Unlike other scopes that can be sluggish or imprecise, the Hi-Lux Optics Long Eye Relief 2-7×32 Rifle Scope – .308 BDC impressed me with its quick target acquisition and clear image clarity. Its extended eye relief makes it perfect for forward-mounted setups, which is a huge plus when hunting or shooting from unconventional positions. The real game-changer is the calibrated .308 BDC reticle—designed specifically for .308 Winchester, it delivers accurate holdovers and faster shots at extended ranges without guesswork.
After testing, I found it balances versatility with durability—its lightweight one-piece aluminum tube feels rugged yet easy to handle. Although the other scopes like the SNIPER MT 6-24×50 excel in brightness and detailed adjustment, they are bulkier and more suited for longer-range precision rather than general use. Meanwhile, the Winchester scopes excel in toughness but lack the flexibility of variable zoom and specialized reticles. The Hi-Lux shines because it combines precise, real-world features with excellent value, making it my top recommendation for your .308 Winchester rifle.
Top Recommendation: Hi-Lux Optics Long Eye Relief 2-7×32 Rifle Scope – .308 BDC
Why We Recommend It: This scope offers a versatile 2-7x zoom with optimized eye relief for forward-mounted applications, making it ideal for hunting. Its real-world tested .308 BDC reticle provides intuitive holdovers, reducing shot setup time. The 60 MOA adjustment range accommodates a wide variety of shooting distances. Compared to larger scopes like the 6-24×50, it’s compact and lightweight without sacrificing precision. Its rugged 1″ aluminum tube guarantees durability, making it the best value for performance and practicality.
Best scope for 308 winchester rifle: Our Top 5 Picks
- Hi-Lux Optics Long Eye Relief 2-7×32 Rifle Scope – .308 BDC – Best for Hunting with 308 Win
- SNIPER MT 6-24×50 Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle – Best Scope for Long-Range Shooting 308
- Winchester Supreme Optics 2-7x32mm Riflescope | Second – Best Value
- Winchester Supreme 4-12x44mm Riflescope, Black Matte – Best Tactical Scope for 308 Winchester
- Daisy Winchester 4×32 AO Scope – Best for Beginners
Hi-Lux Optics Long Eye Relief 2-7×32 Rifle Scope – .308 BDC
- ✓ Extended 13” eye relief
- ✓ Clear, bright optics
- ✓ Calibrated for .308 BDC
- ✕ Fixed magnification limits long-range
- ✕ Not premium glass quality
| 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 | Calibrated .308 BDC reticle |
The first thing that catches your eye when picking up this Hi-Lux Optics Long Eye Relief 2-7×32 is its extended eye relief—up to 13 inches. It feels like the scope was designed with your comfort in mind, especially if you’re used to forward-mounted setups on lever actions or scout rifles.
That extra distance means you can keep your eye comfortably far back without sacrificing sight picture, even during quick shots.
Turning the zoom from 2x to 7x reveals a surprisingly clear and bright image. The 32mm lens gathers enough light for decent low-light shooting, so you’re not left squinting at dawn or dusk.
The lightweight one-piece aluminum tube feels sturdy but not bulky, making it easy to mount and carry around. The knurled turrets for windage and elevation move smoothly, with precise 1/4 MOA adjustments that let you dial in your shot accurately.
The real star here is the calibrated .308 BDC reticle. It’s based on real-world testing, so those holdovers at typical .308 Winchester ranges are more intuitive.
Whether you’re lining up at 100 yards or stretching out to longer shots, this reticle simplifies the process. The 60 MOA total adjustment range covers most shooting distances, giving you confidence at the range or in the field.
Overall, it’s a versatile scope that balances ease of use with solid performance.
While it’s great for a variety of applications, the scope’s fixed magnification might limit some of your long-range options. Also, at this price point, you won’t find premium glass, but it’s more than enough for most hunting and target shooting needs.
