Illuminated Crossbow Scopes (Top 10 Recommended)

If you would like to know which scope was my favorite, then I would highly recommend the Excalibur Tact-Zone which was also the top pick of the day.

I think that we both can agree that hunting during noon or at night time is not as easy as most people make it out to be.

Do you know what is worse?

Hunting at night with a crossbow is also not an easy task. You only have one chance to land that critical shot and if you could not clearly see the reticle, then you are in for some frustration.

I know how you feel.

Did you also know that this problem can easily be solved with the help of an illuminated scope?

Let me explain.

An illuminated scope makes the use of batteries that will light up the reticle to either green or red. This will enable you to clearly see where your shot is going to land.

That is not all.

Today I am going to go through 10 of the best illuminated crossbow scopes that you can find anywhere online. I am going to go through features such as reticle colors, magnification, attachment rings etc.

Feel free to have a look at the table below, where I will compare all of the scopes. Also, do not forget about the guide at the end of the article which will help you to choose the perfect scope for your needs.

How to choose the right illuminated crossbow scope

In this section, I will show you everything that you need to know before buying a scope for your crossbow. In this section, I am going to go over 8 very important aspects that make out any scope and they will include:

1. Price
2. Magnification
3. Reticle colors
4. Distance sight points
5. Water and shockproof ability
6. Elevation and windage
7. Clarity
8. Attachment rings

Are you ready?

Let’s get started.

1. What can you expect from the price?

One thing that I have noticed was the illuminated scopes for crossbows are not that expensive (except for 3 listed here) and they can range anywhere from around $50 up to $300 which is lowest and highest price points.

If you are short on a budget or maybe you are not that serious when it comes to buying illuminated scopes, then I would highly recommend the Field Sport which is also the least expensive option.

2. Magnification is also very important

Just for those that do not know the basics of magnification, I will show an example below:

Let’s take a scope that has the spec 4×32.

The “4” stands for the magnification and in this case, it means that the scope gives a 4 times normal magnification. The “32” just indicated the diameter or size of the objective lens.

Most of the scopes in this review were either a 4×32 or a 3×32 while some will even go as high as 6 times normal view.

If magnification is important to you, then I would highly recommend the Excalibur Tact-Zone which has a magnification of up to 6 times normal view and is also my top pick of the day.

3. What about reticle colors?

Along with black, you can also expect to find the colors green and red. This might prove to be useful especially when you want to have a clear contrast between the target and the color of the reticle so that you do not mistake the target as part of the reticle.

4. Distance sight points

This is a feature that you will find in almost any type of scope. Just below the middle of the crosshair, you will find extra dots, points or intersections that will compensate for arrow drop.

The more points available, the longer the distance in which you can shoot.

In the case of crossbow scopes, you can expect each dot to represent 10 yards. If you would like to have a scope that is calibrated for up to 100 yards, then I would highly recommend the Hawke XB30 Pro which has up to 9 points on the vertical line.

5. Water and shockproof ability

This is something that all scopes must have.

Most scopes are sealed with rubber rings or filled with nitrogen that will keep any type of moisture out of the prism-chamber.

Shockproofing is also a must especially if you do not want to constantly zero your scope.

6. What about elevation and windage?

I have never come across a scope that does not have at least a windage knob. On each scope, you will find a knob on top and on the side where they can be turned in order to take these 2 factors into consideration.

7. Clarity is a must

What use is a scope if you cannot clearly view your target?

The factors that will contribute to clarity is the quality of the prisms, lenses and also the number of lens coatings.

The coating will allow more light to pass through the lens and in return will provide a much clearer view.

If clarity is very important to you, then I would highly recommend the Hawke XB30 Pro which has up to 16 layers of coating.

8. Do not forget about attachment rings

Most of the scopes in this review will come with attachment rings. Most of the attachment rings can also be used on a Weaver and a Picatinny rail.

You can also choose a different ring than the one that comes with the scope if it is not a fit for your crossbow rail.

Just make sure that you know what the thickness of the shaft of the scope is in order to get a matching ring.

#1 Excalibur Tact-Zone (Top Pick)

• Rating: 10/10
• Cost: $$
• Magnification: 2.5 – 6×32

If you would like to have an illuminated crossbow scope that also has the largest magnification, then I would highly recommend the Excalibur Tact-Zone. This scope is somewhat more expensive than some of the other models, but the value makes up for it. Below, I will delve more into some of the features.

