A successful hunt usually happens during the magic hours of dusk and dawn.
But, the magic does come with the price of hunting in near-darkness IF you’re NOT careful.
The problem? You can’t hit when you can’t see, and target shooting without clear images is risky, especially if you’re with a hunting party.
The solution? You NEED not just the good but the best low-light rifle scope to rely on.
I’ve listed down 8 of the best low-light rifle scopes you can find on the market.
Let me take you through what makes them special and how they can help you get the best low-light shots possible.
- Magnification: 3-12x
- Diameter: 50mm
- Eye Relief: 2.7 in
- Magnification: 3-12x
- Diameter: 56mm
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Magnification: 6-18x
- Diameter: 50mm
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
Contents
- 8 Best Low Light Rifle Scopes for Deer Hunting
- 1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-12x 56 Adjustable Objective Hog Hunter Rifle Scope
- 2. BARSKA IR Huntmaster Pro 3-12x 50 Rifle Scope
- 3. Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi X Reticle 6-18x 50 Adjustable Objective Rifle Scope
- 4. Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x 50 Rifle Scope
- 5. NightForce Optics ATACR 5-25x 56 Rifle Scope
- 6. Swarovski Z6i 2.5-15 x 56 Rifle Scope
- 7. Zeiss Conquest V6 5-30x 50 Rifle Scope
- 8. TenPoint Rangemaster Pro 1.5-5x 30 Illuminated Crossbow Scope
- What Makes a Light Scope Good in Low Light Conditions?
- Other Scope Features to Consider
- Low-Light Scope vs. Night Vision Scope
- Tube Size Matters: A Myth
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Picks
- Final Thoughts
8 Best Low Light Rifle Scopes for Deer Hunting
Hunting in low-light conditions doesn’t have to be dull or annoying.
If you are someone who lives and breathes shooting in the woods, you just need the perfect light scope for a brighter hunting game.
So, let’s zoom in on these bad boys and see what they’ve got to offer!
1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-12x 56 Adjustable Objective Hog Hunter Rifle Scope
BEST OVERALL
BUYING OPTIONS:
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Features
- Magnification: 3-12x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
- Reticle: Illuminated V-Brite
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane
- EP: 4.67 mm – 18.67 mm
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Weight: 21 oz
- Warranty: Lifetime
Vortex Optics is one good low-light scope that excels when you take it hunting in the LOWEST natural light.
Thanks to its fully multi-coated optics with anti-reflective coatings, the light transmission is higher in this low-light scope than it is in standard daylight scopes.
This Vortex scope makes it possible to continue hunting even when the sun goes down.
It even allows users to shoot BEFORE sunrise and AFTER sunset, so it really is usable at any time of day!
The versatile 3-12x magnification and huge 56 mm objective lens will let you shoot confidently when hunting or target shooting, even when lighting conditions are at their worst.
This Vortex also has an illuminated V-Brite reticle that gives a brighter and clearer sight picture of your target.
I’ve found it to be perfect for when the sky starts to get dark!
Plus, you can also adjust the objective for parallax adjustment for a better field view.
- Bigger and adjustable objective lens
- Fully multi-coated and anti-reflective lens
- Parallax adjustment
- Reasonable price
- Quite heavy
Is Vortex for You?
It’s made from aircraft-grade aluminum material, so rest assured that it is sturdy and reliable.
That’s why it’s the BEST OVERALL low-light scope for you!
Plus, its heavy-duty construction makes it everything-proof!
This Vortex Optics Crossfire scope is one of the budget scopes to get a hold of because it won’t break the bank.
It is also packed with features that are perfect for low-light conditions.
For more Vortex product reviews, you can also check out my review of Vortex Strike Eagle!
2. BARSKA IR Huntmaster Pro 3-12x 50 Rifle Scope
BEST VALUE
BUYING OPTIONS:
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» Check Price on Amazon «
Features
- Magnification: 3-12x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
- Reticle: Illuminated 30/30 IR Cross
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane
- EP: 4.2 mm – 16.7 mm
- Material: Not specified by the manufacturer
- Weight: 21.3 oz
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
BARSKA is my ideal riflescope when lighting conditions are anything but ideal, making it my BEST VALUE pick!
Advanced optic technology, ruggedly durable construction, and remarkable accuracy are what help this product EXCEL over other brands.
It is built around a center-lit illuminated 30/30 IR Cross reticle with no fewer than 11 brightness settings.
Trust me, you’re going to want to use them all at some point.
