Hey there, fellow night stalkers! Joel Mccartan here, and boy, do I have some exciting news for you coyote hunters out there. As we roll into 2024, the world of AR-15 optics has seen some incredible advancements, and I’ve been lucky enough to put my hands on some of the best scopes the market has to offer. After countless nights in the field, endless rounds downrange, and more coyote encounters than I can count, I’ve narrowed down my top picks for the year.
But before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why having the right scope on your AR-15 is so crucial for successful coyote hunting. These wily predators have adapted to human pressure over the years, becoming increasingly nocturnal and cautious. A quality scope can mean the difference between a successful hunt and a frustrating night of near-misses and “coulda, shoulda, woulda” stories.
What Makes a Great Coyote Hunting Scope?
When it comes to choosing the perfect AR-15 scope for coyote hunting, there are several key factors to consider:
Optical Clarity and Light Transmission: Coyotes are most active during low-light conditions – dawn, dusk, and those moonlit nights we all love. Your scope needs to gather every available photon to give you a clear, bright image when it matters most. Look for high-quality glass with advanced coatings to maximize light transmission.
Durability: Let’s face it, coyote hunting isn’t always a gentle endeavor. Your scope needs to withstand recoil, bumps, and the elements without losing zero or fogging up. Robust construction, quality materials, and proper sealing are must-haves.
Magnification Range: The ideal magnification for coyote hunting can vary depending on your terrain and hunting style. Generally, a variable power scope with a range of 1-6x or 1-8x offers the versatility to scan wide areas at low power and zoom in for precise shots when needed. Some hunters prefer even higher magnification for long-range shooting in open country.
Reticle Design: A well-designed reticle can greatly enhance your effectiveness in the field. Look for an illuminated reticle with holdover points for quick target acquisition and ranging. First focal plane (FFP) reticles are becoming increasingly popular as they allow for consistent holdovers at any magnification.
Weight and Size: While not the most critical factor, it’s worth considering the weight of your chosen scope. A heavy optic can throw off the balance of your rifle and lead to fatigue during long hunting sessions. Aim for a scope under 20 ounces if possible, but be willing to accept a bit more weight for superior optical performance if necessary.
Battery Life: If you’re opting for a scope with an illuminated reticle (and you should), pay attention to the battery life. The last thing you want is your reticle dying in the middle of a hunt. Look for scopes with long-lasting batteries and auto-shutoff features to conserve power.
Warranty and Customer Service: A quality scope is an investment, and you want to make sure it’s protected. Look for manufacturers that offer lifetime warranties and have a reputation for excellent customer service.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into my top 10 picks for the best AR-15 scopes for coyote hunting in 2024. Remember, these are based on my personal experiences in the field, so your mileage may vary depending on your specific needs and preferences.
Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 has earned its place at the top of my list through consistent performance in a variety of hunting conditions. This scope is a true jack-of-all-trades, excelling in both close-quarters shooting and reaching out to longer distances when needed.
The glass clarity on the Viper PST Gen II is nothing short of phenomenal. I’ve spent countless hours behind this optic, picking out the faintest hint of eyeshine in my spotlight at distances well beyond 300 yards. The low-dispersion glass and index-matched lenses produce an image that’s tack-sharp from edge to edge, with excellent color fidelity and contrast.
One of the standout features of this scope is its illuminated VMR-2 reticle. The center dot is daylight bright, allowing for fast target acquisition even in harsh midday sun. But it’s equally impressive when dialed down for those pitch-black nights when you’re trying to maintain your natural night vision. The reticle is positioned in the second focal plane, which means it maintains a constant size regardless of magnification – a feature I personally prefer for the type of hunting we do.
The turrets on the Viper PST Gen II are a joy to use. They offer positive, audible clicks that you can feel even with gloved hands. The locking feature prevents accidental adjustments in the field, while the zero stop allows you to quickly return to your baseline zero after dialing for longer shots. I’ve found the tracking to be spot-on, a crucial feature when you’re trying to thread the needle on a 400-yard coyote in a stiff crosswind.
