Accuracy isn’t all about the shooter. You may have some eagle eyes, but what if it’s pitch dark? Night Vision Scopes are essential if you want to hit your target. But what features does the best night vision scope attachment have?
We want to find the best fit for you. That is why we came up with this roundup for you to base your decisions on.
- Multiple profiles for different firearm
- Excellent night vision features
- Improves accuracy
- Provides high-quality images
- Durable
- Great glass quality
- Very crisp picture
- Crystal clear vision
- Impressive Infrared features
- Affordable price
- Good price
- Image is spectacular
- Focused and sturdy
- Resolution is sharp
- Perfect for PCP
Table of Contents
- 1 Top 10 Night Vision Scope Attachments
- 1.1 1. ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart
- 1.2 2. Firefield 5 x 50 Nightfall Night Vision Monocular
- 1.3 3. Bestsight DIY Digital Night Vision
- 1.4 4. Sightmark Wraith Digital Night Vision Riflescope
- 1.5 5. ATN ThOR 4 384 x 288 Thermal Rifle Scope
- 1.6 6. Night Owl Optics NightShot Digital Night Vision Riflescope
- 1.7 7. RHYTHMARTS Night Vision
- 1.8 8. 4.5X Day/Night Rifle Scope, Colorful Digital Night Vision Riflescope
- 1.9 9. NightShot Night Vision Rifle Scope with IR850-NS Illuminator
- 1.10 10. BOBLOV Night Vision Scope
- 2 Your Guide to Buying
- 3 Our Team's Selection Process
- 4 Important Precautions When Using A Night Vision Scope Attachment
- 5 FAQs
- 6 What's Our Choice For The Best Night Vision Attachment?
Top 10 Night Vision Scope Attachments
1. ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart
Why We Picked It:
ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart impressed us with its 18-hour battery life after we tested it. It would be impossible to see your scope dying on you in the middle of your hunt. The ballistic calculator also impressed us. It calculates wind, angles, temperature, humidity, and everything else to allow that sure-fire long-range shot.
The need for manual gain control to its dual-stream video recording is not even necessary since this is RAV or recoil-activated video. This clip-on scope has high-definition images and provides long eye relief.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
Who Should Use It:
We recommend this aircraft-grade aluminum scope attachment to hunters. It can survive harsh weather conditions.
Summary:
This can be the best night vision scope in the market with its ballistic calculator features and more than 18 hours of battery life. The night vision clip-on scope attachment has RAV and provides high-quality images.
PROS
- Multiple profiles for different firearm
- Excellent night vision features
- Improves accuracy
- Provides high-quality images
- Durable
CONS
- Software update issues
2. Firefield 5 x 50 Nightfall Night Vision Monocular
Why We Picked It:
This night vision attachment allows medium and long-range shooting, around 70-100 yards, and still provides clarity. Firefield had their rifle scopes durable, made with titanium, making it lightweight yet sturdy. It is also water-resistant.
This affordable, high-quality night scope has daytime optics. It features crisp images with its built-in high-powered IR illuminator.
Who Should Use It:
This may be good for home defense and hunting activities. It works any time of the day.
Summary:
This scope from Firefield is one of the most trusted scopes in the market. It is durable and water-resistant. It is also equipped with a top-quality infrared illuminator that provides great image sharpness.
PROS
- Great glass quality
- Very crisp picture
- Crystal clear vision
- Impressive Infrared features
- Affordable price
CONS
- Narrow field of view
- Quality control issue
3. Bestsight DIY Digital Night Vision
Why We Picked It:
What we liked about this scope was the detailed instructions provided. This can be assembled quickly, within 10 minutes, without any tools needed.
The image intensifier tubes were also exceptional because they allowed us to see the target in total darkness. A 5.0 inches clear display screen is included along with the 360 degrees adjustable camera.
Who Should Use It:
We recommend this to hunters and anyone who uses their guns either day or night time because of its sharp resolution.
