Are you searching for the best AR 15 scope for hog hunting? By the end of this comprehensive guide, you will find a reliable scope that is worth the investment.
Hogs are mostly active at night. Hunting them down requires a lot of patience and skill. Whether hunting for meat or getting rid of the creatures invading your crops, it is pertinent to have a high-quality scope.
If you are looking for a scope that will provide crystal-clear images across all ranges and lighting situations, you are in the right place.
Let’s have a look at the best AR-15 scopes for hog hunting.
7 Best AR 15 Scope for Hog Hunting
1) Vortex Crossfire II Hog Hunter 3-12x56mm Riflescope
Vortex Crossfire II Hog Hunter 3-12x56mm Riflescope is undoubtedly a great scope for hog hunting as it combines performance and quality. For medium-range shooting, the magnification range feature of 3-12x is perfect. This magnification is excellent for hog hunting.
The Vortex Crossfire is made of sturdy aluminum and has a weather-resistant attribute, making it a long-lasting product. The scope is rugged in the desert and the snow, so nothing can come your way.
The reticle present in this scope is the V-Brite center dot reticle found in the second focal plane. The reticle comes in handy when targeting and aiming with pinpoint accuracy.
Another highlight of the scope is the useful fast-focus eyepiece, particularly when tracking down these creatures that are always on the move.
Features
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
- Single-piece tube made of aircraft-grade aluminum
- Fully multi-coated with anti-reflective properties
- Hard anodized finish
- Capped reset turrets
- Illuminated center dot
- Adjustable objective
Pros
- High-quality lens for incredible low-light performance
- Decent eye relief
- Lightweight yet rugged
- Weather-resistant for reliable use
Cons
- In some weather situations, hunting is not recommended since particular terrains may cause fogging.
2) ATN ThOR 4 1.25-5x19mm Thermal Smart HD Riflescope
ATN ThOR 1.25-5x19mm Thermal Smart HD Riflescope has a smart range finder that displays how far away your targets are and a ballistic calculator that assists you in calculating the precise ballistics for accurate long-range shots.
It operates on an Obsidian Dual-core by ATN. It has a Next Gen sensor that is extremely sensitive and produces beautiful, crisp images with increased resolution and seamless gradations even at great distances.
Even if you are a newbie, the scope is ideal as it is hinged with intuitive features. It provides a long eye relief that guarantees a comfortable experience even for eyeglass wearers.
This thermal scope resembles a conventional rifle scope in appearance and feel. It includes standard mounting rings that simplify mounting and unmounting on the rifle.
Features
- Ballistic calculator
- 30mm tube
- Ultra-sensitive Next Gen sensor
- Dual-stream video recording
- Recoil activated video
- Smart range finder
Pros
- Enhanced resolution for crystal-clear images
- More than 18 hours of use
- A ballistic calculator ensures responsible hunting.
- Lightweight design
Cons
- Without firmware updates, the screen freezes
3) ATN OPMOD Exclusive ThOR LT 3-6x50mm Thermal Riflescope
The Thor LT 3-6×50 is a high-performance thermal scope without the unnecessary bells and whistles that might make use more difficult. Despite being a budget-friendly thermal scope, the Thor LT includes ATN’s One Shot Zero technology, making it possible to zero in faster than ever.
It’s a relatively simple program where you aim for the target, select the Zero program from the menu settings, and then use the directional buttons to realign the reticle to the center of the point of impact.
This thermal rifle scope can be compared to a conventional scope. It is streamlined, light, compact, and stylish. The eyepiece has been modified to provide 3.5 inches of eye relief and a more conventional feel, and it accepts 30 mm rings that are not included.
It nevertheless has a hardened aluminum alloy construction that is robust and withstands recoil.
Features
- One Shot Zero
- HD display
- High-end thermal resolution
- Up to 12 hours of battery life
- inches of eye relief
- Hardened aluminum alloy construction
- Lightweight construction
Pros
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- High image quality
- A fast refresh rate
Cons
- No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
4) Trijicon Credo HX CRHX624 1-6x24mm Riflescope
Next up is the Trijicon Credo HX CRHX624 1-6x24mm Riflescope. Trijicon tops the industry when it comes to high-end optics because, although pricey, the glass and performance qualities frequently outperform the competition.
The BDC Hunter Hold.308 reticle on this Credo HX makes it ideal for hunting. With a 30mm tube, this scope has plenty of adjustment travel for getting sighted in and dialing out for more. It also has a long-lasting battery that will outlast your hunt. You can use this scope with two eyes open at 1x power. The caps are also capped to give you the confidence you need for a successful hunting experience.
The Credo HX includes broadband and enhanced anti-reflective glass coatings in addition to being fully multi-coated.
Trijicon scopes undergo severe torture testing to ensure they are absolutely shock and recoil-proof, as a hunting scope should be. It is vibration-, fog-, and waterproof. Not even tough terrain will stop you from hitting your target.
Features
- 5 to 3.9 inches of eye relief
- ¼ MOA adjustments
- 5 to 3.9 inches of eye relief
- Low-profile turrets
- Capped turrets
- 30mm tube
- Fully multi-coated with anti-reflective properties
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
Pros
- Allows both-eyes-open shooting
- Illuminated center dot
- Long-lasting battery
- Wide field of view
- Great quality optics
Cons
- Expensive
5) Primary Arms Predator 1-6x24mm SFP Riflescope
Primary Arms Predator 1-6x24mm SFP Riflescope is designed with a single-piece tube built of 6063 aluminum. The hard anodised finish has a matte black color to enhance durability and reduce glare. For fast sight acquisition in all circumstances, the second focal plane architecture maintains the reticle’s size at all magnifications.
