Best Night Vision Scope Under $500
Best Night Vision Scope Under $500. Most predators are active at night. If you are an avid hunter, this is the best time to catch your game as they come out in plenty. However, you can not hunt or shoot in the dark with your naked eyes only. You’ll need to use a night vision scope that provides image clarity even in total darkness.
The best night vision scopes don’t have to cost a fortune. Today, the technology behind night vision scopes has evolved and we now have tons of affordable and practical scopes for virtually any shooting application. If you are looking for the best night vision scope under $500, we have a list of some of the best scopes under this price category. Without wasting any more time, let’s take a look.
Here is a quick list of our favorites
| PRODUCT | IMAGE | PRICE |
| #1) Sightmark Wraith Digital Night Vision Riflescope |  |
|
| #2) Night Owl Optics NightShot |  |
|
| #3) BESTSIGHT DIY Digital Night Vision Scope for Rifle |  |
|
| #4) NightStar 2x50mm Gen-1 Tactical Night Vision Riflescope |  |
|
| #5) Sightmark Wraith Digital Night Vision Riflescope |  |
How to Choose the Best Night Vision Scope under $500
With the market offering a wide range of night vision scopes to choose from, these are the key factors you should consider when shopping for the best night vision scope under $500.
1. Detection Range
The detection range in night vision scopes varies from one scope to the other. Since night vision scopes have smaller magnification power, the scope’s detection range is important as it affects the image clarity. If you are hunting/shooting long-range targets, look for a scope with quality optics for more light transmission. That way you’ll be able to spot targets with ease regardless of the distance. Most of the night vision scopes in the market have an effective range of 100+ yards, which is enough for most users.
2. Durable Construction
Durability is the other important factor to consider. Hunting can be rough on your scope and can cause serious damage on it especially when you are hunting at night. It is therefore important that you get a scope made with sturdy and durable materials. The scope should be shockproof and recoil resistant for added durability. On top of that, make sure that the scope you choose is fully waterproof for use in all weather conditions.
3. Technology
Night vision scopes under $500 are equipped with different technologies. They are categorized into 4 generations, Gen1, Gen 2, Gen 3, and Gen 4. Gen 1 and 2 are the more affordable and the most common type in night vision scopes in this price category. This scope offers solid performance but their images can get distorted or become blurry sometimes. On the other hand, Gen 3 and 4 are more high-tech and expensive.
4. Battery Life
All night vision scopes are powered by batteries. The battery type and size are unique in every model. It is important that you check on the scope’s battery life and performance. You’ll want the battery to last long so you don’t have to cut short your hunting trip. Try to look for scopes that are powered by high-grade AA batteries. These batteries are durable, rechargeable, and have a long battery life. You can also choose lithium-ion batteries.
5. Clarity
The main reason you are getting a night vision scope is to be able to see your targets clearly at night. As such, it is essential that you make sure that the scope you choose to buy offers great image clarity. In scopes, clarity is measured by lines per millimeter (LP/MM). Generally, the higher the number is, the clearer the images will be.
The scope should also have high-quality optics to enhance clarity. Look for a scope with high-quality fiberglass as it enhances image clarity. The scope should also have proper coatings to provide clear image views.
6. Weight
The other important factor to consider is how heavy the scope weighs. Generally, the more features a scope has, the heavier it becomes. If you intend to use the scope for hunting, make sure it’s lightweight. A lightweight scope is easier to use carry in the field and easier to aim.
