The Top Rated Optics For Your .308 Worth Owning

TheGunSource.com is proud to bring you the most valuable guide to .308 Scopes available to the firearms enthusiast.  We’ve reviewed countless optics and brought you the best option for your favorite .308.  Get ready to find the scope you’ve been looking for!

The legendary .308 Winchester is one of the most popular short-action hunting cartridges in the world. It’s used extensively for medium to big game targets, especially in North America, where it can easily take down all types of deer, large antelope, and black bears.

The average shooter can fire a .308 fairly accurately up to 200 yards. After that, the bullet starts to drop and velocity decreases rapidly. Even though the .308 has been improved to provide lighter recoil and greater long range energy, a scope is highly recommended to maximize the .308’s effective shooting range accuracy. With the right scope and training, a .308 rifle can do practically anything for a hunter or shooter up to 800 yards. A scope effectively takes the power of the .308, which once dominated the battlefield, and gives you superior range and accuracy on the hunting grounds.

You need to ask yourself several questions as a serious hunter or shooter in the market for the best scopes for your .308 rifle. How far away are your targets? Do you stalk your prey from a distance or get up close? Magnification power, objective lens diameter, zoom ratio, and optical clarity are some of the most important considerations. For long range shooting (350+ yards), look for 10x magnification and above. 6-9x is suitable for medium range (150-350 yards), and 1-6x is good for short range (150 yards or less). By the way, for a 2-7x33mm scope, the “2-7” means 2x to 7x magnification and “33mm” is the diameter of the light-gathering objective lens on the front of the scope.

Also, what type of rifle do you use? .308’s are ideal for bolt-action rifles, but some of the best .308 scopes are designed for the AR platform. How many rounds do you unload in a day? The .308 packs a punch and some scopes can withstand recoil and hold zero better than others.

The best scope for your 308 rifle is the one that suits your specific needs, so check out this superior selection:

 

The Best Scopes for your .308 Reviewed

Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33

The VX-Freedom riflescope line by Leupold represents legendary performance and reliability that shooters and long-range hunters have been counting on for decades.

Leupold scopes are designed for serious shooters with serious guns in mind. Guaranteed to deliver the job every time, the Leupold VX-Freedom features several new and improved features that make it one of the best scope for 308 caliber rifles.

It has a 3:1 zoom ratio for any shooting situation, Twilight Light Management System for optimal lowlight clarity (adding up to 20 extra minutes of shooting light), scratch-resistant lenses, lightweight compact design in 1 inch main tube, quick-grip power selector, multiple reticle and magnification options, and is available in AR, Rimfire, and Muzzleloader models It is 100% weatherproofed and impact tested on 3x the recoil of .308.

The centerfire model comes with a parallax set at 100 yards and 33mm objective lens for excellent light gathering capability. The Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 is a high quality budget riflescope with great overall quality that is clean, clear, and sleek. A great scope for 308 rifles.

 

Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7x33mm Riflescope, Rimfire MOA Reticle, Matte Finish
  • Outer lens surfaces are scratch resistant to military standard extreme abrasion specification
  • 1/4 MOA precision finger click adjustments for windage and elevation
  • Versatile 3:1 zoom ratio erector system is ideal for virtually any situation
  • Waterproof, fogproof and shockproof
  • Durable 1"; main tube constructed from aircraft quality aluminum

EOTech Vudu 1-6x24mm Precision Riflescope

The EOTech Vudu 1-6x Riflescope is a sleek and compact optic, packed with advanced features, and designed for serious hunters and 3-gun shooters. Moreover, the Vudu 1-6x is particularly well-suited for the AR platform and is one of the best scopes for 308 rifles you will find.

It features a Speed Ring reticle for super fast target acquisition at low power and superb resolution/accuracy at high power. The reticle also increases in size with magnification.

The XC High Density Glass provides impressive light transmission and clarity, especially at longer ranges. The EOTech Vudu 1-6x is a great scope for 308 caliber users who demand durability and accuracy over short and medium-range applications.

