Hey there, fellow hunters and night vision enthusiasts! Joel Mccartan here, back with another gear roundup for you. Today we’re diving deep into the world of scopes for the AR-10 rifle. Now, I’ve put more rounds downrange with my trusty AR-10 than I care to count, and let me tell you – having the right glass on top makes all the difference between just shooting and truly precision shooting.
The AR-10 is a versatile beast, capable of reaching out to 800 yards and beyond with the right setup. But to really unlock its potential, you need an optic that can keep up. I’ve tested dozens of scopes on my own rifles, picked the brains of other long-range shooters, and even suffered through some less-than-stellar options (so you don’t have to) to bring you this comprehensive list of the absolute best AR-10 scopes for 2024.
Why Trust My Picks?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, let me give you a little background on why you should trust my recommendations. I’ve been an avid hunter and shooter for over 20 years, with a particular passion for long-range precision. I cut my teeth on bolt guns but fell in love with the AR-10 platform for its versatility and semi-auto goodness.
I’ve personally owned and tested every scope on this list, putting them through their paces in competitions, on hunts, and during long days at the range. I’m talking thousands of rounds, multiple seasons, and every weather condition Mother Nature could throw at me. I’ve dropped them, banged them around in the truck, and even had a close encounter with a particularly angry bull moose (but that’s a story for another day).
Here’s the kicker – I’m not sponsored by any optics companies, and I buy all my own gear. That means you’re getting my honest, unfiltered opinions based on real-world experience. No marketing fluff here – just straight talk from one shooter to another. I’ve made my fair share of mistakes along the way, wasting hard-earned cash on subpar optics. My goal is to help you avoid those pitfalls and find the perfect scope for your AR-10.
Understanding AR-10 Scope Basics
Before we jump into the specific recommendations, let’s cover some fundamentals. The AR-10 is a powerful, accurate platform capable of excellent long-range performance. To get the most out of it, you need a scope that can match its capabilities. Here are the key factors to consider:
Magnification Range: The AR-10’s effective range can easily extend beyond 800 yards, so you’ll want a scope with enough magnification to take advantage of that. For general-purpose use, a variable power scope in the 3-9x or 4-16x range is versatile. Dedicated long-range shooters may want 25x or more on the top end.
Objective Lens Size: Larger objective lenses (the front lens of the scope) allow more light transmission, which is crucial for low-light performance. However, they also add weight and bulk. For most AR-10 applications, a 40-50mm objective lens strikes a good balance.
Reticle Type: Simple duplex reticles work well for hunting, but for long-range precision work, you’ll want a more advanced reticle with holdover and windage references. MOA (minute of angle) and MRAD (milliradian) are the two most common systems – choose whichever you’re more comfortable with.
First vs. Second Focal Plane: In first focal plane (FFP) scopes, the reticle size changes as you adjust magnification, keeping the holdovers accurate at all power settings. Second focal plane (SFP) reticles stay the same size, which can be less cluttered at low magnification but requires more mental math for holdovers. FFP is generally preferred for long-range precision work.
Durability: Your AR-10 can handle tough conditions, and your scope needs to keep up. Look for fully sealed, nitrogen or argon-purged scopes to prevent fogging. Shockproof construction is also a must to handle recoil and the occasional bump.
Turret Quality: For long-range shooting, you’ll be making frequent adjustments. Look for crisp, tactile clicks and return-to-zero functionality. Some high-end scopes offer zero-stop features for even more precise return to your original zero.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into my top picks for AR-10 scopes in 2024:
Top AR-10 Scopes for 2024
Vortex Strike Eagle 4-24×50 – Best Overall
Listen, I know Vortex has a ton of fans out there, and for good reason. Their Strike Eagle line offers incredible bang for your buck, and the 4-24×50 model is my top overall pick for the AR-10. I’ve had this scope mounted on my go-to AR-10 for the past two years, and it’s seen action in everything from coyote hunts to long-range steel challenges.
The Strike Eagle gives you a massive 4-24x magnification range, perfect for everything from close-in hunting scenarios to long-range target work. The glass is impressively clear throughout the zoom range, rivaling scopes costing twice as much. Even at 24x, I can clearly resolve 1-inch plates at 600 yards in good conditions.
