Best Night Vision Scopes – Ultimate Guide

The best night vision scope is a telescopic device used for sighting distant objects, which is beneficial for enhanced viewing in hunting. However, the scope alone is not enough for you to hunt in the dark.

Night vision is an image intensifier technology that helps you view moving objects at a maximum distance of 1,000 yards in low-light or dark environments. You would not see this far with only naked eyes.

It served exclusive military purposes but is now widely available for civilian use and adapts to many devices. This article introduces and reviews a helpful combination of night vision and scope in a rifle.

Short on time? Check out our Picks for the Best night vision scopes

Best Night Vision Scope: 10 Night Vision Scope Reviews

#1 ATN X-Sight-4k Smart Hunting Rifle Scope Pro Edition Review – for expert long-range shots

The ATN X-Sight-4k hunting scope has a sturdy aluminum build but does not add weight to your rifle. Its Pro edition offers a wide range of features that benefit your video recording for hunting in the dark.

Plus, its Ultra HD sensor and dual-core processor produce 4K resolution with vibrancy. Not only does the tool stream HD videos on your mobile device, but it also records them to an SD card inside.

Thanks to the recoil-activated video (RAV) technology, you can trust the rifle scope to automatically activate a smart recording function. It begins to automatically record videos before and after you shoot.

However, the X-Sight-4k hunting scope includes a terribly designed memory card slot. You may lose cards into this unit due to the big slot gap. The only way to get the cards back is to take the slot apart.

#2 Night Owl Digital Night Vision Rifles cope – For Easy Use

This riflescope from Night Owl is easy to use with 3 simple steps:   mount, sight, and shoot. In typical nighttime conditions, it can boost your vision to 100 – 200 yards to aim and hunt down moving objects.

Its highlight feature is the built-in infrared illuminator (IR) that allows a 640×480 high-resolution display. Hunters have up to 7 hours of usage when the illuminator is on High mode and 4 hours on Low.

The night scope is compatible with whatever hunting device you have, including shotgun, rifle, crossbow, and handgun for enhanced vision. Besides hunting, feel free to apply it for airsoft and paintball.

Some people find the Night Owl digital scope’s battery installation hard to handle in the dark. You have to remove the scope from your rifle to replace the batteries, but it is almost impossible in the dark.

#3 Bestsight Digital Night Vision Scope Review – for Rifle Hunting with Camera

You may immediately notice the mount on eyepieces with a large diameter up to 43mm on this scope to adjust your vision. The best part is these eyepieces work with various riflescopes on the market.

Besides its 360° camera to record videos in high resolution, there is an extra 5-inch portable display screen with a 5W infrared flashlight. These tools create the ideal use of this product in day and nighttime.

That is how you can get excellent night captures for a satisfying visual experience. It also serves multiple purposes like hunting, surveillance use, cave exploring, or wildlife observation in the dark.

You should be aware that the Bestsight digital night vision scope may be a bit too small for certain arm types. It appears to work best with arm rifles as a larger caliber having more coil can do damage to it.

#4 Sightmark Wraith Digital Night Vision Rifles cope – Best For Magnification

If you are looking for a night scope with an incredible magnifying feature, you have come to the right place for this Sightmark Wraith item. This is how it can support you to observe and hunt in the dark.

Its normal zooming rate is 8x compared to the original image from afar (up to 200 yards away from you). But there is an advanced optical system that zooms in 4x more to achieve a 32x magnification.

The tool’s HD sensor enables 1080p quality video recording and photo capturing. It offers diverse color viewings in different light conditions: black&white/green at night and full color in the daytime.

You might notice the scope screen starting to appear some sort of bubbles on its viewfinder after short use. This problem can affect its overall performance, so contact the brand quickly after it happens.

#5 TheOpticGuru ATN X-Sight-4k Day/Night Scope – For Wireless Connection

theOpticGuru ATN scope for day/night use is one of the best gen 3 night vision scopes. It provides a smooth operation and low power consumption up to 18-hour use. No more worry about battery issues.

This product supports video streaming and recording through Wifi and Bluetooth connection. Turning these features on simultaneously does not do any harm or bad effects to the item’s overall function.

The dual-core processor called Obsidian IV combines with an Ultra HD Sensor to bring you quality images whenever hunting. As the unit senses the recoil inside, it automatically saves videos on the SD card.

One of this night vision scope’s biggest downside is the ATN brand not being friendly on product warranty. If any defection happens to the item, it is highly likely that you cannot contact this manufacturer.

