Finding a scope that matches the versatility of your 308 rifle is important to enhancing your overall performance in the hunting grounds or shooting range. Regardless of the outdoor expedition you use your 308 for, a scope is an important item to have. It will ensure that you find targets swiftly in any situation and help you push your rifle to its full potential.
Today, the market is flooded with scopes for .308 from different brands. In this post, we are going to take you through the best scopes for 308 from Leupold brand.
With over 100 years in the market, Leupold brand has a reputation that is second to none in the industry of optics. Built with premium-quality features, the scopes offer reliable performance under any situation which makes them ideal for use with this popular and versatile round.
7 Best Leupold Scopes for 308 – Our Top Picks
Leupold makes a plethora of quality and top-performing scopes, but not all are ideal for use with the 308. If you are in the hunt for the best Leupold scope for 308, here are the best models you can pick from. Let’s take a look.
1) Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope
The VX-Freedom 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope is by far the best Leupold scope for 308 available out there. It offers a wide range of premium quality features suitable for hunting and shooting in any environment.
This rifle scope provides clear as crystal image views under any lighting condition. This is thanks to the Twilight Light Management System that eliminates 80% more glare than other scopes in the same ranks. It also possesses an advanced optical system that provides the best-in-class resolution and image clarity.
Another outstanding feature about the scope is the duplex reticle that is easy to use even for the beginners. Furthermore, it features a versatile 4-12x zoom that gives you the flexibility to take shots at different ranges and with the 40mm aperture, you are assured of good quality image views at every magnification setting.
More importantly, the scope is built to last. It is built with high-end materials to offer the ultimate durability. Further, it has scratch-resistant lenses and a ruggedized aluminum housing that is not just shockproof, but also impact resistant.
Best of all, the scope is 100% waterproof, dust proof and fog resistant to offer a lifetime of reliable performance in any environment.
Features
- Duplex reticle
- Scratch resistant optics
- 100% waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- 3:1 zoom ratio
- Advanced optical system
- 1-inch main tube
- Twilight Light Management System
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight design
- The reticle is precise and easy to use
- Great value for money
- Excellent accuracy at various ranges
- Admirable low light visibility
Cons
- It is a 1-inch tube scope
2) Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Rifle Scope
The VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Rifle Scope is your ideal option for hunting with the 308. It works under nearly all hunting environments and it is ideal for pursuing game at both short and long ranges.
The scope is made ready for hunting. It features a housing that is 100% waterproof and fog proof for use in all weather conditions. It also possesses a matte finish that keeps you hidden when hunting in bright light conditions and a lightweight design so you will have an easy time carrying it in the field.
More importantly, the scope features a Twilight Max Light Management System that helps you see the targets in clear detail even in the critically low light situations. Better yet, the scope has a DiamondCoat 2 ion-assist lens coating that enhances transfer of light for bright and clear sight pictures.
When it comes to construction, this model has precision 1/4 MOA finger click adjustments and a robust aircraft grade aluminum housing that is punisher tested to perform for life. It also has a duplex reticle that is very simple to use.
Features
- 5-10x variable magnification
- Twilight Light Management System
- 100% waterproof and fog proof
- Duplex reticle
- Matte finish
- DiamondCoat 2 ion-assist lens coating
- 1/4 MOA finger click adjustments for windage and elevation
- 1-inch main tube
Pros
- Generous eye relief
- Light, compact and easy to use
- Admirable low light performance
- Durable construction
- High quality and crisp glass
Cons
- Some difficulties in adjusting the turret
- The turrets are not zero resettable
3) Leupold Mark 3HD 4-12x40mm Side Focus Riflescope
Next up is the Mark 3HD 4-12x40mm Side Focus Riflescope. Leupold built this scope to offer admirable accuracy and performance in virtually any situation.
The scope delivers elite optical performance from dawn till dusk. It employs military-grade optics that outperform and outlast every other optic in the market. Better yet, it features the legendary Leupold Elite Optical system that offers unmatched light transmission, resolution and glare reduction for superb performance in any condition.
In terms of construction, the scope has a robust housing that is shockproof and recoil resistant. The exterior lenses are scratch proof for greater protection and you can use it in temperatures ranging from -40℉ to 160℉. The scope is also fully waterproof and fog proof for use even in unfavorable weather conditions.
