As an avid hunter and night vision enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours testing various optics on my AR-15. While flat-top rails have become more common, there’s still something classic and functional about a good carry handle scope. Whether you have an older AR with a fixed carry handle or just prefer that style, I’ve put together this updated guide to help you find the perfect optic for your setup in 2024.
Why Use a Carry Handle Scope?
Before we dive into the top picks, let’s quickly cover why you might want to use a carry handle scope in the first place:
- Nostalgia and classic styling
- Keep your iron sights intact
- Added height for a more comfortable cheek weld
- Works well with night vision and thermal devices
- No need for separate scope rings
The main downside is that mounting options can be more limited compared to a flat-top rail. But for many shooters, the pros outweigh the cons.
Top Carry Handle Scopes for 2024
Trijicon ACOG 4×32
The gold standard for carry handle optics, Trijicon’s ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight) has been battle-proven by military and law enforcement for decades. The fixed 4x magnification is ideal for mid-range shooting out to 300+ yards.
Key features:
Bullet drop compensator reticle
Fiber optic and tritium illumination (no batteries needed)
Nearly indestructible housing
Generous eye relief
I’ve run an ACOG on my AR for years and it’s never let me down, from the dusty deserts of Arizona to the humid forests of the Southeast. Yes, it’s pricey, but you truly get what you pay for.
Vortex Optics Sparc Red Dot
For close quarters and fast target acquisition, it’s hard to beat a quality red dot like the Vortex Sparc. The unlimited eye relief and both-eyes-open shooting make it incredibly quick and intuitive to use.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- 2 MOA dot for precision
- Long battery life
- Very affordable
I love using the Sparc for hog hunting at night. Paired with a good weapon light, it allows for lightning-fast shots on moving targets.
Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35
Another rock-solid option from Trijicon, the 3.5×35 ACOG offers slightly less magnification but a larger objective lens for improved light gathering. The BAC (Bindon Aiming Concept) reticle design allows for both-eyes-open shooting at close range while still providing precision at distance.
Notable features:
- Slightly more forgiving eye relief than the 4×32
- Ranges targets out to 800 meters
- Tritium/fiber optic illumination
This is my go-to optic for 3-gun competitions. The versatile magnification works well for both close targets and longer shots.
EOTech 512 Holographic Sight
EOTech’s holographic weapons sights offer some unique advantages, especially for defensive use. The large viewing window and intuitive reticle allow for extremely fast target acquisition.
Key benefits:
- 68 MOA ring with 1 MOA center dot
- Night vision compatible
- Runs on common AA batteries
While not as rugged as an ACOG, the EOTech excels for home defense and law enforcement applications. I keep one on my bedside AR for bump-in-the-night situations.
Sig Sauer Romeo5 Red Dot
Another excellent budget-friendly red dot option, the Sig Romeo5 offers great bang for your buck. The motion-activated illumination helps conserve battery life.
Standout features:
- 2 MOA dot
- 10 illumination settings
- IPX-7 waterproof rating
I’ve found the Romeo5 to be nearly as durable as much more expensive options. It’s a great entry-level optic for new AR owners.
Primary Arms SLx 3×32 Gen III Prism Scope
Primary Arms has been putting out some impressive budget-friendly optics lately. Their 3×32 prism scope offers similar functionality to an ACOG at a fraction of the price.
Highlights:
- ACSS CQB reticle with BDC
- Partial red illumination
- Forgiving eye relief
While not quite as bomb-proof as a Trijicon, I’ve found the Primary Arms prism scopes to hold up very well to abuse. It’s a great mid-range option.
Aimpoint PRO Red Dot
Aimpoint has long been a favorite of military and law enforcement. The PRO (Patrol Rifle Optic) brings their legendary durability to a more affordable package.
Key features:
- 2 MOA dot
- 3 year constant-on battery life
- Night vision compatible
I’ve seen Aimpoints survive insane amounts of abuse. If you want a do-it-all red dot that will never let you down, this is it.
Mounting Considerations
When choosing a carry handle scope, pay attention to the mounting system. Some optics come with an integral carry handle mount, while others may require an adapter.
Personally, I prefer optics with a quick-detach mount for easy removal. This allows you to still use your iron sights if needed.
You’ll also want to consider overall height. A taller optic may require an adjustable cheek riser on your stock for proper eye alignment.
