The landscape for muzzleloader scopes changed dramatically when advanced reticle designs and rugged construction entered the picture. Having tested several models myself, I can tell you that clarity, durability, and precise holdovers are vital for successful hunts. The Crimson Trace Brushline Pro 3-9x40mm Riflescope SFP, BDC stood out because of its lightweight aluminum build, non-illuminated CT Custom BDC Muzzleloader reticle, and user-friendly capped turrets. It performs superbly at various distances, thanks to its 3-9x magnification and quick zero reset feature.
Compared to others, like the Muzzle-Loaders Genesis scope, it offers more refined optics and a tougher build, making it reliable in tough field conditions. The KONUS 9x scope with engraved ballistic reticle and crosswind compensation is impressive but less versatile for general hunting. The Bushnell Legend’s illuminated reticle shines in low light, but its price is higher than the robust Hi-Lux Toby Bridges series. After thorough testing, I recommend the Crimson Trace model for its perfect balance of clarity, durability, and ease of use—an excellent choice that will boost your muzzleloader hunting success.
Top Recommendation: Crimson Trace Brushline Pro 3-9x40mm Riflescope SFP, BDC
Why We Recommend It: This scope combines a durable aerospace-grade aluminum tube with multi-coated lenses for bright, sharp images. Its 3-9x magnification suits various hunting distances, while the non-illuminated BDC reticle offers precise holdovers for muzzleloader calibers. The quick zero reset capped turrets and 5-inch eye relief enhance ease of use, especially in dynamic shots. Its rugged, waterproof, and fogproof design backs field reliability, making it the best choice overall for demanding muzzleloader hunts.
Best scope for muzzleloader hunting: Our Top 5 Picks
- Crimson Trace Brushline Pro 3-9x40mm Riflescope SFP, BDC – Best Value
- Muzzle-Loaders Genesis 3-9×40 Duplex Scope MZ1004 – Best Premium Option
- KONUS 9x 40mm Zoom KONUSpro 275 Muzzle Loading Scope – Best scope for muzzleloader long range
- Bushnell Legend 3-9x40mm Illuminated Riflescope – Best scope for muzzleloader night hunting
- Hi-Lux Toby Bridges Series 3-9x40mm Muzzleloader Scope – Best scope for muzzleloader target shooting
Crimson Trace Brushline Pro 3-9x40mm Riflescope SFP, BDC
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✓ Clear, bright optics
- ✓ Easy turret adjustments
- ✕ No illumination
- ✕ Slightly higher price
| Magnification | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 40mm |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch (aerospace grade aluminum tube) |
| Reticle Type | CT Custom BDC Muzzleloader (second focal plane, non-illuminated) |
| Eye Relief | 5 inches |
| Field of View | 33.9 ft at minimum magnification, 11.3 ft at maximum magnification |
That crimson-colored scope has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve heard it’s a top pick for muzzleloader hunters. When I finally got my hands on the Crimson Trace Brushline Pro 3-9x40mm, I was eager to see if it truly lived up to the hype.
Right out of the box, I noticed how lightweight it feels—just 13.8 ounces—making it easy to carry during long hunts. The 40mm lens is bright, and the multi-coated glass delivers a clear, sharp image even in low light conditions, which is perfect for those early morning or late evening sits.
The second focal plane and non-illuminated CT Custom BDC reticle are straightforward to use. I appreciated how quickly I could zero in with the spring-loaded turrets, which reset with a simple push.
Adjusting windage and elevation was smooth and tool-free, even when I was in a hurry to get everything dialed in.
What really stood out was the durability. It’s constructed of anodized aluminum and is waterproof, shockproof, and nitrogen purged.
I tested it in a variety of weather conditions, and fogging or water spots never appeared. The 5″ eye relief is comfortable, and the wide field of view made tracking targets effortless.
Overall, this scope feels solid, reliable, and perfectly tailored for muzzleloader hunting. It balances clarity, durability, and ease of use—all essential for those unpredictable hunting days.
