AR 10 is a legendary gun that is widely popular among hunters and marksmen even though it dates to the year 1950. It is a high caliber long-range rile that doesn’t shy away in hitting targets around 700yards. Many long-range shooters love this high-performance gun as it has the prowess to cover shots even at 1000yards. Despite its superior performance, you can only get accurate shot up to 300yards with open sight. There isn’t any chance that you can get bull’s eye shot at 500yards with the naked eye. So it is essential to have the best scope for ar-10 to get the most out of it.
So, where you can find all those most excellent scopes? You can check out our list that is made by our team of experts.
Top Scopes for AR-10 Rifles (Top 5):
[table id=4 responsive=scroll/]You may go to the review section skipping the section by clicking here
What Makes a Great Ar-10 Scope?
Ar-10 is highly versatile that is widely used by hunters, marksmen, and weekend shooters in the US. The scope needs to well equipped so that it can perfectly complement the performance and dynamicity of the rifle. So a scope with a wide magnification range like 3-9X, 4-16X, or 1-6X would make an excellent scope for ar-10.
It should come with a side parallax knob that would offer a parallax-free view for both short and long-range shots.
It should also have a top-notch reticle like BDC, Mil-Dot, or MOA that would assist the rifle in sailing the bullet at the right point and at the right without missing.
However, the reticle preference depends upon the range you want to achieve. With that being said, a scope with an illuminated reticle will significantly enhance the accuracy and performance of an ar-10 rifle.
An ar-10 scope with the large tube will work great with this rifle because it will not only offer durability but will also add to the adjustment options. Having the first focal plane would be a great advantage for the scope because it will let the shooter acquire targets at long ranges.
However, these scopes are costly, so if you have a low second focal plane would serve as a plausible alternative, but it doesn’t keep up with the zooming.
Lastly, the scope must be made up of premium aluminum, and it should be shockproof, rainproof, and fog-proof. Most importantly, it must possess zero holding capacity and precise turret adjustment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What mount to get for ar-10 scope?
Ar-10 is not highly flexible when it comes to mounting options for coupling any compatible scopes. It is compatible with a one-piece mount, which serves as a popular and reliable choice, and the second one two-piece rings, which are quite versatile.
Many users prefer the first piece because of the excellent stability, and they are pre-aligned with the gun. Two-piece rings, on the other hand, are a lighter mount that is easy to change, but they don’t offer the rigidity that is useful during heavy recoil.
2. What is the best Nightforce scope for Ar-10?
When it is about mounting the finest Nightforce scope with the legendary ar-10 rifle, you can’ add a random model. According to our team, Nightforce NXS 2.5-10X compact riflescope would perfectly blend with the gun as it offers coverage around 700yards and high durability. Most importantly, it gets a highly functional reticle that treats will the facility so that you can accurately land your shot.
3. How to mount a scope on an ar-10?
For your assistance, our team has devised some simple steps that will you to efficiently mount the scope to ar-10;
- At first, you need to place the rifle on workbench or rubber mat so that it won’t slip while you are mounting the scope.
- Now you need to level the rifle.
- Then attach the one-piece or two-piece mount on the rail and level both the items. After the attachment, put the level on the flat surface such a way that it is perpendicular and parallel to the rifle.
- In this step, you will have to couple the scope to the ring, and while placing, you should make sure it maintains a gap between the lens and the rail. Apart from the rail, you should also consider the gap between lens and barrel or any sight.
- Now, place the level on the flat part of the scope and make sure it is correctly leveled in both parallel and perpendicular way.
- Start by putting the ring on the mounting bracket but without disturbing the position of the scope. Then gently tighten the screw on the mount so that you don’t hinder the alignment. Use gels to on the screw mounts so that it can easily move. Don’t tight then screw too tight as it might damage the thread.
- Finally, again, examine with your level so that everything is perfectly aligned before you start using the scope.
Well, let’s see the review Now:
Top 8 Best Scopes for AR-10 Rifles Reviews
1. Vortex Optics Diamondback – Best for Longrange Shooting
Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12X40 is a highly rated beast in the world of riflescopes that have never disappointed in range and accuracy when coupled with ar-10. It is a legendary scope lineup that, with its 40mm objective, offers incredible shooting experience for both pros and weekend shooters.
Backed by 4X to 12X variable magnification range, it allows you to go beyond 500yard coverage and that too without missing any shot. Moreover, it has a 32.4-11.3ft at 100yard extensive field of view that gives you good coverage in the jungle or shooting game.
