When it comes to improving shooting accuracy in low-light conditions, the right rifle scope can make a world of difference. In the world of optics, finding the Best Low-Light Rifle Scopes under $500 can be a challenging yet rewarding endeavor.
These scopes are designed to excel in dim environments, offering superior clarity, precision, and light-gathering capabilities. Whether for hunting at dawn or dusk, or engaging in tactical applications under limited light.
In this article, we’ll look at some of the best low-light rifle scopes available under $500, considering their features, quality, and value, to help you make an informed choice in elevating your shooting experience in challenging lighting conditions.
Factors to consider when buying the Best Low-Light Rifle Scopes under $500
Objective Lens Size
Larger objective lenses gather more light, enhancing image brightness in low light. Therefore go for a scope that has a bigger objective lens.
Magnification Range
Consider the optimal magnification range for your shooting needs. A lower magnification range might offer a wider field of view, suitable for closer-range shooting in low-light settings.
Eye Relief
Opt for a scope with generous eye relief, especially if shooting high-recoil firearms. Ample eye relief ensures a comfortable shooting experience and minimizes the risk of injury.
Reticle Type
Opt for reticles designed for low-light visibility, such as illuminated or etched reticles. Illuminated reticles offer varying brightness levels, aiding visibility in dim environments.
Glass Quality and Coating
Look for lenses with high-quality glass and multiple coatings. Fully or multi-coated lenses reduce glare, improve light transmission, and enhance image quality, crucial in low-light settings.
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Best Low Light Rifle Scopes under $500
1) Vortex Crossfire II AO 6-24x50mm Rifle Scope
Specifications
- 6 – 24 x magnification
- 50 mm objective lens
- 30 mm tube diameter
- 2.08 – 8.3 mm exit pupil
- 4.4 – 17.3 ft at 100 yds field of view
- 4 in eye relief
- 10 yds to infinity parallax
- Dead-hold BDC reticle
- Second focal plane
- Aircraft-grade aluminum material
- Fully multi-coated
- MOA adjustment
- Waterproof, fog proof & shockproof
The Vortex Crossfire II AO 6-24x50mm rifle scope, featuring a 30mm tube and a second focal plane reticle, is a high-performance optic designed for a range of shooting applications. Its adjustable objective (AO) enables fine-tuning of parallax and focus, allowing for clear and crisp images at various distances. With a magnification range from 6x to 24x, this scope offers versatility for both mid-range and long-distance shooting.
The fully multi-coated lenses provide exceptional light transmission, ensuring bright and sharp images, while the second focal plane reticle maintains a consistent size throughout the magnification range, ideal for precise holdover and windage corrections. The rugged and shockproof construction, along with the single-piece tube design, guarantees durability and reliability in demanding shooting conditions, making it an excellent choice for hunters, target shooters, and long-range enthusiasts.
Pros
- Offers a broad magnification range from 6x to 24x, ideal for various shooting applications
- Adjustable objective allows for parallax adjustment and precise focusing, ensuring clear and sharp images
- Fully multi-coated lenses provide excellent light transmission
- It is a sturdy & shockproof single-piece tube, ensuring durability and reliability
- The second focal plane maintains a consistent reticle size through the magnification
- O-ring sealed and nitrogen-purged, ensuring the scope is waterproof and fog-proof
- The 30mm tube diameter makes it compatible with a wide range of mounting rings
- Precise tracking is known for accurate and consistent tracking
Cons
- The larger objective lens and 30mm tube might make the scope relatively heavier and bulkier
2) Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen II 1-8X24mm Rifle Scope
Specifications
- 1 – 8 x magnification
- 24 mm objective lens
- 30 mm tube diameter
- 9 – 3 mm exit pupil
- 110 – 14.5 ft at 100 yds field of view
- 3.4 in eye relief
- 44 MOA adjustment range
- Fixed parallax
- Second focal plane
- Fully multicoated
- Waterproof, fog proof & shockproof
- Precision zero-stop system
- Aircraft-grade aluminum material
This scope features a compact and durable construction, making it suitable for both close-range and mid-range shooting applications. The 1-8x magnification range allows for quick transitions between targets and offers a true 1x power for close-range shooting and a maximum of 8x power for precision at greater distances. The illuminated reticle, combined with the second focal plane design, maintains a consistent size regardless of magnification, ensuring easy target acquisition and precise aiming.
