If you are looking for the best hog hunting scopes for AR 15, you are in the right place. This post will provide an in-depth analysis of the best hog hunting scopes to help you find a perfect fit to complement your hunting AR-15 rifle.
Successful hog hunting calls on patience, tact, determination, and appropriate gear. Hogs are always on the move. Besides, they come out of their hiding places at night. This implies that you need a scope with superb low-lighting capabilities. The magnification also needs to suit the behavioral aspects of these elusive animals.
The best hog hunting scopes guarantees a fruitful hunting trip. In a market flooded with hunting rifle scopes, selecting the best optic for your shooting needs can be a taxing process. We probed the market and found a collection of hog hunting scopes.
Let’s take a look, shall we?
Best Hog Hunting Scopes for AR-15
1) ATN ThOR 4 4.5-18x Riflescope
ATN ThOR 4 4.5-18x boasts an array of astounding features to make your hog hunting experience unforgettable. It is a favorite among many nighttime hunters. It also excels during the day.
With a magnification of 4.5-18x and a range of around 1800 yards, the ThOR 4 is not a close-up scope but has the ability to peer out to where the pigs are gathering.
It is a smart scope with a myriad of connectivity features. Once a microSD card is installed, you can record videos and take images. The scope can also be connected to your phone. Each function works effectively.
When mounted on your hunting rifle, this digital scope offers one-shot zero, making sighting in a snap while saving you ammo and, more significantly, time and hassle.
By eliminating all the mental calculations and doing the laborious work for you, the built-in ballistics calculator enables you to dial in your shot accurately at a distance. For those who like taking long shots, ATN also offers a 1,000-yard rangefinder side clamp.
The Smart Mil Dot reticle is dynamic and changes with magnification over the entire magnification range. Regarding color, there are many different ways to represent thermal. You can change the colors of the reticle or even the entire reticle to ensure that it matches your preferred color palette.
High-grade hardened aluminum alloy is used to construct the scope. This connotes that it will endure the rough environments and general wear and tear you are likely to encounter. It is impact-resistant, waterproof, and fog-proof to protect the internal components.
The recoil pressures from a high-caliber weapon will not do anything to this scope. This unbeatable durability makes it qualify as a great hog hunting scope.
Features
- Smart Mil Dot reticle
- Recoil Activated Video
- Tough aluminum alloy body
- Smooth zoom functionality
- A ballistic calculator
- Live streaming
- E-compass and GPS feature
- Smart range finder
Pros
- Crystal clear image
- Reliable battery life
- Long-lasting construction
- Commendable refresh rate
Cons
- Weight
- Occasional image freezing
2) Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF 2-16x Riflescope
Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF 2-16x is the other top contender among the best hog hunting scopes for AR-15. This thermal scope combines state-of-the-art optical system and unrivaled thermal imaging to create a reliable hog hunting solution.
The thermal rifle scope features cutting-edge image sensors and, under optimal conditions, it can detect heat signatures as far as 2,000 yards away. It is recoil-rated to withstand the shocks and vibrations making a perfect choice for use with calibers that produce a lot of recoil.
It boasts a 640×480 pixel pitch, and a wide zoom range of 2-16x, making it ideal for long-range shooting and maintaining good images even at long distances.
Another notable attribute that makes the Thermion 2 rifle scope shine among the best hog hunting scopes for AR-15 is unrivaled accuracy. This is made possible by a second focal plane reticle that is perfect for hunting applications.
To enhance long-range performance, this thermal scope is fitted with a laser rangefinder that can sight targets that up to 875 yards. This further boost your shooting accuracy as you can make the necessary elevation and wind drift corrections if you know the exact distance of the target.
In addition, it gives you more than 10 hours of juice without worrying about the battery kicking the bucket. This is sufficient for most hog hunting excursions.
It incorporates the added features you’d expect from a high-end scope, including Wi-Fi connectivity and built-in recording. Since it is entirely waterproof and has an IPX7 rating, you can use it in harsh weather.
Features
- IPX7 waterproof rating
- Five shooting profiles
- Laser rangefinder with a range of 875 yards
- Integrated photo and video recorder
- 1024×768 display
- Picture-in-picture mode
- Ambidextrous lens focusing
Pros
- Remarkable resolution
- Robust build quality
- Excellent dynamic range
Cons
- Pricey
3) Vortex Crossfire II 3-12x56mm Hog Hunter Riflescope
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-12x56mm AO Hog Hunter is a winner when it comes to reliable performance in challenging low-light conditions. It is designed specifically for hog hunting and combines a versatile 3-12x magnification range with a large 56mm objective lens. It is one of the best hog hunting scopes for hunters who frequently operate around dusk and dawn.
The oversized 56mm objective lens works together with fully multi-coated optics and anti-reflective coatings to maximize light transmission. This helps produce a brighter, clearer sight picture when hunting during the first and last minutes of legal shooting light.
