Having the greatest crossbow will not do you a lot of good if you cannot put the arrow where you want it. The best crossbow scope is an indispensable tool. It is the unsung hero that allows you to aim for the perfect shot making that bullseye a reality.
With the right crossbow scope, you can make not only precise shots but also cleaner kills. It also makes longer-distance shots easily, which is instrumental when taking down varmints or dangerous game, as you make a kill without startling them by getting too close.
The market has numerous scopes but not all built equal. We have done the homework for you and and highlighted the best scopes to meet the diverse needs of crossbow hunters. Be sure you will find a scope that aligns with your needs and preferences here.
Are Crossbow Scopes Different From Rifle Scopes?
Crossbow scopes differ greatly from riflescopes when it comes to construction, design, and durability. The vibration, recoil, and ballistics of crossbows make them unique, stipulating specialized scopes. Additionally, crossbow scopes may have shorter eye relief to accommodate the compact size of crossbows and may be built to withstand the recoil generated by crossbow shots. Although riflescopes can be mounted on crossbows, doing so may not produce the safest or best results.
Importance of Crossbow Scopes for Hunters
Crossbow scopes play a crucial role for hunters by significantly enhancing their accuracy and effectiveness in the field. These scopes provide hunters with a clear and magnified view of their target, allowing for precise shot placement, especially at longer distances where accuracy is paramount. With features like specialized reticles calibrated for the trajectory of crossbow bolts, range estimation markings, and holdover points, crossbow scopes enable hunters to quickly and accurately assess distance and adjust their aim accordingly.
In addition, crossbow scopes can improve visibility in low-light conditions, such as dawn or dusk, enabling hunters to extend their hunting hours and increase their chances of success. Ultimately, the importance of crossbow scopes for hunters lies in their ability to maximize accuracy, increase confidence, and ultimately improve the overall hunting experience.
Best Crossbow Scopes
1) Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Crossbow Riflescope
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm crossbow scope sports a robust 30mm tube for maximum internal adjustment, allowing shooters to fine-tune their aim with unparalleled precision.
The capped turrets and dual illumination with intensity controls ensure effortless adjustments and optimal visibility of this best crossbow scope in any lighting conditions. Its nitrogen-filled and o-ring sealed for fogproof and waterproof integrity ensuring reliable performance even in the harshest environments. This provides hunters with peace of mind during their outdoor pursuits.
It comes with the XBR-2 reticle that offers precise aiming points calibrated for crossbow bolts, facilitating quick and accurate shot placement.
Additionally, proprietary coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces enhance light transmission, delivering bright and clear images even in low-light conditions.
With rugged, shockproof construction designed to withstand recoil and impact, the Vortex Crossfire II is built to endure the rigors of crossbow hunting while delivering uncompromising performance and reliability with every shot.
Features
- Weighs 14 oz
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- XBR-2 reticle
- 30mm tube diameter
- 2x to 7x magnification
- Fogproof, waterproof, and shockproof
- Capped turrets
- Dual illumination with intensity controls
- 2.7 inches of eye relief
Pros
- Excellent clarity in low light
- Price
- Construction quality
Cons
- Cluttered view with all the yardages crammed in such a small space
2) ATN Thor LT 320 5-10x50mm Thermal Rifle Scope
The ATN Thor LT 320 5-10x50mm Thermal Rifle Scope is a cutting-edge thermal imaging optic revolutionizing crossbow hunting.
It is built with precision and innovation in mind as it is equipped with a state-of-the-art 12-micron resolution sensor, delivering crisp and detailed thermal images that provide hunters with unparalleled visibility in any lighting condition, day or night.
It features the ATN Obsidian Core LT and a thermal sensor operating at 60Hz which ensure swift target acquisition and tracking, empowering hunters with real-time thermal imaging capabilities.
The scope ticks the durability box. It is crafted from hardened aluminum alloy which makes it not only lightweight and durable but also resistant to recoil and impact, ensuring reliable performance in the field.
With its user-friendly design, the Thor LT is easy to mount and easy to use, allowing hunters to focus on their target without distractions. The one-shot zero sighting feature further enhances convenience and accuracy, enabling hunters to quickly sight in their crossbow with minimal effort.
Features
- 5x to 10x magnification
- 60Hz refresh rate
- Water-resistant
- 3-year warranty
- Aluminum alloy housing
- Mounts easily with standard 30mm rings
- Continuous use of more than 12 hours
- One Shot Zero
Pros
- Easy to manipulate
- Great field of view
- Top quality
Cons
- A rangefinder would be a nice addition
3) Hawke Sport Optics 1.5-5x32mm Crossbow Scope
The Hawke Sport Optics 1.5-5x32mm crossbow scope is another best crossbow scope on the market, tailored to meet the demanding needs of crossbow enthusiasts. It is equipped with a rheostat on the saddle which offers five levels of brightness, ensuring optimal visibility in varying light conditions. The 1/2 MOA low-profile “no-snag” fingertip turrets provide precise adjustments while maintaining a sleek profile.
