5 Best Scopes For Your .308 Ar

When it comes to precision shooting with your .308 AR, choosing the right scope can make all the difference between a hit and a miss. The .308 caliber is favored by many for its accuracy and versatility, whether you’re hitting the range, heading out for a hunt, or engaging in tactical scenarios. In this guide, we will explore the 5 best scopes for your .308 AR, giving you helpful tips, shortcuts, and advanced techniques to make the most of your shooting experience. We'll also highlight common mistakes to avoid and provide troubleshooting advice along the way.

Understanding What Makes a Great Scope

When selecting a scope for your .308 AR, consider the following attributes:

1. Magnification: A good scope should have a magnification range that meets your shooting needs. For mid-range shooting (300-600 yards), a magnification of 4-12x is ideal.

2. Objective Lens Diameter: A larger diameter allows more light to enter, providing a clearer image in low-light conditions. A size of 40mm to 50mm is typically sufficient.

3. Reticle: Choosing the right reticle style can improve accuracy. Options include BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator), Mil-Dot, and Duplex.

4. Durability: Look for scopes that are shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant to withstand various weather conditions and rugged use.

5. Adjustability: Windage and elevation adjustments should be precise and easy to use for fine-tuning your shots.

The Top 5 Scopes for Your .308 AR

Here are five excellent scopes that stand out in performance and value for the .308 AR platform:

1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18x44

Vortex has earned a reputation for providing quality optics at reasonable prices, and the Crossfire II is no exception.

• Key Features:
  • Magnification: 6-18x
  • Objective Lens: 44mm
  • Reticle: Dead-Hold BDC
  • Eye Relief: 4 inches

This scope is perfect for those looking for a versatile range with excellent light transmission.

2. Nikon P-Tactical .308 4-12x40

Nikon’s P-Tactical series brings a scope specially designed for the .308 round, offering a BDC reticle calibrated for the caliber.

• Key Features:
  • Magnification: 4-12x
  • Objective Lens: 40mm
  • Reticle: BDC
  • Eye Relief: 3.6 inches

With reliable build quality, it provides clear images and is great for short to medium distances.

3. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40

Leupold scopes are known for their ruggedness and optical clarity. The VX-Freedom is a solid choice for those who need reliability without breaking the bank.

• Key Features:
  • Magnification: 3-9x
  • Objective Lens: 40mm
  • Reticle: Duplex
  • Eye Relief: 4.2 inches

Its lightweight design and waterproof construction make it a favorite among hunters.

4. Trijicon ACOG 4x32

For those who prefer a fixed power optic, the Trijicon ACOG offers incredible durability and reticle illumination without batteries.

• Key Features:
  • Magnification: 4x
  • Objective Lens: 32mm
  • Reticle: Illuminated Chevron
  • Eye Relief: 1.5 inches

The ACOG is perfect for tactical shooting scenarios, providing quick target acquisition.

5. Bushnell Elite Tactical DMR II 3.5-21x50

For those seeking high-end performance, the Bushnell Elite Tactical offers exceptional clarity and performance over long distances.

• Key Features:
  • Magnification: 3.5-21x
  • Objective Lens: 50mm
  • Reticle: G3 or Horus H59
  • Eye Relief: 3.5 inches

The features of this scope make it ideal for precision shooting over extended ranges.

Helpful Tips and Techniques

• Scope Mounting: Ensure your scope is mounted correctly and securely to avoid any misalignment. A poorly mounted scope can lead to inaccuracy.

• Zeroing Your Scope: Always zero your scope at the distance you intend to shoot. A common practice is to start at 100 yards and make necessary adjustments.

• Understanding Bullet Drop: Familiarize yourself with the ballistic characteristics of your .308 round to utilize the BDC reticle effectively.

• Use Quality Ammunition: High-quality, consistent ammunition will help improve your shooting accuracy and performance.

• Regular Maintenance: Keep your scope clean and inspect for any signs of damage to ensure it operates effectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Neglecting Eye Relief: Not paying attention to eye relief can lead to scope bite. Always ensure there's enough distance between your eye and the scope.

2. Improperly Adjusting the Turrets: Make sure to track your adjustments in clicks and reset your turrets after zeroing.

3. Ignoring Parallax Issues: Understand parallax, especially when shooting at different distances, and adjust accordingly.

4. Using Inconsistent Shooting Techniques: Consistency in your shooting technique greatly affects accuracy. Practice proper grip, stance, and breathing techniques.

5. Failing to Maintain Your Scope: Regular cleaning and checks can prevent fogging and potential damage from dirt or moisture.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Lost Zero: If your scope seems off, check the mounts and rings for tightness. Consider re-zeroing if the issue persists.

• Fogging: If fogging occurs inside your scope, it may be due to a failure of seals. Contact the manufacturer for potential repairs.

• Reticle Issues: If your reticle becomes blurry, ensure you're looking through the lens at the correct eye relief.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What is the best magnification for a .308 AR scope?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>A magnification of 4-12x is generally ideal for mid-range shooting with a .308 AR, allowing for versatility in different shooting scenarios.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Do I need a special scope for a .308 caliber?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>While any quality scope can work, specific .308-calibrated reticles can enhance accuracy for longer shots by accounting for bullet drop.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How do I zero my scope properly?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Begin by shooting at a target from 100 yards. Adjust the turrets based on where your shots land relative to the target until you achieve accuracy.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What should I do if my scope loses zero?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Check the mounting hardware for tightness, ensure there’s no damage to the scope, and then re-zero your scope before shooting again.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I use a .223 scope on a .308?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>While you can physically use a .223 scope on a .308 rifle, it's advisable to select one designed for the .308 to account for the greater recoil and bullet drop.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Using the right scope can truly enhance your shooting experience with your .308 AR. By focusing on factors such as magnification, durability, and the type of reticle, you can select a scope that complements your shooting style and objectives. Remember, practice makes perfect, so take the time to experiment with different settings and techniques. Don't hesitate to dive deeper into tutorials that offer further insights into mastering your equipment.

<p class="pro-note">🔍Pro Tip: Regularly clean your scope lenses to ensure optimal clarity and performance!</p>