When you’re looking to enhance your .308 rifle’s accuracy and reliability, choosing the right scope can make all the difference. Whether you’re considering the Vortex Optics Razor HD LHT for its exceptional HD optical system or the Leupold VX-3HD with its CDS-ZL system for quick adjustments, each option has unique features tailored for specific shooting needs.

You’ll find scopes like the Athlon Optics Midas TAC HD, which combines high-quality optics with rugged durability, and the Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint, known for its advanced features. Curious about what makes these scopes stand out? Let’s explore their strengths and see which one suits your needs best.

Top 9 Best Scopes for 308 on the Market 2024

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Vortex Optics Razor HD LHT 4.5-22x50 Riflescope⁠

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Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x50mm Riflescope⁠

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Vortex Optics Razor HD 5-20x50 First Focal Plane Riflescope⁠

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Bushnell Trophy 6-18x50mm Rifle Scope⁠

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Athlon Optics Midas TAC HD 6-24x50 F1 Hunting Scope⁠

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CVLIFE 6-24x50 AOE Riflescope⁠

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Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20x50 Riflescope⁠

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NIGHTFORCE NXS 5.5-22x56mm F2 Scope⁠

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Primary Arms SLX 4-16X44 First Focal Plane Riflescope⁠

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Note: The following advice comes from my personal perspective. What works for me might not work for you, but hopefully it sparks some ideas!

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1. Vortex Optics Razor HD LHT 4.5-22x50 Riflescope

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If you’re a long-range shooter or hunter, the Vortex Optics Razor HD LHT Riflescope (4.5-22x50) with its HD optical system and XLR-2 reticle is an ideal choice for superior image quality and precision.

This riflescope features XR coatings, ensuring exceptional clarity and brightness. The locking elevation turret and RevStop Zero System provide a reliable return to zero, essential for maintaining accuracy in the field.

With its waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof design, you can trust this scope in various environmental conditions. Additionally, the Vortex Optics Razor HD LHT is backed by an unlimited, unconditional lifetime VIP Warranty, reflecting its high quality and durability.

This scope is highly praised for its performance, making it a valuable asset for any serious shooter or hunter.

Best For: Long-range shooters and hunters seeking superior image quality and precision in various environmental conditions.

Pros:

HD optical system with XR coatings for exceptional clarity and brightness.

Locking elevation turret and RevStop Zero System for reliable return to zero.

Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof design for durability in diverse conditions.

Cons:

Mixed reviews on turret reliability compared to other brands.

Higher price point may not be suitable for all budgets.

Some users may prefer alternative reticle options.

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2. Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x50mm Riflescope

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The Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x50mm Riflescope, featuring the elite optical system for outstanding light transmission, is perfect for hunters seeking superior visibility and performance. This scope, model #180618, includes the CDS-ZL system for swift elevation adjustments, ensuring you can adapt quickly in the field.

The removable throw lever allows for smooth magnification changes, enhancing your precision. Crafted from durable aluminum and designed, machined, and assembled in the USA, it guarantees robustness with its 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof features.

With an objective lens diameter of 50mm and a magnification range starting at 3.5x, this scope provides excellent clarity and detail. Weighing in at just 15.04 ounces and offering a 3-inch eye relief, it’s a reliable and highly functional tool for any serious hunter.

Best For: Hunters seeking a durable, high-performance riflescope with superior visibility and quick elevation adjustments.

Pros:

Elite Optical System for outstanding light transmission

CDS-ZL system for swift elevation adjustments

100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof

Cons:

Higher price point compared to some competitors

Requires Picatinny Mount for installation

Limited to a 3-inch eye relief

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3. Vortex Optics Razor HD 5-20x50 First Focal Plane Riflescope

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For long-range shooters seeking exceptional accuracy and clarity, the Vortex Optics Razor HD 5-20x50 First Focal Plane Riflescope offers high-density glass and premium coatings that deliver unparalleled performance.

This scope is equipped with extra-low dispersion glass and premium XR coatings, ensuring superior image quality and brightness. Its glass-etched, first focal plane reticle, featuring 11 levels of brightness, maintains accuracy across the zoom range, making it ideal for varied shooting conditions.

The scope also includes a side focus for ideal image focusing and parallax removal. Constructed from a single piece of 35mm aluminum tube, it’s both waterproof and fogproof, with armored coatings for lens protection. Users praise its clarity, low-light performance, and the unlimited, unconditional lifetime warranty provided by Vortex.

Best For: Long-range shooters seeking exceptional accuracy, clarity, and performance in varied shooting conditions.

