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Top 7 Best Low Light Scopes in 2024

Numerous successful hunting trips happen during the twilight hours that follow sunset. Additionally, sometimes the weather forces hunters to track their prey under the cover of darkness.

In such scenarios, having a high-quality low light scope is crucial. These scopes differ from regular ones because they are designed to enhance light collection and feature illuminated reticles. This specialized equipment can significantly improve your hunting experience.

If you’re in the market for a dependable low light scope but feel overwhelmed by the choices available, our top 7 reviews could be just what you need.

Top 7 Best Low Light Scopes in 2024

  1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-12×56 Riflescope
  2. Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44mm Riflescope
  3. Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Dusk & Dawn Hunting Riflescope
  4. Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
  5. CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope
  6. Trijicon TR22 AccuPoint 2.5-10x56mm Riflescope
  7. Athlon Optics Neos 3-9×40 Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-12×56 Riflescope

If you’re hunting in the dim hours of dawn or dusk, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II with its V-Brite illuminated reticle is your go-to choice for unmatched precision. This riflescope shines in low light conditions, boasting an oversized objective lens that lets you take confident shots even in heavy cover.

Its adjustable objective not only guarantees sharp image focus but also eliminates parallax, giving you a clearer shot. You’ll appreciate the long eye relief and the fast focus eyepiece, which, along with an ultra-forgiving eye box, allows for rapid target acquisition.

Constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, it’s built to withstand shocks and rough handling. Plus, it’s sealed and purged to keep moisture and fog at bay, ensuring clear vision no matter the weather. With its capped reset turrets and MOA clicks, adjusting your shot is a breeze.

Best For: Hunters seeking a reliable riflescope that performs exceptionally in low light conditions and is durable for rough terrains.

Pros:

  • Excellent performance in low light conditions with V-Brite illuminated reticle.
  • Durable construction with aircraft-grade aluminum, waterproof and fogproof capabilities.
  • Unconditional, lifetime warranty offers peace of mind and reliability.

Cons:

  • Some users report issues with dust on the focal plane.

2. Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44mm Riflescope

For hunters seeking unmatched precision in low light conditions, the Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44mm Riflescope, featuring CDS-ZL2 for precise elevation adjustments and Motion Sensor Technology, stands out as the premier choice. Crafted in the USA, this riflescope is designed to withstand the elements, being waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. Its technical specs boast an 18x maximum magnification, providing clear views from afar, while the 3x minimum magnification allows for closer focus when needed.

The aluminum material guarantees durability without adding unnecessary weight. Plus, with a full lifetime guarantee from Leupold, you’re covered for life. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting, this riflescope, with its FireDot Duplex CDS, elevates your hunting game, especially in challenging low light conditions.

Best For: Hunters and shooting enthusiasts looking for high-quality optics with precision in low light conditions.

Pros:

  • CDS-ZL2 for precise elevation adjustments allows for accurate shooting at various distances.
  • Motion Sensor Technology enhances battery life by turning off illumination after a period of inactivity.
  • Full Lifetime Guarantee by Leupold offers peace of mind, assuring quality and reliability.

Cons:

  • High price point may not be accessible for all budgets.

3. Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Dusk & Dawn Hunting Riflescope

Hunters seeking enhanced precision in low-light conditions will find the Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Dusk & Dawn Hunting Riflescope an ideal choice, thanks to its fully multi-coated optics that guarantee clear, bright views even at dawn or dusk.

With a magnification range of 3-9x and an objective lens diameter of 40mm, this scope offers versatility for various hunting situations. It’s equipped with a Circle-X reticle in a matte black finish, providing a clear aiming point. The scope is argon purged for fog-proofing and has an IPX7 waterproof rating, ensuring reliability in all weather conditions.

This scope is not only lightweight and compact but also compatible with rifles. It comes with a cantilever mount, making installation a breeze.

Best For: Hunters and shooting enthusiasts looking for a reliable, affordable scope for low-light conditions.

Pros:

  • Fully multi-coated optics ensure clear, bright views in various light conditions.
  • Argon purged and IPX7 waterproof rating make it durable in all weather conditions.
  • Lightweight and compact design with a cantilever mount for easy installation.

Cons:

  • No night vision capability, limiting use in very low light conditions.

4. Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

Equipped with a VMR-1 Reticle (MOA) and fully multi-coated lenses, the Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescope stands out as the best choice for shooters aiming for precision in low-light conditions. Its extra-low dispersion lenses guarantee excellent resolution and color fidelity, while the XR coatings enhance light gathering, essential for those dusk or dawn hunts.

The scope’s Armortek coating protects lenses from scratches and dirt, keeping your view clear in any environment. You’ll appreciate the exposed target-style turrets for making accurate, repeatable adjustments, and the CRS Zero Stop aids in quick return to zero, improving your shooting accuracy.