At 22.7 ounces, it’s not the lightest scope on the market, but I find the weight to be a fair trade-off for the optical performance and feature set. The extra few ounces are barely noticeable when mounted on a well-balanced AR-15, and they contribute to the scope’s overall durability.
Speaking of durability, the Viper PST Gen II is built like a tank. I’ve accidentally banged it against truck doors, dragged it through dense brush, and even dropped it once (don’t tell Vortex), and it’s never lost zero or shown any signs of damage. The O-ring seals and nitrogen purging ensure that it remains fogproof and waterproof in any weather conditions you’re likely to encounter.
The eye relief is generous, ranging from 3.8 to 4 inches depending on the magnification setting. This allows for a comfortable and consistent cheek weld, even when shooting from awkward positions – a common occurrence when you’re trying to stay hidden from those keen coyote eyes.
Vortex’s VIP warranty is the cherry on top. It’s a no-questions-asked, fully transferable lifetime warranty that covers any damage or defect. While I’ve never had to use it with this scope, I’ve had experience with Vortex’s customer service on other products, and they’ve always been top-notch.
In summary, the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 offers an unbeatable combination of optical clarity, durability, and features at its price point. Whether you’re scanning vast open plains or peering into dense brush, this scope will help you put more coyotes on the ground.
Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24
When it comes to bombproof reliability and military-grade toughness, it’s hard to beat the Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24. This scope is built like a tank and designed to withstand the harshest conditions you can throw at it.
The VCOG (Variable Combat Optical Gunsight) was originally designed for military use, and that heritage shows in every aspect of its construction. The 7075-T6 aluminum body is virtually indestructible, and I’ve personally witnessed this scope shrug off impacts that would have lesser optics crying for mercy.
But toughness alone doesn’t make a great coyote hunting scope – it needs to perform optically as well. And in this department, the VCOG doesn’t disappoint. The glass clarity is exceptional, rivaling scopes that cost significantly more. Even at the highest 6x magnification, the image remains sharp and clear from edge to edge, with no noticeable distortion.
One of the standout features of the VCOG is its first focal plane (FFP) reticle. This means that the reticle size changes in proportion to the magnification, allowing for consistent holdovers and ranging at any power setting. It takes a bit of getting used to, especially if you’re accustomed to second focal plane scopes, but once you adapt, it’s incredibly fast and intuitive to use.
The illuminated reticle is another strong point. It’s daylight visible even in bright desert conditions, but can also be dimmed down for those moonless nights when you’re trying to preserve your night vision. The segmented circle surrounding the center crosshair is particularly useful for quick target acquisition at lower magnifications.
Battery life on the VCOG is nothing short of outstanding. I’ve literally gone entire seasons without needing to change the battery. The scope uses a common CR2032 battery, which is easy to find and replace in the field if needed.
The turrets on the VCOG are low-profile and capped, which I appreciate when moving through thick brush. They offer positive clicks and track true, allowing for precise adjustments when needed. The integral mount is a nice touch, eliminating the need for separate rings and ensuring a rock-solid connection to your rifle.
At 31.5 ounces, the VCOG is admittedly on the heavier side. However, the extra weight contributes to its durability and helps dampen recoil. If you’re used to lighter scopes, it might take some time to adjust, but I’ve found that the benefits outweigh the added ounces.
The VCOG’s eye relief is generous and consistent across the magnification range, allowing for quick target acquisition and comfortable shooting even in awkward positions. The throw lever on the magnification ring is a nice touch, allowing for quick power changes even with gloved hands.
One potential drawback of the VCOG is its price point. It’s definitely an investment, but as the old saying goes, you get what you pay for. In this case, you’re getting a scope that will likely outlast several rifles and perform flawlessly in any conditions you’re likely to encounter.
