Imagine this: the moon is high, the night is still, and you hear the rustle of a sound you know all too well. It’s hog hunting time! But to make that shot count when a wild hog bursts from the brush, you need the right gear. Specifically, the perfect scope for your AR-15 rifle is a game-changer.
Choosing a hog hunting scope for your AR-15 can feel like a tough mission. You want something that works well in low light, can handle the recoil of your rifle, and helps you see those fast-moving targets clearly. There are so many brands and features out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what will actually help you succeed in the field. You don’t want to waste money on a scope that won’t perform when it matters most.
In this post, we’re going to break down what makes a great hog hunting scope for your AR-15. We’ll look at the key things to consider, like magnification, reticles, and durability. By the end, you’ll have a much clearer idea of what to look for, so you can pick a scope that helps you bring home the bacon – or in this case, the boar!
Our Top 5 Hog Hunting Scope For Ar-15 Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Hog Hunting Scope For Ar-15 Detailed Reviews
1. MidTen 4-16×50 AO Hunting Rifle Scope Dual Illuminated Optics & Illuminated Sight 4 Holographic Reticle Red/Green Dot Sight & Laser Sight & Flashlight
Rating: 8.7/10
The MidTen 4-16×50 AO Hunting Rifle Scope is a powerful and versatile tool for any shooter. It combines multiple aiming devices into one package, making it ideal for various shooting situations.
What We Like:
- This scope is a fantastic 4-in-1 combo. You get a riflescope, a green laser sight, a red dot sight, and a flashlight all in one.
- The flashlight has 5 brightness settings. It helps you find your target quickly, even when it’s dark.
- The main scope has a reticle that can be red or green. Each color has 5 brightness levels. This helps you aim better.
- It also has a range-finding reticle. This helps you guess distances.
- The red dot sight comes with 4 different patterns. It’s great for hitting fast-moving targets up close.
- The green laser sight is strong. It can reach over 300 meters. It has its own on/off switch.
- The scope offers a wide field of view. This means you can see more of what’s around your target.
- Mounting this scope is very easy. It fits on 22mm Picatinny rails.
- You can adjust the scope without tools. The turrets let you make small clicks for aiming.
What Could Be Improved:
- The laser is a Class IIIA laser. While powerful, it’s important to be aware of its power level.
- The holographic dot sight is best for distances between 200-500 meters. It might not be ideal for very long-range shots.
This MidTen scope combo offers a lot of value. It gives you many options for aiming and shooting in different conditions.
2. SIG SAUER Tango-MSR LPVO 1-6X24mm Waterproof Fog-Proof Rugged Tactical Hunting Rifle Scope
Rating: 9.2/10
The SIG SAUER Tango-MSR LPVO 1-6X24mm is a tough rifle scope built for hunting and tactical use. It’s made to work in any weather, keeping your view clear. This scope helps you aim better and hit your target accurately. It’s also built to last, so you can count on it for many adventures.
What We Like:
- It has amazing glass that makes everything look super clear and bright.
- The lighted reticle with 11 brightness levels helps you see your target in any light.
- It’s totally waterproof and fog-proof, so rain or fog won’t stop you.
- The scope comes with a strong mount that’s easy to put on your rifle.
- It’s rugged and shockproof, meaning it can handle rough treatment.
- The quick magnification change lever makes adjusting your zoom fast and simple.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s a great scope, some users might prefer a first focal plane reticle for certain shooting styles.
- For those needing extreme long-range precision, a higher magnification might be desired.
The SIG SAUER Tango-MSR LPVO is a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable and clear optic. It offers great performance for its price, making it a valuable addition to your gear.
3. MidTen 4-16×50 AO Hunting Rifle Scope Dual Illuminated Optics & Illuminated Sight 4 Holographic Reticle Red/Green Dot Sight & Laser Sight & Flashlight
Rating: 8.9/10
The MidTen 4-16×50 AO Hunting Rifle Scope Combo is a versatile tool for any hunter or shooter. This all-in-one package includes a powerful riflescope, a laser sight, a red dot sight, and a bright flashlight. It’s designed to help you find and hit your targets, even in tricky lighting conditions.
What We Like:
- It’s a great value because it has four helpful tools in one package.
- The scope has red and green lights for the aiming points, which you can adjust to be brighter or dimmer.
- You can switch between four different aiming shapes on the red dot sight, making it good for different situations.
- The laser sight helps you point at your target from far away, up to 300 meters.
- The flashlight has five brightness settings to help you see in the dark.
- It’s easy to attach to your rifle with its built-in mount.
- You can easily adjust the scope for wind and height without tools.
What Could Be Improved:
- The laser is less than 2mW, which is safe but might not be as bright as some users prefer for very long distances.
- While good for most uses, the holographic dot sight is best for targets within 500 meters.
This combo offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to improve their shooting accuracy and target acquisition.
4. Oueand Tactical Flashlights Predator Light with Red Green
Rating: 8.7/10
The Oueand Tactical Flashlights Predator Light is a versatile tool for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. This 1200-lumen flashlight packs a punch, offering red, green, and white light options to help you spot prey and navigate the dark. It’s designed to be mounted on your rifle with various options, but it also works as a handheld light.
What We Like:
- It comes with two different flashlight bodies: one for Mlok attachments on your gun and a standard one for handheld use.
- The red light (660nm) helps you find blood trails, and the green light (550nm) lets you see dark animals like wild boars without scaring them.
- The white light has three modes (high, low, strobe) for emergencies or finding your way.
- You get multiple mounting options: Mlok, Picatinny, and a scope mount, fitting most guns.
- It’s super bright, with a 1200-lumen CREE LED, and the beam reaches far, up to 260 yards in white light.
