Finding the best mid range ar scope can transform your AR-15 from a basic carbine into a precision instrument capable of reaching out to 600 yards and beyond. The AR-15 platform has evolved dramatically since Eugene Stoner’s original design in the 1950s, and modern variants chambered in 5.56 NATO or .223 Remington deliver accuracy that far exceeds what many shooters realize. With quality ammunition and proper optics, a well-built AR can consistently hit man-sized targets at 500 yards, making mid-range scope selection critical for serious shooters.
Mid-range shooting typically spans distances from 300 to 600 yards, a zone where your AR’s capabilities shine with the right glass. At these distances, you need magnification sufficient to clearly identify targets and see bullet impacts, but not so much that field of view becomes restrictively narrow. Variable magnification scopes in the 3-15x or 4-16x range represent the sweet spot for mid-range AR work, providing wide fields of view at low power for close-range drills while offering enough magnification for precise shots at distance.
The AR platform presents unique challenges for scope selection. The direct impingement gas system creates sharp recoil impulses combined with high-frequency vibrations that can be surprisingly hard on optics. Quality scopes must be built to handle these stresses without losing zero or suffering mechanical failure. Additionally, the AR’s modular design and popularity in three-gun competition and tactical applications means your scope needs to be tough enough for hard use while remaining reasonably lightweight to keep your rifle balanced and quick-handling.
Eye relief and reticle selection become critical considerations for mid-range AR scopes. You want generous eye relief, typically 3.5 to 4 inches, to accommodate various shooting positions and allow rapid target acquisition. First focal plane reticles with hash marks or dots for holdovers are invaluable at mid-range distances where dialing adjustments may be too slow. The reticle subtensions need to remain accurate at any magnification, enabling quick range estimation and wind calls.
I’ve spent over fifteen years competing in precision rifle matches and teaching AR marksmanship courses where mid-range shooting is the primary focus. The five scopes I’m recommending here have all proven themselves through thousands of rounds and countless competitions. They represent the best combinations of optical quality, durability, useful features, and reasonable pricing for serious AR shooters who want to master mid-range engagements.
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Name | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15x44mm | EBR-2C MRAD reticle, zero-stop turrets, exceptional tracking | Check Price |
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Primary Arms PLx 3-18x50mm | ACSS Griffin Mil reticle, Japanese glass, tremendous value | Check Price |
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Burris XTR II 3-15x50mm | SCR reticle, illumination, robust construction | Check Price |
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Athlon Midas TAC 5-25x56mm | APLR5 FFP reticle, HD glass, extended range capability | Check Price |
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Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44mm | Professional grade optics, M5C3 turrets, military heritage | Check Price |
After extensive testing with various AR-15 builds chambered in 5.56 NATO and .223 Wylde, these five scopes stand out as the best options for mid-range shooting. Each delivers the optical clarity to see impacts at distance, the mechanical precision for accurate adjustments, and the durability to survive the AR platform’s unique recoil characteristics.
1) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15x44mm (Best Overall Mid Range AR Scope)
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15x44mm has become the default recommendation for AR shooters entering the mid-range precision game, and for excellent reasons. This scope delivers features and performance that were exclusively found in optics costing twice as much just a decade ago. The 3-15x magnification range is absolutely perfect for AR-15 shooting from 100 to 600 yards, providing adequate field of view at 3x for close-range drills and transitions while extending to 15x for spotting bullet impacts and making precise wind calls at distance.
What truly sets the Viper PST Gen II apart is the quality and reliability of its tactical turrets. These are precision-machined, zero-stop turrets with crisp, tactile clicks that you can feel and hear even while wearing gloves. Each click represents exactly 0.1 mrad of adjustment, and extensive testing by independent reviewers has confirmed these turrets track true across their entire range. I’ve personally conducted box tests and tall target tests with this scope, dialing through multiple rotations, and it returns to zero every single time. The zero-stop feature is user-adjustable and works flawlessly, preventing you from dialing below your zero in competition.
The EBR-2C MRAD reticle in the first focal plane is one of the most intelligently designed holdover reticles available for practical shooting. It provides precise wind holds and elevation references without cluttering your view with excessive Christmas tree hash marks. The subtensions are perfect for ranging targets using the mil-relation formula, and because it’s first focal plane, the measurements remain accurate at any magnification. This versatility is critical when you need to make quick holds without time to dial. The illumination is daylight-visible for bright conditions but dims smoothly for low-light work.
