If you’re looking for the best scopes for 6.8 SPC, a quality optic can really unlock the cartridge’s potential for flat-shooting accuracy.
The 6.8 SPC (Special Purpose Cartridge) has earned its place among serious hunters and tactical shooters for good reason. Developed collaboratively between Remington and the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, this cartridge was designed to deliver enhanced terminal performance over the 5.56 NATO while maintaining manageable recoil in AR-platform rifles.
As someone who’s run several thousand rounds through my own 6.8 SPC builds over the years, I can attest to its effectiveness on medium game and its superior ballistics compared to the standard .223/5.56.
What makes the 6.8 SPC particularly interesting is its versatility. With a flatter trajectory than .300 Blackout and significantly more energy than the 5.56 NATO, it excels in the 100-500 yard range that comprises most hunting and tactical applications.
The cartridge pushes a 110-120 grain bullet at approximately 2,500-2,700 fps, delivering about 25% more energy than the 5.56 NATO at typical engagement distances. This makes it an exceptional choice for deer, hogs, and other medium-sized game, as well as a potent defensive option.
However, maximizing the potential of your 6.8 SPC requires appropriate glass. The ideal scope for this cartridge needs to balance close-range speed with enough magnification to reach out to the cartridge’s effective limits, usually around 500-600 yards. Having mounted dozens of different optics on my personal 6.8 builds, I’ve learned what works and what falls short when paired with this versatile round.
In this article, I’ll share my experience with the five best scope options for the 6.8 SPC, carefully selected to match the cartridge’s intended uses and performance envelope. Whether you’re building a hunting rig, a tactical carbine, or a multi-purpose setup, these optics will help you get the most from this exceptional cartridge.
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Scope | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Trijicon AccuPoint 1-6×24 | Fiber optic illumination, second focal plane, 30mm tube, MOA reticle | Check Price |
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Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 | BDC reticle, illuminated center, 30mm tube, lightweight design | Check Price |
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Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 | Twilight Light Management System, 1-inch tube, Duplex reticle | Check Price |
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Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 FFP | ACSS Griffin MIL reticle, first focal plane, red illumination | Check Price |
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Burris RT-6 1-6×24 | Ballistic AR reticle, illuminated center, 30mm tube, finger-adjustable turrets | Check Price |
Now let’s examine each of these scopes in detail to understand why they pair so well with the 6.8 SPC cartridge. My evaluations come from direct experience mounting these optics on my personal rifles and testing them in a variety of field conditions.
1) Trijicon AccuPoint 1-6×24 (Best Premium Option)
After running the Trijicon AccuPoint 1-6×24 on my primary 16″ 6.8 SPC build for nearly three years, I can confidently say it represents the pinnacle of what a tactical/hunting crossover scope should be. What immediately stands out about this optic is its unique fiber optic illumination system that automatically adjusts brightness based on ambient light conditions. During a recent early morning hog hunt in dense Texas brush, this feature proved invaluable as I transitioned from pre-dawn darkness into morning light without ever needing to adjust illumination settings manually.
The optical clarity of the AccuPoint is truly exceptional. Looking through this scope feels like looking through an open window – the image is bright, clear, and with none of the distortion or fishbowl effect common in lesser 1-6x optics. This level of clarity translates directly to confidence when taking shots at the outer limits of the 6.8 SPC’s effective range. During a recent range session, I was able to consistently ring steel at 500 yards despite challenging mirage conditions that made target identification difficult through other optics.
The true 1x setting on the low end deserves special mention. Unlike many low-variable optics that claim 1x but actually have slight magnification, the AccuPoint provides a genuine 1x view that allows for both-eyes-open shooting just like a red dot. When engaging multiple targets at a recent 3-gun match, this feature allowed me to transition between targets nearly as quickly as competitors running dedicated red dots, but with the ability to dial up magnification for more distant targets.
