Are you on the hunt for the best night vision scopes for shotgun? This is the guide for you. In today’s post, we will take you through the best night vision scopes for shotguns. Hunting with a shotgun is enjoyable for users of all ages. Shotguns are simple, and having the right tools makes the hunting expedition rewarding and more enjoyable.
If you use your shotgun to hunt at night, a night vision scope is handy. It will enhance your visuals and help you acquire targets accurately in typical nighttime environments. And with modern technological advancements, you can now find a night vision scope that is more friendly to your wallet.
With all that said, let’s now take a look at the best night vision scopes for shotgun that are available on the market currently.
5 Best Night Vision Scopes for Shotgun
1) ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Edition 5-20x Smart HD Day/Night Rifle Scope
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The X-Sight 4K Pro is arguably one of the best night vision scopes for shotguns available on the market today. This scope will take your hunting to the next big level with its amazing features.
This rifle scope is designed to provide dual day and night functionality. This allows you to hunt at any time of the day or night. Thanks to the high-end 4K 3864 x 2218 sensor, the scope provides crisp and more natural images when night hunting.
It also comes with a recoil-activated video, which makes video recording a snap, and a dual-stream video that streams videos at HD resolution and simultaneously records to the SD card inside.
Furthermore, the scope has a variable 5-20x magnification for hunting games at varying ranges. The ballistic calculator included helps turn your hunting trip into a success, and with the ATN Radar, you can connect with other hunters easily.
Another feature that makes the scope shine is the ruggedized construction. It is built with a hardened aluminum alloy for optimum rigidity and sturdiness. It also has impact-resistant electronics and weather-resistant housing for added durability.
Other noteworthy features include an ultra-low power profile, multiple reticle patterns, and an ABL laser rangefinder. With a wide array of advanced features, you will own the night with the ATN X-Sight 4K Pro 5-20x rifle scope.
Features
- 5-20x magnification
- ATN Obsidian IV dual core
- Recoil activated video
- Smart range finder
- Weather resistant construction
- Smart mil-dot reticle
- Ballistic calculator
- Video record in 1080p
Pros
- Packed with a wide array of highly advanced features
- Incredible battery life
- Easy to use and mount
- Rigid and reliable construction
- Dual day and night functionality
Cons
- Heavy
- Costly for the budget buyers
2) ATN X-Sight 4K Pro 3-14x Smart Ultra HD Day/Night Hunting Rifle Scope
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When it comes to hunting at night, it is hard to go wrong with the ATN X-Sight 4K Pro 3-14x smart scope. It harbors a wide selection of high-tech features which provide crisp and sharp image views even on dark, moonless nights.
Sharpness and well-defined images across all the magnification levels help cement this scope’s name among the best night vision scopes for shotguns. An enhanced night vision mode helps deliver outstanding performance in the dark.
The ultra-HD optics and ATN 4K M265 sensor allow you to find targets easily under any lighting environment. The multiple reticle patterns included enhancing accurate aiming in adverse light settings, and with the IR850 illuminator, you can find targets easily in the dark.
This hunting rifle scope performs exceptionally well day and night for added versatility. It offers full-color image views during the day and black-and-white pictures at night. Construction-wise, the scope has robust aluminum housing that is sturdy enough to weather anything you subject it to. It is also water resistant and operable in temperatures from -40 to 55°C.
For an even greater advantage, the scope has a 3D gyroscope that stabilizes the generated images. This smart rangefinder shows you the distance to the target, and recoil-activated video, which makes video recording seamless.
Features
- Ultra HD optics
- Tactile and ergonomic control buttons
- High-definition 4K sensor
- Recoil activated video
- One Shot Zero function
- Built-in IR850 illuminator
- 3D gyroscope
- Impact resistant electronics
- Weather resistant construction
Pros
- Intuitive and easy-to-operate menu
- Day and night vision
- Robust construction
- Simple to use smooth zoom
Cons
- Can be hard to update the system
3) Pulsar Digital Night Vision Rifle Scope
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Pulsar makes high-quality night vision equipment, and the Digisight LRF N450 Digital Night Vision Rifle Scope is no different. It uses the latest night vision technology to enhance your visuals when hunting at night. It’s one of the best night vision scopes for shotguns hunting hogs, varmints, and other predators.
