HILIYOT Crossbow Scope: A Hunter’s Review

When you’re deep in the woods, waiting for that perfect shot, the last thing you need is a scope that doesn’t pull its weight. After spending a good chunk of my hunting season with the HILIYOT Crossbow Scope (also called HELIOT), I’m ready to break down the review of exactly what this scope brings to the table. Priced at $89.99, it packs in some solid features that caught my attention—and trust me, I’ve seen my fair share of crossbow optics.

Specs That Matter:

• Magnification: 1.5-5x with a 32mm objective lens
• Illumination: Red and Green illuminated etched glass reticle
• Adjustments: 250-450 FPS speed adjustment with Speedlock Scope
• Range: Effective from 20 to 100 yards
• Material: Tough-as-nails aluminum build
• Weight: 370 grams

First Impressions & Build Quality

Out of the box, the HILIYOT Crossbow Scope feels solid. The aluminum body screams durability without adding unnecessary bulk. The matte black finish? Not just for looks—it reduces glare when the sun’s beating down. The flip-up lens covers are a nice touch, keeping the glass scratch-free when you’re navigating through thick brush.

The mounting process was straightforward. The scope comes with sturdy rings that held it securely to my crossbow. No wobbles, no shifting even after multiple shots. This is crucial because nothing throws off your aim faster than a poorly mounted optic.

Glass Clarity & Reticle Performance

Let’s talk optics. The 1.5-5x magnification range is versatile enough for close-range shots and stretching out to 100 yards without a hitch. The glass is surprisingly clear for this price point, with minimal distortion even at max zoom. The etched reticle with red and green illumination is a lifesaver during low-light hunts. Early mornings and late evenings? No problem. Adjust the brightness to match the conditions and you’re good to go.

The etched reticle holds its integrity under various lighting conditions. Unlike traditional wire reticles, this one won’t shift or break under recoil. The illuminated dots and hash marks are precise, allowing for quick target acquisition and holdover adjustments. In dense woods or open fields, the clarity remained consistent, offering crisp visuals of both the target and the background.

Dialing It In: Adjustability & Zeroing

The Speedlock adjustment system is where this scope shines. It lets you calibrate for crossbow speeds ranging from 250 to 450 FPS, which is a game-changer if you switch between different setups. The windage and elevation turrets click precisely, and adjustments hold zero even after a rough day in the field. No constant tweaking required.

Zeroing the scope was a breeze. After a quick bore sighting, I was hitting bullseyes within a few adjustments. The turrets provide tactile and audible clicks, making it easy to fine-tune without second-guessing your changes. Once zeroed, the scope maintained accuracy over dozens of shots, with no noticeable drift.

Field Test: Real-World Hunting Experience

I took this scope through various terrains—dense woods, open fields, you name it. The clarity held up in all conditions, and the reticle stayed sharp whether I was targeting whitetails at 30 yards or stretching it out to 90. The illuminated settings came through during twilight hunts, providing just enough glow without overpowering my sight picture.

During one particular hunt, I had to take a shot at a buck standing at 75 yards. Low light conditions made it challenging, but the green illumination on the reticle provided just enough contrast to place the shot accurately. The result? A clean, ethical harvest. The scope’s performance in that scenario cemented my confidence in its reliability.

Durability Under Harsh Conditions

Hunting isn’t always a walk in the park. I’ve dragged my gear through rain, mud, and snow, and the HILIYOT Scope held up like a champ. It’s shockproof and waterproof, with O-ring seals that prevent moisture from fogging up the lens. Even after getting caught in an unexpected downpour, the optics remained crystal clear.

The rugged aluminum body can withstand bumps and drops without losing zero. I accidentally knocked my crossbow against a tree during a clumsy moment, and the scope didn’t flinch. No dents, no scratches, and more importantly, no shift in accuracy.

What I Liked & What Could Be Better

Pros

• Rock-solid build quality with a rugged aluminum body
• Crystal-clear optics with dual-color illuminated reticle
• Speedlock FPS adjustment is quick and precise
• Holds zero like a champ
• Weather-resistant, suitable for harsh environments
• Affordable price for the quality offered

Cons

• A bit on the heavier side (370 grams), but manageable
• Strictly designed for crossbows—don’t expect rifle versatility
• The turret caps could be a bit more robust

Comparing It to Other Scopes

I’ve used several crossbow scopes over the years, including brands like Vortex, and Hawke. While those high-end models offer exceptional performance, they also come with a hefty price tag. The HILIYOT Scope holds its ground surprisingly well, especially considering it’s a fraction of the cost.

Where it truly shines is in the balance between performance and affordability. You get features like etched glass reticles and speed adjustment, which are often reserved for scopes double the price. Sure, it may lack some of the ultra-premium coatings or advanced turrets, but for under $90, it delivers where it counts.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

To get the most out of your HILIYOT Scope, regular maintenance is key:

• Clean the lenses with a microfiber cloth after each hunt to prevent smudges and dust buildup.
• Check the mounting screws periodically to ensure they remain tight.
• Store in a dry place when not in use to prevent moisture damage.
• Use lens caps during transport to protect against scratches.

Following these simple steps will keep your scope performing at its best for years to come.

Who Is This Scope For?

If you’re serious about crossbow hunting and want a scope that won’t let you down when it matters most, the HILIYOT Crossbow Scope is a solid investment. It’s durable, reliable, and offers features that punch well above its price tag. Whether you’re a beginner fine-tuning your setup or a seasoned hunter looking for an affordable upgrade, this scope deserves a spot on your crossbow.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth Your Money?

For under $90, you’re getting a scope that’s built to last and engineered to perform in real hunting scenarios. It delivers where it matters most: clarity, durability, and accuracy. Sure, it’s not the lightest scope out there, but the performance more than makes up for it.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely. It’s a budget-friendly optic that doesn’t compromise on the essentials. Perfect for hunters who demand performance without breaking the bank.

FAQs

Do crossbows need special scopes?

Yes, crossbows require special scopes designed to handle the unique trajectory and speed of crossbow bolts. Unlike rifle scopes, crossbow scopes are calibrated for shorter ranges (typically 20-100 yards) and include multiple aiming points to compensate for bolt drop at various distances. They also account for the slower velocity of crossbow bolts compared to bullets.

How many clicks does a crossbow scope have?

A crossbow scope typically has ¼ MOA (Minute of Angle) or ½ MOA adjustments, meaning one click moves the point of impact by ¼ or ½ inch at 100 yards. Since most crossbow shooting is done within 50 yards, each click would adjust the impact proportionally (e.g., ⅛ inch per click at 50 yards). The total number of clicks varies by scope model, but most offer 40-80 clicks per adjustment turret for precise tuning.

What is the best crossbow sight?

The best crossbow sight depends on your hunting or shooting needs, but top-rated options include:

• TenPoint EVO-X Elite Scope – Premium scope with range-finding capability and multi-reticle aiming.
• Hawke XB30 Pro SR – Known for its high-quality optics and illuminated reticle.
• Ballista 1x30mm Reflex Green Red Dot Sight – Great for fast target acquisition in close-range shooting.
• HILIYOT 1.5-5×32 Crossbow Scope – Offers adjustable magnification, automatic sight correction from 20-80 yards, and affordability.

Each scope has its strengths, so the best choice depends on your budget, hunting environment, and shooting style.