A missed shot at a buck you tracked for three hours will teach you more about optics than any product review ever could. That was me five seasons ago, standing in a treestand at last light, watching a nice 8-pointer walk away because my factory scope could not gather enough light to confirm my aim point. After that evening, I made it my mission to find the best crossbow scopes for hunting that actually deliver in the field when conditions get tough.
The right crossbow scope does more than magnify your target. It compensates for arrow drop, provides clear aiming points at multiple distances, and gives you those critical extra minutes at dawn and dusk when big deer are most active. Most crossbows ship with basic scopes that work fine at 20 yards on a sunny day, but they fall apart when you need them most. Upgrading your optic is one of the single biggest accuracy improvements you can make to your crossbow setup.
Our team spent several months testing, researching, and comparing crossbow scopes across every budget range. We looked at optical clarity, reticle design, illumination quality, FPS compatibility, durability, and real-world field performance. Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly option or a premium rangefinding scope, this guide covers the best crossbow scopes for hunting available right now.
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Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32
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Garmin Xero X1i Auto-Ranging
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Burris Oracle X Rangefinding
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Hawke XB1 1.5-5x32
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UTG 4X32 Crossbow Scope
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Hawke XB30 1.5-6x36
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Hawke XB 3x32
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TRUGLO 4x32mm Compact
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2-7x32 Variable
XBR-2 Crossbow Reticle
30mm Tube
14 oz
I mounted the Vortex Crossfire II on my primary hunting crossbow two seasons ago, and it has been my go-to scope ever since. The first thing I noticed was the optical clarity. At 7x magnification during a late October evening hunt, I could clearly distinguish a doe standing at 45 yards through heavy timber. The fully multi-coated lenses gather light impressively well, giving you those extra few minutes of shooting time when deer are moving but the sun has already dropped behind the ridge.
The XBR-2 reticle is designed specifically for crossbows, and it shows. Vortex built this reticle with holdover points from 20 yards all the way out to 100 yards, with a 40-yard zero. Each aiming point is clearly marked with yardage, so there is no guessing when you need to hold over for a 50 or 60 yard shot on a deer. The reticle is intuitive enough that I had it figured out within my first range session.
Dual illumination gives you both red and green options with multiple brightness levels. I primarily use the green setting during early morning hunts and switch to red during the last 20 minutes of shooting light. The illumination dial is easy to reach and adjust without taking your eye off the target. That said, even the lowest brightness setting can be a bit intense in twilight conditions, which is a common complaint among owners.
The build quality is solid and weather-ready. Vortex uses a 30mm aluminum tube that is O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, so rain and temperature changes will not fog your lens. I have had mine through heavy rainstorms and freezing mornings without a single fogging issue. The scope weighs 14 ounces, which adds noticeable but manageable weight to most crossbow setups.
Vortex includes 30mm rings, flip-open lens covers, and a neoprene scope cover in the box. That is a complete mounting kit, which saves you from buying accessories separately. The turrets adjust cleanly with audible clicks, and once zeroed, the scope holds its zero well through hundreds of shots. The variable 2-7x magnification range is ideal for crossbow hunting, giving you a wide field of view at 2x for close shots and enough magnification at 7x for longer distances.
The speed ring on the magnification adjustment allows you to calibrate the reticle to your crossbow's arrow speed. However, the markings are spaced pretty far apart, which makes fine-tuning to an exact FPS a bit tricky. I ended up doing some trial-and-error at the range to get mine dialed in perfectly. For most crossbows shooting between 300 and 400 FPS, you can find a setting that works.
The Vortex Crossfire II is the best crossbow scope for hunting if you want premium optics, a purpose-built crossbow reticle, and the peace of mind of Vortex's VIP lifetime warranty. It works well for deer hunters who need accurate holdovers from 20 to 80 yards and want a scope that performs in low light. If you shoot a crossbow in the 300-400 FPS range and want a versatile variable power optic, this is your best option.
If your crossbow shoots faster than 450 FPS, the speed ring calibration may not offer fine enough increments for perfect holdover accuracy at longer ranges. Hunters who want built-in rangefinding capability should consider the Burris Oracle X or Garmin Xero X1i instead. And if you are on a tight budget, the UTG 4X32 or Hawke XB 3x32 offer solid performance at a lower price point.
