It’s nighttime and let’s guess that it’s pushing you to go and kick-start hunting. We surely can relate to this situation and for this, we spend most of our energy looking for either the best rifle or the best scope. Having an ordinary is one thing, but having the best night vision scope gives you all the power to shoot your target in the murkiest ambient.
So, own the night with the best night vision scope that we will put a spotlight on.
Because without any of these scopes, you will find your rifle sad during the lowlight environment.
Read More: Best Long Range Rifle Scope in 2023
Here is the list of 10 Best Night Vision Scopes for your hunting journey. We are going to talk about it in detail later on!
Our Top Pick
1. ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart Day/Night
Enlighten your shooting skill with this best long-range night vision scope by none other than ATN.
The first thing to highlight about this scope is that it features Night Vision mode so you can have a shoot under lowlight ambient. So, it does not literally let the darkness slow you down. Although, some expressed their disappointment for the IR illuminator that does not work after a couple of use. But you can get a replacement which is convenient.
X-Sight 4K Pro tends to excel well when it comes to its groundbreaking technology. You will have an Ultra HD 4k Sensor that comes equipped with an Obsidian 4 Dual-Core Processor. With this, you can expect to enjoy faster optic, millions of vibrant colors, and higher resolution. To put a cherry on top, such tech provides a great image at long range so you can have a shooting speed of 120fps and digital zoom without zero pixels.
The scope also lets you utilize the ballistic calculator app to have the target information or environmental data converted into trajectory correction. The app also warrants that you don’t miss any of your targets as you shoot.
Coming with a remote control system in the form of X-Trac Tactical, you will be able to control various adjustments be it a ballistic calculator or range finder.
Besides, it offers dual-stream and video recording features to let you record your shooting with HD resolution quality and store right to the SD card inside.
You will love its long-term performance. Also, you do not have to worry about batteries getting out of charge since it can deliver continuous operation beyond 18 hours. As for its magnification, it comes with a level of 3x to 14x so you can zoom the image without distorting the pixel.
You will get rings with the scope but there is a reason to hate them since users felt them cheap. But that’s replaceable as well so you don’t need to worry much. Read our ATN X Sight 4k Review here.
Moreover, it can also be mounted on a crossbow that means it is a crossbow scope too which can be installed on any bow too.
Pros
- High Resolution and fast viewing.
- Faster optics, millions of vibrant colors and higher resolution.
- Ballistic calculator ensures target hitting every time.
- The basaltic calculator helps correct air resistance, gravity and wind deflection.
- No pixilation when you zoom.
- Longer eye-relief.
- Magnification level is well suited with the long-range shooting.
- You can shoot under low light condition.
Cons
- IR illuminator might not work properly.
- Rings come in cheap quality.
2. ATN X-Sight II HD 5-20 - Day/Night Rifle Scope
Another awesome entry by the brand ATN. This is stated to be an upgraded version in the X-Sight line.
Coming with a Smart HD Optics technology, the scope triggers you to use it all over the day and night. Time literally does not matter, you will have a clear image in a day or dim light ambient.
The scope will bring you RAV which is short for Recoil Activated Video so that you can record all of your shooting triumphs and enjoy them.
Besides its day or night shooting mode, you will have an in-build rangefinder. It makes sure you range your target easily without the need for any extra equipment. This will not only help calculate the distance but also lets you shoot perfectly all the time.
Speaking of the calculator, you can use the Ballistic Calculator app to get the correct calculations. Just have all the environmental data entered into the app and all the calculations will be performed automatically. So, even if it’s your first attempt, you will find your shot accurate.
It also leads us to speak about its X-Trac Tactical, which is a remote control so you can control different adjustments such as ballistic calculator or rangefinder.
Coming with the magnification of about 5x and 20mm diameter objective lens, you will not only get a clear image but also a wider view.
There about two simple cons that have been highlighted much about the scope. One is that it drinks battery quickly, so you will find yourself charging it frequently.
And another is that it’s heavy that can put a little impact on your balance. But if you practice much, it will not be an issue.
Pros
- Robust and durable.
- Offers clear image under day or dim light.
- Recoil Activated Video records every shooting.
