How to choose the right optic for your .308 rifle — whether for long-range target, deer, or PRS
.308 Winchester (the sporting equivalent of the 7.62x51mm NATO round) is one of the most widely used centrefire calibres in the UK. It is legal for deer on many species under UK deer legislation, well-served by a broad selection of UK-available ammunition, and accurate to ranges that satisfy the majority of UK long-range shooting scenarios.
Its versatility — stalking, target shooting, PRS, and long-range field work — means a wide range of shooters are looking for an appropriate scope. The right optic depends heavily on what you intend to do with the rifle.
For woodland and mixed terrain deer stalking, shots typically occur at 30–180m. A 2-10x or 3-12x variable with a 42-50mm objective and illuminated reticle is a practical choice. You want a wide field of view at low power, reliable performance in low light, and a clean reticle that does not obscure a target in cover.
At UK long-range ranges (300–900m), .308 performs well to around 800m with quality ammunition and stable conditions. For this use case, a 4-16x or 5-20x FFP scope with exposed tactical turrets and a mil-based reticle is the appropriate choice. Adequate elevation travel matters — a 20 MOA cant base helps maximise your usable range.
Many PRS competitors start with .308 before moving to more ballistically efficient cartridges. A 4-20x or 5-25x FFP scope with a zero stop and positive tactical turrets covers PRS requirements well. As .308 goes transonic around 800-900m (depending on load), your scope may be reaching its practical limit at the longer stages anyway.
A standard .308 load drops significantly over distance. From a 100m zero to 800m you will need to dial approximately 30-35 MOA (9-10 mil) of elevation, depending on your specific load. A scope with 60-70 MOA total elevation and a 20 MOA canted base gives comfortable headroom for long-range UK shooting without running out of adjustment.
A 30mm tube offers adequate elevation travel for most .308 long-range work. If you are regularly shooting past 700m, a 34mm tube with greater internal adjustment range is worth considering. Check that your chosen rings or mount match the tube diameter.
For a .308 dialled to distance, 0.1 mil (approximately 0.36 MOA) click values are the standard precision choice, giving precise adjustment without over-engineering. MOA (¼ MOA clicks) is an equally valid alternative — choose whichever unit you think in and match your reticle to your turrets.
Compare .308-suitable scope prices from UK retailers — Uttings, Sportsman Gun Centre, Brownells UK and more.
Find .308 Scopes on Scope Finder →For long-range shooting, 4-16x or 5-20x. For deer stalking, 2-10x or 3-12x. For PRS dual-use, 4-20x is a practical all-rounder.
Approximately 30-35 MOA (9-10 mil) from a 100m zero. A scope with 60-70 MOA total elevation on a 20 MOA canted base gives adequate headroom.
.308 is capable to 600-800m in UK conditions. Beyond 800m, wind drift and transonic instability become significant. It remains one of the most popular long-range calibres in the UK for practical and logistical reasons.
A dedicated hunting scope is a compromise for precision target work. A 3-15x or 4-16x FFP scope with exposed turrets can serve both purposes adequately for casual use.