What’s the secret to making every shot count at 300 yards? The key to accuracy is selecting the best scope for 300 yards, whether you’re zooming in for a big game hunt, extending the range of your rifle, or simply looking to upgrade your glass. When shooting at this distance, you need a scope that can withstand the weather and provide a clear sight picture each time you pull the trigger.
However, with so many options available, how can you determine which one best suits your needs? I can help with that. I’ve compiled a list of the best scopes for 300 yards to help you hit your target with confidence. No guesswork or money wasted, just sound advice based on actual performance. Let’s get started and find you the best optic!
Factors to consider when buying the Best Scope for 300 yards
Magnification
A scope with 4x to 12x magnification is the best option for shooting at 300 yards. You have flexibility with a fixed 10x or a variable 3-9x or 4-16x, which enables accurate shots without overmagnifying the target.
Objective Lens
More light is collected by a larger objective lens (40mm to 50mm), which enhances visibility and clarity, particularly in low-light situations like dawn or dusk. Balance is crucial because larger lenses can add weight.
Reticle Type
Your shooting style and personal preferences will determine the reticle you choose. Among the options that are: Easy to use and excellent for hunting is the duplex reticle.
For varying distances, the bullet drop compensation (BDC) reticle aids in holdover points.
Mil-Dot or MOA reticle: Perfect for accurate shooting and range estimation.
Glass Quality
High-quality, fully multi-coated lenses lessen glare and enhance light transmission. Look for out brands that produce distortion-free, transparent glass.
Durability
Select a scope with a sturdy one-piece tube construction that is fog-proof, waterproof, and shockproof. For durability, aircraft-grade aluminum is a fantastic option.
Best Scope for 300 yards
1) Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44
Specifications
- 4-16x magnification
- 44 mm objective lens diameter
- 3.8 inches of eye relief
- 26.9-6.7 ft/100 yds field of view
- 30 mm tube size
- 20 yards to infinity parallax
- 14 inches length
- 23.1 oz weight
- First Focal Plane
- EBR-2C MOA reticle
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44 is a premium option for shooters seeking a mid-range optic with accuracy, affordability, and durability. Its 4–16x magnification makes it suitable for medium-range and long-range shooting, making it perfect for easily hitting targets at 300 yards. The fully multi-coated lenses produce sharp, clear images in a range of lighting conditions, and the 44mm objective lens guarantees exceptional light transmission.
Its first focal plane (FFP) EBR-2C reticle (MOA or MRAD) enables precise holdovers and wind corrections at any magnification. The Diamondback Tactical is made of a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum tube, making it waterproof, shockproof, and durable enough to withstand harsh field conditions. For hunters, target shooters, and tactical users who require dependability without going over budget, the exposed tactical turrets provide accurate, repeatable adjustments.
Pros
- First focal plane reticle
- Versatile 4-16x magnification range
- Durable construction
- MOA adjustments
- High-quality optics
- Compact and lightweight
- Affordable price point
- It is waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof
Cons
- None
2) Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm
Specifications
- 4.5 – 14 x magnification
- 40mm objective lens
- 3.7 – 4.4 in eye relief
- 7.4 – 19.9 ft at 100 yds field of view
- 150 yds parallax
- 64 MOA windage/elevation
- Second focal plane
The Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm scope is made for target shooters and hunters who require accuracy at medium to long range. Its 4.5–14x magnification provides great versatility, and Leupold’s Elite Optical System guarantees sharp images and exceptional low-light capabilities. With the CDS-ZL (Custom Dial System – ZeroLock) turret, you can quickly and precisely adjust the elevation without having to worry about unintentional movement.
Its Duplex or Wind-Plex reticle offers a clear, user-friendly point of aim for a variety of shooting situations. This scope is lightweight, waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof due to its construction from 6061-T6 aluminum, making it a dependable and long-lasting partner for any outdoor activity.
Pros
- High-quality optics
- The magnification range offers versatility
- The SFP design keeps the reticle size constant
- It is shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof
- The scope is lightweight and easy to carry
- Twilight Max HD system optimizes light transmission
Cons
- It is non-illuminated
3) Athlon Argos BTR 6-24×50
Specifications
- 6-24x magnification
- 50 mm objective lens
- 30 mm tube diameter
- 8.2 – 2.1 mm exit pupil
- 16.7 – 4.5 ft at 100 yds field of view
- 3.3 in eye relief
- First focal plane
- 10 yds to infinity parallax
The Athlon Argos BTR 6-24×50 is a high-performance, reasonably priced scope made for hunting and long-range shooting. While the 50mm objective lens guarantees bright, clear images in a range of lighting conditions, the 6-24x magnification offers exceptional zoom for accuracy at 300 yards and beyond. It has an illuminated reticle for improved visibility in low light and a first focal plane (FFP) APMR IR MOA reticle that maintains accurate holdovers at any magnification.
