Are you planning to buy a scope for AR 15 for the upcoming hunting season but running out of a good budget? Well, it is normal because not everyone has a good budget. But the good news is that you can get a very good scope with a very tight budget if you know how to get it and have some suggestions.
Even you can get the best scope for AR 15 under $100. Getting the cheap scopes doesn’t always mean you’re getting a bad one, especially with experts’ suggestions. If you can get that, you will have a clear lens, excellent construction, and ease to use. So make sure you have purchased the best one for the upcoming hunting year.
Let’s get you through the expert’s overviews on the budget scope options for your AR-15 Riffle under a hundred bucks:
How Many Rounds Can An AR 15 Fire In A Minute?
It depends on many things. If you are a beginner, you may fire 10-15 rounds with your AR 15 in a minute. Since AR 15 is a semi-automated rifle, you need to pull the trigger every time you want to fire. Also, you need to let the trigger go forward to be ready for the next shot. Besides, if you need to target something, you can fire less for sure.
Moreover, if the magazine is finished, you have to reload it again. So as you can see, there are a lot of factors. But with a little bit of practice, you can empty a 30-round magazine within 10–12 seconds. If you use good AR-15 rifle scopes, they’ll help you get better accuracy if you’re shooting at a target with your AR-15 rifle.
What Scope Does The Military Use On AR 15?
Usually, the military uses good AR-15 optics from red dot sights to multi-level zoom scopes. That’s because its lightweight construction helps in fast movement and quick target acquisition. And it’s often used for competitive shoot-down, self-defense, as well as predator hunting.
How Far Can An AR 15 Rifle Shoot?
Bullets from the AR 15 rifle can reach up to 500 yards of distance when shot. But it will lose its energy and lethality. Because at 500 yards, the AR 15 rifle bullet’s lethality will be equivalent to a handgun bullet.
What Are The Best Scope For AR 15 Under $100?
- Best Water-Resistance: Bushnell Red Dot Sight
- Best Design: Midten Rifle Scope Combo 4-12x50eg
- Best For Durability: Utg 3-9×32 1″ Bugbuster Scope
- Best Performance: Monstrum 3-9×32 Rifle Scope
- Best Reticle Adjustment: Cvlife 2.5-10x40e Scope
- Best For Mid-Range: Vortex Optics Razor Hd Gen Ii-E Riflescopes
- Best For Long Eye-Relief: Xopin Combo 4-16x50eg Rifle Scope
- Best For Beginner: Monstrum 2-7×32 Ao Rifle Scope
- Best For Illumination Management: Utg 3-12×44 Compact Scope
- Best For Tactical Use: Nikon P-Tactical .223 3-9×40 scope
Table of Content:
If you do not have enough time to read everything, then you can check out our table of content to perceive everything described below.
Comparison Chart:
To make a better decision, you need to compare all the scopes at once. Check out our comparison chart to compare all the scopes and make a better decision.
Image | Product | Technical Spec | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Best Water-Resistance
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Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope |
|
Check Price On Amazon |
Best Design
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MidTen Riflescope Combo 4-12x50EG Dual Illuminated Optics |
|
Check Price On Amazon |
Best For Durability
|
UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope, AO, RGB Mil-dot |
|
Check Price On Amazon |
Best Performance
|
Monstrum 3-9×32 Rifle Scope with Rangefinder Reticle |
|
Check Price On Amazon |
Best Reticle Adjustment
|
CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope |
|
Check Price On Amazon |
Best For Mid-Range
|
Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24 Second Focal Plane Riflescopes |
|
Check Price On Amazon |
Best For Long Eye-Relief
|
Rifle Scope Combo 4-16x50EG Dual Illuminated with Green Laser |
|
Check Price On Amazon |
Best For Beginner
|
Monstrum 2-7×32 AO Rifle Scope with Illuminated Range Finder |
|
Check Price On Amazon |
Best For Illumination Management
|
UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope, AO, 36-color Mil-dot |
|
Check Price On Amazon |
Best For Tactical Use
|
Nikon P-Tactical .223 3-9×40 Matte BDC600 |
|
Check Price On Amazon |
10 Best Scope For AR 15 Under $100 Reviews 2021
You get it that getting the best one under the budget is important. But with the limited budget, it is tough to find out the best one since the market does not have enough scopes. So here are some high-quality scopes for AR 15 under $100 dollars.