Geared with a dead-hold BDC reticle, it delivers you superior accuracy performance and shooting facility at ranges where you can’t estimate the holdover. The reticles get elevation and windage marks in the middle that lets you accurately land the shot without any obstruction. However, you can use the scope till sunlight or in illuminated condition because the tube doesn’t get illumination.
You will get crystal clear view while targeting because all the lens is multi-coated that curb down any light interference. What’s make it more efficient? The fast-focus eyepiece that facilitates you to focus the reticle while you are taking consecutive shots comfortably.
We can say it is probably one of the top scopes for ar-10 under $200 because it treats you with metal precision turret and precision glider system at an affordable price. Moreover, it has a highly sturdy aircraft-grade aluminum tube that not only gives it a considerable lifetime but also saves it from the shock of harsh recoil.
The tube is o-ring sealed and argon purged so it can deliver you optimum shooting performance without getting affected by fog or rain. For adjustment purposes, you will get 60 MOA maximum for windage and elevation, which is a pretty good figure. You can stick to this scope for decades without worrying about damage cost because Vortex offers a lifetime warranty with this model.
2. UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope
UTG is a highly reputed organization that is known for delivering military-level equipment to its users. BugBuster 3-9X32 from them is one of the best budget scopes for ar-10 that takes care of all your requirements, whether it is accuracy, durability, or adjustments. This scope is all about offering you clear visuals, and that is why it gets a 3yards to infinity parallax settings.
You will be impressed by the accommodating eye relief it offers, and you can accomplish CQQ style tasks with ease. Enjoy repeated adjustment-free shooting, and the credit goes to its zero lockable and resettable turret, which comes with 1/4 MOA click adjustment.
With range-estimating mil-dot reticle built into the scope, it will deliver you a jaw-dropping performance and accuracy, making it one of the best scopes for ar-10 under $100. Its battery-backed RGB SWAT illumination makes an enormous impact on the performance because it lets you adjust the brightness depending upon the outdoor light condition.
It also comes with a second focal plane reticle that assists the mid-range scope in delivering the required precision. 2inch sunshade, flip-open lens cap, and fast detachable ring also serve as part of the scope, and they are included so that you can get sight of your target quickly.
Even though UTG BugBuster 3-9X32 comes with a 32inch objective lens but you won’t have difficulty in getting targets at around 400yards. It also receives a variable magnification range of 3-9X that makes sure you get a close view of your target.
Despite the superior performance, its superior build quality takes all the limelight, and it is passed through harshest recoil tests. It is based on the True Strength platform and smart spherical structure, and together, they ensure the long-lasting reliability of the scope. Another excellent point of this scope is that it doesn’t make the gun tiring to carry as it only weighs 13.9 ounces.
3. UTG 3-12X44 30mm – Compact Scope for AR-10 Rifle
Another highly rated scope that rocks our list is UTG 3-12X44 compact scope that is an outcome of class apart craftsmanship. You will find this scope in many lists of the best scope for ar-10, and it totally deserves this popularity.
Whether it is a short-range or long target, this scope will ensure pinpoint accuracy with the help of 36 color Mil-Dot reticles, so stay assured you won’t miss anything. The reticles sport EZ-TAP illumination enhancing the technology that allows you to match the color depending upon the environment, and this is the reason it serves as a boon color blind shooter.
With SWAT illumination, this midrange scope for ar-10 gives you complete freedom to acquire your target any time of the day with proper illumination. What makes it unique? It’s one-click illumination memory features that allow you to change to the last brightness you have used. All the lens are coated with Emerald coating that ensures optimum accuracy and shooting performance. In addition, it also gets parallax free view from 10yards to infinity, thus making it suitable for the range targets.
However, it’s 3X to 12X varied magnification makes the main impact on its comprehensive range coverage, thus making it suitable for midrange and short-range shooting purpose. Whenever you shoot, you will always get crystal clear view without any interruption, and partly, the credit goes to its 44mm objective lens.
UTG is always known for its military-grade construction, and this scope is no different. It boasts the proprietary combination of special circuit and True Strength platform that not only gives it the required strength but also proper illumination under heavy recoil.
Most importantly, the tube is nitrogen filled and wholly sealed, so these facilities make it completely shockproof, fog-proof, and rainproof. It features the specialized zero resettings and locking turret that is destined to take your shooting experience to a whole new level.
