Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 Review 2025

The Nightforce NX8 4-32x50 is a scope that's generated a LOT of buzz. We've put it through its paces, and this comprehensive review should help you decide if this powerhouse optic is right for your needs. Has Nightforce truly redefined what a compact, high-magnification scope can be? Let's get to it!

For this review, I’m focusing on what makes the NX8 4-32x50 tick. We want this to be the only review you need to read for this specific model.

Review Summary: NX8 4-32x50 Unpacked

  • Glass Rating (8.5/10): The ED glass provides excellent clarity and color contrast. Image gets a bit dark at the very top end of magnification (above 25x-26x), especially in low light.
  • Turrets/Tracking Rating (9/10): Turrets are tactile and audible. Tracking is spot-on and reliable, with a solid ZeroStop.
  • Magnification Versatility Rating (9.5/10): The 4-32x magnification range is incredibly versatile for almost any shooting scenario.
  • Value Assessment (8/10): It's a premium scope with a premium price tag, but you get a lot of performance and durability.
  • Overall Grade = A- (35/40)

What I Like:

  • "Compact size and relatively low weight for such a massive magnification range."
  • "Exceptional glass clarity through most of the zoom range, especially up to 25x."
  • "Rock-solid tracking and dependable ZeroStop feature."
  • "Versatile FFP reticle options like the MIL-XT and MOAR."

What I DON'T Like:

  • "The eyebox can be tight and less forgiving at higher magnifications."
  • "Image can dim noticeably above 25x-26x magnification, especially in lower light conditions."
  • "Setting the ZeroStop, while functional, can be a bit finicky compared to some other systems."

Nightforce NX8 4-32x50 F1 Reticle Options

MOA-XT MIL-XT TReMoR3 MOAR MIL-C
$2,550.00 (approx) $2,550.00 (approx) $2,800.00 (approx) $2,425.00 (approx) $2,550.00 (approx)
Check Availability Check Availability Check Availability Check Availability Check Availability

Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change. TReMoR3 availability for NX8 4-32x50 should be confirmed with retailer; link directs to the relevant scope collection.

Who is the NX8 4-32x50 Truly For?

When Nightforce announced the NX8 series, particularly this 4-32x50 model, we were keen to see who it would serve best. It's clear they aimed for a broad audience. This scope is nearly perfect for a shooter who:

  • Demands versatility for long-range precision, hunting, and even some competitive disciplines.
  • Needs a compact scope that doesn’t skimp on magnification power.
  • Values durability and reliability that Nightforce is known for.

Now, don't get me wrong, this is a high-quality optic. However, it's not necessarily trying to be an ATACR in a smaller package, though it shares some DNA. Long-range hunters and PRS shooters who need to save on weight and size without a massive sacrifice in capability will appreciate this rifle scope. Budget builders might find the price steep, but the feature set offers a lot for the money.

The Evolution from NXS: What Makes the NX8 Stand Out?

The NX8 scopes build upon the hard-earned reputation of the classic NXS series. The NXS line is legendary for its toughness, proven by military and competitive shooters. The NX8 takes that bomb-proof durability and incorporates an impressive 8x zoom range and typically First Focal Plane (FFP) reticles, which is a significant upgrade for dynamic shooting.

Key differences include:

  • 8x Zoom Factor: This is the defining feature of the NX8 line, offering greater versatility.
  • Compact Design: Generally shorter and lighter than many NXS models with similar top-end magnification.
  • First Focal Plane Reticles (Standard on F1 models): This allows for accurate reticle use at any magnification.
  • DigIllum Illumination: Digital illumination control for the reticle.

Glass Clarity: How Good is the ED Glass?

Nightforce uses ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass in the NX8 4-32x50, and it shows. The image quality is excellent, with superb clarity, resolution, and color contrast through most of the magnification range. You'll be impressed with the crisp sight picture.

The ED glass elements contribute to a shorter optical path while maintaining optical clarity, a key to its compact design. For the price point, the glass holds its own, providing bright images. You get what you pay for here.

Performance at Low Magnification (4x)

At the low end of 4x magnification, the NX8 is perfectly comfortable for acquiring targets up-close or those that are rapidly moving. The field of view at 4x is generous (26.1 ft at 100 yards), allowing for good situational awareness. The FFP reticle remains usable, though some finer details might be small.

Image clarity at 4x is bright and sharp edge-to-edge. This makes it a very capable scope for closer engagements or scanning a wider area before zooming in. The DigIllum illumination also ensures the reticle is visible against dark backgrounds or in shadowed areas.

Clarity and Resolution at Max Power (32x)

Pushing the NX8 to its full 32x magnification allows you to zero in on the smallest targets at extreme distances. The resolution holds up well even at maximum magnification, which is impressive for an 8x zoom ratio scope. However, this is where some limitations appear.

