In this article, we will be discussing the best LPVO for 308. The .308 caliber cartridge is popular, especially for hunting, and a high-quality, low-power variable optic (LPVO) can greatly enhance its versatility and effectiveness. The right scope should handle recoil, stay crystal-clear in low light, and track accurately every time you dial in.
In this guide, we break down the LPVOs that truly pair well with the .308, highlighting real-world performance, durability, glass quality, and value so you can choose with confidence.
Best LPVO for 308 -Reviews
1) Trijicon VCOG VC18 1-8x28mm Rifle Scope
The Trijicon VCOG VC18 1-8x28mm is a tough, reliable, low-power variable optic built for hard use. Made from forged aircraft-grade 7075-T6 aluminum, it’s designed to take serious punishment and still hold zero.
The 1-8x magnification gives true 1x for fast, both-eyes-open shooting up close and enough zoom for precise shots at longer ranges. The first focal plane reticle (red MRAD segmented circle crosshair dot) stays accurate at any power, scaling perfectly for holdovers. The glass is clear and bright with excellent color and light transmission. The illuminated reticle is daylight-bright and powered by a single AA battery that lasts up to 633 hours on medium settings.
It comes with an integrated thumbscrew mount for quick, secure attachment to a Picatinny rail. At about 31.5 ounces, it’s on the heavier side, but that weight comes from its bombproof construction.
Pros
- Extremely durable (forged aluminum, MIL-STD tested)
- True 1x with excellent eyebox and eye relief
- Daylight-bright FFP illuminated reticle
- Long AA battery life (up to 633 hours)
- Integrated mount for secure, quick setup
Cons
- Heavy (about 31.5 oz with mount)
- High premium price
2) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope is the best LPVO for 308, it is a high-quality riflescope designed for tactical and hunting applications. It is constructed with a durable, shockproof, and waterproof aircraft-grade aluminum body and features a 30mm tube that allows for a greater range of adjustment than smaller tubes.
The scope has a second focal plane reticle, which means that the reticle’s size remains constant as the magnification is adjusted. This is particularly useful for quick target acquisition at lower magnifications while allowing for precise aiming at higher magnifications.
The Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm scope has a magnification range of 1x to 8x, making it versatile enough to handle close-range engagements and longer-range shots. The reticle has 11 brightness settings, making it easy to see in any lighting conditions.
Specifications
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Exit Pupil: 3 – 24 mm
- Reticle: AR-BDC3
- Field of View, Linear: 14.4 – 109 ft. at 100 yds.
- Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
- Weight: 17.6 oz.
- Adjustment Click Value: 1/2 MOA
Pros
- Durable and shockproof construction
- Illuminated Reticle for precise aiming even in low-light conditions
- Generous eye relief
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Affordable price point
- Proprietary Lens coatings for increased light transmission
- Fast Focus Eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focusing
- Multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces
Cons
- None
3) Bushnell AR Optics 1-8x24mm
The Bushnell AR Optics 1-8x24mm is a budget-friendly low-power variable optic (LPVO) that’s a solid choice for AR-15s and similar rifles. It offers true 1x magnification for quick, both-eyes-open shooting in close quarters and up to 8x for better detail at medium ranges, perfect for the 308.
The second focal plane illuminated BTR-1 reticle provides fast target acquisition with holdover points calibrated for common ammo, and the red illumination helps in low light. The glass is fully multi-coated for clear, bright views with good color fidelity, though it’s not as sharp or edge-to-edge crisp as premium options. It features a 30mm tube, capped turrets, a quick Throw Down PCL lever for fast magnification changes, 3.6 inches of eye relief, and IPX7 waterproof/fogproof construction.
At just 16.5 ounces and 10.2 inches long, it’s lightweight and compact. Users praise its value, durability, and ease of use, with reliable performance in the field.
