Best 338 Lapua Scopes
A Comprehensive Guide
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So, I imagine you have been shooting long ranges for a while and have conquered quite a distance, but you soon begin to realize that you cannot go farther than your current distance no matter how hard you try or read up on improving your long-range shots. Have you ever wondered perhaps the issue is not with your skill but the rifle? If you are looking forward to shooting extreme long distances, the .338 Lapua Magnum is the right build for such intent.
Although it was initially designed basically for the military, it has, in recent years, become common amongst sport shooters and long-range hunters. Using the .338 Lapua Magnum is an experience any gun enthusiast will crave, considering its power, huge ammo, and powerful recoil that rattles your whole being. However, all these are not enough to get the best out of this rifle. You need the right scope. That is the proper .338 Lapua scope, which offers improved accuracy and aim capacity.
Table of Contents
If you are in a hurry to purchase the best 338 lapua scopes, and you want to make the best decision, here are our top 3 picks:
Top 3 .338 Lapua Scopes
$259.95
$0
0 new
from 259.95
in stock
$1489
$0
0 new
from 1489
in stock
$1999
$2269.99
2269.99 new
from 1999
in stock
Nevertheless, when you choose to get yourself a .338 Lapua scope, you’ll soon find out that what you thought was best was not suitable for your needs, but you have already spent a considerable amount of money on it. Hence, having reviewed ten .338 Lapua scopes, we have compiled this guide to assist you in making an informed decision on which scope to purchase.
10 Best 338 Lapua Scopes (Ranked And Reviewed)
$1999
$2269.99
22 03 2023
×
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com (Amazon.in, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, etc) at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
2 new
from $1999
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
9.5 x 4 x 7.25 Inches
-
Weight:
3.7 Pounds
Steiner designs the Steiner TX5i Tactical Riflescope. Steiner is a Germany based company that specializes in rifle scope manufacturing. Although their scopes are considered quite costly by most people, I can assure you get value for any penny invested in their products. The Steiner TX5i scope is Suitable for combat uses, hunting, and even competition; the Steiner TX5i Riflescope provides you with great clarity, accuracy, and superb light transmission. The TX5i features a multi-coated lens to ensure you have more contrast and brighter details, even in low-light situations. The Steiner TX5i scope is entirely fog proof, waterproof and shockproof. You can be sure your scope is protected even in extreme weather conditions.
The scope is sealed with 14-psi pressurized Nitrogen to provide you with clarity in all conditions. The Steiner TX5i is built with durability and reliability in mind; the scope is guaranteed to serve you a lifetime even under severe conditions, and submersible up to 33ft deep in water. The Riflescope uses a long-range special competition reptile (SCR) technology, which is a reticle designed by Steiner for users who would love to use the scope for competitions. With the Steiner scope, you have a guaranteed win in a long-range shoot-out. It is located in the first focal plane and features a wide illumination area. Another exciting feature of this scope is its low profile and Resettable Turrets, which provide excellent adjustability.
The Resettable Turrets have hard stops at zero, which ensures accurate sailing of elevation and windage. Also, with these turrets, you can never be lost on your dial; it comes with an added rotation indicator that automatically changes the scale after the first rotation of 120 clicks. All in a bid for convenience, the Riflescope adopts a style of angled magnification ring that gives room for you to see the magnification setting even while you’re positioned behind the scope. The scope makes use of a CR2450 battery. If you are a hunter looking for the perfect scope, I would recommend you try this scope out. Lastly, the Steiner TX5i scope is covered by a lifetime warranty, which Is also transferable when you feel like you have had enough, although I doubt you ever will.
