What is Crossbow Scope? 🔭
A crossbow scope is a specialized sighting device designed for use with crossbows. It is similar in function to a rifle scope but is specifically tailored to the unique characteristics of a crossbow.
💡 It typically consists of a tube-like structure with lenses, reticles (also known as crosshairs), and adjustments for windage (horizontal alignment) and elevation (vertical alignment).
Features 🔐
- ✅ Variable Magnification: A crossbow scope with variable magnification allows you to adjust the zoom level, providing flexibility to adapt to different shooting distances and target sizes.
- ✅ Reticle Options: They often offer a variety of reticle options, such as multiple aiming points or illuminated reticles. These features help with accurate target acquisition and aiming in various lighting conditions.
- ✅ Weatherproof Construction: A reliable scope is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. It should be waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof to ensure optimal performance even in challenging environments.
- ✅ Adjustable Windage and Elevation: These scopes feature adjustable turrets for windage (horizontal adjustment) and elevation (vertical adjustment). This enables precise calibration of the scope to compensate for bullet drop and wind drift.
- ✅ Wide Field of View: A wider field of view allows you to see more of your surroundings, making it easier to track moving targets and acquire them quickly.
- ✅ Fast Focus Eyepiece: A fast-focus eyepiece enables quick and easy reticle focus adjustment, allowing you to achieve a clear sight picture rapidly.
- ✅ Parallax Adjustment: Some high-end crossbow scopes offer parallax adjustment, which helps eliminate the parallax error caused by the misalignment of the target image and the reticle, ensuring accuracy at different shooting distances.
Benefits 💣
- 🔰 Enhanced Accuracy: It improves your shooting accuracy by providing magnification, precise aiming points, and the ability to compensate for environmental factors like wind and bullet drop.
- 🔰 Increased Range: With it, you can effectively engage targets at longer distances. The magnification and reticle options allow you to take precise shots, extending your effective range.
- 🔰 Improved Target Acquisition: The reticle options and wide field of view make it easier to acquire targets quickly and accurately, reducing the time needed to aim and increasing your shooting efficiency.
- 🔰 Better Shot Placement: By allowing you to make precise adjustments for windage and elevation, a crossbow scope enables you to place your shots precisely where you want them, improving your overall shooting performance.
- 🔰 Versatility: The scopes with variable magnification and different reticle options offer versatility for various shooting scenarios, including different distances and lighting conditions.
- 🔰 Durability and Reliability: Weatherproof construction and shockproof design ensure that your scope can withstand the rigors of hunting or shooting in challenging outdoor conditions, providing you with a reliable and long-lasting optic.
- 🔰 Improved Hunting Success: The combination of increased accuracy, target acquisition speed, and effective range offered by a crossbow scope ultimately leads to improved hunting success, allowing you to make clean and ethical kills.
Types 👁🗨
📢 Our experts have discovered that crossbow scopes come in various types, designed to enhance accuracy and target acquisition for crossbow shooters. Here are some common types:
| ➡️ Multi-reticle scopes: These scopes feature multiple reticles or aiming points calibrated for specific distances. They allow you to adjust your aim based on the target’s range and provide aiming points for various yardages. | ➡️ Illuminated reticle scopes: The scopes feature an illuminated reticle that can be switched on to improve visibility in low-light conditions. The illumination helps you maintain accuracy even in dim environments. |
| ➡️ Red dot scopes: Red dot scopes use a red dot or illuminated reticle to mark the aiming point. They are typically parallax-free and provide quick target acquisition. Red dot scopes are popular for close to medium-range shooting. | ➡️ Bullet drop compensator (BDC) scopes: BDC scopes are designed to compensate for the bullet’s trajectory drop at different distances. They feature reticles with markings or holdover points that correspond to specific yardages, allowing you to adjust your aim accordingly. |
| ➡️ Variable magnification scopes: They offer adjustable magnification settings, allowing you to zoom in or out depending on the target’s distance. They are versatile and useful for both short-range and long-range shooting. | ➡️ Holographic scopes: Holographic scopes use a holographic reticle projected onto a glass window. They provide a clear and unobstructed sight picture and are known for their rapid target acquisition and ease of use. |
| ➡️ Rangefinder scopes: Rangefinder scopes integrate a built-in rangefinder, which enables you to measure the distance to your target without the need for a separate device. They provide immediate feedback on the target’s range, making them ideal for long-range shooting. | ➡️ Night vision scopes: These specialized scopes are equipped with night vision technology, enabling you to see and aim in low-light or complete darkness. Night vision scopes often use infrared illuminators to enhance visibility. |
Best Crossbow Scope Reviews
1# Vortex Crossfire II Crossbow Scope
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Crossbow Scope was designed to provide the crossbow shooter with features needed specifically for their application. Whether you’re sighting in at 20 yards or 100, this scope will give you the precision and accuracy you need to take your shots successfully. With a 30mm tube and illuminated XBR-2 reticle, this scope is perfect for any crossbow hunter.
