A low light rifle scope is designed to help you see clearly when lighting is far from ideal. It uses larger lenses, special coatings, and illuminated reticles to capture more ambient light during early morning, late evening, or in thick cover. This gives you a brighter and sharper image when natural light starts to fade.

Why You Need One

Game animals tend to move at dawn and dusk. These are the hardest times to see your target with a standard scope. A good low light scope improves visibility, helping you spot movement, identify targets, and take accurate shots even when shadows are long. Whether you’re hunting deer at sunset or tracking hogs at night, the right optic can give you a clear advantage.

Finding the Best Low Light Rifle Scope Under $500

High-end low light scopes can be expensive, but you don’t need to spend thousands to get solid performance. Modern optics offer impressive light transmission, durable builds, and helpful features like illuminated reticles—all at budget-friendly prices. This guide will help you find the best low light rifle scope under $500 by breaking down top models, their features, and why they perform well in low light conditions. With the right scope, you can extend your shooting hours and never miss a critical opportunity.

7 best low light rifle scope under $500

1.Burris Fullfield II 3-9×40

The Burris Fullfield II 3-9×40 is a top-tier option for hunters who value optical clarity, rugged construction, and affordability.

This scope has built a strong reputation as one of the best low light rifle scopes under $500, offering outstanding performance during dawn, dusk, and low-visibility conditions. With a focus on lasting durability and reliable accuracy, it’s a smart investment for serious shooters who want premium features without breaking their budget.

Key Features

High-Grade Optical Glass:
The Fullfield II is built with premium optical glass, delivering superior brightness and crystal-clear image quality. This allows you to spot your target easily even during low-light periods when lesser scopes struggle.

Large Precision-Ground Lenses:
Unlike many scopes in its class, the Fullfield II features larger precision-ground lenses. These bigger lenses capture more light, improving visibility during critical hunting hours at dawn and dusk.

Index-Matched Hi-Lume Multicoating:
The scope’s lenses are treated with Burris’ advanced Hi-Lume multicoatings, carefully matched to the lens material. This coating boosts light transmission while minimizing glare, giving you a sharper, clearer image under challenging light conditions.

Durable Integrated-Eyepiece Design:
The eyepiece is integrated into the body and designed with a no-slip grip, making magnification adjustments smooth and easy—even when you’re wearing gloves or operating in wet weather.

Waterproof, Fogproof, and Shockproof Construction:
Filled with nitrogen gas and sealed with reinforced quad seals, the Fullfield II prevents internal fogging and resists water intrusion. It’s also shockproof, ensuring reliable operation in rain, cold, and rugged environments.

Specifications

• Magnification: 3x to 9x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm
• Reticle: Ballistic Plex
• Finish: Matte Black
• Lens Coating: Hi-Lume Multi-coated
• Tube Design: 1-piece
• Seals: Reinforced Quad-Seal Gas System
• Eye Relief: 3.1 to 3.4 inches
• Adjustment Range: 50 MOA
• Weight: Approximately 13 ounces

Pros

• Exceptional low-light visibility with bright and sharp images
• Rugged construction designed to withstand heavy recoil and extreme conditions
• Smooth magnification changes with a textured, easy-grip eyepiece
• Positive and repeatable turret adjustments for consistent accuracy
• Excellent value for a scope under $500

Cons

• Slightly heavier compared to some compact hunting scopes

 

2.Monstrum G2 1-6×24 FFP

 

The Monstrum G2 1-6×24 FFP is a high-performance tactical scope that offers a lot of value for a very affordable price. Ideal for close to mid-range shooting, it provides the versatility needed for everything from fast target acquisition to precise shots at distances beyond 300 yards.

Built with functionality in mind, it combines tactical features like a first focal plane reticle and adjustable illumination, making it a strong contender among the best low light rifle scopes under $500. Whether you’re running drills, competing, or hunting, the G2’s rugged construction and thoughtful design allow it to thrive in demanding environments.