Positive
- Easy to set zero stop
- Illuminated and brightness-adjustable SCR reticle
- Lifetime warranty
Negatives
- Considered expensive
2. Swarovski Z5 3.5-18×44 Ballistic Turret Plex Riflescope
$1489
$0
22 03 2023
×
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com (Amazon.in, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, etc) at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
4 new
from $1489
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
17 x 4 x 4 Inches
-
Weight:
2 Pounds
Swarovski optics are popularly known for their incredible glass quality, which is a feature that is needed in long-range shooting scopes. The Swarovski Z5 is one of the best Riflescope with versatile applications The Swarovski Z5 makes a one-of-kind parallel definition using field flattened lenses. The scope also adopts the use of fluoride-containing HD lenses, which help minimize or eliminate the appearance of false colors in images. This enables optimum color accuracy and vastly increases clarity. The entirely coated lens also helps to ensure maximum color quality. The Swarovski Z5 scope offers a 5x zoom and large field of view, and with an extended eye relief of 3.74”, you can focus on taking your shot.
It also offers eyeglasses users a full field of view without having to take off their glasses. The scope features a spring retention system that delivers maximum precision by allowing the return lever to provide a constant pressure in each point as the system reverses. It makes use of a ballistic turret flex that allows you to stay on your target from the desired distance. This ballistic turret flex is configurable and flexible; it can be used as a side turret or top turret depending on your preferences and needs. If the ballistic turret is used as a top turret, it will be easier to compensate for the bullet drop, while if used as a side turret, windage adjustment and distance estimation are easier.
The reticle stays in the second focal plane allowing the target observed to be magnified while the reticle size remains constant. This scope also offers multiple reticle options. The Swarovski Z5 is a one-inch, lightweight alloy main tube with an anodized scratch-resistant surface that protects it during rough use. Its slim design also allows you to mount the scope for use quickly. The scope is completely waterproof at up to 4 meters deep, fog-proof, and shockproof to withstand rugged use and recoil. The scope is built to last you a lifetime and is backed by Swarovski’s limited lifetime warranty.
Positive
- Lightweight
- Sturdy design
- Different ballistic turret flex
Negatives
- Considered expensive
3. Monstrum G3 6-24×50 First Focal Plane FFP Rifle Scope
$259.95
$0
22 03 2023
×
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com (Amazon.in, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, etc) at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
1 new
from $259.95
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
17.75 x 6.25 x 3.75 Inches
-
Weight:
3.99 Pounds
The Monstrum G3 6-24×50 is a long-range Riflescope with the potential to cover more than 1500 yards. This scope features elevation adjustments with zero resets and turret lock to prevent slippage. It is often challenging to get a scope that meets our budget price while still giving us some useful features. The Monstrum G3 Riflescope provides you exciting features without having to break a bank. The Monstrum G3 scope features a fully multi-coated lens to reduce glare and enhance light transmission. It also helps to protect the lens against scratching. The scope is built for durability with its body manufactured from lightweight but heavy-duty aluminum.
It is fully sealed and filled with Nitrogen to protect against water and fog. This scope has a custom-designed first focal plane reticle for faster range estimation and holdover correction. The illuminated reticle is one of the reasons it is preferred by hunters asides its magnification. This helps when you have to shoot in low-light, probably in a situation where you have to hunt at dawn or till dusk. The Monstrum G3 scope also gives you full control over the reticle brightness setting using the illumination control knob and choosing from different intensities to provide you clarity in faint light conditions.
The scope uses a CR2032 3V battery for reticle illumination. This scope also comes equipped with an adjustable objective lens (AO) that helps you with a sharp focus and gives room for adjustment against parallax at every range. The scope also provides a comforting eye relief of 4-4.5,” and I assure you would never have to worry about getting a black eye. The Monstrum G3 comes with a flip-up lens cover to protect from dust, heavy-duty scope rings to provide maximum lockdown and performance, and a detachable high honeycomb filter sunshade, providing convenience for use.
