Or, you could always use both!
When getting a new AR, the biggest accessory purchase to consider is what sight to use on it. While some people continue to use antiquated iron sights, more and more people are using optics. The two main types of optics are red dots and magnified scopes. These are just a few of the things to keep in mind when purchasing an optic. [Read more…]
All that power will be useless unless you can actually hit your target which gives you all the more reasons to buy a scope. Though finding one can be a little bit tricky since you have to take note of several factors like material build, glass quality and reticle especially that you will be using this in the most fragile and rugged of situations. Compared to spotting scopes, rifle scopes are small and can be easily attached on top of a rifle for combat mobility. You can also use red dot sights for your Ar 15.
If you are still new to this kind of category and technology then you will be finding it hard to choose the best AR 15 scope that will fit your needs since there are a lot of products in the market having several different features. Don’t worry though because we have narrowed down that search by accumulating all the best AR 15 scopes in their category and placed them in the table below for easy comparison.
[amazon box=”B00BAHMHQW,B004KRA4YG,B006YVT0R8,B00SMX9CS8,B00AU6EIIY,B004MY5L9U,B079GQQGFV,B00SMX8RIE,B00ABP5UXG,B005UGIMNQ” template=”table”]
The table shows only a small amount of information and by this time you still have no clear idea of how to really pick a rifle scope. Don’t worry since the discussion doesn’t end with the comparison table, its main purpose was just to narrow down your choices than going about into the entire market of rifle scopes. If you really want to get the best out of your rifle then here is a guide to help you make up your mind from the 5 products in the comparison table.
Test Scope: Leupold Mark III, 4.5 x 15 x 50mm. Zero was set for 200 yards.
Distances of 175 to 200 yards on steel and water jugs
[amazon fields=”B00BAHMHQW” value=”button”]
A rifle scope doesn’t need much magnification power so its specification of 4-12x40 is already an overkill in terms of magnification. If you cannot understand what this means, it stands for variable magnification power between 4 to 12x with an exit objective lens of 40mm in diameter.
The exit lens is not too big nor too small and being paired with Nikon’s multi-coating formula, light is less likely to be reflected from the lens for a brighter and clearer image quality. Along with a total length of 19 inches and average weight of 2.2 pounds, it is highly-versatile and portable. You wouldn’t be able to feel any changes in the gun’s weight when the scope is mounted.
The reticle also maximizes the rifle’s capability with its BDC 600 opening circle aiming points. What’s great about this is that the open circle changes accordingly depending on the distance of the target and will be functional as long as the target is within the range between 100 and 600 yards.
Additionally, it has a ¼ MOA accompanied by easy to adjust spring-loaded turrets. They are also instant zero reset turrets for fast adjustments especially if your target is on the run.
If you compare this with its other version still having the name Ninkon P-223 3-9x40, you can see that there is not much difference other than the magnification power. Since it has a maximum magnification power of only 9x, it no longer needs the parallax adjustment compared to the 4-12x40. All in all, this comes at a price of .
[amazon fields=”B00AU6EIIY” value=”button”]
This rifle scope is anodize-finished, made of high-durability aluminium alloy and sealed to protect the inside from harmful elements. Its first focal plane reticlegives outstanding low light performance and accurate hold overs out to 500 yards. It has a great price and ranks no. 10 in Sports and Outdoors Best Sellers rank. It features target turrets for pinpoint precise adjustments specifically, .1Mil click value.
Bushnell AR Optics FFP Illuminated BTR-1 BDC Reticle is also built with highly sought features that include tactical turrets for quicker target adjustment, a black finish for easy concealment, and a waterproof/fogproof/shockproof body that ensures longest working capabilities.
Moreover, this riflescope provides illuminated red and green T-dot reticle for better target lock-in and accuracy in shooting even at different hunting environment. Another added feature is the scope's Amber-Bright lens coating, which easily tells apart targets such as a brown tree and a brown critter – allowing this scope to be most effective an useful during autumn days.
