Hey there, fellow night owls and precision shooters! Joel Mccartan here, back with an updated roundup of the best illuminated reticle scopes for 2024. As an avid hunter who’s spent countless hours in the field, I know firsthand how crucial it is to have a reliable scope when the light starts to fade. Whether you’re tracking a trophy buck at dusk or lining up that perfect long-range shot, an illuminated reticle can make all the difference between success and a missed opportunity.
This year, we’ve seen some exciting innovations in scope technology, and I’ve had the chance to put many of these new models through their paces. So grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and let’s dive into the cream of the crop for 2024!
Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-8×24 Second Focal Plane Riflescope
Kicking off our list is a scope that’s become a fast favorite among hunters and competitive shooters alike – the Vortex Strike Eagle. I took this bad boy out on a recent whitetail hunt, and let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint.
Key Features:
– 1-8x magnification range
– Illuminated BDC3 reticle
– Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
– Fully multi-coated lenses
What I Love: The glass clarity on this scope is phenomenal, especially for its price point. The daylight-bright illumination made target acquisition a breeze, even as the sun was setting on my hunt. The throw lever on the magnification ring is a nice touch, allowing for quick adjustments when that buck suddenly appeared at closer range than expected.
Potential Drawbacks: Some users report a slight fish-eye effect at 1x magnification, but I personally didn’t find it too distracting.
Perfect For: Hunters and shooters who need versatility for both close-quarters and mid-range engagements. It’s become my go-to for deer hunting in varied terrain.
Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24×50 First Focal Plane Riflescope
Next up is a scope that’s tailor-made for those long-range enthusiasts out there. The Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 is a feature-packed powerhouse that won’t break the bank.
Key Features:
– 6-24x magnification
– First focal plane reticle
– Illuminated ATMR MOA reticle
– True Zero Stop system
What I Love: The first focal plane design is a game-changer for long-range shooting. I’ve used this scope for some serious distance work, and being able to use the reticle for holdovers at any magnification is incredibly useful. The illumination is crisp and clear, perfect for those early morning stalks when the light is still low.
Potential Drawbacks: At higher magnifications, the image can get a bit dark, but that’s pretty common for scopes in this price range.
Perfect For: Long-range hunters and target shooters who want premium features without the premium price tag. If you’re into precision rifle competitions, this scope deserves a serious look.
Primary Arms SLX 4-14x44mm FFP Rifle Scope
Primary Arms has been making waves in the optics world, and their SLX line shows why. This scope offers a great balance of features for both hunting and target shooting.
Key Features:
– 4-14x magnification
– First focal plane ACSS HUD DMR reticle
– Fully multi-coated lenses
– Waterproof and fog resistant
What I Love: The ACSS reticle is a work of art. It provides quick ranging and wind holds, which came in clutch during a recent prairie dog hunt where conditions were constantly changing. The illumination is subtle but effective, never washing out the target even in low light.
Potential Drawbacks: The eye box can be a bit unforgiving at higher magnifications, so proper cheek weld is crucial.
Perfect For: Versatile hunters who need a scope that can go from stalking deer in the woods to reaching out for coyotes across open fields. It’s become a staple in my 3-gun competition kit as well.
Leupold Mark 3HD 4-12x40mm Side Focus Riflescope
When it comes to rugged reliability, it’s hard to beat Leupold. The Mark 3HD lives up to the company’s stellar reputation, offering crystal-clear glass and rock-solid performance.
Key Features:
– 4-12x magnification
– Illuminated TMR reticle
– Side focus parallax adjustment
– Twilight Max HD Light Management System
What I Love: The optical clarity of this scope is simply outstanding. I’ve used it in some seriously nasty weather, and the Twilight Max HD system really does squeeze out every last bit of light. The illumination is crisp and doesn’t bloom, even on the highest settings.
Potential Drawbacks: It’s on the pricier side, but as the saying goes, you get what you pay for.
Perfect For: Serious hunters who demand top-tier performance and durability. This is the scope you want when your hunt of a lifetime is on the line.
Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm Illuminated BTR-1 BDC Riflescope
For those running an AR platform or looking for a versatile 3-gun optic, Bushnell’s AR Optics line delivers quality at a reasonable price point.
Key Features:
– 1-4x magnification
– Illuminated BTR-1 BDC reticle
– Throw Down PCL lever
– Fully multi-coated optics
What I Love: The Throw Down PCL (Power Change Lever) is a standout feature, allowing for lightning-fast magnification changes. I’ve found this invaluable in 3-gun competitions where you’re transitioning between close and mid-range targets. The illumination is daylight-bright, making it easy to pick up the reticle against any background.
Potential Drawbacks: The eye relief can be a bit tight for some users, especially with a high recoil caliber.
Perfect For: AR enthusiasts and competitive shooters who need quick target acquisition and rapid magnification changes. It’s also a solid choice for home defense setups.
CVLIFE 6-24×50 Illuminated Scope
Don’t let the budget-friendly price fool you – the CVLIFE scope packs a serious punch for the money. It’s a great option for those just getting into long-range shooting or as a backup optic.
Key Features:
– 6-24x magnification
– Illuminated mil-dot reticle
– Adjustable objective lens
– Nitrogen-filled, fog-proof tube
What I Love: The versatility of this scope is impressive. I’ve mounted it on everything from a .22LR for plinking to a .308 for some serious reach. The illuminated mil-dot reticle is clear and useful for holdovers, especially at higher magnifications.
Potential Drawbacks: The turrets aren’t the most precise I’ve used, but they get the job done with some practice.
Perfect For: Budget-conscious shooters or those looking for a solid entry-level option for long-range work. It’s also great for rimfire rifles where you don’t want to spend more on the scope than the gun itself.
UTG 3-12×44 30mm Compact Scope
UTG has come a long way in recent years, and this compact scope is a testament to their improved quality. It’s a feature-rich option that won’t weigh down your rifle.
Key Features:
– 3-12x magnification
– 36-color Mil-dot reticle
– Side wheel adjustable turret
– Emerald-coated lenses
What I Love: The 36-color illumination system is no gimmick – it’s genuinely useful for adapting to different lighting conditions and backgrounds. I’ve found the emerald coating to provide excellent light transmission, especially during those critical dawn and dusk hours.
Potential Drawbacks: At 23.2 ounces, it’s not the lightest option out there, which might be a consideration for backcountry hunters.
Perfect For: Hunters who frequently find themselves in changing light conditions. The versatile magnification range makes it suitable for everything from thick brush to open country.
Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35 Illuminated Riflescope
Last but certainly not least, we have the legendary Trijicon ACOG. While it may not be a traditional variable power scope, its illuminated reticle and battle-proven design earn it a spot on this list.
Key Features:
– Fixed 3.5x magnification
– Fiber optic illumination (no batteries required)
– Bullet drop compensating reticle
– Nearly indestructible construction
What I Love: The ACOG’s durability is unmatched. I’ve seen these scopes take an absolute beating and keep on ticking. The fiber optic illumination is ingenious, automatically adjusting to ambient light conditions without any input needed.
Potential Drawbacks: The fixed magnification isn’t for everyone, and the eye relief can be unforgiving if you’re not used to it.
Perfect For: Tactical shooters, law enforcement, or anyone who wants a bombproof optic that’s always ready to go. It’s also an excellent choice for dangerous game hunters who need quick target acquisition and unfailing reliability.
Conclusion
There you have it, folks – my top picks for illuminated reticle scopes in 2024. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a competitive shooter, or just getting into the world of precision optics, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Remember, the best scope for you is the one that fits your specific needs and shooting style. Don’t be afraid to try out different options if possible, and always invest in quality rings or mounts to get the most out of your optic.
As we wrap up, I’d love to hear about your experiences with illuminated reticle scopes. Drop a comment below and let me know which one is your favorite or if there’s a hidden gem I might have missed.
Until next time, keep your shots true and your powder dry!