Scopes and Optics

Best Bushnell Scope for AR

Bushnell SMRS II 1-6.5x24mm

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Searching for the best Bushnell scope for AR? You are in the right place, as we will review the top options.

A high-quality scope is an essential accessory to have to an AR rifle. Among the multitude of models available out there, the best Bushnell scope for AR stand out. Bushnell optics brand is committed to making high-quality and reliable rifle scopes and in our post today, we will be looking at Bushnell scopes for AR rifles.

Bushnell AR scopes are specifically made to meet all the needs and demands of modern-day hunting and shooting enthusiasts. As a beacon of excellence, they offer unparalleled combination of sophisticated technology, premium build quality and stunning performance. Besides, these scopes come in different designs and configurations to meet the varying needs of users out there.

We have scoured the market and put together a comprehensive guide on the best Bushnell scopes for AR. In addition to that, we have attached a buying guide that contains some of the important features you should take into account when making a purchase. But first, here are the attributes of a great scope for AR rifles.

What Makes a Great Scope for AR?

A great scope for an AR rifle balances several attributes that include:

Robust Construction

First and foremost, a great scope for the AR rifle should have a rugged construction. This guarantees many years of use and reliable performance in all environments.

Crisp Clear Optics

Furthermore, the scope should have premium quality optics and quality anti-reflective coatings to ramp up light transmission and provide bright, crisp and sharp image views.

Extended Eye Relief

It is vital for the scope to have a decent eye relief. The more extended the distance of eye relief is, the safer you will be from scope related injuries.

Clear Reticle

Another feature that makes a great scope for AR rifles is clear reticle system. With a crisp, uncluttered aiming point, you will find it easy to take aim accurately in all settings.

Portable Design

Last but not least, the best Bushnell scope for AR should have a lightweight design for convenient portability.

Best Bushnell Scopes for AR

1) Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm Rifle Scope

Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm

 

 

Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm Rifle Scope is by far the best Bushnell scope for AR. It is designed with a variable 1-4x magnification for close and medium range shooting.

The magnification changes with ease during use and is offered in the second focal plane reticle. Even at the highest 4x level, the scope provides a wide viewing angle to help you find your targets easily. Furthermore, the reticle provides superb low light performance and accurate holdovers out to 500 yards.

In terms of construction, the scope is built in 30mm tube for strength and durability. The robust design enables one to adapt quickly to the changing environments in the field. Besides, the optical tube has an IPX7 water resistant rating to ensure reliable performance in all weather conditions.

Features

  • Second focal plane Drop Zone reticle
  • 1-4x magnification
  • Fully multi-coated optics
  • Fast focus eyepiece
  • 6 MRAD per revolution
  • Exposed turrets
  • 30mm main tube diameter
  • IPX-7 waterproof and dust proof
  • Non-reflective matte finish

Pros

  • Good eye relief
  • Bright and clear optics
  • Great value for the price
  • Sturdy construction

Cons

  • Non illuminated

 

 

2) Bushnell AR Optics 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope

Bushnell AR Optics Riflescope 1-8x24mm

 

 

If you want a scope that helps you dominate close and medium ranges, Bushnell AR Optics 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope is a great choice. It features an illuminated BTR-1 reticle for fast and accurate target acquisition, and a variable 1x to 8x magnification range.

This rifle scope is small in size but powerful and tough as nail. The robust and lightweight build makes it easy to maneuver across different fields with ease. Furthermore, you can subject it to the most challenging environments and it will still perform.

To complement the build quality, this rifle scope has fully multi-coated optics for optimal light transmission. In bright light, the coatings suppress glare for comfortable shooting. Besides that, the scope boasts reliable waterproof and fog proof protection to be operable in all kinds of weather conditions.

Features

  • 1-8x total magnification
  • Throw down power change lever
  • Glass-etched BTR-1 reticle
  • IPX-7 waterproof rating
  • Fully multi-coated optics
  • 30mm main tube
  • Capped turrets

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Long eye relief
  • Lighted reticle
  • Great glass quality

Cons

  • Quality assurance issue

 

 

3) Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope

Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Riflescope

 

 

When it comes to performance and versatility, Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is hard to beat. It excels across close and mid ranges where it is leader in optical performance in low light settings.