Many users, myself included, notice the image gets darker above 25x or 26x, particularly in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. The eyebox also becomes noticeably tighter and more critical at these higher powers. While still usable, it requires a more consistent cheek weld.

Reticle Options: MOAR, Mil-XT, TReMoR3, Mil-C

Nightforce offers the NX8 4-32x50 with a variety of excellent first focal plane (FFP) reticles. Popular choices include:

  • MOAR F1 / MOA-XT: For those who prefer Minute of Angle adjustments, these reticles offer clean markings for holdovers and ranging.
  • MIL-XT / MIL-C F1: These Mil-Radian based reticles are excellent for precision rifle competitors and long-range shooters, allowing for fast and accurate shots. The MIL-XT has a simple center dot and .2 Mil-Radian holds.
  • Horus TReMoR3: A more complex "Christmas tree" style reticle, offering extensive holdover points for windage and elevation.

There are also Second Focal Plane (SFP) models like the NX8 4-32x50 F2 MOAR-CF2D available. These SFP versions have dual-scale reticles for proper subtension at two different magnifications (e.g., 16x and 32x).

First Focal Plane (FFP) Implementation

The First Focal Plane (FFP) reticles in the NX8 4-32x50 F1 models mean your reticle subtensions are accurate at any magnification setting. This is crucial for quick target acquisition and follow-up shots without needing to calculate holdovers based on your zoom level. For dynamic shooting scenarios, FFP is a significant advantage.

The reticle design in FFP scopes appears to grow larger as you increase magnification and smaller as you decrease it. On low power, some FFP reticles can appear fine or "thin," but Nightforce designs theirs to remain usable across the 4-32x range.

DigIllum Reticle Illumination: Daybright Performance?

The DigIllum reticle illumination is a standard feature on the NX8 series. It offers adjustable brightness settings for both red and green illumination, catering to different lighting conditions and user preferences. The illumination is designed to be visible in bright daylight, which is a huge plus for quick target acquisition against complex backgrounds.

In low light, the illumination can be adjusted to be quite dim, preventing it from overwhelming your sight picture. Some users have noted that on certain settings, a faint glow within the tube can be visible at night, but this is often dependent on the intensity level. The controls are generally easy to use.

Turret Design and Feel: Audible & Tactile Clicks

Nightforce turrets are known for their robust performance, and the NX8 4-32x50 is no exception. The elevation turret is exposed, allowing for quick adjustments in the field, while the windage turret is capped to prevent accidental changes.

The clicks are tactile and audible, providing positive feedback for each adjustment. While some describe the clicks as slightly "rounded" rather than sharply defined, they are consistent and clean. Adjustments are precise, typically in .250 MOA or .1 MRAD increments depending on the reticle choice.

ZeroStop Feature: Is It Reliable?

The ZeroStop elevation adjustment is a hallmark of Nightforce scopes, and it’s implemented well on the NX8 4-32x50. This feature allows for a rapid and positive return to your set zero in any condition, from any distance. After dialing for a long shot, you can confidently return to your starting point without looking or counting clicks.

While the ZeroStop is extremely reliable in its function, some users find the initial setup process a bit more involved than other systems. It can require navigating a "sea of set screws," but once set, it holds true.

Tracking Accuracy: Did it Return to Zero?

This is where Nightforce’s reputation shines. The NX8 4-32x50 tracks exceptionally well. We, and many other reviewers, have found that it reliably returns to zero after dialing significant elevation or windage.

In box tests and tall target tests, the scope has proven to provide accurate and repeatable adjustments. Whether dialing up for extended ranges or making minor corrections, you can trust the clicks are what they say they are. This reliability is paramount for long-range shooting.

The Impressive 8x Magnification Range (4-32x)

The standout feature of the NX8 series is its powerful 8x zoom ratio. The 4-32x magnification range in this model offers incredible versatility. At 4x, you have a wide enough field of view for closer targets or scanning, while 32x allows for precise aiming at extreme distances.

This scope truly can give you a world of versatility and confidence in almost any situation. The ability to go from quick, close-range engagements to detailed long-range identification in one optic is a significant advantage.

Parallax Adjustment: Precision from 11 Yards to Infinity

The NX8 4-32x50 features a side parallax adjustment that focuses from a remarkably close 11 yards out to infinity. This is excellent for shooters engaging targets at varied distances, including precision rimfire or airgun use. The adjustment is generally smooth and effective.

Some users have noted the parallax can be a bit "finicky" or require constant attention, especially at higher magnifications, due to a shallow depth of field inherent in high-zoom, compact scopes. However, it performs well when set correctly. One minor gripe is the lack of yardage markings on the parallax knob on some models, which some shooters prefer.

