Best DMR Scope: Top Rifle Optic for AR 15 (2023 Guide)

Choosing the best DMR scope for your particular needs could mean the difference between you spending thousands of dollars on a scope that you don’t like… 

Or worse. 

Buying a low-quality optic that fails you when you need it most. 

Don’t worry, you’re in good hands, just keep reading. 

Best DMR Scopes

1: Primary Arms SLX 3-18x50mm FFP 

Pros	Cons
-ACSS reticle -True illumination with 11 brightness settings  -True one-power -Waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof	-Turrets slightly mushy

Specifications:

• Magnification: 3-18x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
• Eye Relief: 3.5-3.9”
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Length: 13.2”
• Weight: 25.4oz

Here it is, the best DMR scope that money can buy. SLX is feature packed and i’ve had the pleasure to use the optic many times over the years.

Here is what I personally love about it.

The ingenious ACSS HUD DMR 308 reticle maintains accuracy at every magnification level, enabling you to make precise range estimations, hold overs, and wind holds. Not only does this bolsters your confidence when taking shots at varying distances, it dramatically enhancing your shooting performance.

The cutting-edge ACSS HUD DMR 308 reticle provides unprecedented first shot hits on moving targets up to an astonishing 600 yards, taking into account three distinct target speeds. I’ve found this adaptability empowers you to swiftly react to various hunting situations, giving you the edge needed when it matters most.

When your friends are going home empty handed, you’re bagging a ten point.

Let’s talk zoom, because the PA SLX had got a lot to go around.

Boasting a 3-18x magnification spectrum, this scope effortlessly accommodates both rapid close-range snapshots and long-distance shots reaching up to the 1,000-yard mark.

This adaptability renders it an exceptional choice for various shooting scenarios, optimizing your investment by catering to multiple applications with a single scope.

Outfitted with secure, zero-resettable turrets, an adjustable power ring fin, Butler Creek flip-up scope covers, and a 30mm main tube, this scope offers unparalleled convenience and user-friendliness.

Oh and let’s not forget…

Its waterproof, fog-resistant, and shock-resistant construction guarantees unwavering performance in even the most unforgiving environments. No need to worry about your scope breaking… ever again.

The 3-18×50 FFP Scope with the ACSS HUD DMR reticle showcases pristine glass and generous eye relief/exit pupil attributes, delivering a vivid, razor-sharp image of the target and reticle. This level of clarity and comfort not only heightens your shooting precision but also mitigates eye fatigue, allowing you to relish extended days in the field without sacrificing accuracy.

I’ve struggled for years to find a optic that doesn’t overly strain my eyes… I’m sure many of you feel the same.

It’s a “mid range” in terms of price. Affordable for the working man. To get a scope that preforms marginally better, you’ll most likely need to spend another $1,000+, so the SLX offers exceptional bang for your buck as well.

Last but not least…

We’ve also negotiated free expedited shipping exclusively for readers of Barrett Rifles. All you need to do is use the link below (or anywhere on this page) when making your purchase. Our supplier also happens to have the lowest price online for the SLX as of October 2023, which doesn’t hurt either.

The free shipping offer ends September 29, 2023:

2: Leupold MARK V Designated Marksman Riflescope

Pros	Cons
-High power magnification capable of extreme range -Includes a throw lever -Wide adjustment range -Multiple FFP reticles available	-Pricey

Specifications: 

• Magnification: 7-35x
• Objective Diameter: 56mm
• Eye Relief: 3.6-3.8”
• Tube Diameter: 35mm
• Length: 15.7”
• Weight: 33oz

Police and military sniper-grade, the MARK 5 is the only super-level Leupold the public can own. 

This scope is an MRAD setup and in 1/10 mils per sub click. Accurate to over a mile and with glass that can hold up to that distance. Area weapons use (military) is a snap with this glass sight. Hold down the enemy’s head at 1760 yards, or pick off a fly on a target at 200 yards, this is your baby. 

The power on this professional scope is set at 7-35×56. Massive objective lens size, but not out of line for a full-size sniper rifle. DMR shooters in special units would gravitate to this scope just because the shooter owns the whole valley when he or she commands the high ground.