The scope is designed with Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) technology which provides incredible clarity and brightness in low light. On top of that, it boasts precision optics for the ultimate hunting experience.

This rifle scope is built with durability in mind. It has a single-piece tube that is crafted with the most hard-wearing materials to hold up to the highest levels of abuse. Additionally, it is 100% waterproof, fog proof and shock proof to maximize durability.

The Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope comes with a fast focus eyepiece for quick and seamless reticle focusing. It also boasts an ultra-long eye relief of 6-inchs to maximize glassing comfort and safety.

Features

  • Matte finish
  • 3-9x magnification power
  • Waterproof and dry nitrogen filled
  • Fast focus eyepiece
  • Multi-coated optics
  • 1-inch single-piece tube
  • 1/4 MOA fingertip adjustment turrets
  • Second focal plane Multi-X reticle

Pros

  • Extended eye relief
  • Lightweight
  • Bright, clear optics
  • Inexpensive

Cons

  • Non illuminated

 

 

4) Bushnell AR Optics 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope

Bushnell 1-6x24mm AR Optics

 

 

Bushnell AR Optics 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is another low power variable optic that is specifically built for AR rifles. This optic is here to greatly enhance your accuracy and target acquisition speed, in all environments.

The selling point of this rifle scope is durability. Built in a 30mm tube, it enhances strength and toughness, while ensuring that you have ample room for adjustments. Furthermore, the turrets are capped to provide additional protection from impacts and bumps.

The optical performance of this rifle scope is as stunning as the construction quality. It employs premium quality glass elements that work together with fully multi-coated optics to maximize image brightness, clarity and detail.

Above all, the scope features a broad 100 MOA range for elevation and windage, and a housing that is fully waterproof and fog proof.

Features

  • Throw down power change lever
  • Capped turrets
  • Waterproof and fog proof construction
  • Fully multi-coated optics
  • Second focal plane reticle
  • 1-6x variable magnification
  • 30mm tube diameter
  • 100 MOA adjustment range

Pros

  • Long eye relief
  • Lightweight
  • Great clarity
  • Daylight bright illuminated reticle

Cons

  • Stiff throw lever

 

 

5) Bushnell SMRS II 1-6.5x24mm Rifle Scope

Bushnell SMRS II 1-6.5x24mm

 

 

Next in our list of the best Bushnell Scope for AR is SMRS II 1-6.5x24mm Rifle Scope. The scope is built to meet the needs and demands of the toughest users, and has an intuitive design that makes it easy to use.

Bushnell made this low power variable optic ready for outdoor use. It has an EXO barrier protective coating that repels water, oil, dust and debris. On top of that, the optical tube is sealed and argon purged to ensure that it remains stable irrespective of the ambient temperature or humidity levels.

Throughout the 1-6.5x magnification, the scope provides a significantly spacious field of view to ensure easy target finding. Besides, the long 4-inch eye relief guarantees unmatched user comfort during long hunting or shooting periods, while the throw hammer throw level included allows for quick magnification changes.

Features

  • Waterproof and argon purged
  • Throw hammer throw level
  • Second focal plane BDC reticle
  • 100 MOA adjustment range
  • Matte finish
  • 30mm tube diameter
  • 1-6.5 magnification

Pros

  • Clear optics
  • Extended eye relief
  • Excellent craftmanship
  • Versatile

Cons

  • Big budget

 

 

 

6) Bushnell Prime 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope

Bushnell Prime 3-9x40mm

 

 

 

Let’s have a closer look at our next pick, the Bushnell Prime 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope. This new illuminated model rifle scope is optimized for hunting and brings to the table all the features you need to close and medium range hunting.

