This review looks at the best Vortex scope for 338 Lapua Magnum. The scopes feature great features like precise reticles, reliable turrets, A-grade optics, and state-of-the-art features to meet the demands of this magnificent round. The units will deliver extreme accuracy at long distances, thus maximizing the long-range capability of the .338 Lapua.
The .338 is dominant in the world of long-range shooting and requires a quality long-range scope to harness its potential.
Vortex is known for producing top-notch units with unbeatable performance and commitment to innovation and precision, manufacturing a wide range of scopes for various applications. This post focuses on the ones that make an excellent pair for this magnum round so that every dedicated hunter, long-range buff, or competitive shooter owns a unit they can always count on.
Best Vortex Scope for 338 Lapua
Here is a round-up of the best Vortex scopes for .308 Lapua Magnum:
1) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm Riflescope
Made with insane accuracy, the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm is your ideal .338 Lapua Magnum riflescope. The instrument is fashioned from aircraft-grade aluminum and topped with a hard anodized finish.
Scratches, corrosion, or recoil will not take a toll on the scope as it is built to withstand them like a pro. Rain, dust, and fog are common occurrences when hunting. The scope is built ready for this with its argon purging and o-ring seals.
With this top-tier durability, the riflescope is hard-wearing and will last long without any issues affecting performance.
Optical finesse is ensured by the XD glass that is fully multi-coated with the XR system. The lenses are covered by the protective Armortek coating that shields against scratches and harmful impurities for maximum brightness, clarity, and color accuracy.
The reticle is illuminated with ten brightness settings with an off position between each setting for easy adjustments to suit various lighting settings.
The fast-focusing design of the eyepiece helps in reticle focusing, facilitating quicker shots when time and speed are of the essence.
Another facet of the optics is the Rapid Zero Return that prevents the turret from dialing below sight in range using solid steel components. The radius bar provides a visible and tactile reference point for turret rotations.
The precision glide erector system keeps the components in the zoom lens mechanism functioning smoothly, while the precision force spring system ensures optimum repeatability and ease of adjustment.
Features
- Fast focus eyepiece
- RZR Zero Stop
- Sealed with O-rings and purged with argon gas
- 30mm single-piece tube
- XR full multi-coating
- XD glass elements
- The outer part is hard anodized for durability and protection
- Glass-etched reticle
- Tactical-style turrets
Pros
- Holds zero well
- Crystal-clear reticle
- The glass is excellent
Cons
- Heavy hence not ideal for trekking hunters
2) Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm Riflescope
Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm riflescope is another impressive riflescope that is tailored to help you take down targets with unsurpassed efficiency. The scope is fully multi-coated and boats extra-low dispersion elements on the glass to improve image delivery.
The throw lever is easy to install and is indispensable when making power adjustments on the fly. The reticle has an intricate structure and is etched between two glass layers making it durable and effective.
In addition, O-ring seals and nitrogen purging make the scope impermeable to impurities like moisture, dirt, and dust that could affect the effective functioning of the lens. It is ruggedly built for recoil and impact resistance.
The side focus adjustment found on the left side of the turret housing offers optimum image focus and parallax removal. The turrets ensure fast and accurate windage and elevation adjustments and have a locking system to deter unintentional adjustments. You can return to zero without hassle after making adjustments.
To protect the lenses from scratches, debris, and other elements, the design includes Armortek treatment that is exclusive to Vortex riflescopes.
Features
- Matte finishing for glare reduction
- 56mm objective lens
- Full multi-coating on the extra-low dispersion glass
- 34mm tube diameter
- Sealed and purged for defense against impurities
- Throw lever facilitates problem-free magnification adjustments
- Side focus adjustment
- Fast-focusing eyepiece
Pros
- Zeroes easily
- Solid formation
- Clean and crisp glass
Cons
- The turret clicks are less dominant than other scopes
3) Vortex Viper HS LR 6-24x50mm Riflescope
Vortex Viper HS LR 6-24x50mm is a powerful riflescope that will unleash the power of the .338 Lapua Magnum. The optics are commendable, with the lenses being fully multi-coated to permit plenty of light to enter the scope for maximum brightness and sharpness.
The magnification goes all the way up to 24x, empowering you to make a kill at different ranges without hassle.
Vortex designed this scope to be fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof to withstand rugged hunting terrain. Sighting and zeroing on targets is a cinch with the target-style elevation turret and capped windage turret.
A CRS Zero stop prevents you from losing your zero for maximum repeatability. The XLR first focal plane reticle remains the same in all power settings. The ultra-hard and scratch-resistant Armortek coating protects the lenses to maintain their pristine condition.
Features
- XD elements on the lens
- CRS Zero Stop
- First focal plane reticle
- Side focus for removal of parallax and optimal image focusing
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Hard anodized construction
- The elevation turret has a target style, while the windage turret is capped
- Precision force spring system
Pros
- Accurate and repeatable
- Outstanding performance in weak light
- Fast, intuitive system
- Ample eye relief
Cons
- The price point may be a barrier for some
4) Vortex Viper HS LR 4-16x50mm Riflescope
The Viper HS LR features a 4x zoom range for versatility and successful shooting at differing distances. A precision glide erector system ensures smooth zoom adjustments for great performance in the field.