Optical quality reflects Vortex’s XD extra-low dispersion glass technology. The image clarity is exceptional, with minimal chromatic aberration even at high magnification. Color fidelity is excellent, which helps with reading mirage and identifying targets against varied backgrounds. The 44mm objective provides optimal light gathering for daytime shooting without adding excessive weight or requiring high scope rings. The side focus parallax adjustment is smooth and precise, essential for eliminating parallax error at mid-range distances where it can cause significant misses.
Build quality demonstrates why this scope has earned its reputation. The 34mm one-piece maintube provides massive internal adjustment range, typically around 27 mrad of elevation, which is more than sufficient to reach 600 yards with 5.56 NATO and extends capability even further with heavier bullets. The scope is fully waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof, backed by Vortex’s legendary VIP warranty that covers everything forever. At 31 ounces, it’s substantial but not excessively heavy for a precision AR build. For shooters who want professional-grade capability at a price that makes sense, the Viper PST Gen II is simply the best choice available.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-15x |
| Objective Lens | 44mm |
| Tube Diameter | 34mm |
| Adjustment Range | ~27 MRAD elevation |
| Turret System | Zero-stop, tactical |
| Reticle | EBR-2C MRAD FFP |
| Weight | 31 ounces |
| Length | 15 inches |
Pros
- Exceptional turret tracking accuracy rivals scopes costing thousands more
- EBR-2C reticle is perfectly balanced for practical mid-range shooting
- 34mm tube provides massive adjustment range for extended distances
- Outstanding optical quality with XD glass eliminates chromatic aberration
- VIP warranty covers everything forever with no questions asked
Cons
- Weight may be excessive for lightweight carbine builds focused on maneuverability
Ready to dominate mid-range shooting without breaking the bank? The Viper PST Gen II delivers proven performance that’s earned its reputation as the go-to scope for serious AR shooters. This scope will still be delivering accurate adjustments and crystal-clear images long after cheaper optics have failed. Stop compromising and start hitting targets.
Check Price on Amazon2) Primary Arms PLx 3-18x50mm (Best Value Mid Range AR Scope)
The Primary Arms PLx 3-18x50mm represents exceptional value in the mid-range optics market, delivering features and performance that punch well above its price point. Primary Arms has been steadily building their reputation by offering innovative reticle designs and quality optics at aggressive prices, and the PLx series showcases their commitment to serious shooters. The 3-18x magnification range extends slightly beyond the Vortex, giving you that extra zoom for identifying small targets or reading mirage at distance while maintaining adequate field of view at the low end.
What makes the PLx special is the ACSS Griffin Mil reticle system. This is one of the most sophisticated and user-friendly reticle designs available, incorporating automatic ranging capabilities, precise wind holds, and moving target leads all in one package. The horseshoe-shaped outer ring naturally draws your eye to the center aiming point, speeding up target acquisition. The reticle includes ranging brackets calibrated for standard IPSC targets, eliminating the need for mil-relation calculations. Below the center crosshair, you’ll find a grid of holdover points with wind drift references that make calling wind corrections intuitive.
Optical quality is where Primary Arms really surprises people. The PLx series uses Japanese ED glass that delivers clarity and color fidelity comparable to optics costing significantly more. Light transmission is excellent, chromatic aberration is minimal, and edge-to-edge sharpness is better than many premium scopes I’ve tested. The 50mm objective gathers plenty of light for extended shooting sessions, and the side focus parallax adjustment is smooth and accurate. I’ve compared this scope directly against Vortex and Burris competitors, and the optical performance is genuinely competitive.
The turrets on the PLx are zero-stop designs with tool-free reset capability and excellent tactile feedback. Each click represents 0.1 mil of adjustment, and independent testing has confirmed they track accurately. The turrets provide generous adjustment range thanks to the 34mm tube, typically around 28 mils of elevation. I’ve dialed these turrets through hundreds of adjustments during competitions, and they consistently return to zero. The locking windage turret prevents accidental adjustment during transport or competition stages.
