Mounting a scope on the AR-10 makes it a more powerful firearm and lethal in skilled hands. In case you are yet to venture into the scopes planet or want to switch to another brand, this article was written just for you. We have highlighted a top selection of the best Vortex AR-10 scopes and included a comprehensive buying guide to aid in the search for the best fit for your rifle.
Since its invention in the 1950s, the AR-10 rifle has grown to become a valuable weapon to many folks, from wild game hunters to military snipers. AR-10 rifles are great for long-range combat equally as they are for hunting vicious wild animals at close range.
They are particularly useful in big game hunting. While this news is a welcome by anyone looking forward to an awesome hunting season, one part of the equation remains left out, a scope, very easy to sweep under the radar but undoubtedly one of the major contributing factors to achieving a kill shot.
With a multitude of options at your disposal, choosing the best scope for AR-10 can be a daunting process. To simplify the matter, we stalked the market and came up with the best Vortex AR-10 scopes that will help you realize the full potential of your rifle.
What Makes a Great AR-10 Scope?
One of the perks of adding an AR-10 scope to your armaments is improved performance and maximum harnessing of your firearm’s potential. With a great scope distance that was once far from reach becomes easy to close in. A great AR-10 scope should be versatile. It should give room for short, mid and long-range shooting.
This then touches on magnification not only should the magnification be a variable one but also the lens used on the scope should let in as much light as is possible to allow the view of bright and sharp images. A good scope uses high-quality glass and one with low dispersion as some of the Vortex scope we covered had.
With that, you rest assured the pictures you are getting are a true view of what or where your aim is pointed. The scope should be light enough for easy portability when following that trail in the woods. Adjustment knobs in strategic finger-reach positions not forgetting easy to mount options are some of the things that make a scope great for use on the AR-10.
What Magnification do you need?
The magnification needed will be determined by the distance you are aiming to shoot at. Close-range engagements work well with AR-10 scope bearing 1-4x magnification. 4-9x is comfortable for medium-range shooting while for much longer distances, anything above 9x is welcome.
The best Vortex AR-10 scopes should have variable magnification, say 2-12x, with which you can play around to suit desired shooting distance.
The size of the objective lens also matters because you may find a scope with a smaller zoom ratio also has a smaller lens size which could let in limited amounts of light needed for bright images. With larger magnification, the lens may be bigger therefore light transmission is perfect for a sharp target view.
8 Best Vortex AR-10 Scopes
Allows us to give you an in-depth analysis of the best Vortex AR-10 scopes. Shall we?
1) Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
Speedy, versatile and reliable. Strike Eagle 1-6x riflescopes is one of the best Vortex AR-10 scopes that hunting enthusiasts would want as part of their hunting paraphernalia. Its repeatable performance is reliable giving consistent performance every time you mount it on your rifle.
Its magnification range rests between 1x to 6x. 1x is enough for point-blank shooting and going up to 6x allows to achieve accuracy over different ranges. The magnification ring features an upgrade in the form of a thread-in throw lever for smooth transitions between settings. Also, the magnification indicators are now easily visible.
To top up on accuracy the reticle is illuminated for fast target acquisition. You will be pleased to know that illumination is available in 11 brightness settings to accommodate different hunting situations.
Holdovers present in the reticle area permit immediate use up to 650 yards. The reticle is glass-etched and is located on the second focal plane as already alluded to by the scope name. Reticle focus is enhanced by the fast focus dial on the eyepiece.
Besides the reticle, clear views are promoted by the side parallax knob along with zero-reset turrets calibrated to ensure you get the dials correct. Lenses are fully multi-coated to give good contrast and color to images.
The single-piece 30mm tube is nitrogen-purged. Additionally, there is O-ring sealing to make it water and fog-proof. The scope does not break in the face of recoil.
Features
- 1-6x magnification
- The magnification ring has visible indicators and a throw lever to enhance accuracy
- BDC3 reticle on the second focal plane
- Built-in illumination with 11 brightness settings
- Fast focus eyepiece dial for fast target acquisition
- Fully multi-coated lens
- Tactical zero-reset turrets
- Side parallax adjustment knob
2) Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
If you are focused on hunting or tactical shooting, this is one of the best Vortex AR-10 scopes for you. The Viper HS-T series gives you the luxury of choosing between the VMR-1(MOA) reticle style or (MRAD).
