Are Cheap AR-15 Scopes Worth It?

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope

These lenses are built to handle low-light situations.

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Best Value

Simmons 560520 Truplex Riflescope

It’s surprisingly clear for such an affordable scope.

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Best Red Dot

Bushnell Trophy TRS-25

Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope, 1x20mm, Black

Excellent light transmission and glare reduction.

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When it comes to finding a cheap AR-15 scope, it’s easy to wonder if you’re sacrificing quality for a lower price. Can you really get solid performance without breaking the bank? The good news is, you can! Whether you’re a beginner or just looking for a budget-friendly option for your rifle, there are affordable scopes out there that offer great value. But not all cheap scopes are created equal. You don’t have to settle for something that will fall apart after a few uses, or worse, miss the mark when it matters. In this guide, we’ll dive into what to look for in a budget scope and how to find the best balance between price and performance. Let’s go!

What to consider when buying a cheap AR-15 scope

Finding a budget-friendly scope for your AR-15 doesn’t mean you have to settle for junk. The key is knowing what features matter and keeping it simple. Here’s how to get a solid scope without blowing your budget:

CategoryBushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-XSimmons 560520 TruplexBushnell Trophy TRS-25Monstrum G2 1-4×24UTG 3-9X32 BugBusterCategory Average
Overall Score3.43.34.064.143.183.62
Ergonomics3.42.13.33.52.73
Build Quality343433.4
Optics334433.4
Battery335533.8
Value4.64.454.24.24.48

Optics

You don’t need super fancy glass, but you do want something clear and bright with minimal distortion. Look for a reticle that’s easy to see, even in daylight, so you can stay on target whether you’re at the range or out in the field.

When you’re going for a cheaper option, less is more. Stick to a simple magnification range like 1-4x or 1-6x. These will cover most of your shooting needs without driving up the price. The fewer extra features, the better, since fewer things can go wrong, and you’ll get more bang for your buck.

How do we rate it?

We give higher scores to clear optics, anything less makes it hard to shoot accurately.

Build Quality

Even if you’re on a budget, you don’t want a riflescope that’s going to fall apart after a few trips to the range. Make sure it’s tough enough to handle some rough use, recoil, and maybe a drop or two. Look for scopes that are waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. Trust us, it’s worth it in the long run.

frozen TRS-25
TRS-25 after a night in the freezer

How do we rate it?

Is it waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof? A high rating in this category means your scope is reliable and tough even on a budget.

Ergonomics

Cheap doesn’t have to mean frustrating. Look for a scope with easy-to-use magnification and adjustment knobs that feel solid. You’ll want one with a decent field of view and a forgiving eye box, especially if you’re doing any close-range shooting. The easier it is to use, the more you’ll enjoy it.

How do we rate it?

Is the scope’s weight balanced, or does it make your rifle feel like you’re lugging around a medieval weapon? We give higher scores to scopes that feel intuitive like it’s an extension of yourself rather than an awkward appendage.

Battery

A cheap Ar-15 scope doesn’t have to mean a poor battery. If your scope has an illuminated reticle, make sure the battery lasts a while. You don’t want to be swapping batteries every time you head out. And if the reticle needs a battery to work at all, think twice. It’s good to have a backup if the power runs out unexpectedly.

Don’t get stressed like Captain Picard

How do we rate it?

We give lower scores to scopes that require battery changes more often than you change your socks. High ratings go to models with efficient power usage and long-lasting battery life, ensuring you’re always ready for the shot, day or night.

Value

Sure, you’re looking for something affordable, but don’t go too cheap. Sometimes spending a little more upfront gets you a scope that’ll last longer and perform better. Buy smart, and you won’t find yourself replacing it a year down the line.

How do we rate it?

A scope that sticks to basic, reliable features gets a higher score for value.

Our Top Picks for Cheap AR-15 Scopes

Best Overall: Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope

CategoryBushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X ReticleCategory Average
Ergonomics3.43
Build Quality33.4
Optics33.4
Battery33.8
Value4.64.48

Score: 3.4/5

Aside from its 9x magnification and powerful 40-mm objective lens, the Bushnell Banner riflescope really shines with its Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses. These lenses are built to handle low-light situations, making those early morning or late evening hunts a lot easier. Plus, the Multi-X reticle and 1/4 M.O.A. fingertip windage and elevation adjustments ensure you can quickly lock onto your target without fuss.

