When you don't want to miss a shot, a crossbow scope becomes an utterly essential accessory. Interestingly, it matters much, even if you are very much experienced in this field. We know most of the crossbows are built-in with a factory scope, but you cannot attain accuracy through them.
Being said that, you can see how an effective scope can help to become a fully-fledged shooter.
Therefore, choosing a well-qualified crossbow scope is a vital aspect of an archer. Spend some time and money to choose the best crossbow scope in the market.
To help you choose the best one, we have outlined reviews of the ten best crossbow scopes. Along with it, there is a buying guide to assist you to consider many other factors aiding you to reach your target shot. So let's get started.
10 Best Crossbow Scopes Comparison:
Image | Product Name | Weight | Magnification | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Barnett Cross Scope | 0.8 ounces | 4x | |
 | TenPoint Rangemaster Pro | 1.2 pounds | 1.5-5x | |
 | UTG 4x32 1” | 1.59 pounds | 4x | |
 | Excalibur Tact-Zone | 1.1 pound | 4x | |
 | Sightmark Core SX | 1.49 pounds | 1.5-5x | |
 | MA3TY 1.5-5x32 | 15.8 Oz | 1.5-5x | |
 | BARSKA AC12176 | 9.6 ounces | 1x | |
 | Truglo Red-Dot Sight | 9.6 ounces | 1x | |
| | Vortex Optics Crossfire | 1.32 pounds | 3-12x | |
 | Pinty 3-9X40 | 1.6 pounds | 3-9x |
10 Best Crossbow Scope Review:
As you already know what’s this article about, you may be eager to see how the market serves us with these products. Here, you will be enlightened with the variety of quality crossbow scopes available in the market. Let’s go through the following crossbow scope reviews for you to choose the best one.
1. Barnett Cross Scope w/Rings 4X32mm Multi-Ret 17060
To say it precisely, this crossbow scope is programmed with a 5 point multi reticle crosshair system. This system provides rapid target acquisition, which you can do at a variety of ranges.
Key Features:
It assures 4x magnification. Are you wondering about the image resolution? Well, it remains high, providing vivid and detailed images. Whereas, other scopes tend to lack image quality while increasing magnification.
The manufacturer does not specify the dimensions for the field view. Still, we can estimate that it is something around 300 to 340 fps at 100 yards. And this is pretty wide.
Its comes with multi-coated optics and reflection resistant. Compared to the expensive scopes, it offers high-quality optics. However, though waterproof, it will not be a good choice to use it in cold temperatures. Sight can be blurry as the lens tend to fog.
On a positive note, the crossbow scope is good and suitable to use in a low light conditions, so the timing of hunting won't be a problem. Besides, it comes with an easy following instruction to get your setup done quickly.
The design of it makes it easy to shoot at various dimensions. And the range is from 25 yards to 50 yards.
As this product is shockproof and water-resistant, it is quite durable. To keep it in good condition we would recommend you not to use it in severely cold weather. This is one of the best crossbow scope on the market right now yet the scope is of high quality for its price.
Pros:
Cons:
2. TenPoint Rangemaster Pro Illuminated Crossbow Scope
This product is from the market-leading brand, which is high-end. To add versatility, it comes with variable scope magnification. Other features of this product are:
Key Features:
You can also keep your target within the view of long and close ranges. This feature helps you to identify the flight paths of the arrow.
The arrow drop compensation setting ranges from 20 yards to 60 yards. It can calibrate for the crossbow that delivers arrows within the speed of 275 to 425 fps. You do not need to spend time in adjustment for distance.
As it features five light intensities, you have the option to choose the setting and turn the marker into red or green. Moreover, the reticle is etched build and entirely multi-coated. The optics are 1.5 to 5x, which transmits light in a significant way.
Its tube is 30mm, which enhances the light gathering. The tube is said to be ultra-strong that implies its durability. This product also includes ⅞" mounting rings. You can undoubtedly rely on this brand as it is renowned for its crossbow technology, performance, and engineering.
However, if you pick up the former version, you will get the scope with a red ring. It surrounds the lens to make the crossbow scope clear to the target. The latest models do not come with this feature, though.
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3. UTG 4x32 1” Crossbow Scope
Concerned about getting accurate elevation adjustment? Check this well-built crossbow scope to achieve the most precise elevation or windage. Features included are:
Key Features:
Built with the most robust platform along with a smart spherical structure, you can quickly get the exact elevation. With a reasonable price, this product offers a few high-value features.
Having a bright and vivid image is essential in shooting, and UTG crossbow scope confirms such build quality of the image. The excellent precision broadband lens coating ensures excellent field view and most luminous image.
