If you’re in search of the perfect companion for your .308 rifle without breaking the bank, you’ve arrived at the right place. In this comprehensive guide, of the Best 308 Scope under $200, we will unveil the top-notch scopes that will bring a blend of exceptional optics, durability, and affordability to the table. Let’s delve into the exciting world of high-quality optics and discover the perfect match for your .308 rifle that won’t disappoint.
What is The Range of a 308?
The effective range of a .308 Winchester cartridge, which is a popular and versatile caliber, generally spans from around 800 to 1000 yards (730 to 915 meters) for engaging larger targets like personnel or big game.
This range accounts for a balance between accuracy, bullet drop, and ballistic performance. However, for precise and consistent hits on smaller targets, the effective range is often limited to approximately 600 to 700 yards (550 to 640 meters), and factors such as ammunition quality, firearm characteristics, and the shooter’s proficiency play significant roles in determining the actual range and effectiveness in a given situation.
Why 308 is The Best?
The .308 Winchester cartridge is often considered one of the best and most popular rifle cartridges for several reasons, including:
- Versatility
- Hunting Capabilities
- Effective range
- Ammunition Availability
- Accuracy and Ballistics
- Military and Law Enforcement Use
Also read: 6 Best FFP Scope For 308
Best 308 Scope under $200
1) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Scope is everything you could dream of and more for a scope. With its unbelievably low sales price.
With a magnification range of 3-9x, this scope provides remarkable versatility, thus making it ideal for a wide array of shooting scenarios.
It is equipped with a 40mm objective lens, thus allowing ample light transmission, ensuring a bright and sharp image even in challenging lighting conditions.
It also has lens coatings to further enhance light gathering and minimize glare, providing a clear view even during dawn or dusk.
For durability, it is constructed from rugged and high-quality materials, to withstand recoil and harsh environmental conditions, ensuring longevity and reliability.
Specifications
- Magnification: 3 – 9 x
- Tube Diameter: 1 inches
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 4.7 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 33.1 – 13.6 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 4.2 – 3.7 inches
- Length: 12.39 inches
- Weight: 12.2 oz
Pros
- Long eye relief
- Has Scratch-Resistant Lenses
- 6061-T6 Aircraft Quality Aluminum One-inch maintube
- Waterproof & Fog proof
- Has Twilight Light Management System
Cons
- None
2) Vortex Diamondback 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
On to the next, we have the Vortex Diamondback 3-9x40mm 1in Tube Second Focal Plane Rifle Scope which is a popular choice for all-around hunting.
It is engineered for versatility and precision, and it offers a magnification range of 3-9x, providing flexibility for various shooting applications.
The 40mm objective lens allows for excellent light transmission, thus resulting in a clear and bright sight picture even in low-light conditions.
In addition, it features multi-coated lenses to also enhance light-gathering capabilities and reduce glare, providing a sharp, high-contrast image throughout your entire field of view.
The scope is built with durability in mind, as it is constructed from a single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube that’s shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof.
Specifications
- Magnification: 3 – 9 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 4.4 – 13.3 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 14.8 – 44.6 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 3.3 – 3.5 inches
- Weight: 14.5 oz
- Length: 11.6 inches
Pros
- Has a Second Focal Plane Reticle
- Fully Multi-Coated
- Precision-Force Spring System
- Precision-Glide Erector System
- Capped Reset Turrets
- Waterproof
- Fog proof
- Shockproof
Cons
- None
3) Primary Arms 4-14 x 44mm Rifle Scope
The Primary Arms ACSS 4-14x44mm FFP Rifle Scope is uniquely designed to boost your accuracy while shooting your favorite rifle at budget budget-friendly price.
Features first focal plane (FFP) reticle. Meaning the reticle scales with the magnification, ensuring that the subtensions remain accurate and proportional at any zoom level.
The scope has an illuminated reticle, enhancing visibility in low-light situations and making it easier to acquire targets.
