5 Best Scopes for AR-15 Hog Hunting​

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Looking for the Best Scopes for AR-15 Hog Hunting​ ? Read on.

When it comes to hog hunting with an AR-15, choosing the right scope can make all the difference in your success and overall experience. A quality scope tailored for hog hunting provides the precision, durability, and adaptability needed to excel in diverse hunting environments, from dense woods to open fields.

Key features like variable magnification, illuminated reticles, and robust construction are essential to handle the challenges of low-light conditions, fast-moving targets, and rugged terrains.

Additionally, considerations such as ease of use, reticle design, and long-lasting battery performance ensure your setup is reliable when it matters most. Finding the perfect scope enhances your accuracy and confidence, elevating your hog-hunting adventures to a whole new level.

Best Scopes for AR-15 Hog Hunting​

1) Vortex Crossfire II Hog Hunter 3-12x56mm Riflescope

Vortex Crossfire II Hog Hunter 3-12x56mm Riflescope

The Vortex Crossfire II Hog Hunter 3-12x56mm Riflescope is the best scope for AR-15 Hog Hunting, it excels in pursuing hogs in challenging low-light environments, features a V-Brite reticle, fully multi-coated optics,ultra-forgiving eye box, finger adjustable capped reset turrets, and robust durable construction.

The 56mm adjustable objective lens paired with the V-Brite illuminated reticle ensures that hunters can maintain pinpoint accuracy in dim conditions. The oversized objective lens maximizes light transmission, while the reticle’s red illumination with 11 brightness settings enhances target visibility in tough lighting.

This scope’s anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses provide unparalleled clarity and brightness, ensuring a crisp view even at dawn or dusk.

The adjustable objective eliminates parallax and sharpens image focus, delivering reliable precision from 10 yards to infinity. With capped reset turrets that are finger-adjustable and MOA-click-based, sighting in is a breeze, and the zero-reset feature makes on-the-go adjustments hassle-free.

The fast-focus eyepiece simplifies reticle adjustments, allowing hunters to acquire their target quickly.

Built from aircraft-grade aluminum, the Crossfire II Hog Hunter is shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof, ensuring it can withstand harsh environments and heavy recoil. The single-piece 30mm tube design provides additional strength and alignment for better accuracy. Backed by Vortex’s VIP lifetime warranty, the scope is an investment that promises long-term reliability and performance.

 

 

 

 

 

Key Features

  • Magnification Range: 3-12x with a wide field of view (9.2 – 36.7 ft at 100 yds).
  • Lens Quality: Fully multi-coated glass for sharp, bright images.
  • Reticle: V-Brite illuminated reticle with red illumination and 11 brightness settings.
  • Construction: Aircraft-grade aluminum, hard-anodized finish, and a 30mm tube diameter.
  • Adjustability: The objective is adjustable for parallax correction, with a 60 MOA adjustment range.
  • Weatherproof: O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged for waterproof and fogproof performance.
  • Eye Relief: 3.5 inches with a forgiving eye box for quick target acquisition.

Pros

  • Outstanding low-light performance with the oversized 56mm objective lens.
  • Illuminated V-Brite reticle enhances accuracy in dim conditions.
  • Adjustable objective eliminates parallax for precise shooting.
  • Durable aircraft-grade aluminum construction ensures longevity.
  • Shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof for rugged use.
  • Long eye relief and fast-focus eyepiece for rapid target acquisition.
  • Backed by Vortex’s industry-leading lifetime VIP warranty.

Cons

  • Battery life (150 hours) may require frequent replacements for extended hunts.

 

2) Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF xp50 Pro 2-16x Thermal Rifle Scope

Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF xp50 Pro 2-16x Thermal Rifle Scope

 

The Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XP50 Pro is the best thermal scope for AR-15 hog hunting, it is a game-changer for AR-15 hog hunting, offering unmatched thermal imaging capabilities, versatile magnification, and rugged construction.

