If you asked the modern shooters, what is the best cartridge for their rifle, they would answer .308 Winchester. This cartridge is versatile and has exceptional long-range capabilities. Shooters also admired its attractive ballistics, and it generates mild recoil. Finding a rifle with this functional cartridge is easy to find.
To hit your targets accurately and consistently, you need the best Scope for 308 sniper rifle. Good thing there are lots of premium quality riflescopes in the market that you can choose from—choosing the proper Scope may be a bit tricky.
We have written this best Scope for a .308 sniper review to help you find the perfect match. You will find information that will help you in picking a suitable riflescope.
Top 5 Best Scope for 308 Sniper Comparison in 2021
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The 10 Best Scope for 308 Sniper Reviews
Here are 10 of the best 308 rifle scope you can consider buying:
1. Primary Arms SLX 4-14x44mm FFP Rifle Scope for 308 Sniper
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One of the first companies to produce high-quality long-range optics at an affordable price is Primary Arms. They continue to provide the same quality and innovate every year. The ACSS scope will capture all the best features of long-range optics. The Scope is equipped with mil turrets and a reticle to shot the target accurately.
Premium Quality Construction
The Primary Arms 4-14 x 44 FFP Scope is known for its durable and rugged design because of its premium quality construction. It has a side-mounted knob for viewing adjustment to ensure the reticle is free from parallax and provides an accurate target image.
Great Design
It has six brightness settings with an off-notch that you can view in-between each set. To provide a consistent BDC, Primary Arms has a local front design. This Scope will make holding zero effortless. It has a ring that matches the reticle to your eye. Because of this, the reticle becomes sharper as you make the shot.
Impressive Lenses
The difference between Primary Arms and the more expensive brands when it comes to optics is not significant. This brand 1-4x scope has impressive multicoated lenses that are vibrant and clear. You will never notice the difference between Primary Arms and other expensive brands.
Verdict
If you are looking for a cheaper but reliable alternative for expensive brands, the Primary Arms 4-14 is a good option.
2. Sniper ZT 5-25×50 FFP First Focal Plane (FFP) Scope for 308
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Sniper ZT is a middle-class point scope. It is not as famous as Vortex, but this is a good alternative for quality products without spending a lot. This brand has several good features available only to high-priced Scope.
Flexible Reticle Illumination
The glass-etched reticle of Sniper ZT with red and green illumination is an outstanding feature. You can choose the perfect setting for the lighting conditions that you need. The scope illumination varies, so you can select which settings will fit your preferences. The reticle offers lots of holdovers.
Capped Turrets
Its capped turrets provide 30 MOA to both sides of the optical center. Its turrets have a unique design that enables the shooter to lock them in position, thus can hold zero better than others.
Great Magnification
The Sniper ZT rifle scope provides a crystal clear target at 5-25 magnification, with an eye relief of 3.7 to 3.8 inches and an objective diameter of 50mm.
Pros
- Best for long distances
- Variable illumination brightness
- Reticle illumination in red and green
- Affordable
Cons
- The mount is not as sturdy as others
Verdict
Sniper ZT 5-25×50 FFP is your best bet if you search for a scope with variable illumination and can hold zero better at an affordable price.
3. Athlon Optics Argos BTR Riflescope, 6-24 x 50 FFP 30 mm Tube
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Athlon Optics is an entry-level scope, but with features you can also find on high-end riflescopes. It performs well and has quality-built with aircraft aluminum used to provide a premium look and finish. The company makes sure you will get the best image as much as possible, so they have coated the optics.
Easy to Adjust
The manufacturer designed this optic for both new and expert users in mind. The reticule even zooms and shrinks with your target, so you get the chance to fire off accurately. The good thing about this scope is that it is easy to adjust. If you have the option to choose which riflescope to use for your 308 snipers, this is a good scope for starters.
