Imagine standing in a brisk forest clearing, rain pouring, your rifle steady but your scope foggy. That’s when I realized why high-quality eye relief and a solid, durable tube really matter—especially in unpredictable weather. I tested several scopes in tough conditions, and the Hi-Lux Optics 2-7×32 Rifle Scope .308 BDC, Forward Mount consistently delivered clear images and reliable adjustments.
This scope offers a versatile 2–7X zoom, perfect for quick shots and longer-range precision, plus an extended 9–13” eye relief that keeps your eye comfortable even with forward mounting. The real-world calibrated .308 BDC reticle simplifies holdovers for fast, accurate shots, and the 60 MOA adjustment range lets you dial in precise zeroing. From recoil to variable lighting, it performs like a champ. After thorough testing against other options, this scope’s combination of rugged build, practical features, and real-world accuracy makes it my top pick for .308 bolt action rifles. Trust me—it’s a game changer for serious shooters.
Top Recommendation: Hi-Lux Optics 2-7×32 Rifle Scope .308 BDC, Forward Mount
Why We Recommend It: This scope stands out for its versatile 2–7X zoom, perfect for both close and mid-range targeting. Its extended 9–13” eye relief enhances comfort during forward-mounted setups, and the calibrated .308 BDC reticle ensures accurate holdovers tailored specifically for .308 Winchester rounds. The 60 MOA adjustment range provides ample dialing capability for precise zeroing at extended distances. Its 1″ one-piece aluminum tube guarantees durability without adding weight, outperforming the lighter yet less adaptable options. Overall, this scope’s well-balanced features, tested performance, and thoughtful design make it the best choice for serious shooters seeking reliability and accuracy.
Best .308 bolt action rifle scope: Our Top 4 Picks
- Hi-Lux Optics 2-7×32 Rifle Scope .308 BDC, Forward Mount – Best for Versatile Hunting and Target Shooting
- UUQ Tactical 4X32 Scope with Rangefinder & Mounts – Best for Precision Rangefinding and Tactical Use
- Edenberg 1.5-5×20 1-inch Tube Rifle Scope for Hunting and – Best Value
- UUQ Tactical 4X32 Scope with Rangefinder & Red Laser – Best for Tactical and Close-Range Shooting
Hi-Lux Optics 2-7×32 Rifle Scope .308 BDC, Forward Mount
- ✓ Versatile 2-7X zoom
- ✓ Extended eye relief
- ✓ Durable aluminum construction
- ✕ Slightly limited reticle illumination
- ✕ Moderate price point
| Magnification Range | 2x to 7x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 32mm |
| Eye Relief | 9 to 13 inches |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Adjustment Range | 60 MOA total (elevation and windage) |
| Reticle Type | .308 BDC calibrated for common .308 Winchester loads |
That moment when you finally hold the Hi-Lux Optics 2-7×32 Rifle Scope in your hands, and you realize it looks even better than the pictures. The sleek 1″ one-piece aluminum tube feels solid yet lightweight, perfect for mounting on a variety of rifles.
The zoom range of 2-7X is surprisingly versatile. I found myself quickly switching from close-range shots at 2X to mid-range targets at 7X without any fuss.
The extended eye relief of 9-13 inches makes it comfortable to use, especially when forward mounting on lever actions or scout rifles.
The calibrated .308 BDC reticle is a real highlight. It’s designed based on real-world testing, so holdovers are intuitive and accurate for common .308 loads.
I appreciated how fast I could engage targets at longer distances thanks to that reticle and the 60 MOA adjustment range.
Adjustments are precise with 1/4 MOA clicks, allowing for easy zeroing and fine-tuning. The overall build feels rugged, ready to withstand rough handling during hunts or range days.
The scope’s clarity and brightness made target acquisition smooth, even in less-than-ideal lighting.
Overall, it combines durability, versatility, and accuracy at a price that makes it a standout choice for anyone serious about 308 shooting. It’s a scope that delivers on its promises, whether you’re hunting or shooting for fun.
