The Best Scopes for AR-15 under $100 in 2023

Navigating the world of AR-15 optics can be a daunting task, especially when you’re on a budget. However, a limited budget means you can maintain quality and performance. With rifles like the AR-15 becoming increasingly popular for both hunting and home defense, the demand for effective yet affordable optics has never been higher.

Whether you’re searching for the ideal red dot sight, a precise rifle scope, or an illuminated scope for those challenging lighting conditions, there’s something tailored for every gun enthusiast. From the robust Bushnell Trophy TRS25 to the versatile CVLife 2510x40E red and green illuminated scopes, this guide dives deep into the best scopes for AR-15s under $100.

We’ll delve into factors like eye relief, objective lens specifications, brightness settings, and much more, ensuring you find a scope that provides fast target acquisition without breaking the bank.

So whether it’s for range estimation, concealed carry, or simply a tactical rifle scope that offers adjustable windage and elevation settings, read on to discover the top picks in budget AR-15 optics. And remember, a great scope doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag; it’s all about the build quality, features, and how well it complements your firearm.

Scopes for AR-15 under $100: My Top Picks

Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope

The Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 is a versatile red dot sight riflescope that has earned its reputation for delivering quality and performance at a pocket-friendly price. Designed for both amateur marksmen and seasoned professionals, it boasts features typically found in higher-priced optics, making it an excellent choice for those seeking the best scopes for AR-15s under $100.

The Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope is a testament to the fact that one doesn’t need to spend exorbitantly to get a quality AR-15 optic. With its sturdy build, clear optics, and consistent performance, it stands out as one of the best budget scopes available in the market. Whether you’re a novice shooter or an experienced one, the TRS-25 won’t disappoint.

Key Features:

1. Bright Red Dot: The Trophy TRS-25 is renowned for its bright, clear, and crisp 3 MOA dot, ensuring fast target acquisition regardless of the lighting conditions.
2. Durability: With a matte black finish, this riflescope is built to resist corrosion and wear, ensuring a long life. Its fogproofing and water-resistant properties mean that inclement weather won’t impede your view or the sight’s performance.
3. Ease of Adjustment: Windage and elevation can be effortlessly tweaked with audible clicks. The adjustment range caters to a variety of shooting conditions and distances.
4. Compact Design: The TRS-25 is lightweight and compact, making it suitable for a wide range of firearms beyond just the AR-15.
5. High-Quality Lens: The coated lens provides impeccable light transmission, allowing for a bright and clear view, which is crucial for accurate shooting in low-light conditions.

Pros:

• Versatility: Whether you’re using it for hunting, home defense, or sport shooting, the TRS-25’s performance remains consistent.
• Budget-Friendly: For those seeking AR-15 optics without burning a hole in their pocket, this scope offers a blend of quality and affordability.
• Reliability: Holding zero, even after multiple rounds, proves the reliability and resilience of this scope.
• Battery Life: The riflescope offers commendable battery life, ensuring that you don’t find yourself in a lurch during crucial moments.

Cons:

• Mounting Options: Some users may need a riser to co-witness with iron sights.
• Brightness Settings: While the TRS-25 offers varied brightness settings, extremely sunny conditions might wash out the red dot for some users.

CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope

The CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e is a feature-packed rifle scope that offers incredible value for its price point. Meet the needs of both the recreational shooter and the discerning marksman, this scope provides both red and green illuminated reticle options, making it a top choice for those searching for budget AR-15 optics.

The CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope stands as a testament that you don’t need to compromise on features when looking for budget scopes. Its dual illuminated options, combined with its solid build and versatility, make it a commendable choice for AR-15 owners who want performance without breaking the bank. While it does have minor drawbacks, its pros far outweigh the cons, making it a worthy addition to any firearm enthusiast’s arsenal.