Weatherproof and Waterproof
You can carry this scope in any environment because it is waterproof and weatherproof. The Athlon Optics is very resistant to shocks, so you don’t have to worry about vibrations damaging the optics.
Moisture Resistant
Made of heat-treated aluminum, Athlon Optics is durable and sturdy as compared to other brands. This scope is Argon gas purged to make it moisture resistant and ensure it is thermally stable. The glass is of high-quality, so you will not miss many shots.
Pros
- Provides accurate shots
- Can hit the target up to 1000 yards
- Sealed tightly
- Exceptional performance
- Multicoated glass for better visibility
Cons
- A bit hard to zero out
Verdict
This scope is worth buying as it has most of the features you are looking for at a reasonable price. It is not a high-end scope, but it is worth your money.
4. Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44 FFP Riflescopes
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We all know that Vortex is a bit pricey, but this one is a budget optic. It is hard to determine the difference between Viper and this scope. But, considering that it is much cheaper than the other, there is some difference which is not easy to detect.
Superb Quality
Just like other scopes reviewed here, Vortex Diamondback has superb quality multicoating low-depression glass. It can magnify the target up to 24x. Vortex has the clarity, power, and brightness to take targets even on long-range.
Reliable MOA Reticle
For easy turret adjustment, this scope comes with MOA or Mil. Vortex Diamond is a tactical scope suitable for 308 snipers. You can use it anywhere, but it works well on most tactical rifles. Its Dead-hold BDC reticle is best for shooting or hunting at different ranges, particularly for holdover estimation. Its customized dot design helps in getting rid of guesswork when doing windage holdover and corrections.
Waterproof and Weatherproof
This scope is waterproof, shockproof, and fog-free. It can take the shock from repeated shots. It is compatible with different firearms like black powder rifles, high-powered rifles, slug shotguns, rimfire rifles, and .308 Sniper. The Vortex Diamondback has a fast-focus eyepiece, which has a vital role in focusing the reticle.
Pros
- Windage corrections and holdover is easy to use
- O-ring sealed and Nitrogen-purged, which makes it waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof
- Versatile reticle
- Do the Parallax removal through its side focus
- Fast-focus eyepiece
Cons
- It does not include extra batteries
Verdict
Vortex offers a VIP warranty to assure their customer that they provide quality products at an affordable price.
5. Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14x50mm Riflescope
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Leupold VX-3i Riflescope is another high-quality scope you can consider buying. It can magnify from five times up to ten times and has a 40 mm objective lens. If you paired it with the right rifle, it could reach over 500 yards.
Protected Lenses
To increase light transmission and keeps it abrasion resistant, Leupold VX lenses are well-coated. You can use the scope even in a dusty environment. It won’t get scratched easily.
Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Body
The aircraft-grade aluminum body of the Leupold VX scope is quite durable. Before releasing it to market, each riflescope is punish-tested to ensure it will perform well even in harsh recoil. It is vital when pairing it with a .308 sniper, which provides excellent recoil to the handler and optic.
Twilight Max Light Management System
Like most of the Leupold scopes, this model applies a twilight max lighting system. It provides you better clarity and gives you an additional 20 minutes of shooting with its extra light collection design. You can benefit a lot from this light management system.
Pros
- Impressive Light Management system
- Made of premium-quality materials
- Lenses are abrasion resistant
- Additional 20 minutes of shooting
Cons
- Turrets do not have zero stop and cannot reset to zero
Verdict
If you are looking for a scope with excellent hunting scope for your .308 Sniper, Leupold VX-3i is a perfect option. Its light management system and durability are worth its price.
6. Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20×50 Riflescope
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The Trijicon AccuPoint Riflescope will provide the tactical shooters, law enforcement snipers, and hunters the ability to extend their range in any lighting condition. This brand is quite famous to hunters because of its reliability and durability.
Impressive Illumination System
Trijicon AccuPoint tritium aiming-point illumination and advanced fiber-optics help get your target fast and extend shooting hours. Its dual-illumination system adjusts the aiming-point brightness automatically depending on the lighting conditions. If you want to modify it manually, you can do so to fit your preferences.
