Welcome to this article that elucidates the best 308 scope recommendations. These scopes are meticulously curated to match various shooting needs and preferences. From classic, time-tested options to advanced technology, the scopes are engineered to give unprecedented clarity, reliability, and accuracy when married with the .308 rifle.
The .308 Winchester, commonly known as the 7.62x51mm NATO, is a popular and versatile cartridge that excels in a variety of applications like precision shooting, hunting, and tactical use. The rifle has magnificent power and is loved by many.
A scope stands out as one vital component required to unleash the full power of this highly adaptable round. The right scope can significantly improve the effectiveness and accuracy of a .308 rifle, empowering you to hit your target with confidence. Whether you are aiming a target at range, a distant bull elk, or a critical mission objective, the right optic will be a game-changer.
How Far Can a. 308 Shoot?
The effective range of a .308 Winchester cartridge is determined by a number of factors like the shooter’s skill, the specific rifle, type of ammunition, and the intended target. The cartridge is generally considered effective out to roughly 800 to 1000 yards for accurate target shooting, taking the factors explained above into account.
When it comes to hunting, the effective range is usually shorter, typically between 300 and 400 yards. Beyond these distances, the trajectory of the bullet starts to drop substantially, making it more complicated to hit the target accurately.
It is crucial to note that while the .308 Winchester is a highly adaptable cartridge with a relatively flat trajectory, the shooter’s ability to place shots at extended ranges accurately also plays an instrumental role. Long-range shooting calls for specialized optics, skills, and equipment, which is not something that every shooter can effectively achieve.
What Magnification Do You Need?
The magnification you need for the .308 rifle depends on various factors like shooting purpose, typical target engagement distance, and personal preferences. Let’s look at some guidelines that are a compass for choosing the right magnification based on common shooting scenarios:
-
Tactical and Close-Quarters
A low-powered scope with 1-6x or 1-8x magnification can be highly effective in tactical or close-quarter situations. These scopes provide swift target acquisition and are ideal for fast engagements at shorter ranges.
-
Hunting
A variable magnification scope with a low-end magnification like 3x to 4x and a high-end magnification of 9x to 12x is typically adequate for most hunting applications. This enables you to obtain targets at closer ranges and have precise shots at medium ranges, which are common in hunting scenarios.
-
Precision and Long-Range
When it comes to long-range shooting with the .308, a scope with a higher magnification like 4-16x or 5-25x is often recommended. These scopes offer the necessary magnification for engaging targets at long distances and for making precise adjustments.
Best 308 Scopes
With a crowded market, it can be complex to determine the right optic to pair with the .308 rifle. Luckily, we have done the homework and come up with the best models that shine from the crowd. Here are the best .308 scopes to help you make the most of your rifle, no matter the purpose.
1) Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm Riflescope
Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm riflescope is a versatile and fine optic made to help you exploit the .308 Winchester to the fullest. The 4-16x magnification provides flexible use, whether making a kill at closer distance or engaging targets at extended ranges.
The magnification is complemented by the 44mm objective lens diameter that strikes a balance between light collection and a streamlined, easy-to-handle size. It promotes sufficient light transmission, even in feeble light, which is vital for dusk-to-dawn hunters.
The lens is fully multi-coated to heighten brightness and clarity. The glass has XD elements, which increase color fidelity and resolution, contributing to the lovely images the scope delivers.
The scope is built to last. It is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, making it durable and shockproof so as to withstand the recoil of the .308 rifle. It is waterproof and fogproof to suffice in extreme weather conditions.
As a candidate for the best .308 scopes, the Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm riflescope features the precision glide erector system that promotes smooth magnification transitions at all ranges. The precision force spring system maximizes repeatability and ensures ease of adjustment.
Moreover, a fast-focus eyepiece helps keep the reticle focused, aiding quick target acquisition. The reticle is protected between two layers of glass to optimize reliability and durability. Also, it is situated on the first focal plane hence remains in proportion to the zoomed image.
The Diamondback is a great option offering the necessary features needed to maximize the effectiveness of the .308 Winchester. It is a perfect companion for those looking to hit their mark consistently.
