The AR-10 is one of the most powerful and versatile long range rifles around. The military has been deploying it with snipers for a long time. Civilian hunters favor its superb reliability and relatively light recoil to take down big game at long range. The AR-10 is a truly versatile platform capable of housing a variety of cartridges.
Without a scope, you can easily hit targets at 200 yards. But you need a scope to really maximize the potential of this firearm, and with a best scope for AR-10, you can expect to hit targets up to 1000 yards or more.
You want a scope that will optimize the AR-10’s precision shooting capabilities and allow you to utilize its versatile functionality. That’s why the best AR-10 scopes are some of the most technologically advanced and superior quality optics on the market.
Most of the scopes will feature magnification levels that are ideal for medium to long range shooting (5x and up) because that’s where the AR-10 delivers amazing results. You want an extremely durable scope that will withstand the heavy use that you’re AR-10 will likely be put through. And all of these scopes have quick and accurate reticles that include features like point-of-impact referencing, unparalleled illumination, and greater situational awareness than many other scopes.
The Best Scopes for your AR10 Reviewed
The AR-10 is one of the most powerful and versatile long range rifles around. The military has been deploying it with snipers for a long time. Civilian hunters favor its superb reliability and relatively light recoil to take down big game at long range. The AR-10 is a truly versatile platform capable of housing a variety of cartridges.
Without a scope, you can easily hit targets at 200 yards. But you need a scope to really maximize the potential of this firearm, and with a best scope for AR-10, you can expect to hit targets up to 1000 yards or more.
You want a scope that will optimize the AR-10’s precision shooting capabilities and allow you to utilize its versatile functionality. That’s why the best AR-10 scopes are some of the most technologically advanced and superior quality optics on the market.
Most of the scopes will feature magnification levels that are ideal for medium to long range shooting (5x and up) because that’s where the AR-10 delivers amazing results. You want an extremely durable scope that will withstand the heavy use that you’re AR-10 will likely be put through. And all of these scopes have quick and accurate reticles that include features like point-of-impact referencing, unparalleled illumination, and greater situational awareness than many other scopes.
Leapers UTG 3-12×44 30mm Compact Scope
The Leapers UTG line aims to provide innovative, solution-oriented scopes that are meticulously assembled and rigorously tested for hunting and shooting sports.
Innovation, quality, value, and service describe the UTG brand. Easy to adjust and reliably holds zero, the Leapers UTG is a 30-millimeter SWAT 3-12X44 IE tactical range estimating scope with mil-dot and is ideal for mounting on versatile rifles such as the AR-10. Built on the True Strength platform, the UTG 3-12x44mm has a strong tube design and exhibits uninterrupted illumination when firing due to its impressive recoil resistance.
It also features best-in-class multi emerald coated lenses and an integrated, angled front sunshade with flip-open lens caps. The Leapers UTG is a very tough scope so you can mount it on your precision AR-10 and expect it to maintain zero with very little issues.
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Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33
The VX-Freedom riflescope line by Leupold represents legendary performance and reliability that shooters and hunters have been counting on for decades.
Leupold scopes are designed for serious shooters with serious guns in mind. Guaranteed to deliver the job every time, the Leupold VX-Freedom features several new and improved features that make it one of the best scope for AR-10.
It has a 3:1 zoom ratio for any shooting situation, a patented Twilight Light Management System for optimal lowlight clarity (adding up to 20 extra minutes of shooting light), scratch-resistant lenses, a lightweight compact design in a 1 inch main tube, quick-grip power selector, multiple reticle and magnification options, and is available in AR, Rimfire, and Muzzleloader models.Similar to some Bushnell options as well.
It is 100% weatherproofed, impact tested on 3x the recoil of .308, and its precision ¼ MOA finger click adjustments for windage and elevation provide absolute repeatability. The centerfire model comes with a parallax set at 100 yards and 33mm objective lens for excellent light gathering capability.
The Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 is a high quality budget riflescope with great overall quality that is clean, clear, and sleek.
Trijicon 1-6x24mm VCOG
The Trijicon VCOG (Variable Combat Optical Gunsight) is a nearly indestructible variable magnification riflescope designed for close quarter engagement or long-range precision shooting, making it one of the best scope for AR-10 on the market.
