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Top 7 Best Low Light Rifle Scopes of 2024
When you’re out in the field, the last thing you want is for poor lighting to compromise your shot. You’ve spent hours preparing, and it all comes down to this moment. But what if you could trust your rifle scope to perform, no matter the lighting conditions?
With the right low-light rifle scope, you can. In this article, we’ll explore the top 7 options that will give you the edge you need to take accurate shots, even when the sun dips below the horizon. From illuminated reticles to advanced lens coatings, we’ll uncover the features that set these scopes apart.
Top 7 Best Low Light Rifle Scopes on the Market 2024
Note: The following advice comes from my personal perspective. What works for me might not work for you, but hopefully it sparks some ideas!
1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
If you’re a hunter seeking a reliable low-light rifle scope with exceptional clarity and accuracy, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane, 30mm Tube Riflescopes is an excellent choice, offering adjustable objective and Dead-Hold BDC reticle for precise shots.
This scope is built to deliver, with a durable aircraft-grade aluminum construction that’s shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof. You’ll appreciate the image focus, parallax removal, and fully multi-coated lenses that guarantee a crystal-clear view, even in low-light conditions.
With finger-adjustable MOA clicks and a fast-focus eyepiece, you’ll be able to quickly adjust your scope to your shooting environment. Plus, the unlimited lifetime warranty provides peace of mind, so you can focus on making those accurate shots.
Best For: Hunters seeking a reliable low-light rifle scope with exceptional clarity and accuracy.
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2. Bushnell Banner Riflescope
With its impressive 3-9x40 magnification and 40mm objective lens diameter, the Bushnell Banner Riflescope is an excellent choice for hunters who need a reliable low-light performer that can deliver accurate shots.
You’ll appreciate the clear glass and sharpness of this scope, making it suitable for beginners and experienced shooters alike. The circle-X reticle is particularly beneficial for general game shooting, and the scope’s ability to hold zero even after rough handling is a sign of its durability.
With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 775 customer reviews, it’s clear that the Bushnell Banner Riflescope offers exceptional value for its price. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, this scope is sure to impress with its clarity, accuracy, and reliability.
Best For: Hunters who need a reliable low-light performer that can deliver accurate shots, suitable for beginners and experienced shooters alike.
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3. Trijicon TR22 AccuPoint 2.5-10x56mm Riflescope
For hunters seeking a reliable low-light performer, the Trijicon TR22 AccuPoint 2.5-10x56mm Riflescope is an excellent choice, thanks to its exceptional light-gathering capabilities and battery-free illumination.
You’ll appreciate the superior quality lenses and aircraft-grade aluminum housing, which provide durability and clarity in various conditions.
The MIL-Dot Crosshair reticle and second focal plane design guarantee accurate shots, while the 2.5-10x magnification and 56mm objective lens diameter offer versatility and flexibility.
With an eye relief of 71.12mm and a field of view of 7.18 degrees, you’ll have a comfortable and wide shooting experience.
Weighing 20.7 ounces, this scope is a great addition to your hunting gear, and the included lens caps, warranty card, and manual make it a complete package.
Best For: Hunters seeking a reliable low-light performer for their hunting gear.
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4. Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
When precision matters, the Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescope stands out as a top choice for hunters and shooters who demand exceptional optical clarity and reliable performance in low-light conditions.
You’ll appreciate the premium, fully multi-coated, extra-low dispersion lenses that provide excellent resolution and color fidelity. The exposed target-style turrets offer precise and repeatable finger-adjustable clicks, while the 4x zoom and side focus parallax adjustment guarantee ideal image focus.
With its O-ring sealed and argon-purged design, this scope is waterproof and fogproof, making it suitable for various hunting and shooting applications. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a competitive shooter, the Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Riflescope is an excellent choice for accurate shots in any conditions.
Best For: Hunters and shooters who demand exceptional optical clarity and reliable performance in low-light conditions.
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5. CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope
If you’re a hunter seeking a reliable and feature-rich scope that won’t break the bank, the CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope with 20mm Mount is an excellent choice, boasting an integrated bright green laser with a range of over 300 yards and red/green illumination with 5 brightness levels.
You’ll appreciate the upgraded precision multi-coated lens, which provides a clear view even in low-light conditions. This scope is also fogproof and waterproof, thanks to its nitrogen filling, ensuring it can withstand harsh environments.
With a magnification range of 2.5-10x and an objective diameter of 40mm, you’ll have a wide field of view, making it ideal for hunting and shooting applications.
Best For: Hunters and shooters seeking a reliable and feature-rich scope with advanced features at an affordable price.
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6. Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44mm Riflescope
Your search for a dependable low-light rifle scope ends with the Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44mm Riflescope, whose CDS-ZL2 elevation adjustment feature makes it an ideal choice for hunters who demand precision in any lighting condition.
With its Electronic Reticle, you’ll enjoy pinpoint accuracy, even in low-light situations. This American-made scope is built to last, boasting a waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof design that can withstand the toughest environments.
Plus, Leupold’s reputation for quality and reliability guarantees you’re investing in a high-quality optic that’ll serve you well for years to come.
Best For: Hunters who demand precision and reliability in low-light conditions and need a high-quality, durable, and accurate riflescope for their hunting needs.
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7. Athlon Optics Neos 3-9x40 Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
For hunters seeking a reliable low-light rifle scope that won’t break the bank, the Athlon Optics Neos 3-9x40 Second Focal Plane Riflescope is a top contender, thanks to its illuminated reticle and aircraft-grade aluminum construction.
