You’re looking for the best red dot sights for AR-15 with a fixed front sight. And that very fact speaks volumes about your current concerns and struggles.
Perhaps, you have been on a long-range shooting session lately and have been nothing but utterly disappointed by your performance? Or perhaps, you can’t seem to get to that satisfying level of accuracy. Isn’t that so?
Well, in either case, we are glad to welcome you here. This page holds every single thing you need to know about AR 15’s accuracy. From the best options for red dot sights to a comprehensive guide about choosing the right one for yourself, we’ve got it all here.
So, let’s get straight to it!
Top 7 Best Red Dot Sights for AR 15 with Fixed Front Sight
Table showing the Best Red Dot Sight for AR 15 with Fixed Front Sight with a quick comparison table listing all their key features.
| Product | Key Features | Rating |
| Vortex Optics Crossfire | Excellent battery life Lightweight Design Night Vision settings 11-illumination settings Easy Installation Compatible with gun and rifle | 4.7 |
| Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 | Water & Shockproof Value for money Decent battery Impressive accuracy Lightweight | 4.5 |
| Vortex Optics SPARC | Comes with accessories Impressive accuracy Compact & lightweight Convenient controls Unlimited warranty. | 4.8 |
| Vortex Optics Strikefire II | Affordable Two reticule color options Easy to operate Extended battery life Versatile operation Lifetime Warranty | 4.7 |
| HOLOSUN – HS510C | Inexpensive Non-parallax Easy targeting auto-brightness settings Tough and durable Backup solar power | 4.8 |
| AT3 LEOS | Two in one Tough body Built-in laser Good battery life Shockproof Height adjustable | 4.6 |
| Aimpoint PRO | Sharp optics Lens cover Good battery duration Easy and convenient mounting Strong metal body Good brightness range | 4.8 |
1. Vortex Optics Crossfire Gen II best red dot for ar
Vortex is by far amongst reputable names in the hunting gear industry. If you have a gun or rifle accessory made by Vortex on the shelf, you could pick one up without furrowing a brow. And that explains why three of Vortex sight products made it to our list of best red dot sight for AR-15 with a fixed front sight.
Beginning with Vortex Optics Crossfire Red Dot sight Gen II – this beauty is an absolute have for seasoned users who need a tough red dot sight for maximum accuracy. Built from aluminum material, it is light in weight. But undeniably durable.
It comes with hard-coat adonization, which camouflages position. Its O-ring seals bring about waterproof performance by preventing dust, debris, and moisture from affecting other components.
Plus, it measures 4.7 x 5.65 x 2.7 inches, which makes it quite compact as well. Thus, making mounting and handling all the easier.
For installation, you need not gather any tools except a hex wrench. Just fasten the unit to the base such that it sits on the right side of the illumination dial. It will give unlimited eye relief, which is plentiful for a seasoned user. Next, tighten the base clamp bolt with a hex wrench.
With that said, the battery life is incredible! With 50000 hours to spare, you could leave the Vortex Crossfire Gen II on without worries.
However, the brightness settings knob may feel too stiff to turn, making adjustments difficult. But the controls offered are truly liberating. You could adjust it for up to 11 illumination settings as need be.
Plus, for accuracy adjustments, you have windage and elevation dials. Both of which provide a diversity of controls. You could adjust it for as close as 25 yards or as far away as 100 yards. And with its 1x magnification, you would still have an absolutely clear view for target adjustments.
2. Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 – Best scope for ar 15 with fixed front sight
Here come the best budget red dot sights for AR-15 with Fixed Front Sight you could get on a minimal budget. It’s a go-to companion if you wish to hunt in deep, thick woods late in the night vision.
Its Amber-Bright optics equip the user enough to be able to differentiate even between the shades of colors. With this installed on your AR 15, you could conveniently tell a brown animal apart from a brown tree.
The fully multi-coated lenses of this red dot optic provide a crystal clear view. Thus, providing impeccable accuracy even as you hunt at long distances in the dark.
Along the same lines, the red dot of TRS-25 is just as stunning. You can tune the red dot size of the scope as per your target and preferences using the convenient adjustable knob. 10 MOA would do well for immediately hit targets, while 1 MOA serves well for precision shooting.
Even though the red dot reticle is crisp, the red dot may get disturbed if the intensity of the red dot fails to correspond with ambient light. So, you ought to be a bit careful when adjusting that.