Positive
- Good magnification
- Well illuminated reticle for low-light conditions
- Price is pocket-friendly
- Durability
Negatives
- Considered heavy by some users
- Crosshair considered too thin by some users
4. Nikon Black FX1000
$0
$0
22 03 2023
×
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com (Amazon.in, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, etc) at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
new
from $
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
14.8 x 4.6 x 4.2 Inches
-
Weight:
1.53 Pounds
The Nikon Black FX1000 is an amazing scope designed by Nikon. This scope uses FX-MRAD designed reticle, which is located on the first focal plane, making it a better choice for long-range shooting. This scope is ideal for long-range shooters as it helps you deliver your shots with such confidence and precision. The Nikon Black FX1000 offers a magnification range from 6x to 24x coupled with its 50mm objective lens. Each reticle, coupled with its high-quality glass, is designed to increase the image quality and provide the tools necessary for ranging, holdover, and windage corrections.
The Nikon Black FX1000 is designed to maintain its contrast in all light conditions. The scope offers ten brightness levels, which can be adjusted using the control knob. The multi-layer coated lenses do an excellent job of transmitting light. The scope features high-speed turrets with zero stop for quick adjustments and a rapid return to zero. The scope features a Quick Focus Eyepiece, an aluminum ring coupled with rubber to guard the eye. This quick focus eyepiece allows you to focus on the reticle and fast target acquisition.
It also features a Side Focus Parallax Adjustment knob, which gives you a chance to adjust without having to change your shooting position. The scope offers an adequate eye relief of around 4 inches, which does the safety job of protecting your eyes while providing you with comfort at the same time. This eye relief is not very comfortable at the highest magnification if used over a long period. The illuminated reticle is powered by a 3V CR2032 battery hidden in the brightness and parallax turret; the battery powers down after an hour of inactivity to save battery.
The Nikon Black FX1000 is O-ring sealed to prevent moisture from entering the body, making it Fog-proof and waterproof. It is also purged with Nitrogen; this protects against thermal shock and makes it fit for rugged use. Other added components include a lens cap and Sunshade. The Nikon Black FX1000 scope is not considered expensive, looking at the value being delivered, but not everyone accepts that opinion. Nikon offers good customer service and also a manufacturer lifetime warranty for repair or replacement.
Positive
- Clarity
- Durability
- Lifetime warranty
Negatives
- Price considered expensive by some users
- Complaints on eye relief at the highest magnification
5. Trijicon TR23 Accupoint 5-20×50 Riflescope
$1099.97
$0
22 03 2023
×
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com (Amazon.in, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, etc) at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
9 new
from $1099.97
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
13.6 x 3.2 x 3.2 Inches
-
Weight:
1.84 Pounds
The Trijicon TR23 5-20×50 is Trijicon’s longest range Riflescope. The scope is perfect for tactical shooters, hunters, and snipers because of its ability to accurately extend their range in any light. The Trijicon TR23 offers you a decent magnification of 5-20x, which is comfortable for any long-range shooter. You also get to enjoy an excellent image at all times from its 50mm objective lens, which is fully multi-coated for extra durability and light transmission. The scope uses a second focal plane reticle, which helps you aim accurately, even at higher magnifications. The scope allows you to choose your reticle from three different options; the MIL-Dot Crosshair, the BAC Triangle Post, and a Standard Duplex Crosshair.
All these three are identified in three colors, which are red, green, and yellow. The BAC Triangle Post, which is available in red and green, is eye-friendly and can be used continuously for long hours. The Trijicon TR23 provides you an eye relief of 3.80 to 4.1, which is comfortable enough for shooters. The scope offers an easy to use external adjuster for windbags and elevation adjustment. It also has a side parallax adjustment for enhanced accuracy at long ranges eliminating parallax. You also get to choose if you want your turrets capped or not. This scope is built from aircraft-grade aluminum and is also O-ring sealed and Nitrogen purged.
This would mean you can have your scope go through different rough and weather conditions without worries as it is fog-proof, waterproof, and shockproof. The Trijicon TR23 scope uses a battery-free illumination system. The system uses fiber optic technology and a tritium phosphor lamp to illuminate the recycle instead of the typical battery used by most manufacturers. This technology also extends your shooting hours and allows you to adjust the brightness to suit your personal need. The scope also comes with other easy use components as a lens cover to protect your lens from dirt, a sunshade for use during hunting. You can go for this scope if the price is within your budget range, or you might reconsider getting something lesser. Trijicon gives a warranty on their scopes for an assurance.
