5 Best Bushnell AR Optics for Air Rifles

Best Bushnell AR Optics for Air Rifles deliver the perfect blend of precision engineering, durability, and optical clarity that air rifle enthusiasts demand. Designed to enhance accuracy and performance across various shooting scenarios, these optics combine advanced lens technology, reliable illumination, and rugged construction to withstand the unique recoil patterns and environmental challenges of air rifle use. Whether you’re fine-tuning your aim at the range or taking precise shots in the field, these scopes provide exceptional light transmission, crystal-clear visuals, and user-friendly features to ensure consistent results with every pull of the trigger.

Best Bushnell AR Optics for Air Rifles

1.Bushnell EX650 Digital Equinox X650 Night Vision 5x 32mm Monocular

 

 

The Bushnell EX650 Digital Equinox X650 Night Vision 5x 32mm Monocular stands at the forefront. As a leading optics manufacturer based in the USA, Bushnell has been serving hunters, marksmen, and outdoor enthusiasts for over 70 years. Known for its rugged reliability and precision engineering, Bushnell’s AR Optics line has earned a reputation for delivering crystal-clear imagery and dependable performance under any lighting conditions. One standout in this range is a model designed specifically for those who demand versatility — perfect for air rifle shooters who engage in both daytime and nighttime target practice or small-game hunting.

This Bushnell optic integrates advanced digital features into a durable riflescope platform. The Easy Video Recording function allows users to capture every shot and moment in stunning clarity, storing footage directly on a micro SD card. Whether you’re perfecting your aim or documenting a night hunt, this feature ensures you never miss a detail.

Another highlight is the Built-In IR Illuminator, which provides impressive night vision performance. With a detection range exceeding 650 feet, you can confidently identify targets in complete darkness. Unlike standard scopes that fade after sunset, this optic allows seamless transitions from day to night shooting.

The scope also supports Day or Night Viewing, offering vibrant color imagery in daylight and crisp monochrome detail after dark. Combined with a 5X digital zoom, it brings distant targets closer, making it ideal for precision shots and wildlife observation.

Designed with practicality in mind, the optic includes a tripod-mounting adaptor for steady viewing and long observation sessions. Its full-color daylight viewing ensures 24/7 usability, making it one of the most versatile optics Bushnell has ever produced.

Specifications

• Brand: Bushnell

• Magnification: 5X digital zoom

• Vision Mode: Day and Night

• Night Vision Range: Over 650 feet

• Illuminator: Built-in infrared (IR)

• Recording Capability: Micro SD card slot for video capture

• Mounting: Tripod adaptable

• Color Mode: Full-color daytime image

• Power Source: Battery-operated system

Pros

•  High-quality day and night viewing with vibrant color during daylight

•  Built-in IR illuminator for excellent night vision performance

•  Easy-to-use video recording for capturing every moment

•  Long detection range ideal for hunting and surveillance

•  Durable and user-friendly design with tripod mounting option

•  Trusted Bushnell craftsmanship backed by 70+ years of experience

Cons

•  Requires frequent charging or spare batteries for extended night use

 

2.Holosun ARO- Advanced Rifle Optic-Red Dot Sight with Shake Awake, 22mm Optical Window, 12 Brightness Settings, Co-Witness & Low Mounts Included

 

 

TheHolosun ARO- Advanced Rifle Optic-Red Dot Sight with Shake Awake, 22mm Optical Window, 12 Brightness Settings, Co-Witness & Low Mounts Included  compact multi-reticle dot sight — presented here as one of the picks for “Best Bushnell AR Optics for Air Rifles” — is a no-nonsense reflex designed for fast target acquisition, long battery life, and field durability. It blends a true 2 MOA dot for precision shots with a wide 22 mm window and multiple reticle/color options (RD = red, GR = green, GD = gold; MRS = multi-reticle versions) so shooters can pick the visual style that fits their eye and shooting conditions.

