5 Best Crossbow Scopes

When it comes to optimizing your crossbow shooting experience, selecting the best crossbow scope is paramount.

A crossbow scope serves as the eyes of the hunter, providing precision aiming and enhancing target acquisition in various hunting conditions.

With a myriad of options available, choosing the right crossbow scope involves considering several crucial factors, including magnification range, reticle type, optical quality, durability, and ease of use. Additionally, factors such as compatibility with your crossbow model, weight and size, battery life, price, and warranty support play vital roles in determining the best scope for your needs.

In this guide, we delve into the best crossbow scopes,essential factors to consider when selecting crossbow scopes and offer insights to help you make an informed decision.

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Best Crossbow Scopes

1) Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32 Crossbow Scope

Specifications

• Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
• Reticle: XBR-2
• Eye Relief: 2.7 in
• Length: 9.5 in
• Reticle: XBR-2
• Weight: 14 oz

The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32 Crossbow Scope is the best crossbow scope, it features a crossbow XBR-2 reticle, fully multi-coated optics, a wide field of view, and waterproof and fogproof performance among other features.

Boasting a 30mm tube, this scope offers maximum internal adjustment, ensuring precise aiming even at extended distances. Its cap turrets and dual illumination with intensity controls enhance versatility and ease of use in varying lighting conditions.

Built to withstand the rigors of hunting, this scope is fogproof, waterproof, and shockproof, ensuring reliability in the face of adverse weather and terrain.

The XBR-2 reticle, designed for a 40-yard zero, delivers fast and accurate holdovers from 20 to 100 yards, available in both red and green illumination for optimal visibility.

One of its standout features is its ability to be tuned to fit crossbows with different feet-per-second ratings. Fine-tune the reticle with the magnification to match your desired FPS, ensuring precision and consistency with every shot.

Included in the scope kit are essential accessories such as scope caps, rings, a battery, and more, providing everything you need to get started right out of the box. Measuring 9.5 inches in length and weighing 14 ounces, this scope strikes the perfect balance between compactness and functionality.

From dawn till dusk, the Vortex Crossfire II Crossbow Scope delivers accuracy and dependability, empowering hunters to stack bolts and fill tags with confidence.

Its wide field of view and rugged construction make it suitable for a variety of shooting situations, while proprietary coatings increase light transmission for optimal clarity and brightness.

Pros

• Tailored for Crossbow Use: Specifically designed for crossbow applications, ensuring optimal performance and accuracy.
• 30mm Tube: Provides maximum internal adjustment, enhancing precision even at extended distances.
• Cap Turrets: Easy-to-use turret caps for quick adjustments
• Dual Illumination: Red or green illumination options for the XBR-2 reticle ensure visibility in low-light conditions.
• Tunable for Different FPS: Can be fine-tuned to fit crossbows with varying feet-per-second ratings, enhancing versatility.
• Comprehensive Kit: Includes essential accessories like scope caps, rings, and a battery, offering everything needed for immediate use.
• Rugged Construction: Fogproof, waterproof, and shockproof, ensuring durability and reliability in harsh hunting environments.
• Wide Field of View: Offers a broad field of view, suitable for various shooting situations.

Cons

• Limited Magnification Range: With a magnification range of 2-7x, it might not offer as much versatility as scopes with higher magnification ranges for long-range shooting.

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2) Hawke Sport Optics Hawke 1.5-5x32mm Crossbow Scope

Specifications

• Weight: 13 oz
• Eye Relief: 4.02 in
• Length: 8.3 in
• Exit Pupil: 0.25 - 0.84 in
• Parallax: Fixed
• Illumination Color: Green, Red

The Hawke Sport Optics Hawke 1.5-5x32mm Crossbow Scope is one of the best crossbow scopes, it features an illuminated reticle,suitable for speeds 250fps - 425fps,capped low-profile Turrets,shockproof,waterproof,fog proof,fast focus eyebell and high torque zoom ring.

Equipped with 11-layer fully multi-coated optics, this scope delivers exceptional clarity, ensuring crisp and clear images even in challenging lighting conditions. The 1-inch mono-tube chassis provides superior strength, ensuring durability and stability for consistent performance shot after shot.

