7 Best AR-15 Scopes

This post focuses on the best AR-15 scopes. When it comes to optimizing your AR-15, the right scope can transform your shooting experience from good to exceptional. The AR-15 is renowned for its adaptability, making it a favorite among tactical shooters, hunters, and enthusiasts alike. But to fully unleash its potential, you need a scope that matches its versatility and precision.

Choosing the best AR-15 scope involves more than just picking a model off the shelf. It’s about finding an optic that enhances your shooting accuracy, complements your rifle’s capabilities, and suits your specific needs. From versatile magnification ranges and durable construction to advanced reticle designs and user-friendly adjustments, the perfect scope will elevate your performance and provide a clear advantage in any shooting scenario.

With the market flooded with numerous options, finding the right pair for this rifle can be tedious. That’s why we have searched the market and come up with the top-ranking options to make the selection process a walk in the park for you.

Best AR-15 Scopes

Let’s have a look at the best scopes for you.

1) Vortex Crossfire II 1-4x24mm Riflescope

The Vortex Crossfire II 1-4x24mm Riflescope is a versatile and affordable option in the Crossfire II series, designed for hunters and shooters who need reliable performance in a compact package.

This riflescope is ideal for close to mid-range engagements, featuring an illuminated V-Brite reticle that enhances target acquisition even in low-light conditions. The reticle uses the V-Plex format, a simple and effective design that aids precision without cluttering your sight picture.

As the top candidate for best AR-15 scopes, it features long eye relief and ultra-forgiving eye box. This allows for rapid target acquisition and a clear sight picture in all scenarios. In addition, the anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses ensure that the image quality is bright and sharp, offering excellent clarity under various lighting conditions.

For ease of use, the Crossfire II comes equipped with a fast-focus eyepiece, enabling quick and precise reticle focusing. The capped reset turrets offer finger-adjustable MOA clicks and can be reset to zero after sighting in, making adjustments simple and straightforward.

The scope is built for durability, with a single-piece tube constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum. This ensures robust shockproof performance, allowing the Crossfire II to withstand the harsh recoil of high-caliber firearms. The scope is also O-ring sealed and nitrogen-purged, delivering reliable waterproof and fogproof performance for use in adverse weather conditions.

Features

• 1-4x magnification
• 24mm objective lens diameter
• V-Brite reticle (illuminated center dot with V-Plex format)
• Fully multi-coated, anti-reflective lenses
• Long eye relief and forgiving eye box
• Fast-focus eyepiece
• Capped reset turrets with finger-adjustable MOA clicks
• Shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof
• Aircraft-grade aluminum construction

Pros

• Excellent value for money in the 1-4x scope category.
• Illuminated reticle helps with low-light shooting.
• Durable construction, shockproof and built to withstand recoil.
• Clear optics with fully multi-coated lenses.
• Fast-focus eyepiece and forgiving eye box for quick target acquisition.
• Lightweight and compact, ideal for AR platforms or hunting rifles.

Cons

• Lacks advanced features such as parallax adjustment.

2) Primary Arms SLx 1-6x24mm Riflescope

The Primary Arms SLx 1-6x24mm Gen III Illuminated Riflescope is an outstanding choice designed with the Advanced Combined Sighting System (ACSS) reticle. This riflescope provides an all-in-one solution for bullet drop compensation, wind holds, moving target leads, and range estimation. The ACSS reticle is intuitive and easy to use, offering quick acquisition from 0-300 yards and precise aiming from 300-800 yards.

This second focal plane riflescope ensures that the reticle remains the same size regardless of magnification, allowing for fast target acquisition at lower power and reliable functionality at higher magnifications.

The scope’s red illumination comes with 11 brightness settings, including a daylight-bright option, making it ideal for use in various lighting conditions. Powered by a CR2032 battery, which has a convenient spare storage in the windage turret cap, the illumination system is both practical and accessible.

The 1-6x magnification range makes this scope flexible for a variety of applications, whether it’s close-quarters shooting at 1x or more precise shots at 6x.

Durability is a key feature of the Primary Arms SLx Gen III scope. Built with a 6063 aluminum body, finished in a hardcoat anodized matte, and featuring fully multi-coated lenses for maximum light transmission, this scope is tough enough to withstand the elements while providing bright and clear views.

