AR scope help...

[bigbob76]

I need a basic education for mounting a low power scope on an AR. My vision is failing and iron sights are not practical for me beyond about 25 feet. I've mounted red dots and 2x scopes on my .22 pistols and that works for me. I'm wondering about mounting a low power scope on my flat top AR and need to know if it needs a riser under it. Should it be a conventional or long eye relief? Us old guys have a different set of problems to deal with if we want to keep shooting. Can anybody help me with this?

[maxicon]

Low power scopes are very handy on ARs, and can really help those of us with failing eyesight. I'm especially fond of my Millet DMS-1.

Most people want the centerline height of AR optics to be around 1.4" above the rail, so that'll need a riser if you're using traditional rings.

Likewise, many need the scope to be further forward than you can get with just rings on the rail, and use one-piece mounts or extended rail and ring combos. Longer eye relief makes this worse, requiring expensive extended mounts.

For people who shoot NTCH (nose to charging handle), most magnified scopes need a good bit of forward offset. If you shoot further back, you can get by with less offset.

Here's the Big List of AR15 one-piece mounts, including sections on rings and extended rails:

http://www.maxicon.com/guns/optics/one_piece/ar15_onepiece_mounts.htm

[kajvid]

Low power scopes are very handy on ARs, and can really help those of us with failing eyesight. I'm especially fond of my Millet DMS-1.

+1 for the DMS-1! I have had mine (via Bud's) for about a month. Very nice. My one complaint might be that the adjustment from 1x - 4x is a "smooth" movement. I think I'd prefer it to have a "click" feedback.
Minor gripe!

[bigbob76]

Thanks Maxicon. That link is a lot of info all in one place.

[randy]

Maxicon I've read some of your posts re: optics and you're making me lazy. Next time I have a question I'll just shoot you a PM.

Thanks for all the help.

[maxicon]

I'm always happy to answer PMs, but there's a lot to be gained from having the discussion on the forum. Lots of lurkers who get the info that way, and lots of other people with good experiences (including you!) who are willing to chime in.

Anyway, it's a jungle out there in AR optics - keep us posted on your experiences!