Do you want the best night vision scope for coyote hunting? By the end of this post, you will find a reliable night vision scope designed explicitly for Coyote hunting.
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Predators function in total darkness. Seeing in the dark has always been the most challenging part of coyote hunting.
Predator hunters can now buy an excellent night vision scope to overcome this challenge thanks to technology improvements, but how do you determine which sight is ideal for you? Let’s look at some explanations for why you require night vision equipment.
Why You Need a Night Vision Scope?
Coyotes might be the worst annoyance when you’re raising animals. They are nocturnal, which complicates issues because you seldom see them during the day.
For coyote hunting, you must get a night vision scope. You’ll be able to see these annoying creatures and protect your livestock if you have the correct range. But because night vision scopes are so expensive, choosing the appropriate one the first time is crucial.
A coyote hunter must consider many elements when buying a night vision scope. These scopes are expensive, so you don’t want to regret your purchase because you didn’t do your research first.
We have found and reviewed six top night vision scopes for coyote hunting for your benefit.
When compared to hunting with a spotlight, a night vision optic allows predator hunters to see clearly at night for a few hundred yards utilizing an infrared illuminator. Hunters can now silently approach night hunting stands without waking up predators.
Hunters’ chances of seeing coyotes rise with night vision equipment. The odds of getting a better shot than when shooting at glowing eyeballs under red light are significantly higher because the entire animal is visible via the scope.
What is Night Vision Scope?
A night vision scope is any electro-optical apparatus that can detect visible and infrared energy and produce an image in the visible spectrum. Night vision equipment includes night vision goggles, forward-looking infrared, thermal sights, and low-light television. They are also known as NVD.
Quick Comparison Table
| Product | Magnification | Objective | IR Illuminator | Eye Relief | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sightmark Wraith HD – Best Overall | 4-32x (4x optical + 1-8x digital) | 50mm | 850nm (removable, 3 settings) | 2.4″ (60mm) | $450-$550 |
| Bestsight DIY – Best Price | Depends on attached scope | 16mm (camera) | 5W 850nm | N/A (add-on system) | $100-$200 |
| ATN Thermal – Premium Option | 3-6x (160 sensor) / 2-4x to 5-10x (320 sensor) | 50mm | Thermal imaging (160×120 or 320×240) | 3.5″ (90mm) | $1,100-$1,600 |
| TheOpticGuru Night Scope | 3-9x (LTV) / 5-20x (4K Pro) | Varies by model | Digital NV with IR | 65mm | $600-$700 |
| Night Owl Optics | 3x | 40mm | Built-in 1.0W 850nm LED | 2.7″ (68.5mm) | $300-$450 |
| Sniper Night Vision | 4.5x optical + 3x digital | 50mm | 850nm IR LED | 2″ | $200-$350 |
1. Sightmark Wraith HD Digital Riflescope – Best Overall
The Sightmark Wraith HD Digital Riflescope is a top-notch night vision scope with many features that are hard to surpass. It features a daytime mode and a top-notch night vision scope. Therefore, you don’t have to be concerned about accidentally burning out your coverage during the day.
Additionally, there are five different weapon profiles that you can cycle through to avoid having to re-zero your sight whenever you switch between various guns or calibers, and you can film and capture images in high definition.
This features a shorter 4.5-hour battery life and a second focal plane reticle, so bear that in mind. The reduced field of view is the main disadvantage, but for the price, it’s a terrific value.
What Real Users Are Saying
“For the money, the Wraith is hard to beat… It’s the right mix of value, performance, and reliability.”
— TexasBowhunter.com Forums
“The image is great up to about 12x, but at 16x it starts getting pixelated though still usable.”
— Predator Masters Forum
“Unlike some other options, if you don’t turn on the provided IR illuminator, you won’t see anything but a black screen. Even on bright moonlit nights, I couldn’t see anything through the Wraith with native light.”