The heart of this optic is an Advanced Dot System: the 2 MOA aiming point stays tight on small targets while the larger field of view lets you find and track targets quickly — a useful combo for air-rifle work from plinking and pest control to more precise target shooting. The ARO’s window and sight geometry make cheek weld and sight picture very forgiving across a variety of stocks and mounts.

Power management and simple serviceability are strong points. Shake-Awake (motion activation) powers the sight up instantly when it detects movement and shuts it down when idle, saving battery life without the fuss of daily on/off switching. When you do need to change the battery, the side-loading CR2032 tray lets you swap cells without removing the sight from the rail. On the CR2032 the manufacturer rates runtime up to 50,000 hours (on a mid/high setting) — excellent endurance for weekend ranges or multi-day trips.

Brightness and user controls are straightforward and practical: there are 10 daylight and 2 night settings, plus a Lockout Mode to prevent accidental changes during transport or use. That makes the optic adaptable to bright sun, indoor ranges, dusk, or low-light dawn hunts. Construction is tough and lightweight — machined aluminum with a matte anodized finish, IP67 dust/water resistance, and a body weight of ~3.38 oz — so it won’t overly upset the balance of most air rifles, including light break-barrels and PCPs.

It ships with flexible mounting hardware (both a 1.63” lower 1/3-co-witness mount and a 1.05” low mount), so you can set up a lower-profile sight for a tight cheek weld or a slightly elevated mount for co-witnessing iron sights.

Key Specifications

• Models / Reticle options: ARO-RD2 (2 MOA Red), ARO-GR2 (2 MOA Green), ARO-GD2 (2 MOA Gold), ARO-MRS-RD/G R/GD (Multi-Reticle versions)

• Dot size: 2 MOA

• Window: 22 mm wide viewing window

• Battery: CR2032 (side-loading tray)

• Runtime: Up to ~50,000 hours (on a mid/high setting — manufacturer figure)

• Brightness settings: 10 daylight / 2 night + Lockout Mode

• Activation: Shake-Awake (motion activation)

• Construction: Rugged aluminum, matte anodized finish

• Ingress protection: IP67 (dust & water resistant)

• Weight: ~3.38 oz (optic body)

• Mounts included: 1.63” lower 1/3-co-witness mount and 1.05” low mount

Pros

• Pinpoint aiming — 2 MOA dot for precise pellet placement at typical air-rifle ranges

• Huge battery life — extremely long CR2032 runtime; great for infrequent-use owners

• Shake-Awake — auto on/off saves battery and feels virtually seamless in use

• Very durable & weather resistant — IP67 rating and aluminum body for field use

• Multiple reticle/color choices — pick red, green, or gold; multi-reticle option increases versatility

• Compact and light — minimal added weight to most air rifles, preserves handling

• Tool-free battery access — side-loading tray makes swaps fast without remounting

• Flexible mounting — includes both low and 1/3-co-witness mounts for varied setups

Cons

• Electronic dependency — like all reflex sights, becomes useless when battery dies (bring spares)

 

3.Bushnell R5 Illuminated Riflescope, HD Optical System, Fully-Multi Coated Lenses, EXO Barrier, IPX7 Waterproof

 

 

TheBushnell R5 Illuminated Riflescope, HD Optical System, Fully-Multi Coated Lenses, EXO Barrier, IPX7 Waterproofcontinues to uphold its decades-long reputation as a leader in precision optics. The Bushnell R5 3-9×40 Illuminated Multi-X Riflescope exemplifies the brand’s dedication to delivering exceptional performance at an affordable price — making it one of the best Bushnell AR optics for air rifles. Designed for shooters who demand accuracy from dawn to dusk, it brings together advanced lens coatings, a crisp illuminated reticle, and robust weatherproof construction, ensuring dependable performance on every air-rifle outing.

