Best AR15 Optics for Accurate Shooting in 2024

Matt Sanders
11 min readDec 27, 2023

--

Best AR15 Optics for Accurate Shooting in 2024

The AR15 is a popular rifle platform that can be used for various purposes, including hunting, target shooting, and self-defense. One of the essential components of an AR15 is its optics, which can significantly impact its accuracy and performance. Choosing the right optic for your AR15 can be a daunting task, with so many options available in the market.

When it comes to selecting the best AR15 optics, there are several factors to consider, such as magnification, reticle type, durability, and price. The right optic should provide a clear and crisp image, be easy to use, and withstand harsh conditions.

Magnification is an essential factor to consider when choosing an optic for your AR15. It determines how close you can view your target and can range from 1x to 12x or more. The right magnification depends on your intended use, with lower magnification being ideal for close-range shooting and higher magnification for long-range shooting.

Another critical factor to consider is the reticle type. Reticles can be simple or complex, with the most common types being crosshairs, red dots, and holographic sights. The right reticle should be easy to use and provide a clear image of your target.

Durability is also an essential consideration when choosing the best AR15 optics. The optic should be able to withstand harsh conditions, including recoil, temperature changes, and moisture. Additionally, it should be made of high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear.

In this article, we spent countless hours researching and testing various AR15 optics to identify the ones that offer the best performance, durability, and value for money. We will provide an in-depth review of each optic, highlighting its pros and cons and helping you make an informed decision.

Best AR15 Optics

We understand that choosing the right optic for your AR15 can be a daunting task. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which one will best suit your needs. That’s why we have compiled a list of the best AR15 optics to help you make an informed decision. Our team of experts has tested and reviewed various optics, and we are confident that the products on our list will meet your expectations. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced shooter, our list has something for everyone. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best AR15 optics.

OZARK ARMAMENT Rhino Red Dot Sight for Rifle — Shotgun Scope, 4MOA Rifle Red Dot Sight, Red Dot Scopes for Rifles & Shotgun Scopes with Green Dot Sight & Red Dot Optics for Rifles, Reflex Sight

If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable red dot sight that can withstand high recoil firearms, the OZARK ARMAMENT Rhino Red Dot Sight is a great option.

Pros

  • The Rhino Red Dot Sight offers co-witness capability out of the box, making it easy to sight in and hold zero even after thousands of rounds.
  • Its dual illuminated red dot reticle (red and green) with various brightness settings makes it suitable for different lighting conditions.
  • The Rhino Red Dot Sight is built for extreme conditions, being completely waterproof, dustproof, and fogproof, making it a durable and reliable option.

Cons

  • The 4 MOA dot may not be suitable for long-range shooting.
  • Some users may find the sight picture a bit small.
  • The battery life may not be as long as other red dot sights on the market.

The OZARK ARMAMENT Rhino Red Dot Sight is a great option for those on a budget who want a reliable and durable red dot sight that can handle high recoil firearms. The Rhino Red Dot Sight is easy to sight in and hold zero even after thousands of rounds, making it a great option for hunters and shooters alike.

The dual illuminated red dot reticle with various brightness settings makes it suitable for different lighting conditions, and its rugged design ensures reliable performance even in harsh conditions. While the 4 MOA dot may not be suitable for long-range shooting, the Rhino Red Dot Sight is still a great option for those looking for a reliable and affordable red dot sight.

Related Posts:

Best 1–6 Scope: Top Picks for Precision Shooting

Bushnell Optics TRS-25 Hirise 1x25mm Red Dot Riflescope with Riser Block, Matte Black

If you are looking for a high-quality red dot riflescope that is both durable and reliable, the Bushnell Optics TRS-25 Hirise 1x25mm Red Dot Riflescope with Riser Block, Matte Black is an excellent choice.

Pros

  • Beautiful design and durability built to last
  • Lightweight 6.0 ounce 3 MOA HiRise Red Dot Riflescope
  • 11 brightness settings provide optimum illumination in any light condition

Cons

  • Battery compartment can be difficult to access
  • Lens cover can be hard to remove
  • Not ideal for long-range shooting

We were impressed with the design and durability of the Bushnell Optics TRS-25 Hirise 1x25mm Red Dot Riflescope with Riser Block, Matte Black. The scope is built to withstand bumps, bangs, drops, and the rough-and-tumble environment of the field. It is also waterproof and nitrogen purged fog-proof, ensuring that the interior optical surfaces won’t fog due to humidity or rapid temperature change.

