10 Best Illuminated Reticles 2025 in the United States

The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18x44 AO riflescope is a versatile hunting scope with an illuminated reticle designed to aid in low-light conditions. Its V-Brite illuminated center dot stands out clearly with a single color option, while adjustable brightness settings allow customization to different environments. The battery-powered illumination is efficient, and the reticle design emphasizes simplicity for quick target acquisition without clutter.

Featuring a 6-18x magnification range and a 44mm objective lens, this scope delivers bright and clear images enhanced by fully multi-coated lenses and an adjustable objective for parallax correction. Built from aircraft-grade aluminum, it is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring durability in harsh weather and rough use. The long eye relief and forgiving eye box facilitate a fast sight picture, suitable for both beginners and experienced shooters, while capped turrets with resettable MOA clicks offer precise adjustments.

The illuminated reticle is located on the second focal plane, so its size does not scale with magnification, which may affect holdover accuracy at varying zoom levels. Night vision compatibility is not included. Backed by a lifetime warranty, this riflescope provides solid value for hunters seeking a rugged, easy-to-use scope with reliable illumination but without multiple reticle colors or advanced night vision features.

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 Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 is a high-end gun scope designed for hunters and precision shooters who demand exceptional performance over long distances. One of its standout features is the impressive magnification range of 7 to 35x, allowing for precision aiming from short-range to extreme long-range. The F1 first focal plane design means the reticle size adjusts with magnification, aiding accuracy. The MIL-XT reticle is particularly user-friendly, with clear markings for quick reference under pressure, making it ideal for competitive shooting. Durability is another strong point; this scope is built to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring reliability when it matters most.

On the downside, this scope is relatively heavy at 39.3 oz, which could be a concern for users looking for a lightweight setup. Additionally, the complexity of features like parallax adjustments and ZeroStop might overwhelm novice users. Battery life for the illuminated reticle is also an important consideration, as it can affect long-term usability if not monitored. The scope delivers excellent optical clarity and has a robust build, making it a suitable choice for serious enthusiasts and competitive shooters who will find much to appreciate in its advanced capabilities and precision engineering.