Best Vortex Scope for 308 Hunting
The.308 Winchester, commonly known as 7.62x51mm NATO, is popular among hunters because of its ability to take down medium-to-large game. This caliber rifle is commonly used for precision shooting and hunting at distances ranging from 800 to 1,000 yards.
Moving on to the topic of scopes, when it comes to.308 rifle hunting, having a reliable and precise scope becomes critical to improving performance in the field. The Vortex Optics series stands out in the world of.308 hunting because to its well-known optical excellence and rugged construction.
What Makes a Great .308 Scope?
First and foremost, a high-quality lens system with fully multi-coated optics offers maximum light transmission, clarity, and sharpness, especially in low-light circumstances. This is critical for accurately acquiring and tracking targets.
Second, it should have a good magnification range to allow the hunter to make precise medium to long range shots.
When shooting with, great optics are not a sacrifice.308, crisp clear images with the right color resolution not only improve accuracy but also allow the hunter to enjoy the sport.
Furthermore, because the.308 cartridge packs a powerful punch, a rifle scope with a forgiving eye box and extensive eye relief will be more useful for any hunter who has returned home with a hurt eye from a prior hunting trip.
Appropriate cost is also an important consideration because a broad scope should not be prohibitively expensive but should be dependable.
Here are the best Vortex scopes for 308 hunting.
Best Vortex Scope for 308 Hunting
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Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16x44mm 30mm Tube First Focal Plane Rifle Scope is undoubtedly one of the best Vortex scope for 308 hunting.
The sight has a wide magnification range of 4x to 16x, allowing for enough zoom in both short and long-range shooting settings. The 44mm objective lens collects plenty of light, resulting in bright and crisp photos even in low-light circumstances.
With a 30mm main tube diameter, the scope is more durable and strong, improving its resistance to recoil and alignment over time.
The first focal plane reticle guarantees that subtensions stay accurate at all magnification levels, allowing for exact holdover and range estimates that do not require human changes.
The EBR-2C MRAD reticle provides accurate holdover and windage corrections, making it perfect for long-range shooting and hunting. The hash-marked reticle facilitates quick target acquisition and ranging.
The scope is made of tough single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum, which ensures durability and shockproof performance. It is O-ring sealed and argon-purged, so it is waterproof, fog-proof, and resistant to internal fogging.
The exposed tactical turrets allow for easy and precise windage and height changes. Tactile clicks and a zero-reset mechanism allow shooters to make fast adjustments while keeping their zero reference point.
The scope is optimized for the.308 Winchester cartridge, maximizing its ballistic performance.
Specifications
- Magnification: 4-16x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
- Tube Diameter: 30mm
- Reticle: EBR-2C MRAD (Mil-based reticle)
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Field of View: 27.4 – 7.4 feet/100 yards
- Eye Relief: 3.8 inches
- Parallax Adjustment: 20 yards to infinity
- Lens Coatings: Fully multi-coated lenses
- Water/Fogproof, Shockproof
- Compatibility: Optimized for .308 Winchester cartridge
- Warranty: Vortex VIP Warranty – Lifetime warranty
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Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15x44mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15x44mm scope is an excellent choice for.308 hunting due to its remarkable features and performance.
The Viper PST Gen II has a magnification range of 3x to 15x, making it suitable for hunting at a variety of distances, from close-range shots to long-range precision shooting.
The 44mm objective lens collects plenty of light, resulting in bright and crisp photographs even in low-light situations like dawn or dusk hunts.
The first focal plane reticle ensures perfect subtensions throughout all magnification levels, allowing for exact holdover and range estimates without the need for manual adjustments. This function is particularly useful for long-range shooting and hunting.
The Viper comes with a variety of reticle configurations, including as MRAD or MOA-based reticles, to accommodate varied tastes and shooting styles.
The scope is strong and resilient, able to handle shock and adverse weather conditions, thanks to its single-piece, aircraft-grade aluminum construction. Not only is it fog-proof and shockproof, but it is also O-ring sealed and argon-purged.
A side parallax adjustment knob on the scope enables shooters to correct for parallax mistake and produce a sharp, focused sight picture at a range of distances.
The Viper PST Gen II is specifically made to enhance the performance of the .308 Winchester cartridge, which is also tailored for use with it.
Specifications
- Magnification: 3-15x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
- Tube Diameter: 30mm
- Reticle: Multiple options available, such as EBR-2C MRAD or EBR-7C MOA
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Field of View: 41.2 – 8.6 feet/100 yards
- Eye Relief: 3.4 inches
- Parallax Adjustment: Side parallax adjustment knob, adjustable from 20 yards to infinity
- Turret Style: Exposed Tactical Turrets
- Lens Coatings: Fully multi-coated lenses with XR and ArmorTek coatings
- Water/Fogproof,Shockproof
- Illumination: Available on select models, with adjustable brightness settings
- Compatibility: Optimized for various rifle platforms, including .308 Winchester
- Warranty: Vortex VIP Warranty – Lifetime warranty
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Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x50mm 1-inch Tube Second Focal Plane Rifle Scope is a great option for.308 hunting because of its affordable price, sturdy design, and high-quality optics.