 

EO Tech Vudu 1-6x24 FFP (Grey) VDU1-6FFSR1 Grey
  • EOTECH Vudu 1-6x24mm Precision Rifle Scope with SR1 First Focal Plane Reticle (Model VDU1-6FFSR1 GREY)
  • First focal plane - Reticle increases in size with magnification
  • XC High Density Glass - Impressive light transmission and scene clarity
  • Illuminated Reticle - Improves aiming under low-light conditions
  • EOTECH Vudu Advantage Warranty - Limited lifetime warranty on optic, 2 year limited warranty on electronic components

Sig Sauer Whiskey3 Rifle Scope 3-9×40 Hellfire Quadplex

Sig Sauer understands the importance of uncompromising accuracy and performance. The robust Sig Sauer Whiskey3 Riflescope is perfectly designed for short, medium, or long range engagements for big game hunting and recreational shooting.

Designed for traditional hunting rifles as well as MSR/AR platforms, the Whiskey3 is compatible across a wide variety of calibers and lighting conditions and is considered one of the best scope for 308 rifle sharpshooters.

It features a 3-9x optical zoom, in the second focal plane, and the patented HellFire illumination reticle system that utilizes advanced fiber optic technology to vary the reticle intensity from infrared to “HellFire bright” depending on the conditions.Try fireing some Winchester ammo through that!

A low dispersion glass provides superior optical clarity and a European style eyepiece provides a smooth and fast reticle adjustment. The Whiskey 3 Hellfire is designed to handle the stress of 308 caliber rounds and still be extremely accurate at long ranges. It is a great optic for your 308 rifle at a great price.

 

Sale
Sig Sauer Waterproof Fogproof Hunting Second Focal Plane 1-inch Tube Diameter 3-9X40mm Whiskey3 Scope, Quadplex Reticle
  • HUNTING SCOPE - The Sig Sauer WHISKEY3 scopes come engineered for durability and includes low-dispersion glass, a rugged chassis, capped elevation and windage turrets. Its rugged, industrial design provides reliability and protection from the elements
  • HIGH-QUALITY OPTIC - Featuring an impressive 3x optical zoom, this Whiskey3 3-9X40mm scope by Sig Sauer also include low dispersion (LD) glass which reduces chromatic aberration and provides industry-leading optical clarity in any situation
  • VIVID SIGHT PICTURE - Offering a European style eyepiece, the Sig Sauer Whiskey3 3-9X40mm Scope is incredibly precise and smooth thanks to fully multi-coated lenses that deliver a vivid sight picture time after time
  • WEATHERPROOF - Waterproof and fogproof for the most reliable performance in all situations, the Sig Sauer Whiskey3 3-9X40mm Waterproof Scope is also built with your needs in mind. Versatile enough for short, medium and long distances
  • PERFECT CHOICE FOR - The Whiskey3 3-9X40mm scope is designed for traditional/dangerous game hunting. Short, medium and long-range engagements and recreational shooting across a wide range of calibers and light conditions

Burris Fullfield E1 2-7x35mm

The Burris Fullfield E1 2-7x35mm is one of the smallest and most affordable scope for 308 rifles around and is geared towards tree-stand hunters and short to medium-range engagements.

It is an entry-level optic that provides superb clarity and low light transmission. The compact build of this riflescope keeps things simple and focused, while a 2x starting zoom gives the user a very wide field of view to survey the immediate surroundings. You can mount this scope very low on your 308 due to its small 35mm objective lens.

It features straightforward and compatible Ballistic Plex E1 reticle crosshairs that make it easy for the shooter to determine holdover at distance and hold-off for wind drift, with lower vertical hash marks to assist in dead-on acquisition from 100 to 500 yards.

Offering good firearm balance and eye relief, the Fullfield E1 is one of the most simple and best scopes for 308 enthusiasts who desire a simple and sophisticated optic with excellent accuracy.

 

Burris Optics Fullfield E1 Scope, 3X-9X-40mm, Matte, Black, One Size, (200341)
  • 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

Bushnell Banner 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope

Part of the renowned Bushnell Banner Riflescopes series, the Banner 4-12x40mm is an outstanding high-power, variable scope for 308 shooters in long-range centerfire applications.

