Are you seeking a distinct advantage for a quick and accurate aim, even in less-than-ideal conditions? If so, you need a scope with an illuminated reticle. The best illuminated reticle riflescopes have more than just illumination. They perform admirably in challenging lighting, enhance target acquisition, are weather-resistant, and provide the shooter with as many options as possible.
The reticle on scopes dates back to the oldest models. It consists of a series of black lines that work pretty well against light-colored targets and in sunny weather but not so well in the brutally dark hours right before and after daybreak.
Therefore, an illuminated reticle can be the thin line between victory and defeat on a hunt in those dismal hours when there is increased game activity.
What Is an Illuminated Reticle Scope?
Simply put, an illuminated reticle scope is a regular scope with reticle illumination added. This type of scope works well in any kind of light and facilitates tracking targets against dark backgrounds.
These scopes also have different magnification ranges, allowing you to select the ideal magnification for your particular shooting requirements.
Advantages Of Illuminated Reticle Riflescopes
The scopes increase accuracy in low-light situations. A reticle that is not illuminated is usually black and may be hard to see against a dark background or a target with similar color.
The illumination provides more contrast between the target and the crosshair, enabling you to position your weapon better.
When used correctly and adequately handled, illuminated reticles significantly increase accuracy when hunting.
As the illumination and magnification from the scopes complement each other, your shots are better guided toward the target.
Disadvantages Of Illuminated Reticle Riflescopes
One major downside of these riflescopes is their price. However, this high-end price is justified by all the amazing benefits you draw from the illumination technology.
Another disadvantage of illuminated reticle scopes is that they are harder to maintain than conventional riflescopes. This is attributed to the need for battery replacement, constant maintenance for the illumination to work consistently, and similar situations.
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Best Illuminated Riflescopes
Illumination is now a common feature in riflescopes meaning there is a vast array of options to choose from. This makes the task of selecting the ideal riflescope. We have handpicked the best options designed to be excellent and to cater to the demands of discerning sharpshooters and hunters. Let’s take a look, shall we?
1)Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15x44mm Riflescope
We kick off our list of the best illuminated reticle riflescopes with the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15x44mm. The scope has a first focal plane reticle design which stays in proportion to the zoomed image. The reticle is etched on glass for more reliability and durability.
Vortex scopes are solidly built, and the Viper PST is no exception. It is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, and the glass is treated with Armortek to shield it from scratch and dirt.
The scope is designed to function flawlessly, even in austere weather conditions. It is 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, so recoil and impact will not harm it.
The optical quality is exceptional. XR fully multi-coated lenses increase the level of light transmission, leading to brilliantly clear and bright images of the target. The XD elements increase resolution and color fidelity, enhancing the overall image quality.
The turrets are exposed to offer an ample range of adjustment for dialing long-range shots. They come in MOA and MRAD options and always match the reticle. In addition, the RZR Zero Stop system helps you return to zero with positive engagement after a day of dialing at extended ranges.
Other features include a fast-focus eyepiece, a Precision force spring system, and a precision glide erector system.
Features
- Single-piece tube
- Hard anodized finish
- Built-in accuracy features
- A fast-focus eyepiece
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- XD lens elements
- Glass-etched reticle
- XR full multi-coating on the lenses
- 4 inches of eye relief
- 30mm tube
- 44mm objective lens diameter
- Scratch-resistant Armortek lens coating
Pros
- Incredible sharpness and clarity at any range
- Good positive clicks and returns to zero
- Built like a tank
Cons
- No flip-up caps
2)NightForce ATACR 5-25x56mm Riflescope
If you are looking for powerful performance, the NightForce ATACR is what you should get. This scope comes second to none when it comes to impressive features it brings to the table.
The magnification range is generous, starting from 5x to 25x. The objective lens diameter is 56mm, for unmatched light collection power. The lens system is multi-coated and has ED elements.
An integrated power throw lever and an XtremeSpeed thread facilitates a fast diopter adjustment. The reticle is on the second focal plane hence remains the same across all magnification levels.
The scope has striking technology built in. The DigIllum provides either red and illumination and 5 intensity settings on each, as well as a simple push button that is on the side focus knob.
