5 Best Ruger AR 556 Scopes

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Looking for the Best Ruger AR 556 scopes on the market? Read on.

Ruger is well known as a leading manufacturer of rifles. One of these best Ruger AR 556 scopes is what you need for the Ruger AR 556 rifle. Ruger rifles work best for target shooting, tactical operations, and gun competitions.

Ruger air rifles offer great accuracy at the range whether in the field or in the forest.

Adding a scope or an optic to this rifle is a great way to increase its effectiveness. This, however, doesn’t mean that any scope will do, you will be required to take some time and think about which scope is going to be the best for your shooting preferences.

It pays off if you select a scope to match your needs and skills.

 

Best Ruger AR 556 Scopes-Our Top Picks

Here is a quick look at the best Ruger AR 556 Scope recommendations.

1) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope

Vortex OPMOD Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope

 

Pros

  • Illuminated Reticle for low-light conditions
  • Fully Multi-Coated
  • Shockproof construction to withstand recoil and impact
  • Ultra-hard, scratch-resistant exterior coating
  • Fogproof and Waterproof – IPX7
  • Matte Anodized Finish
  • Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Construction
  • Fast Focus Eyepiece

Cons

  • None

 

  • Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
  • Magnification: 1 – 6 x
  • Reticle: AR-BDC3
  • Tube Diameter: 30mm
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
  • Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
  • Field of View, Linear: 19.2 – 116.5 ft at 100 yds
  • Eye Relief: 3.5 in
  • Weight: 18.5 oz
  • Length: 10.5 in

 

 

2) Vortex Strikefire II 1x30mm Red Dot Sight

Vortex Strikefire II 1x30mm 4MOA Red Dot Sight

Pros

  • Rugged, reliable red dot sight
  • Fully multi-coated lenses
  • Unlimited eye relief
  • Shockproof performance
  • Parallax Free
  • Rear power controls for easy access
  • 10 levels of brightness settings
  • Long Battery life
  • Hard Anodized Finish
  • Waterproof and fog proof

Cons

  • Only Mounts with a Lower 1/3 Co-Witness Cantilever
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 30 mm
  • Magnification: 1 x
  • Reticle: 4 MOA Bright Red Dot
  • Eye Relief: Unlimited
  • Adjustment Type: MOA
  • Gun Make: AR Platform
  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm
  • Length: 5.6 in
  • Weight: 7.2 oz

 

 

3) Trijicon ACOG 4×32 Scope

Trijicon ACOG 4x32 Scope

Pros

  • Shock resistant
  • Waterproof performance
  • Combat proven optic
  • Forged Aluminum material
  • Bindon Aiming Concept makes it possible to shoot with both eyes open
  • Waterproof performance creates an indestructible sighting system
  • Bullet drop compensating & target-ranging reticle for decisive aiming for precision and decisive aiming

Cons

  • Fixed magnification

 

  • Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
  • Magnification: 4 x
  • Exit Pupil: 8 mm
  • Field of View, Linear: 36.8 ft at 100 yds
  • Field of View, Angle: 7 degrees
  • Eye Relief: 1.5 in
  • Caliber: .223 / 5.56

 

 

4) Primary Arms 1-8 x 24 mm Rifle Scope 

Primary Arms 1-8x24mm SFP Riflescope

Pros

  • 12 brightness settings
  • Water and fog proof
  • Fully multi-coated lenses
  • BDC and ranging accurate at the highest magnification setting
  • ACSS reticle calibrated for 5.56/5.45/.308
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • None
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
  • Magnification: 1 – 8 x
  • Reticle: ACSS 5.56 / 5.45 / .308
  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm
  • Field of View, Linear: 110 – 14.5 ft at 100 yds
  • Eye Relief: 3.3 – 3.5 in
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
  • Exit Pupil: 3 – 9 mm

 

5) Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm Rifle Scope

Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm Rifle Scope

Pros

  • Fully Multi-Coated and anti-reflective lenses
  • Bushnell Lifetime Ironclad Warranty
  • Throw Down PCL power change lever
  • IPX7 waterproof
  • MIL-Based, Exposed, Non-Locking turrets

Cons

  • No EXO Barrier and ED Prime
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
  • Magnification: 1 – 4 x
  • Reticle: Drop Zone-223
  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
  • Exit Pupil: 5.2 – 13.1 mm
  • Field of View, Linear: 112 – 27 ft at 100 yds
  • Eye Relief: 3.5 in

 

 

 

Factors to consider when Choosing the Best Ruger AR 556 Scopes

The best Ruger AR 556 scopes are capable of eliminating the sighting and targeting issues you may encounter in a shooting competition or field.

