The Nightforce NX8 riflescope line is highly regarded in the shooting and hunting community for its compact design, 8x magnification range, and premium optical performance. The NX8 series is available in several models—such as the 1-8x24, 2.5-20x50, and 4-32x50—that target tactical shooters, hunters, and long-range enthusiasts with versatile features and robust construction.
Key Features of the Nightforce NX8
- The NX8 line showcases impressive build quality and reliable performance, with rugged turrets and clean, repeatable adjustments—hallmarks of Nightforce Optics, a brand renowned for durability and reliability.
- Options include first focal plane (FFP) and second focal plane (SFP) reticles, and reticle choices like MIL-C, MOAR-CF2D, and others to fit different user preferences.
- Nightforce’s Digillum illumination system is built into the parallax knob for a streamlined turret system, featuring adjustable brightness, dual color options, and an auto shutoff function to preserve battery life. Users can easily change the battery for the illumination system, and the inside of the turret houses the illumination controls for convenient access.
- ZeroStop technology provides simple, reliable return to zero settings, a standout for practical field use. Users can change the zero setting by loosening a screw inside the turret cap, allowing for precise adjustments and secure calibration.
- Body design remains compact and lightweight—most models are under 12 inches long, making them ideal for mounting on a variety of rifles. The compact size enhances compatibility with different rifle platforms, ensuring versatility and ease of use in the field.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ultimate reliability and repeatable tracking across magnification settings.
- High-quality glass ensures clarity and resolution for both hunting and competition shooting.
- The included throw lever, scope caps, and solid Nightforce mounting rings enhance overall convenience and usability, making the scope more usable and a nice addition for convenience.
- Capped windage turret is preferred by many shooters who rely on hold for wind adjustments, as capped turrets protect the adjustments from accidental changes and environmental elements.
- Smooth parallax, zoom, and diopter focus mechanisms, with adjustments that can be made easily in the field.
Cons:
- Some shooters criticize the short body length and limited elevation travel in higher magnification models (e.g., only 90 MOA in the 4-32x50).
- The Digillum illumination system requires cycling to reach desired brightness rather than staging, which can be inconvenient in the field.
- The MIL-C reticle is thin at lower magnification, making it hard to see in low light or practical use below 8x.
- Parallax knob lacks yardage markings for quick reference, complicating rapid adjustments.
NX8 in Context
The NX8 line is recognized for pushing the boundaries of riflescope engineering, delivering high-end features like 8x magnification, robust build quality, and compact form factor at a competitive price point. The Nightforce NX8 is absolutely reliable when compared to other scopes, especially when performance is critical.
While some users compare it to Leupold’s Mark 5 or Mark 4 series, most people do not test their scopes in extreme conditions, but the Nightforce NX8 has undergone extensive testing to ensure durability and reliability.
The NX8 consistently earns praise for optical clarity, offering a crisp image quality. The scope maintains a clear image even at higher magnifications, though it can get a bit dark at the highest settings.
The faint crosshairs at low magnification are an FFP challenge not unique to Nightforce. This is a common issue with FFP scopes at lower power, and a fair amount of users notice this.
In the process of writing this review, the value for money and any wrong assumptions about the scope’s performance were carefully considered.
Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated Gun Scope - Durable Precise ZeroSet Parallax Adjustable First Focal Plane Black Hunting Scope
- NIGHTFORCE NX8 4-32X50MM SCOPE - At 32x, you can zero in on the smallest targets at the most extreme distances; At 4x, you are perfectly comfortable with up-close or rapidly moving targets; That vast magnification range - with superb clarity and resolution at every step - means that one gun scope will give you a world of versatility and confidence in any situation in which you might find yourself. This scope is well-suited for mounting on a long action hunting rifle, such as a Remington 700 chambered in 300 WSM, for both hunting and precision shooting.
- HIGH PERFORMANCE - This hunting scope is equipped with ZeroStop that allows for a rapid return to zero in any condition from any distance; The elevation turret offers precise adjustment and generous travel, which is essential for long-range shooting accuracy and ease of zero reset. This scope also has Digillum reticle illumination, parallax adjustment from 11 yards to infinity, and standard Power Throw Lever; The Overall Length is 13.4 in/340 mm; Mounting Length is 5.7 in/145 mm; Optics Weight is 28.6 oz
- SPECIFICATIONS - Here are the key specs for the Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm: Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (F1/FFP); Body Tube Diameter: 30mm; Click Value: .250 MOA or .1 MRAD; Internal Adjustment Range: E: 90 MOA/26 MRAD W: 70 MOA/20 MRAD; Parallax Adjustment: 11 yd - infinity; Eye Relief: 3.5 in/88 mm; Field of View per 100 yd or m: 4x: 26.1 ft/8.7 m, 32x: 4.6 ft/1.5 m; Exit Pupil: 4x: 7.3 mm, 32x: 1.6 mm
- WHAT’S IN THE BOX - The NX8 hunting gun scope is supplied with Tenebraex Flip Up Lens Covers, Cleaning Fob/ Cleaning Cloth, Multi-Tool, Power Throw Lever, Stickers and Owners Manual; The included mounting hardware makes it easy to mount the scope on your hunting rifle. Great choice for avid hunters
- MOAR F1 RETICLE - The Nightforce MOAR reticle is a major advancement in precision shooting; A floating center crosshair 2 MOA wide and 2 MOA tall provides a precise aiming point - especially on smaller targets at longer ranges; Bold 3, 6 and 9 o’clock posts make this reticle fast and easy to use in the field; 1 MOA elevation and windage markings allow for more accurate range finding and hold-offs. For users who require advanced ranging and holdover features, the MIL-XT reticle option is also available.