The VCOG has exceptional target acquisition capabilities, featuring a focal plane reticle that allows the shooter to rapidly acquire and hold target throughout the magnification range. High-quality multi-coated lenses provide superior light-gathering capabilities and incredible clarity with zero distortion. The Trijicon VCOG riflescope is brilliantly illuminated by a single AA battery with up to six brightness settings and is truly a great combat scope that is ideal for shooters with poor eyesight.
It features quick, accurate ranging reticles, such as a red horseshoe dot or crosshair. The horseshoe dot has various measurements that support point-of-impact referencing, especially for long distances. Moreover, the VCOG riflescope is rugged and versatile making it a great option for battle rifles like the AR-10 or SCAR-17 (an integrated mounting adapter provides ringless mounting to any rail system).
It can be deployed in fast and precise close quarter situations while easily adjusting to long-range shooting with quick magnification adjustments. You can expect this best scope for AR-10 to look crystal clear and hold constant zero no matter what you do to it.
EOTech Vudu 1-6x24mm Precision Riflescope
The EOTech Vudu 1-6x Riflescope is a sleek and compact optic, packed with advanced features, and designed for serious hunters and 3-gun shooters. Moreover, the Vudu 1-6x is particularly well-suited for the AR platform and is one of the best scopes for AR-10 you will find.
It features a Speed Ring reticle for super fast target acquisition at low power and superb resolution/accuracy at high power. The reticle also increases in size with magnification. The XC High Density Glass provides impressive light transmission and clarity, especially at longer ranges.
The EOTech Vudu 1-6x is a great scope for AR-10 users who demand durability and accuracy over short and medium-range applications.
Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35 BAC Riflescope – .308 / 7.62 BDC Red Horseshoe Reticle
The legendary Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35 riflescope was adopted by the U.S. Navy SEALs for testing and operations in 1991. The German GSG9 SWAT selected the model for their rifles in 1995.
Since then, this combat proven scope has been faithfully adopted by competitive shooters, law enforcement, and civilians alike. The Trijicon ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight) is currently the official medium-range engagement optic of the U.S. Special Forces and Marine Corps. A red-dot optic could also be a good solution.
This rifles cope was holistically designed to increase hit potential in all lighting conditions — made possible by a brilliant reticle pattern, compact design, and extreme durability. The ACOG 3.5×35 is perfect for AR-style rifles and is definitely one of the best scopes for AR-10 you will find (the U.S. Marines mount it on their M16 service rifle).
This model features superb aiming solutions such as a Red Horseshoe BAC Reticle calibrated for .308 cal (for flattop rifles out to 1200 meters), dual illumination (brilliant clarity at night), and a rugged fixed-power housing design (shock and weather resistant).
BAC stands for “Bindon Aiming Concept” and allows for improved situational awareness by providing the user with a “both eyes open” experience when shooting. You can expect this scope to provide unparalleled illumination and clarity under all conditions as Trijicon has been an industry leader in developing superior any-light aiming systems for decades.
The Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35 BAC Riflescope is truly an amazing optic and one of the best scopes for AR-10 on the market.
The Top Selling AR-10 Scopes on Amazon
- INCREDIBLE VALUE: Introducing the TANGO-MSR line of riflescopes by Sig Sauer. Featuring three new low power variable optics loaded with standard features and offered at an incredible value.
- AMAZING FEATURES: These new models include illuminated reticles, factory installed flip-back lens covers, removable thread-in magnification throw levers and the impressive ALPHA-MSR cantilever mount.
- ACCLAIMED LINEAGE: The TANGO-MSR follows the TANGO6T 1-6x24mm riflescope’s acclaimed lineage. Crafted by the hands of the experts, with the most sought out advanced technology and advancements.
- TOP QUALITY: The TANGO6T has been the winner of three consecutive US military contracts: the Squad Designated Marksman Riflescope (SDMR), the Squad Variable Powered Scope (S-VPS) and the Direct View Optic (DVO) programs.