Some of the features that make this scope so special:

1. Has a larger magnification. This scope has 2 magnification options which include 2.5 and also the 6 times normal view. Most of the other scopes in this series will only come in a 4x magnification.
2. The reticle comes in multiple colors. The reticle of this scope comes in the additional colors red and green where the brightness can also be adjusted.
3. Has a 5 point reticle system. The reticle of this crossbow has 5 points aligned vertically that will bring the arrow drop into consideration.
4. Is both water and shock-proof. This scope will not allow any moisture to leak into the prism-chamber. It is also shockproof that will help to keep it more accurate after a couple of shots.

This was a pretty decent scope with superior magnification and illumination. The only problem that I came across was that this scope does not come with any rings. You can use any type of 30mm ring to attach the scope to the rail. Play video below to learn more about the Excalibur Tact-Zone.

What we liked

•  Has superior magnification.
•  Is both water and shock-proof.
•  Is illuminated with 2 colors.

What we didn’t like

•  The rings are not included.

>> Check Price And Availability <<

#2 Field Sport (Least Expensive)

• Rating: 6.5/10
• Cost: $
• Magnification: 4×32

If you do not want to spend a lot of money on a scope for your crossbow and you would like to get your hands on the least expensive option, then I would highly recommend the Field Sport. This product is also the least expensive option in this listing,

Some of the features to brag about:

1. Has a decent magnification for a crossbow. This scope has a 4x normal magnification and a 32mm objective lens which is ideal for crossbow hunting.
2. It is made to last. The shell of this crossbow is made out of aircraft grade aluminum which is very tough and also lightweight.
3. Is also moisture proof. This scope is also filled with nitrogen and also sealed with an O-ring in order to keep moisture out.
4. Comes in 2 colored illuminated reticles. This scope makes the use of both green and red colored reticles for easier customization.
5. Can be easily mounted. This scope makes the use of 1″ Picatinny/Weaver scope rings that will be attached to the associated rail.
6. Can also adjust for distance and windage. This scope has 2 adjustment knobs that can be used to compensate for both the windage and distance.

This is a good scope that any huntsman will dream off. It has ideal magnification and is also very durable. The only improvement that I would recommend is a better way to attach the lenses.

What we liked

•  Has good magnification.
•  Is very durable.
•  Is fog proof.

What we didn’t like

•  Needs a better way to cover the lenses.

>> Check Price And Availability <<

#3 Hammers Crossbow Scope

• Rating: 6/10
• Cost: $
• Magnification: 4×32

If you did not like the least expensive option which was the Field Sport and you would like to go for the second best option which is also very inexpensive, then I would recommend the Hammers Crossbow Scope. This product is also in the same price class as the Field Sport.

Some of the features that you will like:

1. Good enough magnification for crossbows. This scope has a magnification of x4 normal view which is ideal for crossbow hunting.
2. Makes the use of 2 illuminated colors. The reticle of the Hammers scope makes the use of both colors red and blue that is also illuminated for better viewing.
3. The light intensity can also be adjusted. The brightness intensity can be adjusted to 5 levels for both the red and blue colors.
4. Can be adjusted for both the windage and elevation. There is a knob on top and on the side that can be turned to compensate for the windage and also the elevation.
5. Is made to be durable. This scope is made out of an aircraft quality aluminum alloy that is very durable, tough and will not break easily.

This is a good option if you were not satisfied with the Field Sport. This scope also comes with weaver rings which can be attached to associated rails. It is also important to note that this scope does not come with lens covers and makes the use of a CR2032 Lithium Cell

What we liked

•  The reticle comes in 2 colors.
•  Is very inexpensive.
•  Is also durable.

What we didn’t like

•  Does not have lens covers.

>> Check Price And Availability <<

#4 SA Sports

• Rating: 6.5/10
• Cost: $
• Magnification: 4×32

This scope is manufactured from the company SA Sports which is a very reputable as well. This scope is also not that expensive compared to some of the other scopes in this review. Now, let us get started with some of the other things that you will love:

1. Has 3 reticle colors to choose from. When it comes to the color of the reticle I will point out that it comes in red, green and also black of course. You can also adjust the brightness of the reticle for better accuracy in the dark.
2. Has multiple sight points for longer distances. This scope has 4 sight points that will compensate for the arrow drop when shooting at longer distances. Now you can land an even more accurate shot.
3. Is made to last. The body of this scope is made out of aluminum which makes it lightweight and also very strong.
4. It is also moisture and shockproof. This scope is made in such a way that it will keep all of the moisture out of the inside area. Now you can hunt in wet conditions without having to worry about moisture spoiling your fun.