Positive
- Lightweight
- Different reticle color options
- Battery-free illumination system
- Excellent Magnification
- Long-range accuracy
Negatives
- Complaints on Turrets
6. Schmidt & Bender Zenith 3-12x50mm 7-Reticle .1mrad Cw Riflescope
$0
$0
22 03 2023
×
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com (Amazon.in, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, etc) at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
new
from $
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
16.26 x 3.58 x 3.27 Inches
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Weight:
1.38 Pounds
Schmidt & Bender Zenith Series 3-12×50 offers you a wide magnification range starting from 3x to 12x. Suppose you are looking for a rifle scope for long-range hunting in hilly or forest areas. This affords you the luxury of making that long accurate. Schmidt & Bender have, over the years, built a good reputation of long-range scopes with high performance. Because of Schmidt & Bender’s principle of producing quality over quantity, their scopes are limited and are usually considered expensive. The Zenith series 3-12×50 is one of their best Rifle Scopes and offers you enough value for your money. I would advise anyone looking for a quality scope and rather than a budget-friendly scope.
The scope uses a unique POSICON system that provides a graphic indication of the reticle’s position. The system also facilitates mounting, sighting in, and also ensures that you retain as much elevation and windage adjustments. The reticle is located on the second focal plane; hence the size does not change throughout the magnification range. This scope offers a fast-focus eyepiece and provides an adequate eye relief of 3.70 inches. You would not have to worry about a black eye or your safety during recoils with the eye relief. With the Schmidt & Bender Zenith 3-12×50, you are assured of outstanding image quality.
The Multi Coated 50mm objective lens allows light transmission providing you clear images for comfortable shooting even in low-light conditions. It is constructed from high strength aircraft-grade aluminum for durability. Being sealed AMD Nitrogen purged makes the scope waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. This makes it usable for some rough actions and also assures you in any weather condition. Schmidt & Bender Zenith 3-12×50 comes with a limited warranty period of 10 years and an additional 20 years for service and maintenance. To judge if the price is worth what you’re getting depends solely on you, and I would advise you to consider all the factors properly.
Positive
- Excellent Optical Quality
- Durability
Negatives
- Price considered expensive
- Limited warranty period
- Heavyweight
7. Vortex Optics Viper Hs-T Second Focal Plane Riflescope
$692
$789.99
22 03 2023
×
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com (Amazon.in, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, etc) at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
24 new
from $689.99
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
9 x 7 x 14 Inches
-
Weight:
1 Pounds
The Viper HS-T 6-24×50 is one of Viper HS-T (Hunting & Shooting Tactical) line designs. The scope is built as a simple rifle scope that can be used for various activities like hunting, target shooting, or tactical application. The Vortex Viper HS-T incorporates fully multi-coated and extra-low dispersion lenses to give an outstanding resolution, and the coating, in turn, helps to protect the lenses throughout usage. With its 6-24x magnification, you can get a clear and precise shot of object targets far away. This scope offers a wide field of view. The Vortex Viper HS-T scope is constructed from a concrete block of aircraft-grade aluminum for strength and rigidity.
Even in extremely rugged conditions, the scope still functions in its best capability. The tube is o-ring sealed and purged with argon to make it waterproof and fog proof. Asides this scope being waterproof and fog-proof, it is built to withstand massive impact and recoils. The scope has a fast-focus eyepiece that allows you to adjust the reticle properly to your eyes. It also comes with a good eye relief level. The exposed target-style turrets are constructed for precise and easy finger adjustment. The scope also uses a CRS Zero Stop allows you to return to zero after dialing temporary elevation corrections.
