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Contents
Should you put a scope on an AR?
If you’re looking for a lightweight package that shoots quickly up close, go with a red dot. If you intend on making precise shots at targets in the distance, put a scope on your rifle. If you want a combination of both, use a 1 powered variable scope or get TWO rifles!
Can you put any scope on an AR?
Since a reticle is technically independent of the optics that magnify the image, scope makers can put pretty much any kind of reticle they want in a scope.
Do you need a scope on an AR 15?
In fact, the AR 15 can hit 150 yards without a sight. Pair that with the best scope for AR 15 and you can easily hit targets up to 600 yards and over.
What scope should I put on my 556?
The 4 Best Ruger AR 556 Scope
If you’re pressed on time, here’s a quick list of the best scopes for ruger AR 556: Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24: Best Overall. Bushnell Drop Zone 1-4×24: Best For The Budget. Trijicon ACOG 4X32: Best Ruger AR 556 ACOG.
Should I put a red dot on my AR?
Your handguard is much less stable than the receiver of your gun. The handguard is susceptible to vibrations and play which can throw off the zero on your optic. For these reasons, we recommend you mount your red dot on top of the rifles’ receiver.
Can you put a scope on a AR-15 with front sight?
It is worth noting that installing a scope on AR15 that already has a front sight is possible. Keep in mind that you will see the sight through your scope when using low magnification scope. On higher magnifications, the sight won’t be visible.
What does AR-15 stand for?
The AR in “AR-15” rifle stands for ArmaLite rifle, after the company that developed it in. the 1950s. “AR” does NOT stand for “assault rifle” or “automatic rifle.” •
Can you zero a red dot without shooting?
With a high quality bore sight and a little patience, you can get your red dot reasonably close to being sighted in without having to fire a single round. However, having a sighted optic is only part of what brings a shooter accurate and consistent results; you also have to practice with your optic.
What distance do you zero a red dot?
15 or 25 Yard Zero
For handgun users with red dot sights the 15 yard and 25 yard zeroes are most popular because the chances of people engaging targets at distances much further than this doesn’t happen very often, if ever.
What is the difference between a red dot and a scope?
For accuracy and quick target acquisition, red dot sights are superior to iron sights and magnified scopes in several ways. There are different terminologies when it comes to red dot sights. A “sight” is an optic without magnification while a “scope” is an optic with magnification.
Can you put a red dot on an AR-15?
Sig Romeo 5
The MOTAC feature is great to save battery life, and the fact it is IPX-7 waterproof rated makes this a top-notch red dot sight for the price. This red dot pairs great with any length AR-15 or pistol caliber carbine. I ran my Sig Romeo5 on my Sig Sauer Copperhead.
How high should a scope be mounted on an AR?
The rule of thumb is to mount your scope as low as possible without obstructing other parts of your gun. A majority of AR-15s, or any other rifles with flat tops, have a low comb or cheek rest. If the scope is mounted too high, you’ll need to lift your head off the cheek rest, making it uncomfortable.
How far back should a scope be mounted on an AR?
Most scopes have an eye box around 3 or 4 inches behind the eyepiece. That usually means most people will find this most comfortable when the back of the eyepiece is just about lined up with the back of the charging handle or slightly ahead of it.
What size torque wrench do I need for ar15?
½-inch Drive Torque Wrench
The big one is the barrel nut, which is typically torqued to 30-foot pounds—but check the paperwork that came with your upper and/or barrel to confirm.
What is cantilever mount?
A cantilever scope mount (meaning an overhang/free-hanging part, or a part that is fixed only at one end) is a single piece scope mount, usually with a Picatinny fixing point that has the rings moved at a certain distance forward from the mounting base.
Choosing the Best AR 15 Scopes | AR 15 Accessories | AT3 Tactical
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- Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for Choosing the Best AR 15 Scopes | AR 15 Accessories | AT3 Tactical Updating Not sure what AR 15 scope to buy? The best choice depends on what you are looking for — purpose and budget specifications. No one scope is best for everything. Some manage to be good at several things, but the laws of physics and optics inevitably force compromises.
- Table of Contents:
“What’s the best scope for an AR-15”
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Quick Tip: Correct Positioning of Red Dot Sights – YouTube
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- Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for Quick Tip: Correct Positioning of Red Dot Sights – YouTube Updating Brownells Firearm Support Technician Caleb Savant is back to answer another of life’s nagging questions many of us have wondered about: What’s the correct po…Red dot sights, optic mounting, correct position for optic, eye relief, 1x optic, magnifying vs non-magnifying optics, Brownells Quick Tip
- Table of Contents:
The Best AR-15 Scopes & Optics in 2022 – Scopes Field
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- Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for The Best AR-15 Scopes & Optics in 2022 – Scopes Field Updating This guide will show you the best AR-15 scopes and optics on the market. I’ve also reviewed dozens of optics, red dots, and magnified scopes.
- Table of Contents:
Why should you trust me
Choosing the Best AR-15 Optic
AR-15 Red Dot Sights vs Scopes
The 8 Best AR-15 Scopes and Optics
Best Red Dot Sights for AR-15
Disclosure
Now It’s Your Turn
How to mount a scope on an AR-15 – Warne Scope Mounts
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- Summary of article content: Articles about How to mount a scope on an AR-15 – Warne Scope Mounts Place the optic of your MSR rifle on the mount, with the rings resting on the flat surface of the scope. Secure the top section of the scope … …
- Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for How to mount a scope on an AR-15 – Warne Scope Mounts Place the optic of your MSR rifle on the mount, with the rings resting on the flat surface of the scope. Secure the top section of the scope … How to Mount an AR-15 Scope
If you’d like a brief introduction or refresher course on how to mount a rifle scope on an AR-15, you’ve come to the
right place. The experts at
Warne Scope Mounts have been
designing American-made rifle scopes and other firearm accessories for decades. This means we know a thing or two
about how to properly mount an
MSR scope –
and prevent performance-hindering scope slippage or misalignment.Scope Mounting Tools
Regardless of if you’re working with one-piece or ring mounts, you’ll need a few tools to fit your scope to your
AR-15. If you don’t have them already, these are the
tools you need to
get:
A torque wrench for attaching your mount to your rifle. A hex key (that came with your scope and mount) or precision screwdriver bits for attaching the base and
rings.
Small bubble level(s) to align the scope, ensuring its accuracy. A gun rest or workstation with plenty of space for using bubble levels to double-check your scope’s
precision placement on your rifle.
Rubbing alcohol for cleaning different scope components (rail, rings, screws, etc.) while installing your
mount and scope.
An AR-15 scope (obviously) with scope rings and any other pieces needed to mount your scope. There’s a good
chance your scope will come with most – if not all the tools – you’ll need to mount it.Mounting a Rifle Scope on an AR-15
Once you’ve purchased your correctly-sized one-piece (cantilever or non-cantilevered) or ring mounts, gather your
tools at your workstation/shooting rest. Here are the basic steps you’ll need to follow to mount your scope to your
AR-15:1. Rifle Safety - Ensure your AR-15 is empty. Removed the magazine. Make sure the
chamber is empty. Double-check everything.2 Shooting Rest – Secure your rifle firmly onto your shooting rest or gun vise.
The last thing you want is for it to wiggle around while you’re working on it. Check levels with your bubble
level.3. Cleaning – Use rubbing alcohol and gun cleaning patches to wipe oil and grease off the mount,
rail, screws and other mounting components.4. Placing the Mount – Carefully set the mount atop the upper receiver. Try not to place
it on the free-floating rail. You want to avoid adding excess stress to the rifle’s tube.5. Tighten the Scope Mount – First, hand-tighten the scope mount. Once it’s hand-tightened, use the
torque wrench to fishing screwing it down according to the factory specifications that came with your mount.6. Adding the Scope - Verify that your rifle is level in a gun vice or at your workstation. Place
the optic of your MSR rifle on the mount, with the rings resting on the flat surface of the scope.Secure the top section of the scope rings over the scope, tightening them with an “X” pattern – but don’t lock them
down completely. Make sure there’s a small gap on each side of the ring for positioning the optic. Now you can
adjust the
proper
scope eye-relief
. Once you’re happy with the distance between your eye and the scope, put the top caps on.
Then tighten the screws down to keep the scope from sliding in the mount.7. Leveling - Check once again that your AR-15 is level in your gun rest. Then verify the reticle
alignment and adjust if necessary.Now set your bubble level on a flat scope surface and check parallel and perpendicular levels. After everything is
level, use the “X” tightening pattern to tighten the rings down. One last time, check the levels and reticle
alignment. If everything is still level and accurate, give yourself a big pat on the back – because you have
successfully mounted a scope on an AR-15 rifle. - Table of Contents:
How to Mount an AR-15 Scope
Scope Mounting Tools
Mounting a Rifle Scope on an AR-15
How to mount a scope on an AR-15 – Warne Scope Mounts
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- Summary of article content: Articles about How to mount a scope on an AR-15 – Warne Scope Mounts Take your scope mount and place it above the upper receiver. Avo placing the scope mount on both the upper receiver and the free-floating rail since this can … …
- Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for How to mount a scope on an AR-15 – Warne Scope Mounts Take your scope mount and place it above the upper receiver. Avo placing the scope mount on both the upper receiver and the free-floating rail since this can … How to Mount an AR-15 Scope
If you’d like a brief introduction or refresher course on how to mount a rifle scope on an AR-15, you’ve come to the
right place. The experts at
Warne Scope Mounts have been
designing American-made rifle scopes and other firearm accessories for decades. This means we know a thing or two
about how to properly mount an
MSR scope –
and prevent performance-hindering scope slippage or misalignment.Scope Mounting Tools
Regardless of if you’re working with one-piece or ring mounts, you’ll need a few tools to fit your scope to your
AR-15. If you don’t have them already, these are the
tools you need to
get:
A torque wrench for attaching your mount to your rifle. A hex key (that came with your scope and mount) or precision screwdriver bits for attaching the base and
rings.
Small bubble level(s) to align the scope, ensuring its accuracy. A gun rest or workstation with plenty of space for using bubble levels to double-check your scope’s
precision placement on your rifle.
Rubbing alcohol for cleaning different scope components (rail, rings, screws, etc.) while installing your
mount and scope.
An AR-15 scope (obviously) with scope rings and any other pieces needed to mount your scope. There’s a good
chance your scope will come with most – if not all the tools – you’ll need to mount it.Mounting a Rifle Scope on an AR-15
Once you’ve purchased your correctly-sized one-piece (cantilever or non-cantilevered) or ring mounts, gather your
tools at your workstation/shooting rest. Here are the basic steps you’ll need to follow to mount your scope to your
AR-15:1. Rifle Safety - Ensure your AR-15 is empty. Removed the magazine. Make sure the
chamber is empty. Double-check everything.2 Shooting Rest – Secure your rifle firmly onto your shooting rest or gun vise.
