The Best Optics for AR15: Red Dots, Holographic, & Scopes

One of the most important accessories you can use with your AR15 is the scope or optic. 

It helps you view your target and ensures your shot will hit its intended mark.

You probably think traditional hunting scopes are the only optic you need for modern sporting rifles like the AR15.

BUT, I have to disagree.

In my experience, red dots and holographic sights have worked just as well as scopes, depending on what I use them for.

Let’s dive into the best optics for AR15 weapons, including my top picks for every type.

Red Dot Sights

Red dots are one of the most popular optic styles for the AR15.

Red dots are electronic sighting systems that use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to project an aiming point (usually red) from behind the objective lens.

How it works:

The “red dot” is reflected off the lens and towards the shooter’s eye.

The shooter can then position the red dot over the intended target before making the shot.

This type of optic is EXCELLENT for:

• Close-range shooting
• Engagements where speed and accuracy are required
• Multiple or moving targets
• Home defense situations as they can give you quick, accurate shots even through the haze of stress and adrenaline.

The term “red dot” has come to mean any optic, including reflex sights and holographic sights, that make use of a red reticle that projects onto the target. 

However, these holographic and reflex sights under this umbrella use vastly different technologies from red dots despite having more or less the same general functions.

Keep this in mind to avoid confusion in both theory and application!

Best Red Dot Sights

If you anticipate that you will be using your AR 15 mainly for close-range shooting or home defense, it’s best to invest in a red dot!

Here are some of my top red dots for Your AR15:

1. Aimpoint PRO Rifle Optic

BEST OVERALL RED DOT SIGHT

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Specifications:

• Brand: Aimpoint
• Dimensions: 6.75 x 4.63 x 3.38 inches
• Weight: 0.49 lbs

This is an excellent ALL-AROUND red dot scope for your AR 15 that delivers superior performance even under the harshest conditions.

Let’s look at why it is my best red dot sight:

• 26 mm objective lens
• 2 MOA red dot with 10 brightness settings
• Practically indestructible 
• Front and rear flip lens covers
• Recessed lens openings 
• Long-lasting battery life

Longevity & Durability

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve accidentally left my red dots on and drained its battery.

There’s no need to worry about that with this red dot sight because it can guarantee up to 30,000 hours of continuous operation on a single DL1/3N battery.

Technically, you can leave this thing on for 3 years straight and still not have to worry about it losing power!

Its anodized aluminum makes it virtually indestructible! I’ve taken it out in harsh, wet conditions, and it still operates like it’s brand new.

You can submerge this scope in water for up to 150 feet, and it will still work as usual.

Meanwhile, the recessed lens openings help to protect the lens from snow, dirt, and fingerprints.

Mounting & Other Features

This best red dot sight comes with an included mount that has a removable spacer, which I can use to achieve co-witness with iron sights on a flat-top AR.

It can also be removed to achieve a lower profile on weapons without a straight-line stock.

Needless to say, I was amazed by the attention to detail on this sight!

It comes with a clear rear cap which is great for when I need to shoot on the spot but don’t have time to flip up the caps.

Instead of removing the lens covers, you can simply look through the clear rear cap to see the red dot.

There’s also no need to close one eye when honing in on your target, which is the major advantage red dots have over other sights.

Speaking of caps, the battery cover and adjustment caps have retaining lanyards to prevent losing them.

I can tell that they really thought of everything and every possible situation.

Summary

This red dot scope is the perfect choice for everyone who owns an AR 15, regardless of whether you’re a beginner or experienced shooter.

HOWEVER, it is worth noting that this is one of the most EXPENS