- Offers Wi-Fi Streaming and 1080p HD Video Recording and Photos.
- Rangefinder ranges your target easily.
- Ballistic Calculator app helps make all the calculations automatically.
- The remote control offers convenience.
- Magnification ranges go well with long range shoot.
Cons
- Power consume quickly.
- Feels somewhat heavy.
3. Night Owl Optics NightShot Scope
Make your night shot perfect with this best night vision scope for coyote hunting by Night Owl.
The NightShot gives you all the power to see at a longer distance regardless of dim ambient. Although its night vision mode does not pick the surrounding ambient well, if there is a little moonlight, it manages to work decently.
In a typical night environment, turning on the in-built illuminator can let you view at a 100 to 200-yard distance.
Moreover, it gives you three different options when it comes to the type of reticle. You can configure all three different reticles in white and black. So, you can expect an easy reticle and color adjustment that will go well with your surroundings.
You will also have adjustable elevation and wind age through one-click that equals 1/4-inch at every 50 yards.
Besides, you will get 3x magnification that offers clarity of image even if you increase the zoom. Speaking more of the image, NightShot offers you a 640X480 display that will feel the high resolution to witness.
Although the scope has been engineered with thermoplastic, due to plastic parts, some raised questions on its quality.
That said, its weatherproof factor makes it withstand longer than you think. So calling it the best night vision scope will not be wrong.
The battery works decently. If you use IR illuminator on low, you can use the scope for about 5 hours. On the other hand, using the illuminator on high will let you use the scope for 2 hours only. So, operation time will fluctuate.
Pros
- Perform great at nighttime.
- Provides clear image under day or dim light.
- Magnification ranges go well with long range shoot.
- Great for coyote hunting.
- Three different options for the reticle.
- Provides easy reticle and color adjustment.
- Weatherproof lets it withstand more.
- Low mode Illuminator offers more operation time.
Cons
- Plastic parts feel cheap.
- Might not pick ambient light well.
- High mode Illuminator might make the scope drain the charge quickly.
4. Firefield FF16001 NVRS - Night Vision Riflescope
Perfect your aim with this best night vision scope for hog hunting that you can get from the brand Firefield.
The big plus about the scope is that you will be able to hit your target with precision in the darkest of the night with its night vision mode. The brand boasts to have a high-power IR illuminator that is supposed to enrich image details while increasing viewing range. However, some still felt that the Illuminator should be a bit stronger to perform well.
That said, you will love its user-friendliness. You can change or switch the optics to iron sight easily while maintaining ‘return to zero’ consistency with its Weaver mounting system.
Coming with a magnification range of around 3x, you will get a clear image of your target regardless of the distance. Plus, the scope also features a 42mm lens to give you a higher light transmission besides an outstanding zooming effect.
Another great thing is its construction. You will find enough light to attach thanks to rock-solid titanium material. The scope will give you flip-up lens covers that can help protect it from harsh weather conditions. However, some users complained that they did not get any cover with the scope. But that is not a big deal.
Speaking of the covers, they open to reveal improved and multicoated optics with an illuminated red duplex reticle. There you will find the adjustment of brightness that you can increase or decrease so you can adapt to your surrounding ambient as quickly as possible.
Its battery deserves thumbs up for letting the scope operate for about 20 hours which is superb.
However, after you clip the scope to your rifle, it is important that you zero the accessory by shooting at a target and make required adjustments with its adjusting dial. It will be easier for you to use the scope smoothly.
Pros
- Able to shoot under lowlight ambient.
- Feels light and robust.
- Great for hog hunting.
- Weaver mounting system provides easy changes.
- Magnification ranges go well with long range shoot.
- Comes with Flip-up cover for protection.
- Easy brightness adjustment.
- Offers long term performance.
Cons
- Some didn’t get lens covers.
- Illuminator should be stronger.
5. Sightmark Photon 6.5x50L Digital NV Scope
Sight your target under a dim ambient with this best night vision scope by Sightmark. The Photon is stated to be extremely versatile.
The scope will have about 6 options for red, green, and white digital reticles through which you can use them for long range shooting. You will also love its in-built 780nm laser IR illuminator that helps a lot in improving image details. Although, some users wanted the illuminator to work more properly in the nighttime. But, it still manages to impress people.
