Let’s look at the Best 1x Muzzleloader Scopes.
When it comes to muzzleloader hunting, having the right 1x scope can make all the difference in accuracy, target acquisition, and overall shooting experience. A well-designed scope enhances visibility, ensures quick adjustments, and provides durability to withstand harsh conditions.
Whether you’re tracking game in thick brush or taking a shot at varying distances, a quality 1x muzzleloader scope offers the clarity, eye relief, and rugged construction needed for consistent performance. Choosing the best option requires considering factors such as reticle design, magnification, durability, and optical quality to ensure reliable performance in the field.
Best 1x Muzzleloader Scopes
1) Primary Arms SLX 1X MicroPrism Scope
The Primary Arms SLx 1X MicroPrism Scope is the best 1x Muzzleloader Scope, it is an exceptional 1x optic designed for shooters who demand precision, durability, and versatility. This ultra-compact prism sight is about half the size of Primary Arms’ Compact 1x Prism and is over 20% lighter, making it ideal for streamlined setups.
Despite its small size, it delivers outstanding performance with 13 brightness settings, including three-night vision-compatible modes and daylight bright illumination, ensuring a crisp aiming point in any lighting condition.
One of the standout features of this MicroPrism is its etched reticle, which remains visible even when the illumination is turned off—a huge advantage for shooters with astigmatism who struggle with traditional red dots.
The AutoLive motion-sensing technology significantly enhances battery life by turning the optic on when movement is detected and off when idle, contributing to an impressive 29,000-hour battery life on medium settings.
Additionally, fully multi-coated optics enhance clarity, allowing for precise aiming and rapid target acquisition even in low-light environments.
This optic is built for adaptability, featuring eight mounting height options, including absolute co-witness and lower 1/3 height settings, making it a great fit for muzzleloaders, carbines, and tactical rifles. It also offers a wide field of view (76.5 feet at 100 yards), ensuring excellent situational awareness.
With a 3.6-inch optimal eye relief and a usable range of 2 to 6 inches, shooters can maintain a natural, comfortable sight picture. Windage and elevation adjustments are easy to fine-tune, thanks to the 120 MOA adjustment range with 1 MOA click values.
Constructed from rugged aluminum, the SLx 1X MicroPrism is IP67 waterproof, nitrogen-purged for fog resistance, and dustproof, ensuring reliability in harsh conditions. Lens covers are included, while an anti-reflection device (ARD) is available separately.
Backed by the Primary Arms Lifetime Warranty, this optic is a long-term investment for serious hunters and shooters looking for a durable, high-performance 1x optic.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact – 20% lighter than similar prism sights
- Etched reticle works without illumination – great for astigmatism
- 13 illumination settings, including three night vision-compatible modes
- AutoLive motion-sensing technology extends battery life to 29,000 hours
- Wide field of view (76.5 ft @ 100 yds) for enhanced situational awareness
- Eight mounting height options, including absolute co-witness and lower 1/3
- 120 MOA windage/elevation adjustments with 1 MOA click value
- IP67 is waterproof, fogproof, and dustproof for all-weather performance
- Includes lens covers; optional ARD available separately
Cons
- 17mm objective lens may feel small for some shooters
2) Leupold Freedom RDS
The Leupold Freedom RDS 1x34mm Red Dot Sight is one of the best 1x muzzleloader scopes, it features a Twilight Red Dot System, color consistency, incredible lens clarity, Motion Sensor Technology, recoil energy resistance, and a waterproof, fogproof performance. Built with Leupold’s Professional-Grade Red Dot Optical System, this red dot delivers industry-leading light transmission and exceptional clarity, even in low-light conditions.
The Twilight Red Dot System allows shooters to see more in less light, making it ideal for early morning or late evening hunts.
One of the standout features of this optic is its 1 MOA dot, which provides a crisp and precise aiming point for improved accuracy at various distances.
The Motion Sensor Technology (MST) extends battery life by automatically shutting off the reticle after five minutes of inactivity and instantly reactivating it when movement is detected. This feature ensures that your red dot is always ready when you need it, without draining the battery unnecessarily.
Leupold has designed this red dot with ruggedness in mind. It undergoes Punisher testing, a rigorous recoil simulation process, to ensure it withstands the harshest environments.
Its ultra-lightweight construction disperses recoil energy, making it one of the most durable red dots on the market. Additionally, it is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring reliable performance in any weather conditions.
