Hey there fellow AR-15 enthusiasts! Joel Mccartan here, your friendly neighborhood hunter and night vision gear junkie. If you’re looking to step up your AR-15 game in 2024, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve spent countless hours in the field putting the latest and greatest AR optics through their paces, and boy do I have some winners to share with you.
Whether you’re gearing up for your next hunt, prepping for a 3-gun match, or just want to punch paper with pinpoint precision, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into my top picks for the best AR-15 scopes of 2024!
Our Top 3 Recommendations
Best Overall: Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24
Best Budget LPVO: Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 Gen III
Best Red Dot: Aimpoint PRO
Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 – Best Overall AR-15 Scope
- The Viper PST Gen II takes incredible performance and rock solid features to new heights. The 1-6×24 second focal plane riflescope is incredibly versatile and ideal for close to medium range scenarios.
- Users who dial their turrets for drop and wind compensation will appreciate the laser etched turrets, adjustable parallax and the RZR zero stop. A fiber optic rotation indicator ensures you can keep track of your turret position with ease.
Specs:
- Magnification: 1-6x
- Objective Lens: 24mm
- Reticle: VMR-2 (MOA)
- Eye Relief: 3.8 inches
- Weight: 22.7 oz
Pros:
- Crystal clear glass
- Daylight bright illumination
- Rock-solid durability
- Versatile 1-6x magnification range
Cons:
- On the heavier side
- Pricier than some alternatives
Listen up, folks – if you want the cream of the crop when it comes to AR-15 optics, look no further than the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24. I’ve run this bad boy through the wringer on my DDM4 V7, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer.
The glass clarity on this scope is downright phenomenal. Whether I’m scanning for coyotes at dawn or ringing steel at high noon, the sight picture stays crisp and bright. The VMR-2 reticle is a work of art too – simple enough for quick target acquisition up close, but with just enough detail for precise shots at distance.
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Joel, that price tag is steeper than the hill I zeroed my rifle on!” And you’re not wrong. But trust me when I say this scope is worth every penny. The build quality is top-notch, and I’ve dropped mine more times than I care to admit (don’t tell my wife). It just keeps on ticking.
The only real downsides? It’s a bit on the chunky side at 22.7 ounces. And yeah, your wallet might feel a little lighter after purchase. But for a do-it-all AR-15 optic that’ll serve you well from the backyard to the backcountry, you can’t go wrong with the Viper PST Gen II.
Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 Gen III – Best Budget LPVO
- Variable 1-6x magnification second focal plane scope features the ACSS Standard reticle for 5.56 .45.308
- ACSS reticle combines BDC, wind holds, moving target leads, and range estimation in an easy to use system
- Partial red illumination with 11 brightness settings powered by a common CR2032 battery
- IP67 waterproof and fog resistant
- A 6063-aluminum scope body and matte black anodized finish
Specs:
- Magnification: 1-6x
- Objective Lens: 24mm
- Reticle: ACSS Aurora
- Eye Relief: 3.3-3.5 inches
- Weight: 16.9 oz
Pros:
- Incredible value for money
- ACSS reticle is a game-changer
- Lighter than many competitors
- Solid build quality
Cons:
- Glass clarity not quite on par with high-end options
- Illumination could be brighter
Alright, budget-conscious shooters, gather ’round – have I got a scope for you! The Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 Gen III is proof that you don’t need to sell a kidney to get a quality LPVO for your AR-15.
I took this scope out to my local 3-gun match last month, and let me tell you, it punches way above its weight class. The ACSS Aurora reticle is where this optic really shines. It’s got an intuitive design that makes holdovers a breeze, even when you’re huffing and puffing between stages.
Now, I won’t lie to you – the glass isn’t quite as crystal clear as the Vortex PST II. But unless you’re planning on extreme long-range precision shooting, you’re unlikely to notice much difference in practical use. And at this price point? It’s hard to complain.
One thing I really appreciate about this scope is its weight. At just 16.9 ounces, it’s noticeably lighter than some of the premium options out there. Your arms will thank you after a long day of lugging your rifle around.
The only real gripe I have is that the illumination could be a tad brighter for those blazing summer days. But for dawn and dusk hunts or indoor range sessions, it’s more than adequate.
If you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of LPVOs without breaking the bank, the Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 Gen III is hands-down your best bet. Your AR-15 (and your wallet) will thank you.
