Iron sights are fine for plinking. When you’re popping off .22 cartridges all day at 50 yards, you don’t even need a scope at all. At 100 yards, you can get away with a cheap Wal Mart sight.
But all of that changes when you start using heavier rounds. The increased recoil of a hunting rifle round means that a .308 rifle scope needs to be significantly more durable than a plinking scope. The crosshairs and adjusting hardware need to be engineered well enough to stay zeroed under the shock.
We decided to find the best .308 scope, one that meets these durability requirements. After reviewing what’s available on the market, we came up with a list of ten scopes that represent the best in class. When putting together these reviews, we considered the quality of the glass, engineering of the scope bodies, and adjustability, among other features.
So how do these scopes stack up? You be the judge!
10 Best .308 Scopes
1. Primary Arms SLX
Primary Arms SLX
$199.99 in stock
Features
- Optimized ARC-2 MOA reticle stays true through the first focal plane scope’s variable 4-14x magnification
- Partial red illumination with 6 brightness settings powered by a common CR2032 battery
- 0.25 MOA click adjustments match the reticle to make sighting in and adjusting for range easy
- Waterproof, fog resistant, and nitrogen purged with durable aluminum construction
- Covered by a 3 year warranty for defects due to materials or workmanship
The Primary Arms SLX is a lightweight scope with an illuminated reticle.
Key Features
- 1-6x magnification
- 24mm objective lens
- Second focal plane reticle
- Anodized aluminum body
- Takes 30mm mounting hardware
The Primary Arms SFP Tactical Rifle Scope provides 1x to 6x magnification, with a small, 25mm objective lens. The anodized aluminum body is sturdy, with enough extension over the glass to prevent excessive glare.
This scope features an illuminated reticle, with a six-position dial to control the brightness. The dial doubles as a cap for the CR2032 battery. The reticle itself is a second focal plane reticle, meaning that it remains the same size regardless of your zoom setting. However, the rangefinding and drop gauges — preset for .308 — are only accurate at the highest zoom level.
The zoom is the only major downside to this scope. Because the objective lens is so small, it doesn’t gather a lot of light, so your images get dim and blurry when you’re zoomed in beyond 4x. That said, this is a relatively inexpensive scope, and it comes with a lifetime warranty on parts and workmanship.
The SLX is designed to be as easy to carry as possible. It weighs just over 16 ounces and is just under 1 ¾ inch in diameter at its widest point. With a low-profile set of 30mm zee rings, you can easily store it in most rifle cases.
Pros
- Pre-sighted for .308
- Illuminated reticle
- Slim and lightweight
- Tool-free adjustment
- Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty
- Affordable
Cons
- Relatively dim
- Blurry above 4x magnification
Why It’s Recommended
This is a solid beginner sight for short to medium ranges.
2. Vortex Viper PST Gen II
Vortex Viper PST Gen II
1 used from $649.95
Features
- The Viper PST Gen II takes incredible performance and rock solid features to new heights. The 2-10x32 first focal plane riflescope is incredibly versatile and ideal for close to long range scenarios.
- Users who dial their turrets for drop and wind compensation will appreciate the laser etched turrets, adjustable parallax and the RZR zero stop. A fiber optic rotation indicator ensures you can keep track of your turret position with ease.
- The reticle offers highly functional, intuitive, and detailed hold points, yet remains uncluttered for optimal viewing and features 10 intensity levels with off positions between each setting.
- Extra-low dispersion glass increases resolution and color fidelity. XR fully multi-coated lenses increase light transmission. Armortek coatings protect the lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt.
- O-ring sealed and argon purged, the Viper delivers waterproof and fogproof performance while the single-piece, aircraft-grade aluminum construction provides a durable platform.
The Vortex Viper PST is as accurate and deadly as its namesake.
Key Features
- 4-16x magnification
- 50mm objective lens
- First focal plane reticle
- Anodized aluminum body
- Takes 30mm mounting hardware
The Vortex Viper PST is built for maximum effectiveness at medium to long ranges. It provides from 4x up to 16x magnification, with a wide, 50mm objective lens, and the body is made from durable anodized aluminum.
This scope is bright, clear, and scratch-resistant. The 50mm objective lens gathers plenty of light to get a bead on a whitetail on a full 16x, and the first focal plane reticle provides accurate ballistic drop data at any zoom level. It’s easy to adjust, with tool-free windage and elevation knobs that lock into place when you press them in.
