The Best 7 Night Vision Scope Attachments In 2022

Every hunter and shooting enthusiast should have one essential tool in their arsenal: a night vision scope attachment. It helps in keeping predators such as coyotes and other night creatures at bay. We highly recommend ATN’s X-Sight 4K Pro Smart for this purpose. This model offers you the flexibility of using it both during the day and after dark. Besides, it comes loaded with useful features at an affordable price.

After a careful review of over fifty different clip-on night vision scope attachments, we present the top 7 well-curated and handpicked models for your consideration.

Find the right Night Vision Scope Attachment for You

1. ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart

ATN is, no doubt, a leading brand when it comes to the manufacturing of thermal imaging devices. Its X-Sight 4K Pro Smart is a notable example of the company’s top-notch night vision devices.

But the X-Sight 4K Pro Smart is not limited to nighttime use only. Instead, it is a night vision scope attachment with one of the best battery life available. This allows you to use the device nonstop for more than 18 hours.

Even novice users will find this scope easy to operate. This is due to its simple, intuitive, and ergonomic design. The day-night scope is capable of producing high definition images, thanks to its 4K M265 sensor. The device also boasts of simultaneous streaming and recording capabilities.

You might want to take a closer look at the X-Sight 4K Pro Smart if you want a night vision scope attachment that offers high quality at an affordable price.

2. Pulsar Helion XP50 Thermal Monocular

Consider the Pulsar Helion XP50 Thermal Monocular imaging scope if you have deep pockets and are willing to splurge on the best night vision monocular scope attachment money can buy.

It features a powerful 50 mm lens with a 2.5x to 20x magnification capability, providing you with excellent thermal image quality. The device is equipped with a 640 x 480 resolution, a high refresh rate of 50Hz, and can detect heat signatures from a distance of 2,000 yards.

As if all that is not enough, the Pulsar Helion XP50 comes with a stadiametric rangefinder reticle that lets you easily determine precise distances with high accuracy. You also get to choose from 8 color modes for highlighting the different temperatures in the targeted area.

The built-in video recording function allows for video and still image capture, and its 8GB internal storage capacity provides enough storage space.

Content can be streamed live or shared on YouTube and other social media platforms.

3. Firefield 5 x 50 Nightfall Night Vision Monocular

Many scope attachments for night vision products are usually expensive. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get a good-quality model without breaking the bank. The Nightfall Night Vision Monocular device from Firefield is a cheap night vision scope attachment – arguably the most affordable among similar models.

Regardless of its significantly low price, you won’t find flimsy materials or cheap plastics in its construction. It uses infrared light to offer highly distinguishable images of heat signatures in the surroundings after dark, thanks to the multi-coating on the lenses.

It features a 50 mm optical lens with 5 power magnification, providing a 15-degree field view. Even on off-weather days, its weather-resistant design ensures usability in harsh conditions. Its rubberized armor also makes for a durable device.

If you are on the fence about night hunting and you’re trying to test the waters, or if you are on a budget, the Firefield Nightfall Night Vision Monocular might be the perfect choice for you.

4. Sightmark Wraith HD 4-32 x 50 Digital Riflescope

The Sightmark Wraith HD 4-32 x 50 Digital Riflescope offers the clarity and quality of high-end night vision attachment for rifle scopes without the high price. The digital riflescope combines basic night vision technology with silicon chips (like those in digital cameras) to display high-resolution images.

The result is a highly affordable rifle scope with night vision attachment that offers high functionality both after dark and during the day.

It features an image magnification of up to 32x (8x digital and 4x optical), making it an ideal choice for long-distance shots. Even in difficult lighting, the scope provides enough clarity to hit targets accurately at long range. And for more flexibility, the scope comes with a detachable 850nm IR illuminator.

Its built-in camera with a 64GB SD card allows for up to 7 hours of video capture in 1080p High Definition. The scope also comes with 10 reticle options and 9 color modes for improved aiming and accuracy.

5. Night Owl Optics NightShot Digital Night Vision Riflescope

The NightShot Digital Night Vision Riflescope is an incredibly lightweight scope attachment for night vision that offers one of the best close-range shots. With a 3x magnification and a built-in IR illuminator, you can expect to get excellent image quality for shots not exceeding 75 yards, even in total darkness. During full moons, you might even get a good night vision image at 150 yards.

The scope features lots of adjustability options, including focus, elevation, and windage, to further improve the quality of images. It also comes with plenty of IR and brightness settings, plus 6 reticle options, all aimed at making it easy for you to hit your close-range target more accurately.

This model comes with a rubbery eyeshade that prevents possible scope bite and provides comfort for when your head is against the optic. Although Night Owl Optics didn’t include a lot of bells and whistles in this model, it has a decent night performance for its price. Besides, its simple design makes it a great option for beginners.

6. Firefield NVRS 3×42 Gen 1 Night Vision Riflescope

If you are in the market for a rugged night vision scope attachment that offers the best image quality in total darkness, you might want to take a look at the Firefield NVRS 3×42 Gen 1 Night Vision Riflescope.

Its titanium construction makes it a durable clip on night vision scope attachment. This model is built to hold its zero and withstand recoil up to a .308. With the quick weaver mount feature, you can remove and remount the scope at the drop of a hat.

With the NVRS scope, you can see up to 100 yards in open areas when its 805 nm IR is active and up to 30 yards in short-range areas. However, you have the option of adding a long-range IR to your rifle to improve the detection range.

This cheap night vision scope attachment from Firefield has a battery that can work for up to 50 hours without the IR illuminator and up to 20 hours with the IR active.