Built-in FFP, MRAD setup, and massive objective, this is a super long-range sniper scope and again, without question, the tool of the DMR-level shooter. 

3: Leupold VX-5HD 4-20x52mm Riflescope

Pros	Cons
-Superior HD optics available at a decent price -The Zl-2 turret system is incredibly amazing for hunting -Compact and lightweight -Reliable lifetime guarantee -Illuminated FireDot reticle alongside 11 brightness settings	-Illuminated FireDot reticle cost additional money

Specifications:

• Magnification: 4-20x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 52mm
• Tube Diameter: 34mm
• Eye Relief: 3.7-3.8”
• Adjustment Range: 110 MOA
• Length: 14.7”
• Weight: 23.3oz

Moving up to more power for longer shooting, we have the Leupold VX-5HD. Something like the MARK VII, this is a big rifle DMR-level scope that will send the pail to a mile or drop a buck in the deep timber if required.

The major change from the previous scope is that it carries more magnification and a much larger objective lens at 52mm. This means it’s a scope that will produce better results late in the day or in the very early morning light. It uses a CDS reticle, a side focus, and is designed and machined in the USA.

The VX-5HD is at the upper end in terms of quality and performance offering. A possible choice for police departments regarding sniper applications or any professional-level shooter needing better grade glass and core guts in a scope sight.

4: Leupold VX-Freedom 450 Bushmaster 3-9×40 SFP Optic

Pros	Cons
-High-quality glass provides clear and bright images -Custom dial system allows for easy adjustments based on your specific load and distance -Waterproof and fog proof -Good eye relief for comfortable shooting	-Limited magnification range -Reticle may be too thin for some shooters, making it difficult to acquire a target quickly -Some users have reported issues with the turrets slipping or becoming loose over time

Specifications:

• Magnification: 3-9x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm
• Eye Relief: 4.2-3.7”
• Length: 12.39”
• Weight: 12.2oz

In this model scope, we have a standard 3-9×40, which is about the most common power-level scope offered to shooters today and is commonly used as a hunting scope power.

This Leupold is glass I have shot on 7mm Mags with my 30-06 Model 70 Pre-1964 Winchester, which is a classic and has taken more deer than I could ever recall, and currently with the new 6.5 Creedmoor in a Winchester sporter bolt gun that is very current, and state of the art regarding engineering.

In effect, this scope is a workhorse among glass sights, with the Duplex crosshairs, ¼ MOA turret adjustments beyond zeroing, and Twilight Management Systems light control package. This is a solid choice among shooters that want a solid hunting scope that is also able to handle long-range shots through its open turret controls and full-size big rifle main tube design. 

5: Burris Fullfield E1 4.5-14x42mm DMR

Pros	Cons
-Clear and bright optics for better target acquisition and aiming -Versatile magnification range for a variety of shooting scenarios -Easy-to-use reticle with intuitive holdover points for quick and accurate shots -Waterproof to 3ft	-Some users have reported issues with the zero holding and adjustments -The scope does not come with lens caps, which may be an inconvenience for some users

Specifications:

• Magnification: 4.5-14x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm
• Adjustment Range: 40 MOA
• Length: 12.6”
• Weight: 15.3oz

Here’s a smaller tube objective scope, but set up for long-range shooting with common centerfire rifle calibers and cartridge selections. This is a scope that carries high magnification at a max 14x, uses the Ballistic Plax E1 reticle for long-range applications, and makes use of the target compensating dots for elevation and windage adjustments on the fly. 

Side focus control aids in fast target viewing adjustment and parallax control is set up for shooters that want a simple but effective reticle system for both long and shorter-range shooting. This scope meets the requirements set down regarding DMR scope systems. 

6: NightForce SHV 5-20x56mm MOA

Pros	Cons
-Top value -Impeccable glass quality -Range of reticle options	-Throw lever is not standard

Specifications:

• Magnification: 5-20x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
• Eye Relief: 3.5”
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Length: 15.2”
• Weight: 29.1oz
• Illumination: Non-illuminated

Also in the DMR high-end department and directed toward the professional shooter, the NightForce SHV 5-20×56 is not any small change glass sight gunning tool at all. 

