in ,

The Best Crossbow Scopes For Hunting 2021

The Reviews Are In And The Top Quality Crossbow Scopes Are Here!

Finding the best crossbow scopes for hunting and target shooting is an excellent means of increasing accuracy quickly and easily.

Off the shelf, most crossbows are fitted with low-quality optics to keep production costs down.  Ditching your sub-par scope for a higher quality option is a smart move for a handful of reasons.

The Best Crossbow Scopes: Features & Benefits

  1. Better field of view: Many high-quality crossbow scopes feature a wider field of view, allowing the shooter to see more and find targets more easily.
  2. More magnification: With pre-set and variable zoom options available crossbow shooters can get in closer for more accurate shot placements.
  3. Better light transmission: High-quality crossbow scope lenses transmit more light which translates to better visibility during dusk and dawn when game animals are most active.
  4. Illuminated reticles: Options exist with illuminated reticles for low light hunting.
  5. Fine Tuned FPS adjustments: Many xbow scopes feature FPS dials allowing the shooter to dial in the exact draw weight of the crossbow for pinpoint accuracy at all ranges.
  6. Sturdier build quality: Pricier optics are usually built using higher quality components capable of holding zero after being bumped and bashed around during transport, and out in the field hunting.

The best crossbow scopes feature FPS speed adjustments and adjustable magnification for top-quality performance in a variety of shooting conditions. With so many xbow scopes on the market, it might be difficult for you to track down the best model to buy. 

We weeded out all the lame ducks to showcase some of the best options currently available to upgrade your crossbow so you can spend less time wondering which crossbow scope to buy and more time out in the blind or up in a tree hunting!


Sightmark Core SX 3×32 Crossbow Scope

The Sightmark Core SX 3×32 Crossbow Scope is an evolution of the popular Core series, designed especially for today’s fastest-shooting crossbows.

The Scope is fully calibrated for 320 fps crossbows and offers accurate, repeatable aiming points out to 60 yds for precise ranging and use with multiple speeds.

This crossbow scope features fully multi-coated optics, a shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof body for use in any outdoor environment, and a kill zone ranging system to help you accurately judge the distance to your target.

The red/black VXR-L reticle is ideal for both daylight and low light uses. It offers 11 brightness settings for use in various lighting environments and features an arrow drop compensation feature for shot placement.

This Scope provides Low-profile capped turrets that allow you to make windage and elevation adjustments without moving the main scope.

The scope itself is fog proof, waterproof and shockproof, ensuring it remains clear and functional throughout your hunting trips. 

Features:

  • The scope dimension is 8.9×2.6 x 1.5 inches with a magnification of 3x.
  • This Scope is tunned for a 320fps crossbow
  • There are 11 brightness settings for the reticle
  • It has holdover points for close-range shooting out to 60 yards
  • This Scope is compact and lightweight and have Kill zone rangefinding for big game and medium game.
  • This Scope is shockproof, fog-proof, and weatherproof.

Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-12×56

Crossfire II 3-12×56 is a high-performance variable powered riflescope for hog hunters who need to take their prey out at dusk or dawn.

This riflescope offers fully multi-coated optics with anti-reflective coatings so that you can spend the whole day in the field.

It has a tactical-based design with a 30 mm tube and 56 mm objective lens, and an adjustable parallax for improved accuracy.

It comes with a V-Brite reticle to show precise shot placement in extreme low-light conditions.

The hard anodized aircraft-grade aluminum tube is Nitrogen purged, and O-ring sealed for reliable waterproof and fog-proof performance.

Finger-adjustable 1/4 MOA windage and elevation click stops allow precision shot placement. The hard anodized coating protects the tube from scratches, wear, water, and other adverse conditions.

