Best Illuminated Reticle Rifle Scopes of 2025

Paul Tilton Avatar
Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Illuminated reticle rifle scopes are a popular addition to any hunting or shooting setup. These scopes use a small battery-powered light source to illuminate the reticle, making it easier to see in low-light conditions. The brightness of the illumination can be adjusted to suit the user's needs, and some models even offer different color options. This feature is especially useful for hunters who may need to take shots during dawn or dusk hours. Illuminated reticles can also improve accuracy and speed up target acquisition, making them a valuable tool for any shooter.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Scope Cover #TOP 1
Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Scope
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Sig Sauer Buckmasters 3-9x40mm Riflescope Cover #TOP 2
Sig Sauer Buckmasters 3-9x40mm Riflescope
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Bushnell Legend 3-9x40mm Illuminated Riflescope Cover #TOP 3
Bushnell Legend 3-9x40mm Illuminated Riflescope
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Illuminated Reticle Rifle Scopes

Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Scope

SOT61000
Black
Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Scope Cover
SIG SAUER Tango-MSR LPVO 1-6X24mm Waterproof Fog-Proof Rugged Tactical Hunting Rifle Scope | Second Focal Plane/F2 | Illuminated MSR BDC-6 Reticle, Black

The Sig Sauer Tango MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope features a 30mm tube, 24mm objective lens diameter, 1-6x magnification, and an MSR BDC6 reticle. It has a field of view ranging from 19.6 - 124.8 ft at 100 yds and is water-resistant up to IPX-7. This scope is perfect for rifle enthusiasts looking for a high-quality scope with clear optics, versatile magnification, and a durable build.

What We Like
Clear optics
Versatile magnification
Durable build

Sig Sauer Buckmasters 3-9x40mm Riflescope

SOBM33004
Black
Sig Sauer Buckmasters 3-9x40mm Riflescope Cover
SIG SAUER Buckmasters 3-9x40mm 1" Tube Second Focal Plane/SFP/F2 Durable Shockproof Waterproof Fogproof Black Riflescope, Hellfire Buckmasters BDC Illuminated Reticle, Flip-Back Lens Covers Included

The Sig Sauer Buckmasters Scope is an excellent choice for hunters looking to improve their shooting accuracy. With its high-performance 3x optical system and low-dispersion glass, you can expect crisp and clear images at any magnification level. The illuminated reticle features six brightness settings, making it easy to see in low-light conditions, while holdover dots assist in targeting up to 500 yards. Built to withstand tough outdoor conditions, this scope is both waterproof and fog-proof, ensuring reliability no matter the weather. Plus, the integrated throw lever allows for quick adjustments, so you can focus on your target without delay.

What We Like
Clear images at all magnifications
Illuminated reticle for low light
Durable and weather-resistant
Quick magnification adjustments

Bushnell Legend 3-9x40mm Illuminated Riflescope

BL3940BS9
Black
Bushnell Legend 3-9x40mm Illuminated Riflescope Cover
Bushnell Legend 3-9x40mm Illuminated Riflescope, Hunting Rifle Scope with Illuminated Multi-X Reticle

The Bushnell Legend Illuminated Riflescope is a high-performance rifle scope that offers affordability without compromising on optical quality. With a 3-9x magnification and a 40mm objective lens, this riflescope provides clear and crisp images for your hunting needs. One of its standout features is the illuminated Multi-X reticle, which allows for easy target acquisition and accurate shots. The reticle has 6 intensity levels, giving you control over the brightness of the center dot. Additionally, the riflescope is equipped with Bushnell's RainGuard HD lens coating, ensuring a clear view even in rainy conditions. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, this scope is lightweight yet durable. It is also waterproof and nitrogen-purged, guaranteeing fog-free performance. The Bushnell Legend Illuminated Riflescope is a reliable companion for any hunting adventure.

