Hey there, fellow hunters and night owls! Joel Mccartan here, back with another deep dive into the world of hunting optics. Today, we’re talking about something close to my heart – the best low light scopes for 2024. As someone who’s spent more dawn and dusk hours in the field than I care to admit, I know firsthand how crucial good glass is when the light starts fading.
Now, before we jump in, let me tell you a quick story. Last fall, I was out on a whitetail hunt in the Ozarks. It was one of those evenings where the sun seems to vanish in the blink of an eye. Just as I was about to call it quits, I caught movement at the edge of a clearing. Thanks to my trusty low light scope, I was able to make out a beautiful 10-point buck in the fading light. That moment right there? That’s why we invest in quality optics, folks.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into my top picks for the best low light scopes of 2024. I’ve put these bad boys through their paces in real-world conditions, so you can trust that these recommendations come from experience, not just spec sheets.
Vortex Crossfire II Hog Hunter 3-12x56mm
Kicking off our list is a scope that’s become a staple in my hunting kit – the Vortex Crossfire II Hog Hunter. Now, don’t let the name fool you. This scope is a low light beast for any type of hunting.
Key Features:
- 3-12x magnification range
- Massive 56mm objective lens
- V-Brite illuminated reticle
- Fully multi-coated lenses
What I Love:
The light transmission on this scope is phenomenal. That 56mm objective lens gobbles up whatever light is left at the end of the day. I’ve used this scope to pick out deer at distances over 200 yards when other hunters were packing it in for the night.
- The 3-12×56 Adjustable Objective Hog Hunter Crossfire II riflescope excels hunting in the lowest light. The V-Brite reticle and over-sized objective allow hunters to operate from the brush with the utmost confidence in tough light conditions .
- The adjustable objective provides image focus and parallax removal. Anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses provide bright and clear views. Capped reset turrets are finger adjustable with MOA clicks that can be reset to zero after sighting in.
The illuminated V-Brite reticle is a game-changer in low light. It’s just bright enough to stand out against dark backgrounds without washing out your entire sight picture.
One thing to note – at 21.1 oz, it’s not the lightest scope out there. But for the optical performance you get, especially in low light, I think the weight is more than justified.
Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44mm
Next up is a scope that’s a bit of an investment, but boy, does it deliver – the Leupold VX-6HD.
Key Features:
- 3-18x magnification
- 44mm objective lens
- Twilight Max HD Light Management System
- CDS-ZL2 elevation adjustment
What I Love:
Leupold’s Twilight Max HD system is no joke. This scope somehow manages to squeeze every last photon out of the fading light. I’ve had clear views of game well past legal shooting hours (not that I’d take a shot then, of course).
- Model #171565 – VX-6HD 3-18×44 Riflescope with a FireDot Reticle, CDS-ZL2 and a Matte finish
- The CDS-ZL2 (ZeroLock 2) provides two revolutions of elevation adjustment while eliminating accidental dial movement with the push-button ZeroLock system. It also features Leupold’s award-winning Custom Dial System (CDS), which allows shooters to order a laser-marked bullet-drop dial to match their exact ballistics and conditions.
The 3-18x magnification range is incredibly versatile. You can go wide for those close encounters in thick brush, or crank it up for precise shot placement at longer ranges.
The CDS-ZL2 elevation dial is a neat feature for those who like to dial for long shots. You can get custom turrets matched to your specific load, making holdovers a thing of the past.
Burris Fullfield II 3-9x40mm
If you’re on a tighter budget but still want quality low light performance, the Burris Fullfield II is hard to beat.
Key Features:
- 3-9x magnification
- 40mm objective lens
- Ballistic Plex reticle
- Hi-Lume multi-coatings
What I Love:
Burris has always impressed me with their optical clarity, and the Fullfield II is no exception. The Hi-Lume coatings do a great job of maximizing light transmission, giving you those crucial extra minutes of shooting light.
- Popular and premium traditional hunting scope at an affordable price; High-grade optical glass provides excellent brightness and clarity with lasting durability
- Quality, precision-ground lenses are larger than those of comparable scopes, for better light transmission; Index-matched, Hi-Lume multicoating aids in low-light performance and glare elimination, increasing your success rate
The Ballistic Plex reticle is simple but effective. It gives you holdover points for longer shots without cluttering up your sight picture. In low light, sometimes simpler is better.
