Best Crossbow Scopes Review Guide 2023 – Ultimate Guide

Most crossbows come as a complete package with all the necessary accessories. But, from time to time you need to upgrade them to bring out your maximum potential.

The first thing that most hunters upgrade is the scope of the crossbow because a lousy scope can affect your hunting experience. The best crossbow scopes will ensure that your shots hit the target accurately and precisely.

The scope is an integral part of your weapon, allowing you to see your target clearly. Most crossbows are sold with an already mounted scope, but for a better hunting experience, they need to be upgraded with time and experience. There are lots of options for scopes in the market, all claiming to be the best.

To choose a quality scope from the range, we have gathered down some of the best scopes reviews for your ease. We ensure that by the time you are done reading this article, you would definitely know which crossbow scope to buy. but if you are too interested to know the right crossbows for your shooting experience. Check out our  best crossbow review article

Best Crossbow Scope Reviews 2022 – Comparison Table

IMAGE	PRODUCT	DETAILS
NIKW9 Prostaff P3 scope	NIKW9 Prostaff P3 scope	NIKW9 Prostaff P3 scope	Magnification: 3x Weight: 15 pounds Colo: Black	Check On Amazon
Hawke IR SR illuminated Crossbow Scope	Hawke IR SR illuminated Crossbow Scope	Hawke IR SR Illuminated crossbow scope	Magnification: 1.5x Weight: 13 oz Colo: black	Check On Amazon
TenPoint RangeMaster Pro	TenPoint RangeMaster Pro	Tenpoint Rangemaster Pro scope	Magnification: 1.5x- 5x Speed Range: 275-425fps Colo: Black	Check On Amazon
Excalibur Tact-Zone Crossbow Scope	Excalibur Tact-Zone Crossbow Scope	Excalibur Tact-zone Crossbow scope	Magnification: 2.5x-6x Length: 13 inch Speed range: 275-410fps	Check On Amazon
TRUGLO Crossbow Scope	TRUGLO Crossbow Scope	TRUGLO Crossbow scope	Brand: Goplus Weight: 15 pounds Colo: Orange	Check On Amazon
Barnett Multi-Reticle 17060 scope	Barnett Multi-Reticle 17060 scope	Barnett Multi-reticle 17060 scope	Magnification: 4x Length: 8 inch Brand: Barnet	Check On Amazon
UTG 4×32 budget scope	UTG 4×32 budget scope	UTG 4*32 Budget scope	Brand: Forney Weight: 23 pounds Colo: Green	Check On Amazon
Excalibur Shadow Zone Scope	Excalibur Shadow Zone Scope for Clarity and Precision	Excalibur shadow zone scope for clarity and precision	Magnification: 2x-4x Weight: 7.2 ounce Colo: Black	Check On Amazon
TRUGLO (Red dot Night scope for Crossbow)	TRUGLO (Red dot Night scope for Crossbow)	TRUGLO (Red dot Night scope for Crossbow)	Brand: HitBox Weight: 19 pounds Colo: Black and Orange	Check On Amazon

Without further ado, here are our top choices for the best crossbow scopes.

Our top picks for Best Crossbow Scopes Review

1. NIKW9 Prostaff P3 (Overall top Crossbow Scope)
2. Hawke IR SR (Best Illuminated Crossbow Scope)
3. TenPoint RangeMaster Pro(good hunting scope)
4. Excalibur Tact-Zone (Best Value Crossbow Scope)
5. TRUGLO Crossbow Scope(Best crossbow scope for money)
6. Barnett Multi-Reticle 17060 (Best high end Scope )
7. UTG 4×32 (Best Budget Crossbow Scope)
8. TRUGLO (red dot night crossbow scope)
9. Vortex Crossfire II Hog Hunter(Crossbow Scope for Low Light)
10. Excalibur Shadow Zone(Best Crossbow scope for clarity and precision)

1. NIKW9 Prostaff P3 (Overall Top Crossbow Scope) _ Editor Choice

This budget scope is the newest addition in the Nikon range and definitely lives up to its expectations. This scope upgrade can make your shots more precise and accurate, and you will not regret buying it.

Although, the scope is non-illuminated but the multiple anti-reflective compound layers on its glass surface ensure brighter images every time you use it; and prevent the lenses from damage. The high optics quality provides higher light transmission in all light conditions.

NIKW9 P3 scope is made up of aircraft-grade aluminum, making it durable, lightweight and robust in all weather conditions. It has a fixed 3x magnification, so you need to move around a little to find the perfect position to take the shot.

The installed Nikon BDC reticle provides shooters with high accuracy and confidence for long range shooting. The reticle’s 20-yard ‘Zero’ provides better aiming and it is designed for a variety of point weights, velocities and bolts.

