Rifle hunters have often gone into action without scopes and still made terrific results since shooting with a rifle has a genuine touch that is rather intuitive.
Also, there are guns and rifles with integrated crosshair placements that make shooting a lot easier.
On the other hand, it's a whole different story with bows and arrows and crossbows.
The best bow-hunters have quickly accommodated using scopes because they make the hunting sessions way easier and effective.
So, which one should you get?
Well, there's a bunch of them, and our list will cover the top eight scopes that the market has to offer.
Also, we'll include a buyer's guide and give you a detailed review of the best crossbow scope on the market, so stay tuned.
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We know that most of you don't really care to read through endless lines, and you want the scoop on the very best.
So, here's the general info on our top 3 recommendations.
The Best Crossbow Scopes in 2022: Top 8 Reviews
There are a lot of quality crossbow scopes that you should check out on this list, but if you're searching for the top pick, this is the one.
Say hello to the Vortex Optics Crossfire II Riflescope.
Before we start talking about the magnificent properties of this crossbow scope, let's first focus on the design.
It is a 2.15 lbs scope that measures 18.1 x 4.4 x 2.9 inches, and it features an adjustable objective.
It is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum alloy that ensures absolute resilience in the wilderness, as well as shock resistance.
When it comes to its accessories, there are few things we'd like to point your attention to.
Firstly, this Vortex optic features a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticle that predicts the distance and the depth at which the bullet will drop after it's passed the zero point.
It's an excellent feature considering that BDC reticles are excellent for holdovers.
Furthermore, the design features a long eye relief in combination with a quality eye box, so there's no need to stress if you're wearing eyeglasses or sunglasses.
The image is extremely clear, and you can even manually set the focus almost instantly.
The reset turrets are ergonomically placed in the sense that you can instantly revert the settings to zero with a simple finger movement.
The entire tube is lightweight and easy to use in a way that nothing gets in your way, and you can focus on the task at hand.
It is pricey considering that it is manufactured by a strong manufacturer, and it undoubtedly has the quality to prove its worth.
Given its specifications and features, this has got to be the best crossbow scope on the market right now.
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- Lightweight
- Great design
- Ergonomically placed reset turrets
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Next up is a device that's suitable for all-around hunters that are capable of hunting in all weather conditions - day, night, sun, or rain. It's the UTG Crossbow Scope.
Even though you'll find many crossbow scopes that look a lot like this one, it still has some authentic features and design perks that separate it from the rest.
For example, let's talk about illumination.
This isn't a night vision scope, but it does feature a side-wheel with green and red illumination that is quite handy in low-light conditions.
It's located on the right side, and it's ergonomically placed so it can be reached quite easily without having to reach over and accidentally mess up your aim.
The illuminated crosshair features five horizontal lines that are intended for quick aiming at specific distances - 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 yards.
Keep in mind that the crosshair is calibrated for 300 fps crossbows.
Moreover, we have to mention that all quality scopes have elevation adjustment in the form of resettable turrets, such as this one.
They are located on the top of the scope and enable you to quickly switch back to zero stop after shooting or recoiling.
Speaking of recoil, we have to mention the Smart Spherical Structure design that this scope has.
It creates a stable ground and enables you to have the utmost accuracy.
After testing it and going through some customer reviews, we couldn't really find anything that could shed light on its flaws.
The only minor issue is that it takes a while to set up and center, but you'll find the correct settings after about ten bolts.
- Smart Spherical Structure design
- Red and green illumination
- Quick-aiming lines
- Great quality
- Setup and calibration
In order to get a durable product that'll last you for years to come, you have to invest a bit. It is troublesome, but it's an investment that'll pay off.
Therefore, here's a scope that we're very proud to present, the MA3TY Crossbow Scope.
What makes this scope more resilient than others? - this is a question you might ask yourself before you start reading.
Well, there are a couple of things. Firstly, it is a scope that has nitrogen filling.
It's common to see nitrogen-filled tires in cars because they keep the air pressure stable, and the leakage is way slower, but nitrogen is also useful with scopes since it protects it from water invasion and maintains the lifespan of the lens.
Furthermore, it is also a fog-proof crossbow scope that has impact resistance up to 1 kg, or 1000 g.
It's packed with tons of features that you'd expect from a premium crossbow scope, such as red and green crosshair illumination, multi-layer coated lenses for a crispier and clearer image, and fantastic magnification power of 5x.
