The AR-15 rifle is also known as ArmaLite Rifle 15—this is a rifle that was invented and first introduced to the world in the period of 1950s. The said rifle is a lightweight one, yet its performance is really incredible.
If you own one of these rifles, you must have realized that it can do so much on its own despite being a widely known rifle around the world.
With that taken into consideration, you have to pair and equip it with a scope that can be used to shoot long-range distances for it to be at its full potential and power.
Our Top 3 Recommendations
Best Overall
- Brand: Leupold
- Weight: 1.2 pounds
- Lens: Protected
- Sports type: Hunting
Best Value
- Brand: Primary Arms
- Weight: 1.63 Pounds
- Battery: CR2032
- Reticle: Illuminated
Best Lightweight
- Brand: Bushnell
- Weight: 1 pound
- Reticle: Drop zone
- Sports type: Hunting
When you search the markets in this current year, you would see a lot of manufacturers claiming that the long-range scope they have produced is compatible with an AR-15 rifle.
It is almost confusing to know which one is really the best long-range scope for AR-15 in 2021. But no worry, because we got your back on that one, and we are going to help you discover the best long-range scopes that you can mount on your AR-15.
Together with their performance and built, each one would be assessed for you to have the best one.
Quick View: Best Long-Range Scope For AR-15
- Leupold’s VX – Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
- Primary Arms’ Classic Series 4-16x44mm SFP Rifle Scope
- Bushnell Optics’ 4.5-18X40 DZ 6.5 Creed
- Vortex Optics’ Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Rifle Scope
- UTG’s 3-12x44 30mm Compact Scope
- Simmons’ 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope
- PROSTAFF P5
- Leupold’s VX – R Patrol Rifle Scope
- Bushnell’s Optics Drop Zone BDC Reticle Rifle Scope
- Nikon’s M – Tactical .223 4-16x42SF Matte BDC600
Top 10 Best Long-Range Scope For AR-15
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10 Best Long Range Scope For AR-15 in 2021 - Reviewed
1. Leupold VX – Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
Leupold’s VX – Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is a best long-range scope for AR-15 from the brand of Leupold. This scope is also described and proven to be compatible with AR-15 rifles.
Having a very good design is the best thing about this long-range scope; in fact, its design gives it surprising durability and reliability.
This is 100 percent protected from fog and shock. Its main body is built using 6061-T6 aircraft quality aluminum, and it underwent some tests to ensure that it would always deliver the performance that it is designed for.
Leupold’s VX – 3-9x40mm
- 3-9x magnification
- 40mm objective lens
- 33.1-13.6 ft field of view at 100 yds
- 4.2 - 3.7 inches eye relief
- CR2032 Battery
It is tested and proven to withstand the harshest and strongest recoils from some firearms, and it is also tested and proven to be reliable within a temperature range of -40 degrees Fahrenheit to 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
The waterproofing of this long-range scope for AR-15 is truly amazing because it can endure being submerged in water at a depth of 33 feet.
The magnification range of this long-range scope is between 3X and 9X. With a range that wide, this can be used in different activities too.
May it be activities concerning short-range shots or activities that require long-range shots. The lenses of this long-range scope do not easily get damaged because they are scratch-resistant.
The total weight of this long-range scope is 12.2 ounces, while its total length is 12.39 inches. The eye relief of this scope would ensure that your eyes and eyebrows are protected when powerful recoils hit. To be exact with that, it has an eye relief that ranges from 3.66 inches to 4.17 inches.
Pros
- Lenses are protected with the scratch-resistant properties
- Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof
- It is tested to perform really well regardless of the temperature in the hunting and shooting field
Cons
- Its battery consumption is faster when the settings you are using are higher
Leupold’s VX – Freedom 3-9x40mm is one of the Best Long-Range Scope for AR-15 available in the market. It is the perfect choice for hunting because its lens are highly protected.
2. Primary Arms Classic Series 4-16x44mm SFP Rifle Scope
Primary Arms’ Classic Series 4-16x44mm SFP Rifle Scope has a mil-dot reticle that does not change its size even when you are using it at any magnification.
That is because it is at the second focal plane, so the reticle size would always stay the same for you to have a full view of the shooting and hunting field.
This long-range scope also has illumination for its reticle to be conveniently used even when the outdoor condition becomes really dark.
