I think you’ll agree with me when I say: Your choice of coyote scope determines how smooth your hunting experience will be. Coyotes are usually difficult to spot, especially if you’re hunting at night. But now, you can use night vision scopes to make the tides work in your favor.

Mounting the best ar 15 varmint scope will help you spot and kill a coyote with a high precision and accuracy level. Are you wondering how to get the Best Scope for Coyote Hunting with AR suited for your need? In this post, you’ll find some of the best AR-15 scopes for coyote hunting 2023. I’ll share some tips on how to choose the best ar 15 varmint scope.

Top 10 Best AR Scopes For Coyote Hunting 2023

1. Nikon P-Tactical .223

Did you know that most hunters around the world rely on Nikon’s lens to give them a high-performance scope? Yes, you heard that right. Nikon is known for high-resolution lenses that outperform other brands. 

If you’re looking for the best scope to complement the efficiency of your AR, then the Nikon’s P-Tactical BDC600 is the best choice. Not only is it perfect for hunting coyotes, but it is also reliable for varmint hunting.

I consider the P-Tactical BDC600 Riflescope to be one of the most suitable scopes for budget-conscious folks. The best part is that it is highly affordable and can outperform other more expensive scopes available in the market.

One feature I love about the Nikon’s P-Tactical BDC600 Riflescope is its elevation and windage adjustment dials. They come in the perfect size with complete large groves for more precise and accurate adjustments.

Pros

  • Top rated scope
  • The scope resets to zero
  • The lens quality is superb

Cons

  • Most people find the reticle to be too small for them

Takeway

The P-Tactical is a suitable choice for beginners and varmint hunters. Above all, it is an excellent coyote hunting scope with a high-resolution lens.

2. Simmons 8-Point

If there is one thing the Simmons brand is known for, it’s the production of high-quality scopes that are also highly affordable. The Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope is one of the best AR scopes for coyote hunting in the Simmons collection. 

It has an elegant design that makes it desirable for coyote hunting. The Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope has a large objective lens well suited for midnight hunting.  Therefore, the scope does not require any artificial illumination. 

The diameter of the lens is not the only feature worthy of mention. I also consider the build quality superb. 

Pros

  • Robust construction
  • The turrets are sharp and reliable
  • Excellent light transmissibility
  • High quality diameter lens

Cons

  • Reticle tends to get blurry when zoomed in

Takeway

The optical performance of the Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm RifleScope makes it a good scope for coyote hunting.

3. Vortex Optics Crossfire II

You’ll likely agree with me that everyone who hunts coyotes will want a scope that can optimize the precision and accuracy of the AR-15. The Vortex Optics Crossfire II is one such scope. 

Its aircraft-grade aluminum scope body makes it portable and easy to carry along for any hunting adventure. You do not need to bother about weather conditions because the device is covered with Vortex optics.

That’s not all………… The Vortex Optics Crossfire II comes with an FMC lens, which guarantees distortion-free images. Whether you’re aiming for close-range shots or long-range shots, you can be sure that this scope will give you a perfect view of the coyote. 

The reticle is crispy and makes you aim with much precision. I like what the Vortex does to the turrets. The capped design helps you to adjust the torrents with ease. 

Pros

  • It comes with capped dials
  • Robust construction
  • You view clear and sharp images via the lens
  • High-quality of the scope’s glass

Cons

  • No lens caps

Takeway

In my opinion, the Vortex Optics ii is the best ar 15 varmint scope. It is a top-notch all-around performing scope with a classic look that complements the elegance of the device.

4. Nikon Buckmasters II

If you’re looking for a high-quality scope but have a tight budget, I’ll suggest you choose this device. One impressive thing about the Nikon brand is that they are known for making scopes with high-quality.

Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9×40 BDC Reticle Riflescope is the best rifle scope for coyote hunting.  What really blew my mind was the Nikon’s BDC reticle. It comes with a simple design that makes it easier for beginners to handle. 

I also discovered that the Nikon Buckmasters II’s eye relief is super impressive. All the scopes I’ve seen have 3-inch relief, but this one comes with a 4-inch relief.

Pros

  • The scope is highly affordable
  • It has a robust and reliable construction
  • It has a unique reticle system
  • It comes with a clear FMC lens

Cons

  • It has a slight challenge withholding the zero

Takeway

Its inability to hold the zero is a big challenge. However, we still recommend it for people who want a reliable hunting scope because of its performance.

5. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle

The Vortex Optics Strike Eagle is the best choice for all those who love participating in group coyote hunts. It sits perfectly on the AR-15 to give precise and accurate shots all the time.

Just like every other Vortex Optics scope, this Strike Eagle Riflescope features a high-quality glass that makes it perfect for the price. It has a great illuminated reticle, which allows you to target your coyotes in broad daylight.

The scope also allows you to have precise shots through the crosshairs. I also appreciate the fact that Vortex Optics has an additional focal plane design. Even if you zoom in on the varmints, the reticle’s markings will never increase in size.

