When it comes to talking about high-power, long-range shooting rifles, the 338 Lapua Magnum needs no introduction. The rifle originally tended to be used as a military weapon but ever since it got legalized for civilian use, it has become one of the most loved long-range hunting and target shooting practice rifles.
By adding the right scope to the rifle, you can not only get the perfect shots with it but also increase the shooting experience to another level. However, finding a long-range scope can be a head-scratching task for many of you. Therefore, to reduce your work, here we will discuss the 7 best scopes for the 338 Lapua that are available in the market.
At the end of the reviews, we have compiled a guideline to follow before purchasing a Lapua scope. So, without further delay, let’s begin!
Best 338 Lapua Scopes – [Editor’s Choice]
7. Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen2 6-24×50 FFP Riflescope
This 50mm scope can give you a versatile shooting range as it comes with a magnification range between 6x-24x. You will also get a better-aiming opportunity with the help of the FFP reticle system. Since it allows you to adjust your reticle size along with the magnification range, it enables you to aim at the target more precisely.
Thanks to its illuminated reticle system, you can even use the scope in low-light conditions. Another good part of the scope is, that it has a very rugged construction. The tube of the scope is made of Aircraft-grade Aluminum which makes it durable enough to endure any bumpy or rough situation.
Besides, this Argon purged tube protects it from getting damaged by water or moisture and also ensures it provides better thermal stability. In addition to that, the fully multi-coated lens of the scope reduces glare and increases the light transmission for brighter target images.
Moreover, the Precision Zero Stop system will help you to keep the zero to stay true. The 3.3” eye relief, on the other hand, will make sure your eyes remain safe during heavy recoils. All in all, it is a great option for any long-range hunting or target shooting practice rifle users.
Does it have locking turrets?
No, it doesn’t have locking turrets. It only comes with a zero stop on the elevation knob. The clicks on the knobs are well-defined and crisp.
What size scope rings can you use on a Picatinny rail with a 50mm objective lens?
Generally, 30mm scope rings are used for 50mm objective lens scopes. However, the ring height may vary according to the rifle model you are using.
How is Gen 1 different to the Gen 2 of the BTR?
The first difference between these two generation BTRs is that the reticle system is much better in the Gen 2. The clicks on the knobs are also more audible in the Gen 2 scope compared to the Gen 1.
6. Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 6-24×50 SFP Riflescope
How does a versatile yet simple rifle scope sound to you? Perfect, right? The Vortex Viper HS-T offers you all the necessary features that make a scope versatile as well as a simple accessory to use. Whether it is hunting, shooting, or tactical situations, this scope has got you covered.
The Aircraft-grade Aluminum-made scope tube can sustain through any situation you throw it at. This one-piece tube also has O-ring seals and argon-purged construction to make sure it provides waterproof and fogproof performance.
Additionally, the fully multi-coated, extra-low dispersion lenses ensure high-quality resolution and color fidelity. The XR coatings and Armortek coatings on the lenses enhance the light transmission ability of the glasses and also protect them from scratches.
Similar to the Argos BTR, this one also has various magnification ranges such as 6x-24x. However, unlike the BTR, the reticle of this scope is placed on the second focal panel instead of the first focal panel. So, here you won’t get the extra advantage of adjusting the reticle size along with the magnification range. Moreover, the VMR-1 reticle (MOA) comes as an aid for accurate holds in long-distance shootings.
Plus, the side focus parallax adjustment enables the optional image focus and parallax removal. Due to the exposed target-style turrets, you will have precise and repeatable finger-adjustable clicks. You also don’t need to worry about the reliable return to zero since it comes with a CRS Zero Stop system. Last but not least, you will get a sufficient amount of eye relief (4”) with the scope.
How to know which reticle you need, MOA or MRAD?
Since the MOA reticle is much easier to understand and operate, it is perfect for general shooting enthusiasts. So, if you are a usual hunter or a shooting practitioner, the MOA reticle will be the right choice for you.
Conversely, the MRAD reticle is mostly used by military-grade shooters, therefore, if you’re someone having military training, MRAD is for you.
Does it come with a sunshade?
A sunshade is very helpful to reduce glare and sun reflections off the objective lens. Considering this factor, Vortex does include a sunshade with the product.
At what magnification are sub tensions correct?
The subtensions are corrected at 18x magnification. There is a red mark on the magnification wheel to indicate it.
5. Nightforce SHV 5-20x56mm Zeroset .250 MOA Scope
What makes this scope one of our best picks is its reticle system for long-range shooting rifles. The MOAR – 20 MOA – Center Illumination along with the 1 MOA elevation and windage markings, gives you more accurate aiming points and hold-offs are possible to shoot from smaller to longer ranges. In addition, the floating center crosshair ensures it is fast and easy to use in the field.
Moreover, the 5-20x magnification helps you to get clear aims on the targets from very long distances. It also has a side parallax adjustment feature to make sure you get a clear and crisp image of the target.