This is a big, beefy scope. It’s almost 3 inches in diameter at its widest point, and it weighs more than 2 pounds. Needless to say, it’s designed for medium to long-range hunting, not for tactical use or stalking game at close range. It accepts 30mm mounting hardware. As always, the better your mounting rings, the better your overall performance will be.
The Viper PST is a pricey scope, but it’s well worth your money. It’s hard to find an optic that’s this clear at very high zoom levels, and this one fits the bill nicely.
Pros
- Bright, clear images
- Scratch-resistant optics
- Tool-free adjustment
Cons
- Large and heavy
- Expensive
Why It’s Recommended
This is a durable, well-designed 308 rifle scope.
3. Burris Optics
Burris Optics
$178.67 in stock
Features
- Designed for enthusiasts who want a simple, yet sophisticated, reticle for supreme accuracy; High-grade optical glass provides excellent brightness and clarity with lasting durability
- Finger-adjustable, low-profile turrets create a sleek profile; Turret indications always reflect a change in the point of impact, for pinpoint accuracy
- Power ring is easy to grip and turn, even with gloves; The eyepiece does not rotate, so lens covers stay put
- The double internal spring-tension system allows the scope to hold zero through shock, recoil, and vibrations; Durable, stress-free, solid 1-piece outer tube withstands shock and vibrations from even the heaviest recoil
- Nitrogen-filled scope tube prevents fogging, even in cold and rain, and is waterproof; Guaranteed by the Burris Forever Warranty
The Burris Fullfield E1 is a good choice for beginners.
Key Features
- 3-9x magnification
- 40mm objective lens
- First focal plane crosshairs
- Anodized aluminum body
- Takes 1-inch mounting hardware
The Burris Fullfield E1 provides 3x to 9x magnification, with a 40mm objective lens. The optics are surprisingly clear for inexpensive glass, and the objective gathers enough light to give you a clear image even when you’re fully zoomed in. The anodized aluminum tube is scratch-resistant.
This scope has a first focal plane crosshair. While we usually prefer that, since it allows you to adjust for the drop without zooming all the way in, we would have liked a second focal plane crosshair better on this scope.
The reason? The reticle is about a full MOA in diameter, which makes it just about impossible to line up a shot when you’re zoomed in all the way. Consider this as a short to medium range scope only.
E1 is a good choice for beginners. It’s affordable, and it comes with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty that covers parts and workmanship. It’s also lightweight — just over 16 ounces — so you won’t have to worry about carrying a heavy eyepiece into the field.
The windage and drop adjustments are accurate to ¼ MOA, but the job is best done at the shooting range. The dials require a slotted screwdriver, which takes longer than we would have liked.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty
- Affordable
Cons
- Requires screwdrivers for adjustment
- Fat crosshairs
- Not accurate at long range
Why It’s Recommended
This is a lightweight and affordable rifle scope.
4. Leupold VXR
Features
- Leupold Model #111240 - VX-R 4-12x40mm with Illume. Ballistic Fire Dot reticle and Matte finish
- 100% Waterproof, fogproof, & shockproof
- Illuminated Reticle, ideal for lowlight conditions
- Motion Sensor Technology extends battery life by deactivating illumination after 5 minutes of inactivity
- Twilight Light Management System adds up to 10 extra minutes of glassing light
The Leupold VXR is ideal for hunting in dense woods.
Key Features
- 1.25-4x magnification
- 20mm objective lens
- Fiber optic red dot sight
- Aircraft-grade aluminum body
- Takes 30mm mounting hardware
The Leupold VXR is a hunting scope that provides from 1.25 to 4x magnification. The 20mm objective lens is relatively small but is more than enough to provide a bright, crisp image at 4x magnification. It mounts on 30mm zee-ring hardware.
The main attraction on this scope is the 2 MOA fiber optic red dot. When compared to a traditional crosshair, it makes target acquisition a breeze. Just like up the dot, and pull the trigger. Because it’s fiber optic, the dot doesn’t require any batteries, and gets brighter the brighter it is in your environment.
The downside? A 2 MOA dot isn’t well suited for long-range shooting. Nor is a 4x scope. But that’s alright with us. This is a beautiful, durable scope with a scratch-resistant anodized aluminum tube. It weighs just over a pound, and is about 2 inches wide at its widest point, making it just the right size for deep woods hunting.
The VXR features ¼-MOA finger-operated adjustment dials. It comes with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty on parts and workmanship.