— Airgun Warriors Forum
Pros
- Excellent balance of performance and price ($450-$550 range)
- Three variants available, including a 4K model
- Both day and night modes protect the scope
- HD photo and video recording capability
- Five weapon profiles for quick zero adjustments between rifles
- Nine color options across ten reticle choices
- Easy AA battery replacement
- 4-32x magnification range (4x optical with 1-8x digital zoom)
Cons
- Short battery life (~4.5 hours) – eats through batteries quickly
- Second focal plane reticle
- Narrow field of view – users report difficulty fitting a 7ft feeder at 50 yards
- Warning: Cold weather can cause unexpected shutoffs due to processor startup issues
- Warning: Screen freezing/locking reported – Sightmark recommends removing batteries for 30 minutes to reset
- Warning: Heavy weight (~36 oz with batteries) nearly doubles rifle weight
- Warning: Stock IR mount is poor quality – many users recommend upgrading the IR illuminator
- Warning: Digital NV becomes unusable in snow or rain conditions
- Warning: Requires IR illuminator to see anything – won’t work with ambient light alone
2. Bestsight DIY Digital Night Vision Scope – Best Price
Why not upgrade your current scope to a dependable night vision alternative if you’re seeking the best content for coyote hunting on a budget? You can accomplish just that with the Bestsight DIY Digital Night Vision Scope.
Although it’s incredibly inexpensive and compatible with almost any conventional sight, keep in mind that you won’t be able to “see” through the scope like a traditional optic.
You will have a 5″ screen to view in its place. It’s simple to see and operate, although it may take some getting accustomed.
Finally, this screen is easy to detach from your rifle, has a day and night mode, and allows you to record and snap images.
What Real Users Are Saying
“These things are cheap for the quality night vision you get, ~$120… kinda bulky but wow!!”
— Reddit r/airguns
“Compared to the hazy green blur of a gen1 image intensification tube sold by Bushnell just a few years ago for several hundred dollars, this appears to be a big upgrade at a much lower price.”
— Airgun Nation Forum
“I have one of these setups and am very pleased with it. I’m just shooting in my back yard. Longest distance is 30 yards. But I’m currently taking out mice at 19 yards with this setup.”
— Airgun Nation Forum
Pros
- Extremely affordable ($100-$200 price range)
- Both day and night modes
- 5″ detachable display screen
- Simple installation on existing scopes
- Significant upgrade over older Gen 1 image intensification tubes at a fraction of the cost
- 5W 850nm IR illuminator included
- Works well for backyard pest control at short ranges (under 30 yards)
Cons
- Must be used with a conventional scope – add-on system only
- Only viewable through the external screen, not through the scope itself
- Warning: NOT weatherproof – must keep display and camera dry in inclement weather
- Warning: No built-in recording function – no micro SD slot for video or photos
- Warning: Poor quality user manual with lacking diagrams
- Warning: Inconsistent customer service – many users report no response to inquiries
- Warning: Requires specific 18650 batteries (flat-top batteries too short) – batteries not included
- Warning: 200-meter range claim is exaggerated – real-world detection is ~60-70 yards with stock IR
- Warning: Front-heavy weight distribution affects rifle balance
3. ATN Thermal Rifle Scope – Premium Option
The ATN Thermal Rifle Scope is unquestionably more expensive than most, but considering its capabilities, the price is well worth it. First, multiple magnification settings are available depending on the sensor you choose (160×120 or 320×240).
The thermal night vision design is the most significant advantage. This indicates that it relies on heat, which makes it perfect for coyote hunting. The animal will light like a beacon even if plants conceal it. There is no such thing as camouflage while employing thermal.
Even better, this optic has a 10-hour battery life and is relatively simple to operate, making it a solid choice for serious hunters.
What Real Users Are Saying
“The ATN’s ThOR has delivered what I expected and more. I dispatched 64 hogs and 22 coyotes in a year, with 50 taken using the thermal scope. Best addition for hunting at night.”
— American Firearms Review
“While their thermal scopes have improved a lot and have a lot of nice features, they’re still hit or miss in the QC and CS dept’s.”
