We have tested many scopes on different rifles to shoot targets up to 25 - 600+ yards. These include prism sights, red dot magnifiers, low power variable optics and magnified scopes.
Here are the 7 best scopes for AR 15 recommended based on reticle designs, eye relief, magnification, low light performance and price.
Best Scopes For AR 15
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Primary Arms 1-6X SLX ACSS Raptor - Best Illuminated Reticle
After trying a bunch of scopes, the Primary Arms 1-6X scope with good light transmission performance and reticle capability to be considered to be one of the best AR 15 scopes.
The ACSS reticle is the best. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the glass. Although it can be a bit challenging at 6x, it's not an issue for me because I tend to slow down when using full magnification.
Affordable Scope For 1-6X - While other first focal plane scope in the 1-6X category that cost over $1000, the Primary Arms is the best affordable 1-6X option for anyone starting new or experienced.
Crisp Sight Picture - The lenses are fully multi-coated, providing a clear and sharp sight picture at both 1X and 6X, even in low light conditions during dusk and dawn.
ACSS Raptor Glass Etched Reticle - This reticle is calibrated for 5.56 BDC and includes a vertical auto-ranging scale for quick estimation of target size, distance, and moving target holdover to ensure accurate hits.
Capped Tactical Turret - After zeroing, the elevation and windage turrets are shielded to prevent unintentional adjustments. To make adjustments, simply remove the caps and use the turrets without needing any tools.
- Magnification: 1-6X
- Objective Lens: 24mm
- Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane
- Tube Size: 30mm
- Reticle Type: ACSS
- Turret : 0.5 / click
- Length: 10.0 inches
- Weight: 16.9 oz
EOTech Vudu 1-10X28 SR5 - Best CQB Optimized LPVO
EOTech's Vudu 1-10x28mm riflescope combines durability and precision in one high-performance optic! It boasts a one-piece, aircraft-grade aluminum tube for superior strength and shock resistance. The lenses are made of XC High-Density glass with multi-coatings, ensuring excellent light transmission and clarity from edge to edge.
One standout feature of the Vudu 1-10x28mm is the advanced SR-5 reticle. This reticle consists of a precise 0.25 MRAD illuminated dot at the center of an illuminated circle. It sits atop a "Christmas tree" pattern of holdover points and includes horizontal and vertical stadia lines with multiple hash marks. This entire setup is in the center of EOTech's exclusive Speed Ring.
The Vudu's elevation turret is exposed, making field adjustments easy, and it employs a unique push-pull locking mechanism to prevent accidental changes. When you make adjustments, the turrets produce an audible and tactile "click" to help you make precise point-of-impact corrections.
Robust 34mm Tube - Constructed with aerospace grade aluminum with anodized finish for field use
First Focal - The reticle subtension is true for all magnification ranges for range and target size estimation
Clear Glass Image - The scope uses XC high density glass for exceptional edge to edge image clarity
Everything Standard Is Built In - Zero turret index, quick magnification change lever, adjustable eye piece and more
Features:
- Magnification: 1-10X variable power
- Objective Lens: 24mm
- Focal Plane: First Focal
- Tube Size: 34mm
- Reticle Type: SR5 MRAD
- Turret : 0.25 / click
- Length: 10.63 inches
- Weight: 21.3 oz
Trijicon ACOG 3.5 X 35 - Best Durability
The Trijicon ACOG scope, offering a 3.5X magnification, stands out as the top prism magnified optic. It's the standard-issue choice for the US military, known for its robust construction, capable of enduring battle conditions while preserving precise aiming.
What makes it even more appealing is its improved eye relief compared to the 4X model. The fixed 3.5X magnification provides greater eye relief distance, allowing for a better cheek position when aiming.
The Trijicon ACOG offers a variety of glass-etched reticle options, with many featuring a bullet drop compensator calibrated for 5.56mm NATO, ensuring accuracy at both medium and long ranges.
Even in low-light conditions, the ACOG remains reliable for aiming thanks to its fiber optics, which illuminate the reticle, as long as it's not completely dark.
Additionally, Trijicon's Bindon Aiming Concept enables aiming with both eyes open, facilitating rapid target acquisition at medium range and providing a broader situational awareness.
- Magnification: 3.5X
- Objective Lens: 35mm
- Eye Relief: 2.39"
- Reticle Type: TA11 BDC
- Turret : 0.33 MOA / Click
- Length: 8 inches
- Weight: 14 oz
Vortex Gen 2 Spitfire 5X - Best Compact Size
Prism sight is the best for shooters with astigmatism because the reticle is etched on the glass instead of looking at a red dot mirrored on the front lens. You will appreciate everything about this optic – the lightweight design, the reticle, the option to attach a red dot, the warranty,