7. ATN ThOR 4 384 x 288 Thermal Rifle Scope

Many hunters and shooting enthusiasts are familiar with the superior lines of ATN night vision scope attachments, and the 4th generation Thor 4 384 Thermal Rifle Scope is not an exception.

This model comes with a plethora of high tech features for improved performance and user experience. The Thor 4 comes with dual streaming capability, allowing you to record and stream video via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth while simultaneously letting others watch the hunting session in real-time using the ATN Obsidian app.

In addition to the geotagging, smart laser range finder, e-compass, and a host of other functions that can be found in other ATN scopes, the Thor 4 also includes a Recoil Activated Video (RAV) that automatically starts recording when you pull the trigger.

This night vision scope attachment for rifle has a 384 x 288 sensor that provides crystal clear images and offers a detection range of up to 750 yards. The scope is durable and can be used in various weather conditions, thanks to its aluminum alloy construction.

Night Vision Scope Attachment Buying Guide

What to Look for When Buying a Night Vision Scope Attachment

A night vision scope works as a clip-on attachment to other optical devices such as a riflescope. Their primary function is to co-sight with other devices for enhanced visibility, especially for hunting nocturnal predators.

However, not all night vision scopes are created equally. Some of the important buying considerations are clarity, size and weight, and battery life. Your budget will ultimately determine which model you choose. But even if you can afford a high-end option, it makes sense to know what to look out for to avoid spending money on features that are not necessary or relevant to your needs.

Consider finding a middle path between price and performance if you are a beginner hunter or venturing into vision scopes for the first time. You want to feel how a good night vision scope works, but you don’t have to lose an arm and a leg to do that.

The following factors are worth thinking about before investing in any vision scope. You may not find a model that meets absolutely everything listed here since each device targets different users. However, you must choose a device that meets most of the considerations.

Image Clarity

You want to invest in a scope that offers high-quality image resolution from a range of about 100 to 200 yards.

Keep an eye out for models with higher lines per millimeter, as they generally offer clearer images. Night vision scopes with around 55 to 70 lines per millimeter will offer crisp images.

Lens Quality

The lens or glass quality of the device plays a huge role in the scope’s clarity. Polymer or plastic lenses are likely to distort images. It is best to avoid scopes with such lenses.

Range

Typically, a regular rifle scope offers a higher range than a night vision scope. However, the most important thing with a night vision scope is the recognition range. Some models have different ranges for different light conditions such as an overcast sky, starlight, or full moon. Be sure to check the specifications before choosing.

Budget

Night visions are generally more expensive than regular optics. A value-priced scope usually has an entry-level of around $500 or thereabout. High-end options can exceed a few thousand dollars.

Ensure you are clear on how much you are willing to spend before you start shopping for these high-tech devices. Even the smallest difference in branding and quality can cause significant price differences.

Size and Weight

If possible, opt for lightweight scopes. These options allow you to move around easily while you shoot. It is also crucial to choose scopes with a long rail that can fit the optic to avoid hampering your hunting or shooting experience.

Battery Type and Life

It is important to get information about the type of battery for a device before you purchase it. Some military-grade varieties require expensive batteries, and in many cases, they are not rechargeable.

It is equally vital to be sure of the expected battery life before opting for any model. A night vision scope with a proprietary rechargeable battery will usually have extended battery life. This option might be desirable, but it can be expensive to replace when the battery expires.

We recommend choosing rifle scopes with common batteries such as double “A” batteries. Alternatively, consider getting high-quality rechargeable batteries.

Durability

You want to pay particular attention to the construction of a night vision scope attachment. Make sure the scope’s materials are of high quality and come with relevant certifications. Consider choosing a model that is waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof.

Generation

Night vision scope attachments are available in 4 different generations. Most users do not require scopes beyond generation 3. However, it is an excellent idea to choose a model with an image intensifier in the 2+ or 3+ generations if you really want to get the most value for your money.

Although models with plus signs belong to a specific generation, the plus sign indicates that they include parts, features, or functionality of the next generation after them.

IR Illuminator

Some night vision scopes come with built-in IR illuminators while others have provision for attaching one. If you plan on hunting mostly at night, consider getting a scope night vision attachment with an IR feature. Scopes won’t let you see any images in pitch dark conditions without an IR illuminator.

However, keep in mind that these tools have limited ranges. Options with higher power generally mean larger sizes, which may impact your rifle’s overall weight.

Field of View (FOV)

It is a lot easier to spot targets more quickly if you choose a rifle scope attachment with a wider field of view. This is particularly true for night hunting. For satisfactory results, it is best to opt for models that offer a view range of at least 100 yards.

Extras

Other secondary considerations include live streaming, weather sensors, GPS, pairing with other devices, and video recording capability. Although these features can be useful in some cases, they are not must-haves. Your buying decision should not rest completely on these extra functions.

FAQs for Night Vision Scope Attachment

Conclusion

The best night vision scope attachment should check a lot of boxes for your individual need. These devices are particularly handy when it comes to hunting and varmint control. If you are still undecided about which option to pick, we highly recommend the ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart Day & Night Rifle Scope.

Besides meeting most hunters’ requirements, the model fulfills nearly all the considerations for choosing an ideal scope, including having a modest price. Perhaps the most critical feature that distinguishes the X-Sight 4K from the rest is its ability to function efficiently both at night and day.

However, if you want to splurge, consider getting the Pulsar Helion XP50 Thermal Monocular, which arguably is the best night vision scope attachment money can buy.