I have spent a lot of time testing optics in the field, and the best scope for coyote hunting can make all the difference in finding and engaging these elusive animals. Coyotes are most active at dawn, dusk, and sometimes at night, so having a scope that provides clarity, precision, and reliability is essential.
In this guide, I will cover the features that matter most, recommend top scopes for different budgets, provide a buying guide, and answer frequently asked questions.
By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to look for to make your coyote hunts more successful.
Here is a quick summary of the Best Scopes for Coyote Hunting.
- Vortex Crossfire II 3‑9×40mm Rifle Scope – Best budget – Get it on Amazon or Opticsplanet
- SIG SAUER Buckmasters 3‑9×50mm Rifle Scope – Best value mid‑tier- Get it on Amazon
- AGM Global Vision RattlerV2 25‑256 25mm Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope – Best thermal/night‑vision option -Get it on Opticsplanet or Amazon
- ATN X‑SIGHT LTV Night Vision Scope – Best digital/night‑vision budget –Get it on Amazon or Opticsplanet
- Nightforce SHV 5‑20×56mm Rifle Scope – Best premium long‑range hunting –Get it on Amazon or Opticsplanet
- Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5‑25×50mm Rifle Scope – Best high‑end all‑rounder – Get it on Amazon or Opticsplanet
- Vortex Crossfire II Hog Hunter 3‑12×56mm Rifle Scope – Best for low‑light/large‑objective hunting – Get it on Amazon or Opticsplanet
Why a Scope for Coyote Hunting
1) Fast Target Acquisition
Red dot scopes allow for almost instantaneous aiming, which is ideal when coyotes appear suddenly. The bright aiming point aligns with the target quickly, reducing the time between spotting the animal and taking the shot.
2) Wide Field of View
Red dot optics provide a larger field of view compared to traditional scopes, allowing me to scan for movement across open areas. This is critical when hunting coyotes that move quickly or appear in peripheral vision.
3) Parallax-Free Accuracy
Red dots are parallax-free at most ranges, meaning the aiming point stays aligned with the target even if my head position shifts slightly. This consistency improves accuracy in fast-paced hunting scenarios.
4) Lightweight and Compact
Most red dot scopes are lighter than traditional riflescopes, which reduces fatigue during long hunts. This makes it easier to maneuver in thick brush or carry the rifle for extended periods.
5) Works in Low-Light Conditions
Adjustable brightness on red dot optics ensures visibility in dawn, dusk, or shaded areas. This is particularly helpful for coyotes, which are often most active in low-light periods.
6) Durability and Reliability
Red dots are often built to handle recoil, rough handling, and outdoor elements. A durable red dot keeps working consistently in various weather conditions, giving me confidence in its performance during a hunt.
Must Have Features for the Best Scope For Coyote Hunting
1) Magnification Range
A versatile magnification range, such as 2.5-10x or 3-12x, allows hunters to engage targets at both close and medium distances. Lower magnification provides a wide field of view for tracking movement, while higher magnification is useful for precision shots.
2) Objective Lens Size and Light Transmission
A larger objective lens (40mm or more) gathers more light, making the scope brighter and clearer in low-light conditions. Fully multi-coated lenses improve clarity, contrast, and color reproduction for identifying targets in dense brush or open fields.
3) Reticle Type and Illumination
An illuminated reticle, with multiple brightness settings, helps with fast and accurate aiming in varying light conditions. Choosing between second focal plane or first focal plane reticles depends on whether you prefer consistent reticle size or scalable measurements across magnifications.
4) Durability
A good coyote hunting scope should be waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. Aluminum or high-grade materials ensure it withstands recoil, rough handling, and adverse weather, maintaining reliability for every hunt.
5) Adjustments and Turrets
Precise, easy-to-use windage and elevation turrets with zero stop functions allow quick corrections in the field. This ensures consistent accuracy without accidentally moving the settings during transport or movement.
6) Eye Relief and Mounting Flexibility
Adequate eye relief prevents discomfort and protects against recoil while providing a proper shooting stance. Mounting compatibility and low-profile controls ensure the scope fits various rifles and allows smooth operation without snagging.
Best Scopes for Coyote Hunting
1) Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
Get it on Amazon or Opticsplanet
The Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is the best scope for coyote hunting.Its 3-9x magnification paired with a 40mm objective lens provides the versatility needed to track fast-moving targets across open fields or brushy terrain. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle offers an effective aiming solution for a variety of distances, helping hunters make accurate shots with confidence.
