10 Best AR 15 scopes 2025 in the United States

The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-9x40 Riflescope is a versatile option for AR-15 users, especially for hunting at various ranges. Its magnification range of 3-9x provides flexibility for both close and mid-range shooting, while the 40mm objective lens allows for a good amount of light transmission, ensuring clear and bright images. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is particularly useful for estimating holdovers, making it easier to hit your target at different distances. This is advantageous for users who need to make accurate shots without extensive adjustments on the fly.

The scope's long eye relief and the ultra-forgiving eye box enhance user comfort by enabling quick target acquisition and a clear sight picture. The fast-focus eyepiece further aids in quickly getting the reticle into sharp focus, which can be crucial in hunting scenarios. Constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, the Crossfire II is both strong and shockproof, and its O-ring sealing and nitrogen purging ensure it is waterproof and fogproof, making it reliable in various weather conditions.

One potential drawback is that, while the scope includes lens covers and a lens cloth, it may not come with a mounting system, so users might need to purchase a cantilever mount separately. Weighing 16 ounces, it is relatively lightweight, which is a boon for maintaining the balance of the rifle. The unlimited, unconditional, lifetime VIP Warranty offered by Vortex adds significant value, providing peace of mind against defects or damage (though it does not cover loss or cosmetic damage). This model is highly recommended for AR-15 owners looking for a reliable and versatile scope that performs well under various conditions.

The SIG SAUER Tango-MSR LPVO 1-6X24mm scope is tailored for tactical and hunting use. With a magnification range from 1x to 6x, it offers versatility for close to mid-range shooting. The 24mm objective lens ensures a compact design while still providing ample light transmission, thanks to the low dispersion glass which enhances optical clarity.

The illuminated MSR BDC-6 reticle is a standout feature, offering 11 brightness levels to accommodate various lighting conditions, making target acquisition easier. As a second focal plane scope, the reticle size remains constant across magnification levels, which is beneficial for consistent targeting but might require adjustments for long-range precision shooting.

The robust aluminum construction renders it durable, and its waterproof and fog-proof features, along with nitrogen-purged optics, ensure reliable performance in adverse weather conditions. The precise adjustments made possible by the turrets and the factory-installed flip-back lens covers add convenience. The scope might be on the heavier side at 2 pounds, which could affect its portability for some users. Additionally, the lack of night vision limits its use in low-light conditions beyond the brightness settings. It is an excellent option for those seeking a dependable and clear optic for their AR-15, especially for daylight and moderately low-light scenarios.

The Holosun HS510C is a compact red dot sight designed for AR-15 and similar long guns, offering a 1x magnification and a 30mm objective lens that provides a clear and wide 25-degree field of view. Its standout feature is the Multi-Reticle System, which lets you switch between a 2 MOA dot for precision and a larger 65 MOA circle to aid quick target acquisition. This versatility supports different shooting distances and styles.

It boasts unlimited eye relief and is parallax-free, so your eye position does not affect accuracy. The sight is built tough with an aluminum body and a titanium hood, making it durable against shocks and rough use. Battery life is excellent, rated for up to 50,000 hours, and it includes smart features like Shake Awake, which conserves power by turning off the reticle when not in use, and Solar Failsafe, which uses light to keep the sight working if the battery is depleted. Adjustments are precise with 0.5 MOA clicks and a wide travel range of ±50 MOA, allowing easy zeroing on your target.

The fixed 1x magnification, standard for red dots, may limit versatility for longer range shooting, and it is not compatible with night vision devices, which could be a drawback for low light environments. This makes the Holosun HS510C a reliable, user-friendly optic well suited for shooters seeking a rugged, fast-target-acquisition sight on their AR-15 or other rifles without the need for magnification or night vision features.