Its sturdy aluminum construction makes it shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof, and its fully multi-coated lenses improve clarity and color contrast. For shooters seeking a dependable, feature-rich scope at a reasonable cost, the Argos BTR is a great choice thanks to its precision turrets and side parallax adjustment.
Pros
- Versatile 6-24x magnification range
- The illuminated Athlon Precision Mil Reticle (APMR) enhances visibility in low-light
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Shockproof design
- The exposed tactical turrets allow for quick and easy adjustments
- The 50mm objective lens ensures ample light gathering
- Offers a good balance of performance and affordability
Cons
- Relatively heavy
4) Primary Arms SLX 4-14×44 FFP
Specifications
- 4 – 14 x magnification
- 44 mm objective lens
- 30mm tube diameter
- 3.3 – 11.2 mm exit pupil
- 7.85 – 27.2 ft at 100 yds FOV
- 3.14 – 3.22 in eye relief
- First focal plane
The Primary Arms SLX 4-14×44 FFP is a versatile and affordable first focal plane (FFP) scope designed for precision shooting at medium to long ranges. It provides outstanding versatility for hunting and target shooting with its 4–14x magnification, and its 44mm objective lens guarantees sharp, bright images. Its ACSS HUD DMR reticle offers wind compensation and easy holdovers for fast adjustments on moving targets.
The side parallax adjustment enables precise focus at any distance, and the fully multi-coated lenses improve light transmission. This scope is a tough and dependable choice for shooters who require accuracy without going over budget because it is made of sturdy aircraft-grade aluminum and is shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant.
Pros
- High-quality optics
- Durable construction
- Great value for the features
- Side parallax adjustment
- First focal plane (FFP) reticle
Cons
- None
5) Nightforce SHV 4-14x50mm
Specifications
- 4-14x magnification
- 50mm objective lens
- 30mm tube diameter
- 70 – 80 mm eye relief
- 7.4 – 25.1 ft at 100 yds field of view
- 3.3 – 10.8 mm exit pupil
- First Focal Plane
- 25 yards to infinity parallax
The Nightforce SHV 4-14x50mm is a premium, accurate scope made for long-range shooters and hunters who need accuracy and dependability. The 50mm objective lens improves light transmission for bright, sharp images in a range of lighting conditions, and the 4–14x magnification offers great versatility for medium- to long-range shooting. The MOAR or Forceplex reticle options provide accurate holdovers and windage adjustments, while the second focal plane (SFP) reticle guarantees a constant aiming point at all magnifications.
The SHV is incredibly durable in harsh environments because of its sturdy construction, which makes it shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant. This scope is a great option for serious shooters who desire premium performance without the premium cost of Nightforce’s higher-end models. Its precise turret adjustments and side parallax control, further improve accuracy.
Pros
- Exceptional glass clarity
- Versatile 4-14x magnification
- Large 50mm objective lens
- Durable construction
- Reliable second focal plane (SFP) reticle
- Precise adjustments
Cons
- None
Best Scope for 300 yards FAQs
What is the ideal magnification for shooting at 300 yards?
For 300 yards, a scope with a magnification of 4x to 12x is the best option. A fixed 10x, 4-16x, or 3-9x scope provides a good balance between field of view and zoom.
What type of reticle is best for 300 yards?
A Mil-Dot or MOA reticle is excellent for fine adjustments, while a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) reticle aids with holdovers. For hunting, a basic Duplex reticle is effective.
Do I need an illuminated reticle?
An illuminated reticle is not required for daytime shooting, but it is useful in low-light situations like dawn or dusk.
What is the best objective lens size for 300 yards?
A 40mm to 50mm objective lens provides good light transmission without adding unnecessary weight.
Do I need parallax adjustment for 300 yards?
Yes, a side focus or adjustable objective (AO) helps eliminate parallax errors, improving accuracy at 300 yards.
Conclusion
The key to finding the best scope for 300 yards is to match your shooting requirements with the right magnification, reticle, glass quality, and durability. A 4-16x, 3-9x, or fixed 10x scope with clear optics and dependable adjustments will help you hit your target accurately whether you’re a hunter, target shooter, or precision marksman.
There is a great scope out there for everyone. It’s time to select the best scope and improve your shooting now that you know what to look for! Are you prepared to take meaningful shots? Choose the best scope for your rifle right now by looking through the top-rated models.