The V-Brite MOA reticle is also designed to improve visibility in low-light conditions, helping hunters maintain a clear aiming point against dark backgrounds and heavy cover.
With a 30mm tube and a rugged single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum construction, the Crossfire II Hog Hunter is built to withstand demanding hunting conditions. The hard-anodized finish adds durability, while the nitrogen purging and O-ring sealing provide waterproof and fogproof performance. This makes the scope well suited for changing weather and rough field conditions.
Moreover, the scope provides approximately 12.2 to 3.1 meters of field of view at 100 meters, depending on magnification, while its 8.9 cm of eye relief offers a comfortable viewing position.
Features
- 3-12x magnification range
- Large 56mm objective lens
- V-Brite MOA reticle
- Fully multi-coated optics with anti-reflective coatings
- 30mm main tube
- Adjustable objective for parallax correction
- Nitrogen purged for fogproof performance
- O-ring sealed for waterproof performance
- Hard-anodized, single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube
Pros
- Excellent low-light performance
- Durable and rugged construction
- Multi-proof properties
- V-Brite reticle improves aiming visibility in low light
- Adjustable objective adds versatility at different distances
Cons
- Not a night-vision or thermal scope
4) Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35 Riflescope
Trijicon ACOG 3.5x35mm Riflescope ticks all the boxes of perfection. Hog hunting buffs looking for accuracy, precision, and unmatched quality in a scope should look no further. The 3.5x magnification is ideal for many hunters as it falls in the 50 to 100-yard range.
The scope’s engineering is one of its biggest perks. It has a robust body made of 7075-T6 aircraft aluminum alloy that makes it virtually indestructible.
The Bindon Aiming Concept, which is Trijicon’s aiming system, is another remarkable feature. It supports both eyes open shooting. This enhances awareness of the surroundings, making target acquisition a breeze.
Furthermore, the glass quality is outstanding. It is top-notch and fully multi-coated to boost light transmission. There is practically no edge or clarity loss or distortion. As another best hog hunting scope, it won’t fog up or fail to provide clear visibility. It is also dustproof, and waterproof. You can hunt no matter how challenging the conditions are.
The elevation and windage turrets are finger-adjustable for smooth operation. The reticle illumination is also excellent. Fiber optics are used to make it usable during the day, while tritium is used for nighttime shooting.
Features
- Capped adjustment turrets
- Highly durable aluminum construction
- Fully multi-coated glass
- Bindon Aiming Concept
- 4 inches of eye relief
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- BDC that is easy to understand
- Wide field of view
Pros
- Battery-free
- Solid build
- Accessories are included
- Reticle illumination with automatic brightness adjustment
- Accurate shots
Cons
- Heavily priced
5) ATN X-Sight Pro Edition 5-20x Smart HD Day/Night Riflescope
Another candidate on our list of the best hog hunting scopes for AR-15 is the ATN X-Sight Pro Edition 5-20x Smart HD Day/Night Riflescope. The scope’s image shooting and video-recording capabilities make it outshine competitors. This allows you to take down your targets that are far away headache-free.
Since scopes are designed to enhance accuracy, the ATN X-Sight doesn’t disappoint in this department. It includes a mechanism that enables amateur hog hunters to shoot proficiently.
The X-Sight Pro gives an extremely sharp and clear image that is distortion-free and bright in full color. The integrated IR imaging technology gives you a superior view of your target, so you don’t have to worry about the color image fading during night hunting.
The scope provides more than 18 hours of battery power for a reliable hog hunting experience. Being interrupted in the middle of your hunt will be a thing of the past.
Nevertheless, the scope is water-resistant, fogproof, and shockproof for relentless performance no matter the condition. It is also toughly constructed of aircraft-grade aluminum for longevity.
One Shot Zero is also a highlight of the scope. It supports bullet compensation and easy and quick zeroing. The ballistic calculator facilitates precise point-of-aim impacts. Moreover, there is a customizable mil-dot reticle. Depending on the load you’re using, you can adjust the mil separation between the hashmarks to match your needs.
Features
- Recoil activated video
- More than 18 hours of battery life
- One Shot Zero
- Smart range finder
- Ballistic calculator
- Fogproof and shockproof
- 60 Hz refresh rate
- Records and streams videos simultaneously
Pros
- Digital image sensor results in top-of-the-line images
- Quick target acquisition, even at night
- Ideal for newbies
- Super accurate shots
- Incredible battery life
Cons
- Some technology issues
- Weight
6) SIG SAUER Tango-MSR LPVO 1-6x24mm Riflescope
SIG SAUER delivers the Tango-MSR 1-6x24mm LPVO in a versatile package designed for fast target acquisition and dependable performance in demanding hunting conditions.
The 1-6x magnification range gives hunters the flexibility to engage targets at closer distances while still providing additional magnification when more precision is needed.
