10 Best Light Gathering Rifle Scope (2024 Update)

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Are you an avid hunter or shooter looking to improve your accuracy in low-light conditions? Then a light gathering rifle scope may be just what you need. But before investing in one, there are a few key points you should keep in mind.

First, consider the objective lens size. A larger objective lens allows more light to enter the scope, resulting in a brighter image. However, a larger lens may also make the scope heavier and bulkier.

Second, pay attention to the coating on the lenses. A fully multi-coated lens will provide the best light transmission, but it may come at a higher price point.

Third, consider the reticle. A simpler reticle, such as a duplex or crosshair, may be easier to see in low-light conditions than a more complex reticle.

Fourth, take into account the magnification range. Higher magnification may make it harder to see in low-light conditions, so a lower magnification may be better suited for your needs.

Finally, factor in your budget. Light gathering rifle scopes can range in price from a few hundred dollars to well over a thousand, so it's important to know how much you're willing to spend before making a purchase.

In summary, when looking for a light gathering rifle scope, consider the objective lens size, lens coating, reticle, magnification range, and budget. By keeping these key points in mind, you'll be better equipped to find the right scope to improve your accuracy in low-light conditions.

10 Best Light Gathering Rifle Scope

1. Sightmark Wraith Hd 4-32×50 Digital Night Vision Riflescope

The Sightmark Wraith HD 4-32×50 Digital Night Vision Riflescope is a highly advanced piece of equipment that is designed to deliver exceptional performance during day and night. It features a day/night mode that enables full-color viewing during the day and black and white or classic green for night vision mode. This makes it an ideal tool for hunting, target shooting, and other outdoor activities that require precision and accuracy.

One of the most impressive features of the Sightmark Wraith HD is its high-definition sensor, which provides high-resolution imaging with video recording in 1080p HD. This ensures that the user can capture clear and detailed footage of their target, even in low light conditions. Additionally, the scope's 8x digital zoom allows for up to 16x magnification, making it easier to spot and track targets from a distance.

The Sightmark Wraith HD also comes equipped with HD photo or video recording capabilities, which allows users to capture and store footage of their hunting or shooting experiences. However, it is important to note that a memory card is not included with the riflescope, so users will need to purchase one separately.

Overall, the Sightmark Wraith HD 4-32×50 Digital Night Vision Riflescope is an exceptional piece of equipment that is designed to meet the needs of serious hunters, shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts. Its advanced features and capabilities make it a valuable tool that can help users achieve greater accuracy and success in their activities.

2. Vortex Crossfire Ii 3-9×40 Rifle Scope, V-Brite Reticle , Black

The Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 Rifle Scope is a high-quality riflescope that has been designed to provide hunters and shooters with an exceptional shooting experience. With its V-Brite reticle, this scope is perfect for use in extra-low light conditions. The V-Plex format with battery-powered electronics illuminates the center dot, making it easy for shooters to acquire their target.

The Crossfire II riflescope features a long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, allowing shooters to quickly get a sight picture and acquire their target. The fast focus eyepiece also enables quick and easy reticle focusing.

The riflescope's anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses provide bright and clear views for the user. The lenses are designed to reduce glare and provide excellent clarity, even in low light conditions.

The Crossfire II riflescope is also equipped with capped reset turrets that are finger adjustable with MOA clicks. These turrets can be reset to zero after sighting in, making it easy for shooters to make adjustments on the fly.

Constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, the Crossfire II riflescope is both strong and shockproof. The single-piece tube design ensures that the scope can withstand even the most rugged conditions. The riflescope is also O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, delivering waterproof and fogproof performance.

In conclusion, the Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 Rifle Scope is an exceptional riflescope that is perfect for hunters and shooters of all levels. Its V-Brite reticle, long eye relief, and fast focus eyepiece make it easy to acquire targets quickly and accurately, while its durable construction ensures that it can withstand even the most challenging conditions.