Other features that will significantly boost your shooting experience include marked parallax adjustment, capped windage adjustments, and an eyepiece with enhanced engraving.
Features
- 5 inches of eye relief
- ED optics
- First focal plane
- 56mm objective lens
- Capped windage adjustments
- Weighs 38 oz
- The magnification ranges from 5x to 25x
- Marked parallax adjustments
- DigIllum digital reticle illumination
- The eyepiece has enhanced engraving
Pros
- Repeatable and accurate tracking
- Superb low-light performance
- The reticle has a fine nature
- Bright and clear
Cons
- Pricey
- Bulky
3)Monstrum 3-9x32mm AO Riflescope
The Monstrum 3-9x32mm A0 riflescope features an illuminated rangefinder that can be used to see a proper sight picture in any lighting or setting. It can be seen in red, green, or different brightness levels, or it can be seen in black without illumination.
A rangefinder reticle with markings allows range estimation or bullet drop compensation. The adjustable objective lens provides sharper focus, removes parallax, and helps with range estimation.
The 3-9x magnification makes the riflescope suitable for close-to-medium-range shooting. The optics deliver crystal-clear images regardless of the magnification range, and the objective lens is 32mm.
As one of the winners for the best illuminated reticle riflescopes, the Monstrum AO is robust and lightweight as it is formulated from aircraft-grade aluminum. It is sealed and nitrogen-charged for resistance to water and fog.
The package includes lens covers and a 3V CR1632 battery. It has a weight of 12 ounces, a height of 2 inches, a width of 2 inches, and a length of 9.6 inches.
Features
- The body is formed from aircraft-grade aluminum
- An adjustable objective lens
- 3-9x magnification range
- A range finder reticle with markings
- The reticle illumination is adjustable with 5 settings
- 32mm objective lens
- The tube is sealed, and nitrogen charged for water and fog resistance
- 1/4 MOA click adjustments for windage and elevation
- The lens has multiple coatings
- Capped turrets
- Eye relief of 3.5 to 3.8 inches
Pros
- Includes scope rings, a battery, lens cloth, and lens cover
- Highly visible MOA markings and range estimation marks
- Adjustable objective
Cons
- The reticle could be a bit smaller
4)Primary Arms Classic Series 4-16x44mm Riflescope
Primary Arms 4-16x44mm is a first focal plane illuminated riflescope that combines one of the most popular power ranges for hunting with the features and advancements that will help transform your shooting experience.
At 4x magnification, the expansive field of view and daylight-bright reticle make tracking a moving target a breeze, while the 16x maximum magnification allows you to take on targets with surgical precision.
The reticle is etched into the first focal plane. Its design means it stays true to the magnification. This ensures that ranging, holdovers, and wind holds can be utilized as long as you can see them.
There are eleven illumination settings. A fast-focus eyepiece helps with reticle focusing to offer a crisp image of the target and reticle.
A removable and repositionable fin on the power ring makes magnification adjustments on the fly a breeze. Easy adjustments are essential for any scope, as you want speed and ease of use for fast execution.
Another feature that promotes rapid adjustments is the enhanced turrets, which have tactile and audible 0.1 MIL click adjustments and provide easy reset once you have your zero. The scope also includes a smooth parallax adjustment. The objective lens diameter is 44m, and eye relief is 3.6 to 3.9 inches.
Features
- 85 MOA windage and elevation travel
- The reticle has a first focal plane design
- Red illumination with 11 levels
- A fast-focus eyepiece
- A magnification of 4x to 16x
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Customizable integrated throw lever system
- A smooth parallax adjustment
- 25 MOA click value
- Weighs 25.4 oz
Pros
- Turrets are easy to adjust
- Robust components
- A great reticle
Cons
- The glass quality suffers at maximum magnification
5)Sightmark Latitude Riflescope
The next product is the Sightmark Latitude riflescope. With a host of features like superb image quality, secure focus settings, damage resistance, and high-quality glass, the scope easily contends as one of the best illuminated reticle riflescopes.
The scope’s sturdy 34mm single-piece tube design promotes mechanical integrity and stability. It heightens durability and maintains precise alignment even in challenging shooting conditions.