Features

• 1-6x Magnification
• 24mm objective lens diameter
• Advanced Combined Sighting System (ACSS) reticle with bullet drop compensation and wind holds
• Second focal plane reticle
• Red illuminated reticle with 11 brightness settings
• BDC accurate at the highest magnification setting
• Durable 6063 aluminum construction with a hardcoat anodized finish
• Fully multi-coated lenses for superior clarity and brightness
• Includes CR2032 battery with spare stored in windage turret cap
• Waterproof and lightweight design

Pros

• Advanced ACSS reticle for versatile, intuitive targeting at various distances.
• Daylight-bright reticle illumination with multiple brightness settings.
• Compact and lightweight design compared to previous models.
• Durable construction with shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof performance.
• Spare battery storage in the windage turret cap for convenience.

Cons

• The reticle’s bullet drop compensation is only accurate at the highest magnification.

3) TRYBE Optics 1-8x24mm Riflescope

The TRYBE Optics 1-8x24mm Riflescope is designed to offer shooters a versatile and dependable optic for various shooting environments. With its 1-8x magnification range, this riflescope allows for quick target acquisition at lower magnifications and precise shots at higher power, making it suitable for everything from close-quarters engagements to long-range target practice.

The 24mm objective lens ensures excellent light transmission, while the PCR-1 BDC reticle provides bullet drop compensation, helping users hit their targets more accurately at varying distances.

This riflescope features a second focal plane (SFP) reticle, meaning the reticle remains consistent in size throughout the magnification range, making it ideal for quick target acquisition at lower powers. The glass-etched, illuminated BDC reticle enhances visibility in low-light conditions, while the fully multi-coated lenses ensure a bright and clear image with minimal reflection or glare.

This candidate for best AR -15 scopes is built for durability with its one-piece, 30mm tube, designed to be water, shock, and dustproof, ensuring it can withstand harsh conditions. The scope is nitrogen-purged to prevent fogging, ensuring clear vision in various weather conditions.

The low-capped turrets offer easy 1/2 MOA click adjustments with a total adjustment range of 100 MOA, allowing for precise dialing in of shots. You can never go wrong with this feature-rich riflescope.

Key Features

• PCR-1 BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticle
• Second focal plane (SFP) reticle with glass-etched, illuminated design
• 4 inches of eye relief
• 109-14 ft FOV at 100 yards
• 1/2 MOA click adjustments, 100 MOA total adjustment
• Parallax setting: 100 yards to infinity
• Fully multi-coated lenses for excellent light transmission
• One-piece, 30mm tube construction
• Waterproof, shockproof, dustproof, and nitrogen-purged for fog resistance
• Length: 11.5 inches

Pros

• Glass-etched, illuminated reticle enhances visibility in low-light conditions.
• BDC reticle provides bullet drop compensation for improved accuracy at various distances.
• Durable, weatherproof construction ensures reliability in harsh environments.
• Long 4-inch eye relief for comfortable use.
• Fully multi-coated lenses for bright and clear image quality.
• Compact design for a scope with this magnification range.

Cons

• The reticle is only calibrated for bullet drop compensation at certain magnification levels.

4) Sig Sauer Tango MRS 1-6x24mm Riflescope

The Sig Sauer Tango Riflescope offers a high-performance optic solution for shooters needing a versatile and durable scope. Featuring a 6x optical system with low-dispersion glass, this riflescope delivers sharp and clear images, ensuring precise target identification and engagement.

The integrated thread-in throw lever enables quick magnification changes, allowing for seamless transitions between 1x for close-quarters shooting and 8x for longer-distance precision.

Equipped with an illuminated MSR BDC-6 reticle, the scope provides accurate bullet drop compensation and enhanced targeting capabilities. The reticle offers 11 brightness levels, ensuring clear visibility in various lighting conditions. The illuminated reticle aids in rapid target acquisition in all lighting conditions.

The scope’s waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof construction guarantees reliable performance in harsh weather and rugged environments, giving shooters confidence in any condition. This construction quality that makes the Tango one of the best AR-15 scopes.

The scope features 0.5 MOA adjustment increments and a 44 MOA travel-per-rotation, allowing for precise windage and elevation adjustments. The field of view at 100 yards ranges from 124.8 feet at low power to 19.6 feet at high power, offering excellent situational awareness.

Additionally, the diopter adjustment range of +/- 2.5 ensures a clear reticle for shooters with varying eyesight. With these features combined, the TRYBE Optics Riflescope provides high-end functionality in a compact, user-friendly design.

