AR-15 Scope

• Here is our list of AR-15 scope recommendations.  Whether you want a red dot, reflex type sight or a scope with some magnification, you'll find what you're looking for.
• Additionally, we list them in order of our preference for each category (Non-magnifying, Medium Range, Long Range)  At the bottom of the page, you can read our reasons for our favorite AR-15 scopes.

Medium Range AR-15 Scope Recommendations (Listed by order of our preference.  See our reasons below.) 

Long Range AR-15 Scope Recommendations (Listed by order of our preference.  See our reasons below.)   

AR-15 Scope Preferences:

• Non-Magnifying: We pick the Trijicon TriPower as our prefered red dot/reflex type sight for the AR-15.  We like it because it does not require batteries.  You can pick it up your rifle and shoot without turning it on.  It's always ready to go.  Additionally, you never have to worry about losing battery power in a critical situation.  It does have battery power to brighten the reticle, but we've never needed it.  Coming in very close to our favorite is the EOTech 553.  We prefer the Holographic effect of the EOTechs over any other similar sight, even the Trijicon.  An EOTech that doesn't need batteries would be our idea of the perfect sight!  It was a tough decision between the TriPower and EOTech 553.  We prefer the EOTech 553 to any other EOTech because it sits a little higher and the reticle clears the front sight post of the rifle.  Aimpoint is a great sight, but we prefer the Trijicon due to not needing batteries and the EOTechs for the Holograhic reticle.  A great sight for a low price is the Bushnell HoloSight.  It's made by EOTech for Bushnell.

• Medium Range: It's another real tough choice in this category as well.  We pick the Trijicon TA31ECOS because it offers the best of both worlds.  You have the red dot sight on top with the 4x ACOG and a bullet drop compensating, illuminated reticle.  It also offers a Quick Release Mounting system and the ACOG durability.  The only problem with this scope is the cost!  Take off a few of the bells and whistles and you get the TA31TRD.  The only difference between the two is the TA31TRD does not have the A.R.M.S. quick release mounts and comes with the Trijicon red dot rather than a Doctor Optik.  After the ACOGs is another really tough choice between the IOR 1.1-4x26 and the Leupold 1.5-5x20 MRT.  We pick the IOR over the Leupold because of its reticle.  It comes on target super fast.  Additionally, the IOR offers the 1x capability for close range, defensive type shooting.  1.5x is still fast coming up on target, but we prefer the 1x when it is available.  Either of these scopes are an excellent choice.  After these scopes comes a wide variety of scopes that all work extremely well on the AR-15.  We really like Burris scopes and feel you get more for your money with Burris.  One of our favorite AR-15 scopes is the Burris Fullfield II Tactical 2-7x35.  This it a great all-around scope and comes with the Ballistic Plex range finding reticle.  For only $229.95, you can't beat it!

• Long Range: In the long range category, it comes down to whether you want a 4-16x or 6-20x or similar variant.  What you are shooting at and how far away you want to shoot should be your primary concern.  If you are shooting prairie dogs at a few hundred yards, we prefer the extra magnification of the 6-20x or 6-24x scopes.  We pick the Burris XTR 6-24x50 as our favorite long range scope.  Leupold comes in as a very close second pick.  One of the best scopes in this line-up is the Burris 6-24x44 Signature Select listed as our number four choice.  It comes with the Ballistic MilDot reticle for only $559.95.  As with the other categories, you won't go wrong with any of the scopes we've listed here.  For long range shooting you need quality optics.  Why go cheap and then never get the enjoyment of experiencing the true capability of your rifle and you as a shooter?  Invest in a quality scope for a lifetime of enjoyment.