Not just that, Photon also includes 2 crossbow reticles that have been engineered for 320fps, 350fps, 370fps, and 400fps crossbows. Plus, you will also find 2 duplex reticles that make it another reason to be the best night vision scope for hog hunting and varmint hunting. Here are our 16 best hunting scope review if you need.
You will have a mil-dot reticle that helps a lot in offering holdovers and range finding.
Moreover, this scope helps in offering a higher magnification coming in 6.5x that you will find perfect for shooting at a distant range. As for its objective lens, the 50mm diameter is enough to give you a wider viewing angle.
The vision will feel higher than 640×480 resolution so you can expect premium brightness and vivid detailing right at a 200-yard range of distance.
You will not only have the capability to capture everything in a day or at night but also enjoy the video output feature since you can record with it.
Photon can also use a digital elevation and wind age adjustment system to warrant a precise image and streamlined design. The scope does not only feel light overall but also is durable enough to last long.
Yes, the battery could be a little issue as it does not work for a long period at one charge, but that’s manageable.
Pros
- Great for shooting under lowlight ambient.
- Magnification ranges go well with long range shoot.
- Feels light and robust.
- Great for hog hunting.
- Easy brightness adjustment.
- Offers long term performance.
- Offers holdovers and range finding.
- Provides a wide viewing angle.
- Comes with video output feature.
Cons
- Illuminator might not work well in the nighttime.
- The battery is terrible.
6. Bushnell 4.5X40 Equinox Z
Bushnell knows how to impress their customer by proving their best long-range night vision scope which is known as Equinox Z.
This particular riflescope does a superb job by adjusting automatically to different lighting conditions. Even if a light is next to your target, it is still able to see better in the vicinity. Although it gives a striking performance in low light ambient, the scope still requires an extra light source to offer you a clear image.
The in-built Illuminator comes with a range of about 100 yards but still, you might find it insufficient somehow.
However, the Equinox Z comes with glass objectives and zoom abilities that make it excel well in the field.
No matter if you use it to track animals or explore the depths of the darkest cave, the scope will give you a precise image for shooting. Speaking of zoom, the scope has a magnification of 4.5x with an objective lens of about 40mm diameter that serves the same purpose as well.
It also gives you the power to capture images and record videos to enjoy your watching your experience later with your friends and family. Not just that, it also provides you tripod attaching compatibility so you can attach the scope to the stand with ease. Just like most of the scopes, it too fails to offers longer operational time. So, you can expect to charge it frequently. And this is absolutely annoying.
And since you will need a better illuminator, the replaced one might add more weight to its overall weight making it more than bulky.
However, another inconvenience you might face is that the scope will not let you change settings if you opt for recording video. But, that should not disappoint you to go for the scope.
Pros
- Provides clear image under day or dim light.
- Magnification ranges are well suited with long range shoot.
- Offers amazing auto-lighting adjustment to prevent washout.
- Able to be mounted to a tripod with ease.
- Offers video recording.
- Comes with glass objectives and zoom abilities.
- Robust and durable.
Cons
- Settings cannot be changed during recording.
- The battery gets drained quickly.
- Illuminator should perform better in darkest ambient.
7. Armasight Vampire 3X Night Vision Scope
Have you seen a Vampire? If not, then explore the brand Armasight to get this Vampire which is the best night vision scope for coyote hunting.
Having it equipped with IIT Generation CORE Technology, the scope offers a double resolution of First-generation passive devices. As a result, you will have a clearer and flatter images even in night vision.
Speaking more of the tech, the Vampire is able to outdo scopes of the second generation with its 60-70 lp/mm resolution, all-glass multicoated lens, and photocathode sensitivity level upwards of 400 μA/lm. And this is one of the reasons for which you will love to use it as an individual optic gear in lowlight conditions.
As for its illumination, you will have an all-glass IR transmission multicoated lens, illuminated reticle that comes with brightness adjustment.
Furthermore, the scope comes with an adjustable reticle that you can adjust manually for making accurate shot placement extremely easy.
