How to Use Hunting Optics at Night
You do not need special night vision equipment to use your hunting optics at night. All you need is a good light source. A spotlight with a red filter works well. The red filter will give you enough light to land the shot but it will not spook game. Spotlights can either be hand-held or mounted directly to a rifle. Each state has its own rules and regulations regarding spotlighting, so be sure to check with the local conservation department for rules.
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Things You'll Need
- Rifle with scope
- Gun-mounted spotlight with red filter
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- Spotting scope
- Spotlight with red filter
Instructions
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Riffle Scope
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1
Mount a gun-mounted spotlight to your rifle by following the manufacturer's instructions. Most gun-mounted spotlights simply clip onto your rifle. Some may use bolts to secure them permanently to the gun. Be sure there is at least 4 inches between the scope and the spotlight.
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2
Install the red filter to the spotlight. A red filter works like infrared light; you will be able to see through your scope but the light will not disturb the animals.
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3
Use the gun light as you would a flashlight while hunting. When you are ready to fire, raise the rifle and turn on the spotlight. The red-filtered light will illuminate the target. Put the crosshairs of the scope on the target and fire.
Spotting Scope/Binoculars
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4
Use a spotlight that has a red filter with your spotting scope or binoculars. Hold the spotlight at least 4 inches from the lens of the binoculars to avoid glare.
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5
Hold the spotlight in one hand and your binoculars in the other. Turn on your spotlight to illuminate the area. Look through the binoculars.
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Move the spotlight with the binoculars so the area you are viewing is always in the light.
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Tips & Warnings
When using a spotlight with binoculars or a spotting scope, it's helpful if you have a second person with you. Have your friend hold the light and this will free up your other hand to adjust the focus on the binoculars. Hold the light at least 4 inches from the binoculars but no farther than 3 feet.
You can use a spotlight without a red filter but this will spook the animals and add extra glare in your scope.
If you do not have a rifle-mounted spotlight, you can convert a flashlight. To do this, use two zip cords to secure the flashlight underneath the rifle. Mount the flashlight 4 inches in front of the scope.
It may be illegal in some areas to use a spotlight while hunting.