In conclusion, if you want a scope that can handle anything you throw at it while delivering top-tier optical performance, the Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 is hard to beat. It’s overkill for some, but for those who demand the absolute best in durability and reliability, it’s worth every penny.
Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 FFP
For hunters on a budget who still want quality glass and advanced features, the Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 FFP is a game-changer. This scope proves that you don’t need to break the bank to get a high-performing optic for your AR-15 coyote rig.
The first thing that struck me about the SLx is the quality of the glass. For a scope in this price range, the clarity is impressive. While it may not quite match the crystal-clear views of top-tier scopes costing three times as much, it comes surprisingly close. I’ve had no trouble picking out coyotes at 300+ yards, even in challenging low-light conditions.
One of the standout features of this scope is the ACSS (Advanced Combined Sighting System) reticle. This is a patented design by Primary Arms, and it’s a game-changer for fast target acquisition and rangefinding. The horseshoe-shaped outer ring is perfect for close-quarters use at 1x magnification, while the BDC ladder provides holdover points out to 800 meters.
The fact that this reticle is in the first focal plane (FFP) is a huge plus. As mentioned earlier, this means the reticle size changes with magnification, allowing for consistent rangefinding and holdovers at any power setting. It’s a feature typically found on much more expensive scopes, and it’s a testament to the value Primary Arms is offering here.
The illumination on the SLx is good, though not quite daylight bright. It’s more than adequate for dawn and dusk hunting, which is when most coyote activity occurs anyway. The illumination dial has 11 brightness settings and off positions between each, allowing for quick adjustments in the field.
Durability is always a concern with budget-friendly optics, but the SLx has held up well in my testing. The 6063 aluminum body feels solid, and the scope has maintained zero through thousands of rounds. It’s fully fogproof and waterproof, so you don’t need to baby it in harsh weather conditions.
The turrets are capped to prevent accidental adjustments, but they offer positive clicks when you do need to make changes. Tracking has been spot-on in my experience, which is crucial for those longer shots where you need to dial for elevation.
At 16.9 ounces, the SLx is relatively lightweight, which is a plus for long hunting sessions or if you prefer a more nimble rifle setup. The eye relief is generous at 3.3-3.5 inches, allowing for comfortable shooting and quick target acquisition.
One minor gripe I have is with the magnification ring. It’s a bit stiff out of the box, though it does loosen up with use. Adding a throw lever (sold separately) makes it much easier to manipulate, especially with gloved hands.
Primary Arms backs the SLx with a lifetime warranty they call “PAHC” (Primary Arms Hassle-free Coverage). While I haven’t had to use it personally, I’ve heard good things about their customer service from fellow hunters.
In conclusion, the Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 FFP offers an incredible value proposition. It brings features typically found on much more expensive scopes down to a price point that’s accessible to most hunters. While it may not have quite the optical clarity or tank-like durability of top-tier options, it more than holds its own in real-world hunting scenarios. For the budget-conscious coyote hunter, this scope is hard to beat.
Nightforce NX8 1-8×24 F1
When it comes to precision optics, Nightforce has long been a name that commands respect among serious shooters. The NX8 1-8×24 F1 brings that legendary quality to the world of low-power variable optics (LPVOs), and it’s a game-changer for coyote hunters who demand the utmost in accuracy and clarity.
The first thing you’ll notice about the NX8 is the extraordinary glass quality. Nightforce is known for their optical clarity, and this scope doesn’t disappoint. The image is tack-sharp from edge to edge, with excellent color fidelity and contrast. Even at 8x magnification, there’s no noticeable distortion or loss of clarity. This level of optical performance allows for positive identification of coyotes at distances well beyond 500 yards, even in challenging light conditions.
The NX8 features a first focal plane (FFP) reticle, which means the reticle size changes proportionally with the magnification. This allows for consistent rangefinding and holdovers at any power setting. The FC-Mil reticle is clean and uncluttered, providing useful reference points without obscuring the target. The center dot is incredibly precise, allowing for pinpoint accuracy on those long shots where every millimeter counts.