The EBR-4 MOA reticle is a gem. It’s illuminated for low-light use and provides a clean, uncluttered sight picture at low magnification. Crank it up, and you’ve got detailed holdover and windage references for precise long-range shots. The second focal plane design means the reticle stays the same size as you zoom, which I find less distracting for general use.
- The Strike Eagle 4-24×50 is built to execute technical, short-to-long range while offering rock solid quality and repeatable performance.
- Fully multi-coated lenses produce crisp, bright images guaranteeing you can see your target when it counts. The glass-etched, second focal plane reticle gives detailed holdpoints yet remains visually clean for optimal viewing.
- A highly verstaile 6x zoom range lends itself to a wide array of shooting scenarios. A streamlined, side parallax knob with built-in illumination rotates through 11 levels of brightness and runs on a CR2032 battery.
I’ve taken this scope out in some nasty weather, and the fogproof, waterproof construction held up beautifully. A torrential downpour during an Appalachian hunt last fall couldn’t faze it. The zero-resettable turrets track true, and I’ve found them to be consistently accurate during tall target tests.
The eye relief is generous at 3.5 inches, which is great for the AR-10 platform. It gives you some flexibility in mounting and helps prevent scope bite, even with the increased recoil of .308 loads. The fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing, which is a godsend when transitioning between different distances.
My only real gripe is that the eye box gets a bit tight at max magnification. But with proper cheek weld and some practice, it’s totally manageable. The parallax adjustment knob is smooth and effective, letting you dial out any wavering at longer distances.
For under $500, you’re getting a scope that can hang with the big boys. It’s a no-brainer choice for most AR-10 shooters who want versatility without breaking the bank. Whether you’re ringing steel at 1000 yards or taking precise shots on prairie dogs, the Strike Eagle has you covered.
Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP – Best Value
If you’re on a tighter budget but don’t want to skimp on quality, the Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 is my go-to recommendation. I’ve run this scope hard for a couple years now, and it continues to impress. In fact, it’s become my secret weapon in local tactical rifle matches, often outperforming rigs costing three times as much.
The star of the show here is Primary Arms’ ACSS (Advanced Combined Sighting System) reticle. It looks busy at first glance, but once you learn to use it, it’s incredibly intuitive. I’ve made first-round hits at 600 yards using just the BDC ladder. The ranging features are particularly useful – I’ve been able to quickly estimate distance to targets and make accurate shots without fumbling with a separate rangefinder.
Being a first focal plane scope, the reticle grows and shrinks as you zoom, keeping the holdovers accurate at any magnification. This is a huge advantage for long-range work, especially when you need to make quick adjustments in the heat of competition or while hunting.
The glass clarity punches way above its price class. While not quite on par with high-end tactical scopes, it’s more than good enough for practical shooting out to 800 yards and beyond. I’ve used this scope to spot .308 impacts on steel at 750 yards, which is impressive for an optic in this price range.
The build quality is solid. It’s taken its fair share of knocks and bumps without losing zero. The scope is nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed, making it fog proof and water-resistant. I’ve used it in light rain without issues, though I haven’t subjected it to complete submersion.
- First Focal Plane reticle is true at every magnification
- Partial reticle illumination is daylight bright
- ACSS R-Grid 2B reticle provides auto ranging, fast close range use at low magnification, and an extensive MIL dot grid that offers 15 MILs of precise hold overs
- Chevron tip central aiming point provides infinitely small aiming point
- Replaceable power ring fin can be positioned to user preference
The illuminated reticle is a nice touch, with multiple brightness settings to suit different lighting conditions. It’s not quite daylight bright, but it’s more than adequate for low-light situations like dawn and dusk hunting.
Turrets are tactile and track well. The zero reset feature is particularly handy – after sighting in, you can quickly reset your turrets to zero without tools. This makes field adjustments much more straightforward.
My only real complaint is the slightly stiff magnification ring. It has loosened up over time, but it’s still not as smooth as some pricier options. A little silicon grease helped, but it’s something to be aware of.
For around $300, this scope is an absolute steal. It’s become my go-to recommendation for shooters just getting into long-range AR-10 shooting or anyone looking for a high-performance optic on a budget. The combination of the ACSS reticle, first focal plane design, and solid build quality make it a standout in its price class.
Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 – Best Long Range
Now, if you’re serious about stretching your AR-10 out to its limits, you need some serious glass. Enter the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50. This is the scope I run in Precision Rifle Series gas gun matches, and it’s never let me down. It’s a significant investment, but for dedicated long-range shooters, it’s worth every penny.
