5 Best ACOGs for SCAR 16

Finding the best acog for scar 16 requires understanding what makes this FN Herstal rifle unique and why Trijicon’s Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight has become the gold standard for military and civilian tactical rifles. The FN SCAR 16S represents the civilian version of the Special Operations Forces Combat Assault Rifle, chambered in 5.56 NATO and designed from the ground up to be the most advanced combat rifle in the world. This modular platform features a gas-operated short-stroke piston system, fully ambidextrous controls, and a free-floating barrel that delivers exceptional accuracy while maintaining absolute reliability in the harshest conditions.

What makes the SCAR 16 special is its heritage as a true military contract winner that beat established platforms to become the rifle of choice for SOCOM operators worldwide. The rifle’s upper receiver features a MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail running the full length, providing a rock-solid mounting platform for optics. The reciprocating charging handle sits on the left side and can be swapped to the right, while the selector, magazine release, and bolt release are all fully ambidextrous. The SCAR’s short-stroke piston system keeps heat and carbon away from the action, contributing to reliability that has proven itself across deserts, jungles, and urban environments globally.

The ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight) has defined modern combat optics since Trijicon introduced it in the 1980s. What sets ACOGs apart is their fixed-power magnification combined with the Bindon Aiming Concept that allows shooters to engage targets with both eyes open, maintaining situational awareness while having magnified precision. The fiber optic and tritium illuminated reticles require no batteries and remain visible in any lighting condition from bright daylight to complete darkness. The bombproof construction withstands abuse that destroys lesser optics, while the legendary durability means ACOGs maintain zero through tens of thousands of rounds.

When pairing an ACOG with the SCAR 16, you’re matching two pieces of equipment trusted by the world’s most elite operators. The combination creates a rifle system capable of engaging targets from close quarters to extended rifle ranges with equal effectiveness. The ACOG’s magnification complements the SCAR’s inherent accuracy, while the rugged construction matches the rifle’s reputation for absolute reliability. Different ACOG models offer varied magnification, reticle designs, and mounting options, each bringing specific advantages for different tactical and sporting applications. In this guide, we’ll explore five outstanding ACOG options that maximize the SCAR 16’s legendary capabilities across combat, competition, and civilian tactical applications.

Best Scopes Comparison

Image	Name	Key Features	Check Price
	Trijicon ACOG 4×32 TA31-RCO-M4	4x magnification, M4 BDC reticle, tritium/fiber optic illumination, 9.9 oz weight	[Link]
	Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35 TA11-D	3.5x magnification, .223 BDC reticle, wider field of view, horseshoe/dot reticle	[Link]
	Trijicon ACOG 5.5×50 TA55A	5.5x magnification, 50mm objective, extended range capability, chevron reticle	[Link]
	Trijicon ACOG 1.5x16S TA44-C	1.5x magnification, close-quarters optimized, red dot fast acquisition, ultra-compact	[Link]
	Trijicon ACOG 3×30 TA33-C	3x magnification, 30mm objective, compact length, horseshoe reticle, lightweight	[Link]

These five ACOG models represent the best options for the SCAR 16 across different operational requirements and shooting disciplines. From close-quarters battle to extended-range precision, you’ll find an ACOG here that matches your mission profile. Let’s examine what makes each of these combat-proven optics an exceptional match for FN’s legendary rifle platform.

1) Trijicon ACOG 4×32 TA31-RCO-M4 (Best ACOG for SCAR 16 Overall)

The Trijicon ACOG 4×32 TA31-RCO-M4 represents the definitive ACOG model that has defined modern combat optics for over three decades. This is the ACOG that equipped U.S. Marines and Army infantry for years of combat operations, proving itself under the most demanding conditions imaginable. The TA31-RCO-M4 designation indicates this is the Rifle Combat Optic configuration with the M4 ballistic reticle, making it perfectly suited for the SCAR 16’s 5.56 NATO chambering.