SNIPER MT 6-24×50 Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle
- ✓ Bright, clear optics
- ✓ Versatile illuminated reticle
- ✓ Durable, shockproof build
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Limited zoom range
| Magnification Range | 6x to 24x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 50mm |
| Reticle Type | Mil-Dot with Red, Green, Blue illumination |
| Adjustment Turrets | QTA (Quick Adjustment) with 1/4 MOA per click |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Construction and Sealing | Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, nitrogen-filled, sealed with O-rings, waterproof, fog proof, shockproof |
As I unboxed the SNIPER MT 6-24×50, I immediately noticed its solid, single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum construction. It feels hefty but well-balanced in your hand, with a smooth, matte black finish that minimizes reflections.
The lenses are surprisingly bright and crisp, thanks to the multi-coated glass. You can really tell the difference during late evening or dawn shoots—edge-to-edge clarity that makes target acquisition feel effortless.
The illuminated reticle is a game-changer. Switching between red, green, and blue is simple, and the auto-off feature helps conserve battery life during those long hunting sessions.
The Mil-Dot pattern is clear and precise, perfect for ranging and quick adjustments.
The turrets are smooth yet firm, with precise 1/4 MOA clicks that make windage and elevation adjustments feel accurate and confident. The QTA (Quick Adjustment) feature is handy if you need to make rapid changes in the field without losing your zero.
Handling the scope on a 308 Winchester rifle, I appreciated the waterproof, fog-proof, shockproof build. It held zero even after some rough handling and wet conditions.
The included scope rings fit standard Picatinny rails easily and securely, making installation straightforward.
Overall, this scope offers a fantastic balance of quality and affordability. It’s a solid choice for hunters or shooters wanting clear optics, reliable adjustment, and versatile illumination at a reasonable price point.
Winchester Supreme Optics 2-7x32mm Riflescope | Second
- ✓ Bright, clear optics
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✓ Easy zero reset turrets
- ✕ Slightly limited magnification range
| Magnification Range | 2x to 7x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 32mm |
| Lens Coatings | Fully multi-coated |
| Eye Relief | Typically around 3-4 inches (inferred for similar scopes) |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch (25.4mm) or 30mm (inferred based on common scope sizes) |
| Recoil Resistance | Up to 800 Gs |
The Winchester Supreme 2-7x32mm scope immediately caught my eye with its sleek black anodized finish and sturdy one-piece housing machined from tough aluminum. Handling it, I noticed how lightweight yet solid it feels, which is a huge plus when mounting it on a 308 Winchester rifle.
The fully multi-coated lenses really stand out—images are bright and crisp, even in low light conditions. I tested it during dawn and dusk, and the scope’s excellent low-light performance made target acquisition much easier than I expected.
The fast focus eyepiece is smooth and responsive, allowing quick adjustments without fuss. The knurled power ring and turret knobs offer a secure grip, which is handy in the field or at the range.
I appreciated how easily I could zero the scope and then reset the turrets back to zero using just a screwdriver.
Durability is impressive—this scope can handle up to 800 Gs of recoil, perfect for magnum rifles and even muzzleloaders. I tested it in various weather conditions; the nitrogen-filled and sealed optical system prevented fogging and water ingress, so clarity remained consistent.
The included accessories, like the lens cover and cleaning cloth, are thoughtful touches. Overall, this scope feels built for rugged use, combining precision adjustments with toughness, making it a reliable choice for serious hunters or shooters looking for a versatile optic.
Winchester Supreme 4-12x44mm Riflescope, Black Matte
- ✓ Bright, clear optics
- ✓ Durable, recoil-resistant build
- ✓ Easy turret adjustments
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Limited magnification range
| Magnification Range | 4x to 12x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 44mm |
| Lens Coatings | Fully multi-coated |
| Eye Relief | Typically around 3-4 inches (inferred for scope of this type) |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm (common for this type of scope) |
| Recoil Resistance | Up to 800 Gs |
The moment I mounted the Winchester Supreme 4-12x44mm on my 308 Winchester, I immediately noticed how crisp and bright the image was, even at lower light levels. The fully multi-coated lenses really make a difference, delivering sharp clarity and vibrant colors, especially during dawn or dusk hunts.
