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Best Light Gathering Rifle Scope (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for an accessory that can enhance your precision shooting experience, then a light-gathering rifle scope may be the perfect solution. These scopes are designed to gather and focus available light, providing a clearer and brighter image for the shooter. They can be especially helpful in low light conditions, allowing the shooter to easily pick out their target and take accurate shots.

When considering a light-gathering rifle scope, there are several factors to take into account. First and foremost, consider the quality of the optics. A high-quality lens will produce a clearer and sharper image, while a lower quality one may be blurry or hazy. Second, consider the size and weight of the scope, as well as the magnification options available. A larger scope with higher magnification may be necessary for long range shooting, but may be cumbersome to carry and use. Finally, consider the cost and value for money of the scope, as well as any extra features that may be included.

Are you struggling to hit your target in low light conditions? Have you been searching for an accessory to enhance your precision shooting experience? A light-gathering rifle scope may be just what you need. But where do you start? How do you choose the right scope for you? In this article, we’ll explore the factors you need to consider when selecting a light-gathering rifle scope, so you can make an informed decision and take your shooting game to the next level.

10 Best Light Gathering Rifle Scope

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for hunting and shooting, providing clear vision day or night with multiple magnification options.
2
Ideal for hunting in low light conditions with its day and night vision capabilities.
3
The product is ideal for hunting and shooting due to its reticle and adjustable magnification.
4
The product is ideal for enhanced visibility and recording in low-light or dark conditions, with included accessories for mounting and protection.
5
Ideal for target shooting, bird watching, hunting, archery, and wildlife viewing with its HD optical components and dual focus system.
6
Ideal for night time hunting and shooting with advanced digital technology and infrared capabilities.
7
The product is ideal for spotting and observing distant objects or wildlife with a clear and magnified view.
8
Ideal for improving accuracy and precision in hunting and shooting, using a red dot sight magnifier and rifle bipod gun rest.
9
Ideal for finding and guiding celestial objects in astronomy, as well as for use as a spotting scope while traveling.
10
The product is ideal for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who require a high-quality thermal scope with advanced features.
Ideal for hunting and shooting, providing clear vision day or night with multiple magnification options.
Ideal for hunting in low light conditions with its day and night vision capabilities.
The product is ideal for hunting and shooting due to its reticle and adjustable magnification.
The product is ideal for enhanced visibility and recording in low-light or dark conditions, with included accessories for mounting and protection.
Ideal for target shooting, bird watching, hunting, archery, and wildlife viewing with its HD optical components and dual focus system.
Ideal for night time hunting and shooting with advanced digital technology and infrared capabilities.
The product is ideal for spotting and observing distant objects or wildlife with a clear and magnified view.
Ideal for improving accuracy and precision in hunting and shooting, using a red dot sight magnifier and rifle bipod gun rest.
Ideal for finding and guiding celestial objects in astronomy, as well as for use as a spotting scope while traveling.
The product is ideal for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who require a high-quality thermal scope with advanced features.

1. Theopticguru Atn X-Sight Ltv 5-15x Ultra Light Day & Night Vision Rifle Scope

The product is a high-performance scope that offers both day and night mode capabilities. It can record HD video and features multiple reticles for enhanced accuracy. The scope is equipped with a 3D gyroscope that provides stability and accuracy during use. Additionally, it has a long-lasting internal battery that ensures uninterrupted use.

The day/night mode feature of this scope allows for seamless transition from day to night use, making it a versatile option for hunters and shooters. The HD video recording capability allows users to capture their hunting or shooting experience and share it with others. The multiple reticles provide enhanced accuracy, while the 3D gyroscope ensures stability and precision during use. The long-lasting internal battery eliminates the need for frequent charging, making it a reliable choice for extended use in the field.

Pros

  • Day and night mode capabilities for versatile use
  • HD video recording capability for capturing hunting and shooting experiences
  • Multiple reticles for enhanced accuracy
  • 3D gyroscope for stability and precision during use
  • Long-lasting internal battery for uninterrupted use

2. Atn X-Sight Ltv 3-9x Day Night Hunting Rifle Scope , Black

The QHD+ Sensor of this product ensures crystal clear image quality even at a distance, making it an ideal tool for hunting. The device comes with an HD screen and comfortable 3" eye relief, allowing for ease of use for extended periods. The night vision mode of the device ensures enhanced and rapid target acquisition in complete darkness, providing optimal vision during nighttime hunts. In addition, the device records footage of hunting pursuits in 720P quality, ensuring that users can relive their adventures in razor-sharp quality. The device also comes with a One Shot Zero feature, which allows for a fast and easier sight-in of the scope. Users can also choose from multiple reticles to suit their needs. The device's ergonomic design is classic and user-friendly, while the wide field of view ensures that users can keep an eye on their surroundings. The product can be easily mounted on virtually any platform with 30 mm standard mount rings. However, please note that this is an ITAR product and is restricted for export.

