Looking for the best Scope for AR-15 Coyote Hunting? Read on as we comprehensively cover AR-15 coyote scopes.
Coyotes are masters at keeping out of sight, and hunting them is not easy, you will need to wisely choose your optic for a successful hunt.
Hunting coyotes requires a lot of patience since they can smell you from far away before you even draw the shot
The ideal scope for coyotes should have great performance and advanced optical systems to support shooting at extended ranges.
A top-quality scope tailored for AR-15 coyote hunting not only improves accuracy but also enhances your ability to engage targets quickly at varying distances.
Whether you’re dealing with low-light conditions or fast-moving targets, the best AR-15 scopes for coyote hunting typically offer a balance of magnification, durability, and clear optics.
From quick target acquisition at closer ranges to precise shots over longer distances, these scopes are designed to give you the edge in the field.
Let’s get started
Best Scopes for AR-15 Coyote Hunting
1) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm RifleScope
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is the best scope for AR-15 coyote hunting, it features XR Fully Multi-Coated optics, Fast Focus Eyepiece, Matching (MRAD or MOA) turrets and reticles, Precision-Force Spring/Precision-Glide Erector Systems and weatherproof performance.
The scope offers an exceptional blend of high-performance optics, durable construction, and hunter-friendly features. Designed with both precision and versatility in mind, this scope excels in dynamic hunting environments where quick target acquisition and clear visuals are crucial, making it an ideal choice for coyote hunters who need to balance accuracy over varying distances.
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II is equipped with XD lens elements that enhance image quality by delivering extra-low dispersion, providing crystal-clear, sharp images with superior color fidelity. This is especially useful in coyote hunting when distinguishing targets in brush or low light is essential.
The scope also features XR fully multi-coated lenses, which significantly boost light transmission through multiple anti-reflective coatings, ensuring maximum brightness and clarity during early morning or late evening hunts when coyotes are most active.
The second focal plane reticle maintains consistent reticle size throughout the magnification range, while its illuminated reticle allows precise aiming even under low-light conditions, adding a critical advantage during dusk or dawn hunts.
This scope is built for rugged outdoor use, starting with its 30 mm single-piece tube made from aircraft-grade aluminum, ensuring strength, durability, and maximum alignment for better accuracy. The scope is fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, making it ready to withstand any environment—from humid mornings to harsh cold nights.
The hard anodized finish not only gives it a sleek, low-glare matte look but also helps to camouflage the hunter’s position. The ArmorTek coating adds another layer of protection by safeguarding the external lenses from scratches, dirt, and oil, ensuring a clear view through thick, messy terrain.
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II features a Precision-Force Spring System and a Precision-Glide Erector System, both of which guarantee smooth and precise magnification adjustments. Whether switching between 1x and 6x for closer or more distant shots, these systems ensure seamless operation, allowing you to adapt quickly to fast-moving coyotes.
In addition to its robust build and optical clarity, the scope comes with several convenience features designed for ease of use. The fast-focus eyepiece enables quick reticle focusing, so you’re always ready for that split-second shot.
Its built-in accuracy features include matching turrets and reticles, ensuring quick and accurate shooting at extended ranges. The patented fiber optic Radius Bar offers a visual aid for tracking turret rotations, simplifying adjustments when engaging targets at varying distances
Pros
- Excellent image clarity with extra-low dispersion glass
- Illuminated reticle for low-light precision
- Durable construction with waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof performance
- Smooth magnification changes with the Precision-Glide Erector System
- Fast-focus eyepiece for quick target acquisition
Cons
- Slightly higher price range for budget-conscious hunters
Get it on Amazon,Optics Planet, or Cabelas
2) ATN X-Sight 4K Pro 3-14x50mm Smart HD Day/Night Rifle Scope
The ATN X-Sight 4K Pro 3-14x50mm Smart HD Day/Night Rifle Scope is a technological powerhouse that redefines AR-15 coyote hunting with its advanced features and unparalleled versatility.
Whether hunting during the day or night, this scope offers hunters the ability to transition seamlessly between lighting conditions without sacrificing performance. Equipped with a cutting-edge 4K ultra HD sensor and dual-core processor, this scope delivers crystal-clear images, allowing hunters to spot coyotes at varying distances with ease.
Its versatility in light conditions and built-in smart features make it one of the best scopes for AR-15 coyote hunting.
One of the standout features of the X-Sight 4K Pro is its Smart Mil Dot Reticle, which allows hunters to program hash marks in mils based on their preferred loads. This makes it easier to account for holdovers, windage, and shot placement at varying distances, providing accuracy on every shot.
The Smart Range Finder further enhances precision, allowing hunters to quickly estimate distances and automatically adjust the reticle’s point of impact for fast, accurate shots. Additionally, the Ballistic Calculator ensures your shots are on target by considering factors such as range, wind, temperature, and angle to the target.