2# Vortex Optics Crossfire Ii Crossbow Scope
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II Crossbow Scope is perfect for any crossbow hunter. With a red and green illuminated reticle, this scope is perfect for low-light shooting. The magnification and FPS on the magnification ring help keep the scope compatible with a variety of bows and setups, while the wide field of view makes it perfect for a variety of shooting situations.
3# Sightmark Core SX Crossbow Scope
The Sightmark Core SX Crossbow Scope is a state-of-the-art piece of equipment designed specifically for hunting large games with a crossbow. With Killzone rangefinding capabilities and fixed power magnification tuned to 320 fps crossbows, this scope is perfect for taking down even the largest prey. The red/black VXR-L reticle with 11 brightness settings ensures you’ll be able to see your target clearly in any lighting environment, while arrow drop compensation guarantees accurate shot placement. The scope’s fully multi-coated optics provide exceptional clarity and brightness, while the low-profile capped turrets and fully weatherproof body ensure performance in all conditions.
4# TruGlo Crossbow Rifle Scope
View on OpticsPlanet View on Cabelas
The TruGlo Crossbow Rifle Scope is a top-of-the-line scope that is perfect for any hunter or outdoorsman. With its 4×32 magnification, this scope is perfect for long-range shots, making it a must-have for anyone looking to take their hunting game to the next level. The TruGlo Crossbow Rifle Scope also features rings for easy mounting on any crossbow, making it a breeze to set up and use. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a novice, the TruGlo Crossbow Rifle Scope is a great choice for anyone in need of a reliable and dependable scope.
5# TenPoint Crossbow Technologies 3x Pro-View 2 Scope
The TenPoint Crossbow Technologies 3x Pro-View 2 Scope is a lightweight, 8.5-inch aluminum-tube scope that features 20, 30, 40, and 50-yard dots (the fourth dot is free standing, just below the 40-yard crosshair). This scope is available with non-illuminated black dots or one of two rheostat-controlled, illuminated colored dots (red or green). The TenPoint Crossbow Technologies 3x Pro-View 2 Scope is perfect for hunters who are looking for a scope that will allow them to accurately shoot their prey.
6# CenterPoint Crossbow Scope
The CenterPoint Crossbow Scope is designed specifically for crossbow hunting. The scope is made with one-piece tube construction and features a durable etched glass reticle that provides aim points out to 50 yards. It also includes red/green illumination with various brightness settings, fog proof, water and shock-resistant construction, and turret caps.
