Info & Articles

Choosing a Reflex Sight for your AR-15

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reflex sights

What are reflex sights anyway? “Reflex” refers to the fact that the objective lens of the system acts like a mirror. It reflects the targeting reticle (the dot) back towards your eye. Therefore, even though you see a red dot, there is no laser being projected.

Best Reflex Sight for your AR-15

 Brand & ModelOur RatingPrice & Reviews

Dagger Defense DDHB Red Dot Reflex Sight		Dagger Defense DDHB
Red Dot Reflex Sight		4.6 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on
Amazon.com

Sightmark Ultra Shot M-Spec Reflex Sight		Sightmark Ultra Shot
M-Spec Reflex Sight		4.5 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on
Amazon.com

Lirisy Red Dot Sight, Tactical Holographic Red and Green Reflex Sight with 4 Reticles		Lirisy Tactical Holographic
Red and Green
Reflex Sight with 4 Reticles		4.5 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on
Amazon.com

Field Sport Red and Green Reflex Sight with 4 Reticles		Field Sport Red and Green
Reflex Sight with 4 Reticles		4.2 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on
Amazon.com

Ohuhu Red and Green Reflex Sight with 4 Reticles		Ohuhu Red and Green
Reflex Sight with 4 Reticles		4.3 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on
Amazon.com

An AR-15 reflex sight is also often called as “red dot” targeting system, because most red dot systems do fall in this category. However, the term “red dot” may not be entirely accurate since it’s not always a dot. It can be a chevron or a triangle, for example. It’s not always even red, either.

reflex sights

—> Check Price on Amazon: Reflex Sight for AR-15

Advantages of the Reflex Sights

The advantages of the reflex sight become obvious when you keep in mind how you should use your iron sights. With the iron sights, you have to make sure that your aiming eye is exactly aligned with the sight axis. The relevant factors must, in fact, fall in line perfectly: the target to the front sight to the rear sight to your eye. When you’re shooting, your non-aiming eye is usually shut, while your aiming eye is focused not on the target but on the front sight.

This method has proved quite effective through the years, and it’s one of the reasons why iron sights won’t probably disappear as backup for your reflect sight. But the fact remains that you have to practice a lot to master this technique. And even when you think you’ve mastered it in practice runs, the entire procedure can go out the window when you really need to do some shooting (and people are shooting back at you). It’s also unsettling to keep focusing on the front sight when you know that the target—and perhaps other enemies as well—are all trying to kill you. You instinctively just want to keep your eyes open and look for possible dangers.

Using a telescopic sight can make things better, but some problems remain. Alignment is still an issue, and you also need to make sure that you get the right separation distance (the “eye relief”) from the sight tube. With scopes that use magnification, you also tend to keep an eye closed, which again is a problem in real world shootouts.

Now with the reflex sight, all those considerations can be forgotten, and your bullet still goes where you want it to go. Aligning your eye with the sight axis is no longer crucial. You also don’t have to bother with “eye relief” to get a sight picture. You can look through a reflex sight in a position you can’t use for iron sights or telescopic sights. The reticle and the target field appear on the same focal plane, like in a telescope. But with the reflex sight, you don’t have to close an eye.

You can sum up the advantages of the reflex sight this way: One, it allows you to be faster on target. Two, with both eyes open you increase your situational awareness.

There’s also an additional advantage, by the way, with how iron sights (which are usually black) can be difficult to see when in low light, or you’re aiming at a dark target or a dark area. That’s not a problem with a reflex sight. If you can see a target, you can see the red dot to target it.

 

Shooting with a Reflex Sight

The principle behind using the reflex sight is quite simple. Can you see the red dot on the target? If the answer is yes, then your bullet will hit what you are aiming at. That’s it.

Here are the steps you need to take to make that happen:

  1. Identify and focus on your target, while you keep your AR 15 on safe at the ready.
  2. Keep both of your eyes open.
  3. Set your weapon to the firing position.
  4. When the reflex sight is in front of your eyes, you’ll see a red dot.
  5. When the red dot is in the point where you want to send your bullet, switch to fire and engage the enemy.
  6. You keep your eyes open and you keep your focus on the target.

With that kind of simplicity, it’s no wonder that reflex sights have become truly popular among military personnel all over the world.

 

The Best Iron Sights for AR 15: What are Your Options?

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Troy industries di-optic

Despite the popularity of optics as the primary targeting mechanism, shooters will also try to find the best iron sights for their rifles. That’s because these sights are very durable and of course will never run out of power. Besides, they are an excellent choice when you are looking for a backup sight. Electronic sights are great but… what if your favourite sight fails when you really need it?

