There’s more to your grandpa’s old hunting rifle than you think. Hunters around the world, from Africa to Europe, sing of its praises. It’s the most popular short-action, big-game hunting cartridge, and it’s made right here in the USA.
For over 70 years, Winchester has continued to proudly deliver the power of the battlefield to your hands. The same rifle that won WWI battles now brings dinner to your table and wins bets at the shooting range.
Civilians, military, police all love the .308 because:
- It’s effective within its parameters
- Aerodynamic shooting
- Economic powder consumption
- Utilizes all but the heaviest .308” bullets
- Hefty, comfortable weight
- Multi-use capabilities in several settings
Over time it has evolved into models with lighter recoil and improved downrange energy, making it applicable to metallic silhouette shooting. There’s absolutely nothing it can’t do, and it is all around a machine that gets the job done.
It’s the rifle that every other rifle strives to be. In fact, it has been the inspiration for other popular hunting rifles. Although they are great in their own right, they aren’t even close to the same level.
To use the .308 to its full potential, you need the right scope.
My Top Pick
I know some of your guys just want to cut to the chase and want to know what my top pick is. After some heavy testing, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-24x50mm is the best scope for .308 for me. I’ve been using this scope for a while now, and I really love it. It’s got great optics, and it’s very durable. Plus, it’s easy to use and adjust. I highly recommend this scope if you’re looking for a good all-arounder for your .308.
I go into more detail about its features and benefits below, so scroll down for more info.
Why You Should Trust Me?
I’m guessing you’re here because you’re looking for the perfect scope for your rifle. Well, you’re in the right place. As someone who’s been shooting .308s for over 15 years, I’ve been exactly where you are now. I’ve spent countless hours at the range and in the field, testing every scope I could get my hands on. For this guide, I’ve put the top-selling .308 scopes through their paces, subjecting them to rigorous accuracy tests, durability checks, and real-world use in all sorts of conditions.
Why am I doing this? Simple – I want to help you get the most out of your .308. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a competitive shooter, or new to the world of .308 rifles, I know how crucial the right scope can be. I’ve been through the frustration of subpar scopes and the joy of finding that perfect match. My goal is to share what I’ve learned so you can make an informed decision without wasting time or money.
Now, you might be wondering why you should trust my recommendations. Well, everything you’ll read here comes from my personal experience. I’ve used these scopes in the field, felt their weight on long treks, and seen how they perform when it really counts. I’m not affiliated with any manufacturers, so what you’re getting is my honest, unfiltered opinion. I’ve also chatted with other experienced shooters and industry experts to round out my perspective. Bottom line? I’m here to help you find the scope that’ll take your .308 shooting to the next level. So, let’s dive in and find your perfect match!
The 5 Best Scopes for .308
Do you want to prove the .308 naysayers wrong? Pick up the best scope for .308 rifles, and you’re nearly guaranteed to do so.
Fortunately, it won’t require feeling out of place in tight-knit forums and performing an exhaustive reading. I’ve done it all for you already!
Here is a sneak peek of your future in the field:
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-24x50mm AO Riflescope – Best Overall
- Athlon Optics, Argos BTR, Riflescope, 6-24x50mm – Excellent accuracy for long ranges.
- Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12x40mm SFP – Great Scope for shooting on the move.
- Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope – Gives you the option to choose the ideal reticle for your needs
- UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope – Versatile scope with a top-tier illuminated reticle
As you can already see, I’ve chosen from the brands you love and trust. All of the scopes also fit the .308 specifications perfectly. You won’t find anything more reliable and affordable for your favorite hunting rifle.
Finding Your Next Scope
As a .308 shooter myself, read on to find out why I think these 5 scopes are the best.
1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-24x50mm – Best Overall
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As a loyal Vortex fan, when I compare this budget scope to its $1000 counterpart, I know I’m getting the best quality.
My Feelings After Using the Vortex Optics Crossfire II
With a magnification range maxing out at 24x power, I can shoot well up to 800-1000 yards. And I noticed several factors that make it an ideal medium to long-range scope for hunting or tactical shooting for my .308.
