Night vision scopes have changed the game for hunters, but even the best digital or analog units are only as good as their infrared illuminator. A top-tier IR light can mean the difference between a blurry outline and a clear, positive ID at 100–400 yards. Whether you’re after hogs in the brush, coyotes in wide open fields, or varmints around the farm, choosing the right IR light for your night vision scope is crucial for success and safe, ethical hunting. This guide breaks down the best IR lights for hunting, what features actually matter, and how to get the most out of your setup for every night hunt.
Quick Picks
- Best Overall: ATN IR850 Pro Long Range — Rugged, adjustable focus, and reaches 350+ yards with most digital scopes.
- Best Value: Streamlight Super TAC IR 88704 — Compact, powerful, and reliable for under $100.
- Best for Gen 1/2/3 Night Vision: Nitecore CI7 IR Illuminator — Dual output, high intensity, and perfect for analog tubes.
- Best for Wide Beam: SNIPER Hog Lights 66LRX — Huge adjustable beam, long runtime, made for field scanning.
Buyer’s Guide: What Makes a Good IR Light for Night Vision Hunting?
- Wavelength: Most night vision devices work best with 850nm IR (visible red glow at the lens, invisible beam). 940nm IR is almost invisible but has shorter range. Always match the IR wavelength to your night vision scope’s sensitivity.
- Beam Adjustability: The best IR lights offer adjustable focus from tight spot (long range) to wide flood (for scanning or close-range). Look for easy one-hand adjustment in the field.
- Power Output & Range: More output = more range, but battery life drops. For hog/coyote hunting, 200–400 yard reach is ideal. For digital night vision, 500–1,000mW is standard.
- Battery Type & Runtime: 18650 rechargeable batteries are king for runtime and reliability. AAA/CR123 models are lighter but shorter lived.
- Mounting Options: Choose IR lights with included scope mounts, picatinny adapters, or barrel clamps. Easy, secure mounting makes a huge difference on night hunts.
- Weatherproof & Durable: Field hunting is tough—go for waterproof, shockproof units that stand up to rain, cold, and drops.
- Price vs. Performance: Great IR lights are available from $50–$250. More expensive models typically offer better build quality, brightness, and features, but many mid-priced units perform excellently for most night hunters.
Detailed Product Reviews
ATN IR850 Pro Long Range
Who It’s For: Serious night hunters wanting maximum range, rugged build, and the best compatibility with ATN, Sightmark, and most digital scopes.
- Key Benefits:
- 850nm wavelength—great balance of power and “invisibility”
- Adjustable beam—flood to spot for scanning or long shots
- Reaches 350+ yards with most digital NV units
- Includes mount and 18650 rechargeable battery (plus charger)
- Water-resistant, all-aluminum body, field proven
- Pros:
- Simple, reliable, and easy to use
- Works with nearly all digital NV scopes
- Long battery life—4–6 hours per charge
- Cons:
- Visible red glow at lens (may alert some animals at close range)
- Mount is good but not the lowest profile
Final Verdict: If you want the most field-proven IR for digital night vision, this is the one. See latest price
Streamlight Super TAC IR 88704
Who It’s For: Hunters needing a compact, powerful, affordable IR for close to mid-range night vision—especially on lightweight rifles or rimfires.
- Key Benefits:
- 850nm LED—good for all digital and Gen 1/2 night vision
- One of the most compact full-power IRs (7.1” long, 7 oz with batteries)
- Runs on CR123A batteries (widely available)
- Mount included—fits scope tubes and rails
- Weatherproof, durable, easy to pack
- Pros:
- Lightweight and reliable
- Very affordable (often under $100)
- Works well out to 150–250 yards
- Cons:
- Shorter range than “big” 18650-powered units
- CR123A batteries are pricier and don’t last as long as 18650
Final Verdict: The best lightweight, budget-friendly IR for most hunting rigs. See latest price
Nitecore CI7 IR Illuminator
Who It’s For: Analog night vision owners (Gen 1/2/3 tubes), predator hunters, or anyone needing a “stealth” IR with dual output for different tasks.
