Looking for the best scope for 308? Look no further. Today’s post highlights the best Leupold scopes for 308 and attaches a comprehensive guide to help you find a suitable fit for your hunting and shooting needs.
When it comes to hunting, the .308 Winchester is one of the prominent cartridges in the world. Today, its popularity has grown tremendously among modern hunters. This cartridge offers unbeatable performance at long distances, and it is also ideal for a wide range of hunting applications.
To get the best out of your .308, you need a high-quality optic. Leupold is one of the oldest and most popular optics brands and it makes some of the best scopes for 308. In this post, we will take you through the best Leupold scopes for 308 available on the market today.
But before we get into details, let’s first start by taking a closer look at the attributes that make a Leupold scope great for the.308 Winchester.
What Makes a Great Leupold Scope for 308?
Finding a scope that matches your rifle and shooting activity will help you achieve more from your outdoor excursion. For a scope to be great for use with .308, it should have a magnification that matches your intended hunting range. It should also have good quality optics that deliver bright, crisp and color-accurate image views no matter the light conditions.
You should also get a scope that is built to tackle anything that comes its way. A well-made scope will give you long-term durability and it will always perform reliably whenever you need it. Furthermore, the scope should be waterproof and fog-resistant to be used under any weather condition.
Lastly, you want a scope that is easy to carry in the field and simple to use. whether you are a beginner or a seasoned and skilled hunter, a scope that is easy to operate will make your hunting expedition more memorable and rewarding.
8 Best Leupold Scopes for 308
Let us now look at some Leupold scope that works well with the .308.
1) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope
The VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope is considered the best overall Leupold scope for the .308 Winchester. It offers excellent mechanical and optical features to help you achieve the most out of your hunting trip. Outstanding dependability and reliable performance are some of the perks that make VX-Freedom 3-9×40 one of the best Leupold scopes for 308.
This riflescope is made with hunters in mind. It will do well in rain, fog and critically low light conditions. This is thanks to the high-end optical system that guarantees true light transmission and weather-resistant construction. Better yet, it is ruggedly built with aluminum to stand up to rough handling, impacts and shock.
Another remarkable feature that makes this riflescope shine is its ergonomic and user-friendly design. It has a Custom Dial System that you use to customize the turrets to your exact ballistics. It also features a traditional eyepiece lock ring, a slim, lightweight design and a wide field of view even at the highest zoom power.
In addition to everything else, the scope has scratch-resistant lenses with a Twilight Light Management System that offers brilliantly sharp and vivid sight pictures no matter the light and environmental conditions.
Features
- 1-inch main tube
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Custom Dial System
- Twilight Light Management System
- Traditional eyepiece lock ring
- Scratch-resistant lenses
- Aircraft aluminum quality housing
Pros
- Slim, lightweight design
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- Comfortable eye relief
- Crisp clear optics
- Tactile capped turrets
Cons
- Difficult to mount on certain rifles
- Reticle lacks illumination
2) Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44mm Riflescope
If you are looking for a scope that will improve your .308 accuracy at extended ranges, this is it. It is ultralight in weight yet big on features to help you cover longer ranges and increase your odds of going back home to a more fulfilled hunter.
With the adjustable 3.6-18x magnification, the scope is ideal for both close and long-distance hunting. It provides a decent field of view and clear image views at every zoom power thanks to the 44mm objective lens.
Moreover, it boasts a Twilight Max HD Light Management System that provides outstandingly clear and sharp sight pictures even in twilight conditions.
The scope also features a fast-focus eyepiece that helps you acquire targets more rapidly and its reticle is placed on the first focal plane to boost your precision at extended ranges. Construction-wise, its body is built with aircraft-quality aluminum for unrivaled durability.
On top of that, it has military-grade scratch-proof lenses for additional protection. Above all, this riflescope features a 35mm main tube that is fully waterproof and fog-proof for use under any weather condition.