Installation is straightforward with the included AR-height mount, making it a versatile choice for muzzleloaders, AR platforms, and other firearms.
The optic also features precise 1/4 MOA click adjustments for easy windage and elevation tuning. For those seeking mid-range accuracy, the pre-calibrated .223 Rem BDC dial offers added precision.
Pros
- Twilight Red Dot System enhances visibility in low light
- 1 MOA dot provides a precise aiming point
- Motion Sensor Technology (MST) extends battery life
- Durable construction tested to withstand heavy recoil
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for all-weather reliability
- Ultra-lightweight design disperses recoil energy
- Easy installation with included AR-height mount
- Made in the USA and backed by Leupold’s lifetime guarantee
Cons
- The AR-height mount may require an adapter for certain muzzleloader setups
3) Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1-4×24 Rifle Scope
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1-4×24 is a top-tier low-power variable optic (LPVO) that stands out as one of the Best 1x Muzzleloader Scopes. Designed for hunters and tactical shooters, this riflescope provides exceptional clarity, durability, and ease of use. The 1-4x magnification range allows for fast target acquisition at 1x while offering the flexibility to zoom in for precise shots at longer distances.
Its V-Brite illuminated reticle, based on the V-Plex format, enhances visibility in low-light conditions, making it an excellent choice for dawn or dusk hunts.
The Crossfire II is built for reliability, featuring long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, ensuring a quick and comfortable sight picture. The fast-focus eyepiece allows users to easily adjust the reticle for sharp, precise aiming. The fully multi-coated lenses deliver bright and clear views, even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
With capped reset turrets that are finger-adjustable and can be reset to zero, shooters can quickly make accurate windage and elevation adjustments.
Durability is a key highlight of the Crossfire II. Constructed from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, this scope is designed to withstand heavy recoil and rugged environments. It is O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, ensuring waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof performance.
The hard-anodized finish not only adds durability but also reduces glare, helping shooters maintain a low profile in the field. The included cantilever mount ensures proper eye relief and head positioning, making it a great fit for various rifles, including muzzleloaders.
For those looking for a versatile and high-performing LPVO that balances affordability and reliability, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1-4×24 is an outstanding choice. Whether used for hunting or tactical applications, this scope delivers sharp optics, rugged durability, and intuitive controls, making it one of the best 1x scopes for muzzleloaders on the market.
Pros
- 1-4x magnification offers versatility for both close and mid-range shots
- V-Brite illuminated reticle enhances visibility in low-light conditions
- Long eye relief and ultra-forgiving eye box for quick target acquisition
- Fully multi-coated lenses provide bright and clear images
- Fast-focus eyepiece allows quick reticle adjustments
- Capped resettable turrets are finger-adjustable for easy zeroing
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction ensures shockproof durability
- O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged for waterproof and fogproof performance
- Hard-anodized finish reduces glare and enhances stealth
Cons
- Lacks a throw lever for quick magnification adjustments
4) Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 1-4x20mm Rifle Scope
For muzzleloader hunters looking for a lightweight, durable, and highly functional optic, the Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 1-4x20mm Rifle Scope is an excellent choice. Designed with clarity and precision in mind, this scope features a 1-4x magnification range, making it well-suited for both close-range and moderate-distance shooting. The compact design and rugged construction make it ideal for muzzleloaders, ensuring consistent performance in the field.
One of the standout features of this scope is its etched glass reticle, which includes 5 levels of red and green LED illumination. This provides superior visibility in low-light conditions, making it perfect for early morning or late evening hunts. The H2 optics system with 11-layer fully multi-coated lenses enhances light transmission and image clarity, ensuring a bright and crisp sight picture. The wide-angle field of view (99.3-24.8 ft. at 100 yards) allows for quick target acquisition, a crucial feature for a fast-moving game.
Built to withstand harsh conditions, the Hawke Vantage 1-4x20mm is nitrogen-purged, shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof. The 1-inch aluminum mono-tube construction enhances strength and durability, while the capped low-profile turrets allow for precise windage and elevation adjustments in 1/2 MOA increments.
The fixed parallax simplifies operation, keeping the focus sharp and reliable. With 4 inches of eye relief, this scope is comfortable to use, reducing the risk of scope bite when mounted on powerful muzzleloaders.