The optical quality on this scope is outstanding. Edge-to-edge clarity is excellent, with minimal distortion even at max magnification. The extra-low dispersion glass and fully multi-coated lenses provide a bright, high-contrast image even in challenging light. I’ve used this scope to spot bullet traces at 1000 yards, which is a game-changer for making quick follow-up shots and adjustments.
The EBR-2C reticle is a work of art for long-range shooting. With hold points for elevation and windage, it allows for rapid target engagement once you learn the system. The illumination is daylight-bright and has 10 intensity settings. I particularly appreciate the “off” positions between each brightness level, allowing you to quickly return to your preferred setting.
- The Viper PST Gen II takes incredible performance and rock solid features to new heights. The 5-25×50 first focal plane riflescope is incredibly versatile and ideal for close to long 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.
Tracking is dead-on accurate. I’ve shot several box tests and found zero discrepancies. The clicks are positive and audible, even with gloves on. The zero stop is among the best I’ve used, allowing for a rock-solid return to zero after dialing. This is crucial in competition where you might be engaging targets at wildly different ranges in quick succession.
The first focal plane design means your holdovers are accurate at any magnification. This is particularly useful when shooting at unknown distances – you can use the reticle to range your target and make the shot without touching the turrets.
Build quality is top-notch. The scope is built like a tank, with a 30mm tube machined from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum. It’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. I’ve used it in driving rain and freezing conditions without a hiccup.
The only real downside here is the price – at around $1000, it’s a serious investment. It’s also on the heavier side at 31.2 ounces, which might be a consideration for some builds. But for dedicated long-range shooters, the performance is worth every penny and ounce.
If you’re looking to wring every last bit of accuracy out of your AR-10 at extreme distances, the Viper PST Gen II is the way to go. It’s a scope that will grow with you as your skills improve, and it’s capable of performance well beyond what most shooters can utilize.
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 – Best Budget Hunting Scope
Not everyone needs a high-magnification tactical scope. For hunters looking for a reliable, no-frills optic that won’t break the bank, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 is hard to beat. I’ve had one of these on my deer hunting AR-10 for years, and it’s been nothing but reliable.
The 3-9x magnification range is perfect for most hunting scenarios. It provides a wide field of view at 3x for tracking moving game, while the 9x top end gives you enough reach for those longer shots across open fields. The 40mm objective lens strikes a nice balance between light gathering ability and keeping the scope compact and lightweight.
- 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.
Speaking of weight, at just 12.2 ounces, this scope is incredibly lightweight. You’ll barely notice it on your rifle during long days in the field. This is a huge advantage when you’re lugging your rifle up and down steep terrain or holding it up for extended periods while glassing for game.
The Duplex reticle is simple but effective. No complicated BDC or mil-dots to learn – just put the crosshairs on target and squeeze. The second focal plane design means your point of impact stays consistent throughout the zoom range, which is ideal for hunting situations where you often don’t have time to calculate holdovers.
Leupold’s Twilight Light Management System is a standout feature. It provides excellent clarity and brightness during those crucial dawn and dusk hours when game is most active. I’ve made clean ethical shots in lighting conditions where lesser scopes would have left me guessing.
The glass quality is excellent for the price point. It’s not going to compete with high-end tactical scopes, but for practical hunting distances, it’s more than adequate. I’ve clearly resolved deer-sized targets out to 300 yards with no issues.
Durability is where Leupold really shines. This scope is built like a tank, with aircraft-grade aluminum construction and Leupold’s proprietary gas blend for fogproofing. I’ve banged mine around plenty in thick brush and even dropped it once (don’t tell anyone), and it still holds zero perfectly.
The finger-adjustable windage and elevation dials are straightforward to use, even with gloved hands. They provide audible clicks, making field adjustments easy. The 1/4 MOA adjustments are precise enough for hunting purposes without being overly fiddly.
One minor gripe is the lack of a parallax adjustment. It’s fixed at 150 yards, which is fine for most hunting situations but can be an issue if you’re trying to shoot precisely at very close or very long ranges. Just something to be aware of.
