Best Long Range AR-15 Scopes
A favorite among hunters and shooters due to its great future, the AR-15 is one of the most accurate long range rifles now available. It is extremely adaptable and perfect for shooting at various distances. It is ideal for competitive shooting, hunting, and other activities with a range of about 600 yards, among others.
With outstanding precision and powerful performance, you can be sure to easily dominate the field when you combine this with a high-quality and dependable scope. Finding the ideal long range sight for your AR-15 is not an easy task, though, as there are so many to select from.
What Characterizes an Excellent AR-15 Long Range Scope?
- A solid AR-15 long range scope should deliver consistent performance no matter what you are doing.
- Boasting superior optics that deliver clear, high-quality images even at highest magnification and a broad range of magnification that provides incredibly versatile use.
- An excellent AR-15 long range sight has easily adjustable windage and elevation turrets that let you to make frequent, precise adjustments as the circumstance dictates. You will have total control over every circumstance as a result.
- The parallax adjustment on a high-quality AR-15 long-range scope will allow you to increase your accuracy, particularly while shooting at a distance.
- A good scope has a robust housing that can withstand repeated impacts, stress, and recoil over a lengthy period of time.
Best Long-Range AR-15 Scopes- Our Top Reviews
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Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
The top long range AR-15 scope on our ranking is the Strike Eagle 4-24×50. It is designed to deliver great performance over a wide range of distances at a price that is fairly competitive.
The scope has an extremely flexible zoom that ranges from 4x to 24x. It is therefore perfect for usage in a variety of photography situations. The scope provides a wide field of view for quick target scanning at close ranges. Thanks to the big 50mm objective lens, it also offers improved target acquisition at a distance and clear image views at all zoom levels.
This riflescope’s fully multi-coated lenses generate crisp, bright images that make it easier to view your target. Additionally, it has a side parallax adjuster for parallax correction at long distances and an illuminated second focal plane reticle for simple shooting in low light conditions.
This scope is toughly made and nearly indestructible in terms of construction. It includes a 1-piece, 30-mm tube that is designed to withstand impact, stress, recoil, and whatever else mother nature can dish out.
It is additionally nitrogen purged and sealed with O-rings on both ends, ensuring consistent waterproof and fog proof performance. Above all, the scope incorporates zero resettable tactical style turrets and a rapid focus eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focusing.
Pros
- housing that is strong but lightweight.
- a lot of eye relief.
- light-up reticle.
- uncovered turrets
- extremely flexible 6x zoom.
- lenses with full multi-coating.
- quick-focusing eyepiece.
- Fogproof and waterproof
- rock-solid construction.
- Second focal plane reticle made of glass.
Cons
- little distortion when magnified the most
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Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes
You need an excellent optic for long-range hunting and shooting, such as the 3-15×44 Viper PST Gen II rifle scope. Almost everything you need to improve your long-range shooting ability is present in this scope.
Its adjustable 3-15x magnification makes it one of the top long range AR-15 scopes, making it perfect for usage at both close and far distances. At close range, it provides a wide viewing angle, and at a distance, it improves target acquisition. Additionally, it has an adjustable parallax for long-range parallax correction and a big 44mm objective lens that offers superb image clarity at all magnification settings.
Additionally, the extra-low dispersion glass used in this riflescope optimizes resolution and color contrast. Additionally, it has XR completely multi-coated lenses that improve light transmission and offer bright, clear, and sharp sight images from sunrise to sunset, as well as an illuminated reticle for precise aiming in low-light conditions.
The sturdy housing is another asset to this riflescope. It boasts an aircraft-grade aluminum main tube that is made out of a single piece. Additionally, it includes an Armortek coating that offers additional protection by shielding the lenses from smudges, dust, and scratches.
The scope is additionally argon-purged to keep the interior and exterior lenses clear of fog and O-ring sealed to prevent water and dust from entering the optics.
Pros
- reticle with ten brightness settings.
- Inbuilt accuracy features.
- superb clarity
- exceptionally low dispersion glass.
- Both fog and water resistant.
- coating for Armortek lenses.
- complete multi-coating on the XR lenses.
- aluminum structure of aircraft-grade.
Cons
- Finish with a little shine.
- High cost.
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UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope, AO, 36-color Mil-dot, Rings , Black
The TG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope is the best long range AR-15 scope for the money. It has almost every important feature you need for long range shooting at a reasonable price.
The scope is small and light, making it easy to pack and transport. It has a variable magnification range of 3x to 12x for shooting at various distances. You can start with 3x and work your way up to 12x when you need to engage targets at a distance. The large 44mm objective lens also provides a wider field of view and bright image views even at the highest magnification.
Furthermore, the scope provides outstanding optical performance for increased accuracy. It employs best-in-class multi-emerald coated lenses that maximize light transmission for tack-sharp image clarity even in low-light situations. Above all, this UTG Compact scope is nitrogen-filled to prevent internal lens fogging and fully sealed, allowing you to use it even in heavy rain.