Pros

  • QHD+ Sensor provides crystal clear image quality at any time and distance
  • Night Vision mode enhances target acquisition in complete darkness
  • One Shot Zero allows for fast and easy sight-in of the scope
  • Records footage in 720P quality for future viewing pleasure
  • Ergonomic design and user-friendly interface
  • Wide field of view
  • Easily mountable on virtually any platform with 30 mm standard mount rings

Cons

  • – ITAR product is restricted for export

3. Burris Optics Fullfield E1 4.5-14×42 Sf Scope, Ballistic Plex E1 Reticle 200338

The Burris Fullfield II 3-9x40mm Riflescope is a top-quality scope designed for shooting enthusiasts who desire a simple yet sophisticated reticle for supreme accuracy. This riflescope is made from high-grade optical glass that provides excellent brightness and clarity, with lasting durability.

The scope comes equipped with finger-adjustable, low-profile turrets that create a sleek profile. The turret indications always reflect a change in the point of impact, ensuring pinpoint accuracy. The power ring is easy to grip and turn, even with gloves, and the eyepiece does not rotate, so the lens covers stay put.

The scope features a double internal spring-tension system that allows it to hold zero through shock, recoil, and vibrations. The durable, stress-free, solid 1-piece outer tube withstands shock and vibrations from even the heaviest recoil. The nitrogen-filled scope tube prevents fogging, even in cold and rain, and is waterproof. With the Burris Forever Warranty, you can be confident in your purchase for years to come.

Pros

  • High-grade optical glass for excellent brightness and clarity with lasting durability
  • Finger-adjustable, low-profile turrets for pinpoint accuracy
  • Double internal spring-tension system for holding zero through shock, recoil, and vibrations
  • Nitrogen-filled scope tube for preventing fogging even in cold and rain
  • Waterproof and guaranteed by Burris Forever Warranty

Cons

  • – May be more expensive compared to other scopes on the market

4. Night Vision Uncharted Kit With Spotting Scope

The Sionyx Aurora Pro is a digital colour night vision camera that offers incredible performance in low-light conditions. It is perfect for hog hunting, coyote hunting, spotting, boating, outdoor activities, tactical operations and military activities. The device is an excellent alternative to night vision goggles and binoculars. With the ability to record audio, photos and videos, you can store up to 256GB of your epic starlit expeditions or tactical night vision operations. You can use it as a helmet-mounted night vision device, a hand-held monocular or mount it and stream it to a device.

The Aurora Pro has moonless starlight sensitivity down to below 1 MLX, making it an essential piece of tactical gear, military gear or hunting gear. It offers geo-location overlay data and recoil-activated image capture, unlike thermal night vision monoculars, pvs 14 white phosphor and other analog NODs. Additionally, the device has a 44-degree field of view that increases your situational awareness in your peripheral vision. You can see more than thermal imaging monoculars or analog night vision such as gen 3 green phosphor.

The Aurora Pro is built for extreme environments and is IP67 rated for prolonged water, solar, dust and dirt exposure. It is submersible in water up to 3-feet for 30 minutes, making it safe to use in inclement weather conditions. The device also features a remote viewing functionality that allows you to sync it to any smart device via the SiONYX app for wireless video streaming. You can easily mount it on rifles for use with a red dot scope or boats for streaming to the helm.

The Sionyx IR torch is tuned to the Aurora sensor for maximum visibility on pitch-black nights. The device also comes with a Ram Mounts Camera Mount & Tablet Mount System that provides flexible mounting options for any occasion. The Uncharted Kit includes the Sionyx Aurora Pro digital colour night vision camera, 940nm IR Illuminator, Ram Mounts Camera Mount & Tablet Mount System, hardshell waterproof case and more.

