Hunting in the dark is one daunting task that hunters go through. While this is usually the best time to take down your game, it becomes difficult to have a clear view of the target unless you have the right hunting gear. With the introduction of night vision scopes, hunters who prefer to hunt at night now have a reason to smile.
Over the past few years, the popularity and demand for night vision scopes have shifted from military enforcement officers to hunters and tactical shooters. Modern hunters now use night vision scope to successfully hunt down nocturnal game, varmints and other predators in total darkness.
Advantages of Night Vision Scopes
- 24/7 operation. Modern night vision scopes have dual functionality that enables you to use the scope during the day or at night.
- Reasonably affordable. Compared with thermal imaging scopes, night vision scopes are generally more affordable.
- Durable and sturdy designs that ensure many years of service.
- Multipurpose application. The ability to see in complete darkness makes night vision scope suitable for hunters, tactical shooters, security enforces, and the military as well.
9 Best Night Vision Scopes for Hunting
With tons of night vision scopes available on the market, finding the best model becomes challenging especially for new buyers. However, we are here to help. Without wasting any more time, let’s take a look at some of the best night vision scopes.
#1) ATN X-Sight-4k Pro Edition Smart Hunting Rifle Scope
The introduction of the ATN X-Sight-4k Pro Rifle Scope has revolutionized the hunting world. With this high-quality night vision scope, hunters can now hunt down their game during the day as well as at night.
The versatility and relentless performance of this optic augment its credibility as one of the best night vision scopes for hunting. You get to enjoy clear target views at night like you are hunting during broad daylight.
Better yet, the Obsidian 4 Dual-Core Processor delivers superior edge-to-edge clarity with higher resolution and better image contrast. Made for use in all weather conditions, this night vision scope is fully waterproof and fogproof.
Furthermore, it features a ballistic calculator which ensures successful takedown of targets. The lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver around with even for long periods. With the ultra-low-power profile, you get to enjoy up to 18+ hours of continuous use from a single full charge.
To top it all, if you prefer to record your shots so you can later show them to your friends or family, this night’s vision scope got you covered. It comes with a recoil-activated video that starts to record a video before and after you take every shot.
Features
- Multipurpose 5-20x zoom.
- Ultra-low-power profile of up to 18+ continuous runtime.
- Ballistic calculator.
- High resolution and fast viewing.
- Long eye relief.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Superb low-light performance.
- Rechargeable battery pack.
- Enhanced HD Night vision mode.
- Wide field of view.
- Dual-stream video recording.
Pros
- Standard mounting rings.
- Lightweight and easy to carry around.
- Video recorder.
- Ballistic calculator that ensures accurate shooting.
Cons
- Quite expensive.
- Low-quality images on recorded videos.
#2) Sightmark Wraith Digital Night Vision Scope
If you are looking for a night vision scope that can also be used during the day, you can hardly go wrong with the Sightmark Wraith Digital Night Vision Scope. Made with the modern hunter in mind, this digital night vision scope provides full color during the day and classic green or black and white at night.
This night vision scope comes with a versatile 4-32x magnification suitable for both close and long-range use. This night vision scope also features 10 reticle options with 9 different colors. This will enhance your shooting accuracy by providing better aims.
Weighing about 2 pounds, this device is lightweight and suitable for hunters looking for a classic scope that doesn’t add too much weight to their hunting rifle. The unit also features a removable 850nm IR illuminator for better target acquisition when hunting at night.
As one of the best night vision scopes for hunting, the Wraith digital riflescope is specially designed to handle different hunting scenarios with utmost precision. From hog, and predator to deer hunting, the high resolution of this scope help hunters deal with the situation confidently.
Features
- Crystal clear day and night vision.
- Versatile 4-32x magnification.
- Longer-lasting battery.
- Excellent night vision performance.
- HD photo and video recorder.
- Lightweight and convenient for hunting.
- 10 reticle options with 9 different colors suitable for adverse environments.
- Removable 850nm IR illuminator.
- Full-color clarity during the day.
- Removable eyecup for better and more comfortable viewing.
Pros
- Intuitive and user-friendly interface.
- Lightweight and easy to carry around.
- Weaver rail for adding additional accessories.
- Included an IR flashlight.
Cons
- Unclear recorded images and videos.