At just 13 oz, this is one of the lighter scopes on our list. If you’re trekking deep into the backcountry, every ounce counts, and the Fullfield II won’t weigh you down.
Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44
For those who want a bit more magnification without breaking the bank, the Vortex Diamondback Tactical is a solid choice.
Key Features:
- 4-16x magnification
- 44mm objective lens
- EBR-2C MOA reticle
- Exposed tactical turrets
What I Love:
The glass quality on this scope punches well above its price point. Even at higher magnifications, the image stays crisp and bright as the light fades.
- The Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane 4-16×44 stands at the intersection of precision and value, delivering an impressive array of features and performance.
- Extra-low dispersion glass and fully multi-coated lenses transmit a crisp, bright sight picture. The first focal plane, glass-etched reticle keep subtensions accurate throughout the 4x zoom range.
The EBR-2C reticle is a bit busier than some, but it provides a wealth of information for those who know how to use it. In low light, the finer details can be hard to pick out, but the main posts remain visible.
The exposed turrets are a nice touch for those who like to dial. They’re tactile and audible, making adjustments easy even when you can’t see them clearly.
Trijicon AccuPoint 2.5-10×56
If you want top-of-the-line low light performance and are willing to pay for it, look no further than the Trijicon AccuPoint.
Key Features:
- 2.5-10x magnification
- 56mm objective lens
- Fiber optic illuminated reticle
- Second focal plane
What I Love:
The AccuPoint’s claim to fame is its fiber optic illumination system. It automatically adjusts to ambient light conditions, getting brighter as it gets darker outside. No batteries required!
- SUPERIOR QUALITY LENSES: Multi-coated lenses provide superior clarity and light gathering capabilities with zero distortion
- BATTERY-FREE ILLUMINATION: Fiber optic technology automatically adjusts the brightness level and contrast of the reticle aiming point to available light conditions and a tritium phosphor lamp illuminates the reticle in low to no light
The 56mm objective lens is a light-gathering monster. Combined with Trijicon’s excellent glass quality, this scope turns twilight into high noon.
The 2.5-10x magnification range is perfect for most hunting situations. You’ve got a wide field of view at 2.5x for close-in work, and enough magnification at 10x for precise shots out to several hundred yards.
ATN X-Sight 4K Pro 5-20x
Now, if you want to take your low light game to the next level, it’s time to talk about digital scopes. The ATN X-Sight 4K Pro is a technological marvel that’s revolutionizing low light hunting.
Key Features:
- 5-20x magnification
- 4K sensor
- Night vision and thermal modes
- Video recording and streaming
What I Love:
This scope is like having superpowers. The digital sensor amplifies available light, giving you a clear image long after your naked eye would be useless. And when it gets really dark? Switch to night vision mode.
- ULTRA HD 4K+ RESOLUTION WITH BRAND NEW SENSOR – Creating a visual expereince like never before. With true tones and vivid colors giving a true to life visual sensation.
- NIGHT VISION MODE – Enhanced Night Vision Mode for Crisp, Vivid Night Time Images in Ultra HD. In the cover of night trust ATN to give you sight.
The ability to record your hunts is a game-changer. No more trying to describe that monster buck to your buddies – just show them the footage!
One caveat – there is a learning curve with digital scopes. The image isn’t as natural as traditional glass, and there can be some lag at higher magnifications. But once you get used to it, the capabilities are mind-blowing.
Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 F1
For the long-range enthusiasts who refuse to let a little darkness stop them, there’s the Nightforce ATACR.
Key Features:
- 5-25x magnification
- 56mm objective lens
- First focal plane reticle
- ZeroStop elevation adjustment
What I Love:
The optical clarity on Nightforce scopes is legendary, and the ATACR is their crown jewel. Even at max magnification in low light, the image stays bright and clear.
- EXCEPTIONAL OPTICAL PERFORMANCE – The Nightforce ATACR – 5-25x56mm F1 hunting scope features top-tier ED glass, providing outstanding optical clarity and brightness. This ensures sharp, vivid images, even in challenging lighting conditions, enabling precise target identification and engagement
The first focal plane reticle is a boon for rangefinding and holdovers in any light condition. The reticle grows and shrinks with magnification, so your holdover points are always accurate.
