Hunting Guide

Best Night Vision Scope

The human eye can do and see wonders. The pupil allows light entrance, and it appears to be black as the light never escapes through it. The dim light makes the pupil dilate to maximize the light access, while it tends to contract when the light is bright. The cells that help humans to see in low light conditions are rods, also known as scotopic vision. Best Night Vision Scope provided by the rods has common spatial perception, and it does not facilitate color vision; therefore, humans can only see black or gray color in low light conditions. On the other hand, cones are responsible for colored vision (in bright light conditions), which is also known as photopic vision. Cones provide colored vision with higher spatial perception.

Although rods are adapted to see in low light conditions, this vision is not enough when we talk about the hunters and precision shooters or law enforcement officers working in common light conditions that demand 100% spatial perception and quick reflexes. It is the reason night vision devices are engineered.

Night Vision Devices:

Human vision is confined to just a part of the electromagnetic spectrum, visible range, or visible light. The other waves on the scopes are invisible to the human eye, but they can utilize the technology to help maximize visual and spatial perception. Some of the non-invisible sources that have been used are infrared and ultraviolet radiations.

Night vision devices have a very long history, and it is being modified from day one to get the most out of them. For example, you shoot and hunt in low light conditions and defeat the fog, trees, and other unpleasant hurdles. 

Must Read: Top 7 Best Bow Stabilizer

Thermal Imaging Devices:

Thermal scopes work on the heat signals rather than the ambient light. They change the heat signals into images. Thermal imaging devices are beneficial, and they have a relatively long range of detection than night vision devices. Riflescopes that use thermal imaging technology can pierce through the hurdles and detect the target through the change in heat. The sensors in the thermal imaging devices are susceptible that even noticing the slightest difference in heat. 

Must Read: Top 10 Best Bow Release

Top 10 Best Night Vision Scope

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
ATN ThOR-HD 384 2-8x, 384x288, 25 mm, Thermal Rifle Scope w/ High Res Video, WiFi, GPS, Image Stabilization, Range Finder, Ballistic Calculator and IOS and Android Apps

ATN ThOR-HD 384 2-8x, 384x288, 25 mm, Thermal Rifle Scope w/ High Res Video, WiFi, GPS, Image Stabilization, Range Finder, Ballistic Calculator and IOS and Android Apps

9.7
Check Price
FLIR CO-LR LRF Long Range Night Vision Gen 2+ Clip On Riflescope

FLIR CO-LR LRF Long Range Night Vision Gen 2+ Clip On Riflescope

9.5
Check Price
Night Owl Optics NightShot Rifle Scope, Digital Night Vision Riflescope with IR illuminator, High Resolution, Weatherproof, Night Vision Rifle Scopes for Hunting

Night Owl Optics NightShot Rifle Scope, Digital Night Vision Riflescope with IR illuminator, High Resolution, Weatherproof, Night Vision Rifle Scopes for Hunting

9.1
Check Price
Sightmark Photon RT 4.5-9x42 Digital Night Vision Riflescope (SM18016)

Sightmark Photon RT 4.5-9x42 Digital Night Vision Riflescope (SM18016)

8.8
Check Price
Sightmark Wraith HD 4-32x50 Digital Night Vision Riflescope

Sightmark Wraith HD 4-32x50 Digital Night Vision Riflescope

8.6
Check Price
X-Sight-4k Pro 5-20x Smart Day/Night Scope w/Full HD Video rec, Smooth Zoom, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi (Streaming, Gallery & Controls)

X-Sight-4k Pro 5-20x Smart Day/Night Scope w/Full HD Video rec, Smooth Zoom, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi (Streaming, Gallery & Controls)

8.2
Check Price
Pulsar Digex N455 Digital Night Vision Riflescope

Pulsar Digex N455 Digital Night Vision Riflescope

8
Check Price
Pulsar Trail 2 LRF XQ50 Thermal Riflescope

Pulsar Trail 2 LRF XQ50 Thermal Riflescope

7.7
Check Price
Pulsar Phantom 4x60 MD WPT Night Vision Riflescope

Pulsar Phantom 4x60 MD WPT Night Vision Riflescope

7.4
Check Price

1. ATN ThOR-HD 384 Thermal Rifle Scope

41uyB2kBSqL. AC

Thermal scopes work on heat fluctuations instead of using light to detect the target. ATN ThOR has been the best thermal vision scope for coyote and hog hunting with its incredible heat sensors and built-in bright rangefinder. 