The tube's diameter is 30 mm, which is narrower than what most manufacturers have in their scopes.
However, a narrow tube allows for more flexibility and clearer shots if you have a quality objective lens, which is the case here.
It is a bit heavier than you'd expect, and that's the only clear-cut flaw that we could notice.
On the other hand, a nice perk is the 12-month warranty you'll receive if you purchase this powerful crossbow scope.
- Nitrogen-filled
- 12-month warranty
- Fantastic features
- Waterproof and fog-proof
- Weight
Next up is a perfect product for those that struggle with eye vision since this is the best scope with large eye relief.
Without further ado, TRUGLO Crossbow 4X32 Compact Scope w/Rings.
The beautiful design of this model allows the user to keep his eyeglasses while using the scope, thanks to the wide 4-inch eye relief.
This combines extremely well with the 30-mm objective lens that gives you all the flexibility you need to keep your eyes on the prey.
Moreover, the design itself is quite rugged and has extreme quality in comparison with other scopes that you'd generally find from the competition.
It utilizes aluminum as the primary material that's excellent in terms of durability, and the scope itself is scratch-resistant.
The finish is non-reflective, so it won't get warm in the sun, and there won't be any reflections that could mess up your aim by pointing directly to your eyes.
You can choose between three TRUGLO models - the black, illuminated, and the Realtree model.
If you choose the illuminated crossbow scope, you'll also receive batteries, which is a nice addition from the distributors.
If we compare the image quality with the previous models, you'll see that it lacks a bit in clarity, but it's still perfectly fine for 100 and 200-yard distances.
It has 4x magnification properties, which is more than enough for mid-range shots.
If we disregard the quality in comparison with the premium models, it's a fine device that should undoubtedly be in your possession.
- Wide eye relief
- Rugged and durable design
- Non-reflective finish
- Scratch-resistant surface
- Quality in comparison with the premium models
The focus of this article relies on crossbow scopes, but many hunters include red-dot sights in their hunting arsenal, so we've decided to pick one out for you as well.
Here's the TRUGLO Crossbow Scope.
The main difference between a red-dot sight and a standard hunting scope is that red-dot optics are much better at close range than standardized scopes.
The compact design allows the user to shoot more effectively without the extra burden, which is why crossbow hunters often choose a red-dot crossbow scope for recreational use.
In this case, TRUGLO offers you a small and compact red-dot scope with unlimited eye relief and a wide field of view, which is perfect for practice shooting.
Furthermore, this scope has an integrated Weaver-style mounting system that is compatible with not only crossbows but rifles as well.
It has two designs - black and Realtree, and the most exciting thing about this scope is the price. It's the most affordable unit on this list, and yet it still offers great quality and reassurance to its users.
The battery consumption is close to nothing since it uses the standard CR2032 that drains extremely slowly, thanks to the design of this scope.
The overall weight is 0.6 lbs, meaning you won't even feel the extra weight, and you won't have to readjust your aim to the new weight.
It is a low-tier product in comparison with the others on this list, but we had to include it since it's the best for the money that we could find.
If you need a replacement scope for your crossbow, this is the one to get.
- Lightweight
- Low battery consumption
- Great accuracy
- Affordable
- Low-tier
If you're a beginner and you're getting used to all the equipment that comes with crossbow hunting, the best way to learn everything is to get a complete kit and go from there.
So, here's the best one out there, the Vortex Optics Crossfire 2-7x32 Second Focal Plane Crossbow Scope.
Vortex Optics is one of the best manufacturers when it comes to producing military-grade scopes, binoculars, and red-dot optics, right beside ATN.
They've been here for years, and they're known as the pillar of reliability in the industry, so you already know what to expect from this unit.
When it comes to the kit, you should know that it comes with the scope, 30 mm rings, neoprene cover, and flip caps for the objective.
In terms of achieving perfect accuracy, this scope works the best at 40-yard distance holdovers in the range between 20 and 100 yards.
Since the magnification ring has FPS adjustment, this scope is compatible with different crossbow models, and it can even work well with some rifles.
However, make sure that you use it with close-range combat rifles since you won't get the most out of it at longer ranges.
The lens is fully multi-coated and features anti-reflective and light transmission layers for absolute protection.
You'll also be more than 90% accurate in low-light conditions for two reasons - red/green illumination dot and nitrogen purification that keeps the water out and thus improves your efficiency since the lens won't fog up or condense.