1. Best Water-Resistance: Bushnell Red Dot Sight
The Bushnell Red Dot Sight is one of the top class scopes for AR 15 in the market right now. It comes with a strong construction that ensures longevity. You get an O-ring sealed lens that stays dry inside, even if completely immerse in water, and it will remain dry. Also, it is shockproof as well, meaning it withstands bangs, bumps, drops, and the rough environment of the field so that you can get smooth operation.
This scope features 3 MOA Dot reticle with 11 brightness settings so that you can have a precise target. You can easily mount it on Picatinny rails, and it is compatible with most of the shotguns, rifles, pistols, and muzzleloaders. With these features, it is considered as the best scope for 22lr squirrel hunting.
In the inside of the scope, you will find nitrogen purged fog proofing to keep the internal sight clean from blurring out in humid conditions. It offers Parallax – 50; as a result, you can shoot from a long distance and get a clear view. So surely, it is a scope that is worthy of buying for your AR 15.
Technical Details:
- Brand: Bushnell
- Color: Black Low Rise Mount
- Item Dimensions: 4 x 3.4 x 2.2 inches
- Item Weight: 23 Pounds
- Sport Type: Hunting
- Objective Lens Diameter: 25 Millimeters
- Magnification Maximum: 1
- Material: Metal
- Mounting Type: Picatinny Mount
- Compatible Devices: Handgun, Shotgun, Rifle
Bushnell Red Features:
- The Bushnell Red Dot Sight comes with a strong construction that is waterproof and shock absorbing so that you can use it in rough and wet terrain
- This scope features 3 MOA Dot reticle with 11 brightness settings so that you can have a precise target
- You can easily mount it on Picatinny rails, and it is compatible with most of the shotguns and other guns
- It offers Parallax – 50 so that you can shoot from a long distance and get a clear view
- You will find nitrogen inside of the scope, meaning that rapid temperature change or humidity cannot make interior optical surfaces fog
2. Best Design: MidTen Riflescope Combo 4-12x50EG Dual Illuminated Optics
This MidTen scope is another excellent scope for AR 15 under $100 you can find in the market. It comes with a top-notch high quality matte black finish that is 100% shockproof and rainproof. As a result, you can use it for a long time in rough and wet terrain, and it will give you full support for hunting. Its multi-coated lens ensures extreme high light transmission for easy view.
Also, it has dual illuminated 5 brightness level range finding reticle, detachable GREEN laser sight, and 4 different sizes of dots that enable you to reach over 300m. As a result, you can succeed with perfect accuracy and best results every time. It has a built-in rail that allows you to mount it on any 22 rails.
The scope features a tubeless design along with a 33mm reflex lens aperture. That means you will get a wide field of view and cover a large area. With its adjustable 4-12 magnifications as well as distance, you will be able to target up to 100 yards successfully. That means no matter how long it is, how bad the terrain is, you can easily shoot your target without any hassle.
Technical Details:
- Brand: MidTen
- Item Dimensions: 09 x 5.59 x 3.78 inches
- Sport Type: Hunting
- Magnification Maximum: 12 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 Millimeters
- Item Weight: 66 Pounds
- Batteries :4 Lithium ion batteries
- Compatible Devices: Rifle
MidTen Riflescope Combo Features:
- This MidTen scope comes with a top-notch high quality matte black finish that is 100% shockproof and rainproof for easy use in challenging terrain and extreme weather.
- This scope features dual illuminated 5 brightness level range finding reticle, detachable GREEN laser sight, and dots so that you can succeed with accuracy and best results.
- You have a built-in rail that allows you to mount it on any 22 rails.