Features:

Smart Thermal Riflescope:

The smart HD optics and extended features that the ATN ThOR 384 have will keep your hunting game up to high standards. For example, a 384×288 thermal sensor catches the heat signals like no other thermal scope from the target/prey and converts the heat energy into clear and crisp images. 

Recoil Activated Video (RAV):

This feature allows you to record your hunting experience to boast about it when you go back home. The instant recording and sharing make hunting more fun and adventurous for you and others. 

High-tech and Smart Ballistic calculator:

For long-range and precision shooting, one must have a ballistic calculator, and this thermal scope has one to assist you all along with your hunts. The smart ballistic calculator helps in providing the calculations instantly after gathering the environmental data. This feature allows you to get the target down in initial attempts with complete precision. 

Built-in Laser Ballistics Smart Laser Rangefinder:

A compact and versatile device is all that a precision shooter or hunter would like to have when much is at stake. No one wants to carry separate sensitive devices as they could be messy. To avoid that problem, ATN ThOR 384 is equipped with a rangefinder too, which will calculate the distance between you and your target within +/- 1 yard or less so you can get a perfect shot. 

Battery Life:

Extended battery life on a thermal riflescope is not an easy feature, but this riflescope’s battery provides you with 22 hours of constant operation without shutting down any part. The battery is pretty easy to charge, and it can also help in powering other devices.

Pros

  • Records HD videos
  • More than just a riflescope
  • Great night vision
  • Smart choice

Cons

  • Tricky zoom

Final thoughts: 

ATN ThOR-HD 384 Thermal Rifle Scope is ideal for long-range hunting and also for hog hunting. It has exceptional features and built-in devices that help to get the target on the hook precisely. Another incredible thing is that it is a thermal scope and can pierce through fog, grass, or other hurdles to give you the perfect picture of your prey/target.

Must Read: Best Rubber Hunting Boots

2. Armasight by FLIR CO-LR LRF Gen 2+

51L1JmHKf0L. AC SL1005

FLIR Gen 2+ is specially designed for long-range hunting/shooting. All the Gen 2+ devices are equipped with an improved image intensifier tube and a micro-channel plate that provides a bright and clear image of the engaged target. The tactical traits of the devices using this technology help in better and fast target acquisition.

Features:

Gen II+ intensifier tube: 

Capturing the target and securing it at night is the main focus of the severe hunters as the dark can get in between shooting precisely and getting the target down. The intensifier tubes give the most precise images of the target using ambient light. In addition, the manual gain allows you to adjust the brightness levels further to enhance the image performance in low light conditions.

Ballistic Reticle:

The ballistic reticle helps you place the shots and provides multiple aiming points in the display for precision purposes. The infrared illuminator also helps in enhancing the images when it is incredibly dark.

Re-zeroing: 

The FLIR Gen 2+ can be clipped onto the firearm or in front of the day optics/sights pretty conveniently; you don’t have to re-zero it.

Auto shut-off:

The battery is preserved with the auto shut-off feature that can switch on as per your requirements.

HD Optics:

The long-range and precise target acquisition is promised through the 108mm lens and image intensifier system that is phenomenal to use.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Clip-on mounting system
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Plastic body

Final thoughts:

FLIR Gen 2+ clip-on long-range riflescope is pretty solid but also very sensitive as the body is made up of plastic, so it may or may not handle heavy recoils well. But if you are going for light recoils and impacts, it is an ideal choice as it is very lightweight and will not disappoint you.

Must Read: Best Holographic Sight

3. Night Owl Optics

71X7cbc5fNL. AC SL1500

Night Owl Optics has developed this versatile and super economical riflescope to tackle the lighting conditions and get the target down in the least amount of time. The image quality and performance are exceptional, and the rugged body handles the heavy recoiling. 

Features

Reticle Options: The NightShot Digital Night Vision Riflescope by Night Owl Optics offers you the liberty to choose from the three different reticle types and colors that best suit your requirements and shooting conditions. 

Battery Life: NightShot has an expected battery life of about 4.5 to 17.5 hours, depending on your operating features. The battery runs for more than 4 hours if the IR illuminator is set on high, while it can go up to 7 hours if it is placed on low.

Optics: The lens placed in this riflescope has a focal length of about 52mm and provides a pretty wide field of view of about 5.6 degrees. The focusing distance of the lens is 3M to infinity. The target acquisition and situational awareness are enhanced with 3x magnification as well. 