3.5x Fixed Magnification
Auto-Ranging to 250yd
Custom Bolt Profiles
1.9 lb
The Garmin Xero X1i is unlike any other crossbow scope I have used. Garmin brought its GPS and rangefinding expertise into the crossbow world, and the result is a digital scope that automatically ranges your target and places an illuminated aim point exactly where your arrow will land. No guessing holdover, no estimating distance. You press the range button, and the scope does the math for you.
Setting up the X1i takes patience. You need to create a custom bolt profile by entering your arrow weight, speed, and other specs, then calibrate by shooting at known distances. The whole process took me about an hour at the range. Once calibrated, the auto-ranging is remarkably accurate. I tested it against a handheld rangefinder at distances from 20 to 80 yards, and the X1i was within one yard on every reading.
The 3.5x fixed magnification is adequate for most crossbow hunting situations. The illuminated aim point auto-adjusts brightness based on ambient light, which is a nice touch during those transition periods at dawn and dusk. The Target Lock feature gives you confidence that you are ranging the animal and not the tree branch behind it.
Battery life is the main concern here. The scope runs through batteries faster than traditional illuminated scopes, especially if you are ranging frequently. I carry spare batteries in my pack during hunts. Some users have also reported quality control issues, so buying from a retailer with a good return policy is wise given the investment.
The Garmin Xero X1i is ideal for serious crossbow hunters who want the most technologically advanced optic available. If you struggle with estimating distances in the field or want to remove the guesswork from holdover calculations, this scope does both automatically. It is best suited for hunters who can justify the premium price tag for the convenience and accuracy it delivers.
hunters on a budget will find better value in scopes like the Vortex Crossfire II or Hawke XB30 at a fraction of the cost. If you prefer a simple, traditional reticle over digital technology, you will find the Garmin's setup process and battery requirements frustrating. The 3.5x fixed magnification may also feel limiting if you are used to variable power scopes.
2-7x Variable
Built-In Laser Rangefinder
Wireless Remote
1.1 lb
The Burris Oracle X sits in a sweet spot between traditional crossbow scopes and full digital units like the Garmin. It features a built-in laser rangefinder activated by a wireless remote that you mount on your crossbow grip. When you press the remote, the scope ranges your target and illuminates the correct holdover aim point on the reticle. It is fast, intuitive, and works in real-world hunting situations.
I found the wireless remote to be one of the best features on the Oracle X. Instead of reaching up to the scope to press a button, you squeeze the remote mounted near your foregrip. That means less movement when a deer is in range. The ranging speed is quick, typically under two seconds, and the illuminated aim point is clear and easy to see even with aging eyes.
The 2-7x variable magnification gives you the same flexibility as the Vortex Crossfire II. At 2x, you get a wide field of view for timber hunting, and at 7x you can clearly see your target at longer distances. The built-in inclinometer compensates for angled shots, which is useful if you hunt from elevated stands or in hilly terrain. Burris also includes an electronic bubble level to help you avoid canting the bow.
Optical clarity is good, though not quite at the same level as the Vortex Crossfire II in my experience. The lenses are clear enough for most hunting situations, but I noticed slightly more edge distortion at maximum magnification. The scope is water resistant rather than fully waterproof, and several users have reported fogging issues in damp, humid conditions. That is worth considering if you hunt in wet environments.
The Burris Oracle X is the best crossbow scope for hunting if you want built-in rangefinding capability without going full digital like the Garmin. The wireless remote makes it practical for hunting situations where minimal movement is critical. It suits hunters who regularly take shots beyond 30 yards and want exact distance compensation without carrying a separate rangefinder.
If you hunt primarily in wet or extremely humid conditions, the fogging reports are worth noting. Hunters who prefer a simpler, lighter optic without electronic components should look at traditional options like the Hawke XB30 or Vortex Crossfire II. The battery dependency means you need to stay on top of power management during hunting season.
1.5-5x32 Variable
Speed Ring 250-425 FPS
XB1 SR Illuminated
12.96 oz
The Hawke XB1 is one of those scopes that consistently surprises hunters with how good it performs for the price. I mounted this on a backup crossbow last season, and the clarity through those fully multi-coated lenses rivals scopes costing twice as much. Hawke has been building crossbow optics for years, and their experience shows in every detail of the XB1.