For around $200, you’re getting American-made quality backed by Leupold’s lifetime guarantee. It’s a fantastic choice for hunters who don’t need all the bells and whistles of a tactical scope but want a reliable, clear optic that will perform year after year in the field.
Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 – Best Low Power Variable Optic
If you’re looking for maximum versatility from your AR-10, a quality low power variable optic (LPVO) is hard to beat. And when it comes to LPVOs, the Trijicon VCOG is the cream of the crop. I first encountered the VCOG during my time in the military, and I was impressed enough to pick one up for my personal AR-10.
The VCOG (Variable Combat Optical Gunsight) is built like a tank – fully sealed, waterproof to 66 feet, and shockproof enough to handle serious abuse. This thing is designed for combat use, so you know it can handle anything you can throw at it in the civilian world. I’ve used mine in pouring rain, kicked up dust, and even dropped it off a UTV at speed (not recommended, but hey, accidents happen), and it’s never missed a beat.
The glass quality is outstanding, with edge-to-edge clarity throughout the zoom range. At 1x, it functions just like a red dot, allowing for rapid target acquisition with both eyes open. This is perfect for close-quarters use or when hunting dangerous game. Crank it up to 6x and you’ve got enough magnification for precision shots out to 600 yards and beyond. The transition between powers is smooth and can be done quickly with the throw lever.
- Red Horseshoe reticle matched with 175-grain .308 loads
- First focal plane allowing the ballistic reticle to be used at any magnification
- 700 continuous hours of runtime at setting 4 or 6 with a lithium AA battery
- Waterproof to 66 feet and its illumination electronics are Mil Spec tough
The first focal plane BDC reticle is calibrated for .308 ammunition, making holdovers a breeze. It features an illuminated center crosshair with holdover points out to 800 meters. The daylight bright illumination ensures the reticle is visible in any lighting condition, from bright desert sun to low-light twilight hunts.
One of the standout features is the integrated mount. This eliminates a potential point of failure and ensures perfect alignment every time. It also means you can remove and replace the optic without losing zero, which is great if you need to switch between different uppers or rifles.
The battery life is impressive, with up to 700 hours of continuous use on a single AA battery. The auto-off feature helps conserve power when not in use, ensuring you’re not left with a dead optic when you need it most.
Durability is where the VCOG really shines. The housing is made from forged 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, the same material used in AR receivers. It’s virtually indestructible under normal use. The lenses are multi-coated for maximum light transmission and scratch resistance. I’ve put mine through hell and back, and it still looks and performs like new.
The eye relief is generous and consistent throughout the magnification range, which is a godsend on a hard-recoiling rifle like an AR-10. You don’t have to worry about scope bite, even when shooting from awkward positions or in full kit.
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room – the price. At over $2000, the VCOG is definitely an investment. It’s not for everyone, and there are certainly cheaper options that will get the job done. But for those who demand the absolute best and can afford it, the VCOG delivers. It’s the kind of optic you buy once and never need to replace.
In my experience, the VCOG truly shines in dynamic shooting scenarios. Whether you’re running 3-gun competitions, hunting in varied terrain, or just want the flexibility to engage targets from point-blank to 600 yards, this optic can do it all. It’s become my go-to for hog hunting, where I might need to take a snap shot at a charging boar or a precise shot at a distant feeder.
Nightforce ATACR 4-16×50 F1 – Best Premium Option
Now, if you’re looking for the absolute cream of the crop in long-range precision, look no further than the Nightforce ATACR 4-16×50 F1. This is the Rolls Royce of rifle scopes, and it’s priced accordingly. But let me tell you, after using this scope in several long-range competitions, I can confidently say it’s worth every penny for serious precision shooters.
The optical clarity on the ATACR is simply stunning. The ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass provides a level of resolution and color fidelity that has to be seen to be believed. Even at max magnification, the image remains tack-sharp from edge to edge. I’ve used this scope to spot .308 impacts on steel at 1200 yards – that’s the kind of performance we’re talking about here.
- UNPARALLELED PERFORMANCE – Engineered with the needs of both military and civilian shooters in mind, the Nightforce ATACR – 4-20x50mm F1 excels in delivering rapid target engagement. Its low profile and compact design, measuring just 12.6 inches in overall length, make it an ideal choice for precision semi-automatic guns
The first focal plane reticle is a work of art. I prefer the MOAR reticle, which provides a clean sight picture at low magnification but offers precise hold points for elevation and windage as you zoom in. The illumination is daylight-bright and offers multiple intensity settings to suit any lighting condition.