The last thing you want is for it to wiggle around while you’re working on it. Check levels with your bubble
level.3. Cleaning – Use rubbing alcohol and gun cleaning patches to wipe oil and grease off the mount,
rail, screws and other mounting components.4. Placing the Mount – Carefully set the mount atop the upper receiver. Try not to place
it on the free-floating rail. You want to avoid adding excess stress to the rifle’s tube.5. Tighten the Scope Mount – First, hand-tighten the scope mount. Once it’s hand-tightened, use the
torque wrench to fishing screwing it down according to the factory specifications that came with your mount.6. Adding the Scope - Verify that your rifle is level in a gun vice or at your workstation. Place
the optic of your MSR rifle on the mount, with the rings resting on the flat surface of the scope.Secure the top section of the scope rings over the scope, tightening them with an “X” pattern – but don’t lock them
down completely. Make sure there’s a small gap on each side of the ring for positioning the optic. Now you can
adjust the
proper
scope eye-relief
. Once you’re happy with the distance between your eye and the scope, put the top caps on.
Then tighten the screws down to keep the scope from sliding in the mount.7. Leveling - Check once again that your AR-15 is level in your gun rest. Then verify the reticle
alignment and adjust if necessary.Now set your bubble level on a flat scope surface and check parallel and perpendicular levels. After everything is
level, use the “X” tightening pattern to tighten the rings down. One last time, check the levels and reticle
alignment. If everything is still level and accurate, give yourself a big pat on the back – because you have
successfully mounted a scope on an AR-15 rifle. - Table of Contents:
How to Mount an AR-15 Scope
Scope Mounting Tools
Mounting a Rifle Scope on an AR-15
How to mount a scope on AR-15 with front sight — Tips and Tricks!
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- Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for How to mount a scope on AR-15 with front sight — Tips and Tricks! How to mount a scope on AR-15 with front sight: Step by step gue · Unload the weapon! Remove the magazine and use rubbing alcohol to clean the … After following this guide, you will know how to mount a scope on AR-15 with front sight! Step-by-step instructions with pro-tips.
- Table of Contents:
How to mount a scope on AR-15 with front sight Step by step guide
How to choose the right scope for AR15
The final word
How To Mount A Scope On Your AR-15
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- Summary of article content: Articles about How To Mount A Scope On Your AR-15 Clear your rifle. · Degrease the mount and its hardware. · Place the one-piece mount on the top rail. · Remove the mount’s top caps and set your … …
- Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for How To Mount A Scope On Your AR-15 Clear your rifle. · Degrease the mount and its hardware. · Place the one-piece mount on the top rail. · Remove the mount’s top caps and set your …
- Table of Contents:
how to put a scope on an ar 15
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- Summary of article content: Articles about how to put a scope on an ar 15 For this article, we will configure our AR rifle for a 3-Gun match, so we’ll show you how to mount a variable power scope, offset iron … …
- Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for how to put a scope on an ar 15 For this article, we will configure our AR rifle for a 3-Gun match, so we’ll show you how to mount a variable power scope, offset iron …
- Table of Contents:
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Red Dot Vs Scope (Which is The Winning Optic For Your AR 15?)
First, Watch This Video:
If you’re trying to decide between a red dot or a scope…
…there are a few factors you need to take into consideration.
And look I get it, I understand the struggle that goes into picking an optic for your rifle…
…I mean, there are so many cool options to choose from, and you just want to pick the perfect one for your AR 15.
But really, the decision to go with a red dot or a scope starts to become easier once you understand the strengths and weaknesses of both choices…
So in this article, I’m going to compare the two by looking at where they stand in the following 4 categories…
Speed Accuracy Weight Reliability
So, give me your full attention if you’re ready for the Scope Vs Red Dot comparison… because here it is…
Red Dot Vs Scope: Who has the edge in quickness…
So, if you’re looking for maximum speed you’re probably thinking about cranking off fast shots at relatively close ranges.
And for shooting at 100 yards and in the faster optic has to be the reflex sight.
When you think about it, it’s pretty clear that red dots are simply built for speed…
To start, they have unlimited eye relief and most are parallax free. So gaining a sight picture from almost any head position is fast and easy.
Also, most red dots have a fast and simple dot reticle or a reticle actually designed to shoot quickly…
…and because the reticle is bright red, it draws in your eye for fast shots when you look through it.
You also get a pretty large field of view when looking through a red dot, which can be helpful when transitioning between different targets…
…and they have no magnification. So, with a little bit of practice, you can actually aim while keeping both eyes open.
On the other hand, magnified scopes tend to be slower…
You see, scopes often have critical eye relief, which means your eye needs to be just the right distance from the rear lens to see clearly through the optic.
For example, if you bring up your rifle quickly, and your head is slightly in the wrong position, you might not even be able to see through your scope.
Now, mounting your scope to fit your body properly can be a big help here, but it’ll still be a little bit slower than a red dot, especially when shooting from awkward positions.
In addition to that, magnification level is a big factor as well…
You see, if you have a variable optic and the low end of the magnification is at 6 power (pretty common for high powered scopes)…
…unfortunately, you’re going to be really slow if you try shooting at close targets.
You might not even be able to find them because the field of view of a scope narrows when the magnification level goes up.
Now another common type of magnified optic is something like a 3-9 power scope.
With this set up you can make shots at targets up close, but having even a little magnification can still slow you down.
At the bottom end, if you have a variable scope that starts at 1 power (LPVO Optic)…
…and goes up to 4, 6, or 8 power, then you’re finally starting to get close to the speed of a reflex sight.
The reason why is because at 1 power you have more generous eye relief and a bigger field of view than at the higher power levels (click here for the best low power variable optic).
This can translate into faster shooting, but you’ll probably still be shooting just a little bit slower than you would with a reflex sight.
So in conclusion, the speed winner is a red dot even though you start to come close to it with a 1 power scope.
Red Dot Vs Scope: Which Will Help You Shoot More Accurately?
There are some really gifted shooters out there that can make accurate hits with either of these two sighting systems.
But one of the keys to having pinpoint accuracy (aside from focusing on trigger control) is how well you see the target.
For this reason, the scope has to take the advantage in the accuracy category.
Here’s the deal, imagine that your target is a 6-inch steel plate at 200 hundred yards…
Now, assuming that you have stability and proper trigger control… which optic is going to give you the advantage when you try to hit that target?
Obviously, it’s the optic that has magnification!
You see, even though it is possible to make that shot with a reflex sight…
…the better you can see your target, the easier it’ll be to aim.
Now, it is possible to extend the range of your reflex sight by mounting a magnifier behind it.
But even then, you might only get to 3 power when you could have much more magnification by using an actual scope.
So in the end, a scope will help you shoot for accuracy better than a reflex sight.
Red Dot Versus Scope: Which Optic Is Chunkier?
You need to be careful when adding accessories to your gun…
The weight can start to add up quickly, and there’s no reason you should be running around with a 10-pound rifle.
Luckily, we’re living in a good time…
Right now technology is improving at a really fast rate, and companies that manufacture optics are making their products lighter and lighter.
This is true for both reflex sights and magnified scopes. But even though both are coming down in weight…
…reflex sights are much lighter than scopes.
Let’s Compare The Numbers…
If you go with a micro red dot (like what I recommend here) your sight is going to weigh between 3.5 and 4.5 ounces.
To me, that’s a pretty small penalty in weight especially when you consider how much a red dot enhances your ability to use the rifle.
On the other hand, a good magnified scope is going to weigh much more (and don’t forget about the weight of the scope mount too).
Of course, it will depend on the manufacturer and the particular features offered by that scope (like illumination), but…
…the weight range could be around 15 ounces on the low end going up to 25 ounces at the high end. And honestly, it could end up being much higher than that…
So there really is no comparison here because, in terms of weight, the reflex sight is a much lighter option.
Red Dot Vs. Scope: Which Will Be Ready When You Need It?
This is an interesting question because reflex sights and scopes are both built to be tough optics today.
But I’m gonna give the slight edge in reliability to the scope, and here’s why…
A red dot is an electronic device that relies on battery power and everybody knows that batteries will eventually run out.
Now, even though some red dot sights have amazing battery life that can last for years… if the batteries die, the sight is no longer usable.
A scope has a reticle that’s etched into the glass. So it needs no batteries to allow you to aim, and I think that makes it just a touch more reliable.
However! You can easily make this a non-issue…
All you have to do is add back up iron sights (BUIS) to your rifle!
You see, if you run BUIS along with your reflex sight, you’ll still have a way to aim your firearm even if your battery dies.
In addition to that, there are many people that run back up iron sights with their magnified scopes too.
I think that’s less necessary, but if it helps you feel more confident in your rifle, I say go for it.
So, while I do think a scope is a little bit more reliable because it doesn’t require battery power…
…any reliability concerns pretty much disappear when you put back up iron sights on your rifle in support of your optic.
So To Sum It All Up…
Red dots are faster than scopes…
But a variable scope at 1 power can start to approach the speed of a reflex sight.
Scopes allow you to see your target better…
This can be a huge help when trying to shoot accurately at distance.
Reflex sights are much lighter than scopes, and it’s important to consider weight when outfitting your rifle.
Scopes are a little bit more reliable than reflex sights. But if you add back up iron sights to either set up, your overall system will be ready to go when you need it.
So, Which Is The Better Option?
Well, that depends on how you’re going to use your rifle!
If you’re looking for a lightweight package that shoots quickly up close, go with a red dot.
If you intend on making precise shots at targets in the distance, put a scope on your rifle.
If you want a combination of both, use a 1 powered variable scope or get TWO rifles!
Now guys…
…neither a red dot or a scope is going to make up for poor shooting fundamentals…
So, if you are looking to improve your accuracy…
I have a FREE guide that shows you how to improve your shooting without leaving your home or spending a dime…
If a very simple exercise, and I use it myself to continue my own improvement…
So to gain access to that just click on the link below…
Again, it’s 100% Free and very easy to do…
Farewell, and have fun at the range!
-RDshooters
Factors to Consider in Choosing the Right AR 15 Scopes
“What’s the best scope for an AR-15?”
That’s a common question, with too many answers. It has too many answers because it’s the wrong question. The question you should be asking is, “What’s the best scope in my price range for my AR-15 doing a specific kind of shooting?” Let’s start with that. Remember, no one scope is best for everything. Some manage to be good at several things, but the laws of physics and optics inevitably force compromises.
Shooting 100 yd targets?
Sniping at 600 meters?
Competing in 3-gun events?
Killing gophers on the ranch?
Taking on a five-day hunting trek?
Taking into combat in a war zone?
Each of these is a dramatically different mission, and each has its own requirements. There are some general principles, though, that you can usually depend on. And, naturally, there are exceptions.
First: A more expensive scope is usually made better.
Made of better materials, built to more precise tolerances, with better optics. They are also usually better sealed against the elements, more durable, and often heavier.
Second: A larger objective lens — the glass facing your target — can gather more light.
This means a brighter sight picture for you, especially in low light conditions, and that can make the difference between identifying a target and losing a shot. Of course, that big lens adds to the weight. Glass is heavy.
Third: A larger tube allows more light transmission and usually enables more adjustment for windage and elevation.
But again, a 30mm tube will weigh more than a 1-inch (25.4mm) tube. More importantly, the cross-sectional area is about 39% greater, which means all the glass inside that tube will be at least 39% heavier, and probably more.
Fourth: There’s really no reason to buy a scope that can outrange the ammo you’re shooting.
Remember, even good .223 or 5.56 ammo is running out of kinetic energy at 600-700 meters. If you go to something like .300 Blackout, you might get another 100-200 meters of effective range from it. If you have an AR-10 (or other .308 weapon), 1000 meters is possible. Either way, your AR won’t be making bullseyes at a mile like a Barrett .50 might in the right hands.
