An AR-15 scope is exceptionally beneficial to both beginners and professionals because it enhances the functionality and usability of the AR. The AR 15 scopes provide better accuracy and precision at a lower price compared to the iron sights.
Getting a good AR 15 scope that is under $100 can be a hassle. This is because of the different designs, types, and other features that may make it difficult to choose one. However, you now don't have to worry because we are here to help you make the best choice.
In this article, you will find a review of the five best scopes for AR 15 that are under $100 and a comprehensive buying guide to help you understand what to look for in a good scope for AR 15.
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5 Best Scopes for AR 15
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1. Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope
- Matte black featuring a 3 MOA Dot reticle with 11 brightness...
- Waterproof construction: O ring sealed optics stay dry...
- Shockproof construction: Built to withstand bumps, bangs,...
- Nitrogen purged fog proofing: Nitrogen inside the scope...
The Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 red dot rifle scope is our top pick because of its affordability as well as durable construction. It is made from aluminum aircraft-grade, which is both waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof because of the nitrogen-purging and tight seals.
This scope is also made to withstand any environment, including the bumps, drops, etc. It easily adjusts and adapts to any lighting and environmental condition.
The Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 rifle scope features 3 MOA Dot reticles and 11 different brightness settings. Despite its price, this scope boasts excellent clarity, helps in reducing the sun glares, and also improves accuracy, making it the best red dot rifle.
You can aim and shoot a target of distances up to 100 yards using its red-dot sight. It is easy to adjust because of its adjustment dial, with each dial having 0.5 MOA. It is compatible with a number of rifles, pistols, shotguns, and muzzleloaders. Furthermore, mounting is with its included mount rings.
2. UTG 3-9X32 1" BugBuster Scope
- 1 Inch Tube with Emerald Coating for Maximum Light...
- Range Estimating Mil-dot Reticle for Optimal Aiming and...
- Red/Green Dual Illumination for Versatile Applications,...
- Complete with 2" Sunshade, High Quality Flip-open Lens Caps...
- Built on True Strength Platform, Completely Sealed and...
The UTG 3-9X32 1" BugBuster scope boasts a durable and robust tube that can withstand a variety of elements and weather conditions. Moreover, the durability and strength of this scope ensure that it endures even the harshest recoils.
As one of the best AR 15 scopes under $100, this affordable scope is loaded with excellent features that can only be found in high-quality scopes. It has an RGB Swat illumination reticle that gives various brightness levels to use in different conditions.
The 9-dot wire range estimating reticle and easy-to-use turrets are available for easy adjustments. These turrets can also be locked and have a zero-reset feature that allows you to maintain the zero even after numerous adjustments.
3. CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red Green Illuminated Scope
- Magnification: 2.5-10X with 40mm objective ; Field of...
- Clearer Image: multi-coated green lens boast much higher...
- Illumination Modes: red & green (5 intensity)
- Durable: made of high strength aircraft aluminum
- If you want to install in any 3/8" Dovetail / 11mm Dovetail...
If you're looking for rifle scope with high-quality light transmission, then CVLIFE red and green illuminated scope should be among the top options. With this scope, you get a 40mm objective lens with a 2.5-10x magnification range for crisp and clear images.
This scope also has a laser feature that can reach up to 100 yards, which gives great accuracy and fast target acquisition. Its multi-coated optics together with the Kellner eyepiece allows for dioptric adjustments. This coating also prevents the lens from experiencing any damages.
The CVLIFE AR-15 rifle scope has a red and green illuminated mil-dot reticle, with each having five brightness settings. These features were designed for .223 caliber 55-grain bullets, but they can also be used in other types.
The 20mm and 11mm mounts are also included in the package, and the laser might require 2 LR44 batteries, but a CR2032 battery can also work. With this scope, you can hunt in almost all light conditions. It is perfect for varmint hunting, big and small game hunting, target and tactical shooting.
4. Tacticon Armament Predator V1 Red Dot Sight
- LIGHTNING FAST TARGET ACQUISITION: You can quickly lock...
- UNBEATABLE DURABILITY: The green & red dot sight for AR is...
- SERVICE & SUCCESS – A VETERAN’S LEGACY: At Tacticon - a...
- PERFECT CO-WITNESS: Our Red Dot Sight For Rifle is designed...
- EASY TO INSTALL & USE: With fine ½ MOA adjustments,...
The Tacticon Armament Predator V1 scope is made with industrial-grade aluminum that offers durable construction and a sleek design. Furthermore, this material is waterproof and can withstand bumps in any weather or environmental condition.
Due to the construction, versatility, and mounting rings, it can easily fit on any other rifles and guns. This budget scope also has a lens cap that provides the lenses with extra protection.
It is most of the time referred to as a red dot scope, but it also has impressive green dot-sights that improve precision and accuracy. The different brightness settings mean that you can use this riflescope in any condition.
With these adjustable settings, the sight remains crisp and clear in low-light conditions. Moreover, the parallax, windage, and elevation turrets are easy to adjust. There is also a zero-in feature.
5. Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X rifle scope
- Bright. Accurate. Dependable. We'll assume your stand is in...