Features: 

  • This riflescope has dimensions of 14.5 x 2 x 1.73 inches with a magnification of  3-12×56.
  • It has long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box to get that quick sight picture with the fast-focus eyepiece for reticle focusing.
  • This Scope is fully multi-coated with anti-reflective lenses that provide bright and clear views.
  • Its capped reset turrets allow re-indexing with MOA clicks.
  • It has a V-Brite reticle for quick target acquisition in extreme low-light conditions.
  • It is made from hard-anodized aircraft-grade aluminum material that gives strength and durability.
  • This riflescope is shockproof, fog-proof, and weatherproof.

Hawke XB30 Crossbow Scope 2-8×36

The XB30 crossbow scope features the latest technology to give you the perfect combination of lightweight, strength, speed, and accuracy. It has a glass-etched illuminated XB30 compact SR reticle suitable for bow speeds from 250 fps to 475 fps.

The 10-yard aim points incorporate windage bars and dots to compensate for 10 mph and 20 mph crosswinds. This Scope features Redfield’s Vari-speed technology with a high magnification of 2-8x provides increased range on your target.

This Scope is ideal for hunting indoors or outdoors, where weather conditions can be harsh. The speed selector ring allows you to match the reticle to any bow speed, and one of three illuminated reticle models helps you make quick adjustments and hit targets in any light.

It has a locking speed adjuster and a rheostat on the saddle that offers 5 levels of brightness of red or green illumination for accurate reticle calibration.

This Scope is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof with nitrogen-purged optics to prevent fogging or misting, built to withstand the rigors of crossbows.

This Scope has a single piece of lightweight aluminum with a wide-angle optical system for a wide field of view and a 30mm monotube chassis for superior strength.

Features:

  • This Scope has a length of 10.1 inches, a weight of 15.3 oz, and a magnification of 2-8x.
  • It has a speed adjuster from 250 fps to 475 fps for accurate reticle calibration
  • The Scope has a 30mm monotube chassis, which is designed to withstand the heavy recoil of crossbows
  • It has 14 layers of fully multi-coated optics and a Wide Angle optical system.
  • It provides a glass etched xb30 compact SR reticle with aim points from 20-100 yards with 5-yard marks.

Ravin R170 100-Yard Illuminated Green/ Red Crossbow Scope

This Ravin R170 Crossbow scope is the perfect addition to your favorite crossbow. It features an innovative fps adjustment for accuracy and consistency of bow speeds between 300 and 425 fps.

The fully-coated lenses with red or green illumination enhance long-range visibility, and illuminated dots (red & green) are equipped with a rheostat control switch for easy brightness adjustments.

It features an 8. 75-inch aluminum scope, precision etched glass reticle, and 9-dot crosshairs calibrated for 20-100 yards with a 10 ft field of view provided from 1.5x to 5x optics.

For accurate target acquisition at short, medium, and long ranges. Its fog proof, water-resistant, shockproof, and recoil-proof design enables you to hunt in any weather condition or terrain.

It also Includes 7/8″ Picatinny-style mounting rings with three hex head screws for stable attachment to most crossbows.

Features:

  • This Scope has dimensions of 11 x 4 x 3 inches with a magnification of  1.5-5x.
  • The Ravin 8.75-inch scope has a variable speed and arrow drops compensation setting for crossbows that shoot between 300 and 425 fps.
  • It features nine aiming dots calibrated for 20 to 100 yards with a wide field of view that offers a clear image.
  • It has Illuminated colored dots in red or green narrows and fully multi-coated etched glass reticles for accuracy.
  • This Scope is fog proof, water-resistant, shockproof, and recoil-proof.

Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Second Focal Plane Crossbow Scope

The Vortex Crossfire II 1-7×32 is an excellent scope for crossbows and long-range rifles. Lightweight, easy to sight in, and the reticle is calibrated for centerfire rifles, but holdover points are visible for crossbows.

It’s easy to make critical shots with 1/4 MOA adjustments. The Scope features windage and elevation adjustments, multi-coated lenses, side focus, and Scope shoots well from 20-100 yards.