The Vortex Viper HS-T comes with a reticle that is on the second focal plane(SFP); this means when you change your magnification, the reticle style is maintained visually and does not change size. The reticle is not illuminated, which may make it difficult to see in low-light conditions. A precision glide erector system is incorporated in the zoom lens to ensure an easy magnification. If you are looking to get quality images, this scope might work for you, but you might want to consider other scopes lesser in price because you are working with a budget. If you also do not mind a Non-Illuminated scope, you certainly have no other reason not to go for this scope. The vortex viper, HS-T, like all other scopes from vortex optics, comes with a lifetime warranty, which is also transferable.
Positive
- Lifetime warranty
- Good magnification
- Durability
Negatives
- Considered expensive by some users
- Complaints on Turrets
- Few complaints about eye relief
8. Nightforce SHV 5-20x56mm Riflescope
$1195
$0
22 03 2023
×
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com (Amazon.in, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, etc) at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
11 new
from $1195
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
17 x 5 x 4.5 Inches
-
Weight:
3.9 Pounds
The NightForce SHV 5-20x56mm Riflescope is one of the top scopes that offers excellent image quality. The main exciting feature of this scope is its 56mm objective lens. The 56mm objective lens, coupled with its 5x to 20x magnification, is above average objective, and this provides excellent clarity, light transmission, and color contrast. It performs well in low-light environments. Sometimes, choosing the perfect Riflescope tends to be difficult, considering several essential factors to buying a scope. The Nighthorse SHV gives you your desired result in close, medium, and extended shooting ranges, so if you are looking for a versatile optic, you might want to consider this scope.
The scope uses a fast-focus eyepiece to help you pick your target always, and this too from a long distance. This Riflescope comes with a Non-Illuminated MOAR Reticle, which is located on the second focal plane. This means the reticle remains the same size with an increase or decrease in magnification. The scope by its features helps you aim precisely and accurately. You enjoy the 80 MOA of elevation adjustment, an easy 25-yard parallax adjustment, and an easy adjustment system with a zero set feature to return to initial adjustment without stress.
Since the elevation turret is exposed, it is easier to adjust the elevation. The NightForce SHV 5-20x56mm is manufactured from aircraft-grade aluminum, assuring you of its robust build and durability. The scope is also fog-proof, shockproof, and waterproof, and you would not have to run back home while hunting on a rainy day. Due to its vital components, the scope is a bit heavier than the regular scopes, which you might also consider when choosing.
Positive
- Easy adjustment
- Excellent magnification with 56mm objective lens
- Durability
- Good eye relief
Negatives
- Slightly heavy
- Turrets are not capped
- Considered expensive
9. Vortex Optics Razor Hd 5-20×50 First Focal Plane Riflescope
$1625
$0
22 03 2023
×
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com (Amazon.in, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, etc) at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
7 new
from $1625
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
12 x 9 x 5 Inches
-
Weight:
1 Pounds
The Vortex Razor HD 5-20×50 riflescope is built to handle the needs of precision and tactical shooters in most extreme, long-range shooting situations. The Razor HD is owned by Vortex Optics, which is a famous manufacturer of long-distance optics. The Vortex Razor HD is designed with an enhanced battle reticle that uses MOA sub-tension lines for ranging, holdover, and windage corrections. The reticles also come located on the first focal plane. Its illuminated reticle ensures precise aiming even in low-light situations.
This reticle is located at the first focal plane and will grow or shrink as the magnification is increased or reduced. The scope is designed with some exceptional features that give it an edge over other Riflescope. The scope uses premium high-density extra-low dispersion glass to provide you with High Definition images. Another spectacular feature of this scope is that the lenses are optimized image sharpness and brightness from edge to edge. The Vortex Razor HD is constructed from solid aircraft-grade aluminum for strength and rigidity.
Like other vortex counterparts, the tube o-ring sealed and argon purged, to make it fog-proof and waterproof in such weather conditions. The lens is also coated to protect from oil, specks of dirt, and scratches. The scope incorporates a friction reduction system in which a Heat-treated, hardened-steel pad floats on the end of the turret screw and interfaces with a hardened steel ring on the erector tube for steel-on-steel contact. This prevents galling or deformation of the erector screw contact point for superior durability and repeatability.