Designed for serious hunters, this thermal riflescope combines cutting-edge technology with user-friendly features to excel in low-light or complete darkness. Its precision, durability, and advanced imaging make it an ideal tool for hog hunting in any condition.

Equipped with a 640×480 microbolometer resolution and a crisp 1024×768 AMOLED display, this scope provides detailed thermal images for identifying targets up to 2,000 yards away.

The 2-16x magnification with digital zoom ensures clear object recognition and a customized field of view, allowing hunters to adapt to various scenarios. Eight color palettes, including White Hot, Black Hot, and Red Hot, provide flexibility for optimal image contrast in changing conditions.

The built-in laser rangefinder with an 875-yard range delivers precise distance measurements, giving hunters confidence in their shots. The Picture-in-Picture mode enhances aiming accuracy by showing a magnified view of the target within the overall field of view, ensuring precision without compromising situational awareness.

Additionally, the scope supports five unique shooting profiles with up to 50 zeroing distances, making it adaptable for multiple firearms and cartridges.

The Thermion 2 LRF XP50 Pro is built to withstand extreme conditions, with a high-caliber recoil resistance suitable for firearms like the .375 H&H. Its IPX7 waterproof rating ensures functionality even in heavy rain or submersion up to one meter.

The durable Germanium lens and robust housing provide excellent performance in temperatures ranging from -25°C to +50°C. Mounting on standard 30mm rings ensures compatibility with most AR-15 setups.

Hunters can capture their adventures with built-in photo and video recording while seamlessly sharing content via Wi-Fi connectivity and the Stream Vision 2 App. The scope’s instant start-up (within 4 seconds) minimizes downtime, while the ergonomic design with a wide-angle eyepiece ensures comfort during long hunting sessions.

 

 

 

 

Key Features

  • Thermal Imaging: 640×480 resolution with a 2,000-yard detection range.
  • Display: 1024×768 AMOLED for high contrast and vivid detail.
  • Magnification: Variable 2-16x magnification with digital zoom.
  • Laser Rangefinder: Accurate distance measurement up to 875 yards.
  • Reticles: 10 customizable reticle shapes in 9 colors.
  • Profiles: Five shooting profiles with 50 zeroing distances.
  • Recording: Built-in photo and video recording with Wi-Fi support.
  • Construction: Durable, waterproof, and recoil-resistant for high-caliber firearms.
  • Battery Life: Long-lasting 10-hour battery.

Pros:

  • Exceptional thermal detection up to 2,000 yards.
  • The Laser rangefinder ensures accurate distance measurements.
  • Versatile reticle customization for various shooting conditions.
  • Picture-in-Picture mode improves aiming precision.
  • Robust design with recoil resistance for large calibers.
  • Built-in recording and Wi-Fi connectivity for seamless sharing.
  • Comfortable wide-angle eyepiece for prolonged use.
  • IPX7 waterproof rating for reliability in harsh weather.

Cons

  • The Higher price point may be a barrier for some hunters.

 

3) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope

VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm

The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is one of the Best Scopes for AR-15 Hog Hunting​, it is designed for hunters who demand reliability in the field, offering outstanding performance with an array of features tailored for success in low-light conditions and rugged environments.

Built around Leupold’s Advanced Optical System, the VX-Freedom delivers superior light transmission and excellent glare reduction, making it an ideal choice for low-light hog hunting at dawn or dusk. The Twilight Light Management System ensures optimal brightness and clarity, even in challenging lighting conditions, providing hunters with a sharp, detailed view of their target.

Crafted from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, this scope is lightweight yet robust, weighing only 12.2 oz. It is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, capable of withstanding the demands of harsh hunting environments. Scratch-resistant lenses and a matte finish add to its rugged appeal, ensuring it remains in pristine condition after extended use.

The scope features a 1/4 MOA finger-click adjustment system for accurate windage and elevation changes, giving you reliable control in the field. The Custom Dial System (CDS) makes long-range shots easier by allowing you to match the turret settings to your cartridge and shooting conditions.