4. Vortex Optics Viper PA Riflescope
If you are in search of a high-end scope for ar-10, one scope you should definitely look into is Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20X50. It is a one of a kind optics that amplifies the range of ar-10 by a large margin but without compromising on accuracy or performance. With aircraft-grade aluminum build quality, it allows you to use it any way you want without worrying about damage.
The 30mm tube is completely o-ring sealed and argon purged, so it makes the scope totally fog-proof and waterproof. Our experts also loved the fact that all the lens has Armor Tek scratch-resistant coating so you can comfortably use it in any terrain.
Incorporating a large 50mm objective lens and 6.5-20X magnification range, this riflescope perfectly blends with ar-10 for long-range tactical tasks and hunting varmint or predator at 800yards. It features the US Marine Corps incorporated Mil-Dot reticle, and it delivers optimum accuracy by estimating range, holdover, and windage.
To maintain the promised precision, Vortex has added extra-low dispersion and XR Fully multi-coated lens whose main job is to deliver top-notch clarity, color fidelity, and vividness. It also comes with a second focal plane reticle that assists you to get the required accuracy by maintaining the appearance size at any magnification.
You can opt for a rapid shot, and quick magnification change without losing accuracy, and all the credit goes to its fast focus eyepiece along with MAG bar adjustment. Not only that, but it also comes with a capped reset turret that assists you to reset to zero after a quick sighting. Loaded with precision glider system, this mechanism make sure you can comfortably change the magnification under extreme weather condition.
Unlike others, it treats you with 65 MOA maximum windage and elevation adjustment that comes really useful. Lastly, you will enjoy lifetime warranty coverage with this scope, where the manufacturer will take care of all the damages and issues.
5. Trijicon VCOG Riflescopes – Highly Durable Ar 10 riflescope
Trijicon VCOG 1-6X24 Scope is a top-of-the-line scope that is simply flawless when it comes to delivering meticulous precision, top-notch illumination, and robust durability. It may come with a 24mm objective lens, but believe us many marksmen and seasoned hunter prefer this scope than other so-called best tactical scope for ar-10 308 SHTF.
With the 1-6X magnification range, you can easily target your varmint, whether it is at close or midrange. However, most people drool over its aiming solution because it gets horseshoe dot reticle that makes sure you can acquire all your targets without missing.
It is assisted by the first focal plane reticle that is well known for offering quick shooting and consistent hold-out even if you change the magnification. Consistent and bright illuminated reticle in any outdoor light condition is a big highlight of this scope as it is powered by an AA battery that can last for 700hours.
In the dark, you will get RED reticle color, which is a preferred color option for many hunters who wait for their prey in the dark hours. Trijicon takes pride in the illumination and clarity you get while targeting through the scope, and it is due to the multi-coated lens that ensures proper view without any distortion.
The scope is a dynamic and versatile device with its multiple brightness settings, and it is a rare feature that you won’t find in many best night vision scopes for ar-10. With max 90MOA adjustment, it easily allows you to set the windage and elevation.
It is widely praised for solid forged aluminum construction that has passed the gruesome series of tests by US Defense with flying colors. Moreover, it is waterproof up to 20meter so you can take in marshlands in the woods. It comes with a long 4inch eye relief so you can comfortably place your eye for targeting without thinking of recoil damage.
6. Nikon 6729 ProStaff – BDC Riflescope for AR-10
Any list of top scopes for Ar-10 is incomplete without the addition of Nikon 6729 ProStaff that proven itself with its impeccable performance and accuracy. It serves as a complete package that comes with patented BDC reticle that sports see-through ballistic circle and dead-on hold capability for efficient aiming.
ProStaff scopes always are known for offering premium lens; thus, it gets fully multi-coated glass with a laser aligned lens system to ensure a bright and clear view. Moreover, the unobstructed view is assisted by 7.3-23.6ft @100yards broad field of view, and it helps you to get proper coverage, which is not possible with the naked eye.
This Nikon ar 10 scope also makes sure your eye is treated with parallax free view, and that is why it comes with 100yards parallax settings. However, the main impact in maintaining a high contrast view is made by the 40mm objective lens that allows almost all the light to pass through it.
It has been engineered with spot-on ballistic match technology that shows you all the aiming point and allows you to take down the varmint or any target easily. All thanks to its extended 4X to 12X variable magnification range, acquiring target above 500yards won’t be a concern to you once you get this scope.
With 3.7inch eye relief, you can quickly get a proper view of your target through the scope and that too, without getting hit during recoil. A specialty of this Nikon BDC scope for ar-10 is its premium aluminum build that not only gives extended longevity but also capability to resist all types of shocks.