In all the included accessories, and this scope becomes an even better deal for shooters looking for reliability, performance, and flexibility without breaking their budget.

Key Features

1-6x Magnification for Versatile Shooting:
The Monstrum G2 offers a magnification range of 1x to 6x, allowing shooters to easily transition between close-quarters encounters and mid-range shots up to 300 yards or more. It’s perfect for both tactical users and hunters who need quick flexibility in the field.

First Focal Plane (FFP) MOA Reticle:
This scope features a functionally designed FFP reticle, meaning the size of the reticle scales with magnification. The ranging and holdover information remains accurate at all zoom levels, making it faster and easier to estimate distances and correct shots on the fly.

Illuminated Reticle with Multiple Brightness Settings:
The G2’s dial-controlled illuminated reticle offers several brightness levels, ensuring that the reticle remains visible even in low light conditions. This makes it an excellent choice for hunting during early mornings or late evenings when lighting is poor.

Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Construction:
Crafted from durable aircraft-grade aluminum, the Monstrum G2 is built to withstand rough use. Its 30mm sealed tube is nitrogen charged, providing robust resistance to water, fog, and recoil — ideal for unpredictable outdoor conditions.

Specifications

• Magnification: 1x to 6x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm
• Reticle: First Focal Plane (MOA)
• Illumination: Multiple brightness levels
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Construction: Aircraft-grade aluminum
• Waterproof, Fogproof, and Shockproof
• Includes: Scope rings, honeycomb sunshade, flip-up lens covers
• Effective Range: 300+ yards
• Weight: Approximately 20 oz

Pros

• Versatile magnification range perfect for close to mid-range shooting
• Accurate and consistent FFP reticle performance across all zoom levels
• Illuminated reticle enhances visibility in low light conditions
• Durable build quality with full weather resistance
• Comes with useful accessories for immediate mounting and protection

Cons

• Heavier than some competing lightweight LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) scopes

 

3.Athlon Talos 3-12×40 Illuminated Reticle

The Athlon Talos 3-12×40 Illuminated Reticle scope is an excellent choice for shooters who want versatility, ruggedness, and low-light performance without stretching their budget.

Designed with a focus on reliability and clarity, it delivers a wide 4x magnification range, making it well-suited for both close-range and long-distance shooting scenarios. The illuminated reticle is a standout feature, ensuring visibility in poor lighting—an essential quality when choosing among the best low light rifle scopes under $500.

Finished in a sleek black matte coating and built tough to endure the elements, the Talos 3-12×40 brings a dependable, no-nonsense option to hunters, competitive shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for serious performance at a highly affordable price.

Key Features

4x Magnification Range (3x to 12x):
The Talos offers a broad magnification range that starts at 3x for quick target acquisition and extends up to 12x for precise long-distance shots. This makes it ideal for hunting, tactical applications, and target shooting where flexibility is key.

Illuminated Reticle for Low Light Conditions:
The illuminated reticle ensures your aiming point remains sharp and visible in low-light environments like early morning, dusk, or shaded woodland areas. It provides critical advantage when ambient light is limited, helping you stay accurate when it matters most.

Black Matte Finish:
The sleek black matte finish not only looks professional but also reduces glare off the body of the scope. This stealthier appearance can be particularly beneficial for hunters needing to remain concealed in the field.

Waterproof, Fogproof, and Shockproof Build:
Constructed with rugged durability in mind, the Talos is fully waterproof and fogproof, ensuring it performs reliably in rain, humidity, or sudden temperature changes. It’s also shockproof, capable of handling heavy recoil and rough handling without losing zero.

Specifications

• Magnification: 3x to 12x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm
• Reticle: Illuminated
• Finish: Black Matte
• Construction: Waterproof, Fogproof, Shockproof
• Magnification Range: 4x (3-12x zoom)
• Tube Size: Standard 1-inch diameter
• Eye Relief: Approximately 3.1–3.4 inches
• Weight: Approximately 18 ounces

Pros

• Wide magnification range suitable for various shooting distances
• Illuminated reticle greatly enhances low light performance
• Durable, weather-resistant construction for outdoor reliability
• Sleek matte finish reduces glare and improves stealth
• Affordable option offering premium features under $500

Cons

• No included mounting accessories like rings or sunshades

 

4.Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-12×40

 

The Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-12×40 rifle scope combines durability, precision, and excellent optical quality to deliver performance that will elevate your shooting experience, whether you’re at the range or in the field.

