Ever missed a shot at a trophy buck because your scope let you down? It’s a frustrating experience, right? Choosing the right scope for your .308 rifle is super important for a successful hunt. Your scope helps you see your target clearly and make accurate shots. But with so many different scopes available, it can feel like searching through a maze. There are so many things to think about: magnification, lens clarity, and how well it holds up in tough weather.
This topic is super relevant because a bad scope can ruin your hunting trip. It’s a pain when you can’t see your target well or your scope breaks down when you need it most. We want to help you avoid those problems! We will help you pick the best .308 hunting scope for your needs and budget.
By reading on, you’ll learn how to choose a scope that fits your hunting style. We will cover the important features you need to look for, like how much magnification you need and how to pick a scope that’s tough enough for the outdoors. Get ready to become a more confident hunter! Let’s dive into the essential features and factors that will guide you to the perfect .308 hunting scope.
Our Top 5 308 Hunting Scope Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 308 Hunting Scope Detailed Reviews
1. SIG SAUER Buckmasters 3-9x50mm 1″ Tube Second Focal Plane/SFP/F2 Durable Shockproof Waterproof Fogproof Black Riflescope
Rating: 9.2/10
The SIG SAUER Buckmasters 3-9x50mm riflescope is a strong choice for hunters. This scope helps you shoot more accurately. It’s built to last and performs well in tough conditions. The Buckmasters scope gives you clear images and is easy to use. This scope will help you get ready for your next hunting trip.
What We Like:
- The 3-9x50mm magnification range is great for different hunting situations.
- The Buckmasters BDC reticle helps you aim at longer distances, up to 500 yards.
- It’s built tough with a single-piece tube and is waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof.
- The low-dispersion glass gives you sharp and clear images.
- The included flip-back lens covers protect the lenses.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a reticle with finer adjustments for very precise shooting.
The SIG SAUER Buckmasters riflescope is a solid choice for hunters who want a reliable and accurate scope. It is a great option for improving your hunting game.
2. Vortex Optics Copperhead 4-12×44 Second Focal Plane Riflescope – Dead-Hold BDC Reticle
Rating: 9.4/10
The Vortex Optics Copperhead 4-12×44 Second Focal Plane Riflescope is built for hunters. It is a reliable scope that helps you shoot at different distances. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle makes it easy to aim. This scope has great features to help you hunt. It helps you get the job done.
What We Like:
- The Copperhead is made for hunters.
- The Dead-Hold BDC reticle helps you aim at different ranges.
- The lenses have coatings to let in more light.
- It has long eye relief and a locking diopter.
- The scope is waterproof, fogproof, and weatherproof.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The scope is not the best choice for extreme long-range shooting.
The Vortex Optics Copperhead is a great choice for hunters. It is a reliable scope with excellent features and a strong warranty.
3. CVLIFE Hunting Rifle Scope 6-24×50 AOE Red and Green Illuminated Gun Scope with Free Mount
Rating: 8.6/10
The CVLIFE Hunting Rifle Scope is designed for hunting. It has a magnification range of 6-24x. The objective diameter is 50mm. This scope also has a red and green illuminated reticle. It comes with a free mount, making it easy to attach to your rifle. You can see the target clearly with the scope’s field of view of 28 feet at 100 yards.
What We Like:
- The scope has a wide magnification range.
- The red and green illumination helps in low-light conditions.
- It includes a free mount for easy setup.
- The 50mm objective lens lets in a lot of light.
- The scope offers good value for the price.
What Could Be Improved:
- The included mount may not be suitable for all rifles.
- The clarity at maximum magnification could be better.
- The instructions could be clearer.
Overall, the CVLIFE Hunting Rifle Scope is a good option for hunters. It offers many features at a reasonable price.
4. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18×44 AO
Rating: 8.9/10
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18×44 AO riflescope is a great choice for hunters. This scope has a 1-inch tube and is in the second focal plane. It features a V-Brite illuminated MOA reticle to help in low light. The adjustable objective helps focus the image and removes parallax. The scope is built to last and is perfect for many situations.
What We Like:
- The V-Brite reticle has a light-up center dot. This helps in dim light.
- The adjustable objective allows you to focus the image. It also removes parallax.
- The lenses are fully multi-coated. This makes the view bright and clear.
- The scope has long eye relief. This helps you see your target quickly.
- The turrets are easy to adjust and reset to zero.
- It is made of strong aircraft-grade aluminum. This makes it shockproof.
- It is waterproof and fogproof.
- It has an unlimited, unconditional, lifetime warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may prefer a higher magnification range.
Overall, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II is a solid scope. It is a good option for hunters who need a reliable and feature-rich riflescope.
5. Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope with Truplex Reticle
Rating: 9.4/10
The Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope with Truplex Reticle is a solid choice for hunters and shooters. This scope gives you a lot for your money. It has great features that help you see your target clearly. It’s built to handle tough conditions. This scope is designed to be a reliable tool in the field.