Aimpoint PRO – Best Red Dot Sight
- Absolute co-witness with iron sights (with the supplied spacer installed)
- Features 2 MOA red dot for accurate target engagement
- Includes front and rear plastic flip cap lens covers
- Features 10 brightness settings including one extra bright for use in bright sunlight
- Up to 30,000 hours (over 3 years) of constant operation from 1 DL1/3N battery
Specs:
- Magnification: 1x
- Objective Lens: 38mm
- Dot Size: 2 MOA
- Battery Life: 30,000 hours
- Weight: 11.6 oz
Pros:
- Virtually indestructible
- Always-on capability
- Crystal clear sight picture
- Compatible with night vision devices
Cons:
- Slightly bulky compared to micro red dots
- Premium price tag
Let’s talk red dots, people. When it comes to close-quarters shooting and rapid target acquisition, nothing beats a quality red dot sight. And in my book, the Aimpoint PRO (Patrol Rifle Optic) is king of the hill.
I’ve had this optic mounted on my home defense AR for years now, and it’s never let me down. The 2 MOA dot is crisp and precise, allowing for fast sight picture and accurate shots even under stress. And let’s talk about that battery life – 3+ years of continuous use! I literally can’t remember the last time I changed the battery.
Durability? The Aimpoint PRO is built like a tank. I may or may not have accidentally dropped my rifle down a ravine while chasing after a wounded hog (don’t judge, these things happen). The Aimpoint didn’t even lose zero. That’s the kind of reliability you want when things go sideways.
Now, I’ll admit it’s not the most svelte red dot on the market. If you’re building an ultralight AR, you might want to look at some of the micro options out there. And yes, it’s got a price tag to match its premium status. But for a bombproof optic that’ll work every single time you need it, the Aimpoint PRO is worth every penny.
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24 – Best Value LPVO
Specs:
- Magnification: 1-6x
- Objective Lens: 24mm
- Reticle: AR-BDC3
- Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
- Weight: 18.5 oz
Pros:
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- Wide field of view
- Illuminated reticle
- Lightweight design
Cons:
- Some edge distortion at higher magnifications
- Illumination not daylight bright
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24 is like that reliable friend who’s always there when you need them, without asking for much in return. It’s not the fanciest LPVO on the block, but it gets the job done without emptying your wallet.
I’ve run this scope on my budget AR build for a while now, and I’m continually impressed by its versatility. The 1x setting is nearly as fast as a red dot for close-in work, while the 6x magnification lets me stretch things out to a couple hundred yards with ease.
- The updated Strike Eagle 1-6×24 is defined by speed and versatility. A true 1x on the low end adapts to a wide range of scenarios, letting users engage from close to extended ranges
- The magnification ring has been updated and now includes a thread-in throw lever, and the magnification indicators can now be seen without coming off the scope.
The AR-BDC3 reticle is intuitive and easy to use, with simple holdover points for different distances. It’s illuminated too, which is a nice touch for low-light conditions. Just don’t expect it to compete with high-end scopes in bright daylight.
One thing I really appreciate about the Strike Eagle is its weight. At 18.5 ounces, it’s noticeably lighter than some of the premium options out there. Your arms will thank you after a long day at the range or in the field.
Now, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. There’s some noticeable distortion around the edges at higher magnifications. And the glass clarity, while good for the price, won’t blow you away like some of the pricier options we’ve discussed.
But here’s the bottom line: for most AR-15 shooters, the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24 offers more than enough performance at a price that won’t make you wince. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to step up from a red dot without breaking the bank.
Sig Sauer Romeo5 – Best Budget Red Dot
Specs:
- Magnification: 1x
- Objective Lens: 20mm
- Dot Size: 2 MOA
- Battery Life: 40,000+ hours
- Weight: 5.1 oz
Pros:
- Incredible value for money
- MOTAC (Motion Activated Illumination)
- Compact and lightweight
- Surprisingly durable
Cons:
- Some blue tint to the glass
- Mount could be more robust
Alright, budget hunters, listen up – the Sig Sauer Romeo5 is about to become your new best friend. This little powerhouse of a red dot sight brings premium features to the table at a price that’ll make you do a double-take.
- ROMEO5 GUN SIGHT – The ROMEO5 1X20mm Red Dot Sight mounts on any platform, and even though it’s small, it’s tough; The solid, lightweight aluminum design gives peak performance & years of service, so you can be on the top of a hunt or shooting competition
- 2 MOA RED-DOT – For those avid shooters who admire classic red dot reticles on their gun sights, the Romeo5 has 2-MOA Red-Dot, which is also adjustable; It provides 10 illumination settings (8 daylight plus 2 NV) for visibility in all light conditions
I picked up a Romeo5 on a whim for my budget AR build, and I’ve got to say, I’m impressed. The 2 MOA dot is crisp and clear, perfect for rapid target acquisition in close quarters or precision aiming at moderate distances.
