The .308 Winchester is one of the most popular rifle cartridges, widely used for hunting, tactical applications, and long-range shooting. Choosing the right scope can significantly improve accuracy and performance. In this guide, we will explore the best scopes for 308, considering factors like magnification, durability, and price.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Scope for .308
Before selecting the best scope for your .308 rifle, consider the following essential factors:
- Magnification
The intended use determines the magnification power you need.
For hunting and short-range shooting, a 3-9x scope is ideal.
For long-range precision shooting, opt for a scope with at least 10x magnification or higher.
- Reticle Type
BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation): Helps adjust for bullet trajectory over long distances.
Mil-Dot: Useful for range estimation and windage compensation.
MOA or MRAD: Preferred by precision shooters for fine adjustments.
- Durability and Build Quality
Look for scopes made from high-quality aircraft-grade aluminum.
Water, fog, and shockproof features ensure performance in extreme conditions.
- Objective Lens Size
A larger lens (50mm or more) gathers more light, improving clarity in low-light conditions.
A smaller lens (40mm) offers a more compact and lightweight design.
- Adjustability and Turrets
Turrets should provide precise and repeatable adjustments.
Zero-reset and zero-stop features are beneficial for long-range shooters.
Top 5 Best Scopes for .308
Here are some of the best scopes for .308, selected based on quality, price, and performance.
- Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm
Magnification: 5-25x
Reticle: EBR-2C (MOA or MRAD)
Features: First focal plane (FFP), illuminated reticle, and precision turrets.
Why Choose It? Ideal for long-range shooters, this scope offers superior clarity and precise adjustments.
- Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm
Magnification: 3.5-10x
Reticle: Duplex
Features: Twilight Light Management System, lightweight design.
Why Choose It? Perfect for hunting, this scope offers excellent light transmission and durability.
- Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm
Magnification: 5-25x
Reticle: Mil-C FFP
Features: Rugged construction, high precision, advanced optics.
Why Choose It? One of the best scopes for .308 long-range precision shooting, with extreme durability.
- Primary Arms SLx 4-14x44mm FFP
Magnification: 4-14x
Reticle: ACSS HUD DMR
Features: Budget-friendly, FFP reticle, side parallax adjustment.
Why Choose It? A great choice for budget-conscious shooters who need a reliable and accurate scope.
- Bushnell Elite Tactical 6-24x50mm
Magnification: 6-24x
Reticle: Mil-Dot
Features: RainGuard HD coating, ultra-wide band coating for brightness.
Why Choose It? Offers a balance between affordability and long-range performance.
Conclusion
Finding the best scope for .308 depends on your specific needs, whether it’s hunting, tactical applications, or long-range precision shooting. The scopes listed above provide excellent performance, reliability, and value. Investing in a quality scope will enhance your shooting experience and improve accuracy in any shooting scenario.