Range: NightShot offers perfect shots up to 100-200 yards in low-light conditions and even in complete darkness. The precision is unmatched and does not get compromised despite the lighting with the built-in IR illuminator. 

HD Display: The Riflescope features a 640×480 high-resolution display for you to see your target clearly and perfectly and aim like a champion.

Mounting compatibility: It is compat9ible with both Weaver and Picatinny rails but to mount it on a dovetail rail, you need to convert it to a Picatinny rail by using an adaptor rail.

Multipurpose: The NightShot Digital Night Vision Riflescope is a versatile option for rifles, shotguns, crossbows for paintball, airsoft, pellet gun, and handgun. Any gun with or below 30 caliber bullets (magnum or non-magnum) is compatible with this riflescope. But it is not ideal to use with a bullet over 30 calibers.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Robust construction
  • Intuitive system
  • An ideal option for several purposes
  • Economical

Cons

  • Battery life

Final thoughts: The NightShot is a super-economical option, and it is ideal for hog and varmint hunting. Not only it guides your way at night time, but it also helps in locating the target during the day. Most riflescopes do not work well during the day because of their internal system, but they can also use them during the day.

Must Read: Best Crossbows For Under $1000

4. Sightmark Photon

51aO4SQrmUL. AC SL1000

Sightmark never ceases to amaze the world with its robust and high-quality firearm optics. Sightmark Photon RT Digital Night Vision Riflescope lets you have the best hunting experience with a 40% higher resolution than the XT series. Every feature is added for the betterment of target acquisition during the day and especially at night. In addition, the built-in audio/video recording makes your hunting even more fun, and you can preserve the experience and share it with other people too.

Features

Easy set up: 

Unlike other riflescopes, Photon has relatively easy installation, and the batteries can change in seconds. In addition, it can be mounted on Weaver and Picatinny rails with ease.

6 Reticles Options: 

Sightmark Photon Digital Night Vision Riflescope is equipped with 6 different types of reticles options; XBOW-1, XBOW-2, MIL DOT, Duplex, Dot Duplex, and German#4. It also allows you to change the colors as per the lighting conditions and suitability.  

Rugged construction: Photon Digital Night Vision Riflescope is made to withstand heavy and continuous recoiling. The rigid aluminum exterior protects the internal opticsand the weather-resistant coating makes the riflescope invulnerable to unpleasant weather conditions. In addition, it has an IP55 water-resistant rating to use without any fear of water damage.  

940nm LED IR Illuminator: 

For precise and fast target acquisition at night, when the ambient light is not helpful, the 940nm invisible IR illuminator comes to your rescue. The built-in 940nm LED IR illuminator makes it easier to lock the target up to 280 yards away, even in complete darkness! In addition, its brightness can control through the controller knob, and another fantastic thing is that the illuminator is also equipped with focus beam adjustment. 

Range of detection and Optics:

The upgraded and top-notch technology that is used in the Photon Digital Night Vision Riflescope is unmatched. It offers a range of detection over 140 yards with a 22.5ft field of view at 100 yards. In addition, the 42mm objective lens makes it pretty convenient for you to focus and aim precisely in complete darkness. 

Optical Magnification: 

It can operate the 2x digital zoom through the controller. So, for example, the 4.5x Photon will become 9x when the 2x digital zoom is applied, while the 6x will become the 12x.

Pros

  • One-shot zero function
  • Clear and bright display
  • Easy to use
  • Incredible optical magnification

Cons

  • Relatively short battery life

Final thoughts:

Sightmark Photon RT Digital Night Vision Riflescope offers over 4 hours with the IR illuminator on the highest setting. And the HD display with 768×576 pixels resolution helps in sighting the target in the dark like a breeze.

Must Read: Best crossbow with built in cocking device

5. Sightmark Wraith HD 4-32×50

51MJMs6VSRL. AC SL1000

Sightmark Wraith HD 4-32x50mm Digital Riflescope lets you see the target in high definition with total accuracy and clarity during daytime and nighttime. The transition to night mode is easy and quick through the arrow at the left. In addition, night mode is equipped with different viewing options to choose from.

Features

10 Reticle Options and 9 Color Choices: 

Wraith HD 4-32x50mm Digital Riflescope offers customizable 10 reticle options and 9 color options that suit you and the lighting condition at hand perfectly. The color and illumination feature helps you in aiming and targeting the subject efficiently up to 200 yards. It can also change the reticle type according to the preference and requirement of the situation.

