Today, we will show you the best 300 WSM rifle scopes. Introduced in 2001 by Winchester, the 300 WSM is a potent long-range caliber that has won the hearts of hunters and bench rest shooters.
This caliber is quite appealing as it is very versatile. The cartridge was made for flat long-range shots on large game such as moose and deer but, can also be used for bench rest competitive shooting. Mounting a high-quality scope on your .300 WSM will help unlock the full potential of the cartridge.
Due to its versatility, the best scope for the 300 WSM will entirely be determined by what you will be using it for. If you will be using the 300 WSM for hunting, then you will want a very durable scope that will withstand recoil.
However, if the primary use of your scope will be long-range target shooting, then consider a scope with a wide magnification range and a reticle to match.
What Makes a Great 300 WSM Scope?
The scope should have great optics. The optical prowess of a scope is largely influenced by its ability to produce clear, sharp and bright images on all magnification levels.
The clarity and brightness of a scope are on account of the width of its objective lens and the quality of material used to make its lenses.
A great 300 WSM rifle scope should also provide you with long and forgiving eye relief. This is very important for shooters with astigmatism and those who wear glasses.
A long eye relief will ensure that you are as comfortable as possible in aiming and making a precise shot.
Another feature of a great 300 WSM scope is a wide field of view. A scope will most likely give you a wide field of view on its lowest magnification setting if it has a wide-enough objective lens.
Moreover, a great 300 WSM scope should be fitted with appropriate O-rings to ensure it is waterproof. It should also be gas purged to ensure that it doesn’t form fog that could obstruct your view in cold weather. Being fog and waterproof ensures that you are confident in wet and cold weather.
Finally, a great 300 WSM scope should be lightweight especially if you will be walking as you track your game on a hunting trip. You don’t want a scope that will weigh you down so, the lighter the better.
8 Best 300 WSM Rifle Scopes
With that said let’s have a look at the best 300 WSM rifle scopes on the market right now;
1) Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 Riflescope
This scope comes with a range of delectable features that offer any long-range shooter the confidence they need to make every shot at a very friendly price.
The Argos BTR GEN2 features a versatile 4x zoom range that allows for a wide field of view at the lowest magnification and provides precision at long distances on the highest magnification.
This scope also features a 50mm objective and fully multi-coated lenses that ensure maximum light transmission. You can therefore be sure of bright images even in low-light conditions.
Another admirable feature of this rifle scope is the reticle designed for long-range shooting. It has an APLR2 front focal plane IR MOA reticle which allows for the holdover points to remain the same on all levels of magnification.
This means no top-of-the-head calculations need to be done as you cruise through the zoom range. This, therefore, makes the scope excellent for those long-range shoots.
Additionally, the scope’s reticle is illuminated therefore allowing you to make shots even when the lighting is less than ideal.
The scope also features a precision zero-stop system which allows you to go back to the initial zero with an accurate and sharp stop. It also allows for parallax adjustment from 10 yards to infinity.
Finally, the scope is waterproof, fog-proof and extreme-temperature resistant, so no matter the weather you can be sure your scope will live to see another day.
This scope was made for the avid long-range competitive shooter, so if you’re planning to engage in such kind of shooting, this is one of the best 300 WSM rifle scopes for you.
Features
- APLR2 front focal plane IR MOA reticle
- Illuminated reticle
- Red LED illumination
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- XPL lens protection coating
- Water, fog and shockproof
- Precision zero-stop system
Pros
- Offers bright clear and crisp images
- Wide zoom range
- Great value for money
- Wide field of view
- Easy to use
Cons
- Short eye relief
- Heavy
2) Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Rifle Scope
The Leupold VX-5HD is a versatile scope that gives you an upper hand in any situation. It is one of the best 300 WSM rifle scopes for hunting.
This scope has a versatile magnification range that allows for success in any type of long-range encounter, be it hunting or competitive shooting.
At 3x magnification, you can take down prey in thick terrain, and at 15x you can make your shot confidently on open flat terrain.
Expect the best optical capabilities from this rifle scope. The large objective lens allows for optimum light transmission, thus giving you nice bright views even in low light.
Additionally, the scope also features glare-reduction technology that allows for clear images in direct light.
Moreover, the optics in this rifle scope are admirable. The high-quality glass used on the lenses delivers clear and crisp images at all times.
You can be sure of undistorted images even at the highest magnification so you can make accurate shots with conviction.
In a bid to ensure the reticle is clear and has less perceived movement when shooting, the scope features a side focus to adjust parallax.
Moreover, the scope also features a CDS-ZL2 that provides two elevation adjustment revolutions while also ensuring no accidental adjustments with a push-button ZeroLock system.
Finally, the scope is weather resistant with its top-of-the-line modern waterproof and fog-proof technology that uses gasses and sealing to protect the lens from extreme temperature and moisture.