- It offers a tubeless design along with a 33mm reflex lens aperture, gives you a wide field of view, and cover a large area
- You will get 4-12 magnifications and distance so that you can target up to 100 yards successfully
3. Best for Durability: UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope, AO, RGB Mil-dot
The UGT BugBuster scope comes into the market to provide higher customer value and top-notch performance that you rarely find in other scopes. It comes with 100% nitrogen filled and completely sealed, and also, it is fog, shock, and rainproof. As a result, you get maximum reliability when installed on your AR 15 or air gun application. With its emerald coating, you will get a maximum light transmission for the best view and better result.
It features a range estimating mil-dot reticle so that you can have an accurate target and high performance. In addition, it allows you versatile applications and all-weather best shoot with its red/green dual illumination, unlimited eye relief, and large field of view. It offers parallax-free features with the adjustable objectives from 3 yards to infinity so that you can shoot from a long distance and get a clear view.
Even you will find nitrogen inside of the scope, which means rapid temperature change or humidity cannot make interior optical surface fog. Also, you will get high-quality flip-open lens caps, 2″ sunshade, and quick-detachable rings for maximum convenience. With all these features, we can consider it as the best scope for AR 15 under $100 for sure.
Technical Details:
- Brand: UTG
- Color: Black
- Item Dimensions: 84 x 3.35 x 3.94 inches
- Item Weight: 87 Pounds
- Sport Type: Paintball
- Magnification Maximum: 9
- Magnification Minimum: 3
- Material: Aluminum
- Compatible Devices: Rifle
- Objective Lens Diameter: 32 Millimeters
UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Features:
- The UGT BugBuster scope comes with a 1-inch tube that is shockproof, fog proof and rainproof with an emerald coating that ensures maximum light transmission and durability
- This scope features Range Estimating Mil-dot Reticle so that you can have a precise target and high performance
- You can have red/green dual illumination, eye relief, and large field of view for versatile applications and best shoot
- It offers Parallax free features with the adjustable objective from 3 Yards to infinity so that you can shoot from a long distance and get a clear view
- You will find nitrogen inside of the scope, meaning that rapid temperature change or humidity cannot make interior optical surfaces fog
4. Best Performance: Monstrum 3-9×32 Rifle Scope with Rangefinder Reticle
If your concern is getting a crystal clear shot with lots of other benefits, then the Monstrum Rifle Scope can be a good option for you. It comes with Multi-layer lens coating that protects your lens from scratches and at the same time, improves your vision clarity. This scope tube is nitrogen filled so that you get maximum resistance against water and fog.
You will have a glass rangefinder reticle that allows you long-distance targeting and on-the-fly range estimation. This illuminated rangefinder reticle is dial controlled that shows red or green illumination for suitable picture sight in different environments and lighting. As a result, you can have a perfect shoot and accurate target in extreme weather and light.
Even without the illumination, you will have a black view that ensures a good targeting in good light and environment. This Monstrum Scope Rings features crystal clear optics at 3 to 9 times magnification so that you can have for close to mid-range shooting. Also, it has a detachable throw lever that allows quick magnification adjustment.
Technical Details:
- Brand: Monstrum
- Color: Black
- Magnification Maximum: 9
- Magnification Minimum: 3
- Item Weight: 13 oz
- Objective Lens Diameter: 32 Millimeters
- Material: Aluminum
- Compatible Devices: Rifle
- Eye Relief: of 3.5-3.8 Inches
Monstrum 3-9×32 Rifle Features:
- The Monstrum Rifle Scope comes with Multi-layer lens coating that protects your lens from scratches while increasing your vision clarity.
- It has a glass rangefinder reticle that allows you long-distance targeting and on-the-fly range estimation.
- The illuminated rangefinder reticle shows red or green illumination for a suitable picture regardless of the environment and lighting.
- It offers a detachable throw lever for quick 3 to 9 times magnification adjustment so that you can have for close to mid-range shooting.
- This scope tube is nitrogen filled so that you get maximum resistance against water and fog.
