Our Top Picks
Overall Best .308 Scope Under $300
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm
Maintains accuracy and holds zero even after repeated use with the .308’s recoil.
- Build Quality: 4.5/5
- Optics: 4.5/5
- Value: 3.5/5
MSRP:
$365.95 Check PriceBest Tactical
Primary Arms SLX 4-14x44mm
Specifically tailored for hunters and marksmen who require quick distance estimation, wind holds, and moving target leads.
- Build Quality: 4.6/5
- Optics: 4.5/5
- Value: 3.5/5
MSRP:
$299.99 Check PriceBest .308 Scope Under $200
Sig Sauer Buckmasters
The Sig Sauer Buckmasters series is a budget-friendly option for shooters who don’t want to compromise on quality.
- Build Quality: 4.6/5
- Optics: 4.5/5
- Value: 4.5/5
MSRP:
$92.95 Check PriceKnown for its versatility, accuracy, and the perfect balance between power and manageability, the .308 has become a go-to choice for hunters, target shooters, and tactical enthusiasts alike. And if you thought nailing that perfect shot with your .308 rifle meant emptying your wallet, think again! We’re here to prove that you can achieve top-notch accuracy without splurging a fortune. Learn about our picks for the best .308 scope under $300 – offering clarity, precision, and a lot of bang for your buck!
Table of Contents
How to Choose the Best .308 Scope Under $300
Here are the factors we considered while picking the best .308 scope under $300:
| Features | Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm | Primary Arms SLX 4-14x44mm | Sig Sauer Buckmasters | Vortex Optics Diamondback SF | Vortex Optics Crossfire II | Category Average |
| Overall Score | 3.54 | 3.8 | 3.78 | 3.72 | 3.62 | 3.69 |
| Ergonomics | 2.2 | 1.4 | 2.7 | 2.4 | 2.1 | 2.16 |
| Build Quality | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.2 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.44 |
| Optics | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4 | 4.4 | 4.38 |
| Battery | 3 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.4 |
| Value | 3.5 | 3.5 | 4.5 | 4.8 | 4.1 | 4.08 |
Magnification Range
The magnification range you need depends on your intended use. For versatile shooting with a .308 rifle, a range of 3-9x is commonly preferred. This range is suitable for both close and medium-range shots. If you’re planning on longer-range shooting, you might consider a scope with higher magnification.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics refers to how well the scope fits you and your shooting style. Can you make all the adjustments easily? Does the scope feel like an extension of your eye when you’re lining up a shot? If the answer is “Heck, yeah,” then you’re on the right track.
Eye Relief
Adequate eye relief is necessary to protect your eye from recoil. Look for a scope with sufficient eye relief (at least 3 inches is recommended) to ensure comfortable and safe shooting.
Adjustment Turrets
The ability to adjust windage and elevation precisely is crucial. Look for scopes with turrets that offer clear and audible clicks. Some scopes also offer zero-reset turrets, which can be handy.
How do we rate it?
Is the scope’s weight balanced, or does it make your rifle feel like you’re lugging around a medieval weapon? A top-rated scope in ergonomics should feel intuitive like it’s an extension of yourself rather than an awkward appendage.
Optics
Look for scopes with high-quality lenses and coatings. A scope with clear, bright, and sharp images will significantly enhance your shooting accuracy, especially under different light conditions.
Reticle Type
The reticle, or crosshair, helps in aiming and should suit your specific needs. A Bullet Drop Compensator (BDC) reticle is popular for .308 rifles, as it helps estimate holdover at different distances. Other options include Mil-Dot for range estimation and Duplex for simplicity.
How do we rate it?
High marks go to scopes that offer excellent low-light performance and the ability to maintain a sharp, bright image under various conditions.
Build Quality
Ensure that the scope is robust enough to handle the recoil of a .308 rifle. It should be waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof to withstand various outdoor conditions and impacts
How do we rate it?
Is it waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof? A high rating in this category means your scope is the tank of the optics world—reliable, tough, and ready for anything Mother Nature throws at it.