Features
- High-definition calcium fluoride lenses
- Guard ion Hydrophobic lens coating
- Shock, water and fog-proof
- Side focus adjustment
- Custom dial system with ZeroLock
- SFP Mil-dot reticle
Pros
- Versatile magnification
- Excellent clarity
- Long eye relief
- Quite light
- Great light transmission
- Wide field of view
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
- Relatively expensive
3) Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical scope delivers accurate shots every time and is a top contender among the best 300 WSM rifle scopes. This FFP scope is made for any long-range shooting and blends impressive features for improved accuracy and long-range precision.
It is easy to use and meets the needs of all shooters, from new to experienced ones. The cherry on top is that this scope comes at a very good price and with a lifetime warranty.
This scope has a wide magnification range that allows for both excellent views and precision when shooting. While Vortex created this scope for long-range shooting, the scope can also make headway in mid-range shooting making it quite versatile and one of the best 300 WSM rifle scopes.
With its wide 50mm objective and superb glass quality, you can be sure of sufficiently bright images even in low-light conditions. The Diamondback also features XD high-definition fully multi-coated and thus produces sublime images that are very clear and crisp.
The scope features an EBR-2C first focal plane reticle that’s hash-marked with MOA-based sub-tension lines. The subtension lines allow for ranging, holdover, and windage corrections.
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical also allows for unmatched tracking performance with its exposed turrets, which is almost unseen in many scopes at this price range.
This scope is also very durable, as it is constructed using tough yet light aircraft-grade aluminum and is waterproof, shockproof and fog-proof. This scope can take it all without you having to worry.
Don’t miss the perfect shot, mount this Vortex tactical scope on your .300 WSM to unlock your full potential and deliver the best shooting performance possible.
Features
- XD high-definition lenses
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- EBR-2C FFP reticle
- Parallax setting 10 yards to infinity
- Water, shock and fog-proof
Pros
- Wide field of view
- Very durable
- Lifetime warranty
- Great value for money
- Easy to use
- Pristine and clear images
- Unbeatable light transmission
- Long eye relief
Cons
- A bit of distortion on the highest magnification setting
- Non-illuminated reticle
4) Primary Arms SLx 5-25x56mm Rifle Scope
The rifle scope host an array of incredible features to deliver the best shooting performance. Unbeatable versatility makes it one of the best 300 WSM rifle scopes. This versatility allows for great precision in both long-range hunting and competitive shooting.
Its large objective lens allows for maximum light transmission and ensures you have bright images no matter the prevailing light conditions. This wide objective lens also provides an improved exit pupil and thus a long 4-inch eye relief.
Additionally, the scope features premium-grade glass that ensures you have the clearest images even at higher magnification powers.
What sets this scope apart from the rest is its ACSS Athena BPR Mil reticle. This reticle is termed the world’s most precise extreme long-range reticle and here is why; it features a holdover grid that not only makes finding the perfect holdover a piece of cake but also allows you to quickly recover and correct missed shots by spotting grid impact and adjusting the aim accordingly.
The scope also features interchangeable windage turrets that allow you to easily change between capped and tactical-style turrets on the same scope. These high-quality turrets produce audible clicks with every turn and quickly return to zero.
Lastly, this scope is very durable as it is resilient to harsh weather and temperature changes. The scope is also shockproof, thus you can be sure your scope is safe when you take your shots. The scope is also constructed with very sturdy one-piece 6061-T6 aluminum to ensure it is completely invulnerable.
This scope is very budget-friendly and is a great scope for any long-range shooter but unlike the Vortex Diamondback Tactical, it is quite heavy. Its weight, however, takes nothing away from the fact that it is one of the best 300 WSM rifle scopes.
Features
- Premium-grade glass lenses
- FFP ACSS Athena BPR Mil reticle
- Interchangeable windage knobs
- Elevation rotation indicators
- 6061-T1 single-tube aluminum body
- Audible 0.1 Mil click value
- 34mm main tube
Pros
- Very long eye relief and wide field of view
- Excellent clarity
- Very well priced
- Great reticle clarity
- Excellent light transmission
- Great performance in low light
Cons
- Very heavy
- Non-illuminated reticle
5) Sightron S-TAC 4-20x50mm Rifle Scope
The Sightron S-TAC 4-20x50mm is a great hunting and target shooting scope. The combination of quality, brilliant optics, innovative features and unrivaled versatility makes it one best 300 WSM rifle scopes.
The scope also features a Sightron-exclusive optical design that allows for excellent light transmission, and best-in-class image resolution and sharpness. The glass used to make the lenses of this scope is of top-of-the-line quality and reduces chromatic aberrations, thereby improving color accuracy.