Features
- Leupold Elite Optical system
- Scratch resistant lenses
- TMR reticle
- Matter finish
- Fully water, fog and shockproof
- P5 dial with precise, repeatable 0.1 MIL adjustments
- HD lenses
- 30mm main tube
Pros
- Excellent craftmanship
- Comfortable eye relief
- Lightweight design
- Good clarity and tracking
Cons
- No mounting hardware included
4) Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Rifle Scope
If you are looking for the best Leupold scope for 308 for extreme long range shooting, look no further than the Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Rifle Scope. When it comes to placing shots at extended ranges, this is a no non-sense scope.
Built with a vast 5-25x magnification and a massive 56mm objective lens, the scope yields detailed and high-quality image views even at the highest magnification setting. It also comes with an easy to focus parallax adjustment mounted on the side for parallax elimination at long ranges, and a fast focus eyepiece for swift reticle focusing.
Moreover, the scope has a large 34mm body tube that provides ample room for adjustment and reticle movement. For added convenience, it has a light and compact design that makes it easy to use and carry, and a high-speed power selector for smooth magnification adjustment. It also offers an accommodating eye relief that makes it ideal for use even for the eyeglass wearers.
In addition to everything else, the scope has a ruggedized aluminum body that is fully waterproof and fog resistant for use in any weather condition.
Features
- First focal plane reticle
- Matte finish
- 34mm body tube
- Fully waterproof and fog proof
- Scratch resistant optics
- 5:1 zoom ratio
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Precision side focus
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Admirable long range accuracy
- Superb glass
- Tracks well
Cons
- Heavy on the wallet
5) Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x56mm SFP Rifle Scope
As one of the best scopes for 308, the Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x56mm harbors a plethora of premium-grade features to help you step up your game in the hunting field. It makes a perfect companion for backcountry hunting for beginners and professionals alike.
The scope features a Twilight Max HD Light Management System that yields admirably bright and crisp image views even in low light settings. It also has a Guard-Ion lens coating that keeps the exterior lenses free from dirt and moisture. This gives you a clear field of view in any environment.
Further, the scope is weatherproof and fog proof to perform under the not so ideal weather conditions. It also comes with a push-button ZeroLock system that helps prevent accidental dialing and fast focus eyepiece for simple and rapid reticle focusing.
Other noteworthy features included are a side focus, motion sensor technology and FireDot illumination of the reticle.
Features
- 30mm main tube
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Second focal plane reticle
- Motion sensor technology
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Twilight Max HD Light Management System
- FireDot illumination
- Guard-Ion lens coating
Pros
- Super clear vision
- Ultra-lightweight design
- Generous eye relief
- Solid construction
Cons
- Costly but worth the investment
6) Leupold VX 6HD 3-18x44mm SFP Rifle Scope
Another best Leupold scope for 308 on our list is the VX 6HD 3-18x44mm SFP Rifle Scope. This is an all-round rifle scope suitable for big game hunting, long range shooting and competitive target shooting.
It offers the best combination of a large field of view and rapid target acquisition. This is thanks to the broad and versatile 3-18x magnification. Better yet, it has high-quality optics that yield high-quality image views through the entire zoom range. It also comes with an ambidextrous reversible throw lever for quick magnification adjustments.
Like any other Leupold scope, the VX 6HD 3-18x44mm scope is built to be operable in any weather. It has a 30mm body tube that is fully waterproof and fog proof. Besides, it possesses a Guard-ion rain shedding optical coating which ensures that the exterior lens stay dirt and moisture-free.
The scope also brings to the table a long eye relief that allows for rapid target acquisition and a Zero Lock Windage adjustment to prevent accidental and unintended adjustment in the field.
Features
- Side focus parallax adjustment
- Guard-ion rain shedding lens coating
- 30mm body tube
- Versatile 3-18x magnification
- Ambidextrous reversible throw lever
- Twilight Max Light Management System
- Water, fog and shock proof
Pros
- Motion sensor technology
- Lightweight
- Great build quality
- Bright and clear optics
- Long eye relief
Cons
- Pricey for the budget buyer
7) Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm Rifle Scope
Lastly, we have the VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm Rifle Scope. This model delivers the legendary Leupold ruggedness and performance in an impressively tough, reliable and lightweight package.
