Crossbow Authority

Crossbow glossary

What Is Scope?

Scope: An optical sight mounted on the crossbow with a reticle used to aim.

By Marisol Vega, Senior Outdoor Equipment Writer & Research Editor. Manufacturer figures vary; check your crossbow's manual.

Crossbow scopes typically use a reticle with multiple aiming points calibrated to bolt drops at set distances. Because a reticle is calibrated to a particular bolt speed, it should be matched to the speed range of the crossbow it is used on.

Scopes must be sighted in before use, and sighting should only be done in a safe, controlled environment.

Why Scope matters

A scope turns a good crossbow into an accurate one only if it is matched and sighted in correctly. Most crossbow reticles are calibrated to a particular bolt speed, so a scope designed for a fast crossbow can put bolts high or low on a slower one.

Scope quality shows up in the field: brightness at dawn and dusk, how well the reticle holds zero over time, and how easy it is to set eye relief and parallax.

How to read it on a spec sheet

  • Check the reticle’s stated speed range and the distances of the aiming points.
  • Note magnification and objective size. Higher magnification narrows the field of view.
  • Look for whether the scope is designed for the different characteristics of crossbows, not repurposed from firearm use.

Common mistakes

  • Mounting a scope and assuming the reticle is correct at every distance without confirming it.
  • Sighting in anywhere other than a safe, controlled location with a proper backstop.

In my testing

Before any accuracy test, I zero the scope and note how many shots it takes and whether it holds zero. Then I shoot five-bolt groups at fixed distances. How I test.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a rifle scope on a crossbow?

Only if the scope is designed for it. Crossbow scopes have reticles calibrated to bolt drop, and mounting hardware and eye relief differ from rifle use.

How often should I check zero?

Check it whenever you change bolts or broadheads, after transport or a bump, and at the start of every season.

What does a multi-dot reticle do?

Each dot or line is calibrated to a distance for a given bolt speed, letting you aim without adjusting turrets. It only works if your crossbow’s speed matches the reticle.

See it in our reviews

Read more in our guides

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Definitions are general information. Always follow your crossbow manufacturer's manual, and verify local laws with the relevant authority.