Thanks to its illuminated crosshair feather, large objective lens size, and multi-coated lenses, you also get an increased light transmission.
This allows you to see high-contrast downrange views that are superb for low-light hunting use.
- Multi-coated lenses
- Advanced optics technology
- Sturdy without being pricy
- No anti-reflective coatings
Is BARSKA for You?
BARSKA’s sleek and sturdy scopes construction allows it to withstand beatings from nasty weather conditions, water, debris, and fog.
If you want your scopes to be strong and tough, just like you, then you’ll be happy and satisfied using this one!
3. Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi X Reticle 6-18x 50 Adjustable Objective Rifle Scope
BUDGET PICK
BUYING OPTIONS:
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Features
- Magnification: 6-18x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
- Reticle: Multi X
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane
- EP: 4.67 mm – 18.67 mm
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Weight: 19 oz
- Warranty: Unlimited Lifetime
Bushnell is the name, and Dusk & Dawn is the game (and name too). Need to know anything more?
I don’t think so.
But if the name doesn’t convince you yet, then here are a few details that make the Bushnell Dusk & Dawn such a STANDOUT.
With a magnification of 6-18x and a 50mm adjustable diameter, you get more than enough light to see your target clearly, even during twilight hours.
It has fully multi-coated lenses with anti-reflective coatings to reduce the risk of alerting your target.
Also, this low-light scope contains GOOD elevation adjustment (and that’s saying a lot for its price).
It is a battery-less rifle scope that can give you super clear low-light visuals.
You can also rely on its STABILITY because its Argon-filled optics remain stable regardless of the ambient temperature.
Its fog-proof and waterproof qualities allow you to hunt even in the worst light and weather conditions without asking for too much.
It took all the punishment I could put it through, and survived!
That’s why the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn scope is my BEST BUDGET pick for you!
- Adjustable objective lens
- Fully multi-coated lenses with anti-reflective coatings
- Great elevation adjustments
- Affordable
- Parallax, windage, and elevation adjustments may need extra tweaking to get them right
- Riser is required for effective utilization in AR
Is Bushnell for You?
Suppose you’re looking for a 50mm low-light rifle scope that would not cost a fortune. This is it!
Get this!
You can’t beat these scopes and their clarity, functionality, and price.
I test Bushnell scopes all the time, and I highly recommend many for low-light conditions and even for long-range hunting, such as 1000 yard shots!
4. Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x 50 Rifle Scope
BUYING OPTIONS:
» DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER «
Features
- Magnification: 3.5-10x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
- Reticle: Duplex, Non-Illuminated
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane
- EP: 5 mm – 14.29 mm
- Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum
- Weight: 23 oz
- Warranty: Lifetime
From its edge-to-edge clarity to its full visible-spectrum lens coatings and glare management, Leupold will MAX out your game.
It has Diamond Coat 2 Ion-assist lens coating, so your low-light scope can get a higher light transmission and resistance against abrasion.
Leupold also has fully multi-coated lenses and a Twilight Light Management System to reduce light loss and glare, giving you a brighter, seamless, and longer time in the field.
Not only will you get longer hunting hours, but more like longer hunting years with this riflescope.
It allows you to enjoy hunting with a MORE vivid, bright, and clear sight picture and image quality in a wider variety of low and bright conditions.
And, of course, it has a charming 50mm objective lens.
Although its magnification power range is at 3.5-10x only, it is still in for low-light scopes’ must-have qualities (I’ll talk more about that later).
Leupold also makes great scopes for 30-06 cartridges!
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Twilight max light management system
- Rugged reliability
- Exclusion of mountain rings
- Quite heavy
Is Leupold for You?
Aside from being waterproof, fog proof, and weatherproof, this Leupold low-light scope is impact tested and verified.
The Leupold riflescope is designed to survive a minimum of 5,000 impacts (each impact’s force is 3x the recoil of a 308 rifle) on its impact simulation machine.
Impressive, right?
So, if you’re looking for rugged reliability, Leupold is for you I stand by its reliability in the field.
If you’re not convinced, I also made this comparison guide on Leupold and Vortex scopes to see which is better for you!
5. NightForce Optics ATACR 5-25x 56 Rifle Scope
BUYING OPTIONS:
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Features
- Magnification: 5-25x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
- Reticle: Digillum, Illuminated
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane
- EP: 2.3mm – 8.3mm
- Material: Not specified by the manufacturer
- Weight: 38 oz
- Warranty: Transferrable limited lifetime
With this Nightforce Optics riflescope, you’re gonna see what you’ve been missing.