When it comes to the construction, the Vampire has been built with solid aluminum material while its O-ring has been sealed and rubber-coated to give extra protection to the scope. You will also find it waterproof and fog proof that also shows its worth very well. The screws are plastic which feels cheap, but the overall construction is amazing.
Moreover, the scope has been nitrogen-treated as well for its durability. Coming with batteries, a case, essential hardware, and a user manual, this best night vision scope offers extra convenience that you wish for.
However, you might find it a bit bulky and heavy that can impact you a little on your balance. But you can manage that.
That said, the scope offers a great magnification level that comes in 3x to let you shoot far from your target.
Pros
- IIT Generation CORE Technology offers a high-resolution image.
- Comes with the all-glass multicoated lens with adjustments for brightness.
- Magnification ranges are well suited with long range shoot.
- Robust and durable.
- Adjustable reticle for precise aiming.
- Waterproof and fog proof.
- Includes batteries, case, essential hardware and user manual.
- Low battery indicator.
Cons
- Feels a little heavy.
- Screws are plastic.
8. NiteSite Wolf 330 Yards Identification
Now let’s just meet Wolf, a cheap night vision rifle scope by NiteSite that you can get under 1000.
You will have three integral infrared LEDs with the Wolf so it can use them to light up your target surrounding with an 850nm IR beam and LED illumination. So, even if your target is as far away as 330-yard, it will require no ambient light since it does the job with its night vision mode.
The scope happens to be rugged and water-resistant while letting you operate in temperatures ranging from 20C to 60C.
Coming with 940nM IR frequency, the best night vision scope offers a great view by transmitting light properly which is required for shooting in challenging ambient.
The scope will also let you record all your victories which you can count as a big plus.
Not just that, it also comes with all the necessary accessories such as a carrying case, batteries, charger, user manual, warranty card, scope sleeves, scope clamps, anti-recoil clamp, IR camera module, and what not.
Although you will find it a little heavy this is the only con that you will find regarding the scope. There is a little inconvenience which is the scope doesn’t have any information magnification, yet that is not a big con.
Pros
- Three integral infrared LEDs.
- Illuminates area in dim light condition.
- Offers clear picture.
- It lets you record video.
- Comes with necessary accessories.
- Well-built and solid.
Cons
- Feels a little heavy.
9. ATN Thor HD 384 Smart Thermal
This is Thor, a riflescope that has not only been built strongly but also has been appeared in the market to outdo all of its rivals. Among a variety of ATN night vision scope reviews, you will find it to be owning positive remarks regarding its performance.
Speaking more of the scope, it comes with a 384×288 Sensor which is perfect to be used at nighttime since it detects heat rather than light. This is a kind of technology that will let you see vividly even around the murkiest cave. That’s the reason why it is known as a thermal scope.
The scope comes with a magnification level ranging from 4.5x to 18x making it ideal to aim at a long distance and let you hit the target precisely. Although, you might find the image blurry if you set it at the maximum magnification level. But having said that, this Thor still manages to magnify the image of your target without making it much blurry with its step zoom system.
Not just that, it will also let you use the ballistic calculator app so you can covert the target information or environmental data into trajectory correction. To add more, this app also makes sure that you do not miss any hits.
This best night vision scope also possesses in-build rangefinder. It helps in making sure that you range your target easily without having any additional equipment. Not only it will help calculate the distance but also allows you to fire perfectly all the time.
Just like most the ATN scope, it also includes a remote control system which is X-Trac Tactical. With this, you can control different adjustments such as ballistic calculator or rangefinder.
You will also love to utilize the dual-stream and video recording feature. With this, you can record your shooting with high-resolution quality while storing it on the SD card safely.
However, a little con was found regarding its packaging where people griped about the cheap box that it comes with. So, there is a chance that you may hate it as well.
Pros
- Detects heat rather than light to let you see vividly.
- Ballistic calculator ensures target hitting every time.
- The basaltic calculator helps correct air resistance, gravity and wind deflection.
- High Resolution and fast viewing.
- Magnification level is well suited with the long range shooting.
- You can shoot under low light conditions.
- Rangefinder helps in ranging the target.
- Recoil Activated Video records every shooting.
- Offers Wi-Fi Streaming and 1080p HD Video Recording and Photos.
- Robust and durable.
