Among hunters and long-distance shooters, the .308 Winchester is a popular caliber, selecting the best FFP scope for 308 will be a wise idea because it improves your accuracy and precision. However, this article will take you through our best picks and factors you should consider before investing in one.
What Is An FFP Scope?
A first focal plane (FFP) is a rifle scope in the reticle that appears to change as magnification is adjusted. The reticle is located at the front of the erector lens assembly. These characteristics make it very useful for hunters and shooters. It increases the chances of more accuracy and precision.
Is The .308 Popular?
Yes, the .308 Winchester is a very popular cartridge among hunters, target shooters, and military and law enforcement personnel. It was introduced in 1952. It is versatile, accurate, and manageable recoil. Known as a powerful cartridge in medium and long distant shooters.
What is The Range of a 308 Rifle?
The .308 Winchester cartridge is capable of effective shooting at ranges out to 800 to 1,000 yards for precision shooting, and it’s commonly used for hunting within ranges of 300 to 500 yards.
Best FFP Scope For 308
1) Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm Rifle Scope
Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm Rifle Scope is a rifle scope that is engineered for optimal performance in long-range shooting.
This scope is the first focal plane where the reticle appears to change as the magnification is adjusted. Having a 34mm tube diameter increases light transmission and adjustment range for clear images.
The Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm Shockproof Rifle Scope includes an Apochromatic objective lens system that uses index-matched lenses to correct color across the entire visual spectrum.
Features
- Magnification: 4.5 – 27 x
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 2.07 – 12.4 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.7 inches
- Length: 14.4 inches
- Width: 16.5 inches
- Weight: 48.5 oz
- Height: 2.55 in
Pros
- It is the first focal plane
- Made with durable construction
- It is fully multi-coated
- It allows for intricate reticle design
- Has an illuminated Reticle which provides precise aiming under low-light conditions
- The low-glare matte surface helps camouflage the shooter’s position.
- It is scratch-resistant
- Has a zero stop which prevents the elevation turret from dialing below sight-in range using rugged steel components.
Cons
- Expensive
2) Leupold Mark 6 3-18x44mm First Focal Rifle Scope
On to the next is the Leupold Mark 6 3-18x44mm First Focal Rifle Scope. It is a decent high-end rifle scope that is well-suited for hunters and shooters who want to make a perfect shot.
The scope is an excellent choice for tactical shooting. It features a magnification range of 3-18x with a 44mm objective lens diameter which is perfect for quick target acquisition.
The Xtended Twilight Lens System is one of the key features that make it stand out. This system provides high-light transmission, clarity, and contrast even in low-light conditions, allowing for excellent visibility in all lighting situations.
For the construction, it is made from durable Aluminium with argon/krypton gas purging and proprietary sealing that make the scope waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
In addition, has a zero-stop elevation dial, which allows you to quickly return to your zero setting after making adjustments.
Features
- Magnification: 3 – 18 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 44 mm
- Tube Diameter: 34 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP
- Exit Pupil: 2.4 – 14.6 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.8 – 3.9 inches
- Weight: 23.6 oz
Pros
- Scratch-Resistant Lenses
- Has an ultra-lightweight Design
- Has side focus
- Waterproof & Fog proof
- Durable constructions
- It is the first focal plane
Cons
- None
3) Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 Rifle Scope
The Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 Rifle Scope is a top-of-the-line optic that is designed to offer unparalleled performance for tactical and hunting applications. It is built for lifetime durability and can withstand any environment at hand.
One of the features that make it stand out as the best FFP scope for 308, is its illuminated reticles. In any light condition, the reticle is designed to provide rapid target acquisition.
For eye relief, Trijicon VCOG 1-6×24 Rifle Scope offers a quite generous one. 4 inches of eye relief makes it comfortable to use even when wearing bulky protective gear.
However, with a 24mm objective lens, there is a wide view of the target. Not to forget the scope is fully multicoated providing clear and bright images even in low-light conditions.
Features
- Magnification: 1 – 6 x
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 3.81 – 10.41 mm
- Eye Relief: 4 inches
- Width: 2.51 inches
- Height: 2.73 inches
- Weight: 23.2 oz
- Field of View, Linear: 15.9 – 95 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- Has a multi-coated lens for clarity
- Has brilliantly illuminated reticle
- Allows the user to easily adjust windage and elevation.
- Give quick and accurate estimate range
- Made from forged 7075-T6 aircraft-aluminum-alloy housing
Cons
- It is a pricy optic but worth the purchase
4) Primary Arms 4-14 x 44mm Rifle Scope
For the best FFP scope for 308, the next pick is the Primary Arms 4-14 x 44mm Rifle Scope. It is constructed with a durable 30mm aircraft-grade aluminum tube that is both shockproof and waterproof.
