By Joel Mccartan
Hey there fellow hunters and shooting enthusiasts! It’s Joel here, your resident night vision and hunting gear expert. Today, we’re diving into the world of scopes specifically designed for the powerhouse that is the .338 Winchester Magnum.
As an avid moose and elk hunter myself, I know firsthand how important it is to have a reliable, high-performance scope when chambering those hefty 338 Win Mag rounds. Whether you’re protecting yourself from dangerous game or looking to make that once-in-a-lifetime long-range shot, having the right glass on your rifle can make all the difference.
Now, I know the market is saturated with countless options, and it can be overwhelming trying to pick the perfect scope for your needs. That’s why I’ve done the heavy lifting for you and narrowed it down to the top 8 scopes for 338 Win Mag in 2024.
I’ve put these scopes through their paces in various hunting situations and consulted with other experienced hunters to bring you only the cream of the crop. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of what makes these scopes stand out from the rest.
Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x50mm Riflescope
When it comes to advanced tactical scopes that can go the distance, the Vortex Razor HD Gen II is hard to beat. With its impressive 4.5-27x magnification range, this scope allows you to engage targets with precision from short to extreme long ranges.
The APO optical system, combined with the XR fully multi-coated lenses and extra-low dispersion glass, delivers stunning image clarity and color fidelity, even in low light conditions. Trust me, when you’re staring down a trophy bull at dusk, you’ll appreciate every ounce of light transmission this scope provides.
The EBR-7C reticle, located in the first focal plane, is a dream for long-range hunters and competitive shooters alike. And with the L-TEC turret system and locking mechanisms, you can make quick, precise adjustments on the fly without worrying about accidentally bumping your zero.
Pros:
• Excellent image quality
• Durable construction
• Versatile magnification range
• Advanced reticle design
Cons:
• On the heavier side
• Premium price point
Leupold VX-Freedom 450 Bushmaster 3-9x40mm Riflescope
Leupold has long been a trusted name in the optics world, and their VX-Freedom line offers exceptional performance at a more budget-friendly price point.
The 3-9x magnification range is ideal for most hunting situations, providing a wide field of view at lower powers for quick target acquisition, and enough magnification at higher powers to reach out and touch distant game.
One standout feature of this scope is the Twilight Light Management System, which provides an extra 10 minutes of shooting light in those crucial dawn and dusk hours. The clarity and brightness of the image through this scope is truly impressive, especially considering its price point.
The Duplex reticle is a classic all-purpose design that won’t obstruct your view, and the precision finger click adjustments make sighting in a breeze.
With its lightweight, durable construction and scratch-resistant lenses, the VX-Freedom is ready to tackle any hunting adventure you throw its way.
Pros:
• Excellent low light performance
• Lightweight and durable
• Great value for the price
• Simple, effective reticle design
Cons:
• Some may prefer more advanced reticle options
• Not as much magnification as other scopes on this list
Swarovski Z8i 2.3-18x56mm Riflescope
If you’re willing to invest in the best of the best, look no further than the Swarovski Z8i. This top-of-the-line scope boasts exceptional optical clarity, thanks to Swarovski’s proprietary lens coatings and superior glass quality.
The 2.3-18x magnification range is incredibly versatile, allowing for quick shots at close range and precise long-range shots out to 1000 yards or more. The 56mm objective lens gathers an incredible amount of light, making this scope a low light champion.
The illuminated 4W-I reticle is a thing of beauty, with precise holdover points and a clean, uncluttered design. And with the BT ballistic turret, you can quickly dial in your shots based on your specific load and environmental conditions.
Yes, the price tag on this scope is steep, but if you demand the absolute best performance and optics quality, the Swarovski Z8i is worth every penny.
Pros:
• Unparalleled optical clarity and brightness
• Wide magnification range
• Advanced ballistic turret system
• Exceptional low light performance
Cons:
• Very expensive
• Heavier than some other options
Nightforce SHV 5-20x56mm Riflescope
Nightforce has earned a reputation for building rock-solid, high-performance scopes that can withstand the toughest conditions. The SHV 5-20×56 is no exception, offering a rugged construction and advanced features at a more affordable price point than some of their other models.
The 5-20x magnification range is well-suited for both medium and long-range shots, and the massive 56mm objective lens provides excellent light transmission in low light conditions. The IHR reticle is designed for precise holdovers and windage corrections, making it a great choice for long-range hunters.