What We Like
Affordable
Illuminated Multi-X reticle
RainGuard HD lens coating

Bushnell Rimfire 3-9x40 Illuminated Riflescope

RR3940BS13
Black
One Size
Bushnell Rimfire 3-9x40 Illuminated Riflescope Cover
Bushnell Rimfire 3-9x40 Illuminated Riflescope, Hunting Riflescope with BDC Reticle Lightweight and Waterproof Sealed

Bushnell's Rimfire Riflescope is designed to deliver peak performance for the 40-grain .22 LR, this scope boasts a BDC reticle with hold positions out to 125 yards—and you'll never miss your shot. Shots at first and last light are in the bag too, thanks to enhanced optical glass that boosts contrast and resolution. And tough? You bet, thanks to a one-piece, aircraft-grade aluminum body that has no problem standing up to the elements and rough use. The Bushnell 3-9x40 Rimfire is covered by our Ironclad lifetime warranty.

What We Like
BDC reticle with hold positions out to 125 yards
Enhanced optical glass boosts contrast and resolution
One-piece, aircraft-grade aluminum body is tough and waterproof-sealed
#TOP 5

Arken Optics LH-4 Rifle Scope

LH4 4-16x44
Matte Black
4-16x44
Arken Optics LH-4 Rifle Scope Cover
Arken Optics LH-4 4-16x44 FFP MOA VPR Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle and Capped Tool-Less Turrets - 30mm Tube

The Arken LH-4 Scope is designed with precision and durability in mind, making it perfect for tough hunting environments. Its illuminated reticle allows you to see clearly in low-light situations, enhancing your ability to acquire targets quickly and accurately. The fully capped, tool-less turrets offer ease of adjustment, enabling you to make changes on the go without needing extra tools. Additionally, the lightweight design ensures that you can handle your rifle comfortably without sacrificing performance, making your hunting experience more enjoyable.

What We Like
Durable construction
Illuminated reticle
Tool-less adjustments
Lightweight design

SNIPER MT 4-16X50 AOL Hunting Rifle Scope

MT4-16X50AOL
Black
SNIPER MT 4-16X50 AOL Hunting Rifle Scope Cover
SNIPER MT 4-16X50 AOL Hunting Rifle Scope/Red, Green Illuminated Mil Dot Reticle/Fully Multi-Coated Lens/Adjustable Objective

The SNIPER MT 4-16X50 AOL Hunting Rifle Scope features a red, green and blue illuminated color Mil-Dot reticle with auto-off, superior multi-coated lenses, a sunshade and mount, QTA turrets with 1/4" MOA click value, and a nitrogen purged, waterproof and fog proof body.

What We Like
Multi-coated lenses offer glare and reflection reduction and maximum light transmission for clear, bright images.
QTA turrets with precise 1/4" MOA click value allow for easy wind and elevation adjustment.
Nitrogen purged, o-ring sealed body makes the scope waterproof and fog proof.
#TOP 7

Bushnell Banner 2 Riflescope

RB6185BS12
Black
6-18x50
Bushnell Banner 2 Riflescope Cover
Bushnell Banner 2 Hunting Riflescopes DOA Quick Ballistic Reticle (Illuminated, 6-18x50)

The Bushnell Banner 2 Scope is designed specifically for hunting, offering exceptional clarity and low-light performance. With its advanced optical design and multicoated surfaces, you can expect sharp images that help you spot your target with precision. The Dusk & Dawn coatings enhance visibility during those crucial early and late hours when game is most active. This scope allows you to see fine details, making it easier to judge your game and improve your chances of a successful hunt.

What We Like
Excellent low-light visibility
Sharp image resolution
Enhanced target acquisition
Durable construction
#TOP 8

TRUGLO TRU-BRITE 30 Series Illuminated Tactical Rifle Scope

TG8539TL
Black
3-9x42mm
TRUGLO TRU-BRITE 30 Series Illuminated Tactical Rifle Scope Cover
TRUGLO TRU-Brite 30 Series Illuminated Tactical Rifle Scope with Etched Illuminated Dual Color Reticle and Scope Mount, 3-9 x 42mm, Black

The TRUGLO TRU-BRITE 30 Series Illuminated Tactical Rifle Scope features a bright, 3-9 x 42mm objective lens with rheostat controlled brightness and a dual-color illuminated reticle (red & green). It also includes a reversible, offset, monolithic 30mm scope mount made of CNC-machined aircraft grade aluminum for water and shock resistance, and fog-proof purposes. The MIL-DOT reticle enables users to determine the distance of objects of a known size and provides quick trajectory and wind drift aiming references.