Pros:

High-density glass and premium XR coatings for superior image quality and brightness.

Glass-etched, first focal plane reticle with 11 levels of brightness for consistent accuracy.

Waterproof, fogproof, and armored coatings for lens protection.

Cons:

Some users report issues with packaging and battery installation.

Heavier compared to some other high-end scopes.

Requires proper mounting for optimal performance.

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4. Bushnell Trophy 6-18x50mm Rifle Scope

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Hunters seeking a reliable scope with excellent light transmission will find the Bushnell Trophy 6-18x50mm Rifle Scope with Multi-X Reticle an exceptional choice.

This scope, designed specifically for hunting, features fully multi-coated optics with rain guard HD, ensuring 91% light transmission, essential for those early morning or late evening hunts. Its 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction promises durability under various environmental conditions.

The 1-inch one-piece tube with an integrated saddle enhances stability and precision. Additionally, the Multi-X reticle with side parallax adjustment, combined with a fast-focus eyepiece and 1/4 MOA fingertip windage and elevation adjustments, allows for quick and accurate targeting.

Backed by Bushnell’s lifetime warranty, this scope offers both reliability and performance for dedicated hunters.

Best For: Hunters seeking a durable, high-performance scope with excellent light transmission and easy adjustments.

Pros:

Fully multi-coated optics with rain guard HD for 91% light transmission

100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction

Fast-focus eyepiece and 1/4 MOA fingertip windage and elevation adjustments

Cons:

Some customers reported minor issues with parallax adjustment

Scope covers need to be purchased separately

Higher price point compared to some other hunting scopes

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Athlon Optics Midas TAC HD 6-24x50 F1 Hunting Scope

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Leveraging HD glass and a first focal plane reticle, the Athlon Optics Midas TAC HD 6-24x50 F1 Hunting Scope offers superior clarity and consistent aiming, making it an ideal choice for precision shooters using .308 rifles.

This scope features fully multicoated optics, ensuring a brighter and sharper image, while the etched glass reticle enhances durability. The precision zero stop system allows for an accurate return to zero, further enhancing your shooting accuracy.

Weighing 1.6 pounds and constructed from durable aluminum, this scope is both robust and lightweight. With a magnification range of 6-24x and a 50mm objective lens, it provides a clear picture and excellent performance.

Additionally, users appreciate its high-quality optics and user-friendly turrets, making it a great value for money.

Best For: Precision shooters and hunters using .308 rifles who need superior clarity and consistent aiming.

Pros:

HD glass and fully multicoated optics for superior image quality

First focal plane reticle for consistent aiming at all magnification levels

Durable construction with a precision zero stop system

Cons:

Heavier compared to some other scopes at 1.6 pounds

Field of view might be limited at higher magnifications

Higher price point compared to budget scopes

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CVLIFE 6-24x50 AOE Riflescope

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The CVLIFE Hunting Rifle Scope 6-24x50 AOE offers precision multi-coated optics and an illuminated reticle, making it ideal for clear visibility in different lighting conditions.

This scope includes an adjustable objective (AO) for parallax elimination and accurate range estimation, ensuring precise shots. The fast-focus eyepiece with a ±2 diopter adjustment allows for quick and clear focus adjustments.

You can choose between red and green illumination, each with five intensity levels, enhancing your aiming capabilities in various lighting environments. The scope is made of durable aluminum and includes a Picatinny mount for robust construction and easy installation.

With a magnification range of 6x to 24x and a 50mm objective lens diameter, this scope is well-suited for long-range shooting.

Best For: Hunters and marksmen looking for a versatile and durable scope with a wide magnification range and enhanced visibility features for various lighting conditions.

Pros:

Precision multi-coated optics provide clear views in both bright and low-light conditions.

Illuminated reticle with 5 intensity levels for red and green enhances aiming capabilities.

Durable aluminum construction and easy Picatinny mount installation.

Cons:

Lacks night vision capabilities.

Performance under heavy recoil still needs further testing.

May require frequent adjustments to maintain zero accuracy.

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Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20x50 Riflescope

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If you’re looking for a top-tier scope for your .308 rifle, the Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20x50 stands out with its advanced fiber-optics and tritium aiming-point illumination. This scope features a dual-illumination system that automatically adjusts brightness, along with a manual override for personalized settings.

Multi-coated lenses guarantee exceptional clarity, while the battery-free illumination offers dependable performance in various lighting conditions. Crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, the TR23 is both durable and lightweight at 1.8 pounds.

