What’s the best scope for AR-10?
I didn’t know until I bought a few AR-10 scopes. Tried them one-by-one and found my answer.
Here’s what I found…
Which AR-10 Scope is yours?
Nikon M-308 4-16x42mm
Comes with accessories
Tactical, Quick-Reset Turrets
Built-In 20 MOA Slope
Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12×40
Precision-Glide Erector System
No Windage and Elevation Guesswork
Resistant to Heavy Recoil
UTG 3-12x44mm
Best Scope for Variety Shooters
EZ Tap Illumination system
Zero locking turrets
Parallax-free 10-yd to Infinity
Leupold VX-2 4-12x40mm
Best Scope for Varmint and Big Game Hunting
Diamond Coat lens
9-in eye relief
Lightweight
Why should you trust me?
Don’t trust anyone — especially some random ‘internet amigo.’
Seriously. I’m not here to ‘win’ your trust nor do I want to. But what I do want to do is just share — from personal experience — the AR-10 rifle scopes that really worked for me.
I’ve already done all the hard work. I’ve read every forum, Amazon review, and Youtube comparison on the internet.
And now, after countless hours of research and hands-on experience, finally compiled my top AR-10 scope recommendations. So, feel free to take a look down below.
If any of the scopes look like it’s calling out for you, just click on the ‘buy now’ button.
It’s your way of saying ‘thank you’ without any added expense. Thank you and I hope you find what you’re looking for!
Magnification: Variable | Dimensions: 13.5-in Length | Weight: 1.2-lb | MOA Adjustment Clicks: ¼
Going the distance just got a little bit easier. When you want long-range out of your AR-10, Nikon has your back with their Monarch series scope.
Although it uses a 42mm lens, there won’t be restrictions on your range of elevation thanks to the 20 MOA slope. On the other hand, you could use the BDC hold-over marks rather than dial elevation. Either way works, no matter your preference.
If you decide to dial in with the tactical, rapid action turrets, resetting back to zero happens in a snap – literally. Pull the knob up, crank it back to zero, and get back to business. For the tactical shooters, the side focus parallax knob is a good bonus too!
Despite how far you want to go, the eye relief is very forgiving…until you get around 12x power. Unfortunately, the last few magnification settings are uncomfortable for most shooters.
Otherwise, the only downside to this scope is the price. While you’ll pay more for it, you get excellent features, 95% light transmission, and a few accessories. These include a flip-up lens cap, microfiber cleaning cloth, and a one-piece mount.
Is It the One for You?
Nikon delivers the best AR10 scope for mid-to-long range, with configuration options for different users. Either let the BDC hold-over guide your way or dial in the bullseye. Regardless, the quick-reset zero and 95% light transmission, let’s you knock out targets from dawn to dusk like a pro.
Magnification: Variable Dimensions: 8-in Length | Weight: 1-lb | MOA Adjustment Clicks: ¼
Similar to our previous scope, Vortex offers an option between dialing in elevation/windage or using the BDC holdover. So what’s the difference? While there are a few, the main one lies in the distance you’re shooting.
This is the best AR-10 scope for close-to-mid range shots.
While its 91% light transmission is not excellent, it’s still acceptable, particularly for its price range. Unlike other scopes of this quality, you can actually afford this one!
With a 40mm objective lens, there is one thing you’ll have to be wary of: sun glare giving away your position. However, this is not a fault on Vortex – it’s just something you can’t avoid with larger lenses despite the manufacturer.
Otherwise, the reticle is easy to focus thanks to the fast focus eyepiece. Then after the initial focus, finding your zero again is effortless. The precision glide erector system maintains the accuracy of your zero shot after shot. Since it’s shockproof, the heavy recoil from repetitive shooting won’t jar it in the slightest.
While it comes with a couple of minor downfalls, you can’t ask for anything better in this price range. From the clear view to precise controls, it’s worth every single penny.
Is It the One for You?
If you want to hunt big game on a budget, look no further. Despite the price, you’re still getting Vortex quality optics that help you hunt near and far. No fox, possum, or coyote will be safe…but your wallet will be just fine!