Either choice gives you adjustments necessary for an accurate shot. In this AR-10 scope, the lenses are fully multi-coated and feature extra-low dispersion glass ensuring that images remain crisp and are well contrasted. Armortek coating is added to provide a shield against oil, dust and scratches.
The exposed turrets system is useful and saves on time that would otherwise be wasted on trying to reach for the adjustments. A CRS Zero Stop lets the turrets go back to zero when you want to switch back from temporary adjustments made.
The 4x zoom ratio is enough room for different shooting applications while aberrations are eliminated by the side focus parallax adjustment knob to allow magnified targets to remain crystal clear.
The reticle is also set in a good position through the use of the fast-focus eyepiece on the scope. To keep internal elements protected, nitrogen purge is combined with O-ring seal technology to lock moisture out. Tough construction makes it one of the best Vortex AR-10 scopes. Like any other investment, a ruggedly built scope will give you service for years.
Features
- VMR-1 MOA or MRAD reticle style options
- XR-coated lenses made from extra-low dispersion glass for perfect color-contrast balance
- Armotek coating to protect the exterior lens from scratches, oil and dust
- Exposed turret style
- 4x zoom ratio
- Parallax elimination
- Fog and waterproof performance
3) Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
Vortex Optics did not hold back when releasing Viper PST Gen II SFP riflescopes, leaving you a shelf full of options. These scopes have superb features starting with their multicoated lens for razor-sharp pictures.
With a clear picture, the aiming point is easy to identify. Clarity on pictures also helps enhance color on objects to help differentiate targets from their surroundings.
These Vortex scopes are characterized by great lowlight performance since the turrets are graced by a thin red fiber optic which helps with making adjustments in such environments.
The reticle is illuminated with an option of moving between ten brightness settings so you settle on the preferred light intensity. The versatility makes the Viper PST Gen II scopes front runners among the best Vortex AR-10 scopes.
Parallax adjustment is another feature present in these scopes. This helps reduce image blur which can be exhausting to the eye. Eye relief is not to worry about as it is sufficiently given.
Armortek coatings keep the exterior lens protected from moisture and debris. The riflescopes are available in four models with varying magnification ranges and objective lens sizes. The housing is made from aircraft-grade aluminum that is hard to crack.
Features
- Razor-sharp vision courtesy of the multicoated lenses
- Carefully designed turrets with thin red fiber optic for easy adjustments
- Support low-light hunting/shooting
- Sufficient eye relief
- Aircraft-grade aluminum body for durability
4) Vortex Optics Viper PA SFP Riflescopes
Viper PA riflescopes are some of the best Vortex AR-10 scopes. Available in 6.5-20×44 and 6.5-20×50 options these riflescopes make the long-range shooting look like a walk in the park. Hosting an array of impeccable features, these scopes deliver a stellar performance when mounted on an AR-10 rifle.
You also get to choose from Mil-dot and dead-hold BDC reticles. These reticles are well-designed to give range, windage and elevation estimations. The wide magnification range is room enough to support almost all shooting situations from point-blank to 1000 yards plus shooting.
The addition of a MAG-Bar enables effortless magnification changes. 44mm and 50mm objective lens size lets you have a big field of view so you can monitor the target and its surroundings before releasing around on them.
An image devoid of good color and contrast is not easy to close in on which is why these Vortex AR-10 scopes have coated lenses to ensure that does not happen.
The glass used for the lens ensures maximum light absorption and minimum dispersion. The shooting environment can be dynamic with external factors posing a threat to the lenses. That is where Armortek coating comes in to block off any loose dust or oily hands from destroying the lens.
Focus is a top priority in every shooter’s list, so with these scopes, you get parallax adjustment, and capped zero-reset turrets that hold zero. Argon purging has been used together with O-ring seals to provide fog and waterproof performance.
Features
- Comes with different objective lens sizes
- Extensive magnification range
- Supports long-range varmint and target shooting
- Coated lens for optimal light transmission
- Has parallax corrections
- Capped zero-reset turrets
- Mil-dot and dead hold BDC reticle to estimate distance, windage and elevation
5) Vortex Optics Golden Eagle HD 15-60×52 Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
Combine comfort and shooting action into one with the best Vortex AR-10 scopes that are specially designed for F class and bench rest competitions. Golden Eagle HD 15-60×52 Second Focal Plane Riflescopes have tons of optical features to savor.