Additionally, the scope features a Zact-7 Revcoat, a multi-coating that ensures maximum anti-reflection and light transmission. Get the most out of your shooting and hunting sessions by mounting this rifle scope on your .300 WSM.
The Sightron S-TAC features a second focal plane reticle that remains constant at any zoom range and thus ensures no image obstruction through the magnification range. The reticle is also made of etched wire to ensure you have a superior viewing experience.
Additionally, this scope allows for proper alignment between adjustments and the erector tube by keeping a constant precise point of pressure both at zero and extreme adjustments. This is all owing to the scope’s ExacTrack windage and elevation system.
Finally, this scope is as durable as they come. It is made of a lightweight rugged single aluminum tube that ensures it withstands recoil. It is also water and fog-proof owing to its well-fitted seals and nitrogen-purged tube.
Features
- SFP Duplex reticle
- Etched wire reticle material
- Shock, water and fog-proof
- 30 mm Single tube aluminum construction
- Zact-7 Revcoat multi-coating
- ExacTrack windage and elevation system
- Parallax setting 10 yards to infinity
Pros
- Great value for money
- Lifetime warranty
- Excellent clarity
- Excellent performance in low light
- Excellent light transmission
- Long eye relief and wide field of view
Cons
- No zero stop
- No illumination
6) NightForce SHV 5-20x56mm SFP Rifle Scope
This scope works for both close-range and long-range encounters its versatility accords it a place as one of the best 300 WSM rifle scopes. This scope is also the most powerful in the SHV line.
With a 56 mm objective lens, this scope allows for optimal light transmission and provides you with the brightest images you could ever want. This wide objective also allows for a wide field of view and long eye relief.
You can also expect great clarity and color contrast throughout the magnification range from the NightForce SHV owing to its top-grade glass lenses and top-notch coatings.
The scope also features a second focal plane non-illuminated force-plex reticle. This is excellent for hunting in thick vegetation cover and provides unobstructed views as it doesn’t change in size as you move from one magnification level to the next.
This NightForce scope also features an 80 MOA elevation adjustment, a side parallax adjustment, and ZeroSet technology. This allows you to return to zero fast regardless of the number of adjustments made previously.
Finally, this scope is durable as it is made of sturdy material, and is shockproof, waterproof and fog-proof.
Features
- SFP non-illuminated force-plex reticle
- Multi-coated high-quality glass lenses
- Parallax adjustment from 25 yards to infinity
- 6061-T6 aluminum
- Fast focus eye-piece
- Zero-set turrets
Pros
- Excellent clarity and brightness
- Very durable
- Reliable parallax adjustment
- Long eye relief
- Wide field of view
Cons
- Quite expensive
- heavy
- Not-illuminated thus hash marks disappear in low light
7) Burris Veracity 5-25×50 mm Rifle Scope
The Burris Veracity 5-25×50 is a great choice for long-range applications. Mounting this rife scope on your favorite firearm will boost your sighting capabilities and fine-tune your accuracy.
This versatile long-range scope delivers extraordinary performance making it ideal for hunting, target and precision shooting.
For excellent brightness, clarity and image definition, the Veracity features, high-grade optical glass as well as an index-matched Hi-Lume multi-coating, that provides unmatched performance in low light. These coatings also enhance glare reduction for optimum light transmission.
The Burris Veracity also features a Ballistic plex FFP reticle with MOA tick marks across the horizontal crosshair and on the upper section of the vertical crosshair.
These crosshairs are progressively thick and become fine towards the center for fast target acquisition in poor lighting conditions at close range.
This reticle also features an MRAD knob option, which allows you to change from capped hunting knobs to exposed tactical style easily. This reticle also gives you the most accurate platform to measure distance and determine target size.
The scope also features a zero-click stop adjustment that allows for an easy and quick return to zero without having to count clicks. Additionally, it features an ergonomic side focus to allow you to get to parallax adjustments from 50 yards to infinity.
To ensure the scope holds zero during recoil, shock and vibrations, Burris has utilized a double internal spring-tension system.
Finally, the scope is waterproof and fog-proof to ensure it is uncompromised in rainy and cold weather.
Features
- Ballistic plex FFP reticle
- High-grade optical glass
- Index-matched Hi-Lume multi-coating
- Parallax adjustment 50 yards to infinity
- Water, fog and shock-proof
- Zero reset turrets
Pros
- Very durable
- Excellent clarity and brightness
- Great performance in low light
- Long eye-relief
- Wide field of view
- Burris forever warranty
- Ergonomic
Cons
- Not-illuminated
- Quite expensive
8) Vortex Viper HS 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope
Finally, we have the Vortex Viper HS, a scope that will give you value for your money. This scope is great for shooters and hunters alike and comes with a versatile 4x zoom range that gives you an upper hand in a variety of shooting ranges.