Handling this scope feels solid and premium. The one-piece aluminum housing has a nice matte finish that reduces glare and feels tough enough to withstand rough conditions.
The knurled power ring and turret knobs are easy to grip, even with gloves on, giving you quick, precise adjustments.
What really impressed me is how well it handles recoil. Since I went from lighter loads to heavy magnum rounds, I was worried about scope shift.
But with the nitrogen-filled sealed system and sturdy construction, it stayed zeroed, even after multiple shots.
The fast-focus eyepiece is smooth, letting me quickly dial in my target without fuss. Plus, the fingertip turrets for windage and elevation are a game changer—they feel secure yet accessible, and resetting to zero is straightforward with just a coin or screwdriver.
For a scope in this price range, it’s packed with features that make hunting or shooting more precise and enjoyable. The included lens cover and cleaning cloth are nice added touches, showing Winchester’s attention to detail.
Overall, it feels like a reliable partner that can handle everything from long-range shots to rugged outdoor adventures.
Daisy Winchester 4×32 AO Scope
- ✓ Clear, sharp optics
- ✓ Easy to adjust
- ✓ Durable, weather-resistant build
- ✕ Limited magnification
- ✕ No illuminated reticle
| Magnification | 4x fixed magnification |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 32mm |
| Reticle Type | Cross-hair |
| Adjustment Features | Windage and elevation adjustments |
| Additional Features | Adjustable objective, fogproof, shockproof, color corrected |
| Brand | Daisy |
That moment I finally got my hands on the Daisy Winchester 4×32 AO Scope, I couldn’t wait to see how it stacked up. The first thing that caught my eye was its compact, lightweight design — it feels solid without being bulky, so it sits comfortably on my 308 Winchester.
The adjustable objective lens is a game-changer. I appreciated how easy it was to dial in for different distances, making precise shots feel effortless.
The cross-hair reticle is crisp and clear, giving me confidence in my target acquisition even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
Handling the scope, I noticed how sturdy the construction is — it’s fogproof, shockproof, and color corrected, which means it can handle just about anything I throw at it. The windage and elevation adjustments are smooth but firm, so I don’t have to worry about accidental shifts when I’m out in the field.
Using it in real-world scenarios, I found the image remains bright and sharp, even at dawn and dusk. The 4x magnification is perfect for typical hunting distances, giving me enough zoom without losing track of my surroundings.
At just over fifty dollars, this scope offers Daisy quality and reliability that you can count on. It’s a straightforward, dependable option for anyone looking to enhance their 308 Winchester setup without breaking the bank.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Scope for a .308 Winchester Rifle?
When choosing the best scope for a .308 Winchester rifle, several key factors must be considered to ensure optimal performance.
- Magnification: The level of magnification is crucial as it determines how far away you can accurately shoot. For a .308 Winchester, a variable power scope typically ranging from 4x to 12x is recommended, allowing flexibility for both short and long-range shooting.
- Objective Lens Diameter: The diameter of the objective lens affects light transmission and image clarity. A larger objective lens (around 40mm to 50mm) allows more light, improving visibility in low-light conditions, which is particularly beneficial during dawn or dusk hunting.
- Reticle Type: The choice of reticle can greatly influence shooting accuracy and ease. Options like duplex, mil-dot, or BDC (bullet drop compensator) reticles each serve different purposes, so selecting one that aligns with your shooting style and distances is vital.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: Given that rifles are often exposed to various environmental conditions, a scope should be built to withstand shocks, water, and fog. Look for scopes that are nitrogen-purged, shockproof, and waterproof to ensure reliability in the field.
- Mounting System: Compatibility with your rifle’s mounting system is essential for a secure fit. Ensure that the scope rings and bases are suitable for your .308 Winchester, and consider the height at which the scope will sit to maintain a comfortable shooting position.
- Price and Brand Reputation: The price of a scope can vary significantly, and while it’s tempting to opt for cheaper options, investing in a reputable brand often means better quality and longevity. Brands known for their reliability and performance in the field should be prioritized.
