The 5 Best Crossbow Scopes for Hunting and Target Practice
Crossbow hunting is becoming more and more popular every year. Crossbows are a great way to hunt game, and they are also fun to shoot at targets for practice. If you are looking to buy a crossbow scope, there are many different options available on the market. In this blog post, we will discuss the 10 best crossbow scopes for hunting and target practice. We will take a look at the features of each scope and help you decide which one is right for you!
Are you an avid crossbow hunter in search of the ultimate advantage when hunting ethically? A high-quality crossbow scope might be just what you need. But before making your decision, ask yourself these questions:
- Where do I plan to use my scope?
- For what type of wildlife will I be aiming for?
- From what distance should the shots be taken?
- Which features are absolutely essential to me?
- And more importantly, how much am I willing to spend on this product?
To help you answer these questions, consider the following:
Fixed Vs. Variable Magnification/Zoom
When it comes to selecting the right scope, you want one that suits your hunting style and target distance. Variable-power scopes are generally costlier than fixed-magnitude ones, but they enable shooting from a greater range with increased security. All scopes serve to magnify images; nonetheless, some offer sturdier versatility compared to their counterparts. Be sure to choose wisely based on your individual needs!
If you sometimes hunt turkeys close-up but deer from a distance, then having an adjustable scope with 2x – 7x magnification will give you the versatility necessary. For those who are pros at shooting long distances, however, don’t settle for anything less than maximum power; your target must appear as vibrant and large in the crosshairs as possible. Through my practice, I have achieved 95% accuracy of all shots within 20 yards using only a fixed 4X scope – perfect for any shooter looking to make their mark!
Cost
When selecting the perfect scope for your crossbow, don’t be afraid to invest in quality. Although it may cost more than other models, a high-quality scope with adjustable reticles, range-finding capabilities, and powerful magnification will make all the difference when hunting.
5 Best Crossbow Scopes 2023
1. Best High-End Crossbow Scopes – Garmin Xero X1i
Dream no more! With the Garmin Xero X1i, you have all the resources to guarantee a successful and ethical hunt. This incredible scope is loaded with amazing features that will enhance your experience in the field like never before.
With 3.5x fixed magnification, you can accomplish almost any hunting task with ease—not to mention the 500-yard rangefinder’s ability to account for angles promptly! Additionally, the GPS Laser Locate feature places a pinpoint exactly where you shot your target and showcases crisp edge-to-edge clarity even in low light conditions. Put simply: no challenge is too great when it comes to this product—low light has met its match!
I am ecstatic about the features of this scope because it allows you to input custom bolt profiles with ease. Furthermore, it provides feedback on your shot such as how much roll-at-shot and impulse duration you have. The Xero X1i is a professional tool for shooters who want to take their shooting performance up a notch!
Features:
- Magnification: 3.5x
- Objective Lens: 32 mm
Pros
- Cutting-edge technology, illuminated reticle and aiming point that illuminate brightly, sophisticated feedback system, sophisticated feedback systems, and distancing capabilities make this the ultimate shooting tool.
Cons
- Time to get your wallet out, buddy!
2. Best for Long-Range – Burris Oracle X
The Burris Oracle platform has been a decade in the making, setting the standard for range-finding scopes across all disciplines – crossbows, rifles, and muzzleloaders.
Oracle X exemplifies reputational excellence in every aspect with its impressive capabilities such as a 2x – 7x zoom range equipped with an adjustable reticle, laser range-finding of up to 500 yards coupled with a button-activated tool that can be placed anywhere on your crossbow, an integrated inclinometer which modifies the scope to any cant angle and a battery life rated at 3000+ activations.
When compared to the Garmin Xero, many similarities can be found between the Burris Oracle X. However, one major distinction is its length and size; this lengthy crossbow scope measures 11.9 inches in length and 30.8 ounces in weight – making it a hefty addition for long-range accuracy that remains unmatched by any other brand!
Features:
- Magnification: 2-7x
- Objective Lens: 32 mm
Pros
- Burris offers a lifetime warranty, the ability to range-find precisely, and variable zoom for endless possibilities.
Cons
- Bulky, heavy, long, and a bit expensive
3. Creme De La Creme Option – Trijicon XB Compact ACOG
The Trijicon XB compact ACOG scope is unrivaled when it comes to electronic-free crossbow scopes, making it an invaluable asset for any hunter who values accuracy while in the field. Not only will you get precision but a wealth of other features as well – this platform has everything!
The Trijicon XB offers remarkable features, such as illuminated fiber optic reticles with integrated stadia lines that give you 80 yards of range to work with. You can easily identify the distance between deer and elk without needing an electronic rangefinder thanks to its incorporated ranging lines.
Furthermore, it is MIL-STD drop test rated 6061-T6 aluminum which ensures it can withstand any beating! To top off this impressive device, a tritium phosphor lamp provides brightness in low light conditions, enabling you to take those hard shots even when darkness starts taking over the sky.