One standout feature is the speed selector ring, allowing for quick adjustment to accommodate crossbows with speeds ranging from 250 to 425 feet per second. This ensures precise accuracy and holdover points at various distances, catering to different crossbow setups and shooting scenarios.

The glass-etched reticle, complemented by red and green illumination options, offers enhanced visibility and contrast against targets, even in low-light conditions.

The rheostat on the saddle provides five levels of brightness control, allowing for optimal customization to suit individual preferences and ambient light conditions.

For ease of use and convenience, the scope features 1/2 MOA low-profile "no-snag" fingertip turrets, facilitating smooth and precise adjustments without hindering maneuverability.

The fast-focus eyebell and high-torque zoom ring further enhance usability, allowing for quick and effortless adjustments in the field.

Built to withstand the rigors of hunting, this scope is nitrogen purged, shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof, ensuring reliable performance in any environment and weather conditions.

Pros

• Exceptional Clarity: The 11-layer fully multi-coated optics provide excellent clarity, ensuring crisp and clear images.
• Superior Strength: The 1-inch mono-tube chassis offers superior strength and durability, ensuring stability and reliability.
• Speed Selector Ring: Allows quick adjustment to accommodate crossbows with speeds ranging from 250 to 425 feet per second, ensuring precise accuracy.
• Glass-Etched Reticle: Offers red and green illumination options for enhanced visibility and contrast against targets, even in low-light conditions.
• Customizable Brightness: The rheostat on the saddle provides five levels of brightness control, allowing for optimal customization to suit ambient light conditions.
• User-Friendly Turrets: The 1/2 MOA low-profile "no-snag" fingertip turrets facilitate smooth and precise adjustments without hindering maneuverability.
• Ease of Use: Features a fast-focus eyebell and high-torque zoom ring for quick and effortless adjustments in the field.
• Durable Construction: Nitrogen purged, shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof, ensuring reliable performance in any environment and weather conditions.

Cons

• Limited Magnification Range: With a magnification range of 1.5-5x, it may not offer as much versatility for long-range shooting compared to scopes with higher magnification ranges.

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3) Leapers UTG 4x32mm Crossbow Scope

Specifications

• Reticle: Illuminated Pro 5-Step
• Weight: 12.3 oz
• Eye Relief: 3.8 in
• Length: 8.19 in
• Exit Pupil: 8 mm
• Illumination Color: Green, Red
• Magnification Type: Fixed

The Leapers UTG 4x32mm Crossbow Scope is built on a rain-Proof, fog-proof, and shockproof True Strength platform for reliable performance in any weather conditions or rugged terrain.

The Pro 5-Step reticle is designed for 300fps crossbows with integrated range finder lines. This innovative reticle, coupled with red and green illumination options controlled by the ergonomic SWAT (Side Wheel Adjustable Turret) dial, offers unparalleled precision and versatility in the field.

The scope's precision broadband lens coating enhances light transmission, delivering crystal-clear images with exceptional clarity and contrast. Furthermore, the premium zero lockable and zero resettable target-style turrets empower users to make precise adjustments with confidence, ensuring optimal accuracy shot after shot.

Parallax is pre-adjusted at 50 yards, eliminating the need for manual adjustments and streamlining the shooting process. Additionally, the integral sunshade effectively blocks glare and enhances the viewing experience, even in bright sunlight.

This comprehensive package includes two quick-detach lever lock scope rings, providing convenient installation and removal. Moreover, the scope comes complete with a CR1620 battery, flip-open lens caps, a cleaning cloth, a pair of lever lock rings, installation tools, and an optics user manual, ensuring everything you need for immediate use and maintenance.

Pros

• Durable Construction: Built on the Rain-Proof, fog-proof, and shockproof True Strength platform, ensuring reliability in various weather conditions and rugged environments.
• Specialized Reticle: The Pro 5-Step reticle is specifically designed for 300fps crossbows, featuring integrated range finder lines for precise aiming at various distances.
• Dual Illumination: Red and green illumination options controlled by the ergonomic SWAT dial provide versatility and visibility in different lighting conditions.
• Enhanced Light Transmission: Precision broadband lens coating improves light transmission, delivering clear and crisp images with excellent contrast.
• Target-Style Turrets: Premium zero lockable and zero resettable target-style turrets enable precise adjustments for accurate shooting.
• Convenient Accessories: Comes with two quick-detach lever lock scope rings, a CR1620 battery, flip-open lens caps, a cleaning cloth, installation tools, and an optics user manual for added convenience.
• Integral Sunshade: The integral sunshade blocks glare and enhances the viewing experience, particularly in bright sunlight.
• Parallax Adjustment: Parallax pre-adjusted at 50 yards streamlines the shooting process and ensures accuracy.