What immediately sets the 4×32 ACOG apart is how perfectly its magnification balances close-range capability with distance precision. At 4x magnification, you maintain sufficient field of view for target acquisition inside 50 yards while having the optical power to identify and engage targets confidently out to 600 yards. The Bindon Aiming Concept allows you to shoot with both eyes open—your non-dominant eye sees the unmagnified world for situational awareness while your dominant eye sees the magnified, illuminated reticle. This technique takes practice but becomes intuitive, providing speed that rivals red dots with precision that exceeds iron sights.

The M4 BDC (Bullet Drop Compensating) reticle is calibrated specifically for 5.56 NATO M855 ammunition from a 14.5 to 16-inch barrel, which aligns perfectly with the SCAR 16’s 16.25-inch barrel. The amber chevron reticle provides a precise aiming point at your zero distance, while the horizontal stadia lines below correspond to holdovers for 300, 400, 500, and 600 meters. The chevron point is 5.53 MOA, perfect for quick torso hits on man-sized targets, while the tip provides precise aiming for headshots or small targets. The dual illumination system uses fiber optics during daylight and tritium in darkness, requiring absolutely no batteries or electronics.

The optical quality is exceptional with Trijicon’s legendary glass clarity and coating technology that maximizes light transmission while providing excellent contrast and resolution. The 32mm objective gathers sufficient light for effective use during dawn and dusk while keeping the optic compact and lightweight. At just 9.9 ounces, the ACOG adds minimal weight to the SCAR 16, preserving the rifle’s quick handling characteristics. The forged aluminum housing is virtually indestructible, waterproof to significant depths, and maintains zero through abuse that would destroy lesser optics.

The eye relief of 1.5 inches is shorter than conventional scopes but works perfectly with proper cheek weld and mounting. The eye box is forgiving enough that you can acquire the sight picture rapidly without precise head placement. The ACOG has proven its reliability through millions of rounds fired by military users worldwide, maintaining zero and illumination through temperature extremes, impacts, and continuous heavy use that represents decades of civilian shooting compressed into years of combat operations.

Key Features Summary

Feature	Specification
Magnification	4x (Fixed)
Objective Lens	32mm
Reticle Type	M4 BDC (Amber Chevron)
Illumination	Tritium/Fiber Optic
Eye Relief	1.5 inches
Length	5.8 inches
Weight	9.9 oz
Mount	TA51 Flattop Mount Included

Pros

• Combat-proven reliability trusted by military operators worldwide
• Perfect magnification balancing close-quarters speed with distance precision
• Battery-free illumination using tritium and fiber optics for lifetime operation
• M4 BDC reticle calibrated specifically for 5.56 NATO trajectory
• Bombproof construction maintaining zero through extreme abuse
• Lightweight design preserving rifle handling characteristics
• Bindon Aiming Concept enabling both-eyes-open shooting for speed and awareness

Cons

• Premium pricing reflecting genuine military-grade construction and proven combat performance

When you mount a Trijicon ACOG 4×32 TA31-RCO-M4 on your SCAR 16, you’re pairing the world’s most combat-proven rifle optic with one of the most advanced rifle platforms ever designed. This combination has proven itself in the hands of tier-one operators across every combat environment on earth. Whether you’re running three-gun competitions, defending your home, or simply appreciating equipment that represents the absolute pinnacle of reliability and effectiveness, this ACOG delivers performance that never disappoints and durability that outlasts everything else.

2) Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35 TA11-D (Best Wide Field of View ACOG for SCAR 16)

The Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35 TA11-D brings a different operational philosophy to the SCAR 16 with lower magnification and a wider field of view that excels in closer-range tactical applications. While the 4×32 ACOG has become iconic, many operators and competitive shooters prefer the 3.5x magnification for its enhanced situational awareness and faster target acquisition. The TA11-D model features the distinctive horseshoe/dot reticle that has become increasingly popular among tactical shooters.

What sets the 3.5×35 apart is its field of view that’s noticeably wider than the 4×32 model, providing better peripheral vision and making it easier to track moving targets. At 3.5x magnification, you retain more natural depth perception and spatial awareness compared to higher magnification, which proves advantageous in dynamic shooting scenarios where targets appear at varied distances and angles. This magnification level strikes an excellent balance—enough optical power for precise shots to 500 yards, yet low enough for rapid target transitions inside 100 yards.