The ZeroSet technology enables you to make a quick return to your initial zero setting, even if you have made plenty of elevation adjustments. Besides, you can get around 3.5” eye relief with the scope. Do you know why many long-range scope users prefer and trust the Nightforce Forceplex reticle?
Because it has been specially designed by professional hunters and for hunters. It increases the product reliability to another level. So, if you want something that sounds more assuring and also includes all the features of a long-range rifle scope, this one’s for you!
Are there any accessories that come with the scope?
Yes, some accessories are offered with the scope such as rubber lens covers, cleaning cloth, owner’s manual, loose Allen keys, and so on.
Where is the reticle placed?
It has a 20 MOA MOAR reticle with a center illumination system. It is placed on the second focal panel of the scope.
What should be the scope ring size to mount the scope on?
Since the tube diameter is 30mm, you need to find scope rings with the same diameter. However, make sure the ring height is in the medium-high.
4. Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20×50 Riflescope
This is another scope that comes with a 5-20x magnification range. However, in contrast to the Nightforce, it has a BAC Triangle Post reticle to make the scope extremely eye-friendly to use for long hours of hunting or shooting. Even though it is an illuminated reticle, interestingly, it doesn’t require a battery to operate.
The scope has a Fiber optic technology that mainly works to automatically adjust the brightness level of the reticle according to the light condition you’re in. Additionally, the tritium phosphor lamp ensures the illumination of the reticle in a low to no-light environment. As the reticle is placed on the SFP, it provides a more exact aiming point at higher magnifications.
Like any other high-quality Lapua scopes, this scope housing has also been engineered with Aircraft-grade Aluminum so that it can survive through all weather conditions for a longer period. Besides, the multilayer coatings on the scope lens give you a clear and brighter target image.
We also like the amount of eye relief the scope provides. With this scope, you will get nearly 3.8 – 4.1” eye relief which we believe will be a great help for the shooters with poor eyesight. Overall, it is a good deal for those who are looking for long-range scopes with an easy to use illuminated reticle system.
How many colors are available in the dot?
The dot is available in three different colors such as amber, red, and green. Choose the dot color according to your preference or shooting style.
Do you need to separately purchase the necessary accessories for the scope?
The company includes accessories like lens caps, sunshades, warranty cards, manuals, and lens pens. So, if you need parts other than these, you have to purchase them separately.
How can you adjust the scope up and down?
First, make sure you have installed the scope properly. If it is rightly mounted, the crosshairs will be easily adjusted with the elevation knob that is located on top of the scope.
Read More Scope Blogs:- 450 Bushmaster | 6.5 Creedmoor | 6.5 Grendel
3. Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44mm Side Focus Riflescope
Looking for a lightweight but rugged constructed long-range scope? If so, this one is just for you! Since the scope is made of Aluminum, it makes it lightweight and sturdy at the same time. In short, it has been designed to withstand extreme temperatures, elevation changes, and shocks.
The Guard-ion coating on the lens also ensures the scope lens remains moisture and dust-proof. In addition, the in-house lens design which means the Twilight Max HD Light Management System enables the lens to deliver high-quality target images in all lighting conditions.
The scope comes with a 3-15x magnification range to help you shoot from long distances. It has a 5:1 zooming ratio to maximize the aiming accuracy on the target. By using its free CDS elevation dial system, you can easily shoot from long ranges without any need for holdovers or ballistic calculations.
What is the eye relief of this scope?
The long-range scopes must have a sufficient amount of eye relief. Hence, this scope is designed to have the highest 3.82” eye relief.
Is it offered with a lens cover?
It is always better to use a lens cover with a rifle scope. It protects the lens from getting damaged by moisture and dust. Considering this factor, the company offers bungee-style lens covers with the scope.
Where is the reticle placed in the scope?
The scope is designed to have a standard second focal panel. Therefore, the reticle of the scope has been placed on the SFP.
2. Swarovski Z5 3.5-18×44 Ballistic Turret Riflescope
It has many features to talk about but here we only discuss the ones that we believe make it stand out from other reviewed scopes. For example, the scope is crafted with a 4W reticle with vertical hash marks placed in 2 MOA increments. This enables you to aim as quickly as possible. It can also work as a compensating windage adjustment.
The scope has been featured with a spring retention system to ensure a higher adjustment range of up to 116 MOA. Besides, the ballistic turret flex (BTF) helps you to stay on the target from any shooting range. The additional turret locking mechanism makes sure the adjustments don’t get changed inadvertently.
Another noteworthy feature of the scope is Its HD optics which includes fluoride-containing lenses to eliminate color aberrations. It also provides high-quality resolution and color contrast. So, if these features resonate with your hunting style or need, buy it now!
What is the submersion level of the scope?
The more submersion level a scope offers, the better because it ensures you can use the scope in different water levels. This scope has submersion tightness around 13ft or 4m.
What size scope rings do you need to mount this scope?
The diameter of the scope rings should be always selected depending on the scope tube size. As the tube size of the scope is 1”, you will require scope rings of the same size.
