Top 11 Optics for 2023 | Deer & Deer Hunting

Consistently kill big game with these new optics for 2023.

1. Burris LRF 2000

Serious bowhunters know Burris Optics means business. Gear like the Oracle 2 Bow Sight with Rangefinder and Oracle X Crossbow Rangefinding Scope are just two of the company’s high-tech innovations that help bowhunters consistently harvest big game. The new Signature LRF 2000 standalone rangefinding monocular can range reflective targets out to more than 2,000 yards, and deer and other game out to 1,100 yards. The Signature LRF offers four powerful modes to accommodate any ranging situation, including auto, which displays the range of the target with the strongest signal, a hunt mode to display the farthest range when looking through branches and tall grass, a sport mode that displays the closest target in a group and a continuous scan. Unlike most other rangefinders, the Signature LRF offers 7x magnification, showing you more detail, and a 31.5-foot FOV at 100 yards helps you miss nothing. A full 16mm of eye relief provides comfort, while the rangefinder’s 22mm objective displays bright images in scarce sunlight.

MSRP: $349.00 | Burrisoptics.com

2. Leupold RX-FullDraw 5

The RX-FullDraw 5 combines the lightning-fast accuracy of Leupold’s DNA engine with the acclaimed Archer’s Advantage software, making it the most ballistically advanced rangefinder on the market. Archer’s Advantage accounts for your bow’s velocity, peep height, arrow weight and shot angle, providing accurate ranges for accurate shots. A 6x magnification brings objects closer, while the OLED display renders images clear and bright. Not sure if you have a clear shot? Flightpath technology eliminates doubt by displaying potential arrow obstructions out to 85 yards. Flightpath technology now includes a 20-yard mode, showing an illuminated mark that indicates arrow height at 20 yards. There’s also a rain/fog mode (last target mode) and a lower velocity mode for archers who use traditional bows. The FullDraw 5 accurately distances reflective targets out to 1,200 yards, and 100% waterproof technology keeps this rangefinder ready for whatever you throw at it.

MSRP: $499.00 | leupold.com

3. Bushnell Broadhead Laser Rangefinder

Precision engineered specifically for bowhunters, the Broadhead Laser Rangefinder from Bushnell offers industry-leading 0.3-yard accuracy out to 150 yards, ensuring precise distance estimates time after time. It also can range animals a maximum distance of 500 yards, and trees out to 800 yards. A high-definition, fully multicoated glass optical system provides a 50% larger objective lens that’s up to two times brighter than similar rangefinders on the market. Its built-in ACTIVSYNC display automatically changes from black in bright light conditions to red in low-light settings, enabling users to always see accurate readings. Scan, near and far target modes provide ultimate flexibility, while ARC technology makes uphill and downhill shots a cinch. The Broadhead Rangefinder includes a tripod mount and lanyard holes for multiple setup options, and the provided CR2 battery makes this archery hunters’ rangefinder ready to roam right out of the box.

MSRP: $299.99 | Bushnell.com

4. Covert Optics ThermX HS1

This scanner is like having a bloodhound in your pocket! Powered by Armasight®, the Covert® Optics ThermX™ HS1 is a field-use handheld thermal scanning device custom-designed for bowhunters and the greater hunting community with the versatility to act as a powerful game recovery tool or weapon sight.

Through the detection of a heat signature, this lightweight and ergonomic thermal multi-tool buys confidence in the field knowing not every situation goes according to plan. Anyone who has ever been stumped on a blood trail or encountered the dreaded “one that got away” deserves to give the HS1 a try. The compact, monocular-style design is ideal for game recovery and predator detection no matter the lighting or ambient temperature conditions. Powered by the dynamic Lepton 3.5 micro core with enhanced image processor, the HS1 generates high-resolution images that are brilliantly displayed in real time on a freeze-resistant OLED screen. Featuring a simple-to-use interface with several options and four popular color palette displays programmed to fit the varying situations that hunters experience consistently in the field. Screen options include white hot, black hot and multi-color for total environmental optimization. With the ability to adjust windage and elevation, the HS1 is equally comfortable covertly operating as a weapon’s mountable sight with native 4X magnification and moderate field-of-view for accurate and rapid target acquisition. As one of the most versatile hunting tools in the Covert Optics’ line, the simple three-button control system provides easy navigation of the unit’s various features and options, while providing the largest amount of utilization across a wide range of field applications. Uses include observation, detection and recognition of wildlife. Powered by a single CR123 battery, the HS1 offers long battery life even in cold weather conditions.