With a 4x zoom and side focus parallax adjustment, this riflescope adapts to varying distances and conditions effortlessly, making it a reliable choice for your low-light shooting needs.

Best For: Hunters and shooters who require precision and reliability in low-light conditions.

Pros:

  • Fully multi-coated, extra-low dispersion lenses ensure excellent resolution and color fidelity.
  • Exposed target-style turrets and CRS Zero Stop allow for precise and repeatable adjustments.
  • Waterproof and fogproof performance with O-ring sealed and argon purged construction.

Cons:

  • Limited warranty of only 1 year, compared to lifetime warranties offered by some competitors.

5. CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope

Aiming in low light conditions becomes remarkably accurate with the CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e’s integrated green laser and red/green illumination, making it an ideal choice for night-time precision shooters. This scope’s 2.5-10x magnification and 40mm objective diameter guarantee clear, durable visuals, while its fogproof and waterproof features add reliability under various weather conditions. Weighing in at 568 grams, it’s relatively lightweight, and its Weaver mount compatibility makes it easy to attach to most rifles.

Feedback from users highlights its ease of setup and laser accuracy, though there are mixed opinions on the magnification’s precision. Despite some critiques on glass quality and laser functionality, many find the quality satisfactory for its price point. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on essential features for low light shooting, the CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e could be a solid pick.

Best For: Hunters and night-time precision shooters looking for a budget-friendly scope with essential low light features.

Pros:

  • Integrated Green Laser and Red/Green Illumination for low light accuracy
  • Fogproof and Waterproof for reliability in various weather conditions
  • Lightweight with easy setup and Weaver mount compatibility

Cons:

  • Mixed reviews on magnification accuracy and quality

6. Trijicon TR22 AccuPoint 2.5-10x56mm Riflescope

If you’re looking for unparalleled clarity and precision in low light conditions, the Trijicon TR22 AccuPoint 2.5-10x56mm Riflescope stands out as the top choice. It’s constructed with superior quality lenses that guarantee zero distortion, providing you with a clear view every time. The scope utilizes battery-free illumination, utilizing fiber optic technology to keep your reticle visible in diminishing light. Its durable aircraft-grade aluminum housing shields it against all weather conditions, making it a reliable partner for hunting.

The scope’s second focal plane reticle ensures precise aiming without the need to adjust for distance. With a generous eye relief and a wide field of view, it’s designed for comfort and efficiency. Users have praised its light gathering capabilities and reticle visibility, comparing it favorably to other well-known brands like Leupold. Despite its higher price point, the consensus is that the quality and performance justify the investment. Whether you’re using it on AR-15s or AR-10s, the Trijicon TR22 AccuPoint enhances your nighttime precision, making it a recommended choice for hunters and sport shooters alike.

Best For: Hunters and sport shooters seeking exceptional clarity and precision in various lighting conditions, especially low light.

Pros:

  • Superior quality lenses ensure zero distortion for a clear view
  • Battery-free illumination with fiber optic technology for visibility in diminishing light
  • Durable aircraft-grade aluminum housing for all-weather protection

Cons:

  • Higher price point compared to some other scopes on the market

7. Athlon Optics Neos 3-9×40 Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

For hunters and shooters needing precision in low light, the Athlon Optics Neos 3-9×40 Second Focal Plane Riflescope, with its illuminated reticle, stands out as an ideal choice. Crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, it’s not just tough but also nitrogen-purged, ensuring it stays fog-free and waterproof. Whether you’re dealing with damp mornings or rainy evenings, your scope’s clarity isn’t compromised.

It’s designed with a BDC 22 rimfire reticle, offering you sharp accuracy for those distant shots. Despite initial issues with holding zero, resolved as user errors, feedback praises its clear glass, finger-adjustable turrets, and durable metal caps. It’s evident that users appreciate its high performance, especially when it’s used with different rifles, ranging from the Marlin 882 Stainless .22 WMR to the Ruger RPR .22. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a casual shooter, this scope, first available in January 2016, enhances your low-light shooting without breaking the bank.

Best For: Hunters and shooters looking for a durable, clear, and precise riflescope for low-light conditions.

Pros:

  • Illuminated reticle enhances visibility in low light.
  • Aircraft-grade aluminum and nitrogen purging ensure durability and waterproofing.
  • Positive feedback highlights clear glass, finger-adjustable turrets, and metal turret caps.

Cons:

  • Some initial issues with holding zero, attributed to user error.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Low Light Rifle Scopes

When you’re in the market for a low light rifle scope, there are several critical factors you need to contemplate.

First off, the quality of the lens and its ability to transmit light can make or break your nighttime precision.

Additionally, you’ll want to weigh your options regarding reticle type, magnification range, and the scope’s durability and weatherproofing to make sure you’re making the best choice for your needs.