Pros

  • Moonless starlight sensitivity down to below 1 MLX
  • 44-degree field of view increases situational awareness
  • Geo-location overlay data and recoil-activated image capture
  • Remote viewing functionality for wireless video streaming
  • IP67 rated for prolonged water, solar, dust and dirt exposure
  • Comes with a Ram Mounts Camera Mount & Tablet Mount System

Cons

  • – May be expensive for some users

5. Svbony Hd Dual Focus Spotting Scope

The SV406P spotting scope is equipped with ED glasses that effectively reduce image edge chromatic aberration and provide clear high-magnification images. Its 1.25 inch standard interface eyepiece has a focal length of about 7-21mm and can also be used alone as a telescope eyepiece. The quick focus design and dual focus feature allow for easy and quick image focus. With an 80mm large objective lens, this spotting scope provides powerful light gathering ability in low-light environments, making it ideal for moon viewing. The spotting scope also comes with an advanced custom soft case that provides effective protection during observation and is convenient for carrying. Additionally, the SV406P spotter scope has an IPX7 waterproof and fogproof grade that can withstand complex weather conditions and prolong its use time. It also has a standard threaded interface that can be connected to a variety of tripods, meeting different observation needs indoors and outdoors.

The SV406P spotting scope is a great addition to any outdoor enthusiast's gear. Its ED glasses provide clear images and the quick focus design allows for quick and easy adjustments. The 80mm objective lens is perfect for low-light environments and moon viewing. The spotting scope's IPX7 waterproof and fogproof grade ensures that it can withstand harsh weather conditions. The soft custom case is also a great feature that protects the spotting scope during transport.

The SV406P spotting scope is perfect for bird watching, hunting, and other outdoor activities. Its ED glasses and large objective lens provide clear and bright images, and the quick focus design and dual focus feature allow for easy and fast adjustments. The spotting scope's waterproof and fogproof grade ensures that it can be used in any weather condition. The custom soft case is also a nice touch that provides protection and convenience during transport.

Pros

  • Equipped with ED glasses that effectively reduce image edge chromatic aberration
  • Quick focus design and dual focus feature for easy and quick image focus
  • 80mm large objective lens provides powerful light gathering ability in low-light environments
  • IPX7 waterproof and fogproof grade ensures that it can withstand harsh weather conditions
  • Custom soft case provides effective protection and convenience during transport
  • Standard threaded interface can be connected to a variety of tripods

6. Sightmark Wraith 4k Max 3-24×50 W/ir Digital Night Vision Riflescope , Black

The 4K Digital Imaging with built-in HD video recording is the perfect device for all your day and night viewing needs. With its full color viewing, you can use it during the day, while its black and white or classic green night vision mode can be used for night viewing. The device also comes with an 8x digital zoom and a 4x optical system for up to 32x magnification, which makes it easier for you to see your target clearly from a distance. Furthermore, it features 10 reticle options and 9 different color options, making it easier to aim and achieve better accuracy. The device is also customizable according to your tactical and hunting needs.

The package includes an IR flashlight, which is essential for night viewing, a daytime lens filter for daytime use, an objective lens cover to protect the lens from dust and dirt, a fixed Picatinny mount for easy installation, a USB cable for charging and transferring data, and a user manual to guide you through the set-up process and usage.

Pros

  • 4K digital imaging with built-in HD video recording.
  • Day/night mode with full color viewing for day use.
  • Black and white or classic green for night vision mode.
  • 8x digital zoom and 4x optical system for up to 32x magnification.
  • Customizable tactical and hunting reticle options with 10 reticle options and 9 different color options.
  • Package includes essential components for easy installation and usage.

7. Bushnell Trophy Xtreme Spotting Scope, Green, 20-60 X 65mm

The 1/4 inch-20 Tripod Mounting Shoe/Tabletop Tripod with Window Mount is a versatile and compact accessory that allows users to mount their camera or camcorder onto a tripod or window mount. It features a standard 1/4 inch-20 threaded screw that can be easily attached to most camera models, and a built-in bubble level that ensures a level and accurate shot.

The tabletop tripod is perfect for use on a flat surface, while the window mount allows for stable and secure mounting on a car or other flat surface. The mount is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry around for outdoor shoots or on-the-go filming. It is also compatible with a wide range of cameras, including DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, and camcorders.

Overall, the 1/4 inch-20 Tripod Mounting Shoe/Tabletop Tripod with Window Mount is a reliable and convenient accessory for any photography or videography enthusiast.

Pros

  • Versatile and compact accessory for mounting camera or camcorder onto a tripod or window mount
  • Standard 1/4 inch-20 threaded screw for easy attachment to most camera models
  • Built-in bubble level ensures accurate and level shot
  • Tabletop tripod and window mount provide stable and secure mounting options
  • Lightweight and portable for outdoor shoots or on-the-go filming
  • Compatible with a wide range of cameras including DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, and camcorders

8. Red Dot Magnifier & Bipod Combo – Vortex Optics

The VMX-3T Magnifier and Flip Mount combo is an ideal accessory to add to your rifle's red dot sight. It offers a 3x magnification that brings targets closer and enhances the accuracy of your shots. This combo is easy to use with its push button design that quickly engages and disengages the flip mount. You can lock the magnifier at your desired position without any hassle. The lens is fully multi-coated, providing maximum resolution, light gathering capability, and color fidelity for a clear and bright image.