Get a scope that can work at the maximum range you’ll shoot, but remember all that adds size, weight, and cost – so don’t buy more scope than you can use.
Fifth: Lower magnification means wider field of view, which means it’s easier to acquire your target and keep on top of the situation around it.
Higher magnification means you can watch things farther away, and potentially more ease in observing or identifying your target once you’ve acquired it. While a variable power scope offers both options to some degree, it’s optically more complex, which again means greater weight and cost.
You notice the pattern in the downsides of each of these: Weight and cost.
Weight matters: A 19-ounce scope might not feel like much in the gun shop, but when you’ve hiked for three days with the rifle on your back — or in your hands — you may wish you’d chosen the 11-ounce scope instead.
Not only that, but adding that much mass above the rifle’s bore axis can’t improve the handling, and a heavier weapon is always slower to move in your hands.
Most of us don’t have an unlimited budget, so cost is another important parameter in choosing your scope. It would be good to decide how much you WANT to spend on a scope, and what’s the most you’d be WILLING to spend on it.
Remember: While more expensive often equates to better, there are exceptions.
SCOPES AND NUMBERS
Most scopes are designated first by a few numbers, like “6x 43mm”, or “3-9x 40mm”, or “3-20x 50mm”. The first number or range of numbers is the magnification “power” of the scope, where “6x”, or “6 power”, means it makes the target appear six times larger. “3-9x” or “3-20x” would designate variable power, like a zoom lens on a camera. The last number refers to the diameter, measured in millimeters, of the objective lens — the lens facing your target, or objective. A smaller objective lens makes a scope light and easy to handle; a larger one gathers more light for a brighter view, especially in low light conditions.
Fixed focal length Scopes
Fixed focal length scopes, like the 6x mentioned above, are generally less expensive and more compact than variable optics. While lacking the versatility of a variable scope, they can and do provide a good alternative.
Also, given their optical simplicity, a 6x fixed scope might provide a brighter view, better clarity, or less distortion than a more complex variable scope set at the same power.
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Variable Scopes
Variable scopes come in a huge variety of powers, and the highest-power isn’t always the best for all purposes. While long-distance shooting can make use of scopes with 30x or more, the majority of shooting is done at ranges under 300 meters, frequently much less than that.
For combat use, or events like 3-Gun that simulate combat, a lot of useful shooting is done at ranges where even 1x (zero magnification) is good enough; all you need is the aiming marks on the reticle. The ability to keep both eyes open for a wide field of vision gives you situational awareness, while at 1x the optic can still help you place your shots accurately.
This has made 1x optics like Eotech and Aimpoint very popular, and those are covered in another article. But if you must transition quickly from short to medium range shooting, you might be best served by a low-power zoom, starting at 1x, such as a 1-4x or 1-6x.
Mid-range variable scopes don’t offer the both-eyes-open shooting option, but they can provide very useful magnification for the vast majority of shooting at a reasonable price. 3-9x is a very common size, but some of the more expensive scopes can offer up to 3-20x.
Scopes for long-range shooting are offered with extreme magnification of up to 40x or 60x. Of course, these scopes tend to be big, heavy, and expensive, and their field of view is so narrow as to be all but useless at close range. If you’re planning to shoot at long ranges, though, there is no substitute.
RETICLES
Once it was just a simple cross-hair.
Then cross hairs with calibrations. Now it seems that everybody has their own reticle designs, and it can get confusing. But there are some common elements to use as a basis for comparison.
(By the way: It’s “reticle”, not the common but incorrect “reticule.”)
The reticle, of course, refers to the aiming marks you see within the scope, overlaying the target image. This is actually what the scope is all about because that’s what shows you where the projectile will (theoretically) hit. Without a good reticle, you might as well use binoculars.
Since a reticle is technically independent of the optics that magnify the image, scope makers can put pretty much any kind of reticle they want in a scope.
Types of Reticles
Some scopes are offered with different reticles as options, which can actually simplify the choice: First, you choose the optics, the variable power range, and then select from the reticles offered by the manufacturer.
Crosshair reticles
The first and simplest design is the basic “cross-hair,” horizontal and vertical lines that intersect at the center. Reticle designers soon figured out that they can show you more than that – for instance, holdover marks are marks, usually on the cross-hairs, at precisely calculated points.
The theory is that you can use them to adjust for elevation or windage – once you have a known range and wind speed, you hold the appropriate holdover mark over the target, rather than messing with the scope’s elevation and windage turrets. You can also use the windage marks to “lead” a target moving across your scope at a constant rate.
BDC Reticles
A bullet drop compensator (BDC) reticle has a very specific type of holdover marks, a series of secondary marks going down the vertical line from the center. These are calculated to compensate for the ballistic curve of the flying bullet at longer ranges.
If you know the range for each mark, and the distance to your target, you can simply hold the correct mark over your target, and your elevation is corrected for the drop. Some scopes for the AR market are specifically set up to match, for instance, the trajectory of a 55 grain .223 bullet from a 16″ barrel, making it very easy.
Other Reticles
Others present you with charts or a website to calculate the exact ranges for your weapon and ammo.
Mil-dot reticles look like cross hairs with a string of beads across them. These are the mil-dots, spaced 1 mil apart on center, and they’re the standard in military sniper use — but “mil-” isn’t short for “military.” Instead, it’s short for “milliradian,” which is 1/1000 of a radian, another mathematical way of measuring angles.
Without going into the complex math involved, one mil-dot, as marked on the reticle, equates to (technically speaking, subtends to) 3.6 inches at 100 yards, or 36 inches at 1000 yards.
With this knowledge and an estimate of the size of the target, a trained shooter can use the spacing of the mil-dots to form a pretty accurate estimate of the range. Originally developed in the 1970s for Marine snipers, this also works well with metric measurements (since everything is divided by 1000) and with the Military Grid Reference System, that’s standard across NATO.
Because of the way mil-dots and similar systems are used for range estimation, it leads us to the next topic:
First Focal Plane (FFP) and Second Focal Plane (SFP) Reticles
You may hear talk of “first focal plane” and “second focal plane” scopes. This applies only to variable power (zoom) AR-15 scopes and refers to where the reticle appears relative to the target. (Boring technical note: An optical engineer would tell you that we’re actually speaking of the second and third focal planes in the scope, as the first focal plane is the province of the “erector,” an optical element that flips the objective lens’ inverted image back to right side up. But since it’s common terminology, we’ll do like everyone else and ignore that focal plane.)
In a first focal plane (FFP) scope, the reticle is placed before the elements that zoom inside the scope — meaning that when you dial from 4x to 8x, the reticle itself also zooms, and doubles in size. This is commonly found on scopes with range estimating functions, such as the mil-dot reticles, because where those dots appear must remain constant relative to the image.
In a second focal plane (SFP) scope, the reticle is placed after the zoom elements, closer to the ocular lens, and its apparent size remains constant as the image zooms.
Unless you’re using the range estimating functions of the reticle, a constant reticle image can be easier to use. If a second focal plane scope has estimating functions, such as a bullet drop compensator, that will only be accurate at one focal length setting.
In such a case, the scope’s makers usually opt for either the scope’s highest power, or 10x as a standard. Since it varies, you should check this as part of your research if it’s important to you.
PARALLAX
Parallax, in terms of scopes, is when the image of the target doesn’t fall on the same focal plane (within the scope) as the image of the reticle. When you line up your scope on a target, and move your eye around a bit, if the reticle appears to move a little relative to the target, that’s a parallax problem. It means the image of the reticle is falling either a little ahead of the objective image or a little behind it.
Many scopes come with parallax preset at the factory, for a range of, say, 100 yards (or meters, about 108 yards). Others have a parallax adjustment at the objective end of the scope, which some mistakenly call a “focus” setting. It’s NOT focus! Don’t try to focus with it; you’ll only mess things up.
The focus is found at the ocular (eyeball) end of the scope, (or, on some scopes, a knob on the side of the tube) and it is used ONLY to focus the reticle so it looks good to your eye. The parallax adjustment, when a scope has it, is found at the objective end of the scope, and should only be used for adjusting parallax.
THE FUTURE IS NOW: SCOPES AND ELECTRONICS
One of the main improvements of recent years is the illuminated reticle. A reticle that lights up solves the problem of marks that disappear against dark targets or in low light. Of course, it takes batteries, meaning some re-engineering of the scope, more expense, and a battery that will, eventually, need replacing. But if you’re likely to be shooting in low light conditions, it might just be what makes the shot possible.
And once the scope is redesigned for batteries, it’s possible to add more technology and more capabilities. Laser rangefinder scopes are exactly what they sound like: A laser is integrated into the scope’s housing. Bouncing the laser’s beam off the target, or a nearby object, allows the electronics to determine the range, usually within a meter or two, which is enough accuracy for gunnery purposes.
With this information and the ballistics of your load, a sophisticated scope can project a holdover point on the target’s image. It’s not corrected for windage, but some scopes allow you to input that as well. Given range data, a smart enough scope can also make any needed adjustments for parallax.
With built-in accelerometers to measure inclination (elevation or declination toward the target) and cant (rotation of the rifle off level), it can correct for these factors as well. Some scopes take it further, sending data or video images to your iPhone or Android device, recording video, and more. Of course, this makes both conventional BDC and mil-dot rangefinding reticles obsolete – as long as your batteries are good.
All of this future-gunner tech comes at a price, and, at this writing, that price is still very high. As with all high-tech gizmos, though, you can expect the cost to come down dramatically in coming years.
EYE RELIEF
Eye relief is when you finally take your eye away from the scope, rub it, and relax. Just kidding. Eye relief is actually the distance your eye needs to be from the ocular lens to make the scope’s image focus at the back of your eye. This can be a very specific distance, called “critical eye relief”, or it can be a range, depending on the optics. On modern scopes it’s usually in the 2-4 inch range.
When your eye is at the correct distance from the scope, the picture will appear to neatly fill the eyepiece. When you’re too close, the image will fill only part of the eyepiece. When you’re too far, the eyepiece will show only part of the image.
Eye relief became the standard for a simple reason: When shooting a rifle with considerable recoil, your eye would likely get injured if you put it up to the ocular lens like you do with binoculars or a spotting scope. Eye relief prevents a lot of black eyes.
The eye relief on a given scope, relative to your cheek weld (where your cheek rests against the rifle’s stock), determines where the scope must be mounted. This leads to stocks like the Magpul PRS, where the stock length and cheek riser are both adjustable to help you set it up properly.
TURRETS
Let’s talk real briefly about something called “MOA.” MOA stands for “minute of angle,” and it’s one of the phrases you hear all the time in precision shooting. (Except for military snipers, who tend to talk in mil-dots.) It comes from geometry, where, as everybody knows, a circle is divided into 360 degrees.
Each of those degrees is divided into 60 “minutes” of angle, and, if you go further, each MOA is divided into 60 “seconds,” like a clock. Shooters don’t generally go that far, though, since from where your rifle sits, one minute of angle is equal (subtends!) to about one inch at a range of 100 yards.
If you’re sighted on the bullseye, and you’re consistently shooting about two inches right and an inch low, you’ll want to adjust your scope 2 MOA to the left and 1 MOA up.