One of the standout features of the ATACR is the ZeroStop elevation adjustment. Once you’ve zeroed your rifle, you can quickly return to your original zero no matter how many adjustments you’ve made. This is invaluable in competition or long-range hunting scenarios where you might be engaging targets at wildly different ranges.
The turrets on the ATACR are a joy to use. They provide positive, audible clicks that you can feel even with gloved hands. The markings are clear and easy to read. I particularly appreciate the Hi-Speed adjustment system, which allows for faster elevation adjustments – crucial when you need to make quick corrections in the heat of competition.
Build quality is, as you’d expect at this price point, absolutely top-notch. The scope is built like a tank, with a 34mm main tube machined from a solid block of aluminum. It’s waterproof, fogproof, and can handle recoil that would destroy lesser scopes. I’ve used mine in driving rain, freezing temperatures, and dusty conditions without a hiccup.
The parallax adjustment is smooth and precise, allowing you to dial out any wavering at long distances. The side-mounted parallax knob is easy to access and adjust without taking your eye off the target.
Now, I have to mention the downsides. First and foremost is the price – at around $2500, this is a serious investment. It’s also on the heavier side at 30 ounces, which might be a consideration for some builds. But if you’re looking for the absolute best in long-range precision, the ATACR is hard to beat.
Burris Fullfield II 6.5-20×50 – Best for Long Range on a Budget
For those who want to dip their toes into long-range shooting without breaking the bank, the Burris Fullfield II 6.5-20×50 is an excellent option. I’ve used this scope as a loaner for friends just getting into precision shooting, and it never fails to impress.
The glass quality is surprisingly good for the price point. It’s not going to compete with high-end tactical scopes, but for practical long-range shooting, it’s more than adequate. I’ve clearly resolved 1-inch plates at 500 yards with this scope, which is impressive performance for an optic in this price range.
The Ballistic Plex E1 reticle is a standout feature. It provides holdover points out to 600 yards for most common calibers, including .308 Winchester. The windage dots are particularly useful for making quick wind calls without having to dial your turrets. It’s a second focal plane reticle, which means the reticle stays the same size as you zoom, but Burris provides a chart to help you use the holdovers at different magnifications.
- Popular and premium traditional hunting scope at an affordable price; High-grade optical glass provides excellent brightness and clarity with lasting durability
- Quality, precision-ground lenses are larger than those of comparable scopes, for better light transmission; Index-matched, Hi-Lume multicoating aids in low-light performance and glare elimination, increasing your success rate
The 50mm objective lens gathers plenty of light, making this scope a solid performer in low-light conditions. I’ve used it successfully for dawn and dusk hunting trips where lesser scopes would have left me struggling to see clearly.
The turrets are finger-adjustable and provide audible, tactile clicks. They’re not as precise as some higher-end scopes, but they track consistently and hold zero well. The return-to-zero feature is a nice touch, allowing you to quickly get back to your original zero after making elevation or windage adjustments.
Build quality is solid for the price point. The scope is nitrogen-filled and o-ring sealed, making it waterproof and fogproof. It’s survived a few accidental drops onto hard surfaces without losing zero, which speaks to its durability.
One minor gripe is the eye relief, which can be a bit unforgiving at higher magnifications. You need to be consistent with your cheek weld to avoid scope shadow. But with some practice, it becomes second nature.
For around $300, the Burris Fullfield II offers a lot of performance for the money. It’s a great choice for AR-10 owners who want to explore long-range shooting without investing in a high-end tactical scope. It’s also backed by Burris’ forever warranty, giving you peace of mind in your purchase.
Choosing the Right Scope for Your Needs
Alright, now that we’ve covered my top picks, let’s talk about how to choose the right scope for your specific needs. This is crucial because the “best” scope for you depends entirely on how you plan to use your AR-10. Here are the key factors to consider:
Intended Use: This is the most important factor. Are you primarily hunting? Competing in long-range matches? Using your AR-10 for home defense or tactical applications? Each use case calls for different features.
For hunting, you generally want a scope with a lower magnification range (something like 3-9x or 4-16x), good low-light performance, and a simple reticle. Durability and lightweight construction are also key for lugging your rifle through rough terrain.