 850nm removable IR flashlight: 

Wraith HD 4-32x50mm Digital Riflescope features an 850nm removable IR flashlight that can use with the night mode. It offers up to 200 yards of target detection at night.

Detachable Eye-cup: 

For viewing the target better not only at night but also during the day, the Wraith HD 4-32x50mm Digital Riflescope has a detachable eye-cup. It inhibits the light dispersion at night so the target can view with clarity and brightness. It can remove during the day to get the view better.

Leaves enough Rail space: 

This riflescope is compatible with Picatinny and Weaver rails and offers enough rail space to mount other devices. 

Crystal clear Optics and HD Display:

Sightmark Wraith 4-32x50mm Digital Riflescope comes with a 50mm objective lens with a 4x to 16x magnification range. An 8x digital zoom technology works on a 4x optical system for up to 32x magnification. In addition, the 1920×1080 HD sensor makes the daytime experience more clear and crisp.

Pros

  • Enhanced nighttime image performance
  • Fast target acquisition
  • Easy transitions
  • Intuitive menu
  • HD photo/video recording

Cons

  • A little heavy
  • Battery life is short

Final thoughts: 

Wraith HD 4-32x50mm is the best night vision riflescope for hog and deer hunting, and it is very budget-friendly. The night mode with the IR illuminator makes it very easy to acquire targets at night without any distortions. 

Must Read: Best Bobcat Bait

6. ATN X-Sight-4k Pro

51cT VYAU L. AC SL1000

ATN X-Sight-4k Pro Smart Day/Night features the best technology in the world and provides you with crystal clear performance day and night. It satisfies your hunting needs at all times. The color palette for the day and night differs to ensure your vision to be perfect. It is ideal for hog, varmint, coyote, and deer hunting.

Features 

Recoil Resistant: The X-Sight 4K Pro is made of hardened aluminum alloy with impact-resistant electronics that help it withstand the recoiling of high-caliber weapons.

Ultra-Low Power Consumption: The Dual Core Processor inside the scope makes it the first-ever digital scope that provides over 18 hours of continuous operation. It saves up your battery as much as it can and makes your hunting experience free of worries.

Recoil Activated Video (RAV):

RAV records your shot with precision and shows the incredible shot that gets the target down. In addition, the before and after shooting video helps determine the accuracy and timing of the shot and strategies applied.

Smart Mil-Dot reticle:

The Smart Mil-Dot Reticle allows you to customize the variance between hash marks in Mils according to the load. In addition, the super-dynamic reticle adjusts with magnification during the zoom.

Ballistic calculator: 

The built-in ballistic calculator assists in shooting the target with complete precision every time. The point of impact is adjusted according to the range, wind, weapon profiles, temperature, humidity, and other important environmental data.

One-shot zero: 

There is a One-Shot Zero feature included in the X-Sight 4K Pro. So you just have to take a shot and adjust your reticle to get things ready.

Classic ergonomic construction: The upgraded and intelligent ergonomic design makes the shooting experience even more smooth and easy.  

Obsidian IV Dual Core with 4K Sensor: 

The X-Sight 4K Pro offers ultra HD optics and image performance with its Dual-Core Processor and a low-light 4K sensor. The ATN Obsidian Core technology is the most advanced digital image processing architecture. This top-notch technology powers the X-Sight 4K Pro’s bright Optics. The full HD 1920×1080 resolution sensor is optimized explicitly for low-light conditions.

Pros

  • Records and streams HD videos
  • Quick optimal controls
  • Smart and fast
  • Incredibly long battery life
  • 90mm eye relief
  • 14x magnification

Cons

  • Nothing so far!

Final thoughts:

ATN X-Sight-4k Pro Smart Day/Night Scope is one of the best digital vision scopes on the market. The loaded features and intelligent technology makes it stand out among the other scopes out there. Unfortunately, despite the fact it is the most thoughtful scope out there, the scope price is pretty pocket-friendly. 

Must Read: Best powder for 7mm-08

7. Pulsar Digex N455

61IST+XrR5L. AC SL1000

Digex N455 is the choice of severe precision shooters that want to leave a mark. The shots are clean, and target acquisition is made fast. Digex N455 is loaded with exceptional features that are going to get your target down in seconds.

