What is the Best Scope for an AR-10?
The Best Scope for an AR-10
The AR-10 is a popular choice for long-range shooting, hunting, and self-defense. But with so many different scopes on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for you.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the different factors you need to consider when choosing a scope for your AR-10, and we’ll recommend some of the best options available.
We’ll also discuss some of the common mistakes people make when choosing a scope, and we’ll give you some tips on how to get the most out of your new optic.
So whether you’re a first-time AR-10 owner or you’re just looking to upgrade your current scope, read on for all the information you need to make a wise purchase.
| Rank | Scope | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 | $1,099.99 |
| 2 | Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56 | $1,699.99 |
| 3 | Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 | $2,499.99 |
An AR-10 is a semi-automatic rifle that is chambered for the .308 Winchester cartridge. It is a popular choice for hunting, target shooting, and self-defense. When choosing a scope for an AR-10, there are a few factors to consider.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Scope for an AR-10
- Magnification
The magnification of a scope refers to the amount of zoom it provides. The magnification of a scope is typically expressed as a ratio, such as 4x or 10x. The higher the magnification, the closer the target will appear. However, a higher magnification also means that the field of view will be narrower.
For an AR-10, a magnification of 4x to 10x is typically sufficient for most purposes. If you plan on shooting at long distances, you may want to consider a scope with a higher magnification. However, if you plan on using your AR-10 for close-range shooting, a lower magnification scope will be more practical.
- Objective lens diameter
The objective lens diameter refers to the diameter of the lens at the front of the scope. The objective lens diameter affects the amount of light that can enter the scope, which in turn affects the image quality. A larger objective lens diameter will allow more light to enter the scope, resulting in a brighter image.
For an AR-10, an objective lens diameter of 30mm to 50mm is typically sufficient. If you plan on shooting in low-light conditions, you may want to consider a scope with a larger objective lens diameter.
- Eye relief
Eye relief refers to the distance between the eyepiece of the scope and the shooter’s eye. The eye relief of a scope is important because it ensures that the shooter’s eye is not in the way of the scope’s recoil. A scope with a long eye relief will allow the shooter to have a more comfortable shooting position.
For an AR-10, an eye relief of 3 to 4 inches is typically sufficient. If you wear glasses, you may want to consider a scope with a longer eye relief.
- Field of view
The field of view refers to the amount of area that can be seen through the scope at a given magnification. The field of view is typically expressed as a degree, such as 60 degrees or 100 degrees. A wider field of view allows the shooter to see more of the surrounding area, which can be helpful for target acquisition.
For an AR-10, a field of view of 40 degrees to 60 degrees is typically sufficient. If you plan on using your AR-10 for hunting, you may want to consider a scope with a wider field of view.
- Reticle type
The reticle is the crosshairs or other aiming points that are located in the center of the scope’s view. There are many different types of reticles available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Some of the most common reticle types for AR-10s include:
- Mil-dot reticle: This type of reticle is based on the metric system and is used for estimating range and windage.
- MOA reticle: This type of reticle is based on the imperial system and is also used for estimating range and windage.
- BDC reticle: This type of reticle is designed to compensate for bullet drop over distance.
- Christmas tree reticle: This type of reticle is a combination of the mil-dot and BDC reticles.
The best reticle type for an AR-10 will depend on the shooter’s individual needs and preferences.
- Turret style
The turret style refers to the way that the scope’s magnification and windage/elevation adjustments are made. There are two main types of turret styles:
- Click adjustments: This type of turret has a series of clicks that allow the shooter to make precise adjustments to the scope’s magnification and windage/elevation.
- Tactical turrets: This type of turret has a large knob that allows the shooter to make quick and easy adjustments to the scope’s magnification and windage/elevation.
The best turret style for an AR-10 will depend on the shooter’s individual needs and preferences.
- Adjustment range
The adjustment range refers to the maximum amount of adjustment that can be made to the scope’s magnification and windage/elevation. The adjustment range is typically expressed in MOA or MRAD.
For an AR-10, an adjustment range of 40 MOA or 20 MRAD is typically
3. How to Choose the Right Scope for Your AR-10
When choosing a scope for your AR-10, there are a few factors you need to consider.
- Your intended use: What will you be using your AR-10 for? If you’re planning on using it for hunting, you’ll need a scope with a higher magnification range. If you’re planning on using it for target shooting, you’ll need a scope with a more precise reticle.
- Your budget: Scopes can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so you can narrow down your options.
- Read reviews and compare products: There are many different scopes on the market, so it’s important to read reviews and compare products before you make a purchase. This will help you find a scope that meets your needs and is within your budget.
- Get professional advice: If you’re not sure what to look for in a scope, or if you’re having trouble choosing between two or more models, it’s a good idea to talk to a professional. A gunsmith or experienced shooter can help you find a scope that’s right for you.
Here are some of the factors you should consider when choosing a scope for your AR-10:
- Magnification: The magnification of a scope is measured in power. The higher the power, the closer you’ll be able to see objects that are far away. For hunting, a scope with a magnification range of 4x to 12x is typically sufficient. For target shooting, you may want a scope with a higher magnification range, such as 16x to 24x.
