The Ar-15 is an extremely versatile and ergonomic semi-automatic rifle. It is easy to shoot and produces less recoil which makes it a favorite among many hunters. To achieve great long-range accuracy when shooting or hunting with the AR-15, you need to pair it with the best scope.
Vortex makes a wide range of high-quality scopes suitable for the AR-15. In today’s post, we take a look at the best Vortex AR-15 scopes on the market to help you find an AR-15 optic that meets your shooting needs.
Why Use a Scope with AR-15?
A scope will help you shoot accurately at longer distances where it’s hard to get a clear view of the target with your naked eyes. If you are shooting long-range targets, a scope with a good magnification will help make your shooting more competitive and make an accurate shot placement.
So, if you have an AR-15 in your firearm collection and you would want to make it more powerful, getting the right air rifle will add a lot of value to it.
What Makes a Great AR-15 Riflescope?
There are a few features that make a scope suitable for the AR-15. First, the scope should have the right magnification. This will depend on your intended shooting range.
The scope should also bring to the table bright and clear image views so you can easily place your shot accurately. Lastly, the scope should be well-made to offer many years of field use and be fully waterproof and fog-proof for all-weather reliability.
What Magnification Do You Need?
Your ideal magnification depends on your preference as well as your intended shooting range. Generally, if you’ll be shooting close-range or mid-range, you’ll need a scope with a smaller magnification power.
A 3-9×40 scope will suffice. However, if you are looking to expand your shots to long-range, go for a scope with a higher magnification of at least 10x.
7 Best Vortex AR-15 Scopes
If you are looking for the best Vortex AR-15 scopes, you are at the right place. Given the wide selection of Vortex scopes available on the market, finding the right model can be hard. We have to your rescue, we have taken out time and reviewed the best Vortex AR-15 scopes to pair with your rifle. Let’s take a look.
#1) Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II FFP Riflescopes
The Razor HD Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes tops our list of the best Vortex AR-15 scopes. They are high-end riflescopes for shooters/hunters looking to excel at long-range shooting.
These scopes are designed to provide great long-range accuracy even in extreme environments. They come in two sizes; 3-18×50 and 4.5-27×56. Both scopes are suitable for use with the AR-15 in different shooting applications.
The scopes feature a minimum magnification of 3x which is ideal for shooting close-range targets. However, you can ramp up the magnification up to 27x, if you are shooting extremely long-range targets. Moreover, the scope provides clear target images even at the highest magnification.
Weighing just 0.38 pounds, this is one of the lightest vortex scopes. It is easy to carry in the field, easy to mount and shoot. Other than weight, the scope offers excellent optical performance.
It has an APO optical system with high-quality, HD extra-low dispersion glass for stunning image quality. All the lenses are fully multi-coated with an XR and an anti-reflective coating which increases light transmission for brilliant and amazing images.
Robust construction is another facet that makes Razor HD Gen II scopes top contenders as the best Vortex AR-15 scopes. The riflescopes are built for rugged outdoor conditions. It is O-ring sealed at both ends and argon-purged to deliver reliable waterproof and fog-proof performance.
The single-piece main tube is crafted from aircraft-quality aluminum for great strength and durability. Besides, the exterior lenses have an Armortek coating which protects them from scratches, oil and dirt.
Lastly, the scope comes with a fast-focus eyepiece for adjusting the reticle into sharp focus. You can easily track your windage and elevation adjustments using the visual turret rotation indicator. It also brings to the table an illuminated reticle that provides accurate aiming in dismal conditions.
Features
- Ultra-light design
- Fully waterproof and fogproof
- Armortek lens coatings
- Durable aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Premium, HD, extra-low dispersion glass
- Versatile 6x zoom
- Side parallax adjustment
- L-TEC Turret System
- Glass-etched reticle for optimum durability and reliability
- A first focal plane illuminated reticle
- Fast focus eyepiece
#2) Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescope is another excellent scope for the AR-15. This riflescope comes in two different sizes, with a minimum magnification of 4x and a maximum magnification of 24x. Hence, you can use them for hunting/shooting at both close and long-range targets.
The VMR-1 MOA reticle included is perfect for precise holds at long ranges. These riflescopes incorporate top-notch, fully multi-coated, extra-low dispersion lenses which produce outstanding image resolution and color fidelity.