#3) ATN X-Sight-4k Smart Day/Night Hunting Riflescope
Here is another high-quality night vision scope suitable for both day and night use. Packed with a variety of high-end features, ATN X-Sight-4k Smart Day/Night Hunting Riflescope got you covered when hunting down varmints at night.
The Recoil Activated Video captures and records every shot made, so you can, later on, watch it with friends and family. A built-in rangefinder identifies how far the target is, making it easier for you to make an accurate shot.
On top of that is a ballistic calculator that enables every shooter to pinpoint the exact target spot, even when shooting long range. The other unique feature found in this night vision scope is a 3D Gyroscope that eliminates blurry target views and an electronic compass that shows accurate directions.
Built from high-strength aluminum alloy, this riflescope is extremely sturdy and durable, yet lightweight and portable. This hunting riflescope is undoubtedly one of the best night vision scopes.
It is designed with traditional optic features like long eye relief and standard mounting rings. For improved performance, the scope integrates the latest technology that bestows high resolution and fast viewing capability giving hunters the best of both worlds.
Features
- Micro HD display.
- Sturdy and durable aluminum alloy construction.
- Backed by a 2-year warranty.
- 3D Gyroscope that provides clear image views.
- Built-in smart rangefinder.
- Numerous reticle colors and patterns.
- Electronic compass and E-barometer.
- Day and night vision.
- Ultra-low power consumption.
Pros
- Clear night vision.
- Lightweight and portable.
- E-zoom to magnify targets.
- HD image resolution.
- Waterproof and fogproof.
Cons
- Poor customer service.
#4) Night Owl Optics NightShot Digital Night Vision Riflescope
When night vision scopes for hunting are mentioned, the Night Owl Digital Night Vision scope features at the top of the list. If you are looking for a low-cost night vision riflescope, the NightShot Digital Night Vision Riflescope is your ideal choice. This is a versatile night-vision riflescope that can also be used during the day.
At night, it performs 3 times better than similar products by having an accurate shooting range of up to 200 yards. Besides that, this scope is compatible with rifles, shotguns, crossbows, and pellet guns as well.
As one of the best night vision scopes, the Night Owl riflescope is capable of handling a variety of hunting applications including hog hunting, Varmint hunting, Airsoft sporting as well as paintballing.
The heavy-duty polymer construction makes it durable and resistant to impacts and recoil. Weighing just 1.4 pounds, this riflescope is extremely lightweight, portable, and easy to operate as well.
It also features a built-in infrared illuminator that improves nighttime shooting accuracy and a weatherproof body to ensure reliable performance under any weather conditions.
Features
- Fully weatherproof.
- Lightweight, portable, and great for hunting.
- Suitable for both day and nighttime applications.
- High 640×480 resolution.
- 24/7 operation.
- 3 reticle types are suitable for multiple shooting environments.
- 100-200 yards effective nighttime shooting distance.
- Compatible with a wide range of rifles, shotguns, crossbows, and pellet guns.
- Built infrared illuminator.
- Durable polymer construction.
Pros
- Budget-friendly.
- Easy to operate.
- Long battery life.
- Weaver or Picatinny rail compatible.
Cons
- Hard to find a replacement battery.
#5) Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sight
If you are looking for a high-quality red dot sight available at a no-so-high price, look no further than the Vortex Strikefire II Red Dot Sight. Made for multiple shooting applications, this red dot sight features 11 illumination settings with the 2 lowest settings being suitable for night vision.
The fully multi-coated lenses provide bright and crisp clear image views under any lighting conditions, while the long eye relief provides comfortable target views for quick target acquisition.
The mono-piece chassis is built from high-strength aluminum alloy to ensure many years of service. On top of that, the whole unit is nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed to deliver 100% fogproof and waterproof performance.
This red dot sight weighs about 1.22 pounds, so you don’t have to worry about it adding unnecessary weight to your hunting rifle. It is also shockproof and recoil to withstand heavy recoil rifles.
Features
- Lightweight and portable.
- Fully multicoated lenses.
- 11 brightness settings with the lowest 2 settings being night vision compatible.
- Shockproof and resistant to heavy recoil.
- Fully waterproof and shockproof.
- Unlimited eye relief.
- Single-tube aluminum alloy chassis.
Pros
- Reasonably affordable.
- 24/7 operation.
- Flip lens cap included.
Cons
- No image and video recording.