For muzzleloader enthusiasts seeking a reliable, compact, and illuminated optic, the Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 1-4x20mm is one of the Best 1x Muzzleloader Scopes. Whether hunting turkey, deer, or other game, its crystal-clear optics, illuminated reticle, and rugged construction make it one of the best 1x scopes available.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design (only 11.7 oz)
- 1-4x magnification for versatile shooting distances
- Etched glass reticle with red/green illumination for low-light performance
- H2 optics system with 11-layer fully multi-coated lenses for bright and clear images
- Wide-angle field of view for quick target acquisition
- Capped low-profile turrets with precise 1/2 MOA adjustments
- Durable aluminum mono-tube construction
- Nitrogen purged, waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof
- Hawke No-Fault Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- Fixed parallax may limit ultra-precise adjustments at longer ranges
5) Trijicon TR24G AccuPoint 1-4x24mm Riflescope
For muzzleloader hunters seeking a rugged, high-performance optic with battery-free illumination, the Trijicon TR24G AccuPoint 1-4x24mm Riflescope is a top-tier choice. Built to military-grade durability, this scope combines superior optical clarity, fiber optic/tritium illumination, and rapid target acquisition, making it one of the best 1x scopes for muzzleloaders.
Whether you’re hunting in dense woods or open fields, the AccuPoint TR24G provides a clear and bright aiming solution in any lighting condition.
One of the standout features of the Trijicon AccuPoint 1-4x24mm is its battery-free illuminated reticle. Using fiber optic technology, the reticle automatically adjusts to ambient light, providing a bright aiming point in daylight. In low-light or no-light conditions, the tritium phosphor lamp ensures consistent illumination without reliance on batteries, eliminating concerns about power failure in the field.
Built with multi-coated, broadband, anti-reflective glass, the AccuPoint TR24G delivers edge-to-edge clarity with zero distortion. This ensures excellent light transmission, true-to-life colors, and a crisp sight picture, even in dawn or dusk scenarios.
The aircraft-grade aluminum housing is engineered for extreme durability, making the scope shockproof, waterproof (up to 10 feet), and fogproof—perfect for hunters who face harsh weather conditions.
Designed for quick shots on moving targets, the AccuPoint TR24G features true 1x magnification, allowing for both-eyes-open shooting using Trijicon’s Bindon Aiming Concept (BAC). This makes target acquisition lightning fast, especially in close-range encounters.
The repositionable magnification lever allows for quick power adjustments, while the precise, tool-free windage and elevation turrets ensure easy zeroing and on-the-fly adjustments without accidental shifts.
With a 30mm tube for increased adjustability, 90 MOA of total windage and elevation travel, and a forgiving eye relief of 3.2 inches, the Trijicon AccuPoint 1-4x24mm is a perfect fit for muzzleloaders and short-range big game hunters.
Whether you’re in the woods tracking whitetail or engaging game in low-light conditions, this scope delivers unmatched reliability and performance.
Pros
- Battery-free fiber optic/tritium illumination for reliable low-light aiming
- True 1x magnification for both-eyes-open shooting and fast target engagement
- Multi-coated, anti-reflective glass for crystal-clear images with no distortion
- Aircraft-grade aluminum housing for military-grade durability
- Waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof for all-weather performance
- 30mm tube for increased adjustment range and mounting options
- Easy tool-free windage/elevation adjustments with capped turrets
- Repositionable magnification lever for fast power changes
Cons
- Premium price point compared to budget-friendly alternatives
Next Read: 6 Best Muzzleloader Scopes
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best 1x Muzzleloader Scope
Here are the most important considerations :
True 1x Magnification for Both-Eyes-Open Shooting
A true 1x magnification allows for both-eyes-open shooting, which is crucial for quick target acquisition, especially in dense woods or fast-moving hunting scenarios. This ensures a wider field of view (FOV) and improved situational awareness, helping hunters track and engage game efficiently. Scopes that maintain a true 1x setting provide a seamless transition between scanning and aiming, reducing the time needed to get on target.
Illuminated Reticle for Low-Light Hunting
Muzzleloader hunting often takes place in early morning or late evening, where low-light performance is critical. A well-illuminated reticle enhances contrast against dark backgrounds, making aiming easier.
Scopes with adjustable brightness settings for different lighting conditions provide better versatility. Additionally, having a reticle that operates without reliance on batteries can ensure consistent performance without the risk of failure.
Optical Clarity and Light Transmission
Superior lens quality and coatings play a major role in how well a scope performs in different lighting conditions. Fully multi-coated, anti-reflective glass enhances light transmission, ensuring a brighter and clearer sight picture.
