7 Best crossbow scopes for hunting under $100

 

If you’re a hunter looking to improve your aim without emptying your wallet, the best crossbow scopes for hunting under $100 offer a perfect balance of performance and affordability. These scopes are designed to enhance your accuracy, provide better visibility in various lighting conditions, and ensure a smoother hunting experience—all without breaking the bank. Whether you’re targeting deer in the woods or practicing at the range, a quality scope can make all the difference.

Many budget-friendly crossbow scopes today come with impressive features like illuminated reticles, weatherproof construction, and multi-range aiming points. Despite their low price, they’re built to withstand rugged outdoor use and deliver consistent results. The best crossbow scopes for hunting under $100 cater to both beginner and experienced hunters who demand reliability and clarity without overspending.

In this guide, we’ll highlight the top-performing models under $100 that have earned praise for their value, durability, and ease of use. If you’re ready to upgrade your gear while sticking to a budget, these scopes are definitely worth a closer look.

7 Best crossbow scopes for hunting under $100

1.BSA RD30 Red Dot Sight

best crossbow scopes for hunting under $100

The BSA RD30 Red Dot Sight is an affordable and efficient optic designed for hunters, sport shooters, and tactical users who need rapid target acquisition without the bulk or complexity of magnified scopes. This sight is particularly well-suited for crossbows, rimfire rifles, and even shotguns, delivering consistent performance in a lightweight, easy-to-mount package.

One of the standout features of the BSA RD30 is its 5 MOA red dot, which provides a crisp and highly visible aiming point for quick shots at close to medium range. The sight features an 11-position rheostat that allows users to easily adjust the dot brightness for varying light conditions, whether you’re shooting under a bright midday sun or during low-light morning hunts. It’s powered by a standard 3-volt lithium battery, which comes included, so you can start using it right out of the box.

The construction is designed with simplicity and efficiency in mind. It comes with mounts compatible with both 3/8” and 5/8” rails, making it highly versatile for different platforms. The adjustment graduation of 1/2 MOA per click allows for precise windage and elevation tuning, and the sight offers a 45 MOA adjustment range to accommodate a variety of shooting distances. Additionally, the parallax setting is optimized at 50 yards, ensuring better accuracy without distortion at typical hunting ranges.

With a field of view of 68 feet at 100 yards, the BSA RD30 ensures a wide sight picture, which is especially helpful for fast-moving targets. Its lightweight profile and simple red illumination make it a great choice for hunters who want a no-fuss optic that performs reliably in the field.

Specifications

  • Dot Size: 5 MOA
  • Brightness Levels: 11-position rheostat
  • Adjustment Graduation (MOA): 1/2
  • W/E Adjustment Range (MOA): 45
  • Field of View at 100 ft: 68 ft
  • Parallax Setting: 50 yards
  • Illuminated Color: Red
  • Mount Type: 3/8” and 5/8” dovetail/Weaver rails
  • Battery Type: 3V Lithium (included)
  • Warranty: One-year limited

Key Features

  • 5 MOA red dot for quick target acquisition
  • 11-position rheostat for adjustable brightness
  • Compatible with 3/8” and 5/8” mount rails
  • 1/2 MOA adjustment graduation for precision zeroing
  • Wide field of view (68 feet @ 100 yards)
  • 50-yard parallax setting
  • Runs on a standard 3V lithium battery (included)
  • One-year limited warranty

Pros

  • Easy-to-use red dot with adjustable brightness
  • Compatible with a wide range of mounts
  • Lightweight and compact design
  • Excellent value for the price
  • Fast target acquisition and wide field of view
  • Battery included for immediate use

Cons

  • Not ideal for long-range shooting

 

2.Barnett 4×32mm Multi-Reticle Scope

best crossbow scopes for hunting under $100

Specifications

  • Magnification:
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 32mm
  • Reticle Type: Multi-reticle (crosshair system)
  • Optics: Fully coated for brightness and clarity
  • Compatibility: Barnett Whitetail Hunter 400XTR and similar models
  • Mount Type: Compatible with standard crossbow scope rails
  • Package Includes: Scope (as part of Barnett 400XTR kit), Headhunter 22″ arrows (2), Rope Cocking Device, Lightweight Side-Mount Quiver, Lubrication Wax
  • Crossbow Speed (Compatible): Up to 400 FPS
  • Weight (Total Crossbow Kit): 13 lbs
  • Axle-to-Axle (Cocked): 10 inches

 

When precision matters most in your hunt, the Barnett 4×32mm Multi-Reticle Scope delivers the clarity and reliability hunters expect from a premium crossbow optic. Designed specifically to complement the high-performance Barnett Whitetail Hunter 400XTR, this scope stands out for its user-friendly design, versatile reticle system, and durable construction. Whether you’re tracking whitetail deer through dense brush or lining up a shot at dusk, this scope helps ensure you hit your mark.