7# Killer Instinct Lumix Speedring IR-E Crossbow Scope
If you’re looking for an elite, high-performance crossbow scope, look no further than the Killer Instinct 1.5-5×32 IR-E Crossbow Archery Scope. This easy-to-use scope has a Speed Ring adjustment that allows it to be instantly matched to any bow shooting speeds between 270 fps to 450 fps. It also features the Killer Instinct Killzone XB100 Reticle, which is optimized for both fast short distance target acquisition and precision long-range accuracy out to 100 yards. You’ll appreciate the exceptional LUMIX optic clarity, micro-adjust Red/Blue Illumination, and rugged chassis that deliver the very best for crossbow hunting. Plus, the scope is waterproof, fog proof, and shock
8# Killer Instinct Lumix IR-E Crossbow Scope
The Killer Instinct Lumix IR-E Crossbow Scope is the perfect scope for your crossbow needs. Featuring multi-reticle aim points and rheostat brightness illumination in red or blue, this scope is perfect for low-light settings. With exceptional clarity and a fast-focus eyepiece, this scope is sure to help you take your game to the next level.
9# Hawke IR Crossbow Scope
The Hawke IR Crossbow Scope is perfect for high-performance crossbow shooting. The speed selector allows you to match the scope to any bow, shooting speeds between 275 fps and 425 fps. The precision reticle has been expertly designed to offer aim points at 10yd intervals from 20 – 100 yards. The illuminated glass etched reticle is red/green adjustable, with 5 brightness levels, making it easy to get the perfect shot in any lighting condition. Flip-up covers are included.
10# Hawke Sport Optics SR IR Crossbow Scope
Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just getting started, the Hawke Sport Optics SR IR Crossbow Scope is the perfect choice for bringing down your prey. With a chassis specifically designed to withstand the rigors of crossbows, this scope is built to last. The reticle system is almost guaranteed to make you a better shot, and with the illuminating red dot, you’ll never miss your target. This scope is perfect for any hunter looking to take their game to the next level.
11# Leapers UTG Crossbow Scope
This Leapers UTG 4x32mm Pro 5-Step Reticle Crossbow Scope SCP-M4CR5WQ is a durable, accurate scope built specifically for crossbows. With its True Strength platform and Rain-Proof, fog-proof, and shockproof construction, this scope can handle whatever you throw at it. But what makes this scope great for crossbows is its Pro 5-Step rangefinding reticle, which is calibrated specifically for estimating the range on a 300fps crossbow. So whether you’re hunting game or just target shooting, the Leapers UTG 4x32mm Pro 5-Step Reticle Crossbow Scope SCP-M4CR5WQ will help you make more accurate shots.
12# Burris Oracle X Rangefinding Crossbow Scope
The Burris Oracle X Rangefinding Crossbow Scope is perfect for the crossbow hunter who demands the best in performance and accuracy. Utilizing proven rangefinding and angle compensating technologies, this scope ensures you are on target every time. The lightweight, waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof construction makes it perfect for any hunting situation.
13# Ravin Crossbows Illuminated Crossbow Scope
The Ravin Crossbows Illuminated Crossbow Scope is the perfect addition to your Ravin Crossbow, giving you the performance and precision you need to make long-distance shots. With aiming points every 10 yards and a scope that adjusts to the FPS speed of your crossbow, you’ll be able to consistently hit targets at a football field’s length with ease. Whether you’re hunting game or targets, this high-performance scope will help you get the most out of your Ravin Crossbow.
14# TRUGLO OPTI-SPEED Velocity Calibrated BDC Crossbow Scope
Looking for a scope that can keep up with your high-powered crossbow? Then you need the OPTI-SPEED Velocity Calibrated BDC Crossbow Scope from TRUGLO. This scope is specifically designed to provide optic performance that matches the speed and power of modern crossbows. With its simple speed dial, the scope can be calibrated and scaled to work with any crossbow shooting between 215-450 fps. And because it’s built with a glass-etched, drop-compensating reticle, you can count on precise accuracy from 20-70 yards. So upgrade your crossbow setup today with the OPTI-SPEED Velocity Calibrated BDC Crossbow Scope from TRUGLO.