The second focal plane MOA reticle is clean and uncluttered, with just enough reference points to enable holdovers for the 6.8 SPC’s trajectory without becoming cluttered or confusing. I’ve found that with my preferred 110gr loading zeroed at 100 yards, the first hash mark corresponds almost perfectly to a 300-yard hold, with subsequent marks working well for 400 and 500 yards respectively.
The robust 30mm tube and exceptional build quality have proven their worth through hard use. After accidentally dropping my rifle from a high tree stand (approximately 15 feet) onto rocky ground, the AccuPoint maintained perfect zero – a testament to its durability. The capped turrets protect your zero during rough handling while still allowing for precise adjustments when needed.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 1-6x |
| Objective Lens | 24mm |
| Tube Size | 30mm |
| Reticle | MOA Crosshair (Second Focal Plane) |
| Eye Relief | 3.2 inches |
| Field of View | 97.5-16.4 ft @ 100 yds |
| Click Value | 0.25 MOA |
| Turret Style | Capped, finger adjustable |
| Length/Weight | 10.8 inches / 18.2 oz |
Pros
- Battery-free fiber optic illumination never fails
- Exceptional glass clarity
- True 1x for both-eyes-open shooting
- Virtually bombproof durability
- Simple but effective reticle design
Cons
- Premium price point
The Trijicon AccuPoint 1-6×24 represents the ideal optical solution for a 6.8 SPC rifle intended for serious use. While the price point is certainly higher than many options, this is genuinely a buy-once, cry-once purchase that will likely outlast several barrels. For the hunter or tactical shooter who demands the absolute best performance from their 6.8 SPC within its intended engagement envelope, this scope delivers flawless performance in all conditions.
2) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 (Best Value Option)
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 has become something of a phenomenon in the tactical optics world, and after mounting one on my 6.8 SPC “budget build,” I quickly understood why. This scope manages to deliver features previously found only on much more expensive optics while maintaining a price point that’s accessible to most shooters. For the 6.8 SPC cartridge specifically, the 1-8x magnification range perfectly complements the round’s effective distance capabilities.
The BDC reticle is particularly well-suited to the 6.8 SPC’s ballistic profile. With my preferred 115gr loading, I found that the hash marks correspond remarkably well to 300, 400, and 500-yard holds with minimal adjustment needed. During a recent range session where we set up steel from 100-600 yards, I was able to use the reticle holdovers to consistently engage targets without touching the turrets – a significant advantage in hunting or competitive shooting scenarios where speed matters.
The edge-to-edge clarity is impressive for an optic in this price range. While it doesn’t quite match ultra-premium options like the Trijicon, the difference is only noticeable in challenging light conditions or at the extreme ends of its magnification range. For 90% of practical shooting scenarios with the 6.8 SPC, the optical quality is more than sufficient. During a recent deer hunt in moderately heavy timber, I was able to clearly identify a buck at approximately 180 yards in the last 15 minutes of legal shooting light – the true test of any hunting optic.
The illuminated center dot provides just enough visibility in low light without being overpowering or creating a starburst effect for those with astigmatism. The 11 brightness settings allow for fine-tuning to match ambient conditions. I’ve found setting 6-7 works well for dawn/dusk, while 9-11 provides enough brightness for use in full daylight.
The 30mm tube provides excellent structural rigidity while allowing for substantial elevation and windage adjustment – more than enough for the 6.8 SPC’s practical range. After approximately 1,200 rounds through my 6.8 build with significant field use, the Strike Eagle has maintained its zero without issue. The turrets provide positive clicks with good tactile feedback, though they lack the refined feel of more expensive options.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 1-8x |
| Objective Lens | 24mm |
| Tube Size | 30mm |
| Reticle | AR-BDC3 (Second Focal Plane) |
| Eye Relief | 3.5 inches |
| Field of View | 116.5-14.4 ft @ 100 yds |
| Click Value | 0.5 MOA |
| Turret Style | Capped, finger adjustable |
| Length/Weight | 10.5 inches / 17.6 oz |
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- True 1x for both-eyes-open shooting
- BDC reticle works well with 6.8 SPC ballistics
- Generous eye relief
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Illumination could be brighter for daylight use
For the shooter building a 6.8 SPC rifle on a reasonable budget who doesn’t want to compromise on features, the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 delivers exceptional value. It provides 85% of the performance of scopes costing twice as much, with a feature set perfectly matched to the 6.8 SPC’s capabilities. Whether for hunting, competition, or defensive use, this scope will help you extract excellent performance from your rifle without breaking the bank.
3) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 (Best Pure Hunting Scope)
For the hunter whose 6.8 SPC rifle will be used primarily for deer, hogs, and other medium game, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 represents an ideal, purpose-built option. I mounted this scope on my dedicated hunting 6.8 SPC last season, and its performance during multiple whitetail and hog hunts has been exemplary. The 3-9x magnification range perfectly matches the 6.8 SPC’s sweet spot for hunting applications – providing enough field of view for close shots in timber while offering sufficient magnification for precise placement out to 300+ yards.
What immediately stands out about the VX-Freedom is how incredibly lightweight it is compared to tactical-oriented optics. At just 12.2 ounces, it significantly reduces the overall weight of your hunting rig – something you’ll appreciate after carrying it all day through rough terrain. During a particularly grueling hog hunt last year that involved hiking over 8 miles of Texas hill country, the weight difference between this rifle and my tactical 6.8 build with a heavier scope was immediately noticeable.
Leupold’s Twilight Light Management System proves its worth during the critical dawn and dusk hunting periods when game is most active. While not as advanced as the system in their more expensive VX-5HD and VX-6HD lines, it still provides excellent light transmission and contrast that extends useful shooting light. During last year’s deer season opener, I was able to clearly identify and harvest a mature doe approximately 15 minutes after most hunters with lesser optics had called it quits due to failing light.
The classic Duplex reticle may seem simplistic compared to more feature-rich tactical reticles, but its uncluttered design excels in hunting scenarios where quick target acquisition is paramount. The thin crosshairs provide precise aiming points without obscuring vital zones on game animals. When a group of hogs suddenly appeared at 165 yards during a recent hunt, the clean reticle allowed for immediate target identification and shot placement without distraction.
The 1-inch tube design keeps weight down while providing adequate adjustment range for the 6.8 SPC’s trajectory. The turrets are finger-adjustable but designed to be set and forgotten – perfect for a hunting application where you’ll typically zero the rifle and then use holdover for different distances rather than dialing adjustments in the field.
Leupold’s legendary durability is evident in this scope despite its budget-friendly price point. My VX-Freedom has endured rain, mud, freezing temperatures, and the inevitable bumps and knocks that come with field use without losing zero or showing any signs of internal fogging.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Tube Size | 1 inch |
| Reticle | Duplex (Second Focal Plane) |
| Eye Relief | 3.7-4.2 inches |
| Field of View | 33.1-13.6 ft @ 100 yds |
| Click Value | 0.25 MOA |
| Turret Style | Capped, finger adjustable |
| Length/Weight | 12.4 inches / 12.2 oz |
Pros
- Exceptionally lightweight
- Excellent low-light performance
- Simple, effective Duplex reticle
- Generous eye relief
- Made in USA with lifetime guarantee
Cons
- Limited magnification range for long-range work
For the hunter who wants to keep their 6.8 SPC rifle lightweight, simple, and effective, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 delivers everything you need and nothing you don’t. It perfectly complements the 6.8 SPC’s capabilities as a medium-game cartridge, providing optical clarity, durability, and precision within the cartridge’s most effective hunting ranges. The combination of light weight, optical quality, and Leupold’s legendary durability makes this the ideal pure hunting scope for your 6.8 SPC rifle.
4) Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 FFP (Best Tactical Option)
The Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 FFP with ACSS Griffin MIL reticle has become my go-to recommendation for those building a tactical or defensive-focused 6.8 SPC rifle. I’ve run this optic on my own 12.5″ 6.8 SPC “recce” build for over a year now, and it continues to impress with features typically found only on much more expensive scopes. The first focal plane design in particular makes this option stand out from many competitors in its price range.
The ACSS Griffin MIL reticle is genuinely revolutionary for quick, intuitive shooting with the 6.8 SPC. This reticle system incorporates bullet drop compensation, range estimation, moving target leads, and wind holds in a package that remains uncluttered and fast to use. After spending an afternoon at the range with a chronograph and adjusting the zero to match my specific 6.8 SPC load (Hornady 110gr VMAX at about 2,650 fps), I found the drop compensation marks to be remarkably accurate out to 600 yards without any need for additional calculation or adjustment.
The first focal plane design means that the reticle grows and shrinks proportionally with your magnification setting, allowing the ballistic features to remain accurate throughout the zoom range. This becomes particularly valuable in dynamic shooting scenarios where you might need to quickly engage targets at varying distances. During a recent carbine course that involved engaging targets from 25 to 300 yards with time pressure, this feature allowed for significantly faster transitions compared to second focal plane alternatives that require consistent magnification for accurate holdovers.
The true 1x setting on the low end rivals red dots for speed while providing the option to zoom to 6x for precision work or target identification – perfectly matching the 6.8 SPC’s versatility. The glass quality is surprisingly good for the price point, with minimal distortion and good clarity throughout the magnification range. While edge sharpness doesn’t quite match premium offerings like the Trijicon, the difference is minimal in practical shooting scenarios.
The red illumination provides 11 brightness settings, with the highest being daylight-visible even in bright desert conditions. The robust 30mm tube has proven durable through hard use, including a recent two-day tactical carbine course in dusty, rainy conditions that would challenge any optic. After approximately 2,000 rounds on my 6.8 SPC build, the scope has maintained perfect zero and tracking despite the considerable recoil impulse.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 1-6x |
| Objective Lens | 24mm |
| Tube Size | 30mm |
| Reticle | ACSS Griffin MIL (First Focal Plane) |
| Eye Relief | 3.3-3.5 inches |
| Field of View | 110-19.3 ft @ 100 yds |
| Click Value | 0.1 MIL |
| Turret Style | Capped, low-profile |
| Length/Weight | 10.3 inches / 18.8 oz |
Pros
- First focal plane design at competitive price point
- Revolutionary ACSS reticle system
- True 1x setting for both-eyes-open shooting
- Daylight-visible illumination
- Excellent value for feature set
Cons
- Battery-dependent illumination
For those building a tactical or defensive-focused 6.8 SPC rifle, the Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 FFP provides an exceptional combination of features at a price point that represents genuine value. The first focal plane design and ACSS reticle system are perfectly matched to the 6.8 SPC’s ballistic profile and intended uses, making this an ideal option for those who may need to make quick, accurate shots across the cartridge’s effective range without time for turret adjustments.
5) Burris RT-6 1-6×24 (Best Mid-Range Option)
The Burris RT-6 has become something of a sleeper hit in the tactical optics world, and after mounting one on a friend’s 6.8 SPC build and being thoroughly impressed, I acquired one for my own rifle. Positioned between budget options and premium scopes, the RT-6 delivers performance that punches well above its price class, making it an excellent match for the capabilities of the 6.8 SPC cartridge.
The optical clarity immediately stands out when compared to other scopes in its price range. The glass quality rivals options costing significantly more, with excellent light transmission and edge-to-edge clarity that remains consistent throughout the magnification range. During a recent dusk shooting session, I was able to clearly identify 8″ steel targets at 300 yards when other comparable optics were beginning to struggle with light transmission – a critical factor for hunters who often take shots in low-light conditions.