Best Iron Sights for AR 15

 Brand & ModelOur RatingPrice & Reviews

Troy Industries Folding Battle Sight Rear		Troy Industries Folding Battle Sight Rear4.9 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on Amazon.com

45 Degree Offset Backup Iron Sights		45 Degree Offset Backup Iron Sights4.8 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on Amazon.com

Magpul MBUS PRO Steel Sight		Magpul MBUS PRO Steel Sight4.8 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on Amazon.com

MaTech Mil-Spec Back-up Iron Sight		MaTech Mil-Spec Back-up Iron Sight 4.6 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on Amazon.com

FAB Defense Front and Rear Set of Flip-Up Sights		FAB Defense Front and Rear Set of Flip-Up Sights4.5 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on Amazon.com

Now, trying to determine the best iron sight for AR 15 can be truly challenging. Not only there are too many products to consider, but even experts online disagree with the definition of “best” when it comes to iron sights. In order to make it easier for you to find the best one on the market, here are some great tips:

→ What is it made of? If durability is your priority, then steel sights would be your best option although they can be very heavy. If you really wish to keep it light, then you’ll probably gravitate towards the polymer sights at the expense of its comparative fragility. And if you can’t really decide between the two extremes, you can compromise by choosing aluminum.

If you notice, it’s all about choosing what’s important for you. Getting the best of something means you have to make sacrifices in another area. This is a general trend when you’re trying to pick iron sights for your AR 15.

→ Do you want fixed sights or folding sights? Each choice here has its good news and bad news. With the fixed sights, you have to put up with its presence affecting your field of view, which can get annoying when you’re using your primary targeting mechanism. But at least it’s always on a ready position. With the folding system, you have to take the time to set it up when you need to use it, but at least you can put it down when you’re not using it.

→ Selecting the height of the sights. Your options here are gas block height, same plane and micro. The rule with iron sights is that the front and the rear sights ought to sit at the same height. If not, being on target can be a problem. You can use micro sights when you have to get smaller sights. When your rails sit at the same height, you’ll need same plane sights. You’ll also need a gas block height front sight if you’re going to mount the front sight on a gas block. The weapon configuration will dictate your choices here.

→ Choosing the peephole style. Now this is another feature that depends on your own preferences. (Some people prefer to call it aperture.) The standard peephole is round, and it comes in two different sizes. There are also diamond-shaped peepholes, which some say are better than the round peepholes. What do you prefer?

→ Visibility. Now this is a feature that can be assessed much more objectively. Some iron sights are simply better when it comes to offering a sight picture so that your eye can zero in on the target. Then, there are tritium sights which are regarded as the best for low visibility. They use illumination with the need for batteries to make the contrast. You can also use high-visibility sights that create a high contrast image, which lets your eye focus faster.

To cut a long story short, there’s really no such thing as the absolute best. It depends on your preferences and on what you’re used to. When you get the iron sights you really like, and it jives with how you trained, that’s when you know you made the right decision. Just make sure you get them as a backup for your primary target mechanism. Remember the rule that all soldiers know by heart: it’s better to have them and not use them, than to need them and not have them.

 

 

 

Find the Best Red Dot Sight for Your Money!

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Have you been struggling to make a choice about which red dot sight to buy? Well, today we are going to talk about some of the best ones and how you can get the best red dot sight for the money.

Red dot sights are able to be used on pistols, rifles, and even shotguns. They are most recommended for being pretty close to an object to help guide you in whatever you are trying to shoot. There are many sellers out there that make great red dot sights for whatever type of gun you are using and whatever budget you have. We are going to talk about some of them and why they are a great value for your money.

red dot for the money

First, we have the Sightmark red Dots Sight Ultra Reflex Sight Dove Tail on the lower end of the budget. This red dot sight is made of aluminum and has an awesome internal locking system. The easy mounting system also allows quick attachment to whatever gun you are using. This Sightmark can be found online for under 80.00 dollars and it is a great deal for the avid hunter or the one who is just beginning.

Next, we have the Vortex Red Dot. This red dot sight offers 4 separate mounting heights, digital rear facing, and side controls so you can change the brightness, and even put it in night vision mode. The Vortex Red Dot retails for about 183.00 and has even been spotted online for 159.00 dollars and this model also has excellent customer reviews. Check our review HERE

Are there any other good models?