(On mil-dot scopes, which are metric, a turret click usually changes point of impact 1 cm at 100 meters, or 10 cm at 1000 meters. DO NOT confuse this with, for instance, a turret with 1/4 MOA clicks, which change point of impact 7mm at 100 meters.)
Near the center of the scope’s tube is a group of lenses, or optical elements, mounted to move as a unit. These are connected to the turrets, which adjust them either for elevation (vertical) or windage (horizontal). The turrets will usually have very positive detents, creating a click you can feel and hear for each increment of adjustment — usually either 1/4 or, on some higher power scopes, 1/8 MOA.
Remember, that’s either 1/4 inch or 1/8 inch adjustment at 100 yards. At 400 yards that would be increments of 1 inch or 1/2 inch. Once you’ve got it dialed in, most turrets will allow you to reset the dials to zero, as a new starting point.
Obviously, since the turret adjustments are moving the optics inside the scope’s tube, there’s a finite limit of adjustment before it can’t go any further. On most scopes that’ll be between 40 and 80 MOA.
You may see a lot of the higher-priced, higher-powered scopes having less of an adjustment range. That doesn’t mean they’re offering you less. An AR-15 scope that goes to 20x may offer 40 MOA of adjustment rather than the 80 found on a scope that goes to 9x, but at 1000 yards that 40 MOA is 400 inches — 33.33 feet — in your target zone, in increments of 1 1/2 inches per click.
Incidentally, most good AR barrels will generally shoot with about 2-MOA accuracy, and a “match” barrel will shoot with sub-MOA accuracy — that is, in expert hands it can consistently shoot within a 1″ circle at 100 yards. That would translate to a 10″ circle at 1000 yards, but .223 or 5.56 ammo will have pretty much run out of steam by then. For that kind of shooting you might want to upgrade to a .308, or something bigger.
PHYSICAL SIZE AND MOUNTING
Mounting AR-15 Scopes
For optical reasons, it’s best to mount the scope as close to the bore axis as possible. This also makes the weapon easier to handle, as it keeps the mass close to the long axis of gravity.
But there’s a problem here, a competing physical factor: Except for the AR and its relatives, most rifles have a stock that contacts your shoulder a little below the bore axis. This allows sights mounted directly on the barrel, because your eye is naturally higher than your shoulder. In designing the AR, Eugene Stoner decided to use a straight-line design from the muzzle to the butt, enabling the buffer and spring to absorb recoil.
In terms of physics, this straight-line design also moves the center of recoil force much closer to the weapon’s center of gravity, to help minimize muzzle climb. It’s compensated by mounting the sights higher, on the iconic carrying handle and front sight base — again, because your eyeball is higher than your shoulder.
And the first scopes for the M-16 mounted on top of that, a little higher still.
Now we have people mounting scopes as low as possible over the barrel. But while you can’t really use iron sights below most scope mountings, it’s still good to give the scope some breathing room between the rail and the scope itself. It improves your ergonomics, raising the scope back up to your natural eyeball level, and it also helps it clear the rifle’s charging handle.
(Incidentally, once the scope takes over the top rail of your weapon, and its line of sight, you can still use iron sights. The answer is to get a set of 45-degree offset sights, such as these from AT3 Tactical, or these cool ones from Diamondhead that actually fold inline.)
You may choose an offset mount to move the scope forward to clear the charging handle, but – depending on the scope’s eye relief – that might not be an option.
In such a case, you might find yourself looking at high-rise scope mounts, or even a separate riser piece to mount them on.
And once either of those options happens, you might have to adjust either the height of your cheek weld, or the length of your stock, or both, to maintain optimum eye positioning relative to the scope. Suddenly all the adjustments on stocks like Magpul’s PRS make a lot more sense, don’t they?
Inclination and Cant
One more point worth mentioning: Inclination and cant. The ballistic curve of a flying bullet is a parabola, modified by aerodynamic drag. You don’t need to know the specifics of this, but you should understand that a bullet fired at an upward or downward inclination won’t drop the same as one fired level.
And if you rotate the rifle somewhat on your shoulder, the elevation markers on the reticle get angled relative to the bullet’s flight path. Some of the more sophisticated scopes come with built-in levels to tell you when you’re off level.
For scopes that don’t, there are scope mounts that include bubble levels at a reasonable price. Of course, your eyeballs have their own idea of what’s level and what’s inclined, and it’s usually accurate enough to let you estimate and adjust in all but long-distance or extreme angled shots.
There is no single simple answer to all this. Just remember: Large objective lenses require high mounting, and make the scope heavier. Long scopes and low mountings may interfere with charging the weapon. And moving the scope forward or elevating it might require changes in the stock.
LENS CAPS AND MORE
Of course, all this expensive glass needs to be protected when you’re not looking through it. Lens caps come in two basic flavors: “Bikini” style and flip-up.
The basic “bikini” caps were invented to keep individual caps from falling off and getting lost. The front and back caps are simply joined by bands of elastic to keep them under tension, leading to the “bikini” nickname.
Of course, you’ll want to take those caps off to use the scope, and once you do, they can get lost together. The answer to this is flip-up caps – rather than lifting off the scope, they simply pivot upward. Upgrading from bikini to flip-up caps is one of the first and easiest things to do to make handling your scope easier.
Some caps, either flip-up or bikini-style, are clear rather than opaque. While looking through them will never be as optically clear as looking through just the scope, clear lens caps can allow you to sight through the scope without removing them, which can be useful in snapping off a quick shot under pressure.
When you face toward the sun, unless you’re shooting from a shaded position, there’s a good chance that direct sunlight can fall on the lens. This can have a number of undesirable effects: 1) If the lens surface has become dusty, the sunlight striking the dust can “wash out” the image, like sunlight striking a dirty windshield on a car; and 2) Sunlight can cause lens flare on the optics inside the lens, creating a cinematically pleasing effect that makes the scope harder to use. The original and simple answer to this problem is the lens shade, generally a section of flat black tubing that attaches and provides a shadow for the objective lens. It’s worth noting that an opaque flip-up lens cap, flipped to just 90 degrees, can often serve the same function — when the sun’s angle cooperates.
In military use, one of the giveaways that can alert the enemy to a shooter’s presence is the telltale glint of sunlight on a scope’s objective lens.
In the 1980s a solution was invented to minimize this: Anti-reflection devices are made of a hexagonal mesh screen, coated in flat black, that allows light to pass but prevents direct sunlight from reflecting on the glass. Mounted immediately in front of the objective lens, the light degradation is minimal, and the device is so far out of the scope’s focus range that it’s invisible through the scope.
Anti-reflection devices were initially intended for combat use when someone else is looking for you. But they have the happy side effect of eliminating lens flare inside the scope, which makes it worthwhile for many more shooters than just military users.
FULL CIRCLE: What it all means to how you shoot
Remember the question we started with: What is your intended use? Let’s take a look at some of the ways you might shoot, and what’s good for each of them.
Shooting 100 yd targets? Maybe the easiest one to answer: If all you’ll be doing is shooting for pleasure at a fairly constant range, a fixed focal length scope (like that 6x) might be just the thing. It’s likely to be smaller, lighter, and less expensive than a variable power optic, and with fewer elements, there’s a chance it’ll be more rugged, too.
Sniping at 600 meters? For what I call the “hobbyist sniper” — that means the guys who spend thousands on rifles and glass, carefully calculate their own custom handloads, and spend weekends at the range with their ballistic charts memorized, consistently pushing those bullets to the extremes of their reach — the answer is simple: Buy a high power, high quality scope. Some say the guideline is that the scope should cost as much as the rifle. Some say they spend three times as much on glass.
Competing in 3-Gun or similar events? Practical shooting is a fun and rapidly growing sport, teaching valuable skills that most of us hope we’ll never have to use off the range.
Most practical shooting events emphasize speed — that means fast target acquisition, fast, accurate shooting, and then quickly moving on to the next point. Since it’s a simulation of combat, a lot of the requirements are similar. You might do well with a 1x optic like an Eotech to get you on target quickly for the closer ranges.
For distances beyond 100 meters, though, you might want some magnification. That’s where the low-power zooms, like the 1-4x or 1-6x, can help you be fast and accurate.
Killing gophers on the ranch? You could spend your day surveying gopher holes and plotting the distance from each to the shooting bench on your porch. You’ll want to plant little flags with the range beside each hole.
More likely, you have to be ready to shoot at a variety of ranges. Gophers (and other varmints) don’t always appear where you want them to, so a good, mid-range variable scope like a 3-9x might be best. If you’ll be shooting at dusk or in low light, consider large objective lenses, high light transmission, and illuminated reticles.
Also, if you’re shooting from a bench rest, and not carrying the weapon on a long hike, you’re a lot less worried about weight.
Taking on a five day hunting trek? You’ll be shooting at all light levels, at medium to long ranges, and at unpredictable targets. You want a mid-to-long range variable scope, with the max depending on the range of your weapon. But be aware of weight, because you’ll be carrying it a lot, and it only gets heavier as the days go on.
Taking into combat in a war zone? This is the extreme. This is where you replace that black scope with something like OD or FDE for low visibility because somebody might be looking for you. You want the most durable and dependable optic you can get, and it’s a good idea to put an anti-reflection device on the objective lens.
If you’re likely to engage at short ranges, a 1x optic like an Aimpoint or Eotech might be best. If you’re a designated marksman, shooting over longer ranges, a medium-to-long variable scope is probably what you need. And if you’re a sniper then you’ll suit your weapon’s optics to the environment and the mission.
To all our service personnel — best of luck, come home safely, and know that we appreciate what you do!
Article by Wayne Anderson
One Last Tip
If there’s anyone that knows the AR-15 platform, it’s the US military. As a special offer for our readers, you can get the Official US Army Manual for AR-15/M4/M16 right now – for free. Click here to snag a copy.
The Best AR-15 Scopes & Optics in 2022
*Scopes Field is reader-supported. When you buy through links on my site, I may earn an affiliate commission.*
To find the best AR-15 scope, you only need to answer one question:
What’s your intended use? Here are the top 3:
Close Range (0-100 yards): For home defense, CQB or SHTF, get a red dot. Medium Range (0-500 yards): This is the most common use. If you hunt, plink, 3-gun or do some general field work, go for a low powered variable optic (LPVO). Long Range (500+ yards): For bench shooting, get a long range scope.
I’ve covered the ideal scope for each use down below.
AR-15 Optics
After more than 100 total hours of research and hand-testing dozens of AR-15 optics, I’ve found the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24 (LPVO) to be the best ‘all around’ scope for most people. It can be used for close and medium range uses, and it’s the optic I personally use on my AR-15.
Best Overall Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Riflescopes • A true 1x on the low end adapts to a wide range of scenarios, letting shooters rapidly engage targets from point-blank to extended ranges. • The magnification ring now includes a thread-in throw lever, and the magnification indicators can now be seen without coming off the scope. • The new illuminated BDC3 reticle focuses the shooter’s eye to the target faster and holdovers allow for immediate use out to 650 yards for targets of known distance.
The Strike Eagle 1-6×24 is super versatile.
I’ve used this optic for 3-gunning, target shooting and even hunting — and it has never let me down.
The scope’s glass is great, the reticle’s fast target acquisition is insane, the magnification is balanced, and it’s super durable. It even comes with lifetime warranty.
If the Strike Eagle is unavailable or if you’re looking for better glass and a daylight bright reticle, then go for the Viper PST 1-6×24.
