The Best AR-15 Scopes & Optics

Are you unsure what scope or optic to buy for your AR? Most of them have been purchased or used by us.

We will cover 1x and magnified optics as well as recommended mounts, accessory and backup sights.

View-throughs, hands-on experiences and more.

You’ll be able to choose the best one for you based on your budget and intended use.

AR-15 Red Dots – Best AR-15 Red Dots

The “red dots” are just what the name implies…a red dot is superimposed on top of the aiming reticle.

Red dots let you have both eyes open, and give you more flexibility with your head and eyes.

They can also see further away, which is a great advantage. They are also more effective in dark environments.

1. Sig Sauer Romeo 5

Recently, the number of red dots between $100 and $200 has increased. They are now receiving upgrades that were previously available only to higher-end ones.

Sig Sauer Romeo 5 Specs:

• Magnification: 1x
• Dot Size: 2. MOA
• Weight: 5.1 oz
• Battery Life: 40,000 Hours
• Battery: CR2032
• Illumination: 8 Daytime and 2 Night Vision

The Sig Romeo 5 has eight settings for daylight (that are actually visible in bright light), and two settings for night vision.

Plus motion is on/off without buttons. You could leave it on, since the battery life is 40,000+ Hours when set to medium.

The glass is very clear and has a wide field of vision.

It’s so robust for $120 that I would not hesitate to use it as a home defence gun. Look at the slight green tint and crispness of the glass inside.

A high rise is also included in the Romeo5 that’s perfect for AR-15 shooters.

2. Sig Sauer Romeo MSR

What about our budget-friendly pick for a defensive weapon that we’d still use? The Romeo MSR, which costs around $90, is our budget pick.

Sig Sauer Romeo MSR Specs:

• Magnification: 1x
• Dot Size: 2. MOA
• Weight: 4.9 oz
• Battery Life: 20,000 Hours
• Battery: CR1632
• Illumination: 10 Daytime and 2 Night Vision

You can go cheaper but I’d recommend this as a minimum. Since that older technology, the MSR has replaced our previous affordable recommendation for the Bushnell TRS-25 .

Although the view-through is a little smaller, runtime at low settings is still 20K. On a rigid dial, there are 10 daytime settings and 2 night vision settings.

I kept mine at 7 levels but after 9 months, the battery was dead. Set a schedule of 6 months, or lower the level.

It’s important to remember that this battery is a .

The dot is crisp and the glass is transparent at the price point.

Plus…you’ll get a lightweight, high-rise mounting that is perfect for AR shooting.

3. Trijicon MRO

The Trijicon MRO is a relative newcomer in the world of high-end red dots.

Trijicon MRO Specs:

• Magnification: 1x
• Dot Size: 2. MOA
• Weight: 4.1 oz
• Battery Life: 5 years at setting 5.
• Battery: CR2032
• Illumination: six daytime and two night vision

The Aimpoint PRO is priced around $400, but it has a larger field of view and is smaller than others.

Watch it in action!

It is a great product that has been abused and survived ( Torture Test for High-End Optics).

The MRO has survived the most extreme conditions. From submersion in water to drop tests, hot/cold cycles, and different gun loads, this MRO is a survivor.

What I would consider a Duty Optic.

There are six daylight settings, including one super-bright setting that can be used in the desert.

There are several different types of riser, from no riser up to 1/3 cowitness or full cowitness.

We prefer a 1/3 co-witness. You can use irons to back up, but they won’t be distracting.

You can also choose a quick-detachable one from Midwest Industries.

4. Aimpoint Micro T-2

The Aimpoint is the gold standard for red dots.

Aimpoint Micro T-2 Specs:

• Magnification: 1x
• Dot Size: 2. MOA
• Weight: 3.0 oz
• Battery life: 50,000
• Battery: CR2032
• Illumination: 8 Daytime and 4 Night Vision

It is expensive but it lasts for 50 000 hours with one battery. It can also withstand extreme temperatures (between -20 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit).