To begin with, the scopes have an APO system that consists of index-matched lenses. The lenses ensure the color remains accurate across the whole visual sphere and the brightness is balanced and the images remain sharp.
The XD the glass used to make the lens supports this as well by taking in as much light as possible for the formation of edge-to-edge clear pictures. All air-to-glass surfaces have XR plus full multicoating that possesses antireflective power for the best performance in all light situations. Coatings do not end there; you will also be purchasing a scope that encompasses plasma tech for durability.
The magnification range is quite wide and you can be sure even at the highest setting, all reticle estimates are on point. This is all thanks to the reticle being lodged in the second focal plane.
Parallax removal is given in the form of a side focus dial that is easily reachable. For more perfection, a fast-focus eyepiece is added for reticle focusing. Also, included in the specs are an optional 10MOA windage turret and an aperture stop ring that helps with precise range calculations when shooting at different ranges.
Hit it, shake it up or expose it to impact but one thing is for sure, the aircraft-grade aluminum used on these riflescopes will not be disfigured an inch. The internal components are protected by argon purging and O-ring sealing.
Lens have Armortek coating to protect from external aggression and aluminum lens caps are provided too. Without a doubt, the Golden Eagle HD riflescopes are the best Vortex AR-10 scopes for big-game hunting and long-range shooting enthusiasts.
Features
- ERC-1(MOA) reticle in the second focal plane
- Ideal for bench rest and F-class competitions
- Optically indexed lenses for clear color and contrast on the image
- XD glass for maximum light absorption
- Fully multi-coated lenses with antireflection properties
- Large magnification range
- Parallax adjusted for chromatic aberrations-free images
- Extra-fine resolution turret plus dials for a fine-tuning aim point
- Strong, durable performance
- Aluminum lens caps are available
6) Vortex Optics Razor HD LHT Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
AR-10 rifle owners who need speed will benefit much from the lightweight Vortex Optics Razor HD LHT Second Focal Plane Riflescopes. They add very little weight to your gear for easy movement when chasing that wild boar. The HD optical system combines with XR plus full multicoating to keep images on point.
The reticle is on the second focal plane and features a center dot that is illuminated for a precise shooting point in all light conditions. the intensity of illumination can be varied.
A 5x zoom ratio is best for many shooting scenarios and applications while a 42mm objective lens lets your eyes gain access to a big field of view. RevStop Zero system makes it easy to go back to zero after different turret settings.
The elevation turret locks to prevent accidental adjustments. Windage turrets are capped for added protection and are easy to read. Water and fog cannot escape into the internals of this scope therefore you have a reliable ally on your hands in every hunting escapade.
Features
- Multiple reticle styles to choose from
- Ultra-lightweight
- HD optics with XR full multicoating
- Second focal plane configuration
- Illuminated center dot for reliable performance in low-light conditions
- 5x zoom ratio, 42mm objective lens size
- RevStop Systems to allow zero resets
- Locking elevation and capped windage turrets
7) Vortex Optics Crossfire II SFP Riflescopes
Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes unleash the tour de force hidden in AR-10. There is an array of styles and sizes to choose from based on the magnification and reticle preferred. Objective lens options lie between 32-50mm and magnification maximum of 12x and minimum 2x.
Reticle variations will have let you pick from dead-hold BDC, V-plex, V-brite illuminated and straight-wall BDC. All options are anchored on precision and accuracy no matter the range involved.
Lenses should give a clear and true picture of the target so, with Vortex scopes, they are fully multicoated and have anti-reflective capabilities to ensure this is achieved.
The eye box is forgiving for comfy viewing without necessarily tiring the eye or risking exposure to scope bite. Turrets are capped and are within finger reach. Adjustments can be reset to zero after sighting in is done.
Targets can be closed in quickly with the fast-focus eyepiece and you need not be worried about water or fog messing up your aim as these single-piece aluminum tubes are nitrogen and sealed completely.
Features
- Available in different sizes
- Variety of reticle options
- Fully multicoated optics
- Generous eye relief
- Capped zero-reset turrets with MOA clicks
- Quick target acquisition using a fast-focus eyepiece
- Nitrogen fill and sealed off to lock out moisture
8) Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes
Still, on the theme of best Vortex AR-10 scopes, we focus on our last item, Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes. Available in two sizes, these scopes are the ideal tool for tactical engagements.