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

The Sightmark Wraith 4K Max 3-24×50 w/IR Digital Night Vision Riflescope is a cutting-edge optic device designed for serious hunters and tactical shooters. This high-tech riflescope is equipped with a 4K digital imaging system that captures stunningly clear visuals with built-in HD video recording. The device is versatile and can be used in both day and night modes with full-color viewing for day use and black and white or classic green for night vision mode.

One of the most impressive features of the Sightmark Wraith 4K Max is the 8x digital zoom, which provides a 4x optical system for up to 32x magnification. This allows the user to get closer to their target than ever before, making it easier to take accurate shots. Additionally, the device features customizable tactical and hunting reticle options, including 10 reticle options and 9 different color options. This makes aiming easier and more accurate, even in low-light conditions.

The Sightmark Wraith 4K Max comes with several components, including an IR flashlight, daytime lens filter, objective lens cover, fixed picatinny mount, USB cable, and a user manual. The IR flashlight provides additional illumination in low-light conditions, while the daytime lens filter protects the lens from dust, dirt, and debris. The objective lens cover protects the lens from scratches and damage, while the fixed picatinny mount ensures a secure and stable attachment to the rifle.

The device is also very easy to use, with intuitive controls and a user-friendly interface. The user can adjust the brightness and contrast levels, as well as switch between day and night modes, with just a few clicks of a button. The device is powered by a rechargeable battery, which provides up to 4.5 hours of continuous use.

Overall, the Sightmark Wraith 4K Max 3-24×50 w/IR Digital Night Vision Riflescope is an innovative and reliable device that offers superior performance and versatility. It is perfect for hunters and tactical shooters who demand the best in optics technology. With its advanced features and user-friendly design, this riflescope is sure to exceed your expectations and enhance your shooting experience.

4. Vortex Diamondback Tactical Ffp Riflescope, 6-24×50, Ebr-2c (Moa) Reticle, Black.

The Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 First Focal Plane Riflescope – EBR-2C (MOA) Tactical Reticle, Black is a high-performance optical device designed for precision shooting. It boasts a range of features that combine to deliver a crisp, bright sight picture, accuracy, and durability.

The first focal plane, glass-etched reticle ensures that subtensions remain accurate throughout the 4x zoom range. This is made possible by extra-low dispersion glass and fully multi-coated lenses that transmit a bright and clear sight picture. Shooters can easily focus the reticle using the fast-focus eyepiece, which allows for quick and easy adjustments.

The precision-glide erector system uses premium components in the zoom lens to ensure smooth magnification changes even under the harshest conditions. The exposed tactical turrets and side parallax knob give shooters the tools they need for long-distance precision shooting. The turrets are easy to read and adjust, making it easy to make accurate adjustments on the fly.

The single-piece 30mm tube is shockproof and ruggedly built to withstand recoil and impacts. The o-ring seals and nitrogen purging make the scope waterproof and fog proof, ensuring that it can perform reliably in any weather conditions. This makes it an ideal choice for hunters, tactical shooters, and anyone who needs a reliable, high-performance riflescope.

In conclusion, the Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 First Focal Plane Riflescope – EBR-2C (MOA) Tactical Reticle, Black is an impressive combination of precision and value. It offers a range of features that make it an ideal choice for anyone who needs a reliable, high-performance riflescope.

5. Zeiss Conquest V4 6-24x50mm Riflescope, Zmoa-1 Illuminated Reticle, Black, (5229559993)

The Zeiss Conquest V4 6-24x50mm riflescope is a high-performance optic designed for hunting and tactical applications. It features a 30mm main tube and a second focal plane reticle, which provides a constant size regardless of the magnification level.

The ZMOA-1 illuminated reticle is a standout feature of this riflescope, providing clear and precise aiming points in low-light conditions. The illumination can be adjusted to different brightness levels to suit different lighting conditions, making it ideal for use in variable weather and lighting conditions.

The Zeiss Conquest V4 riflescope is built to withstand tough outdoor use, with a waterproof and fogproof design that ensures clear and reliable performance in all weather conditions. The lenses are coated with Zeiss' proprietary T* coatings, which provide exceptional clarity and light transmission, even in low light conditions.

