Are you looking for the best low light rifle scope? Look no further, since our guide is here to help. Low light rifle scopes really give shooters an edge when visibility isn’t great; think early mornings, late evenings, or those super dense spots in the woods.
They achieve this by using bigger objective lenses, high-quality glass, and special coatings that work together to let in as much light as possible. They have illuminated reticles to help you see your target better, and they’re constructed to withstand the outdoors.
Additionally, there is a wide range of magnification settings. For hunters, long-range shooters, and tactical personnel who frequently find themselves in difficult lighting situations, low light scopes are crucial.
How Low Light Scopes Work
Low light rifle scopes are really good at grabbing as much light as they can, all while keeping things crystal clear. It’s all about that big objective lens. The larger it is, the more light it can scoop up.
Plus, they use top-notch glass that’s got these quality multi-coatings. These coatings help the light travel better and cut down on glare. Additionally, there is a concept known as exit pupil size. It essentially describes the interaction between the objective lens and magnification. A larger exit pupil, in low light, that means a brighter image.
Therefore, combining all of these elements results in a bright, sharp picture that is ideal for early mornings, late evenings, or any time you’re in a shaded area.
Best Uses of Low Light Scopes
Dawn and dusk hunting : ideal for hunters who want to take advantage of peak animal activity during low-light conditions.
Dense Forest:Allows shooters to preserve visibility in shady or covered areas.
Long-Range Shooting :Maintains brightness and clarity at higher magnifications, even in low light.
Predator and Hog Hunting :Effective for nocturnal or twilight creatures that are active in low light settings.
Target Identification :Improves clarity when discriminating between game or targets in low light.
Tactical and law enforcement applications :Offers dependable visibility during low-light operations.
Without without ado, let us begin.
Best Low Light Rifle Scope
1.Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56
First on our list is the Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 F1 is often hailed as one of the best low light rifle scope out there for serious shooters and hunters. It’s built for those moments when you really need to see clearly in low light and reach out to long distances.
What makes the ATACR stand out is its ED glass which gives you amazing clarity, brightness, and color accuracy. Even during those early morning or late evening hunts, when visibility isn’t great, you’ll still get sharp and vibrant images. The 56 mm objective lens, along with some fantastic coatings, makes sure that light transmission is maximized.
It’s a first focal plane (FFP) reticle design, which is pretty neat because it means that all the subtensions stay consistent throughout the entire 5–25× magnification range. Whether you’re zooming out for a broader view or honing in on a distant target, your holdover points and windage references stay spot on.
It’s made from tough materials and has been tested in some extreme situations. It’s waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant. Plus, the 34 mm body tube gives you a wide range for internal adjustments, which is awesome for long-range shooting.
One feature that really grabs attention is the Horus TREMOR3 illuminated reticle. It’s designed with the Accuracy 1st Speed Shooting Formula, making quick elevation adjustments and wind calls a breeze. The reticle lets you range targets quickly, too, which means faster and more accurate shot placement. It’s perfect for low-light situations, making sure you see what you need to see when it matters most.
Features
- Magnification Range: 5–25×
- Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (F1/FFP
- Objective Lens: 56 mm
- Tube Diameter: 34 mm
- Click Value: .250 MOA or .1 MRAD
- Adjustment Range: Elevation 120 MOA / 35 MRAD, Windage 80 MOA / 24 MRAD
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in (90 mm)
- Field of View at 100 yd: 18.7 ft (5×) – 4.9 ft (25×)
- Exit Pupil: 8.3 mm (5×) – 2.3 mm (25×)
Pros
- Peak low-light clarity
- First focal plane reticle ensures accuracy at any magnification
- Illuminated reticle provides rapid ranging and wind calls
- Built to endure harsh environments
- Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof
- Ideal for both close and extreme long-range shooting
- Excellent adjustment range for precise long-distance shots
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- Come at a very high price point
2.Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56
Next up is the Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56 which stands out if you’re looking for a top-notch rifle scope, especially for those low-light situations that can make or break a hunt. Plus, it’s built tough and, surprisingly, lighter than a lot of its competitors.
At the heart of the Mark 5HD is what they call Leupold’s Professional-Grade Optical System. You get fantastic light transmission that really shines during those critical early morning or late evening hours when visibility can be tricky. And if glare is your enemy, this scope has got you covered. It handles harsh sunlight like a champ, giving you a clear, crisp image.