The tube is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum and has a hard anodized finish. The scope is also waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof to withstand various environmental conditions and terrain.
The glass is fully multi-coated to boost light transmission and is scratch-resistant to provide a long lifespan.
The reticle illuminates in red or green and stays the same, helping target acquisition in different lighting. This is handy when transitioning from bright to low light conditions, promoting visibility all through.
The 4:1 zoom ratio makes the Sightmark Latitude versatile, making it ideal for both close-range and mid-range hunting situations.
Features
- The glass is fully multi-coated
- The single-piece tube is 34mm
- IP67 waterproof rating
- Nitrogen-purged for fogproof performance
- A locking, fast-focus eyepiece
- Oversized turrets with ¼ MOA adjustments
- Adjustable parallax
- Scratch-resistant glass
- Red/green illuminated reticle on the second focal plane
- Zero stop elevation dial
- 4:1 zoom ratio
Pros
- Easy to adjust
- The scope is clear
- Sturdy
Cons
- Heavy
Choosing the Best Illuminated Reticle Riflescopes
There are plenty of illuminated reticle riflescopes to choose from, which makes the selection process overwhelming. To help, we have a list of pertinent features to help you sift through a flooded market. They include:
Usage
The first aspect to consider when buying the best illuminated reticle riflescopes is the scope’s usage. Consider how frequently you intend to use the rifle, whether you could benefit from a more robust scope build, or whether a more casual type is enough for your needs.
This also impacts the decision to opt for batteries or ambient light, as some may find frequent battery replacement a hassle.
Shooting Situation
Think about your shooting situation before investing in a scope. Put into consideration the scenarios you will encounter in your hunting condition, the lighting available, as well as what you will hunt.
By doing so, you will be able to determine whether you should get a unit with an illuminated reticle with multiple brightness settings or if a regular non-illuminated reticle that is etched into the glass is already enough.
In addition, you will discern the correct magnification, eye relief, and the eyebox before making a purchase decision.
Size and Weight
The electronics and extra knob for the battery compartment and illumination control increases a scope’s dimensions and weight. The objective lens size, glass, and optical assemblies are other elements that determine the scope’s overall weight.
Construction Quality
A decent riflescope should have protective mechanisms to safeguard it from harsh outdoor conditions. The construction material for the casing should have a substantial impact on the scope’s durability. The best illuminated reticle riflescopes should be crafted from materials like aircraft-grade aluminum, be waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
Image Quality
The last but not least factor to consider when selecting the best illuminated reticle riflescopes is the image quality. The glass quality used on the lens and the size of the objective lens determine the image quality produced. A large objective lens allows lots of light to get into the scope, maximizing clarity and brightness.
Your chosen scope should have appropriate lens coatings that enhance light transmission and eliminate glare, leading to a sharp, clear, and bright image. Look for fully multi-coated lenses, as they allow the most light to pass through.
FAQs on Best Illuminated Reticle Riflescopes
Are Illuminated Riflescopes Worth It?
An illuminated scope does not enhance or alter the target’s image. Instead, it alters the reticle’s brightness. This is beneficial in low-light conditions and when the coloration or lighting of the target makes the reticle difficult to see. This increases your target acquisition speed in dismal lighting.
Do Scopes Work at Night?
Scopes are an essential firearm accessory for hunters, and additional features can help you get the most out of your optics. One example is night vision for scopes. This technology enables you to see more clearly in challenging light, which is important for night hunting.
What Makes a Great Illuminated Reticle Riflescope?
The scope you get must match your needs. A good scope should have high-quality optics, an adjustment range to control the brightness level, and durability to withstand demanding conditions.
Having a high-magnification scope is essential for dawn and dusk hunting. You will want the bullet drop compensator illuminated in addition to the center dot if you are making long shots in dark conditions. Some scopes are fully illuminated while others are partially illuminated, so be keen to know what will make your mission at hand easier.
Conclusion
Illuminated reticles are superior and choosing the best illuminated riflescopes shouldn’t be daunting. From this review, we hope you have found a scope that matches with your shooting needs and demands.