The best low light rifle scope for deer hunting should offer superior optics, a wide field of view, and excellent light transmission capabilities.
When it comes to deer hunting, having a rifle scope that can perform well in low-light conditions is crucial.
Low-light rifle scopes for deer hunting offer clear and bright images even in dim lighting, allowing the hunter to aim and shoot with precision.
In this article, we will explore some of the top low-light rifle scopes available on the market today.
What makes the Best Low Light Rifle Scope for Deer Hunting?
Objective lens diameter
A larger objective lens diameter allows more light to enter the scope and results in a brighter image. Look for scopes with an objective lens diameter of at least 40mm.
Magnification
The magnification you need will depend on the distance you are shooting and the size of the deer. In low light conditions, it’s best to stick with lower magnification, typically 3-9x, to avoid sacrificing image brightness.
Reticle type
A reticle with illuminated dots or lines can be helpful in low-light conditions, allowing for quicker target acquisition. However, make sure the reticle doesn’t overpower the target image.
Lens coating
Look for scopes with high-quality lens coating, such as fully multi-coated or extra-low dispersion (ED) lenses, to maximize light transmission and image clarity.
Durability
A good hunting scope needs to be durable and reliable. Look for scopes made from high-quality materials that can withstand harsh hunting conditions.
Price
There are many high-quality low-light scopes available at different price points, so consider the price of the scope depending on your budget.
Best Low Light Rifle Scope for Deer Hunting -Top Picks
1) Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40mm rifle scope is a high-quality, mid-range optic designed with a 3-9x magnification range and a 40mm objective lens, which provides a clear and bright image even in low-light conditions.
The scope has a second focal plane reticle, meaning that the reticle size remains constant regardless of the magnification level. This allows for easier and more intuitive target acquisition and shooting, particularly at higher magnification levels.
The tube of the scope is 1 inch in diameter, which is a common size for many rifles, and it is made from aircraft-grade aluminum, making it durable and resistant to recoil. The scope is also nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed for waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof performance.
The Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40mm scope also features fully multi-coated lenses, which provide excellent light transmission and clarity, and it has a fast-focus eyepiece that allows for quick and easy reticle focusing. The resettable MOA turrets allow easy zeroing and adjusting for windage and elevation.
Specifications
- Magnification: 3 – 9 x
- Exit Pupil: 4.4 – 13.3 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 12.6 – 34.1 ft. at 100 yds.
- Eye Relief: 3.8 – 4.4 inches
- Weight: 15 oz.
- Length: 12 inches
- Height: 1.84 inches
- Parallax: 100 yds.
- Adjustment Range: 60 MOA
- Battery Life: 150 hours
- W/E Travel at 100 Yds: 60/60 MOA
Pros
- Good magnification range
- The large objective lens provides a clear and bright image
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Fully multi-coated lenses provide excellent light transmission and clarity
- Fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing
Cons
- None
2) Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44mm Rifle Scope
The Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44mm Rifle Scope offers a wide magnification range of 3-18x, making it suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios, from close to long-range shooting. The 44mm objective lens allows for bright and clear images, even in low light conditions, and the 6x zoom ratio provides a wide field of view.
The scope features Leupold’s Twilight Max HD Light Management System, which provides optimal brightness, contrast, and clarity in any lighting condition. It also has a reticle that can be illuminated in red or green, allowing for easier target acquisition in low-light conditions.
The VX-6HD scope is made with high-quality materials, including aircraft-grade aluminum housing that is both lightweight and durable. It is also waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof, ensuring that it can withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
Specifications
- Magnification: 3 – 18 x
- Exit Pupil: 2.4 – 14.6 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 6.4 – 38.3 ft. at 100 yds.
- Eye Relief: 3.7 – 3.8 inches
- Weight: 19 oz.
- Adjustment Click Value: 1/4 MOA
- Length: 13.5 inches
- Parallax: Side
- W/E Travel at 100 Yds: 75/75 MOA
Pros
- Wide magnification range
- Durable and shockproof
- Waterproof and fog-proof
- It has an illuminated reticle
Cons
- No BDC
3) Bushnell Prime 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
The Bushnell Prime 3-9x40mm Illuminated Rifle Scope is a top-quality optic designed for hunters and shooters looking for a high-performance scope that can handle a variety of shooting scenarios.
