Hey there, fellow hunters and shooting enthusiasts! Joel Mccartan here, and boy, do I have a treat for you today. As someone who’s spent countless hours in the field and at the range, I know firsthand how crucial it is to have the right scope for your .300 Blackout rifle. Trust me, I’ve had my fair share of frustrating moments with subpar optics, and I don’t want you to go through the same headaches.
That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the 9 best scopes for .300 Blackout rifles in 2024. I’ve tested, compared, and analyzed dozens of scopes to bring you the cream of the crop. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just getting started with your .300 Blackout, I’ve got you covered.
But before we dive into the good stuff, let’s take a quick moment to appreciate why the .300 Blackout is such a fantastic cartridge. It’s versatile, effective, and oh-so-satisfying to shoot. I remember the first time I took my .300 Blackout out for a hog hunt – the way it handled both supersonic and subsonic loads was nothing short of impressive. But to truly unlock its potential, you need the right glass on top.
So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s find the perfect scope to elevate your .300 Blackout game!
Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 SFP Rifle Scope (Gen III) – Best Overall
Let me tell you, folks, this scope is a game-changer. I’ve put it through its paces in all sorts of conditions, and it never fails to impress. Here’s why it’s my top pick:
Key Features:
- Magnification: 1-6x
- Objective Lens: 24mm
- Reticle: ACSS-300BO
- Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros:
- Crystal clear glass
- Illuminated ACSS reticle specifically designed for .300 Blackout
- Durable construction
- Excellent value for money
Cons:
- SFP might not be everyone’s cup of tea
I remember taking this scope out on a cloudy day for some target practice. Even in less-than-ideal lighting, the clarity was outstanding. The ACSS reticle is a work of art, making holdovers a breeze whether you’re running supersonic or subsonic loads.
Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 1-6×24 – Best for Versatility
Vortex has always been a solid choice, and the Strike Eagle doesn’t disappoint. It’s a scope that can handle everything from close-quarters to medium-range shooting with ease.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 1-6x
- Objective Lens: 24mm
- Reticle: AR-BDC3
- Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros:
- Versatile magnification range
- Illuminated reticle
- Solid build quality
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Eye box can be a bit tight at higher magnifications
I’ve used this scope for both hunting and 3-gun competitions, and it’s never let me down. The glass quality is excellent for the price point, and the illuminated reticle is a lifesaver in low-light conditions.
Trijicon ACOG TA44 1.5x16S – Best for Close Quarters
If you’re looking for speed and durability, look no further than the Trijicon ACOG. This compact powerhouse is perfect for close-quarters engagements.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 1.5x
- Objective Lens: 16mm
- Reticle: Chevron
- Illumination: Fiber optics and tritium
Pros:
- Virtually indestructible
- No batteries required
- Excellent eye relief
- Crystal clear optics
Cons:
- Fixed magnification
- Premium price tag
I’ve had the pleasure of using this scope in some pretty rough conditions, and it’s never skipped a beat. The clarity is outstanding, and the chevron reticle is perfect for quick target acquisition. Yes, it’s pricey, but in my opinion, it’s worth every penny for the right application.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 – Best Budget Option
Not everyone wants to break the bank on a scope, and that’s where the Crossfire II comes in. It offers solid performance at a wallet-friendly price.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 2-7x
- Objective Lens: 32mm
- Reticle: V-Plex (MOA)
- Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros:
- Affordable
- Good glass clarity
- Durable construction
- Versatile magnification range
Cons:
- Basic reticle
I’ve recommended this scope to many beginners, and they’ve all been impressed with its performance. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive options, it gets the job done reliably. I’ve used it for deer hunting with great success.
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 – Best for Hunting
Leupold has a well-deserved reputation for quality, and the VX-Freedom lives up to it. This scope is a hunter’s dream.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 3-9x
- Objective Lens: 40mm
- Reticle: Duplex
- Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros:
- Excellent low-light performance
- Rugged and lightweight
- Clear glass
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- Basic reticle
I’ve taken this scope on numerous hunting trips, and it’s never disappointed. The clarity in low light is particularly impressive – perfect for those dawn and dusk hunts. The simple duplex reticle might seem basic, but it’s incredibly effective for most hunting situations.