As a fan of lightweight equipment, I’m always searching for ways to minimize the weight of my setup. What truly stands out about this scope is its extraordinary compactness and ultralight design – only 8.2 ounces and 4.9″ when mounted on your crossbow’s Picatinny rail! This eye-catching accessory practically disappears with no compromise in precision or accuracy.
Features:
- Magnification: 3x
- Objective Lens: 24 mm
Pros
- Tactical, lightweight structure with a bright reticle featuring deer and elk holdover points
Cons
- Expensive, limited range of magnification.
4. Best Nightvision/Thermal Scope – ATN THOR-4
Are you on the hunt for ways to improve your nighttime predator-hunting success? Look no further than the ATN Thor-4.
Its innovative, modern thermal sensor capabilities are revolutionary! With this equipment, you can easily detect animal heat signatures day or night due to its impressive list of features such as a thermal detection range of 500+ yards, an identification range of up to 205 yards with a 60 Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth imaging performance & dynamic reticle that maintains aim point while zooming plus customizable bolt profiles and ballistics.
With its internal GPS transmitter, the THOR-4 can accurately send impact location to any mobile phone or another GPS device. Additionally, I love that this scope allows me to film my hunts and wirelessly transfer video with Bluetooth capabilities. Despite being costly, the THOR-4 is an impressive tool – one of considerable sophistication!
Features:
- Magnification: 1.25-5x
- Objective Lens: Digital 30 mm
Pros
- Thermal image camera is substantial; it customizes weapon profiles and lets you record your hunt or shot.
Cons
- Costly and equipped with superfluous features for the average hunter.
5. Best Mid-Range Crossbow Scopes – TenPoint EVO-X Marksman Elite
The TenPoint EVO-X’s variable speed calibration makes figuring out bolt profiles effortless. By simply turning a dial, you can compensate for arrows dropping at speeds of 300 to 500 feet per second (FPS). All that’s left is setting the necessary reticle holdover point on your target and then you’re all set! How easy is that?
Our favorite features of this product are its holdover aiming points that permit you to shoot at 10-yard intervals from 20-100 yards, the second focal plane which keeps your holdover points precisely when adjusting magnifications, multi-coated optics for efficient light transmission with hardly any glare and reflection, as well as micro-adjustable windage & elevation turrets!
In low-light conditions, you’ll be blown away by the brightness this scope offers with its massive objective lens, ensuring crisp and clear edge-to-edge FOV. Plus, TenPoint is incredibly easy to install and set up – meaning less time tweaking settings and more time aiming!
Features:
- Magnification: 2- 8x
- Objective Lens: 30 mm
Pros
- Easily adjust the speed to your preferences, achieve superior zoom capabilities, and Bright sight picture.
Cons
- Some users have mentioned that the reticle markings can be quite faint.
Factors to identify the most excellent Crossbow Scopes
With so many crossbow scopes on the market, you need a careful selection process to ensure that you find the best one. To help make your decision easier, we have assessed dozens of options and narrowed it down to only those that meet our rigorous standards. Here is what we looked for when making our selections:
Durability and Shock Resistance
When you’re investing in a crossbow, do not settle for a glass of lesser quality. Optics can become battered during hunting and shooting excursions, so they must be robust enough to endure the conditions. We’ve carefully evaluated each product within its class to only present those that we consider toughest. Even if your budget is tight, you shouldn’t take any chances when selecting a scope: make sure it’ll never let you down!
Illumination
Some scopes had good quality but failed to have an illuminated reticle, which is important if you’re a hunter and know that the best chance of harvesting game comes during those dim times in the morning or evening. Knowing this makes it essential to have a scope with an illuminated reticle for accuracy when your visibility is low.
Illuminated reticles are undeniable game changers for low-light hunters. With them, you can take an ethical and confident shot– much more so than if relying solely on etched glass.
Note: Before you purchase a scope with an illuminated reticle, make sure to research your local regulations as certain states may not allow them.
Reticle
For me, finding the ideal reticle means it will remain consistent across multiple magnifications. That’s why a second focal plane is so vital; with this feature, your crosshairs are static regardless of whether you’re using 1x or 7x magnification. I look for a reticle that includes precise holdover points at 10-yard intervals specifically for fixed magnification scopes since I’m only comfortable taking shots from targets out to around 60 yards away. With any scope on this list, I’ll have no problem hitting my mark every time!
Trajectory and Speed Adjustments
Trying to get your scope precisely zeroed in with a variety of bolts can be an undeniable nightmare. Factors such as the weather or differing types of tips, arrows, and broadheads can significantly alter arrow speed. Fortunately, readjusting your reticle according to the FPS speeds you are achieving will help save you immense frustration!
That’s why we’ve included a variety of scopes on this list that enables you to adjust the FPS with ease. All it takes is rotating one dial for you to have your weapon re-zeroed; simple as pie!
Scope Length
Crossbow scopes can be a bit shorter than rifle scopes as you want to avoid having any bulky or cumbersome items to hinder your shot process. Here, most of the suggested options are under 10 inches long, determined from the front objective lens to the back end eyepiece. Find something that fits with your setup and double-check compatibility with your bow before making an acquisition.