At the core of this riflescope lies the Illuminated Multi-X Reticle, which enhances target visibility in changing light conditions. Whether you’re shooting in bright sunlight or low-light twilight, the illuminated crosshair provides clear point-of-aim contrast against any background. This makes it an excellent choice for air-rifle enthusiasts who shoot across varied environments — from shaded backyards to open fields.

The HD Optical System sets a new standard for optical quality in this class. It delivers superb brightness, resolution, and contrast, allowing you to pick out fine details at every magnification setting. The result is a clean, distortion-free sight picture that lets you place shots with confidence even at longer pellet ranges.

To further enhance clarity and brightness, the scope’s Fully Multi-Coated Lenses maximize light transmission and minimize glare. The coatings work in concert with Bushnell’s proprietary EXO Barrier, a molecular-level lens coating that repels water, oil, dust, and debris. This means clearer images in rain, fog, or dusty field conditions — exactly what air-rifle shooters need for consistent accuracy.

The optic’s rugged build is backed by an IPX7 waterproof rating, protecting it against moisture intrusion from heavy rain or accidental submersion. Combined with a durable housing and precise turret adjustments, the R5 3-9×40 is engineered to maintain zero even under the recoil of powerful air rifles or centerfire platforms.

Specifications

• Model: Bushnell R5 3-9×40 Illuminated Multi-X Riflescope

• Magnification: 3–9×

• Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm

• Reticle: Illuminated Multi-X

• Optical System: HD Optical System for superior contrast and clarity

• Lens Coating: Fully Multi-Coated lenses with EXO Barrier protection

• Waterproof Rating: IPX7 (submersible up to 1 meter for 30 minutes)

• Construction: Durable one-inch tube with precision-machined components

• Eye Relief: Comfortable and forgiving for a wide range of shooting positions

• Adjustments: Windage and elevation turrets for precise zeroing

Pros

• Crisp illuminated reticle enhances visibility in both bright and dim conditions

• HD Optical System delivers high contrast and detail for accurate pellet placement

• Fully Multi-Coated lenses ensure maximum light transmission and image clarity

• EXO Barrier coating keeps lenses clear in rain, snow, or dusty ranges

• IPX7 waterproofing provides excellent protection against water damage

• Durable and dependable design that holds zero under repeated use

• Ideal magnification range (3-9×) for air-rifle hunting and target shooting

Cons

• No parallax adjustment — may limit precision at very short air-rifle distances

 

4.Bushnell RXS250 Reflex Sight_RXS250

 

The Bushnell RXS-250 Reflex Sight is designed with versatility and accuracy in mind, ideal for both air rifle enthusiasts and professional marksmen. It features a clear 4 MOA red dot that provides fast target acquisition and pinpoint precision. With 10 adjustable brightness settings, the sight adapts seamlessly to all lighting conditions—whether you’re shooting indoors, under bright sunlight, or during low-light conditions at dusk.

The fully multi-coated glass lens ensures excellent light transmission and clarity, minimizing glare while providing a crisp and vivid sight picture. Its detented windage and elevation adjustments offer precise zeroing, allowing you to fine-tune accuracy without drift during heavy use. The top-loading battery compartment provides easy access for quick replacements, ensuring you don’t have to remove the sight from your air rifle—a feature that saves time and maintains zero retention.

Built with Bushnell’s legendary toughness, the RXS-250 boasts IP67 waterproof and dustproof protection, ensuring reliable performance in the harshest conditions. It’s crafted for endurance with up to 50,000 hours of battery life on mid-setting, offering long-lasting functionality without constant power concerns. This optic mounts effortlessly on a wide range of platforms, including pistols, MSRs, and air rifles, making it a highly adaptable and dependable sight for any shooting discipline—be it home defense, target training, competition, or hunting.