One feature that really stands out is the MOTAC system. It automatically turns the sight on when it detects motion and shuts it off when it’s not in use. Combined with the already impressive 40,000+ hour battery life, you’ll practically forget battery changes are even a thing.
Now, I’ll be honest – the glass does have a slight blue tint to it. It’s not a deal-breaker by any means, but it’s noticeable if you’re used to higher-end optics. And while the included mount gets the job done, I’d recommend upgrading to something a bit more robust if you plan on really putting your rifle through its paces.
But let’s talk durability. I may or may not have accidentally knocked my rifle off a bench at the range (hey, accidents happen). I was sure the Romeo5 was toast, but to my surprise, it held zero like a champ. That’s the kind of reliability you want in a defensive optic.
For the money, it’s hard to beat the Sig Sauer Romeo5. If you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of red dot sights without emptying your wallet, this is the way to go.
EOTech EXPS2 – Best Holographic Sight
Specs:
- Magnification: 1x
- Window Size: 1.20″ x 0.85″
- Reticle: 68 MOA ring with 1 MOA dot
- Battery Life: 600 hours
- Weight: 11.2 oz
Pros:
- Lightning-fast target acquisition
- Large field of view
- Incredibly durable
- Night vision compatible
Cons:
- Shorter battery life than some competitors
- Premium price tag
When it comes to holographic sights, EOTech is the name that immediately springs to mind. And for good reason – these optics are the gold standard for close-quarters combat and rapid engagement scenarios.
I’ve had the pleasure of running an EXPS2 on my competition AR, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer. The large window and distinct reticle make getting on target lightning-fast. That 68 MOA ring naturally draws your eye to the center 1 MOA dot, allowing for both quick shots up close and precision at distance.
- EOTECH EXPS2-0 – Holographic Weapon Sight in black with 68 MOA ring and 1 MOA dot reticle
- Side Button Operation – Compact design and side button operation consumes minimal rail space and is ideal for use with a G33 magnifier
- Mount – Quick Detach lever fits 1″ Weaver and MIL-STD 1913 Rails
- Adjustable Brightness – The EXPS2 has 20 brightness settings for use in any lighting scenario
- EOTECH HWS Prestige Warranty – Comes with a 10 year limited warranty
One thing I love about the EXPS2 is its durability. This optic is built to withstand serious abuse. I’ve seen these things continue to function after being submerged, frozen, and generally beaten to hell and back. If you need an optic that’ll work no matter what, this is it.
Now, I’ll be upfront – the battery life isn’t going to win any awards. At 600 hours, you’ll want to keep some spare batteries on hand. And yes, the price tag is steep. But for the performance you’re getting, especially in high-stress situations, it’s worth every penny.
If you’re building a serious defensive or competition AR-15, the EOTech EXPS2 deserves a spot on your shortlist. It’s not just an optic – it’s an investment in performance and reliability.
Trijicon ACOG 4×32 – Best Fixed Magnification Scope
- BATTERY-FREE ILLUMINATION: Features a tritium/fiber optic illuminated reticle that automatically adjusts the brightness based on available light
- RUGGED ALUMINUM-ALLOY HOUSING: Forged 7075-T6 aircraft-aluminum-alloy housing provides for a nearly indestructible sighting system.Field of View (degrees): 7 degree
- “BOTH EYES OPEN” DESIGN: The ACOG can be used as a CQB sight when shooting “both eyes open,” utilizing the Bindon Aiming Concept
Specs:
- Magnification: 4x
- Objective Lens: 32mm
- Reticle: Horseshoe .223 Ballistic
- Illumination: Fiber optics & tritium
- Weight: 15.1 oz
Pros:
- Legendary durability
- No batteries required
- Excellent glass clarity
- Combat-proven design
Cons:
- Fixed magnification limits versatility
- Eye relief can be unforgiving
- High price point
Ah, the Trijicon ACOG – a scope that needs no introduction. This battle-tested optic has been a favorite of military and law enforcement personnel for decades, and for good reason.
I had the chance to run an ACOG during a carbine course last year, and I’ve got to say, I was impressed. The 4x magnification hits a sweet spot for general-purpose use, allowing for both close-quarters work and reaching out to moderate distances.
The first thing you’ll notice about the ACOG is its incredible durability. This thing is built like a brick house. I’ve seen ACOGs that have literally stopped bullets and kept on working. If you need an optic that can survive anything short of a direct nuclear blast, this is it.
One of my favorite features of the ACOG is its dual-illuminated reticle. Using a combination of fiber optics for daylight and tritium for low-light conditions, you never have to worry about batteries dying at the wrong moment. The horseshoe .223 ballistic reticle is intuitive and allows for quick ranging and holdovers.