The zero-reset aluminum turrets of Nikon’s scope can be adjusted with hands for better windage and elevation. Furthermore, the reticle adjustment can also be done conveniently with a click-stop which you can both feel and hear. It is a high-quality and robust scope and gives good value for money.

Specifications:

2. Hawke IR SR (Best Illuminated Crossbow Scope)

This is a high-performance and versatile scope for speed shooters. The Hawke scope has variable magnification settings and an impressive speed selector allowing the magnification to be matched with any crossbow quickly.

The classic black matte Hawke crossbow scope has a multi-coated optic that enables maximum light transmission for the shooter to see clearly. The integrated adjusters for elevation and windage help in creating a better hunting angle.

The 5X zoom makes the target appear five times bigger enabling you to hunt precisely from a greater distance.

Unlike many other similar scopes, it has a dual color illumination feature. The red and green illuminator helps the hunter to hunt comfortably in low light conditions. The precision SR reticle helps in taking perfect long-range aims with 10 yards intervals. The battery that comes with the package is long-lasting and durable.

All in all, it is an accurate scope providing bang for the buck!

Specifications:

3. TenPoint RangeMaster Pro ( Good Hunting Scope)

RangeMaster Pro is an impressive scope with a sturdy built. TenPoint is also a crossbow manufacturer, so they have put a great deal of research in designing this scope
This small aluminum scope can fit easily on any crossbow with the help of picatinny rails.

The fully multi coated reticles along with magnifying lenses provide crisp images with high quality light transmission. The speed selector and arrow drop compensation setting on this scope helps in taking accurate shots at variable velocities with no adjustments for distance.

This scope is easy to mount and has an illuminated reticle with five brightness settings. It can also switch between red and green for taking aims at light conditions. The 30mm tube gathers light efficiently, to provide crystal clear images.

The TenPoint RangeMaster is a water and fog proof scope for speed enthusiasts. It allows shooting with high precision and accuracy.

Specifications:

4. ​ Excalibur Tact-Zone (Best Value Scope)

Excalibur has a wide range of scopes, but Tact-zone tops the list because of its value pricing. This affordable scope can pair up with several types of crossbows. It is adjustable for variable speeds and employs half-inch click adjustments for easy sighting.

The sturdy modern built of tact-zone scope along with multi-coated lenses can withstand harsh weather conditions as it is water and fog proof. You can carry it around the woods without worrying about the rain. It is an easy to mount scope, but rings are not included in the package

The magnification setting can zoom up to 6x, offering better sighting at both short and long ranges. This feature makes the Excalibur Tact-Zone scope excellent for scanning the field and then narrowing the focus to shoot precisely.

The light-gathering capacity of an objective lens is remarkable and provides clear images at all light conditions. The illuminated reticle is firmly etched onto the lens with a red and green rheostat, aiding hunters to hunt small targets efficiently in low lit regions.
Although a little on the heavier side, Tact-Zone scope is ultra-compact and possesses great illuminating power.

Specifications:

5. TRUGLO Crossbow Scope (Best Crossbow Scope for Money)

TRUGLO is one of the leading manufacturers of quality scopes for better hunting experience. If you are interested in upgrading your crossbow scope in budget, this is the one to go for.

TRUGLO aircraft-grade aluminum scope is covered with non-reflective matte finish to make it last longer. The impressive camouflaged design helps the hunter to blend in with the surroundings.

This nitrogen-purged scope is water/fog proof and scratch-resistant.It has a fixed 4x magnification, but the range-finding and trajectory compensating reticle provides a high level of accuracy for each of your shots.

The color contrast feature of a multi-coated lens improves the clarity of the target and helps you to spot it easily.um. Although it is a non-illuminated scope, however the incredible light transmission feature allows you to use the scope all through the day. The wide eye-guard is made up of rubber, and provides eye relief to the user.

Almost all the scopes demand a level of fine-tuning to focus the target precisely. Therefore, this TRUGLO crossbow scope has adjustment knobs under the screw down caps for adjusting windage and elevation.

Considering all these features, it is one of the best cheap crossbow scopes for those on a budget.

Specifications:

6. Barnett Multi-Reticle 17060 (Best High-End Scope)

Barnett is famous for producing top rated and high quality archery gear. Their crossbow scope is hands down the best scope in this price range, considering its functionalities and adjustments.

This compact and lightweight scope can zoom up to 4X to provide high resolution and can easily fit into most crossbows with included dovetail mounting rings.

The multi-coated optics provide high resistance against glare and reflection. It has a 5-point programmed multi-reticle crosshair system for quick target focusing and provides clear images, remarkable contrast even at long range.

Although it is not an illuminated scope, it has good light gathering features for hunting in poor light conditions. This water and shock-proof scope has an impressively wide field of view, especially for the price.

This easy to sight in scope comes with a limited lifetime warranty for any problem in material and workmanship. So, you can easily trust this product and wouldn’t hesitate to buy it.
Barnett Multi-Reticle scope is a budget scope for accurate aiming and targeting.

