Are you searching for the best Vortex scope for 308? You have come to the right place.
Whether you’re aiming for that elusive deer in a dense forest or nailing steel targets from 800 yards away, your .308 rifle demands the absolute best for optics.
Vortex scopes are the best choice because of their cutting-edge technology, lifetime warranties, and clear vision. This is why they are a top pick for any serious shooter.
Read on as we dive deep into the essential factors you must consider for selecting the perfect Vortex scope for your .308 rifle. We’ve got you covered, from magnification ranges and reticle types to durability and lens quality. Unlock your rifle’s true potential and elevate your shooting skills!
Let’s get started!
9 Best Vortex Scope For 308
1) Vortex Crossfire II AO 6-24x50mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Crossfire II AO 6-24x50mm is the best Vortex scope for 308 because of its long-range zooming capabilities. This scope delivers in the field and is available at an affordable price.
The Vortex Crossfire II AO is a marvel of engineering, crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum that ensures both durability and minimal weight. The single-piece tube construction contributes to its robust nature, capable of withstanding recoil and environmental hazards.
The fully multi-coated lenses offer bright, clear visuals aided by anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces. The scope doesn’t fall short when it comes to the Dead-Hold BDC reticle either, designed to minimize the need for guesswork on holdover and windage corrections, making your shots more accurate.
Moreover, the scope features long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, allowing rapid target acquisition. The fast-focus eyepiece ensures you can instantly adjust the reticle to your eye. What’s more, the capped reset turrets are finger-adjustable with MOA clicks, and they can be reset to zero after sighting in for further ease of use.
We recommend this scope because it has a parallax that ranges from 10 yards to infinity and a 1/4 MOA click value. This allows for precise adjustments, making it an excellent choice for long-range shooting.
Pros
- High zoom range
- Made from aircraft-grade aluminum
- Fully multi-coated lenses and anti-reflective coatings
- Specialized reticle is designed to minimize guesswork
- Long eye relief and forgiving eye box
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Finger-adjustable with MOA clicks
Cons
- Heavy
2) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm Rifle Scope is another excellent option for your 308 rifle. It is designed with a blend of cutting-edge technology and rugged durability.
What sets this scope apart is the XD Lens Elements that enhance resolution and color fidelity, providing crystal-clear images. The XR Fully Multi-Coated proprietary coatings boost light transmission, allowing for crisp visuals even in low-light conditions.
It also features a first focal plane reticle that scales proportionately to the zoomed image. This makes it an excellent choice for shooting moving targets.
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum and offers unparalleled strength and rigidity. The 30mm diameter tube not only maximizes internal adjustment but also adds to the overall structural integrity of the scope. Its hard anodized finish provides a low-glare, matte surface that aids in maximizing concealment while hunting.
This scope is fog-proof, waterproof, and shockproof, ensuring it’s prepared for any environmental challenges. The O-ring seals keep out moisture and debris, while the argon gas purging prevents internal fogging across various temperature ranges.
We recommend this scope because of the ArmorTek coatings to protect the lens from scratches, oil, and dirt. In addition, the fiber optic Radius Bar is an intuitive feature that provides a visible and tactile point of reference for turret rotations.
Pros
- Extra-low dispersion (XD) glass
- The lenses are coated
- 5-25x magnification range
- First focal plane reticle
- Aircraft-grade aluminum with a hard-anodized finish
- 10 different intensity levels
- Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof
- Battery life of up to 150 hours
Cons
- Pricey
3) Vortex Viper HS LR 4-16x50mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Viper HS LR 4-16x50mm Rifle Scope is a high-end scope mainly used for long-range shooting. It has many features and a durable construction to ensure it lasts long.
With a 4-16x magnification range, this Vortex Viper Scope offers a perfect blend of versatility and clarity. Whether you’re taking a close-range shot or aiming at a distant target, the scope has got you covered.
The scope offers an ultra-friendly eye box and a generous 4-inch eye relief. This feature ensures rapid target acquisition, which is critical for those moments when you have mere fractions of a second to take your shot.