How to Sight In a Crossbow Scope? 🧐
Based on our experience, sighting in a crossbow scope involves the process of aligning the reticle of the scope with the point of impact of the arrows. 👣 Here’s a step-by-step guide:
| 1️⃣ Prepare your shooting range: Find a safe and suitable location for shooting your crossbow. Ensure you have a sufficient distance, typically around 20 yards, to set up your target. Make sure there are no obstructions in the shooting range. | 6️⃣ Adjust windage and elevation: Using the adjustment knobs or dials on your crossbow scope, make the necessary windage (horizontal) and elevation (vertical) adjustments. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific scope model. Each click of the adjustment knobs typically corresponds to a specific distance or measurement mentioned in the scope manual. |
| 2️⃣ Mount the scope properly: Install the scope securely on the crossbow. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for attaching and adjusting the scope. Make sure it is firmly mounted and aligned with the arrow’s flight path. | 7️⃣ Shoot another group: Fire another group of arrows after making the initial scope adjustments. Aim at the center and observe the new point of impact. The goal is to move the point of impact closer to the center of the target. |
| 3️⃣ Establish a consistent shooting position: Take a stable shooting position, using a shooting rest or bipod if available. Consistency is essential for accurate shooting, so try to maintain the same stance and position for each shot. | 8️⃣ Fine-tune adjustments: Based on the second group’s results, continue making minor adjustments to the windage and elevation until the point of impact is consistently centered on the target. |
| 4️⃣ Shoot a group of arrows: Fire a group of arrows at the target, aiming at the center. It’s recommended to shoot a group of three arrows to establish a pattern and determine the point of impact. | 9️⃣ Confirm zero at different distances: Once you achieve a satisfactory zero at your initial distance (e.g., 20 yards), you can test the crossbow’s accuracy at longer distances, such as 30 or 40 yards. Adjust the scope as needed to achieve accurate shots at those distances. |
| 5️⃣ Observe the arrow grouping: Examine the group of arrows on the target. Determine the average point of impact by identifying where the arrows are clustering. This will be your starting point for adjusting the scope. | 🔟 Practice and make adjustments as necessary: Regularly practice shooting with your crossbow to refine your skills and ensure consistent accuracy. If you experience any issues or notice changes in the point of impact, revisit the sighting-in process and make appropriate adjustments. |
⚠️ Remember, it’s essential to prioritize safety during the entire process. Always follow proper crossbow safety guidelines and ensure that your shooting range is secure and free from any potential hazards.
🎥 Watch the video to see the approximate process:
FAQ 🤔
Conclusion ⏰
When looking for the best crossbow scope, it is important to consider a variety of factors. In this article, we have provided reviews of some of the top-rated options on the market and shared tips on how to select the right one for your needs. We hope that you found this information helpful and are now better equipped to choose the perfect variant for your next hunting expedition! 😉
Affiliate Disclosure: Rotorm.com sometimes gets paid for listings, through sponsors or affiliate programs like Amazon, Optics Planet, Lucky Gunner, Brownells, Cabelas, Rainier Arms, 5.11 Tactical, Bass Pro Shop, etс. Clicking a link helps keep Rotorm.com free, at no extra cost to you!
About the author: Each article on our site is written by experts in survival and tactical equipment, gun enthusiasts, extreme travelers, military, law enforcement and desperate professionals, read about the author at the bottom of the article or visit "About Us" page.
Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency.
Truglo scopes are a fantastic choice for those on a limited budget who still desire excellent quality. As an owner of multiple Truglo products, I can confidently say that they surpass the more expensive alternatives. One aspect that pleasantly surprised me was the reticle, which was not often described in reviews. The reticle features a crosshair specifically designed for distances of 20, 30, 40, and 50 yards. I particularly appreciate the abundance of fine crosshair detail, even at 50 yards.
How does parallax affect the accuracy of shots taken with a crossbow scope, and how can it be mitigated?