Primary Arms’ Classic Series
- 4-16x magnification
- 44mm objective lens
- 3.50-3.30 inches eye relief
- Illuminated Mil-Dot reticle
- CR2032 Battery
When talking about the built of this scope, you are never going to have a problem with its design because it is a tough long-range scope with shock-proofing, waterproofing, and fog-proofing. Its diopter ring can be adjusted if ever that you are nearsighted or farsighted.
This long-range scope has knobs that are specifically made for adjustments regarding elevation and windage.
When it comes to shooting in low-light conditions, you would be amazed at the reliability and performance of this scope since it has 12 different brightness settings.
The magnification range of this long-range scope starts from 4X and reaches 16X. With that magnification range, it becomes suitable for shooting applications that involve medium range to long range of shots.
This long-range scope has multi-coated lenses that give it the ability to provide a bright view even when the lighting condition in the shooting and hunting field is not that good.
When you buy this long-rang scope, it comes with a free lithium battery that you can use as its power source.
Pros
- Very wide magnification range
- 12 different brightness settings
- Reticle is illuminated
- Knobs for both elevation and windage adjustments
Cons
- Its glass quality can still be improved
Primary Arms’ Classic Series 4-16x44mm SFP Rifle Scope is a perfect partner for you during night hunting. Mostly it is preferred by all hunters.
3. Bushnell Optics 4.5-18X40 DZ 6.5 Creed
Bushnell Optics’ 4.5-18X40 DZ 6.5 Creed would provide you with the maximum reliability and accuracy that you are looking for.
This long-range scope has fully multi-coated optics that give it the ability to provide a view of the shooting and hunting field with a high resolution.
Its optics aim to balance the contrast, the color, and the brightness in order to be suitable for all lighting conditions out there.
Bushnell Optics 4.5-18X40
- 4.5-18x magnification
- 40mm objective lens
- Fully multi-coated lens
- 22 ft field of view @ 100 yards
- 3.6 inches eye relief
With the 4.5X to 18X magnification range of this long-range scope, you are going to be accurate and precise within medium ranges and long ranges of distances.
To help you in making some quick adjustments, the turrets of this long-range scope are exposed for you to readily see it. These turrets are made for adjustments regarding elevation and windage.
Just like any long-range scope for AR-15, this one is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof too. You would be able to use it under any condition, including heavy rain, cloudy skies, and many more.
On top of that, this long-range scope is also light in weight, which is why it would never slow you down while you are on the move in the shooting and hunting field.
It is built using aluminum to make sure that it does need to be heavy just to be durable. The lenses of this long-range scope are enhanced in performance with its anti-reflective properties.
Pros
- Very wide magnification range
- Compatible with a lot of rifles besides AR-15
- Weight is a light one
- Has exposed turrets
Cons
- Its crosshair reticle type is slightly thick
Bushnell Optics’ 4.5-18X40 DZ 6.5 Creed is an outstanding night vision scope for AR-15 in the market because of its effortless function. It is a unique riflescope for whose hunters who love night hunting.
4. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Rifle Scope
Vortex’s Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Rifle Scope is incredibly designed when it comes to the magnification range that it has.
To give you an idea about that, you would be able to switch from 3X to 18X magnification anytime you want to; that range is enough for you to be accurate in both short-range shots and in long-range shots.
This long-range scope has fully multi-coated optics that ensure that you are going to experience the maximum light transmission even in low-light conditions.
Vortex Optics Strike Eagle
- 1-6x magnification
- 24mm objetctive lens
- 19.2 - 116.5 ft field of view at 100 yds
- 3.5 inches eye relief
- CR2032 Lithium battery
- AR-BDC3 reticle
It also offers 11 different brightness settings for you to have a brighter view of the shooting and hunting field regardless of the lighting condition you are in.
The tactical turrets of this long-range scope are made to ensure that you are going to have more accuracy and precision with your shots.
When talking about the building, this long-range scope’s durability would amaze because it is both recoil-proof and impact resistant.
In other words, it does not get damaged when exposed to heavy recoils, and even when it hits something hard or gets dropped. It has both an O-ring sealing and a nitrogen purging that makes it more durable.
Because of those two properties, this long-range scope becomes resistant to water, dust, fog, and snow. The diameter of the objective lens of this long-range scope is more than enough to let light enter through it and provide a bright view of the surroundings.
This long-range scope for AR-15 provides a parallax-free performance within a 20-yard distance. When the target is beyond that given distance, adjustments would be provided.