5. Best Reticle Adjustment: CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red & Green Illuminated Scope
Up next is the CVLIFE Red & Green Illuminated Scope that comes with lots of useful features and benefits. It comes with high strength aircraft aluminum construction that ensures longevity. Its multicoated multi-coated green reticles ensure higher accuracy on the target. As a result, you can aim for long-distance targets easily.
With its Mil-dot reticle along with 5 brightness settings, you can have a precise target even in different weather and different brightness. Also, you can adjust the reticle for specific target shooting. It offers easy mounting with its 20mm scope mount, meaning that you can mount it on any 20mm rails.
This CVLIFE Scope with 20mm Mount has 2.5-10X magnification so that you can shoot from a long-distance and a short distance with higher accuracy. You will have a large Eye Relief that provides good safety and more convenience while shooting.
Technical Details:
- Brand: CVLIFE
- Color: 5-10x40e
- Item Dimensions: 5” x 3”x 3”
- Item Weight: 5oz
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40 Millimeters
- Magnification Maximum: 10
- Magnification Minimum: 5
- Material: Aluminum
- Eye Relief: 4’’ @ 2.5x – 3’’@ 10x
CVLIFE 2.5-10x40e Red Features:
- The scope comes with made of high strength aircraft aluminum with the multi-coated green lens for added durability and clear view
- This scope features a Mil-dot reticle with 5 brightness settings so that you can have a precise target
- You can easily mount it on most of the shotguns and other guns with its 20mm scope mount
- It offers 2.5-10X magnification so that you can shoot from a short to long-distance
- You will get a large Eye Relief that provides good safety and more convenient while shooting
6. Best for Mid-Range: Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II-E Riflescopes
Experience the HD quality optical image with the Vortex Gen II-E riflescope from an affordable price range. The APO optical arrangement with the JM-1 reticle has made it possible to see the target more clearly. And you will find the lens varnished with multiple coatings as well as anti-reflective coatings more convenient in this budget scope.
Not just that, the 11 levels of lighting dial offers proper brightness and versatility too. Additionally, the secondary focal stage reticle allows the red center dot to illuminate effectively. Hence, there is no compromise in clarity and color accuracy with this one.
Moreover, you will love how firmly the body of this scope is constructed. The aircraft-class aluminum with hard anodized varnish has made it a durable one. Also, it’s a considerable lightweight option for beginners.
Technical Details:
- Brand: Vortex
- Style: Jm-1 Bdc Moa
- Item Dimensions:1 x 4.3 x 3 inches
- Item Weight: 609 Grams
- Sport Type: Hunting
- Magnification Maximum: 6 x
- Magnification Minimum: 1 x
- Material: Aluminum
- Compatible Devices: Rifle
Vortex Optics Features:
- Includes JM-1 BDC reticle for precise targeting
- Comprises of APO optical arrangement
- Made of aircraft-rate aluminum material
- Has illumination dial with 11 stages of luminosity
- Offers water-resistance as well as fog-resistance performance
7. Best for Long Eye-Relief: XOPin Combo 4-16x50EG Rifle Scope
The XOPin rifle scope is one of the best AR 15 scopes under 100 dollar. This combo pack comes with a premium-class coated lens with a sturdy aluminum body. And the favoring part is that the lens is completely resistant to water, shock, and fog. Hence, enjoy the precision and clarity in your hunting adventure.
However, the scope has a W/22mm rail set-up with a 1/4″ fingertip. As a result, you can have a stable and adjustable arrangement while shooting. Also, the magnification range and green laser light assists in targeting more accurately.
Despite not being suitable for heavy-use duty, this scope is adored for its useful aspects. It is really great for a wide range of close quarter targets. And the 5 levels lighting adaptations provide a convenient view even in low-light. Hence, make your recreational adventure more enjoyable with this piece.
