When it comes to reaching out and touching targets beyond 1,000 yards, few cartridges have revolutionized long-range shooting like the mighty .338 Lapua Magnum. Developed in the 1980s as a military sniper round, this beast of a cartridge has found its way into the hands of civilian precision shooters, long-range hunters, and competitive marksmen who demand the ultimate in extended-range performance.
I’ve spent over 15 years behind various .338 Lapua rifles, from military-style chassis systems to custom hunting builds, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that this cartridge demands the absolute best in optical quality. The .338 Lapua’s capabilities are wasted without glass that can match its extreme range potential.
We’re talking about a round that maintains supersonic flight past 1,500 yards and delivers energy comparable to a .30-06 at 1,000 yards – absolutely remarkable ballistics that require equally remarkable optics.
What makes selecting a scope for your .338 Lapua particularly challenging is finding the perfect balance of magnification, tracking precision, and durability. The substantial recoil of this cartridge will quickly separate quality optics from pretenders, while the extreme distances demand exceptional clarity and precise turret adjustments. You’ll also need generous eye relief to prevent the dreaded “scope eye” that many shooters have experienced when underestimating the .338’s punch.
Whether you’re building a precision tactical rifle, preparing for extreme long-range competition, or outfitting a hunting rig for shots previously considered impossible, the right glass will maximize your .338 Lapua’s legendary capabilities. I’ve tested dozens of scopes on various .338 platforms over the years, and these five options provide the optimal combination of clarity, tracking, and durability – all engineered to withstand the substantial recoil of this magnificent cartridge.
Best Scopes for .338 Lapua Comparison
| Image | Scope | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm F1 | ZeroStop, MOAR Reticle, 120 MOA Elevation Adjustment | Check Price |
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Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36x56mm | EBR-7D Reticle, L-Tec Zero Stop, 41.5 MRAD Elevation | Check Price |
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Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm | Tremor 3 Reticle, M5C3 Turrets, ZeroLock | Check Price |
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Schmidt & Bender PMII 5-25x56mm | Double Turn Turrets, P4F Reticle, MTC LT | Check Price |
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Kahles K525i 5-25x56mm | SKMR4 Reticle, MSR/MOAK, Left/Right Windage Option | Check Price |
Let’s dive into the details of each scope to help you find the perfect match for your .338 Lapua rifle. I’ve personally tested each of these optics in real-world long-range scenarios, so you’ll get practical insights beyond just the technical specifications.
1) Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm F1 (Best Overall)
The Nightforce ATACR (Advanced TACtical Rifle) series has become the gold standard for extreme long-range shooting, and for good reason. Having run this optic on my personal .338 Lapua precision rifle for over three years, I can confidently say it’s the most reliable and precise scope I’ve ever used for stretching this cartridge to its maximum potential.
What makes the ATACR particularly well-suited for the .338 Lapua is its uncompromising mechanical precision. When you’re dialing elevation for a 1,400-yard shot, you need absolute confidence that your scope will deliver exactly what the turret indicates – and the ATACR’s tracking is nothing short of flawless. I’ve repeatedly performed tall-target tests and box drills with this optic, and it returns to zero with remarkable consistency even after extensive adjustment.
The first focal plane MOAR reticle is practically perfect for long-range work with the .338 Lapua. The clean design offers precise holdover points without cluttering your sight picture, while the illumination provides just enough visibility in low light without overwhelming your target acquisition. The Christmas-tree style subtensions allow for quick wind holds once you’ve dialed your elevation, a critical feature when conditions are changing rapidly during that narrow window of opportunity.