Pros
- Magnification range is very incredible
- Glass-etched reticle type
- Impact resistant and recoil-proof
- O-ring sealing and nitrogen purging
Cons
- Its eye relief is not that sufficient
5. UTG 3-12x44 30mm Compact Scope
UTG’s 3-12×44 30mm Compact Scope is built with durability taken into a high level of consideration. It is completely sealed, and its interior parts are filled with nitrogen gas, so it can deliver a performance that is shockproof, rain-proof, and fog-proof.
Its multi-coated emerald lenses are designed to provide the maximum transmission of light in order to provide bright views with clarity.
UTG 3-12x44 30mm
- 3-12x magnification
- 44mm objective lens
- 32-10 ft field of view @ 100 yards
- 3.4-3 inches eye relief
- CR2032 3V battery
- Mil dot reticle
It has a sunshade and a flip-up cover for its lenses to stay protected at all times. It has a special housing design that gives it an uninterrupted performance even when mounted on firearms that are known to have recoils.
The diameter of this long-range scope’s objective lens is 44 millimeters, and its magnification range is between 3X to 12X.
With that range, you would be able to see targets that are located at a short-range, medium-range, and long-range distance.
The exterior finish of this long-range scope is a matte black finish—this gives it a very good and elegant look, but there is more to that type of finish than just bringing aesthetics.
With a matte finish, the surfaces become less susceptible to scratching. This long-range scope has a parallax-free performance within a 10-yard radius; if your shots have to be done beyond that, then the parallax settings need to be adjusted already.
This best AR-15 scope has a mil-dot type of reticle that is available in 36 different colors to choose from.
Pros
- Multi-coated emerald lenses
- Special design for its housing
- Completely sealed
- Comes with two lithium batteries
Cons
- It is a little bit heavy with a weight of 658 grams
6. Simmon 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope
Simmons’ 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope is the last on our list, but it is definitely not the least when it comes to reliability and other features.
This long-range scope has fully coated optics, just like some of the other ones on this list. This has adjustments that are easy to do for its elevation and windage.
It has a quick target acquisition that would let you see your targets in just a matter of seconds; thus, letting you have more targets shot in less time.
Simmon 8-Point
- 3-9x magnification
- 50mm objective lens
- 31.4-10.5 ft field of view @ 100 yards
- 3.75 inches eye relief
- Truplex reticle
The size of the objective lens of this long-range scope is at a 50-millimeter diameter, while its eye relief has a measurement of 3.75 inches.
Its weight is one of the things that hunters and shooters love about it because it just has a total of 0.63 pounds. With that weight, you would even barely feel that you are carrying it with you and your firearm.
This long-range scope for AR-15 has a matte black finish that makes it look really rad. It also has unquestionable durability because of its waterproofing, fog-proofing, and recoil-proofing.
With all those combined properties, you can be confident in using this long-range scope under any condition that you may encounter in the hunting and shooting field.
The magnification range that this long-range scope offers is 3X to 9X, so it can be used for a very wide distance, including short ranges and long ranges.
With the robust design of this long-range scope, it can surely be used for a wide application.
Pros
- Quick target acquisition
- Large-sized objective lens
- Ultralight weight
- Recoil-proof, waterproof and fog-proof
Cons
- Its focus ring is a little bit weak
7. PROSTAFF P5 Riflescope
PROSTAFF P5 comes from the brand of Nikon—this manufacturer is known to produce scopes that have the best optics.
This long-range scope that you can mount on your AR-15 is a very durable scope because it is built using an aircraft-grade aluminum—this material is high in strength but light in weight.
The turrets of this long-range scope for AR-15 are very easy to use, and they are spring-loaded.
PROSTAFF P5 Riflescope
- 3-12x magnification
- 42mm objective lens
- Fully multicoated optics
- 4x zoom
- BDC reticle
The adjustment turrets are built using aluminum, so they are durable, too, even when they are moveable parts. The diameter of this long-range scope is 1 inch, and its magnification range starts from 3X up to 12X.
With its magnification range, this long-range scope can be used to sight targets that are 800 yards away.
This long-range scope is nitrogen purged; that is why you would experience no fogging even when you are faced with a sudden change in temperature in the hunting and shooting field.
You would also be able to depend on this long-range scope to be functional even when it is raining since it has waterproofing.