Magnification: Variable | Dimensions: 5-in Length | Weight: 2-lb | MOA Adjustment Clicks: ¼
Do you ever seem to know what to expect when you go out in the field? One day it’s bright and humid, then dark and cloudy the next. If you travel for competitions or recreational weekends, it’s even more of an issue.
That’s why the Illumination Enhancement (IE) reticle will be your next best friend.
With a single tap, you can switch seamlessly through 36 illumination styles that compliment multi-emerald coated lenses. When you find the design you need that day, simply lock it in and come back to it in a moment’s notice.
The same can be said for the target turrets too. After you find that sweet spot, the turrets will lock on zero and reset quickly. However, the side focus knob is a little tight, but it’s nothing critical to overall performance.
Otherwise, the only issue with handling this scope will be practicing with extra weight. At 2-lb, it’s heavier than other scopes and will take some time to adjust. However, at such a low price, it’s worth finding room for the extra pound.
Is It the One for You?
No matter how often your shooting style and environments change, you can rely on this scope to get you through them. You won’t find anything else at this price with an IE reticle or parallax free from 10 yards to infinity. With that extra pound of weight, it might save you a few trips to the gym!
Magnification: Variable | Dimensions: 3-in Length | Weight: 7-lb | MOA Adjustment clicks: ¼
There are a lot of compact AR10 scopes, but nothing like Leupold. Setting a comfortable path between its economy and premium models, the VX-2 is just right.
As always, they impress us with a stunning view only made possibly by high quality glass. For the VX2, layers of lead-free precision ground glass gets their unique DiamondCoat coating. While providing an excellent 94% light transmission, the darkened edges ensure there’s never too much light.
Like I said…just right.
Then they took it a step further with the above-average eye relief. While many scopes offer 3.6 to 4 inches, you almost get a full 5 inches of eye relief here. So while you comfortably sight in past 25 yards, parallax will never be an issue either.
You’re covered from 25 yards to infinity!
The only complaint I can place is with the lack of mounting surface on the main tube. Otherwise, it works exactly the way I want!
Is It the One for You?
Lightweight, affordable, and effective? Yes, yes, and yes!
Perfect for varmint and big game hunting, this super-light scope can go anywhere your target roams. If you’re a self-proclaimed handyman, you’ll have fun finding the best way to mount it too!
Magnification: Variable | Dimensions: 4-in Length | Weight: 4-lb | MOA Adjustment clicks: ¼
Do you miss the days of spiky bleached tips, JNCO jeans, and rad tunes? You can feel extreme again with this beast of a machine.
As the best scope for AR-10 extreme long-range shooting, it’s exactly what you need.
With a quick focus eyepiece and sharp adjustment controls, you won’t second guess your shot. Fortunately, the turrets are zero-reset too because this scope does not hold the zero very well. Although they have fixed the tension of the spring system, there are still complaints of wandering zeroes.
Otherwise, the AR10 optics surpass even the highest quality glass from Vortex. They save their premium XD glass for their most premium scopes. It gives you sharpness from edge-to-edge so you can clearly see all of the fine details.
When you zoom in to see those details, you’ll never have to take your eyes off the target. The MAG bar is perfect for moments when every second counts. It pairs well with the MIL dot reticle to eliminate almost any guesswork.
Other than the price, the only other inconvenience is uncomfortable eye relief at high magnifications. Then again, is it really “extreme” if you don’t push the limits a little bit?
Is It the One for You?
This isn’t just a good scope for AR10 enthusiasts, it’s the best for extreme long-range tactical shots. While the price is a little steep, it doesn’t compare to the experience you’ll have blasting bullseyes from hundreds of yards.
Wide open fields and deserts are calling your name. Mount this scope today and see what you’ve been missing!
That’s NOT All, Folks!
Only the most powerful scopes are suitable for a powerful rifle like the AR-10. Despite your style, there’s something here for everyone.
We’ve done the tedious research to bring you the top quality optics you want. Whether you’re competing, feeding your family, or just playing with backyard targets, there’s one for you. Even if you’re low on money, there’s even a couple of budget-friendly options.
Since you’ve made it all the way down here, feel free to check out the best scope for AR-15.
Or if you’re looking for something a little different, read more reviews on the best rifle scopes down below!