Features 

Extended Nighttime Viewing Range:  

Digex N455 is perfect for detecting the targets at distances ranging from 450m up to 550m. The nighttime sensitivity and crystal clear display, sensors, and optimized optics make it easier for the users to detect the targets as fast as possible. The built-in IR is another additional feature that makes it super smooth to acquire the targets like elk, deer, hogs, etc.

Metal Housing: 

The all-metal housing of the Digex N455 is super solid and hard as a rock to withstand every impact. The anti-wear coating keeps the exterior look as good as new all along. It is also fully waterproof (IPX7 level), so it can be submerged in water for about half an hour and 1m deep. It can operate in highly humid conditions and intense precipitation too.

Integrated video and sound recorder: 

The built-in recorder captures your shots perfectly so that you can go back home and flaunt them! It can transfer the data via Wi-Fi or a wired connection.

1280×720 HD CMOS Sensor: 

The susceptible sensor makes sure that image details are precise and crystal clear.

Enhanced nighttime sensitivity: 

The upgraded and innovative electronic system, along with the single-processing algorithms, offers enhanced nighttime sensitivity. The Digex N455 works like a charm at night even without the IR illuminator through SumLight mode, increasing sensor sensitivity while preserving the image quality. While with the IR illuminator, the Digex N455 can offer 900-950nm of sensitivity to locate the target in complete darkness.

Customizable Magnification:

The magnification increases by four times from 4x to 16x. Thus, it can either gradually or continuously get the preferred field of view according to the situation at hand.

Scalable Ballistic Reticles:

The ballistic reticle in the Digex N455 is scaled consistently to the riflescope’s magnification, which is similar to the reticle placed in the first focal plane of the optical sights. As a result, the angular dimensions of the reticle always remain constant no matter what the magnification is; this feature helps measure the distance and adjust to the shooting situation and range.

High-precision zeroing:

The Picture-in-Picture mode acts as an additional frame for high precision zeroing. It takes only 10 percent of the total display area and shows the target’s magnified image and the reticle. Thus, the image can be seen up close, and the shooters have complete visual control of the field of view at the same time too.

Continuous Power System: 

The Digex N455 runs on two batteries; one is a built-in battery, and the other is a replaceable one located in the riflescope’s battery compartment. When the replaceable battery runs out entirely, the riflescope switches to the built-in battery without shutting down. Replaceable batteries can be charged or replaced.

Long-range IR Illuminator: 

Digex N455 is equipped with a detachable 940nm IR illuminator (invisible/passive) with a long detection range of about 500m in complete darkness. The illuminator operates in the invisible range to lock the target even if it stays unseen in the dark without frightening it. There are three different adjustable IR power levels to choose from. 

Recoil resistant: 

Digex N455 has high caliber recoil resistance; therefore, it can use with high caliber hunting rifles like 9.3×64, .300, etc. It can be used with firearms with minimum recoiling too.

Pros

  • Ten reticle types and 8 color modes
  • Indicates side inclination
  • Features a stadiametric rangefinder
  • Removable eye-cup
  • Automatic shutdown
  • Offers deep image perception
  • Withstand temperatures -25 to +50°C

Cons

  • Heavy

Final thoughts:

Pulsar Digex N455 Digital Night Vision Riflescope is the best for hunting down small and big targets with precise and clean shots. The only drawback is that it can get a bit bulky. But, except for that, it is ideal for almost everything from precision sharpshooting to hunting.

Must Read: Best Deer Blind Heater

8. Pulsar Trail 2 LRF

51cjUA9hC L. AC SL1000

Pulsar Trail 2 LRF Thermal Riflescope is one of the ideal thermal riflescopes out there, loaded with features that one needs for hunting or tactical shooting. The performance is flawless at a wide range of temperatures ranging from -25°C to + 50°C.

Features

Noise Equivalent Temperature Difference (NETD) 40mK Thermal Sensor:

The susceptible thermal imaging sensor with NETD 40mK picks up the details even when the weather conditions do not oblige, and the thermal contrast is low. The minute temperature difference is visible during rainfall, fog, cold, and other unpleasant weather conditions.

Built-in Precise Laser Rangefinder:

The built-in laser rangefinder is equipped with two modes; Single Time Measurement Mode and Scanning Mode with ±1m accuracy up to 1km distance. Scanning mode assists in adjusting to the change in distance between the target and the shooter for better and quick shot placement.