The older micro H-1 I use on my regular AK. It is the only one that allows me to place the optic on the top of the gasblock, which can get extremely hot.

I have thousands of rounds in my Aimpoint H-1 and it is still working well. With my Aimpoint H-1, I wouldn’t hesitate to enter something new.

The H-1 has been discontinued and the H-2 is difficult to find at the moment. would recommend the T-2 because it has night vision and additional protection for the knobs.

This is what I use for my night vision setups.

The red dot with 2 MOA is good enough for close-quarters, but it can also be used for future engagements or when you plan to use a magnifier.

You need a mount that can hold zero better. Unity Tactical’s FAST mount is a rock-solid mount that allows you to see through the front irons.

You can add the front sight even if you don’t use irons.

5. Aimpoint Pro (Patrol Rifle Optic).

What I would recommend most to someone looking for duty-rated optical.

The Patrol Rifle Optic is larger but has a more robust enclosure. It also offers a 3 year continuous battery life.

Aimpoint Pro specs:

• Magnification: 1x
• Dot Size: 2. MOA
• Weight: 7.8 oz
• Battery life: 30,000
• Battery: CR2032
• Illumination: six daytime and four night vision

It’s also cheaper than the Micro, and it comes with a mounting that adds slightly more weight to the stated value.

Watch our YouTube video review after 3+ years of use and thousands of rounds.

Best Holographic Sights

6. EOTech EXPS2

Aimpoint and EOTech were the main rivals for a long period of time.

Aimpoint’s “reflex” tubular sights were unique, whereas Eotech’s “holographic” sight was distinctive. Both technologies were used heavily by the U.S. Military and both had passionate supporters.

A disaster struck EOTech in 2015. The U.S. Government filed a lawsuit against the company for losing the zero of the sights due to moisture and hot/cold temperatures.

They are back!

If you like the large circle, I recommend the EXPS2-0, which has a 1/3 co-witness iron sight.

EOTech EXPS2-0 specs:

• Magnification: 1x
• Dot size: 1 MOA with a 68 MOA Ring
• Weight: 7.8 oz
• Battery life: 30,000
• Battery: CR2032
• Illumination: six daytime and four night vision

The smallest model from EOTech currently, it has clear glass and 1000 hours of battery, as well as an integrated QD mounting and tons more.

In our Best holographic sights and video below, we test this as well as others from Vortex or Holosun. Each one is complete with video.

A holographic is usually more comfortable for people with moderate to severe levels of astigmatism than a red dot.

Holographic sights are also able to survive a complete destruction of their front lens. It passed our Torture Test for High-End Optics with flying colours.

Best Flip-Mounted Magnifiers 3x

Want to quickly acquire a target with a red dot sight or holographic but still want to shoot farther?

Three of the most popular 3x magnification magnifiers are available for under $200. We found the best.

7. Vortex 3x Magnifier

The Vortex 3x was the clearest, had good eye relief, could be changed for lefties, had an easy-to-use mount, slim design and was the lightest.

Vortex 3x Magnifier Specs:

• Magnification: 3x
• Eye Relief: 2.2″
• Weight: 11.9 oz
• Field of view: 38.2 feet/100 yards

Best Prism Scopes (Fixed Magnification).

Here we will explore magnification.

The first scopes we’ll look at are prism scopes. Next, we’ll move on to the more traditional variable magnifying scopes.

These are some of our favorites

Prism scopes have some great advantages

• Batteries are not required for the etched reticles
• Astigmatism sufferers will find this a great improvement.
• Construction with a more robust design

There are also some cons

• Not cheap
• The red dot version is heavier than the counterparts
• Eyebox and worsened eye relief

8. Primary Arms Prism 1x (Cyclops).

The first is Primary Arms Cyclops. This will be a great choice if you suffer from astigmatism or are afraid to run out of batteries.

Primary Arms 1x prism Specs:

• Magnification: 1x
• Cyclops Gen2 Reticle: Dot Size
• Weight: 5.5 oz
• Battery Life: 25-50k hours
• Battery: CR2032
• Illumination: 10 Daytime and 3 Night Vision

If you don’t fit into either of these categories, stick with the red dot.