Now, I’ll be honest – the ACOG isn’t without its drawbacks. The fixed 4x magnification limits its versatility compared to variable power scopes. And the eye relief can be a bit unforgiving, especially if you’re not used to it. You’ll need to practice to get your cheek weld just right.
And then there’s the price. The ACOG isn’t cheap by any means. But remember, you’re paying for bomb-proof reliability and combat-proven performance.
If you’re building a serious defensive or duty rifle and want an optic that’ll work no matter what, the Trijicon ACOG 4×32 is hard to beat. It’s not just a scope – it’s a piece of tactical history.
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 – Best AR-15 Hunting Scope
- Model #181307 – VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Riflescope with a Hunt-Plex Reticle, Capped Finger Click Adjustments and a Matte finish
- A 3:1 zoom ratio is very common in many scope models. It gives you 3 times more magnification at high power than at low power so you can dial your power down for close encounters or all of the way up for long-range shots.
Specs:
- Magnification: 3-9x
- Objective Lens: 40mm
- Reticle: Duplex
- Eye Relief: 3.66-4.17 inches
- Weight: 12.2 oz
Pros:
- Excellent low-light performance
- Lightweight design
- Clear, crisp glass
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Basic reticle design
- Not ideal for close-quarters use
For all you hunters out there looking to stretch the legs of your AR-15, allow me to introduce you to the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40. This scope brings Leupold’s legendary quality to a price point that won’t make you lose sleep.
I mounted this scope on my .223 hunting build last season, and I’ve got to say, I’m impressed. The 3-9x magnification range is perfect for most hunting scenarios, allowing you to engage targets from close range out to the limits of the .223 cartridge.
Where this scope really shines is in low-light conditions. That 40mm objective lens gobbles up light like nobody’s business, giving you those precious extra minutes of shooting time at dawn and dusk. And let me tell you, that can make all the difference when you’re after that elusive buck.
The glass clarity is excellent, especially for a scope in this price range. Leupold’s twilight light management system really shines here, providing a crisp, clear image even in challenging lighting conditions. I’ve used this scope to pick out deer in heavy brush at last light, and it’s never let me down.
One thing I really appreciate about the VX-Freedom is its weight – or lack thereof. At just 12.2 ounces, it’s noticeably lighter than many competitors. When you’re lugging a rifle through thick woods all day, every ounce counts.
Now, it’s not all roses. The duplex reticle, while simple and effective, lacks some of the advanced features you’ll find in more tactical-oriented scopes. There’s no bullet drop compensation or windage marks here. But for most hunting applications, the clean, uncluttered sight picture is actually a benefit.
If you’re primarily using your AR-15 for close-quarters work, this might not be the best choice. The 3x minimum magnification isn’t ideal for rapid target acquisition at close range. But for anyone looking to take their AR hunting, especially in heavily wooded areas or for varmint control, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 is a solid choice that won’t break the bank.
Vortex Spitfire HD Gen II 3x Prism Scope – Best Prism Scope
- The Spitfire HD Gen II 3x prism scope is built for rapid transitions while still being usable even without illumination. The streamlined look and flush mount turret design makes for a smaller, lighter, and faster optic.
- The updated optical design and fully multi-coated lenses provide improved resolution, and cuts chromatic aberration. The prism design and etched reticle solve the distortion problems for users plagued by astigmatism.
Specs:
- Magnification: 3x
- Objective Lens: 32mm
- Reticle: AR-BDC4
- Eye Relief: 2.6 inches
- Weight: 15.4 oz
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Etched reticle works without illumination
- Good for those with astigmatism
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Fixed magnification
- Shorter eye relief than some options
Alright, let’s talk prism scopes. If you’re not familiar, these nifty optics offer some of the best features of both red dots and traditional scopes. The Vortex Spitfire HD Gen II 3x is a standout in this category, and I’ve had great experiences with it on my home defense AR.
First off, let’s address the elephant in the room – if you’ve got astigmatism like me, traditional red dots can be a blurry mess. That’s where prism scopes like the Spitfire really shine. The etched reticle is crisp and clear, even without illumination. And when you do turn on the lights, you’ve got both red and green illumination options to suit any lighting condition.
The 3x fixed magnification is a great compromise between close-quarters useability and the ability to reach out a bit. I’ve found it perfect for home defense scenarios where you might need to engage targets from across a room or out to 100 yards or so.
The AR-BDC4 reticle is intuitive and easy to use, with holdover points out to 500 yards. It’s not as cluttered as some tactical reticles, which I appreciate for faster target acquisition.