What We Like:
- Bright, clear images thanks to coated optics.
- The scope is waterproof, fog proof, and can handle recoil.
- Easy to adjust windage and elevation with audible clicks.
- The Truplex reticle helps you aim quickly.
- The QTA eyepiece helps you find your target fast.
- Offers a good field of view.
- The true zero system keeps your adjustments accurate.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may prefer a different reticle style.
- The exit pupil could be larger for low light conditions.
In conclusion, the Simmons 8-Point scope is a good value. It provides many features that make it a good choice for many shooters.
Hunting Scope Buying Guide for Your .308 Rifle
So, you’ve got a .308 rifle? Awesome! Now you need a scope. A good scope helps you see your target clearly. This guide will help you pick the best one. Let’s get started!
1. Key Features to Look For
You need to know what features matter most. Here are some important ones:
- Magnification: This tells you how much closer the scope makes things appear. For .308 hunting, a scope with adjustable magnification is best. You can zoom in for longer shots and zoom out for closer ones. Look for something like 3-9x or 4-12x magnification.
- Objective Lens Diameter: This is the size of the front lens (the one you look through). A bigger lens lets in more light. This makes it easier to see in low-light conditions, like dawn or dusk. Look for lenses between 40mm and 50mm.
- Reticle: This is the crosshair or aiming point inside the scope. There are many types. Some have simple crosshairs. Others have extra markings for distance. Choose one you find easy to use.
- Turrets: These are the knobs you use to adjust the scope. They help you move the reticle to hit your target. Make sure the turrets are easy to adjust.
- Eye Relief: This is the distance your eye needs to be from the scope. Too little eye relief, and the scope will smack your eyebrow. Too much, and it will be hard to see. Aim for at least 3-4 inches of eye relief.
2. Important Materials
What a scope is made of matters. It affects how well it works and how long it lasts.
- Body: The body of the scope is usually made from aluminum. This is strong and light. Some scopes use aircraft-grade aluminum, which is even stronger.
- Lenses: The lenses are made of glass. High-quality glass is clearer and lets in more light. Look for lenses that are multi-coated. This helps reduce glare and improve clarity.
- Seals: Seals are important. They keep water and fog out of the scope. Look for scopes that are waterproof and fog-proof.
3. Factors that Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is key. Here’s what to look for:
- Quality Improves:
- High-Quality Glass: This makes a big difference in clarity.
- Durable Materials: Strong materials mean the scope will last longer.
- Precise Adjustments: Turrets that move the reticle accurately are important.
- Waterproof and Fog-proof: These features protect the scope from the elements.
- Quality Reduces:
- Cheap Materials: Low-quality materials can break easily.
- Poor Lens Coatings: This reduces clarity and brightness.
- Loose Adjustments: This makes it hard to hit your target.
- Lack of Waterproofing: Water can damage the scope.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use the scope? Consider these things:
- Hunting Style: Are you hunting in open fields or thick woods? This will help you choose the right magnification.
- Shot Distance: How far away will your targets be? Long-range shots need more magnification.
- Light Conditions: Do you hunt at dawn or dusk? You’ll need a scope with good light transmission.
- Mounting: Make sure the scope fits your rifle. You’ll also need scope rings to attach it.
Now, let’s answer some questions!
FAQ: .308 Hunting Scopes
Q: What magnification is best for .308 hunting?
A: A scope with adjustable magnification, like 3-9x or 4-12x, is usually a good choice. This lets you adjust for different distances.
Q: What does “objective lens diameter” mean?
A: It’s the size of the front lens. A bigger lens lets in more light.
Q: Why is eye relief important?
A: It keeps the scope from hitting your eyebrow when you shoot.
Q: Are waterproof scopes important?
A: Yes! They protect the scope from rain and snow.
Q: What is a reticle?
A: It’s the crosshair or aiming point inside the scope.
Q: What are turrets for?
A: They adjust the reticle to hit your target.
Q: What is multi-coated glass?
A: It’s glass with special coatings to reduce glare and improve clarity.
Q: Should I buy a cheap scope?
A: It is usually better to invest in a higher-quality scope. This will give you a better view and last longer.
Q: How do I mount a scope?
A: You’ll need scope rings that fit your rifle and the scope. Then, you attach the scope to the rings. Follow the directions carefully.
Q: Where can I buy a .308 hunting scope?
A: You can find them at most sporting goods stores, online retailers, and gun shops.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Robert Contreras, a passionate archery instructor based in the USA. With years of experience under my belt, I’ve dedicated my life to mastering the art of archery and sharing its intricacies with enthusiasts of all levels. Through my website, 10Bows.com, I invite you to explore a treasure trove of tips, techniques, and personal insights that reflect my journey in the world of archery. Whether you’re picking up a bow for the first time or refining your skills, I’m here to help guide you toward precision, focus, and a deeper appreciation for this timeless sport.