The horseshoe/dot reticle is brilliant in its simplicity and functionality. The large horseshoe circle surrounding the center dot draws your eye instantly to the aiming point, facilitating rapid target acquisition that’s nearly as fast as a red dot. For precise shooting, the center dot provides a fine aiming point for headshots or small targets at distance. The horseshoe also serves as a ranging tool—when the horseshoe brackets a man-sized target, you’re at approximately 300 meters. The reticle is calibrated for .223/5.56 ammunition with holdover lines extending to 800 meters, though practical accuracy with the SCAR 16 typically limits engagement distances.

The 35mm objective lens gathers slightly more light than the standard 32mm, providing marginally better performance in low-light conditions. The difference is subtle but noticeable during extended dawn and dusk shooting sessions. The tritium and fiber optic illumination system provides the same battery-free operation that defines all ACOGs, with the amber reticle remaining visible across all lighting conditions from full sunlight to complete darkness. The tritium has a half-life of 12 years, meaning it will provide usable illumination for over a decade before requiring service.

Mechanically, the 3.5×35 shares the same bombproof construction as all ACOG models. The forged aluminum housing withstands impacts, recoil, and environmental abuse that represents decades of normal use. The waterproof design maintains internal integrity even when submerged, while the fog-proof construction prevents internal condensation across temperature extremes. At 11.6 ounces, it’s slightly heavier than the 4×32 but remains light enough to preserve the SCAR 16’s excellent handling. The included TA51 mount positions the optic at the perfect height for the SCAR’s stock.

Key Features Summary

Feature	Specification
Magnification	3.5x (Fixed)
Objective Lens	35mm
Reticle Type	.223 BDC (Horseshoe/Dot)
Illumination	Tritium/Fiber Optic
Eye Relief	1.5 inches
Length	5.8 inches
Weight	11.6 oz
Mount	TA51 Flattop Mount Included

Pros

• Wider field of view enhancing situational awareness and target tracking
• Horseshoe/dot reticle providing rapid target acquisition with precision capability
• Lower magnification ideal for close to medium-range tactical applications
• Slightly larger objective improving low-light performance
• Combat-proven durability maintaining zero through extreme conditions
• Battery-free operation using tritium and fiber optics
• Excellent balance between speed and precision for dynamic shooting

Cons

• Lower maximum magnification may limit precision at extreme distances compared to higher-power ACOGs

The Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35 TA11-D transforms your SCAR 16 into a close to medium-range powerhouse that excels in tactical applications where speed matters as much as precision. This ACOG has found favor with law enforcement operators, competitive three-gun shooters, and tactical enthusiasts who prioritize rapid target engagement. Whether you’re clearing rooms in training scenarios or engaging multiple targets in competition, the 3.5×35 delivers the field of view and acquisition speed that keeps you ahead of the game.

3) Trijicon ACOG 5.5×50 TA55A (Best Long Range ACOG for SCAR 16)

The Trijicon ACOG 5.5×50 TA55A represents the long-range specialist in the ACOG lineup, bringing significantly higher magnification and a large 50mm objective that extends the SCAR 16’s effective range to distances where the 5.56 NATO cartridge’s capabilities are fully utilized. While less common than the 4×32, the 5.5×50 ACOG appeals to precision-oriented shooters who want to maximize their rifle’s accuracy potential at extended distances.

What immediately distinguishes the 5.5×50 is its magnification that reveals details invisible at lower powers. At 5.5x, you can clearly identify facial features, read writing, and make precise aiming corrections at distances exceeding 600 yards. This magnification level transforms the SCAR 16 from a general-purpose tactical rifle into a genuine designated marksman rifle capable of precision work that approaches the capabilities of 7.62 NATO platforms at medium ranges. The increased magnification does reduce field of view and makes close-quarters shooting more challenging, but for shooters focused on maximizing distance capability, the trade-off is worthwhile.