Specifications

• Model: Bushnell RXS-250 Reflex Sight

• Dot Size: 4 MOA red dot

• Brightness Settings: 10 manual settings

• Lens Coating: Fully multi-coated glass

• Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours (mid-setting)

• Battery Type: CR2032 (top-loading compartment)

• Adjustment: Detented windage/elevation

• Construction: Aluminum housing, shock-resistant

• Waterproof Rating: IP67 (waterproof and dustproof)

• Mount Compatibility: Fits pistols, MSRs, shotguns, and air rifles

• Ideal Use: Training, target shooting, home defense, and hunting

Pros

•  Bright and clear 4 MOA red dot with adjustable brightness for all lighting conditions

•  Fully multi-coated glass delivers crisp, glare-free visuals

•  Long battery life—up to 50,000 hours on mid-setting

•  IP67 waterproof and dustproof construction for rugged durability

•  Top-loading battery for easy replacement without losing zero

•  Detented windage and elevation for precise adjustments

•  Compatible with multiple firearm and air rifle platforms

•  Ideal for competitive, defensive, and recreational shooting

Cons

•  Slightly higher price point compared to entry-level reflex sights

5.Bushnell Red Dot Sight (TRS-26) – 1x26mm, Reflex with 3 MOA, Fully Enclosed and Waterproof Optic, 50,000-Hour Battery Life

 

 

 

the Bushnell TRS-26 Red Dot Sight stands out as a modern evolution of one of the brand’s most trusted models. Designed for shooters who demand fast target acquisition, reliability, and crisp visibility, the TRS-26 builds upon its legendary predecessor (the TRS-25) with substantial upgrades in optics, performance, and battery efficiency. Its precision-engineered design makes it one of the best Bushnell AR optics for air rifles, especially for those seeking a rugged, compact, and highly responsive sight for quick shooting scenarios.

The Bushnell TRS-26 features a sharper and brighter 3 MOA dot, projected through Bushnell’s advanced point-source RCLED system. Unlike older LED systems that waste energy with masking, the RCLED design delivers a pinpoint dot with superior clarity, longer battery life, and improved visibility in all light conditions. The red dot remains crisp and well-defined, allowing for quick and precise target alignment — an essential advantage for air rifle shooters who value accuracy at short to mid-range distances.

One of the standout upgrades is its larger 26mm objective lens, which provides a noticeably wider field of view compared to typical micro red dots. This wide view makes it easier to acquire targets quickly and track movement, whether you’re plinking targets in the backyard or controlling pests in dense brush. The increased light-gathering capability also ensures excellent performance in dawn, dusk, or shaded conditions.

The TRS-26 also features push-button operation and a user-selectable auto-off timer. This means shooters can customize how long the sight stays active before shutting off — or disable the timer completely for defensive or continuous-use scenarios. Such flexibility enhances battery management while maintaining readiness when it matters most.

Engineered for durability, the TRS-26 is IPX7 waterproof-rated and nitrogen-purged, ensuring the sight remains fog-free and sealed against moisture, dust, and debris. Whether you’re shooting in the rain or humid environments, this red dot maintains crystal-clear performance. Its robust construction also makes it capable of withstanding the shock and vibration of most air rifles, ensuring reliability shot after shot.

Specifications

• Brand: Bushnell

• Model: TRS-26 Red Dot Sight

• Dot Size: 3 MOA (point-source RCLED projection)

• Objective Lens Diameter: 26 mm

• Brightness Settings: Multiple manual settings with push-button controls

• Auto-Off Feature: User-selectable auto-off timer (can be disabled)

• Battery Life: Extended battery runtime (improved over TRS-25)

• Construction: Sealed, nitrogen-purged aluminum housing

• Waterproof Rating: IPX7 (submersible up to 1 meter for 30 minutes)