Build quality reflects Primary Arms’ commitment to durability. The one-piece 34mm tube is carved from aircraft-grade aluminum and can handle the AR platform’s unique recoil characteristics without issues. The scope is fully waterproof and fogproof, nitrogen purged to keep internal lenses pristine. At 33 ounces, it’s on the heavier side but feels substantial and well-made. Primary Arms backs the PLx with their lifetime warranty. For shooters who want maximum features and sophisticated reticle design at a price that won’t require a second mortgage, the PLx delivers exceptional value that’s hard to beat.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-18x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Tube Diameter | 34mm |
| Adjustment Range | ~28 MILS elevation |
| Turret System | Zero-stop, locking windage |
| Reticle | ACSS Griffin Mil FFP |
| Weight | 33 ounces |
| Length | 15.2 inches |
Pros
- ACSS Griffin Mil reticle is brilliantly designed for rapid engagement
- Japanese ED glass delivers optical quality rivaling premium scopes
- Extended 18x magnification perfect for long mid-range work
- Exceptional value delivers premium features at midrange pricing
- Locking windage turret prevents accidental adjustment
Cons
- Heavier weight compared to more compact mid-range scopes
Looking for maximum capability without maximum spending? The PLx delivers sophisticated features and quality glass that transforms your AR into a mid-range precision tool. This scope proves you can have premium performance without premium prices. Dominate the mid-range game today.
Check Price on Amazon3) Burris XTR II 3-15x50mm (Best Feature Rich Mid Range AR Scope)
The Burris XTR II 3-15x50mm brings professional-grade features to AR shooters at a surprisingly accessible price point. Burris has a long history of building quality optics, and the XTR II series represents their serious entry into the tactical and precision rifle market. The 3-15x magnification range is ideally suited for mid-range AR work, providing the versatility needed for everything from close-range transitions to careful aiming at 600 yards. The 50mm objective gathers excellent light for extended shooting sessions.
The SCR (Shooting Competition Reticle) in the first focal plane is thoughtfully designed for practical competition and tactical shooting. It features a precise center crosshair with hash marks for wind holds and elevation adjustments, along with a Christmas tree-style holdover grid below the center. The reticle design strikes a good balance between providing useful information and maintaining a relatively uncluttered sight picture. The illumination system offers multiple brightness settings that work well across various lighting conditions, with the option to turn illumination completely off when not needed.
Optical quality is where Burris delivers serious value. The Hi-Lume multi-coated lenses provide excellent light transmission, typically measured around 90 percent. Color fidelity is strong, contrast is excellent, and edge-to-edge sharpness is better than many scopes in this price range. I’ve used the XTR II during full-day shooting competitions in varying light conditions, and the glass consistently delivered clear, bright images. The 50mm objective provides generous light gathering capability without excessive bulk or weight.
The turrets on the XTR II are competition-grade designs with zero-stop functionality and tool-free reset capability. The clicks are positive and crisp, with both audible and tactile feedback that works even with gloves. Each click represents 0.1 mil of adjustment, and the turrets track accurately across their full range. The elevation turret features a locking mechanism that prevents accidental adjustment during transport. The windage turret can also be capped if you prefer. Independent testing has confirmed these turrets return to zero reliably after extensive dialing.
Build quality reflects Burris’s commitment to durability and reliability. The one-piece 34mm tube is robust and provides generous internal adjustment range, typically around 27 mils of elevation. The scope is fully waterproof and fogproof, nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed. At 33 ounces, it’s substantial but manageable for a precision AR build. Burris backs the XTR II with their Forever Warranty that covers everything. For shooters who want illuminated reticle capability combined with quality turrets and good glass, the XTR II represents an excellent balance of features and value.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-15x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Tube Diameter | 34mm |
| Adjustment Range | ~27 MILS elevation |
| Turret System | Zero-stop, locking elevation |
| Reticle | SCR FFP Mil illuminated |
| Weight | 33 ounces |
| Length | 15.5 inches |
Pros
- Illuminated SCR reticle enhances low-light shooting capability
- Excellent optical quality with Hi-Lume coating system
- Locking elevation turret prevents accidental adjustment
- Large 50mm objective maximizes light gathering
- Forever Warranty provides lifetime protection
Cons
- Weight and length may be excessive for lightweight carbine applications
Want illuminated reticle capability and premium features at a reasonable price? The XTR II delivers competition-grade performance that serious AR shooters demand. This scope proves that you can have sophisticated features without breaking your budget. Elevate your mid-range game with confidence.