In addition, this long-range scope for AR-15 can endure strong impacts because it is shockproof. This long-range scope also has an adjustment dial for its parallax settings. The dial is very easy to use and adjust even without you changing your position.
When you use this scope during conditions with a moist and humid atmosphere, you can have the assurance that water would not be allowed to penetrate inside it because it has an o-ring sealing. This long-range scope for AR-15 has a matte black finish that does not get easily scratched.
Pros
- Multi-coated optics
- It has a very durable built
- Both fog-proof and waterproof
- Easy settings for adjustments
Cons
- Has no illuminated reticle
8. Leupold VX – R Patrol Rifle Scope
Leupold’s VX – R Patrol Rifle Scope is one of the best long-range scope for AR-15 that you can buy on the market.
This long-range scope is a very lightweight scope to the point that its weight can be barely felt when mounted on an AR-15.
To give you an idea about its weight, it just has a total of 0.96 pounds. This long-range scope has a magnification range that starts from 3X and reaches 9X.
Leupold VX – R Patro
- 3-9x magnification
- 40mm objective lens
- 33.1-13.6 ft field of view at 100 yds
- 4.2 - 3.7 inches eye relief
- Firedot reticle
With a powerful range, you would be able to use it both for short ranges and long ranges. This long-range scope has a motion sensor technology that would help you save battery because it deactivates and automatically turns off once it does not sense any movement within five minutes.
You would be able to depend on this long-range scope to be good equipment for your AR-15 anytime because it is 100 percent waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof.
This long-range scope has a unique light system called “Twilight Light Management System”—this feature gives it an extra 10-minute of lighting once the battery runs out of power.
This long-range scope is built using 6061-T6 aircraft quality aluminum. That material used gives it a very strong body that would be able to withstand the harshest and most impactful recoils of some firearms.
This also has a main tube with a diameter of 30 millimeters, and it has easy to use adjustments for elevation and windage.
Pros
- Very generous eye relief
- Ultralight in weight
- Shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof
- It can be mounted on a wide variety of rifles
Cons
- It consumes a lot of battery power when used at its full bright mode
9. Bushnell Optics Drop Zone BDC Reticle Rifle Scope
Bushnell’s Optics Drop Zone BDC Reticle Rifle Scope has a weight of 1.31 pounds, and its length is 12.2 inches in total.
With a weight and length like those, you would be able to pair it with a wide variety of rifles; and it does not have any problem when it comes to compatibility.
The thing that makes this long-range scope applicable for doing long-range shots is its magnification range.
Bushnell Optics
- 3-9x magnification
- 40mm objective lens
- Fully multi-coated optics
- 31.9-11.3 ft field of view @ 100 yards
- 3.7 inches eye relief
It starts from 3X and reaches 9X—with a magnification that wide, this long-range scope can give you a very clear sight at a distance of 500 yards. I
t also has fully multi-coated optics that would let you enjoy a view that has brightness and clarity.
This long-range scope has parallax adjustments that can be easily used and configured. It also has a quick focus eyepiece that would let you shoot your targets faster.
With a quick focus eyepiece, you would be able to shoot more targets in just a shorter span of time. This long-range scope for AR-15 is built using an aluminum alloy of very high durability, and it is paired with an anodized finish for its exterior parts.
With the anodized finish, this long-range scope becomes resistant to corrosion and scratches. To make its interior parts protected, it has a complete sealing that would not allow any tough element to enter inside it.
Pros
- Has multi-coated optics
- Aiming points for up to 500 yards
- Quick focus eyepiece
Cons
- The turret for the adjustment of magnification is quite stiff at first
10. Nikon M – Tactical .223 4-16x42SF Matte BDC600
Nikon’s M – Tactical .223 4-16x42SF Matte BDC600 is placed in the list of best long-range scope for AR-15 rifle. This long-range scope has a 30-millimeter main tube for its body.
The reticle type of this scope is BDC600 that can help you have more accurate and precise shots since it offers hash-marks and aiming points within the range of 100 yards to 600 yards.
The elevation and windage adjustments offered by this long-range scope can be easily set using its exposed turrets.
Nikon M – Tactical Matte
- 4-16x magnification
- 42mm objective lens
- 27.8–6.8 ft field of view @ 100 yards
- 3.9-3.6 inches eye relief
- BDC 600 reticle
It also has a knob for the parallax adjustment, so you will never have a problem anytime that you need to make quick adjustments.
You also would not be required to change your shooting position when you have to make some adjustments.