What material has been used for scope housing?
The scope housing is made of high-quality Aluminum. It not only makes the scope sturdy but also lightweight.
1. Steiner T5Xi 5-25×56 Tactical Rifle Scope
The product can be summed up in features like long-range precision, versatility, and ruggedness. To make a long-range precise aim on the targets the scope has been designed with Special Competition Reticle (SCR). This reticle system provides an extended illumination area as well as windage, and holdover lines to ensure the accuracy of your aiming.
Since the scope has a Second Rotation Indicator, after the first 120 clicks, the mil numbers on the scale change automatically so that the shooter doesn’t get lost on the dial. Moreover, the versatile magnification range (5-25x) enables you to shoot from any distance.
This one-piece 34mm tube is made with high-quality material to increase its strength and reliability to sustain any rough situation. Additionally, the scope lens comes with multi-coatings to deliver clear and brighter views of the target.
Therefore, it can be a viable option for you, if a balanced structure is what you look for in a scope.
Do you need to use lens cover with this scope?
The lenses of the long-range rifle scope are prone to damage as they are mostly used in rough terrains. So, it is wise to use a lens cover with the scope. Hence, Steiner includes Tenebraex lens covers along with the scope.
Does the company offer a warranty?
Yes, the company offers a lifetime warranty with the product. If you receive a defective product, they will either replace or repair it.
What is the focal panel of this scope?
It is the first focal panel scope because the reticle is placed on the FFP. It allows you to change the reticle size as you change the magnification range for target acquisition.
Buying Guide For 338 Lapua Scope
By looking at some key features before buying a scope, you can increase the possibility of finding the right scoop for your rifle. Below is the list of factors you should check while purchasing Lapua scopes:
Magnifications
Scopes for long-range shooting rifles need to come with a versatile magnification range. It will allow you to easily zoom in/out of the shooting range and have the right aim on the target. When you buy a scope for 338 Lapua, make sure the magnification range doesn’t come less than 8x.
Durability
The scope you are buying must have a rugged construction. Otherwise, you won’t be able to use it in different terrains and weather conditions. In addition, the scope also needs to have multicoated, anti-reflective lenses to ensure they can pass the maximum amount of light through the glasses.
Reticle
The scopes are generally offered with different types of reticles such as BDC, MIL, and Duplex. Depending on your preference, buy the scope with a reticle type you would like to use. Some reticles may also come with an illumination system, in that case, check whether there is a high-quality battery provided with it or not.
FFP vs SFP
The reticles can either be placed on the first focal panel or the second focal panel. If it is placed on the FFP, it will give you the extra advantage of changing the reticle size along with the magnification range.
But if you are someone who wants to keep the reticle feature simple yet standard, you can buy a scope that is designed with SFP. One thing to note, due to its complex structure, the FFP scopes are a bit costlier than the SFP scopes.
Objective Lens
Another important factor you need to check is the objective lens diameter of the scope. Ensure that the scope you are selecting has an objective lens with a larger diameter, this will allow you to have a bright and clear image of the target from a long distance.
Eye Relief
Since it is a high-power rifle, it is obvious that it will produce heavy recoils. Hence, make sure the scope you are purchasing gives you enough eye relief. Generally, for Lapua scopes the eye relief should be around 3-4” but if you wear glasses or have poor eyesight the eye relief needs to be more than 4”.
Summary
If you want to ensure fast and accurate target acquisition, there is no alternative to finding the right long-range scope for 338 Lapua. Since there are many options for scopes in the market, it is quite normal to get confused while looking for the right scope.
To save you from the hard work, here we have discussed the best scopes you can use with your rifle. Do read them thoroughly, think about your shooting needs, and match the scope features with them. This way it will be much easier for you to choose a scope for the rifle. You are also suggested to use the given checklist to confirm the scope compatibility with your 338 Lapua.
Scopes:- 17 HMR | 17 WSM | 204 Ruger | 224 Valkyrie | 22 Magnum | 243 Winchester | 257 Weatherby | 270 Winchester | 3 Gun | 300 PRC | 350 Legend | 375 HH | 44 Magnum | 450 Bushmaster | 50 BMG | 6.5 Creedmoor | 6.5 Grendel | 6.8 SPC | 7.62.39 | Benjamin Marauder | Henry H001 | M1a | Marlin 336 | Marlin 795 | Marlin Model 60 | MK12 | Ruger Gunsite Scout | Ruger Mini 14 | Ruger Mini 30 | Savage 220 | Scar 20S | Sig 716
Scopes & Sights:- 11.5 SBR | 300 Blackout | M4 | MK18 | Ruger Charger | S&W M&P 15&22 | S&W M&P 15 Sport 2
Hi, I’m Brent Hansford. A writer turned hunter & now sharing my love for the sport through writing. As I practically breathe weapons, I firmly believe I’m capable of providing you with new knowledge about firearms and hunting. My mission is to help more people get better at hunting & master the weapons. Let me help with unleashing the beast within you!