What makes the Barnett 4×32mm Multi-Reticle Scope exceptional is its built-in multi-reticle crosshair system, which allows for quick range compensation across various distances. With fixed 4x magnification, it offers a clear and steady sight picture without overcomplicating the view, making it ideal for mid-range targeting. The fully coated optics enhance light transmission, providing bright and crisp visuals—even during low-light conditions common in early morning or late evening hunts.

Additionally, the scope is designed for toughness. It’s rugged enough to withstand the vibration and shock from repeated shots on a crossbow firing at 400 feet per second, like the Barnett Whitetail Hunter 400XTR. Plus, the reticle remains stable and consistent, which is vital when you’re relying on quick, confident follow-up shots. The scope is also weather-resistant, ensuring dependable performance in varying field conditions.

Bundled with Barnett’s trusted accessory kits, including two Headhunter 22” arrows, a rope cocking device, side-mount quiver, and lubrication wax, this scope plays a key role in providing a complete, out-of-the-box hunting solution. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a newcomer to crossbows, this optic makes aiming more intuitive and shooting more accurate.

Key Features

  • 4× magnification provides a crisp, stable view at mid-range distances
  • Multi-reticle crosshair system for quick, easy distance compensation
  • Fully coated optics improve light transmission for better low-light visibility
  • Shockproof and weather-resistant for dependable field use
  • Designed specifically for high-speed crossbows like the Barnett 400XTR
  • Integrates easily with Barnett’s crossbow packages for plug-and-play use

Pros

  • Excellent value as part of a complete hunting package
  • Reliable multi-reticle for accurate range compensation
  • Bright, clear optics with wide field of view
  • Durable and shockproof—holds zero with high-speed crossbows
  • Easy to use for hunters of all skill levels
  • Trusted Barnett build quality

Cons

  • Fixed 4× magnification—not ideal for very short or long ranges

 

3.TRUGLO 4×32 Compact Crossbow Scope

best crossbow scopes for hunting under $100

Specifications

  • Magnification:
  • Objective Lens: 32mm
  • Eye Relief: 4 inches
  • Tube Material: Aircraft-grade aluminum
  • Finish: Matte black, scratch-resistant
  • Reticle: BDC (bolt drop-compensating) / range finder
  • Lens Coating: Fully coated
  • Fogproof: Yes (nitrogen-filled)
  • Water-Resistant: Yes
  • Shock-Resistant: Yes
  • Mounting Rings: Weaver-style included

 

The TRUGLO 4×32 Compact Crossbow Scope is a precision-engineered optic built to deliver superior performance and rugged reliability in the field. Whether you’re hunting whitetails at dawn or tracking game in unpredictable conditions, this scope provides the clarity, accuracy, and durability serious hunters demand. With its compact size, fully coated lenses, and bolt drop-compensating reticle, it enhances every shot without weighing you down.

Built from a one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube, this scope offers maximum durability with minimal weight. The matte black, non-reflective finish provides excellent concealment, making it ideal for stealthy crossbow hunters. Its scratch-resistant surface helps it endure rough terrain, brush contact, and long-term use, ensuring the scope remains dependable season after season.

Performance-wise, the TRUGLO 4×32 really shines. It features a range finder/BDC reticle specifically designed to account for bolt drop, allowing you to shoot accurately at varying distances without second-guessing. Thanks to its durable leaf-spring fingertip adjustments, tuning windage and elevation is both quick and precise—even in the field. For added protection and convenience, elastic lens caps come included in the box.

Visibility is another area where this scope excels. With fully-coated lenses, it delivers maximum light transmission, contrast, and image clarity. The nitrogen gas filling makes it fog-proof, so you’ll maintain a clear view in damp or chilly weather. Furthermore, water-resistant and shock-resistant properties make it reliable in tough environmental conditions. TRUGLO also includes Weaver-style scope rings, ensuring an easy and secure mounting process.