— Accurate Shooter Forum
“When they work, they work well enough. Just assume that you’re buying an eventually disposable product with them.”
— Sniper’s Hide Forum
Pros
- True thermal imaging – detects heat signatures through vegetation and in complete darkness
- Multiple magnification options: 3-6x (160 sensor) or 2-4x to 5-10x (320 sensor)
- 90mm (3.5″) eye relief for comfortable shooting
- Incredibly simple to zero
- Long 10-hour battery life
- Proven effectiveness – users report 50+ kills in a single season
- 3-year warranty on thermal products
Cons
- Premium price point ($1,100-$1,600)
- Cannot take photos or videos on some models
- Warning: Quality control issues reported – described as “hit or miss” QC
- Warning: Customer service complaints – emails and phone calls often not returned
- Warning: Scopes returned from warranty repair sometimes have the same problem
- Warning: Refused repairs on out-of-warranty units – one user’s $3,500 scope refused because “no parts available”
- Warning: Repair quotes can exceed new unit cost (130% of new price quoted without inspection)
- Warning: Screen blanking, rangefinder inaccuracy, and battery failures reported
- Warning: Some users report scope won’t hold zero properly
- Warning: 160 sensor models have limited range (~475 yards detection, 160 yards identification)
4. TheOpticGuru Night Scope
The OptiGuru Night Scope is a fantastic option for coyote hunting. It includes daytime and nighttime modes, and two different magnification ranges are available (3-9x LTV model or 5-20x 4K Pro model). Even better, you can stream and record with it, which boasts an 18-hour battery life.
Additionally, it uses recoil-activated video so that you do not need to record endless amounts of video while lining up your shot. You won’t have to be concerned about starting your movie late or risking missing an opportunity.
Important Note: TheOpticGuru is a reseller of ATN products, so the same quality control and customer service considerations apply as with ATN directly.
What Real Users Are Saying
“The ATN 4K Pros with an upgraded IR illuminator are great…when they work. Which seems to be about 50% of the time. I had to send mine back due to constant screen freezing issues.”
— Accurate Shooter Forum
“The IR torch that comes with the scope is excellent to 150 yards and good at 200.”
— Amazon Product Page
Pros
- Two magnification options: 3-9x (LTV) or 5-20x (4K Pro)
- Operates in both day and night modes
- Recoil-activated video recording
- Up to 18 hours of battery life
- Streaming and recording capabilities
- Included IR torch effective to 150-200 yards
- 65mm eye relief
Cons
- Mid-range pricing ($600-$700)
- Larger and heavier scope – may be difficult on smaller rifles
- Warning: TheOpticGuru is a reseller of ATN products – same QC/CS issues apply
- Warning: Screen freezing issues reported with ~50% failure rate according to some users
- Warning: ATN X-Sight II 5-20x model has been discontinued
- Warning: Heavy weight (over 3 lbs with IR illuminator)
- Warning: Software can hang when using certain features
- Warning: Night vision becomes grainy/blurry at distances past 35-40 yards
- Warning: High battery consumption despite long rated life
5. Night Owl Optics Night Vision Riflescope
The Night Owl Optics Night Vision Riflescope offers solid value for budget-conscious hunters. While it has some limitations, including only 3x magnification and shorter battery life (4-7 hours with IR), it provides clear imagery when paired with the right IR illuminator.
The scope includes two alternative reticle colors and designs along with an IR mode. Many users report excellent results after upgrading to a more powerful aftermarket IR illuminator.
What Real Users Are Saying
“Very clear picture, good choice of reticles. The four AA batteries lasted the entire session. With the more powerful IR it was easy to focus and see the action.”
— Airgun Nation Forum
“Without IR the image was kinda blurry and not useable. With the built-in IR it got better but was only barely useable. However, when using a 5-watt pic rail mounted IR it was like the sun had come out.”
— Airgun Nation Forum
“The Night Owl Optics NightShot seems to be the better choice due to weight and quality when compared to similar priced options.”