The optical clarity of the ATACR is exceptional across the entire magnification range. At 25x, you can clearly spot bullet impacts on steel targets beyond 1,000 yards, allowing for quick follow-up shots or corrections. The generous 3.6 inches of eye relief protects you from the substantial recoil of the .338 Lapua while maintaining a full sight picture, and the robust 34mm tube provides ample internal adjustment range to take full advantage of the cartridge’s extended ballistics.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 5-25x |
| Objective Lens | 56mm |
| Tube Diameter | 34mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.6 inches |
| Field of View | 5.0-18.7 feet @ 100 yards |
| Weight | 37 ounces |
| Reticle | MOAR (illuminated) |
| Focal Plane | First |
Pros
- Industry-leading mechanical precision and tracking
- Exceptional optical clarity at all magnifications
- 120 MOA elevation adjustment range (35 MRAD)
- ZeroStop technology for reliable return to zero
- Robust construction withstands .338 Lapua recoil
- Highly functional first focal plane reticle
Cons
- Premium price point
If you’re serious about maximizing the long-range potential of your .338 Lapua rifle, the Nightforce ATACR deserves to be at the top of your list. This scope has accompanied me on numerous precision shooting adventures, from military-style competitions to long-range hunting expeditions, and it has never once let me down.
The combination of flawless tracking, exceptional clarity, and bombproof durability makes it the ideal companion for pushing the limits of what’s possible with this magnificent cartridge. Check out this outstanding piece of engineering and experience why professional shooters worldwide trust Nightforce on their most critical precision platforms.
2) Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36x56mm (Best Magnification Range)
The Vortex Razor HD Gen III represents a quantum leap forward in precision optics at a price point that, while still premium, delivers exceptional value compared to European counterparts. I first encountered this scope at a Precision Rifle Series competition and was immediately impressed by its optical performance and mechanical precision – two non-negotiable factors for any serious .338 Lapua setup.
What sets the Razor HD Gen III apart for .338 Lapua shooters is its extraordinary magnification range. The 6x low end provides a generous field of view for spotting and tracking moving targets, while the 36x upper limit allows for incredible precision at extreme distances. When you’re trying to thread a bullet through a 10-inch target at 1,200 yards, that extra magnification makes a meaningful difference in your ability to precisely hold for wind and elevation.
The EBR-7D reticle is a competitive shooter’s dream, with a clean but comprehensive design that provides holdover and windage references without cluttering your sight picture. The first focal plane design means your subtensions remain accurate throughout the magnification range – critically important when making rapid adjustments during timed stages or when conditions change during a hunting scenario.
Vortex’s L-Tec Zero Stop system allows for quick, positive return to your established zero, while the locking elevation turret prevents accidental adjustment in the field. With 41.5 MRAD (142 MOA) of total elevation adjustment, you’ll have more than enough range to reach the .338 Lapua’s extreme distance potential, even when factoring in your rail’s built-in elevation.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 6-36x |
| Objective Lens | 56mm |
| Tube Diameter | 34mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.7 inches |
| Field of View | 2.9-18.2 feet @ 100 yards |
| Weight | 48.5 ounces |
| Reticle | EBR-7D (illuminated) |
| Focal Plane | First |
Pros
- Class-leading magnification range for extreme distances
- Outstanding glass clarity with HD elements
- Precise, repeatable turret adjustments
- Extensive elevation adjustment range
- Functional, competition-proven reticle design
- Exceptional value compared to European equivalents
Cons
- Heavier than many competitive options
For the .338 Lapua shooter who demands maximum magnification without compromising optical quality, the Vortex Razor HD Gen III represents an outstanding option. I’ve watched countless competitive shooters transition to this scope from much more expensive alternatives, often reporting increased hit percentages at extreme ranges.
The optical clarity, mechanical precision, and thoughtful features make this scope a formidable contender for your .338 Lapua rifle, whether you’re competing in precision rifle matches or attempting to extend your ethical hunting range beyond traditional limitations. Check out this remarkable piece of American engineering and experience how Vortex continues to redefine expectations in premium long-range optics.
3) Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm (Best Made in USA)
When American manufacturing excellence meets the demands of military precision, the result is Leupold’s Mark 5HD, a scope that has quickly become a favorite among long-range enthusiasts and professional shooters alike. I’ve run this optic extensively on a custom .338 Lapua precision rifle, and its performance has consistently impressed me across a wide range of shooting scenarios.
What makes the Mark 5HD particularly well-suited for the .338 Lapua is its perfect balance of features for both tactical and hunting applications. At just 30 ounces, it’s remarkably lightweight for a precision scope with this feature set – a considerable advantage when you’re already hauling the substantial weight of a typical .338 Lapua rifle across challenging terrain. Despite this weight reduction, Leupold has maintained the robust construction needed to withstand the substantial recoil generated by this powerful cartridge.