TRUGLO 4×32 Compact Crossbow Scope

Key Features

  • One-piece aircraft-grade aluminum construction
  • Durable, matte scratch-resistant finish for concealment
  • 4x fixed magnification with 32mm objective lens
  • Range-finding/bolt drop-compensating (BDC) reticle
  • Fully-coated lenses for enhanced brightness and clarity
  • 4-inch generous eye relief for comfortable shooting
  • Fog-proof, water-resistant, and shock-resistant
  • Includes elastic lens caps and Weaver-style scope rings

Pros

  • Rugged and lightweight aluminum construction
  • BDC reticle helps with long-range accuracy
  • Clear optics with high light transmission
  • Generous eye relief enhances comfort and safety
  • Fog-proof and weather-resistant for all-season use
  • Comes with scope rings and lens caps

Cons

  • No illumination for low-light reticle visibility

 

4.CVLIFE 1.5–5×32 Illuminated Scope

CVLIFE 1.5–5×32 Illuminated Scope

Specifications

  • Magnification: 1.5–5×
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
  • Eye Relief: 4.3″–4.9″
  • Lens Coating: Fully multi-layer anti-reflective (green)
  • Tube Material: One-piece aircraft-grade aluminum
  • Shock Resistance: Up to 1000G
  • Illumination: Red and Green (adjustable brightness)
  • Reticle: Ballistic rangefinder (with holdover from 20–100 yards)
  • Waterproof/Fogproof: Yes
  • Included Accessories: Lens caps, scope rings, CR2032 batteries (2), lens cloth, wrench, manual

 

If you’re looking for a durable, accurate, and versatile optic for your crossbow without stretching your budget, the CVLIFE 1.5–5×32 Illuminated Scope is an excellent contender. Built to withstand rugged field conditions while offering impressive optical clarity and illumination, this scope is perfect for hunters who demand precision and performance in low-light and varied weather conditions.

At the heart of its design is a high-strength aircraft-grade aluminum tube crafted as a single piece. This robust construction offers up to 1000G shock resistance, meaning it can handle the intense vibrations and recoil generated by powerful crossbows. Whether you’re trekking through rainy woods or dealing with freezing temperatures, the scope’s sealed O-rings and nitrogen purging ensure waterproof and fogproof performance, making it reliable in virtually any environment.

One of the most notable features is the high-definition etched green lens with fully multi-layer, anti-reflective coatings. This design achieves up to 93% light transmission, resulting in crisp, bright views and excellent contrast. Combined with an eye relief range of 4.3″–4.9″, it ensures a safe and comfortable shooting experience, especially for fast, high-power crossbows.

Another standout is the illuminated ballistic rangefinder reticle, which comes with red and green illumination settings. This reticle supports precise zeroing at 50 yards, with holdover points ranging from 20 to 100 yards—ideal for hunting situations that require quick adjustments across different distances. Whether it’s early morning or dusk, the illuminated reticle offers superior visibility for confident aiming.

The scope comes fully loaded with accessories: flip-up lens caps, mounting rings, CR2032 batteries, a lens cloth, a wrench, and an instruction manual. This comprehensive package ensures that you’re ready to mount and hunt right out of the box.

CVLIFE 1.5–5×32 Illuminated Scope

Key Features

  • 1.5–5× variable magnification for close to mid-range shooting versatility
  • Etched green fully multi-coated lens with 93% light transmission
  • Illuminated ballistic reticle with red and green settings
  • Shock-resistant up to 1000G for crossbow compatibility
  • Waterproof and fogproof with sealed O-rings and nitrogen purge
  • Includes mounting rings, flip-up caps, batteries, and cleaning kit

Pros

  • Wide magnification range suitable for variable-distance hunting
  • Excellent light transmission for clear, bright visuals
  • Illuminated reticle enhances low-light targeting
  • Strong shock resistance ideal for high-power crossbows
  • Includes all necessary accessories for installation and maintenance
  • Long eye relief protects against scope eye injury

Cons

  • Slightly heavier than some compact scopes due to robust construction

 

5.Hammers 4×32 Compact Illuminated Scope

Hammers 4×32 Compact Illuminated Scope

Specifications

  • Magnification:
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
  • Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
  • Reticle: Six cross-line with red and green illumination
  • Mounting: Weaver-style rings included
  • Design: Compact and lightweight

 

The Hammers 4×32 Compact Illuminated Scope is a solid, budget-friendly choice for hunters who need reliable optics tailored for crossbow use. With a straightforward design, clear 4x magnification, and illuminated reticle, this scope balances simplicity with functionality, giving hunters the edge when taking mid-range shots in varying light conditions.

