10 Best AR scopes 2025 in the United States

The ATN Thor 5 LRF Smart HD Thermal Scope is a strong contender in the thermal scope category, particularly suited for hunters who want advanced features. One of its standout strengths is the Ultra Sensitive Next Gen Thermal Sensor, paired with a high-resolution OLED display that offers rich colors and detailed visibility, making it easier to spot targets in varying light conditions.

Magnification ranges from 4x to 16x, providing flexibility for both close and long-range shots, while the built-in Laser Rangefinder is a valuable addition for those who want to ensure precision at any distance. The Advanced Ballistic Calculator helps users make informed decisions about their shots, enhancing accuracy and reducing guesswork.

The ability to create custom reticles is a fun and unique feature, allowing users to personalize their shooting experience. Moreover, the scope includes HD video recording capabilities, enabling hunters to capture their adventures in great detail, which is perfect for sharing with friends or reliving successful hunts. However, the size and weight of the scope (2.1 pounds) may be cumbersome for some users, particularly during extended outings. The scope is also ITAR restricted, meaning it cannot be exported, which might limit its accessibility for some users. Lastly, with a price point typically associated with high-end thermal scopes, it may not be suitable for budget-conscious hunters. The ATN Thor 5 LRF Smart HD Thermal Scope is a high-quality option for serious hunters seeking advanced technology and functionality, although potential users should weigh its size, weight, and price against their specific needs.

The Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x44 riflescope is a solid choice for AR owners who want versatility for mid-range shooting and hunting. Its 4-12x magnification range offers flexibility, letting you zoom in for detailed shots or zoom out for a wider view. The 44mm objective lens provides a good balance, gathering enough light to give clear, bright images without making the scope too bulky. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is designed to help estimate bullet drop at different distances, which is handy if you’re hunting or shooting at varying ranges without complex adjustments. With a field of view of about 24.7 feet at 100 yards, you get a decent sight picture that helps track moving targets. Eye relief is generous at over 115mm, making it comfortable and safe to use with rifles that have a bit more recoil or a heavier setup.

The scope’s construction is sturdy, using aircraft-grade aluminum with O-ring seals and nitrogen purging to keep water, dust, and fog out, so it can handle tough outdoor conditions well. One thing to keep in mind is that the reticle is not illuminated, and the scope doesn’t support night vision. Also, while it’s very durable and offers lifetime warranty coverage, the weight of around 17 ounces might be noticeable on lighter AR platforms.

This riflescope suits hunters and shooters who want a reliable, clear optic with useful range compensation features in a rugged package without extra high-tech complexity.

The ATN X-Sight 5 Smart Day/Night Gen 5 Scope offers several advanced features tailored for hunting enthusiasts. With a magnification range from 5x to 25x, it provides versatility for various shooting distances. The Ultra HD 4K resolution ensures clear and vivid images both during the day and night, aided by its enhanced night vision mode. The ballistic calculator is a significant asset, simplifying shot calculations for improved accuracy.

Additionally, the scope can record videos in 4K resolution, with the capability to stream and record simultaneously thanks to its dual stream video feature. This is particularly useful for capturing hunting moments without distraction, as the Recoil Activated Video function will automatically record when a shot is fired. With a durable aluminum build, it's designed to withstand rugged outdoor conditions. Weighing 2.1 pounds, it is relatively lightweight for its feature set.

The scope also boasts over 14 hours of battery life, ensuring prolonged use in the field. A few potential drawbacks include its price point and the learning curve associated with its advanced features, which might be overwhelming for beginners. Nonetheless, for those looking for a high-tech scope with multiple functionalities, the ATN X-Sight 5 is a robust option.