Set up in MOA or MILS, being the sniper’s friend, the designated marksman shooting this scope is in the right place at the right time for the long-range kill shot or closer-range brainpan elimination procedure (hostage shot).

The 30mm tube as used on most NightForce scopes carries heavy internals that is designed to hold up in a gunfight. Being a full-size scope with that large 56mm objective lens, the scope is best applied to full-size long-range rifles. 

7: NightForce 5.5-22×50 NXS DMR

Pros	Cons
-Integrated power ring  -Hi-Speed turret system -Glass-etched reticle -Parallax side focus -30mm tube body, convenient for mounting	-Heavy

Specifications:

• Magnification: 5.5-22x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
• Reticle Type: MRAD or MOA SFP
• Eye Relief: 3.7”
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Length: 15.1”
• Weight: 31oz
• Illumination: Red, with 11 brightness settings

This second NightForce scope is set up a bit differently but is still in the program when it comes to being on of he best DMR scope options as it has great accuracy ability at long-range targets.

A designated shooter statue with this scope is a solid bet. The scope holds solid internals with that NightForce applied 30mm main tube, advanced elevation, and windage with a great deal of range elevation options in terms of downrange ballistics. 

The scope retains 100 MOA elevation/23.3 MILS, and that puts her in the one-mile club at once and further with a 40 MOA rail and uses both turret adjustments and sub-tension options in tandem. 

The scope retains zero stop (just about required, in this case) and Moar Reticle C433.

The Nightforce NXS is a heartbreaker and lifetaker out to the next zip code when required. 

8: Vortex Optics Crossfire II SFP LPVO

Pros	Cons
-High-quality construction and material -Waterproof -Multiple power, size, and reticle options to suit your needs -VIP warranty support – easy fix or replacement	-May feel a bit bulky due to its 1-pound weight

Specifications:

• Magnification: 1-4x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm
• Eye relief: 4”
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Length: 9.8”
• Weight: 16oz

This scope is cut back for the short receiver rifle and as such fits the AR platforms in both 5.56, and 7.62 NATO. Illuminated with V-Brite systems, this is a night fighter as well as a daylight target acquisition system.

Powered at 1-4×24, it is a short rang scope, designed for about 300-yard work, and the objective is very workable in terms of controlling available light.

Capped turrets make for a zero set and leave-alone system, and MOA clicks can be used with finger-turn turrets when caps are removed.

9: Sig Sauer Sierra3BDX DMR Scope

Pros	Cons
-Advanced BDX technology that allows for easy and quick ranging and targeting -Durable and rugged construction – can withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy recoil -Illuminated reticle with multiple brightness settings for improved visibility in low light conditions	-Complex and advanced technology may require some level of technical expertise to operate -Heavy and bulky design

Specifications:

• Magnification: 2.5-8x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 32mm
• Reticle Type: Second Focal Plane, available in MOA and MRAD
• Eye Relief: 3.46-4.41”
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Length: 11.59”
• Weight: 19.4oz

This short bell scope is again designed for smaller receiver rifles and is powered at 2.5-8×32.

This scope retains power for longer-range target applications, brings in a bit more light in terms of the primary objective lens, and makes use of capped turrets. The scope is ultra-lightweight and best used with smaller-frame rifles. 

10: Sig Sauer Tango4 FFP

Pros	Cons
-Advanced BDX technology that allows for easy and quick ranging and targeting -Automatic on and off of illuminated reticle with detected movement	-Complex technology may require some level of technical expertise to operate -Bulky design – may not be suitable for some rifles or shooting positions

Specifications:

• Magnification: 1-4x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm
• Eye Relief: 3.3”
• Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Length: 14.2”
• Weight: 15.9oz

This Sig Sauer scope is close to the new optical systems being issued to American troops in place of the ACOG-designed system.

This is a scope set up for the designated sharpshooter in a unit. In this case, every member of a squad becomes a possible deadly longer-range shot. 

The scope in the SOT41112 Tango4 series retains a 1-4x24mm power setting and 30mm objective lens and like the others, makes use of capped turret graduations. 