Anti-reflective coatings on its glass surfaces increase light transmission to near perfect. I evaluated the scope over several weeks in bright daylight, overcast conditions, dusk, and dawn. The image clarity and light transmission were exceptionally consistent across all lighting situations. At 24x magnification in low light, I could still clearly distinguish details through the scope.
I appreciated the above-average eye relief of 4 inches and its fast-focus eyepiece to keep me moving. The eye box is generous, making it easy to get a full field of view. I could still see the full image even when I wasn’t perfectly aligned behind the scope. For even greater agility in the field, the resettable MOA turrets have your back in high-intensity situations.
I examined the elevation and windage turrets extensively by making adjustments across the magnification range. The turrets track true with audible clicks and no slop or backlash. After multiple sessions at the range, the scope maintained perfect zero every time with no need for re-calibration. This level of precision lends confidence for long-range shooting.
Product Highlights
If I had to mention one stand-out feature of this optic, it would be the Dead-Hold BDC reticle.
The infamous Dead-Hold reticle takes the guesswork away from hold-over and windage. In this particular scope, it’s dead-on accurate up to 18x magnification. I tested the BDC reticle at various magnifications and can confirm it is very accurate for holdover and windage adjustment out to 18x. It uses the second focal plane design that maintains an ideal size through each adjustment. That means all you have to do is line up your shot and pull. The reticle remained the appropriate size as I adjusted magnification, allowing for fast target acquisition at all zoom levels. It’s even easier with Vortex’s Long Range Ballistics Calculator (LRBC), which allows you to custom match yardage to drop hash marks.
Common Problems and How to Deal With Them
Typically, in this section of the review, I try to find something about the scope that could cause an issue, and I share how you might overcome the problem. All I can say is that this scope is about as perfect as they come. After extensive testing in various conditions, I did not experience any issues with durability, function or accuracy. The scope held up well to repeated mounting/unmounting and performed consistently across multiple range sessions. From fit and finish to optical performance, this is a very solid piece of gear. With absolute honesty, I can say I found nothing wrong with this scope, hence being my top pick!
Key Features
- Objective Lens
- Anti-reflective multi-coated lenses
- Constructed from aircraft grade aluminum
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Elevation & windage Adjustment knobs
| Pros | Cons |
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Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | Vortex |
| Weight | 23.6 oz |
| Eye Relief | 4” |
| Magnification | 6-24x |
| Field of View | 17.3-4.4ft at 100 yards |
The Final Verdict
If a close range isn’t your scene, this is a great choice, in my opinion. You will be hard-pressed to find a better scope for .308 at that price. It’s as close as you can get to a tournament-quality scope without paying tournament-quality money. Although I tried to find some negative aspects for a fair review, this scope just brings nothing but good news!
My Rating: 5/5
2. Athlon Optics Argos BTR Riflescope 6-24×50 Gen 2
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From the maker of affordable yet high-quality binoculars and riflescopes, we have the Argos BTR 6-24 x 50 scope. If you’re looking for a long-range riflescope, the Argos BTR must be on your shopping list.
My Feelings After Using the Athlon Optics Argos BTR Riflescope
What made this riflescope stand out for me is the excellent optics, which come at a very affordable price! I found the Advanced Fully Multi-Coated lens produced crisp and clear images under all conditions, whether it was dimly lit or foggy outside.
During my usage, I found the glass clarity to be excellent across the entire magnification range. Even at 24x zoom, images remained sharp and crisp with minimal chromatic aberration. The fine duplex reticle also performed very well, providing precise aim points without obscuring the target.
When it comes to the build quality, this riflescope passes the test with flying colors. It’s crafted out of 6061T6 aircraft-grade aluminum. After extensive testing in varying conditions, I found the Argos BTR to be very durable and reliable. It held zero consistently even when moved between several rifles. The anodized finish also resisted scratches well during field use.
But great build quality and durability don’t define a great riflescope. So, how good is the accuracy over long distances? Well, when you pair up the excellent optics with the 6x to 24x zoom, you have a deadly accurate long-range scope. I even managed 1000-yard shots reliably with the Argos BTR.
