By Joel Mccartan
Hey there, fellow hunters and night vision enthusiasts! Joel here, back with another gear roundup to help you see clearly when the sun goes down. As an avid hunter myself, I know firsthand how game-changing a good night vision scope can be for after-dark pursuits. But I also know that not everyone wants to drop several grand on top-end optics.
That’s why I’ve put together this guide to the best night vision scopes you can snag for under a grand in 2024. I’ve spent countless hours in the field testing these scopes in real-world conditions. From stalking hogs to keeping coyotes away from livestock, I’ve put each of these through its paces to see which ones truly deliver.
So grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let’s dive into the world of affordable night vision! I’ll walk you through my top picks, explain the key features to look for, and share some hard-earned tips to help you choose the perfect scope for your needs. Let’s get started!
Our Top 3 Recommendations
Best Overall: ATN X-Sight 4K Pro
- Magnification: 3-14x
- Sensor Resolution: 3864×2218
- Battery Life: 18+ hours
Best Digital: Sightmark Wraith HD
- Magnification: 4-32x
- Resolution: 1920×1080
- Battery Life: 4.5 hours
Best Value: Sniper HD 4.5x50mm
- Magnification: 4.5x
- Resolution: 1080p
- Objective Lens: 50mm
Why Invest in a Night Vision Scope?
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s talk about why you might want to add a night vision scope to your arsenal in the first place. As someone who’s spent many a night in the woods, I can tell you these gadgets are absolute game-changers:
Extend Your Hunting Hours: With a good night vision scope, you’re no longer limited to daylight hours. This opens up a whole new world of hunting opportunities, especially for nocturnal game like hogs or predators.
Improved Safety: Better visibility in low-light conditions means safer hunting, plain and simple. You’ll be able to clearly identify your target and what’s beyond it.
Predator Control: For those of us dealing with coyotes or other nighttime pests, a night vision scope is an invaluable tool for protecting livestock and property.
Pure Fun: Let’s be honest – there’s something undeniably cool about being able to see clearly in the dark. It adds a whole new dimension to your outdoor adventures.
Now, let’s get into the meat of it – my top picks for night vision scopes under $1000 in 2024:
10 Best Night Vision Scopes Under $1000 in 2024 – Reviewed
ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart Day/Night Rifle Scope
Kicking off our list is a scope that’s become my go-to for most nighttime hunting – the ATN X-Sight 4K Pro. This thing is packed with features that make it feel like it should cost way more than it does.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 3-14x
- Resolution: 3864×2218
- Day/Night modes
- Built-in rangefinder & ballistic calculator
- Video recording & streaming
- Battery Life: 18+ hours
What I Love: The image quality on this scope is phenomenal, day or night. The 4K sensor delivers crisp, clear visuals that make target identification a breeze. I’ve used it successfully on hog hunts out to 200 yards in near-total darkness.
The smart features are genuinely useful, not just gimmicks. The ballistic calculator has saved me from missing shots on windy nights, and being able to record and share video of your hunts is a fun bonus.
Potential Drawbacks: There’s a bit of a learning curve with all the features. It took me a couple of range sessions to really get comfortable with the interface. Also, while the battery life is great, it’s not swappable in the field, so bring a power bank for extended trips.
Overall: For the price, you’re getting an incredibly capable scope that works just as well during the day as it does at night. It’s my top all-around pick for good reason.
Sightmark Wraith HD Digital Riflescope
Next up is the Sightmark Wraith HD, a scope that’s become increasingly popular among budget-conscious hunters. It offers a lot of bang for your buck, especially if you’re primarily focused on nighttime use.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 4-32x
- Resolution: 1920×1080
- Day/Night/Green modes
- 10 reticle options
- Video recording
- Battery Life: 4.5 hours
What I Love: The Wraith HD delivers surprisingly good image quality for its price point. The built-in IR illuminator works well out to about 200 yards, which is plenty for most hunting situations. I’m also a big fan of the multiple reticle options – it’s nice to be able to switch things up based on your target and conditions.
