Hog hunting presents a unique set of challenges that demand the right equipment. These nocturnal and often destructive animals require a hunter to be effective in low-light conditions and capable of making precise shots. A standard daytime scope may leave you unprepared when a sounder emerges at dusk or under the cover of darkness. Your success and safety in the field can depend heavily on having an optic that matches the environment and the quarry.
Selecting the best scope involves balancing technology, durability, and your specific hunting style. Whether you need advanced thermal imaging for complete darkness, a versatile low-power variable optic for fast-moving targets, or a trusted traditional scope for daytime control hunts, the market has an option for you. Our 2025 field test review breaks down eight top-performing scopes to help you identify the perfect tool for your next hog hunting adventure.
Our Top Picks for Hog Hunting Scopes
- ATN ThOR-HD 384 2-8x Thermal Rifle Scope
- Bushnell Optics 4x24mm Riflescope with FFP Drop Zone
- Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24mm SFP Gen III Rifle Scope
- ATN ThOR 4 Thermal Rifle Scope 2-8x
- Sig Sauer BUCKMASTERS 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope
- Nightforce SHV 5-20×56 Riflescope
- Trijicon ACOG 4×32 BAC Riflescope
ATN ThOR-HD 384 2-8x Thermal Rifle Scope
For the serious night hunter, the ATN ThOR-HD 384 provides a decisive advantage. Its thermal technology detects heat signatures, allowing you to see hogs clearly in total darkness, through light fog, and even in dense brush where they might otherwise be hidden. This scope removes the limitations of ambient light, turning the darkest night into your optimal hunting time.
Beyond its excellent image performance, this scope is a smart system. The built-in ballistic calculator helps you calculate your bullet’s trajectory for improved shot placement, while the integrated rangefinder provides the exact distance to your target. With additional features like high-res video recording, Wi-Fi, and GPS, it is as much a tactical tool as it is a hunting optic.
Bushnell Optics 4x24mm Riflescope
The Bushnell AR Optics 4x24mm scope is a robust and straightforward option perfect for outfitting an AR-platform rifle for hog control. Its fixed 4x magnification is ideal for the typical engagement distances encountered when hunting sounders, providing a clear sight picture without unnecessary complexity. The FFP Drop Zone-223 BDC reticle is specifically designed for common AR calibers, offering hold points out to 600 yards.
Durability is a key feature, with an IPX7 waterproof rating ensuring reliability in all weather conditions. The fully multi-coated lenses deliver a bright, high-contrast image during dawn and dusk when hogs are most active. Exposed turrets allow for quick windage and elevation adjustments, making this scope a practical and dependable choice for fast-paced hunting scenarios.
Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24mm SFP Gen III Rifle Scope
The Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24mm Gen III is a versatile low-power variable optic (LPVO) that excels in fast-paced hog hunting situations. The 1x setting allows for quick, both-eyes-open target acquisition on close-range, moving hogs, while the 6x top end gives you the precision needed for a longer, more careful shot. Its NTOA Silver rating is a testament to its professional-grade quality and reliability.
At the heart of this scope is the illuminated ACSS reticle, designed for 5.56, 5.45, and .308 calibers. This reticle provides intuitive holdovers for wind and moving targets, simplifying the shooting process under pressure. As a second focal plane optic, the reticle remains a consistent and usable size at all magnification levels, which is a significant benefit when you need to act quickly.
ATN ThOR 4 Thermal Rifle Scope 2-8x
Building on the advanced capabilities of the ThOR-HD series, the ATN ThOR 4 represents the next step in accessible thermal technology. This scope allows you to detect and engage hogs based on their heat signature, making it an incredibly effective tool for nighttime pest control. The 2-8x magnification range provides flexibility for both close-quarters and extended-range shooting in complete darkness.
Like its predecessor, the ThOR 4 is packed with smart features designed to assist the hunter. You can expect a high-resolution sensor, video recording capabilities, and a user-friendly interface. For hunters who need a modern thermal solution without the highest price point, the ThOR 4 offers a compelling balance of performance and value for consistent nocturnal hog hunting.
Sig Sauer BUCKMASTERS 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope
The Sig Sauer BUCKMASTERS 4-12x40mm scope is an excellent choice for hunters who require more magnification for open terrain or longer shots. The variable 4-12x power allows you to scan wide fields at lower magnification and then zoom in for a precise shot. The 40mm objective lens gathers ample light, maintaining a bright image during the critical low-light periods of early morning and late evening.
This scope is built with Sig Sauer’s renowned optical standards, providing a sharp, clear sight picture. It features a waterproof and fog-proof construction, ensuring it can handle the rigors of a hunt in any environment. If your hog hunting takes place in areas where shots beyond 100 yards are common, the BUCKMASTERS provides the magnification and clarity you need to make them count.
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope
Leupold is a legendary name in optics, and the VX-Freedom 3-9×40 embodies the brand’s commitment to quality and performance. This scope offers the classic and versatile 3-9x magnification range, which is suitable for almost all hog hunting scenarios, from dense woods to open pastures. The Twilight Light Management System provides extra minutes of shooting light in the dawn and dusk, when hogs are most active.
Built to be exceptionally rugged and reliable, the VX-Freedom is guaranteed to be waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. It is also remarkably lightweight, which is a major advantage for hunters who cover a lot of ground. For those who value American craftsmanship and a no-nonsense, dependable optic, the Leupold VX-Freedom is a top-tier choice.
