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Magnification: 5–20xSensor: 4K Ultra HDReticle: Multiple digital reticlesBattery life: 18+ hoursMount: Standard 30mm ringsSuperb night vision with IR illuminatorIntegrated video recordingLong battery lifeSlightly heavier than traditional glass scopes
Magnification: 4–32xDisplay: 1080p HDModes: Day/Night/GreenIR Illuminator: IncludedBattery: 4.5 hours (replaceable)Day/night versatilityExcellent image detailEasy digital controlsRequires frequent battery changes
Magnification: 3–14xSensor: Ultra Low-Light CMOSDisplay: 1280x720 HDMount: 30mm ringsWeight: 2.2 lbsCrisp image at nightMultiple reticle colorsLong IR reachBulky for small-caliber setups
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmTube Diameter: 1 inchReticle: Dead-Hold BDCEye Relief: 3.8 inchesExceptional optical clarityHolds zero after repeated recoilLifetime warrantyNo night vision or illumination
Magnification: 1.5–4xLens: Twilight Light Management SystemReticle: DuplexWeight: 9.6 ozTube: 1 inchSuperb twilight performanceLightweight and ruggedAmerican-made reliabilityLacks illumination
Light Transmission: Prioritize optics designed for low light or those with IR illumination.Magnification: 3–9x is ideal for woods; 1–4x or 1–6x works best for fast shots at close range.Reticle Type: Choose illuminated or digital reticles for quick targeting in dark conditions.Weight and Balance: Lightweight scopes enhance rifle handling during long hunts.Battery Life: If going digital, ensure long-lasting or replaceable power options.Durability: Shockproof, waterproof construction is essential for night hunts in unpredictable weather.
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5 Best Scope for Coon Hunting – Top Night-Ready Optics for Precision and Clarity
When searching for the best scope for coon hunting, visibility, illumination, and target acquisition speed are critical. Hunting raccoons often means working in the darkest hours, deep in wooded areas where lighting is minimal and movement is quick.
I’ve spent years pursuing these clever nocturnal animals, testing numerous optics to find which scopes truly excel in low-light conditions. In this article, I’ll share my top picks, field-tested insights, and essential buying tips for serious coon hunters.
🏆 Top Product List: 5 Best Scope for Coon Hunting of 2025
1. ATN X-Sight 4K Pro 5-20x
The ATN X-Sight 4K Pro redefines digital optics for night hunting. Combining a 4K ultra-HD sensor with an advanced night vision mode, it delivers crisp imagery and built-in recording. During my coon hunts, it offered the best clarity in moonlight and pitch-black woods.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
Sharp digital imaging with adjustable reticles. The reticle options make it easy to adapt for both rimfire and centerfire coon rifles.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Comfortable eye relief; large digital display minimizes strain even on extended hunts.
Durability:
Water-resistant and recoil-proof — reliable on my .22 Mag after hundreds of rounds.
Elevation & Windage:
Digital adjustments with quick recalibration.
Magnification & Parallax:
Variable zoom from 5x to 20x covers both close-range and open-field hunts.
Personal Experience:
Mounted on a Ruger American .22LR with a 30mm quick-detach mount, the scope zeroed easily within five shots at 50 yards. It held zero even after several nights of tracking coons through thick brush.
Reddit Discussion:
Hunters often praise its video capability and IR range up to 200 yards, making it ideal for nocturnal varmints.
Verdict:
If you’re looking for advanced tech in your coon-hunting setup, this is the best overall pick.
2. Sightmark Wraith Digital Night Vision Riflescope
The Sightmark Wraith blends traditional scope ergonomics with modern night vision. It’s especially suited for rimfire rifles and provides excellent nighttime imaging at a fair price.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The high-definition sensor provides clear target outlines even in total darkness, while the digital reticle allows easy zeroing.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Ample space for comfortable shooting positions; easy to maintain sight picture.
Durability:
Shockproof for standard hunting calibers, weather-resistant construction.
Elevation & Windage:
Digital 1/4 MOA adjustments respond accurately.
