What night vision scope is the best night vision scope for your situation? We are here to help you grasp this in a better way.

Night vision scopes are those designed to provide greater accuracy while aiming shots at or during the night. These scopes are best suited for night tactical, defensive, military and security hunting.

These are one of the best scopes that are there for varmint hunters and target shooters. While there are many scopes to help you shoot in the dark, the clarity and light weight of night vision scopes are simply unbeatable.

These night vision scopes are generally equipped with one or more reticle patterns that provide great target acquisition and also aiming capabilities to suit your convenience. Night vision scopes feature incredible magnification.

Today, these scopes are equipped with infrared (IR) illuminators that give you the perfect viewing experience. Nonetheless, these illuminators are not visible to the naked eye.

Generally, people rely on this form of optical technology for optimum accuracy largely in low light conditions. There are basically three generations of Night Vision: Gen 1, Gen 2 and Gen 3. Nonetheless, Gen 4 has also been introduced but it is a little bit complicated, so it is only used by the military.

  • Gen 1-These scopes are most affordable for the group. They provide a range of around 75 yards depending on the night and a shorter battery life.
  • Gen 2-This is a big improvement over the 1st generation equipment. They offer a range of approximately 200 yards depending on the model and a life expectancy and battery life 3 times longer than Generation 1.
  • Gen 3-Now, these are the most incredible. They offer the longest ranges, i.e., approximately 300 yards plus range depending on the model. They offer the best performance and offer the longest life expectancy of over 10,000 hours. You will find that few brands are capable of making the best Gen 3 night vision scope.

Best Night vision scope to buy

Basics of the Best Night Vision Scope

Now, let's understand some basics of the best night vision scope for air rifle:

Reticle-Most of them feature a red dot or other illuminated targeting reticles, that is, while aiming at the target, a red dot will appear at the top of the image, making it easier for you to aim.
Magnification-Most of the time, you will come across the line that your scope has a range of 3x up to 12x magnification. This means that the image you are able to see through the eyepiece lens will be at the least three times larger than it would be to the naked eye. Nonetheless, this feature is only available on variable scopes, as fixed scopes will not allow you to adjust the magnification setting.
Objective lens-just remember a simple rule: the higher the magnification the larger the lens is needed, since larger objective lenses can transmit more light. For most shooters, the 40 mm to 42 millimeter lens is sufficient.
Aside from these, each brand has some innovative characteristics to offer with each riflescope. What are some of the greatest night vision scopes under 500 available on the market? Let's see.

1. American Technologies Network Xsight 5-20 Rifle Scope

ATN X-Sight II HD 5-20 Smart Day/Night Rifle Scope w/1080p Video, Ballistic Calculator, Rangefinder,...
  • Use Day & Night in HD resolution - our HD technology gives...
  • Zero range: 100 yard. Day & Night Vision in Millions of...
  • Ballistic Calculator - shifts Point of Impact on the fly...
  • Smart Range Finder - identifies the range to your target...
  • 1080p HD Video Recording & Photos, Recoil Activated Video...

The ATN X-Sight II HD is a game changer, all credits to its amazing and innovative features. Advanced digital imaging provides incredible image quality.

The body features a rugged design to withstand harsh weather conditions. Another amazing feature includes the ATN RAV function that allows you to record your action-packed video.

Once you've pulled the trigger, you can simply record all those crucial moments while you were in action. The best part is the USB and HDMI ports to connect this scope to external equipment and the built-in WI-FI that enables you to share these recorded videos with your friends on their smartphones.

This versatile scope offers seven different styles of reticle in 7 different colors (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, light gray and dark gray). Choose the combination that suits you best. This ATN IR 850 Pro IR illuminator works comfortably with your night vision devices.

It has an Obsidian II core processing chip inside, which is a powerful computer that handles all the calculations for you. This easy to use characteristic allows you to adjust the visual effects of the viewfinder according to the light.

Its battery will last 8 to 12 hours on 4 AA cells which is pretty incredible. This scope features a powerful 3 - 14x magnification that enhances your visibility and accuracy of aiming at small targets.

This scope comes with a two year warranty. This scope features GPS technology that helps you map and locate your target. There is also an electronic compass, GPS, 3D Gyroscope, 3D accelerometer, 3D magnetometer and electronic barometer which are some of the unique advantages of this scope.