Built with the tactical shooter in mind, this scope features extra-low dispersion glass and XR fully multi-coated lenses, providing the brightest, clearest views possible across various lighting conditions. The VMR-1 MOA reticle is perfect for extended range shooting, helping you calculate holdovers, windage corrections, and moving target leads with ease.

When looking at the best low light rifle scopes under $500, the Diamondback Tactical stands out thanks to its excellent combination of optical clarity, rugged construction, and tactical usability — making it a top choice for anyone in need of a reliable and precise scope.

Key Features

Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) Glass and XR Fully Multi-Coated Lenses:
The Diamondback Tactical features ED glass that reduces chromatic aberration, providing better contrast and color fidelity. Paired with XR fully multi-coated lenses, this combination maximizes light transmission, giving you crisp, bright views even in low-light conditions—perfect for dawn, dusk, or shaded areas.

Responsive Dialing with Exposed Turrets:
The exposed turrets of the Diamondback Tactical are designed for precise, tactile adjustments, ensuring you can dial in your shots with confidence. The turrets are easy to use and highly responsive, with a zero-reset feature that lets you return to your original zero setting quickly after adjustments. This feature makes it simple to fine-tune your settings on the go.

Rugged, Waterproof, Fogproof, and Shockproof Construction:
Built to withstand the toughest conditions, the Diamondback Tactical is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. Its strong O-ring seals and nitrogen purging ensure it remains fog-free even in challenging environments, while the shockproof construction protects the scope from recoil and rough handling, making it durable enough for any hunting or tactical scenario.

VIP Warranty:
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical comes with Vortex’s unlimited, unconditional lifetime VIP warranty, which covers repairs or replacements if the scope becomes damaged or defective. This guarantee offers peace of mind, ensuring that your investment is protected for life, with the promise of hassle-free service.

Specifications

• Magnification: 4x to 12x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm
• Reticle: VMR-1 MOA
• Lens Coatings: XR fully multi-coated
• Tube Diameter: 1-inch
• Construction: Waterproof, Fogproof, Shockproof
• Adjustment Turrets: Exposed with zero-reset capability
• Eye Relief: 3.7 to 4.0 inches
• Weight: Approximately 16.5 ounces
• Warranty: Vortex VIP Lifetime Warranty

Pros

• Exceptional glass quality with ED glass and fully multi-coated lenses for superior brightness and clarity
• VMR-1 MOA reticle is ideal for extended-range shooting, windage corrections, and holdovers
• Responsive turrets with zero-reset make adjustments simple and accurate
• Rugged build that’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for durability in any weather
• Lifetime VIP Warranty gives peace of mind for long-term use

Cons

• Limited to a 1-inch tube diameter, which may not suit those preferring larger tube scopes

 

5.Sig Sauer Whiskey3 3-9×50

The Sig Sauer Whiskey3 3-9×50 rifle scope is an excellent choice for hunters and recreational shooters alike, providing a combination of optical clarity, rugged construction, and versatility.

Designed specifically for hunting, it is built to perform in a wide range of light conditions and environments. With low-dispersion (LD) glass for superior clarity, a rugged chassis to withstand the harshest conditions, and a weatherproof design, the Whiskey3 3-9×50 is engineered to deliver reliability and precision over long distances.

When looking for the best low light rifle scope under $500, this model from Sig Sauer stands out as a top contender due to its robust build, exceptional optics, and adaptable performance for any hunting or shooting situation.