This scope is made with hunters in mind. You can use it to take down hogs, varmints, and predators at any time of day or night. With the high-end 1280×720 CMOS sensor, you will easily find and identify targets as far as 600 yards.
The Digisight has picture-in-picture digital zoom with both continuous and stepped options. Furthermore, it has a large viewing angle, making it easy to find targets and over 10 reticle options for precision shooting in different environments.
The scope has a sturdy construction which offers better resistance to high-caliber weapons. It has an IPX7 waterproof rating for operability under extreme weather conditions. Above all, the scope comes with an instant start-up and a built-in video recorder with updatable software.
Features
- 5 individual shooting profiles
- Powerful long-range IR illuminator
- Picture-in-picture digital zoom
- IPX7 waterproof rating
- Built-in video recorder with updatable software
- High-end 1280×720 CMOS sensor
- Built-in precision laser range finder
Pros
- Wide angle eyepiece
- Recoil resistant
- Lightweight design
- Numerous reticle patterns
- Long battery life
Cons
- Big budget
- Bulky
4) AGM Global Vision Wolverine-4 4×108 Night Vision Rifle Scope
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The other trailblazing night vision scope for a shotgun is the Wolverine-4 4×108 Night Vision Rifle Scope from AGM Global Vision. This rugged, modern night vision rifle scope delivers excellent performance on darkest and moonless nights. See beyond the expected in nighttime conditions with this extraordinary optic.
Improved ergonomics and matchless shooting accuracy are the highlights that define the Wolverine-4 4×108 rifle scope. Simple control and straightforward windage and elevation adjustments sit well with a shotgun. Undoubtedly it is one of the best night vision scopes for the shogun.
Utilizing a high-end Gen 2+ image intensifier tube, the scope will help you see targets no matter the lighting conditions. Furthermore, the scope has a long-range IR illuminator that helps improve your vision when hunting in extremely dark-light settings.
This riflescope is built to offer unbeatable durability. It has specially coated aircraft alloy housing that offers the ultimate durability while remaining lightweight. It also features shock-protected, all-glass multi-coated optics with outstanding image brightness and an illuminated reticle for easy aiming in the dark.
Features
- 4x fixed magnification
- Matte finish
- Long-range IR illuminator
- Gen 2+ image intensifier tube
- Shock-protected, all-glass multi-coated optics
- Quick release mount
- Robust aircraft alloy housing
Pros
- Easy to mount and detach
- Crisp, clear optics
- Numerous accessories included
- Excellent long-range detection range
Cons
- High cost
5) Night Owl Optics NightShot 3x NV Rifle Scope
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The NightShot 3x NV Rifle Scope is one of the best night vision scopes for shotgun for the money. While this night vision rifle scope is friendly to the wallet, it doesn’t cut corners on quality and durability.
In typical nighttime environments, it offers an effective detection range of 100 yards which is more than sufficient for hunting. The high-resolution 640×480 display generates clear crystal image views, and with the integrated IR illuminator, you will find it easier to spot targets under different light settings.
The scope is made to offer unmatched durability. It boasts robust and dependable housing that is also weatherproof for use in any weather. The AA battery provides approximately 3 hours of continuous runtime when fully charged. The scope also features 3 black and white reticles and a lightweight design that optimizes mobility and ease of use.