As for the construction, Bushnell takes pride in announcing that their lightweight red dot sights for AR 15 can practically take anything and everything. Its O-ring sealed optics would remain dry inside even if you immerse it fully in water. Secondly, any amount of turbulence in the environment won’t threaten this scope stability. It can withstand all sorts of falls and bangs without a scratch.
It is the cheap red dot sight currently available in the market.
3. Vortex Optics SPARC Gen II- AR 15 optics with fixed front sight
Here’s to the second Vortex champion in our list of best red dot sight for AR 15. Although it may be a bit expensive than the former version, it offers occasional hunters a more convenient and promising hunting experience.
The primary reason we’d recommend this great red dot sight to occasional hunters is the long battery life and the overall construction of this unit. It’s all set to deal with intensive rough and tough but not repeatedly.
You could expect its aluminum body to withstand a fair amount of bangs, falls, and thuds. The 7.5 ounces body that measures 5.6 x 4.65 x 2.7 inches in length, width, and height offer decent resistance against shocks. You needn’t worry when the impact of recoil is ever so slightly extra.
Plus, the O-rings keep the dust from penetrating the base. Thus, bringing about a waterproof performance.
The battery life is similar to Crossfire. You get about 50000 hours in the lowest settings. But in the highest, you get about 700 hours.
We love the fact that you get about ten different illumination settings. And with the lowest two, you can benefit from the night-vision functionality of this red dot sight.
The windage and elevation controls are found on the top and the left side, respectively. Their positioning is highly convenient in terms of a rifle operators’ hand reach.
It also comes with an auto-timer that turns it off after every 12 hours. It does so to save the battery from draining away unnecessarily. However, some users find this rather annoying as they have to switch it on again and again.
Moreover, with the package, you will receive a complete multi-height mount system, triple-A batteries, a T10 Torx wrench, and a rubber cover with a flip-up lens cap. Although the unit’s label price appears a bit expensive, we believe including these accessories does justice to the $200 figure.
Also, unlike Vortex Crossfire Red Dot Sights Gen II, this one is not compatible with both guns and rifles. It is highly specific, particularly designed to meet the needs of AR 15 red dot. So you cannot expect it to be versatile. But it will maximize the accuracy of AR 15.
4. Vortex Optics Strikefire II – optics for ar 15 with fixed front sight
Vortex Optics Strikefire II is Vortex’s perfect red dot sight for rifle users of all levels. Yup, that’s correct. This phenomenal unit is extraordinarily versatile and flexible in its functionality.
Externally, Strikefire II features an aluminum body that weighs around 7.2 ounces, which is heavy compared to the average. But it gives the red dot sight its strength and durability.
Dimensionally as well, the Vortex Strikefire II is a bit larger than others. It has a length of 5.6 inches and a width of 6.25 inches. Irrespective of these dimensions, we guarantee that the piece will be super easy to maneuver and handle, owing to its thoughtful weight distribution and construction.
The eyepiece lens measures about 1.8 inches, and the objective lens measures 1.45 inches. Plus, it comes with two reticule color options, i.e., red and green, making it perfect for almost all users. You could switch to the color of convenience as per your environment. Vortex even made the installation process easier by providing a Cantilever mount with this red dot sight.
But then there may be a question lingering at the back of your mind, why didn’t Strikefire II made it to our best pick? What keeps this ever-so-versatile red dot sight back?
Well, it’s the precision and 12-hour shutdown mechanism that keeps it back. Comparing this to Vortex’s best manufacturers of all times, i.e., Crossfire, Strikefire II has a 4 MOA dot which may be a little too large for precision shooting, particularly for intermediate distances.
As for the 12-hour automatic shutdown, it saves the battery life and extends it admirably. You can expect Crossfire to deliver a battery time of 80,000 hours, while most others only offer 50,000 hours. At the lowest settings, it delivers 7000 hours. However, the auto-off function proves to be irritable for frequent and intensive users. An auto-on functionality would’ve been great.
Plus, like other Vortex products, you get a lifetime warranty for this one too. So, along with being a reasonable purchase, it is also a safe purchase! Go in swinging, without a worry!
5. HOLOSUN – HS510C Reflex Red Dot Sight
If you are looking for the best red dot sights for hunting that don’t destroy your budget, then we will tell you to go and grab Holosun HS 510C. This red dot sight gives perfect aiming and shooting experience for long barrel guns.