It features the Multi-X reticle which offers a classic sight picture and stunning HD clarity that excels in early-morning and late-evening lighting conditions — the crucial times of the day when the best hunters tag most of their game. Perfect for muzzleloaders or centerfire 308 rifles, this is a high-power, variable scope for long-range shooting.

It offers the classic Multi-X reticle sight and features Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DBB) multi-coated lenses that deliver bright, high-contrast images in low light conditions. You are sure to maximize your big-game hunting day with these precious additional minutes of clear focus.

Moreover, the Bushnell Banner 4-12x40mm is very durable and will hold constant zero after hundreds of rounds. Dropping or banging this best scope for 308 will not make a difference in its ability to hold zero.

Waterproof with O-ring sealed optics that stay dry, fogproof with Argon-filled optics that are stable regardless of ambient temperature, and shockproof.

  

Bushnell Banner 1.5-4x32mm Riflescope, Dusk & Dawn Hunting Riflescope with Multi-X Reticle
  • Bright. Accurate. Dependable. We'll assume your stand is in the right spot and suggest our Banner Dusk & Dawn series to capitalize on the latter. With their Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses, these riflescopes cast clarity and brightness.
  • Bushnell Banner 1.5-4.5x32 Rifle Scope Matte Multi-X belongs to the well-known Bushnell Banner Riflescopes series. Big deer travel the edges. We assume your stand is in the right spot and suggest Bushnell Dusk and Dawn series to capitalize on the latter
  • Fully Multi Coated - Multiple layers of anti-reflective coating on all air-to-glass surfaces deliver bright, high-contrast images
  • Argon Purged Fog-Proofing - Argon-filled optics remain stable regardless of ambient temperature for the ultimate fog-proof protection
  • IPX7 Waterproof construction – O-ring sealed optics stay dry inside, when immersed in three feet of water for up to 30 minutes