This scope has an illuminated reticle and will turn on or off with the shooter’s detected movement. Offered in the FFP, and can recover 100% from immersion in water to a depth of 1 meter. Simply put, this is a tactical military-applied glass sight. 

11: TRACT UHD DMR Sight

Pros	Cons
-Clear and bright glass with minimal edge distortion -Turret feel and function is smooth	-Heavy -No throw lever

Specifications:

• Magnification: 4.5-30x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
• Eye Relief : 3.6-3.8″
• Tube Diameter: 34mm
• Length: 14.4 inches
• Weight: 41.5oz

This TRACT 4.5-30x is a scope that I feature often and is a solid candidate as a DMR-style glass sight, and is one of the best DMR scopes money can buy.

This scope shoots the 100-yard group work just fine and also pushes bullets to 100 yards with ease. She owns the full range with the ability to hit targets at any range. 

Glass quality is outstanding. Image fade is very low to none, and color transfer is also very good. I like the glass for long-range target identification, and there is no fade even at very high magnification ranges. 

Set up in turrets and sub-tensions as an MRAD scope, the system will bring up elevation very quickly with a minimum number of clicks. 

Retains zero stop and open turrets for snipe-grade shooting and uses a large 34mm primary tube. 

The illuminated reticle will produce 11 different brightness settings and runs off the CR2032 battery (360 hours).

12: Burris Xtreme Tactical XTR III Sniper Scope

Pros	Cons
-Zero click stop adjustment -Waterproof -Ergonomic side focus -High-grade optical glass	-2-pound weight may affect quick maneuverability

Specifications:

• Magnification: 3.3-18x 
• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
• Reticle Type: First Focal Plane, available in various reticles
• Eye Relief: 3.5-4.25”
• Tube Diameter: 34mm
• Length: 16.7”
• Weight: 39.3oz

Simply put, this scope reaches DMR standards and more. 

The third in a series, this is a sniper scope for tactical applications. The long-range shooter or closer-range brain adjustment sniper can get the job done with this choice in glass fighting optics. 

The scope will pull 120 MOA of elevation from the upper open turret knob, and that will carry many long-range rounds for 1400 yards through one mile downrange with accuracy.

The scope is built in the USA, as are all the parts involved in the sight. This is a class one shooting system and is used for PRS and NRL match shooting as well as serious police/ military designated work. 

13: Bushnell Elite Tactical DMR Scope

Pros	Cons
-Exceptional optical quality with a large 50mm objective lens and fully multi-coated optics -Rugged and reliable construction  -Long-range capabilities with excellent magnification range	-High price point may not be affordable for everyone -Heavy weight may not be ideal for users looking to keep their rifles lightweight and maneuverable

Specifications:

• Magnification: 3.5-21x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
• Eye Relief: 4”
• Elevation/Windage Adjustment Range: 30MIL/20MIL
• Tube Diameter: 34mm
• Length: 13.2”
• Weight: 37oz

Bushnell still offers the rifleman one of the best DMR scope on the market today. It’s a first focal plane (FFP) optic, carries a strong 3.5-21x50mm objective and power rating, and features a side focus parallax-free sight plane.

Bushnell uses the special coatings called Rainguard, a system this brand applies exclusively. It retains full high open turrets for fast elevation adjustment under stress if necessary and a G2 reticle with 1 click mil values (long-range specialized).

Be advised I shoot this scope in a Montana 1999 chambered in 338 Lapua and it’s my go-to one-mile rifle. 19,1 clicks MRADS and she is sending the 250-grain pill with a high BC downrange into an FBI G-100 full-size man target. This scope, without a doubt, gets the job done. 

14: Trijicon ACOG 1.5×16 Designated Marksman Rifle Sight

Pros	Cons
-Compact and lightweight design for easy maneuverability -Provides excellent accuracy and precision at medium to long ranges -Illuminated reticle allows for fast target acquisition and shooting in low-light conditions	-Fixed magnification may limit its versatility in certain situations

Specifications:

• Magnification: 1.5x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 16mm
• Eye Relief: 2.4”
• Length: 4”
• Weight: 5.1oz

This is a scope in the ACOG family by Trijicon Optics. This is military first-class and a step away from the standard glass sight and into the US Army’s answer to first shot hits by the average ground-pounding solder. 