The speed-calibrated power ring is the standout feature. You simply dial the magnification ring to match your crossbow's FPS rating between 250 and 425 feet per second, and the reticle aim points automatically align for correct holdover at various distances. No manual calculations needed. I had mine sighted in and shooting accurate groups within 30 minutes at the range, which is faster than most scopes I have set up.
The illuminated reticle offers both red and green settings with multiple brightness levels. The illumination is smooth and does not bloom excessively, which I appreciate during those low-light morning hunts. The fast-focus eyepiece makes it quick to get a sharp reticle image, and the positive click adjustments on the turrets feel precise and repeatable.
At 12.96 ounces, the XB1 is one of the lighter scopes in this lineup. That matters on a crossbow where weight affects handling and shot consistency. The 1-inch mono-tube design is nitrogen purged for waterproof and fogproof performance, and it handles crossbow recoil without losing zero. The main downside is that the included flip-open lens covers can shift your point of impact if left open during shooting, so I recommend removing them before your hunt.
The Hawke XB1 is the best crossbow scope for hunting if you want speed-calibrated accuracy at a mid-range price. It is perfect for hunters with crossbows shooting between 250 and 425 FPS who want a straightforward, reliable optic. The clarity and ease of setup make it a great choice for beginners who are upgrading from a factory scope for the first time.
If your crossbow shoots faster than 425 FPS, you will exceed the speed ring calibration range and need a different option like the Hawke XB30 or Vortex Crossfire II. Hunters who need rangefinding capability should look at the Burris Oracle X. And if you want a fixed power scope that is even simpler, the Hawke XB 3x32 is a solid alternative at a lower price.
4x32 Fixed Power
5-Step RGB Reticle
QD Rings Included
1.6 lb
The UTG 4X32 holds the title as the most reviewed crossbow scope on this list with over 900 reviews, and it earns that attention by delivering more performance than its price tag suggests. This is the scope I recommend to friends who are just getting into crossbow hunting and do not want to spend several hundred dollars on an optic before they know if the sport is for them.
The Pro 5-Step RGB reticle gives you five aiming points calibrated for different distances. Each step corresponds to a specific yardage, making holdover intuitive once you know your crossbow's trajectory. The reticle is available in red, green, or blue illumination, though I found the red setting most useful for hunting situations. Even without illumination turned on, the etched reticle is visible and usable in daylight.
Build quality exceeds expectations at this price. UTG uses their True Strength Platform with a Smart Spherical Structure that handles crossbow recoil without issue. The scope features premium zero lockable and resettable turrets, which is a feature typically found on much more expensive optics. Quick-detach rings are included in the box, so you can mount and remove the scope without losing zero.
The biggest limitation is the fixed 300 FPS calibration. If your crossbow shoots significantly faster or slower than 300 FPS, the reticle aim points will not align perfectly with your arrow trajectory. You can compensate by adjusting your zero distance, but it requires some experimentation. At 1.6 pounds, this is also the heaviest scope on the list, which can affect crossbow balance and handling on lighter bows.
The UTG 4X32 is the best crossbow scope for hunting on a strict budget. It works especially well for hunters with crossbows shooting close to 300 FPS who want a reliable, no-frills optic. Beginners who are upgrading from a basic factory scope will notice an immediate improvement in clarity and accuracy. The included quick-detach rings add extra value to an already affordable package.
If your crossbow shoots significantly above or below 300 FPS, the fixed calibration will frustrate you at longer distances. Hunters who need variable magnification should step up to the Hawke XB1 or Vortex Crossfire II. And if low-light performance is a priority, the fully multi-coated lenses on the Hawke scopes gather more light than the UTG's broadband coated optics.
1.5-6x36 Variable
Speed Calibrated SR Reticle
30mm Tube
15.1 oz
The Hawke XB30 delivers the widest field of view of any scope on this list at 87.9 feet at the lowest magnification. That makes a real difference when you are hunting in thick timber and need to acquire targets quickly at close range. I tested this scope during a turkey hunt where fast target acquisition was critical, and the wide viewing angle gave me a noticeable advantage over narrower optics.