The Cyclops has a nice build and decent eye relief. Since the Gen 1, we’ve enjoyed the series.

The ACSS reticle is also included, which we like for higher magnifications. However, at 1x you won’t get the full benefits.

It was still quick enough when you need it.

If astigmatism has you living a red dot-less life, check out this article.

The newest generation is even better…

The box is smaller, has a better battery, offers better eye relief and comes with a variety of risers.

9. Primary Arms SLx 3-Prism

The Primary Arms SLx 3 is our overall winner of a prism scope. It provides the perfect magnification.

Primary Arms Prism Specs:

• Magnification: 3x
• Dot Size CQB M2 Reticle
• Weight: 18.4 oz
• Battery: CR2032
• Illumination but no Night Vision Mode

The ACSS CQB Reticle is only slightly slower than a prism or a red dot at close range.

10. Sig Sauer Bravo 5

You want a larger field of vision and greater magnification.

The Sig Sauer Bravo 5 is one of our favorite pieces of glass.

Sig Sauer Bravo 5 Specs:

• Magnification: 5x
• Horseshoe Dot: Size 5.56/7.62
• Weight: 23 oz
• Battery Life: 25-50K Hours
• Battery: CR2032
• Illumination: 8 Daytime and 3 Night Vision

Megaview(tm), (lol), gives you a larger field of vision through its crystal-clear glass.

Its 23-ounce weight is its only flaw…but you can remove the three Picatinny Rails if you don’t want to add a micro red dots.

11. ACOG TA31F 4-32

The Trijicon Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight is compact, bombproof, and has been proven in battle.

The TA31F version recommended is a 4x fixed magnification with a reticle calibrated to ARs firing 5.56 from 0-800 m.

ACOGs are expensive because they combine the best features of both worlds. During the day, the fiber optic system lights up the chevron reticle (upside down V), while at night tritium lamps light the reticle and will glow for a minimum of 15 years.

Trijicon ACOG TA31F Specs:

• Magnification: 4x
• Dot Size: ACOG Chevron
• Weight: 15.1 oz
• Battery life: 10+ years (Tritium).
• Battery: None

The fixed-sight system isn’t for everyone, so I recommend that you try one in person.

If you are looking to engage in longer distance engagements, the ACOG and Spitfire may be the best choice.

If you want a combat optic that has been proven for two decades, then it’s got to be an ACOG.

If that’s not enough, the ACOG was also the only optic to survive our Torture Test for High-End Optics while still being usable.

Best AR-15 Scopes

12. Primary Arms SLx 1 – 6x ACSS, Gen III and IV

Since years, the Primary Arms SLx ACSS Gen III is our Best Scopes for 1-6x winner. You can’t beat this scope for less than $300.

LPVOs are low-powered variable optical scopes. They start with a 1x magnification, go up to 8x and 10x and even more.

Primary Arms Gen III ACSS Specs SLx:

• Magnification: 1-6x
• Dimensions: 24mm
• Reticle: ACSS 556/5.45/.308
• Weight: 16.9 oz
• Battery: CR2032

The glass is great at 1x and has a nice reticle that they call the ACSS. It features a smaller reticle to help with precision shots, as well as a larger circle to hit close-up targets.

The 1x scope is clear and the 6x scope has less distortion than Strike Eagle’s 1-6x scope, which was a close second.

We have also used it in the desert, and for competitions.

Once we figured out our bullet drop, it was easy to hit this 200-yard target.

Now, there is the Gen 4 with Nova ACSS Reticle version which has crisper glass as well as a daytime bright reticle… for only a few dollars more.

Primary Arms Gen IV Nova ACSS Specs SLx:

• Magnification: 1-6x
• Dimensions: 24mm
• Reticle: Nova ACSS 556/545/.308
• Weight: 17.9 oz
• Battery: CR2032

Watch it in action here:

Nova ACSS is a great reticle for many calibers, and for both range and holding.