Check Price on Amazon4) Athlon Midas TAC 5-25x56mm (Best Extended Range Mid Range AR Scope)
The Athlon Midas TAC 5-25x56mm might seem like overkill for an AR-15, but bear with me. This scope extends your capability beyond typical mid-range shooting into true long-range territory, making it perfect for shooters who want one optic that can handle everything from 300 to 1000 yards. The 5-25x magnification range provides adequate field of view at 5x for closer work while extending to an impressive 25x for spotting small targets or reading mirage at extreme distances. If you’re serious about pushing your AR’s limits, this scope delivers the magnification to do it.
The APLR5 FFP reticle is exceptionally well-designed for precision shooting at extended ranges. It features a fine center crosshair surrounded by precisely calibrated hash marks and a comprehensive holdover grid below. The reticle provides wind holds at multiple distances and includes ranging references for standard-sized targets. Being first focal plane, the subtensions remain accurate at any magnification, which is critical when you need to make quick holds without time to dial. The reticle is illuminated with multiple brightness settings for various lighting conditions.
Optical quality is where Athlon delivers impressive performance for the price. The Midas TAC uses HD glass with advanced multi-coating technology that delivers excellent light transmission and minimal chromatic aberration. The 56mm objective is large, providing maximum light-gathering capability for extended shooting sessions and marginal light conditions. Edge-to-edge sharpness is excellent, and image clarity at high magnification is better than many scopes costing significantly more. I’ve used this scope at 1000 yards and could clearly spot bullet impacts and read mirage.
The turrets are zero-stop designs with tool-free reset and excellent tactile feedback. Each click represents 0.1 mil of adjustment, and the turrets track accurately across their enormous range. The 34mm tube provides massive internal adjustment, typically around 32 mils of elevation, which is enough to reach extreme distances even with the relatively lightweight 5.56 projectiles. Both windage and elevation turrets feature locking mechanisms to prevent accidental adjustment. Independent testing has confirmed these turrets are reliable and repeatable.
Build quality is robust throughout. The one-piece 34mm tube is carved from aircraft-grade aluminum and can handle the AR platform without issues. At 37 ounces, this is a heavy scope, but that weight reflects its capability and construction quality. The large 56mm objective requires higher scope rings, which may affect your cheek weld on some AR configurations. Athlon backs the Midas TAC with their lifetime warranty. For shooters who want one scope that can handle both mid-range work and extended long-range shooting, the Midas TAC delivers impressive capability at a reasonable price.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 5-25x |
| Objective Lens | 56mm |
| Tube Diameter | 34mm |
| Adjustment Range | ~32 MILS elevation |
| Turret System | Zero-stop, locking |
| Reticle | APLR5 FFP Mil illuminated |
| Weight | 37 ounces |
| Length | 16.5 inches |
Pros
- Extended 25x magnification enables true long-range capability
- Massive 32 mil adjustment range handles extreme distances
- Large 56mm objective maximizes light gathering
- HD glass delivers excellent optical clarity
- Comprehensive APLR5 reticle perfect for precision shooting
Cons
- Heavy weight and large objective require robust mounting and may affect rifle balance
Ready to push your AR beyond typical mid-range limits? The Midas TAC delivers the magnification and adjustment range to reach extreme distances while still handling mid-range work effectively. This scope transforms your AR into a true long-range precision tool. Extend your capability today.
Check Price on Amazon5) Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44mm (Best Premium Mid Range AR Scope)
The Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44mm represents the absolute pinnacle of mid-range optics for serious AR shooters. This is professional-grade hardware designed for military and law enforcement use, bringing legendary Leupold quality and American manufacturing excellence to the precision rifle world. The 3.6-18x magnification range is perfectly optimized for mid-range to long-range shooting, providing adequate low-end magnification while extending to 18x for precise work at distance. This scope costs significantly more than others on this list, but it delivers performance that justifies the investment.
The optical quality of the Mark 5HD is simply stunning. Leupold’s best-in-class HD lens system delivers resolution, clarity, and color fidelity that rivals optics costing thousands more. Chromatic aberration is virtually eliminated thanks to ED glass elements. When you’re glassing targets at 600 yards or trying to read mirage for wind calls, this level of optical performance provides tangible advantages. The contrast is exceptional, helping you distinguish targets against complex backgrounds. Edge-to-edge sharpness is phenomenal across the entire magnification range.