The CRS zero stop on the tall elevation turret ensures you can easily return to your original zero, even after making several elevation adjustments. With 75 MOA of elevation travel, you get a lot of room to dial in for those long-range shots.
The scope is resilient to various environmental conditions as it is constructed with a single-piece, 30mm aircraft-grade aluminum tube. It’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring durability and reliability.
We recommend this scope because it performs well even in low-lighting conditions.
Pros
- 4-16x magnification
- Generous 4-inch eye relief
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle minimizes the guesswork
- Customizable Rotational Stop (CRS) zero stop
- Built with aircraft-grade aluminum
- XD lens elements and XR fully multi-coated optics
Cons
- Heavy and expensive
4) Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope is another excellent medium to long-range rifle for hunting enthusiasts and competitive shooters. It offers an extraordinary balance of features to improve your shooting experience.
The Vortex Diamondback provides exceptional resolution and color fidelity because of the built-in XD lens elements. In addition, the fully multi-coated lens surfaces maximize light transmission, ensuring a crisp, clear, and bright field of view even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
Unlike second focal plane scopes, this model’s FFP reticle scales with the zoom level. This means you can make precise holdover and windage calculations at any magnification, which is invaluable for long-range and varmint hunting.
This scope is not just lightweight but also exceptionally durable. It’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, capable of withstand harsh weather and recoil alike.
The fast-focus eyepiece allows quick reticle focusing, and the magnification rib on the ring facilitates swift zoom adjustments. You’ll be locked onto your target in no time.
We recommend this scope because of its durable construction.
Pros
- Magnification range of 4-16x
- Extra-low dispersion (XD) glass and fully multi-coated lenses
- Built with aircraft-grade aluminum
- FFP reticle
- Fast-focus eyepiece, precision-glide erector system
- Hard-anodized matte black finish
Cons
- Not illuminated
5) Vortex Viper HST 6-24x50mm Rifle Scope
If you are searching for a premium scope, consider buying the Vortex Viper HST 6-24x50mm Rifle Scope. It has a 6-24x magnification and a large 50 mm objective lens for maximum brightness.
This scope has a durable construction to withstand harsh climates and the heavy recoil of your .308 rifle. The hard-anodized finish further ensures its longevity, protecting against corrosion and the wear and tear of field use. Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof features take its ruggedness to the next level.
Vortex has equipped this model with XD lens elements and an XR fully multi-coated optical coating, offering unparalleled clarity. The Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticle remains a constant size, offering more precision in long-range targeting. The 50mm objective lens diameter allows optimal light transmission, ensuring brighter and clearer images.
The 30mm tube diameter adds to the structural integrity and provides greater room for windage and elevation adjustments. In addition, the exposed tactical-style turrets are highly responsive, and the CRS Zero Stop function makes it easy to revert to your original zero after making interim adjustments.
We recommend this scope because it provides unlimited eye relief.
Pros
- Made from aircraft-grade aluminum
- Hard anodized coating
- XD lens elements and XR fully multi-coated optics
- 30mm tube allows for ample windage and elevation adjustments
- 6-24x magnification range
- Ideal for more precise shooting at varying distances
Cons
- Learning curve
6) Vortex Razor HD Gen II 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope
If you’re in the market for an exceptional rifle scope to pair with your .308, the Vortex Razor HD Gen II 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope is a top contender. Designed for the long-range precision shooter, this piece of optical engineering is nothing short of a masterpiece.
The Vortex Razor HD Gen II 3-18x50mm offers an Apochromatic Objective (APO) system, a feature that uses index-matched lenses to correct color discrepancies across the entire visual spectrum. Coupled with High Definition (HD) lens elements, the optics produce vibrant, crisp images with minimal chromatic aberration. In addition, the XR Plus Fully Multi-Coated lenses enhance light transmission, making it an ideal choice for low-light conditions.
Its hard-anodized black finish gives it a sleek look and enhances its durability. Moreover, it’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, so you can be confident when taking it into extreme environments.