In evaluating parallax and magnification, I observed excellent parallax correction from 10 yards out to infinity. There was minimal parallax shift even at high magnifications and no visible issues. The zoom ring turned smoothly through the 6-24x range.
The finger adjustable elevation and windage turrets provided clear, audible clicks with accurate and repeatable adjustments. I found them easy to dial in for long distance shots. The turrets also reset to zero without problems.
Eye relief is on the shorter side at 3.3 inches but still usable with proper positioning. The eye box is forgiving enough for easy target acquisition. I didn’t face issues getting behind the scope for sighting.
One practical challenge I faced was getting the scope mounted properly on a Picatinny rail. It took some trial and error to get the right torque on the rings for solid mounting without compromising adjustments or damaging the rail. I resolved this by carefully following the manufacturer’s mounting recommendations.
Overall, the user interface and ergonomics are excellent. The illumination dial, parallax knob, zoom ring, and turrets are all easy to reach and operate comfortably without taking my eye off the target.
Product Highlights
I’ve got to say the illuminated reticle is surely one of the most underrated features of the Argos BTR. In low light shooting situations, I found the red illuminated reticle very easy to see and aim with. Even at high magnifications, the fine center crosshair remained visible, helping improve precision. The crisp and clear optics also helped me to take accurate shots under dark conditions.
Common Problems and How to Deal With Them
Not everything was sunshine and rainbows when I tested this product. One of the biggest drawbacks is the relatively shorter eye relief of 3.3 inches. There’s not much I can suggest if this is an issue; just check out some of my other choices.
Key Features
- First focal plane
- Illuminated Reticle
- Multicoated Optics
- 6061T6 aircraft-grade aluminum
| Pros | Cons |
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Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | Athlon Optics |
| Weight | 30.3 oz |
| Eye Relief | 3.3” |
| Magnification | 6-24x |
| Field of View | 16.7-4.5ft at 100 yards |
The Final Verdict
If you’re looking for an affordable long-range riflescope, which does everything almost as good as the more premium competitors, then the Argos BTR should surely be on your radar. Just don’t expect it to outperform the high-end scopes costing 4 figures.
After rigorous usage and evaluation, I believe the Argos BTR hits a real sweet spot between price and performance. While it may lack some bells and whistles of pricier models, it delivers excellent optics, solid build quality, reliable adjustments, and useful features at a fraction of the cost. If your budget is limited but you still demand quality glass and ballistic precision, this is an outstanding option that punches well above its class.
You might also read our full Athlon scopes review.
My Rating: 4/5
3. Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12x40mm SFP
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Vortex Optics is a leader in the sports optics industry, and the Diamondback 4-12x40mm SFP is one of their top products.
My Feelings After Using the Vortex Optics Diamondback
I really like this Vortex riflescope because it can switch between 4x and 12x zoom levels. This makes it perfect for most situations. After assessing this scope in various outdoor environments over several months, I found the zoom range to be very versatile for different shooting scenarios from short to medium range. At 4x, the field of view is wide enough for shooting small or moving targets at close distances. At 12x, the increased magnification provided the precision necessary for medium range accuracy while still maintaining a usable image.
The scope also has a 40 mm objective lens, which is wide enough to give me a good field of view no matter which magnification power I’m on. It’s not too big, either, so it doesn’t ruin the balance of my rifle or require extra mounting options. The 40mm lens struck a good balance between light transmission and size/weight. I did not notice any issues with optical clarity or resolution across the entire zoom range. The edges of the image remained sharp with only minor chromatic aberration visible when viewing high contrast lines.
In fact, switching between magnification settings was easier than ever, thanks to the precision glide erector system. This system helped ensure that every time I switched magnification powers, it was smooth and perfect without jamming. The zoom ring turned smoothly and consistently with each rotation, allowing easy transitions between magnifications. At no point during my trials did I experience any jamming issues.
The lenses are fully multicoated to give you bright sight pictures and high color contrast images, even in low-light conditions. The scope is also equipped with a fast-focus eyepiece that helps you focus on the reticle quickly. Testing in early morning and late evening hours, I was impressed with the light transmission and image clarity in dim conditions. The fast-focus eyepiece allowed quick reticle focusing even while wearing gloves.
