The .308 Winchester is a legendary cartridge, trusted by hunters, competitors, and professionals for its power and versatility at short, medium, and even long ranges. But to truly harness its potential, you need an optic that matches its capability. A poor scope can turn a precision instrument into a frustrating liability, wasting the inherent accuracy of the round and your own skills behind the trigger.
Selecting the right scope is about more than just magnification; it’s about optical clarity, rugged construction, and a reticle that speaks your language under pressure. As a Marine, I’ve learned that your gear must be an extension of your will, reliable under the most demanding conditions. This roundup cuts through the noise to bring you ten of the best scopes for your .308 rifle, ranked based on real-world performance and durability.
Our Top Picks for .308 Rifle Scopes
- Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24
- Trijicon TA11J-308 ACOG 3.5x35mm
- Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 Segmented Circle Crosshair
- Nikon P-Tactical .308 4-12X40 Matte BDC800
- Nikon M-308 4-16x42mm Riflescope
- Primary Arms SLX 4-16X44mm FFP Rifle Scope
- Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 SFP Gen III Rifle Scope
- Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm First Focal Plane
- MEOPTA Optika5 3-15×44 Hunting Gun Scope
- Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP
Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24
This scope is a top-tier low-power variable optic (LPVO) that excels on .308 rifles intended for dynamic shooting and medium-range engagements. It sheds significant weight from its predecessor without sacrificing any of the ruggedness Vortex is known for. The JM-1 BDC reticle features an illuminated center dot that becomes a daylight-bright red dot on its highest setting, providing incredible speed for close-quarters scenarios.
The optical system is where the Razor truly shines. Its APO design with high-density, extra-low dispersion glass delivers a stunningly clear and bright image. All lenses are fully multi-coated to maximize light transmission, giving you an edge in low-light conditions. The low-profile locking illumination dial offers 11 brightness levels, ensuring you have the perfect setting for any environment.
Trijicon TA11J-308 ACOG 3.5x35mm
The Trijicon ACOG is a legend for a reason, offering a fixed 3.5x magnification that is perfectly suited for a general-purpose .308 rifle. Its most significant feature is its battery-free illumination, which uses a combination of tritium and fiber optics to automatically adjust reticle brightness based on ambient light. This means it’s always ready, with no buttons to press or batteries to die.
Built on a forged 7075-T6 aircraft-aluminum-alloy housing, the ACOG is nearly indestructible and can handle the recoil of a .308 for a lifetime. It’s designed to be used with both eyes open, utilizing the Bindon Aiming Concept for fast target acquisition at closer ranges. The .308 ballistic reticle is calibrated for the cartridge, providing reliable holdovers out to extended distances.
Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 Segmented Circle Crosshair
The VCOG combines the ruggedness of a fixed-power combat optic with the versatility of a variable-power LPVO. It’s built to U.S. Mil-Spec standards and is a true battlesight, making it more than capable of handling the .308 Winchester. The red segmented circle reticle with a centered crosshair is specifically matched with 175-grain .308 loads for precise ballistic compensation.
A key advantage of the VCOG is its first focal plane design, which means the reticle’s subtensions remain accurate at every magnification setting. This allows for precise holds whether you are at 1x or 6x. It also boasts an incredible 700 hours of continuous runtime on a single, common AA battery, ensuring you have illumination when you need it most.
Nikon P-Tactical .308 4-12X40 Matte BDC800
For the shooter on a budget who doesn’t want to compromise on performance, the Nikon P-Tactical offers excellent value. The BDC 800 reticle is designed with unique open circles, dots, and hash marks that provide clear aiming points from 100 out to 800 yards, making it well-suited for the trajectory of the .308 round.
The scope features a one-inch body tube and is built to be a reliable workhorse. The spring-loaded instant zero-reset turrets are a user-friendly feature, allowing you to quickly dial back to your zero after making elevation adjustments for longer shots. It’s a solid choice for hunters and target shooters who need a capable scope without a premium price tag.