🔔 Parallax can indeed affect the accuracy of shots taken with a crossbow scope. Parallax refers to the apparent movement of the reticle (crosshair) on the target when the shooter’s eye position is slightly off-axis from the scope’s optical axis. This misalignment can cause the point of aim to shift, leading to inaccuracies in the shot placement.
💡 To mitigate parallax and ensure greater accuracy, crossbow scopes often come with parallax adjustment features. Here’s how you can address parallax-related issues:
➡️ Understand the parallax adjustment: Many crossbow scopes have a parallax adjustment knob or dial, usually located on the side of the turret of the scope. This adjustment allows you to align the reticle with the target, regardless of your eye position.
➡️ Set the parallax distance: Parallax adjustments are often calibrated for specific distances, such as 50 yards or 100 yards. Determine the distance at which you’ll be shooting and adjust the parallax accordingly. Turn the adjustment knob until the target appears clear and the reticle remains stationary when you move your eye slightly.
➡️ Confirm the settings: After making the parallax adjustment, it’s crucial to verify the accuracy. Take a few practice shots at your intended distance and assess the consistency of your aim. If you notice any reticle movement when changing your eye position, make further adjustments until the reticle remains steady on the target.
➡️ Proper eye position: Maintaining consistent eye placement behind the scope is essential to minimize parallax error. Ensure your eye is aligned with the scope’s optical axis and centered within the eyepiece. This helps reduce the potential for parallax-induced discrepancies.
➡️ Practice and experience: As with any shooting technique, practice, and experience will improve your ability to minimize parallax errors. Familiarize yourself with your crossbow scope and develop a consistent shooting technique to reduce the impact of parallax on your accuracy.
I recently completed a full hunting season using the Burris Oracle X sight, and I must say, I absolutely love its features and durability. One particular experience stands out: at last light, I managed to take down a doe from 55 yards away. The sight truly excelled in drawing in available light, ensuring a well-placed shot.
However, the real test came when I had to drag the doe out of the woods in the dark. Despite stumbling and falling a couple of times, I accidentally banged the sight against the ground. Naturally, I was concerned that I might have dislodged or damaged it. To my relief, the next day I tested it by shooting my bow, and the sight was still perfectly aligned!
Based on my experience, I wholeheartedly recommend the Burris Oracle X. Its performance and resilience have won me over, and I’ve decided to exclusively purchase Burris products in the future.
I cannot express enough how thrilled I am with the performance of the Hawke IR product. It surpasses the generic, one-size-fits-all scope that came with my Excalibur GRZ II by a significant margin. Shot after shot, this scope delivers consistent accuracy, something I couldn’t achieve with the factory-issued glass. The clarity of the Hawke scope is exceptional, providing a clear view from edge to edge once I adjusted the ocular lens to suit my eyesight. The elevation and windage adjustments are precise and accompanied by satisfying audible clicks. While the reticle appears busy, it strikes a balance that doesn’t distract from the shooting experience. Although I haven’t used the green/red adjustable illuminated reticles during hunting or while dialing in my scope, I can’t comment on their effectiveness. The instruction manual was easily comprehensible, enabling me to quickly sight in the scope. As an added bonus, the flip-up lens covers were a thoughtful inclusion. The only drawback I can find is the limited space for scope rings between the objective lens, turret, and ocular lens.
What are the differences between a first focal plane and a second focal plane crossbow scope?
➡️ First Focal Plane (FFP) crossbow scopes have a reticle located in the front, and it scales with magnification. It maintains accuracy for holdover points and measurements at any magnification.
➡️ Second Focal Plane (SFP) crossbow scopes have a reticle closer to the eyepiece and its size remains constant regardless of magnification. Accuracy for holdover points is limited to a specific magnification setting.
Choose FFP for versatility, and SFP for a consistent reticle size and finer details at higher magnifications.