The scope is equipped with fully multi-coated lenses, delivering exceptional clarity, sharpness, and improved light transmission, making it efficient in low-light conditions. The MOA reticle provides precise holdover and windage adjustments, catering to shooters requiring accurate and rapid target acquisition. With a robust build, shockproof design, and weather resistance, this scope is a reliable choice for hunters, tactical shooters, and competitive marksmen.
Pros
- The 1-8x magnification range allows for quick transitions between short and mid-range shooting
- The illuminated reticle, and the second focal plane, provide a consistent reticle size
- Enhanced light transmission and improved clarity, making it suitable for low-light shooting conditions
- The MOA-based reticle enables precise holdover and windage adjustments
- It is built to withstand recoil and harsh conditions with its shockproof and weather-resistant features
- Its compact size and lightweight design make it convenient for mobile or tactical applications
- Quick transitions allow for dynamic shooting scenarios, hence swift transitions between targets
Cons
- It has limited maximum magnification
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3) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope
Specifications
- 1 – 8 x magnification
- 24 mm objective lens
- 30 mm tube diameter
- 3 – 24 mm exit pupil
- 14.4 – 109 ft at 100 yds field of view
- 3.5 in eye relief
- 100yds parallax
- Second focal plane
- Fully multicoated
- Extra-low dispersion (XD) glass
- Glass-etched & illuminated reticle
- Waterproof, fog proof & shockproof
- MOA adjustment type
With a magnification range of 1x to 8x, it offers quick target acquisition at close range and precision aiming at moderate distances. The illuminated reticle, in the second focal plane, maintains a consistent size throughout the magnification range, ensuring easy aiming and quick target acquisition. The scope is equipped with fully multi-coated lenses that deliver exceptional clarity and brightness, making it well-suited for various lighting conditions, including low-light scenarios.
The scope’s fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing, while the single-piece, shockproof tube construction ensures durability and reliability in challenging conditions. It also features a forgiving eye box and a true 1x magnification setting, making it ideal for fast-paced shooting, competition, or tactical applications. Overall, the Strike Eagle is a well-regarded optic for shooters requiring speed, versatility, and performance across varying distances.
Pros
- Offers a broad 1-8x magnification range providing versatility for various shooting applications
- The illuminated reticle allows for quick target acquisition and precise aiming in various lighting
- The scope provides a forgiving eye box, making it easier and more comfortable for shooters
- Fast focus eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing, aiding in rapid target engagement
- Fully multi-coated lenses deliver excellent light transmission and clarity
- Shockproof single-piece tube construction ensures durability and reliability
- Offers a true 1x setting, ideal for close-range shooting applications
Cons
- The smaller objective lens size might limit light gathering.
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4) SightMark Wraith HD 4-32x50mm Rifle Scope
Specifications
- 4 – 32 x magnification
- 50 mm objective lens
- 2.4 in eye relief
- 1920×1080 pixels sensor resolution
- 200yds range detection
- 1080×720 pixels video record resolution
- 12.5 Mil Rad adjustment range
- 21 ft at 100 yds field of view
- 1.6 – 12.5 in exit pupil
- 10 Preloaded Reticles
- Second focal plane
- Waterproof, fog proof & shockproof
The SightMark Wraith HD 4-32x50mm Rifle Scope is a technologically advanced optic designed for both daytime and nighttime shooting. Featuring a high-definition sensor and a 1920×1080 HD display, this scope offers a wide magnification range from 4x to 32x, providing excellent versatility for various shooting scenarios. Utilizing digital imaging technology, this scope doesn’t rely on traditional glass optics but instead employs an HD digital display. The second focal plane reticle system ensures the reticle maintains a consistent size at all magnifications, allowing for accurate holdover and ranging.