#6) Vortex Optics Crossfire Red Dot Sight Gen II
The Crossfire red dot sight is a high-quality night vision sight available at a remarkably affordable price. Compatible with a wide range of firearms, this red dot sight is easy to mount on multiple platforms using either high or low mount.
The 2 MOA dot reticle makes it easy to acquire targets regardless of the shooting distance or lighting conditions. Better yet, the unlimited eye relief allows you to shoot with both eyes open for faster target acquisition.
All its air-to-glass surfaces feature multi-layer anti-reflective coatings to increase light transmission and provide clear images views. Besides that, this red dot sight is O-ring sealed to prevent water damage while locking dust and any other debris.
This unit also features a lightweight design and a low-glare matte finish that helps camouflage the hunter’s position. It’s the best red dot sight for hunters on a budget.
Features
- Lightweight design.
- 11 illumination settings.
- Fully weatherproof.
- 2 MOA red dot reticle.
- Multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.
- Sturdy and durable aluminum alloy construction.
- Low-glare matte finish.
- Night vision compatibility in the lowest two settings.
- Unlimited eye relief.
Pros
- 50,000-hour battery life.
- Long-range pin-point accuracy.
- Compatible with multiple firearms.
Cons
- No video recording or image capturing.
#7) ATN Thor 4, Thermal Rifle Scope
ATN Thor 4 is a thermal riflescope suitable for shooting at night. Powered by the ATN’s Obsidian IV Dual-core, this thermal rifle scope provides pinpoint accuracy even in total darkness.
This thermal rifle scope features a higher thermal sensitivity which makes it easier to identify hidden targets even at the furthest ranges. Better yet, a ballistic calculator enables the user to know the exact ballistic for an accurate long-range shot.
The generous eye relief provides comfortable target views and keeps your eyes safe from getting hit by heavy recoil rifles. Furthermore, this unit features a Recoil Activated Video which records every shot made.
This thermal scope also features an ultra-low power profile that provides up to 18+ hours of continuous use. You, therefore, don’t have to worry about cutting short your hunting activity due to power shortages.
Features
- Recoil Activated Video.
- Low power consumption.
- Ballistic calculator.
- Compatible with multiple firearms.
- Dual-stream video recording.
- Multiple reticle patterns and colors.
- Long eye relief.
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi features.
- Comfortable and classical ergonomics.
Pros
- High thermal sensitivity.
- Durable construction.
Cons
- Smaller magnification power.
#8) Sightmark Photon Digital Night Vision Riflescope
The Sightmark Photon Digital Night Vision Riflescope provides unparalleled low-light performance when hunting at night. It is IP55 water resistance and 100% fog proof to prevent internal fogging caused by changes in temperature.
Made for all hunting scenarios, this night vision scope features a built-in LED IR illuminator-equipped beam for use in total darkness. The 6 reticle options with 4 different colors are ideal for use in adverse environments whereby they provide a more customized unit.
Additionally, this night vision scope features an adjustable lens cap to reduce glare when shooting during broad daylight. The whole unit weighs about 2.5 pounds, so it’s lightweight and great for hunting.
Features
- One-shot zero function.
- 2x magnification power.
- 6 reticle options with 4 different colors.
- Lightweight, portable, and great for hunting.
- Built-in LED IR illuminator.
- Built-in video and sound recording.
- Shockproof and IP55 water-resistant.
- Rechargeable battery via USB.
- 280 yards effective shooting range at night.
Pros
- Integrated Wi-Fi through the Stream Vision App.
- 24/7 operation.
- Adjustable brightness setting.
- Lens cap that minimizes glare during the day.
Cons
- Difficult to use for beginners.
#9) Bushnell 260140MT 4.5×40 Equinox Z
This review wouldn’t be complete without us mentioning the Bushnell 260140MT 4.5×40 Equinox Z. This night vision monocular is made from high-quality materials to ensure many years of field use.
Equipped with a long-lasting battery, this monocular provides unparalleled optical performance during the day as well as at night. The powerful infrared illumination provides up to 750ft viewing, while the versatile 4.5x zoom works on both close- and long-range targets.
The wide field of view provides comfortable target views, while the high-performance objective lens provides bright and clear image views. If you are looking for a lightweight optic that you can easily slip inside the pocket or backpack, the Bushnell 260140MT 4.5×40 Equinox Z is your ideal option.