The glass is really good (barely any side distortion), the capped turrets are audible and true, and the 10-setting brightness allows me to shoot in almost any condition. In fact, I’m able to clearly see the reticle in Texas’ scorching sun.
However, the magnification ring is a bit stiff. To solve that, I recommend running a Scope Throw Lever. Besides that, the PST Gen II is worth every penny.
Compared to the Strike Eagle and Viper PST, the Razor HD blows them out of the water.
Primarily used for 3-gunning and rifle competitions, the Razor has exceptional glass, a much wider field of view, a massive eye box, and a daylight bright reticle that is super easy to use.
If you want the absolute best 1-6x scope and have the money to afford it, I’d highly recommend the Razor HD Gen 2.
Best Red Dot Aimpoint PRO Red Dot Reflex Sight with QRP2 Mount and Spacer – 2 MOA – 12841 Absolute co-witness with iron sights (with the supplied spacer installed)
Features 2 MOA red dot for accurate target engagement
Includes front and rear plastic flip cap lens covers
If you’re building your AR-15 for home defense or patrol, then get the Aimpoint PRO.
It’s widely used by law enforcement and military personnel. And for a good reason: it’s nearly bomb-proof, has clear glass, wide field of view, long battery life, the reticle is always on, and comes with everything you need straight of the box.
Best for Hunting Nikon P-Tactical .223 3-9×40 Matte BDC600 The BDC 600 reticle offers Shooters unique open circle aiming points and hash marks from 100 to 600 yards
One inch body tube
Spring loaded instant zero resets turrets
The Nikon P-223 is my go-to hunting scope.
I’ve used it to take down deer, boars and even varmints. With 3-9x magnification and a 40mm objective lens, I had no problem shooting out to 300+ yards — even in low light conditions like dawn and dusk. The reticle is also simple to use and accurate, a must when you’re out in the field.
However, if you’re shooting less than 150 yards or hunting dangerous game, then I recommend going for lower magnification, like the Strike Eagle 1-6×24.
Best Budget UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope, AO, 36-color Mil-dot, Rings , Black 30-millimeter SWAT 3-12X44 IE tactical range estimating scope with mil-dot, full 36-color EZ Tap reticle
30-Millimeter tube built on True Strength Platform: sealed and nitrogen filled, shockproof, fog-proof, and rain-proof
Best in class multi emerald coated lenses; integrated angled front sunshade complete with flip-open lens caps
If you can’t spend more than $150 on an optic, then I’d recommend the UTG 3-12×44.
The glass is decent, the turrets are audible, it’s super durable, and the reticle is illuminated. It also comes with medium rings and picatinny brackets.
At the price point, I’d personally spend the extra dollars and get a proven optic like Vortex or Primary Arms. However, if your wife is giving you the side, then this scope will do just fine.
When I used to do long-range shooting competitions, I used the Steiner T5Xi 3-15×50.
The glass is truly amazing, the illuminated reticle is set in the first focal plane and most importantly, the SCR reticle is ready for long-range precision shooting. It’ll easily hit over 1,000 yards.
Best for short-to-medium range Vortex Optics Spitfire 3x Prism Scope – EBR-556B Reticle (MOA) The Spitfire 3x Prism Scope excels in close to medium range shooting applications where fast target acquisition and speed is of the essence. The prism based design allows for a compact optical system…
Fully multi-coated lenses with anti-reflective coatings offer bright views even in low light conditions. A selectable red/green illuminated reticle features five intensity levels to match the…
The reticle is etched directly on the prism ensuring shooters have an effective point of aim at all times regardless of illumination. A fast focus eyepiece adjusts the reticle into sharp focus.
The Vortex Spitfire is a budget-friendly Trijicon ACOG alternative that combines the best of both worlds… a red dot and magnified optic.
With a fixed 3x magnification, it can be used for short range and longer range engagements (like target shooting and hunting). Plus, you can use this during the day and at night — lasting up to 3,000 hours. The EBR-556B reticle is also calibrated specifically for the AR’s 5.56×45 cartridge.
So if you need a fixed prism scope for short-to-medium range shooting that is both affordable and basically bombproof, I’d recommend trying out the Spitfire 3x.
Why should you trust me?
Because it’s all I do.
I’ve reviewed hundreds of scopes so far. In fact, my reviews have been featured on the gun industry’s largest sites like:
SOFREP
The National Interest
The Truth About Guns
And more
I also own an AR-15 rifle (BCM Recce-16) that I use daily for plinking and target shooting. And over the years, I’ve tried almost every AR-15 optic on the market: red dots, holographics, LPVOs and magnified scopes.
What you see down below is my expert analysis of the top AR 15 optic reviews on the market and my complete breakdown.
Speaking of research, it’s your right to know any potential biases that may have affected this review.
First, no optic company sponsored this post, sent me free optics, nor gave me a special discount. In fact, I don’t accept any sort of advertising as this usually leads to biased reviews.
I bought these optics either from Amazon or OpticsPlanet, and paid the same amount as any of you would. But why do all this?
First, to make money. I’m not going to lie to you and tell you that I do all of this out the kindness of my heart. When you make a purchase through my affiliate link, I receive a small commission (typically between 1-4%). I don’t see what you purchase, nor does it affect the price you pay. With the money I make, I buy more optics to test and put food on my table.
Second, I enjoy doing this. I’ve been shooting guns for my entire life, and to have the opportunity to do this full-time is a straight blessing. So thank you.
With all that said, I hope you find the AR 15 optic that’ll serve you for life down below.
Choosing the Best AR-15 Optic
Want to save money? Read this section.
Most newbies end up buying the wrong kind of scope. Why? Because they didn’t know what to buy.
So to help all buyers from future headaches, here’s exactly what you need to know about choosing the best AR 15 optic.
How To Choose An AR-15 Scope
Some quick backstory:
The AR 15 is pretty much a civilian M16.
M16A1 vs. AR-15 (Garand Thumb)
It’s lightweight, low in recoil, powerful, and very customizable. That’s why the U.S. Army originally adopted the M16 — it excelled in the close-quarter jungles of Vietnam.
M16 used in Vietnam
In fact, the AR 15 can hit 150 yards without a sight. Pair that with the best scope for AR 15 and you can easily hit targets up to 600 yards and over.
That’s awesome. But let’s be real:
You probably won’t be shooting that far out. If you are, you’ll probably want to get the best AR-10 scope instead.
Otherwise, here are the top 3…
AR-15 Shooting Distances
Note: These ranges are based on the .223 (or 5.56 NATO) ammo.
Close Range: <150 yards <150 yards Medium Range: Between 150 – 400 yards Between 150 – 400 yards Long Range: 400+ yards. Simply choose a range and move on. But what if you use more than one range? Don’t worry — I’ll cover that in just a bit. For now, just choose the right AR 15 shooting range(s) for your rifle. Once you have, it’s time to decide… What Magnification Is Needed For AR15? This is where most amateurs screw up. They either buy too much or too little magnification. The reason? Most people just don’t understand what magnification they need for their uses. The next section will tell you how much magnification you need based on common uses, starting with… Close Range (<150 yards) The AR 15 excels in close-range combat. Most people use it for target shooting or hunting small game. If that sounds like you, here’s what you’ll need: Magnification: 1 – 4X power Alternatively, you can use an AR-15 red dot (covered below) for fast target close-range acquisition. For added magnification, you might want to read my best holographic sights guide. In several tests, holos paired with magnifiers outperformed 1-4X low powered variable optics in speed. I also like to practice close range battle (CQB) using my everyday carry pistol. If you believe in a similar philosophy, read my best pistol red dot guide. Medium Range (150 – 400 yards) This is the hunting range. Most people use their AR 15 to ‘protect the homeland’ from coyotes, foxes, and other varmints. If that’s so, here’s the magnification you’ll need: Magnification: Between 5 – 9X power This will make your varmint problem go away for good. Long Range (400+ yards) The AR 15 isn’t built for this range. I personally don’t recommend hunting at this range. But if you must (or you target shoot), here’s the recommended long-range magnification: Magnification: 9X and up Or you can check out my best long range scopes guide. Either way, this magnification is crucial for choosing the right scope for your AR 15 rifle. With all that said, here’s… The Bottom Line On AR 15 Magnification Don’t make the #1 newbie mistake and ignore this section. It’ll make finding a good AR-15 optic impossible. As a result, you’ll end up wasting your money on either too much or too little magnifications. That’s wasted money. Instead, I highly recommend you use this guide to your disposal. With that said, if you combine magnification — like short and medium range — get a variable powered AR scope. These type of scopes allow you to shoot from a variety of distances. I’ll cover a few options down below. But before I do, you’re probably wondering: Should I get a red dot or magnified scope for my AR-15. If you know the answer, skip the next section. Otherwise, read on… AR-15 Red Dot Sights vs Scopes The biggest difference between a red dot and scope is… Target Acquisition speed. It’s true that scopes can acquire short to long range targets (LPVOs) with no issues. However, it comes at a cost: Slower target acquisition speeds. You can see this in a head-to-head target acquisition test between a Primary Arms 4-14×44 scope and a standard red dot: (Red Dot: 3.15 seconds VS Scope: 4.05 seconds) That’s about a 28% difference in speed. On the field, that’s a pretty big difference that can spell the difference between life and death (or losing a competition). That’s why I highly recommend getting a red dot for short-range (<100 yards) quick target acquisition. It’s faster, easier, has unlimited eye relief, and lighter (they average ¼ the weight of a scope). But if you shoot further than that (>100 yards), then I recommend a magnified scope for your AR-15.
With all that said, I believe you’re ready to see the best AR-15 scopes list below. Let’s dive right in!
The 8 Best AR-15 Scopes and Optics
1. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-6×24: Best Overall
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24 is the most well-rounded AR 15 scope.
In fact:
You can use this optic for 3-gunning, target shooting and even hunting.
Interested? Read on…
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Vortex Strike Eagle Series glass is incredibly clear.
Here’s why:
They first started off with high-quality glass. Then, they multicoated the lens to maximize light transmission.
The results? Incredibly clear glass with a wide field of view worth 2-4X the price of the scope.
And that’s not all you’re getting.
Vortex knew that a good AR 15 reticle was key to an unstoppable scope. So, they made the most innovative second focal plane reticle to date:
The BDC3.
Here’s what’s special about it:
The reticle functions as both a red dot and a bullet drop compensator (BDC) reticle at the SAME time.
How did they do it?
The secret lies within the red ring:
That ring is made for fast target acquisition (similar to a red dot) while the center dot is for longer-range shots.
So together, you can use the scope for short and long-range uses!
If you’d like to learn more on how the BDC3 reticle works, feel free to watch this video:
Speaking of the reticle, I’ve got good news:
The reticle doesn’t need battery to operate.
The reason? They etched the reticle right into the glass. Here’s how it looks without illumination:
And that’s not all.
They even included 11-brightness settings illumination with the reticle, so you can see the reticle bright and clear in any lighting condition (including low light conditions).
Eye Relief & Eye Box
3.5”.
That’s the amount of eye relief you get with this scope. When I first saw that, I was excited because that’s almost the perfect amount of relief for an AR 15.
However, there’s a catch:
The eye box isn’t that forgiving (as other scopes I’ve tested).
The solution? Proper cheek weld and practice.