What stands out immediately is its compact build and durable construction, making it ideal for hunters who want to keep their crossbow setup lightweight and maneuverable. Despite its small size, it delivers consistent optical performance with 4x fixed magnification, perfect for engaging targets at typical crossbow hunting ranges. The 3.5-inch eye relief is comfortable and safe, especially when handling high-powered crossbows.

The reticle features six cross lines, giving you multiple aiming points for better accuracy at different distances. This feature is a big plus when accounting for bolt drop during longer shots. For low-light hunting, the scope includes dual-color illumination in red and green, making it easy to acquire your target during dawn or dusk.

The Hammers 4×32 scope also includes Weaver-style mounting rings, allowing for quick installation on most crossbows without the need for additional accessories. It’s designed with practicality in mind, giving you the tools you need without unnecessary complexity or bulk.

best crossbow scopes for hunting under $100

Key Features

  • Compact 4x magnification for crossbow use
  • Six cross-line reticle for better range estimation and holdover points
  • Dual-color illumination (red and green) for low-light visibility
  • Comfortable 3.5-inch eye relief
  • Includes Weaver-style scope rings for easy mounting

Pros

  • Clear optics ideal for short to mid-range targeting
  • Illuminated reticle improves visibility in poor lighting
  • Multiple aiming points make adjusting for range easier
  • Comes with mounting rings—ready to install out of the box
  • Compact and lightweight for better crossbow balance

Cons

  • Not waterproof or fogproof rated

 

6.CVLIFE 3–9×32 Illuminated Tactical Scope

CVLIFE 3–9×32 Illuminated Tactical Scope

Specifications

  • Magnification: 3x – 9x
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
  • Eye Relief: 3.9 inches
  • Field of View: 38–13 ft @ 100 yards
  • Parallax Adjustment: Adjustable Objective
  • Click Value: 1/4″ @ 100 yards
  • Mount Type: 11mm Dovetail
  • Lens Coating: Fully Multi-Coated
  • Reticle: Precision Crosshair with Illumination
  • Illumination Colors: Red and Green

 

If you’re looking for an affordable, versatile, and reliable optic, the CVLIFE 3–9×32 Illuminated Tactical Scope is an excellent choice. Designed for medium-range shooting, this scope blends clarity, precision, and user-friendly features, making it a smart option for both beginners and experienced shooters. Whether you’re at the range or in the field, it offers consistent performance with dependable results.

To start, the adjustable objective lens allows for fast parallax corrections. This ensures sharp and focused images at different ranges, which is crucial for accurate shooting. Furthermore, the 3x to 9x magnification range offers flexibility for various distances, while the 32mm objective lens strikes a balance between field of view and light-gathering capability.

In addition, the fully multi-coated optics provide up to 95% light transmission, which significantly improves image clarity in both bright daylight and low-light situations. As a result, you’ll be able to aim with confidence even during dawn or dusk hunts. The precision crosshair reticle, combined with an adjustable diopter, enhances your ability to acquire and track targets quickly.

Moreover, the scope features upgraded windage and elevation turrets that deliver smooth and accurate 1/4 MOA click adjustments. These improvements not only enhance precision but also make sighting-in much easier. Thanks to the included 11mm dovetail mounts, installation is straightforward for rifles equipped with compatible rails.

CVLIFE 3–9×32 Illuminated Tactical Scope

Key Features

  • Adjustable objective lens for parallax correction
  • 3–9x variable magnification for mid-range versatility
  • Fully multi-coated lenses for enhanced brightness and clarity
  • Precision crosshair reticle with adjustable diopter
  • Upgraded turrets with 1/4 MOA click value for precise adjustments
  • Includes sturdy 11mm dovetail scope mounts

Pros

  • Excellent value for a feature-rich scope
  • Clear, bright visuals in various lighting conditions
  • Smooth and precise turret adjustments
  • Quick and accurate target acquisition
  • Easy to mount with included dovetail rings