Pros
- Affordable with strong value for performance
- True 1x with quick Throw Down PCL lever
- Illuminated BTR-1 BDC reticle for fast acquisition
- Lightweight (16.5 oz) and compact design
- Waterproof, fogproof with capped turrets
Cons
- Illumination not as bright as premium scopes
- Glass clarity is good but not elite-level sharpness
4) Arken Optics EP8 1-8×28
The Arken Optics EP8 1-8×28 is a strong, budget-friendly first focal plane (FFP) low-power variable optic (LPVO) that’s great for AR-15s, tactical rifles, or competition shooting. The 34mm tube holds premium Japanese glass with multi-coated lenses for bright, clear views and solid low-light performance. The illuminated KL Box reticle is a unique BDC-style design with L-shaped brackets for easy ranging and holdovers. It takes a little getting used to, but very practical once you know it. Illumination has 9 brightness levels plus night vision settings (powered by a CR2032 battery).
It comes with a removable throw lever for fast magnification changes, capped turrets (1/4 MOA clicks), generous 3.74-inch eye relief, and a wide field of view. At only 21 ounces, it’s lightweight and well-balanced, with waterproof/fogproof construction and aircraft-grade aluminum build.
Shooters praise the crisp glass, precise turrets, forgiving eyebox, and excellent value, often comparing it favorably to more expensive options for everyday use.
Pros
- Great value with premium Japanese glass and bright views
- True 1x FFP with unique illuminated KL Box reticle
- Lightweight (21 oz) and balanced 34mm tube design
- Wide field of view, removable throw lever, forgiving eyebox
- Rugged waterproof/fogproof build and reliable tracking
Cons
- Illumination not the brightest in full daylight
- Reticle takes time to master (unique BDC layout)
5) Primary Arms SLx Series 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
The Primary Arms SLx Series 1-6 x 24mm Rifle Scope is a high-quality scope that features a 1-6x magnification range, making it ideal for various shooting scenarios, from close-range engagements to medium-range target shooting.
The scope is constructed with high-quality materials and is built to withstand heavy recoil and harsh weather conditions. The body is made from aircraft-grade aluminum, which provides strength and durability while keeping the scope’s weight down.
The reticle of the SLx Series 1-6 x 24mm Rifle Scope is illuminated, making it easy to see in low-light conditions. The reticle is designed with bullet drop compensation markings, which help the shooter compensate for bullet drop at longer ranges.
The scope also features a fast-focus eyepiece, which allows the shooter to quickly and easily adjust the focus of the reticle to their eye. The turrets are designed to be easily adjusted and provide audible and tactile feedback when adjustments are made.
Specifications
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- 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.
- Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA
Pros
- Versatile for close-range and medium-range shooting scenarios
- Red illumination with 11 brightness settings
- High-quality materials help to withstand heavy recoil and harsh weather conditions
- Hardcoat anodized matte finish
- Fully multicoated lenses for increased light transmission
Cons
- No low/night vision setting
6) Swampfox Tomahawk 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope
The Swampfox Tomahawk 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope is a high-quality, versatile optic designed for various shooting applications. It features a 1-8x magnification range and a 24mm objective lens, making it well-suited for close-range and long-range shooting.
The scope is built from high-quality materials and is rugged and durable, able to withstand the toughest conditions. It features fully multi-coated lenses that provide bright, clear images and excellent low-light performance. The illuminated reticle is designed for fast target acquisition, with a simple and intuitive design that allows for quick and easy adjustments.
The Tomahawk also features a low-profile, lightweight design, making it easy to mount on your rifle without adding too much weight or bulk. The scope is compatible with most standard mounts and rings and features a 30mm tube.
Specifications
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Exit Pupil: 3 – 8.5 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 15.6 – 124.2 ft. at 100 yds.
- Eye Relief: 4.75 inches
- Weight: 19 oz.
- Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA
Pros
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Tactical Turrets with Zero Reset
- Illuminated reticle designed for fast target acquisition
- Rugged and durable construction
- Fast Focus Diopter
- Lightweight and low-profile design
- 1,100 G Forces Impact Resistance
Cons
- None
7) SIG SAUER Tango-MSR FFP 1-10x26mm Rifle Scope
The SIG SAUER Tango-MSR FFP 1-10x26mm Rifle Scope is a high-quality scope that features a first focal plane reticle illuminated to enhance visibility in low-light conditions.