And you will never forget your first look at Nightforce’s ED glass.
I assure you that you have never seen images as bright and crisp as what you will see through this riflescope.
Some even compared the sight picture to a premium camera lens!
It is a first focal plane riflescope that gives you consistent reticle values, regardless of the magnification setting.
It also offers a wide range of options like intelligent reticles and elevation adjustments that can allow you to get target engagements at “out of range” distances.
With its high-quality glass, lens size, reticle design, overall scope design, and other FANTASTIC features, this is one of the best low-light rifle scopes EVER!
Although, it is on the higher end of my price range. Despite that, it is WORTH IT I can wholeheartedly recommend it!
- Oversized objective lens
- Premium ED glass quality
- Consistent reticle values
- Pricey
- Heavy
Is Nightforce for You?
This low-light scope might cost an arm and leg.
But if you’re willing to spend some bucks, you are investing in one of the best low-light sights out there.
I promise that you’ll fall in love with this riflescope from the moment you first use it.
So, if you are SERIOUS about stepping up your hunting game, add this to your setup. Your prey may never like it, but you certainly will!
6. Swarovski Z6i 2.5-15 x 56 Rifle Scope
BUYING OPTIONS:
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Features
- Magnification: 2.5-15x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
- Reticle: Illuminated 4A-I/BRH-I
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane
- EP: 3.8 mm – 9.5 mm
- Material: Not specified by the manufacturer
- Weight: 23.1 oz
- Warranty: years
The Zeiss Conquest V6 serves optical performance in a compact but durable one-piece tube package.
This high-end scope offers 6x zoom power that is PERFECT if you need it for mid to extra-long-range shooting.
It’s made from high-quality fluoride glass and hydrophobic coatings, so this scope is eligible to boast a higher light transmission rate of 92%!
Not only that, but Zeiss also features crystal-clear images that are very much welcome for your low-light needs.
It’s ALSO waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof, totally perfect for your rugged demands.
Is Zeiss for You?
If you’re looking for low-light scopes and long-range scopes in one body…
Then, Zeiss, it is!
I found it to be the perfect marriage between longer ranges and low-light resilience, making it excellent for sunrise and sunset hunts.
Its features can undoubtedly meet your expectations while giving you a wide range of magnification levels from close to long-range distances.
7. Zeiss Conquest V6 5-30x 50 Rifle Scope
BUYING OPTIONS:
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Features
- Magnification: 5-30x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
- Reticle: ZMOA, Non-Illuminated
- Reticle Focal Plane: SFP
- EP: 1.7 mm – 9.5 mm
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Weight: 27.9 oz
- Warranty: Transferable Limited Lifetime
The Zeiss Conquest V6 serves optical performance in a compact but durable one-piece tube package.
This high-end scope offers 6x zoom power that is perfect if you need it for mid to extra-long-range shooting.
It’s made from high-quality fluoride glass and hydrophobic coatings, so this scope is eligible to boast a higher light transmission rate of 92%!
Not only that, but Zeiss also features crystal-clear images that are very much welcome for your low-light needs.
It’s ALSO waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof. Totally perfect for your rugged demands.
- Multi-coated lenses
- Maximum magnification flexibility
- Rugged reliability
- Unnecessary magnification range for low-light needs
Is Zeiss for You?
If you’re looking for low-light scopes and long-range scopes in one body…
Then, Zeiss, it is!
I found it to be the perfect marriage between longer ranges and low-light resilience, making it excellent for sunrise and sunset hunts.
Its features can undoubtedly meet your expectations while giving you a wide range of magnification levels from close to long-range distances.
8. TenPoint Rangemaster Pro 1.5-5x 30 Illuminated Crossbow Scope
BUYING OPTIONS:
» DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER «
Features
- Magnification: 1.5-5x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle: Duplex
- Reticle Focal Plane: N/A
- EP: N/A
- Material: Aluminum
- Weight: 19.2 oz
- Warranty: Not specified by the manufacturer
Rifles are not the only weapons we can use for low-light games. Crossbows are also great, especially if it’s your forte.
If that’s the case…
Then, this TenPoint crossbow scope is the perfect choice for crossbow users!
It has a high-quality, multi-coated glass and etched-glass illuminated reticle that will give you the MAXIMUM visibility needed for rifle scopes used in low-light conditions.
You can also choose from its five-position light intensity settings for two illuminated color views to suit your needs.
If you’re up for the challenge, I can recommend the TenPoint for crossbowmen everywhere.
- Multi-coated lens
- Arrow drop compensation
- For crossbow use only
Is TenPoint for You?
