Choosing the right optic for your AR-15 can be an overwhelming decision. With so many options on the market catering to different shooting needs and budgets, it's important to understand the types of AR optics available to pick the best one for your uses.
In this guide, we’ll overview the most popular AR-15 optics, explain the different types and provide our top recommendations across red dot sights, holographics, magnifiers, prism scopes and variable power scopes. Whether you're a recreational shooter, hunter or tactical user, we've highlighted the ideal AR optics to enhance your shooting.
Best AR-15 Red Dot Sights
Red dots are highly favored for ARs due to their rapid target acquisition and accuracy at shorter distances. Here are our recommendations.
Sig Sauer Romeo5
Features and Specifications:
- 1x non-magnified unlimited eye relief
- 2 MOA red dot reticle for precision aiming
- Motion activated illumination turns on when it senses movement
- 10 brightness settings to adjust dot intensity
- 40,000+ hour battery life for continuous performance
- Strong aluminum housing protects inner components
- IPX7 waterproof rating to withstand wet conditions
- Compact 5.5 inch sight length
- Lightweight at just 7.5 ounces
Pros:
- Outstanding quality and features for under $200 price point
- Shake awake and 2 night vision compatible modes
- Durable and reliable proven optics trusted by professionals
- Lower 1/3 co-witness riser mount included for AR rifles
Cons:
- Slight blue tint visible on lower brightness settings
- Basic mount not as sturdy as aftermarket options
The Sig Romeo5 strikes the ideal balance of affordability and performance for an entry-level red dot sight. The extremely generous 40,000 hour battery life ensures the 2 MOA dot stays visible in all conditions. Ten daylight brightness settings allow adjusting the dot intensity from barely visible up to full sunlight brightness.
The sturdy IPX7 rated aluminum housing and lenses make the Romeo5 waterproof and shockproof for real-world reliability. And with a lightweight 7.5 ounce footprint, you barely notice the sight when carrying or shooting firearms.
For most AR-15 setups, the Romeo5 has the ideal feature set. The included lower 1/3 co-witness riser mount pairs perfectly with backup iron sights. At under $200, it's the best red dot sight for those wanting excellent functionality without excessive cost. The Romeo5 hits the sweet spot between performance, features and price.
Sig Sauer Romeo MSR
Features and Specifications:
- Compact 1x22mm miniature red dot
- 2 MOA illuminated dot for precision aim
- Durable aircraft grade aluminum housing
- Waterproof IPX-7 rating withstands immersion
- Motion sense automatically activates dot
- User selectable red or green dot color
- Common CR2032 battery powers sight
Pros:
- Tested to military extreme shock standards
- Lightweight at just 1.5 ounces
- Clear glass lens and crisp illuminated dot
- Costs just over $200 with impressive specs
Cons:
- No co-witness riser mount included
The Romeo MSR brings Sig's excellent optics and bombproof construction to an affordable micro package. Tested to withstand abusive 5000 G shocks and water immersion up to 3 feet, it will keep running in harsh conditions.
The lightweight 1 ounce chassis and 22mm miniature footprint mount directly to small concealed carry guns. While keeping the cost extremely affordable under $200. Battery life delivers a consistent 300 hours of runtime for range sessions and carry readiness.
Overall, an impressively robust micro red dot perfect for AR and rifle platforms needing a compact sight.
Trijicon MRO
Features and Specifications:
- 1x non-magnification for Both Eyes Open shooting
- Wide 25mm objective lens diameter
- Adjustable 7075 aluminum 2 MOA aiming dot
- Nearly indestructible forged aluminum housing
- Fully sealed electronics withstand water
- Anti-glare finish for high visibility
Pros:
- Extremely durable 7075 alloy housing
- Larger lens increases field of view
- Visible in all lighting conditions
- 5 year continuous battery life
Cons:
- More costly investment
- Slight blue tint on brightness settings
The Trijicon MRO’s durable construction features a CNC-machined 7075 aircraft-grade aluminum housing, comparable in toughness to breaching shotguns and body armor.