This scope is designed to capture the thrill of the hunt with its Dual Stream Video feature. With Recoil Activated Video (RAV), you’ll never miss a crucial moment, as the scope begins recording upon firing, saving it directly to an SD card while simultaneously streaming in HD. This lets hunters relive their best moments, while One Shot Zero simplifies the sighting-in process for quick setup.
The ATN X-Sight 4K Pro is not just a day scope; its night vision mode gives you high-resolution optics even in total darkness, perfect for nocturnal coyote hunting. The Ultra Low Power Consumption offers an industry-leading 18 hours of continuous battery life, so hunters can stay in the field without worrying about the scope dying at a crucial moment.
Built from hardened aluminum alloy and equipped with impact-resistant electronics, this scope is recoil resistant, capable of withstanding the heavy recoil of high-caliber firearms.
Adding to its ease of use, the Auxiliary Ballistic Laser transforms the X-Sight 4K Pro into a fully-fledged long-range hunting tool with a laser range finder, further boosting its capabilities for hunters who need long-distance accuracy.
Pros
- 4K Ultra HD sensor delivers unmatched image clarity and resolution
- Dual-use for day and night hunting with night vision capabilities
- Recoil Activated Video and Dual Stream Video allow recording and live streaming
- Smart Mil-Dot Reticle and Smart Range Finder enhance shot accuracy
- Ballistic Calculator accounts for all environmental variables
- Durable, recoil-resistant construction with 18 hours of continuous use
- One Shot Zero simplifies the sighting-in process
Cons
- High-tech features may require a learning curve for some users
Get it on Amazon or Optics Planet
3) Bushnell AR Optics 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
Bushnell AR Optics 1-6x24mm Riflescope is a top-tier scope that delivers excellent performance at a price that is easy on your wallet.
It features an illuminated reticle for optimal performance in different lighting conditions.
The illuminated BTR-1 BDC reticle has drop points to get you on targets out to 500 yards with standard .223 Rem./5.56 NATO Ammunition.
The glass quality is outstanding. It boasts incredibly clear glass with Bushnell’s Ultra-Wide Band Coating and is fully multi-coated.
It’s clear that it’s a high-quality scope for the money from the chromatic aberration-free images and hardly noticeable edge distortion.
The AR scope has two throw levers that can be used to quickly and instantly adjust the power. The long throw lever is in the package, and the short throw lever is already mounted on the scope.
When making power changes, they can be stored by folding down, yet they are always ready to go.
Specifications
- Illuminated BTR-1 reticle on the SFP
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.6 in
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 1 – 6 ft at 100 ft
Pros
- Folding Throw lever for the quickest power changes
- Aluminum construction
- Capped turrets to protect against hard use
- Compact and lightweight
- Waterproof construction
- All air-to-glass surfaces feature multiple layers of anti-reflective coatings
Cons
- No Zero Stop
4) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Riflescope
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Riflescope allows you to take down targets that are both at close and extended distances. This is thanks to the 1-6x magnification.
This amazing scope guarantees relentless performance. The tube is sealed with O-rings to keep out any elements that can impede optimal performance and is purged with nitrogen gas to prevent internal fogging, which could compromise visual performance.
Due to the high-quality construction, the scope is shockproof, thus, rifle recoil shouldn’t be an issue.
Speaking of construction, the scope is crafted from a solid block of aircraft-grade aluminum that is durable and lightweight.
High-quality, multi-coated lenses that transmit light optimally are fitted on the riflescope. Even in low light conditions, this exceptional light transmission results in crystal clear images.
The reticle is illuminated for precision aiming while hunting at dawn or dark for the best low-light performance.
All these features cement the scope’s name as the best Scope for AR-15 Coyote Hunting by Vortex.
Specifications
- Magnification 1-6x
- Tube Size: 30 mm
- Objective Lens Diameter 24 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Field of View 116.5-19.2 ft @100 yds
- Field of View, Linear: 19.2 – 116.5 ft at 100 yds
- Weight: 18.5 oz
Pros
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Constructed with premium aircraft-grade aluminum
- A fast-focus eyepiece
- Glass-etched reticle ensures durability and reliability.
- Illuminated reticle for optimal low-light performance
- Lifetime warranty
- Budget-friendly
- Adjustable diopter
- Anti-reflective coatings for optimum light transmission
- Robustly made for longevity
Cons
- Parallax is not unlimited but fixed at @100 yds
5) Firefield RapidStrike 1-6x24mm Riflescope
The Firefield RapidStrike 1-6x24mm Riflescope is ideal for close to medium ranges.
The scope features fully multi-coated optics for maximum light transmittance for clear, sharp, and bright images.
The scope is waterproof, fog proof, dustproof, and shockproof with a robust aluminum housing meaning it will survive any conditions you put it through.