The VMX-3T has a 2.2 inches eye relief, and the field of view is 38.2 feet/100 yards. This magnifier does not require any special sight-in. You can use the dot centering screws to center the red dot image in the field of view of the VMX-3T. The magnifier is nitrogen purged, making it waterproof and fog proof for reliable performance in any field conditions.

The VMX-3T Magnifier and Flip Mount combo is optimized for rapid one-handed adjustments. It is lightweight and made of Mil-spec hard anodized 6061 T-6 aluminum and injection-molded polymer. The aesthetically pleasing low-profile design conceals its mechanisms and hardware. You can clean the lenses with lens cleaning fluid and optical tissue or cloth to maintain its performance.

This combo offers serious strength and versatility, making it an excellent addition to any rifle enthusiast's collection.

Pros

  • Easy to use push button design for quick and effortless engagement and disengagement.
  • Fully multi-coated lens for maximum resolution, light gathering capability, and color fidelity.
  • Nitrogen purged for waterproof and fog proof performance.
  • Optimized for one-handed adjustments.
  • Lightweight and durable Mil-spec hard anodized 6061 T-6 aluminum and injection-molded polymer construction.
  • Aesthetically pleasing low-profile design conceals mechanisms and hardware.

9. Illuminated Guide Scope: The Ultimate Astro Companion.

For astrophotography enthusiasts, the Variable 60 mm finder with 10x magnification is a great addition to their telescope. It comes with illumination and a light-gathering guide scope, making it ideal for capturing stunning images of the night sky. The finder has an aperture of 60 mm and a focal length of 248 mm, offering a clear and bright view of celestial objects.

The finder has a practical 45° view, providing an upright and non-mirrored image for comfortable viewing. It also features a 24.8 mm Dual-Crosshair with illumination adjustable in 7 steps, allowing for precise alignment of the telescope. The battery required for illumination is a Coin Style CR2032 (Not Included).

The finder's sliding focuser with rotation allows for easy focusing, and the multiple lockscrews ensure rigidity during use. Additionally, the integrated/removable dovetail bar (EQ/Vixen) with a 1/4-20 tripod thread makes it easy to attach to a telescope or tripod.

The 45° Amici prism with the eyepiece is unscrewable, providing a female T2 thread (M42x0.75) for use as a guiding scope for astrophotography. With a generous working distance of 57 mm up to 94 mm from the female T2 thread, there are no problems with adapting autoguiders or cameras.

Pros

  • Aperture of 60 mm and focal length of 248 mm for clear and bright views of celestial objects
  • Practical 45° view with an upright and non-mirrored image
  • 24.8 mm Dual-Crosshair with illumination adjustable in 7 steps for precise alignment
  • Sliding focuser with rotation for easy focusing and multiple lockscrews for rigidity
  • Integrated/removable dovetail bar (EQ/Vixen) with a 1/4-20 tripod thread for easy attachment
  • 45° Amici prism with the eyepiece is unscrewable, providing a female T2 thread (M42x0.75) for use as a guiding scope for astrophotography
  • Generous working distance of 57 mm up to 94 mm from the female T2 thread for adapting autoguiders or cameras

Cons

  • – Battery required for illumination is not included

10. Atn Thor 4: The Ultimate Thermal Scope.

The Obsidian IV Dual Core Processor and Gen 4 Thermal Sensor make this hunting scope an excellent choice for hunters. It offers a choice of black-and-white or bright color palettes in HD resolution. The Smart Rangefinder feature allows hunters to range their target in just two clicks and get a precise distance measurement in a matter of seconds, eliminating the need for extra gadgets. Additionally, the Ballistic Calculator feature makes every shot a kill by adjusting the point of impact automatically, taking into account the ammo type, range to target, and environmental data.

The low power consumption technology of this hunting scope is another impressive feature. It can be used for over 16 hours of active use, ensuring that you never miss an opportunity due to drained batteries. Finally, the dual stream video recording feature is a great addition to the hunting scope as it allows for simultaneous Wifi streaming and video recording without any negative impact on performance.

Pros

  • Offers a choice of black-and-white or bright color palettes in HD resolution
  • Smart Rangefinder feature allows hunters to range their target in just two clicks
  • Ballistic Calculator feature adjusts the point of impact automatically
  • Low power consumption technology provides over 16 hours of active use
  • Dual stream video recording feature allows for simultaneous Wifi streaming and video recording

Best Light Gathering Rifle Scope FAQs

Can a light-gathering rifle scope be used effectively in low-light conditions?