TenPoint Rangemaster is for your scope if the crossbow is your favorite buddy.
It’s designed with 3 duplex crosshairs, 4 dots, and a triangle, all calibrated to suit your needs and for desirable arrow drop compensation settings.
TenPoint is a great bet for crossbow scopes during dusk and dawn!
What Makes a Light Scope Good in Low Light Conditions?
I know finding the right low-light conditions is a tough decision to make, especially if you see so many shiny and good-looking potential hunting buddies.
But if you’re still unsure which is the best low-light scope for your needs, then let’s talk about these things that you should ALWAYS consider when looking for a low-light rifle scope.
Objective Lens Size
What the objective lens does is allow the light to get inside the scope. You can’t shoot what you can’t see, so your low-light scope can gather as much light as possible.
The LARGER the size of the objective lens, the MORE LIGHT will get into your scope.
So, for a low-light rifle scope, a good objective lens is between 50-56mm. These sizes will welcome more light into your scope.
The MORE light that gets into your scope, the BETTER your image will be at the focal lens.
And, of course, the CLEARER the image you see, the HAPPIER your hunting will be!
I can’t count how many times a clear sight picture was the difference between hitting and missing.
Lens Coatings
Another important thing that really matters is lens coating. Yes, it really matters ’cause it makes a difference in the hunting scopes’ brightness.
Why So?
Because coatings can double scope brightness without adding weight to it. Sweet, right?
As glass normally losses light, a layer of anti-reflective coating on your hunting glass can decrease the loss by half.
This increases how many hunting hours you can get and how clearly you can see your target.
Applying another layer can decrease the loss further, allowing you to save about… well, I’ll let you do the Math.
Multiple coating to the glass helps in increasing the light transmission in the scopes.
In short, the MORE LIGHT you save, the BRIGHTER you’ll see.
Another benefit of a good lens coating is it WON’T alert the target of your location.
You would want to see your prey from your low-light rifle scopes, but you don’t want your prey to see you.
Reticle Illumination
When you’re in low light conditions, aiming at your target is a bit challenging, so consider an illuminated reticle when choosing THE ONE.
We can all agree that having an illuminated reticle is a MUST for low-light target shooting. But, it is important to have one with fine-tunable settings.
A tunable illuminated reticle can offer fine light and dim light intensity. Plus, it won’t shine too much (a common problem of cheap rifle scopes).
Other Scope Features to Consider
We all want the best.
And if you want the best low light scope, here are some more things that you might want to check as well to clear your doubts and see the brighter choice:
Magnification Levels
Low light conditions affect your shooting range.
Even in low light conditions, a good magnification range can also benefit you in your quest to become a good hunter.
BUT, you don’t need too many magnification levels in low-light conditions.
Magnification power ranging from 2-12x is good enough for low-light rifle scopes to zoom in on your target, but you can still choose a riflescope with a magnification setting higher than that. (Like the ATN X-Sight 5-20x 4k Pro Rifle Scope)
The downside is that the price range goes up with each magnification.
Don’t choose a higher magnification power over other necessary features for low-light scopes. It’s a TRAP!!
You can look through my list of the best 1-6x rifle scopes to learn more!
Reticle Design
Having an illuminated reticle is a MUST for every low-light hunter. But you might also want to compare reticle designs when debating which scope to get.
When choosing a design, choose a reticle design with a slightly bigger dot and/or thicker reticles.
It will be much easier to use in low-light hunting because it will contrast against the dark environment, which I find most useful for low-light rifle scopes.
Exit Pupil
The eyepiece at the end, the exit pupil, is another factor to note.
It is a calculation of the objective size and magnification.
And remember this: The LARGER the exit pupil is, the BRIGHTER the image will appear to the hunter.
Also, remember that our eyes dilate in darkness?
Well, it does at roughly 7mm. So, having an exit pupil close to 7mm is ideal for a low-light scope.
Weatherproofing
To be a good hunter, you must be ready for ANYTHING.
And the weather is definitely not an exemption to a hunter’s come-what-may-I’m-ready-for-anything list.
It’s not unusual to encounter drastic weather changes during dusk or dawn hunting, so having a waterproof, fog-proof scope is very much welcome.
After all, you don’t want to waste your time and money researching and finding THE ONE, just to be left alone hanging in the dark and cold rain.
I will always recommend getting a scope that’s waterproof, fog-proof, and, preferably, impact-proof.
Warranty
Most scopes come with a lifetime warranty, which shows that manufacturers have CONFIDENCE in their craft.
