Finding the best AR-15 scope under $500 requires careful consideration of your needs and shooting style. This price point offers a surprising range of quality optics, but choosing the right one depends on factors like intended use (home defense, target shooting, hunting), desired magnification, and personal preferences. This guide will help you navigate the options and find the perfect scope for your budget.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing an AR-15 Scope
Before diving into specific recommendations, let's examine the essential features you should prioritize:
1. Magnification:
- Low Power Variable Optics (LPVO): These scopes typically range from 1-4x or 1-6x magnification. They are incredibly versatile, offering a wide field of view at low magnification for close-quarters situations and the ability to zoom in for longer-range targets. Many consider LPVOs the ideal all-around choice for AR-15s.
- Fixed Power Scopes: These offer a single magnification level (e.g., 3x, 4x). They are usually more compact and lighter than variable scopes, making them suitable for applications where weight is a concern, such as home defense or close-range shooting.
- Higher Magnification Scopes: Options exceeding 6x magnification exist but are less common in the sub-$500 range. These are better suited for longer-range precision shooting.
2. Reticle:
The reticle is the aiming point within the scope. Popular choices include:
- Second Focal Plane (SFP): The reticle size remains constant regardless of magnification. This makes ranging easier, but the reticle can appear smaller at higher magnifications.
- First Focal Plane (FFP): The reticle size changes proportionally with magnification. This is advantageous for precise ranging at all magnifications but can be more complex to use for beginners.
- BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) Reticles: These feature markings to help compensate for bullet drop at different ranges. They are particularly helpful for longer-range shooting.
3. Illumination:
Illuminated reticles are useful in low-light conditions. Consider whether this feature is essential for your shooting environment.
4. Turrets:
- Tactical Turrets: Allow for precise adjustments to windage and elevation. They are usually capped to prevent accidental changes.
- Target Turrets: Offer greater precision adjustments than tactical turrets but are usually exposed, making them more susceptible to damage.
5. Eye Relief:
Eye relief refers to the distance between your eye and the eyepiece. Sufficient eye relief is crucial for comfortable shooting and to avoid injury. Look for scopes with at least 3.5 inches of eye relief.
Top AR-15 Scope Recommendations Under $500
While specific models change with availability and price fluctuations, the following brands consistently offer excellent value in this price range:
- Primary Arms: Known for their exceptional value and ruggedness, Primary Arms scopes are a popular choice among AR-15 owners. Look for their 1-6x or 1-8x LPVO models.
- Vortex Optics: Vortex offers a range of scopes under $500, including the Crossfire II and Strike Eagle series. These are known for their reliability and excellent customer service.
- Bushnell: Bushnell produces many affordable scopes with good performance. Their AR Optics line is a good place to start your search.
- Nikon: Nikon's P-Tactical series often features in this price range and delivers reliable performance for the price.
Making Your Choice
The best AR-15 scope for under $500 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. Carefully consider the factors discussed above – magnification, reticle, illumination, turrets, and eye relief – to find the perfect fit for your shooting style and budget. Reading reviews from other users can also provide valuable insights before making a purchase. Remember to prioritize quality over features; a well-built scope with fewer features is often better than a cheaply made scope with many bells and whistles.