Key Features

3x Optical Zoom with Low Dispersion (LD) Glass:
The Sig Sauer Whiskey3 3-9×50 is equipped with a 3x optical zoom that offers flexibility in magnification, making it effective for both close and long-range shooting. The inclusion of low-dispersion (LD) glass reduces chromatic aberration, ensuring crisp, clear images and high contrast, even in challenging lighting conditions. This makes it ideal for hunting in early morning or late evening light when clarity is crucial.

European Style Eyepiece with Vivid Sight Picture:
The European style eyepiece provides smooth and precise adjustments for a comfortable viewing experience. Combined with fully multi-coated lenses, the Whiskey3 produces a vivid, sharp sight picture. This results in clear images across the entire field of view, giving you the edge when targeting at various distances.

Rugged, Weatherproof Design:
Built for the outdoors, the Sig Sauer Whiskey3 is designed with rugged durability in mind. It features a waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction, ensuring reliable performance even in the most challenging weather conditions. Whether you’re out hunting in rain, fog, or snow, this scope will remain functional, offering consistent optical clarity and accuracy.

Versatile Magnification Range:
With its 3-9x magnification range, the Whiskey3 3-9×50 is versatile enough for short, medium, and long-range engagements. Whether you’re aiming at a target just a few yards away or a distant target at 200 yards, the zoom range gives you the flexibility you need for various hunting and recreational shooting scenarios.

Specifications

• Magnification: 3x to 9x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
• Reticle: Duplex
• Lens Coating: Fully Multi-Coated
• Construction: Waterproof, Fogproof, Shockproof
• Eye Relief: 4.0 inches
• Tube Diameter: 1-inch
• Weight: Approximately 19.3 ounces
• Warranty: Sig Sauer’s Limited Lifetime Warranty

Pros

• Low dispersion glass for superior clarity and contrast in any light
• 3-9x magnification range for versatility in different shooting scenarios
• Weatherproof construction ensures reliability in all conditions
• European style eyepiece and multi-coated lenses for a vivid sight picture
• Capped turrets for easy, secure adjustments in the field
• Lifetime warranty for peace of mind

Cons

• Larger objective lens (50mm) adds some weight and size, making it slightly bulkier

 

6.Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×50

 

The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×50 riflescope stands out as a perfect blend of rugged precision and reliable performance. Designed for hunters and shooters who demand top-tier quality at an affordable price, this scope delivers exceptional optical clarity, impressive durability, and innovative features.

Whether you’re an experienced professional or a beginner, the VX-Freedom ensures an elevated shooting experience. If you’re seeking the best low light rifle scope under $500, this Leupold model certainly deserves your attention, offering cutting-edge features without exceeding your budget.

Key Features

CDS-ZL2 (ZeroLock 2) Elevation Adjustment

First, the CDS-ZL2 system is a game-changer in precision shooting. The ZeroLock 2 dial provides two full revolutions of elevation adjustment, allowing for precise accuracy at extended ranges. Moreover, the ZeroLock system ensures that accidental adjustments are a thing of the past, thanks to its push-button mechanism. This feature guarantees that your settings remain intact throughout your hunt or target session, making it a reliable option for consistent performance.

Leupold’s Custom Dial System (CDS)

In addition to the ZeroLock, the Custom Dial System (CDS) is another standout feature of the VX-Freedom. This system allows you to order a laser-marked bullet-drop dial, personalized to match your rifle’s ballistics and shooting conditions. As a result, the CDS ensures that you’re always prepared, whether you’re shooting at 100 yards or engaging targets at 500 yards. With this level of customization, you can shoot with confidence, knowing your adjustments are perfectly tailored to your needs.

Guard-ion Hydrophobic Lens Coating

Leupold’s Guard-ion hydrophobic lens coating is another reason why the VX-Freedom excels in various weather conditions. This coating repels water, dirt, and fingerprints, ensuring that your lens stays clean and clear. Consequently, no matter how challenging the environment may be—whether rain, snow, or mud—your view remains crisp, allowing you to maintain focus on your target. This feature is particularly useful for hunters who face unpredictable weather conditions.