• Mount Type: Standard Picatinny/Weaver mount

• Power Source: CR2032 battery

Pros

• Crisp and bright 3 MOA dot enhances precision and quick aiming

• Larger 26mm objective lens provides a wider, clearer field of view

• Efficient RCLED system improves battery life and optical clarity

• Push-button controls simplify brightness and power adjustments

• Customizable auto-off timer balances readiness with power savings

• IPX7 waterproof and nitrogen-purged for complete weather protection

• Durable yet lightweight construction suitable for air rifle recoil

• Ideal for rapid target acquisition in hunting or range settings

Cons

• No night vision compatibility — limited for extremely low-light tactical use

Also read;5 Best Ear Muffs for Air Rifles

Factor to Consider when Choosing Best Bushnell AR Optics for Air Rifles

1. Optical Clarity and Lens Coatings

One of the most critical aspects when selecting a Bushnell AR optic for your air rifle is optical clarity. Look for scopes equipped with fully multi-coated lenses, which ensure superior light transmission, brightness, and contrast. Bushnell’s HD Optical System and EXO Barrier coatings enhance image resolution while repelling dust, water, and oil. These coatings prevent fogging and scratches, giving you sharp visuals even in challenging weather or lighting conditions. Clear optics make it easier to acquire and maintain your target, especially when precision matters most.

2. Magnification Range

The magnification range determines how well you can engage targets at varying distances. For short- to mid-range air rifle shooting (10–50 yards), a scope with 1–4x or 3–9x magnification is typically sufficient. If you plan to shoot at longer ranges, a 4–12x or higher magnification optic offers better target detail. Bushnell AR Optics offer flexible zoom options that let you adapt to your shooting style—whether it’s pest control, plinking, or precision target shooting—without sacrificing image stability or field of view.

3. Reticle Type and Illumination

The reticle design plays a significant role in target acquisition and aiming accuracy. Bushnell offers a variety of reticle options, including illuminated Multi-X and BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) styles. An illuminated reticle is particularly valuable in low-light conditions, such as dawn or dusk, ensuring your aim remains visible. The color and brightness settings allow for quick adjustments, while the reticle’s design can help with holdover and windage estimation—crucial for air rifles that experience pellet drop at distance.

4. Durability and Build Quality

Air rifles, especially spring-piston models, produce a unique two-way recoil that can be harsh on optics. Therefore, durability is essential. Bushnell AR Optics are engineered with rugged aluminum housings, sealed construction, and shockproof designs to withstand these recoil forces. Their IPX7 waterproof and fog-proof protection further ensures the optic remains functional in rain, humidity, or dusty conditions. A tough, weather-resistant build guarantees longevity and consistent performance in all environments.

5. Parallax Adjustment and Focus

Parallax error can affect accuracy, especially at closer air rifle distances. Some Bushnell AR Optics feature adjustable parallax (side focus or adjustable objective) that allows shooters to fine-tune focus for different target ranges. This is particularly beneficial for air rifles that are used at distances shorter than standard firearm ranges. Being able to eliminate parallax ensures your reticle stays on target even when you slightly shift your head position—enhancing shot consistency and precision.

6. Eye Relief and Comfort

Eye relief—the distance between your eye and the scope—affects comfort and safety while shooting. For air rifles, especially those with noticeable recoil, sufficient eye relief prevents the scope from hitting your eye under recoil. Bushnell scopes typically offer generous eye relief, allowing you to maintain a clear sight picture without straining your eyes. A comfortable and forgiving eye box also helps with quick target acquisition, making the shooting experience smoother and more enjoyable.

7. Battery Life and Illumination Controls

If your optic has an illuminated reticle or red-dot system, battery life becomes a vital factor. Bushnell designs their illuminated optics with efficient LED systems and power-saving features such as auto-shutoff. Long battery life ensures reliability during extended shooting sessions or hunting trips. Easy-to-access controls and brightness adjustment settings allow shooters to fine-tune the illumination for varying light environments, maintaining reticle visibility without draining power unnecessarily.

8. Mounting Compatibility and Weight

The best optic should integrate seamlessly with your air rifle’s rail system. Bushnell AR Optics come with standard mounting compatibility for Picatinny and Weaver rails, making installation straightforward. Additionally, weight plays a role in maintaining balance and handling—lightweight scopes are preferable for maintaining your rifle’s agility. Always ensure the scope’s mounting height aligns with your shooting position and cheek weld for optimal comfort and accuracy.

