10 Best sniper AR 15 scopes 2026 in the United States

The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 riflescope is a versatile optic well-suited for AR-15 users looking for a reliable scope with a wide magnification range. Its 3-15x zoom allows for both close and longer-range shots, making it flexible for various shooting scenarios. The 44mm objective lens is a good size for gathering light, offering bright and clear images without being too bulky. One standout feature is the HTMR reticle combined with the CDS-ZL2 turret system, which lets you dial precise bullet drops and lock the settings to avoid accidental movement—a huge plus for maintaining accuracy in the field.

The side focus parallax adjustment lets you quickly fine-tune your view, reducing blur at different distances, which is particularly helpful for long-range shooting. Eye relief is comfortable, helping to protect your eyes from recoil while maintaining a solid sight picture. The hydrophobic lens coating keeps the glass clear by repelling water and dirt, so you spend less time cleaning and more time shooting. Made from durable aluminum and built to be waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, this scope can handle tough outdoor conditions.

The 30mm tube diameter is slightly smaller than the more common 30-34mm tubes, which might limit mounting options for some users. While the scope offers excellent clarity, it is not designed for night vision compatibility. Its price point reflects its premium features and includes a lifetime guarantee from Leupold, providing added peace of mind. This scope suits hunters and tactical shooters seeking precision and dependable performance without overcomplicating their gear.

The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 riflescope is a versatile option for shooters looking for a quality sniper scope for AR-15 platforms. It offers a useful magnification range from 3x to 15x, which covers close to medium and longer distance shooting needs. The 44mm objective lens is a good size that balances enough light gathering for clear images without adding excessive bulk. Its Fine Duplex reticle is simple and easy to use, making target acquisition quick and suitable for hunters or tactical shooters who prefer a clean sight picture.

The CDS-ZL2 turret system is a standout feature, allowing precise elevation adjustments with two full revolutions and a push-button lock to prevent accidental changes—handy for dialing in long-range shots confidently. Eye relief is comfortable and should prevent any scope bite during recoil. The side focus parallax adjustment allows shooters to fine-tune clarity at various distances without awkward repositioning, which is great for accuracy.

The scope’s construction is sturdy, waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, backed by Leupold’s lifetime guarantee, ensuring reliability in harsh conditions. One minor downside is the weight of about 1.2 pounds, which is average but might be noticeable during extended carry. It also doesn’t feature night vision compatibility, limiting low-light use if that is a priority. This scope suits hunters and precision shooters who want a durable, clear, and customizable optic without overly complicated features.

The Trijicon ACOG 4 x 32 Scope USMC Rifle Combat Optic for A4 offers a robust and reliable option for those looking for a sniper scope for an AR-15. The scope features a fixed 4x magnification, which is ideal for medium-range engagements but may not suffice for very long-range shooting. The 32mm objective lens diameter provides a clear and bright image, although it may not be as large as some other sniper scopes in the market which can offer better light transmission in very low light conditions.

The scope's reticle, a red Chevron ranging reticle, is highly functional with bullet drop compensation out to 800 meters, making it suitable for precise aiming and long-range targeting. However, the 1.5 inches of eye relief is somewhat short, which could be a drawback for some users, especially those who use glasses or prefer a greater distance between their eye and the scope. One of the standout features is the battery-free illumination, which adjusts the brightness based on available light, ensuring that you are not left in the dark if batteries fail.

The rugged aluminum-alloy housing enhances durability and makes it nearly indestructible, a significant advantage for combat or rugged hunting environments. The Bindon Aiming Concept allows for both eyes open shooting, improving situational awareness. However, for those looking for more versatile magnification, the fixed 4x might be limiting. This scope is well-suited for military and tactical use, especially in medium-range scenarios, but may not be the best choice for users needing flexible magnification or longer eye relief.