In this guide, we have put together a litany of the best Leupold scopes for 308. Shooting at long ranges requires a rifle scope capable of the task. Long-range shooters love the .308 because of its long-range shooting capabilities.
The .308 Winchester has proven to be a viable long-range cartridge. To unlock the full potential of this ammo, a long-range scope is imperative. One of the leading manufacturers of long-range rifle scopes is Leupold. With many years of experience and quality workmanship, Leupold continues to deliver the finest rifle scopes for all distances.
The .308 rifle is one of the most popular weapons out there. It is widely used by hunters, shooters, law enforcement officers and military personnel. This rifle offers the perfect combination of power, reliability and functionality which makes it the go-to firearm for many hunters.
Best Scopes for 308 Long-Range
If you are looking to get more from your .308, a quality scope is an important tool to have. The market today is flooded with scopes but not all are ideal for use with the 308. In this post, we will take you through the best Leupold scopes for 308 available on the market currently.
With over 100 years of being in the market, you can hardly go wrong with a Leupold scope. This company strives to make high-quality scopes that meet the demands of various users out there. Whenever you buy a scope from Leupold, it is a guarantee that it will be really good.
With all that said, let’s get started.
Best Leupold Scope For 308
1) Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Rifle Scope
The Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Rifle Scope is a great optic for hunting and target shooting with the 308. It offers superior precision at both medium and long ranges even in adverse lighting and weather conditions.
Adding this rifle scope to your .308 rifle will boost your shooting confidence and make you a better shooter. It is sturdy enough to stand up to the recoil this rifle emits and you can use it under any weather condition as it is fully waterproof and fog proof.
The scope boasts a large 35mm body tube to ensure that you get ample room to make all the adjustments that you need. Furthermore, it has high-quality scratch-resistant glass that generated crisp image views and a Twilight Max HD Light Management System that optimizes your vision in low-light settings.
This rifle scope also boasts a fast-focus eyepiece for easy reticle focusing and a high-speed power selector with a built-in throw lever for smooth and quick magnification adjustment.
Features
- Variable and ultra-versatile 5:1 zoom
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Precision side focus
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Scratch resistant lenses
- Twilight Max HD Light Management System
- First focal plane reticle
- Large 35mm body tube
Pros
- Excellent clarity
- Easy to see and locate turrets
- Long range precision
- Solid construction
- Lightweight and compact
Cons
- Big budget
2) Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope (Duplex Reticle)
When it comes to versatility, it is hard to go wrong with the VX-Freedom 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope. It is ideal for mid to long-range shooting across a wide variety of environments.
Built around Leupold’s advanced optical system, this model provides true and tried light transmission and the best-in-class glare reduction. This gives you bright, vivid and rich-in-detail image views even in low-light settings.
Furthermore, the scope is built to stand up to any abuse that comes it’s way. It is made with high-strength aluminum that is durable and shockproof yet lightweight.
Moreover, you can operate it in a wide range of temperatures and any weather condition thanks to the waterproof and fog proof construction. Best of all, the scope comes with Zero Stop technology for a swift return to your initial zero.
Features
- Advanced optical system
- Second focal plane duplex reticle
- Scratch resistant lenses
- Waterproof and fog-resistant
- Zero Stop technology
- 4-12x adjustable magnification
Pros
- Excellent clarity
- Supreme built quality
- Budget-friendly
- The duplex reticle is precise
- Clear glass
Cons
- Windage adjustment could be better
3) Leupold Mark 3 HD 4-12x40mm SFP Rifle Scope
The Leupold Mark 3 HD 4-12x40mm pairs well with the 308 for taking shots at varying ranges. Whether you are into shooting at the range or hunting, this scope will offer reliable performance when you need it the most.
Featuring a wide field of view and a large 40mm objective lens, you can pursue targets with ease all day long regardless of the lighting condition. The scope also boasts an elite optical system and multiple reticle options to maximize your accuracy in different shooting environments.
Another impressive feature of this model is its durability. It has a shockproof 30mm body tube crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum. On top of that, the lenses are scratch resistant for greater protection in the field.
Above all, the scope has an ultra-lightweight for mobility convenience and it is also fully waterproof and fog proof to be operable under all weather conditions.