It comes with a Front Focal Plane (FFP) reticle. You can make quick adjustments without worrying about whether you’ve got the right magnification. It’s still super durable. We’re talking 100% waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. It can handle tough hunting conditions or any tactical tasks you throw at it.
Plus, it’s proudly designed, machined, and assembled right here in the USA, and you can count on Leupold’s legendary lifetime customer care.
Features
- Magnification Range: 5–25×
- Objective Lens: 56 mm
- Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Professional-Grade Optical System with top-tier light transmission and glare reduction
- Waterproof, fog-proof, shockproof reliability
- Designed, machined, and assembled in the USA
Pros
- Bright optics in low light, ideal for dawn and dusk shooting
- Excellent clarity and glare reduction
- Accurate holdovers at all magnifications
- Lighter weight than most scopes in its class, improving rifle handling
- Extremely durable and reliable
- Waterproof, fog-proof, shockproof
- Backed by Leupold’s strong reputation and customer service
Cons
- Premium price point compared to mid-range optics
3.Zeiss Victory V8 4.8-35×60
Third on our list of the best low light rifle scope is the Zeiss Victory V8 4.8–35×60 which is the star of the Victory V8 lineup. If you’re a hunter or a marksman who’s all about top-notch optical clarity and brightness, this riflescope is pretty much what you’re looking for.
The V8 4.8–35×60 boasts an impressive 92% light transmission. That’s thanks to Zeiss’s clever mix of HT and FL glass concepts. And with a hefty 60 mm objective lens, you get fantastic brightness and contrast. Plus, its large exit pupil means you can get on target quickly as soon as you lift your rifle, which is a game-changer during fast-paced hunts.
With a maximum magnification of 35×, this scope is one of the heavy hitters in the long-range game. And when you add in the BDC Competition bullet drop compensator, you can make precise holdovers for those extreme distances without a hitch. The built-in parallax compensation also ramps up your accuracy.
It has the finest illuminated dot you can find, so tiny it’s about the size of a two-cent coin at 1,000 meters. That ultra-precise reticle means your aiming point never gets in the way of your target, even at crazy long ranges. Plus, the illumination system is super user-friendly, working great in both dim and bright conditions.
And it’s built tough, just like you’d expect from Zeiss. With its LotuTec lens coatings, nitrogen filling, and waterproofing good up to 400 mbar, you won’t have to worry about fog, moisture, or dirt messing things up. The 36 mm main tube provides a wide range of adjustments for elevation and windage.
Features
- Magnification: 4.8–35×
- Objective Lens Diameter: 60 mm
- Light Transmission: 92%
- Exit Pupil: 9.9 mm (low) – 1.4 mm (high)
- Twilight Factor: 13.6 – 45.8
- Field of View at 100 m: 8.6 m – 1.2 m
- Parallax-Free: Adjustable from 50 m to infinity
- Adjustment per Click at 100 m: 0.5 cm
- Tube Diameter: 36 mm
- Eye Relief: 95 mm
- Water Resistance: 400 mbar
- Special Coating: LotuTec (for water and dirt resistance)
Pros
- Leading optical clarity and brightness with 92% light transmission
- Massive 60 mm objective lens for unmatched low-light performance
- BDC Competition system ensures precise long-range holdovers
- Ultra-fine illuminated dot reticle for precision without target obstruction
- Rugged build
- Waterproof, fog-proof, nitrogen-filled, LotuTec coating
- Wide adjustment range with parallax compensation
Cons
- Extremely expensive, among the highest-priced rifle scopes
- Large and heavy
4.Swarovski Z6i 2.5-15×56
Fourth on our list is the Swarovski Z6i 2.5–15×56 made for hunters who want top-notch performance in clarity and versatility. It’s well-known for its amazing low-light capabilities and solid craftsmanship.
The Z6i features Swarovski’s renowned HD (High Definition) optics, which give you sharp, high-contrast images, even when you’re cranked up to maximum magnification. That big 56 mm objective lens maximizes light transmission, making sure you see a bright and clear picture during those crucial early morning or late evening hunts.
Plus, the special Swarotop lens coatings and those micro-grooves on the edges help cut down on glare and reflections, so you get some of the clearest visuals out there. With a 2.5–15× zoom range, the Z6i strikes a great balance between having a wide field of view for awareness and the ability to zoom in for those precise long-range shots.