This lens comes with both end flip-open caps protection. Additionally, it is simple to operate as the magnification is not variable. The 4x fixed magnification implies this simplicity.
Another notable feature is its reticle, which includes five horizontal lines. These lines calibrated at aiming 10 to 50-yard distance while mounting it to a 300 feet per second crossbow. This is too easy to sight in.
Moreover, using it in different light conditions will not be a problem as it provides side wheel red/green illuminator. The manufacturer will also offer two batteries for the light.
For mounting, it provides quick detach rings along with the feature of patented lever lock, which perfectly locks the windage knobs. The adjustment marks are too clear to read.
Also, it includes a dovetail or pica tinny mount specification. The disconnect mount is well-engineered and quick. Interestingly, you can use this crossbow scope without battery power too.
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4. Excalibur Tact-Zone Illuminated Scope, 2.5-6x32mm
The best thing that you are going to get with this crossbow scope is its variable zoom. This feature will allow you to select the right zoom. The range of the zoom will be between 2.5x to 6x, and other noteworthy features are:
Key Features:
This product is updated with a new reticle design and a 30mm tube. However, high brightness is necessary if you are using the scope in the day time. So, it includes red/green rheostat illumination.
With this scope, you can get exceptional clarity as it offers a multi-coated lens. You will even get a flipped lens cover. Both of these features enhance the quality and brightness of the image to the top-notch. You are definitely not going to get it in a cheaper version of the scope on the market.
Thinking about the field view? Well, it is about 45' at the magnification range of 2.5x, but it lessens to 20' if you zoom it into 6x. But don't you think this is sufficient to shoot at any target? However, for the mounting rings, you have to order it separately, and the mounting process is pretty straightforward.
What's more in it? The company upgraded this product with water and fog proof features; thereby, it won't be an issue to use it in foggy weather. Besides, it weighs less than a pound, so it is handy and compact to carry along.
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5. Sightmark Core SX 1.5-5x32 Crossbow Scope
If you are looking for an excellent ungraded scope, this one may attract you. Featuring different power magnification, this crossbow scope also has other valuable features, which are:
Key Features:
For exceptional accuracy and precise aiming, you can think about this product as it provides arrow drop compensation. You can tune the crossbow speed from 250 to 450 fps along with the magnification of 1.5x to 5x.
Its illuminated reticle turns light as well as marks red or green while rotating the adjustment knob. The knob is on the left side of the crossbow scope. Both of these colors can be adjusted from bright to low to off.
The field view will be great with vivid and clear sight. You will not get any blinding glow in the scope, even if used at dusk.
Moreover, it is equipped with VXR-M, which range of compensation works well. Know your arrow speed and set the magnification according to that speed. You can even use the reticle to adjust the range. According to the manufacturer, this scope is ideal for medium-sized game such as whitetail deer or mule deer.
This scope is adaptive in the different hunting environments featuring an entirely multi-coated lens, variable reticle brightness, and capped turrets, which is low profile. Also, to sustain rain, the scope body is made waterproof.
Anyway, it comes with a set of mounting rings. You can use those for pica tinny or weaver mount. Its mounting is easy and fast. You won’t face any snags.
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6. MA3TY 1.5-5x32 Crossbow Scope, 20-100yards
This well designed and affordable crossbow can be a good solution if you want to get better performance from your crossbow. Features of this product are:
Key Features:
You can zoom in and out with this scope from 1.5x to 5x. Also, you have the option of tuning the speed from 300 to 425 fps while aiming with its reticle from 20 to 100 yards.
Thus, it takes the game at longer distances. The 30mm tube is even more flexible and challenging than other crossbow scopes like 3x32 or 4x32.
Moreover, the lenses of this scope are coated in multiple layers, which helps to transmit light up to 93%. This will allow you to make a precise shot on target within little time. The scope quickly comes up to the eyes due to its long eye relief and eye bell design.
Another noted feature of it is its impact resistance, which can be up to 1000G and is fully waterproof as well as fog proof. Its reticle is Ballistic Retic with red/green illumination. The colored illuminator offers maximum brightness along with the clarity of a crisp wide-angle image.
Furthermore, the 30mm monotube is entirely sealed. This is also Nitrogen filled, which gives the chassis a superior strength. Thereby, it makes this the perfect updated scope for any crossbow.
However, the package includes an array of add-ons such as two scope rings, two battery, two flipped lens caps, a single wrench and cleaning cloth, and manual.