One of the standout features of the NX8 is its incredible 1-8x zoom range. At 1x, the scope functions almost like a red dot, offering a wide field of view and both-eyes-open shooting for close-range encounters. Crank it up to 8x, and you have more than enough magnification for those long shots across open prairie or desert.
The illuminated reticle is daylight bright, making it easy to pick up even in harsh midday sun. It features an innovative “center only” illumination option that lights up just the central portion of the reticle, perfect for low-light conditions when you want to maintain your night vision.
Nightforce’s ZeroStop turrets are, in my opinion, the best in the business. They offer precise, repeatable adjustments with audible and tactile clicks. The ability to quickly return to your zero after dialing for long shots is invaluable in the field. The turrets are low-profile to prevent snagging, but still easy to manipulate even with gloved hands.
Durability is top-notch, as you’d expect from Nightforce. The scope is built from a solid piece of aluminum and is fully waterproof and fogproof. I’ve used this scope in everything from desert heat to mountain snowstorms without any issues. It’s also shockproof, easily handling the recoil from even the heaviest loads you might run through your AR-15.
At 17 ounces, the NX8 is surprisingly lightweight for its capabilities. This is a significant advantage for mobile hunters who spend long hours in the field. The eye relief is generous and consistent across the magnification range, allowing for quick target acquisition and comfortable shooting from various positions.
One potential downside of the NX8 is its price point. This is definitely a premium optic, and the cost reflects that. However, for hunters who demand the absolute best in optical clarity and precision, it’s a worthwhile investment.
Nightforce backs the NX8 with their legendary customer service and transferable lifetime warranty. While it’s unlikely you’ll ever need to use it given the scope’s build quality, it’s nice to have that peace of mind.
In conclusion, the Nightforce NX8 1-8×24 F1 is a top-tier optic that excels in every category. Its combination of crystal-clear glass, precise adjustments, and rugged durability make it Certainly, I’ll continue with the detailed review of the remaining scopes:
Athlon Ares ETR 1-10×24
The Athlon Ares ETR 1-10×24 is a scope that has been turning heads in the hunting community, and for good reason. It offers an impressive 1-10x magnification range, which is somewhat of a unicorn in the world of LPVOs. This wide range makes it an incredibly versatile option for coyote hunters who face varying terrain and shooting distances.
Let’s start with the glass quality. Athlon has really stepped up their game in recent years, and the Ares ETR is a testament to that. The image is bright and clear, with excellent contrast and color rendition. While it may not quite match the clarity of top-tier scopes like the Nightforce, it comes impressively close at a much more attractive price point.
The first focal plane AHMR2 reticle is a standout feature. It’s clean and uncluttered at low magnifications, but offers plenty of reference points for holdovers and windage corrections when you crank up the power. The illumination is daylight bright, making it easy to pick up the reticle even in harsh midday sun.
One of the things I love about this scope is how well it performs across its entire magnification range. At 1x, it’s almost as fast as a red dot for close-range work. But dial it up to 10x, and you’ve got enough magnification to reach out and touch those wary coyotes at extreme distances. This versatility is a game-changer, especially when hunting varied terrain where shot distances can change dramatically.
The turrets on the Ares ETR are precise and tactile, with positive clicks that you can feel even with gloved hands. The zero stop feature works well, allowing you to quickly return to your baseline zero after dialing for long shots. Tracking has been spot-on in my testing, which is crucial for those longer shots where you need to dial elevation.
Durability is always a concern with optics, especially when you’re subjecting them to the rigors of coyote hunting. I’m happy to report that the Ares ETR has held up admirably in my field testing. It’s built from aircraft-grade aluminum and is fully waterproof and fogproof. I’ve used it in everything from dusty desert conditions to damp, foggy mornings without any issues.
The only real downside to the Ares ETR is its weight. At 28.5 ounces, it’s on the heavier side for an LPVO. This extra weight is the trade-off for the extended magnification range and robust build quality. Personally, I find the added versatility worth the weight, but it’s something to consider if you prioritize a lightweight setup.
