10 Best AR scopes 2026 in the United States

The Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-8x24 riflescope is designed for short to medium-range shooting, making it a solid choice for AR-style rifles. Its 1-8x variable magnification offers flexibility—from rapid target acquisition at 1x to detailed views at 8x. The EBR-8 reticle is in the first focal plane, so it stays accurate at any magnification, and features useful ranging marks and nine brightness settings for clear visibility in different light conditions. The 24mm objective lens is compact, which helps keep the scope light and maneuverable, but in very low light, it won’t gather as much light as larger lenses. The field of view is wide (21.8 degrees), helping you spot targets quickly and track moving objects with ease.

The aluminum tube is built tough, shockproof, and sealed against water and fog, plus the lenses have protective coatings against scratches and dirt. This scope also comes with a throw lever for quick zoom changes and flip caps for lens protection. The weight (around 2.15 pounds) may be slightly heavier compared to smaller scopes, but it balances durability and performance well.

If you're looking for a versatile, rugged scope that performs well in various lighting and weather conditions, especially for hunting or tactical use, this scope fits the bill. Its lifetime warranty provides added confidence, though it does not cover loss or cosmetic damage.

The EOTECH XPS2-300 is a compact holographic weapon sight designed primarily for firearms, especially suited for hunting and close to mid-range shooting. It offers a fixed 1x magnification, meaning it won't zoom in but provides a clear, natural view of your target, which is common for holographic sights. Its reticle combines a wide 68 MOA ring with two precise 1 MOA dots, aiding quick target acquisition and allowing adjustment for different ammunition types like subsonic or supersonic .300 Blackout rounds.

The sight’s aluminum build makes it lightweight at 9 ounces yet durable, and its compact design helps save rail space if you want to add other accessories. The eye relief is effectively unlimited since holographic sights don’t require strict eye positioning, making it easier for fast shooting situations. However, the sight lacks built-in night vision capability, which might be a downside if you need low-light performance. Weather resistance is implied with its rugged build and backed by a strong 10-year limited warranty, suggesting reliability in various conditions.

This sight is well suited for users wanting a fast, durable, and easy-to-use optic for tactical or hunting use without magnification needs. It may not be ideal for those who require zoom or night vision features.

The Trijicon SCO VCOG 1-8x28mm is a high-quality tactical rifle scope designed to deliver versatile performance for hunting and shooting in various conditions. Its magnification range from 1x to 8x makes it suitable for both close-quarters and medium-distance targeting, offering the flexibility many AR shooters look for. The scope features a First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle, which means the aiming points stay accurate across all zoom levels, helping with quick target acquisition and precise shot placement.

The reticle itself is a segmented circle with crosshairs and wind holds, illuminated in 11 brightness settings powered by a single AA battery, ensuring visibility in low-light situations without complex power needs. The 28mm objective lens is somewhat smaller than some other scopes in this class, which might limit light gathering slightly, but Trijicon’s multi-coated glass helps provide a clear and bright image with minimal distortion. Durability is a strong point; it meets military-grade standards (Mil-Std-810g) for ruggedness, meaning it can withstand tough environmental conditions and rough handling.

The integrated Larue Tactical LT799 mount eliminates the need for separate rings, allowing easy and stable attachment to Picatinny rails, which is a convenience for users upgrading or customizing their rifles. At 32 ounces, the scope is on the heavier side, which might affect the balance on lighter rifles, but this weight correlates with its robust aluminum build. This scope is a solid choice if you want a durable, versatile optic with reliable illumination and quick zoom options, especially suited for tactical shooters and hunters seeking precision and adaptability.