A high-quality optical system reduces glare, eliminates distortion, and improves contrast, making it easier to see details of your target, even in challenging environments.
Eye Relief and Exit Pupil for Comfort and Safety
Muzzleloaders often generate substantial recoil, so having adequate eye relief—typically around 3.5 to 4 inches—prevents scope bite and ensures a comfortable shooting experience.
Additionally, a well-balanced exit pupil (the size of the light beam exiting the eyepiece) affects how easily you can acquire your sight picture, especially in low-light conditions. A wider exit pupil helps maintain a bright image when aiming.
Reticle Design and Holdover Marks
A well-designed reticle plays a crucial role in accuracy. Simple crosshairs are great for short-range muzzleloader shots, but more advanced reticles with holdover marks can help compensate for bullet drop at extended ranges.
Some reticles also feature contrast-enhancing designs, making it easier to aim against different backgrounds, whether in dense woods or open fields.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Hunting with a muzzleloader often involves exposure to harsh weather conditions, making durability a top priority. A scope should be shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof, ensuring reliable performance in rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
A solid one-piece aluminum tube construction enhances structural integrity, while nitrogen or argon purging prevents internal fogging, maintaining a clear view in humid or cold environments.
Turret Adjustments and Ease of Zeroing
Precision windage and elevation adjustments are essential for consistent accuracy. Look for turrets with positive, tactile clicks that allow for precise adjustments, typically in 1/2 MOA or 1/4 MOA increments.
Capped turrets protect against accidental movement in the field, while zero-reset or zero-stop features ensure you can return to your original zero quickly after adjustments.
Field of View for Tracking Moving Targets
A wide field of view (FOV) helps with tracking moving game, especially in close-quarters hunting. A scope with a broad FOV at 1x magnification allows for quick scanning, while the ability to zoom in slightly (such as 4x) provides added versatility for longer shots. A well-balanced FOV enhances both target acquisition speed and overall hunting efficiency.
Mounting Flexibility and Tube Size
The tube size of a scope, typically 1 inch or 30mm, affects the range of adjustment for windage and elevation as well as the availability of mounting options. A larger tube diameter generally provides more internal adjustment range, beneficial for muzzleloaders that may require greater elevation compensation. Ensuring the scope is compatible with readily available mounting systems prevents installation issues.
Weight and Overall Handling
The weight of the scope impacts how well it balances with a muzzleloader. A lightweight scope minimizes added bulk, making the firearm easier to shoulder and maneuver.
However, a slightly heavier scope with a sturdy build may offer better durability and recoil resistance. Striking the right balance between weight, durability, and handling ensures a comfortable and controlled shooting experience in the field.
Best 1x Muzzleloader Scopes FAQs
Why is a true 1x magnification important for a muzzleloader scope?
A true 1x magnification allows for both-eyes-open shooting, improving situational awareness and target acquisition speed. This is especially beneficial when hunting in dense woods or tracking moving game. A scope that maintains a true 1x setting ensures a natural view while also providing the flexibility to zoom in when needed.
What type of reticle works best for a 1x muzzleloader scope?
The best reticles for 1x muzzleloader scopes are illuminated, simple, and easy to use in various lighting conditions. Reticles with holdover marks can help compensate for bullet drop at longer distances, while etched glass designs provide added durability. Red or green illumination enhances visibility in low light without overwhelming the sight picture.
How much eye relief do I need for a muzzleloader scope?
Since muzzleloaders generate significant recoil, a scope should have at least 3.5 to 4 inches of eye relief to prevent scope bite. Adequate eye relief ensures a comfortable shooting experience and helps maintain a consistent sight picture, even when adjusting for different shooting positions.
What durability features should I look for in a muzzleloader scope?
A good muzzleloader scope should be shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof to handle the harsh conditions of hunting. Look for nitrogen or argon purging to prevent internal fogging and a sturdy aluminum tube for recoil resistance. A lifetime warranty is also a strong indicator of durability and reliability.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best 1x muzzleloader scopes comes down to finding the perfect balance between optical clarity, durability, ease of use, and recoil resistance. A great scope should provide quick target acquisition, long eye relief, and a clear reticle, all while holding up to the challenges of muzzleloader hunting.
Whether you need battery-free illumination, waterproof construction, or a versatile field of view, the right scope can elevate your shooting accuracy and confidence. By considering the essential features, you can choose a scope that enhances your hunting experience and delivers reliable performance for years to come.