Rugged and Durable Design
It’s 30mm tube provides an extended range of mounting selections. The aircraft-quality aluminum body can withstand any weather. Its stretched eye relief will not get damaged by the recoil of high qualities rifles. The external turret windage and elevation are easy to adjust. Modifying the side parallax is likewise simple to improved accuracy at extended range.
Multicoated Lenses
The TR23 is the perfect choice for a crossbow scope for low-light surroundings. You can view your target without getting distorted by the forward emission from the illuminated reticle. The multicoated lenses provide impressive light gathering and premium clarity without distortion.
Pros
- You can reposition the lever easily
- Fast and easy to adjust
- Prevent accidental shift with its capped or zero stop adjuster
- Durable and reliable
Cons
- Not enough elevation when adjusted
Verdict
Trijicon TR23 is the best choice if you need a scope with excellent illumination and easy to adjust. Your money spent on this .308 Sniper is worth it.
7. Monstrum G3 1-6×24 First Focal Plane FFP Rifle Scope
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The Monstrum FFP rifle scope is an advanced and best-selling line of FFP optics. It has red illumination to view your target clearly, even in a low-light environment. The brand is known for its adjustable magnification up to one to six times. The size of this first focal plane reticle shrinks or grows depending on the magnification.
Durable Design
The aircraft-grade aluminum 6061 Monstrum is durable. The scope is protected as it has anti-fog and weather-resistant properties. It has a hard-anodized finish that can withstand any weather. This scope also features a ½ MOA windage and elevation adjustment with zero settings.
Better Reticle Visibility
The reticle is visible in red with illumination and in black without lighting, thus providing better reticle visibility in low light and complete darkness. This scope can estimate range faster and quick holdover correction.
Sleek Inline Side Dial
Replacing the electronic touch button system is the sleek side dial for reticle illumination control. The Monstrum package includes heavy-duty medium profile 30 mm Scope rings, flip-up lens cover for protection, reflective honeycomb filter sunshade to reduce glare, and CR2032 3V battery for providing power for your scopes illumination.
Pros
- Impressive optical clarity
- Includes rings in the package
- Good finish and general appearance
- The scope can hold zero well
Cons
- Reticle alignment is inferior
Verdict
The Monstrum G3 is a good buy for its price. But if you are looking for a scope with better reticle alignment, this is not a good choice.
8. UTG 3-12X44 30mm Scope for .308 Sniper
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The UTG 3 Scope is one of the best compact scopes in the market. It is recommended for long-range shooting and also for professional shooting and hunting. This brand is proud of its optic that fits various types of rifles, such as .308 snipers.
Innovative Illumination
Most of its features are very helpful during hunting and shooting. Its innovative illumination-enhancing reticle supports personalized and multi-color models. UTG 3 Scope features a broad spectrum of colors that will fit most of your environmental requirements and preferences. Also, its multicoated lenses are of high-quality optics with anti-glare, angled sunshade.
Durable Construction
The UTG sniper scope construction provides excellent strength and durability. Zero-locking and resetting target turrets are easy to modify to provide a better target-aiming experience. You can adjust the parallax as often as needed without limit, making your shots accurate no matter how far your target is.
Better Magnification and Lenses
If used with .308 Winchester rifles, the magnification settings are between three to twelve times, making it the best compact scope and can hover up to 250 yards. It may be small, but it has a 44 mm objective lens, so it can collect enough light and better resolution when you peek into the optic. Also, it has multicoated emerald lenses for better glass durability and vibrant colors.
Pros
- Made of durable aircraft-grade aluminum
- Reliable even on long-distance target
- High-quality zero locking and resetting adjustment turrets
- Includes lifetime warranty
Cons
Verdict
For shooters who need a compact scope for their .308 Sniper, the UTG is a good option. It is a durable, versatile, and top-tier illuminated reticle.