Summary:
This is very easy to install with detailed instructions included, which allows the user to set it up in just a few minutes. It has high-quality optical devices that can clearly view in darkness.
PROS
- Good price
- Image is spectacular
- Focused and sturdy
- Resolution is sharp
- Perfect for PCP
CONS
- Quality control issue
- Batteries not included
4. Sightmark Wraith Digital Night Vision Riflescope
Why We Picked It:
We liked the simplicity of this product. You can use it any time of the day, but the night vision is equipped with a high-definition sensor (1). It can produce high-resolution imaging along with video recording in 1080p. This is a digital night scope that has 8x digital zoom, which translates to 2x optical magnification.
Who Should Use It:
It can be beneficial to target shooters and competitive shooters. It is also good for hunters.
Summary:
If you are looking for a straightforward design in scope, this is a good pick. It has high-def images and video recordings as well.
PROS
- Easy mounting and setup
- Easy to use
- Holds zero beautifully
- Color choices are cool
- Simple
CONS
- Insufficient illuminator
- Delay in powering up
5. ATN ThOR 4 384 x 288 Thermal Rifle Scope
Why We Picked It:
This is one of the new generation night vision scopes. It uses an Ultra Sensitive Next Gen Sensor that detects heat signature, even long-range. It also has smart features, including a ballistic calculator, smart rangefinder, and smart mil-dot reticle. It has 3″ eye relief, and it has color modes.
This is a reliable night vision clip-on scope with a quick-detach mount feature. The battery life of this clip-on night vision scope is at 22+ hours which is also very easy to recharge. This night vision clip-on scope also features a wireless remote control unit and provides the user manual gain control.
Who Should Use It:
We recommend this piece to hunters because of the image quality.
Summary:
You can only find these features in new generation scopes. It can detect heat signatures and is equipped with thermal imaging. This clip-on scope has 22 hours battery life and has a quick detach feature.
PROS
- Durable
- Supported with warranty
- Provides solid digital zeros
- Easy to use
- Good battery life
CONS
- Poor quality control
- Poor fitment of parts
6. Night Owl Optics NightShot Digital Night Vision Riflescope
Why We Picked It:
This affordable night vision riflescope can work during the day without damaging its night vision features. This has a built-in illuminator that ensures the images are crystal clear and distortion-free.
It is also easy to mount, but they also provide mounting assistance to call if there is confusion. It is compatible with most rifles, and it has a range of 100-200 yards.
Who Should Use It:
This is a good scope for anyone who uses their guns any time of the day because of its versatility. It can work with great even with low-light conditions.
Summary:
This night vision scope attachment is one of the affordable products in the market. It is durable, and it has a range of 100-200 yards.
PROS
- Super clear
- Very easy to focus
- Easy and accurate to use
- Clear images
- User friendly
CONS
- Poorly designed
- Need constant re-zero
7. RHYTHMARTS Night Vision
Why We Picked It:
We chose this night vision scope attachment because you can observe the target in complete darkness, even up to 218 yards. This clip-on night vision scope is equipped with an IR flashlight and a 5.0-inch Screen with HD Camera.
The scope is also lightweight since this is made of aluminum. You can expect there is not much-added weight when it is mounted. This is made of aluminum materials, and this rifle scope is very affordable.
Who Should Use It:
These night-vision clip scopes are a good fit for hunters. It works great during the day as well as at nighttime with ambient light.
Summary:
This is a good pick if you are looking for a night vision clip-on scope with all the needed features at a very low price. It is durable, and it has a long-range capability.
PROS
- Has a long-range capability
- Crystal clear images
- Sturdy scope
- Great with PCP air rifle
- As clear as day at night
CONS
- Fitting issues
- Poor quality control
8. 4.5X Day/Night Rifle Scope, Colorful Digital Night Vision Riflescope
Why We Picked It:
This is one of the affordable hunting night vision scopes that we like. It features full colors during the day and classic green or black and white when using the night vision mode. Its multi-coated objective lens with the infrared LED illuminator shows clear vision at a 300-meter distance.