Now, there are a couple of downsides to consider. The eye relief is a bit shorter than some scopes at 2.6 inches, so you’ll need to mount it properly and practice your cheek weld. And of course, the fixed 3x magnification means you lose some versatility compared to variable power scopes.
But overall, if you’re looking for a compact, durable optic that offers more precision than a red dot without the complexity of a variable power scope, the Vortex Spitfire HD Gen II 3x is hard to beat. It’s become my go-to recommendation for folks building a do-it-all AR that leans towards defensive use.
Holosun HS510C – Best for Astigmatism
- HOLOSUN RED DOT SIGHT – The HS510C sight is a versatile open reflex optic designed for long gun applications; It is at home on carbines, PCCs, and shotguns due to its durable design; This gun sight has an aluminum housing with titanium hood for added shock resilience and includes a QD absolute co-witness mount (1.41″ dot height); This red dot sight is packed with Solar Failsafe, Shake Awake, MRS (Multi-Reticle System), Red Super LED with up to 50k hour battery life
Specs:
- Magnification: 1x
- Window Size: 0.91″ x 1.26″
- Reticle: 2 MOA dot & 65 MOA circle
- Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours
- Weight: 8.3 oz
Pros:
- Multiple reticle options
- Solar failsafe
- Large viewing window
- Great for those with astigmatism
Cons:
- Bulkier than some red dots
- Not as proven as some competitors
Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about the Holosun HS510C. This optic has been making waves in the AR community, and for good reason. It’s particularly noteworthy for those of us cursed with astigmatism who struggle with traditional red dots.
I picked up an HS510C for my range toy AR last year, and I’ve got to say, I’m impressed. The first thing you’ll notice is the large viewing window. It’s significantly bigger than most tube-style red dots, which makes target acquisition lightning fast.
The reticle is where this optic really shines. You’ve got options: a 2 MOA dot, a 65 MOA circle, or both together. I find the circle-dot combo perfect for close-quarters work, while the dot alone is great for precision at distance. And here’s the kicker – for many folks with astigmatism (myself included), the reticle appears much crisper than traditional red dots.
One feature I absolutely love is the solar failsafe. Even if your battery dies, the optic will keep functioning using ambient light. It’s a small touch, but it adds a layer of reliability that I really appreciate.
Now, it’s not all perfect. The HS510C is a bit bulkier than some competitors, which might be an issue if you’re going for an ultra-lightweight build. And while Holosun has been making great strides in terms of durability and reliability, they don’t quite have the long-term track record of brands like Aimpoint or EOTech.
But here’s the bottom line – for the money, the Holosun HS510C offers a feature set that’s hard to beat. If you’ve struggled with red dots in the past due to astigmatism, or if you just want a versatile optic with a large field of view, give this one a serious look.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right AR-15 Scope
Alright folks, now that we’ve gone through my top picks, let’s talk about how to choose the right scope for your specific needs. After all, the “best” scope is the one that works best for you and your shooting style. Here are some key factors to consider:
Intended Use
- Home Defense/CQB: Red dot or holographic sight
- General Purpose: LPVO (1-6x or 1-8x)
- Hunting: Variable power scope (3-9x or similar)
- Long Range: Higher magnification scope (4-16x or more)
Magnification
- Fixed vs Variable: Fixed is simpler and often more durable, variable offers more flexibility
- Range: Consider the distances you’ll typically be shooting
Reticle Type
- Simple crosshair or dot for general use
- BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) for long-range shooting
- Illuminated for low-light conditions
Durability
- Look for waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof ratings
- Consider the environment you’ll be using it in
Battery Life
- Critical for red dots and illuminated scopes
- Look for long battery life or backup power options (like solar)
Weight
- Heavier scopes can affect rifle balance
- Consider your physical fitness and how long you’ll be carrying the rifle
Eye Relief
- Longer eye relief is generally more comfortable and safer
- Especially important for high-recoil calibers
Budget
- Quality optics are an investment
- Consider long-term durability and warranty
Remember, the most expensive option isn’t always the best for your needs. Consider your specific use case and choose accordingly.
Conclusion
Whew! We’ve covered a lot of ground here, folks. From budget-friendly options to top-of-the-line glass, there’s an AR-15 optic out there for every shooter and every situation.
Remember, the best scope for you is the one that meets your specific needs and shooting style. Don’t be afraid to try out different options if you can – nothing beats hands-on experience.
Whether you’re building your first AR or upgrading an old favorite, I hope this guide has helped point you in the right direction. Now get out there and start ringing some steel!
Happy shooting, and as always, stay safe out there!
– Joel