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.

 

Sale
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 SOW33202 Whiskey3 Riflescope, 3-9X40mm, 1 in, Sfp
  • 3x optical zoom offered in second focal plane (SFP) with multiple reticle options
  • Low dispersion (LD) glass provides industry leading optical clarity for any situation
  • European style eyepiece for a smooth, fast, and precise reticle adjustment
  • Dependable waterproof (IPX-7 rated for complete immersion up to 1 meter) and fog-proof performance
  • Durable and long lasting

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.

 

Sale
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.

  

Sale
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
Primary Arms SLX 4-16X44mm FFP Riflescope - Illuminated ACSS-HUD-DMR-308/223 Reticle
  • First Focal Plane reticle is true at every magnification
  • Partial reticle illumination of the horseshoe and chevron is daylight bright
  • ACSS HUD DMR 308 Reticle provides moving target holds out to 600 yards, as well as ranging, bullet drop, and wind holds out to 1,000 yards
  • Calibrated for .308 Winchester and Compatible with some .223 Rem loads
  • Chevron central aiming point provides an infinitely small aiming point
SaleBestseller No. 2
UUQ Tactical 4X32 Compact .223 .308 Scope Rangefinder Reticle/w Ring Mounts
  • Magnification is 4X, Tube diameter is 1", Objective is 32 mm, Length is 7.75", Weight is 8.5 oz.
  • Milled from one solid piece of aircraft grade aluminum body to withstand constant heavy recoil Fog proof and shock-resistant housing.
  • Nitrogen charged with weather resistant seals, Blue fused multi-coated lens provides superior light transmission, resolution and scratch resistance windage and elevation adjustment.
  • Rangefinder reticle, a pair of ring mounts fit for 20mm weaver / picatinny rail.
  • High end quality and timely 24X7 customer service provided by UUQ.
Bestseller No. 3
Monstrum Guardian 4-12x50 AO Rifle Scope with Parallax Adjustment | Black
  • Adjustable 4-12 times magnification, for targeting out to 800 yards and beyond
  • An adjustable objective lens or AO - that allows for sharper focus of the target image, elimination of parallax, and range estimation
  • Aircraft grade 6061 aluminum scope body with a sealed, nitrogen-charged tube for resistance to water and fog
  • Precision 1/4 MOA/click windage and elevation adjustments with locking turrets
  • Package includes High Profile Picatinny/Weaver Scope Rings and set of flip-up lens covers
SaleBestseller No. 4
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
SaleBestseller No. 5
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-9x50 SFP Riflescope V-Brite Illuminated MOA, Crossfire II 3-9x50 V-Brite Illuminated, black
  • The 3-9x50 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 fog proof performance.
Bestseller No. 6
Vortex Optics Copperhead 4-12x44 Second Focal Plane Riflescope - Dead-Hold BDC Reticle
  • Specifically designed for hunters and shooters, the Copperhead riflescope offers the highest levels of performance and reliability.
  • The Dead-Hold BDC is good for hunting and shooting at varying ranges where estimating hold-over is a concern.
  • Fully multi-coated lenses increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.
  • The long eye relief, locking diopter are just a few of the reasons this riflescope is a crowd pleasing favorite.
  • Its hard anodized single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube is nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed for waterproof/fogproof/ weatherproof performance.
Bestseller No. 7
Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 4-12x40 Second Focal Plane Riflescope - VMR-1 Reticle (MOA),black
  • Durability and perfomance are the pillars of the Diamondback Tactical 4-12x40 riflescope. VMR-1 MOA reticle can be used to effectively determine ranges, holdovers, windage corrections and moving target leads.
  • Extra-low dispersion glass and XR fully multi-coated lenses give the brightest views possible. The extremely accurate hashmarked based reticle works especially well at extended ranges.
  • With distinctive, responsive dialing, the exposed tactical turrets are built with the shooter in mind. A zero reset feature keeps zeroing simple and quick.
  • Strong o-ring seals, nitrogen purging, and shockproof construction guarantees rugged, waterproof and fogproof performance.
  • The Diamondback Tactical offers features that will benefit any rifle platform.
SaleBestseller No. 8
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. 9
Sig Sauer BUCKMASTERS Scope- 3-12x44MM BDC
  • 3- 12X44MM / 1 in
  • 0.25 MOA ADJ
  • Generous and consistent eye relief
  • Fully multi-coated optical system for increased light transmission
  • waterproof, shockproof and fog proof
Bestseller No. 10
Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12x50mm Riflescope
  • Model #180602 - VX-Freedom 4-12x50mm Riflescope with a Duplex CDS reticle and a Matte finish

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.