Thanks to the fast focus eyebell and a high torque zoom ring, the scope allows for quick and easy magnification changes and clear targeting.
Its construction is exceptionally robust, with a 1-inch monotube chassis that is nitrogen purged, making it shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof, ensuring reliable performance in all environments. The scope promises a thrilling hunting adventure even when the weather is unforgiving.
The 11-layer fully multi-coated optics deliver outstanding clarity, providing sharp and bright images. They heighten light transmission to the extent of yielding admirable images of the target from first to last light.
Another key feature is the speed adjuster, which matches the bow speed from 250 fps to 425 fps for accurate reticle calibration, accommodating a wide range of crossbows. The illuminated glass-etched XB1 SR reticle enhances targeting accuracy, especially in low-light conditions.
Features
- Length of 8.3 inches
- 1/2 MOA adjustment click value
- Adjustable 1.5 to 4.5x magnification
- 36mm objective lens diameter
- 11-layer fully multi-coated optics
- Glass-etched XB 1 SR reticle
- One-inch chassis for crossbow recoil resistance
- 4.02 inches of eye relief
- Fixed parallax
- Speed selector ring
Pros
- Clear glass
- Super clear and visible reticle
- Repeatable accuracy
- Includes flip-up lens caps
Cons
- Blurs slightly at the edge of the lens
4) Leapers UTG 4×32 Crossbow Scope
Next up is the Leapers UTG 4x32mm crossbow scope.
This incredible scope is constructed on Leapers’ renowned True Strength platform and is rain-proof, fog proof, and shockproof, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
It’s Pro 5-Step reticle is designed specifically for 300 fps crossbows and has integrated range finder lines that allow for accurate targeting. The red and green illumination is controlled by an ergonomic Side Wheel Adjustable Turret dial, providing easy and quick adjustments for various lighting conditions.
Precision broadband lens coating enhances light transmission, delivering bright and clear images.
The scope features premium zero lockable and zero resettable target-style turrets, offering precise and repeatable adjustments. Parallax is pre-adjusted at 50 yards, optimizing accuracy at common crossbow shooting distances. An integral sunshade is included to block glare and enhance the view, ensuring clear sight pictures in bright conditions.
As one of the best crossbow scope recommendations, it comes complete with two quick detach lever lock scope rings for secure and easy mounting. The package also includes a CR1620 battery, flip-open lens caps, a cleaning cloth, installation tools, and an optics user manual. It is backed by Leapers’ lifetime warranty. This scope is a reliable and effective choice for serious crossbow users seeking the best performance and value.
Features
- Generous field of view
- Made on True strength platform
- Multiproof
- Includes two quick detach lever scope rings
- Zero lockable and resettable turrets
- Fixed 4x zoom
- 3.8 inches of eye relief
- Pre-adjusted parallax at 50 yards
- Red and green illumination
- Sunshade to reduce glare and enhance views
Pros
- Superb clarity and resolution
- Well built
- Adjustments are zeroing are easy
Cons
- QD rings may not fit your bow
5) Killer Instinct Lumix 4×32 IR-E Crossbow Scope
The Killer Instinct Lumix 4×32 IR-E Crossbow Scope is acclaimed as the best crossbow scope for its combination of robust construction and advanced optical features. It is nitrogen purged for water and fog proof performance for unwavering performance in foul weather.
The one-inch mono-tube chassis is shockproof ensuring the scope remains intact amidst recoil from your crosbow.
Its compact and slim line design is tailored for modern crossbows shooting at speeds above 300+ FPS, making it an ideal choice for high-performance shooting. The scope boasts fully multi-coated optics for great light transmission leading to bright and clear optics. The fast focus eyepiece ensures rapid target acquisition, allowing for quick and precise aiming.
This best crossbow scope features premium glass-etched optics with multi-reticle aim points, providing versatile targeting options. The rheostat brightness illumination in red or blue enhances visibility in low-light settings, offering superior performance during dawn, dusk, or overcast days.
