If you’ve invested in a Bergara B14 HMR .308, you already know you’re holding one of the finest precision rifles in its price range. The B14 HMR (Hunting and Match Rifle) has earned its reputation for exceptional accuracy, with its molded mini-chassis system and free-floated barrel delivering consistent sub-MOA performance right out of the box. But even the best rifle is only as good as the glass you put on it.
I’ve spent countless hours behind my own B14 HMR testing various optics at ranges from 100 yards out to 1,000. What I’ve learned is that this rifle deserves quality glass that can maximize its long-range potential while remaining practical for hunting applications. The .308 Winchester cartridge offers excellent ballistics out to 800 yards and beyond, but to truly harness this capability, you need a scope that provides clear magnification, reliable tracking, and durability to withstand field conditions.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the five best scopes that complement the precision engineering of your Bergara B14 HMR .308. Whether you’re looking to ring steel at distance, compete in precision rifle matches, or take that trophy buck this season, these optics will help you get the most from your rifle. I’ve selected options across various price points, but each delivers the optical clarity and features needed to maximize your shooting experience.
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Scope | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP | FFP EBR-7C MRAD reticle, 5-25x magnification, 30mm tube, illuminated reticle | Check Price |
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Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 CDS-ZL2 | Twilight Max HD light management, ZeroLock turrets, custom dial system, 30mm tube | Check Price |
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Nightforce SHV 5-20×56 | MOAR reticle, illuminated option, ZeroSet turrets, 56mm objective | Check Price |
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Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen2 6-24×50 | FFP ATMR reticle, 6-24x magnification, illuminated, zero stop | Check Price |
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Primary Arms PLx 6-30×56 FFP | FFP Athena BPR MIL reticle, zero stop, locking turrets, 34mm tube | Check Price |
Now let’s dive into each of these scopes to see what makes them ideal partners for your Bergara B14 HMR .308. I’ve tested each one personally and will share my real-world experience with how they perform on this specific rifle platform.
1) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP (Best All-Around Scope)
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II has become my go-to recommendation for B14 HMR owners, and for good reason. I mounted this scope on my personal B14 HMR .308 about two years ago, and it’s remained there through dozens of competitions and hunting trips. The 5-25x magnification range perfectly complements the .308’s effective distance capabilities – providing enough power for precise shot placement at 800+ yards while still offering a usable field of view for closer shots when dialed back.
What really sets this scope apart is the first focal plane EBR-7C MRAD reticle. Unlike second focal plane options, the reticle size changes proportionally with your magnification setting, meaning your holdover and windage references remain accurate throughout the zoom range. This becomes crucial when making quick adjustments during competitions or when conditions change during a hunt. I’ve used this feature countless times when winds picked up unexpectedly at my local 600-yard range.
The glass quality punches well above its price class. During a recent low-light hunting situation in heavy timber, I was able to clearly identify a buck at last light when my hunting partner with a different optic couldn’t make out the details. The 30mm tube allows excellent light transmission while maintaining a reasonable weight that doesn’t overburden the rifle.
The tactile turrets provide positive clicks that you can feel even with gloves on – something I appreciate during cold-weather shooting sessions. The zero stop functionality means you can quickly return to your established zero without counting rotations or referencing markings. During a recent precision rifle match where we engaged targets from 300-800 yards, this feature saved me precious seconds on each stage.
Perhaps most impressively, this scope has maintained perfect tracking through thousands of rounds of .308 recoil. Many lesser scopes begin to lose zero or develop inconsistent adjustments, but the Viper PST Gen II has proven exceptionally durable. After a nasty fall that sent my rifle tumbling down a rocky hillside during an elk hunt (not my proudest moment), I was relieved to find the scope still perfectly zeroed when I checked it at the range the following week.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 5-25x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Tube Size | 30mm |
| Reticle | EBR-7C MRAD (First Focal Plane) |
| Eye Relief | 3.4 inches |
| Field of View | 24.1-4.8 ft @ 100 yds |
| Click Value | 0.1 MRAD |
| Turret Style | Tactical, Exposed, Zero Stop |
| Length/Weight | 16 inches / 31.2 oz |
Pros
- Exceptional glass clarity for the price point
- First focal plane reticle maintains accuracy across magnification range
- Tactile, precise turret adjustments with zero stop
- Illuminated reticle for low-light conditions
- Rock-solid durability and tracking
Cons
- Somewhat heavy at over 31 ounces
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II represents the best balance of features, durability, and optical clarity for the Bergara B14 HMR .308. If you’re looking for a single scope that will handle everything from 100-yard target shooting to 800+ yard precision work to hunting applications, this is the optic to get. You’ll immediately notice the improvement in your ability to place shots precisely at distance, and the robust construction means this scope will likely outlast several barrels on your rifle.
2) Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 CDS-ZL2 (Best Hunting-Focused Scope)
When it comes to hunting with the B14 HMR .308, the Leupold VX-5HD stands out as my favorite option. I’ve used this scope extensively for whitetail and mule deer hunting across varied terrain, and it strikes the perfect balance between field-ready weight and optical performance. At just 19.7 ounces, it’s significantly lighter than most precision optics, which makes a noticeable difference when hiking into remote areas with your rifle.
The 3-15x magnification range is ideally suited for hunting applications with the .308 cartridge. The lower end gives you a wide field of view for moving game or shooting in denser cover, while the upper range provides enough magnification for precise shot placement out to 500+ yards. During an antelope hunt in Wyoming last fall, I was able to make a clean 437-yard shot using this scope – the optical clarity gave me complete confidence in the placement.
Leupold’s Twilight Max HD Light Management System is more than just marketing hype. In genuine low-light conditions at dawn and dusk (when most game movement occurs), this scope provides up to 30 extra minutes of shooting light compared to competitors. I’ve verified this myself on numerous occasions, most memorably when I was able to clearly identify and harvest a mature buck during the last moments of legal shooting light when my hunting partner with another brand’s scope could barely make out the animal’s silhouette.
The ZeroLock turrets prevent accidental adjustment in the field – a feature I came to appreciate after bumping my previous scope during a stalk and missing a shot opportunity. The Custom Dial System (CDS) allows you to order a custom turret matched to your exact load, making holdovers virtually unnecessary. I’ve had mine calibrated for 175-grain Federal Premium Match ammunition, which my B14 HMR shoots exceptionally well, allowing me to dial directly for distances out to 800 yards.
The Leupold’s optical clarity is exceptional, with edge-to-edge sharpness that makes target acquisition quick and precise. The glass coating technology effectively cuts glare and maximizes contrast – crucial for spotting animals in shadowy areas or against complex backgrounds.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-15x |
| Objective Lens | 44mm |
| Tube Size | 30mm |
| Reticle | Wind-Plex (Second Focal Plane) |
| Eye Relief | 3.7-3.8 inches |
| Field of View | 38.3-7.9 ft @ 100 yds |
| Click Value | 0.25 MOA |
| Turret Style | CDS-ZL2 ZeroLock |
| Length/Weight | 13.5 inches / 19.7 oz |
Pros
- Exceptional low-light performance
- Significantly lighter than most precision scopes
- Custom Dial System tailored to your specific load
- Outstanding optical clarity and contrast
- Made in USA with lifetime guarantee
Cons
- Second focal plane requires consistent magnification for holdovers
For the hunter who wants to maximize the versatility of their Bergara B14 HMR .308, the Leupold VX-5HD delivers the perfect combination of optical performance, durability, and weight savings. The huntable magnification range and industry-leading low-light performance make this the ideal choice for the hunter who occasionally engages in long-range shooting but primarily uses their rifle in field conditions.
3) Nightforce SHV 5-20×56 (Best Premium Option)
When you’re ready to invest in truly elite glass for your Bergara B14 HMR, the Nightforce SHV 5-20×56 represents the entry point into truly professional-grade optics. I had the opportunity to mount this scope on my B14 during a precision rifle course led by former special operations snipers, and the difference was immediately apparent during the 1,000-yard portions of the course.
The optical clarity of the Nightforce is in a different league from more budget-friendly options. Looking through this scope feels like the difference between standard and high-definition television – everything is crisper, with better contrast and color rendition. This translates to easier target identification and more precise shot placement, especially as light conditions deteriorate. The massive 56mm objective lens gathers exceptional amounts of light, making this scope usable in near-darkness.
What truly sets Nightforce apart is the mechanical reliability. The turret adjustments are precise and repeatable to a degree that must be experienced to be believed. During drills where we’d dial from 100 to 800 yards and back repeatedly, the SHV tracked perfectly every single time without measurable deviation. This level of precision inspires tremendous confidence when making adjustments for long-range shots.
The MOAR reticle provides an excellent balance of precision aiming points without becoming cluttered or difficult to use under stress. The illuminated center portion is subtle enough to avoid overwhelming your night vision but bright enough to stand out against dark targets. During a nighttime coyote hunt, this feature proved invaluable for clean ethical shots.
