Specs for scope on AR-15

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  • Fullmag

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    Sep 4, 2011
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    I’m looking to shoot mostly 100 yards for now maybe later out to 2-300 yards. With an absolute overload of info out there I am looking input on manufacturer, mount, Variable power and objective size. So far I’ve read that 50mm objectives are to large for standard AR’s. Right now that’s all I have with short term plan on upgrading after getting some home repairs paid.
     

    42769vette

    Grandmaster
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    Oct 6, 2008
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    50mm scopes are mounted on standard AR 15's every day of the year. It doesnt sound like you need a 50mm bell, but its got nothing to do with the fact they are "to large". You don't need the high zoom that is typically associated with large bells. If you want to shoot me a message with a price range, I would be happy to point you in the right direction.
     

    openwell

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    Mar 31, 2014
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    I have Weaver std. 1" rings with 4X Tasco Pronghorn that works on my flat-top rail.
    It gives me good accuracy @100yds +
    and comes off & on quickly....

    for Sig. Romeo 5 red dot that also detaches & mounts quickly for anything 50yds or closer.

    The Romeo 5 has a great motion activated "on" & "off" that is great.

    cost: Tasco pronghorn $30 from Meijers back when I have about 5 I have on various rifles.

    Sig Romeo 5 is about $125....
    Got it in a trade & just sighted it @50yds just for kicks...great fun.
     
    Last edited:

    Hookeye

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    Dec 19, 2011
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    armpit of the midwest
    I have a 3-9x 40mm on mine for yotes to 300.
    Reg duplex.

    If I was gonna make it a deer / fun / defensive rig.....id put. 1-4x or similar on it

    But mine is 5.56 and is strictly for varmints
     

    rosejm

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    Nov 28, 2013
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    OP: What's the purpose of your 100-300y shooting?

    That might drive the optic choice more.
    As you may have figured out, nearly anything will work at that distance.

    Some may be better suited to the usage than others.



    EDIT: Alan won't steer you wrong either. LOTS of great product (at extremely reasonable prices), and top-notch advice/experience in the marketplace.
     

    mechmc17

    Plinker
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    Jul 21, 2020
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    I have a Leupold Mark AR 3-9x40 and really like it. Can definitely do 100-300 yards, although close quarter use wouldn’t be optimal with the 3x minimum magnification.

    Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x could be a great option depending on what your price point is, it’s very reasonably priced but if you’re looking for something around $100 probably not. 1-6x can be great from under 25 yards out to 300 yards, no problem.
     

    DadSmith

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    I have a Leupold Mark AR 3-9x40 and really like it. Can definitely do 100-300 yards, although close quarter use wouldn’t be optimal with the 3x minimum magnification.

    Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x could be a great option depending on what your price point is, it’s very reasonably priced but if you’re looking for something around $100 probably not. 1-6x can be great from under 25 yards out to 300 yards, no problem.

    Why I went 2-7. At 2 power you can still keep both eyes open and hit close targets.
     
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    Oct 3, 2008
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    Why I went 2-7. At 2 power you can still keep both eyes open and hit close targets.

    I'm a big fan of the 2x7 also. Got them on 2 ARs and a 22. Surprisingly the 2x is actually easy to use both eye open and 7x is plenty for well past 300 yards unless you're looking for little tiny groups. They also tend to have a little better light transmission than the 1-6x and 1-8 scopes with equal quality glass because of larger objective. And since they're not tacticool, they are usually priced lower.
     

    T.Lex

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    A. Whatever Alan says.

    2. I've had a 1-5x20 optic on a short range AR that I'd feel comfy using out to 100 (and beyond, but it wouldn't be great). For hunting, I've had a 3-9x40 that I'd be willing to use to 300yds (but haven't needed to). Both of those variants in whatever manufacturer fits your budget.
     

    DadSmith

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    Very true. And it wasn't all that long ago a 4x scope was considered a long range rig so you don't need a Hubble sized scope to reach to 3-400 yards.

    My dad hunted Elk and Mule deer in Colorado back in the 70's and 80's. He had a Savage 7mm Remington Magnum with a Redfield 4x scope on it. It worked just fine for him.
     

    tcecil88

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    Nov 18, 2013
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    Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x could be a great option depending on what your price point is, it’s very reasonably priced but if you’re looking for something around $100 probably not. 1-6x can be great from under 25 yards out to 300 yards, no problem.

    What he said.
    And I agree with Hookeye, if the scope you already have works and its paid for, use that. Then you can upgrade in the future if you feel you need to.
     

    Ziggy01

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    Nov 16, 2010
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    I have a 1x6 Vortex Strike Eagle and a 1x8 Vortex Strike Eagle. I have been very pleased with both of these chooses. As a couple people have mentioned it would be well worth a conversation with AAOptics.
     

    Plinker556

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    Jul 12, 2020
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    Central Indiana
    If you want to target shoot to 100yds you wont be able to see your hits with anything less than 9X. (Maybe 6X if you have goods eyes and lighting)

    Hunting, ringing steel, and target shooting are different needs. Target shooting and not being able to see your hits gets frustrating, you have to wait until you can walk down to see how you are doing. You can go with less power than 9X on a scope but then I would recommend a spotting scope.

    In my opinion, if you want something cost effective and fun at the range a 3x9 Scope would be ideal, for example:
    https://vortexoptics.com/vortex-crossfire-ii-3-9x40-riflescope.html?vortex_reticle=978
    They can be had all day for $149.00
    You would be able to use it indoors at 25 yards, out to 100yds and see your hits, and out to 300yds or whatever if you want to try that.

    With that said, I also like the suggestions here of a 2x7.
     

    Sniper 79

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    Oct 7, 2012
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    For an AR I like 2-7x32 Leupold in a Aero lightweight offset mount.

    I had a 16" bull barrel AR I put a 3-9x50 Redfield on for yote hunting. Had to use a high mount. Was nice but the setup was too bulky and heavy.

    Personal preference, size and distance of target, and budget will dictate.
     

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