You ask for a long-range performer and Leupold listened. No doubt whatsoever, Mark 5HD 3.6-18×44 is one of the best Leupold scopes for 308. Investing in this riflescope will give you an unfair advantage in the field or the range. This scope is big on features and in its class. Surely, a worthy companion for your rifle.
Features
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Twilight Max HD Light Management System
- 35mm main tube
- Side focus parallax adjustment
- Front focal plane reticle
- Military-grade scratch-proof lenses
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Shockproof and recoil-resistant
Pros
- Super lightweight design
- Throw lever for swift magnification changes
- Ultra-versatile zoom power
- Positive click adjustments
- Exceptionally bright and clear optics
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
- High cost
3) Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm Riflescope
For close and medium-range hunting, the VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm Riflescope is your best choice. It provides a massive field of view and bright image views for accurate shots. Tough construction centered on durability and all-weather performance make VX-Freedom 1.5-4×20 one of the best Leupold scopes for 308.
Unprecedented optical performance awaits you when you get this scope. Made around Leupold’s Advanced Optical System, it provides super bright, tack sharp and color-accurate images from sunrise to sunset. It also boasts the best in class glare reduction so you can hunt comfortably in harsh light.
With a weight of 9.6 ounces, this top-performing scope is ultralight and easy to maneuver in the field. Furthermore, it is impact tested and verified to offer a lifetime of performance by withstanding shock and recoil. It is also 100% waterproof and fog-free for all-weather use and boasts scratch-proof lenses for added protection.
Features
- Leupold’s Advanced Optical System
- 1-inch main tube
- Second focal plane reticle
- Scratch-resistant lenses
- 3:1 zoom ratio
- Waterproof and fogproof
- 6061-T6 aircraft-quality aluminum
Pros
- Affordable
- Ultra-lightweight construction
- Excellent optics quality
- Impressive eye relief
- Matte finish
Cons
- Lack of lens covers
- Ideal for short ranges only
4) Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Riflescope
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Riflescope is made for anything and everything. The unbeatable versatility makes it a top contender among the best Leupold scopes for 308. It has a 30mm main tube that harbors a wide array of quality features suitable for every hunting application.
This scope has the usual waterproof, fogproof and shockproof capabilities found in every Leupold optic. It also has a manageable weight that optimizes maneuverability and a tough aluminum body that stands up to any punishment you subject it to.
With the variable 3x to 15x magnification, this scope is ideal for both close and extended range hunting. It provides a wide-angle of view at closer distances and rapid target acquisition at distant ranges. Furthermore, it has an extremely fast focus eyepiece which provides a generous eye box and optimal diopter adjustment.
This riflescope delivers superb optical performance even under critically low light settings. It boasts lead-free glass, blackened lens edges and Twilight Max HD Light Management System. With the three optical features, you get ultra-vivid and life-like clarity from dawn to dusk.
Other noteworthy features include a CDS dial system, motion sensor technology and Guard-Ion rain shedding coating. If you are looking for a highly adaptable riflescope that will help you dominate in various hunting disciplines with .308 Winchester, look no further than the VX-5HD 3-15×44 riflescope.
Features
- 30mm main tube
- Side focus
- Twilight Max HD Light Management System
- Motion sensor technology
- Extreme fast-focus eyepiece
- Lead-free glass
- Waterproof and fogproof
Pros
- Clear and bright optics
- Generous eye relief
- Superb craftsmanship
- Excellent magnification range
- Lightweight and portable
- Backed by a lifetime warranty
Cons
- Not cheap
5) Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope
As one of the best Leupold scopes for 308, the VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope offers reliable performance in nearly all hunting environments. Whether you are hunting in thickly forested areas or taking long-range shots in open plains, this optic got you covered. This all-around riflescope is suitable for hunters of all skill levels.
It features an adjustable and extremely versatile zoom power from 3.5x up to 10x. This magnification range is complemented by the 40mm objective lend which delivers bright sight pictures and a wide field of view. Moreover, the scope has a lockable fast-focus eyepiece that aids in simple reticle focusing and comfortable eye relief for quick target acquisition.