Magnification & Parallax:
Adjustable from 4x to 32x — great for spotting eyes in the distance.
Personal Experience:
Mounted on a Savage .17 HMR, I easily tracked raccoons in the tree line at 80 yards under overcast skies. It zeroed smoothly and maintained alignment over three outings.
Online Comments:
Many night hunters mention its cost-to-performance ratio as unmatched under $500.
Verdict:
A reliable and affordable digital night scope for serious coon hunters.
3. ATN Night Vision Scope – Ultra Sensitive Sensor
The ATN Night Vision Scope features an ultra-sensitive sensor capable of detecting minimal light reflections. It’s a compact and precise choice for rimfire and air rifles used in tight woods.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
Bright, high-resolution screen; red and green reticles assist in quick target pickup.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Flexible and forgiving for fast-paced shots in trees or brush.
Durability:
Rugged aluminum body; sealed electronics protect against dew and rain.
Personal Experience:
Mounted on my .22LR Ruger 10/22, I found the image exceptionally clear at 60–100 yards, especially with IR brightness set to medium.
Forum Reviews:
ATN fans often cite its reliable performance during fog and early dawn.
Verdict:
A compact, high-performing night scope perfect for close to mid-range raccoon hunts.
4. Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC)
For hunters who prefer classic glass scopes, the Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 offers top-tier brightness and clarity even under starlight or with a headlamp. It’s durable, affordable, and well-suited to coon hunting with rimfires.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
Superior glass for the price; contrast remains strong even in moonlight.
Durability:
Built with aircraft-grade aluminum; fog-proof and waterproof.
Experience:
I’ve used it on a Marlin XT-22 and a .22 WMR platform. It held zero after 400 rounds and gave sharp images even in dim forest edges.
Online Comments:
Hunters on rimfirecentral.com consistently praise its crisp optics for small game.
Verdict:
A budget-friendly, reliable choice for traditional coon hunters.
5. Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm Riflescope
The Leupold VX-Freedom is a compact powerhouse with excellent low-light transmission, ideal for fast, short-range coon shots.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The Twilight system maximizes contrast when light fades—perfect for coon hunters in early dawn.
Eye Relief:
Generous and consistent through the zoom range.
Durability:
Field-tested to withstand rain, cold, and rough brush contact.
Personal Setup:
Mounted on a Henry Lever Action .22LR, it zeroed within four rounds at 40 yards. The image stayed sharp under headlamp conditions.
Customer Feedback:
Leupold’s warranty and image quality earn it consistent five-star reviews.
Verdict:
A pure optical scope for traditional hunters who prefer glass excellence over electronics.
🧭 How to Choose the Right Scope for Coon Hunting
❓ FAQs
Q1: What magnification is best for coon hunting?
A: Typically, 3–9x is perfect. Higher magnification isn’t necessary for short-range woodland hunts.
Q2: Is night vision or thermal better for coon hunting?
A: Night vision is usually sufficient since coons’ reflective eyes make them easy to spot under IR illumination.
Q3: Can I use a regular scope for night hunting?
A: Yes, if paired with an external light source, but digital night scopes greatly enhance visibility.
Q4: What caliber works best with these scopes?
A: Most coon hunters use .22LR, .22 WMR, or .17 HMR for minimal pelt damage and accuracy.
Q5: Do I need an illuminated reticle?
A: For low-light shooting, illuminated or digital reticles make a significant difference in accuracy.
🎯 Conclusion
Finding the best scope for coon hunting means balancing visibility, durability, and technology. For traditionalists, the Leupold VX-Freedom and Vortex Crossfire II are unbeatable in optical quality. For those embracing digital evolution, the ATN X-Sight 4K Pro and Sightmark Wraith stand as the ultimate nighttime tools. After years in the field, I can confidently say the right optic transforms your hunt from guesswork to precision.
Each of these scopes delivers performance worthy of serious hunters—helping you see clearly, shoot confidently, and make every nocturnal pursuit successful.
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