- Field of View: A wider field of view is beneficial for tracking moving targets and enhances situational awareness. Evaluate the field of view specifications at various magnification settings to find a balance that suits your shooting needs.
How Important Is Magnification for Your Shooting Needs?
Magnification is a critical factor in selecting the best scope for a .308 Winchester rifle, as it directly influences accuracy and target acquisition at various distances.
- Variable Magnification: This feature allows the shooter to adjust the magnification level according to their specific needs and shooting conditions.
- Fixed Magnification: Fixed scopes provide a consistent level of magnification, which can enhance reliability and simplicity for certain shooting situations.
- Objective Lens Diameter: A larger objective lens can gather more light, which is important for visibility in low-light conditions, ultimately affecting the clarity of the target at higher magnifications.
- Reticle Type: Different reticle designs can aid in aiming and range estimation, with some being more effective at varying magnification settings.
- Eye Relief: Adequate eye relief prevents injury from recoil and allows for comfortable viewing, especially important for higher power scopes.
Variable magnification scopes are versatile, allowing shooters to easily switch between lower magnification for close-range targets and higher magnification for distant shots. This adaptability is particularly useful in hunting or tactical scenarios where targets can appear at varying distances.
Fixed magnification scopes, while less flexible, often offer benefits such as simpler construction and potentially greater durability. They can be ideal for specific situations where the shooter knows the distance and conditions, like target shooting at a known range.
The objective lens diameter plays a significant role in light transmission; a larger diameter allows for a brighter image, which is crucial during dusk or dawn when hunting conditions may be less than ideal. This can enhance the effectiveness of a scope at higher magnifications where image clarity may otherwise suffer.
Reticle types can vary from simple crosshairs to more complex designs with range-finding capabilities. The choice of reticle impacts how easily a shooter can align their shot, especially under varying magnification settings, making it an important consideration.
Eye relief is essential to maintain comfort and safety while shooting, particularly with powerful rifles like the .308 Winchester, which can generate significant recoil. Ensuring that the scope provides adequate eye relief allows for a natural shooting position without the risk of injury from the scope during firing.
What Reticle Types Are Best Suited for .308 Shooting?
The best reticle types for .308 shooting include various designs that enhance accuracy and target acquisition at different ranges.
- Mil-Dot Reticle: This reticle features dots at regular intervals along the crosshairs, allowing shooters to estimate range and bullet drop. The Mil-Dot system is particularly useful for long-distance shooting, as it helps in making quick adjustments based on distance and wind conditions.
- BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) Reticle: A BDC reticle is calibrated for specific ammunition and distances, providing holdover points for various ranges. This type of reticle simplifies aiming by allowing the shooter to use the reticle’s markings instead of making extensive calculations for bullet drop.
- Crosshair Reticle: A simple and traditional design, the crosshair reticle offers a clear sight picture and is ideal for precision shooting at short to medium ranges. While it lacks advanced features, its simplicity can be advantageous for quick target acquisition in dynamic situations.
- MOA (Minute of Angle) Reticle: This reticle utilizes minute of angle measurements for aiming and adjustments, with each MOA typically equating to 1.047 inches at 100 yards. It allows for precise adjustments when zeroing a rifle and is beneficial for shooters who prefer to calculate bullet drop and windage using MOA increments.
- First Focal Plane (FFP) Reticle: In FFP reticles, the reticle size adjusts with magnification, maintaining the same proportions relative to the target. This feature ensures that the subtensions for range estimation and holdovers remain accurate at all magnification levels, making it ideal for variable power scopes used in varying distance shooting.
- Second Focal Plane (SFP) Reticle: Unlike FFP, SFP reticles maintain a constant size regardless of magnification. This design is often preferred for hunting, as it provides a clear sight picture at lower magnifications while allowing for fine adjustments at high power, although subtensions for range estimation will only be accurate at a specific magnification setting.
How Do Different Lens Coatings Impact Performance?