Featuring a Dead-Hold BDC reticle, the scope accurately estimates holdover at long distances. The reticle stays the same across all power settings, making it suitable for hunting applications.
The riflescope also brags of XR fully multi-coated lenses that optimize light collection to boost clarity and XD glass to increase resolution and color accuracy.
This powerful device is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum for survival and flawless performance regardless of the conditions.
It also features a radius bar that offers a visible reference point for magnification and turret rotations. A forgiving eyebox and increased eye relief allow the shooter to get on target easily and rapidly while enhancing comfort and safety.
Features
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- XR full multi-coating
- Aircraft-grade aluminum assembly
- Target-style elevation turret
- The windage turret is capped
- Scratch-resistant Armortek coating on the lens
- 30mm tube provides more room for turret travel
Pros
- Remarkable glass
- Durable
- Turrets have great clicks
Cons
- Some users prefer a first focal plane reticle
5) Vortex Viper HST 6-24x50mm Riflescope
Another optic that makes the cut as a candidate for the best Vortex scopes for .338 Lapua Magnum is Vortex Viper HST 6-24x50mm. It is perfect for hunting and tactical shooting as it brings to the table a litany of incredible features. It will deliver and surpass your expectations.
First, the manufacturer incorporates fully multi-coated lenses that maximize light collection to improve image quality. Extra-low dispersion glass with perfect resolution and color accuracy resulting in crisp images.
You can trust the protection and durability the scope is built on. The chassis is made of robust aluminum and is anodized for rust resistance. The lenses are treated with Armortek for dirt, oil, and scratch resistance.
Besides, it is waterproofed and has argon purging, rendering it fogproof for protection amidst unforgiving weather conditions.
Additionally, the 6-24x magnification is versatile and suitable for varying ranges depending on your kill zone. The precision glide erector system facilitates smooth power transitions so that you never miss a shot.
The CRS Zero Stop provides a rock-solid return to zero after making adjustments, while the side focus handles parallax errors. Stay-put accuracy will be yours all through the expedition.
Features
- Exposed tactical-style turrets
- Precision force spring system
- Weatherproof
- Eyepiece has a fast focus mechanism
- XR full multi-coating
- Hard anodized structure
- Lenses are protected by Armortek
- 4 inches of eye relief
Pros
- Premium quality optics
- Heavy-duty formation
- Highly reliable and accurate
- Excellent tracking
Cons
- Heavy
- Stiff parallax
6) Vortex Razor HD Gen II 3-18x50mm Riflescope
Vortex Razor HD Gen II 3-18x50mm Riflescope combines precision, optical acuity, and ruggedness, giving .338 Lapua Magnum shooters an upper hand. This deadly accurate scope has a 34mm tube made from aircraft-grade aluminum.
The tube is also multi-proof to keep away elements that may cause damage and affect performance. A hard anodized stealth shadow finish adds to the durability aspect of the scope.
A special feature of the unit is the L-Tec turret system with a zero stop to provide a solid return to zero after sighting in. The system also has a locking mechanism to prevent unwanted movement of the turrets.
The reticle is top-tier with its illumination function and glass-etching construction for sturdiness and reliability.
Also, the optics have XR fully multi-coated technology that heightens light collection increasing the brightness and sharpness of the target on observation. HD lens elements ensure that color fidelity and resolution do not suffer.
Features
- First focal plane reticle makes shots easier
- L-Tec turret with a locking mechanism and zero stop
- XR fully multi-coated optics
- Anodized exterior for abrasion resistance
- 34mm tube diameter
- Powerful 6x zoom range
- The reticle is glass-etched and illuminated
- Side focus for parallax elimination
- APO system for color correction across the entire spectrum
Pros
- Superior optics
- Unbeatable value
- Solid turrets
- Amazing eye relief
Cons
- Heavy platform for long-distance trekkers
7) Vortex Venom 5-25x56mm Riflescope
Vortex Venom 5-25x56mm Riflescope excels at long-range hunting and shooting. The magnificent 5-25x power allows you to take down targets without compromising the image quality, even at long distances.
You can easily change the zoom using the throw lever to suit your shooting condition. This is essential as you will be racing against time and speed in the field.
It is structured with a 34mm tube that is highly durable. Its shockproof design shrugs off recoil and impact, while the waterproof and fogproof engineering prevents penetration of moisture or dirt.
The turrets are exposed for fast and accurate adjustments for windage and elevation. To provide an easy return to zero, the turrets feature the RevStop zero system.
On top of that, fully multi-coated optics with anti-reflective compounds improve light transmission for exceptional clarity and low-light performance. The extra-low dispersion glass enhances resolution and color accuracy, further improving the image quality being seen through the objective lens.
The reticle is a first focal plane type and is super durable as it is protected between two layers of glass. Being on the front plane means it provides accurate holds at various magnification levels.