It comes with dual illumination, red or green, for accuracy in low light. The large objective lens gives you a wide field of view, making it the perfect choice for hunting all day long. This is a pricey option but it’s probably one of the best crossbow scopes money can buy.

This Scope is constructed of rugged aircraft-grade aluminum with high strength glass to perform in extreme conditions. It includes two times the extra accessories value, including a durable padded case, flip caps with rail covers, mounting screws, and hex wrench, plus a set of scope rings.

Features:

  • This Scope has dimensions of 9.5 x 1.18 x 1.5 inches with a magnification of  2-7×32.
  • It’s made from tough aluminum alloy with a smooth matte finish and black hard-coat anodized
  • It features proprietary coatings that increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.
  • This reticle is for crossbows for a 40-yard zero and fast, accurate holdovers from 20-100 yards.
  • Its red or green illumination keeps it versatile for low light conditions
  • This Scope is shockproof, fog-proof, and weatherproof, with a wide field of view that makes it perfect for many shooting situations.

UTG OP3 1.5-6X36 Crossbow Scope

The UTG OP3 1.50-6X36 Crossbow Scope features a completely sealed and Nitrogen filled waterproof housing to deliver reliable shockproof and zero holding performance in all weather conditions.

It is built on precision machined 30mm one-piece tube to maximize rigidity and accuracy, and a generous eye relief allows for a full field of view.

This Scope offers a 130 Hunter etched glass reticle with bubble leveler for range estimating, complete with tactical style, EZ-TAP Red/Green BDC illumination to accommodate all light conditions, plus a 1-click illumination memory function.

It features precise windage & elevation adjustments at the tactile finger adjustable turrets (SWAT) are made quickly in the field with revolution caliber compatibility. Its fully multi-coated lenses boost light transmission with long eye relief plus field of view, allowing quick target acquisition.

Features:

  • This Scope has dimensions of 7.87 x 1.18 x 1.18 inches with a magnification of  1.5-6X.
  • This crossbow scope can shoot up to 130 yards with 250 to 475 fps velocity.
  • It provides one-click red/green illumination memory.
  • It features zero lockable and resettable target turrets with precise 1/2 MOA per click adjustment.
  • It is made from aircraft-grade aluminum and manufactured with premium materials.
  • This Scope is nitrogen-filled and waterproofed to resist shock or lousy weather.

TenPoint Pro View 2 3X Crossbow Scope

This Scope is compact and lightweight. It features fully coated 3x optics that captures the most delicate details and is ideal for hunters in low-light conditions looking to make their shots count.

This lightweight, 8-1/2″ aluminum tube scope features an ambidextrous On/Off Switch, rheostat-controlled full-color LED illuminated or non-illuminated dot, etched 20-30-40 yard crosshairs with a 50-yard illuminated free-standing dot.

Capable of 5 light intensities for optimum brightness in any lighting condition. A great choice for best crossbow scopes for low light shooting conditions.

Its fully-coated lenses provide superior light transmission with anti-reflective coatings on every air-to-glass surface for a crisp image. It includes 7/8-inch rings for simple installation.

Features:

  • This Scope features a versatile targeting system for crossbows, pellet guns, rifles, and bows.
  • This Scope has dimensions of 10.5 x 3.5 x 3.25 inches with a magnification of  3×32.
  • It’s compact and lightweight, great for hunting, competitions, backyard plinking, and target practice
  • It has black dots (non-illuminated) that can be turned on for either red or green rheostat-controlled illuminated colored dots with 5 light intensities each.
  • It’s an 8.5-inch aluminum-tube scope that features 20 50, 30, and 40-yard dots (the fourth dot is free standing, just below the 40-yard crosshair) and fully-coated 3x optics.
  • It includes 7/8-inch sope mounting rings.
  • This bow is easy to assemble, making it perfect for the beginner hunter.

Hawke Sport XB1 Vari-Speed SR IR Crossbow Scope

The Hawke Sport Crossbow scope features a 1.5-5×32 lens system used for a crossbow or long-range riflescopes.