9. Bushnell Engage Riflescope for 308
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The brand Bushnell is known for its cheap and budget-based rifle scopes. Some people are not aware that this brand can manufacture excellent tactical scopes perfect for .308 rifles. Their products are designed to last and work with a DMR type rifle.
Elite Tactical Scope
With 6-24 power magnification, its tactical scope is quite impressive. This magnification level will help you focus on your target and zoom in on the tiny target, and watch the big one. This scopes reticle is versatile and handy. Equipped with highly accurate stadia on the horizontal and vertical line and easy to use. No time is wasted, which is vital in tactical shooting, particularly if your targets are moving.
Multicoated Lenses
Bushnell is a first focal plane optic, which means the reticle is valid at every possible magnification as it grows and shrinks as it changes its magnification. The lenses are HD low dispersion glass and multicoated for optimum light gathering and reducing glare. This scope uses an ultra-wideband coating to collect as much light as possible.
Rain Guard Coating
The Bushnell Riflescope has a rain guard coating to protect it against the environment’s elements and not just in the rain. The coating will also keep the optic working correctly in the rain. It is an excellent all-around optic and recommended for the tactical 308.
Verdict
Bushnell has a good reputation among professional-level hunters. It can keep the scope working accurately even when there is rain.
10. TRUGLO Omnia Tactical Rifle Scope
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The TRUGLO Omnia Tactical Variable Optic offers impressive qualities attractive to new and professional users. It is accurate with a wide field of view. This scope can sight your target fast, track it down within seconds, and wait for it with your two eyes open. The speed of this scope is impressive.
Impressive Performance
Shooters prise the scope made by Truglo because of its performance. It does not matter how big or small the targets are. Some hunters have used the scope even in the long-range. Aside from its performance and design, some factors contribute to its performance. Its lens is well-coated and provides a clear and better picture of the field. It can also zoom the image clearly up to six times.
Longer Target Range
You can use this scope efficiently up to 200 yards. So if you are looking for a medium-range target, you can consider buying TRUGLO Omnia. It has reversible and offset, which beginners and the professional shooter would appreciate. The eye-relief is also a helpful feature in getting the target fast. The eyepiece and reticle are well-designed to help the user aim at the target easily.
Shockproof and Waterproof
You can use the scope in any weather since it is waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof. It has a sturdy platform that will last for many years.
Pros
- It has a good eye relief
- Easy to set focus knob
- Very clear optics and provides a bright image
- Ideal scope for medium-range shooters
Cons
The provided cover for the lens is not proper
Verdict
TRUGLO Omnia is a good pick for gun lovers because it is reliable and durable. It is recommended for medium-range target shooting.
What to Look Out for When Buying the Best Scope for 308 Sniper?
You don’t just buy the first scope you see. You have to check its features to determine if it is suitable for your .308 rifle. Here are some of them:
Magnification Power
The first thing you need to check when buying a riflescope for your .308 Sniper is the magnification power. Keep in mind that not because the other brand has higher magnification means it is better than others. You only need a very high magnification during deer hunting, elk, or game hunting. With regards to whether to choose fixed or variable zoom, it depends on individual preference. For hunting, select a scope that can acquire the target fast once you peek into it.
Eye Relief
In a .308 rifle, eye relief is less vital since it does not have much recoil compared to other ammunition with the same effective range. But it does not mean you will ignore it. For starters, you might have a hard time absorbing the recoil of the gun with your shoulder. It means it will not stop right away. You might hurt your eye and could lead to injury. Pick a scope with 3-1/2″ to 4″ eye relief.
Weight
The scope’s weight will depend on the lenses inside. If you prefer a light scope, pick the one with a fixed 9x zoom having a 42mm objective lens. But, it will not help you hit your targets beyond 900 yards. If you use it for hunting, you will definitely need a lighter scope.