The Crossfire II’s fully multi-coated lenses offer vivid, brilliant, and clear images, guaranteeing maximum visibility in a range of lighting scenarios that arise during hunting.
The scope’s 3x to 9x magnification range allows it to be versatile for medium-to long-range hunting, which makes it appropriate for a variety of hunting situations from open fields to dense brush.
During dawn or dusk hunts, the 50mm objective lens provides enough light gathering, which improves low-light performance and visibility.
The 1-inch tube diameter allows for versatility in mounting options for various rifle setups, since it is compatible with a broad variety of sight mounts and rings.
Constructed from a solitary piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, the Crossfire II is robust and shockproof, able to handle rough outdoor environments and the recoil of a.308 rifle.
The Crossfire II is shockproof, fog-proof, and O-ring sealed, providing dependable operation in inclement weather. It has also been nitrogen-purged.
The Crossfire II is a cost-effective solution for hunters without sacrificing quality since it provides exceptional value for its features and performance.
Specifications
- Magnification: 3-9x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
- Tube Diameter: 1 inch
- Reticle: Vortex Dead-Hold BDC (Second Focal Plane)
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Field of View: 34.1 – 12.6 feet/100 yards
- Eye Relief: 3.8 inches
- Parallax Setting: 100 yards
- Turret Style: Capped Reset Turrets
- Water/Fogproof,Shockproof
- Compatibility: Suitable for various rifle platforms, including .308 Winchester
- Warranty: Vortex VIP Warranty – Lifetime warranty
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Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm Rifle Scope
Another strong candidate for the best Vortex scope for.308 hunting is the Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm 34mm Tube First Focal Plane Rifle Scope. Why it’s regarded as a remarkable option is as follows:
The Strike Eagle delivers unmatched versatility for both close-quarters and long-range hunting, with a magnification range of 5x to 25x. This scope offers the versatility required for different hunting situations, whether you’re stalking wildlife in thick undergrowth or executing precise shots at far-off targets.
Even in low light, bright and clear images are produced because to the exceptional light transmission provided by the 56mm objective lens. During dawn or dusk hunts, when visibility is critical, this is very helpful.
For improved accuracy in a range of circumstances, the Strike Eagle features several reticle configurations that include holdover points and windage references.
The Strike Eagle’s 34mm tube construction, which is made of a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, guarantees shockproof performance and longevity. It can handle both severe outdoor conditions and the recoil of a .308 rifle.
The Strike Eagle is fog-proof, shockproof, and O-ring sealed, providing dependable performance in inclement weather. It is also argon-purged. As you can see, it is the perfect option for .308 hunting applications because it provides unparalleled optical performance, tough durability, and precision features.
Specifications
- Magnification: 5-25x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
- Tube Diameter: 34mm
- Reticle: Multiple options available, such as EBR-7C (MRAD) or EBR-7C (MOA)
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Field of View: 24.1 – 4.8 feet/100 yards
- Eye Relief: 3.7 inches
- Parallax Adjustment: Side parallax adjustment knob, adjustable from 15 yards to infinity
- Turret Style: Exposed Tactical Turrets
- Lens Coatings: Fully multi-coated lenses with XR and ArmorTek coatings
- Water/Fogproof, Shockproof
- Illumination: Available on select models, with adjustable brightness settings
- Compatibility: Suitable for various rifle platforms, including .308 Winchester
- Warranty: Vortex VIP Warranty – Lifetime warranty
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Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x44mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x44mm 1-inch Tube Second Focal Plane Rifle Scope is an excellent choice for.308 hunting, combining price, quality optics, and durability.
The Crossfire II, with a magnification range of 4x to 12x, is versatile for hunting at various distances, from close-range shots to mid-range precise shooting, making it appropriate for a wide range of hunting circumstances.
The 44mm objective lens strikes a compromise between light transmission and compactness, producing bright and clear photographs even in low-light settings common during dawn or dusk hunts.
The Crossfire II’s 1-inch tube structure, made from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, assures durability and shockproof performance, withstanding the recoil of a.308 rifle as well as severe outdoor situations.
The capped reset turrets make windage and elevation adjustments simple and straightforward, which speeds up zeroing and shot placement. Furthermore, quick reticle focusing is made possible by the fast-focus eyepiece, which improves target acquisition.
The Crossfire II is nitrogen-purged, O-ring sealed, and waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof, guaranteeing dependable performance in inclement weather, such as rain, fog, or sharp temperature swings.
With outstanding value for its features and functionality, the Crossfire II is an affordable choice that doesn’t sacrifice quality.
Specifications
- Magnification: 4-12x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm
- Tube Diameter: 1 inch
- Reticle: Vortex Dead-Hold BDC (Second Focal Plane)
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Field of View: 24.7 – 8.4 feet/100 yards
- Eye Relief: 3.9 inches
- Parallax Setting: 100 yards
- Turret Style: Capped Reset Turrets
- Water/Fogproof, Shockproof
- Compatibility: Suitable for various rifle platforms, including .308 Winchester
- Warranty: Vortex VIP Warranty – Lifetime warranty
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Vortex Diamondback 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
Another excellent option for .308 hunting is the Vortex Diamondback 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope, which features a 1-inch tube and a second focal plane arrangement. During early morning or late evening hunts, the Diamondback’s completely multi-coated lenses produce remarkable light transmission, allowing for brilliant and crisp photos even in low light.