With these new and highly innovative features, the Bushnell AR Optics FFP Illuminated BTR-1 BDC Reticle AR-223 Riflescope is considered by majority of hunters to be the most effective and ideal scope to use during autumn deer woods hunt. Lastly, with its multi-coated optics for adjustable brightness even at low-light hunting conditions, you will surely experience a more enjoyable at accurate hunting results that will satisfy your purchase.
[amazon fields=”B006YVT0R8″ value=”button”]
Ranked no. 15 in Sports and Outdoors Best Sellers rank, this scope mostly 5-star reviews. It is optimized with .223 REM/5.56 NATO round with 55-grain polymer tip bullet. From dawn to dusk, it offers maximum brightness because of a fully multi-coated optical system with up to 98% light transmission. It provides a guide to help you magnify your targets and widen your vision as you follow and carefully wait for the perfect timing to shoot.
Provides a vey precise, ¼ MOA hand-turn tactical-style, zero-reset turrets. It has positive click reticle adjustments which get you zeroed in quicker and maintain your setting.
Moreover, BDC Carbine Reticle is equipped with a new BDC Carbine reticle which gives a 200 yard crosshair and can also work efficiently up to 400 yards to 600 yards.
Furthermore, its innovative Fully Multicoated Optical System gives the best light transmission that can reach up to 98%. Lastly, the Zero-Reset Turrets-Positive click feature allows you to zero-in on any target in a much quicker time while enabling you to maintain your desired setting even with several recoils.Nikon P-223 3x32 Matte BDC Carbine is built to last for a long time because it is waterproof, fogproof and has a Nitrogen filled O-ring.
[amazon fields=”B00SMX9CS8″ value=”button”]
This rifle scope is ranked no. 4 in Sports and Outdoors Best Sellers rank. It has mostly 5-star reviews and fully multi-coated optics with up to 98% light transmission. As its specs, it is repeatable, precise and has a hand-turn ¼ inch at 50 yards reticle adjustments with quick zero rest turrets. This product is guaranteed Nitrogen sealed and O-ring sealed.
Aside from a worthy price, this riflescope offers an efficient hunting performance due to its innovative optical system which provides maximum lighting system that can reach up to 98 percent. The result is that you will have maximum brightness at any hunting environment.
Furthermore, its BDC reticle allows you to get a steady target hold even at long ranges for the most accurate shot. With its unique see-through ballistic circles, you are assured ofa more accurate shooting for both short and long-range hunt.
Nikon ProStaffRimfire 3-9 x 40 Black Matte comes with a 3.6 inches eye relief that ensures you will no longer experience severe shooting angles. Another added feature is its waterproof and fogproof capabilities that is perfect for any conditions be it a rainy or sunny hunting terrain.Lastly, this wonderful product comes with a lifetime warranty.
[amazon fields=”B010OT8WAQ” value=”button”]
This is still one of those low magnification rifle scopes good for close quarter combat but with a little bit added specification. Rather than having only 1x, this one is equipped with 2x magnification with an objective lens size of 30mm in diameter. The 2x magnification isn’t much different from the 1x but could at least identify more minor details along with a wide field of view.
The equipped reticle can change color from red or green,as opposed to its twin the SF-BR-AR15 which only has the choice of the bright red color, and it is capable of changing light intensities for easy contrast in most situations. Being multi-coated rather than amber colored, it allows more light to be seen for brighter images.It is also a 4 MOA diameter reticle with ½ MOA adjustments. In terms of wind and elevation adjustments, it has a maximum of 100 MOA.
You also don’t have to worry about parallax adjustments since it is parallax free at most of 50 yards. Just like all other scopes in this low magnification category, it is fog and water proof for uninterrupted performance plus it comes with covers to protect both the objective and main lens of the scope.