- COMMENTS: Review by Jacob on 19 Feb 2022review stating Sig Sauer Optics are becoming my favoriteThis is my first LPVO scope, I put this on my Aero and I couldn’t believe how accurate and clear this scope was for the price. Best optic I’ve ever invested in. I mounted it forward far enough to use the 1x magnification like a red dot.(For targets at 50 yards). At 6x magnification, the reticle is very clear, clean, and easy to use at targets at 200 yards. - Jacob
- INDUSTRY LEADING LIGHT TRANSMISSION AND OPTICAL CLARITY - Hit the mark with ease using the SIG SAUER Tango MSR Tactical Scope; the High Performance 6x optical system with low dispersion glass delivers top-shelf light transmission and clarity
- ILLUMINATED MSR BDC-6 RETICLE - Illuminated MSR BDC-6 reticle features 11X brightness levels for easy shot placement in practically every lighting condition; the integrated throw lever with removable thread offers quick magnification changes
- WATERPROOF & FOG-PROOF SCOPE - The SIG SAUER ROMEO4H Red-Dot Sight features an aircraft grade CNC-machined aluminum housing for lasting durability, waterproof rated at IPX-7, ensuring reliable operation in less desirable environments
- PRECISE HUNTING SCOPE - Enjoy dependable waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof performance; it features factory installed flip-back lens covers and the impressive ALPHA-MSR 1 piece aluminum cantilever mount
- ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE - The SIG SAUER TANGO-MSR LPVO scope is a high-quality, low power variable optic, second focal plane (SFP) scope that delivers high quality images for clear target acquisition; it features a 1-6x magnification, a 24mm objective
- High precision tactical rifle scope with 6-24x magnification, a 50mm objective lens, and an eye relief of 4-4.5 inches
- Functionally designed first focal plane rangefinder reticle, with easy-to-read ranging information that remains constant regardless of magnification, for faster range estimation and holdover correction
- Equipped with an adjustable objective lens - or AO - that allows for sharper focus of the target image, elimination of parallax, and range estimation
- Dial controlled reticle illumination in both red and green with multiple brightness intensities
- Product is not a sniperscope, is not a night vision device, does not project infrared light source, does not posess an electronic telescope, and does not enable locating objects at night
- Illuminated Mil-Dot Reticle & Red Laser: Red/Green reticle scope, 5 brightness settings to accommodate your visibility in any conditions; Laser: 2mW, Class IIIA, reaching 100 yards.
- Multi-coated Green Objective Lens: The 2.5-10x scopes with multi-coated green lens boast an amazing 95% light transmittance,much clearer than that with blue lens and green single layer objective.
- Convenient: Scope and laser built together, high strength aircraft aluminum construction, waterproof, fogproof, shockproof, great scopes for hunting quickly, and easy to hold zero.
- Easy to Install: Thanks to its built-in rail (20mm),this scope easily mount on 22mm mount.
- Waterproof & Fogproof Performance: Nitrogen-filled and O-ring sealed for waterproof, fog-proof performance, ensuring enduring and reliable performance.
- NEW ADD ON: 5 lighting modes LED flashlight (high/ medium/ low/ strobe/ SOS) can satisfy your hunting needs in dark environment.
- NEW UPGRADE: Adjustable objective with parallax from 15 Yds. to infinity, providing ultra-clear and accurate vision to you. Magnified from 4X up to 12X, range finder reticle with 5 levels R&G illuminations.
- NEW CONTROL SYSTEM: Reflex sight uses new electronic button control system for easier setup and operate. Detachable GREEN laser sight, reaching over 300M, can be switched ON/OFF via Rat Tail Remote Pad.
- Each scope part has universal 20mm mount individually, detachable and fit standard 20mm picatinny or weaver rail.
- Made of high-strength aluminum alloy. Completely sealed and nitrogen filled makes it 100% fog & water proof; 1000G shockproof test before release.
