The Looking for the Best Scope for a 308 Rifle?
The search for the best scope for a 308 can be long and frustrating especially if you are a beginner in hunting or tactical shooting. The best long range scope for 308 varies depending on your rifle and your personal preference.
Personally, I don’t have a problem picking the best scope for hunting or tactical shooting since I have been doing for years. I would like to use my experience to help you get the best scope for a 308 rifle no matter what kind of rifle.
Top 5 Best 308 Scopes Work Perfectly with Different Rifles
There is a common beginner anxiety that a scope may not work with a certain rifle. Mostly, the best scopes for 308 work perfectly on variety of rifles including; AR 15 rifles, AR 10 rifle, Bolt Action Rifle, Remington 700, Ruger scout, tactical, sniper and hunting rifles.
There are dozens of 308 scopes in the market but only a few can be considered the best for all 308 rifles. The ideal 308 scope is the optic that can be used on most tactical rifles.
Before you check out the best scopes for 308, it’s important you understand what ‘308’ is all about. Let’s begin by explaining in the simplest way possible for beginners to learn.
Why 308 Scope?
If you are completely new to rifles you may be wondering why we are talking about 308? The scope gets its name because of the caliber used, the .308. The .308 is a type of cartridge used for hunting and tactical shooting.
So where did 308 come from?
Ideally, most of the caliber is named according to the size and the dimensions of the ammo. The 308 caliber as a rich history having been invented in 1952 and was widely used for different purposes. Most importantly, this caliber was slightly modified and adopted by NATO.
It has also become very popular in the hunting community since it’s a very effective round for hunting big game like black bear, whitetail deer, pronghorn and eland.
How Accurate is 308?
It’s very accurate and perfectly accurate within 200-300 yards range. With the best long range 308 scope, you can push the limit of its accuracy beyond this range.
Its accuracy can be affirm by the wide range of use in target shooting, snipping, law enforcement, hunting and military.
Widely Used Cartridge
The cartridge can be used on different rifles including military tactical rifles, ARs and even the traditional wood-barreled hunting rifles.
The .308 is a versatile cartridge that is loved due to its low recoil, extended barrel life and low power consumption. The cartridge is also very easy to reload; it does not produce a lot of recoil, and is accurate within 250-300 yards.
Highly Versatile
The .308 caliber rifles are available in a wide range, making it hard for you to identify the best scope for a 308 rifle. The market is awash with different 308 scopes that come in different price range and sizes to match the needs of different users.
There are very few scopes that have been designed to complement the .308 caliber thus the search for the best scope for a 308 rifle can be time consuming.
Search for the Best Long Range Scope for 308 is Over!
The good news is that we have carried out a thorough research to help you identify the best long range scope for 308 or if you like 308 sniper scope for your shooting needs.
Our list of top tactical rifle optics is based on the features and adjustments found on the scope, strength and quality of the frame, and the warranty package offered by the manufacturer.
It’s obvious that the price of each of the best long range scope for 308 is relatively high since each scope brings into the game advanced features that make long range shooting easier and accurate.
Best Long Range Scope for 308 Rifle Buyer’s Guide
When you are looking for the best long range scope for 308, you need to do proper research to ensure the scope you choose complements your rifle. If you are new to hunting, you need to seek some advice from experienced hunters to help you understand what you should expect as well as the best 308 scopes for beginners in hunting.
You can also learn from our previously reviewed best scopes for hunting. We have wonderful resources to guide you on buying the best scope for deer hunting or varmint hunting.
But first let’s outlined the factors that you need to look out for when shopping for the best long range scope for 308;
Identify Your Shooting Needs – Tactical, Hunting, Sport?
Prior to getting started with your search for best long range scope for 308, you need to be sure about what you want to do with your rifle. If you are planning to engage in long range shooting, you need to look for a 308 scope that provides you with all the features you need for an accurate long range shooting.
Whether you are planning to do tactical shooting, hunting or sniping; you will always get a 308 scope that match your needs and requirements.