Lepton 3.5 micro core sensor with 160×120 sensor resolution, and a 9hz frame rate.

MSRP: $999 | feradyne.com

5. Trophyline Bino Harness

Access to critical gear like your glass is a must and you shouldn’t have to compromise that when saddle hunting. With this in mind, Trophyline set out to design a bino harness that was protective and compact to stay close to the chest and out of the way of your bridge. The result is a durable, yet lean and extremely functional harness. The quilted fleece-lined EVA molded foam body and lid keep your investment in glass well-protected. The magnetic lid opens away from your chest, creating a shelf for a cell phone, it also makes a great shelf for your hunting snack of choice. With the MOLLE offerings on the bottom and right side of the harness, any MOLLE accessories or rangefinder pouch (sold separately) can be placed in either position. This allows you to dramatically cut the harness/rangefinder combo’s profile down across your chest. The finishing details of an elastic pocket for your wind checker, padded back panel, and small zipper pocket for tags/glass cleaner complete this harness.

It weighs 14 ounces and measures 7” tall, 5.5” wide and 2.5” deep.

MSRP: $99.99 | trophyline.com

6. Hawke XB30 2-7×32 Scope

The new XB30 2-7×32 scope features Hawke’s unique vari-speed technology, enabling any crossbow shooting bolts 280 to 440 fps to be quickly dialed in for unrivaled accuracy, while a locking speed adjuster ring ensures your setting doesn’t change once it’s zeroed in. The XB30 also features an amazing 11 layers of fully multicoated lenses, providing maximum clarity, while a 30mm monotube chassis provides superior strength and durability. A new and simplified version of the popular XB reticle gives hunters clearer views, with aim points from 20 to 100 yards. Five levels of brightness in both red and green illumination help you hone in on ungulates in low-light conditions, while a fast-focus eyebell and generous 4-inch eye relief create viewing comfort. As with all Hawke scopes, the XB30 is fogproof, shockproof, waterproof and nitrogen purged, making it the ultimate optic for discerning crossbow users.

MRSP: $249.00 | Hawkeoptics.com

7. Zeiss SFL

Safely transporting all your necessary hunting gear to your stand can be cumbersome, requiring many hunters to look for ways to cut down on the weight they have to lug around. The Zeiss SFL (SmartFocus and Lightweight) 8×40 binoculars offer unparalleled image quality at just 22.6 ounces, helping you avoid fatigue while on the move or when sitting. A thinner lens diameter and more closely spaced lens elements reduce weight by 20%, making these babies up to 30% lighter than comparable models. Despite its scant weight, the SFL 8×40 model still delivers 90% light transmission for optimized viewings, even in twilight conditions. Proprietary FieldFlattener technology provides edge-to-edge clarity, while an impressive FOV of 420 feet at 1,000 yards keeps hunters honed in on stealthy game. SmartFocus technology even includes a perfectly positioned focus wheel that allows for fast and precise viewing, even when wearing gloves. Improved eye cups and a large 5mm exit pupil combine to provide comfortable and immersive viewing all day long.

