If you are a gun enthusiast, you know the best Vortex scope for 308 AR is a valuable gadget that delivers unsurpassed accuracy. Today’s post delves into the best Vortex scopes for .308 AR. The review comprehensively explains the key features and attributes that make the scopes stand out. With them, you are assured an unforgettable shooting experience with your rifle.
The .308 AR is a semi-automatic, gas-operated rifle that is hyper-powerful, versatile, and effective; no wonder it is ideal for varying applications such as long-range precision shooting, hunting, and tactical operations. It has more stopping power and a longer effective range than the AR-15, further cementing it as a perfect rifle for large game hunters and precision shooting.
Best Vortex Scope For 308 AR
Let’s find out the finest Vortex scopes that will unlock new levels of accuracy when using the .308 AR:
1) Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm Riflescope
The Strike Eagle brags of unparalleled edge-to-edge sharpness that meets the first focal plane illuminated reticle for excellent performance at all magnifications and lighting conditions.
The illumination knob goes all the way up to 11 settings to suit various lighting environments. The extra-low dispersion glass with full multi-coating further cements the scope as a top performer regardless of the lighting.
The lenses maximize light transmission for optimal clarity and brightness, while the XD elements enhance resolution and color accuracy.
The lenses are treated with Armortek coating to counter oil, scratches, and residue for primeval functioning.
A throw is incorporated in the engineering of the scope to facilitate seamless magnification transitions on the fly. An adjustment knob found on the left side of the turret housing is easy to access and handles the comfort of the shooter. The adjustment takes care of parallax and offers maximum image focus.
Additionally, O-ring seals and nitrogen purging ensure the waterproof and fogproof integrity of the scope. You can have confidence that it will not waver when the weather decides to take a toll on you.
Further, it is tailored from aircraft-grade aluminum, which is most favored for scope construction. The scope will last many years, giving you worth for your hard-earned money.
Features
- A throw lever for instant power adjustments
- Extra-low dispersion glass couples with the full multi-coating to deliver phenomenal image quality
- Scratch-resistant Armortek coating on the lenses
- O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged
- 34mm tube diameter
- Flexible 5-25x power
- 56mm objective lens diameter
- Fast focus eyepiece increases target acquisition speed
Pros
- Locking mechanism prevents inadvertent adjustments
- Patented design provides a hard return to zero and makes setting easy
- Incredible eye relief
- The reticle has an intelligent design
Cons
- The parallax adjustment knob is stiff
- Optical performance suffers at maximum magnification
2) Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40mm Riflescope
Cast from high-strength aircraft-grade aluminum with O-ring seals, Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40mm riflescope has plenty of features to behold at its price.
With its fully multi-coated lenses, the riflescope is suitable for hunting or tactical operations no matter the time of day. It promises amazingly bright and sharp images from sunrise to sunset.
The 3-9x magnification is ideal for close to medium-range engagements. It has capped reset turrets that reset to zero easily and quickly for highly repeatable shots.
It ticks all the boxes for durability. Besides having rigid housing, the scope suffices in all weather thanks to its multi-proof technology. Rain or fog will not hinder the pursuit of your trophy.
While the scope functions smoothly in rainy conditions, it also does a great job on sunny days. The manufacturer understands that too much sun can cause discomfort. That’s why a sunshade is included for a comfortable looking through the scope.
Also, the hard coat anodized finishing minimizes glare and fights off abrasion and rust for top-notch performance of the shooting instrument.
Features
- Fast-focus eyepiece for reticle focus
- Eye relief of 3.8 to 4.4 inches
- Adjustable objective
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Single-piece tube fashioned from aircraft-grade aluminum
- The exterior is anodized
- Capped reset turrets
- Variable 3-9x zoom
- 40mm objective lens
Pros
- Forgiving eyebox
- Well-marked turrets
- Pretty crisp and clear
Cons
- No rings are included
3) Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50mm Riflescope
As another candidate for the best Vortex scopes for .308 AR, the Diamondback 6-24x50mm is an incredibly built device with an agenda of making your shooting mission successful and memorable.
First off, the riflescope has a reticle etched between two layers of glass for maximum durability and repeatability. It is a second focal plane and thus stays true to the magnification.
Another facet that contributes to the durability of the unit is a solid aircraft-grade aluminum structure for high strength and rigidity. The outer of the scope is hard anodized for glare and abrasion control.
If you love to hunt in adverse weather, this is the scope for you. O-ring seals and dry nitrogen gas purging prevent moisture, dirt, and debris penetration for a fog-free performance throughout your trip.
Furthermore, the fast focus on the eyepiece hastens target acquisition, while a magnification rib supports effortless zoom adjustments in a matter of seconds.