— Sniper’s Hide Forum
Pros
- Good value in the $300-$450 range
- Lighter weight and better quality compared to similarly priced options
- Daytime use won’t damage the scope
- Two reticle color options (white and black) with three design styles
- Built-in 1.0W 850nm IR LED
- 2.7″ (68.5mm) eye relief
- 40mm objective lens
- Excellent results when paired with upgraded 5W IR illuminator
Cons
- Only one magnification level: 3x
- Reduced battery life: ~5 hours on low IR, only ~2 hours on high IR
- Cannot handle calibers larger than .30 non-magnum
- Must remove scope to swap batteries (battery compartment on bottom)
- Warning: Built-in IR illuminator needs upgrading for best results – barely usable alone
- Warning: Only one rounded recoil lug – concerns on high recoil platforms
- Warning: Plastic construction feels cheap to some users
- Warning: Some users report washed out image
- Warning: Some users report difficulty holding zero (though replacements provided)
- Warning: Some models showing as ‘Currently Unavailable’ at retailers
6. Sniper Night Vision Scope
The Sniper HD 4.5×50 offers decent night vision capability with 4.5x optical magnification plus 3x digital zoom. It features an 850nm IR LED illuminator and provides good clarity at moderate distances.
The standout feature is the lifetime warranty, which sets it apart from competitors. Customer support is reportedly responsive and knowledgeable. However, hunters should be aware this model appears to be discontinued.
What Real Users Are Saying
“The scope provides good clarity and detail between 100-200 yards with the included IR illuminator and works extremely well for its given specs.”
— Target Tamers Review
“The major benefit of the Sniper HD 4.5×50 over other comparable digital scopes is its warranty. It comes with a lifetime warranty that makes it worth the buy.”
— Target Tamers Review
“Customer support is quick to respond, very knowledgeable and easy to communicate with. The scope is well crafted, sturdy, sees far in the dark.”
— Amazon Reviews
Pros
- Both day and night modes
- 1080p HD video and photo capability
- Good clarity between 100-200 yards with included IR
- Lifetime warranty – a major differentiator from competitors
- Excellent customer support – quick, knowledgeable responses
- 4.5x optical magnification with 3x digital zoom
- 50mm objective lens
- Sturdy, well-crafted construction
Cons
- Video becomes grainy after 150 yards
- 350-yard detection claim is at maximum – realistically a close-range scope
- Warning: DISCONTINUED – Sniper HD 4.5×50 model appears to be discontinued
- Warning: Outdated body style compared to newer ATN/Sightmark scopes
- Warning: Requires separate batteries (not built-in rechargeable)
- Warning: Lacks advanced digital features (smart rangefinder, multiple zero profiles) found in competitors
- Warning: Image gets more blurry/grainy when zooming in digitally
- Warning: May need additional aftermarket IR light for extended range
Which Scope Is Right For You?
Choosing the best night vision scope for coyote hunting depends on your budget, hunting style, and specific needs. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
Best Overall Value: Sightmark Wraith HD ($450-$550)
If you want a solid all-around performer without breaking the bank, the Wraith HD delivers the best balance of features, performance, and price. It’s ideal for hunters who want HD recording, multiple weapon profiles, and reliable performance. Just be prepared for the short battery life and consider upgrading the IR illuminator.
Best Budget Option: Bestsight DIY ($100-$200)
Perfect for beginners or backyard pest control, this add-on system lets you convert your existing scope for a fraction of the cost. Best suited for short-range shooting (under 70 yards) and non-critical applications. Not recommended for serious hunting or inclement weather.
Best for Serious Hunters: ATN Thermal ($1,100-$1,600)
If you’re hunting coyotes professionally or dealing with serious predator problems, thermal imaging is the gold standard. You’ll see animals through vegetation and in complete darkness. Just be aware of the quality control lottery and keep your receipt handy.
Best for Extended Hunts: TheOpticGuru/ATN ($600-$700)
The 18-hour battery life makes this ideal for multi-day hunts or long nights. The recoil-activated video is a nice touch for documenting your hunts. However, the 50% reliability rate reported by some users is concerning.
