Best AR Scopes Under $500: Our Top Picks
- Primary Arms SLX 4-14x44mm FFP Rifle Scope
- Sightmark Wraith HD 4-32×50 Digital Riflescope
- ATN ThOR 4 2.5-25x Thermal Riflescope
- Sightmark Photon RT 4.5-9×42 Digital Riflescope
- PARD NV008P LRF 12mm Night Vision Riflescope
- ATN X-Sight 4K Pro 3-14x Smart Riflescope
- Sightmark Core SX 3-18×50 Digital Riflescope
- Pulsar Digisight Ultra N455 Digital Riflescope
Primary Arms SLX 4-14x44mm FFP Rifle Scope – MIL-DOT
For the shooter who values precision and a classic optical experience, the Primary Arms SLX is a standout choice. Its First Focal Plane (FFP) design means the MIL-DOT reticle’s subtensions remain accurate and true at every magnification setting. This allows for consistent ranging and holdover calculations whether you are at 4x or the full 14x magnification.
The scope is built to perform in the field with features that enhance clarity and target acquisition. The side-adjustable parallax and fast-focus eyepiece work in tandem to provide a crisp view of both your target and the reticle, reducing eye strain and improving shot consistency. It’s a robust, reliable optic that brings professional-grade features to a very accessible price point.
Sightmark Wraith HD 4-32×50 Digital Night Vision Riflescope
The Sightmark Wraith HD bridges the gap between day and night shooting with its high-definition digital night vision. It offers an impressive 4-32x magnification range, giving you the flexibility for both close-quarters and long-range target identification. The high-resolution sensor and display provide a clear picture even in extremely low-light conditions.
This riflescope is packed with modern features, including multiple reticle options and color modes to suit different environments and preferences. It also offers video recording capabilities, allowing you to document your hunts. With its durable construction and versatile performance, the Wraith HD is a powerful tool for any nocturnal adventure.
ATN ThOR 4 2.5-25x Thermal Riflescope
Step into the next generation of targeting with the ATN ThOR 4 thermal riflescope. This optic allows you to see heat signatures, making it possible to track game in complete darkness, through light foliage, and in challenging weather conditions where traditional night vision may struggle. The 2.5-25x magnification provides excellent versatility for various engagement distances.
Smart features set the ThOR 4 apart, including built-in video recording, a ballistic calculator, and dual-stream video connectivity. Its rechargeable battery offers extended operational time, ensuring you are prepared for long sessions. This scope is a significant technological achievement, offering professional thermal imaging capabilities.
Sightmark Photon RT 4.5-9×42 Digital Night Vision Riflescope
The Sightmark Photon RT is an excellent entry point into the world of digital night vision. It provides reliable performance with a 4.5-9x magnification range, suitable for a variety of hunting scenarios. The built-in infrared illuminator significantly enhances its performance in pitch-black environments, giving you a clear advantage after sundown.
This scope is designed for ease of use, with a simple reticle selection process and straightforward controls. Its compact and lightweight design does not add excessive bulk to your rifle, maintaining good balance and handling. The Photon RT proves that effective night vision technology can be both accessible and dependable.
PARD NV008P LRF 12mm Night Vision Riflescope
The PARD NV008P LRF stands out by integrating a laser rangefinder directly into a compact night vision riflescope. This combination allows for quick and accurate distance measurement to your target without needing a separate device. The 12mm lens provides a wide field of view, which is beneficial for acquiring moving targets in low-light conditions.
Beyond the rangefinder, this scope boasts a high-resolution display and multiple video recording functions. Its smart design includes Wi-Fi connectivity for easy control and file transfer via a smartphone app. For a feature-rich, all-in-one digital day and night vision solution, the PARD NV008P LRF is a very compelling option.
ATN X-Sight 4K Pro 3-14x Smart Day/Night Riflescope
ATN’s X-Sight 4K Pro is a versatile smart scope that performs impressively in both daylight and darkness. The 4K sensor delivers a sharp, detailed image, while the Smart HD technology ensures a smooth and responsive viewing experience. With a 3-14x magnification range, it is well-suited for a wide array of hunting applications.
This optic is loaded with advanced features like a built-in ballistic calculator, one-shot zero, and recoil-activated video recording. The ultra-long battery life means you can rely on it for extended trips. It represents a significant step forward in making high-tech, dual-use optics available to a broader audience.
Sightmark Core SX 3-18×50 Digital Riflescope
The Sightmark Core SX is a digital daytime riflescope that offers excellent value and performance. Its 3-18x magnification provides great flexibility, and the 50mm objective lens gathers ample light for a bright, clear sight picture. The digital display allows for a variety of customizable reticle options to match your shooting style.