Moreover, the scope is o-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, and these facilities make the housing waterproof and fog-proof. Adjustment is also made easy with this scope, and you will get 1/4inch MOA positive reticle adjustment to maintain zero-setting even under heavy recoil.
7. Leupold VX-2 -Water & fog proof Riflescope Scope for Ar-10
Leupold VX-2 is a hidden gem in the riflescope market that is yet to get its fair share of popularity in the market. It is a mindboggling optics that offers an impressive build quality with its ultra-lightweight premium quality 1inch that would serve without getting damage. Besides, the tube is also tightly fitted, and o-ring sealed so that they can deliver consistent performance, whether it is fog or rain.
A highlighting point of this scope is the custom dial system that facilitates you to adjust the elevation depending upon your specified ballistic information. Not only that, but it also gets the standard 1/4 MOA finger click adjustment that lets your precise adjust the windage and elevation.
Unlike any other best scopes for ar-10 under 300 dollars, you will find a 3:1 zoom ratio erector system with this gun, and it ensures precision in different situations. When we are talking about accuracy, it is hard not to mention the exclusive FireDot ballistic reticle it gets. It is an illuminated reticle that is designed to cover more than 500yards with fine precision.
To ensure sharp precision, Leupold has incorporated an Index Matched lens system that delivers top-notch resolution and impressive brightness for proper sighting. Moreover, the lens also has a DiamondCoat coating that ensures not only razor-sharp clarity but also abrasion resistance.
Leupold VX-2 is based on a 40mm objective that gives you the required extensive visual coverage with proper color fidelity and clarity. It also has a narrow field of view of 11.4-34.6 @100yards that depicts you will surely love the sighting through the scope. The magnification range it offers is between 4X and 12X, and it suffices enough for any hunter or marksmen.
It even offers an excellent eye relief of 4.2inch that will come really handy while you are taking long-range shots. This scope comes under a full lifetime warranty, so once you buy it, you won’t have to look for another for decades.
8. Primary Arms SLx3.5 – Best Ar-10 Scope for Deer Hunting
Primary Arms has always been a favorite choice for many US army personnel because they are always more into performance and accuracy rather than fancy features. SLx3.5 4-14X44 from the legendary also carries the same DNA, and it delivers an incredible performance when coupled with an ar-10 rifle. Based on 44m objective, it not only allows you to have a definite sighting and also fiddle the range with a wide magnification range of 4-14X.
According to users, review shooting down a target at a high range is quite easy, and it is due to the tailor-made ACSS HUD DMR reticle. This specialized reticle treats you with bullet drop compensation up to 1000yards, wind leads, and moving target leads that you will hardly find in any cheap scopes for ar-10.
However, the CR2032 battery-backed six illumination settings are the most attractive part of this scope, and it gives you the option to use the gun at any light condition. As it comes with the first focal plane, so that reticle size stays the same even if you frequently change the magnification.
Like other guns from the SLx3.5 series, it also comes with a terrific field of view of 27.2-7.8ft@100yards, so it makes sure you have complete coverage of your target. Additionally, it comes with an adjustable parallax setting that helps you to get a parallax-free view almost at all ranges.
Another reason behind the popularity of this gun is the aircraft-grade 6063 aluminum build that offers rigidity and longevity, which is not common in many best night force scopes for ar-10. In addition to the “built like a tank construction,” the central tube is also waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof.
This scope sports an exposed tactical-style turret that makes windage and elevation adjustment along with zero resetting an easy affair. Another good part of this scope is the three years warranty that covers all the defects and damages.
Now, we want to discuss certain matters that we think will help you to make a better judgment while choosing the scope for your ar-10.
Conclusion
We can conclude this guide by saying that we are always thriving to direct you to the best scopes for your rifles. Hopefully, our recommended scopes for ar-10 will serve as an investment to you and fulfill all your performance requirements. We can assure you that our experts test all the scopes in the different real-time condition so it won’t ever disappoint you in performance and durability.
We have prepared the list in such a way that it can cater to different requirements. To prove our claim, we can say that we have added Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20X50 for users who want to shoot targets of long ranges. For users who need a scope for close combat and QCB tasks, then they will find Trijicon VCOG 1-6X24 Scope. We have also tried to bring variation in the pricing structure. So we hope you have enjoyed reading this article and got what you came for.
Related Articles:
Leave a Reply