7 Best Scope for 300 Blackout [Long-Range Shooting, Hunting]

Sometimes described as the cousin of the 5.56 for the AR 15, the 300 Blackout is considered to be the most versatile cartridge for the AR 15.

Unlike regular magazines that may result in imprecise bullet placement, the 300 Blackout has no penetration problems.

Additionally, they are more lethal than the 5.56 NATO due to the increased weight.

But no matter how great your cartridges are, they are USELESS without a good scope. 

To keep you effective at all ranges, I’ve covered some of the best scopes to go with your 300 Blackout.

Best Value

Primary Arms 1-6×24 SFP Hunting Scope

• Magnification: 1-6x
• Diameter: 24mm
• Eye Relief: 3.3-3.5 in

Check Best Price

Best Overall

Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24

• Magnification: 1-6x
• Diameter: 24mm
• Eye Relief: 4 in

Check Best Price

Best Budget Pick

Vortex Optics Crossfire II

• Magnification: 4-12x
• Diameter: 44mm
• Eye Relief: 3.9-4.4 in

Check Best Price

The Best Scope for 300 Blackout: Top 7 Picks

1. Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24

BEST OVERALL

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Brownells «
» Check Price on Amazon «

The Trijicon Variable Combat Optical Gunsight (VCOG) is undoubtedly one of THE best scopes on the market today.

In fact, it was even chosen as the USMC Squad Common Optic in early 2020.

Let’s see why more and more Marines trust this legendary tactical scope.

Notable Features:

• Near indestructible 
• Crystal clear lenses 
• 6 brightness settings
• Well designed ballistic reticle
• Extremely versatile
• Extremely easy and smooth adjustment turrets (some of the best on the current market!)

The Trijicon VCOG is equipped with some of the most advanced optical systems available. 

Thanks to its fully multi-coated lenses and smooth adjustments, I’ve used it up to 6x power without the fuzz and distortion often seen in other, lower-priced scopes.

I have NO constraits, thanks to the 4-inch eye relief, which allows for precise shooting at both close and long-range.  

They are ready to use straight out of the box, with little to no adjustments needed.

It also comes with a built-in mount, thus removing the need for twiddling and searching for the right mount for it. 

I’m not done yet! The Trijicon VCOG is compatible with various spacers, mounts, and other accessories.

If your scope runs low on battery, there is no need to fear as it runs on a single, easy-to-find AA battery that is good for up to 700 hours. 

My favorite thing about the Trijicon VCOG, however, is its DURABILITY:

• I’ve seen my share of VCOGs that are usable even after they’ve taken bullets, gotten dragged through the mud, drowned in water, or even smacked against concrete. 
• No matter what you do to it, it still gives you a crisp and clean reticle that can help you make the shot you need and even save your life.

And, for any problems that may arise, it is covered by the Trijicon Lifetime Warranty. 

Another thing that sets the VCOG apart from other 300 Blackout scopes, besides its amazing durability and versatility, is its use of a first focal plane reticle.

With its reticle on the first focal plane, it changes size as the magnification is changed.

In fact, it is known to have the industry’s BEST ballistic reticle for shooting paper.

However, the downside to this scope is that it is quite expensive. I don’t recommend this if you’re a casual shooter who only shoots on the weekends.

2. Primary Arms 1-6×24 SFP Hunting Scope w/ACSS 300 BO Reticle

BEST VALUE

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Amazon «

The Primary Arms 1-6 x 24 was considered one of the best optics for the 300 Blackout in a hunter’s collection in 2017.

This riflescope from Primary Arms claims to be able to give military-grade optics at an affordable price tag.

Is this true? Check it out and see for yourself.

Notable Features:

• Fast target acquisition
• Fogproof, waterproof, and shockproof
• Illuminated reticle + BDC reticle
• Second Focal Plane
• 3-year guarantee

This 300 blackout scope is primarily designed for close-range to mid-range shooting from 15 to 600 yards.