What We Like
Bright 3-9 x 42mm objective lens
Dual-color illuminated reticle (red & green)
Reversible, offset, monolithic 30mm scope mount made of CNC-machined aircraft grade aluminum
#TOP 9

CVLIFE JackalHowl 1-4x20 LPVO Rifle Scope

Black
CVLIFE JackalHowl 1-4x20 LPVO Rifle Scope Cover
CVLIFE JackalHowl 1-4x20 LPVO Rifle Scope with Cantilever Mount, Illuminated BDC Reticle Rimfire Scope Compact Riflescope with Zero Reset for Hunting

CVLIFE JackalHowl Scope offers versatile performance for short to mid-range shooting. It features thread-in magnification throw levers for quick adjustments. The illuminated BDC reticle allows for precise aiming without dialing turrets. The fully multi-coated lenses provide bright and clear views, minimizing glare for superior optical clarity. The capped reset turrets ensure quick and accurate adjustments that can be reset to zero easily after sighting in.

What We Like
Versatile performance
Illuminated BDC reticle
Fully multi-coated lenses
#TOP 10

Vortex Venom 1-6x24 Riflescope

VEN-1601
Black
Vortex Venom 1-6x24 Riflescope Cover
Vortex Optics Venom 1-6x24 Second Focal Plane Riflescope

The Vortex Venom Riflescope is designed for those who need speed and precision in hunting or entry-level competition shooting. Its durable 30mm aircraft aluminum tube ensures it withstands tough conditions. With an advanced optical system and fully multi-coated lenses, you’ll enjoy clear visuals even in low light situations. The second focal plane reticle stays easy to see across all magnification levels, making it ideal for quick target acquisition. Plus, the illuminated BDC3 reticle helps you engage targets accurately at short to mid-range distances, enhancing your shooting experience.

What We Like
Durable construction
Clear optics in low light
Easy-to-see reticle
Fast target engagement
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the benefit of an illuminated reticle rifle scope?

An illuminated reticle rifle scope offers the benefit of enhanced visibility and contrast between the reticle and the target. This ensures that the reticle remains visible even in low light conditions or when the target coloration makes it difficult to see. It can be especially useful when using high magnification settings.

2. What is the best color for illuminated reticle?

The best color for an illuminated reticle is subjective and depends on personal preference. However, green is a popular choice as it provides good contrast with a red hog-light and is generally favored by most eyes. Ultimately, the goal is to have an illuminated reticle that is easy to acquire and stands out against the target.

3. What states don't allow illuminated reticles?

Currently, the only state that does not allow the use of illuminated reticles is Idaho. However, it's important to note that Idaho permits the use of lighted scope reticles on rifles, but does not allow lighted nocks for archery hunters.

4. Is an illuminated reticle worth it?

Having an illuminated reticle can be worth it, especially in low light conditions or when the target's coloration or lighting makes the reticle difficult to see. While it doesn't alter the image of the target, it enhances the brightness of the reticle, making it easier to acquire and aim accurately.

5. Can you hunt with an illuminated reticle?

Whether or not you need an illuminated reticle for hunting depends on the optic and reticle you are using. For a First Focal Plane (FFP) scope, it is recommended to opt for an illuminated reticle. However, for Second Focal Plane (SFP) scopes, it depends on personal preference and specific hunting conditions. It's better to have an illuminated reticle and not need it, rather than the other way around.

Editor's Notes

During our illuminated reticle rifle scope research, we found 24 illuminated reticle rifle scope products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 8,478 customer reviews through our big data system to write the illuminated reticle rifle scopes list. We found that most customers choose illuminated reticle rifle scopes with an average price of $177.14.

The illuminated reticle rifle scopes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of illuminated reticle rifle scopes, including Sig Sauer, Bushnell, Arken Optics, Sniper, TRUGLO. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 81 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Paul Tilton Avatar

Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.