Features

• 6x optical system with low dispersion glass for enhanced clarity.
• Illuminated MSR BDC-6 reticle with bullet drop compensation.
• 11 brightness levels for optimal performance in various lighting conditions.
• Integrated thread-in throw lever for quick and easy magnification changes.
• Waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof construction for durability.
• 0.5 MOA adjustment increments with 44 MOA travel per rotation.
• Field of view (FOV) at 100 yards: 124.8 feet on low power, 19.6 feet on high power.
• Diopter adjustment range: +/- 2.5 for reticle clarity.

Pros

• Wide field of view and 6x optical system for versatility in different shooting scenarios.
• Fast magnification changes with the integrated throw lever.
• Illuminated reticle with 11 brightness settings for clear targeting in any light.
• Durable construction ensures reliability in adverse weather and rugged conditions.
• Easy and precise adjustments with 0.5 MOA clicks and 44 MOA per rotation.

Cons

• Some users may prefer more travel per rotation for quicker adjustments.

5) Hawke Sports Endurance 1-4x24mm Riflescope

The Hawke Sport Optics Endurance 1-4x24mm Riflescope is built with a wide-angle optical system and 18-layer fully multi-coated lenses. A combination of these features ensure sharp, vivid images across the entire field of view.

The scope is ideal for AR-15 platforms, it ensures a fast and seamless shooting experience for both close and intermediate distances. The glass-etched tactical dot reticle with red illumination, which offers six brightness levels to adapt to varying light conditions is a valuable addition to the scope.

The reticle’s off-position between each brightness setting allows for rapid adjustment when switching environments. This illuminated reticle, paired with the fast-focus eyebell, ensures that you can quickly snap onto targets with pinpoint accuracy, even in challenging light situations.

The 30mm mono-tube chassis provides durability and structural integrity, making it rugged enough to handle harsh conditions. The scope is nitrogen-purged and waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof, ensuring consistent performance in all weather conditions.

The 1/10 MRAD exposed and locking turrets offer precise adjustments, with a fixed parallax distance of 100 yards, making it a versatile option for a range of shooting activities. Additionally, the extended eye relief creates a comfortable shooting experience, even during extended sessions.

Features

• Wide-angle optical system for a broader field of view.
• 18-layer fully multi-coated optics for enhanced clarity and brightness.
• Glass-etched reticle with red illumination and six brightness levels.
• Fast-focus eyebell for quick target acquisition.
• 30mm mono-tube chassis for rugged durability.
• 1/10 MRAD exposed and locking turrets for precise adjustments.
• Fixed parallax at 100 yards for steady mid-range targeting.
• Nitrogen-purged, waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof construction.

Pros

• High-quality optics provide vivid and clear images in various light conditions.
• Illuminated reticle with multiple brightness settings offers flexibility for day or night shooting.
• Quick target acquisition with the wide-angle optical system and fast-focus eyebell.
• Durable and weather-resistant, suitable for all environments.
• Easy-to-adjust exposed turrets, even with gloves.

Cons

• Fixed parallax may limit precision at longer ranges.

6) EOTech Vudu 1-6x24mm Riflescope

The EOTech Vudu 1-6x24mm Riflescope is a powerhouse optic designed for experienced hunters and competitive shooters looking for a top-notch scope that will be there through it all. Despite its compact size, this riflescope is packed with an array of high-performance features that make it a versatile tool for AR platforms and bolt-action rifles alike.

The Speed Ring reticle is a lovely inclusion, offering quick target acquisition at lower magnifications and precise accuracy at higher powers. This makes it ideal for close-quarters engagement as well as long-distance shots.

With push-button controls to illuminate the reticle, shooters can maintain accuracy even in low-light conditions. The illuminated R1 reticle (MRAD) in green enhances visibility and precision, further boosting performance in various environments.

Crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum in a single-piece construction, the Vudu riflescope is built to endure the harshest conditions. Its anodized finish enhances durability, making it resistant to shocks, water, and fog. Nitrogen-purged internals prevent fogging across a wide temperature range, while O-ring seals ensure that moisture, dust, and debris remain out, no matter how extreme the environment.

When it comes to optical quality, the scope scores highly, no wonder it is among the best AR 15 scopes. The XC high-density, low dispersion glass, which, combined with anti-reflective coated lenses, delivers incredible light transmission and sharp, edge-to-edge clarity. This ensures that users get the highest image quality across all magnification levels.