Choose Multipurpose 308 Scopes or Multiple 308 Scopes
You need to know what activities you plan to use the scope. By determining the activities you want to carry on using the 308 rifle while help you know the kind of features to look out for in the best 308 scopes. Different 308 scopes come with different features thus you can be assured that you will find a scope that best suits your requirements and needs.
Whether it is hunting, targeting shooting, snipping or long range shooting; the best scope for 308 rifles should be able to provide you with accuracy and reliability even during adverse weather conditions.
Always keep in mind the type of shooting you’ll be taking part in; whether it is long-range targets shooting or short-range targets shooting.
If you are still not sure what you need, you should pick the best long range scope for 308 that can also be used for other activities – ideally, you will own several scopes like I do so that you can always match each 308 scope with your shooting activity.
Have a Budget in Mind
Shopping for a new rifle or a scope especially the best long range scope for 308 is undoubtedly very exciting. It helps to have a budget in mind since at the end of it all you will have to buy a 308 scope that you can afford. Having a budget helps you pick the best long range scope for 308 with the features you need and maximum quality you can get for every buck you spend.
Durability of the Scope is Important
Durability of the scope is a very important factor to consider when looking for a good hunting scope. Irrespective of the scope you choose for your 308 rifle, its durability should not be overlooked.
Most importantly, hunting requires you to have a strong and durable scope that is able to withstand the harsh hunting surroundings.
A good hunting scope should also have the ability to gather as much light as possible since you will be hunting in limited light.
Clarity and Brightness Matters
The clarity and brightness of a scope play a key role in improving your shooting experience. Whether you are snipping, hunting or engaging in tactical long range shooting; you need a scope that provides you with optimum clarity even in low light environments.
The best scope for a 308 should have lens made from high quality material to ensure maximum transmission of light into the scope.
Magnification is good but not Everything
A high magnification is another important feature that the best hunting scope for a 308 rifle should have. If you are shooting at a short range, magnification may not be a big issue for you.
However; if you are engaging in long range shooting, you need the best long range scope for 308 that provides you with highest magnification.
The best long range 308 scope should have a high magnification to make it possible for you to see targets at long distances. Snipping also requires you to have the best sniper scope for 308 rifles that has a highest magnification.
Accuracy is Essential
Accuracy is also very important especially for snipping and long range shooting. Deciding on how far you plan to shot will help you determine the kind of 308 scope to get.
Big game hunting also requires accuracy thus you need to choose a scope that provides you with the highest accuracy possible.
Ultimately, I have a personal belief that the shooter is the key determinant of accuracy of each shot. You can have the best long range 308 scope and the best rifle but that will not guarantee you perfect shots. Practice it inevitable for improved accuracy.
Top 5 Best Long Range Scope for 308 List (Tactical, AR & Sniper)
To make it easier for you to identify the best long range scope for 308 that will match your rifle. We have done research on all the 308 rifle scopes available in the market and have selected the 308 scopes with the best reviews and ranking based on their performance, durability and the features that each of these scopes has to offer.
Here is our review of each of the best scope for a 308 rifle that is perfect for long range shooting, snipping or tactical shooting.
#1) Leupold VX-2 3-9×40 with Duplex Reticle – Best Leupold Scope for 308
The Leupold VX-2 3-9×40 is a reliable 308 scope for all 308 rifles. The scope features computer-engineered lenses to ensure clear and bright images. The scope comes with 1/4 MOA click windage and elevation adjustments for easy and quick adjustment of your settings.
The adjustments are conveniently located for easy and quick access. This Leupold scope for 308 has multiCoat 4 lens coatings for superior light transmission to make it possible to use the scope during dusk and dawn. The superior quality lens makes the scope one of the best 308 scopes for deer hunting.
It is a waterproof scope that has been designed using Leupold’s waterproof technology. This is our number #1 choice for the best long range scope for 308 we vouch for this scope at position one based on the features and the quality that comes with all the Leupold scopes.
