The 6 Best Scopes for Ruger SFAR 308 are versatile and powerful platforms, capable of handling both mid-range engagements and precision long-range shooting.
To fully unlock its potential, pairing it with the right optic is essential. A well-chosen scope not only enhances accuracy but also improves target acquisition, shot confidence, and overall performance in a variety of shooting scenarios, from dynamic field applications to tactical or hunting situations.
From high-powered precision scopes to lightweight, versatile LPVOs, there are optics designed to complement every shooting style and environment. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the ideal scope that maximises the 6 Best Scopes for Ruger SFAR 308 capabilities, enabling shooters to perform confidently and accurately at every range.
6 Best Scopes for Ruger SFAR 308
1. NightForce ATACR 5-25x56mm F1 ZeroStop .250 MOA DigIllum PTL Moar
When it comes to pairing a high‑performance optic with the Ruger SFAR .308, the NightForce ATACR 5–25×56 F1 stands out as a top‑tier choice for serious shooters. Designed from the ground up for precision, this scope combines long‑range capability, rugged construction, and intuitive controls that make it equally at home in competition, hunting, or tactical environments.
At the heart of the ATACR’s appeal is its versatile 5–25× magnification range. On a .308 platform like the SFAR, this range covers everything from medium‑range field work to extended precision engagements.
The crystal‑clear glass and high contrast across the zoom range give shooters confidence when identifying targets and reading terrain, a difference you notice when dialling for long shots.
The ZeroStop elevation turret is a standout feature that enhances speed and precision. Once you’ve established your zero, ZeroStop lets you quickly return to that reference point, without counting clicks, a huge advantage during time‑sensitive shoots or when conditions shift. Combined with the finely calibrated .250 MOA click value, adjustments feel precise and predictable.
Durability is another area where the ATACR excels. Built on a robust 34 mm tube, this optic offers an expanded internal adjustment range of 89 MOA (26 MIL) of elevation and 60 MOA (18 MIL) of windage, giving plenty of room for trajectory compensation at distance.
The rugged construction, coupled with premium turret feel and tracking, means you can trust this scope to hold up under recoil and in harsh field conditions.
Weight and handling are also well-balanced for a long‑range optic. Weighing 30 oz (850 g) and with a mounting length of 6.3 in (160 mm), the ATACR feels solid without being overly front‑heavy. An eye relief of 3.54 in provides a comfortable, consistent cheek weld and viewing position, even during rapid follow‑up shots.
Pros
- Exceptional magnification range (5–25×)
- ZeroStop turret
- Wide internal adjustment
- Robust 34 mm tube
- Clear optics & durable build
- Comfortable eye relief (3.54 in)
Cons
- Pricey
2. Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56 (35mm) M5C3 FFP Riflescope
The Leupold Mark 5HD 5–25×56 (35 mm) M5C3 Riflescope is widely acclaimed for delivering professional‑grade performance in a rugged, versatile package, making it an excellent choice for shooters pairing optics with a Ruger SFAR .308. Whether you’re setting up for competitive long‑range work, precision tactical shooting, or challenging hunts, this scope brings a premium combination of optical clarity, rugged reliability, and intuitive features that enhance the .308’s capability.
At the forefront of the Mark 5HD’s appeal is its 5–25× magnification range housed on a 35 mm main tube, giving shooters a powerful zoom range ideal for both precision targets at extended distances and more moderate engagements. This wide range is especially useful on a .308 rifle like the SFAR, which frequently sees action from mid‑range plinking to precision shots stretching past 800 yards.
Optical performance is a standout strength. Leupold’s Professional‑Grade Optical System delivers exceptional light transmission, maintaining bright, high‑contrast imagery even in low‑light conditions such as dawn hunts or overcast range sessions.
Combined with industry‑leading glare reduction, targets stay crisp and clearly defined across the entire magnification spectrum, improving target acquisition and shot confidence.
The Front Focal Plane (FFP) TMR reticle further enhances the Mark 5HD’s utility. Because the reticle scales with the magnified image, range estimation and holdovers remain accurate at any zoom level, a substantial advantage for precision shooters dialling environmental and trajectory variables on the fly.
The illuminated reticle adds flexibility in dim conditions without overwhelming brighter scenes, making it easier to pick up fine reticle subtensions at all times.
Pros
- Versatile 5–25× magnification
- Professional‑grade optics
- Front Focal Plane TMR reticle
- Illuminated reticle option
- Fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
Cons
- Heavy
3. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle First Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Vortex Strike Eagle 3–18×44 First Focal Plane (FFP) Riflescope is engineered for shooters who demand a balance between mobility and extended range capability. Ideal for the Ruger SFAR .308, this scope bridges the gap between compact low-power optics and heavier long-range scopes, making it a versatile choice for dynamic target engagement, hunting, and tactical applications.
One of the Strike Eagle’s defining advantages is its 3–18× magnification range, offering more reach than a typical 1–8× optic, while remaining significantly lighter than the 5–25×56 options. This allows the SFAR to remain nimble in the field without sacrificing the ability to engage targets at distance.
The included throw lever further enhances versatility, letting shooters quickly adjust magnification to suit changing scenarios.