The ACSS Predator Hunting reticle is designed to meet the demands of hog and coyote hunters. The Predator can engage hogs with fantastic speed thanks to auto-ranging based on a 10-inch circle. Once at the range, you can fire immediately because you already have the necessary holdover. The middle chevron can be illuminated in red or green for the greatest versatility in various circumstances.
A single CR2032 battery powers it and is included in the package. Ten settings allow you to adjust the reticle’s brightness in either green or red to meet your needs at any time.
The lenses are fully multi-coated to ensure optimal light transmission from sunrise to sunset. The result of this is images that are crystal clear and bright.
Features
- Hard anodized finish
- Powered by a CR2032 battery
- ACSS Predator Hunting reticle
- Ten brightness settings
- Red and green illumination
- Second focal plane
- Fully multi-coated optics
Pros
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Finger adjustable turrets
- Solid aluminum construction
Cons
- At 6x, brightness substantially decreases.
6) NightForce 2.5-10x42mm NXS Compact Riflescope
All you need as a hog hunter is the NightForce 2.5-10x42mm NXS Riflescope. This scope’s variable 2.5-10x zoom power makes it ideal for close and far-off game hunting. It provides a wide field of view for quick target scanning at close range and high target acquisition at a distance.
Due to its big 42mm objective lens, this scope performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions when used for hunting. Moreover, it incorporates a red and green illuminated reticle for simple aiming in dimly lit areas. Dusk and dawn hunting will be a breeze with this scope.
A cherry on top is the lightweight design. You don’t have to worry about portability or walking long distances, as the ultra-lightweight design is hassle-free. What is more, the scope is pretty easy to use.
Features
- Side parallax adjustment
- Wide field of view
- Red and green illuminated reticle
- Second focal plane
- Throw lever for quick magnification changes
Pros
- Generous eye relief
- Lightweight design
- Night vision compatible
- Exceptional control knobs
Cons
- Floppy scope caps
7) ATN OPMOD Exclusive ThOR LT 4-8x50mm Thermal Riflescope
Quality and affordability epitomize the new ATN ThOR LT 4-8x Thermal Rifle Scope series. This aluminum alloy scope is lightweight, built for close-range target acquisition, and resembles a traditional daytime scope optic. This allows it to be used with 30mm rings, which are common and easily accessible. However, the scope is still pretty effective at night.
You have various thermal imaging sight options in the field thanks to White Hot and Black Hot modes.
The One Shot Zero Function was created with people who don’t like wasting ammunition in mind. With the help of this feature, you can use your thermal optic with just one round instead of three to zero.
Durability is a hallmark of this scope. The hardened aluminum housing can endure high-caliber weapon recoil. The scope is water-resistant, which is crucial when hunting in unfavorable weather.
Features
- One Shot Zero
- Various reticle patterns
- ATN Obsidian Core LT
- Weather and recoil resistant
- Aluminum alloy construction that is lightweight yet durable
- Black Hot and White Hot viewing modes
- Video recording
- 3D Accelerometer
Pros
- Easy to use and mount
- Quite affordable
- Versatile as it can be mounted on various platforms
- Lightweight design
- Outstanding battery life
Cons
- No built-in rangefinder
See Also
- Best Hawke Scope for Air Rifle
- Top 5 Best Scope for ar-10 for hunting
- Best Gun Safes for Multiple Pistols
Factors to Consider When Selecting the Best AR 15 Scope for Hog Hunting
Reticle type
The simple reticle design sets hog hunting scopes apart from other types. Including intricate markings on the reticle is unnecessary because these targets are quite close. A scope with a simple red dot or Duplex crosshair is more than enough for hog hunting.
Optics quality
An optically superior scope is necessary for hunting hogs as they are most active in dim lighting situations. Therefore, a large objective lens is essential for the best hog hunting scope. This will ensure effective light transmission.
Also, the lenses need to be fully multicoated. This improves the image quality so you can see the hog from a distance. Besides, special lens coating can improve light transmission, delivering sharper and crisper image views.
Night vision capabilities
Regardless of whether you use a thermal or infrared scope, you will undoubtedly need low-light or night vision capabilities if you plan to go hog hunting after dark. This is why choosing a scope with good low-light performance is ideal for safety and successful hunting. Opt for a scope that is functional during both night and day rather than one that is just illuminated during the day.
Magnification
A fixed or variable magnification power is what you’ll choose from. A fixed scope will be the best option if you are certain that hogs in your vicinity seldom go more than 50 yards.
Scopes with adjustable magnification, however, are more adaptable. They work well for shooting at various distances. Additionally, they manage to combine precision and quickness in an ideal way.
See Also
- Best Hawke Scope for Air Rifle
- Top 5 Best Scope for ar-10 for hunting
- Best Gun Safes for Multiple Pistols
FAQs on the Best AR 15 Scope for Hog Hunting
1) How far will a hog run after being shot?
The typical javelina or feral pig will flee 20 to 100 yards with a good hit. However, even the most tenacious hunter may find it challenging to locate a lousy hit.
2) Is a thermal scope necessary for hog hunting?
A thermal scope would be necessary if you frequently ran after hogs at night while using an AR-style rifle to shoot them from a distance. In this kind of hunting, it’s crucial to swiftly get a sight picture of the frequently running hogs.
3) Is an AR-15 good for hog hunting?
The AR-15 is compact, accurate, and rather simple to swing when facing a target, making it a great rifle for hog hunting.
Conclusion
It is paramount that the best AR 15 scope for hog hunting is versatile and works well in dismal lighting conditions for it to qualify as a quality scope. Along with other impressive features, the scopes explained above are great choices. We hope you find the information useful and a model that works best for you.