It is expensive, but it'll definitely be worth it since you'll get to experience the most out of it.
- Verified manufacturer
- FPS and magnification adjustment
- Excellent in low-light conditions
- Waterproof and fog-proof
- Expensive
Rifle hunting is a bit more refined than crossbow hunting in the sense that there's less exposure to environmental factors that could potentially ruin your aim or affect your weapon.
Also, crossbows have heavier recoils, which could be problematic in terms of the longevity of the scopes.
So, here's one that's absolutely shockproof, the Sightmark Core SX Riflescope.
Before we start talking about the durability of this scope, we want to dedicate a couple of lines to brightness settings that are absolutely amazing.
You can set the reticle in eleven authentic positions that are fantastic for all low-light conditions and sunny days.
When you combine that with the 5x magnification and the 450 fps speed, you'll be able to shoot every target with ease.
Moreover, the reticle holdover can point out to 60 yards in combination with the 30-yard zero settings, meaning wind won't be one of your problems at close-range shooting.
We don't like the field of view, which is a bit wide, resting at 83.7 feet at 100 yards, but it can be adjusted for different shooting distances.
We'd also like to mention that this scope comes in two models - one for crossbows and one for rifles.
The riflescope can be used for hunting and airsoft, so keep that in mind since both of them aren't that expensive, and it could be a good idea to purchase both.
Both are manufactured from aircraft-grade aluminum that's highly durable and resilient, so it's a smart investment.
- 11 brightness settings
- 450 fps speed
- 60-yard reticle holdover
- Durability
- Broad FoV
Finally, we have one more crossbow scope to present, and its position on this list is certainly not a reflection of its quality.
So, without further ado, here's the TenPoint Rangemaster Pro Illuminated Crossbow Scope.
Why is this crossbow scope so expensive?
Well, firstly, it is engineered and manufactured by TenPoint Technologies, a leading manufacturer of military weapons and accessories.
It's no wonder that the price is this high since these scopes are used by professionals for training purposes and long-distance shooting.
The aluminum tube is extra sturdy and has a 30 mm diameter, while the 32-mm objective is perfect for low-light and bright-light conditions.
Since the lens is fully multi-coated, there will be minimal loss of light transmission.
Even though this is not the best-illuminated crossbow scope, it features black dots that can be lit up for low-light conditions by shifting the side turret to the desired intensity.
It features five different settings with red and green colors.
Also, the crosshair has horizontal lines for holdovers ranging from 20 to 60 yards, right below the zero crosshair.
Overall, it has everything you'd want, from a crossbow scope and more.
The only downside is the overwhelming price, but it's the one you have to pay for this quality product.
If it were cheaper, it would definitely land higher on this list.
- Quality manufacturer
- For all light conditions
- Crosshair features
- Quality build
- Expensive
What Is There to Know About Crossbow Scopes? Buyer's Guide
So, now that you have had the opportunity to read and find out more about the best crossbow scopes on the market, it's time to learn some useful info you'll need to finalize your decision.
Not only will you know which scope to get, but you'll be equipped with knowledge for future purchases.
Stay tuned, and we'll try to answer every confusing point regarding these products.
1. Optic Features
This is a very broad field, so we'll try to cover some of the most important things that should be in the back of your mind.
First, let's talk about the objective lens.
It is the most important part of the scope since it's the integral part that receives light and enables the scope to produce images.
Ideally, you want to get a fully multi-coated lens with good light transmission, and that's something that premium manufacturers such as ATN and Vortex optics always incorporate into their scopes.
Next, you have to pay attention to the tube.
Generally, the diameter of scope tubes varies between 20 and 40 mm, and the standard is around 30-32.
However, choosing the dimensions depends on the crossbow you're using and the type of hunting sessions you'll be doing.
For example, narrower tubes are more flexible, and they work quite well in mid-range shots where setting up the shot takes less time than normal long-distance shots.
If you're a steady hunter with a powerful crossbow, you can buy a longer and wider tube and go easy on your prey.
When we covered the Vortex Optics product, we briefly mentioned the BDC reticle, meaning Bullet Drop Compensation.
The scopes that feature such reticles have elevation turrets on top of them that have yard calibration.
Once you toggle them on, they'll calculate the distance in yards to the target so you can make critical adjustments to your shots.
The bottom line is that BDC reticles are quite effective, and they're definitely something you'd want to have.