Optical performance is another highlight. The XD Optical System, paired with fully multi-coated lenses, delivers bright, crisp images with excellent edge-to-edge sharpness — crucial for precision shots from dawn to dusk.
The EBR-7C FFP illuminated reticle ensures that holdovers and range estimations remain accurate at all magnification settings, while the illumination improves visibility in low-light conditions without washing out the reticle in brighter environments.
Durability and adjustability are built into every component. The 34 mm main tube provides ample elevation and windage travel for long-range precision. Exposed elevation turrets allow fast adjustments, while capped windage turrets reduce bulk.
Vortex’s RevStop Zero System ensures a reliable return to zero after sight adjustments, and locking turrets keep settings in place under recoil. Nitrogen purging, O-ring sealing, and Armortek lens coatings protect against water, fog, scratches, oil, and dirt, giving the scope a field-ready resilience.
Pros
- Versatile 3–18× magnification
- XD Optical System & multi-coated lenses
- First Focal Plane EBR-7C illuminated reticle
- Robust 34 mm tube with ample adjustments
- RevStop Zero and locking turrets
- Fast, reliable, and stays true under recoil.
- Durable, weatherproof construction
Cons
- Limited to the scope’s max magnification
4. Primary Arms SLX 1-8×24 FFP Rifle Scope
The Primary Arms SLX 1–8×24 First Focal Plane (FFP) Rifle Scope is a highly versatile LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) that blends close-quarters agility with mid-range precision. Designed for rifles like the Ruger SFAR .308, this scope is ideal for shooters who want a single optic capable of both fast target acquisition and accurate long-distance engagement, all in a compact and lightweight package.
At the heart of the SLX 1–8×24 is the Advanced Combined Sighting System (ACSS) reticle in a first focal plane design. This means the reticle scales with magnification, keeping holdovers and range estimations accurate at all zoom levels.
Full red illumination enhances low-light usability, making it easier to pick up the reticle in dim conditions while maintaining the precision features of the ACSS at higher magnifications.
The 1–8× magnification range provides true versatility. At the lower end, it functions almost like a red dot sight, allowing rapid target acquisition and smooth tracking in close quarters. Zooming in to higher magnifications unlocks the ACSS reticle’s ballistic and ranging capabilities, making it capable of precise shot placement at extended distances, a perfect match for the .308’s power and range potential.
Precision controls enhance usability under real-world conditions. A quick-focus eyepiece ensures fast and sharp reticle clarity, while low-profile, finger-adjustable turrets allow subtle windage and elevation corrections without tools.
The movable and replaceable magnification ring fin adds a tactile adjustment option for fast zoom changes, especially useful in dynamic shooting scenarios.
Durability is a cornerstone of the SLX design. This optic undergoes rigorous field testing to withstand recoil, weather, and rough handling, giving Ruger SFAR shooters confidence in performance no matter the environment.
A compact, lightweight form factor also contributes to mobility and ease of mounting, while the lifetime warranty provides long-term peace of mind.
Pros
- First Focal Plane ACSS Reticle
- 1–8× Magnification Range
- Compact and Lightweight
- Precision Controls
- Quick-focus eyepiece
- Durable
Cons
- Limited high-end magnification
5. Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4–12×40 Second Focal Plane (SFP) Riflescope is designed to deliver reliable performance and durability for shooters seeking mid- to long-range precision on platforms like the Ruger SFAR .308.
This scope balances clarity, accurate reticle design, and rugged construction, making it an excellent choice for hunters, tactical shooters, or precision marksmen on a budget-conscious but quality-focused platform.
Optical clarity is one of Diamondback Tactical’s standout features. The extra-low dispersion (ED) glass combined with XR fully multi-coated lenses delivers bright, sharp images with minimal chromatic aberration.
This ensures crisp target visibility and precise shot placement, even at extended ranges. The 4–12× magnification offers flexibility for mid-range engagements, providing enough reach without the bulk of larger scopes.
The VMR-1 MOA reticle enhances practical utility, allowing shooters to estimate ranges, calculate holdovers, apply windage corrections, and even lead moving targets. While it’s a second focal plane reticle, so subtensions are only accurate at a single magnification, the hash-marked design is intuitive and fast to use, making it a solid choice for SFAR shooters who primarily operate at moderate ranges.
The Diamondback Tactical also excels in durability and user-friendly controls. Exposed, responsive turrets with a zero-reset feature simplify zeroing and adjustments in the field.
The scope is shockproof, nitrogen-purged, and O-ring sealed, guaranteeing it remains waterproof and fogproof under harsh environmental conditions. Lightweight yet rugged, it can withstand the recoil of the .308 while maintaining precision.
Pros
- Extra-low dispersion & fully multi-coated lenses
- VMR-1 MOA reticle
- Responsive exposed turrets with zero reset
- Durable
- Shockproof, nitrogen-purged, and O-ring sealed
- Moderate 4–12× magnification
Cons
- Slightly heavy
6. Steiner Riflescope T6Xi, First Focal Plane
The Steiner T6Xi 2.5–15×50 First Focal Plane (FFP) Riflescope is a U.S.-made optic built for precision, durability, and versatility. Designed to handle unpredictable field conditions, this scope is ideal for Ruger SFAR .308 shooters who need a single optic capable of engaging targets both near and far, whether on a carbine or a bolt-action platform.
