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10 Best AR 15 scopes 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
ATN Thor 5 LRF Smart HD Thermal Scope w/Ultra Sensative Gen 5 Sensor, Video Rec, Built in LRF, Ballistic Calculator, RAV
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.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,222
Turrets and Adjustments
Most important from
51 reviews
#2
Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 Rifle Scope, V-Brite Reticle , black
The Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 is a solid choice for an AR-15 scope, especially for those interested in hunting or general shooting. Its 3 to 9 times magnification offers a flexible zoom range suitable for medium-distance targets, while the 40mm objective lens strikes a nice balance between brightness and compactness. The V-Brite illuminated V-Plex reticle helps with quick target acquisition in low-light situations, thanks to a battery-powered brightening dot without overwhelming complexity. The scope provides generous eye relief and a forgiving eye box, making it easier to get a clear sight picture quickly, which is important for fast-paced shooting. The fast focus eyepiece is handy for sharpening the reticle with minimal effort.
Rating
9.1
Magnification
Reticle Type
Eye Relief
Most important from
13616 reviews
#3
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Impact-29 MOA Reticle Riflescope
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.
Rating
8.5
Magnification
Most important from
346 reviews
Top 10 Best AR 15 scopes 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
ATN Thor 5 LRF Smart HD Thermal Scope w/Ultra Sensative Gen 5 Sensor, Video Rec, Built in LRF, Ballistic Calculator, RAV
ATN Thor 5 LRF Smart HD Thermal Scope w/Ultra Sensative Gen 5 Sensor, Video Rec, Built in LRF, Ballistic Calculator, RAV
Magnification: 4-16x
Reticle Type: customizable
Chosen by 1222 this week
Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 Rifle Scope, V-Brite Reticle , black
Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 Rifle Scope, V-Brite Reticle , black
Magnification: 3-9x
Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm
Reticle Type: V-Plex with illumination
Turrets and Adjustments: Simple, reliable turrets for adjustments
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Impact-29 MOA Reticle Riflescope
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Impact-29 MOA Reticle Riflescope
Magnification: 3-15x
Objective Lens Diameter: 44 mm
Reticle Type: Second Focal Plane
Eye Relief: generous
Field of View: 38.2 feet
Turrets and Adjustments: CDS-ZL2 turret, 2 full elevation turns
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 4-12x50 AO, Second Focal Plane Riflescope - Dead-Hold BDC Reticle (MOA)
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 4-12x50 AO, Second Focal Plane Riflescope - Dead-Hold BDC Reticle (MOA)
Magnification: 4-12x
Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
Reticle Type: Dead-Hold BDC
Turrets and Adjustments: Finger-adjustable, MOA clicks, zero reset
Trijicon 4x32mm ACOG Dual Illumination Green Crosshair Reticle Flat Dark Earth Optics
Trijicon 4x32mm ACOG Dual Illumination Green Crosshair Reticle Flat Dark Earth Optics
Magnification: 4 x
Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
Reticle Type: ECOS Green 5.56 Crosshair
Eye Relief: 38.1 mm
Field of View: 7 Degrees
Related Products
EOTECH Holographic Weapon Sight EXPS3-0ODGRN
EOTECH Holographic Weapon Sight EXPS3-0ODGRN
Magnification: None
Reticle Type: 68 MOA ring, 1 MOA dot
Eye Relief: generous
ATN X-Sight 5 LRF Smart Day/Night Gen 5 Scope w/Ballistics Calc, 12MP Resolution, Video Record, Wi-Fi, 14hrs+ Battery
ATN X-Sight 5 LRF Smart Day/Night Gen 5 Scope w/Ballistics Calc, 12MP Resolution, Video Record, Wi-Fi, 14hrs+ Battery
Magnification: 3-15x
Reticle Type: Multiple reticle types
Turrets and Adjustments: Digital, controlled via device interface
HOLOSUN HS510C Multi-Reticle Green 2 MOA Dot & 65 MOA Circle Open Reflex Sight for Long Guns - Shake-Awake Solar FailSafe Waterproof Sight (HS510C)
HOLOSUN HS510C Multi-Reticle Green 2 MOA Dot & 65 MOA Circle Open Reflex Sight for Long Guns - Shake-Awake Solar FailSafe Waterproof Sight (HS510C)
Magnification: 1x
Objective Lens Diameter: 30 mm
Reticle Type: 65 MOA circle, 2 MOA dot
Eye Relief: unlimited
Field of View: 25°
Turrets and Adjustments: 0.5 MOA clicks, ±50 MOA range
ATN Thor LTV Ultra Light Thermal Hunting Scope, 4K+ 4056x3040 Thermal Sensor, 4K Video Record, One Shot Zero, 10h+ Battery Power
ATN Thor LTV Ultra Light Thermal Hunting Scope, 4K+ 4056x3040 Thermal Sensor, 4K Video Record, One Shot Zero, 10h+ Battery Power