The tactical MOA turrets offer precision adjustments for windage and elevation, allowing you to make quick and accurate adjustments on the fly. The turrets are easy to operate, with clear and audible clicks that let you know exactly how much adjustment you've made.

Overall, the Zeiss Conquest V4 6-24x50mm riflescope offers exceptional performance and durability, making it an ideal choice for hunters, tactical shooters, and anyone who demands the very best in optics. Whether you're shooting at long range or in tough weather conditions, this riflescope offers the clarity, precision, and reliability you need to hit your target every time.

6. X-Sight-4k Pro 5-20x Smart Day/night Scope With Hd Video, Zoom, Bluetooth, And Wi-Fi.

The X-Sight-4k Pro 5-20x Smart Day/Night Scope is an advanced hunting device that satisfies the needs of hunters around the clock. It features an Obsidian IV Dual Core Processor and Ultra HD Sensor, which provide a rich color palette for daytime hunting and a sharp black-and-white image for nighttime hunting.

The scope is equipped with a Dual Stream Video Recording feature, which allows hunters to simultaneously stream video and record it without any negative effect on the device's performance. This feature enables hunters to capture and share their hunting experiences in real-time with their friends and family.

The Ballistic Calculator feature of the X-Sight-4k Pro 5-20x Smart Day/Night Scope is designed to make every shot a kill. The feature automatically adjusts the point of impact based on the ammo type, range to target, and environmental data. This feature reduces the guesswork involved in taking long-range shots and increases the chances of success.

Another impressive feature of this scope is the Recoil Activated Video feature, which allows hunters to focus on the game while the scope handles routine tasks. The moment the scope senses the recoil, it automatically stores the video on the SD card, making it easy to review the shot and improve accuracy.

The X-Sight-4k Pro 5-20x Smart Day/Night Scope is also designed with ultra-low power consumption, providing over 18 hours of active use. This feature eliminates the need to worry about drained batteries, ensuring that hunters do not miss any opportunities while in the field.

In summary, the X-Sight-4k Pro 5-20x Smart Day/Night Scope is a smart hunting device that combines advanced features, such as the Obsidian IV Dual Core Processor and Ultra HD Sensor, Dual Stream Video Recording, Ballistic Calculator, Recoil Activated Video, and ultra-low power consumption. These features provide hunters with the necessary tools to capture and share their hunting experiences while improving their accuracy and chances of success.

7. Vortex Crossfire Ii 3-12×56 Hog Hunter Riflescope With V-Brite Reticle.

The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-12×56 riflescope is a top-of-the-line choice for hunters who need to perform in the lowest light conditions. The V-Brite illuminated reticle and over-sized objective enable hunters to take shots from heavy cover with the utmost confidence in tough light conditions.

The adjustable objective provides image focus and parallax removal to the shooter while anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses provide bright and clear views. With long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, the Crossfire II enables hunters to quickly acquire their targets and get a sight picture. The fast focus eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing, ensuring that hunters can get on target quickly and accurately.

The capped reset turrets are finger adjustable with MOA clicks that can be reset to zero after sighting in. This makes it easy for hunters to make adjustments on the fly, without having to worry about losing track of their settings. The single piece tube construction, made from aircraft grade aluminum, ensures strength and shockproof performance. As a result, hunters can rely on the Crossfire II for consistent performance, even in the toughest conditions.

The Crossfire II riflescope is also O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, delivering waterproof and fogproof performance. This means hunters can rely on the Crossfire II to perform in even the most challenging environments. Whether hunting in the rain, fog, or other challenging conditions, the Crossfire II will deliver consistent, reliable performance.

Overall, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-12×56 riflescope is an excellent choice for hunters who demand the best. With its advanced features and rugged construction, the Crossfire II is designed to perform in even the toughest conditions. Whether hunting hogs or other game, hunters can rely on the Crossfire II to deliver accurate, reliable performance every time.

8. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-6×24 Second Focal Plane Riflescope – Bdc3 Reticle (Moa), Black

The Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-6×24 Second Focal Plane Riflescope, featuring a BDC3 reticle (MOA) in black, is a top-of-the-line riflescope that offers remarkable speed and versatility. It is an upgraded version of the original Strike Eagle, designed to adapt to a wide range of scenarios and let shooters rapidly engage targets from point-blank to extended ranges.

The riflescope is equipped with a true 1x on the low end, which is ideal for close-range shooting. The magnification ring has been updated and now includes a thread-in throw lever, making it easier to adjust the magnification quickly and accurately. The new magnification indicators can be seen without having to take your eye off the scope, providing an added convenience for shooters.

One of the standout features of the Strike Eagle 1-6×24 is the illuminated BDC3 reticle, which focuses the shooter's eye to the target more quickly and efficiently. The holdovers on the reticle allow for immediate use out to 650 yards for targets of known distance, making it an ideal choice for long-range shooting.

The fast focus dial on the eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing, ensuring that you can get on target quickly and accurately. The riflescope features anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces, providing increased light transmission for greater clarity and low-light performance.

The Strike Eagle 1-6×24 is designed to perform in a variety of conditions. It is nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed, ensuring water and fogproof performance. The one-piece, aircraft-grade aluminum, 30mm tube is shockproof, able to shrug off recoil and other impacts.

Overall, the Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-6×24 Second Focal Plane Riflescope is a high-quality, versatile riflescope that is perfect for shooters who demand the best. It offers exceptional optics, durability, and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for hunters, competitors, and tactical shooters alike.

9. Vortex Optics Venom 5-25×56 First Focal Plane Riflescope – Ebr-7c (Mrad) Reticle

The Vortex Optics Venom 5-25×56 First Focal Plane Riflescope with EBR-7C (MRAD) Reticle is a high-performance, long-range optic designed for competitive shooting. With a magnification range of 5-25x, this riflescope is built into a 34mm tube, providing a massive amount of turret travel with a maximum elevation and windage of 25 MRAD.

The XD Optical System of the Venom 5-25×56 delivers impressive resolution, edge-to-edge sharpness, and greatly reduces chromatic aberration. The fully multi-coated lenses provide superior light transmission, exceptional clarity, and low-light performance. These features work together to produce a clear and bright image, even in challenging lighting conditions.

The RevStop Zero System of the Vortex Optics Venom 5-25×56 allows for an easy-to-set, fast, and reliable return to zero. The side knob parallax adjust enables quick and easy parallax adjustments with range numbers visible while in the shooting position. This feature ensures you can make accurate adjustments to the reticle with ease.

The EBR-7C reticle of the Vortex Optics Venom 5-25×56 ensures subtensions are accurate throughout the magnification range, making it easy to measure and range targets. The fast focus eyepiece allows for easy reticle focusing, while the included throw lever allows for fast transitions between magnifications. These features make it easy to switch between targets quickly and accurately, giving you an edge in competitive shooting.

The Vortex Optics Venom 5-25×56 is also built to withstand harsh conditions. Nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed, it is water and fog-proof, ensuring you can use it in any weather. The Armortek coating protects the lenses from scratches and oil, while the one-piece, aircraft-grade aluminum, 34mm tube is shockproof, shrugging off recoil and other impacts. This durable construction ensures the Vortex Optics Venom 5-25×56 will last for years, even with heavy use.

Overall, the Vortex Optics Venom 5-25×56 First Focal Plane Riflescope with EBR-7C (MRAD) Reticle is a high-quality, long-range optic that is perfect for competitive shooters. With its impressive resolution, easy-to-use features, and durable construction, it is an excellent investment for anyone looking to improve their shooting accuracy and performance.

Best Light Gathering Rifle Scope FAQs

Can a rifle scope with a larger objective lens collect more light, and how does that affect the overall performance of the scope?

Yes, a rifle scope with a larger objective lens can collect more light. The amount of light that enters a scope is determined by the objective lens diameter. The larger the diameter of the objective lens, the greater the amount of light that enters the scope. This results in a brighter image, especially in low-light conditions.