Cons

• Fixed Magnification: With a fixed magnification of 4x, it may not offer the versatility of variable magnification scopes for long-range shooting or close-range precision.

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4) ATN ThOR LT 320 5-10x50mm Thermal Rifle Scope

Specifications

• Reticle: Multiple reticles
• Eye Relief: 90 mm
• Attachment/Mount Type: Picatinny
• Battery Life: 10 hours
• Length: 11.5 in
• Width: 2.2 in
• Height: 2.2 in
• Weight: 1.4 lb
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm
• Sensor Resolution: 320x240 pixels
• Display Resolution: 1280x720 pixels
• Refresh Rate: 60 Hz

The ATN ThOR LT 320 5-10x50mm Thermal Rifle Scope redefines lightweight thermal imaging technology, offering hunters and shooters unparalleled versatility and performance in the field.

Designed to be the lightest thermal scope in the ATN ThOR line, the ThOR LT provides exceptional versatility for mounting on various platforms, including crossbows, air rifles, or any setup where weight is a critical factor. This lightweight design ensures optimal maneuverability and ease of use during extended hunting sessions.

One of its standout features is its ultra-low power consumption, thanks to the new internal lithium-ion battery. With an incredible 10+ hours of runtime, you can hunt late into the evening or early morning hours without worrying about battery life. This not only saves you money on buying multiple reusable or one-time use batteries but also ensures uninterrupted hunting experiences.

The ThOR LT boasts classic ergonomics, making it easy to mount with standard 30mm rings and navigate controls. With its intuitive design, you can quickly familiarize yourself with the scope, reducing the learning curve and getting you out in the field hunting faster. The scope features Black Hot/White Hot mode for versatile thermal imaging options.

Featuring a traditional scope feel with a 3-inch eye relief, the ThOR LT offers a comfortable and familiar shooting experience. The One Shot Zero feature simplifies sighting in your scope, allowing you to take a shot, adjust your reticle, and be ready to go in no time.

In addition to its lightweight design and low power consumption, the ThOR LT comes with multiple reticle options, a Picatinny attachment/mount type, and a sensor resolution of 320x240 pixels. With a display resolution of 1280x720 pixels and a refresh rate of 60 Hz, you can expect clear, high-quality thermal imaging performance.

Pros

• Lightweight Design: Being the lightest thermal scope in the ATN ThOR line, the ThOR LT offers exceptional versatility and maneuverability, ideal for various hunting platforms.
• Ultra-Low Power Consumption: The internal lithium-ion battery provides an impressive 10+ hours of runtime, ensuring extended hunting sessions without worrying about battery life or the need for multiple batteries.
• Classic Ergonomics: Easy to mount with standard 30mm rings and navigate controls, offering a familiar shooting experience with a traditional scope feel and 3-inch eye relief.
• Versatile Thermal Imaging: Features Black Hot/White Hot mode and multiple reticle options for versatile thermal imaging performance tailored to different hunting scenarios.
• One Shot Zero: Simplifies sighting in the scope, allowing for quick adjustments and precise zeroing with minimal hassle.
• High-Quality Imaging: With a sensor resolution of 320x240 pixels and a display resolution of 1280x720 pixels at a refresh rate of 60 Hz, the ThOR LT delivers clear and detailed thermal imaging.
• Ease of Use: Removes unnecessary features to provide a streamlined, user-friendly thermal scope experience, reducing the learning curve for new users.

Cons

• Cost: While offering advanced features, the ThOR LT may be relatively expensive compared to other crossbowscopes on the market, potentially exceeding the budget of some hunters.

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5) Killer Instinct Lumix 4x32 IR-E Crossbow Scope

Specifications

• Reticle: Multi-Reticle
• Tube Diameter: 1 in
• Weight: 1 lb
• Length: 10 in
• Exit Pupil: 8 mm
• Magnification Type: Fixed
• Magnification: 4 x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm

The Killer Instinct Lumix 4x32 IR-E Crossbow Scope is a premium optic designed to enhance your crossbow shooting experience with precision and clarity. Crafted with precision engineering and advanced features, this scope ensures exceptional performance in various hunting conditions.