Battery
If your scope has any electronic components, like an illuminated reticle, then battery life is your new best friend. There’s nothing worse than getting ready for the perfect shot only to find your reticle as dark as your chances of hitting the target without it. Long battery life is a must. You should also have easy access to replace batteries and shouldn’t have to think about it much until you need it.
How do we rate it?
We give lower scores to scopes that require battery changes more often than you change your socks. High ratings go to models with efficient power usage and long-lasting battery life, ensuring you’re always ready for the shot, day or night.
Value
Value is not only about the price tag, it’s also about getting the most bang for your buck. Sure, you could drop a small fortune on a scope, but is it overkill? A good scope should fit both your budget and your needs, offering the features you’ll actually use without the fluff you won’t.
How do we rate it?
A high rating in value means the scope offers the best blend of quality and features for its price point, striking that sweet balance between cost and functionality. Think of it as the difference between a deal and a steal.
5 Best .308 Scopes Under $300
Best .308 scope under $300: Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm
| Category | Leupold VX-Freedom | Category Average |
| Ergonomics | 2.2 | 2.16 |
| Build Quality | 4.5 | 4.44 |
| Optics | 4.5 | 4.38 |
| Battery | 3 | 3.4 |
| Value | 3.5 | 4.08 |
The 3-9x magnification range of the Leupold VX-Freedom is well-suited for the effective range of a .308 rifle. This range is versatile enough for close to medium-range shots, which are typical in hunting scenarios and target shooting with a .308.
The .308 caliber is also known for its significant recoil, and the rugged construction of the Leupold VX-Freedom makes it capable of withstanding this. Its durability ensures that the scope maintains accuracy and holds zero even after repeated use with the .308’s recoil.
The compact and lightweight nature of the scope doesn’t add much weight to the .308 rifle, maintaining the balance and handling of the firearm, which is important for field use. Despite having no illumination, the Twilight Light Management System of the Leupold VX-Freedom enhances visibility in low-light conditions. This feat is advantageous for hunters who often find themselves in those scenarios, especially during dawn and dusk.
Pros
- Long eye relief (3.7 in)
- Waterproof, fog proof, shockproof
- Lightest pick(12.2 oz)
- Compact
- Ideal magnification range
Cons
- No illumination
- Adjustment knobs could be improved
Score
Ergonomics Score – 2.2/5
Well-suited for the effective range of a .308 rifle.
Build Quality Score – 4.5/5
Tested to withstand harsh conditions.
Optics Score – 4.5/5
Simple to use reticles make life easier.
Battery Score – 3/5
You get what you pay for.
Value Score – 3.5/5
No need to break the bank to get your hands on this Leupold scope.
Overall Score – 3.54/5
What Customers Say
If you are looking for a lightweight scope to reduce the weight of your hunting rifle – you landed on the right one. This one is extremely lightweight and crystal clear. I have 3 Leupold scopes now and I am very happy with all of them. I put this on a 6.5 cm bolt rifle and was blowing out the bullseye at 200 yards within the 1st box of ammo.
Charlie
Best Tactical .308 scope under $300: Primary Arms SLX 4-14x44mm
| Category | Primary Arms SLX | Category Average |
| Ergonomics | 1.4 | 2.16 |
| Build Quality | 4.6 | 4.44 |
| Optics | 4.5 | 4.38 |
| Battery | 5 | 3.4 |
| Value | 3.5 | 4.08 |
The SLX riflescope from Primary Arms is calibrated for deer and coyote-sized targets using the .308/7.62 NATO cartridges. Its ACSS Orion reticle is specifically tailored for hunters and marksmen who require quick distance estimation, wind holds, and moving target leads. If you’ll be using your rifle for both mid-range and long-range, the 4-14x magnification offers flexibility for various shooting scenarios.
It’s also built-ready to withstand the outdoor elements and the recoil of a .308 rifle, and it comes with fully multi-coated lenses. Now, take note that the turrets on this one might not feel as nice as higher-end scopes – but for a riflescope under $300, you can’t beat it.