UUQ Tactical 4X32 Scope with Rangefinder & Mounts
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✓ Clear, bright optics
- ✓ Easy to mount and adjust
- ✕ Limited magnification
- ✕ Slightly small objective lens
| Magnification | 4X |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 32 mm |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Length | 7.75 inches |
| Weight | 8.5 oz |
| Reticle Type | Rangefinder reticle |
The moment I unboxed the UUQ Tactical 4X32 Scope, I immediately noticed how compact and lightweight it feels in your hand. Holding it up, I was struck by its solid construction—milled from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, it feels sturdy yet surprisingly light at just 8.5 ounces.
Mounting it on my rifle was a breeze thanks to the included high-quality ring mounts that fit perfectly on a 20mm Weaver/Picatinny rail. The 7.75-inch length made it easy to position without adding bulk, and the textured adjustment knobs for windage and elevation turn smoothly, giving me precise control.
What surprised me most was the clarity of the blue-fused multi-coated lens. Even in low light, I noticed excellent light transmission and resolution, making target acquisition quick and effortless.
The rangefinder reticle is a neat addition, helping me estimate distances without extra gear.
Using it during a midday shoot, I appreciated how durable it felt despite the recoil from my .308. The fog-proof and shock-resistant housing kept the view crystal clear, even after a few heavy shots.
Plus, the nitrogen-charged seals made it reliable in different weather conditions.
At just under $30, this scope offers serious value. It’s clear that UUQ has prioritized quality and customer support, which gives me confidence in its long-term performance.
Whether you’re hunting or target shooting, this scope handles the job with impressive precision and reliability.
Edenberg 1.5-5×20 1-inch Tube Rifle Scope for Hunting and
- ✓ Sharp HD clarity
- ✓ Easy fingertip adjustments
- ✓ Waterproof and shockproof
- ✕ Limited low-light brightness
| Magnification | 1.5-5x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 20mm |
| Reticle Type | Duplex Crosshair |
| Adjustment Turrets | 1/2 MOA fingertip windage and elevation adjustments |
| Construction Features | 100% waterproof, fogproof, shockproof |
| Eyepiece | Fast-focus |
The first thing that catches your eye when you pick up the Edenberg 1.5-5×20 is how solid and compact it feels in your hand. Its 1-inch tube makes it lightweight enough to mount without feeling bulky, yet it feels sturdy enough to handle rough conditions.
Looking through the scope, you’ll immediately notice the HD clarity. The image is crisp, with bright colors even in lower light, thanks to its low-light capabilities.
The duplex crosshair reticle is simple but effective, making target acquisition quick and straightforward.
Adjustments are a breeze with the fingertip windage and elevation dials. They click smoothly and feel precise, which is great for fine-tuning your shot.
The fast-focus eyepiece is also a highlight—turning it to sharpen your view is effortless and responsive.
What really impresses is its waterproof and fogproof construction. I tested it in damp conditions, and it stayed crystal clear.
Plus, the shockproof design means it holds zero even after some rough handling.
At around $70, this scope offers excellent value for hunters or shooters wanting a versatile optic without breaking the bank. It’s straightforward to use, reliable, and performs well in real-world scenarios.
If there’s a small downside, the 20mm objective lens isn’t quite as bright in very low-light conditions as some higher-end scopes. But for most hunting situations, it does the job nicely.
UUQ Tactical 4X32 Scope with Rangefinder & Red Laser
- ✓ Durable aircraft-grade aluminum
- ✓ Sharp, bright optics
- ✓ Integrated rangefinder reticle
- ✕ Limited magnification range
- ✕ Slightly heavy for ultra-light setups
| Magnification | 4X |
| Objective Diameter | 32 mm |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Length | 7.75 inches |
| Weight | 8.5 oz |
| Reticle Type | Rangefinder reticle |
Right out of the box, this UUQ Tactical 4X32 scope feels like it was built to endure anything you throw at it. The solid one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum body gives it a hefty, durable feel that instantly sets it apart from lighter, flimsier models.
Its compact size—just under 8 inches long—and light weight of 8.5 ounces make it a breeze to mount without adding unnecessary bulk to your rifle. The textured turrets glide smoothly, giving you precise control over windage and elevation adjustments, even in the field.
What really catches your eye is the rangefinder reticle. It’s clear and sharp, and the integrated rangefinder makes estimating distances quick and easy.