- BEST PERFORMANCE - The Buckmasters Rifle Scopes were inspired by Jackie Bushman to bring the performance of SIG SAUER Electro-Optics to a value that is within reach for every hunter; This scope for rifles available with various magnification options to bring freedom of choice
- BUCKMASTERS BDC RETICLE - This rifle scope comes equipped with a unique Buckmasters Bullet Drop Compensation (BDC) reticle, complete with holdover dots that extend up to a distance of 500 yards; Avid hunters know the upgraded game hunting comes with upgraded equipment
- GREAT CONSTRUCTION -The Buckmasters hunting rifle scope has extra durable construction with a single-piece, 1-inch main tube; For those who appreciate the convenience, it also features an integrated thread in the throw lever which allows for quick magnification changes
- WEATHER RESISTANT - Dependable waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof performance and high-performance optical system with low dispersion glass of the Buckmasters scope makes your hunting season non-stop whatever weather is on the way; See the target with a reliable magnification of 3-9X50mm
- SIG SAUER - In our world-class facilities, we build the toughest, most precise rifles, pistols, optics, suppressors, ammunition, airguns, holsters, and various accessories, while offering the finest guns training - all as a fully integrated system
- High performance tactical rifle scope with 3-18x magnification for mid to long distance shooting out to 1000+ yards
- Functionally designed first focal plane MOA reticle, with easy-to-read ranging information that remains constant regardless of magnification, for faster range estimation and holdover correction
- Equipped with a parallax adjustment dial that allows for sharper focus of the target image, elimination of parallax, and range estimation
- Inline dial controlled reticle illumination with multiple brightness intensities, for better reticle visibility in low light environments
- Package also includes set of high profile picatinny scope rings, a detachable sunshade, a set of spring loaded flip-up lens covers
- 4-in-1, comes with a 4-16x50EG rifle scope rangefinder, a LED flashlight, green laser, and reflex sight
- Boasts 5 lighting modes (high / medium / low / strobe / SOS), flashlight can accommodate users’ hunting needs in any conditions
- Reflex sight features 4 reticles with new style bottom button switch allows you to control brightness and green/red dot easily, accommodate various needs
- Picatinny/Weaver rings for simple attachment; flip-up lens caps for easy operation; nitrogen-filling ensures 100% waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof
- Magnification@4x-16x; rangefinder, parallax adjustable from 15 Yds. to infinity, providing ultra-clear vision
Some Final Thoughts
Clarity, brightness, versatility, a lightweight and compact design — these are scope features that will enhance your experience in the field and maximize your rifle’s potential.
The AR-10 is very versatile and powerful, so keep in mind the type of environment you’ll be shooting in the most and choose the scope that will perform optimally in that condition. These best AR-10 scopes will let you deploy your firearm in fast and precise situations while also allowing for quick adjustments into long ranges.
Combine one of these scopes with your AR-10 and you’ll be virtually unstoppable.
Since the corona virus outbreak, I’ve been spending a lot more time outdoors (and I love it!!). I had the Horseshow Reticle by Trijicon just sitting in my garage (got it last year as a gift) and I haven’t had one chance to sit down and play around with it. Luckily now, I don’t have to commute to work so it’s saved me quite a lot of time (I was driving for about 3 hours and 15 min every day total). So I got this out and outfitted my SIG 716 DMR with it.
It had been a while since I did long distance shooting, but man, this was so great using the Trijicon. It is built tough, and the optics are insane! I could see my target very clearly from the long distance. It was pretty easy for me to make windage and elevation adjustments. Some of the scopes I’ve used in the past are just so confusing. I can’t wait to play around with this bad boy at night!
My friend ended up getting a real cheap scope this year, and I told him not to cheap out, because he’ll end up not using it. Sure enough, he got the bottom of the bottom, and now it’s sitting, unusused. I understand people can be on the fence about buying a decent reticle, especially when it comes to long range, but as far as trying to decide whether you should get the Trijicon, I say, do it!! Some people might say it’s too expensive, but in reality, do you really want to risk having an unreliable scope? What’s the point of getting one if it isn’t going to be great?
I hadn’t seen much about Leapers, but those lenses sure do sound sweet !!
I almost got the EOTech Vudu 1-6x scope last year, but I held off on buying it. Good to see it’s in your list.
I had a Weaver scope in 2007, that thing was junk and never stayed lined up on the target. Looking to purchase something a higher in quality.