The Plex reticle, which is in the second focal plane, keeps its size consistent no matter what magnification you’re using. The tapered posts stand out nicely against darker backgrounds, and the fine central crosshairs make aiming a breeze.
The Z6i features a 4-coil spring system that ensures you get reliable, repeatable click adjustments, even with rifles that have heavy recoil. There’s also parallax correction, preset at 50 yards with a handy side-adjust knob, which extends to infinity for pinpoint accuracy.
Built to withstand tough hunting conditions, the Z6i is nitrogen purged, waterproof to 13 ft (4 m), and fog-proof. Plus, it can handle a wide range of temperatures, from freezing mountain hunts to sizzling summer plains..
Features
- Magnification Range: 2.5–15×
- Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
- HD optics with Swarotop coatings
- Zoom System: 6× zoom for both wide FOV and close-up detail
- Reticle: Plex reticle (second focal plane)
- Adjustments: 4-coil spring system with accurate, repeatable clicks
- Parallax Adjustment: Side knob
- Construction: Waterproof, fog-proof, nitrogen-purged tube
- Operating Temp Range: -4 to 131°F (-20 to +55°C)
Pros
- Excellent low-light visuals
- Field craftsmanship with premium build quality and durability
- Wide magnification range for versatile hunting scenarios
- Reliable 4-coil spring system ensures repeatable adjustments
- Plex reticle is simple, effective, and highly visible in dark environments
- Waterproof, fog-proof, and rugged enough for harsh conditions
- Smooth parallax correction for precise long-range shooting
Cons
- High price tag
5.Trijicon AccuPoint 2.5-10×56
Not to be overlooked is the Trijicon AccuPoint 2.5–10×56 which is one of the most powerful and versatile scopes out there. It’s designed to give shooters that trusted reliability we all want, along with fantastic low-light performance and a bunch of different reticle styles to suit various shooting preferences.
That big 56 mm objective lens is a game changer for maximizing light transmission during those early morning or late evening hunts. Plus, the advanced fiber-optic and tritium illumination system automatically adjusts the reticle brightness to match the surrounding light. This dual-illumination design really extends your shooting hours and takes away the stress of electronic failures at the worst possible moment.
With a magnification range of 2.5–10×, this scope is super adaptable. It’s great for those close calls in thick cover and perfect for medium- to long-range shots too. The illuminated reticle stands out beautifully against your target, making aiming quick and accurate.
It has this handy externally adjustable, pop-up, resettable pointer dial, so you can easily reset to zero after sighting in, and you don’t even need tools for that! The 30 mm tube is strong and gives you plenty of adjustment range.
Plus, it’s rugged enough to be waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. Trijicon has really built a reputation for toughness, making the AccuPoint a scope you can trust, even in tough environments.
The AccuPoint 2.5–10×56 comes with a variety of reticle styles, like the Crosshair Amber Dot and Mil-Dot, among others.
Features
- Magnification Range: 2.5–10×
- Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
- Illumination: Fiber-optic/tritium, battery-free dual system
- Reticle Styles: Multiple options (e.g., Crosshair Amber Dot, Mil-Dot)
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Adjustments: Externally adjustable, pop-up resettable zero dial
- Waterproof, fog-proof, shockproof construction
Pros
- Trusted reliability
- Rugged construction for all conditions
- Excellent low-light performance
- Battery-free illumination system ensures constant aiming-point brightness
- Multiple reticle styles for versatility in hunting and tactical use
- Quick, tool-free reset-to-zero adjustments
- Smooth magnification range balances wide FOV and precision
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier
6.Vortex Crossfire II 3-12×56 Hog Hunter
Last but not least, if you’re on the hunt for a solid scope that won’t drain your wallet, check out the Vortex Crossfire II 3–12×56 Hog Hunter. It’s really a great choice for anyone needing dependable low-light performance. With that big 56 mm objective lens and the V-Brite illuminated reticle, you can shoot confidently even when the lighting gets tricky.
The fully multi-coated, anti-reflective lenses boost brightness and image quality, which is a huge win. The V-Brite reticle really pops against darker backgrounds, keeping your shots on target even as the natural light starts to fade.
