10 Best Illuminated Reticles 2025 in the United States

The Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 3-15x44 riflescope is a solid choice for shooters who need versatility from close to long-range shooting. Its illuminated reticle, the EBR-7C, is designed with intuitive hold points that stay clear and uncluttered, making it easy to use in various conditions. The reticle brightness offers 10 intensity levels with off positions in between, which helps you find the right setting for different lighting situations, though it does not offer multiple color options beyond the standard illumination. The scope’s durability is impressive, thanks to aircraft-grade aluminum construction, water and fogproof sealing, and scratch-resistant Armortek lens coatings, so it can handle rough outdoor use well.

The first focal plane design ensures the reticle stays accurate and proportional across all magnifications (3x to 15x), which is great for making precise adjustments. Additional features like laser-etched turrets with a zero stop and fiber optic turret indicators help users quickly dial in settings, which is especially useful for hunters and target shooters who adjust for wind and bullet drop. One drawback is the lack of color reticle options, which some users prefer for different lighting or environmental conditions. Also, while the scope is well-built, it is somewhat bulky and heavier than some competing models, which might matter if you prioritize a lightweight setup.

This riflescope is well-suited for hunters and precision shooters looking for a durable, clear, and adjustable illuminated reticle with excellent optics and reliable performance.

The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-9x50 SFP Riflescope is a solid choice for hunters looking for an illuminated reticle. One of its main strengths is the V-Brite reticle, which illuminates the center dot in low-light conditions, enhancing target visibility. The scope offers a range of brightness settings, allowing you to adjust the illumination based on your environment. The eye relief of 3.8 inches is generous, making it user-friendly for quick target acquisition, and the fast focus eyepiece helps in quickly adjusting the reticle for a clear view.

Durability is another significant advantage; it's made from aircraft-grade aluminum, ensuring it withstands tough conditions. The O-ring sealed design and nitrogen purging provide waterproof and fogproof protection, which is essential for outdoor use. Plus, Vortex backs this product with a lifetime warranty, reflecting their confidence in its long-term performance.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the illuminated reticle is beneficial for low-light situations, it may not be as effective in bright daylight, where the illumination can sometimes wash out. The weight of the scope might also be a concern for some users who prefer lighter setups for extended carry during hunts. Additionally, the lack of night vision capability could be a limitation for those seeking to use the scope in very low light or darkness.

The ZEISS LRP S3 6-36x56 riflescope is a strong choice if you want a versatile and robust scope for long-range shooting or hunting. It offers a daylight visible illuminated reticle with red and green color options and five brightness levels, allowing you to adjust the illumination precisely for different lighting conditions. The illumination focuses only on the center of the reticle, which helps keep your aiming point clear and uncluttered. Made with high-quality metal, the scope boasts a durable 34mm main tube with thick walls, designed to handle rough use and shocks up to 1,500 g-force, so it's built to last even in tough outdoor conditions.

The optical quality is excellent thanks to extra low dispersion glass and special lens coatings that provide bright, clear images with 90% light transmission, which is especially helpful in low light situations. The reticle is first focal plane (FFP), meaning its size adjusts with magnification, keeping range estimations accurate at all zoom levels. One of its standout features is the large total elevation travel of 110 MOA, making it easier to make precise adjustments for shooting at long distances. The external locking windage turret and ballistic stop allow quick and reliable zeroing and wind corrections.

This scope is on the heavier side (over 2 pounds), which might be a consideration if you want a lightweight setup. It does not support night vision compatibility, which could limit use in complete darkness. If you need a rugged, bright, and highly adjustable illuminated reticle scope with excellent optics for serious long-range shooting or hunting, the ZEISS LRP S3 suits this role well.