Cons
- The image might become pixelated in the darkest ambient.
- Comes in a cheap box.
10. Sightmark Ghost Hunter 2x24 Scope
Wanna hunt a ghost? Then you will need nothing but this best night vision scope by Sightmark.
You will love to use it in nighttime since the scope acts as a Ghost hunter in its default night vision mode while giving you a higher resolution and clearer image. Not just that, it also helps in letting you detect your target quickly and precisely.
Moreover, the scope can double as a night vision monocular if you want to use it for surveillance. And this is one of the striking features to enjoy.
Speaking of the magnification, the scope comes in 2x power with 24mm lens diameter to produce and give you a crisp and clearer picture.
To add more, you will also have an in-built infrared illuminator to let you view your target in lowlight ambient. Although being a Generation 1 scope, the illuminator might not be up to the mark.
However, you will love the construction of the scope. It has been built well with a polymer material to make it last longer for providing more shooting time.
The scope also tends to shut off automatically when it is exposed to bright ambient so that it can protect the intensifier tube as well as ensure durability.
Plus, it has been engineered as well to co-sight with a holographic sight or a reflex sight.
Although it does not come with a battery but you will get other necessary features such as a lens cloth, a quick power-up, a 1/4-inch socket, and a case.
Pros
- Able to work as a night vision monocular.
- Comes with infrared illuminator for lowlight ambient.
- Robust and durable.
- Magnification level is well suited with the long range shooting.
- Shuts off automatically for protection and durability.
- High-quality polymer construction
- Comes with additional features.
- Can be co-witnessed with reflex or holographic sight.
Cons
- The illuminator is average.
- Does not come with a battery.
Best Night Vision Scope Buying Guide!
How To Choose A Best Night Vision Scope
It’s very important to know how to choose the best night vision scope before hunting. So, Are you Confused about it? Don’t worry. This video will guide you step by step. Just click the play button!
Things to consider
There are about five factors that you must mull over when it comes to the performance of the best night vision scope.
Resolution
The resolution of a lens plays a vital role in nighttime hunting and tactical operation. If you cannot detect your target during challenging ambient, it’s useless to pull the trigger of your rifle. Since you will be looking at an image on a screen with night vision mode, you cannot expect to get the same level of clarity that you can get in broad daylight. In this case, Night Vision scope becomes a must-have. Plus it also has to give a clear resolution.
For best night vision scope, the resolution is stated to be measured by LP/MM which is short for lines per millimeter. The higher that LP/MM, the more the clarity you can expect.
So, look for one that provides enough clarity so you can detect your target easily.
Range
The rule of thumb says that the better the image and light transmission, the more efficient the scope will be at its range. With best night vision scope, you should know regarding your required recognition range.
Such night vision technology will not always work like a Non-NV riflescope which will let you see over thousands of yards. Although the overall range is not as essential as the recognition one, so it is better than you look for the latter while grabbing a night vision scope.
Moreover, the range is determined by the amount of light in natural ambient. In essence, longer optics will perform great in generating more light. You will find many manufacturers that provide recognition range be it for starlight, full moon, quarter moon or for overcast ranges.
Since such scopes will also require light, you will see that as you go down the scale, the range starts the decrease.
Hence, it is important that you note down this factor since it will help you in getting a better scope with required recognition range.
Infrared Illuminator
An infrared illuminator lets you light up an infrared light so that it can help in making the ambient brighter. Your optic might come with a built-in infrared illuminator, or you might find it absent making you attach one.
However, it is stated to be a very handy factor for nighttime shooting where the ambient is almost pitch black.
Albeit, such illuminators come in a very limited range but you will find them decent anyway. If you want to get the best one, then look for larger ones since you will find them more powerful.
Although many scopes that come with built-in illuminator does not work properly. So, for this, you can get a replacement that will give you a better performance.
Ergonomics
The night vision scopes function just like the regular scopes when it comes to the ergonomics of the attachment. If you go and grab a scope with higher magnification, you will still find the optic bulkier and heavier just like the one of ordinary scope.
However, if you think you will be doing off-hand shooting as well as brush hunting, then getting a lighter scope becomes a must. Because a heavier one will make it difficult for you to aim while slowing the speed down as you move your rifle around.