Technical Details:
- Brand: XOPin
- Style: 4-16x50EG Green Laser+103 Red Dot
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 Millimeters
- Item Dimensions: 61 x 5.98 x 4.02 inches
- Sport Type: Hunting
- Magnification Maximum: 16 x
- Material: Aluminum
- Compatible Devices: Rifle
- Mounting Type: Weaver Mount, Picatinny Mount
XOPin Features:
- Constructed with premium-grade aluminum substance
- Lens are varnished with multiple coatings and dry nitrogen
- Comes with 5 stages of Multi-X reticle
- Has long-eye alleviation of 8-99.06mm
- Includes magnification power ranging from 4X-16X
8. Best for Beginner: Monstrum 2-7×32 AO Rifle Scope
Another great one among the AR 15 hunting scopes is the Monstrum 2-7×32 AO rifle scope. This compact scope delivers a clear as well as a crisp picture with its 5 levels of dual illumination. So, whether it’s day or night, the target will be clearly visible with this one.
Also, the objective lens of this scope is not only adaptable but also offers the great focus of the target. And the range finder reticle allows the target range estimation with great precision. As a result, the shooter can quickly pick the target at ease.
You will also like the water and fog resistance feature of this scope. The multi-layer covering and the nitrogen-infused housing are the reasons behind this protection. It’s a great durable choice for starter shooters.
Technical Details:
- Brand: Monstrum
- Color: Black
- Item Weight: 12 oz
- Sport Type: Hunting
- Objective Lens Diameter: 45 Millimeters
- Mounting Type: Picatinny Mount
- Material: Aluminum
- Compatible Devices: Rifle
- Eye Relief:5-3.8 in
Monstrum Features:
- Includes adaptable reticle with 5 stages of brightness
- Fabricated with aircraft-rate 6061 aluminum material
- Has a movable and convertible objective lens
- Comes with a magnification power of 2X-7X
- Resistant to water, fog, and scratch
9. Best for Illumination Management: UTG 3-12X44 Compact Scope
The UTG 3-12X44 scope is considered one of the best scope for AR 15 under $100. And there are so many aspects behind this consideration. Firstly, it includes a mil-dot reticle that can estimate the distance. And it is adjustable too. So, within the range, you can effortlessly aim at your target.
However, to offer proper brightness, the scope introduces dual illumination as well. And you can even control the luminosity with the given side dial. Also, to fix parallax issues, the scope includes an AO too. Therefore, extreme focusing is expected from this piece.
Apart from that, the scope comes with necessary accessories for various applications. It includes flip-unfolded lens caps, heavy-gauge rings, as well as saddles. And to cope with any weather situation, the scope has brought the 36-color diverse system. As a result, even a color-blind person can see clearly with this scope.
Technical Details:
- Brand: UTG
- Color: Black
- Item Dimensions: 39 x 1.57 x 2.09 inches
- Item Weight: 45 Pounds
- Magnification Maximum: 12 x
- Batteries :2 Lithium Metal batteries
- Field Of View: 32 Feet
UTG 3-12X44 Features:
- Lenses are varnished with various emerald coating
- Designed with the exceptional circuit as well as housing
- Includes adjustable and lockable and resettable turrets
- Introduces True Strength construction with SSS control
- Comes with useful accessories for different applications
10. Best for Tactical Use: Nikon P-Tactical .223 3-9×40 Scope
Take your hunting adventure to another level with the Nikon P-tactical scope. Constructed with aircraft-grade aluminum, O-ring sealing, and nitrogen-purging, it’s both water-resistant and fog-resistant. Therefore, it can withstand any typical weather conditions.
Anyway, the MK1-MOA reticle offers range estimation, target dimensions, and elevation adjournments. As a result, the shooter can precisely aim at the target with great clarity. You can even adjust the elevation and windage as well with its windage adjustments turret.
Moreover, this scope for AR 15 has a magnification power of 3-9x range alongside adjustment knobs and their functionalities. It means this scope is ideal for various applications along with tactical purposes. Hence, never miss a target with this convenient and premium quality scope.