Nikon M-308 4-16x42mm Riflescope
The Nikon M-308 was engineered from the ground up specifically for the .308 Winchester cartridge. Its 4-16x magnification range is ideal for shooters who need to reach out to longer distances, whether for precision target shooting or hunting in open terrain. The scope is calibrated to work in harmony with the ballistics of the .308.
It features the Nikon Spot On Ballistic Match technology, which pairs perfectly with the BDC 800 reticle to provide highly accurate holdover points. This integration allows you to create custom trajectories for your specific load, giving you confidence for shots at varying ranges. The optics provide a clear, bright sight picture critical for identifying targets at a distance.
Primary Arms SLX 4-16X44mm FFP Rifle Scope
This scope brings first focal plane functionality and a sophisticated reticle to a very accessible price point. The ACSS HUD DMR .308 reticle is a comprehensive tool, providing moving target holds out to 600 yards, as well as ranging, bullet drop, and wind holds out to 1,000 yards. Having all this data in a first focal plane reticle means it’s always accurate at any magnification.
Partial reticle illumination of the horseshoe and chevron is daylight bright, aiding in fast target acquisition. The 4-16x magnification range is perfectly matched for a .308 rifle being used for precision-oriented tasks, from long-range hunting to tactical matches. It represents an incredible value for the features it offers.
Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 SFP Gen III Rifle Scope
Another excellent LPVO option, the Primary Arms SLX Gen III is a budget-friendly champion that performs well above its class. It utilizes the acclaimed ACSS reticle, which combines BDC, wind holds, moving target leads, and range estimation into an intuitive and easy-to-use system calibrated for .308, 5.56, and 5.45×39 ballistics.
While it is a second focal plane scope, the reticle is designed to be used at its maximum 6x magnification for ballistic holds. The partial red illumination with 11 brightness settings is powered by a common CR2032 battery. For builders and shooters who want a capable, multi-role LPVO without a significant investment, this scope is very difficult to beat.
Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm First Focal Plane
When absolute precision at extreme distances is the requirement, the Nightforce ATACR is a top-tier choice. This scope is built for long-range shooting, with a 5-25x magnification range and a massive 56mm objective lens that gathers an exceptional amount of light. The ED glass provides outstanding optical clarity and brightness, crucial for seeing mirage and identifying targets in poor light.
Its first focal plane MOAR reticle ensures accurate subtensions throughout the entire magnification range. The construction is legendary for its durability and reliability, built to withstand harsh conditions and maintain zero under heavy recoil. For the serious long-range competitor or hunter using a .308, the ATACR represents the pinnacle of performance.
MEOPTA Optika5 3-15×44 Hunting Gun Scope
Meopta optics are renowned in Europe and are gaining a well-deserved reputation in North America for their exceptional glass quality. The Optika5 series incorporates MeoBright multi-coatings that deliver industry-leading light transmission for a bright and clear image. The MeoDrop hydrophobic coating is a fantastic feature for hunters, causing water to bead up and roll off the lens surface.
With a versatile 3-15x magnification and a 44mm objective, this scope is an excellent match for a hunting rifle in .308. The posi-click finger-adjustable turrets deliver precise 1/4 MOA clicks with reliable tracking. It’s a robust, high-performance hunting scope that stands up to the elements and provides a superior sight picture.
Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP
For the long-range enthusiast on a budget, the Vortex Diamondback Tactical offers an impressive feature set. The 6-24x magnification range gives you plenty of power for precision shooting at extended ranges, and the first focal plane reticle ensures your holdover points are correct at any setting. The 50mm objective lens provides a generous exit pupil for a clear sight picture.
It comes with an exposed tactical-style turret for easy adjustments, and the reticle is designed for calculating holdovers and windage corrections. Backed by Vortex’s lifetime warranty, this scope is a fantastic entry point into the world of long-range shooting with a .308, providing the necessary tools to learn and grow without a massive initial investment.