You’ll appreciate the durability and fog-proof performance of this scope, which guarantees quick target engagement even in temperature changes.
The 3-9x40 configuration and 40mm objective lens diameter provide a clear view, while the finger-adjustable turrets make adjustments a breeze.
With a 4.6-star rating from 203 customer reviews, this scope has proven itself to be a valuable addition to your rifle, suitable for various models, including the Ruger RPR .22.
Best For: Hunters seeking a reliable and affordable rifle scope for low-light conditions.
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Factors to Consider When Choosing Low Light Rifle Scopes
When selecting a low light rifle scope, you’re not just buying a product - you’re investing in your shooting experience.
To guarantee you get the right one, you’ll want to take into account several key factors, including the optic’s quality, reticle design, magnification power, eye relief, and durability.
Optic Quality Matters
High-quality optics with fully multi-coated lenses become your trusted allies in low-light conditions, providing better light transmission and clarity that can make all the difference in hitting your target.
When choosing a low-light rifle scope, you should prioritize optic quality to guarantee you get the best performance. Look for scopes with high light-gathering capabilities, larger objective lens diameters, and premium glass for improved visibility.
Optics with illuminated reticles or battery-free illumination systems can enhance target acquisition in low-light settings. Additionally, consider scopes with superior lens coatings like anti-reflective coatings to reduce glare and improve image brightness.
Adjustable brightness levels for illuminated reticles can also help tailor the scope’s performance to different lighting situations.
Reticle Design Importance
In low-light environments, a well-designed reticle becomes your lifeline, providing clear aiming points that can make or break your shot accuracy.
When choosing a low-light rifle scope, it’s vital to take into account the reticle design, as it plays a significant role in delivering accurate shots. Illuminated reticles can be a game-changer, enhancing visibility in dim lighting and allowing for quick target acquisition.
You’ll want to select a reticle type that suits your shooting preferences and the environment you’ll be in. For instance, BDC, duplex, or mil-dot reticles might be suitable for different situations. However, be cautious of thick reticle lines that can obstruct your target. Instead, opt for a reticle design that balances visibility and target clarity.
Additionally, look for scopes with adjustable brightness levels, allowing you to adapt to changing light conditions for improved accuracy.
Magnification Power Needs
Your shooting environment and personal preferences dictate the magnification power you need in a low-light rifle scope, so finding a balance between zoom and visibility is vital.
You’ll want to take into account the magnification range needed for low light conditions, as higher magnification can potentially reduce light transmission. Opting for scopes with variable magnification allows you to adjust for changing light conditions during dusk or dawn.
Lower magnification settings like 3-9x or 2.5-10x are suitable for low light scenarios, offering a wider field of view. A balance between magnification power and light transmission is crucial for clarity and visibility in dim lighting.
Additionally, higher objective lens diameters, such as 50mm or 56mm, can enhance light-gathering capabilities for better performance in low light conditions. By finding the right balance, you’ll be able to make accurate shots even in the most challenging light conditions.
Eye Relief and Comfort
While finding the right balance between magnification power and light transmission is important, you also need to take into account how comfortably you can shoot with your low light rifle scope, which is where eye relief and comfort come into play. Opting for a scope with generous eye relief is vital to prevent scope bite and ensure comfortable shooting sessions.
A longer eye relief, typically 3 inches or more, allows for better eye positioning and reduces the risk of injury from recoil. When choosing a low light rifle scope, consider eye relief in conjunction with your shooting style and firearm type to find the most comfortable and effective setup.
Proper eye relief helps maintain a consistent sight picture, especially important in low light conditions where visibility is limited. Adequate eye relief enhances shooting accuracy and reduces strain on the shooter, contributing to a more enjoyable shooting experience.
Durability and Build
Considering the demands of rugged outdoor environments, you need a low light rifle scope built to withstand harsh conditions and rough handling. When evaluating durability and build, take into account the material and construction of the scope.
Look for scopes made from high-quality materials like aircraft-grade aluminum, which can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Additionally, confirm the scope has waterproof and fogproof features, such as O-ring seals and nitrogen purging, to maintain performance in various environments.
Shockproof capabilities are also essential, as they enable the scope to withstand recoil and rough handling without losing zero. Moreover, opt for scopes with quality lenses and coatings that maximize light transmission and image clarity in low light conditions.
Budget and Value
When embarking on selecting a low light rifle scope, establish your budget range upfront, as prices can vary wildly, from under $100 to over $1,000, and finding the right balance of features and affordability is essential.
You’ll want to assess what you’re comfortable spending and search for scopes that offer the best value for your money. This involves weighing features like clarity, light transmission, and durability against the cost.
Assess the cost-effectiveness of the scope by examining its performance in low light conditions, particularly crucial for hunting or shooting at dusk or dawn. Remember to investigate the warranty and customer service provided by different brands, as a good warranty can enhance the value of your purchase and offer peace of mind.
Lastly, peruse user reviews and ratings to measure the overall value of a low light rifle scope, taking into consideration factors like reliability, performance, and customer satisfaction. By taking these factors into account, you’ll be able to find a scope that meets your needs and suits your budget.
Conclusion
With the right low-light rifle scope, you can confidently take aim in any conditions. Consider the top options outlined above, each offering exceptional clarity and precision in low-light settings.
From illuminated reticles to multi-coated lenses, these scopes are designed to help you hit your mark.
By choosing the best low-light rifle scope for your needs, you’ll be well-equipped to take on any hunting or shooting challenge that comes your way.
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