Features
- Elite optical system
- Multiple reticle options
- Ergonomic power selector
- Scratch resistant lenses
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Precision side focus adjustment
- Second focal plane reticle
- 30mm main tube
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight design
- Guaranteed for life
- Comfortable eye relief
- Clear glass
Cons
- Few accessories included
4) Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm Rifle Scope (Boone & Crockett Reticle)
Gracing our list of the best Leupold scopes for 308 is VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm Rifle Scope. This rifle scope is made for hunters looking to spice up things in the hunting field. It has a variable 4.5-14x magnification and a large 40mm objective that guarantees high-quality sight pictures at every magnification setting.
The scope features rugged aluminum housing that is durable yet lightweight. The waterproof and fog proof construction makes it appropriate for any hunting environment while the matte finish keeps you inconspicuous when hunting in broad daylight.
Furthermore, the scope is simple to use even for beginners. It has long eye relief even at high magnification power to ensure that gets a clear and full-sight picture for rapid target acquisition. It also comes with a twin bias spring erector system and an Xtended Twilight Lens System that optimizes low light performance.
Features
- 1-inch tube
- Second focal plane reticle
- DiamondCoat 2 lens coating
- Water, fog and shockproof
- Matte finish
- Xtended Twilight Lens System
- Blackened lens edges
- A twin bias spring erector system
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Generous eye relief
- Wide field of view
- Solid construction
Cons
- Pricey for the budget buyer
- Non-illuminated reticle
5) Leupold VX-5HD 4-20x52mm SFP Rifle Scope
The VX-5HD 4-20×52 is one of the best Leupold scopes for 308 for long-range shooting. It boasts a vast 4x to 20x magnification range suitable for taking shots at medium to extended ranges.
To complement the ultra-broad magnification, the scope also has a large 34mm main tube that creates more room for adjustment travel. It also boasts a large 52mm aperture that maximizes low-light performance while ensuring that you get crisp and high-quality image views at every zoom setting.
Furthermore, the scope is built and ready for outdoor use. It has a Guard-ion lens coating that sheds dirt, water and oil stains for a clear and crisp field of view. It is also fully waterproof and fog proof for all-weather reliability and shockproof to withstand any abuse.
Other noteworthy features included are a push button ZeroLock system and a Twilight Max HD Light Management System in addition to a fast focus eyepiece and ultralight construction.
Features
- 34mm main tube
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Guard-ion lens coating
- Motion sensor technology
- Push button Zero Lock system
- Twilight Max HD Light Management System
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight construction
- HD edge-to-edge lens clarity
- Excellent eye relief
- Superb low-light performance
- Excellent built quality
Cons
- High cost
6) Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44mm SFP Rifle Scope
Next on our list is the Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44mm SFP Rifle Scope. Having this scope as your hunting companion can help you push your .308 rifle to its full potential.
With a mere weight of 19oz, the scope is ultralight and portable. It disperses the high recoil the .308 emits effectively for comfortable shooting and greater durability. Additionally, you can use it in any environment thanks to the fog-proof and waterproof construction.
The scope generates high-quality image views under any lighting condition. It boasts a Twilight Max Light Management System that enhances the transmission of light while reducing light loss through reflection and glare. This generates clear, color-accurate and brilliant image views from dawn to dusk.
Furthermore, this model has a Zero Lock windage adjustment that guarantees a fast and accurate return to zero. It also boasts a reversible throw lever for simple magnification adjustment and a side focus parallax adjustment for fast and easy parallax correction.
Features
- Guard ion rain-shedding coating
- Motion sensor technology
- Side focus parallax adjustment
- Twilight Max Light Management System
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Zero Lock windage adjustment
- 30mm main tube
Pros
- Ruggedized construction
- Great eye relief
- Good magnification range
- Bright and clear optics
Cons
- Expensive
7) Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x56mm SFP Rifle Scope
As one of the best Leupold Scopes for 308, the VX-5HD 3-15x56mm scope will help you step up your game in the hunting field. It comes with nearly every feature that you need to amplify your success rates on the hunting grounds.
The scope features a Twilight Max HD Light Management System that provides the brightest and clearest sight pictures from dawn to dusk. It has an ultra-lightweight design to maximize portability and scatter the high recoil the 308 generates.
Moreover, the scope comes with a push-button ZeroLock system to prevent accidental adjustments and a fast-focus eyepiece that aids in smooth reticle focusing.
In terms of construction, this model has a 30mm main tube made from 6061-T6 aluminum. It is punisher tested to withstand whatever you throw at it for greater durability. It is also waterproof and fog proof for use in all weather conditions.