What to Look For in the Best Scopes for 308 Rifles in 2025
Choosing a scope for your .308 Winchester isn’t about finding the one with the most bells and whistles; it’s about matching the tool to the task. Having used more optics than I can count, I’ve learned that a few key factors separate a good scope from one that will let you down when it counts. Let’s break down what really matters.
First, consider your magnification range. The .308 is a versatile cartridge, so your scope should be, too. For most hunting and medium-range target shooting, a 3-9x or 4-12x scope is the sweet spot. It gives you a wide field of view for close, quick shots and enough power to reach out to 400-500 yards effectively. If you’re strictly a long-range bench shooter, you might go higher, but for a general-purpose rifle, avoid over-scoping. Next, the objective lens size. A larger lens (e.g., 44mm or 50mm) gathers more light, which is great for dawn and dusk hunting. However, it also means a heavier scope and a higher mounting height, which can affect your cheek weld. A 40mm or 42mm objective is often a perfect balance for the .308.
The most critical part, in my opinion, is the reticle. For a .308, a reticle with holdover points, like a standard Mil-Dot or a modern BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator), is incredibly useful. It allows you to quickly adjust for bullet drop without fiddling with turrets. Make sure the reticle is in the first focal plane (FFP) if you plan on doing a lot of ranging and holdovers at different magnifications, or second focal plane (SFP) if you prefer a reticle that stays the same size and is easier to see at lower powers.
Finally, don’t skimp on the turrets and the overall build. Look for tactile, repeatable adjustment turrets that you can feel click. They should be easy to reset to zero. The scope must be purged with an inert gas like Argon or Nitrogen and be fully sealed to be fog-proof and waterproof. A scope that can’t handle recoil or the elements is just a paperweight. Your .308 deserves a scope that is as tough and reliable as the rifle itself.
FAQ
What is the best magnification range for a .308 hunting rifle?
For most big game hunting, a 3-9x or 4-12x scope is ideal. This range gives you a wide field of view for tracking moving game in thick cover at the low end, and enough magnification for a precise, ethical shot at longer ranges. You rarely need more than 12x power for shots inside 400 yards, which is a very realistic hunting distance for the .308.
Is a First Focal Plane (FFP) or Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticle better for a .308?
It depends on your primary use. If you are a tactical shooter or a long-range precision enthusiast who uses the reticle for range estimation and holdovers at various magnifications, FFP is the way to go. For most hunters and recreational shooters, an SFP reticle is excellent. The reticle stays the same size, making it easy to see at lower magnifications in low light, and the BDC or holdover marks are typically calibrated at the scope’s highest power.
Can a .308 rifle effectively use a scope designed for a more powerful caliber?
Absolutely. Scopes are generally rated for recoil impulse, not a specific caliber. A high-quality scope built for a .300 Winchester Magnum will have no problem on a .308. The key is to choose a scope with a robust internal construction that can handle repeated shock. The main consideration is ensuring the scope’s features, like the reticle and adjustment range, match the .308’s ballistic trajectory.
How much should I spend on a good scope for my .308?
This is a classic “you get what you pay for” situation. A reliable entry-level scope starts around $250-$400. A solid mid-range scope with great glass, reliable adjustments, and good durability will run between $500 and $1,200. High-end optics with exceptional clarity, tracking, and toughness can cost $1,500 and up. A good rule of thumb is to budget for a scope that costs at least as much as your rifle.
Do I need an illuminated reticle?
An illuminated reticle is not a necessity, but it is a very nice feature, especially for hunting in low-light conditions at dawn or dusk. Against a dark background or in heavy shadow, a black reticle can be difficult to see. A illuminated red dot in the center of the crosshair can make a big difference in placing a quick, accurate shot. For bright daylight range shooting, it’s less critical.