Its sturdy build enables it to withstand massive impact and keep the scope balance during recoil. The Vortex Razor HD has an exposed tactical-style turret that helps you with fast, accurate, easily read elevation and windage adjustment. A side focus provides optimal image focusing and parallax removal. The fast focus eyepiece allows quick and easy reticle focusing. The Rapid Zero Return feature stops the turret from dialing below the sight-in range using rugged steel components.
Positive
- Clear quality image
- Sturdy build
- Good Magnification
Negatives
- Parallax adjustment
10. Leupold Vx-3i Lrp 6.5-20x50mm Side Focus Riflescope
$1299.99
$0
22 03 2023
×
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com (Amazon.in, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, etc) at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
1 new
from $1299.99
Specifications
-
Dimensions:
17 x 3.78 x 4.1 Inches
-
Weight:
2.13 Pounds
The Leupold is known for its rugged performance, being tested to withstand heavy impact and extreme weather conditions for durability. This is one of the reasons why war veterans and hunters most prefer it. The Leupold VX-3i LRP 8.5-25×50 is not different. The Leupold VX-3i 6.5-20x50mm offers you the best long-range experience with its excellent magnification, elite optical performance. This scope is explicitly built for Long-range precision. With the Leupold VX-3i, you are assured of a decent shot always. Its 50mm objective lens allows you to pick on your target to get an exact quality image. The scope also offers a lockable fast-focus eyepiece.
The scope offers you the luxury of picking out a moving target. The Leupold VX-3i uses Leupold’s Twilight Max Light Management System, which provides an unparalleled low light performance. You can count on the scope to help you see crucial details not visible to others in low-light conditions. The scope uses a Front Focal Plane (FFP) method, where the reticle increases along with the image. The scope comes with easy to read adjustment dials. The Long Range Precision (LRP) Target Adjustments features three revolutions of travel, a zero-stop, and a revolution indicator.
If you are a person who considers the weight of scope, then you could go with this because the Leopold scope is lightweight, which makes it suitable for you as it does not add additional weight on your rifle. The Leupold VX-3i 6.5-20x is a100% Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof scope, enabling you to use it under extreme weather conditions. It is designed to last you a lifetime under harsh environmental conditions and rugged use. The Leupold VX-3i does not come with HD glass, unlike its VX-5HD and VX-6HD counterpart. The scope comes with a lifetime warranty should, in case you have a reason to service or repair your scope.
Positive
- Low-light brightness
- Versatile reticle
- Easy adjustment and magnification
Negatives
- Considered expensive
- Complaints about Zero stop
What To Consider While Buying The Best .338 Lapua Scopes?
To get the best out of your rifle, you need to choose the .338 Lapua scope that best fits your needs. Below is the list of some things you should consider when looking for the best optic for your rifle.
Magnification
Of all sniper cartridges ever developed, .338 Lapua Magnum is unarguably one of the most effective. It is capable of shooting its target as far as 1000 yards. As a matter of fact, Craig Harrison holds the record for the longest accurate shot at 2,700 yards. In other words, a single .338 Lapua bullet, when fired, can travel a mile with ease. However, to reach such long-range targets, it is evident that you will need a scope to assist. For Harrison to have been able to make that shot, he must have had the best scope available. Therefore, at extreme ranges, you need a scope with high magnification. You sure cannot hit at something you cannot see, no?
If for any reason, you decide to purchase a scope with low magnification, it defeats the purpose of shooting at long range. If you want precision and accuracy at long-range targets, you should go for at least 10x magnification. This implies that you will see your target ten times closer than with a scopeless rifle. If a target, for instance, were at a mile away, it would look like it was only at 528 feet or 176 yards. There are two types of scope as touching magnification: a variable power optic and a fixed power optic. A variable power optic is generally preferable to the other because it provides versatility. In other words, with a variable power scope, you can adjust your magnification in response to either close or long-range shots. Hence, you should go for a rifle scope that spans between 3x and 25x magnification.