Key Features:

1. Dual Illumination: With both red and green dot sights, users can switch based on their preferences or the surrounding environment. The scope’s brightness settings can be adjusted, ensuring optimal visibility across different lighting conditions.
2. Magnification & Objective Lens: The 2.5-10x magnification range is versatile enough for both close and mid-range shooting. Paired with a 40mm objective lens, it offers a wide field of view.
3. Durable Build: Constructed with high-quality aluminum, the CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e boasts a robust build quality that’s ready to endure regular use.
4. Integrated Laser: A bonus for precision-focused shooters, the laser aids in ensuring pinpoint accuracy.
5. Ease of Adjustments: Windage and elevation controls are easy to handle and offer tactile feedback, making zeroing straightforward and quick.

Pros:

• Affordability: The CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e offers features seen in high-end models but at a fraction of the cost, making it an excellent choice for those on a tight budget.
• Versatility: Its red and green illuminated options, coupled with variable magnification, allow it to be used in various scenarios, from tactical engagements to hunting trips.
• Consistent Performance: Many users have praised its ability to hold zero, even after rigorous shooting sessions.
• Included Accessories: The package often comes with a battery, lens cover, and mounting tools, adding more value to the purchase.

Cons:

• Laser Quality: Some users have reported that the integrated laser could be of better quality or sometimes go off alignment.
• Size and Weight: It might be slightly bulky for users who prefer minimalist or lightweight scopes.

Pinty 2.5-10×40 Red Green Illuminated Mil-dot Tactical Rifle Scope

The Pinty 2.5-10×40 tactical rifle scope is a remarkable fusion of affordability and performance, setting a standard for scopes in the sub-$100 category. Designed primarily for AR-15 platforms, it combines red and green illuminated reticle options, ensuring versatility across diverse shooting environments.

Pinty’s 2.5-10×40 tactical rifle scope strikes a commendable balance between affordability and performance. Its dual illumination, mil-dot reticle, and overall build quality make it a standout choice for those seeking AR-15 optics without stretching their budget. 

While there are minor areas for improvement, particularly with the integrated laser, the benefits far overshadow these minor gripes. If you’re in the market for a reliable, budget-friendly scope, the Pinty 2.5-10×40 should undoubtedly be on your shortlist.

Key Features:

1. Dual Illuminated Reticle: The Pinty scope offers shooters the choice between red and green dot options, catering to various lighting conditions and individual preferences. Adjusting brightness settings on the fly is a breeze, guaranteeing optimal target acquisition.
2. Variable Magnification: With a 2.5-10x zoom range, the scope provides a balanced field of view, whether you’re shooting up close or aiming for a distant target.
3. Mil-dot Reticle: The mil-dot reticle allows for range estimation, a valuable feature for hunters and tactical shooters alike.
4. Robust Construction: Made with durable aluminum alloy, it boasts a fog-proof and waterproof design, ensuring longevity and reliable performance.
5. Integrated Laser: Further enhancing its precision capabilities, the scope comes with a laser for quick sighting.

Pros:

• Price Point: For the array of features it offers, the Pinty scope provides remarkable value for its cost.
• Ease of Use: Windage, elevation, and parallax adjustments are user-friendly, making it ideal for both novices and seasoned shooters.
• Consistent Performance: The scope retains zero effectively, a testament to its build quality and design.
• Comprehensive Package: Typically, it includes mounts, battery, and lens caps – adding to its overall value.

Cons:

• Laser Limitations: Similar to other scopes in its price bracket, the integrated laser’s quality and alignment can sometimes be inconsistent.
• Weight: Some users might find it slightly hefty, especially if they’re used to more streamlined scopes.

UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope

The UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope is a compelling option for AR-15 owners, providing a blend of quality, durability, and precision at an affordable price. 

A part of UTG’s highly regarded lineup, this scope has gained a reputation for its reliability and feature-packed design, making it an ideal choice for both casual shooters and tactical enthusiasts.

The UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope stands out as a formidable contender in the budget AR-15 scope category. With its robust build quality, dual illumination, and the inclusion of QD rings, it punches above its weight. 

