What height of scope rings for flattop AR?

[23 Blast]

Hello - yesterday I went plinking at the range with my recently acquired AR. Happy to say it functioned flawlessly without malfunction, but the optic I had on it was a 2x Tru-Glo red dot I had laying around and slapped on it. I decided I prefer a magnified scope but when I took off the red dot, I realized that all the rings I have are low-height ones. I'd have to really scrunch down to get a good sight picture with any of the rings I currently have. I already have a number of scopes I want to try out, but any suggestions on that end would be appreciated as well. In particular, I prefer a short, compact scope. I think ARs that look like they have the Griffith Observatory Telescope on top just look funny (in addition to the added weight and awkwardness).

[mnguyen84]

i'm not sure, but I use these: http://www.midwayusa.com/product/155...included-matte

[r3dn3ck]

that completely depends on which scope you use. You're coming at the problem backwards. Buy a scope, then find rings that will suit the need.

Personally I use Burris Signature Series Zee rings in "high" with 30MOA dialed in with inserts for a 40mm objective bell and have very very little clearance between the objctive bell and the rail. Remember, it's not just the rated objective size (40,44,50mm, etc...), you also have to add usually 1.5mm or more for the thickness of the scope tube.

[23 Blast]

I guess what I'm asking is what height of scope ring would bring the centerline of a scope (with a standard 1" tube) to the same height over flattop that iron sights do?

[ironhiide]

I guess what I'm asking is what height of scope ring would bring the centerline of a scope (with a standard 1" tube) to the same height over flattop that iron sights do?

Again, that depends on the scope. It doesnt matter about the the scope's tube diameter, its the objective that determines ring height.

[23 Blast]

Errr - let's try this again. If I were to mount backup iron sights on my flattop AR, and mount a scope in front of it, what height rings would I need for them to co-witness? That was the thrust of my question.

Or are there BUIS where there are different heights as well?

[Merc1138]

Errr - let's try this again. If I were to mount backup iron sights on my flattop AR, and mount a scope in front of it, what height rings would I need for them to co-witness? That was the thrust of my question.

Or are there BUIS where there are different heights as well?

It would depend on the diameter of the ocular end(the part you look through) and how tall the BUIS are when folded(yes, it varies).

As someone already said, buy the scope first(or find the dimensions online) then get the rings that put the scope where your eye is, or as low as possible.

As far as short and compact magnified scopes go... unless you get something with really low magnification, even a 1-4x scope is going to have a bit of length to it(varies between different brands).

Go shopping for a scope, get the measurements, then get rings that go with it.

[Coyotegunner]

All the ARs I have,I use extra high Millets.They are made for ARs.I know it is wrong,but I use the scope as a carry handle sometimes.The extra highs put the center of any scope at the correct height.The new dedicated one like BURRIS PEPR or Nikon or Stoner are good also.Stoners were $50 from Midway on sale.ARs are different than other rifles due to the head straight up shooting position.I use Zeiss Conquest 3-9s on the light models due to their low weight and clarity.Burris signature 6-24s on the heavy models.A couple I have used Weaver 1-3s.If you get near me I can show you.I went through a lot of them over the years.The other option is getting a cheek rest that brings your cheek weld up.

[ScottsBad]

You can't co-witness with a magnified scope.

[cayotehunter]

The RRA cantilever mount is pretty nice IMO its a good option to the Burris PEPR if you cant spend the extra $

[OpticsPlanet]

"Errr - let's try this again. If I were to mount backup iron sights on my flattop AR, and mount a scope in front of it, what height rings would I need for them to co-witness? That was the thrust of my question."

You don't co-witness iron sights with a magnified optic. You co-witness with a 1X (non-magnified) optic.

As far as ring heights on a flat top, we recommend the use of extra-high rings.

Because the barrel is parallel with the stock, and the original rifle design had the sights in the carry handle, it is necessary to use the extra-high rings so that you can see through the scope - otherwise, you cannot get your eye low enough to see through the sight. A traditional rifle has a "drop" to the stock comb, which lowers your cheek and head, and can use much lower rings.

Mark H.

[marcusrn]

Thank you Mark H. Aptly explained.
I have had good history with your outfit OpticsPlanet.Great prices and service.
Marcus

[Mail Clerk]

Errr - let's try this again. If I were to mount backup iron sights on my flattop AR, and mount a scope in front of it, what height rings would I need for them to co-witness? That was the thrust of my question.

Or are there BUIS where there are different heights as well?

23Blast,

I would get a set of "high rings" generally termed. When you look into you want to co-witness the front post well under the scope reticle.

Mail Clerk

[jm13690]

Why not just get the Burris PEPR? Good price for it on Botach.

http://www.burrisoptics.com/arpepr.html

[Seesm]

Why not just get the Burris PEPR? Good price for it on Botach.

http://www.burrisoptics.com/arpepr.html

I like that one.....