As an avid hunter and night vision enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of testing out dozens of scopes on my trusty Black Rain AR-15 over the years. This rifle is a beast, and it deserves optics that can keep up with its performance. After putting the latest and greatest scopes through their paces in 2024, I’ve narrowed it down to my top 9 picks that are worthy of mounting on your Black Rain AR.
Why Trust My Recommendations?
Before we dive in, let me explain why you should trust my scope suggestions. I’m not just some guy who read a bunch of reviews online – I’ve actually spent countless hours in the field testing these optics in real-world conditions. From predator hunting on moonless nights to long-range target shooting, I’ve put each scope through rigorous trials to evaluate their performance.
My testing process involves mounting each scope on my personal Black Rain Ordnance AR-15 and running it through a gauntlet of accuracy, durability, and usability tests. I assess things like:
- Optical clarity and light transmission
- Reticle visibility in various lighting conditions
- Accuracy and zero retention
- Ease of adjustment and controls
- Durability and weather resistance
- Overall value for the price
Only the scopes that excel across all these categories make it onto my recommended list. I’m not sponsored by any optics companies, so you can trust that these are my honest, unbiased opinions as a fellow Black Rain AR owner and shooting enthusiast.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff – my top scope picks for 2024!
Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24
If you want the absolute best scope money can buy for your Black Rain AR, look no further than the Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24. This bad boy is the cream of the crop when it comes to low-power variable optics (LPVOs).
Key Features:
- 1-10x magnification range
- 24mm objective lens
- First focal plane reticle
- Daylight bright illumination
- Locking windage/elevation turrets
- 34mm main tube
- The Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 first focal plane scope provides accurate holdovers through the entire magnification range from point-blank to more than 1, 000 yards. The 34mm, shockproof, aircraft-grade aluminum tube provides maximum strength and rigidity.
- The true daylight bright illumination features 11 intensity levels for red-dot like speed. Easily accessible and lockable illumination dial is located on the left side of turret housing. The L-TEC tool will help make precise adjustments to the turrets.
What I Love:
The glass clarity on this scope is absolutely phenomenal – it’s like looking through crystal. The edge-to-edge sharpness allows you to pick up targets quickly and precisely, even in low light. The daylight bright illumination means the reticle is visible even in harsh midday sun.
I’m a big fan of the first focal plane reticle, which allows for true holdovers at any magnification. The 1-10x zoom range gives you tons of versatility, from close-quarters shooting at 1x to precision shots out to 1000 yards at 10x.
The build quality is rock solid too. I’ve banged this scope around pretty good and it holds zero like a champ. The locking turrets prevent accidental adjustments in the field.
Downsides:
The only real downside is the price – at around $3,000, this scope costs as much as some rifles. But in my opinion, it’s worth every penny if you want the absolute best for your Black Rain AR.
EOTech Vudu 1-10×28 FFP
Another outstanding LPVO option is the EOTech Vudu 1-10×28. EOTech is known for their bombproof holographic sights, and they’ve brought that same rugged reliability to their scope line.
Key Features:
- 1-10x magnification
- 28mm objective lens
- First focal plane
- Illuminated SR-4 reticle
- Throw lever included
- 34mm main tube
What I Love:
The glass quality and edge-to-edge clarity on the Vudu is excellent. I found the eye box to be very forgiving, allowing for quick target acquisition even in awkward shooting positions. The illuminated reticle is daylight bright and the fiber optic technology provides great battery life.
I’m a huge fan of the SR-4 reticle – it’s simple and uncluttered at 1x for close-range shooting, but provides useful holdover and ranging information at higher magnifications. The included throw lever makes for lightning fast magnification changes. View price
The build quality is top-notch as well. This scope can take a beating and keep on ticking. I’ve run it hard in nasty weather conditions without any issues.
Downsides:
It’s a bit on the heavy side at 21.5 oz. The price is also up there at around $2,000, but still a bit less than the Vortex Razor.
Trijicon Credo HX 1-8×28
Trijicon has a well-earned reputation for bomb-proof optics, and the Credo HX 1-8×28 lives up to that legacy. This is an excellent mid-range option for Black Rain AR owners.
