Having the right rifle scope for the renowned .308 rifle gives significantly better results. How else can you secure a clean shot at your target?
Welcome to the world of Leupold rifle scopes. Thousands of people across the world can agree about their unmatched quality and specs.
If you’re in the market for new Leupold scopes for your trusty .308, I’ve laid down my top picks for Leupold’s best 308 scopes to help you hit the bullseye ten times out of ten!
Note: Leupold offers a lifetime guarantee on all their products
- Magnification: 7-35x
- Diameter: 56mm
- Eye Relief: 3.7-3.8 in
- Magnification: 3.5-10x
- Diameter: 40mm
- Eye Relief: 3.6-4.4 in
- Magnification: 6-18x
- Diameter: 40mm
- Eye Relief: 3.8 in
Contents
Top 5 Leupold 308 Scope Picks
1. Leupold VX-3i
BEST OVERALL
BUYING OPTIONS:
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Overview
Taking the top spot on my list is the VX-3i, which proves that size doesn’t always matter!
The VX-3i is a RELIABLE and ULTRALIGHTWEIGHT long-range scope made for plenty of situations.
It’s everything I could ask for in a small form factor!
On top of that, the VX-3i also has a wide range of magnification options as an all-in-one scope that can fit the needs of any marksman.
I’ve also found that this scope is incredibly simple to adjust for windage and elevation! You can count on this scope as a reliable companion.
The scope also features Leupold’s proprietary Twilight Max Light Management System for a clearer target image, regardless of the light conditions.
It also uses the Diamondcoat 2 for top-of-the-line scratch resistance and light transmission for rugged use.
Oh, did I mention that this scope’s 100% waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof, too?
There’s no situation that the VX-3i can’t take!
However, I would’ve liked a stop function on the turrets.
It’s a shame that this product has been officially discontinued. You can only find it from third-party sellers.
Is This the Right Sight for You?
Being the perfect all-rounder that it is, this scope’s the best for 308 rifles because it complements ALL rifling disciplines!
Whether you’re a hunter, a competitive shooter, or a 308 rifle enthusiast, I highly recommend adding this to your arsenal.
2. Leupold VX-5HD
BEST VALUE
BUYING OPTIONS:
» Best Price on OpticsPlanet «
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Overview
Investing in a premium scope for 308 is definitely a huge leap for most.
So if you’re gonna be shelling out some SERIOUS CASH, why not get something that ticks all of your boxes?
Saying “you get what you pay for” with the Leupold VX-5HD is an honest statement because it has everything you’ll need!
This scope utilizes a versatile 3-15x magnification range to make clean short to long-range shots, ensuring that your bullets land where you want them to.
I also like this scope because it’s extremely easy to use, thanks to its fast-focus eyepiece for easy targeting.
The finger-adjustable windage and elevation dials make it user-friendly, too!
To extend its functionality for your marksman rifle, it boasts a Motion Sensor Technology to prolong the scope’s battery life.
This special tech deactivates the FireDot automatically after 5 mins of inactivity.
What does that mean?
More battery life means more time for taking clear long-range shots!
It’s also built with HD low-dispersion glass lenses and the Guard-ion Coating to withstand extreme environments for top-notch optical performance in the field.
Another thing I like is this scope’s side focus parallax adjustment for better adjustment options and dead-eye accuracy!
This is, without a doubt, a technological breakthrough for rifle scopes, making it a tactical scope that’s worth EVERY dollar spent.
Of course, as mentioned earlier, it is very expensive, so you’ll need to save up big time.
Is This the Right Sight for You?
If you want to take your hunting gear up a notch with a scope that’s jam-packed with all the essential features, don’t think twice, and don’t mind the price!
If you’re looking for the best scope for 308, I’d say this is money well spent!
Savor the pristine comfort, crisp functions, and spot-on accuracy with this long-range scope.
3. Leupold VX-Freedom
BEST BUDGET PICK
BUYING OPTIONS:
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Overview
Freedom is the name of the game, and this scope for 308 truly lives up to its name!
The Leupold VX-Freedom has a solid reputation for being a function-packed rifle scope that’s offered at a fairly low price.
Don’t underestimate this rifle scope, though, you might be surprised!
I was pleasantly surprised by this scope. Despite the low price, this scope performs extremely well.
It helped me secure clear shots, especially at close and mid-range.
It features Leupold’s highly regarded light management system and handy 3:1 zoom ratio for an easy target shooting experience.
Like the scope’s name, it’s a liberating experience!