Frequent Asked Question Best Bushnell AR Optics for Air Rifles

1. Do I need a special “air-rifle rated” Bushnell AR optic, or will a standard AR Optics model work?

Answer: Many shooters assume you need a specially labeled “air-rifle” scope, but in practice a good quality Bushnell AR Optics model can work well on an air rifle — provided you account for certain factors. For instance, some spring-piston (break-barrel) air rifles produce a forward-then-backward recoil impulse that is harsher than typical firearm recoil. As one forum post notes:

“Bushnell used to have … models that were excellent for springer use … They were not only clear and bright, but they were also very durable when it comes to the infamous springer 2-way recoil.
So if you’re mounting a Bushnell AR Optics scope on a heavy-recoil springer, check the build quality, confirm it holds zero after recoil, and use quality rings/mounts. On lower-recoil PCPs (pre-charged pneumatic) or CO₂ rifles, standard AR Optics models are often entirely sufficient — they deliver the optical clarity, coatings and features Bushnell advertises (e.g., fully-multi-coated lenses, EXO Barrier, etc.).
In short: you don’t always need a “special” air-rifle scope, but you do need to make sure the model you choose can handle your rifle’s recoil and mounting situation.

2. What magnification and reticle features should I look for in a Bushnell AR Optic for an air rifle?

Answer: The ideal magnification and reticle depend on your air rifle’s typical range, pellet speed, and hunting or target scenario. Some key points:

• If you’re doing close-to-mid range work (e.g., 10-40 m target shooting, backyard plinking), a lower magnification (e.g., 1-4×, 1-6×) gives a wide field of view and easier target acquisition. For air-rifle shooting this can be very useful.

• If you plan longer shots (50-100 m) with a high-power PCP and need more resolution, a 4-12× or 4.5-18× model may make sense — but be aware of parallax and holdover issues.

• As for reticles: simple crosshairs or illuminated reticles are beneficial for low-light conditions or hunting; reticles with holdover marks or ballistic drop lines can help if you shoot varied distances.

• Also consider if the optic has parallax compensation (for example side-focus) — this becomes more important at longer ranges and with higher magnification. Some Bushnell AR models are fixed for 100 yards and may not be optimized for close-range air-rifle distances.
  In summary: match the magnification and reticle style to your typical shooting distance, pellet trajectory, and light conditions — that ensures the optic supports your air-rifle’s strengths.

3. How important are lens coatings, waterproofing, and ruggedness in a Bushnell AR Optic for air-rifle use?

Answer: Very important — especially if you shoot outdoors, in varying conditions, or with rifles that produce strong recoil. Here’s why:

• Lens coatings (fully multi-coated, EXO Barrier, etc.) improve light transmission, contrast and clarity. Bushnell’s own manual highlights the importance of fully-multi-coated optics and protective coatings.

• Waterproof/fog-proof construction ensures the optic holds up in rain, dew, humidity, or temperature changes. For example, IPX7-rated scopes or nitrogen-purged housings will resist internal fogging and water ingress — key when shooting early morning or in misty conditions.

• Ruggedness and recoil tolerance: As noted earlier, spring-piston air rifles impose unique shock loads. Even for PCPs, regular use demands good durability. Cheap or lightly-built scopes may lose zero or fail prematurely. A report on one Bushnell AR scope said

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right optic for your air rifle can make a remarkable difference in your shooting precision, comfort, and overall experience. A high-quality AR optic should deliver clear visuals, dependable performance, and the resilience to handle different weather and recoil conditions. With features such as enhanced light transmission, durable construction, and user-friendly controls, you’ll gain the confidence to shoot accurately in any environment—whether for target practice, pest control, or hunting. Investing in a reliable scope ensures that every shot counts, helping you elevate your air rifle’s performance to its full potential.