Combined with bellows shielding protecting electronics, it achieves double the shock resistance of comparable optics. And proprietary LED dot illumination keeps running 5+ years even under constant operation.
Designed for special mission adaptability, the enlarged 25mm objective bell lenses provide a wide unobstructed field of view critical in CQB engagements. All while staying lightweight at just 5.1 ounces riding securely on Picatinny rail mounts.
Yes, the MRO requires a budget of around $500 but offers nearly Aimpoint-quality reliability in optics and hence suitable for professional duty use.
Aimpoint Micro T-2
Features and Specifications:
- 2 MOA dot sight for accurate aiming
- Reinforced protection for lens and housing
- Made with extra-high strength alloy frame
- Waterproof up to 45 feet depth
- Transparent flip up rear cover
- 50,000+ hours battery on medium setting
Pros:
- Nearly indestructible rugged design
- Crystal clear optic sight picture
- Class leading battery life up to 8 years
- Lighter weight than similar duty sights
Cons:
- Very expensive cost
- Rear cover prone to getting lost
The Aimpoint Micro T-2 lives up to its reputation as an ultra rugged dot sight ready for military, law enforcement and defensive use. It utilizes a reinforced alloy housing tested to handle massive abuse, underwater submersion and temperature extremes far beyond civilian use.
While expensive, its bombproof optics never fail when lives depend on it. The 50,000 hour battery life could technically last over 8 years on a medium brightness setting. This consistent performance makes the Micro T-2 the ultimate set and forget red dot sight.
Aimpoint PRO (Patrol Rifle Optic)
Features and Specifications:
- 2 MOA dot sight for accurate aiming
- Reinforced protection for lens and housing
- 30mm diameter aluminum sight tube
- Waterproof up to impressive 150 feet depth
- Flip up front and rear transparent covers
- Same 50,000 hours battery life
Pros:
- Torture tested to survive abusive conditions
- Robust and durable patrol size build
- Clear glass lenses for crisp dot image
- Battery lasts for years
Cons:
- Larger and heavy at 10 oz
Similar to the Micro T-2 but in a bigger and brawnier design, the Aimpoint PRO lives up to its name as the ultimate patrol optic for defensive rifles. The 30mm aluminum alloy housing and reinforced lens provide practically invincible protection without adding excess bulk.
Think of the PRO as the lighter evolution of Aimpoint's original extra large duty sight models. It's become hugely popular mounted to AR-15s and carbines because it holds up to any brutal treatment that exceeds normal civilian usage. For an absolute no questions asked red dot sight, the Aimpoint PRO stands ready.
Top Holographic Sight
Holographic sights project a hologram of the reticle into the sight window rather than using an LED emitter. This provides an incredibly fast sight picture perfect for target acquisition, especially in close quarters. However, there are fewer holographic options than traditional red dots.
EOTech EXPS2
Features and Specifications:
- Holographic technology with 3 different reticle options
- 5 external buttons to control reticle style and brightness
- Waterproof IP67 construction for submersion up to 3 feet
- 10 daylight brightness settings to match conditions
- Rugged sealed aluminum frame protects components
- 500 continuous hours runtime on one AA battery
Pros:
- Highly visible and fast holographic reticles ideal for CQB
- Durable forged aluminum housing withstands abuse
- Powered by widely available AA batteries for convenience
- Side battery tray for quick replacement
- Clear glass for precise sight picture
Cons:
- Larger footprint than tube style red dot sights
- Shorter continuous battery life of 500 hours
The EOTech EXPS series of holographic sights set the standard for the technology and continues leading the field. The holographic system projects the reticle into the glass allowing incredibly quick target acquisition with both eyes open.
With large and unobstructed glass, the sight window provides a panoramic view of the surroundings for enhanced situational awareness, a key benefit of holographic sights. The rugged forged aluminum housing ensures the EXPS2 withstands demanding use on AR platforms.
While the 500 hour average battery life is less than other red dot sights, the sight comes on instantly with no lag. For home defense, CQB and tactical applications where fast sighting is life saving, the EXPS line still reigns supreme in the holographic category years later.