Top Selling .308 Optics on Amazon

Bestseller No. 1
Vortex Optics Venom 5-25x56 First Focal Plane Riflescope - EBR-7C (MOA) Reticle
  • The Venom 5-25x56 First Focal Plane (MOA) riflescope is built for long-range and competition with a 5-25x mag range built into a 34mm tube for a massive amount of turret travel (85 MOA max elevation/windage).
  • XD Optical System delivers impressive resolution, edge-to-edge sharpness and greatly reduces chromatic abberation. Fully multi-coated lenses provide superior light transmission for exceptional clarity and low-light performance.
  • The RevStop Zero System offers an easy to set, fast and reliable return to zero. Side knob parallax adjust allows quick and easy parallax adjustments with range numbers visible while in the shooting position.
  • EBR-7C reticle ensures subtensions are accurate throughout the mag range making it easy to measure and range targets.The fast focus eyepiece allows for easy reticle focusing while the included throw lever allows for fast transitions between magnifications
  • Nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed providing water and fogproof performance. Armortek coating protects the lenses from scratches and oil. The one-piece, aircraft grade aluminum, 34mm tube is shockproof, shrugging off recoil and other impacts.
Bestseller No. 2
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18x44 AO, SFP Riflescope - Dead-Hold BDC Reticle (MOA) with Vortex Hat
  • The 6-18x44 Adjustable Objective Crossfire II riflescope is one of many configurations in the Crossfire II line. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is good for hunting/shooting at varying ranges where estimating holdover is a concern.
  • The adjustable objective provides image focus and parallax removal to the shooter while anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses provide bright and clear views.
  • 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.
  • 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 fog proof performance. Vortex Optics hat included, hat color may vary.
SaleBestseller No. 3
Bushnell 3-9x40 Riflescope with DZ 223 Reticle , Black
  • Trusted 3-9x magnification range for mid-range shooting
  • Waterproof Construction for use in rugged conditions
  • Adjustable length throw lever for fast magnification changes even while wearing gloves
  • Ballistic Drop Compensated reticle for easy hold over shooting to 600 yds
  • Fully Multi Coated optics for bright, clear views of the target
SaleBestseller No. 4
CVLIFE Hunting Rifle Scope 6-24x50 AOE Red and Green Illuminated Gun Scope with Free Mount
  • Magnification: 6-24x
  • Objective Diameter: 50mm
  • Field Of View: 28 ft @ 100 yards
  • Click Value: 1/8 inch @ 100 yards
  • Illuminated Type of the rifle scope: Red and Green
Bestseller No. 5
SIG SAUER Buckmasters Tactical Hunting Shooting Durable Waterproof Fogproof Shockproof One-Piece Tube Second Focal Plane BDC Reticle Riflescope | 3-9X50mm
  • BEST PERFORMANCE - The Buckmasters Rifle Scopes were inspired by Jackie Bushman to bring the performance of SIG SAUER Electro-Optics to a value that is within reach for every hunter; This scope for rifles available with various magnification options to bring freedom of choice
  • BUCKMASTERS BDC RETICLE - This rifle scope comes equipped with a unique Buckmasters Bullet Drop Compensation (BDC) reticle, complete with holdover dots that extend up to a distance of 500 yards; Avid hunters know the upgraded game hunting comes with upgraded equipment
  • GREAT CONSTRUCTION -The Buckmasters hunting rifle scope has extra durable construction with a single-piece, 1-inch main tube; For those who appreciate the convenience, it also features an integrated thread in the throw lever which allows for quick magnification changes
  • WEATHER RESISTANT - Dependable waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof performance and high-performance optical system with low dispersion glass of the Buckmasters scope makes your hunting season non-stop whatever weather is on the way; See the target with a reliable magnification of 3-9X50mm
  • SIG SAUER - In our world-class facilities, we build the toughest, most precise rifles, pistols, optics, suppressors, ammunition, airguns, holsters, and various accessories, while offering the finest guns training - all as a fully integrated system
Bestseller No. 6
Sig Sauer Tango-MSR 1-6x24mm Riflescope; MSR-BDC6 Reticle with Alpha-MSR Cantilever Mount
  • INCREDIBLE VALUE: Introducing the TANGO-MSR line of riflescopes by Sig Sauer. Featuring three new low power variable optics loaded with standard features and offered at an incredible value.
  • AMAZING FEATURES: These new models include illuminated reticles, factory installed flip-back lens covers, removable thread-in magnification throw levers and the impressive ALPHA-MSR cantilever mount.
  • ACCLAIMED LINEAGE: The TANGO-MSR follows the TANGO6T 1-6x24mm riflescope’s acclaimed lineage. Crafted by the hands of the experts, with the most sought out advanced technology and advancements.
  • TOP QUALITY: The TANGO6T has been the winner of three consecutive US military contracts: the Squad Designated Marksman Riflescope (SDMR), the Squad Variable Powered Scope (S-VPS) and the Direct View Optic (DVO) programs.