However, one slight issue I experienced was the grainy dial.
Is This the Right Sight for You?
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly yet dependable rifle scope for 308 that can compete with any scope above its price tier, I recommend the VX-Freedom.
Using this scope for 308 can boost your confidence in taking clear shots at a distance, regardless of the light conditions.
I’d say this the best budget pick for both beginners and professionals!
You can take a look at my Review of the VX Freedom Rifle Scope if you want to know more.
4. Leupold VX-R
BUYING OPTIONS:
» DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER «
Overview
Leupold means SERIOUS BUSINESS when it comes to their craft, and it’s CLEARLY apparent in their VX-R rifle scope.
Wondering why? Because of these three things:
- Durability
- Accuracy
- Lightweight
Their amazing features revolve around these three core principles, and let me tell you, they certainly didn’t hold back when they designed this rifle scope.
Target acquisition will never be a problem with the FireDot Illumination reticle, making it easy to focus on your targets even on a sunny day.
This feature makes the VX-R stand out compared to other Leupold rifle scopes.
I’m aware that Mother Nature can be extremely unpredictable, but the VX-R comes prepared with 8 options for adjusting reticles and hash marks in 2.5 MIL increments!
Aside from the crisp targeting reticle and illumination, you’ll get a bright sight picture of your target for easier spotting and shooting, too!
On top of all that, this scope’s made of aerospace-grade aluminum for maximum durability.
Do I need to say more about this scope?
Unfortunately, this scope has also been discontinued and can only be found through third-party sellers.
Is This the Right Sight for You?
Quality and reliability are, of course, expected from this Leupold rifle scope. There’s no doubt about that.
But what makes the VX-R stand out for me is its flexibility for a decent price.
The options it offers for multiple environmental conditions make this scope well worth the money if you’re considering stepping up your game!
5. Leupold Mark AR MOD 1 3-9x40mm
BUYING OPTIONS:
» DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER «
Overview
So you want to make your AR more badass, huh?
If you prefer Armalite Rifles (ARs) over the bolt-action Winchester for the 308, I recommend the Leupold Mark AR MOD 1, specifically designed as an AR scope for 308.
This fairly lightweight scope is made to push the long-range limits of your AR with customized dials to conveniently adjust to your rifle.
To make things more interesting, the fine folks at Leupold threw in a fully multi-coated, crystal-clear glass to give you clarity and ample light transmission!
Just imagine: the Leupold Mark AR MOD 1 is the user-friendly low-light rifle scope you’ve wanted for your AR! See clearly on the field!
Plus, as a true blue Leupold rifle scope, it’s been made to be 100% waterproof, shockproof and fogproof!
It’s JUST what your rifle needs!
However, you can only find this scope through third-party sellers.
Is This the Right Sight for You?
If precision, reliability, and durability are what you need, then the Leupold Mark AR MOD 1 is your best scope for 308 ARs.
It gives you a clear 3-9x magnification, giving you a better view of your target from long range.
This Leupold rifle scope is the TOP CHOICE for shooters, hunters, and marksmen looking for an optic to complement their AR.
Hunters Guide 101: The .308 in a Nutshell
If you’re a seasoned hunter, a competitive shooter, or even just an amateur marksman, there’s no doubt you’ve heard of the .308 Winchester cartridge.
This cartridge is one of the most popular hunting cartridges around the world!
The 308 is a go-to favorite of riflemen and hunting enthusiasts out there, as this cartridge is tried and tested for both hunting and target shooting alike.
Commonly paired with a lightweight hunting rifle like the Remington 700, this classic cartridge is reliable enough to take down targets at any range.
Pair this cartridge with the best Leupold scope for you, and your next hunt will be a breeze!
Choosing the Right Rifle Scope
I understand that choosing the best Leupold rifle scope for you is a hard task.
Why?
Because they have so many GREAT SCOPES in their catalog! But don’t worry though, I’ll help you find the right one.
To complement my buying guide even further, I’ve compiled a list of things to consider when you’re in the market for a trusty and ever-reliable Leupold scope!
You can also learn more in my Top Rifle Scope Brands and Manufacturers article.
Magnification
Ah, yes. The essential building block of all rifle scopes!
Put simply, this is how much closer your target appears to your eyes as you look down the rifle barrel.
For example:
A 4X scope for 308 will make your target appear 4 times bigger to your eyes than what it looks like with the naked eye.