Pros

  • It has a robust construction
  • It comes with easy-to-turn dials
  • The reticle is very sharp and clear
  • Very precise timing characteristics
  • It has a high quality for its price

Cons

  • “Irregular” reticle design

Takeway

Although it has a distinctive reticle design, there’s no denying that the Vortex Optics is one of the best AR scopes. Its remarkable performance in coyote hunting is exceptional.

6. Trijicon TR24 AccuPoint

Trijicon TR24 AccuPoint 1-4×24 Dual-Illuminated Riflescope is Trijicon’s collection of the most reliable and dedicated coyote hunters. It comes with all the features you would expect to see in a good coyote hunting scope. 

 From its reticle’s performance and lens to its robust construction, the Trijicon TR24 RifleScope is every coyote hunter’s dream coyote scope. One thing that got me attracted to this scopes model is that it comes with various reticle options to choose from. This includes the German, the Duplex, and the unique triangle post. 

Each unit comes with a BAC triangle, similar to the Trijicon’s center dot. I also like the light-gathering capabilities of this riflescope. The fact that it holds zero is an added advantage.

Pros

  • Lightweight and solid construction
  • Good retention of the zero
  • Good quality of turrets
  • Bright and simple reticle
  • Distortion-free quality of the lens

Cons

  • The Illuminated triangle is not always visible in broad daylight

Takeway

My conclusion is that this great scope is one of the best scopes for coyote hunting. Not only is it highly efficient in hunting coyotes, but it also tracks down other varmints.

7. Leupold VX-Freedom

Are you looking for a smart scope for coyote hunting? Try the Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7x33mm Riflescope. It has every feature you desire to see in your dream coyote scope. 

The Leupold VX-Freedom has a very impressive lens quality,  featuring a unique light management system with a high magnification view when hunting. Although it’s not suitable for night-time hunting, it is your sure-bet for midnight hunting. 

The turrets feel pleasant to operate, and the reticle is so easy to operate that even a 12-year-old child will find it easy to use the scope for hunting.

Pros

  • It comes with easy adjustments
  • Crisp turrets
  • Ease of operation
  • Clear reticle
  • Efficient light management system

Cons

  • It does not have a parallax adjustment

Takeway

The fact remains that the Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7x33mm remains tremendous scope for coyote with or without focus dial. Its unique light management system makes it a dependable device for hunting coyotes and other predators at dusk.

8. ATN X-Sight II HD

If you’re looking for the best scope suited for night-time hunting, then the ATN X-Sight II HD 5-20 Smart Day/Night Rifle Scope is your best choice. It’s a night vision scope that’s well suited for coyote hunting and for hunting other predators also. It’s the dream device of every coyote hunter.

As a high-quality coyote scope, it delivers excellent all-night and all-day performance that conventional scopes can never beat. Even scopes with large objectives or those with the multi-coated lens can never perform like the X-Sight II HD.

The best part? The ATN X-Sight II HD 5-20 is a daytime scope that doubles a reliable night vision scope. Its versatility helps hunters to shoot all types of varmints.

The scope comes with some advanced accessories that make it a great entertainment device while you hunt. You get to enjoy Wi-Fi streaming, recording capabilities, and many other entertaining features. 

Pros

  • It has a ballistic calculator for more precise shots
  • It features live streaming capabilities
  • It comes with other advanced accessories and technology
  • HD-quality images for both daytime and night-time hunting
  • Excellent optics for a digital device

Cons

  • Very heavy

Takeway

Despite its heavyweight, it remains one of the best scopes for coyote hunting. It comes with all the features to make you enjoy your hunting experience both day and night.

9. Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn

Most people think selecting the best scope for coyote hunting is all about its affordability. But the fact is that it goes beyond that. You need a device with exceptional light gathering features and capabilities. This is where the Bushnell Banner 3-9×40 Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope comes to play.

In my opinion, the Banner Dusk & Dawn is the best scope for hunting predators. Its light-gathering capabilities are top-notch, and it also has excellent optical quality. You will not need to mount other fancy thermal imaging gadgets on your AR as you would with other brands. 

Hunting coyotes and other varmints that prowl the ground at dawn or dusk will be a lot easier with this exceptional device. It performs well whether you’re in low or bright light conditions.

One thing I love about the Bushnell Banner is its Dusk & Dawn depth. It makes coyote sighting through the scope highly efficient. The best part is that the scope retains zero even after making tens of shots.

Pros

  • It has a high-focus eyepiece
  • Guaranteed zero holding
  • The light gathering capacity of the scope is superb

Cons

  • When the scope is set at high magnification, it distorts most images

Takeway

The distortion in the image quality is not enough to issue to affect this scope’s overall performance. In my opinion, it is still a dependable device for hunting coyotes and all other creatures alike.

10. Trijicon ACOG

If you’re looking for a smart coyote scope for ar 15, then Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35 Riflescope got you covered. It is the preferred CQB sight for most special forces across the world. 

And if military special forces and experts love the sight, there’s no reason why you wouldn’t either. 