The 50mm objective lens is substantially larger than standard ACOG objectives, gathering significantly more light for superior performance during dawn, dusk, and overcast conditions. This light-gathering advantage becomes pronounced when shooting in shadowed areas or during extended low-light periods. The larger objective also contributes to better resolution and image quality, revealing fine details that help with target identification and precise aiming at extended distances. The chevron reticle is calibrated for 5.56 NATO with holdover references extending to 1000 meters, though practical accuracy limitations of the cartridge and platform typically limit ethical engagement distances.

The optical quality at this magnification level is exceptional, showcasing Trijicon’s expertise with lens design and coating technology. Edge-to-edge clarity remains sharp, and the image brightness stays consistent across the field of view. The tritium and fiber optic illumination system keeps the chevron reticle visible regardless of lighting conditions. The larger housing required for the 50mm objective means this ACOG weighs 16 ounces—significantly heavier than compact ACOG models. This added weight noticeably affects the SCAR 16’s balance, shifting weight forward and making offhand shooting more tiring.

The construction maintains the legendary ACOG durability despite the larger size. The forged aluminum housing protects the optical system through impacts and abuse, while waterproof and fog-proof seals maintain internal integrity. The eye relief remains at 1.5 inches, requiring proper cheek weld and head position. The included mount positions the optic appropriately for the SCAR’s stock geometry. This ACOG represents a specialized tool for shooters with specific long-range requirements rather than a general-purpose option.

Key Features Summary

Feature	Specification
Magnification	5.5x (Fixed)
Objective Lens	50mm
Reticle Type	5.56 BDC (Chevron)
Illumination	Tritium/Fiber Optic
Eye Relief	1.5 inches
Length	6.6 inches
Weight	16 oz
Mount	TA51 Flattop Mount Included

Pros

• High magnification revealing details for precision at extended distances
• Large objective providing superior light gathering and resolution
• Extended range capability maximizing 5.56 NATO effectiveness
• Exceptional optical quality with edge-to-edge clarity
• Precise chevron reticle with holdovers to 1000 meters
• ACOG durability maintaining zero through heavy use
• Battery-free illumination for lifetime operation

Cons

• Significant weight at 16 ounces affecting rifle balance and handling characteristics

The Trijicon ACOG 5.5×50 TA55A transforms your SCAR 16 into a designated marksman rifle capable of precision that approaches the capabilities of larger calibers at medium to long ranges. This ACOG excels for competitive high-power rifle shooting, long-range target practice, and situations where maximizing distance capability matters more than close-range speed. If your shooting regularly extends beyond 300 yards and you want every advantage for precision at distance, the 5.5×50 delivers optical performance that helps you make hits other shooters can’t.

4) Trijicon ACOG 1.5x16S TA44-C (Best Close Quarters ACOG for SCAR 16)

The Trijicon ACOG 1.5x16S TA44-C represents a radical departure from traditional ACOG design philosophy, bringing minimal magnification and red dot-like speed to the ACOG platform. This compact optic challenges the assumption that ACOGs must have moderate to high magnification, instead prioritizing rapid target acquisition for close-quarters applications while maintaining the ACOG’s legendary durability and battery-free operation.

What makes the 1.5x16S revolutionary is how it combines the speed benefits of red dot sights with the advantages of low magnification and the ACOG’s bombproof construction. At 1.5x magnification, target acquisition is nearly as fast as unmagnified red dots, but you gain slight magnification that helps with target identification and precision at distances beyond 100 yards. The wide field of view facilitates tracking multiple targets and maintains peripheral awareness critical in dynamic shooting scenarios. Both-eyes-open shooting feels natural and instinctive, with virtually no learning curve for shooters transitioning from red dots.

The amber triangle reticle is brilliantly designed for rapid engagement. The triangle point provides an instinctive aiming reference that draws your eye instantly, while the shape naturally directs focus to the tip for precise shooting. The reticle subtension is optimized for center-mass hits on targets from contact distance to 300 yards without holdover concerns when zeroed at 50-100 yards. The tritium illumination keeps the reticle visible in complete darkness, while fiber optic enhancement provides brightness in daylight. The small 16mm objective keeps the optic incredibly compact and lightweight.