Choosing the Right Magnification
The “best” magnification really depends on your intended use:
- 1x (red dots/holographic): Ideal for close quarters and fast shooting
- 2-4x: Good all-around range for general purpose use
- 5x+: Better for precision shooting at extended ranges
For most AR-15 applications, I find a low-power variable optic in the 1-4x or 1-6x range to be extremely versatile. But fixed power optics tend to be more durable and cost-effective.
Other Features to Consider
Beyond just magnification, here are some other important factors when choosing a carry handle scope:
Reticle type: Simple duplex crosshairs work well for hunting, while more complex BDC (bullet drop compensator) reticles aid in long range shooting.
Illumination: Particularly helpful in low light. Look for adjustable brightness settings.
Battery life: For illuminated optics, longer battery life means less hassle.
Durability: Consider the materials used and overall ruggedness, especially for hard use.
Eye relief: Longer eye relief provides more flexibility in mounting and shooting positions.
Glass quality: Better glass means a clearer image and better low-light performance.
Warranty: A lifetime warranty provides peace of mind for a long-term investment.
Absolutely! Let’s dive deeper into some additional considerations and tips for choosing and using AR-15 carry handle scopes:
Adapting to the Higher Mount
One of the biggest adjustments when switching to a carry handle scope is the increased height over bore. This can take some getting used to, especially at close ranges. Here are a few tips I’ve learned:
- Practice, practice, practice: Spend time at the range getting accustomed to the new sight picture.
- Adjust your zero: You may need to re-zero your optic to account for the height difference.
- Consider a lower 1/3 co-witness: This allows you to use your iron sights as a backup through the same optic.
- Use an adjustable stock: This helps achieve proper cheek weld with the taller optic.
Night Vision Compatibility
For those of us who enjoy hunting after dark, night vision compatibility is crucial. Look for optics with NV-specific settings or separate night vision models. The EOTech 512 and Aimpoint PRO mentioned earlier are great night-vision friendly options.
I’ve had great success pairing a night-vision compatible red dot with a clip-on night vision device for hog hunting. The ability to quickly transition between day and night use is a game-changer.
Budget-Friendly Options
While I’m a firm believer in “buy once, cry once” when it comes to optics, I understand not everyone can drop $1000+ on an ACOG. Here are some solid budget-friendly carry handle scopes I’ve had good experiences with:
- Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32: Great versatile magnification range for an entry-level price.
- Bushnell AR Optics 1-4×24: Solid low-power variable optic with an illuminated reticle.
- Holosun HS403C: Reliable red dot with solar backup power.
These won’t have quite the same durability as high-end options, but they’ll get the job done for most recreational shooters.
Maintenance and Care
To keep your carry handle scope performing its best:
- Keep the lenses clean: Use proper lens cleaning solutions and microfiber cloths.
- Check your mount: Periodically ensure all screws are tight.
- Protect from impacts: Use scope covers when not in use.
- Store properly: Keep your rifle in a climate-controlled environment to prevent fogging.
- Replace batteries: For illuminated optics, change batteries annually or before big hunts.
Shooting Techniques
Mastering these techniques will help you get the most out of your carry handle scope:
- Both eyes open: Even with magnified optics, try to shoot with both eyes open for better situational awareness.
- Proper cheek weld: Consistency is key for accuracy. Find a comfortable, repeatable cheek weld.
- Focus on the reticle: For magnified optics, focus on the reticle, not the target, for the sharpest sight picture.
- Use support: Whenever possible, use a rest or support for increased stability.
- Control your breathing: Learn to time your shots with your natural respiratory pause.
Legality Concerns
Before mounting any optic, be sure to check your local laws. Some jurisdictions have restrictions on certain types of scopes or accessories for AR-15 style rifles.
Customization Options
One of the great things about AR-15s is their modularity. Consider these customization options to complement your carry handle scope:
- Offset iron sights: Provides a backup sighting option without removing your optic.
- Magnifiers: Can be added behind red dots for increased versatility.
- Laser aiming devices: Useful for night vision applications.
- Custom reticles: Some manufacturers offer user-selectable reticle options.
Final Thoughts
While there’s no single “best” carry handle scope for everyone, the options listed above should have something for every need and budget. Personally, I still run an ACOG on my main AR and don’t see that changing anytime soon. The rugged simplicity and battle-proven performance are hard to beat.
But don’t be afraid to try out a few different optics to see what works best for you. Visit your local range or gun shop and get some hands-on time if possible. And remember – the best optic in the world won’t make up for a lack of practice. Get out there and train!
What’s your favorite carry handle optic? Let me know in the comments below. And be sure to check out our other AR-15 accessory guides here at Night Vision Gears. Happy shooting!