[amazon fields=”B00AU6EIIY” value=”button”]
If you are not into hunting or in need of any form of magnification then this scope is worth a try. It is plainly simple and nothing much to offer with its fixed power of only 1x and has an objective lens of 32mm.
It has a 3 MOA T-dot reticle that can be colored green or red depending on your preferences.
The reticle is easy to see especially that it has an amber colored lens to be able to see in dark places during operations. There is also Zoom dot option that allows you to adjust your standard reticle between 1 MOA to 10 MOA to increase field of view but with the standard 3 MOA, you have a field of view of 44 feet at 100 yards.
This scope concentrated more on its rugged functionality since it is made for fast paced multi-event operations so it is all-around hard from water, fog and shock proof. Also, at an average length of 6.75 inches and weight of 15.6 inches, it is nearly unobservable on your rifle scope.
Though this scope is highly comparable to the TRS-25 with 1x25mm specification. The only problem with this one is that it has a smaller objective lens that limits the field of view and the inclined lens is purposed to make the reticle more accurate while also decreasing the total length of the scope. The disadvantage is that the reticle lighting must be regularly adjusted depending on the situation which makes this the loser of the two scopes.
There are several types of rifle scopes you can choose from and some vary significantly than the others. If you know what you are looking for then the process of choosing is made easier but if you are not sure of what you want, don’t worry since there is a simple to follow guide. Overall, getting the Best AR 15 Scopes are tricky and you might need expert help but in the end, it is all going to be worth all the investment.
Eotech 512 model boasts a sighting system of a very advance holographic technology. This is something that makes the brand famous and sought after. It uses a laser light to create a red holographic pattern whose brightness can be adjusted from the brightest to the lowest. This gadget is made durable by an assembled rugged aluminumhood, that is knobbed and has a mounting bolt that needs no tool for adjustment.
Further features shows off a 65 MOA round reticle that has a 1 MOA dot for aim, a 1.5 AA lithium or alkaline batteries support, zero eyesore and 20 settings for brightness. This model works well with a Weaver rails or an inch Picatinny. It has an battery indicator, an automatic 8-hour shutdown that can be programmed to 4 hours and a waterproof capacity so it can be submerge up to ten feet water.
If you have an AR-15, you want a sight to mount on it. But gun accessories can really add up, so you want quality without the hefty price that goes along with it. That’s why we decided to look at the Burris AR 332 Prism Sight to see if this optic is worth your time and money. After all, once you go to the trouble of mounting your sight, you want it to be perfect. So, what is the Burris AR 332 anyway?
The Burris AR 332 is a battery-powered, illuminated reticle scope with 3x fixed magnification. It comes with two choices in reticle designs, both of which provide for bullet trajectory compensation with 5.56 mm and 7.62 mm cartridges.
A 32’ field of view at 100 yards creates a background for a red, green, or black reticle, with five levels of illumination (brightness). Tethered protective caps cover ½ MOA elevation and windage adjustment dials mounted on a rugged waterproof frame.
Let’s take a look at the details, advantages, and disadvantages of the Burris AR 332.
Perhaps the most positive feature of the Burris AR 332 is its ability to change with the shooting environment. Few optics in its price range feature both red and green illuminated reticles. Changing brightness is a given in most quality red dots, however, the AR owner who knows the importance of low-light shooting accuracy cherishes the green reticle feature.
Couple the choice in colors with the ability to still view the etched prism reticle when the battery is dead (or the scoped is turned off), and you’ve got most of your sighting contingencies covered. The 3x magnification extends effective range past the point of close-quarters engagement.
A unique feature of the Burris AR 332, especially in this class of optics, is the presence of Picatinny rail at the 12 o’clock, 3 o’clock, and 9 o’clock positions. For shooters who intend to mount a secondary laser sighting system to their optic, having the option to locate the laser in multiple positions may come in handy.
Left-handed shooters may welcome the choice, as well. The rails can also be removed in order to streamline the scope profile.