Robustness
One of the most essential factors to consider is the durability of the scope. You won’t just spend thousands of bucks on a riflescope that fails to offer such a feature. You will also have a great chance of failure if you add specialized devices or electronics or tubes to an optic if you don’t know the limitations of your optics.
So, prior to getting a scope, make sure you get one that will be waterproof, shockproof and fog proof so that it can withstand all the weather conditions.
You will also need to consider the amount of recoil that the scope will rate for. It’s because sensitive and small electronics can get damaged easily.
Although, you can consider an optic that can ensure 300 Win Mag.
Exploring Four Generations
Gen 1
The first-ever mass produced systems that were used with the early Starlight scopes. The use was limited in Korea but frequent in Vietnam. Because of the size of the scope, it causes a lot of pain among people. For this, the riflescopes have been shrunken down noticeably in Gen 1 devices. Such scopes are called to be the first to count on passive infrared. So, you will find them performing poor without having a moon or starlight around.
This is the reason why such scopes require lots of ambient light for letting them perform properly.
However, scopes belonging to Gen 1 aren’t for serious usage. They are just great for hunting predators or vermin. However, it is suggested to not include tactical applications with such scopes.
Gen 2
Gen 2 scopes do not only offer a clearer image but also provide wide and efficient viewing angle. So, these scopes made a big jump from the scopes of Gen 1. You will find them smaller in size than the ones of Gen 1 and also they offer greater clarity when you pair them with an IR illuminator or decent surrounding light.
At a moderate range, these scopes can also give you a clear image where you can detect the facial feature of an animal easily.
So, Gen 2 scopes make an ideal pick for hunting. It lets you work with lighter weight while offering greater range. You will also love to utilize Gen2+ scopes since they let you step into the security and tactical land of night vision.
You can consider getting a decent Gen2+ scope with 70 lp/mm for better performance.
Gen 3
Gen 3 scopes have been refined further from Gen 2 ones. The clarity and resolution of Gen 3 scopes have been enhanced considerably while the light transmission and sensitivity have been improved well to work effectively,
The modified scopes have an ion film barrier so that they can extend the life of an optic. There is a chemical component called gallium arsenide which is applied to the photocathode so it can offer a higher resolution, clearer image while providing a greater signal-to-noise ratio.
Besides, they will require lesser light than any standard night vision scope and deliver a strikingly clear image.
And when you pair it with an IR illuminator, you will find it close to having HD quality resolution out of the scope.
So, you will find them ideal for long-term observation of your tracking.
Gen 4
Generation 4 will have the latest ranges of night vision scopes with more advanced and cutting-edge technology. And yes, you can expect them to be very pricy but they provide an insanely clear image.
The ion film barrier has been taken out while making the optic gated. As a result, you will notice a considerable improvement. The optic has removed the noise completely from the system so you can enjoy a much clearer image even in low light conditions.
However, the short service life can be disappointing, but you will find them perfect for hunting. Although, these scopes are very rare to find especially in the civilian market.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How does thermal vision work?
A: Thermal imaging tends to sense the infrared heat produced by any warm objects or animals. It offers the difference in temperature so that warm-blooded animals can stand out from the cooler environment.
Q: Why do you need a monocular?
A: A monocular helps in preventing you from having to swing around your rifle to check if there is any target. It also helps save the charge of batteries in the riflescope so that it can get ready as the target shows up.
Q: What is an IR illuminator?
A: It is a device that helps in projecting the infrared light out. It is invisible virtually to the naked eye yet you will find it visible to night vision scope.
There are many of them that come in-built where mostly are short-range flood style. It means, you can use from about 30-yards distance, albeit it is good for close-range shooting under low-light condition.
Summary
Now you cannot just deny knowing about the best night vision scope available in the market. They have not only outdone their rivals but also impressed the users well with their performance.
An effective night vision has always been a great innovation of technology available to hunters, military as well as sportsmen. Such scopes do not only offer outstanding perks but also help in making you a pro as a night hunter.
So, for the sake of night, you must own such scope for yourself.
Outdoorsman, hunter, writer, photographer, inventor and owner of Sage & Braker. Pics taken by yours truly unless otherwise noted.