Talking about its structure, the body of this site is made up of aluminum. For sight protection, you’ll find a hood on top of it that improves shooting. Its construction is robust that why even if you throw it several times, you won’t see any breakage except for some scratches on the body. Along with these qualities, this weight is almost five pounds.
The aiming can get no more perfect with its anti-parallax, which doesn’t change aim when changing eye. Along with fantastic effects, the reticle is composed of 65 MOA circles, two MOA dots, and a combination of both. This unique reticle works excellent for people who have astigmatism.
The reason it is cheaper than many photographic red dot sights is that it isn’t holographic. It replicates its formula like in the pistol optic, therefore reducing its prices.
The long battery life of fifty thousand hours on medium brightness settings is optimal for long hours of hunting and shooting ranges. Moreover, the auto-sensing shuts the scope five minutes after being moved, saving more battery.
This sight comes with ten daylight and two-night vision compatible settings. These sights are waterproof and can immerse in water up to one-meter depth for the time duration of half-hour. When you pull it back, it will be functioning the same.
6. AT3 LEOS Red Dot Sight
At3 LEOS is a major hit among the hunters because of its two-in-one benefits. This site includes a red or green laser with a red dot. This makes aiming extremely simple while you are in motion.
Like other red dot sights, this sight is also a major hit as it gives sharp shooting while keeping both your eyes open. Moreover, you don’t need a specific set of distance to hold from this red dot sight, making it easier to use.
The mounting is relatively simple. Moreover, the high adjustment feature can improve targets in many environmental conditions. No matter how do you mount, this sight is strong enough to bear heavy firing recoils. All these qualities make it a suitable suitor for snipers and large rifles.
Talking about its reticle, it comes with two MOA red dots that improve aiming. This sight is waterproof as it is nitrogen purged and gives a perfect aim in extremely moist conditions because its fog proof.
The impressive battery life of fifty thousand hours is good like any other premium sight. This battery time can reduce when you use a red dot or green laser to forty or eight hours. So, to respect your choice, you can use the laser or red dots one at a time or both simultaneously.
This site is shockproof till 800G. Furthermore, the sturdy body can bear any traumas without damaging itself. This sight screen comes with a cap to protect the lens when not in use. Overall, comparing its price and features is a steal deal, and one must not let it go out of hand.
7. Aimpoint PRO Red Dot Reflex Sight
It is a high-quality, non-parallax best red dot sight that gives no-frills and a highly focused aim. It is a perfect choice for hunting and military-style shooting and is mainly used for self-defense purposes.
The reticle size is two MOA which is a good size for precision shooting without missing out. This reticle is complimented with the tinted optic sight that reduces haze and increases aim in broad daylight. With these added features, you can fire quickly up to two hundred yards with a hundred percent accuracy.
This red dot traditional reflex sight is lightweight and easy to mount on rifles and long barrel guns. Along with that, there is almost nine brightness level present in it. Out of nine, five are for daylight aiming while the rest are opted nigh aiming. These levels are accompanied by five brightness adjustments ranging from low to high lighting.
A significant advantage of these red dot sights is that they are highly submersible in water (almost up to 150 feet) without losing their function. So even if there’s a ton of moisture surrounding your rifle, you won’t find it hard to hit a perfect bullseye.
It comes with a big knob on its side used to attach the red dot sight on long barrel guns. For some people, this knob is not pleasing when coming to anesthetics, but other than that, it gives firm adherence to the weapon without falling off.
If we spotlight its battery life, we’ll see that it can perform up to thirty thousand hours and moderate brightness. It has a super-strong body that can bear a ton of traumas without losing its color or shape, making it extra long-lasting.
Red Dot Sight Buyer’s Guide – How to Choose a Red Dot Sights?
Alright, so now you know the top seven red dot sights you can get for your AR 15. But how do you narrow down this massive pool of goodness to one? How do you pick one that’s best for you?
We guessed such a question popping up in a serious AR 15 red dot user’s mind, and so we kept this comprehensive buying guide all set and ready. Read on to unravel what exactly you should look for when choosing a red dot sight for your AR 15.
Size
The very first aspect that you need to consider is the size of the scope tube. Fundamentally, it is the scope tube that holds all components in their proper place. Plus, it determines the size of rings and bases.