Features of Leupold VX-2 3-9×40
- 1/4 MOA click windage and elevation adjustments
- Waterproof capabilities
- MultiCoat 4 lens coatings for superior light transmission
- Generous eye relief
- Rugged aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Matte finish
- Transferable lifetime warranty
Pros of Leupold VX-2 3-9×40
- The lenses of the 308 scope have blackened edges to reduce glare and diffusion.
- It is one of the top tactical optics that provides you with a simple duplex reticle which is a second focal plane to ensure that it stays the same size no matter what you do with the magnification.
- Leupold VX-2 3-9×40 comes with adjustment knobs that have finger-click stops for tweaking windage and elevation.
- The scope is one of the high powered scopes for 308 rifles that offer you a generous eye with Leupold’s signature eyebox for flexible mounting, and quick target acquisition from multiple positions.
- The Leupold VX-2 3-9×40 is a very low-maintenance scope for 308 and holds zero flawlessly.
- It is covered with a transferable lifetime warranty.
- The rifle scope is a good hunting scope for 308 that features multiCoat 4 lens coatings for superior light transmission to make it possible to use the scope during dusk and dawn.
- The waterproof capability of the scope makes it the best hunting scope for a 308 guns.
Cons of Leupold VX-2 3-9×40
- It is a more basic 308 scope that does not have extra features or advance features thus if you are looking for a complex scope for 308 rifle then this is not the scope for you.
#2) Nikon M-308 4-16x42mm Riflescope – Best Scope for a 308 Hunting Rifle
Nikon M-308 4-16x42mm Riflescope is one of the best long range scope for 308 rifle that has been designed with the 308 caliber requirements in mind.
This 308 scope features ballistic drop compensating reticle that compensate for drop over different distances for improved accuracy. It has a BDC reticle that provides you with a range of up to 800 yards.
The Nikon M-308 is high powered scope for 308 rifles that provides you with a variable magnification that ranges from 4 to 16 power. It has the best 308 optic that uses a 42mm objective lens, which lets you to keep the scope mounted low and still be reliable enough to provide a crystal clear image.
Nikon M-308 is our second choice for the best long range scope for 308 based on the specific design standards that are focused on 308 caliber.
Features of Nikon M-308 4-16x42mm Riflescope
- 4-16X magnification
- Ballistic drop reticle
- Fully multi-coated, with scratch resistance and glare reduction
- High-grade aluminum 1” body tube
- 1/4MOA adjustments
- 4” eye relief
- Lifetime warranty
- Built-in spring resistance turrets for improved repeat shots
Pros of Nikon M-308 4-16x42mm Riflescope
- The 308 scope provides you with 4-16X magnification for a wide field of vision.
- The objective lens of the Nikon M-308 is slightly oversized, at 42mm which is ideal for heavy caliber shooting like a .308.
- Nikon M-308 4-16x42mm Riflescope features a quick-focus eyepiece that makes it easy to get sighted on your target at any zoom level.
- It is the best 308 scope tactical rifle scope that has especially spaced-out mount ring points, for better fit on .308 rifles.
- The Nikon M-308 4-16x42mm Riflescope has a tactical design, with 1/4MOA adjustments that provide solid clicks, and feel very reassuring for quick-reset feature, so you can return to zero between shots.
- It has a 4” eye relief, which is makes it the best 308 scope for deer hunting than most other scopes in the market.
- The 308 scope is covered by a lifetime warranty.
Cons of Nikon M-308 4-16x42mm Riflescope
- The M-308 scope has a simple duplex reticle which disqualifies it from being the best long range scope since it does not allow you to calculate long-range bullet drop.
- The quick-focus eyepiece of the Nikon M-308 4-16x42mm Riflescope does not lock.
#3) Leupold Mark AR MOD 1 Riflescope – Best Scope for 308 AR
The Leupold Mark AR MOD 1 Riflescope is designed for AR rifles but makes it the best long range scope for 308 on AR. The scope provides you with a magnification range of 3x to 9x. It has the best 308 optics that provide you with clear and bright images.