Potential Drawbacks: The 4.5-hour battery life can be limiting on longer hunts. I always pack extra batteries when I take this one out. Also, while it works fine during the day, the image quality isn’t quite as good as dedicated day scopes.
Overall: If you’re primarily looking for a night vision scope and don’t need all the bells and whistles of the ATN, the Wraith HD is a solid choice that won’t break the bank.
AGM Rattler TS19-256 Thermal Scope
Switching gears a bit, let’s talk about the AGM Rattler. This is actually a thermal scope rather than traditional night vision, but I’m including it because it offers some unique advantages for certain hunting situations.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 1.5x (2x/4x digital zoom)
- Sensor Resolution: 256×192
- 50Hz refresh rate
- Multiple color palettes
- Video recording
- Lightweight design
What I Love: Thermal imaging is incredible for detecting animals in heavy cover or fog where traditional night vision struggles. I’ve used the Rattler for scanning large fields for hogs and it picks up heat signatures amazingly well. The different color palettes are useful for adapting to different conditions.
Potential Drawbacks: The base magnification is quite low, so this is best for closer range work. Also, while great for detection, thermal imaging doesn’t give you the same level of detail as night vision for positive target identification at longer ranges.
Overall: If you’re dealing with thick brush or need to scan large areas quickly, the Rattler is a fantastic tool. It’s not for everyone, but in the right situation, it’s hard to beat.
Night Owl Optics NightShot Digital Night Vision Riflescope
For those on a tighter budget, the Night Owl NightShot offers entry into the world of digital night vision without breaking the bank.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 3x
- Resolution: 640×480
- Built-in IR illuminator
- 3 reticle choices
- Weather-resistant
- Uses standard AA batteries
What I Love: The NightShot is incredibly user-friendly. If you’re new to night vision, this is a great place to start. The image quality is decent out to about 100 yards, which is plenty for many hunting situations. I also appreciate that it uses standard AA batteries – no worrying about proprietary rechargeables dying in the field.
Potential Drawbacks: The 3x fixed magnification limits versatility. The overall image quality and range aren’t on par with more expensive options, but that’s to be expected at this price point.
Overall: If you’re just dipping your toes into night vision or need a backup scope that won’t break the bank, the NightShot is worth considering. It’s not the fanciest, but it gets the job done.
ATN ThOR LT 320 3-6x Thermal Rifle Scope
Another entry from ATN, the ThOR LT brings thermal imaging capabilities at a more accessible price point than many competitors.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 3-6x
- Sensor Resolution: 320×240
- One-shot zero
- Multiple color modes
- Video recording
- Lightweight design
What I Love: The ThOR LT offers a great balance of performance and price in the thermal world. The image quality is good enough for positive ID out to 300 yards or so in my experience. The one-shot zero feature is a huge time-saver at the range. I’ve found it to be very reliable on my .308 AR-10.
Potential Drawbacks: As with other thermals, you don’t get the same level of detail as night vision, especially at longer ranges. The battery life is also shorter than some competitors at around 10 hours.
Overall: If you want to get into thermal without spending a fortune, the ThOR LT is a solid choice. It’s particularly good for hog hunting or predator control where you need to spot animals in heavy cover.
Firefield NVRS 3×42 Gen 1 Night Vision Riflescope
The Firefield NVRS represents the budget-friendly end of traditional, analog night vision technology.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 3x
- Generation: Gen 1
- Built-in IR illuminator
- Lightweight titanium body
- Weather-resistant
- Long battery life
What I Love: Sometimes simple is good, and the Firefield delivers on that front. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and the image quality is surprisingly decent for a Gen 1 device. The built-in IR illuminator works well for closer range shooting. I’ve successfully used this for raccoon hunting around the farm.
Potential Drawbacks: Being Gen 1 technology, the image quality and range are limited compared to digital or higher-gen analog scopes. There’s also some edge distortion typical of Gen 1 optics.
