Going on top of .223, application is home defense and plinking, nothing long range. Open budget at this point. What do you like?

Trijicon Aimpoint 1.25-4x24

Aimpoint M4

Burris AR332 is a good value. Etched reticle is usable if batteries die. I'd probably add a laser or light to forend as well.

I'm putting a cheap reflex sight on my AR pistol until I can pick up a Burris. Decided a better trigger and brace were better upgrades at this point. Hope to have it finished by the end of the week.

Aimpoint micro if it's in the budget.

Trs 25.

I prefer a good 1-6x optic like a Vortex Strike Eagle. You can set it down on 1x and with the illuminated reticle you can use it like a red dot for close up, fast acquisition type stuff; but you also have the option of turning the magnification up if you need to reach out a little farther.

Red or green dot of your choice but it needs to be quick to activate. No time for fumbling with a hard to find button/switch in a high pressure, low light likely situation. Be careful shooting through walls and hitting the innocent with a bottle neck rifle cartridge.

Me too!

I looked at a LOT of options for this same scenario. I have one that’s just my all round AR.

It’s got a 1.25x4 Leupold VXR. I shoot it both eyes open and it’s essentially a red dot or I can zoom in and stretch it out. It’s the one I reach for most often. Also, that VXR system Leupold has is legit.