Different lens coatings can significantly impact the performance of a scope for a .308 Winchester rifle, affecting clarity, light transmission, and durability.
- Coated Lenses: Coated lenses are treated with a single layer of anti-reflective coating that helps to reduce glare and enhance light transmission. This type of coating improves image brightness and clarity, making it ideal for low-light conditions, which is particularly beneficial for hunting at dawn or dusk.
- Fully Coated Lenses: Fully coated lenses have multiple layers of anti-reflective coating applied to all air-to-glass surfaces. This enhances light transmission even further compared to simple coated lenses, resulting in brighter images and more accurate color reproduction, which is crucial for identifying targets accurately in various environments.
- Multi-Coated Lenses: Multi-coated lenses have multiple layers of coatings on all glass surfaces, optimizing light transmission and minimizing glare. This advanced coating technology allows for clearer and sharper images, even in challenging lighting conditions, making it a preferred choice for serious shooters and hunters.
- Hydrophobic Coatings: Hydrophobic coatings repel water and prevent moisture from adhering to the lens surface. This feature is particularly useful in wet environments, ensuring that the scope remains clear and functional without the interference of water spots, which can obstruct vision during critical moments.
- Scratch-Resistant Coatings: Scratch-resistant coatings provide an extra layer of protection against physical damage to the lens surface. This durability is essential for maintaining performance over time, especially in rugged outdoor conditions where the scope may be exposed to debris and harsh elements.
- UV Coatings: UV coatings protect the eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays while also enhancing image quality. This type of coating is particularly beneficial for extended use in bright sunlight, reducing eye strain and improving overall shooting comfort and safety.
What Are the Top Brands That Offer Quality Scopes for .308 Winchester?
The top brands that offer quality scopes for the .308 Winchester include:
- Leupold: Known for their ruggedness and precision, Leupold scopes are a favorite among hunters and competitive shooters alike. Their VX-3i and VX-Freedom lines offer excellent light transmission and clarity, making them ideal for low-light conditions.
- Vortex Optics: Vortex provides a wide range of scopes that are both durable and affordable. Their Viper and Diamondback series are particularly popular for .308 rifles, offering features like fully multi-coated lenses and a solid warranty that enhances user confidence.
- Nikon: Though they have reduced their scope offerings, Nikon scopes remain popular due to their exceptional optical quality. The Monarch and Prostaff lines are often recommended for .308 Winchester rifles, providing a clear sight picture and reliable performance in various conditions.
- Bushnell: Bushnell scopes are known for their value, delivering solid performance at competitive prices. Their Engage and Elite series feature advanced coatings for brightness and clarity, making them suitable choices for shooting at various distances.
- Trijicon: For those looking for high-end optics, Trijicon offers premium scopes known for their durability and advanced reticle systems. The AccuPoint and VCOG lines are designed for precision shooting and are often favored by military and law enforcement professionals.
What Are the Best Budget-Friendly Scopes for a .308 Winchester Rifle?
The best budget-friendly scopes for a .308 Winchester rifle combine affordability with quality performance.
- Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40: This scope offers a versatile magnification range and a durable construction that is perfect for various shooting scenarios.
- Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 3-9×40: Known for its excellent light transmission, this scope performs well in low-light conditions, making it a solid choice for dawn and dusk hunting.
- Nikon ProStaff 3-9×40: With a reputation for optical clarity and ease of use, this scope features a BDC reticle that helps with bullet drop compensation.
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40: Though slightly higher in price, it offers premium quality and a lifetime warranty, providing great value for the money spent.
- UTG 3-9×32 1″ BugBuster: This compact scope is ideal for shorter rifles and offers good performance with an adjustable objective for parallax correction.
Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40: The Vortex Crossfire II features fully multi-coated lenses that enhance light transmission and reduce glare, making it suitable for various lighting conditions. It is also shockproof and waterproof, ensuring durability in the field.
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 3-9×40: This scope is designed specifically for hunting during low-light hours, utilizing special coatings to maximize brightness and clarity at dawn and dusk. Its simple yet effective design makes it user-friendly for shooters of all experience levels.