Features
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- First focal plane
- Glass-etched reticle
- Aircraft-grade aluminum formation
- Nitrogen gas purging and o-ring seals for weatherproofing
- A magnification rib for seamless adjustments
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Eye relief of 3.8 inches
- Hard anodized exterior
- Fast-focusing system
Pros
- Solid build quality
- Easy to use
- Bright optics
Cons
- Stiff power adjustment
2) Trijicon ACOG 3.5x35mm Scope
Trijicon ACOG 3.5x35mm scope is a battle-proven and durable optic, that does wonders when married with the .308 rifle. It has a unique illuminated reticle that uses fiber optics and tritium for daytime and low-light illumination. This makes the illumination suitable for different lighting conditions.
The compact design of the scope adds less weight to your rifle while still offering powerful optics. This makes it a fantastic choice for .308 enthusiasts looking to maintain a well-balanced, maneuverable firearm.
As is the norm for Trijicon scopes, the ACOG 3.5x35mm comes with the Bindon Aiming Concept that promotes shooting with both eyes open, greatly enhancing situational awareness and target acquisition speed.
The scope is renowned for its ruggedness, implying it effectively stands up to recoil produced by the .308 Winchester. It is completely waterproof and fogproof, thus performs in all weather conditions relentlessly.
Broadband anti-reflective coated lenses yield stunning image brightness and clarity no matter the lighting condition.
Features
- 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum make
- Weighs 14 oz
- 35mm objective lens
- Fiber optics and tritium illumination
- .223 BAC Chevron reticle
- Bindon Aiming Concept
- Long eye relief
- Performs well amidst harsh weather conditions
Pros
- Combat proven
- Battery-free illumination
- Extremely clear glass
Cons
- The retention screws on the mount loosen after prolonged firing
3) Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x40mm Riflescope
Next on our review of the best .308 scopes is the Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x40mm riflescope. If you are looking for simplicity and sophistication all in one package, look no further.
This popular scope comes with a reticle that provides the requisite precision for accurate shooting without overwhelming the user with excessive sophistication.
It comes with high-grade optical glass that offers excellent brightness and clarity, guaranteeing long life and an unobstructed view of the target. The index-matched lenses have Hi-Lume multi-coating which is Burris’s exclusive. The coating lessens glare, improves low-light performance, and intensifies your chances of a successful shot, particularly in lighting environments that are not ideal.
Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x40mm riflescope is equipped with the double internal spring-tension system that helps maintain zero through recoil, shock, and impact, ensuring that your point of impact remains consistent.
The nitrogen filling on the inside eliminates internal fogging, even in rainy or freezing conditions.
Windage and elevation are effortless to adjust with your fingertips, adding to the ease of use of the scope. This facilitates quick and easy adjustments on the fly. Turret indications on the scope always reflect changes in the point of impact, ensuring stellar accuracy. This feature is indispensable for shooters looking for reliable and consistent performance.
Features
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Weighs 13 oz
- Second focal plane
- Matte finish
- The reticle has cascading windage and elevation dots
- 40mm objective lens size
- 3-9x magnification range
- Constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum
- Hi-Lume multi-coated lenses
- Positive steel-on-steel adjustments
Pros
- Stunning optics
- Lovely price
- Relatively lightweight
- Sturdy
Cons
- No lens covers
- Lacks illumination
4) Zeiss Conquest V4 4-16x44mm Riflescope
Zeiss Conquest V4 4-16x44mm riflescope is made for .308 users looking for unparalleled performance and optical clarity. Designed with cutting-edge technology and painstaking attention to detail, the scope promises a terrific .308 shooting experience.
It is built on a 30mm tube to fortify strength and durability, enabling the scope to endure recoil and extreme environmental conditions. It also offers plenty of adjustment range for precise shot placement.
The use of aircraft-grade aluminum in the construction connotes a durable scope that will last multiple years. Nitrogen purging is another addition to the scope that adds to its durability. It prevents the lenses from internal fogging, thus maintaining clarity through all weather conditions.
