Whether you are brand new to the AR-15 platform or have been building rifles since dial-up internet, one thing remains true: the right sight can make or break your shooting experience. As Director of Training at C2 Tactical, I have seen hundreds of shooters come through our ranges with every optic under the sun—and I have seen what works, what does not, and what is worth your hard-earned money. So, let’s break it down. Here is what you need to know when choosing a sight for your AR-15.
Iron Sights: The Old School Still Has Its Place
Do not underestimate good iron sights. Flip-up or fixed, these are rugged, reliable, and battery-free. They are especially useful as backups (BUIS) if your optic fails. I always recommend having a set of irons as insurance, even if you are running a high-end red dot or scope.
Best For: Beginners, purists, or anyone running a lightweight, budget-friendly build
Pro Tip: Learn to zero and shoot accurately with irons first—it will make you a better shooter with any optic.
Red Dot Sights: Fast, Simple, and Effective
For home defense, competition, or close-quarters battle (CQB), a red dot sight is often the best option. They are fast on target, offer unlimited eye relief, and work great in low light. The key is quality. I have seen students get frustrated with cheap optics that will not hold zero or die mid-class.
Best For: Close-to mid-range shooting (0–100 yards)
Recommended Models: Aimpoint PRO, Holosun 510C, Trijicon MRO
Pro Tip: Pair it with a magnifier if you want versatility out to 200+ yards.
LPVOs (Low Power Variable Optics): One Gun to Rule Them All
The LPVO (like a 1-6x or 1-8x) gives you the best of both worlds—red dot speed on 1x and precision on higher magnification. These are great for shooters who want to reach out past 300 yards without losing close-range capability.
Best For: Do-it-all rifles, patrol rifles, 3-gun competition
Recommended Models: Vortex Viper PST, Primary Arms SLx, Trijicon Credo
Pro Tip: Invest in a good mount. A cheap mount on a great LPVO is like putting bald tires on a Ferrari.
Prism Scopes: Compact and Crystal Clear
Prism optics (like the ACOG or Primary Arms SLx 3x) are fixed magnification sights known for their clarity and durability. These are great if you have astigmatism or want something tougher than a red dot but simpler than an LPVO.
Best For: Tactical use, law enforcement, or anyone who wants “set it and forget it” simplicity
Pro Tip: Many prism optics come with etched reticles that still function without a battery—huge bonus.
Holographic Sights: Red Dot with a Tech Upgrade
Unlike a traditional red dot, holographic sights use a laser to project the reticle. The result? Faster target acquisition and better performance with a magnifier.
Best For: Serious tactical use, or shooters with astigmatism
Recommended Models: EOTech EXPS3, Vortex UH-1
Pro Tip: Battery life is not as long as red dots—keep a spare.
Final Thoughts: What Do You Need It For?
At C2 Tactical, we always start with one question: “What’s the mission?” Is this a home-defense gun? A range toy? A duty rifle? Your answer should drive your optic choice. There is no single “best” sight for everyone—but there is a best sight for you.
And if you are still not sure? Come by one of our training classes. We will help you zero, test, and even run side-by-side comparisons on our ranges so you can see what feels right. We do not just sell gear—we teach you how to use it with confidence.
Stay sharp and shoot straight.