The Burris AR 332 is available in two different reticle configurations. Short-range specialists may prefer the quick target acquisition of the Ballistic CQ reticle. The CQ is a broader-imaged reticle but does include bullet drop compensation dots for shots out to the medium range.
A sharper-lined, long-range alternative exists in the Ballistic AR reticle. The Ballistic AR provides more refined hash marks for bullet drop compensation and additional reference marks for windage adjustment.
Burris AR 332 optics ship with a mount compatible with flat-top ARs. Remove the included base, and the optic will mount to ARs with a carry handle. The Burris quick detach mount is available as an add-on for increased versatility.
On the glass, the Burris Hi-Lume® coating reduces glare and increases target clarity in low-light conditions. Like most Burris products, the Burris AR 332 comes with the Burris Forever Warranty, which follows the optic from one owner to the next.
Those who chase the idea of the perfect scope are eventually disappointed. Though the Burris AR 332 is a great value, it is not the ideal optic for every situation.
The Ballistic CQ excels in-close, but users may find it lacking for long-range targets. The reticle lines are fairly broad and may obscure targets at distances past a couple of hundred yards. Bullet drop compensation dots are present on the reticle; however, they lack the fine precision for most shooters’ eyes.
Battery life in the Burris AR 332 leaves a little to be desired. Forget to turn it off, and you will most likely be looking in your range bag for a spare CR2032 the next time you head to the range. Top-end optics in classes above the 332 have battery lives surpassing 10,000 or even 20,000 hours.
It’s a mid-range-priced 3x scope. With that being said, it may not be “go-to-war” durable. Though the nitrogen-filled body and rugged design can stand some punishment from the elements, the Burris AR 332 isn’t rated for the extremes of long-term battle use. There are scopes appropriate for horrible conditions, and they cost two or three times more than the optic we’re examining here.
While on the subject of “mid-range” vs. “top-end,” it should be mentioned that the Burris AR 332 might be a scope without a place. It’s not an entry-level optic, but it’s not the cream of the crop, either. You can spend a lot less on a basic sight, but for a few hundred dollars more, you can have the best. The 332 is caught in between.
[amazon box=”B005SYNDK2″ template= “horizontal”]
Scopes designed specifically for the AR-15 are filling the market. New AR owners will see a great benefit from the Burris AR 332. It has great value when you consider the lower-priced, entry-level AR scopes. Taking a step up to a high-end optic wouldn’t make as much sense for the average recreational AR target shooter.
The 332 serves that purpose very well. Those shooters with higher quality ARs may appreciate this scope for more serious training while they save up for that top-quality scope later.
The popularity of the AR-15 has littered the shooting market with hundreds of accessories. Lights, lasers, sights, and scopes of every level of quality and every range of price fill the shelves of sporting goods stores and internet gun sites. Navigating these choices is daunting, but some things can be more certain.
The [amazon link=”B005SYNDK2″ title=”Burris AR 332″] is what it claims to be: an effective, yet affordable, magnified optic for a variety of AR-15 owners. Advancing from iron sights to a red dot, and then to a magnified scope is a sensible evolution of an AR shooter.
The affordability, durability, and versatility of this scope make it a serious contender for a permanent, or temporary home atop many ARs. Your AR-15 may be ready for a Burris AR 332 upgrade, too.
I hope you can cut down your time after you read an easy guide and choosing yourself a best rifle scope. I will list a few scopes of famous brands that hunters and shooters are favorite.
[table id=2 /]
No matter if you are a hunter or just a hobby shooter, you will find the NikonProStaff one of the best rifle scopes in the market. It is designed to deliver the best comfort with the least amount of supervision. Made from high quality materials and innovative designs, this rifle scope is usable in almost any situation.
Made with a tight sealed O-ring and filled with nitrogen, the scope is shock proof, water proof and even fog proof. Delivering uninterrupted view no matter what Mother Nature throws at you.The tight seals makes it resistant from external factors that may affect image quality making the scope’s performance constant throughout its lifetime.
