When the sun dips below the horizon, your standard rifle scope can leave you in the dark. That’s where an illuminated reticle becomes a game-changer, casting a bright aiming point against shadowy backgrounds and dimly lit game. Whether you’re a hunter capitalizing on the critical minutes of dawn or dusk, or a tactical shooter operating in varied lighting, the right illuminated scope ensures your shot placement remains precise and confident.
Navigating the vast selection of illuminated optics can be challenging, as they range from budget-friendly hunting models to high-magnification tactical systems. This roundup is designed to cut through the confusion by highlighting eight of the best illuminated reticle scopes for 2025. We’ve focused on models that excel in low-light performance, offering a blend of superior glass, reliable illumination, and durable construction to meet the demands of any low-light scenario.
Our Top Picks for Illuminated Reticle Scopes
- Athlon Optics Argos BTR Riflescope
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-9×50 SFP Riflescope
- Burris Xtreme Tactical XTR II Rifle Scope
- Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-8×24 SFP Riflescope
- Trijicon ACOG 4×32 BAC Riflescope
- Sig Sauer TANGO6T 1-6×24 FFP Riflescope
- Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope
- Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56 F1 Riflescope
Athlon Optics Argos BTR Riflescope
The Athlon Argos BTR is a feature-packed scope that brings first focal plane (FFP) performance to a very accessible level. Its illuminated ATMR MOA reticle shrinks and grows with your target as you change magnification, ensuring your holdover points are accurate at any power setting. This is a significant benefit for long-range shooting where precise calculations are necessary.
Advanced Fully Multi-Coated lenses maximize light transmission, providing a bright and clear sight picture even in fading light. The reticle is directly etched onto the glass, which offers excellent durability and higher resistance to shock and recoil compared to wire reticles. With a 6-24x magnification range and a 50mm objective lens, this scope is well-suited for precision shooting on rifles that can take advantage of its capabilities.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-9×50 SFP Riflescope
For hunters seeking a reliable and affordable illuminated scope, the Vortex Crossfire II is a standout choice. The V-Brite reticle uses a simple, effective illuminated center dot that stands out against dark fur in low-light conditions. This straightforward system helps you get on target quickly when every second counts during the last minutes of shooting light.
The scope features a generous 50mm objective lens that gathers ample light, paired with fully multi-coated lenses to provide a bright and clear view. With long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, acquiring a sight picture is fast and intuitive. The fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick reticle adjustment, making it easy to get a sharp sight picture for shooters of all experience levels.
Burris Xtreme Tactical XTR II Rifle Scope
Built for the most demanding precision tasks, the Burris XTR II is a high-magnification scope ready for long-range competition or tactical use. The massive 8-40x magnification range provides incredible detail for target identification and shot placement at extreme distances. The 50mm objective lens ensures there is sufficient light gathering capability even at higher power settings.
This scope includes professional features like zero click stop adjustment, which allows you to quickly return to your zero after making elevation holds for different distances. The robust construction is designed to withstand heavy recoil and harsh field conditions, providing unwavering reliability. The illuminated reticle option ensures your aiming point is visible against complex or dark targets.
Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-8×24 SFP Riflescope
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 is a versatile low-power variable optic (LPVO) perfect for modern sporting rifles and fast-paced shooting. The 1x setting provides a true red-dot-like speed for close-quarters target engagement, while the 8x top end gives you the magnification needed for precise shots at intermediate distances. This makes it an excellent all-in-one solution for a variety of applications.
Its illuminated reticle is in the second focal plane, meaning it stays the same size throughout the magnification range, which many shooters prefer for speed. The glass is clear and bright, with a wide field of view at 1x power. Built to Vortex’s rugged standards, it offers shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof performance you can count on.
Trijicon ACOG 4×32 BAC Riflescope
The Trijicon ACOG is a legendary combat-proven optic known for its exceptional durability and reliability. It features a fixed 4x magnification, which provides an ideal balance of speed and precision for medium-range engagements. The Bindon Aiming Concept (BAC) allows for rapid target acquisition with both eyes open, using the illuminated reticle superimposed on your target.
A key feature of many ACOG models is the fiber-optic and tritium illumination system, which requires no batteries. The reticle is automatically illuminated by ambient light during the day and by tritium at night. This self-reliant system ensures your scope is always ready, making it a top choice for serious duty or defensive use where absolute dependability is non-negotiable.
Sig Sauer TANGO6T 1-6×24 FFP Riflescope
Born from a military contract, the Sig Sauer TANGO6T is a rugged and feature-rich LPVO designed for professional use. Its first focal plane illuminated MSR reticle ensures that holdover and windage marks are accurate at every magnification setting, from 1x to 6x. This is a critical advantage for making rapid, calculated shots at unknown distances.
The scope boasts exceptionally clear glass and a generous eye box, making it easy to maintain a sight picture under stress. It is built to meet U.S. military standards for durability, including shock, vibration, and water resistance. The intuitive illumination controls offer multiple brightness settings for both day and low-light use, providing a bright, sharp aiming point in any condition.
Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope
The Leupold VX-3HD represents the pinnacle of American-made hunting optics, blending lightweight design with exceptional performance. The Twilight Max Light Management System is engineered to provide up to 20 extra minutes of shooting light by enhancing contrast and resolution in low-light conditions. This gives hunters a distinct advantage during dawn and dusk.