The scope also has a very forgiving eye box that increases eye relief to ensure you are not struggling to get on target. This is on account of its wide objective lens as well as its versatile magnification range.
When it comes to optics, this scope is as good as they come as it features XR fully multi-coated HD lenses that ensure maximum light transmission for bright, clear and crisp images.
The lenses are also never compromised by oil or dirt as they are also coated with ArmorTec ultra-hard scratch-resistant coatings.
The Viper HS also features a Dead-Hold BDC (MOA) SFP reticle with a customized hash mark design to ensure guesswork has no part in holdover and windage corrections. This reticle also allows for higher elevation and windage travel for optimal adjustment.
Finally, this scope is durable owing to its aluminum aircraft-grade build and waterproof, shockproof and fog-proof nature.
While this scope may lack some fancy features of some more advanced scopes, it still does the job quite well and could easily be one of the best 300 WSM rifle scopes, especially if you are new to shooting.
Features
- Parallax adjustments 50 yards to infinity
- Capped turret style
- HD XD lens elements
- XR fully multi-coated
- Dead-Hold BDC (MOA) SFP reticle
- Shock, water and fog-proof
Pros
- Very long eye relief
- Wide field of view
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Lifetime warranty
- Great value for money
Cons
- Blurry reticle hash marks in low light
Further Reading
- Best Vortex Scopes for Deer Hunting
- Best 350 Legend Riflescopes
- Best Vortex Scopes for 30-06
- Best 27 Nosler Scopes
- Best 6.5 PRC Scopes
How to Choose the Best 300 WSM Rifle Scopes
Different rifle scopes are designed to deliver the best sighting experience and improve your shooting accuracy when mounted on a rifle. When looking for the best scope for 300 WSM, there are several considerations to keep into account.
Glass Quality
First, consider choosing a scope with excellent glass quality. The quality of glass used to make the lenses of a scope can make the difference between a good and bad shot, especially when making long-range shots. With high-quality glass, you can expect clear images throughout the magnification range.
Magnification
Secondly, consider choosing a scope with a magnification range that meets your needs. As mentioned earlier, the 300 WSM is a versatile cartridge that works for both long-range target shooting and short-range hunting.
If you will be using it for the former then consider a scope with a wide and high magnification range but, if using it for the latter consider using a more conservative magnification range.
Read: Best 300 Yards Rifle Scopes
Reticle
You also have to consider the type of reticle you need. First, choose an SFP reticle if you are primarily going to use your 300 WSM for hunting and in busy terrain but if you are more of a long-range target shooter then consider an FFP reticle.
Additionally for long-range shooting consider choosing a scope with a reticle that can cater for holdovers and bullet drop. So, look out for a simple BDC reticle on your scope’s feature list.
Finally, if you will be hunting in low-light conditions consider choosing a scope with an illuminated reticle.
Most scopes come with red or green illumination with several brightness settings to match your environment, these are the best.
Light transmission
Next, when choosing a 300 WSM scope consider one with a wide objective as well as fully multi-coated lenses to ensure the light transmission is at its optimum.
The excellent light transmission will ensure that you have bright images that are easy to decipher even in low-light conditions.
Read: Best 6.5 Grendel Scopes
Durability
Durability is very important in any scope specifically, recoil resistance. The 300 WSM produces quite the recoil and thus it is pertinent that you choose a scope with a shockproof feature listed.
This will ensure your magnification and reticle adjustments remain unchanged during and after a shot as well as protect your lenses from shattering.
Cost
Finally, consider choosing a scope that meets your budgetary needs. At present many optics companies have significantly lowered their manufacturing costs because of mass production and thus you can get great quality scopes without a budgetary burden.
However, some might argue that the quality of the scope is in the time and hands that create it, and thus some companies have set themselves apart from the pack by providing scopes that are mostly hand assembled. Such scopes tend to be more expensive.
However, the quality of the material used to make the scopes, whether hand-assembled or not, is the main determiner of the price.
All in all, find a scope that meets your needs; has all the features of a great scope, and costs what you can afford.
Read: Best 7.62X39 Rifle Scopes
How Far Can a 300 WSM Shoot Accurately?
The 300 WSM is a long-range cartridge that can make shots to as far as 1300 yards. However, for optimum accuracy consider shooting the 300 WSM at a distance of between 800 to 1000 yards.
What is the Best Magnification for the Long-range?
Long-range is defined quite differently depending on who you ask, but most people will agree that anything beyond 300 yards is long-range, with extreme long-range being any distance beyond 100 yards. That said, the best magnification for long-range shots is between 4-16x and 6-24x.
Conclusion
These scopes are versatile in use to match the 300 WSM, durable enough to make it through any taunting conditions, and are of different prices to ensure no one is left out.
We hope that this comprehensive review will make it easier for you to make the right choice in choosing the best 300 WSM rifle scope.