Features

• EOTech Speed Ring reticle for quick target acquisition at low power and precise accuracy at high power.
• Push-button illuminated reticle controls, ideal for low-light conditions.
• Aircraft-grade aluminum with an anodized finish for extreme durability.
• XC high-density, low dispersion glass and anti-reflective coatings for superior light transmission and clarity.
• Nitrogen-purged for fog-proof performance and O-ring sealed to prevent moisture and dust intrusion.
• Laser-etched adjustment indicators for easy tracking and adjustment.

Pros

• Excellent optical clarity with high-density glass and anti-reflective coatings.
• Durable, rugged construction designed to withstand harsh environments and heavy recoil.
• Versatile reticle for both close-quarters and long-range precision shooting.
• Push-button illuminated reticle enhances low-light shooting capabilities.
• Compact and lightweight, yet packed with advanced features.

Cons

• Battery-powered reticle illumination may require frequent monitoring to avoid losing illumination in critical moments.

7) Barska 1-6x24mm Riflescope

Barska’s first focal plane HRS MOA reticle provides an essential advantage in precision shooting, as the reticle scales with magnification, ensuring accuracy at any distance. The red/green illumination feature adds further versatility, enabling users to adjust the reticle color and brightness for optimal visibility in various lighting conditions.

The scope also features premium fully multi-coated optics, which enhance light transmission and provide crystal-clear views, even in challenging environments.

The adjustable reticle brightness and color options allow for customization, ensuring that you can adapt the sight to your surroundings and shooting preferences. The scope’s side-adjustable parallax helps improve accuracy at different distances, while the external locking windage and elevation turrets prevent accidental adjustments during use, maintaining your zero in the field.

Durability is guaranteed as the riflescope is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, making it well-suited for rugged outdoor use in all weather conditions. The 30mm tube diameter offers ample adjustment range for windage and elevation, and the lockable turrets provide a secure and precise experience.

Despite its robust design, the scope remains compact at 10.5 inches in length and relatively lightweight at 16 ounces, making it a solid choice for users who prioritize portability without compromising on quality.

Features

• First focal plane HRS MOA reticle, allowing accurate holdovers and adjustments across all magnification levels.
• Red/green illuminated reticle with adjustable brightness settings to accommodate different lighting conditions.
• Premium fully multi-coated optics for improved light transmission and clear visuals.
• Lockable windage and elevation turrets that prevent accidental adjustments during use.
• Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction, designed for durability in harsh environments.
• Side-adjustable parallax for enhanced accuracy at various distances.
• Compact size (10.5 inches) and lightweight build (16 ounces).

Pros

• First focal plane reticle ensures accurate holdover and windage adjustments at any magnification.
• Illuminated reticle with red/green options adds flexibility for various lighting conditions.
• Lockable windage and elevation turrets prevent accidental shifts during use.
• Premium optics provide excellent clarity and light transmission.
• Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for durability in harsh conditions.
• Compact and lightweight, making it easy to mount on various platforms.

Cons

• Requires frequent battery changes for the illuminated reticle in extended use.

Considerations When Choosing the Best AR-15 Scopes

To make an informed decision, here are some important factors to consider when selecting the best AR15 scopes:

Magnification Range

The magnification range is one of the most significant aspects of any scope, as it dictates the scope’s versatility and effectiveness at various distances. AR-15 rifles are used for a wide range of applications—from close-quarter engagements to mid-range shooting-so the ideal magnification depends on the intended use.

Scopes like a 1-4x or 1-6x magnification are highly versatile for both close and mid-range shooting. At 1x magnification, they can function like a red dot for rapid target acquisition, while the higher magnification enables accurate shots at 100-600 yards.

Higher magnification (6x to 24x) is suitable for long-range shooting and precision accuracy, making these scopes ideal for target shooting, hunting, or competitive shooting at distances of 600 yards or more.

Selecting a scope with the right magnification depends on the intended use of your AR-15. For general purposes,  a scope with magnification ranging from 1x to 6x is a solid choice, balancing versatility across various distances.

Reticle Type

The reticle is another critical consideration when choosing the best AR-15 scopes, as it affects how you aim and compensate for factors like bullet drop and windage. Different reticles are designed for specific shooting scenarios:

BDC Reticles: These reticles provide hash marks or holdover points to estimate bullet drop at different ranges, making them ideal for quick adjustments without needing to change settings.

MOA and MIL Reticles: Reticles calibrated in MOA (minutes of angle) or MIL (milliradians) are often used for precision shooting, allowing the shooter to make fine adjustments for both windage and elevation

For AR-15 users seeking flexibility, a scope with a BDC reticle, like the Primary Arms SLx 1-6x24mm, is a practical choice because it provides intuitive adjustments for various ranges.