With that, I was able to get the hang of the limited eye box in very little time.
Durability
This scope’s built like a ‘Fury’ tank.
It’s completely shock, water and fogproof, allowing you to use this scope in nearly ANY climate or terrain.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
More good news:
The turrets are incredibly reliable.
Whenever I adjusted the ½ MOA turrets, all I felt was a buttery smooth turn followed by a clear, tactile ‘click’ sound.
Better yet was the scope’s ability to zero and hold zero (out of the box).
In fact:
It took me around 6 rounds to zero in the bullseye and I didn’t even need to boresight the scope (although I recommend you do for almost all scopes).
That said, I did find one little preference missing on this scope:
Tactical turrets.
Almost all the best rifle scopes (like the hunting scope below) include tactical turrets.
The reason?
Tactical turrets help hunters make faster adjustments on the go. However, tactical turrets aren’t needed. They’re just a nice ‘bell’ to include with a scope.
With turrets covered, let’s move onto…
Parallax & Magnification
This scope’s 1-6X magnification is nearly perfect.
In fact, I’d go so far as to say this is hands down one of the the best 1-6X scopes I’ve ever tested.
As you already know, the AR-15 is a short-to-medium range rifle. Which means you shouldn’t get too much magnification.
The good news?
That’s exactly what you’re getting with this scope. The 1X magnification allows you to nail short-range targets quickly with ease while the 6X helps you reach up to 550+ yard targets.
Here’s a video of HighJak shooting 300-600 yards with the PA 1-6x scope:
The best part of it all? The scope remains clear and parallax-free REGARDLESS of the magnification (even at maximum).
So you can see why Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6X scope is such a great scope — it’s literally built for the AR 15 from the bottom up.
And that’s exactly why you need to get some proper…
Mounting & Rings
I went with an American Defense AD-RECON STD Mount. It was super easy to install and held zero perfectly fine.
American Defense AD-RECON 30 STD Riflescope Optic Mount, Black Does not require proprietary tools for adjustment
Can be adjusted with your finger or a flat blade screwdriver
Lever can be configured to lock to the front or the rear
However, if you can’t afford it, then I’d recommend going with an Aero Precision Single Piece Mount. It’s lightweight, sturdy and affordable.
Summary
I can’t recommend the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24 enough.
It’s got everything you need for your AR-15 rifle: clear glass, affordable, durable and accurate. For the price, I wouldn’t recommend any other scope.
2. Nikon P-223 3-9×40 BDC 600: Best Hunting Scope
The Nikon P-223 is the best hunting scope for the AR 15.
Best for Hunting Nikon P-Tactical .223 3-9×40 Matte BDC600 The BDC 600 reticle offers Shooters unique open circle aiming points and hash marks from 100 to 600 yards
One inch body tube
Spring loaded instant zero resets turrets
It’s literally a deer hunting, hog killing, and varmint killing BEAST.
You know why? Read on to find out, starting with…
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Crisp and clear.
Those are the first 2 words I thought whenever I looked into a P-223 scope. The clarity was similar to higher-end $600+ scopes.
Nikon’s secret?
They use high-quality Nikon glass alongside the MOST expensive lens coating — fully multi-coated — giving the scope an unprecedented 98% light transmission.
As a result, you’ll see EVERYTHING with this scope (even in low light conditions). But what do you see inside the scope when you look through?
The BDC 600 second focal plane reticle.
It’s specially engineered for the AR 15’s most popular ammo (the .223 Rem).
What that means is it specifically measures the .223 Rem’s trajectory, giving you completely accurate bullet drop estimates.
However, there’s one thing I’m not cool with:
The BDC’s reticle bubbles are a bit thin. Here’s a reticle comparison with the Buckmaster 4-12×40:
Image: Jim J.
If the bubbles were a bit thicker, it would be an all-star hunting BDC reticle for the books.
But that’s just me nitpicking. A lot of folks have zero issues with the bubble size.
That said, let’s move onto…
Eye Relief & Eye Box
It’s got a thick 3.6” of eye relief distance.
That’s the perfect amount for the AR 15.
The best part?
The relief stays constant REGARDLESS of the magnification you use. Very cool!
Durability
The Nikon P-223 is INSANELY durable.
In fact, the scope’s rugged, water, and fog proof.
Typically when you have that combination, you pay the price in the weight of the score. Not in this case.
The scope actually weighs only a mere 1.1 lbs — allowing you to move freely on the hunting trail.
With that, we’re onto the next scope feature…
Elevation & Windage Knobs
The turrets are A-grade in my book.
Why?
Because Nikon included my absolute favorite kind of turrets:
Tactical Turrets.
Here’s why they’re great:
Tactical turrets are DESIGNED for the hunting field. That’s because you no longer have to uncap your turrets every time you adjust, leaving me with headaches the size of Mordor.
Instead, simply adjust the turret and go. No allen wrench (or nickels) needed. A huge time-saver on the trail!
Also, the scope’s super easy to zero.
Matter of fact, I was able to reliably zero within a record 7 rounds…and it held zero.
So far so good, but how about the scope’s turrets themselves? They’re super high quality, being both repeatable and produce clear, crisp ‘click’ sounds when you adjust. Nice!
With that, it’s now time to move onto…
Parallax & Magnification
The 3-9X magnification is LEGIT for hunting.
For closer ranges, I used the 3X magnification and was able to hit targets up to 100 yards away with ease.
While for longer ranges, I cranked the magnification up to 9X and hit targets up to 600 yards away.
And here’s what surprised me:
Despite going to such a high magnification, the scope remained completely clear and parallax-free.
And my favorite part of it all?
Nikon’s Spot On Ballistic Match Technology.
The app literally removes ALL the guesswork out of shooting and leaves the fun part…bringing home the meat.
Speaking of fun, let’s discuss the most fun part of scopes…
Mounting & Rings
This scope needs a 1” mount to work with an AR 15.
So I used a Nikon P-Series One-Piece Mount.
It’s sturdy, inexpensive and most importantly…it gets the job done!
Also, the included string covers doesn’t do anything. So you should probably invest in some Butler Creek flip up lens covers (Eyepiece size: 19, 43.9mm) (Objective size: 31) to protect your scope’s lens from damage.
Sale Butler Creek Flip-Open Eyepiece Scope Cover, Size 19 (1.73-Inch, 43.9mm) , Black Truly ambidextrous, silent spring hinges won’t spook game
Instant action lids pop open at the touch of a thumb
Performs from 40 to 120 Degrees F, weighs less than an ounce
And if you shoot in sunny conditions, I recommend getting a Nikon 40mm Matte Sunshade.
173 Reviews Nikon Model Sunshade Spotting Scopes, 40mm, Black Increases optical performance by reducing glare on the objective lens
Shields objective lens glass from scratches and moisture
Made of durable high grade aluminum
Summary
If you’re going to hunt with your AR-15, then the Nikon P-223 is worth EVERY penny.
In fact, I actually believe the Nikon P-223 is underpriced for the high-end scope features it has like…
Light weight
Crystal clear glass
Fully multicoated lens
Tactical, zero reset turrets
The ‘Perfect AR-15 BDC’ reticle
…making it a killer bargain AR 15 hunting scope. For reference, most long-range scopes cost 3-4X more on average (as you’ve probably seen in my best scope for 6.5 Creedmoor guide).
And in case anything goes wrong, you’re 100% backed by Nikon’s lifetime warranty.
Best for Hunting Nikon P-Tactical .223 3-9×40 Matte BDC600 The BDC 600 reticle offers Shooters unique open circle aiming points and hash marks from 100 to 600 yards
One inch body tube
Spring loaded instant zero resets turrets
3. UTG 3-12×44 30mm Compact Scope: Best AR-15 Scope Under $200
The UTG 3-12×44 is hands down the best budget AR 15 scope I’ve ever used.
Best Budget UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope, AO, 36-color Mil-dot, Rings , Black 30-millimeter SWAT 3-12X44 IE tactical range estimating scope with mil-dot, full 36-color EZ Tap reticle
30-Millimeter tube built on True Strength Platform: sealed and nitrogen filled, shockproof, fog-proof, and rain-proof
Best in class multi emerald coated lenses; integrated angled front sunshade complete with flip-open lens caps
The reason? Keep on reading starting with the…
Glass Clarity & Reticle
For a cheap AR-15 scope, I wasn’t expecting much in the glass department.
However, the UTG’s glass was actually not bad (considering the price). It turns out the scope’s glass is multicoated, allowing for increased light transmission.
But…how about the reticle?
It’s a second focal plane Mildot reticle. Here’s how it looks:
Mildots are great for beginners because they’re easy-to-use yet useful enough to help improve your accuracy.
Why is that? Mildots estimate distance and holdover with their tiny dots like this:
So you can make accurate long-range shots.
You know what else is cool? The reticle doesn’t need a battery to work. That’s because its etched into the glass.
And if you need illumination, they’ve got one of the most overkill illumination coloring systems I’ve ever seen — allowing you to choose from over 36 different colors.
(A plus for low light conditions).
So if you’re into personalization, this is great for you. And what’s even better is the scope ‘remembers’ your previous illumination setting with a click of a button. This is great for fast target acquisition.
Put another way:
You get personalized reticle illumination at a click of a button.
And with that, we’re onto our next feature…
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Most cheap scopes skimp on eye relief.
The result?
You’ll end up looking like Mad Eye Moody within the first hunt:
However, that’s not the case with the UTG 3-12×44. It turns out they put on a solid 3.4” eye relief.
Although that’s not perfect, it’s not bad either for using an AR 15 without being too uncomfortable.
Enough said. Let’s move onto…
Durability
While I was testing the UTG 3-12×44, I accidentally dropped my gun (and scope).
Despite the rough hits it endured, the scope still held up beautifully without sacrificing the zero.
I thought it was a fluke until I read up about the scope’s completely shock, rain, and fog proof ‘True Strength Platform’ build.
This makes the scope insanely durable.
But as a result of this hefty build, you do get some added weight — a hefty 24 ounces of weight.
Although that indicates a higher-quality build, the weight may be a problem for people that move their rifle a lot (like in hunting).
If you do, I’d definitely recommend not going with this scope as it’s going to weigh you down on the trail…HARD.
(Believe me, I would know)
Instead, go with either of the scopes from above. That said, it’s time to move onto…
Elevation & Windage Knobs
“Darn it!” you scream in anguish. “I missed my deer again!”
The reason?
Because you probably had to manually uncap your turrets to adjust.
What if there was a better way?
Enter: Tactical turrets.
These turrets remove the unnecessary uncapping your turrets step and get you straight to making the adjustment step.
The result of this change? You bring home more meat.
And if you want to bring even more meat home, look at a scope’s zeroing ability. For the UTG 3-12×44, the zeroing is LEGIT.
Let me explain:
It took me quite a few rounds to zero in, but when I did…the scope locked it in. That’s mostly thanks to the lockable and resettable turrets — which are usually found in high-end scopes.
It also produces loud ‘click’ sounds when you adjust.
It’s due to these turrents that I recommend the UTG in my Best Ruger 10/22 scope guide. So it passes the turrets test, but how will it fare on the…
Parallax & Magnification
“Will the magnification work?” I thought.
That was the only burning question on my mind when I put the scope out for the stress test.
To find out, I throttled the scope from the lowest magnification all the way to the max.