The 4x zoom range is flexible, allowing you to slide through various shooting situations, regardless of the purpose you put the .308 rifle.
Zeiss Conquest V4 4-16x44mm comes with a high-performance HD lens that offers unmatched optical clarity and true color representation. This guarantees a sharp, vivid, and distortion-free view.
Zeiss’s LotuTec Hydrophobic coating on the lenses makes them repellant to water and resistant to fogging. This keeps the views clear and bright even in foul weather.
Also worth noting is the T Six-layer lens multi-coating that greatly lessens light reflections and enhances light transmission, leading to outstanding image brightness and contrast.
Equip the Zeiss Conquest V4 4-16x44mm riflescope on your .308 and experience a revolutionization in your shooting experience.
Features
- 44mm objective lens
- High-performance optical glass
- Second focal plane
- Black matte finish
- Adjustable parallax from 10 yards to infinity
- LotuTec hydrophobic coating
- A magnification of 4x to 16x
- Capped windage and elevation turrets
- Advanced construction crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum
- 30mm tube
Pros
- Nice, crisp, and audible clicks
- Uncompromised clarity, even in low light
- Phenomenal build quality
Cons
- Pricey
5) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Riflescope
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm riflescope is a pleasure to pair with your precious .308 Winchester. The riflescope has true 1x magnification, allowing shooting with both eyes open. This enables shooters to maintain complete situational awareness.
The illuminated reticle has multiple intensity settings perfect for weak lighting conditions and rapid target acquisition. It enables quick and precise shots, making it a superb option for hunting and tactical operations in minimal lighting conditions.
The Strike Eagle is not left behind when it comes to durable scopes. It is made from aircraft-grade aluminum, which gives it the ability to withstand the rigors of shooting and hunting.
You don’t have to fret about challenges like rain or fog, as the scope is built ready for anything. It is 100% waterproof and fogproof to perform reliably in nasty conditions.
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm riflescope has capped turrets to prevent unwanted movements. This keeps your zero settings intact during active shooting.
What is more, a fast-focus eyepiece promotes easy reticle focusing which aids lightning-fast target acquisition. The reticle is etched on glass and is found on the second focal plane. It maintains the same appearance across all magnifications and has listed reticle subtensions used for calculating range, holdover, and wind drift correction for accuracy at top magnification.
The top-notch glass boasts XD elements and proprietary coatings that intensify light collection for crisp, vivid images. This compact and robust package ensures your .308 rifle is equipped for the mission at hand. Add it to your collection, and you will never regret it.
Features
- Fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- The reticle is etched on the glass
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Build from a solid block of aircraft-grade aluminum
- Optics are fully multi-coated
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- 5 inches of eye relief
- AR-BDC3 reticle
- 24mm objective lens
- 30mm tube
Pros
- Easy to use and zero in
- Clear optics
- Smooth adjustability
- Sturdy
Cons
- Slight distortion at zoom limit
6) Burris Veracity 5-25x50mm Riflescope
We conclude our insightful review of the best .308 scopes with the Burris Veracity 5-25x50mm riflescope. This premium optic has all you need to excel in the field or at the range.
The scope incorporates fine optics that deliver remarkable clarity, sharpness, and contrast. The index-matched lenses feature Hi-Lume multi-coating, which is responsible for intensifying brightness, low-light performance, and glare removal.
The 30mm tube is nitrogen-filled, lightweight, and sturdy as it is formed from aircraft-grade aluminum. The filling prevents internal fogging for reliable performance in changing temperatures. The tube is also waterproof and shockproof.
The 50mm objective lens allows adequate light to enter the scope. The 5-25x magnification is generous, allowing the scope to adapt to various scenarios effortlessly.
Besides that, the Zero Click Stop adjustment provides a fast, easy return to zero without counting clicks to help you stay on target.