The 14-layer fully multi-coated optics are where the XB30 truly shines. Image clarity and color contrast are outstanding, rivaling scopes that cost significantly more. During dawn and dusk hunts, the light transmission through these lenses kept my target visible when other scopes in my gear bag had already gone dark. The speed calibrated SR reticle covers 250 to 475 FPS, which accommodates most modern crossbows on the market.
Unlike scopes with fixed brightness steps, the XB30 uses a rheostat control for infinite brightness adjustment on its red illuminated reticle. This means you can dial in exactly the right intensity for current lighting conditions without jumping between settings that are too dim or too bright. It is a small detail that makes a big difference during those transition periods at dawn and dusk.
The 30mm mono-tube construction is compact at 9.3 inches long and weighs just 15.1 ounces. It is waterproof, fogproof, and recoil-resistant, handling the abuse of a hunting season without complaint. My only real criticism is the 2-year warranty, which is shorter than the lifetime warranties offered by Vortex and Hawke's own No-Fault warranty on their other models. At this price, I would expect longer coverage.
The Hawke XB30 is the best crossbow scope for hunting if you value wide field of view and premium optical clarity. Turkey hunters and timber deer hunters who need fast target acquisition at close to medium range will benefit most from this optic. The 250-475 FPS speed range makes it compatible with nearly every modern crossbow on the market.
Hunters who prioritize warranty coverage may prefer the Vortex Crossfire II with its unlimited lifetime warranty. If you want both red and green illumination options, the Hawke XB1 or Vortex Crossfire II offer dual-color illumination while the XB30 is red only. The 1.5-6x magnification range may also be more than you need if most of your shots are inside 40 yards.
3x32 Fixed Power
Calibrated 340fps
11-Layer H2 Optics
11.04 oz
At just 11.04 ounces, the Hawke XB 3x32 is the lightest scope in this entire roundup. That featherweight build makes it an excellent choice for hunters who want to keep their crossbow setup as nimble as possible. Despite the low weight, Hawke did not cut corners on glass quality. The 11-layer fully multi-coated H2 optical system delivers bright, sharp images that punch well above this price point.
This scope is calibrated specifically for 340 FPS crossbows, which happens to be right in the sweet spot for many popular hunting crossbows on the market. The XB SR multi-line range-finding reticle uses a 20-yard zero with 10-yard aim points extending out to 70 yards. Each aiming point is clearly defined on the glass-etched reticle, so you always know exactly where to hold.
The illumination system offers both red and green options with five brightness levels each. In my testing, the red illumination at the lowest setting was visible in low light without being overwhelming. The capped resettable turrets use 1/2 MOA adjustments, which are low-profile enough to avoid snagging on gear in a hunting blind. Flip-up lens covers are included, which is a nice bonus at this price.
The one-inch mono-tube chassis is shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof. Hawke backs this scope with their No-Fault Lifetime Warranty, which covers accidental damage in addition to manufacturing defects. That is a stronger warranty than most scopes in this price range. The main drawback is that scope rings are not included, so you will need to purchase those separately. Some users have also found the eye relief to be longer than expected on certain crossbow models.
The Hawke XB 3x32 is the best crossbow scope for hunting if you shoot a crossbow near 340 FPS and want a lightweight, simple fixed-power optic. It is ideal for hunters who prefer a no-fuss scope with a strong lifetime warranty. The combination of light weight, clear optics, and accurate holdover reticle makes it a great choice for mobile hunters who cover ground during the day.
If your crossbow does not shoot close to 340 FPS, the fixed calibration means your aim points will not align correctly without manual adjustment. Hunters who want variable magnification for different hunting scenarios should consider the Hawke XB1 or XB30 instead. If you need a scope with rings included out of the box, the UTG 4X32 or TRUGLO 4x32mm are more convenient options.
4x32 Fixed Power
BDC Rangefinder Reticle
Realtree APG Camo
14.08 oz
The TRUGLO 4x32mm Compact is proof that you do not need to spend a lot of money to get a functional crossbow scope for hunting. This scope has been on the market for years and continues to earn solid ratings from hunters who appreciate its simplicity and reliability. The Realtree APG camo finish looks great on matching crossbow stocks and holds up well to field use.