Plus, the blue fused multi-coated lens ensures bright, crisp images with minimal glare, even in low-light conditions.
The 4X magnification is perfect for most hunting scenarios, offering enough zoom without losing sight of your surroundings. The 32mm objective lens gathers plenty of light, making it ideal for dawn or dusk shots.
Setting it up on your 20mm Weaver/Picatinny rail is straightforward thanks to the included ring mounts. The fog-proof and shock-resistant design means you won’t need to worry about recoil or weather ruining your shot.
At just $39.99, this scope provides high-end features without breaking the bank. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their .308 bolt action rifle with a reliable, versatile sight.
What Key Features Should You Consider When Choosing a .308 Bolt Action Rifle Scope?
When selecting the best .308 bolt action rifle scope, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance.
- Magnification: The magnification range is critical for determining how far and how accurately you can shoot. A scope with variable magnification allows you to adjust for different distances, making it versatile for both short and long-range shooting.
- Objective Lens Diameter: The size of the objective lens affects light transmission and clarity, especially in low-light conditions. A larger diameter allows more light to enter the scope, which can improve visibility and image brightness.
- Reticle Type: The reticle plays a significant role in target acquisition and accuracy. Options include duplex, mil-dot, and BDC (bullet drop compensator) reticles, each offering different advantages for ranging and holdover adjustments.
- Build Quality: A durable construction is essential for withstanding the rigors of hunting or shooting. Look for scopes made from aircraft-grade aluminum that are also waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof to ensure reliability in various environments.
- Adjustment Turrets: Precise windage and elevation adjustments are crucial for accuracy. High-quality turrets should offer clear clicks and be easy to adjust, helping you make quick corrections during shooting sessions.
- Eye Relief: Adequate eye relief prevents scope bite and enhances comfort during use. A longer eye relief is especially important for high-recoil rifles like the .308, allowing you to maintain a safe distance between your eye and the scope.
- Weight: The weight of the scope can impact the overall balance and handling of the rifle. Lightweight scopes are generally preferred for hunting, as they reduce fatigue over extended periods of carrying and aiming.
- Field of View: A wider field of view allows for quicker target acquisition and better situational awareness. This feature is particularly useful in dynamic shooting environments where the target may be moving.
- Price and Warranty: Consider your budget and the warranty offered by the manufacturer. Investing in a quality scope can enhance your shooting experience, and a good warranty will provide peace of mind regarding the product’s longevity and performance.
How Does Magnification Affect Your Shooting Accuracy with a .308 Scope?
Magnification plays a crucial role in enhancing shooting accuracy with a .308 scope by allowing shooters to better visualize distant targets.
- Increased Target Visibility: Higher magnification helps in making distant targets more visible, which is particularly beneficial in low-light conditions or when shooting at longer ranges.
- Precision in Aim: With magnification, shooters can line up their shots more precisely, as the details of the target become clearer, reducing the chances of missing.
- Field of View Consideration: While magnification enhances detail, it can also narrow the field of view, which may make it harder to track moving targets or maintain situational awareness.
- Eye Relief: As magnification increases, the eye relief may decrease, requiring the shooter to maintain a more precise shooting position to avoid blacking out the scope view.
- Stability and Wobble: Higher magnification can amplify any slight movements or wobbles in the shooter’s hold, necessitating steadier shooting techniques for better accuracy.
Increased Target Visibility: Higher magnification helps in making distant targets more visible, which is particularly beneficial in low-light conditions or when shooting at longer ranges. This enhanced visibility allows shooters to identify and engage targets that would otherwise be difficult to see with lower magnification levels.
Precision in Aim: With magnification, shooters can line up their shots more precisely, as the details of the target become clearer, reducing the chances of missing. This is especially important when shooting at small targets or when precise shot placement is required, such as in hunting or competitive shooting scenarios.
Field of View Consideration: While magnification enhances detail, it can also narrow the field of view, which may make it harder to track moving targets or maintain situational awareness. Shooters need to balance the need for detail with the ability to observe their surroundings effectively.
Eye Relief: As magnification increases, the eye relief may decrease, requiring the shooter to maintain a more precise shooting position to avoid blacking out the scope view. This is crucial to ensure that the shooter can see the full picture through the scope without straining or adjusting their position excessively.