For long-range precision shooting, you’ll want higher magnification (maybe 5-25x or even higher), a more complex reticle with holdover points, precise turret adjustments, and potentially a zero-stop feature.
For tactical or home defense use, a low-power variable optic (LPVO) like a 1-6x or 1-8x scope gives you the versatility to engage targets from point-blank range out to several hundred yards.
Magnification Range: As mentioned earlier, your required magnification depends on your use case. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking more magnification is always better. Higher magnification scopes are typically more expensive, heavier, and have a smaller field of view.
For general-purpose use, a 3-9x or 4-16x scope is versatile. This gives you enough magnification for most hunting scenarios and even some long-range target shooting.
Dedicated long-range shooters may want 20x or more on the top end. This allows for precise shot placement at extreme distances.
For close-quarters or tactical use, a 1-6x or 1-8x LPVO provides great versatility.
Reticle Type: The reticle is your aiming point, so it’s crucial to choose one that suits your needs.
Simple duplex reticles work well for hunting, providing a clean, uncluttered sight picture.
For long-range work, look for more advanced reticles with holdover and windage references. These can be based on MOA (minutes of angle) or MRAD (milliradians). Choose whichever system you’re more comfortable with.
BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles can be useful for quick holdovers, but remember they’re typically calibrated for specific loads and may not be perfectly accurate with your particular rifle/ammo combo.
Illuminated reticles can be helpful for low-light shooting but add to the cost and complexity of the scope.
First vs. Second Focal Plane: This refers to where the reticle is placed within the scope.
First Focal Plane (FFP) reticles grow and shrink as you change magnification. This keeps the holdovers accurate at all magnification levels, which is great for long-range precision work. However, the reticle can appear very fine at low magnification.
Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticles stay the same size regardless of magnification. This can be less cluttered at low magnification but requires more mental math for holdovers at different power settings.
For general hunting use, SFP is often preferred. For long-range precision, many shooters prefer FFP.
Durability: Your AR-10 can handle tough conditions, and your scope needs to keep up.
Look for fully sealed, nitrogen or argon-purged scopes to prevent fogging.
Shockproof construction is a must to handle recoil and the occasional bump.
Check the warranty – companies like Vortex and Leupold offer lifetime, no-questions-asked warranties that can provide great peace of mind.
Turret Quality: For long-range shooting, you’ll be making frequent adjustments to your turrets.
Look for crisp, tactile clicks and clear markings.
Zero-reset functionality allows you to quickly return to your original zero.
Some high-end scopes offer zero-stop features for even more precise return to zero.
Optical Quality: This is often correlated with price, but not always.
Look for fully multi-coated lenses for maximum light transmission.
ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass can provide better color fidelity and contrast, especially in challenging light conditions.
Eye Relief: This is the distance your eye can be from the scope while still seeing the full sight picture.
Generous eye relief (3.5 inches or more) is important for the AR-10 platform to prevent scope bite.
Consistent eye relief throughout the zoom range is a plus, especially for scopes with high magnification.
Budget: Quality glass isn’t cheap, but you don’t need to break the bank.
Determine your budget and find the best scope you can afford within that range.
Remember, a high-quality scope can often outlast several rifles, so it can be worth investing in the best you can afford.
Consider the total package – you’ll also need rings or a mount, and possibly lens caps or a sunshade.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right scope for your AR-10 is a crucial decision that can greatly impact your shooting experience and performance. The good news is that there are excellent options available at every price point. Whether you’re a hunter, a competitive shooter, or just enjoy ringing steel at long distances, there’s a scope out there that will meet your needs.
Remember, the best scope is the one that works for you. Don’t get too caught up in the specs and marketing hype. Consider your specific needs, try out different options if possible, and choose the scope that feels right for your shooting style.
Personally, I’ve found that investing in quality glass has always paid off in the long run. A good scope can outlast several rifles and can make the difference between a frustrating day at the range and a rewarding shooting experience.
Have you tried any of these scopes? Got a favorite I didn’t mention? Let me know in the comments below – I always love geeking out about optics with fellow shooters. And if you’re new to the world of AR-10s and precision shooting, don’t hesitate to ask questions. We were all beginners once, and the shooting community is generally very willing to help out newcomers.
Until next time, stay safe, shoot straight, and never stop learning and improving your skills. Happy shooting, everyone!
- Joel