The XR coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces increase light transmission, while the Armortek coating protects the lenses against scratches, dirt and dust.
Like any other Vortex optic, the Viper HS-T 4-16×44 isn’t left behind when it comes to durability. The one-piece main is durably made to stand up to anything thrown at it.
It is also O-ring sealed to prevent the entry of moisture and dirt, and argon purged as well to deliver reliable fog-proof performance. You can use the scope even when it’s raining or cloudy.
For your convenience, the riflescope comes with exposed target-style turrets for accurate and repeatable finger adjustable clicks. A CRS Zero Stop included helps you get back to zero easily regardless of the temporary elevation corrections you might have made.
Overall, the Viper HS-T is a versatile and high-performance riflescope suitable for hunting, target shooting and tactical application.
Features
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Side focus parallax adjustment
- High-quality, fully multi-coated, extra-low dispersion glass
- XR lens coatings
- Armortek coating on the exterior lenses
- Versatile 4x zoom
- Exposed target-turret styles
- Waterproof and fogproof
- One-piece main tube
- VMR-1 Reticle (MOA)
- CRS Zero Stop
#3) Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
Speed, versatility and affordability best define the Vortex Strike Eagle riflescopes. With a true 1x magnification, this scope adapts to a wide range of shooting scenarios. It will help you engage targets from close to long-range depending on the shooting activity you are engaged in.
For your convenience, the scope’s user-friendly and easy-access knobs let you make different adjustments without interfering with your shooting position. Plus, it has a fairy light design so it’s easy to carry in the field.
These riflescopes are built to last. Every scope features a single-piece, 30mm main tube which is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum which provides a sturdy and durable platform.
The whole unit is also shockproof to withstand impacts, falls, and bumps, and shrug off recoil from high-recoil rifles. For all-weather reliability, the scopes are waterproof and fogproof as well.
All air-to-glass surfaces have anti-reflective coatings to increase light transmission. This gives you bright, vivid, and sharp images even in low-light environments.
The illuminated BDC reticle helps you focus on the target faster for accurate shot placement especially in low-light conditions. And that’s not all. This riflescope features a fast-focus eyepiece for adjusting the reticle into sharp focus. This is important in ensuring quick and precise target acquisition.
Features
- User-friendly and easy-access adjustment knobs
- Thress scopes with different magnification power
- Anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces
- Illuminated BDC3 reticle
- Fully waterproof and fogproof
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Shockproof and recoil-resistant
- Thread-in throw lever on the magnification ring
- True 1x on the low end
- Fast focus eyepiece
- 30mm main tube
#4) Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Viper PST Gen II riflescopes come in three sizes, 1-6×24, 3-15×44, and 5-25×50. The 1-6×24 is a favorite among many tactical shooters and hunters looking to shoot targets at both close quarters and long distances.
It is intuitive and easy to use hence ideal for both beginners and seasoned shooters as well. The scope is designed to maximize long-range accuracy through the VMR-2MOA reticle.
You can easily determine the range, holdovers, different windage corrects, and moving target leads with ease. The reticle is housed in the second focal plane so it maintains the same size all through.
When it comes to optical performance, the scope has multiple convenient features. First, it has a fast-focus eyepiece that lets you focus on the reticle quickly and integrates matching MRAD or MOA turrets and reticles for quick and precise shooting at distances.
The scope brings to the table an illuminated reticle for accurate aiming in low-light conditions. More importantly, the scope has XR fully multi-coated lenses to increase light transmission and extra-low dispersion glass which enhances image resolution and color fidelity.
Like any other Vortex scope, the Viper PST Gen II is well-made to give you many years of field use. It is built from aircraft-grade aluminum which enhances durability while keeping weight at a minimum.
Other than that, the scope is O-ring sealed and argon purged to deliver waterproof and fog-proof performance. The exterior lenses have an Armortek coating which makes them scratch-resistant and dirt-proof.