On top of that, the scope’s size and weight are PERFECT for me! This Primary Arms scope is sturdy and won’t weigh down your rifle.

It comes with the CSS 300AAC Blackout Chevron reticle, which is one of the, if not the most, intuitive BDC reticle for the 300 Blackout.

This second focal plane scope features a reticle that supports fast ranges and holds wind very well. 

It can even come with caliber-specific reticles!

This Primary Arms scope comes with 12 brightness settings, and using the left button of the tube activates a light at the center of the reticle.

HOWEVER, this does not come with any parallax adjustment.

3. Vortex Optics Crossfire II

BEST BUDGET SCOPE

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Cabelas «
» Check Price on Brownells «
» Check Price on Amazon «

If you’re on a budget, I’d say the best 300 Blackout scope for you is the Vortex Optics Crossfire II.

Let’s see how this riflescope offers great value for quality and functionality, making it one of the most popular scopes on the market.

Notable Features:

• Long eye relief
• Quick target acquisition
• Adjustable objective
• Fog proof and waterproof
• Multicoated lenses
• Great value for money
• Budget-friendly

This riflescope is made with a single aluminum tube for strength and durability.

It is also O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged for EXTRA resistance against the harshest weather conditions.

Want to know how good it is in extreme weather?

Thanks to the anti-reflective and multi-coated lenses,it allows for crisp and bright images, even in low light conditions and varying ranges.

The dead-hold BDC reticle doesn’t lose zero easily, making it ideal for the AR platform.

It also has capped reset turrets that can be adjusted even with your fingers and reset to zero quickly after each shooting. 

My only gripe is that the Crossfire II doesn’t come with a lens cover.

4. Nikon P-Tactical 300 BLK 2-7×32 BDC SuperSub

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

BUYING OPTIONS:
» DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER «

This scope from Nikon, a leader in optical equipment, has exceptional build quality at an affordable price point. 

Let’s see why these Nikon scopes have so many positive reviews.

Notable Features:

• Multicoated lenses
• Great power range
• Fast focus eyepiece
• Spot on ballistic match technology
• Versatile
• Fog proof and waterproof

I think this scope stands out thanks to its spring-loaded turrets that make it easy to dial in your shots. They can also instantly reset to zero if needed. 

With its target turrets, 7x magnification range, and bullet calibration, this scope makes it easy to shoot at 300 yards.

Designed specifically for the AAC 300 Blackout, the Nikon P-300 boasts a BDC reticle with open circle aiming and hash marks for 100 to 600 yards. 

Additionally, the size of the P-300 fits on ANY of my rifles!

While it’s dependable and straightforward, it lacks other high-end features I’m used to seeing on other scopes, such as IR illumination, night vision, and a customizable reticle.

However, if you need a good, reliable scope with just what you need, these Nikon scopes are for you.

5. Trijicon ACOG Scope 4×32

BEST FIXED MAGNIFICATION SCOPE

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Cabelas «
» Check Price on Brownells «
» Check Price on Amazon «

Trijicon ACOG scopes are LEGENDARY for a reason.

If you want a fixed scope for tight groupings and rapid deployment for medium-range shooting, look no further than these babies. 

Notable Features:

• Extremely durable
• Dual illuminated reticles
• Second focal plane
• Comes with a mounting device
• Lightweight and compact

The Trijicon ACOG is known for its incredible durability, thanks to its rugged construction made from aircraft-grade aluminum. 

I’m a big fan of Trijicon ACOGscopes because they come with tritium and fiber-illuminated reticle, eliminating the need for an outside power source.

Using tritium and fiber optics allows it to adjust automatically to the brightness of the environment. 

While using this optic, I’ve never had to worry about losing power on the field or even fiddling with illumination settings!

Additionally, it uses the Bindon Aiming Concept, allowing me to shoot properly even with both eyes open. I’m always aware of my environment!