Build Quality and Durability: Ready for Hard Use

Nightforce's motto is "Rugged, Reliable, Repeatable," and the NX8 4-32x50 lives up to this. The build quality is excellent and robust, designed to take a beating in the field. The scope tube is typically machined from a solid bar of aircraft-grade aluminum, making it incredibly durable.

This scope is built like a tank and can withstand demanding conditions, a trait proven across the Nightforce lineup through military and competitive use. Even the exposed elevation turret feels like it can handle significant abuse.

Compact Size and Weight: A Hunter's Dream?

One of the most appealing aspects of the NX8 4-32x50 is its compact size and relatively low weight for such a powerful magnification range. It measures just 13.4 inches in length and weighs around 28.6 ounces (811g). This makes it an attractive option for hunters who need to keep their rig manageable.

Compared to the larger and heavier ATACR series, the NX8 offers significant weight and size savings. This balance of power and portability is a key selling point.

Eye Box Considerations: Forgiving or Critical?

The eyebox on the NX8 4-32x50 is a point of discussion among users. While generally good, it can become tight and less forgiving at higher magnifications, particularly above 20x-25x. This means that a consistent cheek weld becomes more critical to avoid scope shadow.

Compared to an ATACR, the eyebox is generally considered smaller or more sensitive. However, with proper scope mounting and a good shooting position, many users find it to be a non-issue. The eye relief is specified at 3.5 inches (88mm).

The NX8 4-32x50 features a 30mm main tube, which allows for a wide variety of mounting options. Nightforce offers a range of high-quality rings and mounts that are ideal for their scopes.

Due to the scope's shorter tube length, some users note that mounting for proper eye relief can be critical, sometimes requiring the scope to be mounted further back.

Price Point vs. Performance: The Value Equation

The Nightforce NX8 4-32x50 is a premium optic with a corresponding price tag (typically in the $2,200 - $2,800+ range depending on reticle and finish). While it's a significant investment, you are getting a scope packed with high-end features, exceptional durability, and reliable performance.

When considering value, it's about what you get for your money. The 8x zoom range, ED glass, FFP reticles, ZeroStop, and compact, rugged build present a strong case. While some competitors might offer similar individual features, the NX8 combines them into a very capable package.

Conclusion

The Nightforce NX8 4-32x50 is an impressive piece of engineering, packing a massive 4-32x magnification range into a relatively compact and durable body. The glass is excellent for most of the zoom, turrets are reliable, and tracking is spot-on. It's a versatile scope well-suited for long-range hunters, precision shooters, and anyone needing a lot of magnification without excessive bulk.

We've docked some points for the tight eyebox at high magnification and the dimming effect past 25x. The ZeroStop setup could be more user-friendly. However, for its intended purpose, the NX8 4-32x50 delivers outstanding performance and Nightforce's legendary toughness. If you need its specific blend of compact power and features, and the price is within reach, it’s a fantastic choice.

Final Score = 35/40 (87.5%) - A Solid A-

Happy Shooting!

Q&A: Nightforce NX8 4-32x50

Is the Nightforce NX8 4-32x50 good for hunting?

Yes, it's a very capable hunting scope, especially for long-range applications. Its compact size, wide magnification range, and durability make it suitable for various hunting scenarios. The main consideration for some hunters might be the weight (around 28.6 oz) and the critical eyebox at very high magnifications.

What is the main difference between the Nightforce NX8 and ATACR series?

The ATACR series is generally considered Nightforce's top-tier line, often featuring larger 34mm tubes, potentially slightly better optical performance or a more forgiving eyebox, and a more robust build, though also heavier and more expensive. The NX8 series prioritizes a compact form factor and an 8x zoom range with excellent performance, often in a lighter package with a 30mm tube. Both use ED glass.

How does the glass clarity of the NX8 4-32x50 hold up at maximum magnification?

The ED glass provides excellent clarity and resolution through most of the magnification range. However, many users report that the image can become noticeably dimmer and the eyebox tighter when magnification is pushed above 25x or 26x, especially in low-light conditions.

Are the turrets on the NX8 4-32x50 reliable for dialing long-range shots?

Absolutely. The turrets on the NX8 4-32x50 are known for their precise, tactile, and audible clicks. They track accurately and the ZeroStop feature is very reliable, allowing for a confident return to zero.

What are the best reticle options for the NX8 4-32x50 for long-range shooting?

For long-range shooting, popular FFP reticles like the MIL-XT, MIL-C, or the Horus TReMoR3 are excellent choices, providing detailed holdover points for elevation and windage. If you prefer MOA, the MOAR or MOA-XT reticles are also very effective. The choice depends on your preference for MIL or MOA and the level of reticle complexity you desire.