It has a Mil-dot illuminated reticle with Vari-Speed technology for optimum accuracy at all draw speeds.

It’s an 11 layer, fully multi-coated Scope with a speed selector that allows the Scope to be matched to any bow, shooting speeds between 275fps and 425 fps.

Its aircraft-grade aluminum construction is waterproof, shockproof, and nitrogen-purged to prevent fogging and misting.

The precision Glass etched reticle has 10 aim points at yard intervals from 20 – 100 yards. This reticle has an illuminated Rheostat for brightness levels on each color and can be adjusted by five levels.

This reticle features illuminated hollow circles with a 2″ ‘Kill Zone’ at the corresponding distance with an extra solid aiming dot inside it. With the Hawke BC software so you can print off a range card to use in the field.

Features:

  • This Scope has dimensions of 8.3 x 2 x 1 inches with a magnification of  1.5-5×32.
  • It has a speed adjuster from 250fps to 475 fps for accurate reticle calibration.
  • It features eleven layers of fully multi-coated optics for outstanding clarity.
  • This crossbow scope has a 1-inch monotube chassis designed to withstand the heavy crossbow recoil.
  • It is waterproof, shockproof, and nitrogen-purged to prevent fogging and misting.

Bear Archery X Speed Crossbow Scope

The Bear Archery X Speed Crossbow Scope is easy to adjust and lightweight, with an ergonomic design for a comfortable feel. This Scope is compatible with any crossbow that has speed adjustments between 205 and 430 feet per second, making it a best crossbow scopes choice for many hunting crossbow models.

It features a multi-coated, ultra-clear glass of 1-5 x 24 zoom range with 30 mm optical magnification and illuminated 9-position 20 to 100 yards reticle to help you seamlessly transition from short to long distances.

This monocular is parallax free and includes all mounting hardware and weaver mount rings.

Features:

  • This Scope has dimensions of 1 x 1 x 1 inches with a magnification of  1-5 x 24.
  • See target clearly with multi-coated, ultra-clear glass
  • It’s a1-5 x 24 power illuminated Scope with a windage/elevation adjustable rheostat and 9-position illuminated reticle.
  • This Scope is Good for 20 to 100-yard ranges
  • This Scope is compatible with any crossbow with speed adjustments from 205fs to 430 fps.
  • It’s designed with the latest bullet and speed technology.

MA3TY 1.5-5×32 Crossbow Scope

The MA3TY 1.5-5×32 Crossbow Scope is fully multi-coated for a more precise, brighter, and sharper view.

It’s a 30mm monotube, completely sealed and Nitrogen filled, chassis for superior strength, perfectly updated Scope for any crossbow. Its 5x magnification laser etched reticle has heavy thick black crosshairs on top with a lightweight, thin bottom line.

This Scope is perfect for both hunting crossbow and target shooting. It features a wide-angle field of view, multiple reticle illumination, and adjustable elevation to make every hunt an epic one.

With a 30 mm diameter tube, this Scope offers over six fields of vision. The rugged aluminum alloy construction makes for an extremely durable yet lightweight solution.

Its waterproof and fog-proof coating provides excellent performance in various weather conditions.

This crossbow scope will surely give you a precise shot on target easily and fast even in low light conditions.

The crossbow has a wide-angle image that is crisp and bright, and the long eye relief design makes the scope to come up to the eye quickly.

Other features include a red/green illumination, multi-coated lens, and a unique reticle design for great clarity. Another best crossbow scopes top contender!

Features:

  • This Scope has dimensions of 10.67 x 3.86 x 2.44 inches with a magnification of  1.5-5x.
  • It sees target clearly with multi-coated, ultra-clear glass
  • It has a speed adjuster from 300 fps to 425 fps for aim points out to 100 yards.
  • This Scope has a Ballistic Reticle with Red/Green illumination that provides maximum brightness and clarity.
  • Its multi-layer coated lenses give light transmission up to 93%, which allows you to make a precise shot on target very quickly.
  • It has an objective lens of 32 mm and a length of210 mm with Impact resistance up to 1000G.
  • This 30 mm monotube Scope is waterproof, shockproof, completely sealed, and nitrogen-purged to prevent fogging and misting.