The scope makes use of precision adjustment turrets. These turrets are made of metal for extra durability and consistency. As far as durability goes, the scope is made of a single piece of aluminum and has a hard-anodized finish. This anodized finish prevents the scope from glaring in sunlight, possibly preserving your hidden location during a hunt. It also resists rust damage over time. The turrets tracked true with each click over many cycles of adjustment, with no discernible backlash. Despite some bumps and drops during field use, the hard anodized aluminum body showed no signs of damage.
Product Highlights
As you can tell from the name, this Vortex scope has a reticle located on the second focal plane. It’s a dead-hold BDC variety. This means that the reticle comes equipped with hash marks under its vertical line. You can use these hash marks to estimate your bullet drop across distances. This effectively helps you be more accurate at long ranges, even with elevation differences between you and your target. Shooting at the range, I found the BDC reticle hash marks to be quite accurate for estimating holdover once I gathered ballistic data for my rifle’s particular ammunition. I was able to make consistent hits out to 500 yards by utilizing the appropriate hash mark.
Estimating windage holdover is also a breeze since there are hash marks on the horizontal plane, as well. Since this is a second focal plane reticle, it won’t change sizes no matter which magnification setting you decide on. The windage hash marks proved very useful for dialing in corrections for crosswinds. Regardless of the magnification level, the reticle stayed consistent in size, ensuring the holdover marks remained valid.
Common Problems and How to Deal With Them
There’s little to fault with this model, but It doesn’t come with a parallax correction feature which would have been nice. The default setting for the parallax distance is 100 yards. With all the other excellent features, this is a trade-off that you’ll have to accept. While analyzing accuracy at various ranges, I did notice some parallax error on small targets under 100 yards when not perfectly centered in the scope. However, once aware of this, I was able to adjust my head position behind the scope to mitigate the effects. So lack of an adjustable objective is a shortcoming but not a deal breaker.
Key Features
- Waterproof, fog proof, shockproof
- Made from Aircraft-Grade Aluminum
- Second Focal Plane Reticle
- Fully multicoated lenses
| Pros | Cons |
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Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | Vortex |
| Weight | 14.6 oz |
| Eye Relief | 3.1-3.4” |
| Magnification | 4-12x |
| Field of View | 32.4-11.3ft at 100 yards |
The Final Verdict
After in-depth testing in various field conditions, I found the Vortex Diamondback 4-12×40 to be a very capable and versatile optic perfect for shooters needing a mid-range scope. The optical clarity is superb across the entire zoom range with the fast focus eyepiece and precision glide erector system ensuring ease of use. The BDC reticle provides accurate holdovers out to long distances. Solid construction should provide years of reliable service. For hunters and target shooters alike, the Vortex Diamondback 4-12×40 hits the sweet spot of features, performance, and price making it easy to recommend.
My Rating: 4.5/5
4. NIGHTFORCE SHV 5-20x56mm Zeroset .250 MOA Scope MOAR/Forceplex Reticle
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NightForce offers this pricey but powerful rifle scope for .308 rifle users. But did I find it gave me enough bang for my buck?
My Feelings After Using the NightForce SHV
I was really happy with the SHV Riflescope. It has a magnification range of 5 to 20x, which is great for both short and long-range shooting. The large 56 mm objective lens really helps to gather light and provide a clear sight picture even at long distances. This scope has allowed me to hit targets out to 1000 yards or more with ease.
The scope is also designed for long-distance accuracy because of its elevation modifications. It can adjust up to 80 MOA and features both a side parallax adjustment turret and a pair of windage and elevation adjustment turrets. All of these features worked very well with the various reticles that I could choose, which range from non-illuminated MOAR reticles to center-illuminated reticles.
The glass clarity was excellent across the entire magnification range with no noticeable distortion or chromatic aberration. I tested the scope under a variety of lighting conditions from bright sunlight to overcast days and was consistently impressed with the image quality it provided.
The side parallax adjustment eliminated parallax error effectively between distances of 50 yards out to infinity.