The scope has a 1-10x magnification range, making it versatile for close-quarters combat or long-range shooting. The objective lens is 26mm in diameter, providing a wide field of view and allowing for fast target acquisition. The lens is coated with SpectraCoat, which improves light transmission and reduces glare.
The scope is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, which is lightweight and durable. It is also waterproof and fog proof, allowing for use in various weather conditions. The scope comes with a quick-detach mount, making it easy to install and remove from a rifle.
Specifications
- Tube Diameter: 34 mm
- Exit Pupil: 2.6 – 7.6 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 12 – 120 ft. at 100 yds.
- Eye Relief: 82.5 – 87.5 mm
- Weight: 21.9 oz.
- Adjustment Click Value: 0.5 MOA
Pros
- Illuminated MSR BDC-10 reticle
- 11x brightness levels
- Hardcoat Anodized finish
- Waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof performance
- Lightweight and durable
- Quick-detach mount allows easy installation and removal
- Quick magnification changes
Cons
- None
8) Vortex Razor Gen II-E 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Razor Gen II-E 1-6x24mm Scope is a high-performance optical sighting device designed for use on various rifles. This scope is designed to offer quick and easy target acquisition at short to medium ranges, with a 24mm objective lens and a 30mm main tube.
The scope features a second focal plane reticle that maintains the same size relative to the target regardless of magnification, making it easier to acquire targets quickly. Its magnification range of 1-6x allows rapid target acquisition at close ranges and precision shots at longer distances.
The scope is built to withstand harsh environments and heavy use, with a rugged one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum housing that is shockproof and waterproof. It is argon-purged and O-ring sealed to prevent internal fogging and moisture damage.
Specifications
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 24 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 115.2 – 20.5 ft. at 100 yds.
- Eye Relief: 4 inches
- Weight: 21.5 oz.
- Parallax: 100 yds.
Pros
- High-quality optics with fully multi-coated lenses
- Rugged one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum housing
- Waterproof,fogproof, and shockproof
- Fast-Focus Eyepiece
- Locking Side Illumination
- Illuminated Center Dot
- Optically Indexed Lenses
Cons
- Quite expensive
9) Swampfox Arrowhead LPVO 1-10x24mm Rifle Scope
The Swampfox Arrowhead LPVO is a rifle scope designed for versatility and accuracy. The LPVO has a magnification range of 1-10x, making it suitable for short- and long-range shooting.
The 24mm objective lens provides a wide field of view and is fully multi-coated to enhance image clarity and brightness. At the same time, the first focal plane reticle allows for quick and easy target acquisition, regardless of the magnification setting.
The reticle has eleven brightness settings, making it easy to see in any lighting conditions.
The scope is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum and is waterproof and fog proof. It has resettable zero turrets, allowing easy windage and elevation settings to be adjusted easily.
The scope has a 30mm tube diameter and is compatible with various mounts.
Specifications
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Exit Pupil: 2.3 – 8 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 11.5 – 115.6 ft. at 100 yds.
- Eye Relief: 3.46 – 3.54 inches
- Weight: 20.3 oz.
- Parallax: 100 yds.
Pros
- Wide field of view
- Illuminated reticle with 12 brightness settings
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Fast Focus Diopter
- Fully Multi-Coated optics
Cons
- None
See Also
- Best LPVO for CQB
- 7 Best LPVO Scopes for AR15
- 6 Best Budget LPVO Scopes
- 11 Best FFP LPVO Scopes
- 7 Best Vortex LPVO Scopes
- 7 Best LPVO for Ar10
Factors to Consider when Buying the Best LPVO for 308
Magnification
LPVOs typically have a magnification range between 1x and 8x. A .308 rifle’s magnification range of 1-6x or 1-8x is recommended. This will give you a wide field of view for close-range shots and enough magnification for longer-range shots.
Reticle
The reticle is the crosshairs in the scope. For a .308 rifle, a reticle that is easy to see and helps with bullet drop compensation is important. A reticle that is illuminated can also be helpful in low-light conditions.