And the results surprised me:
The magnification is fairly clear (and mostly parallax free) — even at the highest 12X magnification. However, there was a bit of fuzziness at the highest magnification.
Mounting & Rings
This is a huge pocket reliever:
UTG has included medium profile rings with thumb-screw picatinny brackets…completely free!
And get this:
These rings are REALLY well built.
Matter of fact, you won’t need any other rings unless you have one of two things:
A flip up back up iron sight (BUIS) or a DPMS AR-15.
In either case, you’ll need to buy some higher rings like the UTG pro 1” high rings. These rings fix the incompatibility problem.
With all that said, it’s time for the ‘secret’…
Other Features
As a whole…this scope is by far the top valued scope package on the market.
Out of the box, it has everything you need like…
Flip Open Lens Cap
Medium Profile Rings
A solid scope
…and for all you’re getting, this scope is priced well. It also come with lifetime warranty:
So if your scope ever breaks on you — they’ll fix it for free. This helps stretch your dollar to the fullest over the long-run.
Summary
If you’re looking for an AR 15 budget scope, then get the UTG 3-12×44. Here’s why:
You get a well built scope with decent glass, no parallax, tactical turrets, illuminated reticle, and everything you need to mount (and protect) the scope…out of the box.
Although it doesn’t have the glass of a Primary Arms or Nikon, it’s not bad considering it costs less than $200.
Best Budget UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope, AO, 36-color Mil-dot, Rings , Black 30-millimeter SWAT 3-12X44 IE tactical range estimating scope with mil-dot, full 36-color EZ Tap reticle
30-Millimeter tube built on True Strength Platform: sealed and nitrogen filled, shockproof, fog-proof, and rain-proof
Best in class multi emerald coated lenses; integrated angled front sunshade complete with flip-open lens caps
4. Vortex Spitfire 3x Prism Scope: Best Short-to-Medium Range Scope
The Spitfire 3X Prism Scope is the best short-to-medium range scope.
Best for short-to-medium range Vortex Optics Spitfire 3x Prism Scope – EBR-556B Reticle (MOA) The Spitfire 3x Prism Scope excels in close to medium range shooting applications where fast target acquisition and speed is of the essence. The prism based design allows for a compact optical system…
Fully multi-coated lenses with anti-reflective coatings offer bright views even in low light conditions. A selectable red/green illuminated reticle features five intensity levels to match the…
The reticle is etched directly on the prism ensuring shooters have an effective point of aim at all times regardless of illumination. A fast focus eyepiece adjusts the reticle into sharp focus.
In fact:
Some call it a ‘budget ACOG’. Is it true?
Read on and decide for yourself…
Glass Clarity & Reticle
The fully multi-coated glass is bright and clear with a wide field of view:
The EBR-556B Reticle is amazing.
It’s a uncluttered BDC reticle engineered for the AR 15’s most popular cartridge:
The 5.56×45.
It measures the holdover and ranging right in the reticle itself…for up to 500 yards.
In other words:
Accurate longer-range shots.
Some people have claimed it works for the .223, 300 blackout cartridge and more. But you know what’s my favorite feature?
The etched reticle.
That means the reticle is ‘carved into’ the glass.
This gives 24/7 visibility, regardless of your battery’s condition. It even works for astigmatism.
This makes it superior to red dots (which require a battery to work). You can even switch between a red or green reticle.
Here’s how red looks:
And green…
… easily switchable in the flick of a switch to see in low light situations.
Even better, you can control the brightness with the 5 brightness setting knob:
But be warned:
The battery life doesn’t last long.
(3,000 hour battery life on low and 250 hours on high.)
Just keep some extra CR 2032 batteries at hand. That’ll save you a few headaches 😉
Speaking of headaches, there’s another headache-saving feature…the fast focus eyepiece.
This makes adjusting the reticle focus much easier.
Here’s how it works:
(Basically, you turn a knob so you can focus the reticle.)
Eye Relief & Eye Box
This is the scope’s biggest con…
Its 2.8” eye relief.
This can be a bit tight for the AR platform. But, it can be remedied by using either one of two solutions:
Remove the flip ups and move the scope a bit further back on your rail. Or… You can just get a collapsible AR 15 stock.
Many have found they had to remove their rear MBUS sights. But that’ll depend on your rifle and build setup.
Besides that, the eye box is relatively forgiving. The field of view is decent (not the largest).
Durability
The Spitfire 3X is built rugged.
It’s shockproof, waterproof and fogproof…without the nasty added weight.
The Spitfire Prism weighs a mere 15.4 ounces. It’s also quite compact, measuring in at 5.5 inches in length or half the size of a usual scope.
In short:
You get the magnification of a scope without the extra baggage.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
The ½ MOA turrets themselves are knurled and straight forward to adjust.
Simply bring a coin or use the integrated ledge, take off the cap, and adjust.
But what if you lose the caps? Well, that’s no longer a problem thanks to the steel tethering feature.
The turrets also produce clear tactile “click” sounds when adjusted. It zeroed in easy with only 8 rounds at 100 yards.
After zeroing, it was dead center accurate. And it held that zero well.
Magnification & Parallax
It’s a fixed 3X magnification scope.
It works anywhere from 15 yards up to 500 without an issue (including parallax adjustment). Since it’s magnified, it works great for aging eyes.
The awesome part?
You can even use a red dot alongside the Spitfire.
Simply throw on a micro red dot — like the Vortex Viper — on the top offset rail.
That’s great for 3-gun setups.
Mounting & Rings
There’s a mount included for free.
It’s a base clamp designed to mount on a picatinny rail.
It even comes built-in with a mount riser that’s removable.
However, there’s one problem with it…
There’s no quick detach mount for the Spitfire 3X yet. So if that’s a must feature for you, then go for another scope.
Summary
The Spitfire has the functionality of a red dot and fixed power scope in one package…without the price tag. It’s got:
Clear bright glass
Clear bright glass Rugged build quality
Fast focus eye piece
Long battery (3,000 hrs. on low)
AR 15 BDC reticle (etched & illuminated)
Short-to-medium range magnification
Come to think of it, it’s a budget-friendly Trijicon ACOG alternative. And one of the best compact scopes for AR 15.
It even comes backed with Vortex Optics VIP unlimited lifetime warranty. Break it and they’ll fix it for free. Pretty solid.
Best for short-to-medium range Vortex Optics Spitfire 3x Prism Scope – EBR-556B Reticle (MOA) The Spitfire 3x Prism Scope excels in close to medium range shooting applications where fast target acquisition and speed is of the essence. The prism based design allows for a compact optical system…
Fully multi-coated lenses with anti-reflective coatings offer bright views even in low light conditions. A selectable red/green illuminated reticle features five intensity levels to match the…
The reticle is etched directly on the prism ensuring shooters have an effective point of aim at all times regardless of illumination. A fast focus eyepiece adjusts the reticle into sharp focus.
5. Steiner T5Xi 3-15×50: Best AR-15 Long Range Scope
The Steiner T5Xi 3-15×50 is one of the best AR-15 long range scope.
In fact, I’ve used this scope for long-range firing competitions with my Recce 18 KMR-A Precision Rifle, and it’s still my go-to scope to this day.
The scope is favored by the military, police, competitive shooters, and hunters alike. By the end of this review, you’ll know if the Steiner T5Xi 3-15×50 is for you.
Let’s get started!
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Crystal Clear – in the same league as Nightforce, Schmidt-Bender, and other 1000 yard scopes.
This Steiner T5Xi 3-15×50 is equipped with a First Focal Plane Special Competition Reticle (SCR) with MOA ranging accurate at every magnification.
The SCR reticle was specifically designed for long-range precision.
This is a Mil Radian based reticle that features 2/10th mil windage holdoff, ½ mil holdovers, 1/10th mil ranging brackets, and Quick reference mil callouts.
The reticle is perfectly sharp, even at the lowest and highest magnification values.
The Steiner T5Xi also features an illuminated reticle, 7 night and 4 day levels, perfect for dark targets and/or low light conditions.
Ranging targets were easy – this reticle was well thought out for sure.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
The Steiner T5Xi 3-15×50 has 3.5″-4.3″ of long eye relief.
The scope comes with a wide field of view. I feel like I could spend all day behind the scope.
Durability and Weight
The Steiner T5Xi is 13 inches long and 29 ounces.
The scope tips the heavier side of the scale but with its exceptional quality, I’ll take the weight with a smile.
Thanks to its aircraft-grade aluminum, gas-purged and O-ring sealed construction, the Steiner T5Xi is just as rugged as any battle-tested ACOG.
The scope is fully shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof, submersible up to 33 feet.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
The Steiner’s tactile elevation and windage turrets are solid and reliable. The clicks are crisp and audible.
The 34 mm tube gives you a larger range for adjustments: 34 mils for elevation and 15 mils for windage.
The scope’s elevation turret comes with a zero-stop feature, meaning you can swiftly return to the scope’s zero.
One thing about this zero stop is that it actually doesn’t stop at zero. It stops .3 mils past it. If you’re spinning really fast, remember to dial it back up.
Within the first 5 rounds, I was able to zero the scope without issues. Even with the heavy recoil and accidental drops, the Steiner held zero like a champ.
Also, the accuracy of tracking is dead-on reliable, even after firing 200 rounds.
Parallax & Magnification
The Steiner T5Xi 3-15×50 sports a 3-9x variable magnification and 50mm objective, making it great for long-range shooting.
The best part?
The adjustable diopter comes with a lock.
With most diopters, you usually back them out for your vision and somewhat just “floats”. It can get accidentally bumped or displaced when you’re mounting your rifle. This second ring prevents that.
The larger diameter also made it easier for me to locate moving targets.
The Steiner sports a Low Profile Side Parallax Adjustment that goes from 25 yards to infinity.
Mounting & Rings
For mounting, I highly recommend the Steiner T-Series Scope Rings w/ Bubble Level 34mm-Medium.
The Steiner T5Xi Includes everything else: a throw lever, tenebraex lens covers, CR2450 battery, Allen wrench, and a Sunshade.
Summary
If you’re looking for the best long range scope for AR-15, get the Steiner T5Xi 3-15×50.
It’s got clear glass, illuminated reticle set in FFP, ample eye relief and magnification, and a rugged body – everything you can ask for in a long range optic.
To top it all off, the scope is backed by Steiner’s Heritage Lifetime Warranty. You can have it repaired or replaced without charge if it breaks or arrives defective. No card or receipt needed.
The Steiner T5Xi 3-15×50 will undoubtedly give you excellent long-range performance in the field.
Best Red Dot Sights for AR-15
If you shoot no more than 100 yard targets, then you need the best red dot sight possible.
Simply put:
They’re the best short-range AR-15 optics. They acquire close range targets several seconds faster than scopes.
But which is the best red dot for AR-15? Look down below. I’ve found some of the best AR 15 red dots for the money on the market.
Read on…
6. Aimpoint Pro Reflex Sight: Best Red Dot for AR-15
Aimpoint Pro is the only combat-proven red dot on this list.