                Yes, for a bit more money you can purchase the Burris AR-332 Tube Tactical Prism Red Dot sight with AR-QD QUICK. This awesome red dot is very rugged but not overly bulky for your gun and it can be mounted very easily on any gun. The scope has integrated lens covers and also has a 1.5 inch sunshade. The field of view is over 32 feet and is waterproof, which is a great feature when hunting. This red dot sight retails for 349.00 dollars and comes with all you need to get started right out of the box. This model also has some excellent reviews and customer ratings. This is very important because a good red dot sight can make the different between having a good hunting trip and a lousy one.

As you can see, there are many different types of red dot sights available for you to choose. We would recommend doing some research and thinking about exactly what you are looking for. There are different prices out there and our best advice is to look online for the best deals available.

>> Click HERE to Check the Best Red Dot Sights Deals <<

Meopta Scopes for Sale and Reviews: Quality & Value

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When you are looking for rifle scope reviews, quality and value are not two things that often go together. Not so in the scope market, as long as you know where to look. The Meopta company, based in the Czech Republic, has been making fine optic instruments for the past 70 years, and their rifle scopes give the impression of being much more expensive than they truly are. With two different series from which to choose, the MeoStar and MeoPro, Meopta has the scope you are looking for and will exceed your expectations.

meopta

Meopta Scope Features

The first thing you will notice about a Meopta scope is that it looks good. Made with only high grade aircraft aluminum, the Meopta scopes are put through the Elox anodizing process to give them a durable matte black finish. Light transmission is optimized by using anti-reflective lens coatings and ion assisted applications processes, making them perfect for low light performance. The sealed, nitrogen purged body is waterproof and fog resistant, as well. Depending on the model you choose, you can opt for illuminated reticle or illuminated center dot features with manual controlled variable intensity.

MeoStar vs MeoPro

While all parts are manufactured in Europe, assembly varies between the two lines. The MeoPro series is assembled in the United States, while the MeoStar is assembled in Europe. MeoStar is also a higher end design with better image quality than the MeoPro. Consequently, the MeoStar line comes with a bigger pricetag than does the MeoPro, but most Meopta scope reviews claim that both lines are excellent performers.

Models

The MeoStar series is composed of the following eight products:

  • R1 1.5-6×42 RD – ideal for deer hunting
  • R1 3-10×50 – low light and power performance
  • R1 3-12×56 – great for rapidly changing light conditions
  • R1 3-12×56 RD – red dot illumination for low light
  • R1 4-16×44 – precision at long ranges
  • R1r 3-12×56 – second plane reticles
  • R1r 3-12×56 RD – designed for night hunting with red dot illumination
  • R1r 3-12×56 RGD – red or green dot for night and day hunting

 

>>> Check price on MeoStar Series Scopes <<<

 

The MeoPro series also has eight models, listed below:

  • 3-9×42 – an all-around hunting scope
  • 3-9×50 – all-around scope with larger objective for low light hunting
  • 3.5-10×44 – larger objective for twilight hunting
  • 3.5-10×44 RD – extra range and red dot illumination
  • 4-12×50 – extra reach for open terrain
  • 4-12×50 BSR – limited edition with Broken Skull Ranch laser etched graphic
  • 6-18×50 – perfect for long range performance
  • 6×42 – fixed power scope for close to medium shooting range

>>> Check Price on MeoPro Series Scopes <<<

When reading Meopta scope reviews, you will find that most agree that both Meopta lines are fantastic atgathering light, making them fantastic tools for hunting at night or twilight. The MeoPro series will run you about half the cost of a MeoStar, but even MeoStar scopes will give you unprecedented bang for your buck when compared with other quality European optics. Most hunters will find the lighter, more affordable MeoPro scopes very appealing and easy to use.

What is the Best Rifle Scope for the Money?

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Whether you are tactical or sport shooter, with so many rifle scopes on the market, it can be difficult to know exactly which one is the best to buy and what you are getting for your money. Is it worth it to shell out $1500+ for a scope? In some cases, maybe, but for most of us who are sticking to a budget, probably not. If you are looking to get as much possible bang for your buck, there are some great rifle scopes out there that will get the job done without breaking the bank. Here are a few of the best:

Burris C4 4.5-14×42 – Check it HERE

With a custom elevation dial that allows you to select your bullet type and gun caliber, this scope allows hunters to shoot with great precision even at long distances without spending the big bucks to buy a tactical rifle scope. High performing in both low and high light situations, the Burris C4 4.5-14×42 is designed to be a great all-around scope for a relatively small pricetag.

 

Nikon M-308 – Check price here

This fog proof, shock proof, waterproof scope with tactical style turrets gives hunters the premium optics for which Nikon is known. Rapid Action Turret technology eliminates holdover with a turn of the turret for optimal performance. This is scope is a solid, well-priced unit that will satisfy the needs of many discriminating hunters. – Check More Nikon Scope Reviews Here

 

Redfield Battlezone – Check price here

While the optics are not over the top on this scope, it does has two ballistic turrets which is appealing. Waterproof, shock proof, and fog proof, features include a bullet drop compensator and fast focus dial. For a good $150 less than the other scopes here, it is a nice bargain and performs decently for the price.

