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10 Best Night Scopes 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

AGM Global Vision RattlerV2 19-256 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope |Thermal Scope with 950 Yards Detection Range and 2.5X Base Magnification, Thermal Vision riflescope Ideal for Hunting

The AGM Global Vision RattlerV2 19-256 Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope is designed particularly for hunting enthusiasts looking for a reliable night-scope. Featuring a 19mm Germanium lens and a thermal sensor with a resolution of 256x192, it provides clear images in low-light conditions. The scope boasts a detection range of up to 950 yards, making it suitable for long-distance hunting. With its 2.5x base magnification and a digital zoom capability of up to 20x, users can easily spot and identify targets at varying distances. The 9.3° field of view allows hunters to scan large areas effectively, which is beneficial when tracking moving game.

One of the notable strengths of this scope is its improved refresh rate of 50 Hz, doubling the previous version's performance. This ensures smoother visuals, especially when observing fast-moving subjects. The upgraded focus ring provides better control, allowing for quick adjustments in the field. Additionally, the scope is lightweight at just 6.34 ounces, making it easy to handle during extended hunts.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. The base magnification of 2.5x may not be sufficient for those requiring more zoom power for very distant targets, as the maximum magnification caps at 8x. Moreover, while the thermal capabilities are impressive, this model does not offer traditional night vision features, which might not suit users who prefer or need a more versatile night vision experience. The RattlerV2 is a good option for hunters focused on low-light environments who appreciate a lightweight design, but it may fall short for those needing higher magnification or traditional night vision options.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Magnification
The digital zoom up to 20x can be too pixelated, but the base and intermediate zoom levels are highly effective for practical use.
#2

Pulsar Thermion 2 XP50 Pro Thermal Riflescope

The Pulsar Thermion 2 XP50 Pro Thermal Riflescope is an impressive choice for avid hunters and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a high-performance thermal scope. One of its standout features is its extreme detection range, offering clarity up to 2,000 yards thanks to its 640x480 microbolometer resolution. This makes it particularly effective in complete darkness, which is essential for nighttime hunting or surveillance. The built-in Wi-Fi capability allows users to connect the scope to their smartphones via the Stream Vision 2 app, providing added convenience for software updates and remote control functions.

Additionally, the Picture-in-Picture mode is a clever addition, allowing users to zoom in on targets while still keeping an eye on the whole field of view, improving aiming precision. Its waterproof IPX7 rating is another plus, ensuring durability in challenging weather conditions, which is vital for outdoor use.

This riflescope does have its drawbacks. While it excels in thermal imaging, it does not offer traditional night vision capabilities, which could limit its versatility in certain situations. The weight of 6.55 kilograms may also be a consideration for users who prefer a lighter setup, especially during long hunting trips. Furthermore, the product's export control under ITAR regulations could pose challenges for international buyers. The thermoscope's magnification range from 2x to 16x is adequate for most hunting applications. Still, some users may desire greater magnification for specific long-range situations. This product is particularly well-suited for dedicated hunters looking for advanced thermal imaging technology, but those seeking a more versatile option might need to explore other possibilities.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Range
The ease of use and accuracy have impressed users, with one mentioning they could easily distinguish between different animals at a distance.
#3

Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XP50 Pro Thermal Riflescope with Laser Range Finder

The Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XP50 Pro Thermal Riflescope is a high-end option for those in need of a reliable night-scope. One of its standout features is the exceptional thermal sensor sensitivity, boasting a NETD of less than 25mK, which ensures high-contrast images even in challenging weather conditions like rain or fog. This makes it highly effective for low thermal contrast situations, providing clear visibility when you need it most.

Additionally, its long detection range of up to 2000 yards is impressive, allowing users to detect objects at a considerable distance in complete darkness. This can be particularly advantageous for hunters or security personnel who require extended range capabilities. The Picture-in-Picture Mode is another beneficial feature, enabling precise targeting without losing the perspective of the field of view.

It's also equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity through the Stream Vision 2 app, offering real-time image transfers and remote control of digital functions via Android or iOS smartphones, which adds a layer of convenience and versatility. However, the riflescope is relatively heavy at 0.8 pounds and might be cumbersome for some users during extended use. Additionally, it's controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), which could limit its export and transfer capabilities. The product does not feature traditional night vision, relying solely on thermal imaging. Despite a slightly higher price point and the need for compliance with ITAR, those looking for advanced thermal imaging capabilities in a rugged, hunting-ready riflescope will likely find this product highly beneficial.

Buying Guide for the Best Night Scopes

Choosing the right night scope can significantly enhance your nighttime activities, whether it's for hunting, wildlife observation, or security purposes. The key to finding the best night scope for you is understanding the various specifications and how they align with your specific needs. Here are the main specs to consider when selecting a night scope and how to navigate them.
GenerationNight scopes are categorized into different generations (Gen 1, Gen 2, Gen 3, and Gen 4), which indicate the level of technology and performance. Gen 1 is the most basic and affordable, suitable for casual use with limited range and clarity. Gen 2 offers better resolution and range, making it a good choice for more serious users. Gen 3 provides superior performance with excellent clarity and range, ideal for professional use. Gen 4, though rare and expensive, offers the highest performance with advanced features. Choose a generation based on how often and in what conditions you plan to use the scope.
ResolutionResolution refers to the clarity and detail of the image produced by the night scope. Higher resolution means a clearer and more detailed image. Resolutions are typically measured in lines per millimeter (lp/mm). For general use, a resolution of 30-40 lp/mm is sufficient. For more detailed observation or professional use, look for resolutions of 50 lp/mm or higher. Consider what level of detail you need to see in your nighttime activities to determine the right resolution for you.
RangeThe range of a night scope indicates how far you can see in the dark. This is usually measured in yards or meters. Short-range scopes (up to 100 yards) are suitable for close-range activities like home security or short-distance hunting. Medium-range scopes (100-300 yards) are versatile and can be used for a variety of activities, including wildlife observation and hunting. Long-range scopes (over 300 yards) are best for professional use or situations where you need to see far distances. Consider the typical distance you need to observe to choose the appropriate range.
Field of ViewField of view (FOV) is the width of the area you can see through the scope at a specific distance, usually measured in degrees or feet at 100 yards. A wider FOV allows you to see more of the area around your target, which is useful for tracking moving objects or scanning large areas. Narrow FOV provides more detail on a smaller area, which is useful for focusing on specific targets. If you need to observe a wide area or track movement, choose a scope with a wider FOV. For detailed observation of specific targets, a narrower FOV is better.
MagnificationMagnification determines how much closer objects appear through the scope. Fixed magnification scopes have a set level of magnification, while variable magnification scopes allow you to adjust the level. Low magnification (1-4x) is suitable for close-range activities and provides a wider field of view. Medium magnification (5-9x) is versatile for various distances. High magnification (10x and above) is best for long-range observation but can narrow the field of view. Choose magnification based on the distance you need to observe and whether you need flexibility in adjusting the magnification.
Infrared IlluminatorAn infrared (IR) illuminator is a built-in or external device that emits infrared light, which is invisible to the naked eye but enhances the night scope's ability to see in complete darkness. Built-in IR illuminators are convenient and ensure the scope is always ready for use. External IR illuminators can provide more powerful illumination but may require additional setup. If you plan to use the scope in very dark conditions without ambient light, an IR illuminator is essential. Consider whether you prefer the convenience of a built-in illuminator or the power of an external one.

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