Reticle
Reticles are of three types: BDC, MOA, or Mil-Dot. Scopes with any of these reticle markings are suitable for long-distance shots. The reticle markings’ essence is the help they render in making adjustments for windage and holdover on tough long-distance shots. Also, while shooting a .338 Lapua Magnum, the best helpful feature of a reticle is one located on the first focal plane (FFP). An FFP reticle gives an edge in that the size in proportion to the target changes as you adjust the magnification. Since the reticle’s size remains proportional to the target, significant adjustments can be easily made for windage and bullet drop despite the magnification you use.
Glass Quality
If you will be able to see long-distant targets, magnification is not the only feature to consider. The quality of the glass is a significant factor decipherable when you zoom in on your target. No matter how powerful your magnification is, it will do you less good should your target become blurry to see when you zoom in on it. And you don’t want this, especially when you have a target on sight (it could be a frustrating experience having a blurred target). This implies that for image clarity, glass quality is an essential factor. In that way, you should look out for a .338 Lapua scope with extra-low dispersion (ED) glass and fully multi-coated lenses.
Durability
The specific design for which the .338 Lapua Magnum rifle is built depicts a sense of ruggedness that accompanies its use. If you are getting the 338 Lapua scope, you should be sure that it would take a beat sometimes and wouldn’t throw in the towel after going through some harsh conditions. Shooters that use the rifle, especially for combat, hunting, and law enforcement, require a durable scope for their work line. Durability includes features such as waterproof capacity that will keep your scope from water invasion, leading to rust and ensuring your scope lasts longer. You need to pay attention to its durability because the market for a new scope is not pocket friendly. Beyond a waterproof capacity is a weatherproof capacity to prevent dust, dirt, fog, debris, and scratches from putting your scope at risk of malfunction.
Accuracy
Now, even if your magnification is top-notch, glass quality provides crystal clarity, and durability is perfect, none of these fine features will matter should the accuracy be zero or lost. The primary and significant purpose of a scope is to assist you in making long-range shots with accuracy and precision. Let’s face it, you are reading this so that you’ll be able to find a scope that would help you clearly hit your target. Hence, this factor should weigh a lot in your decision.
Weight
Perhaps you are a hunter or a marksman and you regularly carry your rifle around for long periods, the weight may be more important to you than a once-in-a-while shooter. Features, like tube diameter and objective lens’ size, affect the weight of your scope, which consequently adds to the weight of your rifle. The optimum size for an objective lens is around 50mm. A tube with a diameter of 40mm provides better adjustability, but anything between 28mm and 34mm is suitable for a scope.
Tips for Cleaning Your .338 Lapua Scopes
I have established the fact that a continually useful scope requires maintenance. Let’s discuss a few tips to keep your scope in top-notch shape.
Dust The Lens
Yes, I know you have invested quite a lot on your scope, and you do not want to see anything go wrong with it. But before you rush into cleaning your scope, simply dust off the lens first.
Clean with a Microfiber Cloth
Sometimes, while in a rush, we often mistake cleaning the scope with our shirt, wrong move! You should not go for wipes or paper towels or Kleenex either; they will not do the job. On the contrary, you will leave yourself with a scratched lens filled with microscopic fibers. Your best bet is to use a microfiber cloth specifically designed to remove smudges and oil from the lens without a scratch.
Spraying The Cleaner Directly on The Lens? Bad Idea
Indeed, the grime on your lens can be so stubborn sometimes that dipping your microfiber cloth in water will not result in a sparkling cleaned scope. You are quick to turn to lens cleaners. However, what you should avoid here is to spray the lens cleaner directly on the lens because your scope seals have a negative response to excess moisture. What you do is spray the cleaner on the microfiber and use it to clean. Then again, use it in moderation.