Focal Plane

Scopes come in either first focal plane (FFP) or second focal plane (SFP) configurations, each affecting how the reticle appears as you change magnification:

First Focal Plane: In FFP scopes, the reticle size changes with magnification. This allows the reticle’s subtensions to remain accurate at all magnification levels, which is advantageous for long-range shooting and precision calculations.

Second Focal Plane: In SFP scopes, the reticle remains the same size regardless of magnification. This setup is typically more affordable and ideal for shooters who primarily use a single magnification level.

Optical Quality and Coatings

Optical clarity is paramount in a scope, as it impacts your ability to see the target clearly in varying conditions. High-quality glass provides sharp, bright, and distortion-free images. Look for scopes with fully multi-coated lenses, which reduce glare and improve light transmission.

Anti-reflective coatings: Coatings improve contrast and brightness, providing clearer images even in low-light conditions.

Low dispersion glass: High-performance scopes use low-dispersion glass to eliminate color fringing and maintain edge-to-edge clarity.

Investing in scopes with premium glass ensures better target identification and aiming precision, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

Durability 

Durability is instrumental, especially for AR-15 users who take their rifles into harsh environments or subject them to heavy use. The best AR-15 scopes should be waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring they can withstand different weather conditions and heavy recoil.

Look for scopes that are O-ring sealed and nitrogen or argon-purged, as this prevents moisture, dust, and fogging from affecting your optics.

Aircraft-grade aluminum construction is recommended for a scope as it provides both strength and lightweight performance. Scopes with rugged construction ensure long-lasting performance, even in extreme conditions.

Adjustment and Turrets

Windage, elevation, and parallax adjustments are essential for precise shooting, especially over long distances. The best AR-15 scopes feature turrets that are easy to adjust and provide tactile, audible clicks.

Lockable turrets: Scopes with lockable turrets prevent accidental adjustments and help maintain zero, which is vital for maintaining accuracy in the field.

Zero-reset capabilities: After sighting in, zero-reset turrets allow you to quickly return to your zero position, which is a significant advantage for competition or tactical shooting.

Eye Relief

Eye relief refers to the distance between your eye and the eyepiece that allows you to see the full image without vignetting. Adequate eye relief prevents scope bite and ensures a comfortable shooting experience.

Eye relief for the best AR-15 scopes should be at least 3.5 to 4 inches, especially if using a higher caliber or engaging in rapid fire.

Next Read: 7 Best FFP Scopes for Deer Hunting

Best AR 15 Scopes FAQs

What Size Scope Do I Need for AR 15?

For an AR-15, a versatile scope size typically ranges from 1-6x to 1-8x magnification, as these offer a balanced combination of close-range speed and mid-range precision. A 1-6x scope is ideal for quick target acquisition at close distances while still providing sufficient magnification for shots out to around 600 yards. If you anticipate engaging targets at longer ranges, a 1-8x scope offers extended magnification capabilities, making it suitable for more precise shooting at distances up to 800 yards.

What is the Best Optic Height for an AR 15?

The best optic height for an AR-15 is typically around 1.5 to 2.5 inches from the top of the rail to the center of the scope’s objective lens. This height range provides a comfortable alignment with the rifle’s iron sights, ensuring a natural and unobstructed line of sight. It also balances the need for a proper cheek weld with adequate clearance for various shooting positions and accessories. Optics mounted too high can affect stability and accuracy, while those mounted too low may cause issues with eye relief and target acquisition. Adjusting to this optimal height ensures a well-aligned and effective shooting setup.

Can You Put a Regular Scope On an AR 15?

Yes, you can put a regular scope on an AR-15, but it’s important to ensure that the scope’s magnification and mounting height match your intended use. Regular scopes, often designed for bolt-action rifles, may require appropriate mounting rings and a suitable height to ensure proper eye relief and a comfortable shooting position on an AR-15.

Additionally, considering the AR-15’s typical use for close to mid-range engagements, choosing a scope with a lower magnification range, like 1-4x or 1-6x, is generally more effective for this platform than high-power magnification scopes designed for longer-range shooting. Ensuring compatibility and proper setup will help you get the most out of your AR-15’s performance with any scope.

Conclusion

The right scope will provide the clarity, precision, and reliability needed for success. Investing time in choosing the ideal scope tailored to your AR-15’s capabilities will ultimately transform your shooting experience, allowing you to achieve superior results and enjoy every shot with confidence. We hope this best AR-15 scopes review has been of help and you have found an ideal companion.