This scope includes practical features such as a video-out port for external recording and a Picatinny rail mount for easy attachment of accessories. It’s a solid choice for shooters looking to experience the benefits of a digital optic, like reticle customization and recording, without a complex setup.
Pulsar Digisight Ultra N455 Digital Night Vision Riflescope
Pulsar is a respected name in electro-optics, and the Digisight Ultra N455 upholds that reputation. This digital night vision scope offers a high base magnification and a sensitive sensor that provides a detailed image in very low light. The built-in IR illuminator is powerful, extending your effective range in total darkness.
User-friendly features include multiple reticle choices, a video recording function, and a streamlined menu system. The rugged housing is nitrogen-filled, making it fog-proof and ready for harsh outdoor conditions. For those seeking a reliable and high-performance digital night vision scope from a leading brand, the Digisight Ultra is a top contender.
What to Look For in the Best AR Scopes Under $500
Finding a good scope for your AR without spending a fortune is totally doable. I have tested a bunch of them, and the key is knowing where to compromise and where you absolutely should not. You are not going to get the same optical clarity as a $2,000 scope, but for the vast majority of shooters, a well-chosen sub-$500 optic is more than enough for range days and hunting. Here is what I focus on when I am looking at the best AR scopes under $500.
First, let’s talk about the reticle. This is what you are actually looking through to aim, so it is a big deal. You will find everything from simple duplex crosshairs to complex BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles. BDC reticles have holdover marks that help you aim at different distances without adjusting your turrets. I prefer a clean, uncluttered BDC reticle that is easy to understand quickly. Illumination is another factor. It is not always necessary, but for low-light conditions or shooting against a dark background, a lit reticle can be a huge help. Make sure the illumination settings are manageable and the battery life is decent.
Next up is the glass quality. This is one area where budget scopes have improved dramatically. You are looking for good light transmission, which means a bright and clear image, especially at dawn or dusk. Check for any significant distortion around the edges of the lens. While some edge distortion is normal in this price range, the center of the image should be sharp and clear. The lens coatings are crucial here; fully multi-coated lenses are the gold standard as they reduce glare and maximize light.
Durability and construction are non-negotiable. Your scope has to survive the recoil of your rifle and the occasional bump. Look for scopes made from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, often called a mono-block tube. This is much stronger than scopes made from multiple pieces. Nitrogen or Argon purging is what makes the scope fog-proof and waterproof. A scope that fogs up on you is useless. Finally, pay close attention to the turrets. They should feel crisp and tactile when you adjust them, not mushy. For most hunting and general-purpose use, a resettable zero-stop feature is a fantastic luxury that is becoming more common in this price bracket, allowing you to easily return to your zero after making elevation adjustments.
FAQ
Is a 1-6x or a 3-9x scope better for my AR-15?
This depends entirely on what you plan to do with your rifle. A 1-6x LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) is incredibly versatile. On 1x power, it works almost like a red dot for fast, close-range shooting. Crank it up to 6x, and you have enough magnification for precise shots out to a few hundred yards. It is my top pick for a “do-it-all” AR. A 3-9x scope is a more traditional hunting scope. It is better suited for a dedicated hunting rifle where most of your shots will be taken at 100 yards and beyond, as it is not as fast up close. For the best AR scopes under $500, you will find excellent options in both categories.
What does “MOA” mean on scope turrets?
MOA stands for Minute of Angle. It is an angular measurement that translates to roughly 1 inch at 100 yards. When your turret has 1 MOA per “click,” each click will move your point of impact by about 1 inch at 100 yards, 2 inches at 200 yards, and so on. It is the standard language for making precise adjustments for windage and elevation. Understanding this is key to getting the most out of your scope.
Can these scopes really hold up to the recoil of an AR?
Yes, absolutely. The scopes that make the cut for a list of the best AR scopes under $500 are specifically built and tested to handle the recoil impulse of modern sporting rifles like the AR-15. The key is the robust construction I mentioned earlier. As long as you buy from a reputable brand known for building durable optics, you should not have any issues with the scope failing due to recoil.
How important is eye relief on an AR scope?
Eye relief is very important for both safety and comfort. It is the distance your eye needs to be from the ocular lens to see the full sight picture. A scope with generous eye relief, typically 3.5 to 4 inches, allows for a more comfortable and faster shooting position. It also helps prevent the scope from hitting your eyebrow during recoil, a common injury known as “scope bite.” Most modern AR scopes have forgiving eye relief, but it is always a good spec to check.
Do I need a separate mount for my new scope?
In almost every case, yes. Most scopes do not come with a mount. You will need to purchase a set of scope rings or a one-piece cantilever mount separately. For an AR platform, a one-piece cantilever mount is highly recommended because it positions the scope at the correct eye relief by extending it forward over the rifle’s handguard, allowing for a proper and comfortable cheek weld.