While the eye relief might be a minor concern for a handful of users, its overall performance, combined with its affordability, makes it a worthy investment for anyone looking to enhance their AR-15 shooting experience without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

1. Dual Illuminated Reticle: Offering both red and green dot options, the BugBuster ensures flexibility in various lighting conditions. The adjustable brightness settings further enhance the shooting experience, making target acquisition swift and accurate.
2. Variable Magnification: The 3-9x magnification range provides versatility, allowing shooters to toggle between close-quarter combat scenarios and long-range shooting.
3. AO RGB Mil-dot Reticle: The adjustable objective lens and mil-dot reticle enable efficient range estimation, making long-distance shots more precise.
4. Robust Build: The BugBuster boasts a completely sealed and nitrogen-filled construction, offering full waterproof and fog-proofing capabilities.
5. QD Rings: The scope comes with quick-detachable (QD) rings, enhancing its ease of use and making mounting and demounting a breeze.

Pros:

• Compact Design: One of the BugBuster’s standout features is its compactness, ensuring it doesn’t add unnecessary weight to the rifle.
• Parallax-Free View from 3 Yards: This scope offers a parallax-free view from as close as 3 yards to infinity, making it unique in its class.
• Reliability: Its ability to hold zero, even after hundreds of rounds, is commendable.
• Budget-Friendly: Considering the features packed into this scope, its price tag offers excellent value for money.

Cons:

• Eye Relief: Some users might find the eye box slightly restrictive, especially at higher magnifications.
• Brightness Settings: In extremely bright conditions, the highest illumination setting may appear a tad dim for some users.

MidTen Riflescope Combo 4-12x50EG Dual Illuminated Optics

The MidTen Riflescope Combo 4-12x50EG presents a robust option for those AR-15 enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded optics system. Affordable price bracket, this dual-illuminated scope offers an array of features typically seen in higher-priced alternatives, ensuring a balanced shooting experience for both novices and experts.

The MidTen Riflescope Combo 4-12x50EG Dual Illuminated Optics emerges as a comprehensive optics package for AR-15 users operating on a budget. With its dual illumination, versatile magnification range, and the inclusion of additional optics accessories, it provides excellent bang for your buck.

A few minor concerns, such as battery life, do exist, but given its price point and the plethora of features, this combo is undeniably an attractive proposition for AR-15 enthusiasts looking for quality optics without overspending.

Key Features:

1. Dual Illuminated Reticle: With the ability to switch between red and green illuminated reticles, the 4-12x50EG adapts to diverse lighting conditions, making target acquisition more flexible and rapid.
2. Variable Magnification: Offering a magnification range from 4x to 12x, this scope accommodates close to mid-range shooting scenarios, making it versatile for a variety of tactical situations.
3. Illuminated Mil-dot Reticle: The scope incorporates a mil-dot reticle, enhancing accuracy through efficient range estimation and windage and elevation adjustments.
4. Solid Construction: Built to withstand challenging conditions, it features a waterproof and fog-proof design, ensuring longevity and reliability.
5. Combo Package: Beyond the riflescope itself, this package includes a laser sight and a holographic dot sight, enhancing its overall value and multifunctionality.

Pros:

• Comprehensive Combo: The inclusion of both a laser sight and a holographic dot sight in this combo offers excellent value for money, making it a comprehensive optics solution.
• Brightness Settings: Multiple adjustable brightness settings accommodate varying environmental conditions, ensuring clarity in both low-light and bright daytime settings.
• Durable Design: The scope’s solid build can endure rough handling, making it a suitable choice for rugged field operations.
• Fast Target Acquisition: With its illuminated optics and the added laser sight, users can expect swift and efficient target acquisition.

Cons:

• Battery Life: Some users have reported concerns regarding the battery life of the illuminated features, which may require frequent replacements.
• Laser Sight Range: While the included laser sight is a valuable addition, its effective range might be limited in certain conditions.

Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope

Simmons has been a respected name in the optics industry for years, and the 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope stays true to its reputation of delivering quality and affordability. Designed for AR-15 rifles and suitable for a myriad of environments, this scope aims to provide clear visuals and pinpoint accuracy.

The Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope is a testament to the fact that you don’t have to break the bank to get quality optics for your AR-15. From its clear visuals to the TrueZero system that holds its ground impeccably, this scope offers a lot to be admired. 

While there are minor issues, like the weight and eye relief, the scope’s overall performance and cost-effectiveness make it a worthy consideration for both novices and seasoned shooters. 

If you’re in the market for a reliable scope without the hefty price tag, the Simmons 8-Point should undoubtedly be on your radar.

Key Features:

1. Wide Objective Lens: With a 50mm objective lens, this scope ensures enhanced light transmission, producing clearer visuals even in low light conditions.
2. Variable Magnification: The 3-9x magnification range facilitates adaptability, accommodating both close and long-range shooting scenarios.
3. Truplex Reticle: The classic triplex reticle aids in quick target acquisition and remains consistent irrespective of the magnification setting.
4. Quality Construction: With durability in mind, the scope boasts waterproof, fogproof, and recoil-proof attributes.
5. TrueZero System: Simmons’ exclusive TrueZero windage and elevation adjustment system ensures consistent accuracy, holding zero impeccably even after multiple rounds.

Pros:

• Affordability: One of the standout features of this scope is its price point. Offering commendable features at an affordable rate, it presents significant value.
• Clarity: The large objective lens coupled with the quality lens coating ensures sharp and clear images throughout the magnification range.
• Durability: Whether it’s inclement weather or the recoil from your AR-15, the scope is built to endure, ensuring longevity.
• Easy Adjustments: The tactile and audible click adjustments make for quick and easy windage and elevation tweaks in the field.

Cons:

• Weight: Some users have noted the scope is a bit on the heavier side, which might be a concern for those looking for lightweight optics.
• Eye Relief: The eye relief might be shorter than expected, especially at higher magnifications, potentially causing discomfort for some shooters.

Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope

Bushnell, a recognized leader in outdoor products, brings forth the Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope, tailored for those who venture out during the twilight hours. 

As the name suggests, this scope is engineered to excel in early morning and late evening lighting conditions, offering a clear edge when natural light is minimal.

The Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope stands out as a stellar option for those who frequently find themselves hunting or shooting during the twilight hours. The DDB coating, combined with other features, ensures that the scope performs where many others falter. 

While it has a couple of drawbacks, they are overshadowed by its benefits, especially considering its price point. For those in search of a reliable, low-light performer without stretching their budget, the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn is a formidable contender.

Key Features:

1. Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) Coating: This specialized lens coating is what sets the scope apart, ensuring optimum light transmission and offering unparalleled clarity during the challenging light conditions of dawn or dusk.
2. Multi-X Reticle: The classic Multi-X reticle is versatile, allowing for quick target acquisition while providing the necessary reference points for distance estimation.
3. 100% Waterproof and Fog-proof: Handle the unpredictabilities of outdoor adventures. The scope is sealed to prevent moisture, dust, and debris from impairing your view.
4. Adjustable Objective: The adjustable objective ensures parallax adjustments, offering precise shooting from varying distances.
5. Fast Focus Eyepiece: Rapid target acquisition, the fast-focus eyepiece ensures that you don’t miss out on a fleeting opportunity.

Pros:

• Superior Light Transmission: The DDB coating truly sets this scope apart, ensuring crisp images even in the challenging lighting of dawn or dusk.
• Durability: The solid construction, combined with its waterproof and fog-proof capabilities, means this scope is built to last.
• Value for Money: Given its performance and the clarity it offers, especially in low light conditions, the scope offers significant bang for the buck.
• Ease of Adjustments: The windage and elevation adjustments are easy to operate, ensuring that you can adapt to your environment on the fly.

Cons:

• Weight: Some users might find it slightly bulkier compared to other scopes in its category.
• Eye Relief: The scope could benefit from a more generous eye relief, especially for those using it on rifles with substantial recoil.