Pros
- Fast target acquisition
- Clear, bright images
- Lightweight
- Tool-free adjustment
- Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
- Not useful at long range
- Expensive
Why It’s Recommended
This is a great hunting sight for making snapshots at short or medium range.
5. Vortex Crossfire II
Vortex Crossfire II
2 used from $169.66
Features
- The 3-9x40 Crossfire II riflescope is one of many configurations in the Crossfire II line. The V-Brite reticle uses the V-Plex format with battery-powered electronics to illuminate the center dot for hunters/shooters during extra-low light conditions.
- With long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, you'll be able to quickly get a sight picture and acquire your target. The fast focus eyepiece allows quick and easy reticle focusing.
- Anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses provide bright and clear views for the user.
- Capped reset turrets are finger adjustable with MOA clicks that can be reset to zero after sighting in.
- A single piece tube constructed from aircraft grade aluminum ensures strength and shockproof performance. O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, the Crossfire II delivers waterproof and fogproof performance.
The Vortex Crossfire II is durable, scratch-resistant, and ready for the field.
Key Features
- 3-9x magnification
- 40mm objective lens
- Illuminated, second focal plane reticle
- Anodized aluminum body
- Takes 1-inch mounting hardware
The Vortex Crossfire II is designed primarily for short to medium-range hunting. It has a 40mm objective lens and a 3-9x magnification. While 9x may sound like it’s good enough for long-range shots, the Crossfire II’s optics aren’t bright enough to be effective at that zoom level. Beyond about 5x, they start to get blurry and dim.
That’s a real shame since the glass on this sight is otherwise very high quality. It’s multi-coated for scratch, dirt, and dust resistance. The body of the sight is also solidly built, with an anodized aluminum tube that can stand up to days in the field.
Considering that the Crossfire II is priced for beginners, it’s impressively rugged. We should also note that it’s deadly accurate. Right up to 5x, you’ll reliably hit dimes at 100 yards.
One thing we really liked about this sight was the illuminated optic. It’s just a small, ¼-MOA dot at the very center of the crosshair, but it’s there.
The dot is powered by a CR2032 battery, which is stored inside one of the adjustment turrets. Both windage and height adjustment is easy, with tool-free capped knobs that adjust in ¼-MOA intervals.
Pros
- Durable
- Multi-coated lenses
- Tool-free adjustment
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Blurry and dim beyond 5x
- Not useful for long-range shooting
Why It’s Recommended
Vortex Crossfire II is another good choice for beginners.
6. Barra BDC
Barra BDC
Features
- Solidly constructed 1 inch tube made of quality 6063 aluminum with black anodized for structural strength and toughness
- Oxygen purged, nitrogen filled and sealed for Fogproof, Waterproof performance that you can trust.
- Fully multi-coated lenses features high light transmission (99.9% light transmission per layer of coating, over 95% light transmission per scope)
- Adjustable objective and lightweight, low profile, capped turrets that allow you to zero and move unencumbered.
- Diamond Standard Lifetime Warranty. Fully transferable guarantee.
The Barra BDC is engineered for easy use.
Key Features
- 4-12x magnification
- 40mm objective lens
- Second focal plane reticle
- Anodized aluminum body
- Takes 1-inch mounting hardware
The Barra BDC is built mostly for short to medium-range shooting. While you can set the zoom anywhere from 4x to 12x, the image starts to appear blurry and dim when you zoom in further than about 8x.
This is because the 40mm lens doesn’t gather enough light for clarity at those zoom levels. The glass itself is fine — it produces a crisp, bright image at lower zoom levels.
This scope is priced for beginners, and it’s designed for easy use. The windage and drop adjustment knobs move in ¼-MOA clicks and can be operated by hand. The knobs are capped, so you won’t need to worry about accidentally turning them with a bump.
The other thing you’ll need to be aware of is that this scope is just barely recoil-resistant enough to stand up to a .308. To be absolutely certain it doesn’t drift off zero under recoil, make sure you use shock-resistant 1-inch mounting hardware. You really should be using shock-resistant hardware, to begin with, but it’s doubly important with an inexpensive scope.
The BDC comes with a limited lifetime warranty from the manufacturer. It covers defects in materials and workmanship, but not damage caused by normal wear and tear.
Pros
- Tool-free adjustment
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Blurry and dim at high zoom levels
- Does not stand up well to recoil
Why It’s Recommended
The Barra BDC for a lighter rifle, or for a .308 with the right mounting hardware.