The scope’s 3.8-inch eye relief and generous eye box allow for quick target acquisition without compromising comfort, while the fast-focus eyepiece ensures the reticle is always sharp and easy to see.
The optical performance is enhanced by Vortex’s SD optical system and fully multi-coated lenses. These features reduce chromatic aberration and deliver bright, crisp images, even in low-light conditions commonly encountered during early morning or late evening coyote hunts.
The scope provides a clear field of view ranging from 34.1 feet at 3x to 12.6 feet at 9x per 100 yards, making it easier to track moving targets while maintaining situational awareness. The low-glare matte black finish helps minimize reflections, keeping the shooter’s position concealed.
Durability is a strong point of the Crossfire II 3-9x40mm. Its single-piece tube is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, providing excellent strength and resistance to recoil. O-ring sealing combined with nitrogen purging ensures waterproof and fogproof performance in all weather conditions.
The scope is also shockproof, capable of handling the rigors of hunting in the wilderness or tactical situations. Capped windage and elevation turrets allow for precise adjustments, with 1/4 MOA increments and 60 MOA travel in both directions, giving the shooter repeatable accuracy.
The Vortex Crossfire II is backed by Vortex’s unlimited, unconditional lifetime VIP warranty, fully transferable to a new owner. This commitment provides peace of mind that any defects or damage affecting performance will be repaired or replaced, making it a long-term companion for serious hunters.
The combination of professional-grade optics, durable construction, and user-friendly features makes it particularly effective for hunting coyotes, where quick reaction and precision are crucial.
Pros
- Variable 3-9x magnification suitable for close to medium range hunting
- Fully multi-coated lenses provide bright, clear images and enhanced low-light performance
- Durable one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube withstands recoil and impact
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for all weather conditions
- Fast-focus eyepiece allows quick reticle adjustments
- Capped turrets with repeatable zeroing for reliable accuracy
- Low-glare matte black finish minimizes reflections
- Backed by unlimited, unconditional lifetime VIP warranty
Cons
- Limited to 1-inch tube, restricting certain mounting options
2) SIG SAUER Buckmasters 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope
Get it on Amazon
The SIG SAUER Buckmasters 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope is a reliable and versatile optic designed to improve accuracy for hunters targeting coyotes and other medium-sized game. With a variable magnification range of 3 to 9 times and a 50mm objective lens, this scope delivers clear and bright images, even in low-light conditions typical of dawn or dusk hunting sessions.
Its high-performance 3x optical system, paired with low-dispersion glass, minimizes chromatic aberration and provides sharp, precise visuals at every magnification setting.
This riflescope features the custom Buckmasters Bullet Drop Compensation reticle, which includes holdover dots extending out to 500 yards. The BDC reticle allows hunters to make quick and accurate adjustments for elevation without having to manually estimate the distance or trajectory.
This is particularly useful for coyote hunting, where targets may appear suddenly at varying ranges and quick reaction times are essential. The scope’s reticle design also complements rangefinders such as the Buckmasters 1500, enhancing long-range shooting performance.
Durability and usability are key aspects of the Buckmasters 3-9x50mm. It is built around a single-piece, one-inch main tube that provides strength and stability under recoil. The integrated thread-in throw lever allows for fast and convenient magnification adjustments, letting hunters adapt quickly to changing shooting distances.
Additional features such as lay-flat flip-back lens covers protect the lenses in harsh outdoor environments, maintaining optical clarity during extended use in the field.
The SIG SAUER Buckmasters scope is rated IPX6 for waterproofing and is also shockproof and fogproof. These qualities ensure consistent performance in adverse weather and challenging terrain, from heavy rain to extreme temperatures.
Combined with its high-quality optics and intuitive reticle system, the Buckmasters 3-9x50mm offers a dependable solution for coyote hunters seeking both precision and resilience in a mid-range hunting scope.
Pros
- Variable 3-9x magnification with 50mm objective lens for bright and clear images
- High-performance 3x optical system with low-dispersion glass reduces chromatic aberration
- Buckmasters BDC reticle with holdover dots out to 500 yards improves long-range accuracy
- Integrated thread-in throw lever allows quick magnification adjustments
- Lay-flat flip-back lens covers protect optics in the field
- Waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof for all weather conditions
- Durable single-piece, one-inch main tube for strength and stability
Cons
- Lacks illumination on the reticle for low-light targeting
3) AGM Global Vision RattlerV2 25-256 25mm Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope
Get it on Opticsplanet or Amazon
The AGM Global Vision RattlerV2 25-256 25mm Thermal Imaging Rifle Scope is an excellent choice for coyote hunting, particularly for dawn, dusk, and night operations. Equipped with a 25mm Germanium lens and a 256×192 thermal sensor, this scope provides sharp and clear heat signature detection at distances up to 1,250 yards.
