When it comes to maximizing the potential of your 5.56x45mm rifle, choosing the right scope is paramount. This article on the Best Scope for 5.56x45mm will take you through scopes that are favored by sports shooters, hunters, and tactical enthusiasts alike and are top-notch scopes that can significantly enhance your accuracy and shooting experience. So, let’s delve into the world of optics and discover the ideal companions for your 5.56x45mm rifle.
What Does 5.56 x45 Mean?
The term “5.56×45” refers to a specific caliber of ammunition used primarily in firearms. The “5.56” denotes the diameter of the bullet in millimeters, which is approximately 5.56 millimeters (or about 0.218 inches). The “45” represents the length of the cartridge case, measured in millimeters.
In addition, this caliber is widely used in military and civilian firearms, particularly in rifles and carbines. It’s also known for its versatility, flat trajectory, and relatively low recoil, making it a popular choice for various applications, including military and law enforcement operations, target shooting, hunting, and self-defense.
What Caliber is 5.56 Ammo Equal to?
The 5.56x45mm NATO (5.56 NATO) and the .223 Remington are closely related and often confused due to their similarities. Both have a bullet diameter of approximately 5.56 millimeters (or about 0.218 inches), thus making them virtually identical in size.
How to Choose The Best Scope for 5.56x45mm
When selecting the best scope for a 5.56x45mm rifle considering various factors is crucial to ensure it complements the rifle’s capabilities and suits your specific shooting needs. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:
- Purpose and Use
First, consider how you intend to use the rifle. Are you primarily targeting long-range precision shooting, hunting, tactical applications, or general-purpose use?
- Magnification Range
Choose the magnification range that is suitable for your shooting activities. For mid-range shooting and versatility, a scope with a variable magnification range like 3-9x or 2.5-10x is often a good choice. For long-range precision shooting, higher magnification scopes like 4-16x or 6-24x may be more suitable.
- Optical Quality and Coatings
Look for scopes with high-quality glass and fully multi-coated lenses to ensure excellent light transmission, clarity, and reduced glare. These features are crucial for accurate aiming and target acquisition.
- Durability and Weather Resistance
Always ensure the scope is durable, shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof to withstand the recoil and various weather conditions. A rugged construction ensures longevity and reliability.
- Budget and Brand Reputation
Set a budget based on your preferences and requirements. Consider reputable and trusted brands known for producing reliable and high-quality scopes.
Best Scope for 5.56x45mm
1) Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Rifle Scope
The Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Rifle Scope is a highly regarded optic designed for precision shooting and hunting applications.
The scope boasts a versatile magnification range of 3.5-10x, offering a balance between close to mid-range targeting and moderate zoom for extended shots.
The 40mm objective lens diameter, allows for excellent light transmission, thus ensuring a clear and bright image even in challenging lighting conditions.
Optically, the Scope excels with its high-quality glass and multi-coated lenses. The lenses reduce glare and improve light transmission, providing a sharp and vibrant sight picture.
It is also constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, ensuring durability while keeping the overall weight manageable. Features shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof, making it reliable and functional in various environmental conditions.
Specifications
- Magnification: 3.5 – 10 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm
- Tube Diameter: 1 inches
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 11.43 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 11 – 29.9 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 4.4 – 3.6 inches
- Weight: 12.6 oz
- Length: 12.6 inches
Pros
- Has Twilight Max Lens System for unequaled light management
- Leupold waterproof integrity
- Lockable fast-focus eyepiece
- Has Twin bias spring erector system
Cons
- None
2) Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Rifle Scope
Next, we have the Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Rifle Scope, 35mm Tube, and First Focal Plane (FFP). It is a whole new beast ready for long-range action.
With a powerful 5-25x magnification range, the scope offers exceptional versatility for both long-distance shots and close-up targeting, thus making it a preferred choice among precision shooters.
One of the standout features of the scope is its 35mm tube diameter, which provides a larger internal erector system. It enables a more significant range of windage and elevation adjustments, crucial for precise corrections at extreme distances.