Selecting the best quality scope if you are unaware of the features to look out for when comparing your choices can be a bit difficult.

Below we have provided a number of factors to put into consideration that will enable you to select the best Ruger AR 556 scopes.

  1. Lenses

The lens or the glass is probably one of the most important features of any rifle scope.

You will require lenses that present a crystal clear picture at both high and low magnifications. You will need this high level of clarity to be able to help read the wind.

To read how the grass or the dust is blowing, you will need a very clear lens

  1. Construction Material

One thing to look out for when comparing the best Ruger AR 556 scopes is the construction material.

The best scope for Ruger AR 556 should be made of heavy-duty and durable material to ensure that the scope will last longer and be used for many functions.

For one, you may want to find a scope made of aircraft-grade aluminum, which is a standard among high-quality scopes. It is sturdy and robust in construction, therefore it is able to last for a long time.

  1. Use of scope

There are various scopes to use in various scenarios such as hunting and tactical.

One thing you need to have in mind when selecting the best Ruger AR 556 scopes is to determine what you intend on using it for and where you are going to be using it.

Base your research on these two and you will be able to get a better understanding of which will be ideal for you.

Certain scope types can be asserted in some situations and liabilities in others. You are likely to be using your rifle for one or more of these reasons:

Hunting. When out in the woods hunting, your scope needs to stay tuned and ready to use. Different lighting needs often come into play in such scenarios.

Target shooting. Scopes used for such activity are a little bit more sensitive since adjustments and babying are possible beforehand or when they are being used.

  1. Eye relief

Eye relief refers to the distance you hold your eye from the scope when you shoot. When selecting the best scope for Ruger AR 556, you will find it better to select one that has a more generous and consistent eye relief.

The eye relief feature has to do with the protection and safety the scope offers users who especially use the rifle with high recoils.

Hitting yourself in the eye with the scope when shooting can not only cause serious eye damage but is also embarrassing. Common eye relief on most Ruger AR rifle scopes is 4”.

  1. Objectives lens diameter

The objective lens diameter is an important feature to check on when purchasing a scope for the Ruger AR 556.

Most hunters opt for a scope with a larger objective lens because it has the ability to capture more light.

A larger objective lens is ideal, especially for hunting purposes. If you intend on buying a scope for the 556 intending on mainly using it for hunting purposes, you might want to go for one with a larger objective lens.

  1. Weight

The weight of your scope is another factor you should consider before making a purchase. Think about the intended use of the scope as well as what you will be doing most in your shooting.

If you will be shooting long distances at the range where you have a bipod or sandbag to fire your rifle, then a heavier scope won’t affect you very much.

If you are hunting and stalking an elk in the mountains and you, therefore, have to do a lot of hiking between shots, it will be beneficial to select a lightweight rifle scope. Raising and holding a heavy rifle scope constantly is tiring.

  1. Adjustment capability

The best Ruger AR 556 scopes are those that allow you to make the necessary adjustments to fit your needs. Unfortunately, not all rifle scopes have good adjustment abilities.

One important adjustment is the parallax adjustment. It is one of the most important adjustment features to look for when comparing your options especially if you are a shooter that wants to target and shoot at long ranges.

Finding a scope with parallax adjustment will help in enhancing sight when you have zeroed the scope properly.

For the best rifle scope, the reference point should always remain constant and make it easy for different shots. If there is any parallax error that might end up interfering with your accuracy.

Know that most rifle scopes in the market these days hardly show any signs of this error therefore, you need to be extra careful when you go to purchase one.

  1. Ease of mounting

The other important factor you need to also consider is how easy it is to mount the scope on the rifle.

Certain scopes make it difficult to have a clear target because they are not properly mounted on the rifle.

You need to understand that great rifle optics are associated with a great rifle scope which makes the task easier for the user.