- You can use a tail switch or a remote pressure switch, giving you flexibility during hunts.
- This flashlight is built tough from aviation-grade aluminum and is waterproof up to IP65, so it can handle rough weather and tough use.
What Could Be Improved:
- The compact size, while good for handling, might be a bit small for some users who prefer a larger flashlight.
- While it offers great features, the price point might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
This Oueand flashlight is a powerful and adaptable choice for anyone needing reliable lighting for night hunting or outdoor adventures. Its durable construction and multiple features make it a worthy addition to your gear.
5. CVLIFE Hunting Rifle Scope 6-24×50 AOE Red and Green Illuminated Gun Scope with Free Mount
Rating: 9.2/10
The CVLIFE Hunting Rifle Scope 6-24×50 AOE offers a powerful zoom and clear sight for hunters and target shooters. Its adjustable magnification lets you see targets far away or up close. The large 50mm objective lens gathers lots of light, making it easier to see in dim conditions. You can also switch between red and green reticle colors, which helps you aim in different lighting. This scope comes with a mount, so you’re ready to go right away.
What We Like:
- The 6-24x magnification lets you zoom in really close on distant targets.
- The 50mm objective lens provides a bright picture, even when the sun is going down.
- You can choose between red and green illuminated reticles, which makes aiming easier in various light.
- The included mount saves you extra money and hassle.
- It’s built to be tough and handle rough outdoor use.
What Could Be Improved:
- The field of view is a bit narrow at 28 feet at 100 yards, which can make it harder to track fast-moving targets.
- While the adjustment clicks are precise at 1/8 inch at 100 yards, some shooters might prefer a slightly larger click value for quicker adjustments.
For its price, the CVLIFE 6-24×50 AOE scope is a solid option for those needing versatile magnification and illumination. It’s a good starting point for many shooting activities.
Choosing the Best Hog Hunting Scope for Your AR-15
Hunting hogs with an AR-15 is a popular and effective way to manage these wild animals. A good scope makes a big difference in your success. This guide will help you find the right one.
Key Features to Look For
- Magnification: This is how much closer the scope makes things appear. For hog hunting, a variable magnification is best. Look for something like 1-6x or 1-8x. This lets you zoom in for longer shots and zoom out for close-up encounters.
- Objective Lens Diameter: This is the front lens of the scope. A larger diameter (like 24mm or 32mm) lets in more light. This helps you see better in low light conditions, like dawn and dusk, when hogs are often active.
- Reticle Type: The reticle is the aiming crosshair you see inside the scope. For hogs, a simple, clear reticle is good. Some have illuminated dots or circles. This helps you aim quickly in the dark.
- Field of View: This is how wide an area you can see through the scope. A wider field of view lets you spot moving hogs faster.
- Eye Relief: This is the distance between your eye and the scope’s eyepiece. Good eye relief prevents the scope from hitting your forehead when the rifle recoils.
Important Materials
The best scopes use strong and durable materials. The main body is usually made from aircraft-grade aluminum. This is tough but lightweight. The lenses are often made of glass. High-quality glass makes the image clearer and brighter.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Lens Coatings: Good coatings on the lenses help light pass through better. This makes the image brighter and clearer. It also helps reduce glare.
- Waterproofing and Fogproofing: Scopes built to be waterproof and fogproof can handle rain and humidity. This means they won’t fog up when the temperature changes.
- Shock Resistance: A scope that is shock-resistant can handle the recoil of your AR-15 without breaking.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Cheap Lens Materials: Plastic lenses or low-quality glass can make the image blurry or dim.
- Poor Construction: A scope that isn’t built well might break easily or not hold its zero (meaning the aiming point stays steady).
- Limited Adjustments: If the scope’s adjustments for windage and elevation are stiff or hard to use, it can be frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good hog hunting scope for an AR-15 is easy to use. You want to be able to quickly acquire your target. This means seeing your target clearly and being able to aim fast. For hog hunting, you might be in thick brush or open fields. Your scope should work well in both situations.
A scope with a lower magnification setting (like 1x) is great for fast-moving hogs that get close. A higher magnification helps you take accurate shots at farther distances. Many hunters prefer a scope that is simple to adjust. You don’t want to be fumbling with knobs when a hog is in your sights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best magnification range for hog hunting with an AR-15?
A: A variable magnification of 1-6x or 1-8x is usually ideal. This gives you flexibility for different shooting distances.
Q: Should I get a scope with an illuminated reticle?
A: Yes, an illuminated reticle can be very helpful for hunting hogs in low light conditions, like at dawn or dusk.
Q: How important is the objective lens size?
A: A larger objective lens (like 24mm or 32mm) lets in more light, which improves visibility in dim light.
Q: What makes a scope durable?
A: Durable scopes are made from strong materials like aircraft-grade aluminum and have good lens coatings and shock resistance.
Q: Can I use the same scope for other types of hunting?
A: Many AR-15 hog hunting scopes are versatile and can be used for other types of hunting or shooting.
Q: How do I clean my scope?
A: Use a soft lens cloth and lens cleaning solution. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Q: What is “eye relief”?
A: Eye relief is the distance from the eyepiece to your eye. You need enough to avoid the scope hitting your forehead.
Q: Is a higher magnification always better?
A: Not always. For close-range, fast-moving targets, lower magnification is often better for a wider field of view.
Q: What does “waterproof” mean for a scope?
A: It means the scope is sealed to prevent water from getting inside, even if it’s submerged.
Q: Where should I mount my scope on my AR-15?
A: The best position is usually on the flat-top receiver, allowing for proper eye relief and a clear sight picture.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.