It comes with a fixed lens that allows you to spot your target faster without dial settings. 

Even if you’re not shooting close range, you can still rely on this reticle’s markings. The scope’s reticle has both ranging and bullet drop capabilities for better shot accuracy and precision. 

Pros

  • It has a robust construction
  • It does not need an external power supply to illuminate the reticle
  • Multifunctional reticle
  • The scope has an ultra-modern tactical look

Cons

  • You cannot adjust the brightness of the reticle manually

Takeway

The Trijicon ACOG is a high-quality scope for coyote hunting. You can spot your coyote with a high level of precision and accuracy.

Buying Guide to Best Scope for Coyote Hunting with AR. What factors to keep in mind?

Most people go for coyote hunting out of the fun. But as a skilled coyote hunter, you need to get the right device with the best optics for AR-15 coyote hunting.

But how do you know the best AR-15 scope for Coyote hunting? To help you determine this, I have put up some specific factors you must consider when purchasing.

The price

This is one of the first factors you must keep in mind before buying any scope for hunting. You need to make up your mind on how much you’re willing to spend on a scope based on your budget. The fact remains that scopes can be pretty expensive. You should choose a budget-friendly scope that offers the highest value for money. 

Even if you’re on a tight budget, there are many affordable scopes you can get within the range of your budget. However, you must note that the higher the quality, the higher the price you have to pay, and the better the performance it offers.

Magnification

I can’t emphasize this enough. Getting a good scope for coyote hunting is all about finding the scope with the right magnification. This, to me, is the most crucial factor you should consider before buying any scope device. One of the main reasons why hunters experience difficulty during their hunting experience is probably because they chose a scope with the wrong magnification on their hunting scope.

Before purchasing a coyote hunting scope, you must first determine the geographical location in which you’ll be using it. Are you planning to use it for hunting in woodlands, wide-open plains, or swampy regions? Whichever is the case, you must note that there is different magnification suitable for different locations.  

Reticle

The reticle magnification is another critical factor you must consider when choosing the best scope for coyote hunting. The reticle helps you automatically determine the bullet drop, estimate distance, and adjust for wind movement.

Here’s the deal…. Most manufacturers advertise that the best AR-15 coyote hunting scope is automatically tuned to your loaded bullet. However, this is not always the case. The wisest thing to do is purchase a scope with a reticle that you’re most comfortable with. This will position you to perform better while hunting.

Contrast and Clarity

Most brands of AR-15 coyote hunting scope are designed with valuable glasses. As a good coyote hunter, contrast and clarity should be part of your topmost priority. A glass with good clarity and contrast should be multi-coated and shouldn’t wash out colors. 

As much as possible, stay away from scopes that are just single coated. You must ensure that you choose a scope that is also anti-fog. This will help you not lose sight of your target, especially when the weather is not too friendly.

Light-gathering

Why does this matter? It is a fact that most varmints and coyotes are livelier at dawn or dusk. Therefore, if you want to have an added advantage when hunting, use scopes with useful light gathering capabilities. This can be achieved by going for scopes with a large-sized objective lens. With this in place, you’ll have a smooth hunting experience.

FAQs

What Makes a Great AR-15 Coyote Hunting Scope?

Choosing a scope with the best optic, reticle, or magnification is not just what makes a great AR-15 coyote hunting scope. If you’re a coyote hunter or a newbie hunter, you need to know exactly what to look out for in a scope.

Some of the things to look out for in a significant scope are its multi-coated lenses and easy adjustments. The portability and weight of the scope are also other factors to consider before making any purchase. 

The lens should also be coated against fog, and the scope should have both weatherproof and shockproof if you want to outlive two hunting seasons.

What Magnification Do You Need?

In my opinion, the magnification of the scope is the most important factor you must keep in mind as you make a purchase. When it comes to magnification, the amount needed varies based on a lot of factors.

The first factor is the environment you’ll be hunting. If you wish to hunt in the Deep South, do not choose close range optics. You should probably go for a high-quality scope with a 3x-9x magnification. If you are hunting on Great Plains, most of your shots will likely need to go as far as 400 yards. Therefore, you need a scope with a magnification of about 14x-20x.

Your personal preference is the second factor that determines the type of magnification you eventually choose. Yes, you heard that right; it is better to choose a magnification that you’re comfortable with. It helps you to perform better. Most coyote hunters prefer to use a scope with a magnification of 4x-14x. This is because it is suitable for both long and close-range shots.

Conclusion

The AR-15 is an excellent weapon for both hunters and special forces. It is a versatile weapon, and one way to enhance its performance is to get the right accessory to go with it. If you love hunting for coyotes or other varmints, you need the best coyote hunting scope.

There are different brands of AR-15 coyote hunting scopes available on the market. And sometimes you might even get confused not knowing which one to choose. But I believe the reviews and buyers guide I shared in this post will help you choose the Best Scope for Coyote Hunting with AR. Feel free to share your experience with me in the comment section below.