Athlon backs the Ares ETR with their lifetime warranty, which is fully transferable and doesn’t require a receipt. This level of customer support is always a plus when you’re investing in a piece of gear that you’ll be relying on in the field.
In conclusion, the Athlon Ares ETR 1-10×24 offers an incredible combination of features and performance at its price point. Its versatile magnification range and robust build make it an excellent choice for coyote hunters who face varying terrain and shooting scenarios.
Leupold VX-6HD 1-6×24
Leupold is a name that needs no introduction in the world of hunting optics, and the VX-6HD 1-6×24 lives up to the brand’s sterling reputation. This scope offers a perfect blend of traditional hunting scope virtues with modern features that coyote hunters will appreciate.
The first thing you’ll notice about the VX-6HD is the exceptional glass quality. Leupold’s optical engineers have outdone themselves with this one. The image is incredibly bright and clear, with a level of contrast and color fidelity that makes the view through the scope look almost three-dimensional. This superior light transmission gives you those crucial extra minutes of shooting light at dawn and dusk when coyotes are most active.
The FireDot illuminated reticle is a standout feature. It’s a simple duplex design with an illuminated center dot, which I find perfect for the kind of run-and-gun hunting often involved in predator control. The illumination auto-adjusts to ambient light conditions, which is a really nice touch when you’re moving between areas of different light intensity.
One of the things I love about this scope is how lightweight it is. At just 13.3 ounces, it’s one of the lightest 1-6x scopes on the market. This makes a noticeable difference when you’re carrying your rifle for hours on end, or when you need to make quick, off-hand shots.
The durability of the VX-6HD is impressive. It’s built from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum and is fully waterproof and fogproof. Leupold’s proprietary gas blend ensures that the scope remains fog-free even in the most challenging temperature changes. I’ve used this scope in everything from scorching desert heat to frigid mountain dawns without any issues.
The magnification ring is smooth and easy to adjust, even with gloved hands. The eye relief is generous and consistent across the magnification range, allowing for quick target acquisition and comfortable shooting from various positions.
Leupold’s Custom Dial System (CDS) is another feature worth mentioning. This allows you to order a custom elevation dial matched to your specific load and atmospheric conditions. For coyote hunters who often take longer shots, this can be a game-changer, allowing for quick and precise elevation adjustments without the need for complex mental calculations.
The only potential downside to the VX-6HD is that it doesn’t offer the same level of advanced reticle options as some of its competitors. The simple duplex reticle works well for most hunting situations, but if you’re looking for complex BDC or ranging reticles, you might need to look elsewhere.
Leupold backs the VX-6HD with their legendary lifetime guarantee. If anything ever goes wrong with the scope, they’ll repair or replace it, no questions asked. This level of customer support is always reassuring when you’re investing in a piece of gear you’ll be relying on in the field.
In conclusion, the Leupold VX-6HD 1-6×24 is an excellent choice for coyote hunters who value superior glass quality, lightweight design, and time-tested reliability. It may not have all the bells and whistles of some more tactically-oriented scopes, but for pure hunting performance, it’s hard to beat.
Steiner T5Xi 1-5×24
Steiner is a name that commands respect in the world of military and law enforcement optics, and their T5Xi 1-5×24 brings that tactical pedigree to the world of predator hunting. This scope offers a combination of rugged durability and precision that makes it an excellent choice for serious coyote hunters.
The first thing that strikes you about the T5Xi is the exceptional glass quality. Steiner uses high-quality German glass, and it shows. The image is bright and clear, with excellent contrast and color rendition. Even in low light conditions, the scope gathers light impressively well, giving you those crucial extra minutes of shooting time at dawn and dusk.
The reticle on the T5Xi is a standout feature. It’s a first focal plane design, which means the reticle size changes with magnification, allowing for consistent rangefinding and holdovers at any power setting. The 3TR reticle is clean and uncluttered at low magnifications, but offers plenty of reference points for holdovers and windage corrections when you crank up the power.