It comes in two sizes, including:
- One inch
- 30 mm
For a one-inch scope tube, you will require one ring and bases. And the same applies to 30 mm. Any non-corresponding components will make the installation process difficult.
Quality
Next, you need to assess the quality of the red dot. Check if the red dot sights that you wish to purchase feature a durable exterior or not.
Usually, a red dot sights body features aluminum material or a similar metal alloy, which works fine. For durability, you can check out review claims, as well as the company’s stance on the subject. If they promise durability and even offer a warranty plan, you’re good to go with your selected option.
Another preference that you need to keep in check is the weight relative to the size. The smaller and lighter the red dot sight, the better it will be. Ideally, you should look for a red dot sight that weighs four ounces or less.
Weather Resistance
Weatherproof exterior or weather resistance is second in line when it comes to quality checks. Since you will have a lot of outdoor interaction and activity, having a weatherproof and fog proof body is an absolute necessity.
Otherwise, excessive exposure to moisture or heat may adversely impact the body. And thus, consequently affecting the performance of the red dot optics. Given you’ll be spending a decent amount of money, we’d advise you to keep weather resistance and fog proof as a primary need when buying a red dot sight for AR 15, particularly if you use your rifle a lot.
Field of View
Field of View, also known as FOV, refers to the measured area visible to your eye as you look through your optic. On average, a user could visualize everything on the left and right situated about 100 yards away through the FOV.
To understand how this works, you ought to know that there’s another important parameter that you will always have to consider, i.e., magnification—the greater the magnification, the lesser the field of view (which is not good). Increasing the magnification extensively brings about the tunneling effect, which may mess up your aim.
Hence, for a more accurate shot at your target, it’s best to keep the magnification between 1x to 2.5x. And this is particularly true if you want are aiming between 50 – 150 yards for quick target acquisition speed.
Power Ring
Power Ring of a red dot sight refers to the control knob on your scope that allows you to adjust magnification (or, it doesn’t).
Technically, there are two types of power rings. These include:
- Fixed Power Rings
- Adjustable power rings
If you are comfortable working with a fixed magnification, the first one will do fine. However, if you need to adjust your view now and then, you may want to get a red dot sight with an adjustable power ring.
Price & Brand
Price and brand of the red dot sight have a direct relation with the quality and performance. By the rule of the thumb, the more you spend, the better performance you’ll get. And the more trusting and reputable the brand is, the longer the red dot sight’s accuracy will last. Some of the names that we trust include Holosun, Vortex, Aimpoint red dots.
Conclusion
Conclusively, having the best red dot sight for AR-15 with fixed front sight is a must if you wish to up the level of accuracy and thrill you have in your hunting sessions. It does not only contribute to your expertise level but also assists you with your learning experience. With that said, if multiple options leave you baffled, we’d recommend you to either try Crossfire or Strikefire red dot. But if you wish to invest in a good red dot sight specific to your needs, then compare your needs to strong suits of the red dot sights reviewed above.
FAQs
Will the front sight on an AR-15 interfere with a red dot?
Nope, it wouldn’t! In some cases, the users prefer dismounting the front sight when equipping the rifle with a red dot. However, in this case, you have a fixed front sight. So, that option is out-ruled. Irrespective of that, you can still have both on your rifle and operate without any interruptions or worry.
Is there an ideal red dot sight for AR-15?
Well, we’ve mentioned all the very best red dot sights for AR-15 up above. However, if you’d ask us to pick just one from the many, then we’d recommend Vortex Crossfire! The latter is economical and super convenient to use for both beginners and experts. The accuracy, without a doubt, is incomparable!
Should I opt for a scope or red dot for my AR?
It depends on your usage. Generally, both scopes and red dots come into use for enhancing the accuracy of AR 15.
However, to improve accuracy for a distance of 0 to 50 yards, you should opt for a red dot sight. But to improve accuracy for 50-100 yards or more, then a magnified scope will serve your needs better.
Should I opt for a red dot or a green dot?
Usually, it’s the red dot that comes into use. And that’s because it’s easy to locate. It’s easier for the eye to identify the red dot as compared to the green. So, in both low-light conditions as well as daytime, the red dot works great. However, if camouflaging or blending your aim in the environment is the concern, you should opt for a green dot.