The lightweight 6.0 ounce 3 MOA HiRise Red Dot Riflescope is easy to handle and provides excellent accuracy. The 11 brightness settings provide optimum illumination in any light condition, making it easy to see your target even in low light.

However, the battery compartment can be difficult to access, and the lens cover can be hard to remove. Additionally, the Bushnell Optics TRS-25 Hirise 1x25mm Red Dot Riflescope with Riser Block, Matte Black is not ideal for long-range shooting.

Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality red dot riflescope that is both durable and reliable, the Bushnell Optics TRS-25 Hirise 1x25mm Red Dot Riflescope with Riser Block, Matte Black is an excellent choice.

OZARK ARMAMENT Rhino Acog Scope

If you’re looking for a high-quality ACOG sight, the OZARK ARMAMENT Rhino Acog Scope is definitely worth considering.

Pros

  • The adjustable brightness feature with multiple color settings for the illuminated reticle makes it suitable for use in all light conditions.
  • The crystal clear magnification provides enhanced range in target acquisition compared to a red dot sight.
  • The scope is versatile and suitable for a variety of rifles, including those with backup iron sights such as an M16.

Cons

  • The scope is a bit heavy, weighing in at 590 grams.
  • Some users have reported issues with the scope not holding zero after extended use.
  • The eye relief of 3.5 inches may not be suitable for all users.

We were impressed with the OZARK ARMAMENT Rhino Acog Scope during testing. The adjustable brightness feature was particularly useful, as it allowed us to use the scope in all light conditions. The crystal clear magnification also made it easy to acquire targets at longer ranges.

However, the weight of the scope was noticeable, and we wouldn’t recommend it for extended use without a rest. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the scope not holding zero after extended use, so it may not be the best choice for heavy-duty applications.

Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile scope that provides crystal clear magnification and adjustable brightness, the OZARK ARMAMENT Rhino Acog Scope is definitely worth considering.

Sig Sauer Romeo5 Red Dot Sight

If you’re looking for a compact and reliable red dot sight for your AR-15, the Sig Sauer Romeo5 is a great option.

Pros

  • The 2 MOA red dot reticle provides quick and accurate aiming in all lighting conditions.
  • The MOTAC technology helps conserve battery life by automatically turning off the sight when not in use and turning it back on when it senses motion.
  • The sight is waterproof and fog-proof, making it durable and reliable in any weather conditions.

Cons

  • Some users have reported that the sight is difficult to zero in.
  • The battery compartment is located on the side of the sight, which can make it difficult to replace the battery while the sight is mounted.
  • The included riser mount may not be compatible with all AR-15 models.

We’ve had a chance to use the Sig Sauer Romeo5 on our own AR-15s and have been impressed with its performance. The 2 MOA red dot reticle is easy to acquire and provides quick and accurate aiming, even in low light conditions. The MOTAC technology is a nice feature that helps conserve battery life, and we appreciate the sight’s waterproof and fog-proof construction.

That being said, we have encountered some issues with zeroing in the sight, which can be frustrating. Additionally, the battery compartment is located on the side of the sight, which can make it difficult to replace the battery while the sight is mounted. Finally, while the included riser mount is a nice touch, it may not be compatible with all AR-15 models.

Overall, we think the Sig Sauer Romeo5 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a compact and reliable red dot sight for their AR-15. Just be aware of the potential issues with zeroing in the sight and replacing the battery.

SIG SAUER Tango-MSR LPVO 1–6X24mm Waterproof Fog-Proof Rugged Tactical Hunting Scope | Illuminated MSR BDC-6 Reticle black

If you’re looking for a reliable and rugged scope for your mid to long-range shooting needs, the SIG SAUER Tango-MSR LPVO 1–6X24mm scope is a great option. With HDX optics, LD glass, HT glass, and Illuminated BDC6 reticle, this scope provides exceptional optical clarity and light transmission. It is also waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof, making it ideal for all weather conditions.

