Help me decide on an optic (for AR15)

[Sir Zach of R.]

So I've redone one of my ARs and after getting rid of the Osprey 2.5-10x40 (worst impulse buy ever) I need a new optic. I have a WOA 18" SPR match S/S barrel right now, but am thinking of downsizing to a 16" middy. I'm looking for the best optic that would go with both of these barrel sizes. Right now I'm having trouble deciding between the Vortex Viper PST 1-4x24 (http://www.cstactical.com/Viper-PST-Series/OPTICS/Rifle-Scopes/Vortex-Optics/Viper-PST-Series/Vortex-Viper-PST-1-4x24-TMCQ.html) , or the Leupold MkAR 1.5-4x20 (http://www.cstactical.com/MARK-AR/MARK-2/OPTICS/Rifle-Scopes/Leupold/MARK-AR/LEU-MK-AR-15-4x20mm-Duplex-Reticle.html). Now before anyone starts shouting about Nightforce or S&B optics, I just want a reliable, and relatively affordable scope that I can take to the range that I know will perform. So mp.net, help me.


http://a.imageshack.us/img521/5416/img1046y.jpg
Shot at 2010-09-07

http://a.imageshack.us/img821/5020/img1028tl.jpg
Shot at 2010-09-07

[kraut783]

Depends on what you want it for, but...Eotech or Aimpoint...IMHO. Nice boom stick Sir!

Those Troy flip ups?

[Sir Zach of R.]

Yes indeed, they're all I'll ever use.

[Indiana Jones]

Well, what is the rifle supposed to do ? I take it you live in the US ? Unless this is a fighting rifle or a designated training platform for military skillsets, in your price range I would go with a 3-9x40 Leupold AR or a Zeiss Conquest of the same magnification, simply because the greater magnification will extend the rifles' utility for punching paper or hunting.
Cheers,
IJ.

[Geezah]

Have you looked at the IOR scopes? Affordable and top notch in my book.

Liberty Optics (http://www.libertyoptics.com/contents/en-us/d19.html)

[MN_Air]

I can't recommend vortex enough. It depends on what you are using the rifle for, but as far as quality and price goes, you can't beat vortex optics.

[HK in AK]

I think it depends on how the rifle will be used. If you plan on 0-200 meter, then a good red dot sight is your best choice. 0-300 a red do with a magnifier, anthing beyond that you are looking at glass. If it is glass, then what is the price range Under $200, $300, $400, or $500? The Leopold Mark 4 CQ/T 1-3 scope is a good option, but the price is about $800. The IOR 3x25 sight runs about $600. So, just give it some time to think about it. I have a similar platform and it will have (once it is delivered - 10 weeks so far) a US Optics SN-4, which prices about $1,250. But it has a specific purpose.

[Sir Zach of R.]

I think it depends on how the rifle will be used. If you plan on 0-200 meter, then a good red dot sight is your best choice. 0-300 a red do with a magnifier, anthing beyond that you are looking at glass. If it is glass, then what is the price range Under $200, $300, $400, or $500? The Leopold Mark 4 CQ/T 1-3 scope is a good option, but the price is about $800. The IOR 3x25 sight runs about $600. So, just give it some time to think about it. I have a similar platform and it will have (once it is delivered - 10 weeks so far) a US Optics SN-4, which prices about $1,250. But it has a specific purpose.

I'd like to keep the price under $500, which is right where the Vortex is. Added to that is another $200 for an ADM Recon mount, so I really think I'm leaning towards the Leupold Mk AR. I know US Optics, S&B, Nightforce, etc are the bee's knees but having just gotten out of the Army, and still unemployed, a $1,500 scope is a little unrealistic.

[HK in AK]

Someone once told me that it sometimes better to save and get what you really want than to buy something that you can get right now. Just a thought. Iron sights are good to 300 meters, so unless it is an emergency maybe you would be better to wait. You have a nice rifle, make sure you get something that will push the rifle to being awesome. Take it easy.

Also, thank you for your service. Have you checked with the transition office?

[trunk_munkey28]

Someone once told me that it sometimes better to save and get what you really want than to buy something that you can get right now. Just a thought. Iron sights are good to 300 meters, so unless it is an emergency maybe you would be better to wait. You have a nice rifle, make sure you get something that will push the rifle to being awesome. Take it easy.

Also, thank you for your service. Have you checked with the transition office?
I agree with this. You already have something functional on your stick right now. Focus on getting the irons to be second nature and save for a kick ass optic. Then buy something thats gonna rock the show on your rifle, as opposed to something middle of the road.

[Sir Zach of R.]

Someone once told me that it sometimes better to save and get what you really want than to buy something that you can get right now. Just a thought. Iron sights are good to 300 meters, so unless it is an emergency maybe you would be better to wait. You have a nice rifle, make sure you get something that will push the rifle to being awesome. Take it easy.

Also, thank you for your service. Have you checked with the transition office?

As disappointing as it is to hear that I know you're right.

Also thanks, I did the whole ACAP program when I was still in Germany and it's helped a lot more than I anticipated. Jobs are still slim right now, at least I'll start collecting BAH in October and disability if the VA ever gets around to my claim.

[James]

I'm fond of ACOGs, and if I could justify it I'd love to have something from U.S. Optics.

[Roy Batty]

If your looking for a DMR type optic at a "budget" price you could look at this one: http://www.bushnell.com/products/scopes/riflescopes/elite4200/421424M/

[HK in AK]

I just called today. My US Optics SN-4 will be shipped tomorrow......It will be delivered on Monday.

[James]

I just called today. My US Optics SN-4 will be shipped tomorrow......It will be delivered on Monday.

Nice, that's one of a couple I've been eyeballing. Just hard to justify, as I've already got an ACOG with a J-Point riding piggy back on that particular rifle.