Durability
Look for an LPVO that is built to withstand the recoil of a .308 rifle. Look for scopes made from high-quality materials such as aircraft-grade aluminum or magnesium and that are shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof.
Weight and Size
The weight and size of the LPVO can affect the balance and maneuverability of your rifle. Consider the weight and size of the LPVO relative to your rifle’s overall weight and length.
Eye Relief
Eye relief refers to the distance between the scope and your eye when the scope is properly mounted on your rifle. A .308 rifle has significant recoil, so it’s important to have a scope with generous eye relief to prevent getting hit in the face by the scope.
Optical clarity
The clarity of the LPVO’s glass is essential, affecting its ability to aim and shoot accurately. A good LPVO should have clear, high-quality glass that provides a sharp, bright image even in low-light conditions.
What is the 308 Good For?
Hunting
The 308 cartridge is an excellent choice for hunting medium to large game such as deer, elk, and moose. It is known for its accuracy, range, and stopping power, making it suitable for hunting in various environments.
Tactical and law enforcement
The 308 is popular for sniper and designated marksman rifles in tactical and law enforcement settings. It can be effective at long ranges and can penetrate body armor, making it a valuable tool for military and law enforcement personnel.
Competitive shooting
The 308 cartridge is also commonly used in competitive shooting events such as long-range matches and 3-gun competitions. Its accuracy and range make it a popular choice for shooters looking to excel in these events.
Military use
The 308 cartridge was originally developed as a military cartridge and has been used by various armed forces worldwide. Its versatility and effectiveness make it a reliable choice for military applications.
Recreational shooting
Finally, the 308 cartridge is also a popular choice for recreational shooting. Its accuracy, and manageable recoil make it an enjoyable round for marksmanship practice or plinking.
Best LPVO for 308 Rifles- FAQs
1) What is an LPVO?
LPVO stands for Low Power Variable Optic, which is a type of rifle scope that allows the user to quickly adjust the magnification of the scope.
2) What’s the difference between .308 Winchester and 7.62×51mm NATO?
They’re very similar in size, but .308 Winchester is typically loaded to higher pressures, while 7.62×51mm NATO usually runs slightly lower and often has thicker brass. Many modern rifles can fire both, but it’s generally safer not to use .308 in older rifles marked only for 7.62 NATO.
3) What is the effective range of the .308 Winchester?
For most shooters, the .308 is highly effective and accurate out to about 600–800 yards. For ethical big-game hunting, many people keep shots within 300–400 yards to ensure reliable accuracy and energy.
4) What magnification should I choose for an LPVO for a 308 rifle?
The magnification you choose will depend on your intended use for the rifle. For general-purpose use, a 1-6x or 1-8x magnification will typically be sufficient. For long-range or precision shooting, you may want to consider a higher magnification, such as 3-12x or 4-16x.
5) What is the eye relief on an LPVO?
Eye relief refers to the distance between the scope’s eyepiece and the shooter’s eye when properly mounted on the rifle. Typical eye relief for an LPVO is around 3-4 inches.
6) Are LPVO scopes the future of rifle scopes?
The employment of LPVOs has recently acquired popularity among both expert and beginner shooters, and there’s a reason for that. The LPVO rifle scopes provide shooters with versatility by being able to be utilized for close, medium, and long-range targets.
Manufacturers are also going all out, providing these rifle scopes with unique and helpful reticles that make shooting more enjoyable. It is unknown whether the future of scopes lies with LPVO, but my initial assumption would be ‘Yes’.
Conclusion
In the search for the best LPVO for your 308 rifles, it’s important to consider factors such as the intended use of your rifle, the distances you’ll be shooting, and your budget. LPVOs with a wide magnification range can be useful for long-range shooting, while those with a lower magnification are better suited for closer ranges.
You may also want to consider the type of reticle, eye relief, and overall build quality of the LPVO to ensure it is durable and reliable. Additionally, consider the weight and size of the scope to ensure it is a good fit for your rifle and comfortable to use. By carefully considering these factors, you can find an LPVO that meets your needs and enhances your shooting experience.
See Also