The tactical pop-up turrets on the scope lock or click into place when the elevation and windage adjustments are made.
This is a crucial feature because it makes it simple to make minor alterations while in use and, more crucially, simple to operate the turrets even while using tactical gloves.
The throw lever is a notable feature of the scope. Using the provided tools, attaching it is simple. The throw lever makes changing the scope’s zoom feature effortless and quick.
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Reticle: Circle Dot on the SFP
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 102 ft at 100 yds, Angle: 6 degrees
- Eye Relief: 4 in
- Cantilever Mount
- Red or Green illuminated reticle
- 5 brightness settings
- Flip-up caps
Pros
- Locking turrets
- Recoil resistant up to .338 caliber
- Circle Dot reticle with five illumination settings
- For close-to-medium-range engagements
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Durable aluminum body
- Black matte finish
- All-weather construction(waterproof and dustproof)
- Clear markings
- Reticle illumination
- Solid construction
Cons
- None
6) Leupold VX-6HD 1-6x24mm Riflescope
Like other Leupold scopes, the VX-6HD features a high-quality construction that promises many years of relentless use.
It’s 30mm main tube is made of aluminum 6061-T6.
The scope is shock- and recoil-resistant, adding to the excellent quality build, for all-weather performance, it is completely waterproof and fog-free.
The Twilight Max Light Management System is incorporated into the scope. The feature comes in handy when shooting at sunset to sunrise when coyotes are most active.
Another plus for the scope is the generous eyebox that helps in fast target acquisition and a fast-focus eyepiece for quick reticle focusing.
The FireDot Duplex reticle is illuminated for enhanced low-light performance.
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.7 – 3.82 in
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
- Reticle: FireDot Duplex
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Field of View, Linear: 123.2 – 20.3 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- Removable throw lever
- Generous eyebox
- Twilight Max Light Management System
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
- Top-quality aluminum design
- CDS custom dial system
- Motion sensor technology
- Long battery life
- Lightweight and compact
- Great quality glass
- Fast target acquisition
Cons
- No side focus or Adjustable objective
7) Burris RT-6 1-6x24mm SFP Riflescope
Burris RT-6 1-6x24mm SFP Riflescope is durable thanks to its sturdy aluminum construction.
The scope is completely waterproof for reliability in bad weather.
The Ballistic AR Mil reticle provides 600-yard trajectory compensation. You get eleven brightness settings to choose from, depending on your situation.
Fast and completely adjustable, the uniquely installed throw lever can be moved fore and aft and rotated to the precise beginning point you like. This allows instant magnification changes on the fly.
Furthermore, the scope is nitrogen filled for a fog-proof performance. This is in addition to being shockproof for recoil and impact resistance.
Thanks to the multi-coated lenses, the scope allows for more light for great contrast and image resolution.
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.3 – 4 in
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Eye Relief: 3.3 – 4 in
- Eye Relief: 3.3 – 4 in
- Reticle: Ballistic AR 5X
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 5.2 – 11.5 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 106 – 18.5 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- Solid aluminum constitution
- Ballistic AR Mil reticle
- The throw lever facilitates quick magnification changes.
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
- Multi-coated lenses
- Matte finish
- Clear glass
- Easy to use
- Capped turrets
- Illuminated reticle
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Does not come with lens caps
8) Primary Arms 1-6x24mm Riflescope
Primary Arms 1-6x24mm is a riflescope hinged with top-tier features yet comes at a pocket-friendly price.
The scope’s body is manufactured from high-grade aluminum to balance weight and durability. This makes it ideal for hunters who walk long miles to find their prey.
It has an Advanced Combined Sighting System reticle that offers range estimation, wind holds, and bullet drop compensation. Better yet, this reticle is incredibly simple to use and illuminated for rapid and simple target acquisition, even in dim lighting.
Another highlight of the scope is its generous eye relief that facilitates fast target acquisition and ensures a comfortable shooting session for all users.
Besides, the scope is waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof. Nothing will stop you from enjoying your hunting.
Fully multi-coated optics come in handy even in dismal lighting situations by allowing maximum light to pass through.
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- CR2032 battery
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Eye Relief: 3.3 – 3.5 in
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 9 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 110 – 19.3 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- Second focal plane reticle
- 30mm tube
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
- Ample eye relief
- Sturdy aluminum constitution
- Illuminated reticle
- Easy to use
- Capped turrets
- Accurate performance
- Holds zero perfectly
- Durably made
Cons
- Not night vision compatible
Related
- 7 Best Night Vision Scopes for Coyote Hunting
- 7 Best Thermal Scopes for Coyote Hunting
- 6 Best Leupold Scopes for Coyote Hunting
- 7 Best ATN Scope for Coyote Hunting
Choosing the Best Scope for AR-15 Coyote Hunting
When choosing the best scope for AR-15 coyote hunting, several factors play a critical role in ensuring that you get the most effective and reliable performance for your specific hunting needs. Below are the key factors to consider, each explained in detail:
1. Magnification Range
The magnification range is crucial in coyote hunting because it determines how well you can spot and target coyotes at various distances. A versatile magnification, such as 1-6x or 3-14x, allows for quick target acquisition at close ranges while still providing enough zoom to engage targets at longer distances.