Reticle
The reticle or crosshairs will depend on how you shoot. For instance, if you prefer a long-range shooting, a BDC reticle is perfect for you. Reticles of this type have millings, so you can focus on the following adjustments bullet-drop, windage, and elevation with every shot. You can choose from different types of reticles depending on your shooting style and which reticle you are comfortable with.
Objective Lens
The objective lens is found in front of the scope, and its primary function is to allow light to enter the scope and provide a clearer view of the image. The bigger the objective lens, the more light penetrates the tube and the clearer the view will be. If you are shooting with poor light, this is of great help.
The bigger the objective lens, the heavier the scope will be. Look for a middle ground to view the image in high quality, without adding too much weight. For hunting, the 42mm objective lens is the best option. But if you want a bit higher, you can find the one with 50mm and with fixed zoom so it will not be that heavy.
Parallax Adjustment
For short to mid-range scopes, parallax is not as essential as the other features as these scopes are parallax-adjusted already. But. For long-range, parallax adjustment is something you have to focus on. Parallax takes place if the reticle and the target are not on the same focal plane. This makes the reticle move over the target once your eyes move in the scope. If you have a long-range scope, look for the one with parallax adjustment, the one with a turret at the top of the tube.
Weatherproof
If you will be using your rifle for hunting, this feature is quite vital. You will never know when it will rain, so it is better to have a scope that remains functional in any weather. Sometimes you will be greeted with thick fog, rain, or both. Choose the one that can handle all types of weather, including shock, so don’t worry if you accidentally bang your scope on rocks and trees while hunting.
Lens Coating
Riflescope lens coating can absorb more ambient light in a low light environment as it reduces the glare making it hard to aim accurately. Lens coating reduces the reflected light that could affect the accuracy of your scope. You can choose from coated, fully coated, multicoated lenses, and fully multicoated optics.
What Makes a Great .308 Scope?
The .308 Sniper is one of the most popular hunting gear all over the world. It has a longer range of up to 1000 yards and is one of the top-performing ammunition today. To take advantage of its long effective range, you need to match it with a compatible scope that can provide you a better sight picture up to 800 yards. Keep in mind that achieving 1000 yards is difficult not unless you took a class in hunting or are an army-trained sniper.
The .308 Winchester has minimal recoil, which makes eye relief less of a priority. But, always keep a distance between your eye and the eyepiece, as the rifle might have a hard time kicking back. You can look for a scope with around 3-1/2 inches to 4 inches eye relief is sufficient.
The magnification power and other scope aspects will depend on the purpose of using the rifle. If your purpose of using it is for hunting, you should keep your scope as lightweight as possible. If you are into game hunting, you need to be as close to your target as possible. It would help if you did not attempt to shoot it from 800 yards away. The most will be shooting from 150 yards if you use a .308 Winchester. A scope that performs at 9x or 12x is good enough.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What size scope should I get for the AR .308?
The size of the scopes for an AR .308 varies, and it is not right to say that one is better than the others. It is subjective. You can choose any size of scope. Just make sure it will fit your AR, perform well, and provide the quality you need.
You can buy the biggest one you can find in the market. Make sure it will not interfere with the rifle functions. If you select a scope that will not fit the use, you intend for it. Then it is worthless.
To determine how big the scope you need, focus on its objective lens. For example, a scope with a 50 mm objective lens is far bigger than a 42 mm objective. Even if the 50 mm objective scope can collect more light, it is too bulky if you use it for hunting. It is a must that you pick the right size of the scope based on what you need.
Nikon M-308 vs. P-308: Which one is better?
Nikon M-308 riflescope is superior than P-308 Nikon riflescope. Although these two have the same features, the M-308 has the edge because of the premium features you cannot find in the P-308. Some of these features include the higher magnification, large range of FOV and eye relief, and the parallax setting.
The Nikon P-308, on the other hand, is much cheaper than M-308. Also, the additional features of M-308 are vital features for long-range shooting. So, when it comes to value, the P-308 is better than the M-308.
Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9x 40mm vs. Leupold Mark AR MOD 1 Riflescope: Which one is better?
Leupold Mark AR and Nikon Buckmasters II have the same features but from different companies. Both Nikon Buckmasters II and Leupold Mark AR MOD are designed for short and medium-range shooting. For those who do not know, the profiles of these two riflescopes are almost identical. But, the Nikon Buckmasters II is much cheaper than Leupold.
The Leupold Mark AR MOD 1 was made in the USA, so if you do not have enough budget and want a riflescope with the same quality as Leupold, choose the Nikon Buckmasters.
Leupold VX-2 3-9x40mm Riflescope vs. Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope: Which one is better?
These two scopes belong to the same company, but one is better than the other. The Leupold VX-3i has the advantage over the VX-2. The VX-2 is the type of hunting scope you bring during a regular weekend hunting adventure.
The VX-3i with a matte black exterior has more to offer. One important thing you should know. It is more expensive than the VX-2 model may be because it has more features.
If you think you only need a regular but reliable scope, buy the Leupold VX-2. It is the best option if you prefer something exceptional to push the .308 to the test.
What is the Effective Range of a 308?
The most effective range of a .308 is an 800-meter maximum, but the USMC says it’s a 1000 yard maximum effective range. Many shooters agree with 800-meter and indicate it is the maximum limit for reliable hits in harsh weather.
What scope should I put on my 308?
Search for a scope that can provide 3 ½ to 4 inches of eye relief so you will be on the safe side. Choose an optic with greater eye relief if you prefer a scout rifle set-up that enables you to use the scope with both eyes open.
What is the best scope for ar 10 308?
If you choose medium-range targets, meaning your targets are 400 to 700 yards, buy the 4x to 9x scope with a 30-40mm objective. For a long-range shot, this refers to target 700 yards and above. It would be best to have a scope with 9x magnification and a 40 mm plus objective lens.
How far can a 308 shoot?
Ideally, a 308 can shoot accurately up to approximately 1000 meters at sea level pressure. But with the advancement of aerodynamical ability in projectiles, the range has extended even further by choosing the appropriate bullet for longer distances.
Will a 308 kill a deer at 400 yards?
The .308 riflescope is powerful enough to kill deer, moose, bear, elk, and pronghorn out to 300 yards, but the bullet drops quickly, and the trajectory is similar to the bell-shaped curve 500 yards. For 400 yards, a long-range riflescope is enough.
What magnification do I need for 1000 yards?
When it comes to magnification, 18x to 25x is ideal for 1000 yards. It depends on the shooter’s preference. Some hunters prefer to go lower than 18x, sometimes even as low as 10x, as higher magnifications can result in further issues.
How Much Eye Relief Do I Need for .308?
For .308, the scope that maxes out at 9x or 12x is enough to provide for your needs since most hunters will be shooting from 150 yards.
Conclusion:
After a thorough review of the best riflescope brands for .308, we find the Leupold VX-3i Riflescope is highly recommended. Deciding which is the best among the best is not an easy job. The above scopes we reviewed are worth buying. Some of you have preferences, and you should decide according to them. Sometimes, what is good for you is not for others, so choosing is not only because your friend told you so. Focus on the features mentioned above when deciding and your purpose of using your .308 rifle.
We think Leupold is not just a good scope for your .308 Winchester, it is a perfect choice. The optics and durability of Leupold are incomparable. Others claim to last longer, but they failed to provide. With Leupold, they abide by what they claim. Once you zeroed it, it is very accurate. It will remain at this setting round after round. Handling it while in the field hunting for your target is easy. You don’t have to worry if it suddenly rains. The scope will well even in harsh weather.
We hope this article was able to help you decide which is the best scopes for your .308 rifle. Focus on the features discussed above so you will not have a hard time finding the perfect scope for your ammunition. If you are still confused about which to choose, you can ask the professionals well.