Features
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- Fully waterproof and fogproof
- XR fully multi-coated lenses
- Second focal plane reticle
- 160MOA maximum windage adjustment
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Shockproof, recoil and impact-resistant
- Precise-glide erector system
- Durable, low-glare matte finish
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Illuminated reticle
#5) Vortex Optics Viper Parallax Adjustment SFP Riflescopes
The Viper Parallax Adjustment Second Focal Plane Riflescopes are the best Vortex AR-15 scopes for people on a budget. You can either choose the 6.5-20×44 size or the 6.5-20×50 if you want more light-gathering ability.
These scopes are designed to provide great versatility and reliability. You can pair any one of the two options on your AR-15 and use it for hunting, tactical applications, or both.
The scopes incorporate XR fully multi-coated lenses to increase light transmission for bright and clear image production. The extra-low dispersion lenses give you amazing resolution and state-of-the-art color fidelity.
Another impressive feature about these well-balanced scopes is their durable construction. You can subject them to the harshest outdoor conditions and they will still perform. They are also O-ring sealed and argon purged so you can use them in any weather conditions.
For your optical convenience, these riflescopes feature a Mil-Dot reticle that helps you estimate range, windage, and bullet holdover. The fast-focus eyepiece helps you focus the reticle quickly, while the MAG-Bar allows fast, easy changes in magnification.
To top it all, the scope comes with capped reset turrets and a side parallax knob for quick and simple parallax adjustments.
Features
- Fast focus eyepiece
- MAG-Bar for easy and rapid magnification adjustment
- Fully waterproof and fogproof
- Sturdy and durable aluminum construction
- Premium, XR fully multi-coated lenses
- Capped reset turrets
- Side knob parallax adjustment
- Armortek lens coating
- Ideal for long-range predator/varmint hunting and target shooting
#6) Vortex Optics Golden Eagle HD 15-60×52 SFP Riflescopes
Another top-notch vortex scope for the AR-15 is the Golden Eagle HD 15-60×52 Second Focal Plane Riflescope. This riflescope features one of the highest magnifications.
It has a minimum magnification of 15x and a whole 60x magnification on the higher end. This makes it practical for competitive shooters in F-class or bench rest and any other shooting disciplines.
The scope features a side parallax adjustment for eliminating down-range parallax. An aperture stop ring included widens your field of view so you can observe mirage and wind indicators easily while staying locked on the target.
This high-end riflescope boasts a single-piece 30mm main tube made from aircraft-grade aluminum. It is not only durable and sturdy but also shockproof and recoil-resistant. Plus, it is O-ring and nitrogen purged for a reliable waterproof and fog-free performance.
This riflescope provides impressive optical performance. The high-density apochromatic lens elements are indexed matched to give you sharp and crisp clear images.
Additionally, the premium, XR anti-reflective coatings increase image brightness and clarity by allowing more light to pass through the scope to your eyes. An ArbotTech coating included protects the exterior lenses from scratches, oil and dirt.
Features
- Waterproof and fogproof
- ArbotTech lens coating
- Weight: 29 ounces
- 30mm single-piece main tube
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Side focus adjustment for eliminating parallax
- Finely subtended second focal plane reticle
- 1/8 MOA clicks
- High-density apochromatic lens elements
- Premium, XR anti-reflective coatings
- Parallax settings: 20 yards to infinity
- 45 MOA maximum windage adjustment
- 55 MOA maximum elevation adjustment
- Extra-fine resolution turret
#7) Vortex Optics Razor HD LHT Second Focal Plane Riflescope
The Razor HD LHT 3-15×42 features a high-definition optical system to give you crisp-clear images with sharp resolution. The ultra-light design makes it the ideal scope for tactical shooting or hunting. You can easily mount it on your AR-15 and it won’t add any unnecessary weight so you’ll have an easy time carrying it on the field.
This riflescope is well-made to tackle any outdoor environment. It is O-ring sealed and argon purged to bring you reliable waterproof and fog-free performance.
The 30mm single-piece main tube is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum to provide a sturdy, durable and shockproof platform. An Armortek coating protects the lens from dirt, dust, fingerprints, and scratches.
Featuring the best anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces, the scope provides optimum light transmission bright and vivid mages even in low-light situations.
The indexed-matches lenses correct color across the whole visual spectrum for color-accurate images. An illuminated center dot helps you place an accurate shot in dismal environments. Its illumination intensity is variable so you can adjust it depending on the light conditions.