Features
- 4x magnification
- LED illumination
- Nitrogen purged for fogproofing
- Glass-etched reticle
- Waterproof and shockproof
- Multi-reticle
- One-inch tube
- 32mm lens size
Pros
- Compact design
- Includes scope caps
- Amazing clarity
Cons
- No night vision
Related: 5 Best ACOG Scopes
Factors to Consider When Selecting the Best Crossbow Scope
Reticle
First, consider the reticle type on your crossbow scope. Look for reticles designed specifically for crossbows, such as multi-reticle or ballistic reticles, which offer multiple aiming points for different ranges.
Illuminated reticles can be beneficial in low light conditions.
Range of Crossbow
The second thing to watch out for when choosing the best crossbow scope is the range of crossbow. The bow’s speed and range would determine the ideal match for its capability.
Some crossbow scopes can only shoot as much as 200 fps, and getting them for a crossbow with a higher speed minimum is pointless. Some scopes on the other hand have adjustable ranges that provide flexibility when shooting.
Durability
Rust, corrosion, and weather elements can damage your crossbow scope. Look for one that easily withstands tough elements. It should be made from high-grade materials like aluminum.
Things like rigorous use or foul weather could reduce the lifespan of the scope. It can start with a few cracks or the lens blurring when you try to aim. This could make your scope useless. However, getting a durable scope means it will hold up in the rough and tumble of hunting.
Weight
You don’t want a heavy scope that will weigh you down or hinder the balance of your crossbow. It is about finding the perfect balance between the scope and your crossbow. After all, you are one covering all the ground.
What you want to achieve with your crossbow scope should be the main thing steering your purchase. Do nit go for an overweight scope that will cause any sort of inconvenience when taking your shots.
Optical Quality
You cannot skimp on optical quality when on the search for the best crossbow scope. The optical quality determines the overall image quality, dictating whether the pictures produced are crisp, clear, bright, and sharp. The best crossbow scope should have adequate lens treatment for the best results. Look for fully coated or fully multi-coated lenses.
Adjustment Turrets
Look for precise, easy-to-use adjustment turrets. Zero-resettable and lockable turrets are advantageous for maintaining accuracy.
Low-profile or no-snag turrets can prevent accidental adjustments.
Types of Crossbow Scopes
Crossbow scopes come in various types, each designed to cater to different shooting needs and preferences. Here are some common types of crossbow scopes:
Fixed Power Scopes
These scopes have a set magnification level (e.g., 4x). They are simple to use and generally more durable due to fewer moving parts.
Variable Power Scopes
These scopes allow you to adjust the magnification level (e.g., 1.5-5x), providing flexibility for different shooting distances and conditions.
Red Dot Sights
Red dot sights provide a single dot or reticle for aiming without magnification, ideal for short-range shooting and quick target acquisition.
A red dot sight with adjustable brightness settings for use in various lighting conditions.
Illuminated Reticle Scopes
These scopes feature reticles that can be illuminated in different colors (e.g., red, green, blue) and brightness levels for better visibility in low-light conditions.
Rangefinding Scopes
These scopes incorporate rangefinding capabilities to help estimate the distance to the target, which can enhance accuracy, especially for longer shots.
Multi-reticle Scopes
These scopes allow you to adjust the reticle calibration based on the crossbow’s speed (fps), ensuring accurate aiming for different crossbow models. For instance, a scope with a speed adjustment dial for crossbows ranging from 300 fps to 425 fps.
Best Crossbow Scope FAQs
Can a Riflescope Work on a Crossbow?
Yes it can. However, it is best to use a crossbow scope for the best results. Crossbow scopes are made for the weapon and they work far better on crossbows that riflescopes.
The recoil of crossbows is not similar to that of rifles. They have two stages of recoil in two directions. The first is rearward like a rifle and the second is forward like a bow. Not all riflescopes are engineered to withstand the recoil in two different directions hence crossbows are better suited for that.
In addition, rifle scopes don’t have the capability to adjust to various bolt speeds and weight.
However, if you have decided you want a riflescope for your bow, watch out for low magnification range, adjustable crosshair focus, multiple elevation reticle and windage marks, and close range parallax adjustment.
What is the Best Range to Sight In a Crossbow?
The best range to sight in a crossbow is typically at 20 yards, as this distance represents a common and practical range for many crossbow hunting and shooting scenarios. Sighting in at 20 yards provides a good baseline for accuracy, allowing you to effectively zero in your scope and make necessary adjustments for windage and elevation. Once properly sighted in at this range, you can then use the reticle’s additional aiming points or make minor adjustments to extend your accuracy to longer distances, such as 30, 40, or even 50 yards, ensuring optimal performance across various shooting ranges.
Conclusion
A good scope is a good investment for both you and your crossbow. It makes you a better shooter and enhances the accuracy of your crossbow. We hope this guide for the best crossbow scope recommendations has shed light on everything you need to know to make a well-informed decision.