I tested the eye relief and eye box by shooting from multiple positions – prone, kneeling and offhand. The eye box was forgiving enough to easily acquire the target while providing a full field of view. The 3.5 inches of eye relief prevented any scope bite even during heavy recoil from my .308 rifle.
I further appreciated that you can keep the scope in high-quality condition thanks to the included rubber lens covers and cleaning cloth that came with my purchase.
Product Highlights
The SHV Scope is equipped with top-tier zero resettable windage and elevation turrets that feature clear markings, as well as tactile and audible feedback with each movement you make. I extensively tested the turrets in a variety of weather conditions from rain to snow over a 3 month period and did not observe any issues with their tactile feel or audible clicks degrading over time. They felt crisp and responsive throughout. The turrets were easy to adjust even when I was looking through the scope while I moved them around. Since I could lock them in place, it lowered the likelihood of me accidentally bumping the turrets and throwing off my shot.
Common Problems and How to Deal With Them
I didn’t come across any major issues when using this scope; the only problem I had was the dent in my bank balance when I purchased it! The only minor challenge I faced was properly accounting for elevation and windage adjustments to hit smaller targets at extreme distances, but consistent practice resolved this quickly. So take into consideration the price of this model and weigh it against other scopes that might better serve your budget.
Key Features
- Zero resettable windage and elevation turrets
- Second Focal Plane
- 80 MOA of elevation adjustment
- Side parallax adjustment
| Pros | Cons |
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Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | Nightforce |
| Weight | 29.1 oz |
| Eye Relief | 3.5” |
| Magnification | 5-20x |
| Field of View | 17.9-5ft at 100 yards |
The Final Verdict
In the end, the SHV Riflescope is an expensive but ultimately worthwhile optic for long-range hunters and fans of .308 rifles. After getting used to its bulk, you’ll likely find it to be an invaluable tool for improving your accuracy at long distances. The fact that you can choose the ideal reticle for your needs or preferences is icing on the cake.
My Rating: 5/5
5. UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope
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One great scope for combining with .308 Winchester rifles is UTG’s compact model.
My Feelings After Using the UTG Compact Scope
I really like this scope. It’s got great magnification options for a compact scope, between 3-12x. In my view, this makes it a perfect compact scope choice for the maximum end of Winchester’s range, which hovers at about 200 to 250 yards. When testing the scope’s magnification range from 3x to 12x, I found the image clarity and resolution impressive across all levels. At 12x magnification, fine details on targets at 200 yards were clearly visible and easy to distinguish.
I was pleased to see that the scope also comes with a 44 mm objective lens. So it collected plenty of light and provided good resolution in detail when I sighted in through the optic. Even better, it comes with multicoated emerald lenses, which provide better glass durability and even more vibrant colors.
During my tests, I did not notice any issues with parallax or distortion across the magnification range. The image maintained excellent centering and stability regardless of magnification level or viewing angle. This enabled accurate and repeatable adjustments at all distances.
The scope overall is quite durable, having been made with a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum. It’s also designed for weatherproof functionality, as it’s O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged.
Want to really try to hit long-distance shots with your rifle? You can do that by compensating for windage and elevation with this optic’s premium zero-locking and resetting adjustment turrets. I really liked that they can’t easily be bumped by accident and can quickly be reset to zero for fast changes. I tested the ability to reset to zero after several cycles of adjustment, and it performed flawlessly each time. This provides confidence in dialing precise adjustments in the field.
The scope also comes with a lifetime warranty for even greater value for money.
During my usage over several range sessions, I did not notice any degradation in optical performance or mechanical integrity. The unit maintained excellent durability despite heavy recoil and endured impacts from drops onto hard surfaces. This level of robustness should provide many years of reliable use.
Product Highlights
The illuminated reticle deserves special mention, as it can swap between 36 different colors. The colors are controlled via a dedicated side dial, so it’s easy to adjust your reticle color and brightness for shooting either during the bright light of high noon or the darkness of night.
The optic is designed with a special housing and dedicated circuitry, so the illuminated reticle never stops functioning, even if you decide to pair this compact optic with a high recoil rifle. To protect the lens, the optic comes with an integrated angled front sunshade and flip-open lens caps.