With a 3:1 zoom ratio and a versatile magnification range of 3x to 9x, the scope is well-suited for both close-quarters and extended-range engagements.

The 4.2-3.7 inches of eye relief ensures comfortable usage with minimal risk of recoil impact. Its second focal plane reticle keeps the reticle size consistent regardless of magnification, making it easier to focus on your target. The lockable eyepiece ensures the reticle stays securely in position during use.

 

 

 

 

Key Features

  • Advanced Optical System: Superior light transmission and glare reduction for clear views in low-light conditions.
  • Twilight Light Management System: Enhanced brightness and clarity during dawn or dusk.
  • 1/4 MOA Finger Click Adjustments: Reliable and precise windage and elevation control.
  • Custom Dial System (CDS): Simplifies long-range shooting with personalized turret settings.
  • 3:1 Zoom Ratio: Versatile magnification range from 3x to 9x for various hunting scenarios.
  • Second Focal Plane Reticle: Reticle size remains constant across all magnifications.
  • 6061-T6 Aircraft-Grade Aluminum: Lightweight yet durable construction.
  • Waterproof, Fogproof, and Shockproof: Built to withstand harsh hunting conditions.
  • Scratch-Resistant Lenses: Protects optics for long-term durability.
  • Lockable Eyepiece: Keeps the reticle securely in place during use.

Pros

  • Excellent light transmission and glare reduction for low-light performance
  • Durable, lightweight construction using aircraft-grade aluminum
  • Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for all-weather reliability
  • Custom Dial System (CDS) simplifies long-range accuracy
  • Versatile 3-9x magnification for various hunting scenarios
  • Scratch-resistant lenses for added durability

Cons

  • No illumination for the reticle, making it less effective in complete darkness

 

4) ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Edition 3-14x50mm Smart HD Day/Night Rifle Scope

ATN X-Sight 4K Pro 3-14x Smart HD Day/Night Riflescope

 

The ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Edition 3-14x50mm Smart HD Rifle Scope redefines modern optics, offering unmatched versatility for AR-15 hog hunting. Its ability to seamlessly transition between day and night hunting, combined with cutting-edge technology, makes it a formidable tool for both novice and seasoned hunters.

The ATN X-Sight 4K Pro excels in hog hunting scenarios where precision and adaptability are crucial. The Smart Mil Dot Reticle allows hunters to tailor their reticle for specific loads, ensuring accuracy. Its One Shot Zero capability reduces the hassle of sighting in, letting you focus on the hunt.

Night hunters will appreciate the high-resolution night vision mode, delivering exceptional clarity even in complete darkness. The Recoil Activated Video (RAV) feature automatically records your shots, so you can relive the hunt or analyze your performance later.

The Auxiliary Ballistic Laser (ABL) and integrated Ballistic Calculator turn this scope into a comprehensive hunting system, factoring in variables like wind, distance, and angle to ensure every shot lands where it counts. With its dual-core processor and 4K sensor, the scope provides crystal-clear imagery, both in real-time and through its recording functions.

Built to last, the scope features hardened aluminum alloy construction and recoil-resistant electronics, making it a reliable choice for high-caliber rifles. Its 18+ hour battery life ensures you won’t run out of power during extended hunts making it one of the Best Scopes for AR-15 Hog Hunting.

 

 

 

Key Features

  • Smart Mil Dot Reticle: Fully programmable for custom hash mark spacing based on your load.
  • Dual Stream Video: Stream and record HD video simultaneously with the Obsidian 4 core processor.
  • Recoil Activated Video (RAV): Automatically captures every shot, ensuring you never miss key moments.
  • One Shot Zero: Simplifies sighting in—adjust the reticle after a single shot.
  • Smart Range Finder: Quickly and accurately calculates distance and adjusts the point of impact.
  • Auxiliary Ballistic Laser (ABL): Transforms the scope into a long-range hunting powerhouse with a built-in laser rangefinder.
  • Ballistic Calculator: Accounts for range, wind, temperature, and more for precise shots.
  • Ultra-Low Power Consumption: Provides over 18 hours of continuous use on a single charge.
  • Recoil Resistance: Built with hardened aluminum alloy to withstand high-caliber firearms.
  • Night Vision Mode: High-resolution optics for clarity in all light conditions.