The second focal plane reticle ensures consistent target acquisition, and the zero forward emission feature enhances stealth. With a 5-20x magnification range, night vision capability, and a generous eye relief of 104.14 millimeters, this scope is ideal for hunting and precision shooting.

Best For: Hunting enthusiasts and precision shooters who require reliable and high-performance optics for their .308 rifles.

Pros:

Advanced fiber-optics and tritium aiming-point illumination for superior target acquisition.

Battery-free dual-illumination system with manual brightness override for adaptability.

Durable, lightweight design with aircraft-grade aluminum housing.

Cons:

Higher price point compared to other scopes in the market.

Limited availability due to its popularity and high demand.

Best Sellers Rank indicates it may not be as widely recognized or accessible as other models.

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Click Here to Check Prices

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8. NIGHTFORCE NXS 5.5-22x56mm F2 Scope

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For hunters seeking high performance and precision, the NIGHTFORCE NXS 5.5-22x56mm F2 Hunting Gun Scope offers unparalleled clarity and accuracy with its advanced MOAR-T reticle and ZeroStop elevation technology.

This scope’s 5.5-22x magnification guarantees you’re well-equipped for various shooting conditions, while the titanium build ensures durability.

The package includes essential accessories like rubber lens covers, a cleaning fob, a multi-tool, stickers, an owner’s manual, and a sunshade, making sure you’re ready for any situation.

Users praise its clarity, toughness, and ease of use, although some find the instructions unclear and the weight a bit much. Despite these minor concerns, the exceptional glass quality and accuracy make it a standout choice for serious hunters.

Best For: Hunters seeking high-performance optics with advanced features for precise long-range shooting.

Pros:

Exceptional clarity and accuracy with MOAR-T reticle.

Durable titanium build with ZeroStop elevation technology.

Comprehensive package with essential accessories included.

Cons:

Instructions can be unclear.

Heavier than some competing models.

No night vision capability.

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Click Here to Check Prices

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9. Primary Arms SLX 4-16X44 First Focal Plane Riflescope

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Hunters and tactical shooters will appreciate the Primary Arms SLX 4-16X44 First Focal Plane Riflescope for its robust construction and precise range estimation capabilities.

This scope, designed by Primary Arms, features a durable aluminum build and weighs 25.4 ounces.

With a magnification range from 4x to 16x, it guarantees versatility in various shooting scenarios.

The ACSS Apollo 6.5CM/.224V Reticle aids in accurate range estimation, while the illuminated horseshoe and chevron central aiming point enhance visibility.

Its first focal plane reticle maintains accuracy across all magnifications, and zero resettable turrets make adjustments straightforward.

Despite its slightly heavier weight, users commend its clear glass and ability to hold zero.

Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, this scope offers reliable performance for serious shooters.

Best For: Hunters and tactical shooters looking for a durable, versatile riflescope with precise range estimation and clear visibility.

Pros:

Durable aluminum construction

Clear glass with first focal plane reticle

Zero resettable turrets for easy adjustments

Cons:

Slightly heavy at 25.4 ounces

Not compatible with night vision

Only compatible with Weaver mounts

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Factors to Consider When Choosing Scopes for 308

When you’re selecting a scope for your .308 rifle, it’s essential to take into account several key factors to guarantee peak performance. Focus on the magnification power range, optical clarity quality, and reticle type options available.

Additionally, evaluate the scope’s durability and build quality, as well as the precision of its adjustment turrets.

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Magnification Power Range

Selecting the appropriate magnification power range for your .308 rifle is essential for attaining peak performance and precision in different shooting situations. When choosing a scope, consider one with a magnification power range that complements the versatile capabilities of a .308 rifle, typically between 4x and 16x. This range provides the flexibility needed for both short and long-range shooting scenarios.

Higher magnification settings, such as 12x to 16x, are ideal for precise long-range shooting, which is vital for activities like hunting and target shooting. These settings enable you to engage distant targets with greater accuracy.

Conversely, lower magnification settings, around 4x to 6x, offer a wider field of view, facilitating quicker target acquisition in close to mid-range situations, which is beneficial for dynamic shooting environments.

Opt for an adjustable magnification scope to adapt seamlessly to varying distances and targets. This adaptability ensures that you can shift smoothly between different shooting scenarios without compromising performance.

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Optical Clarity Quality

Achieving top-tier performance with your .308 rifle hinges on selecting a scope with exceptional optical clarity quality. Optical clarity is essential for ensuring clear and sharp images while aiming, directly impacting your accuracy and overall shooting experience. Several factors contribute to superior optical clarity, including lens coatings, glass quality, and anti-reflective coatings.