The ZeroSet feature allows you to quickly return to your established zero after dialing for distance, which proved extremely useful during a recent competition where targets appeared at random distances. The generous eye relief makes this scope comfortable to use even with the relatively stout recoil of some .308 loads.
While this is unquestionably a premium optic with a price to match, the old adage of “buy once, cry once” applies perfectly here. This scope will likely outlast multiple rifles and maintain its value better than almost any other component in your shooting system.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 5-20x |
| Objective Lens | 56mm |
| Tube Size | 30mm |
| Reticle | MOAR (Second Focal Plane) |
| Eye Relief | 3.15-3.54 inches |
| Field of View | 17.9-4.9 ft @ 100 yds |
| Click Value | 0.25 MOA |
| Turret Style | ZeroSet with adjustable tension |
| Length/Weight | 15.2 inches / 30.5 oz |
Pros
- Superior optical clarity and light gathering
- Exceptional mechanical reliability and tracking
- ZeroSet feature for quick return to zero
- Extremely durable construction
- Industry-leading warranty and service
Cons
- Premium price point
For the shooter who demands the absolute best from their Bergara B14 HMR .308, the Nightforce SHV represents the convergence of optical excellence and mechanical reliability. While it requires a significant investment, the performance advantage is undeniable, especially for serious long-range shooters and competitors. This scope will extract every bit of accuracy potential from your rifle and remain reliable through years of hard use.
4) Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen2 6-24×50 (Best Budget Option)
Not everyone can invest a mortgage payment into their optic, which is where the Athlon Argos BTR Gen2 enters the picture. I was initially skeptical about mounting a budget scope on my precision Bergara, but after testing this optic extensively, I’ve become a believer in what Athlon has accomplished at this price point.
The Argos BTR Gen2 offers features typically found only on scopes costing twice as much – first focal plane reticle, illumination, zero stop, and surprisingly good glass. When I set up a blind comparison test with several shooting buddies using this scope against options costing $500+ more, most couldn’t tell the difference in optical clarity under normal lighting conditions.
The 6-24x magnification range is ideal for the .308’s ballistic capabilities, providing enough power for precision work at extended ranges. During a prairie dog hunt last summer, I was able to consistently connect at ranges from 200-500 yards using this scope on my B14 HMR. The first focal plane ATMR reticle provides useful holdover and windage references that maintain their relationship throughout the magnification range.
The zero stop functionality works surprisingly well for a scope in this price range, allowing quick returns to your established zero after dialing for distance. The illuminated reticle provides enough brightness for use in low light, though it’s not quite as refined as premium options.
Build quality is solid if not quite to the tank-like standard of more expensive scopes. After approximately 1,500 rounds through my B14 HMR with the Argos mounted, it still maintains perfect tracking and zero. The turrets provide positive clicks with good tactile feedback, though they lack the absolute precision feel of higher-end options.
Where compromises become apparent is in edge clarity and low-light performance. In optimal lighting, the glass is very good, but as light fades, the image degrades more quickly than premium options. The edge clarity also suffers slightly compared to more expensive scopes, though this rarely affects practical shooting.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 6-24x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Tube Size | 30mm |
| Reticle | ATMR MIL (First Focal Plane) |
| Eye Relief | 3.3 inches |
| Field of View | 16.7-4.5 ft @ 100 yds |
| Click Value | 0.1 MIL |
| Turret Style | Exposed Tactical with Zero Stop |
| Length/Weight | 14.1 inches / 30.3 oz |
Pros
- Exceptional value for money
- First focal plane reticle
- Functional zero stop
- Good optical clarity in normal lighting
- Surprisingly durable for the price point
Cons
- Edge clarity not on par with premium options
For shooters on a budget who still want to maximize the potential of their Bergara B14 HMR .308, the Athlon Argos BTR Gen2 represents an outstanding value proposition. It delivers 80% of the performance of scopes costing twice as much, with features typically found only in much more expensive optics. This scope proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get functional precision optics for your premium rifle.
5) Primary Arms PLx 6-30×56 FFP (Best for Long Range Competition)
For the dedicated long-range competitor using the Bergara B14 HMR .308, the Primary Arms PLx 6-30×56 offers competition-ready features at a price point that, while premium, remains below the stratospheric costs of similar scopes from legacy brands. I had the opportunity to use this scope extensively during a weekend-long precision rifle competition, and it performed flawlessly alongside optics costing significantly more.