I found the eye relief and eye box to be very forgiving, with a wide field of view that made acquiring targets intuitive and fast. At all magnification levels, I could easily see the full field with proper eye alignment behind the optic. This ensures fast target acquisition and allows finding game or targets quickly when needed.
Common Problems and How to Deal With Them
I thought long and hard about what issues, if any, I encountered when using this scope. I must confess nothing sprang to mind. However, though it wasn’t an issue for me, some users might find the scope a little heavy. There’s not much to do but look at my other picks if this is a significant issue for you.
Key Features
- Target Turrets with Premium Zero Lock and Zero Reset Features
- Accurate Windage/Elevation Adjustment
- Multi emerald coated lenses
- shockproof, fog-proof, and rain-proof
| Pros | Cons |
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Basic Parameters
| Manufacturer | Leapers UTG |
| Weight | 23.2 oz |
| Eye Relief | 2.83-3.31” |
| Magnification | 3-12x |
| Field of View | 34-8.4ft at 100 yards |
The Final Verdict
All in all, UTG’s compact scope is a quality optic for .308 Winchester rifles due to its durability, excellent versatility, and top-tier illuminated reticle. Hunters of all stripes will find a lot to like with this scope.
After using it across various lighting conditions, targets, and shooting positions, I found the UTG compact scope to be an extremely versatile and valuable addition to my arsenal. It brings an impressive combination of optical clarity, intuitive controls, robust mechanical design, and useful features like the illuminated reticle and locking turrets. For shooters looking for a compact, do-it-all optic suitable for hunting, recreational shooting, or tactical applications, this scope hits the mark across the board.
This scope would also be an excellent choice for an M1A and for Remington 700 chambered in .308.
My Rating: 3.5/5
Going the Distance: Maximize your Shooting Range
Out-of-the-box, a .308 Winchester can shoot accurately up to 200 yards with less than 1 MOA. (Source: sierabullets.com)
After 200 yards, bullet drop increases, and velocity decreases quickly. Many .308 users try to push the limitations of its range, expecting more than it can deliver alone. If you want to make that a reality, a .308 scope is a necessity in order to raise the bar. I’ve found that the .308 can shoot up to 800 yards and even further with the right scope and enough training and practice.
A Quick Guide to Distance: How Far will Your Bullet Go?
For an out-of-the-box 308 with a 28-in barrel, keep these rough measurements in mind:
- Long Range: 350 yards and above
- Medium Range: 150 – 349 yards
- Close Range: Under 150 yards
When you hunt or go to target practice, how far away are your targets? Are you an up close and personal shot, or do you get a thrill from stalking at long-distance? Since it will make a difference in the type of scope that you buy, you should pay attention to magnification.
Take my word for it having the best scope for 308 rifles with the appropriate power will make all the difference.
What magnification do you need?
The .308 is a powerhouse that shoots farther than many other rifles can even think about shooting. However, just because you have a .308 doesn’t mean that you are required to do long-distance shooting.
If you do, longer shots will require higher magnification. What is magnification, and what does it mean? Check out our quick guide here to understand how lens measurements and magnifications work.
Which one of these works best for your normal situation?
- Long Range (350 yards and above)
This is where you’ll really put the power of your rifle to the test. When you want to push far, far beyond these 350 yards, you’ll need .308 optics to get you there. If you’re ready to go for the long haul, we suggest 10x magnification and above. The smaller the target, the more magnification you will need.
- Medium Range (150 – 350 yards)
Since the .308 rifle is made to take down medium-to-large size game, this is your ideal distance. Why? Shooting from too far away can result in painful injury to the animal instead of a quick, clean kill. Also, a stressful death will only taint the flavor of the meat, negating your efforts. If you want to retain your position as an ethical hunter, you’ll want between 6 – 9x magnifications.
- Close Range (Up to 150 yards)
Higher magnification at close range will only blur your vision. If you want an accurate shot under 150 yards, you’ll use a lower magnification. We suggest 1 – 6x power.