The Trijicon proprietary bullet drop compensating reticle is available in either a dual illuminated green crosshair or an RMR type 2 sight. 

And, thanks to its compact size, it won’t take up as much rail space.

HOWEVER, the reticle may be difficult to use for those with astigmatism. 

Additionally, you may get served divorce papers when your wife finds your bank account history after buying the Trijicon ACOG Scope.

6. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-6×24 Second Focal Plane Riflescope

BEST VERSATILE SCOPE

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Cabelas «
» Check Price on Amazon «

The speed and versatility of the Vortex Optics Strike Eagle make it a contender for one of the top optics for 300 blackout rifles. 

Notable Features:

• Lightweight
• Durable
• Dead hold BDC reticle
• 11 illumination settings
• Multi-coated lenses
• Adjustable magnification

The Strike Eagle can easily be adjusted to 6x power, which is great even for targets at a distance.

The fast focus dial on the eyepiece of this scope ensures the image stays sharp and crisp, even at long distances. 

If you want effortless holdover and windage calculations, look no further than this illuminated glass-etched BDC reticle.

Its multiple brightness settings mean that it can be used in various lighting conditions. 

I also like this sight’s windage and elevation turrets. They make crisp clicks when adjusted, leaving no room for guessing games. 

Additionally, this riflescope is insanely shockproof!

It can function in even the most extreme weather conditions and comes with caps to protect the lens from dirt, dust, scratches, and stains. 

Best of all, you can store an extra battery in the windage cap that you can access with just a single click.

However, I have two slight issues with this optic.

First, I’ve noticed some distortion at the edges. Despite this, it’s great value for money. 

Second, its eye box can be a little tight. This can be easily resolved, however, with a good cheek weld.

And, if all else fails, the Strike Eagle, just like any Vortex product, comes with the Vortex Lifetime Warranty.

7. ATN ThOR 4 640

BEST SCOPE FOR HOG HUNTING

BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
» Check Price on Cabelas «
» Check Price on Brownells «
» Check Price on Amazon «

If you’re out for a modern, top-of-the-line thermal scope, look no further than the ATN ThOR.

Just like its namesake, it’s bound to make you feel like a god of thunder!

Notable Features:

• Revolutionary thermal sensor
• Sophisticated smart technology 
• Durable 
• Great for night vision

Let’s go deeper into those sophisticated features for a moment.

The ATN ThOR has a 640×480 thermal sensor for excellent detection and sensitivity, making it ideal for hog hunting. 

No hog was safe from my sensor that picked them up no matter how hard they tried to hide. 

This thermal sensor has even helped me during nighttime hunts. It can pick up temperature readings to spot your target even in the dead of night. 

It also has a built-in smart range finder and ballistic calculator that help its smart mil-dot reticle automatically account for wind, range, altitude, air pressure, etc.

This ensures the perfect shot every time.

Now, this begs the question: If you fire the perfect shot without anyone seeing it, did you ever even fire it at all? 

I’m happy to say YES, you did! You can prove it, too!

This scope includes a 60 fps video recording so that you can stream your hunt over WiFi.

It can even simultaneously save your video to an internal micro SD card so that you can replay it!

If you forget to record the shot, however, never fear, as the Recoil Activated Video ensures that it will be taken. 

All these features and smart technology may make you worry about battery life, but never fear.

This riflescope has a rechargeable battery that can continuously last up to 16 hours.

However, I have to warn you that this 300 Blackout scope falls on the more expensive side.

What to Consider When Buying a 300 Blackout Scope

When buying a scope for 300 Blackout, you can’t just buy whatever scope you see.

How do you know that you’re buying the best scope for your rifle?

Here’s what I usually take into consideration:

#1 Effective Range

300 Blackout rounds are more powerful and effective than .223 or 5.56 NATO rounds, making them unsuitable for extremely long distances.

I’d say a 300 Blackout can reach a range of roughly 500m to 800m. Keep this in mind when buying riflescopes.

