AR-15 Optics. What to use?

[Don H]

I have a Colt AR-15 HBAR that I bought back in the early 90's that has the handle type upper. I'd like to install some type of scope since my old eyes aren't as good as they use to be.

Any suggestions?

 

[outrider58]

Keep it classy...

 

[Boom Boom]

Best thing to do is buy a flattop upper and your scope choices are almost unlimited.

 

[Rack&Roll]

Don H: The carry handle comes off, correct?

 

[Boom Boom]

I think he means the old non-flattop Colt with integrated handle. Not worth investing $$-$$$ into optics for that.

 

[SCARCQB]

3-9 colt rubber armored scope and cheek piece . Just like the ones on the original delta hbars.

 

[Rack&Roll]

I think he means the old non-flattop Colt with integrated handle. Not worth investing $$-$$$ into optics for that.

Does a carry handle of that vintage have the standard channel that later ones do to accommodate an old Aimpoint with channel adapter?

 

[Don H]

Does a carry handle of that vintage have the standard channel that later ones do to accommodate an old Aimpoint with channel adapter?

No the handle doesn't come off.
It does have the channel in top of the handle.
Looks like this one http://www.icollector.com/Colt-AR-15A2-HBAR-Sporter-Semi-Automatic-Rifle-with-Sling_i10495893

 

[Rack&Roll]

Google "AR-15 carry handle optic adapter" and you will find components from $15 to $100 to mount a small scope on that integrated carry handle.

The adapter sits in that channel and is held on by a through-bolt and gives you a pictinny rail.

 

[Boom Boom]

The adapter sits in that channel and is held on by a through-bolt and give you a pictinny rail.

But the scope sits kind of goofy and awkwardly high. I tried that route once years ago, and quickly realized why it went the way of the dodo as soon as flattops came onto the scene.

 

[Rack&Roll]

I have a mid 2000s contractor AR that came out of Iraq and it has an Aimpoint locked to the carry handle channel and it's a great set up.

Now again, this is a red dot.

Yes, it's goofy compared to the sleek modern set ups, but the ergos are excellent. And if I'm not mistaken this contractor weapon mimics the US Mil set up for that period.

 

[tmd99]

Duct Tape

Mounts are overrated.

 

[molonlabe]

This is a night stalker scope with illuminated reticle and BDC which was designed before there were flat tops. The added benefit is with the .22 Cierner it is on at 25 yards when the BDC is set for 600 yards. Sorry for the upside down photo but it's late.

 

[HordesOfKailas]

The elevated scope is full of wonk. Wonk-ful. That said, I like the fact that the irons can be used by doing nothing but lowering your head.

 

[clandestine]

Get a gooseneck mount and you can install a red dot over the handguard via the carry handle.

 

[dreadpirate]

Red dot if you don't want to get a different upper. Maybe a vortex SPARC or a Primary Arms. You should be able to find a mount for it.

 

[dreadpirate]

Get a gooseneck mount and you can install a red dot over the handguard via the carry handle.

Yes!! [EDIT hell I might do that on my dissipator]

 

[Rack&Roll]

The gooseneck is cool.

 

[dreadpirate]

https://www.midwayusa.com/product/2...unt-with-tri-mount-adjustable-side-tabs-matte

 

[Boom Boom]

Get a gooseneck mount and you can install a red dot over the handguard via the carry handle.

Yep. That's by far the best option.