One of the things I love about this scope is the throw lever on the magnification ring. It allows for quick and easy changes in magnification, even with gloved hands. This can be crucial when a coyote suddenly appears much closer or further than expected.
The illumination on the T5Xi is truly daylight bright, with 11 intensity settings. The rotary dial is easy to use and has off positions between each setting, allowing you to quickly return to your preferred brightness. The illumination is powered by a single CR2450 battery, which provides up to 550 hours of continuous use.
Durability is where Steiner really shines. The T5Xi is built like a tank, with a 34mm main tube made from high-strength aluminum. It’s fully waterproof and fogproof, and can handle extreme temperature changes without issue. I’ve used this scope in some pretty harsh conditions, and it’s never missed a beat.
The turrets on the T5Xi are low-profile to prevent snagging, but still easy to manipulate. They offer positive clicks and track true, allowing for precise adjustments when needed. The zero stop feature works well, allowing you to quickly return to your baseline zero after dialing for long shots.
At 18.5 ounces, the T5Xi is on the lighter side for a scope of this quality and durability. This makes it a good choice for hunters who spend long days in the field and need to keep their overall rifle weight down.
One potential downside to the T5Xi is its price point. This is definitely a premium optic, and the cost reflects that. However, for hunters who demand top-tier performance and bombproof durability, it’s a worthwhile investment.
Steiner backs the T5Xi with their Heritage Warranty, which covers the scope for the entirety of its usable lifetime. This level of support is always reassuring when you’re investing in a piece of gear you’ll be relying on in the field.
In conclusion, the Steiner T5Xi 1-5×24 is an excellent choice for coyote hunters who want a scope that can handle anything they throw at it. Its combination of superb glass quality, rugged durability, and precision features make it a top contender in the world of predator hunting optics.
Sig Sauer Tango6T 1-6×24
Sig Sauer has been making waves in the optics world in recent years, and their Tango6T 1-6×24 is a prime example of why. This scope, which was selected for use by the U.S. Military, brings a host of advanced features to the table that coyote hunters will appreciate.
The glass quality on the Tango6T is impressive. Images are bright and clear, with excellent contrast and color fidelity. The edge-to-edge clarity is particularly noteworthy, allowing for a wide field of view that’s crucial when scanning for coyotes in varied terrain.
One of the standout features of the Tango6T is its reticle options. My personal favorite is the DWLR6 reticle, which offers an excellent balance of speed at low magnifications and precision at higher powers. The illumination is daylight bright, with a locking illumination dial that prevents accidental changes when shouldering the rifle.
The Tango6T features a first focal plane reticle, which means the reticle size changes with magnification. This allows for consistent ranging and holdovers at any power setting, a feature that’s particularly useful when taking longer shots on coyotes.
The turrets on the Tango6T are low-profile and capped, which I appreciate when moving through thick brush. They offer positive clicks and track true, allowing for precise adjustments when needed. The zero stop feature works well, allowing you to quickly return to your baseline zero after dialing for long shots.
Durability is always a concern when choosing a hunting optic, and the Tango6T doesn’t disappoint. It’s built from high-strength aluminum and is fully waterproof and fogproof. I’ve used this scope in some pretty harsh conditions, from dusty desert hunts to damp, foggy mornings, and it’s held up admirably.
One feature that sets the Tango6T apart is its LevelPlex digital anti-cant system. This electronic level helps ensure your rifle isn’t canted, which can cause significant point-of-impact shifts at longer ranges. It’s a nice touch that can help improve accuracy, especially in the heat of the moment when a coyote appears.
At 23.5 ounces, the Tango6T is on the heavier side for a 1-6x scope. This extra weight contributes to its durability and helps dampen recoil, but it’s something to consider if you prioritize a lightweight setup.