The exceptional feature of this scope is its First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle. This means the reticle’s size adjusts with the magnification setting, allowing for more accurate shots at varying distances. In addition, the glass-etched reticle is illuminated, making it easier to aim under various lighting conditions.
Pros
- Apochromatic Objective System and HD lens elements
- Aircraft-grade aluminum with a hard-anodized finish
- Offers better target sizing and ranging estimations
- Precision adjustment
- 6x zoom range and illuminated reticle
- ArmorTek lens coatings
Cons
- Learning curve
7) Vortex Golden Eagle 15-60x52mm Rifle Scope
If you want a scope for extreme long-range shooting, consider buying the Vortex Golden Eagle 15-60x52mm Rifle Scope. It has a magnification of 15-60x and a large 52 mm objective lens. This double-digit magnification gives you the power to zero in on your target with incredible detail, ensuring you’ll never miss a shot.
This scope is built with a Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticle, providing consistent measurements and tracking throughout the entire zoom range. The adjustment click value of 1/8 MOA offers fine-tuning capabilities that serious competitors will appreciate.
Weighing in at just 29.7 oz and with dimensions that keep you within competition weight limits, this rifle scope is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum for optimal durability without the extra weight. Its hard-anodized finish adds an extra layer of protection against wear and tear.
This scope also comes packaged with aluminum lens caps and other functional features, including ArmorTek protective lens coating and a parallax that adjusts from 20 yards to infinity.
We recommend this scope because it features a side focus and an aperture stop ring (ASR), making it easier for the shooter to control the depth of field and reduce potential distractions.
Pros
- 15-60x zoom capability
- HD lens elements
- XR Plus fully multi-coated glass
- Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof
- 1/8 MOA click value and optional 10 MOA windage turret
- Extras like fast focus eyepiece and aperture stop ring
- ArmorTek coating
Cons
- Expensive
8) Vortex Razor HD 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Razor HD 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope is worth checking out because it provides clear images across all magnification levels. This makes it an excellent choice for tactical shooters and hunters.
The exceptional feature of this scope is the HD Lens Elements, engineered with high-definition glass technology. This ensures you get razor-sharp, crystal-clear images across the entire zoom range.
The scope boasts a First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle, enabling more accurate shots at varying distances. The reticle scales according to the magnification, allowing you to keep your aim point consistent regardless of zoom level.
The scope is constructed with a 35mm single-piece tube made of Aircraft-Grade Aluminum, ensuring that it is rugged enough to withstand challenging conditions. The hard-anodized Stealth Shadow finish adds an extra layer of durability and resilience.
The Exposed Tactical-Style Turrets and the Side Focus adjustment make it remarkably easy to tweak settings on the fly. A highly effective RZR Zero Stop ensures you can return to your original zero position effortlessly, even after dialing multiple elevation adjustments. The scope also features a MAG-View Fiber Optic, which provides a highly visible reference point for your current magnification setting.
Pros
- High-definition lens elements
- Allows for accurate aim points
- Made with Aircraft-Grade Aluminum
- Red LED illumination enhances low-light visibility
- Suitable for both tactical and hunting scenarios
- Exposed Tactical-Style Turrets
- Generous eye relief
Cons
- Beginners have a hard time using it
9) Vortex Viper PA 6.5-20x50mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Viper PA 6.5-20x50mm is an excellent choice for those searching for a top-tier scope for long-range shooting. It comes equipped with Extra-low Dispersion (XD) glass that ensures sharp, color-accurate images even at the highest magnification. The XR Fully Multi-Coated lens offers multiple anti-reflective coatings on air-to-glass surfaces, enhancing light transmission and creating a more vivid, bright field of view.
This scope is constructed with 6061 T6 aircraft-grade aluminum to ensure it lasts a long time. The tube measures 30mm in diameter, maximizing internal adjustment while adding structural integrity. Moreover, it’s tested under a force of 1000 G’s, not once but 500 times, proving its shockproof nature.
With the unique ViewMag adjustment lever, you can swiftly switch between magnification levels without losing focus on your target. The capped reset turrets facilitate quick re-indexing to zero after sighting in. Adjustment clicks are clearly audible and easy to count, ensuring precise windage and elevation tweaks.