Pros
- TactEdge angled built-in sunshade
- Affordable
- Long eye relief
- 30mm shockproof tube
- Superior multi-emerald coated lenses
- Waterproof and fogproof
Cons
- Bulky
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Steiner T5Xi Tactical Rifle Scope – Close Compact Riflescope for Hunting
If you’re looking for the greatest long range hunting AR-15 scope, the Steiner T5Xi Tactical Rifle Scope is the right option for you. There is more room for windage and height adjustment thanks to the larger 34mm tube. It also has a huge 50mm objective lens to maximize light gathering when hunting in poor light.
You are covered by this scope whether you intend to hunt in direct sunlight or in low light at dusk or twilight. For accurate target recognition, it incorporates top-notch optical technologies that enable improved light transmission.
All of the lenses have several coatings to improve visual clarity and color contrast even in dim situations. A first focal plane lighted SCR reticle is also included in the sight for simple aiming in dimly lit areas.
The scope is also perfect for both up-close and far-off hunting. It provides the ideal balance of a wide viewing angle for close range use and superb image detail for better target acquisition for long range use with the adjustable 3-15x magnification. Along with everything else, it has precision German engineering that increases its toughness and shockproof capabilities.
Pros
- Reticle illumination.
- large eye box.
- Zero stop that can be reset.
- many accessories are present.
- an excellent optical system.
- reticle for the first focal plane.
- water-resistant design.
- housing that is sturdy and shockproof.
Cons
- Pricey
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Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Diamondback 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope from Vortex is another of the top long-range AR-15 scopes on our list. For hunting, tactical shooting, and competitive shooting alike, this is the best long-range scope.
The scope has variable magnification that ranges from 4x to 16x. It is therefore perfect for shooting both up-close and far-off targets. Thanks to the sophisticated optical system and the large 44mm objective lens, it also offers exceptional image clarity throughout the whole zoom range.
This Vortex scope is designed to be nearly unbreakable. It has a resilient yet lightweight aluminum housing that is shockproof, impact resistant, and recoil resistant. Additionally, it is completely waterproof and fog proof to deliver dependable performance in all conditions.
Additionally, the scope has a matte black hard anodized finish that increases its endurance by reducing rust and corrosion after use in humid areas.
That’s not all, either. Long eye relief provided by this scope aids in speedy target acquisition. Additionally, it features a fast focus eyepiece for quick and simple image focusing as well as a ribbed magnification ring for convenient magnification adjustments.
Pros
- prolonged eye relief
- lightweight style.
- vivid optics
- reticle for the first focal plane.
- incredibly low dispersion glass
- optics with a full multi-coating.
- reticle engraved onto glass.
- Fogproof and waterproof
- quick-focusing eyepiece.
- Finish: hard anodized.
- constructed using aircraft-grade aluminum.
Cons
- No illumination of the reticle
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Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope
Leupold has a history of producing high-quality optical products, and the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-940 rifle scope upholds this tradition of excellence. Its 6061-T6 construction maximizes its durability. Additionally, it has been put through punisher testing to ensure that it will last a lifetime and work dependably under all conditions.
When you purchase this scope, you can expect optical performance that is unparalleled. It makes use of top-notch optics that provide excellent resolution and color contrast.
Additionally, it has a Twilight Light Management System that provides greater shooting light during twilight hours and less glare while hunting or shooting in bright sunlight.
This rifle scope’s adaptable 3:1 zoom ratio makes it perfect for both close-range and long-range shooting. Additionally, it boasts scratch-resistant lenses for enhanced protection and durability, is completely waterproof, fog proof, and suitable for usage in any weather.
Pros
- portable and light.
- The lifetime warranty from Leupold.
- clear optics
- reasonably priced.
- 100% fog-resistant, shockproof, and waterproof.
- lenses with military-grade scratch resistance.
- Matte finish.
- Light Management System for Twilight.
- sturdy housing made of aircraft grade aluminum.
Cons
- No illumination of the reticle
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ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart Day/Night Hunting Scope
This ATN X-Sight 4k Pro Smart Day/Night Scope is a great choice if you’re searching for a night vision scope for long-range shooting with your AR-15. It may be used both day and night because of its dual purpose.
The scope’s Obsidian IV Dual Core CPU and ultra-HD Sensor, which improves nighttime sensitivity, power it. When the sun sets, it offers a sharp black-and-white vision during the day and a vibrant color palette for precise target identification.
This sight has you covered if you prefer to document your hunting and shooting excursions. It contains a recoil-activated video feature that makes filming videos as simple as using your five fingers. Additionally, users can simultaneously stream and record videos to the SD card thanks to the dual stream video recording feature.
Additionally, the lightweight construction of this rifle scope ensures that you won’t feel its weight when you go from one place to another. A ballistic calculator and an ultra-low power profile that offers over 18 hours of continuous runtime are also included in order to assist you hunt more responsibly.