Overall: If you’re on a tight budget and don’t need long-range performance, the Firefield can be a good entry point into night vision. Just be aware of its limitations.
Sightmark Photon RT 4.5x42S Digital Night Vision Riflescope
Another entry from Sightmark, the Photon RT offers a step up in performance from the Wraith while still staying under our $1000 threshold.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 4.5x (2x digital zoom)
- Resolution: 768×576
- Day/night modes
- 6 reticle options
- Video recording
- Long eye relief
What I Love: The Photon RT delivers noticeably better image quality than budget digital scopes, especially when it comes to clarity at longer ranges. The day mode works quite well, making this a versatile option for all-day hunts. I’m also a fan of the long eye relief, which is great for comfort and safety with hard-recoiling rifles.
Potential Drawbacks: The fixed 4.5x magnification might be limiting for some users who prefer more flexibility. Battery life is decent at about 5 hours, but not exceptional.
Overall: The Photon RT hits a nice sweet spot of performance and price. If the Wraith is a bit too basic for your needs but you don’t want to spring for the ATN X-Sight, this is a great middle ground.
Pulsar Axion Key XM30 Thermal Monocular
I know, I know – this isn’t technically a rifle scope. But hear me out on why I’m including the Pulsar Axion in this list.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 5.5x (2x digital zoom)
- Sensor Resolution: 320×240
- 8 color palettes
- Picture-in-picture digital zoom
- 4-hour battery life
- Extremely compact and lightweight
What I Love: The Axion is incredibly versatile. Use it as a handheld scanner to locate game, then switch to your regular scope for the shot. Or, with the right adapter, you can even mount it in front of a day scope for a dual-purpose setup. The image quality is excellent for its size, and being able to spot heat signatures out to 1000 yards is a game-changer for locating distant game.
Potential Drawbacks: It’s not a dedicated rifle scope, so mounting requires some extra equipment. The battery life is also on the shorter side at 4 hours.
Overall: If you want maximum flexibility in your night vision setup, the Axion is worth considering. It’s a fantastic spotting tool that can also serve as a scope with the right mounting solution.
ATN X-Sight LTV 3-9x Day & Night Vision Rifle Scope
Rounding out our ATN offerings is the X-Sight LTV, which aims to deliver core night vision functionality without some of the more advanced features of its bigger brothers.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 3-9x
- HD sensor
- Day/night modes
- Simple, intuitive controls
- One-shot zero
- 10+ hour battery life
What I Love: The LTV strikes a great balance between performance and ease of use. The controls are straightforward, making it a good choice for those who find the 4K Pro overwhelming. Image quality is very good, especially considering the price point. I’ve found it to be a reliable performer for coyote hunting.
Potential Drawbacks: You lose out on some of the advanced features like video recording and ballistic calculations found in pricier ATN models. The magnification range is also more limited.
Overall: If you want ATN quality without all the bells and whistles, the LTV is a solid choice. It’s a no-fuss scope that simply gets the job done.
Bering Optics Hogster-R 3.1×42 Gen 1 Night Vision Sight
Last but not least, we have the Bering Optics Hogster-R, another analog night vision option for those who prefer traditional technology.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 3.1x
- Generation: Gen 1+
- Titanium body
- Quick-release mount
- Waterproof design
- Long battery life
What I Love: The Hogster-R is built like a tank. The titanium body can take a beating, and the waterproof design means you don’t have to baby it in rough conditions. The quick-release mount is a nice touch for easily switching between day and night optics. I’ve found the image quality to be a step above most Gen 1 devices.
Potential Drawbacks: As with any Gen 1 device, you’re limited in range and overall image quality compared to digital or higher-gen options. The fixed magnification also limits versatility.