- Objective lens diameter: The objective lens diameter is the diameter of the lens at the front of the scope. A larger objective lens will gather more light, which can improve image quality in low-light conditions. For hunting, a scope with an objective lens diameter of 30mm to 50mm is typically sufficient. For target shooting, you may want a scope with a larger objective lens, such as 50mm to 60mm.
- Eye relief: Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece and your eye when you’re looking through the scope. A scope with good eye relief will allow you to see the entire field of view without having to strain your eyes. For hunting, a scope with an eye relief of 3 to 4 inches is typically sufficient. For target shooting, you may want a scope with a longer eye relief, such as 4 to 5 inches.
- Reticle: The reticle is the crosshairs or other aiming device in the center of the scope. There are many different types of reticles available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. For hunting, a simple duplex reticle is typically sufficient. For target shooting, you may want a reticle with more features, such as a mil-dot reticle or a Christmas tree reticle.
- Parallax adjustment: Parallax adjustment allows you to compensate for the difference in position between your eye and the objective lens. This is important for ensuring that your shots are accurate at different ranges. Most scopes have a parallax adjustment that allows you to adjust for distances from 100 yards to infinity.
- Waterproof and fog-proof: A scope that is waterproof and fog-proof will be able to withstand the elements, even in harsh conditions. This is important if you plan on using your AR-10 in wet or humid environments.
Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you’ll be able to choose a scope that’s right for your AR-10 and your shooting needs.
Here are some of the best scopes for AR-10s on the market:
- Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm
- Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44mm
- Nightforce NX8 2.5-20x50mm
- Swarovski Z8i 1-8x24mm
- Steiner T5Xi 5-25x56mm
These scopes are all high-quality options that will provide you with years of reliable performance.
4. Tips for Shooting with a Scope on Your AR-10
Once you’ve chosen a scope for your AR-10, it’s important to learn how to shoot with it effectively. Here are a few tips:
- Mount the scope securely: A scope that is not mounted securely can move around when you’re shooting, which can throw off your aim.
What is the best scope for an AR10?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best scope for an AR10 will depend on your individual needs and shooting preferences. However, some factors to consider when choosing a scope for your AR10 include:
- Your intended use for the scope. Will you be using it for hunting, target shooting, or competition?
- Your budget. How much are you willing to spend on a scope?
- Your shooting skills. Are you a beginner or experienced shooter?
Once you have considered these factors, you can start narrowing down your choices. Here are a few of the best scopes for AR10s on the market:
- Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm – This is a great all-around scope for AR10s, offering excellent performance at a reasonable price. It features a 5-25x magnification range, a 50mm objective lens, and a second focal plane reticle.
- Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44mm – This is a more expensive option, but it offers superior optical quality and performance. It features a 3.6-18x magnification range, a 44mm objective lens, and a first focal plane reticle.
- Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm – This is the top-of-the-line scope for AR10s, offering the best possible performance. It features a 7-35x magnification range, a 56mm objective lens, and a first focal plane reticle.
What are the different types of scopes for AR10s?
There are three main types of scopes for AR10s:
- Hunting scopes are designed for long-range hunting. They typically have a magnification range of 4-12x, a large objective lens, and a bright, illuminated reticle.
- Target shooting scopes are designed for precision shooting at short to medium ranges. They typically have a magnification range of 1-6x, a small objective lens, and a fine crosshair reticle.
- Competition scopes are designed for high-stakes competitions. They typically have a magnification range of 2-10x, a large objective lens, and a complex reticle with multiple aiming points.
What are the different features to look for in a scope for an AR10?
When choosing a scope for your AR10, there are a few important features to consider:
- Magnification range: The magnification range of a scope will determine how far you can see. For hunting, a scope with a magnification range of 4-12x is typically sufficient. For target shooting, a scope with a magnification range of 1-6x is more common. For competition, a scope with a magnification range of 2-10x is ideal.
- Objective lens size: The objective lens size of a scope will determine how much light it can gather. A larger objective lens will provide a brighter image, which is especially important in low-light conditions.
- Reticle type: The reticle type of a scope will determine how you aim your rifle. There are two main types of reticles: first focal plane and second focal plane. First focal plane reticles stay the same size regardless of magnification, while second focal plane reticles grow or shrink as you zoom in or out.
- Eye relief: Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece of the scope and your eye. A scope with adequate eye relief will allow you to see the entire field of view without having to strain your eyes.
- Waterproof and fogproof construction: A scope that is waterproof and fogproof will be able to withstand the elements, even in harsh conditions.
How do I mount a scope on my AR10?
To mount a scope on your AR10, you will need a scope mount and a set of scope rings. The scope mount will attach to the receiver of your rifle, and the scope rings will attach to the scope mount.
To install the scope mount, you will need to remove the factory-installed rail from the receiver of your rifle. Once the rail is removed, you can install the scope mount using the included screws.
To install the scope rings, you will need to align the rings with the scope mount and tighten the screws until the rings are securely attached to the mount.
Once the scope rings are installed, you can place the scope in the rings and tighten the screws until the scope is securely attached to the
there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of what is the best scope for an AR10. The best scope for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, by considering the factors discussed in this article, you can narrow down your choices and find a scope that is perfect for your AR10.