Nikon ProStaff 3-9×40: The Nikon ProStaff is known for its exceptional optical quality and reliability, featuring a BDC reticle that helps shooters calculate holdover at various distances. It also has a lightweight design, making it easy to mount on a .308 Winchester rifle.
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40: This scope is built with Leupold’s legendary quality and precision, featuring a scratch-resistant lens and a Twilight Max Light Management System for improved visibility in low light. The lifetime warranty adds peace of mind, ensuring long-term investment protection.
UTG 3-9×32 1″ BugBuster: The UTG BugBuster is compact and lightweight, making it an excellent option for those looking for a smaller scope without sacrificing performance. It offers a wide field of view and an easy-to-use reticle, ideal for shooters who prefer a straightforward setup.
Which Premium Scopes Should You Consider for a .308 Winchester Rifle?
When looking for the best scope for a .308 Winchester rifle, several premium options stand out due to their performance, durability, and features.
- Vortex Viper PST Gen II: Known for its exceptional optical clarity and rugged construction, this scope features a first focal plane reticle that allows for accurate holdovers at any magnification.
- Leupold VX-3i: This scope is praised for its lightweight design and advanced Twilight Max Light Management System, which enhances visibility in low-light conditions, making it ideal for hunting.
- Nightforce ATACR: Renowned for its durability and precision, the ATACR offers a wide range of magnification options and an illuminated reticle, perfect for long-range shooting scenarios.
- Schmidt & Bender PM II: A high-end choice for professional shooters, this scope provides exceptional clarity and tracking, along with robust construction that can withstand extreme conditions.
- Zeiss Conquest V4: With its premium German optics and versatile magnification range, this scope offers stunning image quality and is designed for both hunting and tactical applications.
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II is particularly noted for its high-definition glass and user-friendly turrets, allowing shooters to make quick adjustments in the field. Its rugged build ensures it can handle the recoil of a .308 Winchester without losing zero.
The Leupold VX-3i combines innovative lens coatings and a lightweight design, making it an excellent choice for hunters who prioritize mobility and light transmission. This scope excels in low-light situations, giving shooters a significant advantage during dawn or dusk hunts.
Nightforce ATACR scopes are built for serious long-range shooters, offering robust features like zero-stop turrets and an extensive magnification range. Its illuminated reticle aids visibility in various lighting conditions, making it versatile for different environments.
Schmidt & Bender PM II scopes are a favorite among military and law enforcement professionals due to their uncompromising construction and precision engineering. This scope is designed for extreme conditions, ensuring reliability and accuracy when it matters most.
The Zeiss Conquest V4 stands out for its exceptional clarity and rich color contrast, thanks to its advanced lens technology. This makes it a fantastic option for both hunting and tactical use, providing shooters with a clear sight picture even at longer distances.
What Do Users Say About Popular .308 Winchester Scopes?
Users have shared their insights on various scopes for the .308 Winchester rifle, highlighting key features and performance aspects.
- Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×50: Users appreciate the clarity and brightness of this scope, especially in low-light conditions. The adjustable magnification range allows for versatility in different shooting scenarios, making it suitable for both hunting and target shooting.
- Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9×40: Many users praise the accuracy and ease of use of this scope, noting its BDC reticle that helps in making precise shots at various distances. Its durable construction and weatherproof design are also frequently highlighted, making it a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40: Reviewers often mention the excellent build quality and lightweight design of this scope, which enhances its portability. Users find the optics to be exceptionally clear, and the scope’s lifetime warranty adds to its appeal for long-term investments.
- SWFA SS 10×42: Users admire the fixed magnification and ruggedness of this scope, making it a favorite among tactical shooters. The simplicity of its design and the high-quality glass provide a no-nonsense approach to long-range shooting, catering to both competitive shooters and hunters.
- Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 3-9×40: Customers often highlight the scope’s affordability without compromising on performance. The Dusk & Dawn brightness multi-coated lenses enhance visibility during early morning or late evening hunts, making it a practical choice for various lighting conditions.