High-Definition Lenses for Exceptional Clarity

The high-definition lenses in the VX-Freedom provide exceptional clarity across all magnifications. Whether you’re aiming at a close-range target or spotting game from a distance, the lenses ensure bright, sharp, and distortion-free images. Notably, these lenses perform exceptionally well in low-light conditions, making the scope ideal for early morning or dusk hunts. As a result, you can confidently engage your target even when light levels are challenging.

Made in the USA, Built for Durability

Additionally, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×50 is engineered to endure the toughest conditions. It is 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring that it can handle everything from torrential rain to heavy recoil. With this rugged build, the scope can withstand the harshest environments, making it a reliable companion for hunters who need a scope that can endure the rigors of outdoor use.

Specifications

• Magnification: 3x to 9x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
• Reticle: Wind-Plex
• Lens Coating: Guard-ion hydrophobic coating, High-definition lenses
• Tube Diameter: 1-inch
• Elevation Dial: CDS-ZL2 (ZeroLock 2)
• Parallax Adjustment: Side Focus
• Weight: Approximately 12 ounces
• Waterproof/Fogproof/Shockproof: Yes
• Warranty: Leupold Lifetime Guarantee

Pros

• Custom Dial System (CDS) enables precise, personalized ballistic adjustments
• Guard-ion lens coating protects against water, dirt, and moisture for clearer vision
• High-definition lenses provide bright, sharp, and clear images at all magnifications
• Side focus parallax adjustment allows for effortless focusing from any position
• ZeroLock 2 system prevents accidental dial adjustments, ensuring accurate settings
• Rugged, waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction ensures reliable performance in all weather conditions
• Made in the USA with a lifetime guarantee and legendary customer care

Cons

• The 50mm objective lens may add weight, making the scope bulkier for certain rifle setups

 

7.Vortex Crossfire II 3-12×56 AO Hog Hunter

The Vortex Crossfire II 3-12×56 AO Hog Hunter riflescope is a specialized tool designed for hunters who target hogs, particularly in low-light conditions.

With its combination of impressive magnification, precision optics, and rugged durability, this scope is engineered to ensure every shot counts. If you’re looking for the best low light rifle scope under $500, this Vortex model offers all the necessary features without the high price tag.

Whether you’re hunting at dawn, dusk, or in challenging lighting, the Vortex Crossfire II delivers exceptional performance that won’t let you down. Let’s take a closer look at why this riflescope stands out.

Key Features

 

Adjustable Objective (AO) for Precise Parallax Control

First and foremost, the adjustable objective (AO) is one of the Crossfire II’s most standout features. This allows you to adjust the focus of your reticle to match the distance of your target, which eliminates parallax errors. Whether you’re tracking fast-moving targets like hogs or taking shots at varying distances, the AO feature ensures you’re ready for anything. In addition, this feature enhances the precision of your shots, providing you with greater accuracy and confidence during your hunt.

56mm Objective Lens for Excellent Light Gathering

Another key feature is the 56mm objective lens. This large lens size allows for superior light gathering, ensuring that the scope remains bright and clear even in low-light conditions. As hogs are typically active during the early morning or late evening, the ability to gather more light ensures that you never miss your shot during crucial hunting moments. Additionally, the enhanced light transmission makes this scope ideal for those who often hunt in the dim light of dawn or dusk.

Versatile 3-12x Magnification Range

The 3-12x magnification range is incredibly versatile, giving hunters the ability to adjust for a wide range of distances. Whether you’re setting up for a close-range shot or taking a shot at a distant target, this scope has you covered. Moreover, the ability to quickly adjust magnification ensures you can react quickly and accurately in dynamic hunting situations. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for both medium and long-range hunting.

Durable Aluminum Construction

Durability is another highlight of the Vortex Crossfire II. Built with aluminum, the scope is both lightweight and sturdy. At just 21.1 ounces, it’s light enough to not add unnecessary weight to your rifle while still offering the durability you need for tough hunting conditions. Notably, this construction ensures that the scope can handle the recoil and impacts that come with hunting, maintaining its accuracy and functionality regardless of the conditions.