The BDC rangefinder reticle is one of the more innovative features at this price point. It uses a deer-sized bracket system that helps you estimate distance based on how the animal fits within the reticle brackets. Once you learn the system, it becomes a quick reference for range estimation and holdover. The reticle is designed for a 20-yard zero with effectiveness out to 60 yards.
Build quality is solid with a one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube construction. The scope is nitrogen gas filled for fog-proof performance, and the lenses are fully coated for brightness. The generous 4-inch eye relief provides a comfortable viewing distance, which is especially important on crossbows where recoil comes straight back at your face. Leaf spring fingertip adjustments for windage and elevation are easy to use even with gloves on.
The biggest trade-off is the lack of illumination. If you hunt regularly in low-light conditions, the TRUGLO will leave you wanting more visibility at dawn and dusk compared to illuminated options. The included Weaver-style scope rings may not fit all crossbow rails perfectly, so check your rail specifications before ordering. Windage adjustment range is also limited on some crossbow models, which can make zeroing difficult.
The TRUGLO 4x32mm is the best crossbow scope for hunting if you want the most affordable option that still delivers reliable performance. It works well for hunters who primarily shoot during daylight hours and do not need illumination. The deer-sized rangefinder bracket system is genuinely helpful for beginners learning to estimate distances. If you have a Realtree APG camo crossbow, this scope matches perfectly.
Hunters who regularly hunt at dawn and dusk will find the lack of illumination limiting. If your crossbow has a non-standard rail system, the included rings may not fit properly. For just a bit more money, the Hawke XB 3x32 adds illumination, better optical coatings, and a lifetime warranty. If you want the best budget option with illumination, the UTG 4X32 is the better choice.
Selecting the right crossbow scope comes down to matching the optic to your specific crossbow, hunting style, and budget. Here are the key factors I consider when recommending a scope to fellow hunters.
Your crossbow scope must be calibrated for your arrow speed, measured in feet per second. A scope calibrated for 300 FPS will give you inaccurate holdover points on a 400 FPS crossbow, and vice versa. Look for scopes with a speed range that brackets your crossbow's measured speed. Variable speed scopes like the Hawke XB1 (250-425 FPS) and Hawke XB30 (250-475 FPS) offer the most flexibility. If you shoot a crossbow near 340 FPS, fixed-calibration options like the Hawke XB 3x32 work perfectly. Always chronograph your crossbow before choosing a scope to know your actual FPS.
Crossbow reticles come in several styles, each with different strengths. Multi-line BDC reticles like the Vortex XBR-2 offer clearly marked yardage points from 20 to 100 yards. Speed-calibrated reticles like those on Hawke scopes adjust automatically when you dial the magnification ring to your FPS. Digital reticles like the Garmin Xero X1i calculate aim points electronically based on your bolt profile. For most hunters, a glass-etched reticle with clear yardage markings is the most intuitive and reliable option.
Fixed power scopes (3x or 4x) are simpler, lighter, and have fewer moving parts. They work well for hunters who take most shots inside 40 yards. Variable power scopes (1.5-5x, 2-7x, or 1.5-6x) give you flexibility for different hunting situations. Lower magnification provides a wider field of view for close-range timber hunting, while higher magnification helps with target identification at longer distances. For most crossbow hunters, a variable scope in the 2-7x range hits the sweet spot.
Eye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope's eyepiece when you see a full sight picture. On a crossbow, this is a safety issue, not just a comfort concern. Crossbows produce significant forward recoil that can drive the scope back toward your face. A minimum of 2.5 inches of eye relief is recommended, and the TRUGLO's 4-inch relief is generous. Scopes designed for rifles often have shorter eye relief than crossbow-specific models, which is one reason you should avoid putting a rifle scope on a crossbow.
Illuminated reticles are a significant advantage for dawn and dusk hunting. Red illumination is most common and works well in low light. Green illumination is easier on the eyes for some hunters and shows up better against dark backgrounds. The best illumination systems offer multiple brightness levels so you can adjust to changing conditions without washing out your target. If you hunt in thick cover or during low light, I strongly recommend choosing a scope with illumination. Non-illuminated scopes like the TRUGLO work fine for daytime use but leave you at a disadvantage during prime hunting hours.