When it comes to construction, the scope features DiamondCoat 2 lens coating that optimizes durability and clarity. It also has a Twin bias spring erector system which provides greater holding force to stand up to recoil. Above all, the scope is waterproof, shockproof and fogproof to take in anything nature throws at it.
Features
- 1-inch main tube
- Second focal plane reticle
- Twilight Max Light System
- Waterproof, shockproof and fogproof
- DiamondCoat 2 lens coating
- Lockable fast-focus eyepiece
- Blackened lens edges
Pros
- Scope cover included
- Gold ring full lifetime guarantee
- Extremely sturdy and durable
- Bright and clear optics
- Generous eye relief
- Great fit and finish
Cons
- A small field of view
- Fixed parallax
- Turrets don’t have zero
6) Leupold Mark 5HD 4-20x52mm Riflescope
When hunting at extremely long ranges, a high-powered scope will help you reach distant targets with ease. This is exactly what you get from the Mark 5HD 4-20x52mm rifle scope. It provides extremely bright and crisp image views no matter the distance, lighting, or weather conditions.
The scope features a large 34mm main tube which provides ample amount of room for windage and elevation adjustment. Furthermore, this optic has a fast-focus eyepiece that aids in quick reticle focusing and a push-button ZeroLock system that eliminates accidental dial movement.
Like any other Leupold optic, the scope is fully waterproof and fog-resistant and guaranteed to offer a lifetime of reliable performance. It also has a feather-light design that disperses recoil for added durability.
When it comes to the optical features, this Mark 5HD 4-20x52mm optic has a Guard ion lens coating that sheds dirt, water and dust to offer clear and crisp image views. It also brings to the table a top-tier lens that offers HD clarity and a Twilight Max HD Light Management System that helps you see more even in poor light settings.
Features
- Fast focus eyepiece
- 34mm objective lens
- Twilight Max HD Light Management System
- Waterproof, fog-resistant, and guaranteed to perform for life
- Guard-ion lens coatings
- Second focal plane reticle
Pros
- HD clarity
- Feather-light design
- Motion sensor technology
- ZeroLock system
- Ample eye relief
Cons
- High cost
7) Leupold VX-5HD 2-10x42mm Riflescope
Another best Leupold scope for 30-06 on this list is the VX-5HD 2-10x42mm Riflescope. It is ideal for hunting at close to long distances and it offers to pinpoint accuracy at every magnification setting no matter the hunting environment.
This scope uses a twin bias erector system that creates a shockproof and recoil-resistant device. Better yet, it has a robust aircraft-quality aluminum body that stands up to anything you throw at it.
It is also fully waterproof and fog proof for use in any environment, and has a Guard-ion rain shedding coating that offers clear views regardless of the weather condition.
Furthermore, the scope is made with ease of use in mind. It has a CDS-ZL2 elevation adjustment dial that makes sight-in a breeze. It also provides a long eye relief even at the highest optical power for comfortable glassing and rapid target acquisition.
Features
- 30mm tube diameter
- Second focal plane reticle
- Guard-ion lens coating
- Waterproof, fog proof and shock-resistant
- CDS-ZL2 elevation adjustment dial
- 1/4 MOA adjustment click
- Aircraft-quality aluminum housing
Pros
- Long eye relief
- Easy to use
- Excellent optics brightness and clarity
- Massive field of view
- Excellent craftmanship
Cons
- Thin reticle
- Limited mounting options
8) Leupold Mark 3HD 4-12x40mm Riflescope
Last but not least we have the Mark 3HD 4-12x40mm Riflescope. Leupold made this rifle scope for every hunter and shooter looking for a precise, rugged and repeatable optic. It mounts easily on virtually any platform and is perfect for mid to long-range hunting.