These are also durable, made of tough aluminum materials. You can hunt with this scope any time of the day without much-added weight.
Who Should Use It:
Night hunting will be easier with this night vision attachment though users can still use this as a daytime scope.
Summary:
We consider this piece as one of the quality scopes distributed in the market. It features full colors during the daytime and the regular palettes in the evening. This is a durable product that can withstand recoil.
PROS
- Clear illuminator
- Great build quality
- Solid housing
- Phenomenal light gathering
- No rattles
CONS
- Zeroing controls are not intuitive
- Battery drains very quickly
9. NightShot Night Vision Rifle Scope with IR850-NS Illuminator
Why We Picked It:
Night Owl Optics created the NightShot Digital Night Vision Riflescope with 3X magnification and FOV of 5.6 Deg. This rifle scope is compatible with both Weaver or Picatinny rail.
It has a high detection range, reaching up to 100-200 yds in typical nighttime environments. Mounting is fairly easy, but they also prepare mounting assistance for those who need step-by-step guidance.
Who Should Use It:
This is a good recommendation to hunters, paintball players, including airsoft enthusiasts because of the high detection rate.
Summary:
This is a very affordable choice that offers competitive features similar to high-end night vision scopes. It is equipped with IR accessories, and it has 3X magnification that provides crisp images.
PROS
- Great windage and elevation knobs
- Easy to zero
- Awesome clarity
- User-friendly
- Good entry-level scope
CONS
- Eats battery fast
- Plastic
10. BOBLOV Night Vision Scope
Why We Picked It:
What we liked about this piece was its durability. It remains functional despite the recoil hits, and it is shock-proof. This night vision scope has a 3MP adjustable infrared camera that produces clear images like a daytime scope.
It also has a 3MP 16MM IR optics scope camera lens that is perfect for a night vision attachment which does not require a bright light when used. This is still one of the most affordable scopes with a high-quality image intensifier tube with various features.
Who Should Use It:
We recommend this scope attachment to anyone who wants access to a reliable scope any time of the day.
Summary:
This quality piece from BOBLOV is very affordable, but it houses numerous features. It is durable, fog proof, and shock-proof. Knowing that there are limited ranges for illuminators, they allow the user to access up to 200 yards.
PROS
- Very cool little setup
- Very affordable
- Very easy to set up
- Great for wildlife observation
- Easy to use
CONS
- Eats battery a lot
- Quality control issues
Your Guide to Buying
Image Clarity & Reticle
Clarity is measured in lines per millimeter (lp/mm) when it comes to scopes. The image becomes clearer as the number increases, which is the same ruling with night vision scopes. Choosing something that offers at least 55 lp/mm, is a good choice, but the best night vision scope has higher lp/mm.
The best night vision scope attachment usually features high-end glass and a reticle that can produce the crispiest images of the target. The actual effect is solid and clear without distortion, regardless if magnified or not.
Battery Type & Life
Your shot depends highly on long battery life. Compared to daytime scopes, night vision scopes typically are useless without batteries. Additional features also consume battery life, so you should find something that offers 8 hours or more.
However, this also means a higher price, but this is an area that you should not compromise if you want to hit your target during nighttime. The battery’s life would depend on how you will be using it anyway.
Re-zeroing required powered battery, not if you co sight. Some even have wireless remote control included for easier battery control.
Mounting & Rings
Compatibility with mounts and rings is also imperative to make your night vision scope attachment work properly. Choosing just any mount will not do any good to both your shooting and the scope.
Choose the mounts intended for its type and model to ensure a perfect fit. Manual gain control mounts are visible with a daytime scope but sometimes are not with the other.
Lens Size & Coating
Lens sizes help with image quality. Normally, the bigger the size of the lens, the better the image quality and resolution. The unfortunate part is that the weight also increases.
