10 Best AR 15 scopes 2025 in the United States

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.

The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 CDS-ZL2 is a high-quality riflescope well suited for AR-15 owners who want versatility from close to longer-range shooting. Its magnification range of 3 to 15x allows for flexibility, making it good for both quick target acquisition and more precise shots. The 44mm objective lens, combined with Leupold’s high-definition lenses and Guard-ion coating, offers clear and bright images even in challenging weather, which is helpful for hunting or outdoor use.

The Impact-29 MOA reticle is placed in the second focal plane, meaning the reticle stays the same size as you zoom, which some shooters prefer for clarity but may require adjustments when estimating range at different magnifications. Eye relief is generous and the side focus parallax adjustment makes it easier to keep your target sharp from various shooting positions. A standout feature here is the CDS-ZL2 turret system, which provides two full revolutions of elevation adjustment and includes a push-button ZeroLock to prevent accidental changes. This customization, combined with Leupold’s option for laser-marked bullet-drop dials tailored to your specific ballistics, is great for serious shooters who want precision without fuss.

The scope is built tough with waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction, and backed by Leupold’s lifetime warranty, ensuring it can handle rough conditions and last for years. It weighs about 2 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for those looking for a lightweight option on their AR-15. Also, being a second focal plane scope, the reticle’s use at varying magnifications might not suit everyone. This scope is ideal for AR-15 users who value clear optics, ruggedness, and customizable elevation settings, especially for hunting or tactical use, but those wanting a lighter or first focal plane scope might consider other options.

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.