Features
- Tripod adaptable.
- Compact and lightweight.
- Long battery life.
- High-performance objective lens.
- Powerful infrared illumination.
- Remarkable low-light optical finesse.
- Wide field of view.
Pros
- Video recording and image capturing.
- Easy to use.
- Lightweight and great for travel.
- Budget-conscious.
Cons
- One eye use causes eye fatigue.
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Best Night Vision Scopes Buying Guide & FAQs
Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Night Vision Scopes
Night vision scopes are absolutely necessary for hunters who prefer to hunt down their game at night. With numerous night vision scopes available in the market, here are some of the important factors to consider before you finally settle on a specific model.
Magnification
Night vision optics generally have moderate magnification up to 10x. While night vision scopes with higher magnification come in handy in multiple applications, they have the downside of being more expensive and bulkier.
Night vision scopes with 3x to 5x magnification are often compact, lightweight, and reasonably affordable. These scopes are designed for closer range shooting.
Weight and Size
Unlike the traditional scopes, night vision scopes are often larger in size and bulkier in weight. The more features the scope has, the heavier it becomes. The extra weight added to the rifle causes user fatigue if the shooter is going to carry both the rifle and scope for an extensive period.
It is therefore important to buy a night vision scope with important features only, so you can have an easy time looking for the target. On top of that, lightweight night vision scopes are more durable and easier to aim and shoot.
Durable Construction
Night-time vision scopes are a one-time investment. This calls for a sturdy and durable scope made from high-quality materials. You’ll need a scope that’s capable of handling all the harsh impacts that come with hunting at night.
Scopes made with aluminum or titanium are both durable and lightweight. Also, ensure that the scope you choose is suited to all weather conditions. Night vision scopes that are O-ring sealed to lock out moisture, dust, and dirt to prevent any internal damage. Such scopes are also nitrogen-filled to prevent internal fogging brought about by changes in temperature.
Detection Range
The detection range in a night vision scope determines how far the scope can detect a moving target and provide clear visuals. Derived in meters, the detection range differs from one scope to the other.
A night vision scope with a long detection range will recognize a target for what it is, then provide you with accurate visuals for making that accurate shot. Night vision scopes with smaller detection ranges are suited for shooters who like to hunt in confined places or hunters confined in a hill-blocked area.
Battery Life
All night vision scopes run on batteries. The battery type and size that the scope uses are important features that affect the overall performance of the scope. Avoid, cheap and low-quality batteries that require the use of Unicorn tears for powders.
Instead, go for a scope that runs on high-grade AA batteries or lithium-ion batteries. These battery types have a long run time and are generally rechargeable and durable as well.
Lens Quality
The other important factor to consider is the quality of optics. Optics are important as they have a direct effect on the overall light transmission which in turn affects the quality of the images produced. Look for a night vision scope whose optics are made from high-quality fiberglass with coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.
Related Post: Best Western Hunting Scopes
FAQs About the Best Night Vision Scopes
Q: How Far Can You Shoot with a Night Vision Scope?
The effective shooting range of a night vision scope depends on the specific model as well as the amount of light available. 1st and 2nd generation night vision scopes have a lower shooter range of about 100 yards. On the other hand, the latest generation of night vision scopes such as gen 3 and 4 offer a much higher detection range starting from 300 yards and above.
Q: Can You Use a Night Vision Scope During the Day?
It depends on the type of night vision scope that you are using. While a majority of older night vision scopes should only be used at night, modern night vision scopes have dual functionality. This means that you can use the scope at any time of the day or night and not cause any damage to it.
Q: Which is Better, a Night Vision Scope or a Thermal Vision Scope?
Night vision scopes and thermal vision scopes are two different items that use completely different technologies. While thermal vision scopes depend on the body heat of the target to get an accurate shot, night vision scopes on the other hand depend on low light to function properly.
While each unit has its pros and cons, both of them are suitable for hunting. The main difference between these two scopes is that thermal scopes are more expensive.
Conclusion
If you enjoy hunting in low-light conditions, a night vision scope gives you the advantage of having a clear view of your target while remaining hidden. Given the wide selection of night vision scopes available on the market, take your time and go through the different scopes available.
This should help you find a device that not only meets your needs but also offers you the best value for your money. We hope that you have found this review informative.