Features
- Matte finish
- Guard-ion lens coating
- Motion sensor technology
- Twilight Max HD Light Management System
- Fast focus eyepiece
- CDS Custom Dial System
- Rear focal plane reticle
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
Pros
- Versatile 5:1 zoom ratio
- Ultra-clear vision
- Lightweight design
- Good low-light performance
Cons
- The windage and elevation knobs could be a little bit better
8) Leupold VX-Freedom 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope
Lastly, we have the VX-Freedom 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope. This optic is designed to help you upgrade your firearms sighting capabilities and enhance your accuracy at longer ranges.
It features a Twilight Light Management System that provides clear views of targets even in darker environments. Furthermore, the scope boasts an ergonomic power selector to help make magnification adjustments a snap and a lightweight design for convenient carrying in the field.
Another feature that makes it shine is the robust housing. It has a ruggedized 30mm body tube that is shockproof and recoil resistant for greater durability. It also comes with scratch-resistant lenses for additional protection and a matte finish that is glare resistant.
To top it all, the scope has a second focal plane reticle and weather-resistant construction for use even in adverse weather conditions.
Features
- 30mm main tube
- Twilight Light Management System
- Waterproof and fog proof
- 6-18x magnification range
- Ergonomic power selector
- Second focal plane reticle
- Scratch resistant lenses
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Extreme recoil resistance
- Excellent fit and finish
- Bright and clear optics
Cons
- No zero stop
What Makes a Great .308 Scope?
If you are buying your first .308 scope, you are probably wondering what features it should possess. Firstly, a great scope for .308 must have robust housing to stand up to the recoil the rifle emits. It should be shockproof, recoil-resistant, and impact resistant as well.
Secondly, the scope should have a versatile magnification range. This will give you the flexibility to take shots at various ranges. The scope should also have a large aperture and high-quality optics that provide high-quality and detailed image views.
A great scope should also be ideal for use in any environment. It should be waterproof, fog proof and dustproof as well. Lastly, the scope should have a lightweight design to scatter the recoil emitted by this rifle and a long eye relief to ensure safe shooting.
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What is the Best Scope Magnification for 308?
When it comes to choosing the best Leupold for .308 scope magnification, you should put into consideration how far you will be shooting and what activity you will be using it for.
Given that the 308 is ideal for long-range hunting and shooting, you need a scope with high magnification. A model with 10x magnification or higher can be sufficient for most applications.
Choosing the Best Leupold Scopes for 308
When choosing the best Leupold scope for your .308 rifle, here are some of the important factors you should consider.
Magnification
Choose a scope whose magnification will help you get the most out of your rifle. Generally, your ideal magnification will depend on the distance you will take shots at and your preference.
A model with a variable magnification power is the best for use with the 308. It will give you the flexibility to pursue targets at different ranges in different environments.
Objective Lens
The objective lens in scope is responsible for collecting light inside. The larger the diameter, the more light is collected. For both hunting and shooting applications, a scope whose objective lens is between 40mm to 50mm will do.
Weight
Weight is the next factor you should consider. Go for the lightest scope you can find. It will be easy to carry in the field as you look for a game and be simpler to use as well.
Moreover, a scope with an ultra-lightweight design will scatter the recoil this rifle generates more effectively than a heavy scope.
Eye Relief
Whether your purpose is to use the scope for hunting, shooting, or any other application, ensure that it boasts an accommodating eye relief of 3.5 inches or more. It will safeguard your eye from the high recoil the 308 emits and give you a comfortable shooting experience.
Price
Lastly, you should consider the price of the scope. Leupold offers a multitude of scopes at different pricing to meet the budget needs of all users out there.
Consider how much you are willing to spend then look for a scope that matches your budget needs.
How Far Can a 308 Shoot?
The 308 can shoot effectively to about 1000m at sea level pressure. However, this distance can be extended even further if you choose the best bullet for extended ranges and when all the environmental factors are favorable.
Why Choose a Leupold Scope for your 308
Choosing the right Leupold scope for your 308 will guarantee great and reliable performance once you step foot on the hunting field or shooting range.
Leupold scopes are known for their ruggedness, superior clarity at varying ranges and overall ease of use.
They also boast the Twilight Light System that guarantees bright and clear sight pictures in nearly all lighting conditions.
Final Shot
We are hopeful that you have gained some insights into the best Leupold scopes for 308. Keep in mind that, the activity you plan to use the scope for will play a big part in determining which scope you get. Use this guide to get the scope that is most appropriate for your needs.
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