Best Lightweight Option: Night Owl Optics ($300-$450)
If rifle weight is a concern, this is the lightest option with decent performance. Plan on upgrading to a 5W IR illuminator immediately – users report it transforms the scope’s usability. Limited to .30 caliber non-magnum.
Best Warranty: Sniper Night Vision ($200-$350)
The lifetime warranty is unmatched in this category, and customer service is reportedly excellent. However, availability is limited as the model appears to be discontinued.
What Should You Take Into Account When Choosing The Best Scope For Coyote Hunting?
Here are the important factors you need to consider:
1. Battery Life
As is generally accepted, 90% of coyote hunting takes place at night; therefore, we don’t need to consider IIT scopes with 60–70 hours of battery life. Even if you spend 4-5 hours on setup, digital content with 10-20 hours is more than adequate for a 2, 3-day hunt.
You’ll have a lot of alternatives with Generation II and III thanks to their robust sensors and CPUs and 10+ hours of battery life. Unlike Gen I batteries, they are also rechargeable, so you won’t need to spend money on batteries every month.
If your scope’s battery life is less than ten hours, you should carry an extra battery system because these small items won’t wait to abandon you.
2. Durability
If you’re prepared to shell out a lot of money for a night vision scope, you should confirm that it is weatherproof and look into the durability of the electronics and optics. Be especially cautious with budget options like the Bestsight DIY, which is not weatherproof and must be kept dry.
3. Ergonomics
Typically, the lenses grow more significant and bulkier as night vision devices magnify. Choose a lighter optic for ease of mobility and convenience; hefty optics are recommended for more stationary views. Note that some scopes like the Sightmark Wraith HD weigh ~36 oz with batteries, nearly doubling your rifle’s weight.
4. Range
Knowing the range offered is essential when purchasing a night vision scope. Since night vision does not allow you to see for hundreds of yards, night vision technology has not yet advanced to the point where it can be used as a conventional riflescope.
Be skeptical of manufacturer range claims. For example, the Bestsight’s 200-meter claim translates to ~60-70 yards in real-world use, and the Sniper’s 350-yard detection claim is only achievable at maximum with idealconditions.
Some scopes have a recognition range because the lack of light makes it harder for them to focus. This revolutionary technology adjusts the focus in various lighting situations, such as starlight, quarter moonlight, half moonlight, etc.
Since the quality of night vision depends on the amount of unrestricted light, the capacity naturally declines as the number of light increases.
5. Infrared Illuminators (IR)
Ensure an infrared illumination is present or can be added when buying a night vision device. Infrared illuminators emit infrared light, which is reflected into the night image set by the environment and increases the image’s brightness. When there is no light at all, this multiplication is quite helpful. It is important to remember that the IRs have a limited range depending on their size.
Pro Tip: Most users recommend upgrading the stock IR illuminator on nearly every scope reviewed here. A 5W aftermarket IR can dramatically improve performance, especially on budget scopes like the Night Owl where users report it’s “like the sun had come out.”
6. Clarity
Resolution and clarity are related. Since the number of lines per millimeter determines the solution, it is clear that the more lines, the higher the quality. As brands have improved their level of transparency dramatically over the past several years, this is becoming less of an issue.
Be aware that digital zoom degrades image quality. The Sightmark Wraith, for example, provides excellent images up to 12x but becomes pixelated at 16x.
Frequently Asked Questions on The Best Night Vision Scope for Coyote Hunting
Here are some of the frequently asked Questions:
1. What did coyote hunters use before night vision equipment became available?
For many years, outfitting your rifle with a spotlight with a red lens attached was the best chance of spotting and effectively eliminating a coyote or any other nighttime animal.
The reflective eyes of predators were lighted by these large, hefty lights, allowing you to see them. Because a red light’s emission wavelength is less noticeable to predators, a red lens was chosen.
While using lights while hunting is still a great way to spot moving predators, recent advancements in technology have allowed hunters to have an advantage when hunting at night.