Lens Quality Importance

Understanding the importance of lens quality is vital when selecting a low light rifle scope for nighttime precision. High-quality lens coatings are essential, as they maximize light transmission in dim conditions. These multi-coated lenses not only reduce glare but also enhance image sharpness and contrast, ensuring better visibility in the dark.

Additionally, opting for lenses made from high-quality glass with low dispersion properties is key to maintaining color accuracy and clarity, even under low light. Fully multi-coated lenses with anti-reflective coatings further increase light transmission, yielding brighter images essential for precise shooting.

Reticle Type Choices

Moving beyond lens quality, it’s important to consider the type of reticle, as illuminated options greatly enhance visibility in low light conditions.

Illuminated reticles, such as V-Brite, FireDot Duplex, and MIL-Dot Crosshair, come in various styles, offering unique aiming points for precision shooting. These choices have a substantial impact on target acquisition speed and accuracy, especially during dusk or dawn hunts.

Some reticles offer multiple brightness settings, allowing you to customize the scope’s visibility to the prevailing ambient light, ensuring excellent clarity. Selecting a reticle type that aligns with your preferences, shooting style, and the specific low light scenarios you anticipate is vital.

This personalized decision assists in maximizing your nighttime shooting precision.

Magnification Range Options

Choosing the correct magnification range is essential for optimizing your effectiveness in low light conditions. Low light rifle scopes usually offer a range between 3x to 12x, enhancing your visibility when it’s dim.

For versatility across different light levels and distances, scopes with a 2.5x to 10x range can be a great choice. The 3-9x range is particularly popular, striking a balance between a wide field of view and sufficient target magnification.

If you’re focusing on close to mid-range shooting under low light, a 2-7x magnification scope suits well. Meanwhile, for those aiming at long-range targets in such conditions, scopes with a 4-16x magnification range can provide the precision needed for accurate targeting.

Light Transmission Efficiency

After delving into the importance of magnification range for low light conditions, let’s shift our attention to how light transmission efficiency can greatly enhance your night shooting experience.

High-quality low light rifle scopes have coatings on the lenses that maximize light transmission, essential for visibility in dim conditions. These coatings, like anti-reflective and multi-coatings, reduce glare and increase light transmission, ensuring a clearer sight picture.

The optic system’s design, including the glass quality and applied coatings, directly affects the scope’s light gathering and transmission capability. Optics with higher light transmission efficiency percentages, indicated by factors like lens coatings and glass quality, are more suited for low light scenarios, maintaining image clarity and brightness during dawn, dusk, or cloudy weather.

Durability and Weatherproofing

When selecting a low light rifle scope, it’s important to consider durability and weatherproofing to guarantee peak performance in challenging conditions. Durability ensures that your scope can withstand the wear and tear of frequent use, especially in rough terrains. High-quality materials, such as aircraft-grade aluminum, not only improve the scope’s longevity but also its ability to handle impacts.

Weatherproofing features, including fogproof and waterproof capabilities, are essential for maintaining clarity and functionality in various weather conditions. Nitrogen purging prevents internal fogging, a common issue in low light situations, ensuring that your visibility remains clear. Additionally, optics coatings like fully multi-coated lenses protect your scope from scratches while enhancing light transmission for better low light performance.

Eye Relief Considerations

Understanding eye relief is important as it determines how far your eye can be from the scope while still viewing the entire target area without obstructions. Eye relief, the space between your eye and the scope for a full field of view, varies.

Some scopes offer up to 4 inches or more, which is particularly beneficial for rifles with heavy recoil. This prevents the dreaded scope eye injury. However, a short eye relief might limit your field of view, making target acquisition a challenge.

It’s essential for both safety and comfort, especially when using high recoil firearms or in awkward shooting positions. Ensuring adequate eye relief is a key factor in selecting a low light rifle scope, ensuring you can shoot comfortably and safely in any situation.

Illumination Features

Moving beyond eye relief, let’s explore the impact of illumination features in enhancing your nighttime shooting accuracy with low light rifle scopes. These essential features provide enhanced visibility during periods of low light, such as dusk and dawn, by offering illuminated reticles.

You’ll find adjustable brightness settings that improve target acquisition, allowing for clearer shots. Some scopes even present options for red or green illumination, catering to various lighting conditions and personal preferences. Illuminated reticles keep your focus sharp on the target, greatly improving accuracy and shot placement.

Additionally, the ability to adjust illumination according to the ambient light conditions ensures you’re not left in the dark, metaphorically speaking. These customizable settings optimize performance, making illuminated scopes a top choice for low light conditions.

Conclusion

In wrapping up, choosing the right low light rifle scope can greatly enhance your nighttime hunting or shooting accuracy.

From the Vortex Optics Crossfire II’s illuminated reticle to the precision of the Leupold VX-6HD, each scope offers unique features tailored to low light conditions.

Consider factors like magnification, reticle type, and durability to find your perfect match.

Investing in a quality scope means you’re ready to tackle challenges in dim environments, making every shot count.

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