Features
- Weaver and Picatinny mounting
- 3 black and white reticles
- 3x fixed magnification
- High-resolution 640×480 display
- 30Hz refresh rate
- Built-in IR illuminator
- Weatherproof construction
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to use
- High-quality housing
- Great scope for the price
- Digital night vision technology
Cons
- Battery life could be better
- Short eye relief
See Also
- 7 Best Vortex Scopes for 223.Vortex 223 Scopes
- 4 Best Scope for 30-06 under $200
- 5 Best Leupold Scopes for Long Range/Distance Hunting, Shooting
Choosing the Best Night Vision Scopes for Shotgun
Night vision rifle scopes are technologically advanced, and in a market flooded with numerous options, you may find yourself unhinged on what to pick. They range in price from affordable to very expensive models.
To put your money to good use, you must know the key considerations when filtering the options. The best night vision shotgun scopes should check almost all the boxes below.
Night Vision Technology
The technology used in night vision scopes falls under four categories.
Scopes that use Gen 1 or Gen 2 night vision technology are more affordable, but the quality of the images they produce is not the best, especially for Gen 1 scopes. The two technologies are the oldest being in the market for decades.
Modern night vision scopes use either Gen 3 or Gen 4 night vision technology. Gen 4 is the latest and most expensive. You will get exceptional image crispness and quality but be prepared to pay thousands of dollars for a single unit.
Durability
Durability is a must-have feature for a night vision scope. These products use delicate optics, which can get destroyed if the scope housing is fragile.
The scope you get should be built to withstand shock, mishandling, and any impacts. For optimal durability, look for a model built of aluminum or any other sturdy, rugged, and shockproof material. Also, select a unit built to perform under adverse weather.
Range
The next thing to consider is the night vision scope’s detection range. For use with a shotgun, a model with 100 and 200 yards of effective detection range in typical nighttime environments will do.
Majorly, the night vision the scope uses plays a huge role in determining its effective detection and recognition range, with Gen 4 and Gen 3 scopes offering the longest detection range.
Battery Life
A night vision scope is as good as its battery life. A shotgun’s best night vision scope should offer at least 8 hours of continuous run time.
This will ensure that you focus more on finding the game to take done other than worrying if the battery will end up being depleted in the middle of your hunt.
Weight
Weight is another factor that you shouldn’t overlook. A light and well-balanced scope will be easier to shoot with and simpler to carry around in the field.
If it is big and bulky, it will be difficult to use, and you might end up experiencing eye strain and fatigue when hunting for an extended period.
Dual Usage
Also, consider if the scope comes with dual, day and night functionality. Modern night vision scopes are now designed to be used at any time of the day or night.
While such scopes are costlier, they are certainly worth the investment. They save you from the hassle of carrying two separate scopes when you propose to stay in the field for an extended period.
Budget
When choosing the best night vision scopes for shotguns, you get what you pay for. Night vision scopes are built with superior optics and other features, making them more expensive than traditional scopes.
However, the cost varies from one unit to the other. The more you pay for a unit, the better it is in terms of quality, versatility, and even practicality. Put your finances to look for a scope that aligns with your budget and individual needs.
See Also
- 7 Best Vortex Scopes for 223.Vortex 223 Scopes
- 4 Best Scope for 30-06 under $200
- 5 Best Leupold Scopes for Long Range/Distance Hunting, Shooting
Best Night Vision Scopes for Shotgun FAQs
1) Are Night Vision Scopes Legal?
Yes. Night vision scopes are legal to buy and use for hunting in virtually all states. Before, the military and law enforcement officers largely used night vision scopes. However, they have become a handy tool for hunters pursuing game even when the sun goes down.
2) Does a Night Vision Scope Work in Total Darkness?
A night vision scope will work in total darkness if it has an IR illuminator. The IR illuminator will create the image you will see on the scope.
3) Why Are Night Vision Scopes Expensive?
Night vision scopes are more expensive than traditional scopes because they use high-end glass, power lenses, and expensive tubes, among other sophisticated materials. The night vision technology incorporated also adds to that cost.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best night vision scope for a shotgun doesn’t have to be an experience that is daunting and time-consuming.
Identify the vital features you require, then find a unit that offers those features. Regardless of the night vision scope you choose, we hope this post has helped point you in the right direction.
See Also