UTG 4X32 1″ Crossbow Scope With 5-Step RGB Reticle

Crossbow ScopeWeighing about twelve ounces and measuring just eight inches in length, the size of this UTG crossbow scope is an advantage in itself as you can use it anywhere.

The objective lens is 32 mm glass, ensuring your user experienced is not ruined by anything.

Though it comes with a fixed 4x magnification, its resolution and clarity are excellent.

The 5-step illuminated reticle is great for adjusting the brightness to accommodate different lighting conditions.

Scope Magnification:4x

Field of View: 27.2 inches at 100 yards

Eye Relief: 3.8 inches

FPS (Crossbow Speed) Setting: 300 FPS

Illuminated Reticle: Yes

Length: 8.19 inches

Buy on Amazon

Hawke 3X32 IR Crossbow Scope

Hawke 3X32 IR Crossbow ScopeThis lightweight scope is perfectly designed to improve the accuracy of your shot and is easy to mount on your crossbow. With its wide field of view, you will be able to see anything that wanders across your path even at a hundred yards.

It weighs about 9.8 oz hence will not affect your crossbow balance. The lens also lets in plenty of light for an improved view, even in low light conditions. 

Scope Magnification: 1.5X- 4X

Field of View: 33.3ft at 100 yards

Eye Relief: 4 inches

FPS (Crossbow Speed) Setting: 475 fps

Illuminated Reticle: Yes

Length: 8.5 inches

Buy on Amazon

TACFUN 4X32 Crossbow Optics

Hammers Compact Red and BlueThis crossbow scope comes with four crosshairs that allow you to have four reference points on different yardages hence eliminates guesswork down the range.

Another unique feature is the illuminated Reticle that comes with red and blue colors with each of the colors having five adjustable levels.

It also has weaver rings at the end of the eyepiece for quick focus. 

Scope Magnification: 4x

Field of View: 33.3 ft at 100 yards 

Eye Relief: 3.5 inches

FPS (Crossbow Speed) Setting: 300-450FPS

Illuminated Reticle: Yes

Length: 8 inches

Buy on Amazon

TRUGLO Crossbow Scope 4X32 Camo

TRUGLO Crossbow Scope 4X32 with Rings APGTruglo is one of the leaders in the production of highly effective crossbow scopes.

One of their best designs is the TRUGLO Crossbow Scope 4X32 that features a high level of performance, accuracy, and long-lasting use.

You can trust this scope to meet your hunting expectations.

The adjustment knobs are perfectly positioned and easy to use.

Scope Magnification: 4x

Field of View: 33 ft at 100 yards

Eye Relief: 4 inches

FPS (Crossbow Speed) Setting: 300-450 FPS

Illuminated Reticle: Yes

Length: 9 inches

 


TRUGLO Tru-Brite Crossbow Scope

TRUGLO 1.5-5X32 Ir Crossbow Scope with RingsThis is among the best crossbow optic models from the Truglo manufacturers.

The scope is nitrogen sealed and features a non-reflective matte finish making it fog proof, scratch-resistant, and waterproof.

The Reticle can be calibrated to work with crossbows ranging from 225-400 fps and perfectly targets at the range of about fifty yards right out of the box.

It has a great vertical adjustment due to the adjustable rings and scope base. Another great pick in the best crossbow scopes category.

Scope Magnification: 1.5x to 5x

Field of View: 33 ft at 100 yards 

Eye Relief: 4 inches

FPS (Crossbow Speed) Setting: 225-400+ fps

Illuminated Reticle: Yes

Length: 8.2 inches

 


TenPoint Rangemaster Pro Illuminated Crossbow Scope

TenPoint HCA-097-II 3X Pro-View 2 Crossbowx 40mmFor hunters who care about the optical component’s quality in their scope, the TenPoint ProView II is a great upgrade and on our best crossbow scopes list.