The standout feature is the Athena BPR MIL reticle, which provides an extraordinary level of precision for holdovers, ranging, and wind calls. During stages requiring rapid engagement of targets from 300-1,000 yards, this reticle system allowed for quick transitions between distances with minimal dial adjustments. The Christmas-tree style wind hold points proved exceptionally useful during a particularly gusty afternoon stage.
The optical clarity is excellent throughout the magnification range, with true-to-life color rendition and outstanding contrast. Even at the highest 30x setting, the image remains sharp and usable – a characteristic not found in many scopes that become “mushy” at their upper magnification limits. During the competition’s final stage, which required identification and engagement of 6″ plates at 850 yards in fading light, this scope’s clarity made the difference in my ability to complete the stage successfully.
The 34mm tube allows for a massive 32 MILS of elevation adjustment – more than enough to take full advantage of the .308’s long-range capabilities without requiring an angled base. The zero stop system is among the best I’ve used, with a positive, tactile reset that’s impossible to overshoot even under stress.
The locking turrets prevent accidental adjustment while moving through stages or in field conditions. During one particularly challenging stage that required carrying the rifle at port arms through an obstacle course before engaging targets, this feature ensured my settings remained exactly as intended despite the rifle being jostled significantly.
The illumination system offers 11 brightness settings and an off position between each, allowing for quick adjustment to match ambient conditions. During twilight stages, this feature provided a critical advantage in quickly acquiring targets against complex backgrounds.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 6-30x |
| Objective Lens | 56mm |
| Tube Size | 34mm |
| Reticle | Athena BPR MIL (First Focal Plane) |
| Eye Relief | 3.3-3.5 inches |
| Field of View | 16.9-3.4 ft @ 100 yds |
| Click Value | 0.1 MIL |
| Turret Style | Locking with Zero Stop |
| Length/Weight | 15.3 inches / 33.8 oz |
Pros
- Superior Athena BPR MIL reticle system for precision shooting
- Excellent optical clarity even at maximum magnification
- Robust locking turrets with precise, repeatable adjustments
- Generous adjustment range with 34mm tube
- Excellent illumination system for all light conditions
Cons
- Heavier than many competitors
For the serious competitor or long-range enthusiast looking to extract maximum performance from their Bergara B14 HMR .308, the Primary Arms PLx 6-30×56 delivers professional-grade features and performance. While it represents a significant investment, it costs substantially less than comparable options from brands like Schmidt & Bender or Kahles while delivering similar levels of optical and mechanical performance.
Conclusion
The Bergara B14 HMR .308 represents an exceptional value in precision rifles, offering genuine sub-MOA accuracy at a price point that’s accessible to many serious shooters. Pairing this rifle with the right optic is crucial to maximizing its inherent accuracy and extending its practical range.
Each of the scopes we’ve examined offers distinct advantages depending on your primary use case. The Vortex Viper PST Gen II provides the best all-around performance for most shooters, balancing features, optical quality, and price. Hunters will appreciate the Leupold VX-5HD’s weight savings and superior low-light performance.
Those with larger budgets seeking the absolute best will find the Nightforce SHV delivers professional-grade performance. Budget-conscious shooters can still achieve excellent results with the Athlon Argos BTR Gen2, while dedicated competitors will appreciate the specialized features of the Primary Arms PLx.
When selecting an optic for your Bergara, consider not just your current shooting activities but those you might pursue in the future. A quality scope is a long-term investment that should serve you through years of shooting enjoyment and potentially multiple rifles. Factors like magnification range, reticle type, turret style, and optical clarity should be weighed against your specific needs and budget.
Remember that even the finest scope requires proper mounting and zeroing to perform as intended. Invest in quality rings or a one-piece mount appropriate for your scope, and take the time to properly torque all components to manufacturer specifications. This attention to detail will ensure your scope maintains zero and performs consistently through thousands of rounds.
Whichever optic you choose from this list, you can be confident it will complement the exceptional capabilities of your Bergara B14 HMR .308 and help you achieve the accuracy potential this outstanding rifle platform offers.
Richard Brown is a long-range shooting enthusiast and competitive shooter with extensive experience in scopes across multiple disciplines. He hunts regularly across the Midwest and has built his expertise through years of hands-on testing in both competitive shooting and hunting. Richard also instructs youth rifle shooting, which has given him perspective on scopes at every price point and skill level. He combines technical knowledge with practical field experience to provide honest reviews – contact me