Fully Multi-Coated Lenses for Clear, Bright Images

The fully multi-coated lenses are designed to maximize light transmission, ensuring a bright and clear image throughout the magnification range. These coatings also reduce glare, enhance contrast, and eliminate distortion. Thus, whether you’re hunting at dawn or during midday, the image clarity remains sharp. This feature makes the Vortex Crossfire II a top contender for hunters who demand high-quality optics during their hunting trips.

Capped Turrets for Precision Adjustments

The capped turrets provide a practical solution to the common issue of accidental adjustments. These turrets are protected by caps that prevent any unwanted changes to the windage or elevation settings while in the field. Thanks to these protective caps, you can make precise, repeatable adjustments when needed, giving you confidence that your settings remain locked in during your hunt.

Specifications

• Brand: Vortex
• Color: Black
• Style: Reticle
• Sport: Hunting
• Item Weight: 21.1 ounces
• Material: Aluminum
• Magnification: 3x to 12x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
• Parallax Adjustment: Adjustable Objective (AO)
• Tube Diameter: 1-inch
• Reticle: V-Brite
• Waterproof/Fogproof/Shockproof: Yes
• Warranty: Vortex VIP Warranty

Pros

• Large 56mm objective lens ensures excellent light gathering, ideal for low-light conditions
• Adjustable objective (AO) allows for precise parallax control and enhanced accuracy
• Versatile 3-12x magnification range accommodates both close and long-range hunting needs
• Fully multi-coated lenses reduce glare and ensure clear, bright images throughout the magnification range
• Capped turrets prevent accidental adjustments, offering precise, repeatable adjustments
• Durable aluminum construction provides strength without excessive weight
• Vortex VIP Warranty offers lifetime support and coverage, providing peace of mind

Cons

• The larger 56mm objective lens may add some bulk, which could be less ideal for compact rifle setups

Next Read: 8 Best spotting scope under 500 for long range shooting

FAQs: Best low light rifle scope under $500

 

1. Which rifle scope offers the best performance in low-light conditions under $500?

Customers often seek scopes that provide superior clarity and brightness during dawn or dusk hunts. Scopes like the Vortex Crossfire II 3-12×56 AO and Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×50 are frequently highlighted for their excellent light transmission and clarity in low-light environments.

2. Are illuminated reticles necessary for low-light hunting?

Many hunters inquire about the importance of illuminated reticles for enhancing visibility in dim conditions. While some scopes come with illuminated reticles, others like the Vortex Crossfire II 3-12×56 AO rely on large objective lenses and fully multi-coated optics to provide bright images without illumination.

3. What magnification range is suitable for both close and long-range hunting under low-light conditions?

Hunters often look for scopes with versatile magnification ranges that can adapt to various hunting scenarios. Scopes such as the Vortex Crossfire II 3-12×56 AO offer a 3-12x magnification range, providing flexibility for both close and long-range shots, making them ideal for diverse hunting situations.

 conclusion

In conclusion, the best low light rifle scope under $500 offer an exceptional balance of performance, durability, and affordability for hunters and shooters who need reliable optics in challenging lighting conditions. Whether you’re hunting at dawn, dusk, or in heavily wooded areas, these scopes ensure you maintain accuracy and clarity when it matters most. Models like the Vortex Crossfire II 3-12×56 AO, Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×50, and Burris Fullfield II 3-9×40 demonstrate how cutting-edge technology—such as high-quality lens coatings, adjustable objectives, and reliable reticles—can enhance your shooting experience without breaking the bank.

By investing in one of these scopes, you equip yourself with tools designed to perform in the harshest environments, all while remaining within a reasonable budget. Whether you prioritize light transmission, magnification flexibility, or rugged construction, there’s a low light rifle scope under $500 tailored to meet your needs. So, when you’re ready for your next hunt, you can trust that these scopes will provide you with the edge you need to make every shot count, no matter the time of day or conditions you face.