It has fully multi-coated optics which means the loss of light transmission is majorly reduced.

The images produced are crystal clear, and the variable optics makes it a great choice for shots taken at a variety of ranges and light conditions.

Scope Magnification: 1.5x -5x

Field of View: 84.3 – 28.1 ft @100yd

Eye Relief: 3.5 – 3 / 88.90-76.2 in/mm

FPS (Crossbow Speed) Setting: 275 to 425 FPS

Illuminated Reticle: Yes

Length: 8.25 inches

 


Excalibur Tact Zone Crossbow Scope

Excalibur Tact-Zone Illuminated Scope, 2.5-6x32mmThe Excalibur Tact-Zone Illuminated Scope, 2.5-6x32mm is one of the best crossbow scopes with the fact that it comes with variable zoom.

This allows you to adjust your scope magnification between 2.5x and 6x to the right one.

More so, you can use it with several types of modern crossbows as its shooting speed ranges from 275 to 410 FPS.

This scope is compact and weighs less than a pound as well as top-notch, fully multi-coated optics that give quality and bright images.

Scope Magnification: 6x

Field of View: 45 feet at 100 yards

Eye Relief: 2.5 inches

FPS (Crossbow Speed) Setting: 275-410 FPS

Illuminated Reticle: Yes

Length: 13 inches


The Best Crossbow Scopes Are Easy Upgrades

If you’re looking for a fast and easy way of improving accuracy and range, upgrading to one of these best crossbow scopes is a great move.

The process of replacing and upgrading the scope is easy and fast. The crossbow scope is fastened to the rail using metal mounts which are removed easily with a screwdriver.

Just make sure you do not overtighten the screws when you install the new scope. It’s best to use a thread locking compound like Loc-Tite and get the fasteners nice and snug. Don’t go crazy on things and strip the threads.

Once the new optics are mounted, the crossbow is sighted in at a close range to dial in the windage. The FPS setting should take care of most elevation issues but some adjustments will probably be necessary.

best crossbow scopes for hunting
Top-Rated Crossbow Scope Reviews

Any of the best crossbow scopes choices in this guide will probably be an upgrade over the standard low-quality “stock” optics packaged with most crossbows.

Having a top-quality crossbow scope can add several minutes of huntable light to your outings.

As you know, the big trophy animals like to move early in the morning and at dusk when the light is low. Better optics will extend the shootable light, allowing you to stay on stand longer with the ability to shoot more accurately in low light conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Crossbow Scopes

  1. Can you use any scope on a crossbow?
    Answer: It is not advised for 2 main reasons: 1) Most rifle scopes are parallex adjusted at 100 yards, and 2) Rifle scopes are not FPS adjustable.
  2. What is the best crossbow scope on the market?
    Answer: There are several makes and models to choose from. It’s best to consider size and overall quality specific to your crossbow when choosing good optics.
  3. How far can you shoot a deer with a crossbow?
    Answer:
    While some crossbows can shoot tight groups out beyond 100 yards, shooting a deer or other animal at that range is risky because a crossbow arrow flies well under the speed of sound. The animal hears the crossbow before the arrow arrives, allowing it to move or “jump the string” which can lead to injury. We don’t like shooting at deer past 50 yards, and larger animals like elk beyond 80 yards. Here are some tips for choosing the right crossbow.

 

 

Written by Shane O'Neill

With over 15 years of bowhunting and crossbow hunting experience, Shane is always ready to climb a tree during whitetail season or stalk the crop edges for spring turkey. Shane is old school and often prefers to hunt with a recurve crossbow.

Excalibur Matrix Grizzly Crossbow Review

Excalibur Matrix Grizzly Crossbow Review

testing the bear x constrictor cdx

Bear X Constrictor CDX Crossbow Review