7. Edenberg
Features
- Quality rifle scope with stunning HD clarity
- Duplex Crosshair reticle rifle scope
- Low-light rifle scope with 3-9x magnification and 40mm objective lens
- 1/4 MOA fingertip windage and elevation adjustments and Fast-focus eyepiece
- 100-percent waterproof/fogproof construction and shockproof
The Edenberg is a beginner scope that’s useful up to medium ranges.
Key Features
- 3-9x magnification
- 40mm objective lens
- First focal plane reticle
- Aluminum tube
- Takes 1-inch mounting hardware
The Edenberg Super-Target Scope provides from 3x to 9x magnification, with a 40mm objective lens that gathers just enough light to get the job done at full magnification. The first focal plane reticle is fat on the outside for fast target acquisition, and skinny on the inside for pinpoint accuracy on more challenging shots.
This is a beginner’s scope, with a very small price tag, so it’s not as durable or rugged as some of the pricier scopes we’ve reviewed. The aluminum tube isn’t as heavy gauge as it should be, and the flip-up lens caps have flimsy hinges.
That said, there are some nice features here too, such as the flip-up lens caps we just mentioned. Windage and drop adjustment is easy, with tool-free knobs that are capped to prevent accidental readjustment. Adjustments are made in ¼-MOA intervals, making the Edenberg just as accurate as some higher-end scopes.
As with other inexpensive scopes, you should really be using shock-resistant 1-inch mounts for your Edenberg. It’s technically rated to stand up to the recoil of a .308, but shock-resistant hardware gives you an added layer of security. And it’s still far cheaper than buying an expensive scope.
Pros
- Flip-up lens caps
- Tool-free adjustment
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Poor recoil resistance
- Limited durability
Why It’s Recommended
The Edenberg is inexpensive, but it gives you plenty of bang for your buck.
8. ATN X-Sight II
Features
- Use Day & Night in HD resolution - our HD technology gives you crystal clear vision whenever required
- Zero range: 100 yard. Day & Night Vision in Millions of Colors - best hunting optic that fits the situation at hand.Field of View at 1000 yards- 240 feet.Initial Velocity:2850 fps
- Ballistic Calculator - shifts Point of Impact on the fly letting you quickly calculate ballistics for any shooter's needs. Easily determine exact ballistics for expert long-range and angled shots
- Smart Range Finder - identifies the range to your target with two clicks. Once distance is determined automatically adjusts your Point of Impact.5-20 Magnification - Smooth Zoom offers fine tune adjustments for your perfect magnification every time
- 1080p HD Video Recording & Photos, Recoil Activated Video (RAV) and Wi-Fi Streaming - allow you to record all of your hunting trips, using your phone / tablet as a viewfinder. Firmware upgradeable
The ATN X-Sight is our top .308 scope choice for night hunting.
Key Features
- 3-14x magnification
- 40mm objective lens
- Digital reticle
- Anodized aluminum and polymer body
- Mounts on a Picatinny rail
The ATN X-Sight is a bit different from the other sights on our list because it’s a night vision sight. It pairs a 40mm objective lens with an HD display to give your hunting kit the ultimate digital upgrade. The optical zoom offers magnification from 3x to 14x and reveals a bright, clear image no matter the zoom level or time of day.
The digital reticle on the X-Sight is pretty impressive. If you tell the computer what type of ammo you’re using and a few other details, the digital rangefinder will automatically adjust for the drop, putting you on target with every pull of the trigger.
This sight is rated for night vision out to 1,000 yards. However, that depends on having stars, moonlight, or some other kind of low-light source.
If it’s a pitch-black, cloudy night, the built-in infrared flashlight will illuminate to about 50 yards out, but you really should have starlight if you’re using the X-Sight for long-range hunting. You’ll also want to be aware that this is a heavy, bulky beast that eats AA batteries as the cookie monster goes through a plate of chocolate chip cookies.
That said, the X-Sight is a fantastic choice for night hunting. It displays beautiful, clear images, and even lets you record your hunt.
Pros
- Built-in rangefinder
- Night vision rated to 1,000 yards
- Digital display with optical zoom
- Records 1080p video
Cons
- Heavy
- Requires 4 AA batteries
- Expensive
Why It’s Recommended
The ATN X-Sight II is optimal for coyote hunting.
9. Primary Arms SLX 4
Features
- Traditional MIL-DOT reticle can be used to accurately range and holdover
- First Focal Plane reticle stays true at all magnifications
- Side-adjustable parallax and fast focus eye piece for crisp view of the target and reticle
- Tactile and audible 1/10 MIL windage and elevation adjustments
- Shockproof, waterproof, and fog resistant
The Primary Arms SLX 4 is a quality, functional rifle scope.
