extended ranges.
With the high-quality multi-coated lens, you get a clear image when used in low-light environments. For quick target, acquisition, when used in close quarters the 6X zooms perfectly.
The nice thing about the riflescope is the level of the crosshair and it’s great for estimating the range, holdover and wind drift correction as it has a second focal plane reticle. The reticles protected between two layers of glass and for precise aiming and it is illuminated.
The constructions a single piece with a 30mm diameter and is made with aluminum with o-ring sealed to keep it dust and debris free. Further, it is waterproof and reliable to use out in rainy conditions. The exteriors shockproof and for re-indexing of the turret to zero after you have sighted in the scope it has capped reset turret.
For ease of access when focusing the eyepiece it has a fast focus and an eye relief of 3.5-inches.
PROS:
- Well-built
- The windage and elevation has clean clicks
- Made from durable glass
- Great warranty
CONS:
- The illumination is not bright
- Eye box could be a bit wider
Related: The Defender Flip Cap keeps the sight unobstructed and the Precision Matched Rings provide an outstanding method of mounting your sight to a chosen rifle.
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn
Price: Approx. $70
Magnification: 3 – 9x
Objective lens: 40 mm
Length: 10.5 inches
Reticle pattern: Circle-X
Specific features: HD clarity, DDB multicoated lenses, fast-focus eyepiece, ¼ MOA adjustment settings
Included: One-year warranty
Best use: Hunters
The Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn has a durable hardwearing design made from aluminum and shockproof. For hunting in low-light conditions, this is the best riflescope to have. With the tremendous eye box, you get an eye relief of 4.3-inches.
The multi-coated optics perfect for any environment and has a one-piece tube construction and 100% fog and waterproof. The windage and elevation adjustment adjusts with your fingertips at ¼ MOA and with the fast-focus eyepiece you keep, your target visible at all times.
The scopes suitable to use with different types of rifles including the 30-06 Savage Axis, 22 LR, Black Powder .50 cal and so much more.
PROS:
- Durable made
- Zeroes in quickly
- Fits on Picatinny rails or any extender
- Clear image in low light
- Affordable
Top Low Light Scope For A Rifle
Related: We recommend you buy a laser bore to prevent wastage of ammo while sighting your scope in.
Bushnell Trophy TRS-25
Price: Approx. $70
Magnification: 1x
Objective lens: 25 mm
Length: 2.4 inches
Reticle pattern: Dot
Specific features: 3 MOA, trophy red dot, front lens is tinted amber, tilted front lens, 11 brightness settings
Included: One-year warranty, CR2032 battery, lens covers
Best use: Hunters
The Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 by Bushnell gives you fast target acquisition with accuracy when out hunting game. The optics have an amber-bright glass and the lens tilted. This riflescope is perfect for low-lighting situations and you will have no trouble seeing your target.
Included with your purchase you receive the CR2032 battery and the unit is completely fog, water and shockproof and filled with dry nitrogen. You can easily use the sight with both eyes open as it has unlimited eye relief. Further, it is parallax-free and has a dot that moves with your eyes.
The reticles crisp and visible with a red dot circle and you use a control knob to adjust the setting. The optic gives you a full-size performance, is compact, and has lower power consumption. You can easily mount this sight on a Picatinny or weaver styled rail. To attach the scope to the rail there is an Allen screw to secure the unit.
PROS:
- The mirror finish found on the lens gives amazing light and reduces glare
- Durable
- Windage adjustments is tight
- The dot reticle is small and precise even at the lowest setting
- No tools needed to zero in
- Compact in size taking up little room
- Battery life is good
Related: Utg Mount is the perfect accessory to make sure your scope is securely mounted to your rifle.
Leupold VX-6
Price: Approx. $2,000
Magnification: 3 – 18x
Objective lens: 50 mm
Length: 13.5 inches
Reticle pattern: Boone & crockett
Specific features: Bdc dial and zones, 6:1 zoom ratio, quantum optical system, xtended twilight lens system, and diamond coat 2 treated
Included: Lifetime warranty, cr2032 battery, allen wrench, protective cover, and protective lens cover
Best use: Hunting and target shooting
The Leupold VX-6 has many advantages for the hunter with the Quantum Optical System that multiplies by six. The optics are coated and has a 24-k gold-plated decorative ring with matte black finish. Leupold has made sure hunters can use the riflescope for short and long distance shooting.
Stand out features is the Boone & Crockett reticle with a side focus parallax adjustment. Presented in this unique device you get a Xtended Twilight Lens System with multiple anti-glare coatings helping to maximize light transmission.
These features make it suitable for low-light conditions and the exterior of the sights are Diamond Coated to protect the surface from damage. For wind and elevation the optics, offer you a 75 MOA adjustment range with a ¼ MOA impact point correction.
Further, it has an illuminated fine center crosshair with bold lines found in the second focal plane. The scopes made with durable aluminum and fog, and waterproof with a twin spring erector to increase the holding force.
The housings filled with krypton and argon gas to adapt to changing temperatures. You can easily switch the elevation with the custom dial system.
PROS:
- Glass clarity is excellent
- Superb warranty
- Suitable for close, long-range and low-light
CONS:
- A bit on the heavy side and not suitable for a light rifle
Related: Vx-6 2-Inch Sunshade and Neoprene Scope Cover are the perfect pairings for this scope as they will keep the glare down and protect it while moving through rough terrain.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to low-light riflescopes, there is no need of spending a fortune as each of these units gives you excellent quality. With the added features, you are able to keep your rifle on the target from a short to a long distance while raining outdoors. They are durable and have weatherproof ratings and shockproof structures.
The Leupold, Nikon, BARSKA, and Vortex have amazing warranties that stand out from the rest. Nikon is fine scope when it comes to performance and Leupold is a trusted brand by many people. If you are a sportsmen or woman, you will not go wrong when buying these fine riflescopes as they are worth every cent spent.
Do you have experience with any of these scopes or is there one that we missed? If so, let us know about it in the comments section below.