Guaranteed sharp and accurate shots since the Nikon ProStaff is equipped with the BDC reticle allowing you to shoot for a hundred yards and an additional more until 500 yards with accuracy. It also comes with the ¼ MOA adjustment system keeping your sights on place no matter how strong the recoil of your gun for repeatable shots.
The lenses are also multi-coated guarantying transmission of 98 percent of the light giving you a clear and bright vision of your target. Also, you can change your settings to accommodate to your needs. At low power, you get a wide field of view and at high settings, a clear close up view of your target.
For the good price, say goodbye to excessive supervision just to get accurate shots and say hello to eye comfort. Being made from Nikon, this scope is guaranteed to last in your arsenal for a long time. The features says it all and surely worth the money for any experienced rifle handler.
When talking about true strength and weather proof rifle scopes, the Bug Buster is one of the best out in the market. Guaranteed for versatile use in any environment providing high quality images regardless of the weather. Guaranteed for long term rugged use for hunters and military personnel alike.
The scope is built to be fully sealed making it resistant to any external impurities providing consistent quality image regardless of the environment, may it be humid, wet or dusty. It is also nitrogen filled and made with hard metal alloy making it shock, fog and water proof.
It is built with 1 inch tubes on both front and rear end with emerald coated lenses. This guarantees for maximum light transmission delivering sharp and bright images in all occasions. This prevents any excessive eye strain and will allow you to last even longer in your scoping and still be able to shoot accurately for both big and small targets.
No more distance estimation and problems with calculating the efficient range of your rifle scope with the Mil-dot reticle. The high-end reticle estimates target distances giving you an idea of how to calibrate your rifle guarantying optimal accuracy. If that’s not enough, the scope is equipped with the ¼ MOA per click adjustment for reputable and precise aiming regardless of how strong the recoil of your gun for repeatable shots.
Buy UTG 3-9×32 Compact CQB Bug Buster, you are going to get the most rugged scope with hard to turn control knobs to prevent accidental adjustment while on the move. A scope specially designed for people who tend to hunt with speed, accuracy and versatility.
In terms of build-quality, at an average weight of 3.7 ounces, this scope still feels solid and there are no audible moving parts as you shake your scope. The LED light is attached inside properly keeping it accurate and always on position regardless of how it is handled.
With a lens that has an Amber-bright coating, the scope guarantees to minimize glare to prevent excessive eye strain and for comfortable use. It is also multi-coated ensuring lens protection from factors like dust and other foreign materials that are common in most operation scenarios.
Though it offers no level of magnification, the red dot sight gives facilitation to accurately hit a target. There are 11 levels of illumination of the 3 MOA dot and can be manually adjusted to fit the brightness of the environment.
The best part about this scope is that it fits nearly all types of guns from long range rifles to plain hand guns due to its overall compact length of about 2.4 inches. It is rugged and tightly sealed making it fog proof for uninterrupted performance in any form of environment making it worth the price at less than . Nothing much compared to high-end riflescopes but for its price range, it is the best one you can get.
The quality of the scope alone gives it the worth of the price. At an average weight of 7.2 ounces, it has a solid feel and no moving parts can be felt or be heard as you shake your riflescope. It is equipped with an LED inside to generate the helpful dot but is attached properly to keep it in place no matter how you handle it.
An additional feature is that it comes in 2 colors, both red and green that can be easily interchanged. The green color makes it more viewable under extreme sunlight while the red is more preferable during night time operations. Since it uses LED as the light source, this means prolonged battery life that is measured in days instead of hours.
It is also built to have a magnification of 2x, though it is not that powerful, it is an added feature that is useful in most situations. It is mountable on any type of gun, may it be picatinny rails or old-school iron sights.
For its price at less than , it is a multi-purpose riflescope best for its price. A completely sealed scope filled with nitrogen gas for use in any complex situation. A riflescope fit for any short range combat scenario.