- The Bushnell Banner 4-12x40 Rifle Scope Matte Multi-X...
- Fully Multi Coated - Multiple layers of anti-reflective...
- Argon Purged Fog-Proofing - Argon-filled optics remain...
- IPX7 Waterproof construction – O-ring sealed optics stay...
The Bushnell Banner Dusk and Dawn Multi X rifle scope has a durable and airtight construction that is fog-proof, waterproof, and also nitrogen-purging. The material can withstand any weather or environmental condition.
If you are a beginner looking for a scope that is easy to navigate, then you should consider getting this Bushnell banner scope. It has a simple multi-X and no-frills reticle that is great for those searching for a simple but efficient scope.
The excellent set of lenses provide high-quality light transmission and clear sight. It is multi-coated 40mm objective lens enables it to perform well even in low-light conditions.
With the fast focus eyepiece, it enables target shooting and fast sighting. It also has a 6-inch eye relief that ensures a comfortable and safe design. The 3-9x high-magnification levels mean it can be used in several situations.
Features to Consider When Buying the Best Scope for AR 15
1. Type of Reticle
The reticle type of the best scope may vary depending on the design and brands. There are four main types of reticles;
i. Mil-Dot
It is similar to the BDC reticle, but it has a big circle as its focal plane instead of having a crosshair intersection. It is mostly used for complex reticles but is very effective.
ii. Duplex
It is the simplest reticle that gives the least obstructed view. You will be able to see the subjects well because the crosshairs narrow down the closer you get to your target.
iii. BDC(Bullet Drop Compensation)
This one has basic marks which align to a specified range. It is a really nice one since you are able to alter the range while on the fly rather than sighting it in a specific range.
iv. Illuminated
It lights up, glows, and there are different control settings for customization.
Most people like the illuminated reticles because they have an excellent light transmission, even in low light. There are also options like the red, green-dot, or triplex reticle. A red dot scope tends to popular because of ease of use.
2. Magnification
Magnification is one of the critical features that shouldn't be ignored if you're hoping to find the best scope for AR 15, especially when using it as a tactical rifle scope. With this, you can increase the image size and be able to aim even at long distances. It indicates how powerful scope is.
It comes in two number ratings that show the level and the diameter of the lens. The AR-15 rifle scopes may come with an additional number. For example, 3-9 x 32, which simply means it can magnify from 3 times to 9 times in the 32 diameter range. This is known as the variable zoom scopes. Fixed zoom magnification will only offer a specific level of magnification.
A larger objective lens means more a clearer and crisper sight picture. It would be best if you chose between the fixed and variable magnification scopes.
3. Parallax
The parallax refers to the effects you get, especially when using a high-powered rifle scope. It is recommended for a scope to have parallax adjustments to avoid these effects and achieve the best aim and shooting.
4. The adjustability of the scope
The best scope for AR 15 should have adjustable knobs. They should be in the right size where they are not too small or too small for easy adjustability. The turrets should be easy to adjust to enable you to zero correctly.
5. Eye Relief
Eye relief is the distance between your eye and the ocular lens, which is the lens closest to your eye. The immense eye relief is recommended because it allows a safe distance and prevents you from straining your eyes. There are others that have adjustable eye reliefs to allow you to customize the rifle scopes. You need to choose the eye specifications that work for you.
6. Weight and Size of the Scope
The best AR 15 scope is one that will match your needs and use. If you're planning on using it for short or mid-range shots, then the compact scope will be best. When looking for a long-range scope that can magnify up to 100 yards, the scope might have a weight of up to two pounds. However, regardless of the size and weight of the scope, ensure that it fits perfectly in your AR-15 flat-top platform.
7. Scope’s Durability
The scope durability will determine if it will be able to be used in different conditions and be used for an extended period of time. It should be made from high-quality materials to avoid making your shooting process a hassle.
Furthermore, the scope should be water-resistant and fog-proof. When you get a durable scope, you will be able to enjoy the benefits that come with a good scope. It ensures that you can fire anywhere and use it for many years.
8. Price Range
The price of the scopes varies depending on several factors. However, you can easily get a good budget scope for AR 15 under $100, but there are others that go up to thousands of dollars. Most of the time, a scope with a higher price means you get more features, greater durability, and a stronger magnification.
It is crucial to have a budget so as you can look for one that's within your budget. If your budget is below $100, we have a review above of some of the best scopes for AR under $100 in the market today.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs) on Scope For AR 15
1. What scope does the military use on AR 15?
Most military units use the Aimpoint and EOTech red dot sights. However, they used to have the Aimpoint Comp M2 and M4 EOTech 553 Holographic in the past.
2. What scope should I use for 100 yards?
If you're hoping to use your scope at a distance of 100 yards, then the magnification of the scope is one of the items you shouldn't ignore. For most users, a 3x magnification scope is good enough, but for people with eye problems, then they might need a 9x scope.
3. What is the best scope for AR 15?
The best scope for you will depend on your need and budget. For a scope under $100, the best one would be the Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope. This is because it is not only affordable but also durable and boasts excellent features.
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