The AR MOD 1 scope is waterproof and fog proof to ensure reliability during adverse weather condition. The rifle scope is filled with argon/krypton gas to prevent internal fogging.
It is among the best scopes for 308 rifles that provide you with a Mil-Dot reticle with horizontal and vertical marks for quick aiming.
The rifle scope is equipped with windage adjustment that has a range of 56 MOA and an elevation adjustment with a range of 52 MOA. It is a good hunting scope for 308 guns.
Features of Leupold Mark AR MOD 1 Riflescope
- Mil-Dot reticle
- 1/2 MOA adjustment turrets
- Firedot feature
- 5 levels of brightness
- Leupold’s lifetime warranty
- Magnification range of 3x to 9x
- Waterproof and fog proof
Pros of Leupold Mark AR MOD 1 Riflescope
- It is the best 308 scope for both hunting and target practice.
- Leupold Mark AR MOD 1 scope for 308 rifles comes with a tactical milling reticle etched into the second focal plane for more accurate precision.
- The Leupold Mark AR MOD 1 Riflescope has Firedot feature that offers you 5 levels of brightness to choose from which is great while shooting in low-light conditions.
- The 308 scope is covered by Leupold’s lifetime warranty.
- It is the best value scope for 308 that holds its zero after heavy recoils.
- Leupold Mark AR MOD 1 Riflescope is filled with argon/krypton gas to prevent internal fogging.
- The reticle of the scope is conveniently located for easy access.
- The Leupold 308 scope provides you with the best 308 optic for clear and bright images.
Cons of Leupold Mark AR MOD 1 Riflescope
- The scope has a Mil-Dot reticle which might not be ideal for everyone.
- The 308 scope turrets are set up for .223, thus you may have to spend some money to set it up for .308.
#4) Vortex Diamondback – Best Scope for 308 Bolt Action Rifle
The Vortex Diamondback is a premium 308 scope that provides you with 3.1 inches of eye relief which is good for those using big 308 rifles.
It makes the best long range scope for 308 for hunting due to its solid and rugged construction that is capable of withstanding the harsh hunting conditions. The rifle scope offers you with 4 to 12 variable magnification range.
The Vortex scope for 308 rifles is waterproof, shockproof and fog proof; making it a good hunting scope for 308. You can confidently use the scope even during adverse weather conditions without the fear of ruining it. It is a compact and lightweight scope that is ideal for those looking for the best scope for bolt action 308 scope.
Features of Vortex Diamondback
- Rugged, recoil-resistant construction
- Fully multicoated optics
- Precision-Glide Erector System for smooth zooms
- Capped reset turrets for easy re-indexing to zero
- Argon purged for waterproof, fog proof capabilities
Pros of Vortex Diamondback
- Vortex Diamondback features fully multicoated optics to increase light transmission for sharp, brilliant images.
- The 308 scope is waterproof, shockproof and fog proof; making it a good hunting scope for 308.
- It is a premium 308 scope that provides you with 3.1 inches of eye relief which is goof for those using big 308 rifles
- The Vortex Diamondback 308 scope has a solid and rugged construction that is capable of withstanding the harsh hunting conditions
- The scope offers you with 4 to 12 variable magnification range for a wide field of view.
- It is the best 308 scope that is ideal for those looking for the best scope for bolt action 308 scope.
- The Vortex Diamondback scope comes with Precision-Glide Erector System for smooth zooms.
- It has capped reset turrets for easy and quick re-indexing to zero.
Cons of Vortex Diamondback
- The Deadhold BDC of the scope requires you to dial it manually for a multi-caliber BDC.
- It is a premium scope for 308 rifles thus it is not a choice for those looking for a budget 308 scope.
#5) UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope – Best UTG Scope for 308
The UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope is a high-quality scope that makes it to our list of the best long range scope for 308 due to the quality of the images it provides.