- Key Benefits:
- Both 850nm and 940nm output (switchable)
- Massive power—3,000mW IR (with 18650 battery)
- Ultra-long range—spot targets 350–500 yards with analog NV
- Waterproof (IPX8), includes lanyard and tactical ring
- Pros:
- Dual IR modes—choose range or stealth
- Works great for wildlife viewing, tactical, or hunting
- Long battery life with quality 18650 cells
- Cons:
- Pricey compared to basic IR lights
- No mount included—buy a separate scope/rail mount
Final Verdict: The top IR for tube-based NV—especially if you need both stealth and range. See latest price
SNIPER Hog Lights 66LRX
Who It’s For: Field and open country hunters who need the biggest, brightest, most adjustable beam for long range scanning and shooting.
- Key Benefits:
- 850nm (or 940nm) LED with adjustable focus
- Reaches 500+ yards with powerful digital/Gen 2/3 NV
- Huge, smooth flood for scanning—tight spot for long shots
- All-aluminum, waterproof, with 18650 battery system
- Includes mounting options for rifles, rails, and more
- Pros:
- Best beam adjustment—useful for any terrain or hunt
- Very long runtime (6+ hours on low, 2+ on high)
- Great customer support and field reputation
- Cons:
- Bigger and heavier than most (13 oz with battery)
- Not cheap, but worth it for serious hunters
Final Verdict: For open fields and maximum reach, this is the most versatile IR hunting light. See latest price
Comparison Table
| IR Light | Wavelength | Beam | Max Range | Battery | Mount Included | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ATN IR850 Pro | 850nm | Adjustable | 350+ yds | 18650 | Yes | All digital NV |
| Streamlight Super TAC IR | 850nm | Fixed | 250 yds | CR123A | Yes | Lightweight, rimfire |
| Nitecore CI7 | 850/940nm | Fixed | 500 yds | 18650 | No | Gen 1/2/3 NV, tactical |
| SNIPER Hog Lights 66LRX | 850/940nm | Adjustable | 500+ yds | 18650 | Yes | Open fields, scanning |
How to Choose the Right IR Light for Night Vision Hunting
- Match wavelength to your night vision: Digital NV works best with 850nm, analog tubes may need 940nm for stealth. Always check your scope’s specs.
- Pick your hunting terrain: Thick brush? Go wide/flood beam. Open fields? Get a tight, focused beam for long range.
- Don’t skimp on battery: 18650-powered lights last longer and put out more power. Bring a spare for all-night hunts.
- Mount it right: Secure, adjustable mounts save you headaches in the dark. Test at home before heading out.
- Test in the field: Beam pattern, intensity, and “red glow” visibility all matter for different animals and distances. Practice before you hunt.
FAQ
Do I need 850nm or 940nm for hunting?
Most hunters use 850nm for maximum range and brightness—it gives a faint red glow but is nearly invisible at distance. 940nm is stealthier (no visible glow) but has shorter reach and less power.
Will animals see the IR light?
Some close-range hogs, coyotes, and foxes can detect the red glow from 850nm IRs. For ultimate stealth, use 940nm—but expect less range.
Can I use these lights with any night vision?
Yes, as long as your scope is compatible with 850nm or 940nm. Most digital night vision units work with either, but always check your user manual first.
How long will the batteries last?
With a good 18650, expect 4–8 hours of use on medium. CR123A batteries last 2–3 hours. Always bring a spare battery for longer hunts.
Are these IR lights waterproof?
All listed units are rated IPX4 or better—fine for hunting in rain, dew, and cold. Always check the seals and never submerge intentionally.
Conclusion & Call to Action
The right IR light brings your night vision scope to life—whether you’re in thick woods, open fields, or scanning farm country for hogs and varmints. The ATN IR850 Pro is a proven favorite for digital scopes. Streamlight Super TAC IR delivers budget-friendly performance. Nitecore CI7 gives tube NV users both range and stealth, while the SNIPER Hog Lights 66LRX is the king of open field scanning. Mount your pick, practice before your hunt, and be ready for safe, ethical shots in the dark!
Want a custom list for your scope, hunting area, or setup? Just ask—I’ll build a tailored guide for your next night hunt!