I’m looking for a decent scope for the new AR. I’d like something with a 4x constant zoom or variable zoom and an illuninated recticle, or at least the option to turn illumination on or off. I dont want to go all out and get an acog but id like something pretty good in the $150-$250 range.
Any suggestions?
There is a huge thread on TOS regarding the Millet DMS 1-4X. It is in your price range with your wish list. Also, the Weaver 1-3X has had good reviews by many shooters. It is reasonably priced but has no illuminated reticle. IIRC, quite a few DMS go back for service. You need to research both further as this is a common question. I have used neither since I prefer more power with a quick change mount for both scope and red dot.
Hello Matt,
I finally had the opportunity to look at a Millet DMS 1-4x scope last week in my local gun store. Other than, I thought the reticle was interesting the scope just screamed CHEAP to me. Because of the glass quality and the feel of the focus / power adjustment knobs, etc. The price was around $250 and there was a large “Made in China” stamp on the bottom.
I believe for that amount, there are better choices. Like Leupold, Nikon, Weaver, Bushnell just to name a few.
Bear in mind that I am by no means an expert, but have owned many (over 20/ all of the above and a couple of other brands) scopes.
Personally, I would pass on that (Millet) one. Also, keep-in mind, that it may be difficult to buy a quality scope in your price range with an illuminated reticle.
Something to consider, may be the scopes listed below which are similar to the Millet and a better choice. Also, the Leupold Mark AR 1-4x or a Vari-II Var-III or V-3 1-4x or 1.5-5x scopes. Or, the Nikon AR scopes which should be comparable to the Pro-staff or Buck Masters because they are in the same price range.
http://swfa.com/Nikon-1-4x20-M223-Riflescope-P45743.aspx
I also looked at the Weaver 1-3x scope as well (same day as the Millet). And I thought it appeared to be well constructed and a quality piece, especially for around $150.
Do yourself a favor a try to find these scopes in a gun shop or sporting goods store and look BEFORE you buy. I think that the Leupold Mark 1.5-4x is a nice scope for the money (just under $300). It was pretty solid and the glass was very clear, especially compared to the Millet.
Another example of a scope that could be used on an AR type rifle is the Var-I 1-4x 20mm. The Reticle is called “Turkey Plex” and may lend itself to faster shooting because of this reticle design.
Online most of these scopes are pretty easy to find, SWFA, Natchez Shooters Supply, Midway, etc.
Check with the internet retailers, some will accept the scope back if you did not mount it on a rifle/ in rings (I know SWFA does).
Finally, something to consider, if you have not budgeted for the mount then count on around $150-200+ for an American Defense Manufacturing or La Rue Tactical 1 piece detachable mount. Another route would be to buy a 1/2 to 3/4" riser and then place the scope in standard rings over the riser. I tried it, but didn’t care too much for the set-up. But it is economical.
As an example if you purchased a Mark AR 1.5-4x or Leupold Var-II 1-4x and went with an ADM or La Rue mount you would be up to $500-550 depending on shipping/ tax price of scope. Conversely, going with a Yankee Hill Machine riser $20-25 for 1/2" riser and then a set of quick detachable rings by Leupold or Warne would be another $55-80.
Good Luck,
SkiDevil
P.S. Looking around for a scope can be frustrating, especially if you are on a budget. Take your time. I have been looking for a scope the last few months and I can’t make-up my mind:o and then keep hearing of more choices due (coming)out.
Until, I figure out which higher-end scope I really want. I am planning on buying this one:http://swfa.com/Leupold-15-5x20-VX-3-Riflescope-P12633.aspx and mounting it in an ADM mount.
If you did not read this, some excellent and concise thoughts on selecting a scope by member Skyyer.
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If you’re going to precision shoot (meaning making small groups at various distances), you want a scope that has:
- a fine/thin reticle
- the ability to dial in your dope via turrets (either exposed or capped)
- the ability to range with your reticle (ergo TMR, mil-dot, etc)
- If you must have a BDC, then the scope needs one that matches perfectly to the loads you’ll be shooting.
In other words, everything is geared to making your round hit exactly where you want it.
Conversely, if you want to engage in practical shooting, then you want your scope to have:
- a bright, medium-sized (2-4 MOA), preferably daylight-visible illuminated reticle that draws your eye to it immediately
- capped turrets to avoid the scope getting knocked off zero
- a more forgiving, generalized BDC that works with multiple loads (as you’ll probably be shooting whatever ammo is cheapest)
The difference between the two is that precision shooting is geared towards slow, precise shots and practical shooting is hitting man-sized targets quickly within a general area.
There’s VERY few scopes that work for both roles. The S&B Short Dot, the new Leupold 1-8x, and (to a lesser extent) the Nightforce 2.5-10x32 with the Velocity reticle. In your price range, the Nightforce will probably be your best bet, although it lacks the daytime-visible illumination. The Trijicon TR-24 would also work, but it’s more of a compromise than a solution (though, for the money, you probably won’t find a better optic cheaper).
Unless going with one of the above scopes, it’s simply best to pick the role you’d like to perform more, pick a scope that fits that role, and get it. You can always buy another optic for a different role later.
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