Finally, the scope features a RevStop Zero system which lets you get back to zero easily after turret adjustments. The capped windage turret helps your read adjustments easily, while the locking elevation turret provides quick, accurate adjustments and helps prevent accidental adjustments. Truly, Razor HD LHT 3-15×42 is one of the best Vortex AR-15 scopes money can buy.
Features
- Ultra-lightweight design
- High-definition optical system
- Anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces
- Illuminated center dot with variable intensity
- Locking eyepiece for quick reticle focusing
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Aircraft-grade aluminum housing
- Armortek coatings which protect the lenses
- Locking elevation turret and capped windage turret
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Best Vortex AR-15 Scopes Buying Guide
Considerations when Buying Vortex AR-15 Scopes
Before you buy any Vortex scope for your AR-15, these are the key factors you should consider.
Magnification Power
The magnification power of your riflescope will determine how far you can shoot with it. Vortex scopes with lower magnification allow more perceptive shooting and excellent target tracking.
On the other hand, scopes with higher optical power allow for greater target resolution. These scopes are costlier, bigger, and heavier as well. They are also difficult to use from unsupported positions.
Reticles
There are tons of distinct reticle patterns present on the market today. Some scopes have complicated grid patterns while others have a plain center dot. If you are new in the field, you should get a reticle that’s simple to read. Some of the reticles you can choose from are BDC, Mildot, or Duplex reticles.
Budget
With most Vortex riflescopes, you get what you pay for. The highest quality Vortex scopes can cost you a lot of money, but they are certainly worth it. Before you step into the market, you need to determine how much you want to spend then get a scope that suits your budget.
If you are on a budget, Vortex offers a wide range of budget scopes that are easy on the wallet but quality. You don’t have to break the bank to get a scope with decent performance.
Turrets
Go for a riflescope whose turrets are easy to reset and finger-adjustable. Such scopes make your shooting/hunting experience smooth. If the turrets let you get back to zero quickly and easily, you’ll have more chances of shooting quickly and more systematically.
Weatherproof
Get a fully waterproof scope and fogproof. The scope should be O-ring sealed at both ends for reliable water-resistance performance. It should also be argon-purged or nitrogen-filled to prevent internal fogging and deliver clear views in different weather conditions.
Durability
To have great value for your money, get a scope that’s made with the highest level of durability. If you are looking for a hunting scope, hunting involves bad weather, rough terrain, and harsh impacts.
Therefore, your scope will be subjected to all manner of accidental bumps, falls, and scratches. The last thing you would want is your scope getting damaged after a few hunting excursions. To avoid such, go for a scope that’s durable, shockproof and impact-resistant.
Why Choose Vortex Riflescopes?
Vortex Optics is a reputable manufacturer of optical equipment based in the USA. Vortex Optics riflescopes are particularly designed for hunting and tactical shooting. Vortex also offers a wide range of riflescopes to meet the needs of different users. Here are some of the benefits of getting a Vortex riflescope for your AR-15.
All-Weather Reliability. All Vortex riflescopes are O-ring sealed to provide reliable waterproof performance and nitrogen-filled/argon purged to prevent internal fogging.
Durable Construction. Vortex riflescopes are well-made to provide many years of field use. They are made with aircraft-grade aluminum for long-lasting durability. They are also shockproof to stand up to hash outdoor environments.
Outstanding Optical Performance. All Vortex scopes have lenses that are fully multi-coated to enhance light transmission and provide bright, clear and sharp images. They also feature an Armortek coating on the exterior lenses for added protection against dirt, dust and scratches.
Lifetime Warranty. All vortex rifle scopes come with a lifetime warranty. Better yet, the company allows for the transfer of warranty.
Affordability. Vortex makes affordable yet quality scopes to meet the needs of different users. They have both budget scope for budget-conscious buyers and high-end models for those looking for more high-end features.
Outstanding Customer Relations. This USA-based company offers great customer service. In the event that your Vortex scope isn’t performing well, you can send it back and get a replacement.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you have found this post insightful. If you want to reach distant targets with your AR-15, you need a quality riflescope. All the riflescopes listed above are quality, durable and unique in terms of features and specs. Use our guide and get a scope that meets your shooting style and requirements.