It is also built to withstand the rigors of field use, the scope is also shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant, thus ensuring reliable performance in adverse environments.
Specifications
- Magnification: 4 – 14 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 44 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
Pros
- Has a first focal plane reticle
- It is durable
- It is illuminated
- Waterproof
- Fog resistant
- Shockproof
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- None
4) Primary Arms SLx Series 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
Lastly, into our budget-friendly scope for 308, we have the Primary Arms SLx Series 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope, it is built with a reputation for innovation, reliability, and value.
The scope has a second focal plane which is proven to perform well and is trusted by thousands of shooters to deliver consistent performance.
This scope offers a magnification range from 1x for quick target acquisition at close ranges to 6x for accurate shots at medium distances.
It also features a 4mm objective lens which allows for impressive light transmission, resulting in a clear and bright sight picture.
The fully multi-coated lenses also ensure enhanced clarity, contrast, and color fidelity, providing an exceptional viewing experience even in challenging lighting conditions.
Specifications
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 9 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 110 – 19.3 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 3.3 – 3.5 inches
- Weight: 16.9 oz
- Length: 10.7 inches
Pros
- Has Second Focal Plane ACSS Predator reticle designed for hunting
- Has Red and Green illumination with 5 settings each
- Has Fully multicoated lenses
- Hard coat anodized matte finish
- Lifetime warranty
- It includes Butler Creek flip-up lens covers
Cons
- None
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Factors To Consider When Choosing The Best Best 308 Scope under $200
When looking for the best .308 scope under $200, there are several important factors that you should consider to ensure you make an informed decision and get the most value for your budget. They include:
- Optical Quality:
In a scope, clarity, brightness, and resolution of the optics are paramount. Always look for fully multi-coated lenses that provide superior light transmission and reduced glare for a clear and sharp image.
- Magnification Range:
First, consider your shooting needs and the ranges at which you will engage targets. A versatile magnification range like 3-9x or 4-12x is often suitable for a .308 rifle, this is because it offers a balance between short and long-range capabilities.
- Durability and Build Quality:
Go for scopes that are constructed from durable materials like aircraft-grade aluminum to ensure resistance to recoil, shock, and harsh weather conditions. Additionally, consider features like fog-proof and waterproof.
- Tube Diameter:
In a good scope common tube diameters are 1 inch or 30mm. A larger tube allows for more windage and elevation adjustments and potentially better light transmission, although it might cost slightly more.
- Eye Relief and Eye Box:
Eye relief is the distance from the eyepiece to your eye, ensure the scope is adequate for comfortable shooting and a forgiving eye box, allowing quick target acquisition even with minor head movements.
- Weight and Size:
Consider the weight and dimensions of the scope, as a lightweight and compact scope is generally easier to handle and mount on your rifle.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are scopes under $200 durable and reliable?
Yes, there are many scopes under $200 that are constructed with durable materials such as aircraft-grade aluminum and are shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant for reliable performance in various conditions.
- Can I get a first focal plane (FFP) reticle in this price range?
Of course, there are scopes like Primary Arms 4-14 x 44mm Rifle Scope for example.
- Are there scopes with illuminated reticles in this price range?
Some scopes under $200 feature illuminated reticles, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions and providing quicker target acquisition. Some include Primary Arms SLx Series 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
Final Thoughts
In the world of firearms and optics, finding the perfect balance between quality and affordability can be a challenge. But as you’ve journeyed through this guide on the best .308 scope under $200, we hope you’ve discovered that excellence doesn’t have to come at a premium price.
All these scopes are budget-friendly, but they are anything but ordinary. They have precision engineering, durable construction, and optics that deliver clarity and brightness, they are your gateway to enhanced accuracy and shooting satisfaction.
So, why wait? Your ideal .308 scope under $200 awaits. Join the ranks of satisfied shooters who have found their perfect match, and take your shooting game to the next level.
Also Check Out
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