Vortex is one of the best brands for AR 15 Riflescopes, today we put emphasis on the best Vortex scope for AR 15 recommendations.
The AR-15 is one of the most popular rifles in the United States thanks to its versatility and reliability. One of the key factors in maximizing the performance of an AR-15 is choosing the right riflescope which can sometimes become very challenging with a wide range of options available.
Vortex Optics is a popular choice for AR-15 owners, offering a range of scopes that are suitable for various shooting styles and distances.
In this review, we will comprehensively cover the best Vortex scope options for AR-15 rifles, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner, choosing the right scope can make all the difference in your shooting experience. We’ll consider factors such as magnification, reticle, durability, and price, to help you determine which Vortex scope is the best fit for your AR-15.
What Makes a Good AR 15 Scope?
There are several factors that are very important when choosing the best AR 15 Scopes,
To start us off is magnification, and the power of the scope should match the intended use of the AR-15 rifle. If the rifle is used for close-range shooting, a low magnification of 1-4x is sufficient. For mid-range, a magnification of 8x to 12 will be enough and for longer-range shooting, a higher magnification of 18x or 24x may be required.
The reticle choice is very important too, the reticle should be easy to see and allow for quick and accurate aiming. For low-light conditions, an illuminated reticle is a plus.
Weatherproof performance and durability: The scope should be built with quality materials such aircraft grade aluminum, be nitrogen filled, and be argon purged for waterproof and fog-proof performance. With a durable build, the riflescope is able to withstand the recoil of the rifle and be able to withstand harsh conditions such as rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
Field of view: The field of view is the area that can be seen through the scope. A wider field of view is preferable as it allows the shooter to acquire targets more quickly.
Adjustability and Ease of use: The scope should allow for easy adjustments to windage and elevation, allowing the shooter to compensate for bullet drop and wind drift.
Multicoated Optics for Clarity: The scope should provide clear and crisp images to help the shooter identify targets and make accurate shots.
Light transmission: The scope should have a high level of light transmission, enhanced by the size of the objective lens,multicoated optics, and antireflective coatings allowing for good visibility in low light conditions.
Overall, a good AR 15 scope should be reliable, durable, and provide clear and accurate aiming. It should also be suited to the intended use of the rifle, whether that is close-range shooting or long-range precision shooting.
What size Scope do I Need for AR 15?
For close-range shooting, a low-magnification scope with a diameter of around 20-24mm is sufficient. A 1-4x magnification scope is ideal for this purpose. This type of scope will allow you to shoot accurately at targets within 100 yards. A red dot sight is also ideal for close-quarter applications.
For medium-range shooting, a scope with a diameter of around 30-40mm and a magnification of 4-12x is recommended. This type of scope is suitable for targets between 100-300 yards away.
For long-range shooting, a scope with a diameter of 40-50mm and a magnification of 6-24x is ideal. This type of scope is suitable for targets beyond 300 yards.
Best Vortex Scopes for AR 15
1) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm Riflescope
Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm Riflescope is the best Vortex scope for AR 15, It is an incredibly versatile and ideal riflescope for close to medium-range applications. The scope features Aircraft grade aluminum construction, a rugged construction that withstands recoil and impact.,fully multi-coated lenses and waterproof and fog-proof performance.
The 1-6x magnification range is ideal for close to medium-range shooting and offers a wide field of view for quick target acquisition.
The LED illumination on the reticle is adjustable for different lighting conditions, while the fact that the reticle is on the first focal plane makes it easy to aim and acquire targets at any magnification.
The scope is built with high-quality aircraft-grade aluminum for strength and durability and features fully multi-coated optics which are anti-reflective for incredible light transmission and clarity.
Overall, the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm riflescope is an excellent option for AR 15 shooters looking for a high-quality, versatile optic for close to medium-range applications.
Specifications
- Weight: 22.7 oz
- Length: 10.9 in
- Eye Relief: 3.8 in
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
Pros
- Ultra-hard and scratch-resistant coating for lens protection and shielding from scratches, oil, and dirt.
- Durable aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Fully Multi-Coated optics
- Precision-Force Spring and Precision-Glide Erector Systems
- Waterproof and fog-proof performance
- Fast Focus Eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focusing
- Built-In Accuracy Features
- Illuminated Reticle for easy aiming in low light conditions
Cons
- None
2) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm SFP Rifle Scope is an excellent choice for AR 15 rifle owners looking for a close to a mid-range riflescope.
The riflescope’s fast-focus eyepiece and illuminated reticle make target acquisition easy and fast especially for close-quarter applications that require speed and accuracy. With a BDC reticle, the hash marks will compensate for bullet drops at different ranges when you need to shoot accurately at longer distances.
The riflescope’s rugged and durable construction is shockproof and waterproof to withstand rough weather conditions and the recoil of the AR-15.