The scope is equipped with a suite of digital features such as a customizable reticle, multiple reticle options, color modes, and recording capabilities for both images and videos. It also offers day and night modes, making it suitable for low-light and complete darkness shooting situations. With a 1-inch tube design, it provides compatibility with various mounting systems and accessories, offering a new dimension of technology when it comes to rifle scopes
Pros
- A broad magnification
- The HD display provides excellent image clarity
- Digital imaging technology allows for multiple reticles
- The second focal plane maintains a consistent reticle size
- It’s versatile and hence suitable for both low light or complete darkness
- It’s compatible with a wide range of mounting accessories
- It allows for the recording of videos hence one can document their experiences
Cons
- Due to its digital nature, its battery life might drain fast with extended use
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5) Vortex Optics Diamondback 6-24x50mm Tactical Rifle Scope
Specifications
- 6-24x magnification
- 50mm objective lens
- 30 mm tube diameter
- 2.08 – 8.33 mm exit pupil
- 4.5 – 18 ft at 100 yds field of view
- 3.9 in eye relief
- 10 yds to infinity parallax
- First focal plane
- Fully multicoated
- Extra-low dispersion (XD) glass
- Glass-etched reticle
- Aircraft-grade aluminum
- Waterproof, fog proof & shockproof
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50mm 30mm Tube First Focal Plane Rifle Scope has a magnification range from 6x to 24x, which offers versatility for various shooting scenarios. The first focal plane reticle ensures the subtensions on the reticle remain accurate at all magnifications making holdovers and wind drifts more precise. The 30mm tube provides ample strength and elevation for extended use.
The fully multi-coated lenses offer exceptional light transmission and sharp clear images while the XD glass increases resolution and color fidelity. The scope is shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof ensuring durability and reliability in all weather. The exposed tactical turrets allow for quick and precise adjustments.
Pros
- It offers a wide range of magnification
- The first focal plane provides accurate subtensions at all magnification
- The fully multicoated lenses provide enhanced light transmission, sharpness, and contrast
- XD glass provides improved resolution and color fidelity
- It is shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof ensuring durability and reliability
- The exposed turrets allow for precise target acquisition
- 30mm tube diameter allows for increased strength and ample adjustments
Cons
- It may be bulky
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Best Low Light Rifle Scopes under $500 FAQs
What makes a rifle scope suitable for low-light conditions?
A low-light scope typically has an illuminated or etched reticle for better visibility in low light, a bigger objective lens diameter, and superior lens coatings for increased light transmission.
Are there scopes under $500 that perform well in low-light situations?
Yes, there are many rifle scopes under $500 that provide superior low-light performance. Within this price range, brands frequently provide models with high-quality glass, multi-coated lenses, and lighted reticles.
What reticle types are best for low-light shooting?
Reticles that work well in low-light conditions include illuminated reticles with adjustable brightness settings, as well as simpler designs like duplex or German 4 reticles that provide better visibility in dim light.
How do I choose the right magnification for low-light shooting?
Lower magnification ranges, such as 1-4x or 2-7x, are often preferred for low-light shooting as they provide a wider field of view, which can be advantageous in dimly lit environments.
Can these scopes be used for hunting in low-light conditions?
Yes, many scopes under $500 are suitable for hunting during low-light periods, such as dawn or dusk, due to their light-gathering capabilities and visibility enhancements.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, navigating the world of low-light rifle scopes under $500 reveals a wide variety of options that strike a balance between affordability and performance. With features including larger objective lenses for better light transmission, advanced coatings for increased clarity, and adaptable reticles tailored for improved visibility in low light, these optics meet the demands of shooting in low-light conditions.
These scopes are designed to last. They also have weather resistance and user-friendly features like adjustable magnification ranges and substantial eye relief, which make them ideal for low-light dusk or dawn shooting
While the pursuit of the best low-light rifle scope under $500 might vary based on individual preferences, this guide offers an array of quality options, providing an affordable yet effective solution for enhancing shooting accuracy in low-light settings.
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