The overall performance of a scope with a larger objective lens may be better than a scope with a smaller objective lens, especially in low-light conditions. A larger objective lens enables the shooter to see more clearly and accurately, resulting in better target acquisition and shooting. However, a larger objective lens also means a larger and heavier scope, which may not be suitable for all firearms or shooting situations. Additionally, a larger objective lens may require a higher mount to ensure proper clearance, which can add to the cost of the scope.

How do low-light conditions affect the performance of a rifle scope, and how can a scope with high light gathering capabilities help in such situations?

Low-light conditions can significantly affect the performance of a rifle scope by reducing the clarity and brightness of the image. This can make it difficult to identify targets and accurately aim at them. A scope with high light gathering capabilities can help in such situations by allowing more light to enter the scope, which increases the brightness and clarity of the image. This makes it easier to see targets and aim accurately even in low-light conditions.

Scopes with high light gathering capabilities typically have larger objective lenses and special lens coatings that enhance light transmission. These features allow more light to enter the scope and reach the shooter's eye, resulting in a clearer and brighter image. Additionally, some scopes may have illuminated reticles that further enhance visibility in low-light conditions. Overall, a rifle scope with high light gathering capabilities is an essential tool for hunting or shooting in low-light environments.

What are some of the best light gathering rifle scopes available in the market, and what features make them stand out from the rest?

There are several top-performing rifle scopes with excellent light-gathering capabilities available in the market. For instance, the Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II offers impressive low light performance, thanks to its extra-low dispersion glass and XR fully multi-coated lenses that increase light transmission. Additionally, the Leupold VX-6HD scope comes with Twilight Max Light Management System, which offers superior clarity and brightness, even in low light conditions. The Swarovski Z5i scope also stands out for its high-performance optics, which provide a bright and clear image, while the Zeiss Conquest HD5 comes with T coatings that improve light transmission.

The feature that sets these scopes apart from the rest is their ability to gather light effectively, even during low light conditions. This is achieved through the use of premium quality lenses and coatings that maximize light transmission, allowing hunters and shooters to see their targets clearly, even in dim light. Additionally, these scopes are designed to offer excellent image clarity, sharpness, and contrast, making them ideal for precision shooting at long ranges.

What are the different types of coatings used in rifle scopes to enhance light gathering abilities?

There are different types of coatings used in rifle scopes to enhance light gathering abilities. The most common coatings used are multi-coated, fully multi-coated, and coated lenses. Multi-coated lenses have a single layer of coating on the lens surface and are less expensive than fully multi-coated lenses. Fully multi-coated lenses have multiple layers of coating on all surfaces of the lens, which provides better light transmission and clarity. Coated lenses, on the other hand, have a single layer of coating on one or more surfaces of the lens, providing better light transmission than uncoated lenses.

The coatings used in rifle scopes are designed to reduce glare, increase brightness, and improve image quality. They are applied using different techniques, including vacuum deposition, vapor deposition, and dipping. The type of coating used will depend on the intended use of the rifle scope and the level of performance required. Generally, higher-end rifle scopes will have better coatings, resulting in improved light gathering abilities and better image quality.

What is the maximum light gathering capability of a rifle scope and how does it affect shooting accuracy?

The maximum light gathering capability of a rifle scope refers to the ability of the scope to capture and transmit as much light as possible through the objective lens to the shooter's eye. This is usually measured in objective lens diameter, with larger lenses allowing for more light to pass through. A scope with a larger objective lens will generally have a higher light gathering capability than one with a smaller lens.

The amount of light a scope can gather can affect shooting accuracy in low light conditions. With more light being transmitted to the shooter's eye, the image will be brighter and clearer, allowing for better visibility of the target. This can be especially important during dawn, dusk, or other low light shooting situations. However, in bright light conditions, the light gathering capability of a scope is less important and may not have a significant impact on accuracy. Ultimately, the light gathering capability of a scope is just one factor to consider when selecting a scope for shooting.

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