Aimpoint PRO Red Dot Reflex Sight – Best Red Dot
For those who prefer a red dot sight, the Aimpoint PRO is hard to beat. It’s fast, reliable, and built like a tank.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 1x
- Objective Lens: 30mm
- Reticle: 2 MOA red dot
- Battery Life: 30,000 hours
Pros:
- Incredibly durable
- Long battery life
- Always-on capability
- Night vision compatible
Cons:
- No magnification
I’ve used this sight in 3-gun competitions, and it’s a speed demon. The dot is crisp, and the battery life is phenomenal. While it lacks magnification, it’s perfect for close to medium-range engagements.
Sig Sauer Tango6T 1-6×24 – Best Premium Option
If you’re willing to invest in top-tier glass, the Sig Sauer Tango6T is worth a look. It’s a scope that screams quality from the moment you pick it up.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 1-6x
- Objective Lens: 24mm
- Reticle: DWLR6 (MOA)
- Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
Pros:
- Exceptional glass clarity
- Illuminated FFP reticle
- Robust construction
- Wide field of view
Cons:
- Expensive
I had the chance to use this scope during a training course, and I was blown away. The glass is crystal clear, and the reticle is incredibly versatile. It’s pricey, but for those who demand the best, it’s worth considering.
Holosun HS510C – Best Holographic Sight
For those who prefer a holographic-style sight, the Holosun HS510C offers excellent performance at a reasonable price point.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 1x
- Reticle: 2 MOA dot with 65 MOA circle
- Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours
- Solar failsafe
Pros:
- Multiple reticle options
- Long battery life
- Shake awake technology
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Larger than some red dot sights
I’ve found this sight to be incredibly versatile. The multiple reticle options allow you to choose what works best for your shooting style, and the solar failsafe is a nice touch for added reliability.
Primary Arms SLx 3×32 Gen III Prism Scope – Best Prism Scope
Rounding out our list is the Primary Arms SLx 3×32 Prism Scope. It offers a great balance of magnification and close-quarters capability.
Key Features:
- Magnification: 3x
- Objective Lens: 32mm
- Reticle: ACSS-CQB-300BLK
- Illumination: 12 brightness settings
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Etched reticle
- Good eye relief
- Specifically designed for .300 Blackout
Cons:
- Fixed magnification
I’ve found this scope to be particularly effective for home defense setups. The 3x magnification is perfect for indoor distances, while still allowing for accurate shots out to 300 yards. The ACSS reticle is a joy to use and makes holdovers a breeze.
Choosing the Right Scope for Your Needs
Now that we’ve covered the top 9 scopes for .300 Blackout rifles, you might be wondering how to choose the right one for your specific needs. Here are a few factors to consider:
Intended Use: Are you primarily hunting, competing, or using your rifle for home defense? This will help determine the ideal magnification range and reticle type.
Budget: Quality optics can be expensive, but remember – you often get what you pay for. Invest in the best scope you can afford.
Magnification: For most .300 Blackout applications, a 1-6x or 1-8x variable scope offers a great balance of close-quarters and medium-range capability.
Reticle: Consider whether you prefer a simple duplex reticle or something more advanced like a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticle.
Durability: Look for scopes with robust construction, especially if you plan on using your rifle in rugged conditions.
Battery Life: If you’re choosing an illuminated scope, consider battery life and whether it has features like auto-shutoff to conserve power.
Warranty: A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment.
Final Thoughts
The .300 Blackout is a versatile cartridge, and pairing it with the right scope can truly unlock its potential. Whether you’re hunting hogs at dusk, competing in 3-gun matches, or setting up a home defense rifle, there’s a scope on this list that will meet your needs.
Remember, the “best” scope is ultimately the one that works best for you and your shooting style. Don’t be afraid to try out different options if possible. Many ranges offer demo days where you can test various optics.
I hope this guide has been helpful in your quest for the perfect .300 Blackout scope. If you have any questions or want to share your own experiences, drop a comment below. I’m always eager to hear from fellow shooters and learn about your setups.
Now get out there and start ringing some steel with your newly upgraded .300 Blackout! Happy shooting, folks!