The erector spring system has premium components for optimal repeatability and ease of adjustment. All the zoom lens mechanism components function smoothly across all power ranges thanks to the precision glide erector system.
Features
- Proprietary coatings on the lenses boost light transmission
- Turrets have a zero-reset function
- Fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Hard anodized exterior
- Fast-focusing mechanism
- Magnification rib for swift power changes
- 30mm tube
- XD elements on the lens
- Glass-etched reticle with a first focal plane function
Pros
- It works quite well in weak light
- The turrets are well-designed to function smoothly
- Rugged build quality
- Easy to use
Cons
- The magnification rib could benefit from a throw lever
- Heavy
4) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm Riflescope
When you mount the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm Riflescope on your .308 AR, you are signing up for far-fetched tactical edge in the field. The magnificent 5-25x magnification makes wading through extended distances a breeze.
The power is complemented by the 50mm focal lens that handles light transfer pretty well. The lens is fully covered with XR coating, allowing plenty of light to enter the scope. As a result, you will see brighter and clearer views even when viewing at long distances.
The reticle glows and is designed with ten brightness settings with an off position between each setting for customizing your sighting experience at the range.
The next highlight is the Rapid Zero Return with rugged steel components to prevent the turret from dialing below sight in range. The precision force spring system optimizes repeatability and ease of adjustment.
The radius bar also included in the design offers a highly visible and tactile reference point for turret rotations.
Since hunting and shooting environments are always unfriendly, the scope is built for anything and everything. It is argon purged and O-ring sealed for faultless performance in all weather conditions.
The entire body is built from aircraft-grade aluminum and is hard anodized on the outside for shockproofing, corrosion resistance, and resilience. The reticle is glass etched for durability and reliability.
Features
- Exposed turrets for accurate adjustments
- Armortek coated lenses for scratch, and dirt protection
- 30mm tube diameter
- XR full multi-coating
- A first focal plane reticle is etched on the glass
- Fast-focus eyepiece for easy reticle focusing when it matters most
- Illuminated reticle with ten intensity settings
Pros
- Accurate tracking
- The zoom adjustment is fine and smooth
- Incredible precision when shooting at long ranges
- The class is super clear
Cons
- Weighty
5) Vortex Viper HS LR 4-16x50mm Riflescope
You can never go wrong with the Vortex Viper HS LR 4-16x50mm riflescope. Calibrated to revolutionize your .308 AR shooting experience, the Viper is equipped with a Dead-Hold BDC reticle with a customized hashmark design that takes care of guesswork on holdover and windage corrections. The reticle excels in shooting or hunting at ranges where estimating holdover makes you scratch your head.
The 4x zoom range provides versatility, while the fast-focusing design on the eyepiece helps you get on target easily and quickly as shooting opportunities can be measured in seconds.
It boasts an exposed tall elevation turret with a CRS Zero stop that provides a solid return to zero after sighting in. The side focus adjustment takes care of parallax issues so that pinpoint accuracy is yours all through your shooting session.
Moreover, the 30mm aluminum tube is fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for relentless performance. The XR full multi-coating on the lenses optimizes light gathering for incredible image quality without distortion or color infidelity.
The unit will not be a victim of scratches or rust as the hard anodized exterior makes resistance to these impurities a clean affair.
Features
- XR fully multi-coated optics
- Eyepiece has a fast focus
- Precision force spring system for maximum repeatability
- Tactical elevation turret
- The lenses are protected by Armortek coating
- Hard anodized construction
- 30mm tube diameter
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- 50mm objective lens
Pros
- Excellent knobs
- Attractive finish
- The glass is commendable
- The turrets produce great clicks
Cons
- Heavy
- You can easily lose the target at full magnification if you don’t stay still
6) Vortex Diamondback 3-9x40mm Riflescope
The next best recommendation is Vortex Diamondback 3-9x40mm riflescope. Its optics have a multi-layer that boosts light collection for stunning image quality regardless of the shooting or hunting time.
The pop-up dials provide easy, precise windage and elevation adjustments with audible, easy-to-count clicks. A fast-focusing design makes it easy to focus the reticle and lock on the target.
In addition, this device is solidly built to withstand the rigors of shooting and hunting as well as weather adversaries. The aircraft-grade aluminum tube is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for unmatched performance.
The turrets are capped for protection against harsh elements and have a zero-reset. A precision force spring system and a precision erector glide erector system are other parameters included in the scope. They ensure maximum repeatability and smooth power transitions, respectively.
Features
- Single-piece tube made from quality aluminum
- Handles fog and moisture well
- Capped reset turrets
- Hard anodized construction
- The lens system is fully multi-coated
- 3 to 3.5 inches of eye relief
- Pop-up dials for precision when making windage and elevation adjustments
- MAG-View fiber optic
Pros
- Great value for money
- Holding zero is an easy feat
- Top-tier brightness and clarity
Cons
- Mushy turrets
7) Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40mm Riflescope
Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40mm Riflescope is hyper-durable and doesn’t decimate your savings. It is proof that a good riflescope doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg.