This is overall a very good scope that can surely pack a punch when doing crossbow hunting. It also has knobs that you can use to adjust the reticle for the windage and elevation.

What we liked

•  Is very inexpensive.
•  Is moisture and shockproof.
•  Can adjust for windage and elevation.

What we didn’t like

•  Was not a huge fan of the dust covers.

>> Check Price And Availability <<

#5 TRUGLO Crossbow Scope

• Rating: 7.5/10
• Cost: $
• Magnification: 4×32

This crossbow scope from Truglo is really a work of art. This scope is not that expensive and is also the same price range as that of the SA Sports. It is also illuminated with 2 colors and can also be used during dusk or dawn. Below, I will get into some of the features, that I know you will love.

Some of the features that you will love:

1. Has multiple colored reticles to choose from. The reticle of this scope comes in the colors red, green and also black. You can also easily change the brightness of the reticle to match your lighting conditions.
2. Can adjust for windage and elevation. You will also have 2 knobs that can be used to compensate for windage and also elevation.
3. Has 4 distance sight points. You will get sight points that are stacked in a vertical row that will help you to easily compensate for arrow drop.
4. Provides maximum brightness and clarity. This lens of this scope is also coated which will provide extra brightness and clarity.
5. Is also moisture proof. This scope is filled with nitrogen which will also help to keep most of the moisture out of the inner compartments.
6. Is lightweight and also durable. The hull of this scope is also made out of aluminum which is both lightweight and durable.

Overall, I think this is a pretty decent scope for the price that you pay. It is also ideal for most types of hunting conditions. Play video below to learn more about the TRUGLO Crossbow Scope.

What we liked

•  Is very inexpensive.
•  Has multiple colored reticles.
•  Is moisture proof.

What we didn’t like

•  Does not come with any dust covers.

>> Check Price And Availability <<

#6 TenPoint 3x Pro View

• Rating: 8/10
• Cost: $$$
• Magnification: 3×32

If you would like to get your hand on simple and yet powerful scope then you should not skip the TenPoint Pro-View scope. This scope is somewhat expensive but is of very high quality. Below are some of the awesome features that you should not miss:

1. Very advanced reticle system. The reticle of this scope really did it for me. This scope makes the use of nonilluminated black dots that can be turned on to give you green or red colors. You can also adjust the brightness of the dots.
2. Makes use of 4 dots. This scope has 4 dots that are aligned vertically to compensate for 20, 30, 40 and 50 yards respectively.
3. Mounting rings included. This scope also comes with 7/8-inch that you can use to attach to your crossbow as well.
4. Water and shockproof. This scope is also shock and waterproof as well that will deter any moisture from leaking into the scope.

I was a huge fan of the reticle of this scope and even though it does not have the same magnification as that of some of the other scopes, this one is still a good option for close range. Play video below to learn more about the TenPoint 3x Pro View.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOpoqMajCc8&feature=youtu.be

What we liked

•  Very good quality.
•  Very good reticle system.
•  Is water and shockproof.

What we didn’t like

•  The magnification is not that high.

>> Check Price And Availability <<

#7 Barnett

• Rating: 7/10
• Cost: $$
• Magnification: 3×32

This scope from Barnett is a pretty decent scope for the price that you have to pay. It also has 3 times normal magnification which is not bad. It also makes the use of an illuminated reticle to improve your aim.

Below are some of the features that you need to consider:

1. Makes the use of multiple dots. These dots are a great addition for when you want to compensate for the arrow drop in order to have a more accurate shot at larger distances.
2. The reticle is illuminated. Now you can adjust the brightness to your lighting conditions which will make it easier to spot your target.
3. The reticles make use of multiple colors. This reticle will make the use of red and green colors where you can choose the color that suits you.

Along with the scope, you will also get attachment rings that can fit on any 7/8″ dovetail base. This scope can be used by anyone that wants to improve their crossbow hunting skills. This scope is also not that expensive when you have to consider that Barnett is a very reputable brand.

What we liked

•  The reticle has multiple dots.
•  Is water and rain proof.
•  The reticle has multiple colors and can also be illuminated.

What we didn’t like

•  The magnification is a little bit lower than some of the other scopes.