Meopta Meopro RD – More info about Meopta HERE

While a bit more costly than the Burris, the Meopta Meopro RD scope looks slick and has fantastic adjustable illumination. All Meopro scopes are built in the Czech Republic and assembled in the United States. You will think that you are using a much more expensive scope than you truly are with the Meopro, making it one of the best rifle scopes you can get for the money. (They also have a higher end, more expensive Meostar line).

 

Weaver Grand Slam

The Weaver Grand Slam has been redesigned to give hunters a more attractive scope with great optics. It includes several different recticles, coated lenses, and Argon purged tubes to prevent fogging. This scope is a great update on a classic. A portion of the proceeds from Grand Slam sales goes toward the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

Even when money is an object, you can still get a good rifle scope that will make your life easier. For under $1000, you can still buy a decent scope with excellent optics. Compare the features of these scopes and decide which is best for you. The products are getting better and better, and the best rifle scope you can get for the money may have you spending a lot less than you expected to pay.

Scopes for AR-15 Rifles: Looking for AR-15 Optics Recommendations?

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ar15 rifle scope

Scopes for AR-15 Rifles: What should I do?

There are hundreds of different options when looking for the right AR-15 optics. Being confused about what to choose is common, and is completely normal. There really isn’t one best option, despite the existence of many AR-15 optics recommendations. Choosing the right optics is about deciding which is best for your specific uses.

Best AR 15 Optics Options

 Brand & ModelOur RatingPrice & Reviews

Aimpoint PRO Patrol Rifle Optic		Aimpoint PRO
Patrol Rifle Optic		4.9 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on
Amazon.com

Nikon P-223 3x32 Matte BDC Carbine		Nikon P-223 3x32
Matte BDC Carbine		4.8 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on
Amazon.com

Vortex Optics StrikeFire 2<br /> Red/Green Dot Sight		Vortex Optics StrikeFire 2
Red/Green Dot Sight
4.7 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on
Amazon.com

These options are based on many different criteria, offering different optimum ranges and clarity of visibility. Scopes are used to improve the ability to see a distant target, one that is too far away to be easily seen by the naked eye. By adding a scope an individual can see the distance more easily, making it far easier to see the target, and consequently to reach the target. It is important when looking for a scope for an AR-15 rifle to consider every aspect of the scope, and consider what it will be used for.

>> Shooting Range

Different scopes excel in different ranges, offering better visibility up to certain ranges. Some models are only effective up to a few yards while others are effective up to a few hundred yards. The choice of which model to purchase depends highly on the type of shooting that will be done, and the range that needs to be seen. Different kinds of shooting, and different targeting distances, require different tools. Different scopes are simply different tools. Finding the correct tool is a matter of knowing what tool is necessary. Being aware of the range in which shooting will occur is a large part of choosing the best scope to use.

ar15 rifle scope

Close Range Shooting

When looking to do close-range shooting, the most common type of optics are close-range, non-magnified red dot sights. With a red dot sight the purpose is for shooting at 100 yards or less, and allow for both eyes open while shooting by being reduced-parallax or parallax-free. Usually these sights are used to quickly acquire a target, making it easier to line up the shot. They are, obviously, most effect with close-range shots, but can be extended by the addition of a magnifier as well as the red dot sight. Red dot sights are most appropriate for any shooting within 100 yards, close range shots that don’t require magnification.

Mid-Range Shooting

Mid-range optics are usually cheaper models that are used for low-power magnification. They feature aiming points for distant targets and are optimized for up to about 400 yards. They are typically fixed power magnification in the 1x-4x range. They are not designed for close-range use, or for long-range use, but work very well for areas in between. They are mainly used for increasing target acquisition speed, such as a red dot sight. However, they offer more distance capabilities.

Long Range

Long range optics allow the ability to magnify at a much higher level, with a maximum magnification of anywhere from 9x to 16x. Due to this they allow the capability to engage a small target at a large, extended range. They are designed for long-range use, extreme accuracy at long distances. However, with the help of a long-range scope, they can still be useful for mid-range distances by turning the magnification down to the minimum power, usually 3x or 4x.

>> Price Range

Another factor of choosing the right optics can be the price. When looking at AR-15 optics recommendations it is important to have a price range in mind, as optics vary greatly in price. Some models are available for around $100, while others can be as expensive as several thousand dollars. Knowing what you can afford is an important part of choosing the right optics to meet your needs.