The scopes 4.5-14x magnification is popular for timber and western hunting. To complement the versatile magnification is a Boone & Crockett reticle that is ideal for a wide range of applications. Better yet, this reticle provides accurate point of aims out to 600 yards and it is illuminated for simple and accurate aiming even in low light settings.
Another remarkable feature about the scope is the durable make. It has a durable yet lightweight aluminum body that is shockproof and recoil resistant as well. Further, the scope is rated to be fully waterproof and fog proof to be usable in rain, mist, fog, snow and any other environment.
Above all, it possesses the Leupold’s elite optical system that delivers unmatched light transfer, glare reduction and resolution for unprecedented performance in any lighting or weather condition.
Features
- Boone & Crockett illuminated reticle
- 100% waterproof and fog proof
- ZeroLock custom dial system
- Leupold’s elite optical system
- 1-inch main tube
- 5-14x magnification range
- Shockproof housing
Pros
- Comfortable eye relief
- Great performance in low light conditions
- Bright and crisp clear optics
- Incredibly lightweight and easy to use
- Holds zero very well
Cons
- The field of view could be better
Read Also
What is the Best Scope Magnification for 308?
The best scope magnification for 308 is one that complements your shooting style, particularly regarding range.
For short and medium range shooting from 150 yards to 300 yards, a scope with not more than 10x maximum magnification is sufficient. It will offer the best balance of a large field of view and quick target acquisition.
On the other hand, a scope with more than 10x magnification will be really helpful when pursuing targets that are more than 300 yards away. The higher the magnification a scope has, the greater the distance you will be able to cover.
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Leupold Scope for 308
Optical Strength
The first factor to take into account is the optical strength of the scope. If you mostly take shots at extended range, get a scope with a higher magnification. It will enlarge the small targets and bring the distant ones closer.
On the other hand, a moderate powered scope with about 9x maximum magnification would be great for hunting at medium and close quarters.
Objective Lens Diameter
A scope with a large objective lens diameter of 40mm or more is ideal for use with the 308. It will optimize light collection and yield brighter and clearer image views. A large objective also provides the much-required large field of view.
Weatherproofing
Ensure that you get a scope that is operable in all weather conditions. With such a scope, you will have the flexibility to hunt or shoot even in adverse weather conditions. The best Leupold scope for 308 should be O-ring sealed and filled with either argon or nitrogen to be fully waterproof and fog resistant
Weight
Portability is a must-have feature that the best Leupold scope for 308 should possess. Any weight below 2 pounds is a reasonable weight. You will be able to carry the scope in the field comfortably and it won’t get in your way of shooting or movement. Besides, will be able to scatter heavy recoil in a more effective manner than a bulky one.
Parallax
Make sure that you get a scope whose parallax is adjustable. With parallax elimination, you are guaranteed of greater shooting accuracy at long ranges. Majority of the Leupold scopes have a side focus parallax adjustment that is easily accessible from any side in any shooting position.
Body Tube
The other essential factor to consider is the size of the body tube. Majority of the traditional Leupold scopes have a 1-inch body tube. However, the best Leupold scope for 308 is one with a larger 30mm or 34mm body tube. Such a scope will offer more room for reticle movement and adjustments compared with the 1-inch tube scope.
Eye Relief
Lastly, remember to check the amount of eye relief the scope presents. Around 3.5 inches of eye relief is a reasonable distance. It will enhance your shooting comfort and ensure that you observe targets snugly with or without eyeglasses. A long eye relief can also help prevent eye injury when the scope recoils.
FAQs
- Should you put a scope on a 308?
Yes, you should put a scope on your 308 rifle especially when you are chasing targets at extended ranges. A quality scope will better your shooting accuracy and help you locate targets more quickly. Also, the right scope will help you push your rifle to its optimum potential.
- Is Leupold a good brand?
Absolutely. Leupold makes a multitude of optics whose quality speaks for itself. They offer outstanding low light capabilities, reliable performance under and situation and unbeatable durability as well.
Final Thoughts
We do hope that you have found this post helpful and you have now gained the insight into the best Leupold scope for 308. Knowing your preference and the activity you plan to use the scope for will help make your selection and buying process less daunting. No matter what your needs or plans are, there is a Leupold scope out there waiting for you.