High-quality optics typically feature multi-coated lenses, which enhance light transmission and reduce glare, providing you with better visibility, especially in varying lighting conditions. By choosing a scope with superior optical clarity, you’ll benefit from improved target acquisition and accuracy, whether you’re shooting in bright daylight or low-light environments.

Additionally, scopes with high-definition glass and advanced coatings deliver a crisp and detailed image, essential for precise shooting with a .308 rifle. This clarity allows you to distinguish fine details at a distance, ensuring that you can accurately identify and engage your target.

Investing in a scope with outstanding optical clarity is an important step in maximizing your .308 rifle’s performance, providing you with the confidence and precision needed for successful shooting endeavors.

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Reticle Type Options

Choosing the right reticle type for your .308 rifle can greatly enhance your shooting accuracy and experience. When selecting a scope, you’ll encounter various reticle options, each suited for specific shooting needs.

Mil-Dot reticles are ideal for long-range shooting, offering precise distance estimation and holdover points using mil-based measurements. This allows you to make accurate adjustments for elevation and windage, essential for hitting distant targets.

BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles are designed to match specific ballistic trajectories, providing aiming points for different distances. This feature enables quick and accurate shots without the need for complex calculations, making it suitable for dynamic shooting scenarios.

A Duplex reticle features a simple crosshair design with thicker outer lines, which helps in quick target acquisition and center aiming. This type is particularly useful for hunting and general shooting, where speed and simplicity are paramount.

MOA (Minute of Angle) reticles use angular measurements for adjustments, offering fine-tuned accuracy for windage and elevation corrections. These reticles are beneficial for shooters who require precise adjustments for varying environmental conditions, ensuring consistent accuracy.

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Durability and Build

When you’re picking a scope for your .308 rifle, durability and build quality should be at the top of your checklist. Look for scopes constructed with materials like aircraft-grade aluminum, which offers long-lasting durability and can withstand the rigors of regular use. A robust construction guarantees that your scope maintains its integrity and performance over time, even under challenging conditions.

Additionally, choosing a scope with shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof features is crucial. These characteristics enable your scope to endure harsh environmental conditions without compromising its functionality. Sealed optics are another essential feature, as they prevent dust, moisture, and debris from infiltrating the scope and affecting its performance.

High-quality lens coatings are also important, as they protect the lenses from scratches and enhance light transmission, providing you with clear and sharp images.

To handle the recoil of a .308 rifle without losing zero, opt for scopes with reinforced designs and reliable build quality. This ensures that the scope remains accurate and dependable, shot after shot.

Prioritizing these factors will help you select a scope that not only meets your performance needs but also stands the test of time.

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Adjustment Turrets Precision

Nailing the perfect shot with your .308 rifle often comes down to the precision of your scope’s adjustment turrets. For top-notch performance, you’ll want turrets that offer precise and repeatable adjustments for both elevation and windage.

Scopes with tactile and audible clicks guarantee you can make accurate adjustments even in challenging conditions, giving you confidence that each click translates to a known value change.

Consider scopes with a zero-reset feature on the turrets. This allows you to quickly return to your original zero after making adjustments, which is particularly valuable in dynamic shooting environments.

Locking turrets are another essential feature to look for. They prevent accidental movements, ensuring your settings remain constant even during rugged use or transport.

Clear and easily readable turret markings are essential for quick reference and adjustment. When you’re in the field, you need to make rapid and precise changes without second-guessing. Well-defined markings help you achieve this with ease.

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Price and Warranty

Balancing affordability and quality, price and warranty are essential factors in selecting the right scope for your .308 rifle. When considering the price, make sure it aligns with your budget while maintaining a focus on quality and performance. It’s important to compare scopes based on their price-to-performance ratio to guarantee you’re getting the best value for the features offered.

Top 9 Best Scopes for 308 on the Market 2024

1. Vortex Optics Razor HD LHT 4.5-22x50 Riflescope

2. Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x50mm Riflescope

3. Vortex Optics Razor HD 5-20x50 First Focal Plane Riflescope

4. Bushnell Trophy 6-18x50mm Rifle Scope

5. Athlon Optics Midas TAC HD 6-24x50 F1 Hunting Scope

6. CVLIFE 6-24x50 AOE Riflescope

7. Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20x50 Riflescope

8. NIGHTFORCE NXS 5.5-22x56mm F2 Scope

9. Primary Arms SLX 4-16X44 First Focal Plane Riflescope

Factors to Consider When Choosing Scopes for 308

Magnification Power Range