Magnification: 5x to 15x
Reticle Type: Multiple Reticles
Eye Relief: 90mm
Turrets and Adjustments: typical turret controls, Weaver mounts
#10
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 (30mm) Mil CDS-ZL2 Side Focus HTMR Reticle Riflescope
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 (30mm) Mil CDS-ZL2 Side Focus HTMR Reticle Riflescope
Magnification: 3-15x
Objective Lens Diameter: 44 mm
Reticle Type: Second Focal Plane, HTMR
Field of View: 38.3 Feet
Turrets and Adjustments: CDS-ZL2, ZeroLock, bullet-drop dial
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Buying Guide for the Best AR 15 scopes
Choosing the right AR-15 scope can significantly enhance your shooting experience, whether you're into hunting, target shooting, or tactical applications. The right scope will improve your accuracy, range, and overall performance. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your specific needs and preferences.MagnificationMagnification refers to how much closer the target appears through the scope compared to the naked eye. This is crucial because it determines how well you can see your target at various distances. Scopes typically come with fixed or variable magnification. Fixed magnification scopes are simpler and more durable, while variable magnification scopes offer flexibility for different shooting scenarios. For close-range shooting (up to 100 yards), a 1-4x scope is sufficient. For medium-range (100-300 yards), a 4-9x scope works well. For long-range shooting (beyond 300 yards), consider a scope with 10x or higher magnification. Choose based on the typical distance you expect to shoot.
Objective Lens DiameterThe objective lens diameter is the size of the front lens of the scope, measured in millimeters. This spec is important because it affects the amount of light that enters the scope, impacting image brightness and clarity. Larger diameters (e.g., 40mm or more) allow more light, which is beneficial in low-light conditions but can make the scope bulkier and heavier. Smaller diameters (e.g., 20-32mm) are lighter and more compact but may not perform as well in dim lighting. Consider where and when you'll be shooting to determine the right balance between light transmission and portability.
Reticle TypeThe reticle, or crosshair, is the aiming point you see when looking through the scope. Different reticle types serve different purposes. Simple duplex reticles are great for general use and hunting. Mil-dot and BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles are useful for long-range shooting and estimating distance. Illuminated reticles help in low-light conditions. Choose a reticle based on your primary shooting activity: for general use, a duplex reticle is sufficient; for precision shooting, consider a mil-dot or BDC reticle; for low-light conditions, an illuminated reticle is beneficial.
Eye ReliefEye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope's eyepiece where you can see the full field of view. This is important for comfort and safety, especially with the recoil of an AR-15. Scopes with longer eye relief (3-4 inches or more) are more comfortable and safer, reducing the risk of 'scope eye' from recoil. Shorter eye relief (less than 3 inches) can be more challenging to use and may not be suitable for high-recoil situations. Consider your comfort and the recoil of your rifle when choosing eye relief.
Field of ViewField of view (FOV) is the width of the area you can see through the scope at a specific distance, usually measured in feet at 100 yards. A wider FOV allows you to see more of the target area, which is beneficial for tracking moving targets and situational awareness. Scopes with higher magnification typically have a narrower FOV. For close to medium-range shooting, a wider FOV (e.g., 30 feet or more at 100 yards) is advantageous. For long-range precision shooting, a narrower FOV is acceptable. Choose based on whether you need to track moving targets or focus on precise shots.
Turrets and AdjustmentsTurrets are the knobs on the scope that allow you to adjust the windage (left/right) and elevation (up/down) of the reticle. This is important for zeroing your scope and making precise adjustments based on shooting conditions. There are two main types: capped turrets, which are protected and less likely to be accidentally moved, and exposed turrets, which are easier to adjust quickly. For hunting and general use, capped turrets are usually sufficient. For tactical and long-range shooting, exposed turrets with precise, tactile clicks are preferable. Consider how often you'll need to make adjustments in the field.