Choosing AR platform optic
 

Just want to see what everyone’s opinions are on optics here. Wether it be a red dot with a magnifier, a low zoom scope like a 1-5x, just straight red dot. Max distance will be around 200 meters. Maybe take the odd coyote assuming this model stays off the governments radar for restricted weapons…

If it's an AR platform, it is already on the banned list. I have a red dot on my 17hmr, that I have used to kill coyotes to around 175 yards. I went red dot, only because it is a small break action rifle that I carry broken down in a pack.

It’s based off an ar180 platform, it’s still non restricted for the time being. What red dot do you have on your .17? Only thing I’m worried about is that the dot may cover a large portion on a coyote and I won’t be able to be place my shots as I would like. With that being said I have never had the opportunity to shoot with a red dot so I’m not sure if I’m way out to lunch with that theory

I have the Sparc 2 on sale now at Cabelas for $199, reg $299. Not sure if it's the Wednesday one day sale. The dot is 2moa, so it is small enough, to be useable on coyote sized targets to around 200 yards.

I had a Leupold cantilever mount and vortex viper 2.5-10 on my WK before I sold it. Worked well on coyotes.

Red dot works ok but I prefer a good LPVO on a cantilever, something like a 1-6x24 is about perfect IMO

For a max range of 200 I’d choose a 1x red dot like an eotech or aim point if you wanna spend the money or a sig Romeo 5 if you want to go a bit cheaper.

I have had a few different dots and LPVO, for a lower budget option its hard to beat the Burris RT-6. Pretty amazing optic if a bit heavy compared to some of the others in this class.

LPVO.
I put all my recommendation there. Lots of models that are a red dot on 1x, plus a bit of mag for any distance beyond. Mag is invaluable at distance to help ID or shot correct.
Now, the hard part….what do you want to spend?

I have a leupold RDS on my 5.56 build and works amazing, back up foldable irons can be used with it on too when the batteries die and your don't have your dot. On my 308 I have a Night Force NXS 1-4 and I haven't shot it or zeroed it yet. I wanted a LPVO with illumination and some sort of long range reticle because I planned on deer hunting with it.... but can't do that now, maybe one season.

LPVO is what I would recommend for the application described by the OP. Vortex Strike Eagle, Bushnell 6500 and Trijicon Accupower are what I use from least expensive to most expensive. RDS tend to get washed out in less than 3 MOA versions for my eyes for longer distances and if you have astigmatism, you need to choose wisely.

The versatility of a 1-6 or 1-8 scope is hard to beat.

Check out holosun.

I think your claim of "only shooting to 200 meters" is unrealistic... You never know what situation you might find yourself in, and IMHO you're better off "having it and not needing it" when it comes to scope magnification.

Red dots and holographic sights are typically meant for sub-100 yard targets. Yeah they "work" for longer distances than 100 yards/meters, but there are better optics for that application. Especially if you're hunting.

I put a 1-8 SFP Vortex on mine and I'm happy with it. Ring steel at 200+ no problem.

I had a Steiner 1x4 on my modern sporter, it did the job.