#6 Sightmark Photon Digital Night Vision Riflescope – With Accessories

With an LED infrared illuminator, this scope from Sightmark assists you by creating better light environments. It can connect with the Stream Vision App for wifi streaming with a built-in sound recorder.

Thanks to the 2x digital zoom feature, you can have a closer look at your hunting target in complete darkness up to 280 yards. Choose between 6 reticle choices in 4 colors to customize the unit as wished.

Here are what you can receive for free in this digital riflescope box: a user manual, a carrying case, a USB cable, an extra pouch to store batteries, and a lens cloth to wipe out dust particles from the scope.

Nonetheless, the image quality may not be as high as expected. You may experience blurriness and grainy effects on its video during nighttime. Plus, there are certain technical failures, such as skipping.

#7 Pulsar Digex N455 Digital Night Vision Riflescope – For Weatherproof

Although many products on the market claim that their construction is waterproof, not all of their performances truly resist water. You want to check out the Pulsa Digex N455 riflescope for more details.

Its material blend of complete metal is both rugged and reliable for long-term use. You will be surprised to know that this tool is IPX7 waterproof rated and handles a wide temperature range up to 122°F.

Most users appreciate this night vision riflescope for having a special mode called “Picture in Picture” to help them aim more precisely in the dark. Its sensitivity at night is exceptional of 1280×720 HD quality.

One noticeable shortcoming of the digital scope for night use is how heavy it is compared to similar products. Without proper rest, you would not want to be holding the heavy unit on your arms for long.

#8 ATN X-Sight-II Smart Day/Night Rifle Scope – With Ballistic Calculator

While other rifle scopes may disappoint you by offering short aiming only, we believe you will enjoy using this smart X-Sight-II day/night item from ATN. Here is what you need to know about the digital tool.

Calculating ballistics is an essential need for every hunter in their session. As the equipment shifts the point of impact right on the fly, you can quickly determine the exact ballistics for long-range shots.

Besides that, its flexible tune adjustments from the smooth zoom are highly beneficial for your image magnification up to 14x. The ballistic coefficient in this magnification is about 0.371, which is a stable rate.

What we dislike the most in the ATN X-Sight-II day/night scope is the clunky user interface. Most people find the menu is extremely hard to transverse as they are zeroing or changing between modes.

#9 FLIR CO-LR LRF Night Vision Gen 2+ Riflescope – Lightweight

Unlike heavyweight models that put so much weight on your arm after holding for a while, the FLIR Gen 2+ riflescope is made of light plastic. The item weighs 2.86 pounds for easy use with no pressure.

You will know why this version is a great choice when comparing gen 1 vs gen 2 night vision scopes. Its large 108mm lens and intensifier tubes inside capture clear night images from a long range.

Fortunately, there has been no critical review on this product so far. Nearly all of its users are happy with its performance. We believe the FLIR rifle scope would be an ideal upgrade from your Gen 1 device.

#10 Sightmark Photon RT 6-12×50 Digital Night Vision Riflescope – For Multitasking

The Sightmark Photon digital night vision scope is a big size unit but lightweight enough not to add weight to its users’ holding. It is widely known for producing HD-quality images via a 768×576 smart sensor.

We love how this night vision equipment performs best for multiple purposes in the dark, such as hunting, airsoft, climbing, tactical, and military. Its wide variety of 6 reticle options will surely impress you.

The worst part about this model is that you have to re-zero the tool every time you want to use it. Unfortunately, it fails to hold zero well. You can contact the seller if any product issues like this one occur.

Night Scope Generations (1, 2, 3)

1. Gen 1

Affordability is what people notice the most in Gen 1 night scopes. However, its main technology dates way back to the 1960s, resulting in many limitations these days. Here is Gen 1 items’ working ability.

• The maximum clear viewing range is around 75 yards.
• Transmitted images are low in resolution with more static.
• The battery life is relatively short.
• Cannot operate without built-in infrared illuminators that are always on, making its user visible to another person using night vision devices.
• Inadaptability to riflescopes like newer generations.

2. Gen 2

Gen 2 products are a major leap of advanced technology compared to Gen 1. Gen 2 vs Gen 3 night vision is quite close in terms of function, but you should know its different quality levels before buying.

• Longer useful range up to 200 yards (depends on models).
• Cleaner and brighter images in higher resolution.
• Long battery life for uninterrupted use.
• Not prone to image distortion from external light like Gen 1.
• Improved versatility in its monoculars.
• More reliable with 3x longer life expectancy (5,000 hours) than Gen 1 (1,500 hours).

3. Gen 3

The US Military and Special Forces are now using Gen 3 night vision scopes. That is how you know this level is the current gold standard. Its advantages will blow your mind with its excellent working ability.