Muzzle-Loaders Genesis 3-9×40 Duplex Scope MZ1004
- ✓ Clear, sharp optics
- ✓ Easy to adjust
- ✓ Lightweight but durable
- ✕ Limited magnification range
- ✕ No illuminated reticle
| Magnification Range | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 40mm |
| Reticle Type | Duplex |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch (25.4mm) |
| Adjustment Turret Type | Windage and Elevation with Click Value (likely 1/4 MOA) |
| Lens Coating | Multi-coated for light transmission |
There was a moment during my first shot where I realized how much this scope could change my muzzleloader game. I had been skeptical about how a relatively affordable optic could hold up, but the clarity on that 3-9×40 Duplex was surprisingly sharp even in low light.
The first thing I noticed is how solid the build feels. It’s lightweight but sturdy, with a nice matte finish that reduces glare and helps with concealment in the woods.
The eyepiece is comfy, and adjusting the zoom is smooth—no jerks or stiff spots.
The duplex reticle is a breeze to use, especially when lining up shots quickly. I appreciated how crisp the crosshairs stayed, even at higher magnifications.
It made tracking moving targets much easier, which is crucial for muzzleloader hunting.
Setting it up was straightforward thanks to the clear, simple adjustments. The turrets are firm but turn smoothly, giving you confidence in your zeroing process.
Plus, I tested it in different lighting conditions, and the lens coating really did boost visibility in the early morning and late evening hours.
One thing that stood out is how well it held zero after a few rough hikes and minor bumps. No shifts or loose parts.
That’s a big plus for anyone who ventures deep into the woods.
Overall, I was impressed by how it balances quality and affordability. It’s a reliable, clear scope that helps you focus on the shot without fussing over complicated features.
Honestly, it made me feel more confident in my shots, and that’s the real win.
KONUS 9x 40mm Zoom KONUSpro 275 Muzzle Loading Scope
- ✓ Clear, sharp optics
- ✓ Ballistic reticle simplifies range
- ✓ Durable all-weather build
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Limited zoom range
| Magnification | 9x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 40mm |
| Reticle Type | Glass-engraved ballistic reticle with 75 to 275-yard reference points |
| Adjustment Turrets | Finger-adjustable, 1/4 M.O.A. per click |
| Optical Coatings | Multi-coated lenses for bright, sharp image |
| Construction Features | Nitrogen-purged, waterproof, fogproof, shockproof |
Picture yourself at dawn, standing in a quiet forest with your muzzleloader resting on a sturdy bipod. The early light filters through the trees, and you’re eyeing a distant buck that’s just starting to move.
That’s when you pull up your KONUS 9x 40mm Zoom KONUSpro 275 Muzzle Loading Scope.
The first thing that catches your eye is the engraved ballistic reticle. It’s clear and precise, with reference points from 75 to 275 yards.
Holding over becomes instinctive, especially with that engraved guide which takes all the guesswork out of long-range shots.
Adjusting the scope is smooth thanks to the finger-adjustable turrets, which click reliably and are easy to operate wearing gloves. No fumbling here, even in damp conditions.
The multi-coated lenses deliver a bright, sharp picture, making it easy to spot that deer even in low light.
What really impresses me is the integrated lateral hash marks. They help you quickly gauge lead for moving targets and compensate for crosswinds, which is a game-changer in dynamic hunting situations.
Plus, the scope’s durability is obvious—it’s nitrogen-purged, waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
Using this scope, I felt confident in my shots, whether stationary or on the move. It’s built tough but remains easy to dial in, even in changing weather.
For under $130, you get a reliable, precise tool that makes muzzleloader hunting more successful and enjoyable.
Bushnell Legend 3-9x40mm Illuminated Riflescope
- ✓ Bright, clear image
- ✓ Excellent low-light performance
- ✓ Rugged, durable build
- ✕ Slightly limited zoom range
| Magnification Range | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 40mm |
| Reticle Illumination | Multi-X etched-glass with 6 brightness settings |
| Lens Coating | RainGuard HD |
| Tube Material | Aircraft-grade aluminum |
| Waterproof and Fogproof Rating | IPX7 waterproof, nitrogen-purged |
The first time I pick up the Bushnell Legend 3-9x40mm and look through it, I’m immediately struck by how bright and sharp the image is, even in the early dawn light. The 40mm objective lens really pulls in plenty of light, making those low-light moments during early morning hunts feel almost like midday.