You’ll also love the adjustable objective. It lets you fine-tune your focus and get rid of parallax, which is super helpful at different distances. The long eye relief and easy-to-use eye box make finding your target a breeze. And there’s a fast-focus eyepiece too, so you can quickly adjust the reticle for clarity when time is of the essence.
The Hog Hunter is made from a single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube, which means it’s built tough. It’s shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof, thanks to those O-ring seals and nitrogen purging.
Features
- Magnification: 3–12×
- Objective Lens: 56 mm
- Reticle: V-Brite illuminated
- Lens Coatings: Fully multi-coated, anti-reflective
- Turrets: Capped, finger-adjustable MOA clicks, resettable to zero
- Construction: Aircraft-grade aluminum, single-piece tube
- Warranty: Vortex VIP lifetime warranty
Pros
- Excellent budget option for low-light rifle scope performance
- Large 56 mm objective lens gathers maximum light
- V-Brite illuminated reticle enhances aiming in near-darkness
- Bright, sharp images
- Adjustable objective for parallax removal and image clarity
- Long eye relief and forgiving eye box for quick target acquisition
- Rugged construction
- Waterproof and fogproof design
- Backed by Vortex’s VIP lifetime warranty
Cons
- Bulkier and heavier
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Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Low Light Rifle Scope
- Objective Lens Size
A bigger objective lens means more light gets into the scope which is a game changer for those low-light situations. Think about hunting early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun’s just not quite there yet, or even in those tricky shaded spots.
- Glass Quality and Lens Coatings
When you pair that larger lens with some high-definition glass and top-notch multi-coatings, you really boost light transmission. It cuts down on glare too, which is super helpful. You end up with these crisp, high-contrast images, even when it feels like it’s almost dark out.
- Magnification Range
And let’s not forget about magnification. It’s pretty versatile! You get that nice wide field of view when you’re at lower power, so you can take everything in. But then, when you crank it up for a closer look, it’s all about that detailed target acquisition. Whether you’re shooting short or long distances, this setup is ready for whatever you throw at it.
- Reticle Design and Illumination
As you may imagine, illuminated reticles or such sophisticated designs with accurate holdovers can significantly improve aiming in dim light. They ensure that your shots are accurate and assist you in rapidly identifying your target.
- Durability and Weather Resistance
If they’re made with tough materials, plus waterproof and fog-proof features, you can count on them to work well even when the weather gets rough. Reliability is key out there.
- Eye Relief and Exit Pupil
Don’t overlook eye relief! It’s super important for comfort and safety. Plus, a larger exit pupil is a game changer. It lets in more light, which means you get brighter images when the lighting isn’t great. Simple things like that can really enhance your shooting experience.
Best Low Light Rifle Scope FAQs
Which scope is best for low light?
When you’re looking for the best scope for low light conditions, you really want something that packs a punch. Think about a large objective lens paired with top-notch glass and those fancy lens coatings; these features really help in letting more light in and keeping the image clear.
An illuminated reticle is a game changer for aiming accurately when it’s almost dark. Plus, a wide exit pupil is a must for keeping things comfortable on your eyes. Don’t forget about the build quality, either.
A scope that’s durable and weatherproof is crucial if you’re out there dealing with tricky visibility. In short, you need a reliable setup that’ll perform when the light is at its lowest.
Is an illuminated scope worth it?
Absolutely, an illuminated scope is definitely a smart investment, especially if you find yourself in low-light situations. When the sun starts to dip or you’re in a thick forest, visibility can really take a hit. That’s where the illumination comes in handy. It makes the reticle stand out against those dark or busy backgrounds, so you can zero in and keep your focus on the target, even when daylight is running low.
Unlike regular scopes, which can get pretty hard to read when it’s dim, an illuminated reticle gives you a nice, clear aiming point. This is super useful during those early morning or late evening hunts, or even when you’re trying to spot something in heavy cover.
Conclusion
As you have seen picking the right low light scope is crucial. It can turn a missed chance into a perfect shot. There are a few key things to consider, like light transmission, the design of the reticle, how tough it is, and just how well the optics perform overall. These elements are super important for making sure you can rely on your scope when things get a bit dark.
When you find the right mix of features, a low light scope can really boost your visibility and accuracy. Plus, it gives you that extra bit of confidence. The right scope can make all the difference in those crucial moments. We sincerely hope our guide helps!