Anti-glare features are non-essentials, unlike in daylight scope. But it helps if it has an Ultra HD Sensor that helps with distortion in long distances, just like what AGM Global Vision features.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
The distance between the eye and the scope is your eye relief, which should allow you to view the entire image on the scope. On the other hand, the eye box is the position of your eye on the scope that allows you to maintain your field of view.
The importance of these features does not change even if you are using a night scope. This is one of the admirable features of AGM Global Vision.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
The shooter will correctly match the rifle’s crosshairs and the aiming point if the correct adjustments are made with the windage and elevation knobs. With the proper calculations, you can compensate for the bullet drop once the trigger is pulled, any time of the day.
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Materials & Durability
The durability of the scope highly depends on the materials used and its design. A daytime scope and night scopes can be built from steel, aluminum, polyethylene, or alloy. Numerous factors cut down the lifespan of the scope. Picking a fog, shock, and waterproof scope will help extend its life.
Parallax
Having parallax on the scope would be a negative factor because that would mean your reticle and target are not aligned since they are on different planes on the scope. The target may appear misaligned; therefore, the scope is off-target.
Field Of View
Depending on your skills and capabilities, the field of view is very important, especially when shooting at a long distance. The best night vision scopes have narrower coverage, but this would also mean additional weight.
Size & Weight
One thing to consider is the added weight and the bigger sizes. Night vision scopes are different from a day scope, especially in this area. You would have to make some preparations for these night vision scope devices.
Generation & IR Illuminator
Four scopes generations use an IR illuminator that emits light to the infrared spectrum. Feature-wise, the first has the least updated features while the second generation is lightweight yet compact with a superior resolution.
The third-generation scopes have gallium arsenide photocathode that produces a higher resolution. The fourth-generation scope is the more advanced quality scope, but these are more for military use. The most commonly used is the 2nd gen scope based on functionality, features, and price.
Our Team's Selection Process
Overall Performance
These scopes may have traits similar to daytime scopes, but they require more features because of minimal or lack of light. We choose the product that provides a higher detection rate and many high-tech features and offers compatibility and other innovative features.
Weapon Compatibility
Our choices always rely on compatibility. If it does not fit the weapon, this will only be a waste of time and money. We choose products that have a higher compatibility rate to the weapon and the mounting system.
Product Quality
We look at the product’s materials, design, and features. If all three are complementing each other, we then look at consistency. It is important that what we saw on the scope is the same with other individuals who have already used it. Thus we also check with customer reviews.
Important Precautions When Using A Night Vision Scope Attachment
- Make sure that you do not drop the scope because these are highly sensitive.
- Do not aim the night vision device at bright lights even if you see it stated on the box that you can use it during daytime. These can damage the glass and tube once exposed to direct light.
- Clean the lens using a soft cloth to avoid scratches.
- Only mount the scope when you are planning on using it.
FAQs
The farthest range of a night vision scope attachment would be around 100 yards for the first and second generation. Newer generation offers a higher range but can only detect targets. Unless these are already within 150 yards, that is the only time you will know what your target is.
Yes, night vision scope attachments can be damaged when turned off if they are exposed to direct sunlight or any bright light. Direct exposure to light can permanently damage the tube even if these are not used.
Night Vision scope attachments are expensive because of the materials used. The best night vision scope has the toughest and clearest glass that can provide the best features. The added features such as infrared light, image intensifier tube, and increased detection range also mean additional cost.
What's Our Choice For The Best Night Vision Attachment?
Our choice for the best night vision scope attachment is the ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart. We were very satisfied that this best clip on rifle scope has guaranteed vision even in total darkness. You can completely observe the target, even with light limitations.
It has variable gain control. The software is upgraded where the USB data cable would come in handy when the time comes. It is also durable, water, and fog-proof. Every feature is visible to the naked eye.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
Our #1 Recommendation
ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart
- Multiple profiles for different firearm
- Has variable gain control
- Improves accuracy
- Solid optic
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