The scope’s 3x to 9x magnification range allows it to be versatile for hunting at different distances, from close quarters to mid-range targets, which makes it appropriate for a variety of hunting situations.
The 40mm objective lens provides maximum performance without unduly bulking out the rifle setup by striking a compromise between light transmission and compactness.
The Diamondback is easy to use and familiar to hunters since it has a second focus plane reticle that keeps the scope looking the same at all magnification levels. Accuracy is improved at different distances using the Dead-Hold BDC reticle’s holdover points for bullet drop correction.
With its 1-inch tube structure and single-piece construction made of aircraft-grade aluminum, the Diamondback is built to last and perform shockproofly—it can resist both rough outdoor conditions and the recoil of a.308 rifle.
Quick zeroing and shot placement are made easier with the Diamondback’s capped turrets, which enable simple, intuitive adjustments to elevation and windage. To further improve target acquisition, the fast-focus eyepiece facilitates quick reticle focusing.
Specifications
- Magnification: 3-9x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm
- Tube Diameter: 1 inch
- Reticle: Vortex Dead-Hold BDC (Second Focal Plane)
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Field of View: 44.6 – 14.8 feet/100 yards
- Eye Relief: 3.3 inches
- Parallax Setting: 100 yards
- Turret Style: Capped Reset Turrets
- Water/Fogproof, Shockproof
- Compatibility: Suitable for various rifle platforms, including .308 Winchester
- Warranty: Vortex VIP Warranty – Lifetime warranty
See Also:
Why Choose a Vortex Scope for your .308 Rifle?
Choosing the best Vortex scope for 308 hunting rifle provides various advantages that lead to a better shooting experience and field performance:
Optical quality
Vortex Optics is known for its superior optical quality, which produces sharp, clear images with maximum light transmission. Whether hunting in low light or during the day, Vortex scopes provide excellent clarity and brightness, ensuring a clear sight image for precise shot placement.
Durability
Vortex scopes are designed to resist the rigors of hunting and shooting sports. Vortex scopes are sturdy and durable, built with high-quality materials like aircraft-grade aluminum to endure recoil, impact, and harsh weather conditions. They are also O-ring sealed and nitrogen or argon purged, making them waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for dependable performance in any setting.
Versatility
Vortex has a diverse selection of sight types with variable magnification ranges, reticle options, and features to fit a variety of shooting purposes and tastes. Whether you’re hunting wildlife at close range or attacking targets at long range, there’s a Vortex scope to fit your needs and maximize the performance of your.308 rifle.
Reticle Options
Vortex scopes offer a wide range of reticle options, including BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator), mil-dot, and hashmark reticles, among others. These reticles have holdover points and windage references, enabling for rapid and accurate changes when shooting at varied distances and in varying wind conditions.
Warranty and Customer Service
Vortex Optics stands behind their products with a VIP Warranty, which includes a lifetime guarantee regardless of the cause of damage. Their great customer service guarantees that you will receive timely assistance and support anytime you need it, giving you piece of mind and confidence in your investment.
What is the Best Magnification for .308?
The optimal magnification for a .308 rifle is determined by a variety of criteria, including intended use, shooting distance, and personal choice. However, a varied magnification range for.308 rifles is normally between 3x and 12x, or 4x to 16x.
Below is a breakdown of the appropriate magnification ranges for various shooting scenarios with a.308 rifle:
- Close to Mid-Range Hunting (0-300 Yards): A lower magnification range, such as 3x to 9x or 4x to 12x, allows for a larger field of view and speedier target acquisition when hunting in dense cover or at shorter distances. This is suited for hunting fast-moving targets or in dense terrain where shots are taken from close range.
- Mid to Long Range Hunting (300-600 Yards): For medium to long-range hunting or shooting in open terrain, a higher magnification range, such as 4x to 16x or even 6x to 24x, enables for more precise targeting and target recognition at greater distances. This range is ideal for hunting larger wildlife or varmints, as shots may be taken at longer distances.
- Long-Range Precision Shooting (600+ Yards): If you’re engaging targets at great distances or competing in long-range precision shooting contests, a scope with magnification ranging from 6x to 24x or higher may be preferable. This enables precise holdover adjustments and target engagement at long distances, maximizing the.308 cartridge’s ballistic characteristics.
Furthermore, optical quality, reticle design, and turret adjustability all play an important role in deciding the overall efficiency of a scope for.308 rifles.
Final Thoughts
As the sun sets below the horizon and the crisp air heralds the start of another hunting adventure, the choice of optic becomes critical for the discerning hunter holding a.308 rifle.
When choosing the best Vortex scope for 308 hunting, consider optical quality, durability, adaptability, reticle options, adjustment, and customer support. We hope to have been helpful as you can never go wrong with the scopes we have highlighted.