It does not have any traditional windage and elevation buttons, but it allows the shooter to save preset zeros because of a built-in profile manager. Its built-in digital laser ballistic rangefinder allows you to measure your targets more accurately. It allows you to concisely great the distance to your target, within +/- 1 yard or less.

This affordable night vision scope is highly recommended and worth buying.

2. Armasight ORION 5x Gen Night Vision Rifle Scope

Armasight Orion 5X Gen 1+ Night Vision Rifle Scope
  • Powerful 5x magnification
  • Mounts to standard weaver rail
  • Detachable IR810 infrared illuminator
  • Limited two year warranty
  • Export of this product outside of the United States of...

The truth is that Armasight is the world's leading provider of state-of-the-art Night Vision including advanced thermal and infrared thermal imaging solutions. They have some of the highest quality products and are rich in innovative features.

This great night vision scope is equipped with a high performance detachable infrared illuminator, which provides exceptional accuracy even in low light conditions. It features a rugged rubber body and the overall design is water resistant which provides added protection and adds to durability.

The anti-corrosion rubber body ensures a firm grip and also enhances the comfort level. The grip quality works well for those who have the problem of sweaty palms.

This scope is designed with reliable shock-protected optics that ensure maximum protection against any kind of shock and its impact. These features not only help improve performance, but also enhance the functional quality of the optics.

This high-quality scope features user-friendly adjustment functions that make it very easy for beginners to operate this scope. The windage and elevation adjustment also features user-friendly appeal.

Simple controls are better than multiple controls. Effecient and quick and efficient makes it easy to mount it on your standard weaver rails. This scope is equipped with a detachable ir810 infrared illuminator.

It is packed with a powerful 5x magnification, which is quite exceptional. This superior magnification provides extraordinary standards of accuracy even in low light conditions.

This helps you get a clear focus while aiming at small targets. It comes with a longer battery life that runs up to an average of 40 Hours of battery life. To support such many functions, such an efficient battery is the need.

Its resolution is 30-40 lp/mm, offering clearer vision and sharp focus in the dark. It comes with many ergonomic features and it is equipped with varied brightness settings.

This scope comes with an illuminated red crosshair reticle that allows you to hit long range targets even in low light. It comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

You'll love that even if you are a rifle scope novice, this device is a blessing in disguise for you. The battery power combined with the resolution provides an extended hunting adventure. Overall, this scope is reasonably priced and superbly designed for long range action and night hunting.

3. The Sightmark Photon XT 4.6x42s Digital Night Vision Rifle Scope

Sightmark Photon XT 6.5x50L Digital Night Vision Riflescope
  • Optional accessories include an integrated 5mW adjustable IR...
  • Superior for extended surveillance
  • Automatic shut-off when exposed to bright light sources
  • Automatic brightness control
  • Helmet mountable, allowing for "hands-free" operation

Sightmark is a very popular brand in the world of night vision scopes. Designed for optimum accuracy at medium range, this scope provides the shooter with everything they need.

The compact design provides simple storage. The best part is that it is 30 light in weight compared to other digital night vision scopes.

This very versatile scope features six digital reticle options; Two duplex reticles for hog and varmint hunting; two crossbow reticles designed for 320, 350, 370 and 400 FPS crossbows; a Mil-Dot reticle for rangefinder and remnant hunting; and a German style reticle. It also gives you 3 reticle colors (white, red, green) to switch between As and When needed.

With the weaver rail, you can attach as many additional accessories as you like. Equipped with digital windage and elevation adjustment. It has a built-in 810nm IR LED illuminator, which works perfectly even in the most difficult conditions.

The video output function allows you to capture or record all activity at any time; day or night. Isn't it great? The 33 longer battery life is simply the icing on the cake. Because the IPX4 is waterproof, it features 60 clicks of digital wind and elevation adjustment.

This scope also has an integrated weaver rail to which any number of additional accessories can be attached. It provides great night vision capability, making this scope perfect for operation even after sunset.

It comes with 4.6× magnification and a large 42mm objective lens. The 640×480 resolution provides sharp details of your targets at a range of approximately 120 yards.