It features an easy to access reticle with 36 illumination color options. It has the best 308 optic that allow maximum light transmission for clear and bright images even in low light conditions.
The scope also has multi-coated emerald lenses that boost light transmission for better accuracy. The rifle scope is shock- and rain-proof, making it a great choice for tactical shooting. It is a good hunting scope for 308 rifles that is capable of withstanding even the heaviest recoil.
The rifle scope comes with zero-locking and zero-resetting system as well as a 1-click illumination memory feature that makes it easy for you to quickly return to your previous color and brightness setting.
Features of UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope
- Zero-Locking and Zero-Resetting Target Turrets
- Side-Wheel Parallax Adjustment
- Side Focus Knob
- Integrated Angled Front Sunshade
- Shock proof/Fog proof/Rainproof
- Matte Black Finish
- Multi-coated emerald lenses
Pros of UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope
- The 308 scope comes with a multi-colored reticle that makes it possible for colorblind shooters to find a color that works for them.
- The UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope allows you to quickly and easily change the reticle colors for different lighting conditions.
- The scope effectively holds zero after repeated, heavy recoils.
- It has the best 308 optic that allow maximum light transmission for clear and bright images even in low light conditions
- It is the best 308 scope that has multi-coated emerald lenses that boost light transmission for better accuracy.
- UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope is capable of withstanding even the heaviest recoil
- It has a 1-click illumination memory feature that makes it easy for you to quickly return to your previous color and brightness setting.
Cons of UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope
- The magnifications above 10x are inaccurate in low light conditions.
- The scope may feel heavy for some users.
Conclusion – Best Scope for a 308 Rifle
If you are looking for the best scope for a 308 rifle, the above scopes are among the high powered scopes for 308 caliber that can come in handy for snipping, long range shooting as well as hunting.
The 308 scopes are durable and provide you with useful features that provide you with improved accuracy and reliability while using your 308 rifle. Whether you are looking for the best hunting 308 scope or you just need the best 308 scope for bolt action; any of the scopes above can provide you with great shooting experience.
Quick Reminder: Buying Best 308 Scope
If you are new to 308 scopes, you need to do a thorough research of all the scopes available in the market so as to be able to determine the 308 scope that best suits your needs.
The main factors that you should always bear in mind while shopping are: distance, clarity, sturdy construction. If you put these three factors into consideration, you can be assured of getting the best 308 scope that will provide you with accuracy, reliability and durability.
In a quick summary the other three qualities you need to pay attention to include:
- Ease of Adjustment: The ease of adjustment and sighting in is also another important factor to put into consideration when shopping for a rifle scope. Ensure that you get a scope that allows you to easily and quickly adjust your settings and sight in.
- Magnification: The kind of magnification offered buy the 308 scope also plays a role in determining how reliable and effective a rifle scope is. Determine whether the scope you choose has a fixed magnification or variable magnification.
- Quality of Material: The last factor to consider is the quality of the construction. If you plan to use your scope for hunting live game in all weather conditions, you need to choose a scope with a rugged construction that is capable of withstanding harsh conditions and heavy recoil.
When you invest in a good rifle scope, you want it to last. If you choose the best 308 scope, you can use it on different rifles that use the .308 caliber and for many years or even for generation of hunting or target shooting.
Finally, setting a budget for your scope is also important when looking for the best scope for 308 scope. The best 308 scopes come in a wide price range.
You need to buy a scope that matches your budget. You can get cheap 308 scopes as well as premium scopes for 308 rifle scopes during selected times of the year when most gun shops or online shops are offering huge discounts.
It’s always good to be on the lookout for the best discounts on 308 scopes. If you are budget constraint and need a scope badly, remember there are so many rifle scope brands in the market that provide you with affordable 308 rifle scopes.
Just take your time to look for one that suits your budget and meets your shooting needs. It’s also helpful to start by checking out these best 308 scopes listed on this review on Amazon, it the best place online to get you started.
Thank you for your time and Good Luck!