Built to fit the AR-15 and AR-10 as a combat filling tool, the ACOG is self-generating in terms of power source and never requires batteries. It’s tough as nails regarding its ability to hang together and will range out the 308, 7.62 NATO, or the.223 Rem 556 NATO to 400 through 800 yards depending on the cartridge selected.

Base housing is the short M-16 style Weaver rail, and the optics are outstanding and up to military riflemen’s grade. 

Variations of this style sight include many different models, but all of them serve the very same purpose and that is to get lead on a target with one of the most straightforward systems in use today regarding glass sights on rifles. 

DMR Specifications

Product	Magnification	Objective Lens Diameter	Reticle	Tube Diameter	Length	Weight
Bushnell Elite Tactical G3 DMR Scope	3.5-21x	50mm	G3 FFP	34mm	13.2in	37oz
Trijicon ACOG 1.5X 16 Designated Marksman Rifle Sight	1.5x	16mm	RTR/ Center Dot	N/A	4in	5.1oz
Burris Fullfield E1 4.5-14X42mm DMR	4.5-14x	42mm	Ballistic Plex E1 SFP	1in	12.6in	15.3oz
Leupold VX-Freedom 450 Bushmaster 3-9X40 SFP Optic	3-9x	40mm	Duplex SFP	1in	12.39in	12.2oz
Leupold VX-5HD 4-20X52mm Riflescope	4-20x	52mm	Duplex SFP	34mm	14.7in	23.3oz
Leupold MARK V Designated Marksman Riflescope	7-35x	56mm	TMR FFP	35mm	15.7in	33oz
NightForce SHV 5-20x56mm MOA	5-20x	56mm	MOAR/ Forceplex SFP	30mm	15.2in	29.1oz
NightForce 5.5-22×50 NXS DMR	5.5-22x	50mm	Moar Reticle C433 SFP	30mm	15.1in	31oz
Vortex Optics Crossfire II SFP 30mm Tube LPVO	1-4x	24mm	V-Brite Illuminated Reticle SFP	30mm	9.8in	16oz
Sig Sauer Sierra3BX DMR Scope	2.5-8x	32mm	MOA-Hellfire TriPlex SFP	30mm	11.59in	19.4oz
Sig Sauer Tango4 FFP	1-4x	24mm	Hellfire QuadPlex FFP	30mm	14.2in	15.9oz
TRACT UHD DMR Sight	4.5-30x	56mm	Christmas Tree	34mm	14.4in	41.5oz
Burris Xtreme Tactical XTR III Sniper Scope	3.3-18x	50mm	SCR MOA/ SCR 2 MIL FFP	34mm	16.7in	39.3oz
Primary Arms SLX 3-18X50mm FFP	3-18x	50mm	ACSS-HUD-DMR FFP	30mm	13.2in	25.4oz

Characteristics of a DMR

Magnification Range

The magnification capability is one of the key characteristics of a DMR (designated marksman rifle) scope. A common magnification range for a DMR scope is 4-12x, allowing for long-range shooting, but the best DMR scope range is the one that fits you and your needs/preferences.

Smooth Zoom

The zoom mechanism should be smooth and easy to adjust, allowing for quick and precise changes in magnification.

Consistent Focus

The scope should maintain its focus and clarity at all magnification levels. 

Eye Relief

The eye relief, or the distance between the eyepiece and the shooter’s eye, should remain consistent or have a very limited difference at all magnification levels.

Reticle

A reticle that provides ranging information, such as a Mil-Dot or Horus H59 reticle, is commonly used with DMR scopes.

Adjustable Parallax

An adjustable parallax allows for fine-tuning the scope’s sight picture, essential for long-range shooting.

First Focal Plane (FFP) Reticle

A first focal plane reticle remains in proportion to the target, regardless of the magnification setting, a feature very helpful for DMRs.

Turrets

Precise and easily adjustable turrets for windage and elevation are important for long-range shooting.