Eotech Exps2 68 Moa Ring/1moa Dot Q
$705.00
at Proarmory
Prices accurate at time of writing
Best Flip-Mounted 3x Magnifier
Add magnifying power to red dot sights while keeping CQB speed. Mounted behind red dots, these flip magnifiers offer flexibility to stretch range.
Vortex VMX-3T 3x Magnifier
Features and Specifications:
- Lightweight single-piece chassis for durability
- Adjustable ocular lens for tack sharp image
- Includes both co-witness height mounts
- 6 screw hex screws prevent loosening
- Waterproof o-ring seals protect internals
- Compact 11.9 ounce weight
Pros:
- Premium quality glass for bright, clear 3x image
- Wide, forgiving eye box/relief for fast sighting
- Solid, tight lockup when magnifier is flipped to side
- Two mount height options included lower 1/3 and absolute
Cons:
- Noticeably bulkier footprint behind red dot
The Vortex VMX-3T stands out with superb glass clarity from edge-to-edge for magnifying red dot sights. The optics genuinely push a bright, vivid 3x zoomed image with an adjustable ocular lens to fine tune for your eyesight.
Close quarters shooting is enhanced by the 45 degree flip mount getting the magnifier quickly out of the way. The return-to-zero lockup ensures the magnified dot stays put on target when you re-engage the magnifier. This is aided by the durable, lightweight single-piece chassis.
Out to 200-300 yards, the VMX-3T excels at spotting targets and stretching effective range of red dots. At 12 ounces, it does bulk up AR builds but remains comfortable for carry. We recommend the lower 1/3 co-witness height paired with the Vortex Razor red dot sight for a versatile package. But the Vortex 3x magnifier improves sight pictures and rapid hits no matter the red dot optic.
Top Picks for Prism Scopes
AR prism scopes uniquely combine red dot style aiming points with magnification for versatile intermediate distance targeting from close quarters to 500+ yards. Here are our top recommended prism scopes.
Primary Arms Cyclops Gen 2 MicroPrism
Features and Specifications:
- 1x25mm compact 7.6 ounce prism sight
- Mounts directly to top rail or piggybacked behind red dot
- Choice of red chevron ACSS or exclusive CQB reticles
- Illuminated center crosshair or dot on etched glass
- Durable forged 7075 aluminum housing
- Common CR2032 coin battery powers illumination
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight at 7 ounces
- Premium quality etched reticle glass
- Quick target acquisition illuminated dot
- Small but durable forged aluminum build
Cons:
- Some edge distortion at sight housing
What makes the Primary Arms Gen 2 MicroPrism unique is the tiny form factor, making it super easy to piggyback mount behind a red dot sight without adding weight or bulk. The illuminated chevron center dot draws the eye for lightning fast transitions between targets.
Despite compact size, the Cyclops MicroPrism excels at close to medium range shooting and situational awareness thanks to the ACSS reticles with 400 meter ranging and holdovers. Durable 7075 aluminum ensures it withstands abuse.
For shooters wanting a micro scout optic or a supplemented CQB aiming point, this little guy delivers. The 1x magnification chevron reticle keeps target acquisition easy inside 100 yards while providing BDC holdovers further out.
Primary Arms SLx 3x MicroPrism
Features and Specifications:
- 3x24 optical sight with second focal plane
- Multi-coated lenses increase light transmission
- Locking/resetting exposed .5 MOA turrets
- Nitrogen purged tube prevents fogging
- 3 year manufacturer warranty
Pros:
- More compact and lighter platform
- Adjustable calibrated windage knob
- Visible 5.56 specific ACSS reticle
- Total 50 MOA elevation adjustment
Cons:
- Some distortion along sight edges
The SLx gen 3 prism scope signifies another win for Primary Arms packing great optics and advanced reticles into a budget friendly platform. The second focal plane 3x magnification isn't overpowered keeping the weight down.
Shooters get a fast ACSS 5.56 reticle calibrated for 55 grain loads from point blank out to 800 yards. The illuminated center chevron draws focus while etched ranging lines provide holdovers and wind compensation. Generous eye relief helps with head placement.