At just 4.8 ounces, the 1.5x16S is the lightest ACOG model, adding minimal weight to the SCAR 16 while preserving every bit of the rifle’s quick-handling characteristics. The compact 3.8-inch length keeps the optic unobtrusive and positions it perfectly for rapid acquisition. The generous 2.4-inch eye relief is significantly longer than traditional ACOGs, making it easier to acquire the sight picture quickly without precise head positioning. This forgiving eye relief proves valuable in unconventional shooting positions or when shooting on the move.

The construction maintains full ACOG durability standards despite the compact size. The forged aluminum housing withstands impacts and abuse, while waterproof and fog-proof seals protect internals. The optic has proven reliable on everything from 5.56 carbines to 7.62 battle rifles, so the SCAR 16’s recoil poses no challenges. This ACOG excels for home defense, competitive shooting requiring rapid target transitions, and tactical applications where engagement distances rarely exceed 200 yards. The included mount positions the optic at proper height for the SCAR’s stock.

Key Features Summary

Feature	Specification
Magnification	1.5x (Fixed)
Objective Lens	16mm
Reticle Type	Amber Triangle
Illumination	Tritium/Fiber Optic
Eye Relief	2.4 inches
Length	3.8 inches
Weight	4.8 oz
Mount	TA51 Flattop Mount Included

Pros

• Ultra-lightweight at 4.8 ounces preserving rifle handling
• Red dot-like speed for rapid close-quarters target acquisition
• Generous eye relief facilitating quick sight picture acquisition
• Compact dimensions keeping the rifle maneuverable
• Wide field of view maintaining situational awareness
• ACOG durability in an ultra-compact package
• Battery-free operation with tritium and fiber optics

Cons

• Limited magnification restricts precision capability at extended distances beyond 200 yards

The Trijicon ACOG 1.5x16S TA44-C transforms your SCAR 16 into a close-quarters powerhouse that combines red dot speed with ACOG reliability and quality. This optic has found favor with law enforcement officers, home defenders, and competitive shooters who prioritize rapid engagement capability. Whether you’re running dynamic drills at the range or need an optic for defensive scenarios where speed saves lives, the 1.5x16S delivers acquisition speed that keeps you ahead while maintaining the durability and battery-free operation that defines the ACOG platform.

5) Trijicon ACOG 3×30 TA33-C (Best Compact ACOG for SCAR 16)

The Trijicon ACOG 3×30 TA33-C represents the perfect middle ground between the close-quarters speed of the 1.5x and the distance capability of higher magnification models. This compact ACOG delivers genuine versatility for shooters who want one optic that handles varied distances effectively without the weight or size of traditional ACOG models. The TA33 has become increasingly popular among competitive shooters and tactical users who appreciate its balance of capability and portability.

What sets the 3×30 apart is how it packages 3x magnification into a remarkably compact and lightweight form factor. The 3x magnification provides enough optical power for precise shooting to 400 yards while maintaining field of view that facilitates rapid target acquisition inside 100 yards. This magnification level represents a sweet spot for general-purpose tactical shooting where engagement distances vary from close to extended, but rarely exceed medium rifle ranges. The wider field of view compared to 4x optics makes tracking moving targets easier and reduces the tunneling effect that can occur with higher magnification.

The compact horseshoe reticle is optimized for the 3x magnification level, providing rapid acquisition capability with the large outer horseshoe while offering precise aiming with the center chevron. The reticle is calibrated for 5.56 NATO trajectory with holdover references for extended distances. The amber color shows clearly against varied backgrounds without being overly bright or distracting. The tritium and fiber optic illumination system maintains visibility across all lighting conditions without batteries, true to ACOG tradition.

At 8 ounces, the TA33 is notably lighter than the standard 4×32 ACOG while delivering comparable capability for most shooting applications. The 4.3-inch length is significantly shorter than traditional ACOGs, keeping the optic compact and unobtrusive on the SCAR 16’s rail. This size and weight advantage becomes noticeable during extended shooting sessions or when carrying the rifle for long periods. The 30mm objective provides adequate light gathering for most hunting and shooting applications, though it doesn’t match larger objectives in extreme low light.