The 3.5x base magnification, combined with a digital zoom extending up to 28x, allows hunters to scan wide areas while still identifying targets at long range. The 50 Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scanning with minimal lag, making it easier to track fast-moving coyotes during critical moments.
The scope offers a variety of reticle options, with ten customizable choices and multiple zeroing profiles compatible with different calibers and rifles. A stadiametric rangefinder aids in quick distance estimation, allowing hunters to make precise shots without manual calculations.
Shot-activated recording and audio features automatically capture hunts, giving users the ability to review performance and track shot placement without distractions. The simplified menu layout and raised five-button interface make operation intuitive, even when wearing gloves.
Durability and long-term performance are core strengths of the RattlerV2 25-256. The scope is built to withstand harsh hunting environments with full shock resistance, IP67-rated waterproofing, and an operating range down to -22°F.
The upgraded battery compartment accommodates rechargeable batteries that provide up to 11.5 hours of runtime, making it suitable for extended hunting sessions. The included custom ADM QD mount allows for quick removal and reattachment, enhancing versatility in the field.
The AGM RattlerV2 25-256 delivers a complete package for hunters who want advanced thermal imaging at a budget-friendly price. Its combination of extended detection range, precise targeting tools, long battery life, and rugged construction ensures that hunters can operate confidently in a wide range of conditions.
This thermal scope is particularly well-suited for coyote hunting, providing both situational awareness and target acquisition capabilities in low-light and night scenarios.
Pros
- 25mm Germanium lens and 256×192 thermal sensor deliver clear target detection
- 3.5x base magnification with digital zoom up to 28x for flexible viewing
- Detection range up to 1,250 yards supports long-distance hunting
- Ten reticle options with multiple zeroing profiles for different rifles and calibers
- Shot-activated video and audio recording captures hunts automatically
- Rechargeable batteries provide up to 11.5 hours of continuous runtime
- IP67-rated waterproof, full shock resistance, and -22°F operating range for harsh conditions
- Custom ADM QD mount allows quick removal and reattachment
- User-friendly interface with simplified menu layout and raised buttons for glove use
Cons
-
Resolution of 256×192 is lower than high-end 384×288 thermal scopes, which may reduce detail at extreme distances
4) ATN X-SIGHT LTV Night Vision Scope
Get it on Amazon or Opticsplanet
The ATN X-Sight LTV Night Vision Scope is an effective tool for coyote hunting, offering both day and night functionality with impressive clarity. Available in 5-15x50mm and 3-9x30mm configurations, it provides flexible magnification for various hunting situations.
The scope uses the ATN QHD+ M584 Sensor with a resolution of 2688×1944, producing vivid, sharp images during daylight hours and maintaining excellent performance in low-light or nighttime conditions. This versatility makes it ideal for spotting coyotes at dawn, dusk, or under cover of darkness.
The One Shot Zero system simplifies the sighting-in process, allowing hunters to quickly calibrate the scope with a single shot and make accurate adjustments. The one-touch auto-focus feature ensures the reticle and target remain clear immediately, saving critical time in fast-paced hunting scenarios.
In addition, the ATN X-Sight LTV records in full HD, capturing hunts on a removable micro SD card. This recording capability allows hunters to review performance, track shot placement, or share hunting experiences, enhancing both convenience and safety in the field.
Powered by the ATN Obsidian LT Core, the scope is optimized for low power consumption while maintaining high performance. Its internal lithium-ion battery delivers over 10 hours of runtime, allowing extended hunting sessions without worrying about battery replacement.
The ergonomic design is compact and lightweight, mounting easily on any platform with standard 30mm rings. The simplified controls provide a user-friendly experience, allowing hunters to focus on the hunt rather than navigating complex menus or settings.
The ATN X-Sight LTV combines digital night vision technology, recording capabilities, and reliable ergonomics in a scope built for the rigors of real-world hunting. Whether tracking coyotes in low-light conditions or scouting targets in daylight, the scope provides hunters with the tools to improve accuracy, increase situational awareness, and enhance overall hunting efficiency.
Its combination of imaging quality, battery life, and practical features makes it a compelling option for both beginner and experienced hunters.