This scope features a 30mm tube and a second focal plane reticle. At close distances, it provides a wide viewing angle for quick and easy target scanning. It also gets your target quickly at extended ranges thanks to the easy-to-grip power selector that provides quick magnification adjustment.
Another remarkable thing about the scope is it creates a visible aiming point in any lighting condition. Furthermore, it is built well to provide long-term durability and has a lightweight design that disperses recoil for added durability. Above all, this riflescope is 100% waterproof, fog resistant and guaranteed to perform for life.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle
- 30mm main tube diameter
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Superior Leupold ruggedness
- Matte finish
- Scratch-resistant lenses
- Ergonomic power selector
Pros
- Multiple reticle options
- Elite optical system
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Positive elevation clicks
- Extreme versatility
Cons
- Thick crosshair
Related Post
Criteria for Choosing the Best Leupold Scopes for 308
Here are some of the key factors you should put into consideration when shopping for the best Leupold scope for your 308.
Magnification
Magnification is an integral part of every scope. When it comes to using the .308 cartridge, having decent optical power will maximize the distance you shoot. Magnification will also bring targets at extended ranges closer and help place your shot more accurately.
Objective Lens
Since the 308 Winchester cartridge is mainly used for hunting, you must get a scope that comes with a large objective lens. The bigger the objective lens is the more light it collects for better visibility even in dismal environments.
Read: Best Scopes for 400 Yards
Reticle
Get a scope that has a user-friendly reticle. The last thing you would want is a scope that has a reticle that is too complex that you find it hard to know where to aim.
A simple reticle is particularly important to beginners. It will also be an added advantage to get an illuminated reticle. It will remain visible even in poor lighting conditions.
Eye Relief
Another thing you should consider is eye relief. This is the distance between your eye and the lens of the scope. Getting a scope that provides an ample amount of eye relief is essential. High recoiling rifles can injure your eye if the scope has short eye relief.
To avoid such, look for a scope that offers at least 3.5 inches of eye relief even at the highest magnification. Long eye relief is also helpful as it helps with quick target acquisition from any shooting position.
Weight
Don’t forget to look at how heavy the scope weighs. Hunting can be strenuous especially if you have to hike for miles looking for a game. With a lightweight scope, it will be easier for you to maneuver across the field as you look for a game.
Read: Best 243 Leupold Scopes
What Size Scope Do I Need for 500 Yards?
Hitting targets at 500 yards isn’t an easy task. To get the job done well you need a riflescope that can cover the yardage excellently. Magnification is the cornerstone of a riflescope for this application.
When shooting targets that far, you need to be able to zoom in on your target for up-close viewing. You can only take a good shot if you can see what you are shooting at. Excellent magnification capabilities are therefore mandatory.
The minimum magnification you need for 500 yards is 5x. Any riflescope with power below 5x will not cover the distance so it will unsuitable for shooting targets 500 yards out. The maximum power for this distance is 10x. When shooting smaller targets you will need more power to zoom in and pinpoint the target.
The aspect to pay attention to is the size of the objective lens. The diameter of the lens determines the amount of light let through the tube. If a scope transmits more light, it will form brighter and clearer images. For 500 yards, clarity is very resourceful as it helps you to see the targets well allowing accurate shot placement.
See Also: Best 25-06 Leupold Scopes
Best Leupold Scopes for 308 FAQs
Q: What is a Good Scope for 308?
A good scope for 308 meets your needs best. It should have a wide and variable magnification power for use in different environments. It should also be able to perform well under low light situations, rain and fog.
Q: Are Leupold Scopes Good?
Absolutely. Leupold scopes pride themself in quality, low light performance and repeatability. They are built to offer a lifetime of performance and feature the American quality which guarantees unrivaled durability and reliability.
Conclusion
We hope that you have found this post enlightening. whether you are purchasing your first 308 scopes or looking to get an upgrade, these Leupold scopes we have listed above are built well to last long. No matter your hunting style and needs, any one of them will be a perfect match for your .308.