This long range-scope has a design that makes it waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof, which is why it stays durable and reliable after being exposed to some tough elements and situations.
Even when you pair this long-range scope with a firearm that is known to produce heavy recoils, this long-range scope would still be reliable.
The fully multi-coated optics of this long-range scope for AR-15 are very useful, especially in providing a bright and high-contrast view of the shooting and hunting field even in low-light conditions.
Just like some other long-range scopes, this one has an anodized finish too in order to be protected from scratches and corrosion.
With the 4X to 16X magnification range of this scope, you would be accurate and precise in both medium-range and long-range shots.
Pros
- Has hash-marks and aiming points
- Parallax adjustment knob
- Multi-coated optics
- Waterproof, shockproof and fog-proof
Cons
- Bit heavy
Factors To Consider When Buying A Best Long-Range Scope For AR-15
Magnification Range
When you want to use your AR-15 for long-range applications that would involve shooting very far targets, then the most important thing that you have to consider is the range of magnification.
The magnification would let you see objects and targets that are located at a very far distance. Of course, the higher the magnification, the farther you would be able to see too.
When looking for a magnification range that can be used for long-range shots, the minimum you must consider has 9X magnification. 
With a 9X magnification, you would already be able to shoot targets located at a distance of 500 yards with ease.
You would be able to zoom in without having distorted vision or sight, too, with a higher magnification.
But if you also want to be accurate and precise when it comes to shooting within short ranges, too, try to consider a magnification range with a wide option just like 3X to 9X, 4.5X to 18X and etc.
Light Weight
The AR-15 rifle type is widely known and used because it has one of the lightest weights when compared to the other types of rifles.
Since it has very lightweight only, it is not right to mount a very heavy scope on top of it. Considering the weight that the AR-15 has, the weight of the long-range scope that must get should be light too.
If you mount a long-range scope that is heavy on top of it, you are going to have shots that would not accurately and precisely hit your targets because your AR-15 would somehow be outbalanced.
In addition, you would also have some trouble and difficulty while carrying it when you want to move locations if you have a heavy long-range scope.
To be sure that you would be able to perform well while not damaging your AR-15, just choose a lightweight long-range scope.
Resistance to Weather Conditions
Long-range hunting and shooting are often done outside—for this reason; you have to buy a long-range scope that is designed to have the maximum protection against different conditions out there.
The resistance of your long-range scope against different weather conditions must be considered too. If you do not consider that factor, your scope might break or get damaged sooner.
When that happens, you would be required to buy a new one and spend more money. So better be sure that you are buying a long-range scope with incredible resistance against tough weather conditions such as heavy storms and extreme heat from the sun in order to save money in the long run.
Some of the properties that make a long-range scope protected are nitrogen purging, nitrogen filling, complete sealing, and O-ring sealing.
Price and Quality
One of the first things that people check when they are buying something is the price. When buying a long-range scope, you should consider it too because you obviously do not want to break your bank account.
Nowadays, there are long-range scopes for AR-15 that are affordable. If you have the time and luxury, try to search for those ones since they are also proven to be reliable.
You do not have to buy the most expensive one because it does not guarantee you that you are going to have a long-range scope that would perform well at all times.
You have to check the price and quality at the same time to make sure that you spend your money wisely.
Optics
The optics is another factor that you have to look into when buying a long-range scope. The main reason why you are buying a long-range scope is to have a good view or sight of distances that cannot be seen with the human eye, so it is of paramount importance that you consider having a good quality of optics for you to see good quality views and sights too. 
One of the things that you must check is having fully multi-coated optics. Having a reticle type that is directly etched on the glass of the lenses is a good design to include in the optics, too—this would ensure that the reticle does not fade over time. Another thing that you have to check has scratch-resistant lenses.
Takeaway
AR-15 is a very powerful firearm, but it still needs equipment to unleash its best and full potential. Just like any other rifle type, it needs a scope that can assist it in shooting within different ranges.
All of the long-range scopes that are mentioned above have been recommended by experts and shooting enthusiasts, so they really are proven and tested to of great compatibility with an AR-15 rifle.
These long-range scopes have different designs that make them unique when compared to each other, and with that, they offer some advantages when it comes to shooting within long ranges.
Of course, you still have to consider some other factors of your preference. We hope you have a good shooting and hunting experience with the use of these listed best long-range scopes for AR-15 in 2021.