>>The Target

Yet another factor in deciding the best scope is what target will be hit. There is a difference when looking to shoot deer or other moving objects, or looking to shoot at an immobile target. When deciding which scope is the best, it is important to factor in what the target will be. Different scopes offer different benefits to targeting, making it important to know exactly what the scope will be used for when making the decision of what scope to buy.

ar15 rifle scope1

Scopes for AR-15 rifles vary widely in their optimum ranges, price ranges, and ideal targets. It’s important to look into many different models in order to find the best scope for an individual’s needs. Many companies produce excellent rifle scopes, offering an excellent opportunity to find the exact product you need, for the shooting you want to get done.

Using an AR-15 becomes far easier with the assistance of the right optics equipment. Choosing that equipment is a matter of knowing what your needs are and choosing the best optics equipment for those needs. There are hundreds of different models produced by different companies, from close-range optics to long-range optics, with many different magnifications, options, and features.

It is important to know what you want when you go looking for optics equipment, so you can make the choice that will fit your needs.  There is a scope for every level of shooting, whether that be shooting at a stationary target a few yards away, or shooting a deer a few hundred yards away.

—>Check prices on Amazon for AR-15 Optics

 

Best Tactical Scope for AR-15: Find the right one for your needs

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When shooting with an AR-15, it can be incredibly useful to have a tactical scope in order to help you magnify your target and make precision shots. There are many different scopes out there, all claiming to be the best. Each one offers something different, but they are all used to help with targeting, seeing the target better. With many different options, finding the best tactical AR-15 scope can be a challenge.

Best Tactical Scope for AR 15

 Brand & ModelOur RatingPrice & Reviews

Bushnell’s AR Optics Line		Bushnell’s AR
Optics Line		4.7 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on
Amazon.com

Leupold’s Mark AR MOD 13-9x40mm		Leupold’s Mark AR
MOD 13-9x40mm		4.9 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on
Amazon.com

Nikon 4-16x42mm M-223 BDC 600		Nikon 4-16x42mm
M-223 BDC 600		4.7 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on
Amazon.com

Bushnell Mil Dot		Leupold Mark
8 1.1-8x24mm CQBSS		4.8 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on
Amazon.com

Simmons Predator Quest 4.5-18x44mm:		Simmons Predator
Quest 4.5-18x44mm		4 out of 5 stars
Click to see prices on
Amazon.com

Lets check some of the best ones:

1) Bushnell’s AR Optics Line: This line is designed with black rifles in mind, from the ground up. The 1-4x24mm model offers flexibility for many distances, from a few feet to a few hundred yards. It is an ideal scope for an AR-15, and costs a little bit more for the quality.

 

2) Leupold’s Mark AR MOD 13-9x40mm: This scope is a really useful power range, ideal for shots that aren’t at an extremely close range. It adds more magnification for shots that need a little more at the top end. Perfect for hunting deer or punching paper and steel at medium ranges. It is a little more costly, but the quality is worth every dollar.

 

3) Nikon 4-16x42mm M-223 BDC 600: The AR-15 wasn’t designed as a long range rifle, but may free-floated and fast-twist barrels are capable of reaching long range, making the AR-15 far more useful with long range shots. The Nikon scope maximizes accuracy at those distances, offering a generous magnification range and side-focus parallax adjustment. Again, it will cost a bit more, but the longer range and quality are worth the price.

 

4) Leupold Mark 8 1.1-8x24mm CQBSS: This scope is at the top end of prices. However, it is the best of the best. When price isn’t a problem, this is the ideal scope. It allows the operator the ability to reach 8x for long-range shots and can give the user enough field of view to clear a building. It is pricey, but it offers the best of the best in AR-15 scopes.

5) Simmons Predator Quest 4.5-18x44mm: This scope has a vast magnification range, and a generous objective lens. With a 30mm main tube, it can transmit a good amount of light, and it can be adjusted for windage and elevation, and side-focus for parallax. This scope offers all the tools to make precision shots, without costing a large amount.

An AR-15 is an excellent machine, but it is only as good as the ability to see the target. When the target isn’t visible, it can’t be hit. Having the right scope can make hitting the target far easier. In the end, which scope is the best depends on the needs of the buyer. Many factors come into play, from the necessary range to the price. For smaller ranges, the cheaper models are completely adequate, but when price is no matter the more expensive models offer flexibility and excellent visibility for the money. Reaching the target is the goal, and the many factors that go into that all need to be taken into account when decided the best tactical AR-15 scope for your needs.

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