This versatile 3x optic feels compact but brings ample features like locking turrets and bright illumination for under $300. Well suited for patrolling, home defense, competition or range training rifles.
Sig Sauer Bravo5 Prism Sight
Features and Specifications:
- 5x37mm fixed power prism sight
- Flat dark earth finish to resist corrosion
- ACSS-300BLK or 7.62x39 ranging reticle options
- 2,200+ hours battery life on single CR2032
- Durable aircraft grade 6061 aluminum housing
- Lightweight at just 20 ounce weight
Pros:
- 5x magnification perfect for .300 BLK AR platforms
- Crystal clear edge-to-edge image sharpness
- Auto shutoff after 8 idle hours to preserve battery
- Advanced holdover bullet drop reticles out to 300 meters
Cons:
- No adjustable illumination intensity controls
Sig Sauer makes a strong entrance into the prism sight market with the innovative Bravo5 5x power optic. Optimized for 300 AAC Blackout, 6.5 Grendel and 7.62x39 AR-15s, the 5x zoom gives ideal magnification for between 50 to 300 meter shooting ranges.
The Bravo5's advanced ACSS reticles specifically calibrate the holdover points and ranging calculations for those popular intermediate cartridges. Etched into the glass, the illuminated chevrons and hashmarks allow rapid targeting and instant read outs on range estimations.
The aircraft grade aluminum housing stands up to abuse while the high quality prism glass and lenses deliver stunning edge-to-edge resolution. With generous eye relief and an ocular adjustable for focus, the Bravo5 gives AR platforms tack driving 300 meter accuracy in a compact durable package.
Trijicon ACOG TA31F 4x32
Features and Specifications:
- Fixed 4x32 power scope
- Legendary forged 7075 aluminum housing
- Dual illuminated .223 BDC reticle
- Fiber optic and tritium light system
- Waterproof tested to impressive 100 foot depths
- Weighs just 9.9 ounces
Pros:
- Both fiber optic and radioactive tritium illumination
- Extreme durability from combat abuse
- Accurate ranging out to 800 meters
- Adjustable with generous 100 MOA travel
Cons:
- Very expensive price tier
- Fixed magnification lacks versatility
The Trijicon ACOG firmly cemented its place in military history by radically improving optic sights. The legendary fixed 4x power grants flawless optics and brutal reliability from combat zones to competition tracks.
Millions rely daily on Trijicon sights across military branches and law enforcement agencies. The fiber optic and tritium illuminated .223 BDC reticle gives rapid ranging out to 800 meters and remains visible even in pitch black.
And the 7075 aircraft aluminum housing withstands unbelievable abuse that would destroy most optics. Between the battle-proven durability and innovative dual illumination system, the ACOG delivers relentless performance to hold zero through hell and back.
Best AR-15 Scopes for Varied Uses
Variable power AR scopes bridge red dots and high power optics for mid-range use from CQB to hunting range.
Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24
Features and Specifications:
- 1-6x zoom range for close to long distance
- 30mm diameter main tube for increased adjustment
- Aircraft grade aluminum construction
- Hard anodized low glare matte finish
- Smooth fast focus eyepiece ring
- 11 intensity levels of bright illumination
- Waterproof and fogproof with o-ring seals
Pros:
- Incredibly clear, high definition glass
- Illuminated tree style BDC reticle for holdovers
- Durable, beaten tested construction
- Very generous eye relief and eye box
Cons:
- Fairly heavy weight at over 1 lb
The standout feature of the Gen II Vortex Viper 1-6x is its absolutely stunning HD quality glass with exceptional light transmission and optical clarity. Combined with a 30mm main tube for increased windage/elevation adjustment and aircraft grade aluminum alloy build, it offers bombproof durability.
11 settings of bright red or green glare reducing illumination enhance the uncluttered tree style BDC reticle dialed for 5.56 and .308 trajectories. Waterproof o-ring seals keep fog and debris out in all weather conditions. In testing, the 1-6x variable truly shined across assault rifle CQB to DMR applications out to 600+ yards.