  • COMMENTS: Review by Jacob on 19 Feb 2022review stating Sig Sauer Optics are becoming my favoriteThis is my first LPVO scope, I put this on my Aero and I couldn’t believe how accurate and clear this scope was for the price. Best optic I’ve ever invested in. I mounted it forward far enough to use the 1x magnification like a red dot.(For targets at 50 yards). At 6x magnification, the reticle is very clear, clean, and easy to use at targets at 200 yards. - Jacob
Bestseller No. 7
Burris Optics Fullfield E1 Riflescope 4.5-14x42mm, Matte Black (os) (200344)
  • FULLFIELD E1 4.5-14x42MM HUNTING SCOPE - The Burris Fullfield E1 4.5-14x42mm is a great option for those looking for a more magnification over the 3-9x, but still looking for a wide field-of-view; perfect for extending shots such as hunting a field edge
  • HIGH-GRADE OPTICAL GLASS - The Burris Fullfield E1 4.5-14x42mm waterproof hunting scope features high-grade optical glass that delivers exceptional brightness and clarity; it enhances image quality & offers lasting durability
  • 1-PIECE OUTER TUBE - Durable, stress-free, solid 1-piece outer tube withstands shock and vibrations of even the heaviest-recoiling calibers; the double internal spring-tension system allows the scope to hold zero through shock, recoil, and vibrations
  • ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE - Index-matched, Hi-Lume multicoating aids in low-light performance and glare elimination, increasing your success rate; ergonomic side focus allows easy-to-reach parallax adjustment from 50 yds. to infinity
  • LONG-RANGE MOA RETICLE - Ultra-fine center area helps shooters engage targets with extreme precision; MOA-based Burris design increases precision for long-range competition without adding clutter or distraction; increases speed for wind hold-off
SaleBestseller No. 8
Hi-Lux Optics Long Eye Relief 2-7x32 Rifle Scope, 308 Reticle
  • Up to 13" of Eye Relief
  • 2-7X Magnification
  • 1" Aluminum Main Tube
  • .308 BDC Reticle
Bestseller No. 9
Monstrum Banshee 2-10x30 MPVO Rifle Scope with Offset Scope Mount | BDCB1 Reticle
  • Mid power variable optic from 2-10x magnification with newly designed optics assembly for a sleeker more compact build
  • Available with either second focal plane MX1 box reticle or BDC B1 reticle with 5.56 BDC hashmarks. Second focal plane reticles remain the same size at all magnification levels for high visibility at all magnifications.
  • Inline dial controlled reticle illumination with 5 brightness levels in both red and green
  • More anti-reflective lens coating than competing scope models, offering higher light transmission and superior optical clarity
  • Product Bundle includes Monstrum Offset Scope Mount and matching set of Flip-Up Lens Covers
Bestseller No. 10
UUQ 4X32 Prism Optics Rifle Scope with Red Laser, Red Illuminated Reticle, Upgraded Buttons, and Glass Etched Reticle 4X Magnification - Fits 20mm Free Mounts - Suitable for Short-Distance Combat
  • ✔【Fixed Magnification and Red Laser】: This scope features a 4x magnification with a 32mm objective lens. It provides a field of view of 36.6 at 100 yards. The eye relief ranges from 50-60mm, ensuring a comfortable viewing experience. The laser power is 2mW, classified as Class IIIa. It extends the range in bright lighting conditions, while performing exceptionally well in low-light environments. It has minimal zeroing, excellent optical imaging, minimal distortion during imaging.
  • ✔【Upgraded Button Switch and Lightweight Durability】: Equipped with a red illumination button, it allows for easy brightness adjustment and precise control. Constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, it ensures lightweight durability. It is fully sealed, 100% nitrogen-filled, shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof, enabling reliable performance in a wide range of environments.
  • ✔【Etched Reticle and Red Illumination】: The etched reticle is engraved on the prism wall and can be illuminated using a red light source. It is commonly used on rifles for close to mid-range shooting, providing accurate targeting without the need for parallax correction or high magnification. The red illumination can be adjusted with 7 intensity levels to suit various lighting conditions.
  • ✔【Fully Multi-Coated Green Optics and Compatibility Mount】:UUQ 4X32 Prism scope feature a fully multi-coated lens system, which enhances light transmission and minimizes glare. This results in sharp, clear images with excellent brightness and contrast.It is equipped with two top-quality, 1-inch complementary rings, making it easy to install on any 20mm Picatinny or Weaver mounting rail.
  • ✔【Packaging and Customer Service】:The package includes a 4X32 Prism scope,1X CR2, cleaning cloth, wrenches, and user manual. UUQ is your best choice, providing you with perfect and rapid service to solve any of your concerns.

Some Concluding Words

There is a reason why these highly respected brands have been trusted by hunters and shooters for decades. They offer superior quality and reliability to maximize the effectiveness of your .308 rifle. These scopes are sleek, sophisticated, and packed with features. They all provide excellent optical clarity, light transmission, and fast target acquisition.

These brands were chosen because they represent the best in research, design, and testing. They have been tirelessly engineered to suit your needs. Try one of these scopes out and you’ll take your shooting to the next level. You’ll probably never look at your .308 in the same light ever again.