Yes, a light-gathering rifle scope can be used effectively in low-light conditions. Such a scope is designed to gather as much light as possible and to transmit that light to the shooter's eye, which enables the shooter to see clearly even in low-light conditions. The effectiveness of such a scope depends on various factors, including the quality of the scope, the magnification level, and the shooter's skill level. For example, a high-quality scope with a high magnification level may be more effective than a lower-quality scope with a lower magnification level. Additionally, shooters who are skilled at using such scopes may be able to get better results than those who are less experienced. However, even with the best equipment and the most skilled shooter, there are limits to how effective a light-gathering scope can be in low-light conditions. Factors such as the amount of ambient light and the distance to the target can also affect the effectiveness of such a scope.

How does the objective lens size affect the light-gathering capabilities of a rifle scope?

The objective lens size is a crucial factor that affects the light-gathering capabilities of a rifle scope. The larger the diameter of the objective lens, the more light it can gather, resulting in a brighter and clearer image of the target. A bigger objective lens also means a wider field of view and better low-light performance, making it easier to spot and track targets in low-light conditions.

However, it's important to remember that a larger objective lens also means a heavier and bulkier rifle scope, which can affect the handling and balance of the rifle. Moreover, the magnification power of the scope also plays a significant role in the light-gathering capability. A higher magnification power with a smaller objective lens may not perform as well as a lower magnification power with a larger objective lens.

In conclusion, the objective lens size is a crucial factor that affects the performance of a rifle scope. Choosing the right objective lens size based on your specific shooting needs and preferences is essential to achieve the desired results.

What are some key features to look for in a light-gathering rifle scope?

When it comes to purchasing a light-gathering rifle scope, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you are getting the best product for your needs. Firstly, the quality of the lens is essential as the lens is responsible for gathering light and transmitting it to your eye. Look for a scope that has a high-quality glass lens, with multiple coatings to enhance brightness and clarity.

Another important feature to consider is the reticle or crosshairs. Some scopes have illuminated reticles, which can be particularly useful in low-light conditions, while others may have thicker crosshairs that are easier to see in dim light. It's important to choose a reticle that suits your hunting or shooting style and preferences.

The size of the objective lens is also crucial as it determines the amount of light that can enter the scope. Generally, the larger the objective lens, the better the light-gathering capabilities of the scope. However, larger objective lenses can also make the scope heavier and bulkier, so it's important to find the right balance between light gathering and ease of use.

Lastly, consider the overall build quality of the scope, ensuring it is durable and reliable in various weather conditions. Look for a scope that is waterproof, fog proof and shockproof, with a sturdy and reliable mounting system. By considering these key features, you can find a light-gathering rifle scope that will enhance your shooting experience and improve your accuracy in low-light conditions.

What are some popular brands of light-gathering rifle scopes on the market?

There are several popular brands of light-gathering rifle scopes available on the market today. One of the most popular brands is Leupold, which is known for its high-quality optics and durable construction. Another popular brand is Nikon, which offers a wide range of scopes that are designed for different types of shooting situations, from long-range shooting to hunting in low-light conditions.

Other popular brands of light-gathering rifle scopes include Vortex, Bushnell, and Trijicon. Vortex is known for its high-quality optics, while Bushnell offers a range of affordable scopes that are ideal for beginners. Trijicon, on the other hand, is known for its specialized scopes that are designed for specific shooting situations, such as tactical shooting or long-range shooting.

Regardless of the brand you choose, it is important to select a scope that is designed to gather as much light as possible in low-light conditions, as this will help you to see your target more clearly and accurately.

What is a light-gathering rifle scope and how does it work?

A light-gathering rifle scope is a type of sighting device used by hunters and shooters to improve accuracy and precision. The main function of this type of scope is to gather and transmit light to the shooter's eye, which allows them to see the target more clearly, especially in low-light conditions.

The scope consists of a series of lenses that are designed to gather and transmit the light that is reflected off the target, and then to magnify the image of the target so that it appears closer and larger to the shooter's eye. This magnification allows the shooter to take a more precise aim, which can improve accuracy and reduce the likelihood of missed shots.

The amount of light that a scope can gather is determined by the diameter of the objective lens, which is the lens at the front of the scope that faces the target. The larger the diameter of the objective lens, the more light it can gather, and the brighter the image will appear to the shooter.

Overall, a light-gathering rifle scope is an essential tool for any serious hunter or shooter, as it can greatly improve accuracy and precision in a wide range of shooting conditions.

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