Primary Arms SLx 1-6x24 Gen III & Gen IV
Features and Specifications:
- 1-6x24mm variable power
- 30mm aircraft aluminum tube
- Fully multi-coated AR-15 specific ACSS reticles
- Waterproof, fog resistant
- Nitrogen filled 1-piece tube
Pros:
- Excellent price/performance value
- Incredibly clear etched glass
- Easy to use & zero turret adjustments
- Many modern ACSS reticle options
Cons:
- Heavy weight at over 1 lb
Primary Arms continues upgrading their 1-6x offering with Gen IV advances like throw levers and side focus. With high purity glass, fast focus eyepieces, zero stop turrets and advanced ACSS reticles dialed for 5.56 and 6.5 Grendel, it's incredibly versatile. Waterproofing plus locking/rezeroing turrets inspire confidence for duty use.
While heavier than the Strike Eagle, the SLx 1-6x punches above its class for features and glass quality at a modest cost. With illuminated reticle and throw lever models, Primary Arms 1-6x competes with $1000+ variable optics at half the price or less. It makes an exceptional modern sporting and hunting scope too.
Vortex 1-6x20 Strike Eagle
Features and Specifications:
- Compact 1-6x24 variable magnification AR-platform scope
- 30mm diameter aluminum main tube
- Hard anodized matte finish for durability
- Glass etched BDC3 AR-specific reticle
- Throw lever for quick magnification adjustments
- Single piece tube construction for strength
Pros:
- Very lightweight and short form factor
- Generous and consistent 4 inch eye relief
- Extra low dispersion fully multi-coated lenses
- Better shock and impact resistance over competitors
Cons:
- Reticle only visible in daylight conditions
The Vortex Optics Strike Eagle stands out with an incredibly affordable price tag given its quality 1-6x variable magnification range tailored for AR-15 platforms. The 30mm main tube strikes a slim balance between lightweight and ample adjustment range and strength.
The BDC3 glass etched reticle offsets .223/5.56 trajectory drift for dead hold aiming without needing to dial adjustments. And the throw lever allows easily dialing magnification from 1x CQB to 6x for engaging targets out to 600 yards.
With multi-coated lenses bringing excellent light transmission and clarity, the Strike Eagle optic cuts weight while optimizing the AR ballistic trajectory.
Vortex Viper PST 1-4x20
Features and Specifications:
- 1-4x variable power magnification
- 30mm aircraft grade aluminum tube body
- Hard anodized armortek finish
- Index matched high density extra-low dispersion glass
- Shockproof lenses with shim kits
- Exposed target-style turrets
Pros:
- Durable and reliable quality craftsmanship
- Incredibly clear edge-to-edge high transmission lens coating
- Positive click side knob windage/elevation adjustments with fiber optic rotation indication
- Multiple illuminated reticle options including MOA and MRAD
Cons:
- Pricey for its magnification range
The Vortex Viper PST 1-4x was built from the ground up for competitive shooting matches with premium quality and features. The 30mm tube strikes an ideal balance between light weight maneuverability and ample windage/elevation adjustment range.
While only 1-4x magnification, the impressive glass clarity and exposed target turrets enable dialing extremely precise shots. The side knob adjustments also reset to zero after sighting in. These competition-ready features do add cost but deliver peerless tactical capability.
Leupold VX Freedom 3-9x50
Features and Specifications:
- 3-9x zoom magnification range
- Twilight Max Light System for clarity in low light, dawn/dusk
- 50mm objective lens gathers ample light
- 1 inch diameter 6061-T6 aluminum main tube
- Waterproof, fogproof and shockproof
- Duplex reticle with center crosshair
- 17.2 ounce lightweight but durable
Pros:
- Lightweight yet abuse resistant build
- Index matched lens system with ion assisted coatings
- Audible and tactile 1/4 MOA finger click adjustments
- Extremely fast focus eyepiece for quick target acquisition
- Affordable high performance optical system
Cons:
- Less adjustment range and fewer features than higher end scopes
Designed specifically for hunters, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x50 brings excellent edge-to-edge clarity and low light performance in a more affordable and lightweight hunting package.