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7. BARSKA AC12176 Multi-Reticle Red Dot Optics, 1x35mm Matte Black
Looking for multiple reticles scope? Look no further than this BARSKA Optics featuring multi reticle dot scope. There are four different illuminated reticle patterns to set up five levels of brightness with an adjustable rheostat.
Key Features:
For mounting, this scope has a 5/8” standard mount that will fit on Picatinny rails. Picatinny rail mount is simple to remove and reinstall. The most remarkable feature is the windage and elevation knobs, which are visible and adjusted easily.
There are no caps to take off; therefore, readjusting to zero is quite easy. But you have to be a little careful about turning them accidentally. Interestingly, this model holds up to zero very well.
The scope is a versatile optic that suits for close or mid-range use. It provides clear optics with better presentation under all modes and colors of the reticle. Luckily, the reticle is quite clear and performs well in low light settings in red as well as green.
The 1x magnification of this model has a fast target gaining ability. Additionally, this comes with a 3V lithium battery. And the battery has an elongated life too.
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8. Truglo Red-Dot Sight Crossbow Scope
With a high level of accuracy, Truglo crossbow scope is well-built with some more features. Those features being;
Key Features:
For shooting at medium to close ranges, a red dot sight is very much applicable for a shooter.
This scope is a 30mm that offers eye-relief unlimitedly. This comes in a compact design with a wide viewing field. Well, it is said to be a successful crossbow hunting key for hunters.
Due to the anti-reflection feature, the stray light that appears from inside the tool is eliminated. Thus, you will have a clear vision without any irritation. Additionally, it consists of the rheostat to control the brightness level accordingly.
Interestingly, this model applies to all weather types. It has waterproof, fog-proof features. Moreover, it has shock-resistant quality, as well.
Honestly, you don't need to worry about the distant shooting. Due to the descending diameter MOA's, you can quickly shoot at multiple distances. This model of truglo crossbow scope also has click windage and elevation adjustments. And it comes with screw-down protective caps for securing purposes.
Moreover, the caps are made of lanyard to keep it attached when you remove the caps. Hence, you have no chance to lose them.
The integrated weaver system makes it easy to mount up the scope. You can mount it up with thumbscrews as tightly as possible. In addition to its features, truglo crossbow scope has a flip-up lens cap with better optical quality.
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9. Vortex Optics Crossfire II Hog Hunter
Pondering how to hunt at the low light situation? No worries because Vortex has brought you the ease in hunting at the lowest light possible. Appending below are some excellent features of this product:
Key Features:
It means from the earliest evening till the first dawn glimpse, you can accomplish your hunting mission smoothly. This model is specially designed for more exceptional and reliable performance.
The scope is known to be the toughest competitor among all the other scope models. Undoubtedly, it consists of 3-12x versatile magnification. It can withstand hard and frequent use as it is of rugged built.
Due to the multi-coated lenses, it provides clear and bright views to the shooter. Moreover, the optics are made of anti-reflective coatings to give a perfect shot. Also, you can focus the image with the adjustable objective lens of the scope.
The objective lenses are quite oversized with 56mm. Hence, professional hunters can easily place shots with greater confidence under the most robust shades of light.
For precision at the aiming point, it has an illuminated center dot for better performance. Along with battery-powered electronics, it uses the V-Plex format also.
For shockproof performance, the single-piece tube of the scope is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum. Due to this, you can shoot with good strength.
To provide a waterproof and fog-proof performance, the aluminum tube is nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed. Moreover, to get your sight picture and target quickly, this model includes eye-relief and ultra-forgiving eye box.
With the fast-focus eyepiece, you can easily acquire reticle focusing. Moreover, the capped reset turrets can be adjusted with MOA clicks manually. After your sighting is done, you can reset it back to zero.
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10. Pinty 3-9X40 Red Green Rangefinder Illuminated Optical
If you are looking for multiple levels of brightness, Pinty Rifle Scope is your perfect match. To get the reticle clarity, this scope has a total of 5 red and green levels of brightness adjustments. For better understanding, given below are some features of this model scope:
Key Features:
These red and green colored reticle levels work well in the faint light. For better understanding, we have detailed the other features too.
Its objective lens is 40mm, with which you can acquire 3 to 9 times of magnification. The reticle type of this model is Rangefinder.
Therefore, the reticle gives quick and straightforward targeting points at different shot distances. This scope also provides water and fog proof performance due to the o-ring sealing and Nitrogen filled reticle.
Moreover, you don’t have to worry about the mounting process. It has two pairs of 1” scope rings to fix up onto any mount rails. However, undoubtedly, it will fit on all standard 20mm Picatinny rails. Additionally, the body is of aluminum with great solid construction that will allow perfect mounting, as well.