Shockproof Magnesium Alloy Housing:

Trail 2 comes with rugged yet lightweight magnesium alloy housing that can withstand the impact and recoil of high-caliber rifles. The increased structural rigidity of the material tends to minimize the vibrations during the shot and leads to enhanced ballistics. In addition, the magnesium alloy makes sure that the heat is being dispersed smoothly.

Image Boost Technology:

The Trail 2 provides sharp, rich in contrast, and enhanced identification of animals and picks up even the most minor details to locate the target with complete precision. The Image Boost Technology is an exclusive combination of algorithms that makes the image crystal clear without losing any details. The algorithms help in better object identification too.

Wide Angle Eyepiece and AMOLED Display:

Trail 2 LRF features a complex wide-angle six-lens eyepiece with an enhanced field of view combined with the HD AMOLED display that promises rich and deep image perception. The image quality becomes crisp and flawless with the AMOLED technology. In addition, the Picture-in-picture display allows you to view a magnified image of the target at the top-center that only covers 10% of the total field of view for precise shot placement and environmental awareness.

Long Range Detection:

The exceptional thermal imaging sensor with NETD 40 mK combined with the professional quality objective lens ensures an incredible amount of detection in complete darkness. The detection range is up to 1800m; therefore, a 1.8m tall object can be detected at a distance of 1800m in the dark. In addition, the variable digital zoom up to 8x provides undivided focus and quick target acquisition at substantial distances.

Customizable Reticle Options:

There are many options and colors available for you to choose from. The reticle type also includes a scalable ballistic variety for better precision. Color options are black, white, red, and green as per the ambient light situation.

Incredible recoil resistance:

The Trail 2 LRF thermal riflescope recoil rated up to 6,000 joules that can withstand high-caliber rifles/firearms. It can withstand the recoils of .375 H&H, 12-Gauge, and 9.3×64.

Pros

  • Instant start-up
  • Built-in photo/video recorder
  • 16 GB internal memory
  • 8 hours of operation
  • User-friendly interface
  • Store up to 5 zeroing profiles

Cons

  • Images get fuzzy sometimes

Final thoughts:

Pulsar Trail 2 LRF Thermal Riflescope is the best thermal riflescope for hog and coyote hunting. The incredible long-range detection makes your hunting, tactical, military, or fishing experience worth your while. The quick target acquisition and shot placement are what the precision shooters require, and it offers everything and more!

Must Read: Best Flint for Flintlock

9. Pulsar Phantom 4×60 MD WPT

61GVnX94asL. AC SL1500

Pulsar Phantom 4×60 MD WPT Night Vision Riflescope works on the latest night vision technology that gives your eyes the most comfort at night without compromising on the image quality performance. In addition, the professional-grade intensifier tube makes your hunting experience better than ever!

Features

Pulsar Phantom Reticle:

The Phantom is equipped with a unique red-on-green or green-on-green reticle with brightness control. In addition, the reticle is responsible for warning about the battery percentage to let the user have enough time to replace or charge the batteries.

Built-in IR Illuminator: 

The IR illuminator ensures high light gain to allow the users to see in critically low-light conditions.

White Phosphorus Tube (WPT) technology:

The WPT technology offers better depth perception and better contrast in low-light conditions. Pulsar Phantom 4×60 MD WPT is an upper-level Gen III device with the latest night vision white phosphor technology to view the images in black and white.

Nitrogen-purged Design:

Phantom features a nitrogen-purged design that prevents the lens and the interiors from condensation and getting fuzzy. In addition, it makes the riflescope invulnerable to high precipitation conditions.

Voltage Stabilization System: The Phantom can run on a single AA (1.5V) or CR123A (3V) battery. The batteries are positioned vertically to maximize the energy supply during high-caliber recoils. In addition, the voltage stabilization system exterminates the reticle shift and change in brightness when the battery is critically low.

Pros

  • IPX6 rated water resistance
  • Fixed protective lens cap
  • Durable exterior
  • 60mm objective lens
  • Provides the best image quality

Cons

  • Bulky

Final thoughts:

Pulsar Phantom 4×60 MD WPT Night Vision Riflescope is the best option if you want to have an exceptionally incredible hunting experience, especially at nighttime. The upgraded and latest intensifier tube makes this riflescope the best one out there to be used in critically low-light conditions.