Best Red Dot Aimpoint PRO Red Dot Reflex Sight with QRP2 Mount and Spacer – 2 MOA – 12841 Absolute co-witness with iron sights (with the supplied spacer installed)
Features 2 MOA red dot for accurate target engagement
Includes front and rear plastic flip cap lens covers
Here’s what you get:
Clearest Red Dot Glass
‘Desert Bright’ 2 MOA Dot
Milspec Type-3 Durability
Night Vision Compatibility
‘Toolless’ Quick Detach Mount
Longest Battery (3 years continous run-time)
In fact, it survived a raging house fire…
…and it still worked with no problems.
This kind of ‘bomb-proof’ durability is the reason why law enforcement agencies and militaries still rely upon Aimpoint worldwide.
If that’s the kind of quality you need, then don’t hesitate buying the Aimpoint Pro.
Best Red Dot Aimpoint PRO Red Dot Reflex Sight with QRP2 Mount and Spacer – 2 MOA – 12841 Absolute co-witness with iron sights (with the supplied spacer installed)
Features 2 MOA red dot for accurate target engagement
Includes front and rear plastic flip cap lens covers
It’s the red dot I personally use on my AR 15.
7. Vortex Sparc AR: Best Red Dot Sight Under $200
The Vortex Sparc AR is the best overall AR-15 red dot on the market.
Best Red Dot Under $200 Vortex Optics SPARC Red Dot Sight Gen I – 2 MOA Dot The Sparc sight features a 2 MOA daylight bright red dot that is quick to spot and paints your target regardless of lighting conditions or background. The dot returns to the last intensity used when…
High quality, fully multi-coated lenses offer up a clean, wide field of view. With unlimited eye relief and parallax free, the sight gets you on target fast.
Rear-facing controls offer quick access and are viewable from the shooting position.
In fact:
It’s survived a direct 12-gauge shotgun blast…
….and STILL held zero with zero functionality problems.
What makes it so tough and reliable? Read on to find out.
Red Dot Reticle
Take a look at this field of view:
It’s crystal clear. It doesn’t have the ‘green glass tint’ that other reflex sights have.
This is due to the fully multi-coated lens setup. This increases light transmission and yields a crisp view of the target.
The red dot is pretty standard in dot size. They call it ‘2 MOA’ large but you get the idea — you’ll see the dot when you shoot.
That said, there’s one small drawback:
The eyebox (viewing box).
It’s a bit smaller than other red dots I’ve tested (like the Burris Fastfire III). Yet, I’ve been able to use it with zero problems.
But for some people they may prefer bigger eyeboxes. If that’s you, then get the Aimpoint Pro. Otherwise, read on.
Build Quality
The Sparc AR is the most durable AR reflex sight I’ve ever tested.
(And I’ve tested dozens of red dots!)
As I’ve mentioned earlier, the Sparc AR survived a direct hit from a 12 gauge shotgun…
…and STILL held zero with no problems.
It’s also waterproof.
After being submerged for an entire day under freezing water…it still turned on with no issues. If that didn’t impress you, wait until you hear about the ice test.
The Sparc was frozen in a big block of ice:
And it still worked with no issues.
So it’s true:
The Sparc AR is completely shock, water, and even fog proof.
But this aircraft grade aluminum durability comes at a cost:
The SPARC AR weighs 7.5 ounces. In comparison to the other AR red dots on this list, this makes the Sparc AR one of the heaviest and bulkiest.
(It’s about the size of a Trijicon MRO)
With all that said, 7.5 ounces isn’t much — especially when you consider the ‘shotgun proof’ durability.
Battery Life
Although the battery life isn’t Aimpoint Pro good, it lasts for a while.
Matter of fact, it can last up to 5,000 hours (or 208 days) of continuous operation on the lowest setting. At the highest setting — which is rarely used — you’ll last about 300 hours (or about 2 weeks).
Put in practical terms:
You’ll get MONTHS of worry-free battery life — maybe even longer with the 12-hour automatic shut off feature.
But what if months of battery life isn’t enough for you? Then upgrade to the Sparc AR Gen 2 for an extra $50.
This upgrade basically gives you Aimpoint Pro battery life. This gen can easily last up to 50,000 hours (or about 6 years) of continuous operation on the lowest setting.
Very impressive. But you know what I like the most?
The simple battery replacement.
For most red dots — like the TRS-25 — you need to use a specialized CR2032 battery.
In comparison, the Sparc AR only needs a common AAA battery.
This saves you A TON of time, money, and headaches in the long run.
Windage, Elevation & Brightness Knob
The turrets are very reliable. Simply take off the cap…
…flip it around and adjust:
It adjusts in 1 MOA increments. This is a little larger than the standard ½ MOA in other red dots, but it works fine for the AR platform.
How about adjusting brightness?
It’s cake. Simply click the left button to increase brightness…
…and the right button to decrease brightness. That’s it.
There are 10 different brightness settings to choose from that work well in low light condition.
And here’s the part I really like:
The AR ‘remembers’ your last brightness setting and boots with it. This makes for quick operation.
Mounting
Mounting’s included along with a riser.
The riser allows for either one of these co-witness iron sights setup:
Absolute Co-witness
Lower ⅓ Co-witness
This saves you a bit of cash. Even better, they’ve included ‘built-in’ lens caps that are actually decent.
Together you save a fair bit of money that can be used on accessories.
Special Features
Vortex put in a premium ‘Aimpoint only’ feature…
Night vision compatibility.
So if you varmint hunt at night with night vision goggles (like me), you’ll be able to use the Sparc AR with no problem.
For long range night time operations, I recommend reading my Best Night Vision Scope guide.
Summary
If you’re looking for a military-spec red dot at a bargain, then buy the Vortex Sparc AR.
It’s got:
Clear Glass
Crisp 2 MOA Red Dot
Adjustable Brightness
Long Battery Life (300 – 5000 hours)
‘Shotgun Proof’ Construction
Mounting Included Free
Put another way:
The Sparc AR is one of the best budget red dot sights under $200 for your AR-15. It’s also backed with Vortex’s lifetime VIP warranty. So if the red dot ever breaks on you, they’ll fix it free of charge.
If the Sparc sounds like it’s for you, feel free to pick one up here:
Best Red Dot Under $200 Vortex Optics SPARC Red Dot Sight Gen I – 2 MOA Dot The Sparc sight features a 2 MOA daylight bright red dot that is quick to spot and paints your target regardless of lighting conditions or background. The dot returns to the last intensity used when…
High quality, fully multi-coated lenses offer up a clean, wide field of view. With unlimited eye relief and parallax free, the sight gets you on target fast.
Rear-facing controls offer quick access and are viewable from the shooting position.
Want longer battery life? Invest $50 more and get the second generation here:
1,164 Reviews Vortex Optics SPARC Red Dot Sight Gen II – 2 MOA Dot , BLACK The updated SPARC features rugged construction that’s still compact, with a lightweight form-factor. The 2 MOA dot is as easy as point and shoot – it’s quick to acquire in close-quarters, but fine…
With up to 700 hours of battery life on the highest setting, 50, 000 hour on its lowest, and night-vision compatibility at the lowest two settings, the SPARC red dot will keep working in a variety of…
Increased light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces. Unlimited eye relief for rapid target acquisition. 12 illumination settings allows shooters to change…
Need some magnification? Then get the VMX-3T magnification. It gives you power of a LPVO with the target acquisition of a red dot.
However, if you want the bar none cheapest red dot for your AR-15 that still delivers quality performance, then this next option might be for you…
8. Bushnell Trophy TRS-25: Best Budget Red Dot For AR-15
People always ask me:
“Are cheap red dot sights any good?”
My answer? YES!!
I say it all the time — you don’t need to spend $100+ on a quality red dot. You can get it for a fraction of the price.
Enter: The Bushnell TRS-25.
Best Budget Red Dot Sale Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope, 1x20mm, Black Matte black featuring a 3 MOA Dot reticle with 11 brightness settings; Mounts easily on most picatinny rails and is compatible with pistols, shotguns, rifles and muzzleloaders
Waterproof construction: O ring sealed optics stay dry inside, even when totally immersed in water. Parallax – 50
Shockproof construction: Built to withstand bumps, bangs, drops and the rough and tumble environment of the field
It’s the best red dot sight for AR 15 for the money. It’s got:
Durable
Bright, crisp reticle
Lightweight (only 3.7 oz.)
Works with most picatinny rails
Holds zero (500 rounds and still strong)
11-illumination brightness settings (For all lighting conditions)
It even comes with an integrated rail mount for out-of-box action. That’s why I recommend the TRS-25 in my Best Rimfire Scopes guide — it’s such a good red dot.
That said, I do recommend investing in a UTG Med-pro 1” High Mount if you prefer shooting more upright. It’ll also enable ⅓ lower co-witness.
Sale UTG Hi-Profile Compact Riser Mount, 1″ High, 3 Slots , Black New Gen. Riser Mount for Rifles with Picatinny/Weaver Rail
1.6″ Long Picatinny Rail with 3 Slots
Side Plate with Spring Tension for Quick Easy Installation
But what if you want more magnification? Then get a UTG 3X Magnifier. The glass is clear, the magnifier is rugged, and it’s cheap.
Sale UTG 3X Magnifier with Flip-to-side QD Mount, W/E Adjustable , Black Broadband Multi-coated Lens to Provide Crystal Clear 3X Image, Wide Field of View – 30% Bigger Than Comparable Models from Other Brands.Compatible Rail-Picatinny/Weaver.
Windage/Elevation Adjustability for Optimum View Centering. Refer user manual for list of compatible manuals
42mm Center Height for Most Common Dot Sight Combination, Innovative Flip-to-Side Mechanism for Quick Transition between 1X and 3X Image.Objective Diameter:25mm;Field of View @ 100 yards:45′
In short:
The TRS-25 is the best budget red dot for the AR-15. Stack that with a high mount and UTG 3X Magnifier and you got yourself a solid CQB build for under $150.
That said, you really can’t go wrong with ANY of these options. After all, I’ve hand and torture tested a lot of AR-15 scopes on the market.
The result? These optics came out on top. That’s not a surprise considering each of these rifle scopes have hundreds of rave reviews on Amazon.
So there’s no way you can go wrong. But let’s say you do go wrong with the scope and you want to return it. Could you still return it?
Yes you can thanks to Amazon’s 30-day Money Back Guarantee. In other words:
You can use this scope for 30 days risk-free. And if you don’t like it, simply return it back to Amazon for a refund.
Disclosure
How I Get My Scopes
I paid for each (and every) scope I’ve reviewed in this guide. I paid the same amount as any other customer on Amazon. No ‘reviewer’ scopes were provided.
External Financial Contributions
I have no financial ties with any of the scope manufacturers in this article. I don’t receive any contributions — in any form — from any scope manufacturer.
In fact, I don’t accept advertising on my site.
Affiliate Links
I do make money through small affiliate commissions.
Here’s how it works:
You read my in-depth guide. If you like a product, you can choose to buy it using my affiliate link (at no extra cost to you). I get a small commission (1-4%) that I use to put food on the table and keep the site running, ad-free.
Now It’s Your Turn
I hope you enjoyed my top scopes for AR-15 guide list.
Although it took me a few weeks to draft up this scopes guide (alongside the Best Scope for 308), it was worth it because I finally found the right scope for me.
Now I want to turn it over to you:
Which rifle scope will you pick for your AR 15?
Let me know by leaving a quick comment below. And if you have any other scopes to recommend, feel free to let me know down below.
And thank you to all members of our military, in all branches, past and present, living and dead.
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