The Cap is The Lid
You see, those solvents and powders that are recommended for cleaning rifles can damage the waterproof seals and lens of your scope. Hence, it is advisable to keep the cap on the scope at all times during rifle-cleaning. Besides, to prevent the entrance of dust or dirt, the cap should be kept on even in the field.
Use a Q-tip Instead
You should use a Q-tip to clean the ridges and tight spots of your scope. Q-tips are best made for those spots; better still, wrap a microfiber around it to avoid leaving behind cotton wisps that can stick to your lens after cleaning.
What About a LensPen?
A Lenspen is a tool that has bristles at one end and a compound with a carbon pad on the other end. This tool is specifically designed for cleaning rifle scopes without the need for liquids. The bristle end is used for dusting the lens while the carbon pad end is for rubbing off smudges. Before using the bristle end, always ensure it is devoid of oil or any contaminant that can scratch the lens.
Unscrew The Turrets
You know what happens to metals, right? They rust from water and oxygen. To prevent your turret from rusting, mostly if you were out on a rainy day or in a wet condition, remove it and clean it thoroughly. You can use either the microfiber cloth or Q-tip for the cleaning. If you choose to go for the cloth, clean the lens first before moving on to the turret. However, it is best to have two LensPen; one for the lens and the other for turrets.
Have Your Cleaning Kit Ready
Out there in the field, the elements of nature are unpredictable. It is better always to be prepared for the worst should it happen. Your LensPen or microfiber can come in handy should you experience a splash of water or mud. More so, you need not ruin your shot for such occurrences when you have your cleaning kit at your disposal.
Clean The Battery Compartment
When batteries get wet and old, they go down on a corrosion plane like an airplane with failed engines. They exude acid that messes up the battery compartment. Hence, it is imperative that, periodically, you remove the batteries and clean the compartment. If you ignore this piece of advice for too long, you should be looking forward to replacing the scope. Too much is bad of curse, the scope needs to be clean regularly for maintenance, but the cliché goes thus: too much of everything is terrible. In other words, there is no need to clean it every single time you go out using it. If the picture remains unblemished, enjoy it a little bit more.
FAQs
Important Note:
Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
Time can change a lot of things and cause environmental effects on the prism scope, notwithstanding many prism scopes that are designed to withstand various environmental impacts. They are mostly built with an aluminum body to make it durable, and some are waterproof, shockproof, dustproof, and even fog proof.
Important Note:
Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
They are mostly parallax-free because of its optics magnification.
Important Note:
Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
You cannot use a magnifier with the prism scope.
Important Note:
Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
A prism scope functions similarly to the traditional rifle scope. But unlike the traditional rifle scope that uses lenses to focus light and images before magnifying them, the prism scope uses a prism instead. The prism is used to magnify the images instead.
Conclusion
What a great time you will have out on the field in a competition if you have the right .338 Lapua Magnum mounted with a perfect .338 Lapua scope suited for the occasion! For a faster and easier target acquisition in hunting and tactical shooting, a good scope is not inconsequential as it adds the advantage of magnification and clarity. Hence, providing you the edge of high performance and more excellent results guaranteed. We believe we have done an excellent job at considering and discussing the features and all you need to know about .338 Lapua scope. We hope you can now make an informed decision.
However, despite how perfectly designed a scope may be built, you cannot have a single one that fits every user’s demand. Therefore, before you decide on which scope to purchase, ensure you have your needs clear-cut, and the specifications of your choice meet all your demands. Well, perhaps I should also warn you to consider the price. Although it is your bold move to make, I will not advise putting a hole in your pocket for a scope; except you are going to get returns from using it, say from the competition, for instance. So, to make the best .338 Lapua scope choice, dig into the information we have provided in our top picks and get yourself a befitting Lapua Magnum scope today.
Author Profile
- Gabriel Tackett is an experienced shooter and hunter for over 15 years with a degree in Engineering from the University of Minnesota. He is also a certified National Rifle Association (NRA) officer for 10 years And his passion lies in teaching others how to safely enjoy the hobby by recommending the best practices & products in the gun industry.