The ability to easily adjust magnification ensures that you can adapt to the terrain and distances that are common in coyote hunting, whether in dense cover or open fields.
2. Optical Clarity
High-quality optics ensure that your image is sharp and clear, even in challenging lighting conditions. Look for scopes with extra-low dispersion (XD) glass, fully multi-coated lenses, and anti-reflective coatings, which maximize light transmission and reduce glare.
Optical clarity is especially important when hunting coyotes during low-light hours, such as at dawn or dusk, when these predators are most active. A clear view of your target is critical for making an accurate and ethical shot.
3. Illuminated Reticle
An illuminated reticle is essential for coyote hunting, particularly in low-light conditions or at night. This feature provides enhanced visibility of your aiming point, allowing for more precise shots even when lighting is suboptimal.
Scopes like the Vortex Viper PST Gen II come with illuminated reticles that allow hunters to quickly acquire targets, whether hunting in dense foliage or in the fading light of evening.
4. Reticle Design
The design of the reticle can greatly impact your shooting precision. For coyote hunting, a reticle with holdover points or a Smart Mil Dot system is highly beneficial. This allows for more accurate shots at varying distances by compensating for bullet drop and wind drift.
Reticles with range estimation features or ballistic compensators can also assist hunters in making adjustments quickly, so they don’t lose sight of fast-moving coyotes.
5. Durability and Construction
Durability is non-negotiable for a hunting scope, as it must withstand tough outdoor conditions and handle the recoil from high-caliber firearms. Look for scopes constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, which provides strength and longevity. Features like waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction ensure your scope will function reliably, regardless of the weather or terrain. ArmorTek coatings that protect the lenses from scratches and debris also add to the scope’s longevity.
6. Night Vision and Low-Light Performance
Coyotes are most active during dawn, dusk, and nighttime hours, making night vision or exceptional low-light performance a key feature for your AR-15 scope. Scopes like the ATN X-Sight 4K Pro come with night vision capabilities, allowing hunters to track and shoot targets in complete darkness. If night vision isn’t needed, scopes with advanced light-gathering capabilities and multi-coated lenses are essential for seeing clearly in low-light conditions.
7. Battery Life and Power Efficiency
Many modern scopes, especially those with electronic components like illuminated reticles, night vision, or video recording, require reliable battery performance. A scope with long battery life, such as the ATN X-Sight 4K Pro with over 18 hours of continuous use, ensures that your scope doesn’t lose power during extended hunts. Ultra-low power consumption helps keep you in the field longer without worrying about swapping batteries during crucial moments.
8. Ease of Use and Adjustments
Your scope should be user-friendly, especially in high-pressure hunting situations where quick adjustments are necessary. Features like one-shot zeroing and fast-focus eyepieces simplify the process of sighting in and focusing on your target. Scopes with built-in rangefinders, such as the ATN X-Sight, make it easier to adjust for distance and windage, ensuring that every shot is on target. The ease of mounting and intuitive operation further enhance the hunting experience, allowing you to focus on your target instead of fiddling with your scope.
By considering these eight factors, hunters can choose the best scope for AR-15 coyote hunting that suits their specific needs and enhances their overall hunting success.
Best Scope for AR-15 Coyote Hunting FAQs
- What kind of scope is good for coyote hunting?
Magnification is the most crucial quality to look for in a coyote hunting scope. You’ll have a better chance of nailing the howler at a 600-yard range while the target can still be seen well.
- How do you hunt coyotes?
These creatures’ cagey behavior necessitates some cunning so as have successive hunting missions. A hunter must be thorough in how he carries out his tasks, from the construction of the gear to the actual action.
The fundamentals of coyote hunting include: positioning yourself for visibility, slowing down, keeping the wind in your face, and calling coyotes with alluring noises. The ideal coyote gun for big-woods hunting is a shotgun because you’ll be firing up close.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the best scope for AR-15 coyote hunting requires a careful balance of features that enhance both performance and adaptability in various hunting conditions.
Key factors like magnification range, optical clarity, illuminated reticles, and reticle design ensure precision, while durability and construction guarantee the scope can handle tough environments and recoil.
Scopes with advanced low-light and night vision capabilities are crucial for hunting during the peak coyote activity hours. Additionally, features like long battery life, ease of use, and smart adjustments make a significant difference in the field.
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