A scope that is optimized for distances above 800 wouldn’t be a good fit for a rifle using 300 Blackout rounds. 

It is best to look for riflescopes optimized for close to mid-range (20 – 300 yards).

The ideal magnification for a close range would be 1-4x, while for the medium range, it would be 5-9x.

For close-quarter combat, I’d recommend getting a red dot sight. Red dot sights are scopes that use a red dot reticle to aim at the target.

#2 Eye Relief

Eye relief is defined as the distance in which you can position your eye away from the edge of the ocular lens.

A shorter eye relief requires you to put your eye closer to the edge of the ocular lens, which can result in a nice, shiny black eye. Ouch!

A longer eye relief means a more comfortable shooting experience and fewer chances of getting shiners. 

I’ve found that the average eye relief is usually at 3.5 inches. Anything with 6 inches or more of eye relief is considered a long eye relief scope.

#3 Light Filtration

I suggest looking for a scope with multi-coated lenses (preferably) that can filter and transmit light properly.

This would result in a clear picture that will help you really view and shoot your target.

If you’re unsure what different levels of light filtration look like, here’s a quick guide for you:

• Coated: Only one surface of one lens has one layer of coating
• Fully coated: All lenses have at least one layer of coating on both surfaces
• Multi-coated: At least one lens has multiple layers of coating on one surface
• Fully multi-coated: All lenses have multiple layers of coating on all surfaces

These coatings help not only to protect the lenses, but also to assist in light transmission and reduce glare.

#4 Lens Quality

When finding the best scope for 300 Blackout, I always look for clear, high-quality glass with good light transmission and ensure that the glass is resistant to dust, dirt, and scratches.

A dim, blurry, or bad sight picture would completely destroy a scope.

A scope can have a perfect reticle, the ideal magnification, and whatever other awesome features, but if it has a blurry, dim, or otherwise poor sight picture, it’s still a bad scope.

#5 Types of Reticles

The reticle is the part of the scope that helps you know where to aim at your target.

Different types of reticles are used for different purposes.

Choose the one best suited to your needs:

• Bullet Drop Compensation (BDC) reticle: Best for target and long-range shooting at and above 250 yards
• Duplex reticle: Best for mid-range shootings (great for 300 blackout!). Also the trendiest and most natural usage
• MOAR: Best for aiming at smaller targets
• ACSS: Has drop BDC, range estimation, and leads
• Mil-Dot Reticles: Best for tactical shootings needing MRAD measurements

#6 Strength & Durability

Look for scopes that are RESISTANT to impact, fog, moisture, and dirt.

I prefer O-ring sealed and nitrogen-purged scopes because this will help protect them from fog and water.

Scopes made of aircraft-grade aluminum are known for their great durability.

Something to note is that a fixed magnification scope typically has fewer moving parts and is thus less prone to breakage.

However, I also appreciate the versatility of a variable magnification range scope.

#7 Weight

I learned from experience that a heavy scope is just as good as no scope.

Your performance will decline greatly if you cannot handle the weight.

Even if you’re just target shooting, a rifle that is too heavy can make it difficult for you to hit your mark.

I advise looking for an optic that’s lightweight and compact enough to help you shoot properly without straining your muscles.

After all, it’s supposed to be a shooting session, not a weights session.

#8 Type of Platform

There are three main platforms for the 300 Blackout: Pistols, AR rifles, and short barrel rifles.

• Pistols: AR-15 handguns, especially, are a great substitute for short-barreled rifles.
• Rifles and Carbines: These are usually best for hunting at great distances
• Short Barrel Rifles: These usually use heavy subsonic rounds at close to mid range. When using this kind of firearm, it is best not to use such a huge, powerful scope. Subsonic rounds are best within 100 yards

#9 Type of Optic

Consider the type of optic you want to use to increase target accuracy.

A 300 Blackout rifle may not be best paired with scopes with high magnification levels or exposed turrets.