In terms of optical performance, the scope delivers crisp, clear images with excellent light transmission and minimal distortion thanks to the high quality and multicoated optics.
You also get generous eye relief(3.5 in), which allows shooters to maintain a comfortable shooting position even when using higher-powered rounds.
Specifications
- Weight: 17.6 oz
- Length: 10 in
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 3 – 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
Pros
- Aircraft Grade Aluminum durable and strong construction
- Fully Multi-Coated optics
- Matte Anodized for low glare and camouflage
- Shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof
- Fast Focus Eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focusing
- Illuminated Glass-Etched Reticle
- 0-600 yards range
Cons
- None
3) Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10x24mm FFP Rifle Scope
The Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 is a top-of-the-line scope FFP riflescope that works perfectly with the AR 15. This is the best Vortex scope for AR 15 if you are looking for an FFP Scope.
The riflescope’s 1-10x magnification range is perfect for close to long-range shooting, making it ideal for tactical applications and long-range hunting.
The illuminated reticle which is located in the first focal plane reticle provides precise holdover points for bullet drop compensation at different ranges.
The scope’s construction is shockproof and waterproof to withstand impacts, recoil, and harsh weather conditions.
This Vortex Razor HD Gen III delivers exceptional image quality with outstanding light transmission and minimal distortion. T
In conclusion, the scope brings to the table,exceptional optics, rugged construction, and versatile magnification range making it an excellent value for the price.
Specifications
- Weight: 22.7 oz
- Length: 10.9 in
- Eye Relief: 3.8 in
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
Pros
- First Focal Plane (FFP) Illuminated reticle
- Hard Anodized finish
- Aircraft Grade Aluminum construction
- XR Fully Multi-Coated
- HD Optical System for edge to edge images
- Daylight Bright Illumination
- Friction Reduction System
- Up to 1, 000 yards range
Cons
- Expensive
4) Vortex Crossfire II 1-4x24mm 30mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Crossfire II 1-4x24mm 30mm rifle scope is a great option for the AR 15 rifle.
This riflescope is designed to provide a clear and bright image, even in low-light conditions thanks to the 11 brightness levels.
One of the standout features of the Vortex Crossfire II scope is its aircraft-grade aluminum construction which is very effective in handling impact and recoil. Additionally, the scope is nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed, making it waterproof and fog-proof, so you can use it in any weather conditions.
The 1-4x magnification range is perfect for short to mid-range shooting, making it ideal for hunting or target shooting. The reticle is clear and easy to see, and the scope is quick and easy to adjust for windage and elevation. The image quality is also impressive, with excellent color reproduction and sharpness.
Overall, the Vortex Crossfire II 1-4x24mm 30mm rifle scope is an excellent choice for those in the market for a high-quality scope for their AR 15 rifle. It is durable, reliable, and provides excellent performance, making it a great value for the price.
Specifications
- Weight: 22.7 oz
- Length: 10.9 in
- Eye Relief: 3.8 in
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
Pros
- Relatively affordable
- Low glare and camouflaging Anodized finish
- Strong and durable Aircraft Grade Aluminum construction
- Fully Multi-Coated optics
- 100 yds to infinity focus range
- Weatherproof and shockproof
Cons
- Not ideal for long range
5) Vortex Strike Eagle 3-18x44mm Riflescope
The Vortex Strike Eagle 3-18x44mm riflescope is the best Vortex scope for AR 15 if you are looking for a versatile scope for short-range shooting to long-range precision shooting.
This Vortex Strike Eagle scope features incredible build quality. The scope is constructed from high-quality aircraft-grade aluminum, and is designed to be rugged and durable. It is both shockproof and waterproof, making it capable of withstanding heavy recoil and tough weather conditions.
The 3-18x magnification range provides excellent flexibility, allowing you to quickly adjust the magnification to suit your shooting needs. The scope’s reticle is clear and easy to see, and the image quality is excellent, even at higher magnifications. The scope is also quick and easy to adjust for windage and elevation, making it easy to get your shots on target.
Overall, the Vortex Strike Eagle 3-18x44mm riflescope is an outstanding choice for anyone looking for a high-quality scope for their AR 15 rifle. It offers excellent performance, durability, and versatility, making it an excellent value for the price.
Specifications
- Weight: 27.3 oz
- Length: 13.3 in
- Eye Relief: 3.8 in
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 34 mm
Pros
- First Focal Plane (FFP) illuminated reticle
- 11 l brightness levels
- O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged for a waterproof and fog-proof performance
- Zero-resettable, tactical-style turrets
- Fully multi-coated lenses
Cons
- None
6) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm FFP Riflescope
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm FFP riflescope is a top-of-the-line option for anyone looking for a high-performance scope for their AR 15 rifle. This scope is designed to provide exceptional performance and versatility, making it ideal for long-range precision shooting.