The eyepiece lens of this scope is 3.3-2.7 inches eye relief. Hence, you will have clarity without damaging your eyes. This also comes with flip-up covers for protecting the lens.
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Buying Guide for the Best Crossbow Scope
When you use a technical product, you need to familiarize yourself with the product’s terminology and buying considerations. We have covered some of the factors that need to be considered while buying a well-made crossbow scope.
Durability
This is, in fact, the most important factor you need to consider before buying a crossbow scope. Since you may use your crossbow in any weather conditions, it should withstand dust, heat, or moisture.
Therefore you may choose a scope that has waterproof or fog-proof features for acquiring the finest clarification.
Magnification
Magnification is yet another characteristic you will have to consider while buying a new scope. For crossbow scope model classification, it comes first in number.
Magnification refers to how close is the object appearing to you. For example, if a model has the scope classification of 4 x 32, it means the picture of the object in the crossbow scope appears four times closer.
Eye Relief
For the safety of the eyes, eye relief is important in a scope. Eye relief is the distance between the shooter’s eye and the lens. It leads to an eye injury if the eye relief is too short. Hence, you should know that there is an inverse relationship between the eye relief and the scope’s magnification.
Length of the Scope
For accurate performance, the length of the scope is also a considering factor all in all. Now, what does this length actually mean? Precisely, the length of the scope is the measurement from the front edge objective lens to the eyepiece.
Interestingly, if the crossbow scope is longer, the magnification will be higher. However, a long scope has downsides, as well. Long crossbow scopes are heavy and bulky; for that, you cannot carry or move with it easily for a long time.
Objective Lens Size
The Objective Lens size is the measurement of the amount of light that comes while viewing through the crossbow scope. The bottom line is it measured in millimeters.
Traditionally, a large objective lens will give more clear pictures with much brightness and clarity. Especially under low light conditions, a large objective lens will give better results. But here the downside is it may hamper in bolt positioning.
On the other hand, a smaller objective lens will provide darker images. Typically, the best crossbow scope will have an objective lens of 32 millimeters. If you wish to hunt at dark hours, then you may choose a scope with a larger objective lens.
Field of View
The field of view means the field of vision. Your eyes can see the target through the crossbow scope. With our naked eyes, the field of view ranges about 210 degrees horizontally and 150 degrees vertically.
So, how does this specification help the archer? Well, a wide or large field of view provides ease in following a moving target. However, this does not mean that a larger field of view is better than a smaller field of view.
The size of the field of view solely depends on the target. If your target is whitetail deer or feral hog, a large FOV will be suitable. In the meantime, if you are hunting prairie dog or groundhog, then a smaller FOV is recommended.
Nevertheless, the construction of the eyepiece and the magnification level are the two factors determining the FOV. Therefore, higher magnification means narrower and smaller field of view.
Reticle
This is another specification you have come across in almost every model of scope reviews. When you shoot an arrow through the crossbow, it follows a parabolic trajectory towards the ground. However, the bottom line is reticle helps in marking that trajectory at specific distances of the target.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the maximum effective range of a crossbow?
With an experienced archer, the maximum effective range is about 40 yards. The arrow is capable of flying 40-50 yards of distance, but beyond this, you will not be able to target accurately.
- What is the proper way to sight in through a crossbow?
It is better to start at 10 yards and shoot into the target by adjusting the crossbow scope until the bolt hit the aim. You need to move back to a preferred yard for the top reticle mark. And shoot again. Reset the bow to zero and hit your aim.
- What is the extensive purpose of a crossbow?
Nowadays, scopes are available widely for many different activities. But a target shooting scope will differ from the one that is used for hunting. On the other hand, some crossbow scopes are made for shooting competitions. If you aim to use it for all the three applications, then go for the multi-purpose scope.
- What are the preferences for magnification?
Firstly, choose your needs in terms of the field of view, reticle type, and magnification. Suppose you are a trophy hunter, to identify your mark go for higher magnification.
- How does a crossbow scope differ from a rifle scope?
The primary difference is a rifle scope can target at much longer ranges than a crossbow scope. Riflescope aims to target at 100 yards and more whereas crossbow scope targets short ranges of 20 to 50 yards.
Final Words
We do understand that it is not easy to choose the perfect one among the huge variety of crossbow scopes. However, we hope our reviews and other necessary points related to crossbow scopes will serve your purpose of purchasing the best crossbow scope for you.
Our comment section is always open for your valuable comments and queries. We appreciate your time for reading us.
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