First Look: Bushnell AR Optics 4.5-18x 40mm Creed Riflescope

by
posted on September 5, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
ar_optics_65_creed.jpg

Bushnell's AR Optics line of riflescopes has become known for its combination of reliability and affordability. For 2017, the company has expanded the AR Optics brand to include an offering for the many hunters and shooters who have discovered 6.5 Creedmoor—the AR Optics 4.5-18x 40mm Creed Riflescope. Here are five things you need to know.

1. Only one model is available, for now.
So far, the 4.5-18x 40mm model is the only 6.5 Creedmoor-specific AR Optics scope Bushnell is offering. And yes, it really is fine-tuned for the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge. You could certainly outfit it to any rifle you’d like, but you’d be wasting the included holdover points, which I’ll get to in a moment.

2. It features the "Drop Zone" 6.5 Creedmoor reticle.
As the scope’s name suggests, it’s already tuned for 6.5 Creedmoor. As such, Bushnell has equipped it with the Drop Zone 6.5 Creedmoor reticle, which is designed to maximize the round’s performance by providing preset holder points for shots out to 600 yards.

3. It’s easy to manipulate.
The scope features tactical-style turrets, which allow for very rapid adjustments, when required. A side parallax focus makes it easy to ensure your target is clear at any range—which is handy when you’re preparing to make use of that built-in 600-yard holdover point.

4. It'll do the job in the field, too.
Though the AR Optics 4.5-18x 40mm Creed Riflescope was admittedly designed with tactical and competitive applications in mind, it acquits itself nicely in the field, too. I recently mounted one to a Savage Arms MSR 10 Hunter for an antelope hunt in New Mexico. The goat I put down from 200 yards didn't have time to offer any critiques as to my optic of choice.

5. It's affordable.
Almost the entirety of the AR Optics line can typically be found for under $200 at major retailers like Cabela's. Don't believe me? Click here.

Latest

Spandau RL Chris Olsen
Spandau RL Chris Olsen

New for 2026: Spandau Arms RL

Long renowned for its scatterguns, Spandau Arms has now entered the bolt-action rifle market with its Remington 700-pattern clone, dubbed the RL.

New for 2026: CZ 600+ ST3 American

CZ Firearms is off to a hot start in 2026 with a switch-barrel rifle system patterned off its successful Model 600.

CVA Expands Optima and Scout Lines for 2026

CVA is rolling out its new XP and XP‑SB Series, bringing updated ergonomics and enhanced adjustability to both its muzzleloader and single‑shot centerfire platforms.

Dead Air Silencers Unveils the Nomad Ti Over-the-Barrel Suppressor

This new .30-caliber suppressor from Dead Air goes over the barrel, to only add 4.6 inches to the end of your rifle.

Hot From SHOT: The Best New Hunting Shotguns of 2026

If you're back with us, fresh off of yesterday's SHOT show coverage, welcome back. If you're just checking in with us for the first time, be sure to go back and check out our roundups of the best rifles, optics and bowhunting gear to come out of the show so far this year. Today, however, read on to see the best shotguns of SHOT 2026, compiled by longtime contributor and diehard hunter, Brad Fitzpatrick. 

Nosler Whitetail Country Line Extensions

For 2026, Nosler has seen fit to extend its Whitetail Country line, and Phil Massaro likes their choices. Read on for more.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.