Sig Sauer backs the Tango6T with their Infinite Guarantee, which is a transferable, lifetime warranty. This level of support is always reassuring when investing in a piece of gear you’ll be relying on in the field.
In conclusion, the Sig Sauer Tango6T 1-6×24 is a feature-packed scope that offers excellent performance for coyote hunting. Its combination of clear glass, durable construction, and advanced features like the LevelPlex system make it a strong contender in the crowded LPVO market.
Burris RT-6 1-6×24
For hunters looking for a high-quality LPVO without breaking the bank, the Burris RT-6 1-6×24 offers an impressive combination of features and performance at a more accessible price point.
The glass quality on the RT-6 is surprisingly good for its price range. While it may not quite match the clarity of top-tier scopes costing twice as much, it comes impressively close. The image is bright and clear, with good contrast and color fidelity. I’ve had no trouble picking out coyotes at 300+ yards, even in challenging low-light conditions.
The Ballistic AR reticle is a standout feature of the RT-6. It’s a second focal plane design that’s clean and uncluttered at low magnifications, but offers useful reference points for holdovers and windage corrections when you crank up the power. The center dot is 1 MOA, allowing for precise shot placement.
Illumination on the RT-6 is good, with 11 brightness settings. While it may not be quite as daylight bright as some more expensive options, it’s more than adequate for dawn and dusk hunting, which is when most coyote activity occurs anyway.
One thing I really appreciate about the RT-6 is its true 1x magnification at the low end. This allows for both-eyes-open shooting at close range, which can be crucial when a coyote suddenly appears at close quarters.
The turrets on the RT-6 are capped to prevent accidental adjustments in the field, but they offer positive clicks when you do need to make changes. Tracking has been spot-on in my experience, which is crucial for those longer shots where you need to dial for elevation.
Durability is always a concern with more budget-friendly optics, but the RT-6 has held up well in my testing. It’s built from high-strength aluminum and is fully waterproof and fogproof. I’ve used it in some pretty harsh conditions without any issues.
At 17.4 ounces, the RT-6 is relatively lightweight, which is a plus for long hunting sessions or if you prefer a more nimble rifle setup. The eye relief is generous at 3.3-4 inches, allowing for comfortable shooting and quick target acquisition.
Burris backs the RT-6 with their Forever Warranty, which covers the scope for life regardless of whether you’re the original owner. This level of support is impressive at this price point and adds significant value to the package.
In conclusion, the Burris RT-6 1-6×24 offers an incredible value proposition for coyote hunters. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive scopes, it delivers where it counts: clear glass, a useful reticle, and reliable performance. For hunters on a budget who don’t want to compromise on quality, the RT-6 is an excellent choice.
EOTech Vudu 1-6×24
EOTech, a company renowned for their holographic weapon sights, brings their optical expertise to the world of LPVOs with the Vudu 1-6×24. This scope combines the speed of a red dot with the precision of a magnified optic, making it an excellent choice for coyote hunters who need versatility in their setup.
The glass quality on the Vudu is excellent, as you’d expect from EOTech. The image is bright and clear, with good contrast and color rendition. Edge-to-edge clarity is particularly impressive, providing a wide, unobstructed field of view that’s crucial when scanning for coyotes in varied terrain.
One of the standout features of the Vudu is its reticle. The SR-1 reticle is a first focal plane design that offers an excellent balance of speed at low magnifications and precision at higher powers. The center dot is incredibly fast to pick up, almost like using one of EOTech’s famous holographic sights. At higher magnifications, the reticle provides useful reference points for holdovers and windage corrections.
The illumination on the Vudu is truly daylight bright, with 10 brightness settings. The push-button controls are intuitive and easy to use, even with gloved hands. The illumination is powered by a single CR2032 battery, which provides up to 500 hours of use at a medium setting.
One thing I really appreciate about the Vudu is its true 1x magnification at the low end. This allows for both-eyes-open shooting at close range, which can be crucial when a coyote suddenly appears at close quarters. The transition from 1x to 6x is smooth, allowing for quick adjustments as the situation demands.