The scope provides a spacious field of view for quick target identification, scanning and acquisition. It uses a Multi-X reticle that uses thick lines for accurate shot placement. Besides, the reticle has an illuminated dot in the center that helps with precision aiming in twilight conditions.

Like any other Bushnell optic, this model is built to be nearly indestructible. The robust and ruggedized construction coupled with all-weather protection guarantee unparalleled performance come rain come sunshine.

To top it all off, the Bushnell Prime 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope has a lightweight construction so it is easy to use and portable.

Features

  • Multi-X second focal plane reticle
  • 1-inch body tube
  • Fully multi-coated optics
  • 3-9x magnification power
  • Waterproof and fog proof
  • EXO barrier lens coating
  • 60 MOA windage and elevation adjustment range
  • 40mm objective lens

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Large field of view
  • Inexpensive
  • Clear glass

Cons

  • Narrow eye relief
  • Fixed parallax

 

 

7) Bushnell Engage 2-10x44mm Rifle Scope

Bushnell Engage 2-10x44mm Rifle Scope

 

 

 

Bushnell Engage 2-10x44mm Rifle Scope is our last pick for the best Bushnell scope for AR. For medium to long range hunting and shooting applications, this rifle scope is your ideal option.

It is built with a variable 2-10x magnification power which gives you the ability to take shots across different ranges. The massive 44mm objective lens makes the zoom power useful at every level and enhances low light performance.

Optically, this rifle scope features fully multi-coated optics which deliver the best-in-class brightness and clarity. It also boasts an EXO barrier lens coating which repels water, oil and debris, in addition to fingerprint stains and snow.

When it comes to construction, the scope is built in a 30mm tube with premium quality materials. It is durable enough to weather abuse and anything you subject it to. Furthermore, the IPX7 water resistance level guarantees reliable performance in all fields.

Features

  • Second focal plane reticle
  • 2-10x magnification power
  • Fully multi-coated optics
  • EXO barrier lens coating
  • 44mm objective lens
  • Fully waterproof and fog proof
  • 30mm tube diameter
  • Tool-less locking turrets
  • Non-reflective matte finish

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Generous eye relief
  • Great optics clarity
  • Economy price
  • Easy, effective reticle

Cons

  • The turrets are a bit stiff

 

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Criteria for Choosing the Best Bushnell Scope for AR

Below are the key things you should put into consideration when looking to buy a Bushnell scope for AR.

Intended Use

Determine the kind of application you will be using the scope for. Is it for hunting, sports shooting, tactical use or any other application? Being more activity specific will enable you to find the ideal product without so much strain.

Magnification

The magnification power of a scope determines how far you will be able to shoot with. Identify how far you purpose to shoot and then pick a scope with the appropriate magnification. For close and medium distances where the AR rifles excel in, we recommend a scope with up to 10x magnification.

Durability

The next important thing to consider is durability and build quality. The best Bushnell scope for AR should have a rugged and robust build to weather abuse and the recoil the rifle generates. The scope should also have a waterproof and fog proof construction to enable reliable use in all weather conditions.

Eye Relief

Consider the eye relief the scope provides, especially if you wear eyeglasses. With ample eye relief distance, the scope becomes comfortable and safe to shoot with. We recommend that you settle for a model that has at least 3.5 inches eye relief.

 

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FAQs on Best Bushnell Scope for AR

1) What magnification is ideal for an AR scope?

The magnification power that is ideal for an AR scope depends on your shooting needs as well as preference. A variable powered scope with 1-4x, 1-6x or 3-9x is sufficient for most applications, but remember to take into account your typical shooting environment and distance.

2) Are Bushnell scopes durable?

Absolutely. When it comes to durability and build quality, Bushnell scopes are a force to reckon with. Each scope is built with hard-wearing materials to optimize longevity and ensure reliable performance in all fields.

Conclusion

The best Bushnell scope for AR is one that has all the features you need for your individual hunting or shooting needs. With the right model at hand, it is with no doubt that your next hunting/shooting expedition will be successful and more enjoyable. Whichever scope you choose to get, it is our hope that this article has been of significant help.

 

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