Pros

  • The scope provides a clear and bright image even in low light conditions.
  • The reticle is easy to use and allows for quick target acquisition.
  • The LockDown Zero System allows for a resettable zero, zero-stop, and auto-lock at zero.

Cons

  • The eye relief is a bit short, which may make it difficult for some users to use comfortably.
  • The turrets are a bit stiff and require some force to adjust.
  • The scope is a bit heavy, which may make it difficult to use for extended periods.

Overall, the SIG SAUER Tango-MSR LPVO 1–6X24mm scope is a reliable and high-quality scope that is perfect for precision shooting, tactical engagements, and long-range hunting on MSR platforms. It is also easy to use and provides exceptional optical clarity, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced shooters.

If you’re looking for a scope that provides exceptional optical clarity and is rugged enough to handle any weather conditions, the SIG SAUER Tango-MSR LPVO 1–6X24mm scope is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best AR15 optics, there are several factors to consider. We’ve compiled a list of features to look for to help you make an informed decision.

Magnification

One of the most important factors to consider is magnification. The magnification you choose will depend on your intended use. If you plan on using your AR15 for long-range shooting, you’ll want a higher magnification scope. However, if you plan on using your AR15 for close-range shooting, a lower magnification scope may be more appropriate.

Reticle

The reticle is another important factor to consider when choosing an AR15 optic. There are several types of reticles to choose from, including crosshairs, mil-dot, and BDC. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.

Durability

Durability is also an important consideration when choosing an AR15 optic. Look for a scope that is made from high-quality materials and is built to withstand harsh conditions. Additionally, look for scopes that are shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of your AR15 optic can also have an impact on your shooting experience. Look for a scope that is lightweight and compact, so it doesn’t add unnecessary weight to your rifle. Additionally, look for a scope that is easy to mount and adjust.

Price

Finally, consider the price of your AR15 optic. While it’s important to invest in a high-quality optic, you don’t want to overspend. Look for a scope that offers the features you need at a price point that fits your budget.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best AR15 optic for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated tactical rifle scopes for an AR-15?

When it comes to tactical rifle scopes for an AR-15, there are several highly rated options available. Some of the best models include the Vortex Viper PST Gen II, the Trijicon ACOG, and the Leupold Mark 6. These scopes offer a variety of features, including reticle options, magnification ranges, and durability.

Which LPVO models are considered the best for an AR-15?

LPVO, or Low Power Variable Optics, are becoming increasingly popular for AR-15s. Some of the best LPVO models for an AR-15 include the Trijicon AccuPoint, the Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E, and the Nightforce ATACR. These scopes offer a wide range of magnification options and are designed to be rugged and durable.

What are the most recommended AR-15 optics for coyote hunting?

Coyote hunting requires a specific set of optics to ensure accuracy and precision. Some of the most recommended AR-15 optics for coyote hunting include the Vortex Viper PST Gen II, the Leupold VX-5HD, and the Trijicon AccuPoint. These scopes offer features such as illuminated reticles, long-range capabilities, and rugged construction.

How do I choose between a scope and red dot sight for my AR-15?

Choosing between a scope and a red dot sight for your AR-15 depends on your specific needs and preferences. Scopes are ideal for long-range shooting and offer magnification options, while red dot sights are designed for quick target acquisition at close to medium ranges. Consider your shooting style and the type of shooting you plan to do before making a decision.

What are the best budget-friendly scopes for an AR-15 under $300?

If you’re on a budget, there are still plenty of great options for AR-15 scopes under $300. Some of the best budget-friendly scopes include the Vortex Crossfire II, the Bushnell AR Optics, and the Nikon P-Tactical. These scopes offer a variety of features, including reticle options, magnification ranges, and durability.

What type of optics are preferred by military personnel for their AR-15s?

Military personnel often prefer optics that are rugged, reliable, and easy to use. Some of the most popular optics for AR-15s in the military include the Trijicon ACOG, the EOTech holographic sight, and the Aimpoint PRO. These optics offer a variety of features, including durability, accuracy, and quick target acquisition.

--

--