One of the standout features of the Bushnell Prime Rifle Scope is its illuminated reticle that can be adjusted to one of six brightness levels, making it easy to see the reticle in any lighting conditions. The reticle is also designed to be thin and unobtrusive, allowing for a clear view of the target.
This scope features fully multi-coated optics that provide a bright and clear image, even in low-light conditions. The 3-9x magnification range allows for versatile shooting distances, making it a great choice for both close-range and long-range shooting.
The scope is also built to be rugged and durable, with a one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube that is both waterproof and fog proof. The fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing, ensuring that the shooter can acquire their target quickly and accurately.
Specifications
- Magnification: 3 – 9 x
- Objective size: 40mm
- Reticle: Multi-X
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Magnification Type: Variable
Pros
- It provides bright and clear images even in low light
- Rugged and durable construction
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Thin and unobtrusive reticle design for a clear view of the target
Cons
- None
4) Trijicon AccuPoint TR-22 2.5-10x56mm Rifle Scope
The Trijicon AccuPoint TR-22 2.5-10x56mm Rifle Scope is a high-end rifle scope that is designed for long-range shooting. It features a variable magnification range of 2.5-10x, allowing for greater precision at longer distances.
The scope is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, making it both lightweight and durable. It is also shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof, meaning it can withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy recoil.
The scope’s 56mm objective lens allows more light to enter, making it ideal for use in low-light conditions. It also comes with a green illuminated reticle with a crosshair design that illuminates in low-light conditions and can be adjusted for brightness.
Additionally, the finger-adjustable turrets allow for quick and precise adjustments to windage and elevation, while the side-mounted parallax dial allows for parallax adjustment at different distances.
Specifications
- Magnification: 2.5 – 10 x
- Exit Pupil: 5.6 – 16.3 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 10.1 – 37.6 ft. at 100 yds.
- Eye Relief: 2.8 – 4.1 inches
- Weight: 22.1 oz.
- Adjustment Click Value: 1/4 MOA
- Length: 350.52 mm, 13.8 in
Pros
- High-quality construction from aircraft-grade aluminum
- A large 56mm objective lens allows for more light to enter
- Green illuminated reticle illuminates in low-light conditions
- Shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof
Cons
- Parallax: Fixed
5) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15x44mm FFP Rifle Scope
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15x44mm 30mm Tube First Focal Plane Rifle Scope is made from aircraft-grade aluminum and is shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof, making it ideal for use in harsh weather conditions.
The most notable features include its first focal plane reticle which allows for accurate range estimations at any magnification level and the illuminated reticle, which is available in red or green, allowing for better visibility in low-light conditions.
The 3-15x magnification range of this scope makes it ideal for mid to long-range shooting, while the 30mm tube provides a wider field of view and increased light transmission.
The scope’s turrets are tactical-style, which means they are easy to adjust and provide audible and tactile feedback when adjusted. The turrets can be reset to zero after sighting in, allowing for quick and easy adjustments for windage and elevation.
The scope also features a side parallax adjustment, which allows for easier and more accurate target acquisition at longer ranges.
Specifications
- Magnification: 3 – 15 x
- Exit Pupil: 2.93 – 14.67 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 8.6 – 41.2 ft. at 100 yds.
- Eye Relief: 3.4 inches
- Weight: 28.1 oz.
- Length: 14.3 inches
- Battery Life: 150 hours
- W/E Travel at 100 Yds: 40/75 MOA
Pros
- Constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum for durability
- Tactical-style turrets are easy to adjust
- It provides a wider field of view
- Shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof
Cons
- Not available in SFP
6) Swampfox Arrowhead LPVO 1-10x24mm Rifle Scope
The Swampfox Arrowhead LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) 1-10x24mm Rifle Scope provides a magnification range from 1x to 10x, which makes it well-suited for a variety of shooting scenarios, including close-range shooting and long-range precision shooting.
The scope has a 24mm objective lens which allows for a wide field of view and excellent light transmission, making this scope ideal for hunting, tactical applications, and competitive shooting.
The Arrowhead LPVO features high-quality Japanese HD glass that delivers excellent clarity and resolution, even in low-light conditions. The reticle is a first focal plane illuminated ACSS reticle, meaning that it stays the same size regardless of the magnification setting. This allows for quick and intuitive aiming at any range
The reticle is also illuminated, with 11 brightness settings that provide excellent visibility in any lighting condition.