The 56mm objective lens diameter of the scope ensures outstanding light-gathering capabilities, therefore allowing for clear and bright images even in challenging lighting conditions.
Specifications
- Magnification: 5 – 25 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
- Tube Diameter: 35 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 2.2 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 4.2 – 20.4 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 3.6 – 3.8 inches
- Weight: 907.18 g
- Length: 15.7 in, 39.87 cm
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Leupold’s Full Lifetime Guarantee
- Waterproof/fog proof
- Has Fast focus eyepiece
- Precision side focus
Cons
- None
3) Vortex Viper HST 6-24x50mm Rifle Scope
Our third contender is the Vortex Viper HST 6-24x50mm 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane Rifle Scope. It is ideal in long-range performance from tree stands to mountain tops.
The scope has outstanding features like a solid piece of aluminum for strength, waterproofing, and straightness, and also the 30mm tube which allows more room for windage and elevation adjustments than 1-inch tubes.
It features a versatile magnification range of 6-24x, thus providing shooters the ability to engage targets effectively both at mid-range and extended distances.
With its fully multi-coated lenses, the scope improves light transmission and reduces glare, resulting in a clear and sharp image. The lenses also provide enhanced color fidelity, thus making it easier for shooters to identify and distinguish targets.
Specifications
- Magnification: 6 – 24 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 2.08 – 8.3 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 5.1 – 17.8 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 4 inches
- Weight: 22.6 oz
- Length: 15.5 inches
Pros
- XR Fully Multi-Coated
- Fast Focus Eyepiece
- Has Exposed Tactical-Style Turrets
- Precision-Force Spring System
- Has CRS Zero Stop
- Waterproof
- Fog proof
- Shockproof
Cons
- None
4) Bushnell Banner 3-9×40 Circle-X Rifle Scope
Lastly, we have the Bushnell Banner 3-9×40 Circle-X Rifle Scope, it is a classic and popular optic known for its affordability and reliability.
The scope offers a versatile magnification range of 3-9x, thus making it suitable for a wide array of shooting applications, from close to mid-range hunting to target shooting.
Featuring the Circle-X reticle, which is a simple and intuitive design, this reticle style allows for quick target acquisition and easy centering of the crosshairs on the target.
Has clear and crisp images, thanks to its fully multi-coated lenses that minimize glare and enhance light transmission.
For durability it is Built to withstand the recoil of a variety of firearms, it is also shockproof, ensuring it remains accurate and reliable even after repeated use.
Specifications
- Power x Obj.: 3-9×40
- FOV, ft.@1000yds. / m@1000m: 36/12@3x / 13/4.3@9x
- Exit Pupil, mm: 13@3x / 4.4@9x
- Eye Relief, mm: 4.0/102
- Weight, oz./g: 12.5/354
- Length, in./mm: 11.5/292
Pros
- Has a long eye relief
- It is 100% waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Has Fast-focus eyepiece
- Has 1/4 M.O.A. fingertip windage and elevation adjustment
Cons
- None
FAQS
- Can I use a .223 Remington scope for a 5.56x45mm rifle, or vice versa?
Yes, you can in most cases, you can use a scope designed for .223 Remington on a 5.56x45mm rifle, and vice versa, as they share similar bullet diameters.
- Can I use a 5.56x45mm scope for both hunting and target shooting?
Yes, many 5.56x45mm scopes are versatile enough to be used for both hunting and target shooting. But choose a scope with a magnification range that suits your needs for both scenarios and a reticle that aids in quick target acquisition.
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect match for your 5.56x45mm rifle is pivotal, and the best scopes for this caliber elevate your shooting experience to new heights. Don’t hesitate to equip your 5.56x45mm rifle with the ideal scope, and embrace a world of precision, confidence, and unparalleled shooting prowess. Let your shots tell the story, and let your chosen scope be the conduit to extraordinary marksmanship.
Also Read: 6 Best Scope for Short and Long Range