Pros
- Lightweight design.
- Day and night functionality.
- Ultra-low power profile.
- Robust aluminum housing.
- Matte black finish.
- Ballistic calculator.
Cons
- High price
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Bushnell AR Optics 4.5-18x40mm Riflescope
Due to its excellent hunting optics, our shooters and hunters favor the Bushnell AR Optics Creed riflescope. This scope includes completely multi-coated lenses that transmit light at the best possible rate. Under various lighting circumstances, it effectively balances brightness, contrast, and color for that high-definition imaging.
Considering the price, the Bushnell AR Optics Creed riflescope’s magnification is excellent. This sight provides the highest level of accuracy for both long-range and short- and medium-range shooting.
For tactical shooting with accurate targeting positions, this reticle works well. The Bushnell AR Optics Creed riflescope has exposed turrets for simple windage and elevation adjustments as the scenario dictates higher accuracy to enable you fully control the situation while in action.
The Bushnell AR Optics Creed riflescope’s dependability is unbeatable. The scope is dependable and small, but not overly weighty. Because it is waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof, you may completely enjoy your hunting and shooting endeavours regardless of the weather outside.
It is a trustworthy, dependable, and reasonably priced scope.
Pros
- full multicoating of the optics
- Great magnification
- Easily adjustable exposed turrets
- sturdy durability
- Lightweight
Cons
- The crosshair is a little thick.
See Also:
- Best Zeiss Long Range Hunting Scopes
- Best Swarovski Scopes For Long Range Hunting
- Best Thermal Scopes for AR15
Best Long Range AR-15 Scopes Buyer’s Guide
Reticle
The choice of reticle is crucial when shooting at a distance. To accommodate the various needs of users, different long range sight have various reticle designs. Make careful to get a sight with an easy-to-use reticle if you are a beginner.
Additionally, you will need to decide whether to use a reticle that is positioned on the first or second focal plane. If you can afford it, use a first focal plane reticle scope because they have an edge over their second focal plane equivalents while shooting at long distances.
Durability
The housing quality is a crucial factor to take into account while looking for the best long-range AR-15 scopes. In general, a house will be more reliable the better it is. The best scopes for long range shooting with the AR 15 are those manufactured of aircraft-grade aluminum or magnesium alloy.
These scopes can withstand any abuse that they are subjected to. Choose a scope that is completely sealed and filled with either nitrogen or argon gas in addition to a high-quality housing to ensure that it will be fog- and waterproof.
Image Clarity
For maximum accuracy, image quality is crucial. A scope needs to have high-quality glass and the right lens coatings to deliver the clearest possible images.
Pick models with ED or HD glass from among the numerous available scopes. These scopes provide images with excellent resolution and realistic color. Additionally, ensure sure the scope you choose has completely coated or fully multicoated lenses.
Magnification
You will require a scope with a high magnification power if you intend to utilize your AR-15 for long-range shooting. You will be able to locate and approach faraway targets with ease because to the high magnification power. Your chances of placing a shot accurately will rise as a result.
Most long range shooting activities call for a scope with at least a 10x magnification power, while for exceptionally long range shooting, it can go up to 15x or 20x.
Weight
The weight and size of the scope shouldn’t be a major worry if you plan to shoot your AR-15 from a bench or from a fixed position not far from your car.
However, if you intend to use the scope primarily for hunting, when you must move around from one location to another in search of wildlife, the scope’s size and weight are of the utmost importance.
In this case, you should purchase a scope that is lightweight for portability and small in size for easy packing.
FAQs about the best long-range AR-15 scopes
Should I mount a red dot or a scope on my AR?
It varies. It is recommended to utilize a red dot if you’re planning to use your AR for close-range shots and you want to find your target quickly. However, a scope is preferable to a red dot sight if you want to make accurate shots at objects that are far away.
What characteristics need to an AR scope have?
You should think about the scope’s magnification power, the caliber of the glass, the lens coatings, and the weight in addition to eye relief, durability, and whether or not the scope is weatherproof.
Should my AR-15 have a scope?
Depending on how you plan to use your AR-15. Installing a scope on your AR-15 is a good idea if you want to use it for long-range shooting. Both tiny and large objects will be easier to identify with a decent scope. Additionally, it will make shooting more effortless, swift, and accurate.
Conclusion
We hope you now have a better understanding of the best long-range AR-15 scopes. Knowing what you want in a long-range AR-15 scope should make the process easier and more enjoyable.
It is important to remember that purchasing a high-quality rifle sight does not necessitate going overboard with your spending; doing so is both unnecessary and impractical. There are nicer, more reasonably priced scopes that perform similarly.
All of the scopes listed above should provide the critical elements that each hunter and shooter requires for long-range shooting. After considering your specific needs and preferences, select the model that will work best for you.