Pros
- Day and night functionality with 5-15x or 3-9x magnification options
- QHD+ M584 sensor provides vivid, crisp images at all times
- One Shot Zero allows fast and accurate sighting-in
- One-touch auto-focus ensures clear images instantly
- Records full HD video on a removable micro SD card
- Internal lithium-ion battery offers over 10 hours of runtime
- Easy mounting with standard 30mm rings and simple controls
- Lightweight and ergonomic design for comfortable use in the field
Cons
-
Digital scope may introduce slight lag compared to traditional optical scopes
5) Nightforce SHV 5-20x56mm Rifle Scope
Get it on Amazon or Opticsplanet
The Nightforce SHV 5-20×56 is a high-quality riflescope built for hunters and long-range shooters who need precision and reliability. Its 5-20x magnification range allows me to engage targets at both close and long distances, while the 56mm objective lens gathers ample light for bright and clear images, even in low-light conditions. This makes it ideal for coyote hunting during dawn, dusk, or overcast days.
The scope offers versatile reticle options, including the MOAR and Forceplex, which help me make accurate holdovers and windage adjustments.
The ZeroSet elevation turret makes it simple to return to my zero quickly, which saves time and ensures consistency during long hunting sessions. Its adjustable parallax, ranging from 25 yards to infinity, reduces parallax error and improves shot accuracy at varying distances.
Built with a 30mm tube using 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, the SHV 5-20×56 is rugged enough to withstand harsh conditions and recoil from high-caliber rifles. Some models include an illuminated reticle, which enhances visibility in low-light situations, making it easier to spot and engage coyotes at night or in shadowed areas.
Pros
- Wide 5-20x magnification suitable for different distances
- Clear, bright optics for improved target visibility
- Durable construction withstands rough hunting conditions
- ZeroSet turret allows quick return to zero
- Adjustable parallax for precise focus
- Illuminated reticle enhances low-light performance
Cons
-
Slightly heavier for certain rifle setups
6) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm Rifle Scope
Get it on Amazon or Opticsplanet
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 is a versatile and high-performance riflescope designed for hunters and precision shooters seeking reliability, clarity, and flexibility. Its 5-25x magnification range allows me to engage targets both at close quarters and long distances, making it ideal for coyote hunting across a variety of terrains.
The 50mm objective lens gathers a significant amount of light, delivering bright and sharp images even during dawn, dusk, or overcast conditions. This makes it easier to identify coyotes in low-light situations and ensures that every shot can be taken with confidence.
One of the most important features of this scope is its first focal plane (FFP) reticle. With the FFP design, the reticle scales with magnification, ensuring that holdovers and windage adjustments remain accurate at any zoom level. This is crucial for long-range shots or when tracking moving coyotes.
The scope also offers multiple reticle options, such as the EBR-4 and EBR-7C, allowing me to choose the one that matches my shooting style and preference for tactical or hunting applications. The precision-glide erector system provides smooth and consistent zoom adjustments, which is especially useful when tracking targets that change distance quickly.
Durability and construction are other areas where the Viper PST Gen II shines. Built with a 30mm tube from aircraft-grade aluminum, it is designed to withstand harsh environments and heavy recoil. The scope is fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring reliable performance in rain, snow, or extreme temperature fluctuations.
For low-light hunting, the illuminated reticle enhances target visibility without overwhelming the eyes, allowing me to maintain accuracy during early morning or late evening hunts. Additionally, the zero stop turret makes returning to my original zero quick and precise, which is highly convenient during extended hunting trips.
Another advantage is the optical clarity and lens quality. Fully multi-coated lenses and an anti-reflective coating on all air-to-glass surfaces provide high light transmission and minimize glare. This results in crisp images with high contrast, making it easier to spot small details such as a coyote’s movement in grass or brush.
The scope also features side parallax adjustment, which helps eliminate parallax error and ensures the reticle stays on target, particularly at longer distances. These optical features make the Viper PST Gen II highly effective for long-range coyote hunting or situations where precise shot placement is essential.
Pros
- Wide 5-25x magnification range suitable for close and long-range engagements
- First focal plane reticle maintains accurate holdovers at all magnifications
- Multiple reticle options to suit different shooting styles
- Precision-glide erector system for smooth zoom adjustments
- Durable 30mm aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for reliable performance in harsh conditions
- Illuminated reticle improves visibility in low-light hunting situations
- High-quality lenses provide bright, crisp, and clear images
- Side parallax adjustment for precise targeting at all distances
- Zero stop turret allows quick return to original zero
Cons
-
Higher price point
7) Vortex Crossfire II Hog Hunter 3-12x56mm Rifle Scope
Get it on Amazon or Opticsplanet
The Vortex Crossfire II Hog Hunter 3-12×56 riflescope is designed for hunters who require a reliable optic capable of performing in low-light conditions. Its 3-12x magnification range offers versatility, allowing users to engage targets at varying distances.