CVLIFE 4×32 Tactical Rifle Scope Red & Green &Blue Illuminated Reticle Scope with Fiber Optic Sight

The CVLIFE 4×32 Tactical Rifle Scope is a compact yet efficient riflescope designed to offer versatility and precision for shooting enthusiasts and hunters alike. 

With its unique tri-color illuminated reticle, it offers adaptability to various lighting conditions and environments.

The CVLIFE 4×32 Tactical Rifle Scope, with its tri-color illuminated reticle, sets itself apart in the market, especially considering its budget-friendly price. 

While it may not cater to the needs of long-range shooters due to its fixed magnification, it’s a solid choice for those who engage in short to mid-range shooting activities. 

The build quality, clear optics, and ease of use make it a worthy addition to any shooter’s arsenal. If you’re in the market for an affordable, reliable, and efficient scope, the CVLIFE 4×32 is worth considering.

Key Features:

1. Tri-Color Illuminated Reticle: The scope features a unique red, green, and blue illuminated reticle, allowing shooters to adjust based on the environment and their preference.
2. Fixed 4x Magnification: Ideal for short to mid-range shooting, the 4x magnification provides clear and sharp images without the need for frequent adjustments.
3. Fully Multi-coated Lens: The lenses are multi-coated to ensure excellent light transmission and clear visuals.
4. Solid Construction: Made with high-strength aluminum alloy, the scope is both durable and lightweight. It’s designed to handle rugged use and resist the challenges of outdoor conditions.
5. Waterproof and Fogproof: The scope is nitrogen-filled, ensuring it remains clear and free of fogging in varying weather conditions.

Pros:

• Versatile Illumination: The tri-color illumination option makes this scope adaptable to various shooting conditions, especially in low light.
• Affordable: Offering a range of features at its price point, it’s a valuable choice for those on a budget.
• Clear Optics: The multi-coated lenses ensure clear visuals, enhancing accuracy.
• Ease of Use: With a straightforward design and easy-to-adjust settings, both beginners and experienced shooters will find it user-friendly.

Cons:

• Fixed Magnification: While the 4x magnification is versatile for many scenarios, some users prefer variable magnification for more flexibility.
• Battery Life: Frequent use of the illuminated reticle might require regular battery replacements.

Tacticon Armament | Predator V1 Adjustable Red and Green Dot in One Sight

The Tacticon Armament Predator V1 is a meticulously designed sight that caters to both beginners and seasoned firearm enthusiasts. 

Functionality with affordability, this sight delivers impressive performance with its dual-color dot feature and robust construction.

The Tacticon Armament Predator V1 is a testament to the fact that one doesn’t need to break the bank to get a quality red and green dot sight. 

Whether you’re practicing at the range or out on a hunting expedition, its adaptability, combined with its durable construction, makes it a reliable companion. 

The sight’s features, especially the dual-color dot options and extended battery life position it as a value-driven choice for those in the market for a reliable sighting solution. 

Whether you’re a novice shooter or a seasoned pro, the Predator V1 is undoubtedly worth considering.

Key Features:

1. Dual-Color Dot: The Predator V1 stands out with its red and green dot options, allowing users to switch based on their preferences and environmental conditions.
2. Rugged Construction: This sight boasts a durable aluminum build that can withstand harsh conditions and rigorous use.
3. Adjustable Brightness Settings: Catering to various lighting conditions, the sight offers multiple brightness settings for both the red and green dots, ensuring optimal visibility.
4. Fast Target Acquisition: With its parallax-free design and unlimited eye relief, users can quickly lock in their targets.
5. Coated Lens: The lens is coated to reduce reflection and provide clear and sharp visuals, enhancing the shooting experience.

Pros:

• Versatility: The dual-color dot options offer adaptability to different shooting environments and preferences.
• Durability: The robust construction assures longevity and can endure tough environmental conditions.
• Affordability: Despite its range of features, the Predator V1 comes at a budget-friendly price, making it accessible to a wider range of users.
• Ease of Mounting: It easily mounts on standard Picatinny rails, ensuring compatibility with a variety of firearms.
• Battery Life: With a longer battery lifespan compared to many other sights in its category, users can enjoy extended shooting sessions without frequent battery changes.