Key Features
- 4-14x magnification
- 20mm objective lens
- First focal plane reticle
- Anodized aluminum body
- Takes 30mm mounting hardware
The Primary Arms is what we’d recommend if someone asked for a scope with “no-frills”. It has a 4x to 14x zoom, sufficient for short to medium-range hunting. The 20mm objective lens is relatively small but more than sufficient to give you a clear image at 4x magnification.
One thing we like about this scope is that the reticle hashes are calibrated for a .308. Provided you’re shooting relatively standard cartridges from a relatively standard rifle, you should only need to make minimal adjustments. Those you do have to make will be easy, thanks to the tool-free, ¼-MOA adjustment knobs.
It may not have many bells and whistles, but it’s well made. The aluminum tube is nice and hefty, not flimsy like some other brands. This scope is worth the steep price tag and comes with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty on parts and workmanship.
Pros
- Pre-calibrated for .308
- Tool-free adjustment
- Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
- A bit pricey
Why It’s Recommended
This is a no-nonsense, all-business .308 rifle scope.
10. Bushnell Nitro
Features
- The fully multi-coated optics deliver bright, high-contrast images with minimal eyestrain.
- EXO Barrier coating bonds to exterior lens surfaces, and repels water, oil, fog, dust and debris.
- The best resolution and contrast in all lighting conditions.
- Easily correct parallax error without removing eyes from target.
- Included Components: Scope Covers
The Bushnell Nitro is both powerful and affordable.
Key Features
- 6-24x zoom
- 50mm objective lens
- Second focal plane reticle
- Aluminum body
- Takes 30mm mounting hardware
The Bushnell provides from 6x up to an impressive 24x zoom. The 50mm objective lens starts to get dim when you zoom in closer than about 20x, but we’re not complaining; this is still one of the most powerful scopes we’ve seen that doesn’t cost as much as a small car.
The multi-coated optics on the X30 are exceptionally clear, once again surprising us with the type of quality you can get out of an affordable scope. The reticle is crisp and clean, with a second focal plane focus that keeps it consistently sized no matter your zoom level.
Of course, the X30 also has some downsides. To begin with, it’s a bit bulky, at about 3 inches in diameter and over 2 pounds in weight. It also has poor eye relief. At high zoom levels, you’ll need to have your eye perfectly centered and very close in order to get a good view.
All in all, this is a worthwhile piece of optics. If you’re on a budget, the X30 provides a functional long-range scope.
Pros
- Multi-coated optics
- Very clear glass
- Affordable
Cons
- Large and heavy
- Poor eye relief
Why It’s Recommended
This is an excellent beginner rifle scope and a serviceable long-range scope for cash-strapped experts.
Bottom Line
At the end of the day, the best scope for .308 rifles is going to depend on your needs. We’ve tried to include a variety of scopes. Whether you’re looking for a .308 tactical scope, an affordable but reliable option, or the best long-range scope for .308, we like to think we have our bases covered.
Obviously, our list has been biased towards hunting scopes, and there’s a reason for that. Simply put, the .308 is a hunting round. It’s relatively expensive, so it’s a poor shooting range cartridge. It’s overpowered for residential areas, so it’s not your best choice for home defense. The .308 is made for killing big game in the field, period.
That said, every hunter has their own environment to deal with. You may be more concerned with rain than with bright sun, for example. You may need short-range, deep woods accuracy more than you need accuracy 400 yards across an open field. Consider your own needs, and you won’t be disappointed.
Check out all the other gun accessory articles put together by our expert team here at Guns & Safety Reviews;
- Glock Sights
- Night-Sights
- Laser Bore Sighters
- Red Dot Magnifiers
- Shotgun Lights
- Red-Dot-Sights
- Shot Timers
- Rifle Cases
- Pistol Lights
- Rifle Bench Rests
- Rifle Scopes Under $200
The Review
Best 308 Scope
Here are our reviews of the best 308 scope on the market today.
Review Breakdown
- Primary Arms SLX
- Vortex Viper PST Gen II
- Burris Optics
- Leupold VX-R
- Vortex Crossfire II
- Barra BDC
- Edenberg 3
- ATN X-Sight II
- Primary Arms SLX 4
- Bushnell Nitro
Best 308 Scope DEALS
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