When in close combat, I recommend going for a low magnification optic like a red dot sight or holographic sight for quicker target acquisition.

#10 Price

You get what you pay for.

While it may be tempting to scrimp on a scope, take note that this can really affect the quality of your shooting.

I’ve settled for cheap scopes to save money, only to find that they break sooner or lose zero, leaving me helpless during a hunt.

However, I also don’t recommend splurging and buying the most expensive scope you can find.

Remember to consider the other factors in this list when buying a scope.

Also, take into account how much you plan to be shooting.

• If you are a serious hunter/shooter or plan to use your rifle for lawful combat or competitive shooting, I recommend getting a scope that won’t break even under the toughest conditions.
• Otherwise, if you hunt casually on weekends, you would fare just fine with a cheaper scope that is sturdy enough to handle that.

If you’re looking for the best 300 Blackout scopes and want quality assurance, I recommend looking for known and trusted brands such as Vortex, Primary Arms, Leupold, etc.

Tips to Help You Choose the Best 300 Blackout Scopes and Optics

Now that you know what to look for, I’ll give you some tips to help you really get the best 300 blackout scope for you.

1. Consider What You’re Using the Rifle For

While the .300 Blackout is a very versatile cartridge, getting the right scope for your needs is still important.

• If you plan to shoot long shots at 300 yards: Look for a high-magnified optic.
• For a firearm using subsonic ammunition: Go for a holographic sight or red dot sight. I also recommend a red dot sight for short accelerated rifles.
• For an AR 15: Get a hardened scope. These types of rifles are difficult to use and maneuver, so they can easily get dragged into the environment.

2. Consider a Suppressor

Suppressors allow you to get a smooth shot by getting rid of cover exhaust gasses from the bullet and constricting barrel harmonics.

However, note that some states don’t allow suppressors for hunting. I recommend checking your local laws before getting a suppressor.

3. Understand What the Numbers Mean

Those numbers in the model name aren’t just there to look fancy. They actually mean something.

The number before the “x” tells you how much magnification the scope has.

For example, a scope with 1-9x would have magnification levels from 1-9x. A scope with 4x would have fixed magnification at 4x.

The number after the “x” shows the diameter of the objective lens. The size of the objective lens determines how much light the scope receives.

In my experience, a LARGER objective lens typically means more light transmission and, thus, a brighter and crisper image.

However, do note that larger objective lenses are also heavier and harder to use due to the weight of the glass.

Be sure that you understand what these numbers mean to ensure that you get the best 300 Blackout scope for your shooting style and needs.

FAQs About the .300 Blackout

Can I Shoot 223 in My 300 Blackouts?

While you can chamber a 300 Blackout round in a 223 rifle, it won’t be able to fire properly.

A 22-caliber bore is too small for the .30 caliber of a 300 blackout.

What Are the Benefits of 300 Blackouts?

300 blackouts help enhance the firing and penetrative platform of an AR platform.

They also have a bigger range of projectiles and can be used with both super and subsonic rounds.

Which Is Better, 5.56 or 300 Blackout?

A 5.56 is better for target shooting and training simply because they are cheaper if you are firing many shots.

If you are shooting bigger game, such as deer or hogs, I recommend using the 300 Blackout because of its extra weight and penetration.

However, if you’re just going for a small game, it would be best to use the 5.56 instead.

What Is the Best Barrel Length for 300 Blackouts?

The best length for the barrel to use with 300 blackouts would be 9 inches.

Which Is Quieter, the 300 Blackout or 223?

The .300 Blackout is much quieter than the 223.

What Is the Range of the 300 Blackout?

According to the US military, the effective range of the 300 blackout can reach up to 460 meters.

Is a 300 Blackout Worth It?

Yes! It is definitely worth it,obje as it offers a wide range of bullets and can cycle between both supersonic and subsonic rounds.

The 300 blackout is especially viable for home defense.

Does the 300 Blackout Have More Stopping Power?