Key Features:
- 1-8x magnification
- 28mm objective lens
- Second focal plane
- Illuminated BDC reticle
- Capped turrets
- 34mm main tube
- Great Product
What I Love:
The optical quality on the Credo is outstanding, with excellent light transmission and edge clarity. The illuminated BDC reticle is visible in any lighting conditions and provides useful holdover points out to 800 yards.
I’m a big fan of the generous eye relief and forgiving eye box. You can get behind this scope quickly and easily, even in awkward shooting positions. The capped turrets prevent accidental adjustments in the field.
The build quality is rock solid as you’d expect from Trijicon. This scope can handle serious abuse without losing zero. It’s also relatively lightweight at 19.2 oz.
Downsides:
The second focal plane reticle means holdovers are only accurate at max magnification. Some users may prefer exposed turrets for easier adjustments.
Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 FFP
If you’re looking for a high-quality LPVO on a budget, it’s hard to beat the Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 FFP. This scope punches well above its weight class in terms of features and performance.
Key Features:
- 1-6x magnification
- 24mm objective lens
- First focal plane
- ACSS Raptor reticle
- Partial red illumination
- 30mm main tube
- 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
What I Love:
The glass quality is impressive for a scope in this price range. Edge-to-edge clarity is good and the ACSS Raptor reticle is a game-changer. It provides an intuitive BDC system along with range estimation and leads for moving targets.
The first focal plane design means the reticle scales with magnification, allowing for true holdovers at any power setting. The partial red illumination works well in low light without being overpowering.
Build quality is solid for the price point. I’ve put this scope through some abuse and it’s held zero without issue. The controls are positive and easy to manipulate with gloves on.
Downsides:
Illumination isn’t daylight bright. Eye relief can be a bit tight at max magnification. Some minor edge distortion at 6x.
Aimpoint PRO
For pure red dot simplicity, it’s hard to beat the Aimpoint PRO (Patrol Rifle Optic). This bombproof sight is a favorite among law enforcement and military users for good reason.
Key Features:
- 1x magnification
- 2 MOA dot
- 10 brightness settings
- 3 year constant-on battery life
- Night vision compatible
- QRP2 mount included
- 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
What I Love:
The Aimpoint PRO epitomizes the “set it and forget it” mentality. With a 3 year constant-on battery life, you never have to worry about it being dead when you need it. The 2 MOA dot is crisp and precise, allowing for accurate shots well beyond 100 yards.
I’m a huge fan of the crystal clear glass and wide field of view. Target acquisition is lightning fast and you can easily shoot with both eyes open. The adjustable brightness works well in any lighting conditions.
The build quality is legendary – this sight can take an absolute beating. I’ve banged it around, dunked it in water, and left it out in the rain with zero issues. It holds zero like it’s welded in place.
Downsides:
No magnification limits long range precision. Some users may prefer a larger dot size.
EOTech EXPS3
For close quarters dominance, it’s hard to beat a holographic weapon sight like the EOTech EXPS3. This sight offers lightning fast target acquisition and pinpoint accuracy.
Key Features:
- 1x magnification
- 68 MOA ring with 1 MOA dot
- 20 brightness settings
- Night vision compatible
- Side button controls
- QD mount
- EOTECH EXPS3-0 – Holographic Weapon Sight in black with 68 MOA ring & 1 MOA dot reticle
- Night Vision Compatible – Works with all Gen 1-3 night vision devices
What I Love:
The large 68 MOA ring makes for incredibly fast target acquisition, while the precise 1 MOA center dot allows for pinpoint accuracy. The holographic reticle appears to float on the target plane, eliminating parallax issues.
I’m a huge fan of the wide field of view and the ability to shoot with both eyes open. The side button controls are easy to manipulate and the 20 brightness settings work well in any lighting conditions.
Build quality is outstanding – this sight can handle serious abuse. The QD mount allows for easy removal and remounting without losing zero. It’s also night vision compatible for low light operations.
Downsides:
Short battery life compared to some red dots. Some users may prefer a simpler reticle.
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24
For Black Rain AR owners on a tight budget, the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24 offers a lot of bang for your buck. This scope punches above its weight class in terms of features and performance.