This waterproof and shockproof scope comes with an LCD screen that provides clarity and gives you a high-resolution display. This lightweight device is highly recommended considering its durability and functionality. It is one of the best and inexpensive night vision scopes available that you should not miss out on.

4. Armasight Gen 2+ Nemesis6x-SD Night Vision Rifle Scope

Armasight Nemesis6x-SD Gen 2+ Night Vision Rifle Scope w/6x Magnification
  • Powerful 6x magnification with 6.5 degree FOV and shock...
  • Features bright source protection and auto brightness...
  • Waterproof body with simple and easy to operate controls and...
  • Mounts to standard weaver rail
  • Export of this product outside of the United States of...

California-based producer and distributor of high-quality hermal systems, night vision products, and daytime optics. When it comes to features, Gen 2+ is a vast improvement over the Gen 1+ scopes.

This scope features a high-quality image intensifier tube that aids in precise shot placement. With simpler push button controls and easy adjustments, this scope has been designed with user comfort in mind.

This scope is lightweight and features a waterproof body and has been designed from aircraft aluminum. It has 6x magnification that provides excellent accuracy while aiming at medium and long-range targets. It comes with multi-coated, all-glass, shock-protected IR transmission optics that reduce unwanted reflections.

It is equipped with an illuminated red crosshair reticle with variable brightness settings that can be adjusted to suit the user's comfort level. The red color allows you to easily aim at night.

This scope features a detachable ir810 infrared illuminator that provides excellent illumination and allows the shooter to aim at the target with greater accuracy. The Nemesis offers a long battery life with 60 hours and has an on-screen low battery indicator.

It can be controlled remotely and ensures comfortable eye relief. It can be mounted on all weapons with Picatinny/Weaver rails.

It features the renowned Generation 2+ night vision technology, which offers much better resolution and clearer images. Internal windage adjustment and scope elevation have been simplified to provide precise positioning.

Plus, it comes with many other compatible accessories that will make your shooting experience memorable.

Backed by Armasight's two-year Limited Warranty, this night vision scope is worth every penny spent. It is the perfect solution for those aiming at long-range targets, especially during night hunting trips. By several night vision scope reviews that are online, it has been rated one of the best night vision scopes in the market.

5. Firefield Gen 1 Night Vision Scope

Firefield NVRS 3x42 Gen 1 Night Vision Riflescope, Black
  • High quality image and resolution
  • Lightweight and durable titanium body with water resistant...
  • Quick detach weaver mount
  • Built-in high powered IR illuminator
  • Ergonomic design and quick power-up

Fairfield, an American producer of optics and shooting accessories, is the latest but powerful entry into the riflescope industry. This brand's products are known for their affordability and reliability.

The generation 1 scopes are the most popular and Firefield FF16001 is the company's move to make night vision scopes a little more affordable.

This night vision scope features an ergonomic design and is constructed with a rock solid titanium body. The scope's body is rugged enough to protect the scope from harsh weather conditions and external shocks.

With 3x magnification, this scope offers greater clarity and pinpoint accuracy while aiming at targets. The scope offers a large Gen 1 tube that comes with a 42mm objective lens and features a large compact design. The Firefield scope has an illuminated red duplex reticle whose brightness can be increasingly adjusted according to comfort level. The illuminated reticle improves accuracy in dark environments.

It comes with a built-in 100 MW IR LED illuminator that works incredibly well even after dark. The quality of the illumination coordinates well with many other functions of the scope. This scope also features a weaver mounting system with a quick detach feature that allows you to switch to iron sights easily.

The best part is that as you change optics, it remains intact in return-to-zero reliability. Because of this feature, it mounts easily on any standard Picatinny rail.

This scope also features multi-coated optics along with NVRS 3×42 flip-up lens cover that provides protection. The rubber winged eyecup ensures safety from light spills from the rear of the lens. It has easy-to-use controls and runs on two AA batteries. It comes with a carrying case and comes with a 3-year warranty.

Overall, this scope has just about everything to comfort your shooting experience. This durable and lightweight frame gives you better clarity and is one of the best night vision scopes for an air rifle worth considering.

The best thing is to study the many night vision scope reviews available to make a good purchase.

About the Author Anton Scharff

Anton is a hunting expert who respects nature. Ask him anything about large game. Lover of the great outdoors.

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