Yes. The 300 Blackout does have more stopping power, even when shot from a pistol or short-barrel rifle.

What Grain of 300 Blackout Is Subsonic?

The ammo of a 300 blackout is subsonic at 220 grains.

At this grain, it travels slower than the speed of sound, thus avoiding the sound caused by going at supersonic speed.

Is 5.56 the Same as 300 Blackout?

No, it isn’t the same.

While both cartridges use the same case and are made for military use, the 5.56 has a higher velocity, thus making it better for longer ranges.

The 300 Blackout, on the other hand, is powerful at short ranges and isn’t picky with barrel length.

Can I Use a 556 Scope for 300 Blackout?

While there are some 556 scopes that can be used with the 300 blackout, most others might send your shots off target.

I’d advise getting a scope meant for the 300 Blackout and double-check whether the scope is compatible.

Does the Length of the Barrel Affect the Accuracy of 300 Blackout?

The length of the barrel dictates the twist rate of the rifle, which helps maintain the accuracy and velocity of the bullet.

A longer barrel with a slower twist rate which provides more accuracy and power, is better for longer ranges.

It also allows for cooling in cases of continuous shooting.

A short barrel is best for maneuvering in in-home defense scenarios, while a longer barrel will offer the power and accuracy needed for hunting.

Either way, the great thing about the .300 Blackout is that it isn’t picky and will deliver well regardless of the length of the barrel.

What Is the Minimum Length of the Barrel for 300 Blackout?

In our experience, a 5.5″ barrel works fine with the 300 Blackout. Any shorter, however, and that’s just pushing it.

How Far Will a 300 Blackout Shoot With a 16-inch Barrel?

A 300 Blackout shot from a 16-inch barrel has an effective range of around 460 yards.

Can I Use a Red Dot Sight With a 300 Blackout Shot?

Yes, you can.

In fact, red dots, in general, are good choices for shorter-range shooting! However, they are not as precise as regular scopes.

Remember to choose a red dot sight that is durable enough to handle the recoil of a .300 Blackout.

What is the Ideal Objective Lens Size for a 300 Blackout Scope?

For a .300 Blackout scope, an objective lens of 24mm would be ideal.

In my experience, 24mm was enough to provide good light transmission. Plus, the weight distribution was balanced as well.

What Type of Reticle Should I Choose for a 300 Blackout Scope?

It depends on the user, as many reticles serve different purposes.

However, I personally stick with a Duplex reticle for its simplicity and effective in mid-range shooting.

Duplex reticles are good for beginners as they are easy enough to use. Plus, their design is not too complicated either.

Winner Picks

Now that we’ve gone over our picks for the best 300 Blackout scope, let’s look at some of our standouts:

Best Overall – Trijicon VCOG 1 – 6 x 24

There’s a reason that this is seen to be the best tactical scope EVER, to the point that even the Marines love it.

It survives absolutely everything and can give you a perfect zero, no matter what conditions it finds itself in.

Best Value – Primary Arms 1-6 x 24 SFP Hunting Scope w/ACSS 300 BO Reticle

This durable scope from Primary Arms offers military-grade optics without the military-grade price.

With its easy adjustments and versatile settings, this is definitely the scope to go for to get the most bang for your buck.

Best Budget Scope – Vortex Optics Crossfire II

The Vortex Optics Crossfire II is known for having a very reasonable price tag.

If you want a good quality scope without breaking the bank, then I’d say this is definitely the best 300 Blackout scope for you.

To sweeten up the deal, it comes with the Unlimited Lifetime Warranty, which means that you can easily get it fixed or replaced if there are any problems with it.

Final Thoughts

The 300 Blackout is a powerful cartridge that needs a powerful scope.

I hope my picks and tips on this list for the best 300 Blackout scopes helped you figure out the best scope for your next hunting expedition.

Happy shooting!

FINAL TIP: To pair with your new scope, you might want to consider buying some of the best AR15 scope mount options for better adjustability.