Cons

  • Lacks advanced weatherproofing features

 

7.MA3TY 5-RGB Reticle 4×32 Scope

MA3TY 5-RGB Reticle 4×32 Scope

Specifications

  • Magnification: 1.5x – 5x
  • Objective Lens: 32 mm
  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm
  • Eye Relief: 4.3”–4.9”
  • Field of View: 6 degrees
  • Click Value: 1/2 MOA
  • Parallax Setting: Parallax-free
  • Light Transmission: Up to 93%
  • Reticle Illumination: Red & Green
  • Shock Resistance: 1000G
  • Waterproof Rating: 19.7 inches
  • Warranty: 1 Year

 

The MA3TY 5-RGB Reticle 4×32 Scope is a professional-grade optic that combines durability, brightness, and accuracy—all at a wallet-friendly price. Whether you’re an experienced crossbow hunter or a newcomer to the sport, this scope offers a dependable performance in the field.

To begin with, the 1.5–5x magnification range gives you the flexibility to shoot accurately at various distances, up to 100 yards. Additionally, the 32mm objective lens paired with multi-layer coated optics ensures up to 93% light transmission. As a result, you’ll experience a brighter and clearer image in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk.

Moreover, the ballistic reticle features both red and green illumination, which is ideal for adjusting to different lighting environments. This feature allows for quick target acquisition, even in shaded or densely wooded areas. On top of that, the parallax-free design and 6-degree field of view help track moving targets more smoothly.

In terms of build quality, the MA3TY scope excels. Thanks to the 30mm mono-tube aluminum construction, it delivers shock resistance up to 1000G and remains waterproof to a depth of 19.7 inches. Therefore, it’s well-equipped to handle tough weather and rough terrain. Furthermore, the 1/2 MOA click adjustments offer easy windage and elevation tuning, providing fine control without the need for tools.

Included in the package are everything you need to get started: the scope, mounting rings, flip-up lens caps, two CR2032 batteries, a cleaning cloth, a wrench, and a manual. This makes it a complete setup right out of the box.

MA3TY 5-RGB Reticle 4×32 Scope

Key Features

  • Variable magnification from 1.5x to 5x, ideal for 20–100 yard targets
  • Red/Green illuminated ballistic reticle for versatile lighting conditions
  • Multi-coated lenses with 93% light transmission for brighter visuals
  • Shockproof (up to 1000G) and waterproof (up to 19.7″) for rugged use
  • Parallax-free design and 6° field of view for smooth target tracking
  • Durable 30mm mono-tube construction
  • Complete accessory kit included for quick setup

Pros

  • Clear optics and high light transmission
  • Excellent low-light visibility with illuminated reticle
  • Strong and waterproof design for harsh conditions
  • User-friendly controls and long eye relief
  • Complete mounting and maintenance kit included

Cons

  • Slightly heavier than some ultra-compact models

Next Read: 9 Best 22LR Scopes

FAQs: Best crossbow scopes for hunting under $100

 

1. Are scopes under $100 durable enough for regular hunting use?

Yes, many crossbow scopes under $100 are built with durable, weather-resistant materials. Look for models that are fog-proof, waterproof, and shock-resistant to ensure long-lasting performance in different hunting environments.

2. Do budget crossbow scopes have illuminated reticles?

Absolutely. Several scopes in this price range offer illuminated reticles in red or green, which enhance visibility in low-light conditions. This feature is especially useful during dawn or dusk hunts.

3. Will these scopes hold zero after repeated shots?

Most of the best crossbow scopes for hunting under $100 are designed to hold zero well, especially when properly mounted. Reviews and ratings on Amazon can help you identify which models are most reliable in maintaining accuracy over time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding a reliable and accurate scope doesn’t have to cost a fortune. The best crossbow scopes for hunting under $100 prove that budget-friendly options can still deliver excellent performance, durability, and precision in the field.

Whether you’re a novice hunter or a seasoned pro looking for an affordable backup, these scopes offer the essential features you need—such as illuminated reticles, solid construction, and multi-range targeting—without compromising on quality.

With so many great choices available, selecting the right optic comes down to matching your hunting style and environment with the scope’s capabilities. By choosing from the best crossbow scopes for hunting under $100, you can enhance your shooting accuracy and confidence while keeping your spending in check. These scopes are a smart investment for any hunter who values performance and affordability in one compact package.