Best Night Vision Scope Under $500 Reviews
#1) Sightmark Wraith Digital Night Vision Riflescope
The Warith Digital Night Vision Riflescope from Sightmark is a high-quality optic suitable for hunting and shooting in the dark. Although this riflescope is cheap, it doesn’t compromise on its quality. It is well-made, dependable, and versatile. You can use it at night and during the day as well. With a variable 2-16x magnification, the digital night vision scope is ideal for shooting at varying ranges. It features an 850nm IR illuminator and a 1920×1080 CMOS sensor to spot objects that are as far as 200 yards at night. It also features 8x digital zoom that you can zoom in to see more detail or zoom out to get a wide field of view. This night vision scope is made to last. It is housed in a sturdy and durable aluminum body to stand up to harsh outdoor environments. Additionally, it has an IP55 water-resistant rating so you can use it even when it’s raining. The riflescope is also temperature-resistant to prevent internal fogging caused by rapid changes in temperature. The user-friendly interface makes it ideal for all users regardless of their skills. The scope has 10 different reticle options and 9 different colors for simpler aiming and greater accuracy. It also features a removable eyecup to prevent light dispersion when shooting at night. The eyecup can also be removed during the day for comfortable viewing. It makes a great night vision scope for hunting fast-moving hogs and varmint control. Key Features
|
#2) Night Owl Optics NightShot
If you are looking for the best night vision scope under $500 for varmint hunting, the Night Owl NightShot Digital Night Vision Riflescope is your best choice. It is a great scope for taking out small game such as rabbits and rats as well as larger game like hogs and coyotes. This digital optic has an effective viewing range of about 100 yards in complete darkness. The built-in infrared illuminator makes your shooting more competitive by enhancing accurate target acquisition. This night vision scope is very easy to use. It is easy to mount, sight and shoot. Moreover, it is compatible with a wide range of firearms. It mounts easily on any rifle with a weaver or Picatinny rail. The scope is made for the outdoor environments. It is crafted with heavy-duty thermoplastic which is durable yet lightweight. It is also weatherproof for use in extreme weather conditions and recoil proof as well. You can as well use it for daytime operation and it won’t get damaged. Key Features
|
#3) BESTSIGHT DIY Digital Night Vision Scope for Rifle
You do not have to break the bank to get the best night vision scope under $500. The BESTSIGHT DIY Digital Night Vision Scope is a high-performance optic suitable for both daytime and nighttime use. It is easy to use, mount and remove. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry in the field for long hours. Featuring a large 5” LCD screen, the scope provides the most comfortable image views. The 5W 850nm laser infrared light helps you identify long-range targets easily at night. Besides, the IR supports both zoom in and zoom out to provide better views at night. The scope provides impressive optical performance. It uses 3MP and 16mm HD camera lens and imaged by a CMOS image sensor. Whenever the images appear blurred, you can rotate the camera and adjust the focus to achieve a clear image. Overall, this is a great night vision scope for home surveillance, nighttime hunting, wildlife observation, and nature exploration. Key Features
|
#4) NightStar 2x50mm Gen-1 Tactical Night Vision Riflescope
If you are looking for a night vision riflescope that’s ideal for both hunting and tactical application, the NightStar 2x50mm Gen-1 riflescope is your ideal option. You can use it for night shooting, tactical use, scouting, hunting, close-range detection, and varmint control among others. This is one of the best night vision scope under $500 for beginners. It’s not only affordable but also easy to use. It has a simplified platform so you hardly have time to mess with the menu and buttons. With the 2x magnification, the scope is good for close-range shooting. It has a built-in IR for easy target acquisition at night and an illuminated reticle which enhances your shooting accuracy. With a low magnification power and a large 50mm objective lens, the scope provides decent image quality. The fixed magnification makes it retain all the resolution power for the best nighttime image views. It provides quality views from 25 to 100 yards. The scope also has a 4-button operation to operate the IR and brightness settings. You can either increase the brightness setting depending on the lighting condition. The main drawback about the scope is that you can’t use it during the day. The image intensifier tube is extremely sensitive to bright light so it should be used at night only. Key Features
|
#5) Sightmark Wraith Digital Night Vision Riflescope
Here is another best night vision scope under $500 from Sightmark. The 4-32×50 Wraith Digital Night Vision Riflescope is specially designed with the serious hunters in mind. It features an advanced 1920×1080 HD sensor that provides full-color image clarity during the day and classic green or black and white at night. The scope has a 200 yards detection range at night. It comes with a removable 850nm IR illuminator to enhance accurate target acquisition. With 10 different reticle options and 9 different colors, you get to choose the ideal reticle depending on your shooting needs. This gives you easier aiming for greater accuracy. Besides, the weaver rail allows you to mount additional accessories for added accuracy. This night vision scope runs on 4 AA batteries which provide a 4.5-hour battery life. It also features a high-definition 1080p sensor and a HD photo capturing and video recording capability. It makes a great night vision scope for different hunting applications among them hog, deer, and predator hunting. Key Features
|
Best Night Vision Scope Under $500 FAQs
- What is better, thermal or night vision?
Both thermal and night vision scopes have their own pros and cons. A thermal vision scope is suitable for long-range detection. Since it doesn’t depend on light to function, you can use it to detect objects in any range. Plus, you can use it during the day and at night as well.
On the other hand, night vision scopes are ideal for short-range target identification. They are cheaper than thermal scopes and they offer more clarity at night. However, some night vision scopes are limited to nighttime use only.
- Can a night vision scope see through smoke?
No. Night vision scope depend on some light to generate an image. So, if there is no light, the scope is rendered useless. Smoke, sand, fog, and other obscurants block the light from entering into the scope. This makes it hard for the night vision scope to function properly.
- Can a night vision scope be used during the day?
It depends. Some models have both day and night mode, while others can only be used when darkness falls. Make sure that you confirm whether the scope has dual-functionality to avoid damaging it when you expose it to too much light during the day.
Conclusion
With the wide range of night vision scopes available on the market, you are spoilt for choice. Remember, the best night vision scope under $500 is one that suits your nighttime shooting needs. Use our guide above and get a decent scope this hunting season.