The turret system allows the shooter to keep a record of revolutions made on the dials plus there is a locking system to keep the settings put during impact. reticle options vary and whichever one you settle for Vortex gives their word of honor that all estimates and aiming points will be correct.
Magnification ranges are versatile with parallax removal together with illumination settings depending on the option chosen. Incredible image quality is vouched for by the APO optical system that combines HD glass with extra-low dispersion and XR coatings for increased light transmission for picture clarity.
O-ring seals and Argon purging have a long-lasting effect on these scopes by keeping their performance uninterrupted by water or fog leaks. Aluminum construction makes them a go-to option since they can stand up to harsh weather conditions just fine.
Features
- APO optical system that works on producing unmatched target views
- Increased light transmission through XR coating on the lenses
- The reticle on FFP for concise aiming mark
- User-friendly turret system
- Elimination of chromatic aberrations
- Different sizes and reticle forms to pick from
- Dependable fog/water performance
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Best Vortex AR-10 Scopes Buying Guide & FAQs
Considerations when Choosing Best Vortex AR-10 Scopes
Many factors need to tick off when buying the best Vortex AR-10 scopes. Here are some of the important considerations:
Purpose
How you intend to use the AR-10 will set the pace also for how you will select a Vortex scope for it. If you are looking for a scope that can be used in low light conditions then you might want to get a scope with the illumination feature.
If you want something light because your hunting or shooting style will not accommodate the use of heavy equipment then you need to look closely at the features plus how much more they add to your gear in terms of weight.
If you will be outdoors much then you need to choose from strongly constructed scopes which is one of the key areas of excellence for Vortex AR-10 scopes.
Read: Best Vortex Scopes for Coyote Hunting
Objective Lens
Without a high-quality lens then you sign up for disappointment on the hunting field which presents itself in the form of blurry images. Bright and sharp images are a priority so you need a lens made from glass that stands up to the occasion.
The lens should be able to transmit light despite prevailing light conditions. If the objective lens is coated, the better for you because not only does it improve light transmission but also helps with protecting that surface from interference by dust, scratches and oil.
Size of the lens matters. Hunters prefer having a larger size for a wide field of view. The bigger the lens the more light it transmits/lets in which is good for any shooting scenario. However, too much of size may cause the image to look faded.
Read: Best Vortex Scopes for 6.5 Grendel
Reticle
The best Vortex AR-10 scopes, as our reviews have brought out, should have a simple and easy-to-use reticle. Reticles help perfect the shooting art by giving the user a precise point at which they should aim.
Different types of reticles are available for you to choose from depending on your style. You will come across mil-dots. BDCs, red dots and many others. Each has its set of pros and cons but all serve the main purpose which is guidance on where to point at before pulling the trigger.
Focal Plane
The focal plane and reticle size are tied together by magnification for accuracy. There is a choice between the first focal plane and the second focal plane. With increased magnification, the reticle stays the same size as the magnification is varied with a second focal plane selection.
This means that the target may grow or reduce in size. The first focal plane allows the reticle to grow or shrink as magnification does. The two options give accuracy and it all depends on your preferences.
Read: Best Vortex Varmint Scopes
Eye Relief
This minute detail is one to greatly focus on when choosing the best Vortex AR-10 scope. good eye relief will give your eye comfort when viewing and also protect you from scope bite that normally results from rifle recoil.
Quality
One attribute of the best Vortex AR-10 scopes is its strong durable build. Any scope should be made from material that can survive different weather conditions and areas of use. The ability to stay intact during recoil not fog internally and can be used in sunny or rainy conditions are some of the characteristics of a quality scope.
Read: Best Vortex AR-15 Scopes
Why Choose Vortex Optics
Vortex optics is not only a leader in versatility but they are also very consistent with every release. Their scopes are accurate and reliable. They are ruggedly built to survive all forms of terrain, weather and any other forms of abuse you subject them to.
Their optics are also reasonably priced but still with the promise to deliver top-notch performance. From beginners to deadeyes, there is something for everyone at Vortex.
Conclusion
A good scope is one of the best investments. It can instantly upgrade your skill and instantly becomes the one thing you can never leave behind when going out hunting. Choosing the best Vortex AR-10 scope is no walk in the park but with our reviews and buyer guide, we believe you are well-equipped to score a fitting one for your rifle.