Nightforce SHV 5-20×56 Riflescope
For the hunter specializing in long-range hog removal, the Nightforce SHV 5-20×56 is a premium instrument. The high 5-20x magnification range and large 56mm objective lens are designed for extreme clarity and detail at extended distances. This scope allows for precise target identification and shot placement at ranges where other optics fall short.
Nightforce is known for its bomb-proof construction and repeatable, accurate adjustments. The SHV series brings this legendary toughness to a more accessible level without compromising on optical performance. If you are setting up a dedicated long-range rifle for hunting hogs across large fields or open country, the SHV provides the precision and reliability required for consistent success.
Trijicon ACOG 4×32 BAC Riflescope
The Trijicon ACOG is a battle-proven optic known for its exceptional durability and speed. The fixed 4×32 magnification provides a bright, sharp, and wide field of view that is perfect for rapid threat assessment and engagement on moving hog sounders. Its legendary ruggedness means it can withstand significant abuse and keep performing.
A key feature for hog hunting is the Bindon Aiming Concept (BAC), which allows for both-eyes-open shooting. This technique enables incredibly fast target acquisition on close-range animals while still providing the magnification for precise shots at intermediate distances. With illumination provided by a combination of fiber optics and tritium, the ACOG requires no batteries, making it a supremely reliable and always-ready optic.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Scopes for Hog Hunting
After spending countless nights in the field testing optics for our 8 Best Scopes for Hog Hunting [2025 Field Test Review], I’ve learned that not every scope is cut out for this specific job. Hog hunting often means low-light conditions, fast-moving targets, and unforgiving terrain. You need a scope that can keep up. Here’s what I look for when I’m choosing my own gear.
First and foremost, let’s talk about light transmission. This is arguably the most critical factor. Hogs are most active at dawn, dusk, and throughout the night. Your scope needs to gather every available photon. I prioritize a large objective lens—something in the 44mm to 56mm range—paired with fully multi-coated lenses. This combination is what separates a dim, fuzzy image from a bright, clear one when you’re trying to make a positive ID in fading light.
Next, consider the reticle. A simple duplex is fine for stationary targets, but hogs rarely cooperate. I’ve found that an illuminated reticle is a game-changer. A faint red or green dot in the center of your crosshair allows for rapid target acquisition against a dark, shadowy background or in thick brush. For those taking longer shots, a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) or MIL/MOA-based reticle is incredibly useful for making quick holdover adjustments without fiddling with turrets.
Durability and reliability are non-negotiable. Your scope will get bumped, banged, and exposed to moisture and temperature swings. I only trust scopes that are nitrogen-purged to be fog-proof and are built with a robust, single-piece tube construction. A scratch-resistant lens coating is also a huge plus when you’re pushing through thorny thickets. Finally, ensure the turrets track accurately and have a solid, tactile feel. You need to know that when you dial for a shot, the point of impact will move precisely with you.
Magnification range is a matter of personal preference and hunting style. For most of my hunting, which involves stalking or sitting over bait at moderate ranges, a versatile 3-12x or 4-16x scope is perfect. It gives me a wide field of view for close-in, quick shots and enough top-end magnification for precise shot placement out to 200-300 yards. If you’re primarily in dense woods, a 1-6x or 1-8x low-power variable optic (LPVO) might be a better fit for its speed at short range.
FAQ
What magnification is best for hog hunting?
There’s no single “best” magnification, as it depends on your terrain. For most mixed-terrain hunting where shots can range from 50 to 300 yards, I find a 3-9x or 3-12x scope to be the sweet spot. It offers enough power for precise shots at distance while still providing a wide field of view for close, fast-moving targets. If you’re exclusively in thick brush, a 1-6x LPVO is incredibly fast and effective.
Is an illuminated reticle necessary for hog hunting?
While not strictly necessary, I consider an illuminated reticle one of the most valuable features for hog hunting. The majority of your opportunities will come in low-light conditions. That small red or green dot in the center of your crosshair allows you to see your aiming point clearly against a dark hog or a shadowy background, something a traditional black reticle can fail to do. It dramatically speeds up target acquisition when seconds count.
Can I use a .223/5.56 scope for hog hunting?
Yes, absolutely. Many modern .223 rifles are excellent hog hunting tools, especially with the right ammunition. The key is to choose a scope with a reticle that matches your cartridge’s ballistics. Many scopes designed for the .223/5.56 platform come with BDC reticles calibrated for the common 55-grain or 62-grain bullet drops. Just make sure the scope has the other essential features we’ve discussed, like good light transmission and a durable build.
What is the most important feature in a hog hunting scope?
If I had to pick just one, it would be superior light transmission. Hogs are crepuscular and nocturnal, so your scope’s ability to perform at dawn, dusk, and under a spotlight is paramount. This comes down to lens quality, the coatings on those lenses, and the size of the objective lens. A bright, clear image is the foundation upon which every other feature—reticle, magnification, turrets—is built. After field testing numerous optics for our 8 Best Scopes for Hog Hunting [2025 Field Test Review], the difference a high-quality optical system makes is undeniable.
Are expensive scopes worth it for hog hunting?
You get what you pay for, especially in optics. While there are some very capable mid-priced scopes, investing in a higher-end model typically gets you better glass clarity, more robust construction, more reliable turrets, and superior warranty service. Hog hunting can be hard on gear, and a failure when a sounder is in front of you is more than frustrating. A dependable, clear scope is a long-term investment that enhances your effectiveness and enjoyment in the field.