Since excellent light transmission is important for hunting optics, the Tango-MSR doesn’t disappoint. Its high-performance 6x optical system and premium low-dispersion glass provide clear images with strong edge-to-edge resolution across the magnification range. The 24mm objective lens keeps the optic relatively compact while still providing a bright, detailed sight picture in changing lighting conditions.
The scope features SIG SAUER’s FL-6 HELLFIRE illuminated reticle, positioned in the second focal plane. With 11 brightness settings, the illuminated reticle can be adjusted to suit both bright daylight and lower-light environments. This helps the aiming point remain visible when conditions change and supports quick target acquisition. An integrated removable throw lever also makes it easy to move quickly between magnification levels.
The scope’s durability is also worth point out. It is IPX-7 waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, making it suitable for challenging outdoor conditions. Its hardcoat anodized finish provides additional protection against corrosion, dirt, impacts, and general field wear.
What’s more? It comes ready for installation with the ALPHA-MSR one-piece aluminum cantilever mount included. Flip-back lens covers provide additional protection when the scope is not being used. Together, these features make the optic a convenient package for hunters and shooters who want a versatile LPVO without having to purchase a separate mounting solution.
Features
- 1-6x magnification range
- 24mm objective lens
- High-performance 6x optical system
- Premium low-dispersion glass
- FL-6 HELLFIRE illuminated reticle
- Second focal plane reticle
- 11 adjustable illumination brightness settings
- Integrated removable throw lever
Pros
- Clear, high-resolution optical performance
- Illuminated reticle with 11 brightness settings
- Fast magnification adjustments
- Durable hardcoat anodized finish
Cons
- 24mm objective is smaller than some low-light hunting scope
What Magnification Do You Need?
Given their high level of excitability, the optimal shooting distance for wild hogs is between 50 and 100 yards. There is no evading the fact that hogs are cunning and swift on short, stumpy legs.
While pursuing wild boar, a scope with a fixed magnification is sufficient. However, you must evaluate both your hunting prowess and optical acuity.
An experienced hunter with good vision might be able to take down a boar at 20 yards without using a scope. A rookie hunter with poor vision might need a 4x scope for the same kill.
The best hog hunting scopes for AR-15 should have a magnification range of 1x to 4x. This can accommodate the majority of wild boar hunting circumstances.
What Size Scope Is Best for Hunting?
The 3-9x variable has been the go-to option for hunters for many options now. There is a good reason for this. The 3x setting provides a reasonably good and large field of view for close, running shots while 9x is a ton of magnification for shooting elk or deer at 300 yards.
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How to Choose the Best Hog Hunting Scopes for AR-15
There are some pertinent considerations that you need to have in mind before purchasing the a hog hunting scope for AR 15. These include:
Magnification
This is the first factor to have in mind when shopping for the best hog hunting scopes for AR-15. If you have acute vision and don’t plan to hunt hogs farther than 50 yards, a fixed power scope will do. Yet, a scope with power variations will provide superior acquisition speed and precision due to the unpredictability of wild hogs.
Lens Quality
You need a lens with high performance. The best hog hunting scopes for AR-15 should have a large objective lens that enables effective light transmission and gathering. With the help of high-quality optics and appropriate coatings, the target can be clearly seen from a distance.
Reticle
The role the reticle plays cannot be overlooked. Wild hogs are agile and hide in dense brush. You may be unable to discern fine details of the hog’s surroundings if your reticle contains multiple elevation and windage markings.
Keep in mind that most of your hunting will take place at night. Moreover, wild hogs are dark in color. They become exceedingly elusive as a result. It may be challenging to sight the hog if the reticle has too many markings. A simple red dot or Duplex crosshair is frequently enough for hog hunting.
Night Vision Capability
Hogs are mostly active when darkness creeps in. As a result, the best hog hunting scopes for AR-15 should enable you to focus on your prey’s thermal or infrared signal.
A rifle scope with built-in night vision technology is an option, as is a handheld night vision gadget. The former option is always preferred for ease by serious hog hunters.
Best Hog Hunting Scopes FAQs
Q: What Size Scope is Ideal for Hog Hunting?
Hogs are cautious animals; therefore, spotting them from a distance is critical. Higher magnification and objective lenses support plentiful light and detail at a distance. For long-range hunting, the 10×42, 12×50, or 15×56 are excellent choices.
Q: Between Red and Green, Which is Better for Hogs?
Hogs usually are darker in color, therefore, green lights contrast and illuminate their bodies more easily than red lights do, making them the favorite option among hog hunters.
Q: Is Thermal or Night Vision Better for Hog Hunting?
Thermal is unquestionably superior for hog hunting. You can see far further out while seeing through light brush, rain, and fog.
Moreover, thermal removes the need for an IR attachment for lighting. Thermal scopes are also widely used during the day. The heat signature can be used to find downed animals if necessary.
Final Thoughts
Hog hunting is pretty different from other hunting types. The creatures tend to be active at night. This said, your scope choice determines whether or not you make the kill. We hope you have found an ideal hog hunting scope from this enlightening review.
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