I just ordered the parts for my riffle, a kit from del-ton.  I ordered the flat top but don't really know what type of optics to put on.  I want to use the riffle for coyotes, plinking, maybe even a 3 gun competition.  Anyone have any suggestions on what type of optic I should put on it?  I don't really want to spend more on the optics than I did on the gun, thats my starting place anyways.

Thanks ahead of time for the advice
Zach

I'm no expert on this, but I've bought a number of scopes  and red dots, in the last year for AR's, and I firmly believe you don't need to spend an arm and a testicle for optics. If your initial pursuits are coyotes and plinking, I'd go for an inexpensive (check the EE) 2-8 or 3-9 power BSA, Bushnell, Tasco, or whatever brand. You don't need a Swarovski or Leopold. If you do get into 3-gun competition, I'd talk to the local competitors, to see what they are using. (And you still would not need to start with expensive optics).

for three gun you want an eotech

Quoted: for three gun you want an eotech

Yes!!

+1 EOTech

Hey Zach-

I'm doing the same thing now.  Just got my first 16" flattop.  My previous AR's have been A2 or scoped.

The scope will show you what the rifle is really capable of.  You can shoot some amazingly tiny groups with the regular peep sights on an AR however.

A red dot will have a two to six minute of angle sized dot which for me is less accurate at long ranges than a scope or the peep sights.  You are kinda' talking two different games here unless you can get your coyotes in close.  If you can talk them in close irons or a red dot will work fine.  I am lucky to get a coyote within 150-200 yards.

I too have tried the inexpensive red dots which usually have a larger dot but are fine for plinking and varmints relatively close.  For competeing I would buy something more rugged.  Check what others are using for competition.

I have a rear sight mounted on mine (a S.W.A.N. sleeve) and will probably mount a scope just to see what it is truly capable of.  Probably a Bushnell, Simmons or Nikon Buckmaster.  Unless I got lucky and got a half MOA shooter here a good red dot will wind up on it like an Aimpoint or Eotech with a two minute dot if available.

acog