Pros
- Reticle especially designed for the .308 caliber
- 250 hours battery life (minimum setting)
- Capped turrets
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
- Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof
Cons
- Short eye relief (3.14 inches)
- Heaviest pick (25.4 oz)
- The turrets are a bit spongy
Score
Ergonomics Score – 1.4/5
A little too heavy.
Build Quality Score – 4.6/5
Built tough for rough use.
Optics Score – 4.5/5
Top-quality lenses deliver tack-sharp images.
Battery Score – 5/5
Ample battery life for continuous use.
Value Score – 3.5/5
Great value!
Overall Score – 3.8/5
What Customers Say
I bought this brand previously. And product is always great. Glass is always nice and clear. Somewhat say it is top dollar class. Others would say itbest bang for the buck I will agree.
Michael Lupe
Best .308 scope under $200: Sig Sauer Buckmasters
| Category | Sig Sauer Buckmasters | Category Average |
| Ergonomics | 2.7 | 2.16 |
| Build Quality | 4.2 | 4.44 |
| Optics | 4.5 | 4.38 |
| Battery | 3 | 3.4 |
| Value | 4.5 | 4.08 |
The Sig Sauer Buckmasters series is a budget-friendly option for shooters who don’t want to compromise on quality. With various models offering different magnification ranges (3-9×40, 3-9×50, and 3-12×44), the Buckmasters series provides flexibility for different shooting needs, whether it’s for close-range hunting or longer-distance use.
Despite its lower price point, the series does not skimp on optical clarity as these scopes provide clear and bright images. The downside is, the Buckmasters’ light transmission might not be as high compared to more expensive optics. This could impact visibility in low-light conditions.
Pros
- Lightweight (14 oz)
- Buckmasters BDC reticle
- Unlimited lifetime (transferrable) guarantee
- Generous eye relief (4.17 in)
Cons
- A bit bulky in terms of length
- Low light transmission
- No illumination
Score
Ergonomics Score – 2.7/5
Reliable turrets, excellent tracking.
Build Quality Score – 4.2/5
Solidly built.
Optics Score – 4.5/5
Clear images but light transmission could be improved.
Battery Score – 3/5
Battery used is easy to find.
Value Score – 4.5/5
Super budget-friendly!
Overall Score – 3.78/5
What Customers Say
It works great, and has very clear optics. It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles like an illuminated reticle or anything like that, but if you want a basic scope where you can zoom in and maintain a large field of view, then this is a great inexpensive option.
David Barbara
Vortex Optics Diamondback 1.75-5×32 SFP
| Category | Vortex Optics Diamondback | Category Average |
| Ergonomics | 2.4 | 2.16 |
| Build Quality | 4.4 | 4.44 |
| Optics | 4 | 4.38 |
| Battery | 3 | 3.4 |
| Value | 4.8 | 4.08 |
The Vortex Optics Diamondback SFP offers a good blend of features suitable for your .308 rifle. What we love most are its precision-glide erector system that provides smooth zoom lens adjustments and its fast-focus eyepiece that enhances usability.
It comes with a Dead-Hold BDC reticle that is designed to help shooters compensate for bullet drop over different distances. This is particularly useful for the .308 caliber, which is commonly used for mid to long-range shooting. This type of reticle provides reference points that allow you to adjust their aim for bullet drop without having to physically adjust the scope’s turrets. Using a BDC reticle is also faster than adjusting elevation settings on the scope for each shot. This simplicity and speed can be beneficial in hunting situations where time is essential.
On the downside, this DIamondback scope only has a limited magnification range so it isn’t as effective at longer distances.
Pros
- Shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof
- Long eye relief (3.5 in)
- Lightweight and compact (13 oz)
- Fully multi-coated lens
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- No illumination
- Limited magnification range
- Smaller objective lens
Score
Ergonomics Score – 2.4/5
Compact build.