>> Check Price And Availability <<

#8 Trophy Ridge SpeedComp

• Rating: 8/10
• Cost: $$
• Magnification: 1 – 5 

If you would like to get your hands on a scope that has both the 1 and 5 times normal view, then you might want to have a look at the Trophy Ridge SpeedComp scope. This scope is in the same price class as the Barnett and Excaliber scopes. This scope also has a nine position reticle to further compensate for arrow drop. Read the section below for more features:

1. Has a 2 setting magnification. You can either use the 1 or 5 times normal view option for either close or longer ranges.
2. Has a 9 position reticle. These positions will allow you to further compensate for arrow drop when shooting targets at longer distances. Each position is set for 10 extra yards and can reach up to 100 yards.
3. This scope will give you clearer vision. The lenses of this scope are also multi-coated which will provide a much clearer image than normal scopes.
4. Is also water and shockproof. This will allow you to shoot in rainy conditions and it will also be more resilient to shock.

This is a great scope and I like the fact that you can adjust between two magnification sizes. You will also get 2 rings that will enable you to attach this scope to your crossbow. There will also be a battery included which will power the illumination of the reticle.

What we liked

•  Can choose between 2 magnification settings.
•  Has a 9 position reticle.

What we didn’t like

•  Not much to say here.

>> Check Price And Availability <<

#9 UTG

• Rating: 7/10
• Cost: $
• Magnification: 4X32

If you would like to have a scope that is both solid and very simple, then you will love this scope from UTG. This scope has a fairly decent magnification of 4 times normal view and is also very inexpensive compared to some of the other scopes in this review. Some of the features that you will love:

1. The reticle makes the use of 2 colors. This scope makes the use of both red and green to adjust according to your lighting conditions. The illumination can also be adjusted.
2. The reticle has a 5-step system. This system will allow you to compensate for the arrow drop, especially at longer distances. The distances covered will be from 20 up to 50 yards.
3. Can adjust for windage and elevation. There will be 2 knobs located on the side and on top that will allow you to adjust for both windage and elevation.

This is a pretty decent scope for the price that you have to pay. You will also get lens caps along with this scope and also a UTG QD Rings which can be attached to the crossbow. This scope is useful for both newcomers and experienced crossbow shooters.

>> Check Price And Availability <<

#10 Hawke XB30 Pro

• Rating: 9/10
• Cost: $$$$
• Magnification: 1-5×24

Last but not least we have the Hawke XB30 Pro that has very good magnification and exceptional clarity but also comes with a hefty price. It also has an illuminated reticle with some awesome additional features to brag about. Some of the features that you should not miss:

1. Has superior clarity. This scope has 16 layers that are fully multi-coated that will provide some of the best clarity that you can ask for.
2. Has a reticle suitable for very long distances. The reticle is adjusted for up to 100 yards and also has 9 points that represent from 20 up to 100 yards. This scope is also suitable for speeds from 215fps up to 450 fps.
3. It is made to be durable. The hull of this scope is made out of Aluminum that is both strong and also lightweight.

This is one of the best scopes that you can ask for if clarity and long range shooting is for you. This scope is also a 30mm mono-tube that can be used to attach rings to (not included). The only con about this scope is that it does not come with any rings.

What we liked

•  Has the best clarity.
•  Is suitable for longer distances.
•  Is also moisture and shockproof.

What we didn’t like

•  Is very expensive.
•  Does not come with attachment rings.

>> Check Price And Availability <<

Illuminated Crossbow Scopes Comparison

Product Name	Magnification	Attachment	Price
1. Excalibur Tact-Zone (Top Pick)	x2.5 & x6	Rings not included	$$
2. Field Sport (Least Expensive)	4×32	Picatinny & Weaver	$
3. Hammers Crossbow Scope	4×32	Weaver	$
4. SA Sports	4×32	Weaver	$
5. TRUGLO	4×32	Picatinny & Weaver	$
6. TenPoint 3x Pro View	3×32	Picatinny & Weaver	$$$
7. Barnett	3×32	7/8″ dovetail base	$$
8. Trophy Ridge SpeedComp	1 – 5x	Picatinny & Weaver	$$
9. UTG	4×32	Picatinny & Weaver	$
10. Hawke XB30 Pro (Highest Clarity)	1-5×24	Does not come with rings.	$$$$

Do not miss another shot in the dark

Finding the right illuminated crossbow scope does not need to be so tedious. 

In this article, I have gone through certain aspects such as price, reticle colors and illumination options, clarity, attachment rings, magnification etc.

If you still could not decide on which scope to choose, then I would highly recommend the Excalibur Tact-Zone scope as this one was my favorite. You can also take a look at some of the other gear that goes well with bow hunting.

Now it is your turn.

Leave a comment below and share with us the scope that was your favorite.