Its combination of compact design, advanced turrets, and high-quality optics makes it a standout choice for both tactical and hunting applications.
With a 2.5–15× magnification range, the T6Xi offers a 6× zoom ratio, allowing shooters to quickly adapt to dynamic scenarios. Low magnification provides a wide field of view for fast target acquisition at close ranges, while higher magnification ensures precision for long-range shots.
The first focal plane reticle scales with the image, ensuring accurate holdovers and range estimation at all magnification levels, a crucial feature for precision shooting with the .308 cartridge.
Steiner’s Never-Lost locking windage and elevation knobs enhance reliability in the field. The innovative second-rotation indication system allows shooters to instantly recognise click values, minimising errors and maintaining consistency shot after shot. For low-light or nighttime engagements, the scope features reticle illumination with 4 night and 7 day brightness levels, offering flexibility and quick adaptability across lighting conditions.
Built to endure harsh environments, the T6Xi is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, providing confidence in rugged field conditions and with the recoil of a .308. Additionally, the large 50 mm objective lens gathers plenty of light for clear imaging at dawn, dusk, or overcast conditions, ensuring visibility and target clarity.
Pros
- First Focal Plane reticle
- 2.5–15× magnification (6× zoom)
- Never-Lost locking turrets
- Reticle illumination
- Durable
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for rugged use.
- 50 mm objective lens
Cons
- Pricey
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Considerations when choosing the 6 Best Scopes for Ruger SFAR 308
Durability
Ruggedness is crucial for a scope paired with a .308 platform, which produces substantial recoil and may be used in diverse environments. Look for scopes that are shockproof, waterproof, fogproof, and nitrogen-purged to prevent internal fogging.
Strong O-ring seals and durable housing materials ensure your scope maintains zero and continues performing reliably, even in rain, snow, or rough field conditions. Durability ensures the optic’s longevity and protects your investment.
Magnification
The magnification range determines how far you can engage targets effectively. Low magnification (1–8×) is ideal for close to mid-range shooting, offering wide fields of view and fast target acquisition — perfect for dynamic scenarios or red-dot-style engagement.
Higher magnification (3–25× or 5–25×) allows precision at extended ranges, ideal for long-distance hunting or target shooting. When selecting a scope for a Ruger SFAR .308, consider the typical engagement distances you expect. A versatile zoom range lets the same optic perform well in both close-quarters and extended-range contexts.
Reticle Type
Scopes can have either first focal plane (FFP) or second focal plane (SFP) reticles. FFP reticles scale with magnification, allowing accurate holdovers and range estimation at any zoom setting, critical for precision shooting.
SFP reticles remain the same size regardless of magnification, which is simpler for casual shooters but may require recalculating holdovers at different powers. Choosing the right reticle type ensures your shooting style aligns with the optic’s capabilities, whether for fast engagement or precise long-range shots.
Optical Quality
High-quality glass and lens coatings significantly affect light transmission, clarity, and sharpness. Optics with fully multi-coated lenses and extra-low dispersion (ED) glass deliver bright, crisp, edge-to-edge clarity essential for spotting targets and reading terrain in low-light conditions.
On a Ruger SFAR .308, which is capable of precision at mid- to long ranges, clear optics reduce eye strain and improve confidence when acquiring targets in varying light conditions.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope lens while maintaining a full sight picture. For a .308 rifle, which has significant recoil, adequate eye relief is essential to avoid injury and maintain comfort during extended shooting sessions.
FAQs of the 6 Best Scopes for Ruger SFAR 308
- How important is optical clarity?
Extremely important. Fully multi-coated lenses and extra-low dispersion glass ensure bright, sharp images from edge to edge. This is critical on a Ruger SFAR .308 for identifying targets, reading terrain, and making accurate shots in low-light or challenging conditions.
- Do I need a scope with rugged construction?
Yes. Your scope must withstand .308 recoil and field conditions. Look for scopes that are shockproof, waterproof, fogproof, and nitrogen-purged. Features like Armortek or protective coatings add scratch resistance. Durable scopes maintain zero and reliability over time.
- What turret and adjustment features should I look for?
Exposed or capped turrets, ZeroStop, locking mechanisms, and tactile click adjustments help ensure consistent, repeatable shot corrections. These features are essential for mid- and long-range shooting, especially when environmental factors like wind or elevation change.
- What is the ideal eye relief for a .308 scope?
An eye relief of around 3–4 inches is recommended to protect your eye from recoil while maintaining a full sight picture. Ensure the scope’s size and tube diameter fit your Ruger SFAR and mounting setup for comfort and safe operation.
Conclusion
Choosing the right scope for the 6 Best Scopes for Ruger SFAR 308 ultimately depends on your shooting style, typical engagement distances, and the environments in which you plan to operate. Ultimately, the 6 Best Scopes for Ruger SFAR 308 is the one that balances your range requirements, shooting style, budget, and durability needs.