Build Quality Score – 4.4/5
Excellent build quality backed by lifetime warranty.
Optics Score – 4/5
Crisp images but wished the objective lens diameter was bigger.
Battery Score – 3/5
No batteries needed.
Value Score – 4.8/5
Great bang for your buck!
Overall Score – 3.72/5
What Customers Say
Put this on a top end .22LR target shooting rifle. Awesome quality, easy to zero, great vision through the scope. Overall top end product.
Rick
Vortex Optics Crossfire II
| Category | Vortex Optics Crossfire II | Category Average |
| Ergonomics | 2.1 | 2.16 |
| Build Quality | 4.5 | 4.44 |
| Optics | 4.4 | 4.38 |
| Battery | 3 | 3.4 |
| Value | 4.1 | 4.08 |
If you want a scope with Vortex’s no-questions-asked warranty but need a wider magnification range, our last pick won’t disappoint.
Like the Diamondback, the Crossfire II also comes with a second focal plane reticle. But it has more magnification options available (2-7x32mm, 3-9x40mm, 3-9×40, and 3-9×60).
Other features worth noting are its fast-focus eyepiece, resettable MOA turrets, and easy-to-use magnification rings; all of which offers a smoother shooting experience.
You might want to think twice, though, if you want a lighter and more compact setup as the Crossfire II is heavier and bulkier than our other picks.
Pros
- Generous eye relief (3.9 inches)
- Available in an illuminated reticle
- Fully multi-coated lens
- Lifetime warranty
- Shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof
Cons
- Bulky and heavy (15.6 oz)
Score
Ergonomics Score – 2.1/5
Available in multiple magnification ranges.
Build Quality Score – 4.5/5
Excellent build quality backed by lifetime warranty.
Optics Score – 4.4/5
Several reticle options including one with illumination.
Battery Score – 3/5
We can’t complain, it works as expected.
Adjustment Turrets Score – 4.1/5
Audible clicks as expected from a Vortex.
Overall Score – 3.62/5
What Customers Say
For a sub 200 dollar scope you couldn’t ask for a clearer, more accurate, tight scope. I am now officially a vortex believer and will have one put on all my scoped rifles.
Patrick
Best .308 Scopes Under $300 FAQs
What is the best distance to sight in a .308?
The best distance to sight in a .308 rifle depends on your intended use. For general hunting and shooting, 100 yards is a common and practical distance for sighting in. This distance provides a good balance between accuracy and versatility. However, if you plan to shoot at longer ranges, you might consider sighting in at 200 or 300 yards. The key is to understand the ballistic characteristics of your specific .308 ammo and adjust your sighting distance based on your most common shooting scenarios.
What is the range of a .308?
The effective range of a .308 rifle can vary based on several factors, including the type of ammunition, barrel length, and the skill of the shooter. Generally, a .308 rifle is effective up to 800-1,000 yards for target shooting. For hunting purposes, the practical range is often shorter, typically within 300-600 yards, to ensure ethical and humane shots.
Is a 3-9×40 scope good for a 308?
Yes, a 3-9×40 scope complements the capabilities of the .308 rifle well, especially for general hunting and medium-range shooting.
The 3-9x magnification range offers clear views at both closer and longer distances. The 40mm objective lens provides a good balance between light-gathering capability and size, so it is suitable for a variety of lighting conditions and environments.
Final Thoughts: Best .308 Scopes Under $300
Now we have proven that top-notch accuracy with your beloved .308 is achievable on a budget. Remember, finding the best .308 scopes under $300 is about striking the right balance between quality, functionality, and affordability.
The .308’s effective range for hunting and target shooting makes these scopes an ideal match. Now you’ll achieve precision and reliability without overspending.
Always consider the type of shooting you’ll be doing most often, and choose a scope that complements your .308 rifle’s strengths.
Picking a scope doesn’t mean emptying your savings. With these options, you can up your shooting game and still have cash left for other cool shooting gear.
Last update on 2024-09-12 / Images from Amazon Product API