The scope is also notable for its user-friendly features like side focus adjustment, Precision-Force Spring System, and Fast Focus Eyepiece. The MAG-Bar allows for rapid, easy changes in magnification, and the ArmorTek coating adds an extra layer of lens protection against scratches and dirt.
Pros
- Extra-low Dispersion (XD) glass
- Variable magnification range of 6.5-20x
- Unique ViewMag adjustment lever
- Pop-up dials for windage and elevation adjustments
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- XR Fully Multi-Coated optics
Cons
- Heavy
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Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Vortex Scope For 308
Magnification Range
A .308 rifle is versatile and can be used for various shooting activities, including hunting and long-range shooting. Look for a scope with a magnification range that suits your specific needs. If you’re into hunting at medium range, a scope with 3-9x or 4-12x magnification which should suffice. For long-range shooting, you may need something with higher magnification, like 6-24x.
Reticle Type,
Different types of reticles, serve different purposes. Duplex, BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator), and Mil-Dot are the most common types. Duplex reticles are straightforward and ideal for quick target acquisition. BDC reticles offer holdover points that can be calibrated to your .308’s ballistics, making it easier to hit targets at varying distances. Tactical and long-range shooters favor Mil-Dot reticles for their precision.
Objective Lens Diameter
The objective lens diameter affects how much light the scope can gather, affecting image clarity, especially in low-light conditions. Generally, a larger objective lens will offer better light-gathering capabilities, but remember that it will also make the scope heavier.
Durability
Your scope should be robust enough to withstand the recoil generated by a .308. Make sure it’s made of high-quality materials like aircraft-grade aluminum and features robust construction. Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof features are must-haves for any serious shooter.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is the distance from the rear lens to your eye, where you can still see the full field of view. With a high-recoil caliber like .308, you’ll want a scope with generous eye relief to avoid getting a “scope eye.”
Turrets and Adjustments
Quality turrets make sighting easier and offer more reliable tracking. Opt for a scope with easy-to-read, tactile, and preferably resettable turrets. Turrets that offer tool-less zero resets are a significant advantage.
Focal Plane
Vortex scopes come in First Focal Plane (FFP) and Second Focal Plane (SFP) configurations. FFP scopes have reticles that grow or shrink as you adjust the magnification, keeping the holdover or ranging marks accurate at any zoom level. This feature is particularly useful for long-range shooting. SFP scopes have reticles that stay the same size regardless of the zoom level, making them more straightforward but less versatile for various shooting distances.
Lens Coating
The quality and type of lens coating can dramatically affect the scope’s performance. Multi-coated lenses minimize glare and maximize light transmission, offering clearer and brighter images. Make sure to look for scopes that specify their lens coating quality.
Price and Warranty
Last but not least, consider your budget and the warranty. Vortex scopes come in various price ranges, each offering different features. A good warranty is essential for peace of mind, and Vortex is known for its excellent customer service and lifetime warranties.
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Frequently Asked Questions On The Best Vortex Scope For 308
1) What is the ideal eye relief for a .308 scope?
For most .308 rifles, an eye relief of 3.5 to 4 inches is considered adequate to prevent scope eye due to recoil.
2) Is a first focal plane (FFP) or second focal plane (SFP) better?
The choice between FFP and SFP depends on your shooting style. FFP reticles adjust with the magnification, providing accurate holdovers at all magnification levels. SFP reticles remain the same size, ideal for those who shoot at a single magnification.
3) Do I need illuminated reticles?
Illuminated reticles are helpful for low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk. However, they are not necessary if you are into daytime shooting.
Conclusion
So there you have it! We’ve shared the pros and cons of the best Vortex scopes For 308 with key features like magnification and reticle type. They are all compatible with your .308 rifle to help you hone your precision and accuracy skills.
If you consider buying scopes from other brands, consider checking customer reviews and durability. This will ensure you get value for the money you spend.
We hope this post helped you find the best Vortex scopes For 308.
Happy shooting!
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