Of course, you don’t want to waste your money on a flashy-friend-turned-evil-money-maker.
So you better consider the length and extent of the warranty, especially if it’s a toss-up between two excellent rifle scopes.
Low-Light Scope vs. Night Vision Scope
Low-light scopes and night vision scopes both work well when there’s limited natural light available.
However, low-light scopes work better in sunrise and sunset settings when there’s barely enough sunlight left.
Their objective lenses are big enough to still let a good amount of light pass through despite the nearing darkness.
Night vision scopes, on the other hand, are completely different altogether.
They are meant for pitch-black nights when you can see pretty much nothing.
These scopes are also more pricey because of the added technology, such as thermal imaging and IR illuminators.
Tube Size Matters: A Myth
The low-light scopes with a 30mm tube diameter are brighter than those with a 1-inch diameter. -Anonymous
You probably heard this somewhere.
So, does a bigger tube size give the brightest light?
It actually doesn’t.
The amount of light that exits the low light scopes depend on the power level. Let me put it this way:
- The LOWER the power, the LARGER the exit pupil is.
- The LARGER the exit pupil is, the BRIGHTER the light exits the light scope.
In short, the diameter of the tube DOES NOT affect the brightness of low-light scopes.
So, if you have ever heard it somewhere, don’t worry about it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Magnification is Best for Low Light Rifle Scopes?
It depends on how far you are shooting from.
I would recommend a 3-9x magnification, which is more than enough for a range of 200 yards to longer distances.
Is an Illuminated Reticle Always Necessary?
No, an illuminated reticle isn’t always a necessity.
It is useful, though, if you are hunting and there is super limited light left.
It also helps to have an illuminated reticle if your reticle blends with the target, so you can see it more clearly.
Do I Need to Be an Experienced Shooter to Use a Low Light Rifle Scope?
Nope! Those who are new to shooting can use a low-light scope just as easily!
Of course, it helps to familiarize yourself with everything before you get started.
Are Low Light Rifle Scopes More Expensive Than Regular Scopes?
Yes, low-light scopes can be more expensive because of their additional features to help in low-light environments.
Top Picks
Surely you don’t want to miss a thing when hunting. And to be able to see better days or nights ahead, you better use the best low-light riflescope.
Here are my top picks when it comes to using low-light rifle scopes!
Best Overall: Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-12x Hog Hunter Rifle Scope
VORTEX!!
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II Hog Hunter Rifle Scope is the clear winner because this low-light hunting scope has:
- Oversized lens
- Sufficient magnification range
- Fully multi-coatings
- Illuminated reticle
- Good EP
- Desirable weatherproofing
- Lifetime warranty
This rifle scope product really amazed me and served me well on my hunt.I just wish you could also see what this scope is capable of.
This rifle scope product really amazes us. And we hope that you can get this too and see for yourself!
Best Value: BARSKA IR Huntmaster Pro 3-12x 50 Rifle Scope
Are you looking for a slightly cheaper scope that maximizes your value for money and low-light performance? The BARSKA IR Huntmaster Pro is your BEST OPTION!
A plethora of brightness settings (11 to be exact) allows you to make your own configurations so that you can set up the brightness level according to your liking.
I can’t forget how its multiple coatings and an illuminated crosshair feather deliver a rugged and sturdy construction other scopes can only dream of having.
Best Budget Pick: Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi X Reticle 6-18x 50 AO Rifle Scope
The Bushnell Banner Multi X Reticle Rifle Scope is another solid choice, ESPECIALLY if you’re looking for a reliable budget scope for long-range shooting.
It satisfies what a hunting scope should be and aids you well in low-light environments.
Essential elevation adjustment, reliable Argon-filled optics, and durable coatings ensure a holistic and hassle-free hunting experience.
Unlike other scopes, the Bushnell reticle WON’T have you worrying about fixing unstable or broken parts in the middle of your shooting session.
For more budget scope reviews, check out my buying guide on the best scopes under 300!
Final Thoughts
All in all, I gave you a list of the best low-light rifle scopes out of there.
But THESE 3 are the BEST of the best in terms of low light performance.
You can’t go wrong picking any of these scopes because you’ll be treated to top-tier service and performance with every scope option.
So, add it or them to your hunting must-haves. Results guaranteed!
For more scope reviews, check out my guide on the best scopes for 500 yards!
FINAL TIP: If you’re looking for the best scope options for nighttime hunting, that’s another story. Lucky for you, we also have a guide on the top night vision scopes under 500 dollars.