There are variations of scope offerings with different levels of magnification power. I recommend choosing a rifle scope based on the distance you intend to shoot your target from.
PSA: This goes a long way for hunters, especially!
Here’s a small guide to get you started:
- If you’re using your rifle for short-range shooting (approx. 100 yards), get one with a mag-power between 1-4X
- If you’re using your rifle for medium-range shooting (approx 200 yards), get one with a mag-power between 5-8x
- And lastly, if you’re using your rifle for long-range shooting (beyond 200 yards), then get one with a mag power between 9-12x
There are also two types of scopes that offer different kinds of magnification, namely, the fixed and the variable power scope.
I like to think of it this way:
- A fixed power scope means it only has one level of magnification
- Alternatively, a variable power scope offers an adjustment level of more than one magnification for various needs.
Scopes are basically like camera lenses. It’s really best to get one based on what you intend to shoot!
Objective Lens
The objective lens is located at the end of the scope, outward-facing your target.
My general rule of thumb is: The bigger the objective lens, the more space for light to get in for better visibility.
It’s the eye of the scope, as it is the primary entryway of light. This is what helps you see more clearly, too!
Reticles
Reticles are the aiming point at the center of the scope. Allow me to illustrate this better: The reticle is the dot you place over your target before you squeeze the trigger.
Leupold has their own proprietary FireDot illumination that helps with reticle visibility in various lighting conditions and environments!
Eye Relief
Eye relief is the distance between your eye and the lens of the scope. Getting a scope with adequate eye relief is essential to save it!
Trust me, scope bite and recoil can hurt big time.
The rule of thumb is the higher the recoil of the rifle, the more eye relief you’ll need.
Save yourself from a bruised eye and get one based on your needs!
What Are the Basics of a .308?
The .308 cartridge is commonly used for hunting and long-range shooting.
If you are a first-timer or a beginner, the recoil may come off as a surprise, but you will eventually get used to it.
With .308s, you want a large enough objective lens to allow more light to pass through when you’re out on your hunts.
It weights around 150-180 grains, which is just enough to hunt medium to large game, but there are other options available catered to other sized-targets.
Are Leupold Scopes Good?
Yes!
Leupold is a LEADING brand in the optics industry! Enthusiasts everywhere (myself included) can vouch for the super top-quality performance.
They wouldn’t be around for more than 100 years if they weren’t a reliable brand!
Leupold’s scope collection has multiple options catered to different needs, so you are sure to find one that suits you.
Rest assured that all scopes are made with durability, precision, and quality in mind. You will NOT be disappointed!
If your scope gets damaged, you can rely on their lifetime warranty, where they will have it repaired or replaced entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Leupold Made in China?
No, Leupold scopes are manufactured in Beaverton, Oregon and do not have any manufacturing offices elswhere.
If you see a Leupold product made in China, it is likely a fake or knockoff, so look out for those!
Does the Military Use Leupold?
Yes!
Leupold is one of the commonly used optics used in the military and law enforcement.
This brand’s scopes are primed for heavy-duty, on-the-field work, such as military use, thanks to their durability and high-quality materials used.
Can Leupold 308 Scopes Be Used With Other Types of Rifles?
Yes, Leupold 308 scopes can be used with other rifles that are chambered with the .308 cartridge.
Of course, with any other scope and rifle, it is important to consider all the factors that make up a good rifle scope, like magnifcation, objective lens, and so on.
Final Verdict
After learning all about my top picks for the best Leupold scope for 308, deciding should be easy!
Best Overall: Leupold VX-3i
The Leupold VX-3i is my top choice for the scope for 308 simply because of all the features it has, especially the proprietary light management system as its crowning feature.
Best Value: Leupold VX-5HD
For those value-seekers who are willing to spend some serious cash for serious functionality, the Leupold VX-5HD is your best Leupold rifle scope to tick all those boxes for essential features.
Best Budget Pick: Leupold VX-Freedom
Lastly, the Leupold VX-Freedom is my budget-conscious pick for those who are looking for an entry-level scope that still has premium functionality.
Conclusion
I hope this buying guide helped you find the best Leupold rifle scope for your rifles. Check out this list of the best rifle scopes under 300 to widen your search!
These best Leupold scopes are definitely worth the investment if you’re willing to kick your arsenal up a notch.
I’m sure all of you hunters and shooters out there are in for a banging treat in the wilderness!
FINAL TIP: For more information on how Leupold holds up against other top optics brands, you can read up on my Leupold vs. Vortex Optics Comparison Guide.