Specifications:

7. UTG 4×32 (Best Budget Crossbow Scope)

UTG is one of the most accurate and precise scopes available in an affordable price range. Its superior quality precision broadband lens coating provides a wide field of view and clear images.

This robust 4x magnifying crossbow scope is made up of high quality aluminum and incorporates a smart spherical structure for better accuracy. The small size and compact design helps the hunters to carry it easily into the woods.

UTG is an easy-to-use scope with fixed optic power.
It also has a glass-etched illuminated reticle in red and green for hunting in all light conditions. Furthermore, if the battery dies, black reticle can also be conveniently used for targeting.

The scope’s reticle design with five horizontal lines makes range estimation and compensation trouble-free.UTG features the high quality resettable, zero lockable target turrets to adjust windage and elevation. It has one of the toughest recoil resistances for balance and stability.

The package comes with flip-open lens cover and detachable scope rings with lever lock feature to mount the scope securely.If you are searching for a scope with a solid optic and high performance, this crossbow scope is hard to beat.

Specifications:

8. TRUGLO (Red dot Night scope for Crossbow)

TRUGLO is famous for providing quality optics for low light conditions; their Red-dot is one of the best scopes for night sighting. Red-dot scopes are used for quick targeting at shorter ranges from an open perspective.

The lightweight Truglo red dot has a simple yet durable built. It is shock-resistant and fog-proof and has a wide field of view. It has a slightly smaller objective lens; however, Red-dot Truglo itself is smaller in size and does not require much light for its functions and works well in low light conditions.

It comes with a quick click adjuster for elevation and windage and adjustable rheostat for controlling brightness. The illuminated Truglo red-dot also has a special reticle for quick targeting and a five-MOA dot for sighting, perfect for short-range aiming.

It comes with a replaceable battery and weaver/picatinny mounting system so that you can fix it on your crossbow right away. It also has see-through flip-up lens caps for maximum protection. Although it is a crossbow scope, it can also be used with handguns and rifles.

If you are finding a scope for fast shooting at short ranges, TRUGLO Red-Dot would be a perfect choice.

Specifications:

9. Vortex Crossfire II Hog Hunter (Crossbow Scope for Low Light)

The Crossfire II Hog Hunter is the best crossbow scope for low light that outperforms all other scopes when it comes to low light hunting conditions. In low light, you need to shoot quickly at short ranges, and vortex crossfire would be an ideal crossbow partner is such a scenario.It is durably constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum making it robust, long-lasting and shock-resistant.

The O-ring is tightly sealed and scope is nitrogen-purged to withstand fog and water, so that you can use it in harsh weather conditions without worrying.

The anti-reflective, adjustable objective lens is of 56mm, which is extremely large from its competitors and provides high-quality image focus and parallax removal to the hunter. It has a V-Brite Illuminated Reticle which utilizes the V-Plex platform to brighten the Centre dot for hunting in extreme low light conditions.

The multi-coated lens of Crossfire II has eleven brightness settings for a clear and bright picture. It also features easy-to-adjust and quick reset turrets for swift shooting. The comfortable eye box provides the hunters a strain free hunting experience and the fast-focus eyepiece helps in quick and easy target acquisition.

Overall, this is an excellent choice for anyone hunting in dim lighting. It is a sturdy scope which provides bright and clear pictures.

Specifications:

10.Excalibur Shadow Zone (Best Scope for Clarity and Precision)

Excalibur shadow zone is one the expensive scopes, but considering the perks it offers, it is value to the money. It is the latest scope by Excalibur, and it has some high-quality features that its predecessor didn’t have.

It is a lightweight and compact scope made up of aircraft-grade aluminum, lenses are tightly sealed with O-rings and the barrel is nitrogen-purged to withstand harsh weather conditions.

The multi coated optics are resistant to glare, reflection and water. It features a multiplex crosshair reticle for precise aiming and red or green illuminator with five brightness settings each.
It incorporates a 32mm objective lens which has a zooming power up to 4X. Although the zooming power is not so great, it has an outstanding clarity and resolution.

The light gathering capacity of an objective lens is exceptional to pick out little details even in dim light.It can be paired with any crossbows whose shooting velocity is between 250-350 fps with a calibration ring to match the speed.

It is an easy to mount scope, but mounting rings does not come with the package and you need to buy them separately.It is a solid crossbow scope with an unparalleled light gathering power.

Specifications:

Top Crossbow Scope – Buying Guide & FAQ

We have shared all that you need to know about scopes. Here are some additional points to consider before buying a new scope for your Crossbow.

Legalities:

It is essential to read and understand the State’s rules and regulations for archers and crossbow hunters. There are many states where a scope is not allowed on the crossbow while some states ban electronic sights on bows during archery season.