The 3-9x mid range magnification provides great versatility from medium to longer range shots while the Twilight Max Light System optimizes visibility in dim first shooting light. Duplex reticle hashmarks provide holdover aiming points while generous eye relief accommodates head placement.
Backup Iron Sights (BUIS)
While red dot sights and optics are very reliable these days, having backup iron sights is an inexpensive insurance policy in case electronics fail or get damaged. BUIS flip up to provide a basic aiming point if needed.
Magpul MBUS Gen 2
Features and Specifications:
- Low profile folding backup sights
- Narrow front sight post with two apertures
- Rear sight has round aperture and notch
- No tools needed for windage and elevation
- Detent adjustment dial with spring tension
Pros:
- Locks up solidly and securely when deployed
- Streamlined design tucks out of the way
- Durable reinforced polymer build
- Affordable price and lightweight
Cons:
- Limited windage adjustment range
Magpul GEN 2 MBUS are cost effective and sturdy backup sights perfect for most shooters. Windage and elevation adjustments are toolless with positive click detents. The narrow front post offers precise aiming while capturing ambient light. Reinforced polymer construction keeps weight down while maintaining strength. For an inexpensive backup solution, the MBUS sights are the gold standard.
Magpul MBUS Pro Offset Iron Sights
Features and Specifications:
- All steel rear and front sight blades
- Metal sight blades inside polymer body
- Adjustable for windage and elevation
- Melonite treated for wear resistance
- Offset mounting ability for accessories
Pros:
- Absolute and lower 1/3 co-witness height options
- All steel design for precision adjustments
- Audible clicks with positive detents
- Offset mounting frees up railing space
Cons:
- Much higher cost over standard BUIS
The MBUS Pro line brings an upgraded build with precise steel components inside reinforced polymer. This allows for tool and null shift adjustment dials to dial in elevation and windage.
While cost is higher, the Pro edition is built for duty rifles where zeros must be reliable after repetitive abuse. The offset mount ability also frees up railing space for other accessories like lights or lasers.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, optics can take your AR-15 functionality and shooting skill to the next level once you match budget with your intended uses. Evaluate whether you need just red dots and iron sights for home defense, variable power for hunting or bombproof dots and magnifiers for duty rifles.
Prioritize quality glass and etched reticles over maximum magnification for optimizing .223/5.56 trajectory out to 5-600 yards. Test confirmed durable optics over marketing hype with realistic torture testing. And ensure proper mounting and eye relief for solid head placement, accuracy and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best AR-15 optic under $250?
The Sig Sauer Romeo5 hits the sweet spot for entry-level red dot sights with exceptional quality and performance at a budget-friendly price.
What’s the difference between red dot and holographic sights?
Red dots project an illuminated red dot aiming point. Holographic sights embed the aiming reticle into the glass for an open sight picture with slight transparency.
Should I get a fixed or variable power AR scope?
Fixed power optics like 4x ACOGs offer legendary reliability while variable 1-6x let you scale from CQB to hunting ranges. Evaluate your uses.
Do I need backup iron sights with my AR-15 optic?
Having quality folding backup iron sights (BUIS) is recommended as an extra layer of redundancy if your optic breaks or loses zero. They also aid visibility in dark home defense situations.
How durable and waterproof should my AR optic be?
Look for IP67 waterproof ratings (withstands immersion) and lenses shielded from oil, dirt, impact damage. Aluminum alloy or polymer housings and fogproof gas purging provide realistic durability.
What should I clean my AR optic with?
Quality lens wipes and cleaning solution designed specifically for coated optical lenses. Avoid using petroleum, ammonia or alcohol-based cleaners. Gently brush debris away.
Can I leave my red dot sight powered on at all times?
Many quality red dots have 50,000+ battery life spans allowing constantly leaving them on the highest or auto setting. But manually powering off when not in use for months does prolong life.
References
https://www.pewpewtactical.com/best-optics-scopes-ar-15/
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