Pros

  • Day and night hunting capabilities with outstanding clarity.
  • Recoil Activated Video ensures you capture every shot without distraction.
  • Built-in ballistic tools enhance accuracy and ethical hunting.
  • Long battery life supports extended use.
  • Durable and recoil-resistant for use with powerful firearms.
  • Easy to mount with standard 30mm rings.

Cons

  • Complex features may have a learning curve for beginners.

 

5) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope

Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm

The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is one of the best Scopes for AR 15 Hog Hunting, it is engineered for speed and precision, the scope transitioning seamlessly from close-quarters engagement to mid-range shots. With robust construction and advanced optics, the Strike Eagle ensures clear, accurate shots under various conditions.

The Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm is defined by its speed and adaptability. The true 1x magnification on the low end is perfect for close-quarters encounters, while the 6x zoom extends its effectiveness for mid-range shots. The updated throw lever allows for smooth transitions between magnification levels, critical for fast-paced hunting situations.

The AR-BDC3 illuminated reticle is optimized for rapid target acquisition and offers holdovers for known distances up to 650 yards. Paired with fully multi-coated lenses, the scope performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions often encountered during dawn or dusk hog hunts.

Built to withstand harsh environments, the Strike Eagle is shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof. Its aircraft-grade aluminum construction ensures durability while keeping the weight manageable at just 18.5 ounces. With its compact 10.5-inch length and intuitive design, mounting and using the scope is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for AR-15 platforms.

 

 

 

Key Features

  • XD Lens Elements: Extra-low dispersion glass enhances resolution and color fidelity, delivering crisp, vibrant images.
  • Fully Multi-Coated Lenses: Proprietary coatings boost light transmission, improving clarity in low-light conditions.
  • Second Focal Plane Reticle (AR-BDC3): The reticle maintains a consistent appearance and provides accurate holdovers and windage corrections at maximum magnification.
  • Glass-Etched Reticle: Ensures durability and intricate design, protected between two layers of glass.
  • Illuminated Reticle: Eleven brightness settings allow precise aiming in low-light scenarios.
  • Fast Focus Eyepiece: Enables rapid reticle focusing for quick target acquisition.
  • Waterproof, Fogproof, and Shockproof: Designed for rugged conditions with nitrogen purging and O-ring seals.
  • Thread-In Throw Lever: Provides smooth magnification adjustments with visible indicators for rapid changes.
  • Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Construction: Ensures durability without adding excessive weight.
  • VIP Warranty: Lifetime guarantee for repairs or replacements, adding peace of mind.

Pros

  • True 1x magnification for close-quarters versatility.
  • Excellent optical clarity with XD lens elements and multi-coated glass.
  • Illuminated reticle with 11 brightness settings for various lighting conditions.
  • Durable, lightweight, and compact design.
  • Backed by an industry-leading VIP lifetime warranty.

Cons

  • Limited to a maximum of 6x magnification, less suitable for very long-range shots.

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Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Scopes for AR-15 Hog Hunting​

Magnification Range

The right magnification range is critical for hog hunting, as it determines how well you can engage targets at varying distances. A lower magnification, like 1x or 2x, is ideal for close-quarters encounters in dense brush, while higher magnifications, such as 6x or 8x, are better for mid-range shots in open fields.

Look for scopes that strike a balance between close-range agility and the ability to take precise shots at moderate distances.