The eye relief of 2.2 inches is more generous than traditional ACOGs, making sight picture acquisition faster and more forgiving. The eye box is comfortable, allowing for slight head movements without losing the sight picture. The construction maintains full ACOG durability with forged aluminum housing, waterproof and fog-proof seals, and proven reliability through thousands of rounds. The included mount positions the optic perfectly for the SCAR’s stock geometry, providing consistent cheek weld and rapid acquisition.

Key Features Summary

Feature	Specification
Magnification	3x (Fixed)
Objective Lens	30mm
Reticle Type	5.56 BDC (Horseshoe/Chevron)
Illumination	Tritium/Fiber Optic
Eye Relief	2.2 inches
Length	4.3 inches
Weight	8 oz
Mount	TA51 Flattop Mount Included

Pros

• Excellent balance between speed and precision for varied distances
• Compact and lightweight at 8 ounces with 4.3-inch length
• Generous eye relief facilitating rapid sight acquisition
• Versatile magnification handling close to medium-range effectively
• Horseshoe reticle combining rapid acquisition with precision
• Full ACOG durability in a reduced-size package
• Battery-free illumination for lifetime operation

Cons

• Moderate maximum range compared to higher magnification ACOGs for extended-distance precision

The Trijicon ACOG 3×30 TA33-C offers SCAR 16 owners an exceptional balance of versatility, compactness, and capability that makes it ideal for shooters who want one optic to handle everything from close-quarters to medium-range shooting. This ACOG has earned strong following among three-gun competitors, tactical trainers, and practical shooters who appreciate equipment that works across varied scenarios without compromise. Whether you’re running competitive drills or setting up a do-it-all defensive rifle, the TA33 delivers performance that never disappoints while keeping your rifle balanced and maneuverable.

Conclusion

Selecting the best ACOG for your SCAR 16 ultimately depends on your predominant shooting distances, operational requirements, and whether you prioritize close-quarters speed or extended-range precision. Each ACOG we’ve examined brings distinct operational advantages, from the combat-proven versatility of the 4×32 TA31-RCO-M4 to the specialized capabilities of the 5.5×50 for long-range work. What unites all these optics is their legendary durability, battery-free operation, and proven reliability that has made the ACOG the standard by which all combat optics are judged.

The FN SCAR 16 represents one of the most advanced rifle platforms available to civilian shooters, combining military-proven reliability with accuracy that exceeds most competing designs. When you pair this exceptional rifle with a Trijicon ACOG, you’re creating a weapon system that matches the capabilities of equipment trusted by tier-one operators worldwide. The ACOG’s fixed magnification and battery-free illumination might seem old-fashioned compared to modern LPVOs with electronics and first focal plane reticles, but the proven reliability and durability represent advantages that matter when equipment failure isn’t acceptable.

Your ACOG selection should align with your primary use case. Close-quarters specialists and home defenders benefit from the 1.5x16S or 3×30 models that prioritize acquisition speed and wide fields of view. General-purpose shooters find the 4×32 or 3.5×35 models deliver optimal balance between speed and precision across typical tactical distances. Long-range enthusiasts who regularly shoot beyond 400 yards appreciate the 5.5×50’s magnification advantage. Budget considerations are significant given ACOG pricing, but remember these optics represent lifetime purchases that will outlast multiple rifles.

Regardless of which ACOG you choose, proper mounting with the included TA51 mount, confirmation of zero with your chosen ammunition, and familiarization with both-eyes-open shooting technique will reward you with a rifle system that performs at the highest level. The SCAR 16 with a Trijicon ACOG becomes more than just another tactical rifle—it transforms into a precision instrument backed by combat-proven reliability that inspires complete confidence. Mount your chosen ACOG securely, practice the Bindon Aiming Concept, and prepare to experience why this combination has become the standard for serious operators and tactical shooters who demand equipment that never fails when everything depends on that one critical shot.

See Also: 5 Best Quick Detach Scope Mounts