2. Weight and Size
If you've read through all eight articles, you've probably noticed that all scopes vary in weights in the range from 1 lb to 2 lbs.
They are generally lightweight, but adding even half a pound can greatly affect your aim, especially if you've owned a crossbow for some time and you've just bought the scope.
It shouldn't worry you that much since the difference in weight can quickly be adjusted for, and it won't take you a lot of time to get used to the pressure, but it's something to keep in mind.
Also, try to match this with the size of your bow, meaning that if you have a large crossbow, adding a pound or two shouldn't be a problem, but smaller crossbows will be susceptible to weight shifts.
3. Longevity
Longevity and durability are something that we want from all products - it doesn't matter if we're talking about hunting equipment or your everyday cooking accessories.
In terms of scopes, there are some things that you can look for and know that the scope in question is durable enough.
For example, let's start with the obvious - the build material.
You'll find that many crossbow scopes are made from metallic alloys, most often from pure aluminum and aircraft-grade aluminum.
They are absolutely good, and you shouldn't doubt such a build, but there are premium scopes that have steel integrals with matte finishes that protect the scope from sun and warmth.
Furthermore, the overall longevity of scope is highly dictated by its ability to withstand environmental factors, such as fog, mist, water, and sun.
Therefore, always look for scopes that are waterproof and fog-proof.
4. Magnification
So, the main deal with magnification properties is that they make the image way bigger and thus easier to shoot.
But, can it be that simple?
Well, there are some factors that contribute to magnification being useful in general.
For example, it doesn't matter if you're watching a 10x magnified image if your FPS is low and the image quality is blurred and bad.
Even though you can see the outlines of your target, it doesn't necessarily mean you'll be able to shoot it.
Also, crossbows don't cover the distances that rifles can, which is why crossbow scopes don't offer large magnification properties.
For example, there are ATN scopes for snipers that offer 60-90x magnification properties, but if you're purchasing a scope for your crossbow, the ideal range is somewhere between 3 and 7x if the overall quality is good enough.
5. Warranty
Also, we'd like to dedicate a couple of lines to the warranty.
Of course, you want to be secured with every purchase, not just when it comes to scopes.
We'd just like to tell you that the warranties for crossbow scopes usually vary between 12 and 24 months, so a year or two.
If you're thinking about purchasing a crossbow scope with a warranty, you should make sure that it covers everything you need, and you should set aside some money in case it requires repairing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What yardage should I sight my crossbow in?
It usually depends on two things - the type of crossbow you own and the type of shooting you plan on doing.
However, shooting ranges are rather limited with crossbows since they can't cover the distance that rifles can, so you'll be looking at somewhere up to 100 yards.
Our advice is to set it to 20 yards, adjust the elevation turrets, and perform a couple of practice shots until it's zeroed in and perfectly accurate.
Once you're done, you can start making some adjustments for holdovers.
Can you use a regular scope on a crossbow?
Technically, you can.
It's not recommended since the designs are different, the weights vary quite a bit, and it's generally not that efficient to be using a riflescope on a crossbow and vice versa.
Also, the recoil pattern is reversed, so there is a chance that it can backfire and damage the scope.
But, if you have a lightweight riflescope lying around, you can try it out and see if it works.
Will a crossbow scope work on an AR-15?
Similar to the previous question, it can technically work, but the design and vibration can greatly affect the scope since the AR-15 is a powerful weapon, and there are some inherent risks even for a riflescope.
Can you put a laser on a crossbow?
Yes, there are manufacturers that produce lasers for crossbows, such as Slammer Hunting Innovations.
It is a nice solution for steady hunters and certainly an innovative way to shoot.
What is the best red dot for a crossbow?
If you've gone through our reviews, you know that it's the TRUGLO Crossbow Scope.
We didn't cover any other red-dot sights since we've done the research, and this was the product that showed the most promise.
Final Thoughts
We covered the reviews, finished the buyer's guide, and answered some of the most frequent questions that customers have, so the only thing that's left is to pronounce the winners and dedicate a couple of closing words.
The absolute best crossbow scope you can find is definitely the Vortex Optics Crossfire II Riflescope.
Vortex Optics never disappoints, and they've certainly shown their worth time and time again, especially with this powerful and durable crossbow scope.
If you didn't like it for some reason, the UTG 4X32 1" Crossbow Scope and the MA3TY Crossbow Scope would undoubtedly do the trick for you.