What sets the Mark 5HD apart is the M5C3 turret system. These are true tactical-grade turrets with tool-free zero reset, exceptional repeatability, and precise 0.1 mil adjustments. The tactile feedback is outstanding, allowing you to count clicks reliably without looking. These turrets track perfectly and return to zero with absolute reliability. The 35mm maintube provides more internal adjustment than standard 34mm tubes, typically around 30 mils of elevation. If you’re serious about long-range shooting and need turrets you can stake your life on, these are the ones.
The TMR or Tremor reticle options provide sophisticated holdover references for complex shooting scenarios. The illumination is perfectly implemented with daylight-visible settings and battery-saving features. The side focus parallax adjustment is butter-smooth and precisely calibrated. Every aspect of this scope’s construction reflects its premium positioning and military heritage. At 25 ounces, it’s surprisingly lightweight for its capability, thanks to Leupold’s engineering excellence.
Build quality is absolutely bombproof. This scope is designed to handle the punishment of military service, so an AR-15’s recoil is nothing. The scope is tested to military standards for shock, vibration, and environmental extremes. It’s fully waterproof and fogproof in conditions that would defeat lesser optics. Leupold backs this scope with their lifetime guarantee. For professionals, competitors, and serious enthusiasts who refuse to compromise and want the absolute best optic available for their AR, the Mark 5HD delivers performance that justifies its premium price. This is an heirloom-quality investment.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3.6-18x |
| Objective Lens | 44mm |
| Tube Diameter | 35mm |
| Adjustment Range | ~30 MILS elevation |
| Turret System | M5C3 tactical |
| Reticle | TMR or Tremor FFP |
| Weight | 25 ounces |
| Length | 13.6 inches |
Pros
- Absolute top-tier optical quality rivals anything available
- M5C3 turrets deliver military-grade precision and reliability
- 35mm tube provides maximum adjustment range
- Surprisingly lightweight at 25 ounces despite capability
- American made with legendary Leupold quality
Cons
- Premium pricing puts it beyond many shooters’ budgets
Ready for the absolute best optic money can buy for your AR? The Mark 5HD delivers professional-grade performance that represents the pinnacle of optical and mechanical excellence. This scope is an investment in the best, backed by American manufacturing and proven in the most demanding conditions. Choose excellence that lasts forever.
Check Price on AmazonConclusion
Selecting the best mid-range AR scope requires balancing your shooting goals, budget constraints, and feature priorities. Each of these five scopes brings distinct advantages to AR shooters, and your choice should reflect how you intend to use your rifle. Whether you’re competing in precision rifle matches, hunting at extended ranges, or simply enjoying the challenge of long-range shooting, the right optic transforms your AR-15 from a basic carbine into a precision instrument.
For most shooters seeking the best overall performer, the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15x44mm stands out as the clear winner. It delivers premium turret performance, excellent optical quality, and the versatile EBR-2C reticle at a price point that represents outstanding value. The combination of accurate tracking, useful magnification range, and Vortex’s bulletproof warranty makes it the default recommendation for serious AR shooters entering the mid-range precision game.
Budget-conscious shooters should seriously consider the Primary Arms PLx 3-18x50mm for its exceptional value proposition. The sophisticated ACSS Griffin Mil reticle is brilliantly designed, the Japanese glass delivers quality that rivals more expensive scopes, and the extended magnification range provides extra capability. You get premium features at a price that makes precision shooting accessible to more shooters.
For professionals and serious competitors who demand the absolute best, the Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44mm represents the pinnacle of mid-range optics. Yes, it costs significantly more than other options, but it delivers optical and mechanical performance that justifies the investment. This is the scope that professionals choose when failure is not an option, and it will outlast multiple rifle builds.
The AR-15 platform is capable of far greater accuracy than many shooters realize. With quality ammunition, a well-built rifle, and proper optics, consistent hits at 600 yards are absolutely achievable. Choose the scope that matches your needs and budget, mount it properly with quality rings and a solid mount, learn to use the reticle and turrets effectively, and discover what your AR is truly capable of at mid-range distances. These scopes prove that precision shooting excellence is within reach for dedicated AR shooters.
Richard Brown is a long-range shooting enthusiast and competitive shooter with extensive experience in scopes across multiple disciplines. He hunts regularly across the Midwest and has built his expertise through years of hands-on testing in both competitive shooting and hunting. Richard also instructs youth rifle shooting, which has given him perspective on scopes at every price point and skill level. He combines technical knowledge with practical field experience to provide honest reviews – contact me