Cons:

• Brightness Adjustment: Some users might find the adjustment knobs a bit stiff initially, requiring a break-in period.
• Size: While compact, shooters accustomed to smaller red dot sights might need an adjustment period.

UTG 4.2″ ITA Red/Green CQB Dot with QD Mount

The UTG 4.2″ ITA Red/Green CQB Dot with QD Mount is a versatile and durable sight specifically designed for close-quarters combat situations. 

With a range of features tailored for swift target acquisition and ease of use, this sight has earned its place as a favored choice for many firearms enthusiasts.

The UTG 4.2″ ITA Red/Green CQB Dot with QD Mount establishes itself as a reliable sight for close-quarters combat and tactical scenarios. 

Its dual-color option, combined with the quick-detach feature, makes it a versatile choice for those seeking a blend of performance and convenience. 

While there are minor hiccups like size and occasional dot clarity issues, its overall efficiency, durability, and value for money make it a commendable choice for both amateur and experienced shooters. 

Whether you’re in a high-stakes tactical situation or practicing at the range, this sight is designed to deliver.

Key Features:

1. Dual-Color Dot: With both red and green dot options, shooters can swiftly adjust according to their shooting environment and lighting conditions, ensuring optimal visibility.
2. Instant Locking QD (Quick Detach) Mount: The QD mount ensures easy and quick attachment and detachment, facilitating flexibility and adaptability across different firearms.
3. Broad Field of View: The design of the sight provides a wide field of view, aiding in faster target acquisition, particularly in CQB scenarios.
4. Multiple Brightness Settings: The sight features multiple brightness settings for each color, allowing users to find the perfect illumination for any lighting condition.
5. Rugged Construction: The sight boasts a durable and robust construction, suitable for various shooting conditions and environments.

Pros:

• Versatility: With red and green dot options and multiple brightness settings, shooters can customize their shooting experience based on conditions and preferences.
• Quick Installation: The QD mount makes it effortless to attach or detach the sight, suiting both stationary and on-the-go shooting scenarios.
• Durability: The sturdy construction of the sight ensures it can withstand the rigors of intense shooting activities.
• Price Point: Given its range of features, the sight offers considerable value for its price bracket.
• Battery Efficiency: The sight boasts impressive battery life, reducing the frequency of replacements and ensuring prolonged use.

Cons:

• Size and Weight: Some users might find it slightly larger and heavier compared to other CQB sights in its class.
• Dot Clarity: In extremely bright conditions, there might be occasional difficulties with dot clarity.

Tips to Consider When Purchasing a Scope for AR-15 under $100

Intended Use:

The first thing you should consider is what you intend to use the scope for. Whether it’s target shooting, hunting, or home defense, your specific needs will dictate the best type of scope for you.

Magnification:

For close to mid-range targets, a lower magnification might suffice. If you’re shooting at longer distances, a higher magnification may be beneficial. However, remember that higher magnification can sometimes make it harder to track moving targets.

Reticle Type:

Some shooters prefer simple crosshairs, while others might want bullet drop compensators or illuminated reticles. Consider your preference and choose a reticle that will assist in your shooting style.

Objective Lens Size:

A larger objective lens allows more light, resulting in a brighter image. However, it can also make the scope bulkier and heavier.

Brightness Settings:

If you’re going to be shooting in varied lighting conditions, consider scopes with adjustable brightness settings. This will allow you to adapt to both daylight and low-light situations.

Mounting Options:

Ensure that the scope can be easily mounted on your AR-15. Some scopes come with built-in mounts, while others might require separate mounting accessories.

Durability and Build Quality:

Since you’re looking for scopes under $100, there will be some variation in build quality. Look for scopes that are at least water-resistant, fog-proof, and shockproof.