One of the unique features of the Lumix 4x32 IR-E scope is its multi-reticle aim points, which provide versatility and accuracy for different shooting scenarios. The rheostat brightness illumination, available in red or blue, allows for easy adjustment in low-light settings, ensuring optimal visibility and target acquisition.

Exceptional clarity is achieved through the scope's multicoated optics, delivering sharp and crisp images with every shot. The 1-inch mono tube construction and fast-focus eyepiece further enhance usability, providing a streamlined shooting experience.

Built to withstand the rigors of hunting, this scope is nitrogen purged for water, shock, and fog-proof performance.

Whether you're hunting in rainy conditions, rugged terrain, or foggy environments, you can trust the Lumix 4x32 IR-E to deliver reliable performance when it matters most.

With a compact and slimline design, this scope is optimized for modern crossbows shooting above 300+ FPS. Its lightweight construction ensures ease of handling without compromising on durability or performance.

Featuring a multi-reticle design, 1-inch tube diameter, 1-pound weight, 10-inch length, 8mm exit pupil, fixed 4x magnification, and 32mm objective lens diameter, the Killer Instinct Lumix 4x32 IR-E Crossbow Scope offers a perfect balance of functionality, reliability, and value for discerning hunters and shooters.

Pros

• Multi-Reticle Aim Points: Offers versatility and accuracy for different shooting scenarios, allowing for precise target acquisition.
• Rheostat Brightness Illumination: Red or blue illumination options with rheostat brightness control ensure optimal visibility in low-light conditions.
• Exceptional Clarity: Multicoated optics deliver sharp and crisp images, enhancing shooting accuracy.
• Durable Construction: Nitrogen purged for water, shock, and fog-proof performance, ensuring reliability in adverse weather conditions and rugged terrain.
• Compact and Slimline Design: Optimized for modern crossbows shooting above 300+ FPS, providing ease of handling without sacrificing durability.
• Fast-Focus Eyepiece: Streamlines the shooting experience, allowing for quick and easy adjustments for optimal focus.
• Versatile Magnification: Fixed 4x magnification offers a balance of magnification for various shooting distances commonly encountered in crossbow hunting.
• Value for Money: Offers premium features and performance at an affordable price point, providing excellent value for budget-conscious hunters.

Cons

• Fixed Magnification: is limiting if you need greater versatility in different hunting situations.

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Read Also; 7 Best Crossbow Broadheads

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Crossbow Scopes

Here are the factors to consider when choosing the best crossbow scopes:

Magnification Range

The magnification range determines how much you can zoom in on your target. Consider the typical shooting distances you'll encounter and choose a magnification range that suits your needs. Higher magnification can be useful for long-range shooting, while lower magnification provides a wider field of view for close-range or fast-moving targets.

Reticle Type

Different reticle types offer various aiming points and features. Consider whether you prefer a simple crosshair, a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensating) reticle, or other specialized reticles like range-finding or illuminated reticles. Choose a reticle that matches your shooting style and hunting conditions for maximum accuracy.

Optical Quality

Optical quality directly impacts image clarity, brightness, and color accuracy. Look for scopes with high-quality lenses and coatings that minimize glare, distortion, and aberrations. Premium optical features ensure clearer images, especially in low-light conditions, enhancing your ability to spot targets effectively.

Durability

Crossbow scopes must withstand recoil, vibrations, weather elements, and rough handling in the field. Opt for scopes with rugged construction, shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof features. Durable materials like aircraft-grade aluminum ensure long-lasting performance and reliability in harsh hunting environments.

Ease of Use

User-friendly features like easy-to-adjust turrets, intuitive reticle illumination controls, and fast-focus eyepieces contribute to a seamless shooting experience. Consider the ergonomics, ease of mounting, and intuitive controls that minimize distractions and streamline operation, allowing you to focus on your target.

Compatibility

Ensure the scope is compatible with your crossbow model in terms of mounting options, clearance for cocking mechanisms, and compatibility with different bolt speeds. Some scopes are specifically designed for certain crossbow models or shooting setups, so verify compatibility before making a purchase.