On top of that, it’s built to last—waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof, thanks to its nitrogen-purged construction. The only thing missing is a parallax adjustment, but that’s a minor trade-off for the durability and reliability this scope delivers.

Pros

  • Long eye relief (6 inches)
  • Performs well in low light
  • Comes with parallax adjustment
  • Lightweight (13 oz)

Cons

  • No lens caps

What Customers Say

“Over the years I’ve owned several Bushnell banner scopes. I purchased this scope to sit atop an ar15 I’m planning to carry while accompanying my wife on her first deer hunt. With this said I wanted a cost-effective scope that could deliver enough magnification for the ranges we plan to hunt “150yrd at max”. The glass in the scope seems to be of good quality & transfers light well.”

Eastfork

Best Value: Simmons 560520 Truplex Riflescope

CategorySimmons 560520 TruplexCategory Average
Ergonomics2.13
Build Quality43.4
Optics33.4
Battery33.8
Value4.44.48

Score: 3.3/5

Our best value pick makes adjustments super easy with its elevation and windage turrets that click audibly, so you know exactly what you’re doing. These solid knobs hold zero like a champ, even after firing off a hundred rounds, no matter how much recoil your rifle has—no drift, no worries.

That said, the adjustment knobs can be a bit stiff at first, but they loosen up with use. As for the Simmons Truplex Riflescope’s glass, it’s surprisingly clear for such an affordable scope. There is a slight blur around the edges, similar to the Bushnell Dusk to Dawn series, but at this price point, it’s a compromise that’s totally worth it.

Pros

  • Truplex reticle
  • Long eye relief
  • Waterproof, fog proof & shockproof
  • Lighter compared to other brands (15 oz)

Cons

  • Does not perform well in low light

What Customers Say

“Skeptic at first based on mix reviews. I give a 5 star rating based on personal use, price and performance. Excellent, highly recommended and currently awaiting the 2nd scope. Eye relief is 3-4inches depending on zoom and easy to focus on target. Turrets are spongy, clicks are soft audible however holds via 17 hmr and 223/5.56. Clarity at 300yards at is crisp during overcast in California.”

Abraham B.

Best Red Dot: Bushnell Trophy TRS-25

CategoryBushnell Trophy TRS-25Category Average
Ergonomics3.33
Build Quality33.4
Optics43.4
Battery53.8
Value54.48

Score: 4.06/5

Our top pick for red dots has to be the Bushnell Trophy TRS-25. It’s not technically a scope, but we had to include it because red dots are awesome for close-quarters shooting. What really stands out for us is its excellent light transmission and glare reduction, which makes a huge difference when you’re in fast-paced situations.

The adjustment knobs feel super solid, thanks to the thick, durable water gaskets. We’re also impressed by how precise and crisp the adjustments were, especially considering the price. The 3 MOA red dot reticle has 10 brightness settings, so you can quickly lock onto your target and save battery by dialing it down when you don’t need full illumination. Plus, it’s ready to slap onto most Picatinny rails, and the rugged housing is built to handle the rough stuff, whether at the range or in the field.

Bushnell TRS-25 red dot aiming at Lego Mandolorian | cheap ar-15 scope

Pros

  • Waterproof, fog proof, shockproof
  • Lightweight (3.6 oz)
  • Affordable
  • Multi-coated optics
  • Long battery life (3,000 hours)
  • 11 brightness settings

Cons

  • No battery indicator
  • Poor quality control

What Customers Say

“I’ve run these on several different rifles. Never had a single issue with one. They keep zero, hold up well to the recoil of even 30 cal rifles, aren’t affected by rain, and stay solid on the gun. I like the variable red dot brightness and ease of adjustments. This is like a poor man’s Aimpoint. I’d go so far as to say that if you’re on a budget, I’d even be willing to put it on a combat or duty rifle. Mine have held up through thousands of rounds, several rifle courses, and many competitions. Well worth the money and weight. Highly recommended. I am comfortable staking my life on this product.”