The turrets on the Vudu are low-profile and capped, which I appreciate when moving through thick brush. They offer positive clicks and track true, allowing for precise adjustments when needed. The zero stop feature works well, allowing you to quickly return to your baseline zero after dialing for long shots.
Durability is a strong point for the Vudu. It’s built from aircraft-grade aluminum and is fully waterproof and fogproof. I’ve used this scope in a variety of harsh conditions, from dusty desert environments to damp, foggy mornings, and it’s held up admirably. The scope is also shockproof, easily handling the recoil from even the heaviest loads you might run through your AR-15.
At 20.1 ounces, the Vudu is in the middle of the pack weight-wise for LPVOs. It’s not the lightest option out there, but the weight is reasonable considering the scope’s robust construction and feature set. The extra ounces contribute to its durability and help dampen recoil, which can be beneficial for quick follow-up shots on coyotes.
EOTech backs the Vudu with their Limited Lifetime Warranty, which covers defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the product. This level of support provides peace of mind when investing in a piece of gear you’ll be relying on in the field.
One potential downside to the Vudu is its price point. It’s definitely in the premium category, which might put it out of reach for some hunters. However, for those who can afford it, the combination of speed, precision, and durability makes it a worthwhile investment.
In conclusion, the EOTech Vudu 1-6×24 is an excellent choice for coyote hunters who want a scope that offers red-dot speed at 1x and precision at higher magnifications. Its combination of clear glass, useful reticle, and robust construction make it a top contender in the LPVO market.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best AR-15 Scope for Coyote Hunting
After spending countless hours in the field testing these scopes, I can confidently say that each one has its strengths and could be the “best” choice depending on your specific needs and budget. However, there are a few key takeaways I’d like to share:
Optical Clarity is King: When it comes to coyote hunting, being able to clearly identify your target in low-light conditions is crucial. Don’t skimp on glass quality. Scopes like the Vortex Viper PST Gen II and the Nightforce NX8 really shine in this department.
Versatility Matters: Coyote hunting often involves engaging targets at varying distances, sometimes within seconds. That’s why I’m a big fan of LPVOs with true 1x on the low end and at least 6x on the high end. The Trijicon VCOG and Athlon Ares ETR are standout performers in this regard.
Durability is Non-Negotiable: Coyote hunting can be tough on gear. You need a scope that can handle bumps, harsh weather, and temperature extremes. Scopes like the Steiner T5Xi and the EOTech Vudu are built like tanks and will hold up to years of hard use.
Don’t Overlook Illumination: A good illuminated reticle can make all the difference during those crucial low-light hours when coyotes are most active. The Leupold VX-6HD and Sig Sauer Tango6T offer excellent illumination systems.
Consider Your Budget: While it’s true that you often get what you pay for with optics, there are some excellent values out there. The Primary Arms SLx and Burris RT-6 offer impressive performance at more budget-friendly price points.
Match the Scope to Your Hunting Style: If you primarily hunt in thick brush where shots are close, you might prioritize a wider field of view and true 1x performance. For open country hunters who take longer shots, higher magnification and advanced reticles might be more important.
Remember, the “best” scope is the one that meets your specific needs and that you’re comfortable using. Don’t be afraid to try out different options if possible. Many retailers offer generous return policies, and some even have demo programs that let you test scopes in the field.
Lastly, once you’ve chosen your scope, take the time to really learn how to use it. Practice at varying distances and in different light conditions. Learn your holdovers and how to quickly adjust your scope on the fly. The most expensive scope in the world won’t help you if you don’t know how to use it effectively.
Happy hunting, and may your nights be filled with successful coyote encounters! Remember, ethical hunting practices and proper predator management contribute to maintaining healthy ecosystems. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before heading out.
If you have any questions about these scopes or coyote hunting in general, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to chat about gear and share experiences from the field. Stay safe out there, and good luck!