The glass on your rifle is one of the most important things you can invest in whether your going for long range or an optic for hunting under 500 yards. The less you pay the less you are going to be able to see. You will also notice the quality of the product will decrease as well. Thats not to say less expensive optics are not good. They just may not stand up to the abuse as something that cost twice their price.
For that reason heres a few from two great companies. Starting first with steiner. Steiner makes a great quality product thats built like a freakin tank. The clarity of the German glass is unbelievable and can allow you to be able to see in the very early morning or late evening.
Steiner Military 1-5x24mm Rapid Dot 7.62 30mm
The Steiner 1-5X24mm Rapid Dot 30mm Riflescopes sets a new standard for German-made riflescopes. Designed to better meet the demands of military users the world over, the scope incorporates the same features and quality that have drawn critical acclaim for the Steiner Military Rifle Scopes. The Steiner Military 1-5×24 Riflescope takes close CQB optics to a whole new level. The famous Steiner ruggedness is combined with a 5x zoom power that goes from eyes open 1 power to 5X power for accurate shooting out to 700 meters with the Rapid Dot reticles calibrated to NATO cartridges. The Steiner 1-5X24mm Riflescopes feature illuminated reticles that are rated for daytime, low-light and night vision use.
Steiner P4XI
The new P4Xi riflescope is a compact, tactical optic that is ideal for patrol rifles and AR platforms. This scope features a proven and versatile 4x zoom system with a true 1x that is perfect for close-quarters engagements and 400-yard accuracy at the highest magnification. High-contrast optics deliver outstanding results under poor light conditions. Steiner’s P3TR illuminated reticle is quick pointing and offers 11 levels of illumination for day or night operations.
R1X Reflex Sight w/ QD Mount
Faster targeting, wider field of view, and a fuller tactical picture than standard iron sights, R1X Optics let you engage a threat while staying aware of everyone and everything around you. Steiner’s R1X reflex red dot sight was designed and engineered for use on patrol rifles and AR platforms. The R1X reduces the “tunnel vision” of hard-focus iron sights for quicker target acquisition, enhanced accuracy and greater situational awareness. Lightweight and compact, it is easy to mount, simple to use, invaluable in the field. The Selection button can also be used to switch between a single red dot or a 3-dot stadia reticle. The center dot represents a 50-meter sight in and the three stadia dots are calibrated for ranges of 10, 7 and 5 meters.
Not everyone can spring for German glass and thats perfectly understandable. But that does not mean there are not any options available for those who cannot fork over a months paycheck for an optic. Meet Vortex optics. Not only are they known for their high end PST optics but they offer quite a selection on their mid range as well.
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24
Optimize the versatility, functionality and quick-handling attributes of your AR-15 with the Strike Eagle 1-8×24. A true 1X on the low end of its 8X zoom range, the Strike Eagle 1-8×24 intrinsically adapts to a wide range of scenarios, letting shooters engage targets from point-blank out to extended ranges. Home defense, competition, recreational shooting, feral hog “removal” and any task between, this scope is up for whatever you want to throw at it. And it does so at a price that will have you feeling like you ripped us off. High quality, fully multi-coated lenses serve up a sharp image, impressive sight picture and optimal low-light performance. The illuminated, glass-etched BDC reticle subtends with popular .556 cartridges. Center target dot with surrounding halo promotes instinctually fast target acquisition and shot execution. Take the performance of your AR to new heights with the Strike Eagle 1-8×24.
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24
Speed and versatility—that’s what 1x variable optics offer AR shooters who need to engage targets from point-blank out to extended ranges. And that’s exactly what you’re going to get with Vortex’s new Strike Eagle 1-6 x 24. Take into consideration what it costs to get into this optic, and you may find you can’t afford not to buy it. Whether you’re burning through a 3-Gun Stage, logging some range time, or holding for hair on a coyote you’ve duped into thinking you’re lunch, the Strike Eagle is up to the task. High-quality, fully multi-coated lenses deliver a clear, crisp sight picture and optimal low-light performance. A true one-power on the low end of its 6x zoom range provides quick target acquisition in close quarters scenarios. Need to engage targets at distance? Crank it up to 6x and let it rip.
Vortex SPARC AR Red Dot
Simple—Fast—Effective—Point and Shoot. When you boil it down, those are the advantages of a red dot sight. And that’s what the SPARC AR delivers – all in a durable, lightweight, compact, and ultra-clean package. Digital rear-facing controls for power and dot brightness offer quick access and are viewable from the shooting position. 2 MOA dot diameter promotes precise point of aim. Automatically returns to last dot intensity used when powered up. Unlimited eye relief and parallax free, the SPARC AR gets shooters on target fast. Waterproof, fogproof and shockproof for ultimate durability. Unit automatically shuts off after 12 hours to prevent accidental battery rundown and operates using a common AAA battery. Duty rifle – home defense—recreation, the SPARC AR is built to handle all your red dot needs. Dual use for Shooting Tactical / Hunting