John Scout

Best LPVO: Monstrum G2 1-4×24

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Monstrum G2 1-4x24 First Focal Plane FFP Rifle Scope with Illuminated...
Monstrum G2 1-4x24 First Focal Plane FFP Rifle Scope with Illuminated...
  • High precision tactical rifle scope with 1-4x magnification, a 24mm objective lens, and an eye relief of 4-4.5 inches
  • Functionally designed first focal plane rangefinder reticle, with easy-to-read ranging information that remains constant regardless of magnification, for faster range estimation and holdover...
  • Dial controlled reticle illumination in both red and green with multiple brightness intensities, for better reticle visibility in low light environments
CategoryMonstrum G2 1-4×24Category Average
Ergonomics3.53
Build Quality43.4
Optics43.4
Battery53.8
Value4.24.48

Score: 4.14/5

The Monstrum G2 1-4×24 is a great budget-friendly option for anyone looking to get decent features without spending a fortune. The First Focal Plane reticle helps adjust magnification for easy range estimation and holdovers, which is perfect for tactical shooters or hunters. We love that the reticle is illuminated, with red and green options, which is super handy in low-light situations. Plus, it’s built tough from aircraft-grade aluminum and can handle water and fog, so it’s ready for the elements.

However, not everything’s perfect. Some people have reported durability issues, like losing zero after minimal use, and the zoom ring can feel a bit stiff. Monstrum’s reputation isn’t the strongest, but for the price, it’s still a solid deal.

Pros

  • Waterproof and fog proof
  • Very affordable
  • Illuminated reticle
  • Two reticle color options

Cons

  • Turrets are not tool-less
  • Heaviest pick (16 oz)

What Customers Say

“Excellent package for the money spent. Everything functions as it should. This is my first FFL scope, it is sweet! Nice clear, crisp reticle that can be lit red or green, or used unlit. Clear glass, decent eye relief. Adjusting windage, elevation, zoom and diopter are all easy. Mounted to picitanny rail easily on the Ruger AR556 MPR. 1-4 power with FFL is very usable. Shot nice groups at 100 yds shooting at a 3″ target. This scope package is a no brainer for the money! Features not included: auto turn on/off for lit reticle, tool-less zeroing of turrets.”

Amazon Customer

UTG 3-9X32 BugBuster Scope

CategoryUTG 3-9X32 BugBusterCategory Average
Ergonomics2.73
Build Quality33.4
Optics33.4
Battery33.8
Value4.24.48

Score: 3.18/5

The UTG BugBuster is a parallax-free scope that can focus from 3 yards all the way to infinity, thanks to its adjustable wide-angle front objective. One cool feature is its range-estimating mil-dot reticle, with 9 dots in each direction of the crosshair—giving you a total of 19 aiming points. It also has side wheel illumination, so you can easily control the reticle light without it getting in your way.

Even though it’s a budget-friendly option, the BugBuster is built tough. It can take a few bumps, whether you’re hunting or just driving to the range, because it’s impact-tested for durability. However, it’s not the best choice for dangerous game. UTG doesn’t have the same reputation as some of the higher-end brands out there.

Pros

  • Lightweight (14 oz)
  • Illuminated reticle
  • Shockproof, fog proof and weather-proof

Cons

  • Image distortion at high magnification

What Customers Say

“This is a fine budget scope you won’t cry when it craps the bed. My only complaint is where it’s made. In my book the performance out weights country of origin. The vendor shipped lightning fast and the scope was well protected. I would recommend and purchase this scope and other UTG products again.”

Bauzenberger C F

Find more affordable picks here: Best Riflescopes Under $300

Summary: Cheap AR15 Scopes

In the end, finding a cheap AR-15 scope doesn’t mean you have to settle for junk! There are plenty of solid options out there that deliver the performance you need without burning a hole in your wallet. Sure, you might miss out on some of the fancy features, but if you keep it simple and focus on durability, clear optics, and ease of use, you’ll come out on top. Whether you’re hitting the range, hunting, or just adding to your collection, there’s a budget-friendly scope that’s perfect for you. Just remember, sometimes, less is more, and with the right choice, you’ll be nailing those shots without overspending!

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Last update on 2025-02-14 / Images from Amazon Product API