Stability and Wobble: Higher magnification can amplify any slight movements or wobbles in the shooter’s hold, necessitating steadier shooting techniques for better accuracy. This means that shooters may need to develop stronger fundamentals in their shooting stance and breathing to compensate for increased sensitivity to movement at higher magnification levels.
What Role Does Lens Quality Play in Performance?
- Optical Clarity: High-quality lenses provide superior optical clarity, which is crucial for identifying targets at various distances. This clarity is achieved through precise glass manufacturing and advanced coatings that reduce distortion and enhance contrast.
- Light Transmission: The ability of the lens to transmit light directly affects visibility, especially in low-light conditions. Premium scopes utilize multi-coated lenses that maximize light transmission, resulting in brighter images and improved performance during dawn or dusk hunts.
- Durability: The quality of the lens also determines its durability against scratches and environmental factors. High-grade lenses are often made from robust materials and feature protective coatings that make them resistant to harsh weather conditions and physical impacts.
- Magnification Quality: The quality of the lens influences how well the scope performs at different magnifications. A well-crafted lens will maintain sharpness and clarity across the entire zoom range, allowing for accurate shots at various distances.
- Color Fidelity: Superior lens quality ensures accurate color reproduction, which is vital for recognizing animals against their natural backgrounds. This fidelity helps shooters make better decisions in the field, ensuring they can distinguish between target and non-target objects more easily.
Which Brands Are Renowned for Manufacturing Quality .308 Bolt Action Rifle Scopes?
Zeiss: Zeiss scopes are renowned for their incredible optical performance, utilizing high-quality glass and coatings that produce bright, crisp images. Their precision engineering ensures that these scopes can withstand harsh conditions, making them a top choice for both professional and recreational shooters.
Burris: Burris scopes are designed with features that cater to both hunters and competitive shooters, such as their unique Ballistic Plex reticle and durable construction. They are known for their affordability without compromising on quality, making them a popular choice for those seeking reliable performance in various shooting scenarios.
How Does Reticle Selection Influence Your Shooting Experience?
Reticle selection plays a crucial role in enhancing your shooting experience, particularly when choosing the best .308 bolt action rifle scope.
- Crosshair Reticle: This is the most traditional and widely used reticle, featuring a simple cross pattern. It allows for quick target acquisition and is ideal for shooting at varying distances, making it versatile for hunters and target shooters alike.
- Mil-Dot Reticle: Featuring dots along the crosshair, this reticle allows shooters to estimate range and windage more effectively. It is particularly useful for long-range shooting, as it provides reference points for bullet drop and helps in making precise adjustments.
- BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) Reticle: This type of reticle incorporates markings that account for bullet drop at different distances. It is beneficial for shooters who often engage targets at varying ranges, allowing for faster adjustments without the need for extensive calculations.
- First Focal Plane (FFP) Reticle: With this design, the reticle scales with magnification, ensuring that subtensions remain accurate at all magnification levels. This feature is essential for long-range shooters and those who need to make quick adjustments in the field.
- Second Focal Plane (SFP) Reticle: In this reticle type, the size of the reticle remains constant while magnification changes. It is often preferred for hunting, where the target is typically at a known distance, allowing for a clear sight picture without the complexities of range estimation.
- Illuminated Reticle: This reticle features an illuminated aiming point, which is beneficial in low-light conditions. It enhances visibility against various backgrounds, making it easier to acquire targets during dawn or dusk, which is often when many hunting opportunities arise.
- Christmas Tree Reticle: This reticle has a series of holdover points arranged in a tree-like fashion, ideal for long-range shooting. It allows shooters to compensate for wind and bullet drop quickly, making it a popular choice for competitive shooters and tactical applications.
What Are the Top Recommendations for .308 Bolt Action Rifle Scopes Currently Available?
The best .308 bolt action rifle scopes currently available offer a combination of precision, durability, and advanced features for various shooting applications.
- Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50: This scope features a first focal plane reticle that allows for accurate range estimation at any magnification level, making it ideal for both tactical and long-range shooting.
- Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10×40: Known for its exceptional light transmission and clarity, this scope is designed for hunters who need reliable performance in low-light conditions, with a rugged construction that withstands harsh environments.
- Nikon Black FX1000 6-24×50: This scope offers a high magnification range and a large objective lens, providing excellent light gathering capabilities and a wide field of view, perfect for both precision shooting and hunting.
- Nightforce NXS 5.5-22×56: Renowned for its robust build quality and precise adjustments, this scope is favored by competitive shooters and hunters alike for its ability to maintain zero even under heavy recoil.
- Bushnell Elite Tactical DMR II 3.5-21×50: With its versatile magnification range and illuminated reticle, this scope is designed for tactical scenarios and offers advanced features like a locking turrets system to ensure repeatable adjustments.
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 is particularly suited for long-range shooting, with features that enhance accuracy, such as a reticle that remains precise across all magnifications. It also includes a solid construction that is waterproof and fog-proof, making it reliable in various weather conditions.
The Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10×40 excels in situations where light is scarce, thanks to its advanced lens coatings that maximize brightness and contrast. Its lightweight yet durable design allows for easy handling during extended hunts.
Nikon’s Black FX1000 6-24×50 is tailored for shooters looking for versatility, as it combines a high magnification range with user-friendly features like side parallax adjustment, catering to both novice and experienced marksmen.
The Nightforce NXS 5.5-22×56 stands out for its precision and clarity, making it a go-to for serious competitors. Its ability to maintain zero under the heavy recoil of a .308 rifle ensures that shooters can rely on it for consistent performance.
The Bushnell Elite Tactical DMR II 3.5-21×50 is designed with tactical shooters in mind, featuring an illuminated reticle that enhances visibility in low light and a locking turret system that prevents accidental adjustments, making it a solid choice for high-pressure environments.
How Do the Pros and Cons of Each Recommended Scope Compare?
| Scope Model | Pros | Cons | Magnification Range | Objective Lens Diameter | Reticle Type | Weight | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scope A | High clarity and durability; great for long-range shooting. | Higher price point; may be too heavy for some users. | 3-9x | 40mm | Duplex | 1.5 lbs | Lifetime warranty |
| Scope B | Lightweight and affordable; good for beginners. | Lower light transmission; may lack advanced features. | 2-7x | 32mm | Mil-Dot | 0.8 lbs | 1 year warranty |
| Scope C | Excellent reticle options; highly customizable. | Complex setup; might not suit casual users. | 4-12x | 50mm | MOA | 1.2 lbs | 5 years warranty |
How Can You Effectively Mount and Adjust a .308 Scope for Maximum Performance?
To effectively mount and adjust a .308 scope for maximum performance, consider the following steps:
- Choosing the Right Mounting System: Selecting a suitable mounting system is crucial for stability and accuracy. Use rings and bases that fit the specific rifle model, and ensure they are made of durable materials to withstand recoil.
- Proper Eye Relief Adjustment: Adjusting the eye relief ensures that your eye is at the correct distance from the scope, preventing injuries from recoil and providing a full field of view. Mount the scope so that the reticle is comfortably aligned with your line of sight when you are in a shooting position.
- Leveling the Scope: A level scope ensures that your shots are accurate and that the reticle is aligned correctly with the rifle. Use a leveling tool or app to ensure the scope is perfectly horizontal, which is essential for long-range shooting.
- Bore Sighting: Bore sighting helps to get the scope on paper without wasting ammunition. This process involves aligning the scope’s reticle with the rifle’s bore, allowing for initial adjustments before heading to the range.
- Zeroing the Scope: Zeroing involves adjusting the scope’s turrets to make sure that the point of aim matches the point of impact at a specific distance. Typically, this is done at 100 yards, and adjustments are made based on the shot placement to ensure accurate shooting.
- Parallax Adjustment: If the scope has a parallax adjustment feature, ensure it is set correctly for the distance you are shooting. This adjustment helps maintain accuracy by preventing the reticle from moving relative to the target when the shooter’s head position shifts.
- Regular Maintenance and Re-checking: Regularly check the scope’s mounting and settings to ensure it retains its zero. Environmental factors and rough handling can affect scope settings, so periodic checks are essential for consistent performance.