The 5-25x magnification range provides exceptional flexibility, allowing you to easily adjust the magnification to suit your shooting needs. The scope is also quick and easy to adjust for windage and elevation, making it easy to get your shots on target.
One of the standout features of the Vortex Viper PST Gen II scope is its first focal plane reticle. This feature means that the reticle is accurate at any magnification, making it easier to shoot accurately at long ranges.
The scope’s reticle is also illuminated, making it easy to see in low-light conditions. The illumination is adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the brightness to suit your shooting situation.
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II scope is also designed to be rugged and durable. The scope is constructed from high-quality materials, including aircraft-grade aluminum, and is both shockproof and waterproof. This means that it can withstand heavy recoil and tough weather conditions, ensuring that it will last for years to come.
Specifications
- Weight: 31.2 oz
- Length: 16 in
- Eye Relief: 3.4 in
- Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 2 – 10 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
Pros
- Aircraft Grade Aluminum construction
- 25 yds to infinity focus range
- Fully Multi-Coated optics
- Weatherproof and shockproof
- Glass-Etched Illuminated Reticle
- Hard Anodized Finish
- Precision-Force Spring and Precision-Glide Erector Systems
Cons
- Quite expensive
Read Also
- 7 Best Thermal Scopes for AR15
- 5 Best Leupold Scopes for AR15
- 8 Best 1-4x Scopes for AR-15
- 8 Best LPVO Scopes for AR-15
- 6 Best Holographic Sights for AR 15
- 7 Best AR 15 Deer Hunting Scopes
- 7 Best AR 15 Red Dots under $300
- 8 Best Gun Safes for AR-15
Is Vortex as Good as Leupold?
Both Vortex and Leupold are reputable and respected brands in the optics industry, and both offer a range of high-quality products.
Vortex has gained a strong reputation for producing high-quality scopes and other optics at a more affordable price point than some of its competitors. They are known for their excellent customer service and warranties, which provide peace of mind for customers.
Leupold, on the other hand, is a more established and traditional brand that has been around for over a century. They are known for their exceptional optical clarity and durability, as well as their rigorous testing and quality control processes.
Do you Need a Cantilever Scope Mount for AR-15?
Whether you need a cantilever scope mount for an AR-15 depends on several factors including the type of scope you are using, the rifle’s configuration, and personal preference.
Cantilever scope mounts are designed to extend forward from the rifle’s receiver, providing additional clearance for proper eye relief and mounting flexibility, particularly for scopes with larger objective lenses or when using magnified optics.
They can also help maintain a proper cheek weld when mounting the scope further forward on the rifle. However, if you’re using a compact scope or a red dot sight, a traditional scope mount may suffice.
FAQs
What is the difference between the Vortex Viper PST Gen II and the Vortex Razor HD Gen II?
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II is a more affordable option that still offers excellent performance and features, while the Vortex Razor HD Gen II is a higher-end scope that is designed for professional use and offers exceptional optical clarity and precision.
Is the Vortex Diamondback Tactical good for long-range shooting?
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical is suitable for long-range shooting with its magnification range of 6-24x and adjustable objective lens.
Does the Vortex Viper PST Gen II come with an illuminated reticle?
Yes, the Vortex Viper PST Gen II features an illuminated reticle that is adjustable for different lighting conditions.
What is the difference between a red dot sight and a magnified scope?
A red dot sight is a type of sight that projects a glowing red dot onto a lens that the shooter uses to aim. It has no magnification and is designed for quick target acquisition at close to medium ranges. A magnified scope, on the other hand, has a magnification range that allows the shooter to zoom in on the target for more precise shooting at longer ranges.
Is a first or second focal plane reticle better for AR 15 shooting?
A first focal plane (FFP) reticle will change in size as the magnification is adjusted, which allows for more precise aiming at different distances. A second focal plane (SFP) reticle remains the same size, which means that it is only accurate at a specific magnification. For AR 15 shooting, either type of reticle can work well, but it ultimately depends on the shooter’s preference and intended use.
Is a Scope or Red Dot Better for AR-15?
Final Thoughts
Overall, Vortex scopes offer a range of high-quality and affordable options for AR 15 shooters. Whether you are a beginner or a professional shooter, Vortex has a scope that will suit your needs. The Vortex Viper PST Gen II, Vortex Strike Eagle, and Vortex Razor HD Gen II are all popular choices for AR 15 shooting, each offering a unique set of features and capabilities.
Additionally, the exceptional warranty and customer service offered by Vortex make them a trusted and reliable brand for shooters. With a Vortex scope, you can improve your accuracy and precision, making your AR 15 shooting experience more enjoyable and successful.