10 Best AR 15 scopes 2025 in the United States

The ATN Thor LTV is a thermal scope designed primarily for hunting and shooting in low-light or no-light conditions. It offers a useful magnification range of 5x to 15x, which covers most general hunting scenarios. The 160x120 thermal sensor with a 12-micron pixel size delivers clear thermal images, enhanced further by SharpIR technology for sharper, more detailed views. This is especially helpful for spotting animals in dense cover or total darkness. Eye relief is generous at 90mm, providing comfortable viewing without straining your eye, and the scope weighs about 1.4 pounds, making it light enough to mount on most rifles without affecting balance.

Multiple reticle types are included, which can suit different shooting preferences, and the One Shot Zero feature simplifies sighting in by calibrating the scope quickly to your first shot. Additionally, the built-in HD video recorder lets you capture your hunts, which is a nice bonus for those who want to document their experience. Adjustments are made easy with standard Weaver mounts and typical turret controls. On the downside, the product dimensions are somewhat bulky compared to traditional scopes, which might affect handling on smaller rifles. Also, the thermal sensor resolution, while good, isn’t the highest available on the market, so for users wanting extreme detail, there may be better options. Battery life is solid at over 10 hours, but users will need to manage charging for longer outings.

This scope is well suited for hunters and shooters seeking thermal imaging combined with decent magnification and video capabilities, without adding too much weight.

The ATN Thor 5 LRF is a high-tech thermal scope designed to enhance shooting performance in low visibility conditions such as night or fog. It features a 4-16x magnification range suitable for various distances, and a 320x240 sensor resolution paired with a bright OLED display provides clear, detailed images with rich colors, making target spotting easier in any light. The built-in laser rangefinder (LRF) allows quick distance measurement to targets, improving shooting accuracy.

A notable feature is the advanced ballistic calculator that automatically adjusts aiming points based on environmental data, helping shooters achieve more precise shots without manual calculations. Users can customize and share reticles, adding both functionality and personalization. The scope also records HD video of hunts for later review or sharing.

However, the scope weighs over 2 pounds and is larger than typical AR-15 scopes, which may affect balance and handling on lighter rifles. The price and technical complexity might exceed the needs of casual shooters, and export restrictions limit its availability. For serious users focused on thermal imaging and precision shooting with an AR-15, the Thor 5 LRF provides advanced capabilities, while newcomers or budget-conscious users might find it more than necessary.

The Vortex Optics Venom 3-15x44 First Focal Plane Riflescope offers a versatile 3-15x magnification range, making it suitable for both mid-range and long-distance shooting. Its 44mm objective lens ensures good light gathering, contributing to clear and bright images. A notable strength is the first focal plane design, which keeps the reticle size consistent relative to targets at any magnification, aiding in accurate range estimation and holdovers.

The EBR-7C (MOA) reticle is designed for precision, and the capped windage with exposed elevation turrets allow for easy adjustments. The RevStop Zero System is particularly helpful, ensuring a reliable return to zero after adjustments. For durability, the scope is built with a shockproof 34mm tube, and it's both waterproof and fogproof, thanks to nitrogen purging. The Armortek coating further protects the lens from scratches.

At 1.8 pounds, it is moderately lightweight for its class, and the 3.6-inch eye relief is decent, offering comfort and safety during use. However, it's worth noting that the scope does not have night vision capabilities, which might be a limitation for those needing to shoot in low-light conditions beyond the capability of its multi-coated lenses. It's backed by a lifetime warranty, offering peace of mind against defects or damage. This scope is particularly beneficial for hunters and tactical shooters who require accuracy and reliability in various conditions without the need for night vision. It represents a strong choice in the category of rifle scopes, especially for those prioritizing durability, precision, and a wide range of magnification.