Hunting scopes face rain, temperature swings, and rough handling. Look for scopes that are waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. Nitrogen or argon purging prevents internal fogging when temperatures change quickly. One-piece aluminum tube construction is more durable than two-piece designs. Pay attention to warranty coverage as well. Vortex's VIP lifetime warranty and Hawke's No-Fault warranty are among the best in the business and provide real peace of mind for your investment.
Speed ring scopes use a calibrated magnification dial to match your reticle to your crossbow's FPS. They are simple, reliable, and do not need batteries for basic operation. Rangefinding scopes like the Burris Oracle X use a laser to measure exact distance and display the correct aim point. They are more accurate at unknown distances but depend on batteries and electronics. The Garmin Xero X1i takes rangefinding further with automatic calculations based on your bolt profile. For most hunters, a speed ring scope provides enough accuracy. Rangefinding scopes are worth the investment if you regularly hunt open terrain where distance estimation is challenging.
Technically you can mount a rifle scope on a crossbow, but it is not recommended. Rifle scopes are calibrated for bullet trajectories, not arrow trajectories, so the reticle will not provide accurate holdover points for crossbow arrows. Rifle scopes also typically have shorter eye relief, which creates a safety hazard on crossbows due to forward recoil. Crossbow-specific scopes feature reticles calibrated for arrow drop, speed rings for FPS matching, and eye relief designed for crossbow shooting geometry. Using a proper crossbow scope will give you significantly better accuracy and safer shooting.
Match your scope's FPS range to your crossbow's actual arrow speed. Most modern hunting crossbows shoot between 300 and 450 FPS. If your crossbow measures 350 FPS on a chronograph, choose a scope that covers that speed, like the Hawke XB1 (250-425 FPS) or Hawke XB30 (250-475 FPS). Fixed-calibration scopes like the Hawke XB 3x32 are designed for specific speeds like 340 FPS. Always measure your actual speed with a chronograph rather than relying on manufacturer specifications, as real-world speeds often differ from advertised numbers.
Most experienced crossbow hunters consider 40 to 60 yards the maximum ethical shooting range for deer-sized game. Crossbow arrows lose energy and drop significantly beyond 60 yards, even with the best scopes. Some high-end scopes like the Garmin Xero X1i can range targets out to 250 yards, but that does not mean you should take those shots at game. Practice at your maximum intended range before hunting season, and know your personal effective range with your specific crossbow and scope combination.
The most important features in a crossbow scope are FPS compatibility, reticle design, optical clarity, and illumination. Your scope must match your crossbow's arrow speed for accurate holdovers. A clear reticle with well-spaced yardage markers helps you aim confidently at different distances. Good optical quality with multi-coated lenses extends your effective hunting time at dawn and dusk. Illumination is important for low-light hunting situations. Durability features like waterproofing and fogproofing ensure your scope performs reliably throughout hunting season.
Start by bore-sighting your scope at 20 yards using a target with a visible center point. Fire a group of three arrows and adjust windage and elevation turrets to move the group toward the center. Most crossbow scopes use 1/2 MOA adjustments, where each click moves the point of impact by about 1/2 inch at 20 yards. Once zeroed at 20 yards, move to 40 yards and verify your holdover points align with the reticle markings. If your scope has a speed ring, adjust it until the 40-yard holdover point matches your actual point of impact. Always zero from a stable shooting rest for consistent results.
Finding the best crossbow scopes for hunting comes down to matching the right optic to your crossbow, your hunting style, and your budget. For most hunters, the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32 delivers the best overall combination of optical clarity, reticle design, build quality, and warranty coverage. It is the scope I trust on my primary hunting crossbow, and it has performed flawlessly through two full seasons.
If rangefinding technology appeals to you, the Burris Oracle X offers built-in laser ranging at a price that undercuts the Garmin Xero X1i. Budget-conscious hunters get excellent value from the Hawke XB1 or the UTG 4X32, both of which deliver accuracy and reliability well beyond what their price tags suggest. Whatever scope you choose, take the time to sight it in properly and practice at various distances before heading into the field this 2026 season.