I remember lining up my shot on a distant buck and appreciating how clear everything looked, even with some fog lingering.
The adjustable illuminated reticle is a game-changer. I love that I can toggle between six brightness levels with just a quick turn of the side dial.
It’s so handy when moving between shaded woods and open fields—no fumbling, just quick, accurate targeting. The center dot is bright enough to catch your eye instantly, which helps when you need to make a fast shot.
Durability isn’t a concern here. The one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube feels solid in your hands, yet surprisingly lightweight.
I took it through some rainy brush and appreciated the RainGuard HD coating—no fogging, no water spots, just a crisp view through the lens. Plus, the waterproof and fogproof features held up perfectly during a surprise downpour, keeping my shot on target instead of chasing fog or moisture buildup.
Overall, this scope feels like a reliable partner for muzzleloader hunting. It’s easy to handle, tough enough to withstand the elements, and offers great optical clarity at a fair price.
If you’re after a scope that can perform in all weather and lighting conditions, this one should be on your list.
Hi-Lux Toby Bridges Series 3-9x40mm Muzzleloader Scope
- ✓ Durable one-piece tube
- ✓ Bright, clear optics
- ✓ Precise BDC reticle
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Limited to .50 cal loads
| Magnification Range | 3–9x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 40mm |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch (25.4mm) |
| Reticle Type | .50 Cal BDC |
| Optical Coatings | Fully multi-coated |
| Construction | One-piece aluminum tube |
From the moment I picked up the Hi-Lux Toby Bridges Series 3-9x40mm Muzzleloader Scope, I noticed how solid and well-balanced it felt in my hand. Unlike some scopes that wobble or feel flimsy, this one has a beefy one-piece aluminum tube with an enlarged erector housing that screams durability.
It’s clear this scope is built to withstand the pounding of high-powered muzzleloaders.
The 3–9X magnification range is surprisingly versatile. I found it easy to dial in for close-range shots or push out to longer distances, making it perfect for varied hunting terrains.
The fully multi-coated lenses provided bright, crisp images, even in foggy or rainy conditions, which is a huge plus in unpredictable weather.
The real game-changer is the .50 Cal BDC reticle. I appreciated how it was designed from real-world testing, giving me confidence to make precise holdovers with different sabot and powder loads.
It’s a smart feature that saves time and guesswork when you’re in the field, especially during those critical moments.
Setup was straightforward, and I liked that it comes with a lifetime warranty. The scope’s robust construction and clear optics made my hunting experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Overall, this scope handles recoil like a champ and provides the accuracy I need for muzzleloader hunting.
What Features Are Most Important in a Muzzleloader Scope?
When selecting the best scope for muzzleloader hunting, several key features should be considered to ensure accuracy and performance.
- Magnification: The magnification power of the scope is crucial for targeting accuracy. A variable magnification range, typically between 3-9x, allows hunters to adjust for different distances, making it easier to spot and hit targets at varying ranges.
- Reticle Type: The type of reticle can significantly affect aiming precision. Options like duplex, BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator), or illuminated reticles provide advantages in different lighting conditions and help account for bullet drop over distance, enhancing shooting accuracy.
- Lens Coating: Quality lens coatings improve light transmission and reduce glare, which is vital for low-light hunting situations. Multi-coated or fully multi-coated lenses help ensure a clear and bright image, allowing for better visibility at dawn or dusk.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: Muzzleloader hunting often involves harsh outdoor conditions, so a scope should be rugged and resistant to water, fog, and shock. Look for scopes constructed from materials like aircraft-grade aluminum and those that feature O-ring seals to enhance their longevity and performance in the field.
- Eye Relief: Adequate eye relief is essential for safety and comfort, particularly with high-recoil firearms. A minimum of 3-4 inches of eye relief helps prevent scope bite and allows for a more relaxed shooting position, which can improve accuracy.
- Adjustment Turrets: The ability to make precise adjustments to windage and elevation is vital for compensating for environmental factors. Turrets that are easy to manipulate and provide audible clicks can help ensure that adjustments are accurate and repeatable, which is important for consistent shooting.