Its FireDot Illuminated Reticle places a bright red dot in the center of the duplex, making it incredibly easy to see your aiming point against a dark animal. The scope is incredibly rugged and reliable, guaranteed to withstand the harshest environments. With its crisp adjustments and legendary clarity, the VX-3HD is a trusted companion for discerning hunters who require a scope that performs when it matters most.
Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56 F1 Riflescope
For shooters who demand the absolute best in long-range precision, the Nightforce ATACR is a top-tier optic. Its expansive 7-35x magnification range is supported by a large 56mm objective lens, providing unmatched clarity and light transmission for spotting targets and impacts at extreme distances. The first focal plane Mil-XT reticle remains usable and precise at any magnification.
Nightforce optics are renowned for their bulletproof construction and repeatable, precise adjustments. The ATACR is built to handle the recoil of the largest caliber rifles and is trusted by military, law enforcement, and competitive shooters worldwide. The illuminated reticle provides a crisp aiming point that is visible even in bright daylight, ensuring you can maintain your point of aim in any lighting scenario.
Buying Guide: How to Choose an Illuminated Reticle Scope for Low-Light Use
When you are looking for the best illuminated reticle scopes for low-light use, the sheer number of options can feel overwhelming. I have found that focusing on a few key features makes the decision much easier. It is not just about getting a bright dot; it is about getting a scope that works with you when the light starts to fade.
First, consider the type of illumination. Red is the most common color because it tends to preserve your natural night vision. Some models offer green illumination, which can appear brighter to the human eye in many conditions. A few high-end scopes even offer multiple color options. More important than color, however, is the brightness control. You need a scope with multiple intensity settings. A setting that is perfect for a overcast day will be blindingly bright at night. Look for a scope that offers very low, night-vision-compatible settings for true low-light work.
Next, think about the reticle itself. In low light, a simple reticle is often better than a complex one. A duplex or a German #4 reticle, with its thick outer posts, is excellent for quickly acquiring a target against a dark background. Illuminated center dots or circles are fantastic for precision in poor light, but make sure the dot size (measured in MOA or MRAD) is appropriate for your intended use. A small dot is great for precision shooting, while a larger one is faster to pick up for close-quarters or moving targets.
Optical quality is non-negotiable. The best illuminated reticle scope is useless if the glass is poor. Look for fully multi-coated lenses. This coating significantly increases light transmission, which is the entire point of a low-light scope. A larger objective lens (e.g., 50mm or 56mm) will gather more light than a smaller one (e.g., 40mm), but it also makes the scope heavier and taller. You will need to balance light-gathering capability with the practical handling of your rifle.
Finally, do not forget about the power source and battery life. How is the battery changed? Is the battery compartment easily accessible without removing the scope from the rifle? Common battery types like CR2032 coins are widely available, which is a big plus. Also, check the estimated battery life. Some modern optics offer tens of thousands of hours on a medium setting. For a tool you might depend on, reliability and ease of maintenance are as important as performance. By weighing these factors—illumination type, reticle design, optical quality, and practicality—you can confidently select one of the best illuminated reticle scopes for your needs in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the advantage of an illuminated reticle in low light?
The main advantage is contrast. In low-light conditions, like at dawn, dusk, or in heavy timber, a traditional black reticle can blend into a dark target or a shadowy background, making it difficult to see. The illumination, even on a very low setting, makes the reticle stand out clearly against the target. This allows for faster target acquisition and more precise shot placement when every second and every bit of light counts.
Are illuminated reticle scopes only useful at night?
Not at all. While they are critical for low-light hunting and shooting, I find them incredibly useful on bright, overcast days or when aiming into a dark, shaded area from a sunny spot. The illuminated reticle cuts through the glare and provides a clear aiming point in these high-contrast situations. Many competitive shooters use them for this reason, not just for night use.
How long does the battery typically last in an illuminated scope?
Battery life varies dramatically between models. A basic scope might get a few hundred hours on a medium setting, while advanced models with efficient LED systems can last for 5,000 to 20,000 hours or more. It is important to check the manufacturer’s specifications. Many scopes also have an automatic shut-off feature (e.g., after 2, 4, or 8 hours) to prevent you from accidentally draining the battery if you forget to turn it off.
Can I use an illuminated reticle scope like a red dot sight?
This depends on the scope. A low-power variable optic (LPVO) set to 1x power with a bright, simple illuminated reticle can function similarly to a red dot for close-range, fast shooting. However, a traditional hunting scope with 3-9x magnification and a finer illuminated dot is not designed for that same role. It is better for precise shots at longer distances where you have time to get a good sight picture.
What should I look for in a reticle for low-light hunting?
For low-light hunting, I recommend a reticle that is simple and uncluttered. Look for designs with thicker outer posts to help frame your target quickly. The illuminated portion should be a simple dot or a small circle in the center. Avoid busy reticles with lots of holdover marks, as these can become distracting and hard to see in dim light. The goal is a clear, fast-to-use aiming point.
Is it worth investing in one of the best illuminated reticle scopes for 2025?
If you regularly shoot or hunt in conditions where light is limited, then yes, it is a very worthwhile investment. A quality illuminated scope extends your effective shooting time in the early morning and late evening. It increases your confidence and accuracy when a standard black reticle would fail you. While they cost more than non-illuminated models, the performance boost in critical moments makes it a justifiable upgrade for many serious shooters and hunters.