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Magnification: 1-4xObjective Lens: 24mmFocal Plane: Second Focal PlaneReticle: BDC Hunter HoldsWeight: 15 ozTube Diameter: 30mmEye Relief: 2.5–3 inchesCrisp glass clarity in low-light conditionsRugged aluminum housing with proven shock resistanceExcellent color rendition for tracking targetsSlight parallax error beyond 80 yardsPricey compared to simpler bow optics
Magnification: 2.75xObjective Lens: 20mmReticle: Heavy PlexEye Relief: 8–10 inchesWeight: 13 ozField of View: 15 ft @100 ydsExceptional eye relief — perfect for longbowsCompact and lightweightRugged, nitrogen-purged constructionLimited magnification rangeReticle may appear thick at shorter distances
Magnification: 3-9xObjective Lens: 40mmEye Relief: 3.8–4.4 inchesWeight: 15 ozReticle: Dead-Hold BDCTube: 1 inchSharp image qualityLong, forgiving eye reliefGreat valueSlightly bulky for minimalist setupsOverkill magnification for close targets
Magnification: 3–9xObjective: 40mmEye Relief: 3.3 inchesReticle: Multi-XTube: 1 inchWeight: 14 ozExcellent low-light clarityWeatherproofAffordableEye box slightly tight above 8xNo parallax adjustment
Magnification: 4x fixedObjective: 32mmEye Relief: 3.3 inchesLength: 7.5 inWeight: 9.5 ozReticle: CrosshairLightweightBudget-friendlySimple and effective reticleLimited adjustment rangeSlight edge blur
Eye Relief: Ensure at least 8 inches if mounting near the bow riser to avoid string contact.Weight: Keep total optic and mount weight under 1 pound for balance.Magnification: 1–4x is ideal; anything above 6x may exaggerate hand tremors.Mount Compatibility: Use dovetail or Picatinny riser mounts designed for bow limbs.Reticle Simplicity: Stick with BDC or duplex reticles — too much detail distracts.Light Transmission: Look for fully multi-coated lenses for dusk and dawn hunts.Durability: Ensure shockproof and waterproof construction.
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5 Best Scope for Longbow: 2025’s Top Picks for Precision Archery and Hunting
Finding the best scope for longbow can be surprisingly tricky. Unlike rifles, longbows have a slower arrow velocity and significant drop over distance.
A good optical sight needs to account for this — providing precise aiming points without cluttering your view or adding unnecessary weight to your bow. Over the years, I’ve tested several optical aids for traditional and modern longbows, from illuminated crosshair scopes to hybrid red dots and magnified optics designed for bowhunting.
After extensive field testing and community feedback, I’ve narrowed down the top performers that genuinely enhance accuracy, especially for archers aiming beyond 40 yards.
Top Product List: 5 Best Scope for Longbow of 2025
1. Trijicon Huron Hunting Riflescope
The Trijicon Huron is an excellent optical companion for archers transitioning from instinctive aiming to optical precision. Its true-to-life image brightness and lightweight design make it ideal for longbows fitted with bow-mounted rails.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
The Huron’s clarity stands out—edge-to-edge sharpness and no noticeable chromatic aberration even under bright sunlight. The reticle offers intuitive holdovers suitable for archers shooting at variable distances.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
At 3 inches, the eye relief feels comfortable for a bow-mounted setup. The eye box is forgiving, allowing quick target acquisition when drawing your longbow.
Durability
I tested it in humid forest conditions and light rain—it stayed fog-free and zero held perfectly.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Each click is firm and precise. The ¼ MOA adjustment system allows accurate compensation when fine-tuning for arrow drop.
Mounting & Accessories
I used lightweight dovetail rings on a custom riser bracket. The compact form ensured no interference with string path.
Verdict
Perfect for traditional hunters who demand precision in both dawn and dusk scenarios.
2. Burris Scout Scope
The Burris Scout Scope provides extended eye relief and an uncluttered view — ideal for those who want a scope compatible with longbows or recurve-style setups.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Crystal-clear image with a simple reticle design. The heavy plex crosshair helps maintain accuracy while staying visually unobtrusive.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
With nearly 10 inches of relief, this scope is tailor-made for bow shooters who require distance between the optic and string path.
Durability
It handled wet forest conditions, a few drops, and still held zero—no internal fogging.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Knobs are capped, low-profile, and responsive. Each click remains tactile with no slack.
Magnification & Parallax
A fixed 2.75x works surprisingly well for target shooting up to 60 yards.
Verdict
If you want an optic specifically adaptable for longbow alignment, this is a top pick.
3. Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC)
A versatile option for archers who occasionally cross over to rifle use, the Vortex Crossfire II combines clarity with a reliable Dead-Hold BDC reticle.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Superb light transmission through its multi-coated lenses. The reticle’s hash marks help with arrow drop at varying ranges.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Generous and comfortable, perfect for mounted shooting at arm’s length.
Durability
Built tough — I tested mine under cold and damp morning hunts without issue.
My Experience
Mounted using low-profile rings on a Bear Super Kodiak. Required 6 shots to zero at 40 yards; held zero after 200 arrows.
Verdict
Ideal for archers who enjoy hybrid setups or want a dual-use optic.
4. Bushnell Banner 3-9x40 Dusk & Dawn
The Bushnell Banner excels in low light. It’s one of the most affordable scopes that still performs reliably for dawn and dusk archery sessions.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
My Experience
I mounted this on a recurve with a small rail riser and tested from 20 to 60 yards. The clarity in dim light was exceptional — especially at 4x.
Verdict
A solid entry-level optic for those wanting visibility during early morning hunts.
5. CVLIFE 4x32 Compact Rifle Scope
Compact, budget-friendly, and rugged — the CVLIFE 4x32 is a surprisingly capable fixed optic that works wonderfully for bowhunters looking for an affordable aiming aid.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
My Experience
Zeroed easily on my PSE longbow with a rail adapter. After 50 arrows, zero held perfectly, and clarity remained consistent.
Verdict
If you’re experimenting with optics on your longbow, this is a low-cost, high-value choice.
How to Choose the Right Scope for Your Longbow
Selecting the best scope for longbow requires balancing optical precision and lightweight practicality.
Here’s what I recommend:
FAQs
1. Can I mount a rifle scope on a longbow?
Yes, with a proper riser rail or adapter. Ensure it’s mounted securely and doesn’t interfere with string movement.
2. What magnification works best for bowhunting?
1x to 4x offers enough zoom for distance estimation without tunnel vision.
3. Do I need illuminated reticles?
Helpful for low-light shots but not essential unless you often hunt in dim conditions.
4. Will a scope affect arrow flight?
Only if poorly aligned. Always check string clearance and sight offset.
5. How do I zero a scope for a longbow?
Start at 20 yards, adjust elevation first, then windage. Remember, arrow trajectories are more arced than bullets.
6. Can I use red dot sights instead?
Yes — red dots offer faster target acquisition but less precision for long-range shooting.
Conclusion
Choosing the best scope for longbow depends on your shooting style and comfort level. For hunters, the Trijicon Huron stands out for its clarity and reliability. Traditional archers may prefer the Burris Scout Scope for its unmatched eye relief. Budget shooters can rely on the CVLIFE 4x32 Compact for simplicity and ease of setup. No matter which you choose, remember that practice and proper mounting matter as much as optical quality.
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