The 56mm objective lens gathers ample light, delivering bright and clear images, which is particularly beneficial during dawn and dusk hunts when coyotes are most active.
Equipped with Vortex’s V-Brite illuminated reticle, the Hog Hunter scope enhances target acquisition in low-light environments. The reticle’s center dot is powered by a CR2032 battery and offers multiple brightness settings, ensuring precise aiming under various lighting conditions.
The second focal plane design maintains consistent reticle size across all magnification levels, which is advantageous for hunters who prefer a fixed reticle size.
Constructed with a 30mm single-piece tube made from aircraft-grade aluminum, the Hog Hunter scope is built to withstand harsh conditions and heavy recoil. Its rugged design ensures reliable performance in various environments.
The scope also features an adjustable objective (AO) parallax adjustment, allowing users to eliminate parallax error and achieve sharp focus at different distances.
The fast-focus eyepiece enables quick reticle focusing, ensuring clarity during fast-paced hunting situations. The scope’s nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed construction provides waterproof and fogproof performance, making it suitable for use in diverse weather conditions. The matte black anodized finish reduces glare and helps camouflage the shooter’s position.
Pros
- Versatile 3-12x magnification range suitable for various hunting scenarios
- 56mm objective lens provides excellent light transmission for low-light conditions
- V-Brite illuminated reticle enhances target acquisition in low-light environments
- Second focal plane design maintains consistent reticle size across all magnification levels
- Durable 30mm single-piece tube construction withstands harsh conditions and heavy recoil
- Adjustable objective parallax adjustment eliminates parallax error and achieves sharp focus
- Fast-focus eyepiece enables quick reticle focusing
- Nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed construction provides waterproof and fogproof performance
- Matte black anodized finish reduces glare and helps camouflage the shooter’s position
Cons
-
Lacks advanced features found in higher-end scopes
Read Also: 5 Best Night Vision Scopes for Coyote Hunting
Best Scope For Coyote Hunting FAQs
1) What magnification range is ideal for a coyote hunting scope?
For coyote hunting, a scope with a magnification range between 3-12x or 2.5-10x is generally ideal. Lower magnification allows for a wide field of view, making it easier to spot movement in open fields or dense brush. Higher magnification is useful for precise shots at medium distances, especially during dawn or dusk when coyotes are most active. Scopes with variable magnification give hunters the flexibility to adapt to different hunting scenarios.
2) Should I choose a thermal, night vision, or traditional riflescope for coyote hunting?
The choice depends on your hunting conditions. Traditional scopes with large objective lenses and multi-coated optics work well in low-light conditions like dawn and dusk. Night vision scopes are ideal for complete darkness, enhancing visibility without alerting coyotes. Thermal scopes detect heat signatures, making them effective in dense brush or at long distances. Each type has its advantages, so your choice should reflect your preferred hunting time, terrain, and budget.
3) How important is reticle type for coyote hunting scopes?
Reticle type is very important for accuracy. Illuminated reticles, such as those in Trijicon Credo HX or Vortex Crossfire II Hog Hunter, are helpful during low-light hunts. Multi-X or duplex reticles provide a clear aiming point without distractions. Second focal plane reticles maintain consistent size across magnifications, which is ideal for holdovers, while first focal plane reticles scale with magnification, useful for range estimation. Your choice should match your shooting style and typical hunting distances.
4) What features should I prioritize when buying a scope for coyote hunting?
Key features include low-light performance, light transmission, magnification range, durability, and reticle visibility. A large objective lens with fully multi-coated optics ensures brighter images in low-light. Rugged construction, waterproofing, and fogproofing ensure reliability in harsh conditions. Adjustable turrets with zero stop, fast-focus eyepiece, and clear reticles improve accuracy. For night hunting, consider thermal or night vision capabilities. These features combined make a scope effective and dependable for coyote hunting.
Conclusion
After testing and reviewing multiple scopes, I can confidently say that the best scope for coyote hunting combines clarity, low-light performance, durability, and precise reticle functionality. These scopes are ideal because they allow me to spot movement quickly, identify targets in low-light conditions, and make accurate shots with confidence.
Choosing any of these scopes ensures a reliable, high-quality experience that improves your chances of success in the field and makes every coyote hunt more effective and enjoyable.