Buyer’s Guide

To get the most suitable and reliable riflescope, you need to look for some of the factors listed below:

  • Types and generations of night vision devices:

Generations of the riflescopes mainly depend upon the type, material, glass quality of the intensifier tube used inside. As the technology used to engineer the night vision devices has modified and evolved, it has several generations; that starts from Generation 0 to Generation 3 (there are more being developed to overcome the features the former one lagged).

  • Generation 0:

Generation 0 used an active infrared illuminator that worked with the help of an electron accelerator that provided an image on a phosphorus screen. The image quality was not as adequate, but it helped people see in low light conditions back then. Unfortunately, the Gen 0 devices were hefty, fragile and the infrared rays were used to compromise the security of the shooter/hunter.

  1. Generation I:

Generation I followed with a passive infrared illuminator that did not compromise the security of the users. The devices worked on the passive infrared and the ambient light with an improved photocathode that made the image resolution slightly better, but they had blurry corners.

  • Generation II:

Generation II was equipped with a microchannel plate that maximized the tube’s light to get a better image resolution. As a result, the image quality improved, and the sights became more accurate and reliable.

  • Generation III:

Generation III used gallium arsenide to enhance the sensitivity of the image and vision overall. In addition, the technology used in these devices made the image quality distortion-free, clear and the resolution became better.

Generation III has different types depending upon the tube and systems used inside.

  •  Construction and durability:

Almost all of the night vision riflescopes are made with tough and rugged material as they will have to withstand heavy recoils now and then. Therefore the housing should be strong enough to keep the interior system up and running at all costs. Riflescopes are rated for the number of recoils they can handle. Always check that rating and the housing material of the riflescope before buying.

 Night Vision Technology used:

  • WPT technology: 

White Phosphor Tube technology makes you see the world at night with complete precision to get the target down quickly and smoothly. 

  •  Digital technology: 

The new and improved technology works on a built-in chip that maximizes the light gain and lets you see in the dark with or without the IR illuminator. Digital devices can work both day and night with dedicated functions for each time. They offer many features like; built-in ballistic calculator, rangefinder, and intelligent options for various shooting situations. The image quality of the digital night visions is that of the Gen II and III devices. 

  • Thermal Imaging technology:

The thermal imaging technology changes the heat signals into images, and it has a long detection range. It is because the sensors are susceptible to heat change and can get the image despite the hurdles like fog, trees, bushes, etc.

  •  Battery timing:

Most of the riflescopes have the excellent battery life to get you through the hunting game entirely. However, the IR illumination of the riflescopes at nighttime sucks the battery life even more. Thermal scopes also drain the battery life way too much as they work on thermal imaging technology. Make sure the riflescope you are planning to buy has enough battery life so that you do not have to face the consequences.

 Conclusion:

Night vision rifle scopes are a considerable investment and the essential gear in your hunting kit. Many hunting games require focus, dedication, and time; therefore, the hunters should be ready to get their targets down from dusk till dawn. Sometimes hunters have to face critically low-light conditions, and to overcome that; a night vision scope is needed badly. Choosing the right one depends upon your weapon, hunting essentials, and money in your pocket. So all the hunters out there select wisely!

Must Read: Best Binoculars for Hunting

FAQs

Why the image produced is always green in the night vision scopes?

Green is the easiest color that one can see in the dark for a prolonged period.

Can we use night vision scopes in daylight?

Bright sunlight can damage the internal tubes of the night vision devices, and as their name says, they are night vision devices, so they should come in handy at night only.

Which is the best night vision scope for hog hunting?

ATN ThOR-HD 384 Thermal Rifle Scope is the best night vision scope for hog hunting.

Which is the best night vision riflescope under $500?

Night Owl Optics NightShot Digital Night Vision Riflescope is both economical and rugged.

Which is the best riflescope so far?

There are two most phenomenal riflescopes reviewed above that are best in all aspects; ATN X-Sight-4k Pro Smart Day/Night Scope is the best Riflescope with CORE technology for both day and night visions. Pulsar Digex N455 Digital Night Vision Riflescope is another best riflescope that offers a continuous power supply with dual batteries. It also has a long-range IR Illuminator for perfect shot placement in the dark.

Which is the best thermal night vision scope?

ATN ThOR-HD 384 Thermal Rifle Scope is the best one so far as it offers 22 hours of continuous operation that is pretty extraordinary for the thermal riflescopes.

Share this article
Prev Post

Best Night Vision Rifle Scope under $1000

Next Post

Best Pac Boots for Hunting

Read next