Overall: If you prefer the reliability of analog night vision and want something that can stand up to abuse, the Hogster-R is worth a look. It’s particularly well-suited for close-range hog hunting in rough conditions.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Night Vision Scope
Now that we’ve gone through the top contenders, let’s talk about what you should keep in mind when making your choice:
Intended Use: Are you primarily hunting hogs at close range, or do you need to reach out for coyotes at 200+ yards? Your specific needs will heavily influence which scope is best for you.
Digital vs. Analog: Digital scopes often offer more features and better performance for the price, but some hunters prefer the simplicity and reliability of analog Gen 1 or Gen 2 devices.
Magnification: Fixed vs. variable, and how much you need. Remember, higher isn’t always better, especially for close-range work.
Battery Life: Consider how long you typically spend in the field and whether you can easily swap batteries.
Additional Features: Things like video recording, rangefinders, and ballistic calculators can be useful but also drive up the price. Decide what’s truly important to you.
Day/Night Versatility: Some scopes work well in both day and night conditions, while others are night-specific. Think about whether you want one optic to do it all or if you’re okay switching.
Durability: Consider the conditions you’ll be using the scope in. If you’re rough on gear, prioritize rugged construction and weather resistance.
Ease of Use: Some of the more feature-rich scopes have a learning curve. If you prefer simplicity, that might influence your choice.
FAQs
Q: Are night vision scopes legal for hunting?
A: Laws vary by state and sometimes even by county. Always check your local regulations before using night vision for hunting. Some areas restrict it to predator control only, while others allow it for hogs or other specific game.
Q: How far can I see with these scopes?
A: It varies widely depending on the specific scope and conditions. In general, you can expect usable images out to 100-200 yards with most sub-$1000 scopes. Some, like the ATN X-Sight 4K Pro, can reach further in good conditions.
Q: Do I need an IR illuminator?
A: In most cases, yes. While some night vision devices can work with just ambient moonlight or starlight, an IR illuminator greatly enhances image quality and range, especially on darker nights. Many scopes have built-in illuminators, but you can also add more powerful external ones for extended range.
Q: Can these scopes be used during the day?
A: It depends on the specific model. Digital scopes like the ATN X-Sight 4K Pro and Sightmark Wraith HD have dedicated day modes and work well in all lighting conditions. Traditional Gen 1 analog scopes should not be used in bright daylight as it can damage the intensifier tube.
Q: How do thermal scopes differ from night vision?
A: Thermal scopes detect heat signatures rather than amplifying available light. They can spot animals through light fog or foliage where traditional night vision might struggle. However, they typically offer less detail for positive identification at longer ranges.
Q: What’s the difference between generations of night vision?
A: Night vision technology is classified into generations, with higher generations offering better performance but at increased cost. Gen 1 is the most affordable but has the lowest image quality and range. Gen 2 and 3 offer significant improvements but usually exceed our $1000 budget here. Most digital night vision scopes don’t fall into the traditional generation classifications.
Conclusion
There you have it, folks – my rundown of the best night vision scopes you can snag for under a grand in 2024. Whether you’re a seasoned night hunter or just getting started, there’s an option here to fit your needs and budget.
Remember, the “best” scope is the one that works for your specific situation. Consider your typical hunting conditions, the game you’re after, and how you plan to use the scope. Don’t be afraid to visit a local shop and get hands-on with a few different models if you can.
Personally, I find myself reaching for the ATN X-Sight 4K Pro most often these days. The combination of image quality, smart features, and versatility is hard to beat. But for pure simplicity on quick predator control outings, I still love the straightforward performance of the Night Owl NightShot.
Whichever scope you choose, remember to practice with it before heading out on a real hunt. Night vision takes some getting used to, and you want to be confident in your equipment when it counts.
I hope this guide has been helpful in your quest for better night vision. If you have any questions or want to share your own experiences with these scopes, drop a comment below. I’m always eager to hear from fellow night owls!
Until next time, happy hunting and stay safe out there!
Joel Mccartan
Night Vision Enthusiast & Avid Hunter