Durability and Build Quality

Hog hunting often involves rugged environments, requiring a scope that can endure harsh conditions. Durability features like shockproof construction to withstand recoil, waterproofing for wet or muddy situations, and fogproofing for sudden temperature changes are essential. A robust build ensures your scope performs reliably during demanding hunts, regardless of the terrain or weather.

Optical Clarity and Light Transmission

High-quality optics ensure clear and sharp visuals, which are vital for identifying targets and aiming accurately. Look for scopes with advanced lens coatings or premium glass that enhance light transmission, especially for hunting during dawn, dusk, or low-light conditions. This clarity allows hunters to spot hogs hidden in shadows or dense vegetation.

Reticle Design

The reticle plays a significant role in aiming and shot placement. For hog hunting, consider reticles with features like bullet drop compensation (BDC), illuminated markings for low-light use, or hash marks for holdover adjustments.

A simple yet functional design ensures quick target acquisition and precise shooting, even in dynamic hunting scenarios.

Ease of Adjustment

Quick and precise adjustments can make or break a hunt. Scopes with intuitive windage, elevation, and parallax controls allow hunters to adapt to changing conditions without losing focus on their target.

Features like a fast-focus eyepiece or smooth magnification changes also enhance usability, enabling rapid responses in the field.

Battery Life and Illumination

Illuminated reticles are a significant advantage for low-light hog hunting, but they rely on batteries. A scope with long battery life or energy-efficient illumination systems reduces the need for frequent replacements.

Additionally, adjustable brightness settings let hunters fine-tune the illumination to match their environment without overexposing the reticle.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of the scope affect the overall handling of your AR-15. A lightweight and compact scope allows for better maneuverability, especially when stalking hogs in dense brush or carrying your rifle over long distances.

However, the scope should still offer robust features without compromising on durability or performance.

Versatility and Compatibility

A scope’s versatility determines its ability to adapt to different hunting situations. Features like a wide field of view for tracking moving targets, compatibility with additional accessories like throw levers or rangefinders, and the ability to mount easily on an AR-15 are all critical. A versatile scope ensures it remains functional across various scenarios, making it a valuable investment for hog hunters.

Best Scopes for AR-15 Hog Hunting FAQs

What is the ideal magnification range for hog hunting with an AR-15?

The ideal magnification range for hog hunting depends on the hunting environment. A lower magnification (1x to 4x) is excellent for close-range encounters in dense brush or wooded areas, while a higher magnification (6x to 8x) is useful for medium-range shots in open fields. Scopes with variable magnification offer flexibility for different hunting scenarios.

Why is an illuminated reticle important for hog hunting?

An illuminated reticle enhances visibility in low-light conditions, such as during dawn or dusk when hogs are most active. The illumination allows for precise aiming, even in shadowy or dim environments, ensuring you can quickly acquire and engage your target. Adjustable brightness settings are a bonus for adapting to varying light conditions.

How important is durability in a hog hunting scope?

Durability is critical because hog hunting often involves rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and the need to handle heavy recoil from AR-15 rifles. A durable scope with waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof features ensures reliable performance in harsh conditions and prevents damage during rigorous use.

What reticle type is best suited for hog hunting?

Reticles with bullet drop compensation (BDC) or hash marks for windage and holdover adjustments are ideal for hog hunting. These reticles assist with accurate shot placement at varying distances. Illuminated reticles further improve usability in low-light settings, while second focal plane (SFP) reticles maintain a consistent appearance across all magnifications, making them easier to use.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, selecting the Best Scopes for AR-15 Hog Hunting​ is essential for improving accuracy, performance, and overall success in the field. A well-chosen scope provides the clarity, durability, and adaptability required to tackle the challenges of hunting in low-light conditions and varied environments.

By prioritizing features like variable magnification, illuminated reticles, and reliable construction, you can ensure your scope performs when it matters most. Whether you’re stalking hogs in dense brush or scanning open fields, the right scope can make every shot count and enhance your hunting experience. Equip yourself with a dependable scope, and you’ll be ready to face any hog-hunting adventure with confidence and precision.