MRSP: $1,799.99 | zeiss.com

8. Huskemaw 4×40 Crossfield Scope

Are you a skilled crossbow marksman? Then you’ll want the 4×40 Crossfield from Huskemaw, a scope made for long-range shooting. The Crossfield is a fixed-power scope that utilizes a calibrated Arrow Drop Compensator turret to match the trajectory of today’s high-speed crossbows, enabling you to ethically take down whitetails up to 150 yards away. Housed in a sturdy, one-piece aircraft aluminum body, the Crossfire features fully multi-coated, cement-bedded lenses with a glass-etched reticle, keeping you on the hunt when Mother Nature turns nasty. Weighing just 20.1 ounces, the scope provides a generous 36mm eyepiece diameter, while its fast-focus eyepiece gives you ultimate viewing comfort. The Crossfield offers an impressive field of view of 31.4 feet at 75 yards, making sure you don’t miss fast-moving deer. A red or green illuminated dot helps you put your prey in your crosshairs in dwindling light. Like all quality crossbow scopes, the Crossfire is fogproof, shockproof and completely waterproof.

MSRP: $399.99 | Huskemawoptics.com

9. Huskemaw 10x42mm Blue Diamond Binoculars

Three years of rigorous field testing from sea level to 14,000 feet went into the 10x42mm Blue Diamond binoculars from Huskemaw Optics, giving archers high-quality glass in a compact and lightweight (24.6-ounce) package. The Blue Diamond binoculars leverage the same high-density lens coatings found on Huskemaw’s popular Tactical Series long-range riflescopes, while multicoated lenses made from unrivaled German F2 Schott glass deliver extreme clarity and outstanding light transmission. Fully adjustable eyepieces are perfect for those who wear glasses, while fogproof, shockproof and waterproof construction make the Blue Diamond binos flawless performers in harsh conditions. Huskemaw Optics’ 10×42 binoculars deliver premium performance for hunters who demand more, with stunning resolution and amazing color fidelity needed for spotting and sizing up whitetails. When performance, durability and grams matter, Blue Diamond binoculars make the perfect field companion.

MSRP: $1,499.00 | huskemawoptics.com

10. Leupold BX-5 Santium HD 8×42 Binoculars

Being able to spot the quick flick of a tail or promising gleam of antlers can make or break any hunt. The BX-5 Santium HD 8×42 binoculars offer unmatched light transmission made to perform in challenging lighting conditions, while industry-leading glare reduction and unmatched resolution combine for crystal-clear images, even in harsh, direct light. A rugged, armor-coated, waterproof body is only 5.9 inches long, yet will withstand abuse on any backcountry adventure. The 8×42 model offers a generous FOV of 377 feet at 1,000 yards, while a thoughtful design eliminates eye strain for all-day glassing comfort. The open-bridge, dual-hinge design offers comfortable hand placement, and a Guard-ion lens coating sheds dirt and water for ultimate viewings. Field-replaceable aluminum eyecups make for carefree maintenance while on the hunt. Like all other Leupold binoculars, the BX-5 Santium HD 8×42 optics are waterproof, fogproof and guaranteed for life.

MRSP: $999.99 | leupold.com

11. Bushnell Fusion X Rangefinding 10×42 Binoculars

The Fusion X Rangefinding 10×42 binoculars feature a whopping 1-mile range, along with a new ACTIVSYNC display system that provides black readouts in bright light and red readouts in low-light conditions. What’s more, the ACTIVSYNC technology automatically adjusts colors, meaning you’ll get accurate readings in virtually any lighting conditions. The full-size 10×42 binoculars boast an HDOS (High-Definition Optical System) with fully multicoated lenses, providing ultimate clarity and low-light performance in the field. Near/far ranging modes allow hunters to hone in on the target while ignoring background/foreground objects, while bow and rifle ballistics modes provide accurate ranging data for every shot. Rubber armor and a unique IPX7 technology make the Fusion X fully waterproof, while EXO Barrier coating on lens surfaces protects from the grit and grime inherent in all tough hunts. If you’re looking for one optic to handle both ranging and magnifying chores, the Fusion X is the one for you.

MSRP: $699.00 | Bushnell.com