• Performs well in more than 300 yards (depends on surrounding conditions).
• The best solution up to 4K HD for clean images.
• Can operate in all light conditions, including daytime.
• The most outstanding low-light performance so far.
• High versatility to adapt with multiple devices and mounting types.
• The longest life expectancy is up to 10,000 hours.

Thermal scope Vs Night vision scope- Which is better

Most people assume that night vision and thermal imaging is kind of the same technology. Both of them are helpful in improving hunting experiences, but there are certain differences that you should know:

• Night vision needs to have visible lighting nearby to function. Thermal imaging can work on its own.
• The core mechanism of night vision is to amplify nearby light. Thermal imaging applies infrared sensors to measure changes in temperatures of surrounding objects.
• After taking a scene and magnifying the light, night vision turns it into an image with a green tint. While thermal imaging delivers heat signatures into clear images, those with higher heat are shown in bright red, yellow, or orange.
• Certain conditions like smoke, rain, dust, fog, overcast nights may obstruct night vision view. Thermal imaging allows you to see in total darkness.

Buying Guide – How To Choose The Best Night Vision Scope?

Now that many modern night vision scopes include thermal imaging (or integrated infrared illuminators), this combination has improved the tool for the better. It can fix almost all issues of old night vision.

Whether it is for your next hunting trip or varmint control on your farm, a well-rounded add-on for your rifle can be of great help. With so much to choose from nowadays, you can feel lost and overwhelmed. However, finding the best night vision scope is easy if you know what to look for.

Clarity

Like any other scope, a night vision riflescope’s main responsibility is to enable you to see and aim at your targets quicker and with greater accuracy. This is also why you should check the clarity when looking for this device. People often use lines per millimeter or LP/MM to measure the clarity of a rifle scope. 

Products with a higher clarity index will give you clearer, better-quality images. The more lines per millimeter there are, the higher its clarity is. The majority of add-ons on the market today already allow you to spot your target at 200 yards. This means you can easily hunt a variety of prey and varmints.

More high-end products have LP/MM or clarity ratings hovering around the 60 to 70 mark. But these might not be the best fit with buyers running on a budget. Note that this kind of product is totally capable at around an LP/MM rating of around 22.

Magnification And Zoom

You will most likely encounter a rifle scope that ranges between 3x and 12x magnifying capacity. So, the image you see using these products will at least be three times as large as what you would normally see. You will get a much better aim at your subjects through the ocular lens.

Variable-power scopes come with adjustable zooming options, whereas fixed scopes have only one set of magnification. The main purpose of a night vision riflescope is to see and aim in the dark. In most cases, you may not prioritize the ability to see great distances.

Many products that incorporate night vision technology, including binoculars, goggles, and riflescope, will not have an amazing optical resolution. This is especially true when you compare them to their more conventional counterparts that are daytime optics.

When you go up on the magnification scale, the quality of your image will go down. However, scopes with a digital zoom option can help you negate this decline in image quality. This ability offers you a wider range of magnification options.

Optics & Resolution

The optics of the product you choose is extremely important since they are directly responsible for the image’s quality. It is because they correlate with your device’s ability for light collection. This will, in turn, affect the quality of your image. So with better optics, your image can appear clearer and crisper.

You should try seeking out optics with proper coatings made of high fiberglass. The ideal device should come with a cleaning cloth and caps. These extra inclusions will help enhance the performance of your scope.

The resolution, meanwhile, refers to the device’s ability to distinguish many small details. To detailedly make out the different things, you will need decent resolution within any image. Another specification you need to know about is contrast. The device can transmit the difference between dark and light faithfully.

An image with high resolution and low contrast will make small details look much more pronounced but larger ones murkier. 

Conversely, if an image comes with high contrast yet low resolution, all the large details can appear very distinct, while smaller details will virtually be non-existent. You should consider this fact to harmonize these optical specifications.

Reticle Type/Size

A reticle is a group of lines in the eyepiece of an optical device we use to locate or aim at objects. It is commonly called the crosshairs because of its typical configuration and arrangement of two thin lines that form a cross. But they can also be made up of different combinations of dots and bars instead of just fine lines.

Duplex, or multiplex, reticle design is one of the more common ones. Its main crosshairs are thicker, which makes viewing much easier, even in low light conditions. In the proximity of the cross-section center, the lines are very fine. This is to enable more accurate aiming at backgrounds where there are dense covers.

You will need a reticle displaying MOA or MIL marks for holdover if you enjoy long-range shooting. In general, we recommend you go for the reticle option most fitting to your shooting style.