The Arrowhead LPVO is constructed from high-quality aircraft-grade aluminum material and is built to withstand the rigors of heavy use. The body is shockproof and is nitrogen purged to prevent fogging of the lenses in cold or humid environments.
The turrets are low profile and finger-adjustable, making it easy to make quick and precise adjustments to the scope.
Specifications
- Magnification: 1 – 10 x
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Exit Pupil: 2.3 – 8 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 11.5 – 115.6 ft. at 100 yds.
- Eye Relief: 3.46 – 3.54 inches
- Weight: 20.3 oz.
- Length: 10.67 inches
Pros
- Versatile magnification range
- High-quality Japanese HD glass offers excellent clarity and resolution
- Illuminated ACSS reticle with 11 brightness settings
- Waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof design
Cons
- Not ideal for long range
7) Primary Arms SLx Series 1-6 x 24mm Rifle Scope
The Primary Arms SLx Series 1-6 x 24mm Rifle Scope is a versatile and high-performance optic featuring a 24mm objective lens, a 30mm tube diameter, and a magnification range of 1x to 6x, which is an ideal choice for both fast-action shooting and precision shooting at longer ranges.
The scope comes with an illuminated SFP reticle, which provides clear aiming points in a range of lighting conditions. The reticle is powered by a CR2032 battery and features 11 brightness settings, allowing the shooter to adjust the brightness level to match the lighting conditions of their environment.
The Primary Arms SLx Series 1-6 x 24mm Rifle Scope is built to withstand the rigors of heavy use in the field, with a durable aircraft-grade aluminum body that is highly durable and resistant to impacts and other types of damage. It is also nitrogen purged and sealed to make it waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof.
Additionally, the scope has a focusing eyepiece that allows for quick and easy reticle focusing, as well as finger-adjustable turrets that make it easy to make precise windage and elevation adjustments.
Specifications
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 9 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 110 – 19.3 ft. at 100 yds.
- Eye Relief: 3.3 – 3.5 inches
- Weight: 16.9 oz.
- Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA
- Length: 10 inches
Pros
- Versatile magnification range
- It features an illuminated reticle
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof.
- The removable throw lever allows for rapid magnification changes
Cons
- None
8) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm SFP Rifle Scope
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope features fully multi-coated optics that provide bright, clear, and crisp images with excellent color fidelity and contrast. The 24mm objective lens ensures a wide field of view, while the 6x magnification allows for easy target acquisition at mid-range distances.
This scope is built on a 30mm tube that offers ample room for elevation and windage adjustments, ensuring accurate and precise shot placement. The scope’s second focal plane reticle is illuminated and features a fast, intuitive BDC design that allows for quick holdovers at different ranges.
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm is constructed from high-quality materials and is nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed, making it waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof.
Specifications
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 19.2 – 116.5 ft. at 100 yds.
- Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
- Weight: 18.5 oz.
- Adjustment Click Value: 1/2 MOA
- Length: 10.5 inches
- W/E Travel at 100 Yds: 140/140 MOA
Pros
- High-quality, fully multi-coated optics
- Easy to adjust
- Rugged and durable construction
- Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof
- The low-glare matte finish helps reduce reflection
Cons
- Limited eye relief
Related: 7 Best Illuminated Scopes for Deer Hunting
Best Low Light Rifle Scope for Deer Hunting FAQs
Why is a low-light rifle scope important for deer hunting?
Deer hunting often occurs during the early morning or late evening when light conditions are low. A low-light rifle scope helps hunters see their target more clearly and make more accurate shots.
What is the best magnification range for a low-light rifle scope for deer hunting?
This depends on your personal preference and hunting style. Some hunters prefer a lower magnification range of around 3-9x, while others prefer a higher magnification range of around 4-16x or 6-24x. It’s important to choose a magnification range that works well for your hunting needs and the terrain you’ll be hunting in.
What is the best reticle type for a low-light rifle scope for deer hunting?
The best reticle type for a low-light rifle scope for deer hunting is subjective and depends on personal preference. However, many hunters prefer a reticle with thicker crosshairs or illuminated dots to make it easier to see in low-light conditions
Related article: 11 Best FFP LPVO Scopes
Conclusion
Regardless of your shooting experience, having the best low-light scope on your rifle when deer hunting will make a huge improvement on your success rate. As deer are more active in the early morning and late evening hours, and this makes these types of scopes necessary
The scopes in this article are made with features that aim to make your deer hunting expedition a success.