Night vision optics have almost become a necessity for dedicated coyote hunters in recent years.
2. Why do hunters kill coyotes?
Hunters don’t offer their fur for sale in a public setting. These coyotes are killed more as a nuisance than a source of income because weapons ruin their pelts.
Even though small-caliber rifles are more frequent, hunters often carry shotguns for close-quarters combat. On these guns, more night vision scopes are being added.
3. Can coyotes spot an infrared light source?
Like people, coyotes are unable to see infrared nightlights. Consider the little red dot on IR units when choosing night vision equipment.
You can bet that a coyote can see something if you can. No, not in the sense of a beam of infrared lighting directed onto a field.
4. What time of year is best for coyote hunting?
Dusk and dawn. Coyotes are more active at night and in the early morning as they search for food and claim new areas. If you want to, you can go coyote hunting all day.
Compared to other times of the year, they are significantly more active all day long in the winter. In the afternoons, it’s more complicated. Coyotes are intelligent. They will respond to easy food anytime if they can locate it.
5. Thermal scope or night vision: which is more effective for coyote night hunting?
It all depends on your financial capacity and the hunting environment. When predator hunting, many hunters use thermal optics to find their target and night vision scope to locate and shoot.
Because they can quickly identify any living object that releases heat, thermal optics are excellent for detecting during predator hunts. It would help if you had a thermal sight with you.
Use a thermal riflescope for coyote hunting if it’s dark outside and you’re having difficulties getting range with the night vision scope. Purchase a thermal riflescope and a night vision scope if you have a significant budget.
6. Is it acceptable to hunt coyotes at night with night vision?
Using a night vision gadget to hunt coyotes is legal, but your local laws may restrict the use of thermal imaging or night vision scope.
Examine the state and municipal regulations and limitations governing artificial lighting, night vision devices, and legal weapons and ammunition calibers. Coyote hunting is permitted all year, but make sure you know the regulations.
7. How should I utilize the night vision device?
Here, keeping a unique rifle with a night-specific sight for night time hunting is crucial. The scope should have a reasonable range and a high-resolution display so that you can shoot with greater accuracy and visibility. In addition, IR illumination and long battery life may be helpful to you.
8. Which night vision scope is ideal for coyote hunting?
For most hunters, the Sightmark Wraith HD offers the best balance of performance, features, and value. As one forum user put it: “For the money, the Wraith is hard to beat… It’s the right mix of value, performance, and reliability.”
If budget is your primary concern, the Bestsight DIY at $100-$200 provides surprising quality for the price. For serious hunters willing to invest, the ATN Thermal ($1,100-$1,600) offers unmatched detection capability through vegetation and in complete darkness.
Conclusion
After extensive research and analysis of real user feedback from hunting forums and reviews, the Sightmark Wraith HD Digital Riflescope emerges as our top recommendation for most coyote hunters. It offers the best combination of value, performance, and reliability in the $450-$550 price range.
For hunters seeking the ultimate in detection capability and willing to invest more, the ATN Thermal Rifle Scope provides true thermal imaging that can spot coyotes through vegetation and in complete darkness – though be prepared for potential quality control issues.
Budget-conscious hunters should consider the Bestsight DIY system, which provides impressive night vision capability for under $200, though it’s best suited for short-range applications and fair-weather hunting.
Key Takeaways from Real User Feedback:
- Nearly every scope benefits from an upgraded aftermarket IR illuminator
- Manufacturer range claims are often exaggerated – expect 50-70% of stated distances
- Digital zoom degrades image quality – optical zoom is preferred
- Battery life claims can be optimistic – always carry spares
- Quality control varies significantly by brand – keep receipts and understand warranty terms
These top night vision scopes are essential if you’ve dabbled in nighttime hunting of nocturnal game like coyotes and hogs. They’re renowned for enhanced visibility, high-resolution displays, and long-range detection capability.
We hope this post helped you find the best night vision scope for coyote hunting. You can also check 6 Best Night Vision Scopes For Hog Hunting