Durability

DMR scopes are often subjected to heavy recoil, so they must be built to withstand rough use.

Optics Quality

High-quality glass and coatings are essential for clarity and light transmission, especially in low-light conditions.

Buying Guide to Choosing a DMR

Target Acquisition Speed: This refers to the speed and ease at which you can acquire your target using the scope. The best DMR scope for you will have a quick target acquisition speed. This is important for shooting in high-pressure situations. Look for a scope with a wide field of view and an easy-to-use yet effective reticle to help you quickly and accurately find your target.

Durability: DMR scopes are exposed to rough conditions, so it’s important to choose a scope that can withstand rugged terrain, rough handling, and extreme weather. Look for a scope that is built with high-quality materials such as aircraft-grade aluminum and has been tested to withstand recoil, shock, and other abuse.

Precision: Precision is critical when it comes to shooting with a DMR scope. Choose a scope with a high-quality optical system and a fine reticle for accurate shots. Additionally, make sure the scope has a solid and stable mounting system that allows for minimal movement.

Windage and Holdover Estimations: These are important factors to consider when choosing a DMR scope, as they affect accuracy. A scope with windage and holdover adjustments can help you compensate for wind drift and bullet drop. Look for a scope with a reticle that has markings or dots for quick and easy estimations.

Magnification: The magnification power of a DMR scope is crucial to its performance. Choose a scope with a variable magnification range that allows you to zoom in for long-range shots and zoom out for close-range shots. A magnification power of between 3x to 20x is recommended for a DMR scope. 

Reticle: The reticle is the crosshairs or other aiming devices in the scope. Choose a reticle that is easy to see and has markings for windage and holdover adjustments. A reticle with illuminated markings can also be helpful in low-light conditions.

Take a look at this example to gain a better idea of what you can expect of a good DMR scope reticle:

Lightweight: DMR scopes can be heavy and add significant weight to your rifle. Choose a scope that is lighter and easy to carry yet still durable enough to withstand rough handling. Look for a scope made with lightweight materials, such as aircraft-grade aluminum, to help keep the weight down.

What Is a DMR Scope?

If you’re curious as to what is a DMR exactly, make sure to check out our article on the topic. We cover the background of DMRs and how they’re used today.

More Reading

Scopes For AR-15 Rifles

For those AR-15 enthusiasts out there, make sure to check out our article on the best AR-15 rifle scopes.

Sniper Rifle Scopes

If you’re interested in scopes with extreme long range, make sure to check our our article on the best sniper scopes.

3 Gun Scopes

And last, if you’re one to compete in 3 gun competitions, our article on the best 3 gun scopes in the one for you. (1), (2)

FAQs

What is the best scope for DMR?

The best scope for a DMR can vary based on individual preferences and needs. Popular options include the Bushnell Elite Tactical G3 DMR, Trijicon ACOG 1.5×16, and Burris Fullfield E1 4.5-14x42mm DMR. 

What scope does the military use for DMRs?

The military uses a variety of scopes for DMRs, including the Leupold Mark 4 and Trijicon ACOG.

What are the best DMRs?

The best DMRs include the SPR 208, MK12, and L115A3.

How far should a DMR shoot?

The effective range of a DMR can vary based on factors such as the caliber and the shooter’s skill level. Generally, a DMR is designed to be effective out to ranges of 800-1000 yards (731.5-914.4 meters).

What caliber should a DMR be?

The most common calibers for a DMR are .308 Winchester, .260 Remington, and 6.5 Creedmoor.

Is the DMR overpowered?

Opinions on whether the DMR is overpowered can vary depending on the game or simulation. In some cases, the DMR may be considered overpowered due to its high accuracy and damage capabilities at medium ranges.

What is the best marksman rifle in real life?

The best marksman rifle in real life can vary based on individual preferences and needs. Popular options include the Remington 700, Sako TRG, and Accuracy International AW. 

References

1. Golden, Telescopic sight. Retrieved from https://golden.com/wiki/Telescopic_sight-K4GM58
2. Military Wiki, Designated marksman rifle. Retrieved from https://military-history.fandom.com/wiki/Designated_marksman_rifle

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