The Primary Arms SLx 4-14x44mm Rifle Scope is a high-quality scope with a magnification range of 4-14x, which is suitable for long-distance shooting.
It has a 44mm objective lens that provides a clear and bright image even in low-light conditions. The reticle is also illuminated Mil-Dot reticle, which provides a clear aiming point for long-range shooting.
Features
- Magnification: 4 – 14
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 3.3 – 11.2 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.14 – 3.22 inches
- Weight: 24 oz
- Length: 13 inches
- Field of View, Linear: 7.85 – 27.2 ft at 100 yds
- Objective Lens Diameter: 44 mm
Pros
- First Focal Plane
- It is simple to figure out, and quite reliable.
- Waterproof
- Shockproof
- Fog proof
- Has Finger adjustable turrets
- Has illuminated reticles
- Durable
- Friendly price
Cons
- Has only a 3-year warranty
5) EOTech Vudu 3.5-18x50mm Precision Rifle Scope
EOTech Vudu 3.5-18x50mm Precision Rifle Scope marks our next pick. It is a top-of-the-line scope designed for precision shooting. The 3.5-18 x magnification makes it versatile for mid-range and long-range shooting.
The 50mm objective lens, provides a clear image in low light conditions. Also, has an illuminated reticle that can be adjusted to 11 different brightness settings, ensuring clear visibility too.
EOTech Vudu 3.5-18x50mm Precision Rifle Scope is constructed with a durable 34mm tube made of aircraft-grade aluminum, with shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof features making it fit in any environment.
Features
- Magnification: 3.5 – 18 x
- Exit Pupil: 2.8 – 11.2 mm
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
- Eye Relief: 86 – 100 mm
- Height: 3 inches
- Field of View, Linear: 5.7 – 29.5 ft at 100 yds
- Tube Diameter: 34 mm
Pros
- It is a heavy-duty optic
- Durable and reliable
- Has illuminated reticle
- Has an EZ Chek stop zero feature
- Wok well at any time of the day
- It is waterproof
- Perfect for long-distance shooting
- Versatile
Cons
- It is not lightweight as most scopes
6) Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 Riflescopes
Last but not least we have the Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescopes. Being a first focal plane gives it the advantage of being accurate even in long-distance shooting
To make that perfect shot, this scope is a perfect fit. Has a 6-24x magnification range which is fit for either long-distance or mid-range shooting.
The scope is constructed with a durable 30mm aircraft-grade aluminum tube that is both shockproof and waterproof. It is also fogproof thanks to its nitrogen-purged body, ensuring a clear view even in humid conditions.
Its illuminated reticle provides greater visibility during dusk and dawn and other low ambient light environments.
Features
- Weight 30.3 oz
- Magnification 6-24x
- Eye Relief 3.3”
- Field of View 16.7-4.5ft at 100 yards
- Exit Pupil: 8.2 – 2.1 mm
- Length: 14.1 inches
- Weight: 30.3 oz
Pros
- Has a Precision Zero Stop System
- Great build quality
- Has Illuminated reticle has 11 brightness settings
- Accurate long-range scope
- Fully multi-coated
- Has extra protection on the exterior lenses to prevent the scope from enduring dirt, oil, and potential scratches.
- Durable and lightweight
Cons
- Short eye relief
Factors To Consider When Choosing The Best FFP Scope For 308
When choosing the best FFP scope for 308, there are a few key factors that you should take into consideration.
- Objective lens size- The size of the objective lens that a scope has determines the amount of light entering the scope, therefore is wise to choose those with a large objective lens since more light more a bright image.
- Magnification- The magnification of the scope is an important consideration because it will determine how close you can get to your target.
- Use Case- It is important to lay out the uses of the scope you want to purchase. Therefore if you plan to use it for long-range shooting, you may want a higher magnification range and a reticle with hash marks for holdovers.
- Adjustments- A good scope should have easy-to-use adjustments for windage and elevation to help you in target accuracy.
- Durability – A scope that is durable and can withstand the recoil of a .308 rifle is important, and this is one with good construction.
- Brand- To get a good scope, look for well-trusted brands in the market. The one that has a good reputation for being durably affordable and worth the hype.
FAQS
- What is the hunting range of 308?
The “308” is a common reference to the .308 Winchester cartridge, which is a popular centerfire rifle cartridge used for hunting and target shooting. Though the hunting range depends on several factors like shooters’ accuracy and velocity, the general range is up to 300-400 yards.
- Is .308 too big for hunting?
The 308 is popular among hunters in medium and long-range shooters. It is very effective in hunting animals like deer and bears.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the best FFP scope for a .308 rifle can be a daunting task. But with the correct knowledge, it will be easier. In this article, we aim to make your hunt for the best scope feel like bliss and get the best scope you are looking for, with more understanding of the features and important things to consider. With our top picks highlighted above we hope you get your perfect match!