The turrets on this scope are crisp and precise, with Nightforce’s ZeroSet technology allowing you to easily return to your zero after making adjustments. And with the built-in power throw lever, you can quickly change magnification on the fly.
Pros:
• Rugged, durable construction
• Excellent low light performance
• Advanced reticle design
• Precise, reliable turrets
Cons:
• Some may find the reticle too busy for close-range shots
• Heavier than some other options
Leica Magnus 2.4-16x56mm Riflescope
Leica is known for their uncompromising commitment to optical quality, and the Magnus 2.4-16×56 lives up to that reputation. The image clarity and color fidelity through this scope is simply stunning, thanks to Leica’s proprietary lens coatings and high-quality glass.
The 2.4-16x magnification range provides a wide field of view at lower powers and plenty of reach at higher magnifications. The 56mm objective lens is perfect for low light hunting situations, gathering every last bit of available light.
The illuminated 4a reticle is clean and precise, with a variety of holdover options for longer shots. And with the Leica Ballistic system, you can quickly adjust for wind and elevation without the need for complicated calculations.
Pros:
• Exceptional optical clarity and brightness
• Wide magnification range
• Simple, effective reticle design
• Ballistic compensation system
Cons:
• Expensive
• Some may prefer more advanced reticle options
Vortex Viper HST 6-24x50mm Riflescope
Another fantastic option from Vortex, the Viper HST 6-24×50 is built for long-range performance. With its 6-24x magnification range and 50mm objective lens, this scope excels at precise shot placement at extended distances.
The VMR-1 MOA reticle is designed specifically for long-range shooting, with detailed holdover and windage marks for dialing in those crucial shots. The CRS Zero Stop turrets allow for quick, precise adjustments and easy return to zero.
Vortex’s XR fully multi-coated lenses provide excellent light transmission and clarity, even in low light conditions. And with the ArmorTek coating, your lenses will be protected from scratches, dirt, and oil.
Pros:
• Excellent long-range performance
• Detailed, precise reticle design
• CRS Zero Stop turrets
• ArmorTek lens protection
Cons:
• Less versatile at close ranges
• Some may find the reticle too busy for hunting situations
Bushnell Elite Tactical DMR II 3.5-21x50mm Riflescope
Bushnell’s Elite Tactical line has earned a reputation for delivering high-end performance at a more reasonable price point, and the DMR II 3.5-21×50 is a prime example.
The 3.5-21x magnification range provides plenty of versatility, from medium-range hunting shots to long-range target shooting. The G3 illuminated reticle is designed for quick, precise holdovers and wind corrections.
Bushnell’s EXO Barrier lens coating repels water, oil, and dust, ensuring your sight picture remains clear in any conditions. And with the fully multi-coated optics and 50mm objective lens, you’ll enjoy bright, crisp images even in low light.
Pros:
• Versatile magnification range
• Illuminated G3 reticle
• EXO Barrier lens coating
• Excellent value for the features
Cons:
• Some may prefer higher magnification for extreme long-range shots
• Illumination could be brighter in daylight conditions
Schmidt & Bender PM II 5-25x56mm Riflescope
Last but certainly not least, the Schmidt & Bender PM II 5-25×56 is a top-tier optic built for the most demanding shooting situations. With its 5-25x magnification range and 56mm objective lens, this scope is designed for maximum precision at extreme distances.
The illuminated P4FL2 reticle provides incredibly precise holdover points, with a floating center dot for quick target acquisition. The Double Turn elevation turret allows for a remarkable 26 MILs of adjustment per rotation, making it easy to dial in those long-range shots.
As you would expect from a premium scope, the optical clarity and brightness are exceptional, thanks to Schmidt & Bender’s advanced lens coatings and high-quality glass. The durable construction and reliable performance make this scope a top choice for serious long-range shooters.
Pros:
• Exceptional optical quality
• Precise, reliable turrets
• Advanced reticle design
• Durable construction
Cons:
• Very expensive
• Heavy and bulky compared to other options
Wrapping Up
There you have it, folks – my top 8 picks for the best scopes for 338 Win Mag in 2024. Whether you’re a serious long-range competitor, a dedicated big game hunter, or somewhere in between, there’s a scope on this list that will help you get the most out of your 338 Win Mag rifle.
Remember, investing in a high-quality scope is just as important as investing in a good rifle. Don’t skimp on glass – it can make all the difference when that once-in-a-lifetime shot presents itself.
As always, if you have any questions or want to share your own experiences with these scopes, drop a comment below. Happy shooting, and may your 338 Win Mag always find its mark!