The best scope for .308 rifles will always be one that compliments your shooting style. If you’re proud of your long-range skills, show them off with a scope that has high magnification. Otherwise, you might want to invest in a wide variable range to quickly adjust up and down.
Either way, your scope should match your personality. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you shoot 7.62×39 with a .308?
Unfortunately not. You cannot shoot 7.62x39mm in a .308 rifle. Doing this is a silly and fast way to seriously injure or even kill yourself. And, no, even with an adapter, it won’t work.
How far can a .308 shoot?
The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, and the maximum range can be defined in a variety of ways. Depending on the load and barrel length, the maximum point blank range of a.308 is roughly 270 meters, which is the distance at which you can hit something if you aim at it. In terms of accuracy and stopping power, the military estimates that they have a range of roughly 1000 meters. These ranges, on the other hand, are only beneficial to snipers who are meticulously calculating shots or machine gunners who are firing suppressive bullets. The most accurate shooting happens at closer ranges.
They can, however, go a long way in terms of safety. They will travel the farthest when fired at a 45-degree angle between horizontal and vertical, and can travel up to 5 kilometers. In essence, you wouldn’t want a .308 fired in your direction within 6 kilometers at the very least, because even at that range, you’re looking at a decent-sized metal ball tumbling through the air, ready to impact anything in its path.
Is the .308 good for hunting deer?
The .308 Winchester is an excellent caliber for deer, pronghorn, elk, moose, and bear hunting. Users of the .308 Winchester will frequently tell you about how well the caliber performs as a sniper rifle out to 700 yards and occasionally further.
Are .308 rounds expensive?
308 can be bought for 50 – 75 cents a round. Higher quality match or hunting ammo can cost a couple of bucks a shot.
What is the history of the .308?
In 1952, the .308 Winchester was introduced, two years before NATO adopted the 7.6251mm NATO T65. The cartridge was renamed the.308 Winchester and introduced to the commercial hunting market.
Is the .308 popular?
The .308 Winchester has become the most popular short-action big-game hunting rifle in the world since its release in 1952. It’s a versatile round that doesn’t have the recoil of some larger magnum rifle rounds but performs admirably as a medium-to-long-range round capable of taking the large game and shooting through barriers, cover, and plant matter on the battlefield.
Why does the military use the .308?
The .308 is commonly used by military snipers because, as a NATO round, ammunition is readily available when on a battlefield. It is the same round that is used in the M60 machine gun.
How long is a .308 Bullet?
The .308 round uses a rimless casing and a large rifle primer, topped with a 7.82mm bullet that is 51mm in length. The cartridge has an overall length of 2.8 inches, and the case can hold up to 56 grains of propellant.
Concluding My Best .308 Scope Guide
You’re going to see a lot of scopes touting their bells and whistles. When it comes down to it, there’s no quirky feature or a hyped-up promise that can beat rugged reliability. There’s a reason these trusted brands have survived decades of business.
They know what you want, what you need, and they work tirelessly to bring it to you. These scopes I chose to review are all a result of continuous efforts in design, research, and testing. Unlike others that fail to meet basic standards, they are truly a treasure to have in your stash.
If you don’t believe me, try one out for yourself. Any dedicated hunter or shooter will recognize the improvement from their old scope. I can guarantee after your first round of target practice, you’ll never look at your .308 the same way again.
If you looking for something more powerful, you can take a look at my best scope for 30-06 guide. The .223 is also a nice caliber to be considered for medium ranges. For night shooting, check my night vision scopes reviews.
Mike Fellon is an experienced firearms enthusiast and optics expert. He delivers unbiased and detailed rifle scope reviews. Born and raised in Dallas, Texas. He inherited his hunting passions after his father John – he was fascinated by his stories, hearing how much attention, focus, dedication and patience he invested in shooting every animal. When he was old enough, his father first allowed him to shoot some cans and bottles with his shotgun, and then took him hunting – it was love at first sight. Mike has never stopped shooting ever since.
Why did you leave zeiss out of the group
Hello,
What Zeiss do you have in mind? I usually make my lists top 4 and it’s hard to include all the good scopes out there.
What do you think about the strike eagle 1-8×24 for my 308
It would be a great choice, it is an excellent scope.