Zooming from 1x up to 6x is shown:

You can also select the Free Mount in the dropdown menu.

This is our recommendation for the best LPVO you can get at a reasonable price. It’s well worth spending a few more dollars to get reticle that glows in the sunlight.

13. Vortex 1-6x Strike Eagle

I was able to hit the 375 yard targets much easier with my 3-Gun Optic than a 1-4x Scope.

The Strike Eagle is a very affordable and clear glass 1-4x.

Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x Specs:

• Magnification: 1-6x
• Dimensions: 24mm
• Reticle: Strike Eagle
• Weight: 17.6 oz
• Battery: CR2032

It’s possible to see some distortion at 6x. However, I only use this magnification level one time per match.

You can also turn the magnifier to 3-4x to reduce minor distortion.

The reticle works well for both close-up and long distance shots.

My extended Aero one-piece mounting system provides a secure hold with weight savings.

14. Vortex Viper PST 1-4x

With great 1-6x Scopes available for under $300, there’s no need to own a 1-4x. If you want to buy one, here’s a great one that has excellent glass.

Vortex Viper 1-4x Specs:

• Magnification: 1-4x
• Dimensions: 24mm
• Reticle: TMCQ MOA
• Weight: 16.2 oz

The PST 1-4x is an upgraded 1-4x scope that has better/clearer glasses and a reticle designed to excel at close-quarters shooting as well as distance shooting.

Second focal plane. A better mount is also recommended with a higher-quality optic.

15. Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x

What I use in my competition rifle. The Viper PST II offers the best combination of glass quality, an eyebox that is forgiving, and bright illumination during daylight hours.

Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x Specs:

• Magnification: 1-6x
• Dimensions: 24mm
• Reticle: VMR-2 MoA
• Weight: 22.7 oz
• Battery: CR2032

You can zoom up to 6x with crystal clear glass and almost no side distortion.

The illuminated reticle works well, even if you are in the scorching sun of the desert.

Best Hunting Scopes

16. Leupold 3-9x Freedom

Our recommended hunting optic ( The Best Hunting Rifles ) is for those who don’t need 1x, but may need something more powerful. This 3-9x VX Freedom is a good option for this purpose and comes at an affordable price.

Leupold 3-9.x VX Freedom Specifications:

• Magnification: 3-9x
• Objective Diameter: 40mm
• Reticle Duplex
• Weight: 22.7 oz

It’s been working well with my 30.06 rifle so far.

The glass is clearer at 3x.

The same as 9x.

The Freedom replaces Leupold’s VX-1 scope which we had previously recommended. There could be some great deals if you don’t care about it being phased-out.

Best Long Range Scopes

Best AR-15 back-up iron sights (BUIS).

You’ll also need backup sights if your primary sight breaks, runs out or falls off.

They will spend 99.99% their lives flat under your scope. If your primary is damaged, you will wish that you had these on hand!

Magpul Gen 2 BUIS

The Polymer Magpul BUIS paved way for the mainstream adoption of backup sights. Affordable, but still very accurate when needed.

Magpul MBUS Pro

Magpul’s MBUS Pro, their latest version, is made of steel rather than polymer. It can withstand anything.

Offset Iron Sights

These offset sights by Ade Advanced are great for those who don’t want to spend the time switching their AR-15 scope to 1x.

You can use these for targets that are close to you by simply tilting your gun.

These are our budget picks to help you decide if you would like to upgrade to Offset Magpul MBUS (the Gold Standard).

We have now published in-depth reviews on both backup iron sights, and offset iron sights.

Final Thoughts

We hope that we have given you some good ideas on how to choose the right optic for your AR-15. Make sure that you have the right optics for your lifestyle, from red dots to backup iron sights and scopes.

Don’t forget about spotting that baby.

You’ll need to mount the optic. Here is our list of The Best Scope Mounts.

What will you select for your AR-15 now that you have seen all the options, from ACOGs to red dot sights, and variable optics? If you need some glass for something other than the AR platform, such as rimfire or long range… check out our massive Best Rifle Scopes article and Best Pistol Red Dots.