Features
- Eye relief of 3.6 inches
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- The reticle is glass-etched and provides accurate holds at differing power levels
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- Durable and scratch-resistant Armortek coating on the lenses
- Exposed, tactical-style turrets
- RevStop Zero System
- Throw lever for swift magnification adjustments
- Fast-focusing design
Pros
- Generous eye relief
- Parallax is adjustable
- Excellent optics
Cons
- Hefty
8) Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36x56mm Riflescope
If extreme long-range performance is what you are after, Vortex Razor HD Gen III serves it up. The scope is fortified with a 6-36x magnification giving you the long-range solution you have been waiting for.
Complementing the superb zoom is the 56mm objective lens that allows plenty of light into the scope resulting in top-notch image quality.
The massive focal lens is fully multi-coated with anti-reflective compounds on all air-to-glass surfaces for prime clarity in all lighting scenarios. Optically indexed lenses maximize edge-to-edge sharpness and brightness.
Vortex takes the durability of its scopes way too seriously, and the Razor HD is not left out. It is made from renowned aircraft-grade aluminum and has Armortek on the lenses to shield from damage-causing impurities.
O-ring seals and nitrogen purging on the inside make the unit weatherproof for performance even in demanding weather conditions.
The L-Tec+ zero system is seamless to use, making zeroing a piece of old tackle. Further, the external rotation indicator offers quick visual and tactile reference of the rotational position of the elevation turret.
The EBR-7D reticle changes according to the zoom image and is etched on glass for sturdiness and dependability.
Features
- Argon purged and o-ring sealed
- The finish is anodized with a stealth shadow finish
- XR plus fully multi-coated lenses
- L-Tec zero system for a quick and easy return to zero
- High strength and durable aluminum design
- Shockproof because of the rugged chassis
- The reticle is etched on glass and is on the first focal plane
- Locking side illumination
Pros
- Optical resolution is unmatched
- The illuminated reticle works wonders
- Highly robust thanks to the premium construction materials
Cons
- Heavy
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Considerations When Buying the Best Vortex Scopes for .338 Lapua Magnum
Magnification
Most shooters can generally hit a medium-sized target within the 1000 yards mark with a 3-9x magnification scope. A scope with higher magnification unquestionably makes long-range shots easier. It is best to have higher power as the .338 Lapua Magnum is a long-range rifle. A scope with 10-15x will do the job well.
Eye Relief
The .338 Lapua is a magnum round and hence boasts significant recoil. Get a scope with at least 3.5 inches of eye relief to prevent scope bite that can injure your eye or face. Ample eye relief also lets you mount the scope further forward on your rifle, making shooting generally more comfortable.
Clarity
Clarity is another parameter when buying the best Vortex scopes for .338 Lapua Magnum. The primary business of having a scope is to see targets clearly, even in conditions with weak light. A scope with decent clarity delivers a sharp aim, giving you a better focus. As a result, you get a better sight picture.
Construction
Ensure the scope you intend to purchase is made of premium materials for heavy-duty performance. The scope will be exposed to various conditions, so it needs to be able to stand up to anything you face. Vortex scopes are crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum and are multi-proof for long-term use of the scope.
Accuracy
Accuracy is the bone of contention for every scope. The primary purpose of a scope is to score a hit in a single go. Ensure you pick a model with a high level of precision. This will be handy even when taking long-range shots and will avoid wasting ammunition.
Weight
If you intend to pursue shooting or hunting as a passion rather than a one-time thing, you need to pay careful attention to the weight of the scope. The weight of the scope should not be overwhelming. A heavy scope will cause imbalance and fatigue. So, ensure you choose a lightweight scope for an easy time on the field.
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FAQs on the Best Vortex Scope for 338 Lapua
1) Is .338 Lapua the best sniper round?
The cartridge is one of the most popular sniper rounds globally. The US military and other militaries adopted it as their prime sniper. It was tailored for extremely long-range shots yet remained lightweight and portable.
2) Why is the .338 Lapua so pricey?
Purchasing loaded ammo for the .308 Lapua implies you will pay a significant premium because the brass costs are huge and also because it takes so much powder.
3) Why should I invest in a .338 Lapua Magnum?
The .338 Lapua is a beast of a round famous for its extreme long-range performance thanks to its high muzzle velocity and energy retainment. It is versatile as it is suitable for competitions, hunting, and long-range target shooting. Besides, it is less affected by wind drift, making it more forgiving in demanding wind conditions, rendering more accurate shots in harsh weather.
The rifle is worth giving a shot if you are in search of an outstanding long-range cartridge with mind-blowing performance.
4) Is 338 Lapua stronger than 50 cal?
No, the 50 cal outperforms the 228 Lapua in every aspect, including effective range and power. Because of its high power, the 50 caliber is generally used as an anti-equipment round.
Final Words
The 338 Lapua is quite effective when it comes to striking long-distance targets, but you need the best rifle scope to match it, which is the vortex’s forte. Investing in any of the Vortex scopes we have reviewed boosts your shooting competence and equips you to easily handle long ranges.
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