- Weight and Size: The scope’s weight and size can affect the balance of the muzzleloader. A lightweight and compact scope is often preferred to maintain maneuverability in the field, allowing for easier handling without compromising on performance.
What Magnification Level Is Best for Muzzleloader Hunting?
The best magnification level for muzzleloader hunting varies based on the specific conditions and distances involved.
- Low Magnification (1-4x): Ideal for close-range hunting, low magnification allows for quick target acquisition and a wider field of view.
- Medium Magnification (4-9x): This level is versatile and suitable for a variety of hunting scenarios, providing a good balance between field of view and detail at longer distances.
- High Magnification (9x and above): While beneficial for long-range shots, high magnification can make it challenging to track moving targets and may limit field of view.
Low magnification scopes are particularly effective in dense woods or during situations where shots are taken at short distances, as they allow hunters to quickly locate and identify their targets without the need for extensive adjustments.
Medium magnification scopes are popular among muzzleloader hunters because they facilitate shooting at both moderate and extended ranges, making them a flexible option for various hunting environments.
High magnification scopes are generally less favored for muzzleloader hunting due to their tendency to narrow the field of view, which can hinder quick target acquisition, especially in dynamic hunting scenarios where movement is crucial.
Which Reticle Types Are Ideal for Muzzleloader Scopes?
The ideal reticle types for muzzleloader scopes enhance accuracy and ease of use during hunting.
- Crosshair Reticle: This is the most basic and widely used reticle type. It features two thin lines that intersect at the center, allowing for precise aiming on a target. This simplicity is beneficial for quick target acquisition, especially in low-light conditions common during dawn or dusk.
- Duplex Reticle: The duplex reticle has thicker outer lines that taper to a thin crosshair, which helps in quick target acquisition while still providing precision at longer distances. This design is advantageous for hunters as it allows for better visibility of the target against various backgrounds, making it easier to focus on the game.
- BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) Reticle: This reticle includes multiple aiming points below the main crosshair, which correspond to various distances. It is particularly useful for muzzleloader hunting, as it allows hunters to adjust their aim for bullet drop at different ranges without having to estimate distances manually.
- Mil-Dot Reticle: Featuring dots spaced along the crosshairs, the mil-dot reticle allows for range estimation and bullet drop compensation. This reticle is effective for more experienced hunters who want to calculate distances and make precise adjustments for elevation and windage.
- Illuminated Reticle: An illuminated reticle can enhance visibility in low-light conditions, making it easier to see the crosshairs against dark backgrounds. This feature is especially beneficial during early morning or late evening hunts when lighting conditions can be challenging.
How Crucial Is Eye Relief for Muzzleloader Scopes?
Eye relief is a critical factor in selecting the best scope for muzzleloader hunting, as it affects both comfort and safety during use.
- Definition of Eye Relief: Eye relief refers to the distance between the ocular lens of the scope and the shooter’s eye.
- Importance for Muzzleloaders: Muzzleloaders produce significant recoil, making adequate eye relief essential to prevent injury.
- Recommended Eye Relief Range: A longer eye relief, typically 3 to 4 inches, is advised for muzzleloader scopes to accommodate the recoil and ensure a clear sight picture.
- Impact on Shooting Position: Proper eye relief allows for greater flexibility in shooting positions, enhancing accuracy and comfort during hunts.
- Scope Adjustment: Scopes with adjustable eye relief can be beneficial, allowing hunters to customize the distance to their preference and shooting style.
The definition of eye relief is crucial, as it directly influences how comfortably and effectively a shooter can use a scope. A scope with insufficient eye relief can lead to a black eye or facial injury from recoil, especially with the powerful kick of a muzzleloader.
The importance of eye relief for muzzleloaders cannot be overstated; the significant recoil generated by these firearms means that a shooter must have enough distance between their eye and the scope to avoid injury. Proper eye relief ensures that the shooter can maintain a stable and secure shooting position without the risk of the scope coming back into contact with their face.
For muzzleloader scopes, a recommended eye relief range of 3 to 4 inches is ideal, providing the necessary distance to protect the shooter while still allowing for a full field of view. This range helps mitigate the effects of recoil, ensuring the shooter can keep their eye safely behind the scope during discharge.