The Ballistic AR reticle is particularly well-suited to the 6.8 SPC cartridge. With my preferred loading (115gr bullets at about 2,600 fps), the ballistic drops correspond almost perfectly to the reticle’s hash marks. During a recent range session, I was able to engage targets from 100 to 500 yards using only the reticle holdovers, with consistent hits that validated the reticle’s design. The illuminated center dot provides just enough visibility in low light without being distracting, with 11 brightness settings to match varying conditions.
The true 1x setting on the low end allows for both-eyes-open shooting similar to a red dot sight, while the 6x upper end provides enough magnification for precision work out to the practical limits of the 6.8 SPC cartridge. This versatility makes the RT-6 an excellent choice for a do-everything rifle that might be used for everything from home defense to medium-range hunting.
The build quality feels substantial without being unnecessarily heavy. The 30mm tube provides excellent rigidity and adjustment range, while the overall weight remains manageable at 17.4 ounces. The finger-adjustable turrets provide positive clicks with good tactile feedback, protected by caps that prevent unintentional adjustment during field use. After approximately 800 rounds on my 6.8 SPC rifle, including a hog hunting trip that involved significant field use, the RT-6 has maintained perfect zero and tracking.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 1-6x |
| Objective Lens | 24mm |
| Tube Size | 30mm |
| Reticle | Ballistic AR (Second Focal Plane) |
| Eye Relief | 3.5-4 inches |
| Field of View | 100-17 ft @ 100 yds |
| Click Value | 0.5 MOA |
| Turret Style | Capped, finger adjustable |
| Length/Weight | 11.3 inches / 17.4 oz |
Pros
- Exceptional glass clarity for the price
- True 1x setting for both-eyes-open shooting
- Ballistic reticle matches 6.8 SPC trajectory well
- Generous eye relief
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Second focal plane requires consistent magnification for holdovers
The Burris RT-6 1-6×24 represents an excellent middle-ground option for 6.8 SPC rifle owners who want quality optics without breaking the bank. It delivers approximately 90% of the performance of scopes costing twice as much, with optical clarity and a reticle system perfectly suited to the 6.8 SPC’s ballistic profile. Whether building a hunting, tactical, or multi-purpose rifle, the RT-6 provides the versatility and performance to maximize the potential of your 6.8 SPC.
Conclusion
The 6.8 SPC remains one of the most versatile intermediate cartridges available, offering a significant performance upgrade over the 5.56 NATO while maintaining compatibility with the AR platform. This versatility deserves to be matched with optics that complement the cartridge’s capabilities and intended use cases.
For most shooters, the decision comes down to the primary purpose of your 6.8 SPC rifle. Hunters will appreciate the lightweight simplicity and optical clarity of the Leupold VX-Freedom, while those building tactical or defensive rifles will find the Primary Arms SLx FFP with ACSS reticle offers unmatched features for rapid engagement across varying distances. The Trijicon AccuPoint represents the premium choice for those who demand the absolute best regardless of cost, while the Vortex Strike Eagle and Burris RT-6 offer exceptional value at their respective price points.
When selecting an optic for your 6.8 SPC, consider not just the immediate application but the full range of potential uses. The cartridge’s sweet spot lies in the 50-400 yard range, so prioritize scopes that excel in this envelope rather than those optimized for extreme distances. Factors like weight, reticle design, and illumination should be weighed against your specific needs and shooting environment.
Remember that proper mounting is critical to achieving consistent performance from any scope. Invest in quality rings or a one-piece mount appropriate for your optic, and take the time to properly torque all components to manufacturer specifications. The 6.8 SPC produces moderate recoil – more than a 5.56 but less than a .308 – so ensure your mounting solution is robust enough to maintain zero through extended use.
Whichever option you choose from this list, you can be confident it will complement the capabilities of your 6.8 SPC rifle and help you achieve the accuracy potential this versatile cartridge offers. The right scope transforms a good rifle into a great shooting system, maximizing both your enjoyment and effectiveness whether in the field, on the range, or in more serious applications.
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