Adjustability:

Consider scopes that allow for easy windage and elevation adjustments. This will help you zero in your rifle accurately.

Eye Relief:

Ensure the scope provides adequate eye relief, especially if you’re a glasses wearer. This means the distance your eye can be from the scope while still seeing the entire image.

Reviews and Recommendations:

Before making a purchase, check out reviews from other shooters. Their experiences can provide valuable insights into the scope’s real-world performance.

Warranty:

A good warranty can be a lifesaver, especially when buying budget scopes. Some companies offer generous warranties, even on their budget offerings.

Consider Future Upgrades:

While staying under $100 is the goal, consider if you want to upgrade in the future. If so, investing more now might save you money in the long run.

Lens Coating:

Look for scopes with multi-coated lenses. This improves light transmission and provides a clearer image.

Battery Life (for illuminated reticles):

If you opt for an illuminated reticle, check the battery life. You wouldn’t want your reticle going dark in the middle of a shooting session.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that you select a scope that offers the best performance and value for your budget. Remember, while the price is an essential factor, it shouldn’t be the only one. The best scope for you is the one that fits your shooting needs and preferences the most.

FAQ: Scopes for AR-15 under $100

What is the main difference between a red dot sight and a traditional rifle scope?

A red dot sight provides a point of reference in the form of an illuminated red or green dot without any magnification. Traditional rifle scopes, on the other hand, offer magnification and often have crosshairs or other reticles.

Are budget scopes reliable for an AR-15?

While they might not offer the same level of performance or durability as high-end scopes, many budget scopes provide adequate reliability for casual shooting or hunting. It’s essential to read reviews and ensure you’re purchasing from a reputable brand.

How important is the objective lens size in a scope?

A larger objective lens can gather more light, resulting in a brighter image, especially in low-light conditions. However, a bigger lens can also make the scope heavier and bulkier.

Can I use a rimfire scope on my AR-15?

While it’s technically possible, rimfire scopes are designed for the lower recoil of .22 caliber rifles. An AR-15’s recoil might be too much for a rimfire scope, potentially damaging it or causing it to lose zero.

What does “holding zero” mean?

“Holding zero” refers to the scope’s ability to maintain its point of impact, even after being subjected to recoil, bumps, or changes in environmental conditions.

Why would I want an illuminated reticle?

Illuminated reticles can enhance visibility in low-light conditions or against dark backgrounds. They can be beneficial for shooting at dawn, dusk, or in shaded areas.

Are all scopes compatible with AR-15 rifles?

Most scopes can be mounted on an AR-15 as long as the appropriate mounting hardware is available. However, it’s essential to choose a scope designed for the shooting range and conditions you’ll encounter with your AR-15.

How do I adjust for windage and elevation on a scope?

Most scopes come with knobs or turrets that allow for adjustments. Windage adjusts for left and right movement, while elevation adjusts for up and down. Always refer to the scope’s manual for specific adjustment instructions.

What’s the difference between first focal plane (FFP) and second focal plane (SFP) scopes?

In FFP scopes, the reticle size changes as you adjust the magnification, maintaining the same perspective as the target. In SFP scopes, the reticle size remains constant, regardless of the magnification level.

Do I need a special tool to mount my scope on my AR-15?

Some scopes require specific tools, while others may not. It’s advisable to have a set of gunsmithing tools if you plan to mount the scope yourself. Always ensure the scope is securely fastened to prevent movement and potential accidents.

Remember, while these FAQs provide general information, always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications and guidelines when dealing with specific products.

Conclusion

Choosing the right scope for your AR-15, especially when on a budget, can be a daunting task. However, with the plethora of options available under $100, you need more choices.
Whether you prioritize magnification, illumination, or just a reliable red dot for fast target acquisition, there’s likely a perfect fit for your needs.

Always keep in mind the purpose of your shooting – be it hunting, target practice, or home defense – and ensure the scope you choose aligns with those needs.
With proper care, even budget-friendly scopes can offer longevity and consistent performance, enhancing your AR-15 shooting experience.