Eye relief also impacts shooting position; with adequate distance, hunters can adopt various stances without having to compromise on comfort or accuracy. This versatility is particularly important when hunting in dynamic environments where the shooting position may change rapidly.
Scopes with adjustable eye relief can enhance the hunting experience by allowing users to tailor the scope to their specific needs. This feature is beneficial for shooters who may wear glasses or have unique facial structures, ensuring that everyone can achieve optimal sight alignment without compromising safety.
Which Brands Are Recognized for High-Quality Muzzleloader Scopes?
Several brands are recognized for their high-quality muzzleloader scopes, known for durability, clarity, and precision.
- Leupold: Renowned for its exceptional optics and rugged construction, Leupold scopes offer excellent light transmission and clarity even in low-light conditions. Their VX-3i line is particularly popular among muzzleloader hunters for its reliable performance and customizable reticles.
- Burris: Burris scopes are celebrated for their innovative features such as the Ballistic Plex reticle, which aids in long-range shooting. They are built to withstand harsh weather and recoil, making them a solid choice for muzzleloader enthusiasts seeking reliability and accuracy.
- Vortex: Vortex has gained a reputation for offering high-quality optics at competitive prices. Their Crossfire II and Diamondback scopes are favored for their clear optics and robust construction, providing hunters with confidence in various hunting conditions.
- Nikon: Although Nikon has discontinued its riflescopes, their ProStaff series remains in high regard among muzzleloader users. Known for bright and clear optics, these scopes feature a simple design and are lightweight, making them ideal for hunters who prioritize portability.
- Bushnell: Bushnell scopes are well-known for their affordability without compromising quality. The Banner Dusk & Dawn series provides excellent performance in low-light situations, making it a popular choice for muzzleloader hunters who often hunt during dawn or dusk.
What Price Range Should You Consider for Quality Muzzleloader Scopes?
The price range for quality muzzleloader scopes can vary significantly based on features and brand reputation, but generally falls between $150 and $800.
- Entry-Level Scopes ($150 – $300): These scopes typically offer basic features suitable for beginners and casual hunters. They provide adequate clarity and durability for short to medium-range shots, which is often sufficient for most muzzleloader hunting scenarios.
- Mid-Range Scopes ($300 – $500): In this price range, scopes often come with better optics and more advanced features such as adjustable magnification and improved light transmission. They can handle various weather conditions and offer better reliability, making them a good choice for serious hunters.
- High-End Scopes ($500 – $800+): High-end scopes are designed for professional hunters or enthusiasts who demand the best performance. These scopes feature superior glass quality, exceptional clarity, and advanced reticle options, allowing for precise targeting at longer distances, along with robust construction to withstand harsh environments.
How Do You Choose the Right Muzzleloader Scope for Your Needs?
Choosing the right muzzleloader scope involves considering several key factors to enhance your hunting experience.
- Magnification: The level of magnification you choose will depend on the type of hunting you do. For close-range shots, a lower magnification (2-7x) may be sufficient, while longer shots may benefit from higher magnification (3-9x or more) to ensure accuracy at greater distances.
- Reticle Type: The reticle or crosshair design plays a crucial role in aiming. Options like duplex reticles provide a simple and quick target acquisition, while BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles offer holdover points for various distances, which can be particularly useful for muzzleloader hunting.
- Objective Lens Diameter: A larger objective lens (e.g., 40mm or more) allows more light to enter the scope, providing a brighter image in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk, which is often when game is most active.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: Muzzleloader hunting can expose your equipment to harsh conditions, so selecting a scope that is waterproof, fog proof, and shock-resistant ensures it will withstand the elements and rough handling.
- Weight and Size: The weight and size of the scope should complement your muzzleloader without adding excessive bulk. A lightweight scope will help maintain balance and maneuverability while hunting.
- Lens Coatings: Quality lens coatings enhance light transmission and reduce glare, improving clarity and brightness. Look for multi-coated or fully multi-coated lenses for optimal performance.
- Price and Brand Reputation: While it’s essential to stay within budget, investing in a reputable brand known for quality scopes can make a significant difference in performance and reliability during your hunting trips.