  1. Magnification

Magnification is the other feature you need to check out when selecting the Ruger AR 556 scope so that you can be able to adjust it accordingly based on what you require for the situation.

Magnification range varies across the various scopes available in the market. For you to be able to have a clear target of distant prey, you need to have a rifle scope with powerful magnification.

In addition, if you know that you are not good at long-range shots, then a scope with a powerful magnification is a must. If you intend on using your scope for home targeting, you can settle for a scope with two times the magnification power.

You can also find fixed power scopes ideal for shooting at the ranges. If you intend on shooting moving targets, a scope with a variable magnification will do.

  1. Gas purging

The other thing to look into when looking for the best quality scope for 556 is its gas purging.

It should be nitrogen gas or any other gas filled and purged for waterproof and fog-proof performance.

This ensures that the scope provides you with a better and clearer sight picture regardless of the weather condition.

  1. Price

Just like when shopping for any accessories for the 556, you should also check on the price of the product you are purchasing.

Even if you don’t have that much money, you can still find a good quality riflescope that won’t break the bank. You can be able to find topnotch sights without spending a fortune. In addition, lower-priced scopes do not mean lower quality.

You can still find a quite affordable scope that performs very well. Saying all this, you shouldn’t decide based on the price alone. You should carry out your research and find an ideal scope at the price you can afford.

It should have good reviews from users who can provide useful pieces of information on which scopes are the best even without paying a high price.

However, you must decide on the scope to go with based on the budget you intend on spending for such a product.

FAQs

  • How far will my bullet go with the help of a scope?

The scope doesn’t change the distance but it influences a little about the range. To answer this question, you have to determine what your limits are. Actually, the best Ruger AR 556 scopes can shoot a longer distance than what you expected. How far your bullet will go depends on many different factors and magnification is one of them.

  • Which scope would you recommend for a Ruger AR-556 in a big-bore cartridge for hunting?

I would recommend a 3-9 scope or fixed power. The reticle is not that much important since you don’t shoot a whole bunch and you zero on what distance you shoot at the place of learning where it hits. Therefore, I recommend the following good and less expensive scopes: Bushnell, Nikon, and Leupold.

  • Which distance or shooting range can the best Ruger AR 556 scope help you get?

The best scope for the 556 improves your aim at a longer distance. The AR 556 rifle is one powerful weapon that is capable of shooting a bullet over a long distance. If your rifle is equipped with the best Ruger AR 556 scope, it enables you to shoot longer and more accurately.

  • Should I use MOA or MIL?

You should stick to the one you are most comfortable with. I wouldn’t make any change if you have been using one over the other. However, if you are just beginning and you haven’t had time to get comfortable with any of the two, I would recommend that you go with MOA. The reason is that the math is simpler and you will pick up faster.

  • Which is the best scope for Ruger Ar 556?

First and foremost, you must know that the Ruger AR 556 is a handy rifle. On the market, it is built around the most common .223/5.56mm ammo. You will use it with heavy bullets shooting in a long range. Therefore, you will require a scope, but a 3-9x is enough.

Advantages of the best Ruger AR 556 scopes

  • Enhance image quality.

The main role of a rifle scope is to help the shooter have a better aim at the target. This is only achievable if the image of the target is made to appear clear to you. The best scopes for 556 enhance the image quality of the target giving the shooter a better shot.

  • Improved accuracy.

Riflescopes for Ruger AR 556 just like any other rifle scope improve accuracy. Accuracy is always on top of every shooter’s mind when shooting. The best scope will not only enhance your shooting accuracy but also minimize the time and effort needed to take down the target.

  • Improved scores.

The best rifle scope for the 556 improves the scores of a target shooter. Having better scores means that you improve your shooting and aiming skills with time.

Disadvantages of Ruger AR556 scopes

  • The best Ruger AR 556 scopes tend to be much expensive compared with other rifle scopes.
  • Certain Ruger AR 556 scopes tend to have quite insufficient magnification for long-distance shots

Conclusion

Choosing the best Ruger AR 556 Scopes on the market has been made easier by this review. We have chosen the top-rated scopes to make it easier for you while looking for the best AR 556 Scopes.