Technical Details:
- Brand: Nikon
- Style: 223 3-9x40mm BDC 600
- Color: Black
- Item Dimensions: 5 x 3.7 x 3.3 inches
- Item Weight: 1 Ounce
- Sport Type: Hunting
- Material: Chiffon
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40 Millimeters
Nikon Features:
- Built with aircraft-grade aluminum and multi coated lens
- Includes O-ring structure optics with nitrogen purged
- Comprises of MK1-MOA as well as MK1-MRAD reticles
- Has spring-stacked windage with advanced knobs
- Offers a zoom ratio of 3x power
What To Consider Before Buying A Scope For AR 15 Under $100?
You have some high-quality scopes under 100$ for AR 15 with their features and benefits. But how can you find out the best scope for AR 15 under $100 dollars? Well, here are some tips that you should consider while choosing a scope.
Built quality:
The first thing you need to consider is the built quality. You need to use it for a long time, and it has to cope up with the tough terrain and rough weather. To ensure that, you should look for high-quality construction and well-sealed. If you can ensure that, it will provide you with maximum protection against water, rain, and corrosion. So make sure you have bought a high-quality scope.
Lens:
The lens is the thing that determines how well you can see through and aim perfectly. The better the lens is, the better the aim you can have. Nowadays, you can have a multi-coated lens that transmits more light and offers you a better view during the shooting. You should check if it is filled with nitrogen or not because if it is filled with nitrogen, it can prevent fog during wet weather. So make sure you have got the best lens and be sure it has a lens cover for safety.
Reticle:
The reticle of your AR 15 is another important thing you should consider as well. There are different types of reticles available in the market; among them, the one with an illuminated reticle is the ideal scope. It offers clearer images even in low lighting conditions. It also offers good sight in different brightness for better shooting and good performance.
Magnification:
Magnification tells you how powerful your scope is. It enables you to increase the size of your target. That means the more powerful magnification is, the larger you get your target and the longer distance you can cover. So try to get higher magnification so that you can easily aim for a long-distance target.
Parallax:
Also, consider the parallax because of the parallax is not good or accurate, you cannot get the right aim even if you see you are in the right aim. So it is really important to get accurate parallax. Make sure you choose the right scope with the right parallax.
Why Should You Buy A Scope For AR 15 Under $100 Dollars?
There are a lot of reasons why you should buy a scope for AR 15 under $100. Among those many reasons, here are a few.
- You can get all the features and benefits in this inexpensive scope, so why would you spend too much money?
- It offers greater accuracy in the long distance so that you can shoot your target even if it is in long-distance.
- It allows you to see the target clearly, meaning that you can get a better aim no matter how far it is
- This scope ensures greater safety by enabling you to shoot from a safe distance.
- It makes the shooting easier for beginners and also provides a competitive advantage to the experts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have any other questions? If yes, then check out our frequently asked questions below.
Is an AR 15 an assault rifle NRA?
Since AR 15 is a semi-automatic rifle, it is not considered as an assault rifle NRA.
Is an AR 15 a military weapon?
US military does not use AR 15; it is a semi-automatic civilian weapon.
How many mass shootings AR 15?
Around half of the 10 deadliest mass shootings in modern American history, AR 15 or similar weapons are used.
How many bullets does a AR 15 fire per second?
AR 15 can fire 10 rounds per second.
What kind of optic does an AR 15 use?
There are different types of optics AR 15 uses, such as reflex (red-dot), sights breakdown, holographic sights breakdown, rifle scopes breakdown, and others.
Final Thought
Finding the best scope for AR 15 under $100 is important because it can give you all the values and benefits you can expect from an expensive scope. It offers you good construction, large eye relief, good reticle, magnification, and parallax. Without a good scope, you cannot even imagine finding these features.
That is why we have reviewed some of the high-quality scopes under $100 for you AR 15 with their features and benefits so that you can easily pick the right one. All of them are good and provide high customer value. However, if you ask for my suggestion, then I will tell you to go for the UGT BugBuster scope. It will give you durability, clear view, long-distance shooting capacity, and lots of other benefits. So why wouldn’t you go for this one? Place an order today to get the best one with a limited budget.