I recently installed a TruGlo sight on my Wicked Ridge Invader crossbow, and during my first shot at 20 yards, I noticed it was slightly high and to the left by about an inch. After making some adjustments, I zeroed it in at 20 yards and fine-tuned it at 30, 40, and 50 yards. To my amazement, I achieved tight groupings at 50 yards using a stabilizing stick. Returning to 20 yards, I made a small adjustment by clicking up one notch, and the shot landed perfectly on target.
I’ve also had the chance to test the TruGlo sight in low-light conditions at dusk, and I must say it performs significantly better than my previous red dot sight. This weekend, I’ll put it to the ultimate test as I go deer hunting in Michigan.
I recently faced a dilemma with my 2015 Mission Sniper Lite crossbow. While I appreciate its quietness and accuracy up to 30 yards with the stock scope, I felt limited by its rated speed of 305 fps, which is considered slow compared to modern standards. This frustration led me to consider purchasing a new crossbow altogether.
However, instead of investing in a new Mission crossbow, I decided to try a different approach. I came across the Vortex Crossfire II Crossbow scope and was intrigued by its adjustable features to match the speed of my crossbow. I watched a video demonstrating its setup process, and to my delight, I found that replacing just the scope made a world of difference.
Setting up the Vortex Crossfire II was a breeze, and I was amazed at its accuracy. I achieved 2-inch groupings at 60 yards, which was far beyond what I had imagined. While I may not take shots at such distances while hunting in the woods, it’s reassuring to know that I now have the capability for those once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.
By simply replacing the scope, I’ve transformed my crossbow’s performance, and I couldn’t be happier. It’s a cost-effective solution that has breathed new life into my trusty Mission Sniper Lite, allowing me to continue using it with confidence and accuracy.
The value for the price of this scope is unbeatable. The clarity of the glass significantly improved my groupings with my 425 fps crossbow. Taking the time to fine-tune it at the range has yielded impressive results. It far surpasses the performance of the original Lumix variable scope that came with my crossbow. The scope rings are of good quality, but the scope covers could be better. On the bright side, the neoprene cover is a nice addition. The reticle colors are vibrant enough for use in daylight conditions, making it versatile for various shooting scenarios.
I recently purchased a Hawke Sports scope as part of a package deal with a Mission Crossbow. The store owner advised me to start by zeroing the scope at 20 yards and then using the hold over crosses for further adjustments. Following their instructions, I set up my bow on a stable rest to minimize any errors and took my first shot. To my surprise, the arrow hit high and to the left by about an inch and a half.
Before taking another shot, I decided to assess my grouping ability. However, I remembered the store owner’s advice not to shoot at the same spot twice. So, I retrieved the bolt, reloaded, and took another shot. Astonishingly, the second arrow landed in the exact same hole. Curiosity piqued, I repeated the process for a third shot, and again, it landed in the same hole as the first two.
Encouraged by this consistency, I proceeded to adjust the elevation and windage settings. With just a few more shots, I managed to achieve a perfect zero. The scope performed flawlessly, enabling me to hit multiple bullseyes on the target consistently. As I moved back to 30 and 40 yards, I continued to hit the red every time. I decided to challenge myself with a shot at 50 yards and was absolutely amazed by the result. Although not dead center, the shot landed within a 1 1/2″ radius.
I cannot express enough how much I love this scope. Its clarity and ease of setup are exceptional. The illumination feature offers varying levels of brightness, and the red and green lights are both clear and visible. Moreover, I appreciate the auto-shutdown function, which turns off the illumination if I forget to do so manually. In terms of value, I believe the price is just right. The scope is well-built, the optics are crystal clear, setup is a breeze, and the price is reasonable. Overall, it has exceeded my expectations and delivered exceptional accuracy.
I am extremely impressed with the performance of this scope. It has exceeded all my expectations. I’m thrilled about the upcoming archery season because the bolts are consistently hitting the mark at every 10-yard increment. The ease of getting it dialed in was remarkable. By simply adjusting the speed ring, the bolts are flying downrange at an incredible speed. I can’t wait to put this scope to use in the field.