The ZeroStop feature on the elevation turret is brilliant. No matter how many adjustments you make, you can always instantly return to your zero with a quick spin of the dial.
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 3-9×40
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still performs in low light, the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn deserves a spot on your shortlist.
Key Features:
- 3-9x magnification
- 40mm objective lens
- DDB (Dusk & Dawn Brightness) multi-coated lenses
- Water/fog/shockproof
What I Love:
Bushnell’s DDB coating is surprisingly effective. It noticeably brightens the image in low light conditions, giving you those crucial extra minutes at dawn and dusk.
- Bright. Accurate. Dependable. We’ll assume your stand is in the right spot and suggest our Banner Dusk & Dawn series to capitalize on the latter. With their Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses, these riflescopes cast clarity and brightness.
The 3-9x magnification range is versatile enough for most hunting situations. It’s not going to win any long-range competitions, but for typical hunting distances, it’s more than adequate.
At this price point, you’re not getting the premium features of higher-end scopes. But for a reliable, no-frills low light performer, the Banner Dusk & Dawn is hard to beat.
Swarovski Z8i 2-16×50 P
If money is no object and you want the absolute best in low light performance, look no further than the Swarovski Z8i.
Key Features:
- 2-16x magnification
- 50mm objective lens
- Illuminated reticle with automatic shut-off
- Ballistic turret
What I Love:
The glass quality on Swarovski scopes is in a league of its own. The clarity and light transmission are simply stunning, especially in low light conditions.
The 2-16x magnification range is incredibly versatile. You’ve got a wide field of view at 2x for close-in shots, and plenty of zoom for precise long-range work.
The illuminated reticle is perfectly executed. It’s just bright enough to stand out without overwhelming your sight picture, and the automatic shut-off saves battery life.
Primary Arms SLx 4-14x44mm FFP
Rounding out our list is a scope that offers a lot of bang for your buck – the Primary Arms SLx.
Key Features:
- 4-14x magnification
- 44mm objective lens
- First focal plane ACSS HUD DMR reticle
- Fully multi-coated lenses
What I Love:
The ACSS HUD DMR reticle is a work of art. It provides rangefinding, wind hold, and moving target leads all in one package. In low light, the main posts remain visible even when the finer details fade. View price
The first focal plane design means your holdovers are always accurate, regardless of magnification. This is especially useful in low light when you might not have time to dial for elevation.
The glass quality is impressive for the price point. It’s not quite on par with the high-end offerings, but it holds its own in low light conditions.
Choosing the Right Low Light Scope for You
Now that we’ve gone through my top picks, you might be wondering how to choose the right one for your needs. Here are a few things to consider:
Budget: Low light scopes can range from under $200 to well over $2000. Set a budget and stick to it. Remember, the most expensive option isn’t always the best for your specific needs.
Intended Use: Are you primarily hunting whitetails from a tree stand, or are you taking long shots at elk in the Rockies? Your hunting style will dictate the features you need.
Magnification Range: For most hunting situations, a lower magnification range (like 3-9x or 2-10x) is plenty. Higher magnifications can be useful for long-range shooting, but they also reduce your field of view and light transmission.
Objective Lens Size: Generally, larger objective lenses gather more light. However, they also add weight and bulk to your rifle. A 40-50mm objective lens is a good compromise for most hunters.
Reticle Type: Illuminated reticles can be very helpful in low light, but they’re not essential. Simple duplex reticles can still be effective and are less likely to fail.
Additional Features: Things like zero-stop turrets, parallax adjustment, and first focal plane reticles can be nice to have, but they also add to the cost. Decide which features are must-haves for you.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the best low light scope is the one that meets your specific needs and fits your budget. All of the scopes on this list are capable performers in low light conditions. It’s just a matter of finding the right balance of features, performance, and price for you.
Remember, a scope is an investment in your hunting success. It’s worth spending the time to research and, if possible, test out different options before making a decision. Your perfect low light companion is out there – it’s just a matter of finding it.
Happy hunting, and may all your twilight adventures be successful ones!