So before finalizing your decision, find about the legality status of the scope you are choosing in your State. This can prevent you from breaking the law and getting caught.
If the rules are not clear, ask the local authorities via call or an email.

Identify your Needs and your Budget:

If you are a professional hunter that hunts game from a distance and needs immense precision then you may like to consider a Calibrated Scope. A casual hunter may like to utilize a Red Dot or a Magnified scope. The more precision you require, the more costly the scope options will get.

Size of the Scope:

The size of the scope should ideally be such that it easily integrates to your crossbow and provides you an ergonomic experience while taking an aim. Bigger size of the scopes can also amount to additional weight to the crossbow.

Robustness:

The build of scope should be durable and robust, most modern scopes are made up of aircraft-grade aluminum. The lens of scope should be able to withstand inclement weather conditions such as rain, fog and dust storms, without having an effect on its accuracy.

Optics and Magnification:

The quality of lens with respect to magnification and quality under low light conditions are two important factors to consider while a Scope.

Magnification is an important factor to consider, for clearly seeing far away objects. Excessive magnification is not always necessary; even the most powerful scope will be impractical if the lens isn’t capable of providing clear and bright images.

A scope with fully multi-coated lenses transmits plenty of light, so you can easily see objects that are far away. A nitrogen-purged scope is also an excellent feature as it prevents lenses from fogging up.

Most modern opticals are designed to help compensate for range, for taking shots at any elevation or distance. A wide field of view is also important for taking an accurate shot, but it can also add weight to the device.

Scope Mounting Options:

Modern scopes come with a variety of mounting options like Picatinny rails, Dovetail and Weaver. Some people are less informed about the type of mount options provided in their crossbow package. This can cause integration issues of the scope with the crossbow and also can affect accuracy of shots. The scope should hold firmly to the crossbow after integration.

Eye Relief:

Eye relief is the distance between the hunter’s eye and the lens. Higher the magnifying power of the scope, the shorter its eye relief is. A short eye relief is dangerous, as your eyes might get hurt when recoil pulls back the scope.

Illumination:

When you are hunting low light conditions, you need light to see the object clearly. An illuminated scope will either gather the light from the environment or use a battery to brighten the sight and help in target acquisition.

Center Tube Diameter:

Scopes usually have tube diameters ranging from 1inch to 34mm. The size of the tube defines the durability of the scope; greater the width more rigid the scope is. A larger tube diameter provides greater flexibility in adjusting the elevation, which is essential for shooting at long-ranges.

FAQs:

1. Can you use a regular scope on a crossbow?

Yes, a riflescope can also be used. It might not hold up to the severe recoil that a crossbow thrusts into scope but still, many have been doing it for years.

2. What is a Multi-Reticle Scope?

A multi-reticle scope employs multiple horizontal marks that allow you to accurately shoot at different distances without adjusting windage and elevation.

3. What distance should you sight in a crossbow?

As stated by the crossbow security rule, the aim should be kept for 20 yards or more.

4. Will a crossbow scope work on an air rifle?

Generally, the air rifle scope is built to withstand more stress than a crossbow’s scope. However, there can be exceptions in the qualities of the Crossbow scopes in which case you can use it on an air rifle.

5. What Do the Lines Mean on my Crossbow Scope?

These horizontal and vertical lines indicate the zero-adjustment. These lines help you to focus your target from a distance.

6. How to Shim a Crossbow Scope?

First, remove the crossbow bolt for safety then un-mount your scope. Now place some shims under the adjustment screws. Once done, mount back the scope and level it using the leveling tool.

7. Are red dot scopes good for crossbows?

Red Dot scopes are simple to use and offer no magnification. Their illuminated reticles aids in better target acquisition.

Conclusion:

We have reviewed some of the best crossbow scopes in detail in this article along with the buying guide. We also discussed their durability, precision, overall weight, magnification and quality of the optics. Choosing a scope is not an easy task, especially if you are not familiar with this process.

All of the above-mentioned crossbow scopes are from top brands in the market.According to our recommendation, the Excalibur Tact-Zone is the best crossbow scope for the money, considering the brilliant features of its durability and crisp image.
Under cost-effective options, the UTG 4×32 tops the list with a cost under with some really impressive features.
Hunters would occasionally experience low light conditions due to weather or while attempting to hunt at night. For such hunters, the Vortex Crossfire II Hog Hunter would be the best option from the list.

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Watson R

Master of Modern Bowhunting, Watson knows archery equipment forward and backward. An accomplished bowhunter in his own right, his successes in the field demonstrates to novices that bowhunting isn’t something to be kept behind closed doors. Making it more accessible to beginners and advanced bowhunters alike; Watson has become an expert in the construction and use of longbows, compound bows, crossbows, archery and bowhunting gear; he now shares his knowledge openly.