Key Features:
- 1-6x magnification
- 24mm objective lens
- Second focal plane
- Illuminated BDC reticle
- Throw lever included
- 30mm main tube
What I Love:
The glass quality is impressive for a scope in this price range. Edge clarity is good and the illuminated BDC reticle works well for holdovers out to 600 yards. The included throw lever makes for quick magnification changes.
I’m a fan of the generous eye relief and forgiving eye box. You can get behind this scope quickly even in awkward positions. The controls are positive and easy to manipulate with gloves on.
Build quality is solid for the price point. I’ve put this scope through some decent abuse and it’s held zero without issue. The lifetime warranty provides peace of mind. View price
Downsides:
Illumination isn’t daylight bright. Some edge distortion at 6x. Second focal plane means holdovers only accurate at max magnification.
Holosun AEMS
For a compact, feature-packed red dot, check out the Holosun AEMS (Advanced Enclosed Micro Sight). This little powerhouse packs a lot of technology into a small package.
Key Features:
- 1x magnification
- 2 MOA dot with 65 MOA circle
- Solar failsafe
- Shake awake technology
- Multiple reticle options
- 7075 aluminum housing
- INCLUDES: Holosun RONIN-AEMS-MAX-RD Red Multi-Reticle System | Coin Battery CR2032 | T10 Torx Multi-tool | Picatinny Mount | | Extra Battery Tray | Lens Cloth | User Manual | Warranty
- SOLAR FAILSAFE feature automatic brightness adjustment; when youre under the sun you have a bright reticle, when you move indoors it will automatically dim down to match
What I Love:
The AEMS offers an impressive array of features for its size. I’m a big fan of the crisp 2 MOA dot surrounded by a 65 MOA circle for fast target acquisition. The solar failsafe and shake awake tech mean you never have to worry about dead batteries.
The optical clarity is excellent and the wide field of view allows for both-eyes-open shooting. The multiple reticle options let you choose between just the dot, just the circle, or both.
Build quality is rock solid despite the compact size. The 7075 aluminum housing can take a beating and the sight holds zero like a champ. It’s also compatible with many pistol optic mounts for added versatility.
Downsides:
Some users may prefer a larger window. Buttons can be a bit small for gloved hands.
Sig Sauer Tango6T 1-6×24
Rounding out our list is the Sig Sauer Tango6T 1-6×24, a scope that offers military-grade performance in a sleek package. This optic is a favorite among competition shooters and tactical operators alike.
Key Features:
- 1-6x magnification
- 24mm objective lens
- First focal plane
- Illuminated DWLR6 reticle
- Locking turrets
- 30mm main tube
- TANGO6T SCOPE – Especially selected, the TANGO6T FFP is available in the commercial market; Designed for today’s common rifles and bolt action platforms, this scope is the ideal solution for CQB / mid-range tactical engagements, 3 Gun competitions, and hunting
What I Love:
The optical quality on the Tango6T is outstanding, with excellent light transmission and edge clarity. The DWLR6 reticle offers an intuitive BDC system along with range estimation features. Being first focal plane means holdovers are accurate at any magnification.
I’m a big fan of the generous eye relief and forgiving eye box. Target acquisition is quick and easy, even in awkward shooting positions. The locking turrets prevent accidental adjustments in the field.
Build quality is top-notch – this scope is built like a tank. It’s been tested to military standards for durability and environmental resistance. The controls are positive and easy to manipulate with gloves on.
Downsides:
On the heavier side at 21.5 oz. Illumination could be brighter for daylight use.
Conclusion
There you have it folks – my top 9 scope picks for your Black Rain AR-15 in 2024. Whether you’re looking for a do-it-all LPVO, a bomb-proof red dot, or a long-range precision optic, there’s something here to fit every need and budget.
Remember, the best scope is the one that fits your specific shooting style and intended use. Consider factors like your typical engagement distances, lighting conditions, and how much abuse your optic is likely to take.
No matter which scope you choose, make sure to spend plenty of time practicing with it. A high-end optic is only as good as the shooter behind it. Get out there and run your Black Rain AR hard!
Happy shooting, and as always, stay safe out there!
– Joel