Battery Life

Like all other devices, this type of scope runs on batteries. Having batteries as their power source means that the type of battery used is very important. It will have significant effects on its lifespan and overall performance. You can improve the item’s run time performance and prolong its longevity with the right battery.

Typically, it is advisable to seek out optic devices that run on high-grade double-A batteries. It is because they are generally rechargeable and durable, perfect for repeated uses. 

Opting for lithium-ion batteries is also not a bad idea. Choosing a compatible battery pack combined with some extra care can make your devices have an expected lifespan of up to 10,000 hours.

Weight

The standard weight of scopes often falls between 2 to 3 pounds. Carrying your weapon for a long period of time, any extra weight can tire you more and slow you down. Products with larger objectives and extra features can be helpful, but they can also weigh a lot.

If you intend to minimize a rifle’s total weight, consider fixed-power scope. They are much more compact and come with a medium-sized objective. They can provide a large exit pupil with a well-lit image but weigh noticeably less than a variable power scope.

Technology

Riflescopes for nighttime uses differ depending on the technology. They are split into four different generations referred to as gen 1, gen 2, gen 3, or gen 4 scopes. 

Unsurprisingly, devices of each gen have different levels of technology, with the later gen being more high-tech and offering a lot more extra features than the previous ones. 

Later gen products can be more expensive and bulkier. On the other hand, earlier gen models provide solid performances, yet their images can sometimes be blurry and grainy. You as a buyer should find your personal balance between budget and functionality, between lightweight and image quality.

Construction And Durability

An important factor of a well-rounded scope is its durability. Going on long hunts can very likely damage your scope, especially when hunting at night in the dark. Therefore, it is essential to look for a durable device with sturdy and solid housing made of high-quality materials. 

Another point in construction you might want to look out for is the item’s weather-resistant capability. This criterion helps ensure that the product you choose is well suited to all kinds of weather variations. Possessing waterproof housing is the first good sign of a capable and durable scope.

FAQs about Best Night Vision Scope

What Is The Best Night Vision Scope?

You can count on all of the reviewed products in this article as the most excellent night vision scopes. Although there are many brands and similar items on the market, they are as highly reliable as the finest.

What Kind Of Light Does Night Vision Scopes Use?

A night vision scope applies thermal imaging to catch infrared light. It helps you view what is happening in the dark. As it is based on the heat produced by other objects, you can observe and hunt any target.

How Far Can You Shoot Using A Night Vision Scopes?

Many modern night vision scopes provide an integrated infrared (IR) illuminator with a short-range floodlight style. The maximum range this device offers in the dark is up to 1,000 yards depending on the models.

Can I Use A Night Vision Scope During The Day?

It is not difficult to find a scope that works both during the daytime and at night. You can see that the ATN manufacturer produces units that are lightweight and compatible with all light conditions at low prices.

What Night Vision Scope Does The Military Use?

Currently, the US armed forces use PVS-14 monoculars. It is arguably the most versatile and commonly used product. About the specific brand, the US military has officially chosen the scopes from the Leupold company based in Oregon.

Is Thermal Imaging Better Than Night Vision?

In hunting, thermal is best utilized to detect the desired subjects. Meanwhile, night-vision models are best when used to identify, recognize, and harvest the hunt mostly for deer depredation only. If it is possible to choose, thermal imaging will be the better option for twenty-four-hour imaging.

What Is A Best Night Vision Scope For An AR 15?

The AR 15 is perfect for predator hunting. Some night vision scope choices for your AR 15 might include ATN X Sight 4K Pro 5-20X, Bering Optics D-760, Atn X-Sight LTV 3-9x, Sniper HD 4.5×50, ATN Thor 4 Smart HD, AGM Wolverine 4 NL2.

How Long Do Night Vision Scopes Last?

It is different depending on which generation your device is. A standard Gen 2 and a higher system would give you around operational 5,000 hours. A perfect Gen 3 can provide you with as much as 15,000 hours of use, but 10,000 to 12,000 is probably more realistic.

How Far Can Gen 3 Night Vision See?

Overall, Gen 3 has the optimal resolution with the clearest images. Depending on the model, the range can be well over 300 yards. It is also ideal for hunting without resorting to any IR illumination on covert operations.

Conclusion

After going through this guide on how to find the Best Night Vision Scope, you can rest assured that you will know exactly what to go for the next time you ponder a list of devices. Aside from the aforementioned things, your hunting style is also very important, so be sure to consider it.

We hope you find this helpful and learn something new.

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