Weight and Size

The weight and size of the scope affect the overall balance and handling of your crossbow. Opt for a lightweight and compact scope that complements your crossbow's weight and size without adding unnecessary bulk or hindering maneuverability. Consider your hunting style and preferences for portability and ease of carrying.

Battery Life

For scopes with illuminated reticles or electronic features, battery life is crucial for extended hunting trips. Choose a scope with a long-lasting battery or power-saving features to ensure uninterrupted performance in the field. Consider rechargeable batteries or scopes with low-power consumption to minimize battery replacement costs.

Price and Value

Crossbow scopes are available in a wide price range, from budget-friendly options to premium models with advanced features. Assess your budget and prioritize features that offer the best value for your money. Consider factors like optical quality, durability, and additional features when evaluating the overall value of a scope.

What is the difference between a crossbow scope and a rifle scope?

Crossbow scopes and rifle scopes serve similar purposes — they both aid in aiming and target acquisition — but they are designed with distinct characteristics to suit the unique requirements of their respective weapons.

1. Reticle Design: Crossbow scopes typically feature reticles designed specifically for crossbow trajectories, often incorporating multiple aiming points or hash marks calibrated for different distances. These reticles may also include features like range-finding lines or circles to compensate for arrow drop. In contrast, rifle scopes commonly feature reticles optimized for bullet trajectories, such as duplex, mil-dot, or BDC (Bullet Drop Compensating) reticles, which account for bullet drop and windage at various distances.
2. Magnification Range: Crossbow scopes typically have fixed or limited magnification ranges optimized for the typical shooting distances encountered with crossbows. The magnification range is usually lower compared to rifle scopes, reflecting the shorter effective range of crossbows. Rifle scopes often offer variable magnification ranges to accommodate a wide range of shooting distances, from close-quarters engagements to long-range precision shooting.
3. Eye Relief: Crossbow scopes typically have longer eye relief compared to rifle scopes to accommodate the recoilless nature of crossbows. This longer eye relief allows for comfortable shooting positions, even with the forward-mounted scopes common on crossbows. Rifle scopes may have shorter eye relief due to the recoil generated by firearms, requiring shooters to maintain proper eye relief to prevent injury.
4. Parallax Adjustment: While some high-end rifle scopes may feature parallax adjustment for precise aiming at different distances, crossbow scopes typically do not require parallax adjustment due to the shorter effective range of crossbows. Most crossbow scopes are factory-set for parallax at a specific distance, such as 50 yards, to ensure accurate aiming within typical hunting ranges.
5. Mounting: Crossbow scopes often come with mounting systems specifically designed for crossbows, such as Picatinny or Weaver-style mounts that attach directly to the crossbow's rail. Rifle scopes may use different mounting systems, such as scope rings or mounts compatible with various firearm platforms.

In summary, while both crossbow scopes and rifle scopes serve similar purposes, they are designed with distinct characteristics tailored to the specific ballistic characteristics and shooting requirements of crossbows and rifles, respectively. It's essential to choose the appropriate scope for your weapon to ensure optimal performance and accuracy in the field.

What is a good distance to sight in a crossbow scope?

A commonly recommended distance to sight in a crossbow scope is 20 yards.

Sighting in at 20 yards allows you to establish a baseline zero for your crossbow scope and ensure that your arrows or bolts are hitting the target accurately at a relatively close distance. Once you've achieved a precise zero at 20 yards, you can then adjust your scope's reticle or use holdover points to compensate for arrow drop at longer distances.

After sighting in at 20 yards, it's advisable to confirm your zero at additional distances, such as 30, 40, or 50 yards, depending on your shooting preferences and hunting conditions. This process helps ensure consistent accuracy across different distances and provides you with the confidence to make ethical shots in various hunting scenarios.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the selection of the best crossbow scope requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure optimal performance and functionality in the field.

From magnification range and reticle type to durability and ease of use, each aspect contributes to the overall effectiveness of the scope in enhancing accuracy and target acquisition.

Whether you're a seasoned hunter seeking advanced optics or a beginner looking for user-friendly options,the above reviewed scopes wont disappoint.

Next Read; 5 Best Crossbows under 1000