The one-piece tube is cast from aircraft-grade aluminum that withstands recoil and abuse. Argon gas purging renders the scope waterproof and fogproof for dependability in all weather.
The scope harbors all the power you need for medium and long-range shooting. It has a versatile 4-12x magnification that gives you an easy time when making a kill.
Another facet of the unit is the pop-up dials that deliver easy and precise adjustments for windage and elevation, producing audible clicks that are easy and quick to count.
This price-conscious riflescope is designed with a second focal plane Dead-Hold BDC reticle, that is popular for hunting. A fast-focusing mechanism makes the reticle focus a walk in the park, increasing the target acquisition speed.
Besides, the lenses are fully multi-coated for maximum light transmission resulting in brighter, clearer, and sharper images. This is so from evening to morning, even when lighting is not conducive.
Features
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- A fast-focus eyepiece
- Versatile 4-12x magnification
- 40mm focal lens
- Lenses are fully multi-coated
- 1 to 3.4 inches of eye relief
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- Hard anodized construction
Pros
- Includes a compatible sunshade
- Crisp clicks
- Good glass
- Holds zero well
Cons
- Short eye relief
8) Vortex Viper HST 6-24x50mm Riflescope
Vortex Viper HST 6-24x50mm riflescope finishes off our list of the best Vortex scopes for .308 AR. It is calibrated with a 30mm tube that provides plenty of room for windage and elevation travel.
The turrets are sturdy and repeatable and are made specifically for dialing and a hash-mark-based reticle to heighten precision when shooting at long ranges.
The scope doesn’t compromise when it comes to durability and longevity. It is machined from robust aluminum to endure whatever conditions your shooting or hunting mission throws at you.
A hard anodized finish prevents corrosion, while the matte color camouflages the shooting position so as not to scare away targets.
The precision glide erector system facilitates seamless magnification changes in the heat of action. On the other hand, the precision force spring system ensures maximum repeatability even after making adjustments.
XR fully multi-coated lenses, coupled with the extra-low dispersion glass deliver the best images ever viewed on an optic. The views are always brighter, clearer, and sharper, with maximum resolution and color fidelity.
Features
- Armortek treated lenses
- 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- XR full multi-coating
- Precision glide erector system
- Precision force spring system
- CRS Zero Stop
- Side focus parallax adjustment
- Target-style turrets with an exposed design
Pros
- Exceptional optics
- Accurate clicks with smooth mechanics
- Long-lasting build
Cons
- Pricey
See Also
Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Vortex Scope For 308 AR
Magnification
The first thing to look at when shopping for the best Vortex scopes for .308 AR is magnification. Go for a variable option rather than fixed power. Also, keep in mind that the ideal magnification varies depending on the distance. If shooting at close distances, a scope with magnification below 5x is enough. For medium-range engagements, look for a unit with up to 9x. When the kill zone entails covering long ranges, a scope of 12x to 18x will do the job.
Build Quality
The .308 AR has significant recoil. Because of this, ensure the scope you’re eyeing has recoil capabilities. The chassis should be cast from aircraft-grade aluminum for impact resistance and longevity. In addition, it should be purged with gas and sealed with O-ring seals for waterproof and fogproof integrity.
Vortex scopes remain intact even when faced with rugged conditions and deliver unwavering performance.
Optical Quality
You should also look at the optical quality when buying a .308 AR scope. Quality glass results in stunning images at all power levels and lighting scenarios. Ensure the lens system is fully multi-coated for maximum light gathering for maximum brightness and clarity.
Eye Relief
This is essential for the comfort and eye safety of the user. Your scope should have at least 3.5 inches of eye relief to prevent eye damage when you shoot your .308 AR.
Focal Plane
This can either be on the first or second focal plane. The size of an FFP reticle appears to change as the power varies while the FFP remains static even with magnification adjustments. First focal plane is popular among long-range shooters, while the second focal plane is suitable for all magnification levels, which is beneficial for hunting.
See Also
FAQs
Who makes the best AR rifle scopes?
Choosing the best AR rifle scope greatly depends on your requirements, tastes, and budget. Several brands, however, stand out because being around for a very long time, they have developed the skills to create reliable scopes with good performance. We are talking about brands like Vortex, Leupold, and Nightforce.
Conclusion
The scopes from Vortex elucidated above will cater to your various needs when using the 308 AR and will be an indispensable addition to your collection. Remember that the best scope boils down to budget, shooting application, and intended use, so choose accordingly.
See Also