Features
- Aircraft-grade aluminum design
- Hi-Lume multi-coated lenses
- 30mm tube
- Weatherproof protection
- Shockproof to withstand recoil and impact
- High-grade glass
- Nitrogen-filled tube
- Advanced windage and elevation adjustments
- Sturdy, one-piece tube
Pros
- Rugged
- Excellent low-light performance
- Vast array of reticle options
- Great reticle
Cons
- Heavy
- Lacks illumination capability
Choosing the Best 308 Scopes
Getting the right .308 scope requires thoughtful consideration of various aspects, including:
Intended Purpose
Consider the intended use of your optic when selecting the best .308 scopes. Scopes for target shooting, hunting, or tactical operations are optimized differently to suit each task.
Size of Objective Lens
A wider objective lens permits more light transmission, which leads to better image quality even in unsteady light. Smaller objective lenses can minimize weight and maintain a low-profile setup. Choose a size that strikes a balance between light transmission and weight, depending on your shooting activity.
Construction Quality
A scope is a huge investment, so you ought to choose one that is well-built. The best .308 scopes are designed with premium materials. They are shockproof to withstand recoil, heavy-duty use, and vibrations. They are also waterproof and fogproof to survive harsh weather conditions since the outdoors are often unpredictable.
Turret Style
Select between capped and exposed turret designs. Capped turrets protect against unwanted adjustments, while exposed turrets facilitate quick adjustments on the go. Choose wisely depending on your preferences and the intended purpose of the scope.
Weight
This is another vital element as the last thing you want is to be very exhausted from a long trek because your gear weighs as much as you do. The weight of anything added to a rifle quickly adds up and can impede your accuracy as the rifle becomes weightier to handle and hold steady.
It goes without saying that glass is heavy, and with scopes primarily being made of two things; glass and aluminum, glass is a serious element to take into account. We can negate the impacts of the additional weight by selecting a scope that has just adequate magnification power and glass size.
Lens Coating
Multi-coated or fully multi-coated lenses intensify light collection, enhance image clarity, and minimize glare. Quality lens coatings are vital for clear optics.
Read Also:
Types of Scope Turrets
Various types of scope turrets include:
- Fingertip Turrets
Fingertip turrets are those adjustable with the finger. They don’t require tools, as all you need to do is turn the dial, and the reticle adjusts. This is an easy and quick way to make quick adjustments and get that perfect shot.
- Target Turrets
These turrets are used by precision target shooters. The adjustments made are excellent, fractions of an MOA or MIL. These turrets enable a shooter to shrink their group and zero their rifle in a way noticeable only to a precision measurement device.
- Ballistic Turrets
Ballistic turrets are engineered to make wider adjustments. They are sometimes referred to as tactical, and they are designed for fast and easy changes. Ballistic reticles are where it’s at when you need to make changes quickly and get on the target in the blink of an eye.
- Slotted Turrets
These turrets need some sort of tool to make adjustments. The slot is often similar to the one you see on a flat head screw. You can use a coin, a piece of brass, or a tool that is alike to make adjustments. These are often for tactical scopes used for short to medium ranges.
Best 308 Scopes FAQs
Q: What Is the Best Way to Zero My .308 Scope?
Zeroing your .308 scope entails meticulous adjustments to align your point of impact with your point of aim. It is recommended to consult the scope’s manual or seek guidance from a seasoned shooter or gunsmith to ensure accuracy.
Q: What Focal Plane Should I Choose for My .308 Scope?
You can choose between the first focal plane or the second focal plane. Both options have their advantages. First, focal plane reticles vary in size as you change magnification, which permits consistent subtensions. Second focal plane reticles stay the same size in all magnifications and are often less cluttered. The choice comes down to your needs.
Q: Do I Need an Illuminated Reticle?
An illuminated reticle can be handy, especially for scenarios with minimal light. It helps with target acquisition, but it is not necessary. Consider your shooting conditions and preferences when making a decision.
Conclusion
A .308 scope is important for a shooter or hunter who wants to excel in their pursuit. An ideal scope readies you for enhanced accuracy and effectiveness of the .308 rifle. There are various factors to bear in mind before deciding. We hope you can make a wise purchase with the enlightening information elucidated above.