During a recent hunt, this scope was mounted on a hunting rifle and used to successfully take down a buck, demonstrating its real-world performance. This review is based on hands-on use and not a direct purchase.
Nightforce NX8 2.5-20X50mm 8X Zoom Range Ultra-Compact Rugged Razor-Sharp Hunting Scopes | Various Reticle Options
Nightforce
NX8 2.5-20X50mm 8X Zoom Range Ultra-Compact Rugged Razor-Sharp Hunting Scopes
- OPERATION IN EXTREME CONDITIONS - The NX8 family of scopes has been designed and constructed to withstand heavy use in austere environments: extreme heat and cold, dust and sand storms, salty air, high altitude, water, mud, snow; this optic is built for durability and reliable performance even in the harshest environments; package includes: Tenebraex flip up covers, cleaning fob/ cleaning cloth, multi-tool, power throw lever, stickers, manual
- ZEROSTOP ELEVATION ADJUSTMENT - The ZeroStop allows for a rapid return to zero, even after dialing for extended range shots; once you have established your zero, you can now set the ZeroStop and the elevation dial to zero; the ZeroStop feature enhances repeatability and consistency in adjustments
- 50MM OBJECTIVE - The 50mm objective is optimized for resolution and light transmission, with a parallax adjustment coming as close as 11 yards; Nightforce NX8 scopes are equipped with an optional, integrated Power Throw Lever (PTL); the PTL is designed to allow easy and rapid magnification changes as well as provide a visual reference to the current magnification setting
- 8X MAGNIFICATION RANGE - This compact hunting scope offers a wide magnification range for a rapid engagement at close range and long ranges, allowing users to zoom in for precision shots or zoom out for a wider field of view; the NX8 series is designed to be versatile, catering to the needs for hunting shooters. Its compact design makes it highly usable and easy to mount on a variety of rifles, ensuring proper clearance and compatibility.
- MOAR-CF2 RETICLE - The new MOAR-CF2 reticle is calibrated at 20x and provides users with an open center with dot and intuitive numbering of subtensions for a clear view of the target and fast holds anywhere in the reticle. The reticle remains visible at most magnifications, though it can be harder to see at lower power.
Nightforce NX8-1-8x24mm F1 Capped First Focal Plane (F1/FFP) 30mm Tube Durable Precise Waterproof Fogproof Hunting Gun Scope
- VERSATILE MAGNIFICATION RANGE - The Nightforce NX8 1-8x24mm F1 Capped scope stands out with its adaptable magnification range, spanning from 1x for close-quarters engagements to 8x for mid-range shooting scenarios. This flexibility empowers shooters to swiftly adjust to different distances, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of applications. Its compact size makes it ideal for mounting on various rifles, enhancing portability and ease of use.
- CAPPED TURRETS FOR ADDED PROTECTION - The inclusion of capped turrets in this scope enhances its durability and reliability. The caps serve as protective shields for the windage and elevation adjustments, shielding them from unintended movements or external elements that could potentially impact the accuracy of your shots. The caps also protect the turrets from dust and debris, ensuring your settings remain steadfast and contributing to consistent performance in the field.
- FIRST FOCAL PLANE RETICLE - The first focal plane reticle is a pivotal feature that ensures the Nightforce NX8 scope delivers precise and consistent subtensions at all magnification levels. This means that your reticle’s measurements and markings maintain accuracy regardless of the chosen magnification setting. This advantage is particularly beneficial for shooters who require quick and accurate shot placement in dynamic situations
- SPECIFICATIONS - First Focal Plane (F1/FFP); 30mm Body Tube Diameter; Click Value: .2 MRAD; Internal Adjustment Range: E: 30 MRAD - W: 30 MRAD; Eye Relief: 3.7 in; Field of View per 100 yd: 1x: 106.0 ft - 8x: 13.2 ft; Exit Pupil: 1x: 7.9 mm 8x: 3.0 mm
- FC-DMX RETICLE - The decreased center dot size (.2MRAD/.7MOA) allows for a more precise aiming point when at high magnification and the large (4 MRAD) segmented circle allows for a clear view of the target
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Nightforce NX8 best suited for?
This scope is excellent for hunters, tactical shooters, and long-range precision enthusiasts seeking reliability, versatility, and premium glass in a compact package. Whether you purchase the scope for hunting or tactical use, it delivers consistent performance.
Does the NX8 work well for both hunting and competition?
Yes, its robust features, clear optics, and reliable tracking make it suitable for varied applications, though FFP reticle visibility at low power might be a drawback for some.
How does the Digillum illumination system perform?
It’s effective but requires cycling through brightness levels, which isn’t as intuitive as traditional knob-based systems. The auto shutoff and memory features are useful for battery conservation, so you don't have to forget to turn off the illumination after use.
Is the NX8 worth the investment?
Most users agree that the blend of rugged build, optical quality, and compact design justifies the NX8’s premium price, and for those who value reliability, it is worth the money, though specific quirks may influence personal preference.
Final Thoughts
The Nightforce NX8 riflescope series stands out for shooters needing outstanding durability, flexibility, and optical clarity in a compact platform, and has proven itself during rigorous testing and real-world hunts for various game. While a few system quirks may require consideration depending on individual shooting style. Order today!