The Tremor 3 reticle (one of several available options) offers an incredible array of features for extended range shooting. Developed in collaboration with Horus Vision, this reticle provides wind dots, rangefinding capabilities, and moving target leads without obscuring your target. For the .338 Lapua shooter regularly engaging targets beyond 1,000 yards, these features translate to significantly higher first-round hit probability.
The M5C3 ZeroLock turrets provide exceptionally precise adjustments with a tactile, audible click that can be felt even while wearing gloves. The revolution indicator ensures you always know which rotation you’re on – critical when dialing significant elevation for extreme distance shots. With 30 MRAD (100 MOA) of elevation adjustment, you’ll have ample range to reach the .338 Lapua’s full potential.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 5-25x |
| Objective Lens | 56mm |
| Tube Diameter | 35mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.6 inches |
| Field of View | 4.2-20.1 feet @ 100 yards |
| Weight | 30 ounces |
| Reticle | Tremor 3 (illuminated) |
| Focal Plane | First |
Pros
- Exceptional weight-to-performance ratio
- Excellent low-light performance
- Precise, intuitive turret adjustments
- Made in USA with lifetime guarantee
- High-performance reticle options
- Outstanding durability for field use
Cons
- Less elevation adjustment than some competitors
For the .338 Lapua shooter seeking American-made quality and reasonable weight without compromising optical performance, the Leupold Mark 5HD represents an outstanding option. In my experience, this scope delivers comparable performance to optics costing significantly more, while offering superior durability for field use.
Whether you’re building a precision tactical rifle or a long-range hunting rig, the Mark 5HD provides the optical clarity, mechanical precision, and thoughtful features needed to maximize your .338 Lapua’s legendary capabilities. Check out this impressive piece of American engineering and experience why military professionals and civilian shooters alike trust Leupold for their most demanding precision applications.
4) Schmidt & Bender PMII 5-25x56mm (Best Premium Option)
When price is no object and absolute optical perfection is the goal, the Schmidt & Bender PMII represents the pinnacle of precision optics for your .338 Lapua rifle. I’ve had the privilege of using this legendary German scope during military sniper training exercises, and the difference in optical quality and mechanical precision is immediately apparent, even to shooters accustomed to other premium brands.
What makes the PMII exceptionally well-suited for the .338 Lapua is its uncompromising approach to both optical clarity and mechanical reliability. When you’re attempting shots at the extreme edge of human capability, the smallest imperfections in your scope’s performance become magnified. The PMII’s glass clarity is simply stunning, offering exceptional contrast, color fidelity, and resolution that allows you to spot subtle features at distances where other scopes show only indistinct shapes.
The double-turn elevation turret provides 26 MRAD (89 MOA) of adjustment range while maintaining perfect clarity regarding which rotation you’re currently on, a critical feature when dialing for extreme distances. The tactile clicks are absolutely positive, with zero play or slop in the adjustment mechanism. After thousands of rounds of punishing .338 Lapua recoil, these turrets maintain their precision – a testament to the meticulous German engineering behind this optic.
The P4F reticle (one of many options) provides an ideal balance of precision aiming features without overwhelming your sight picture. The first focal plane design ensures your subtensions remain accurate throughout the magnification range, while the illumination system provides just enough visibility in challenging light without creating distracting glare or bloom.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 5-25x |
| Objective Lens | 56mm |
| Tube Diameter | 34mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.5-3.9 inches |
| Field of View | 4.1-20.5 feet @ 100 yards |
| Weight | 38 ounces |
| Reticle | P4F (illuminated) |
| Focal Plane | First |
Pros
- Unmatched optical clarity for target identification
- Absolutely precise, repeatable turret adjustments
- MTC LT (More Tactile Clicks) technology
- Double-turn elevation with clear rotation indicator
- Exceptional low-light performance
- Military-proven durability under harsh conditions
Cons
- Extremely premium price point
For the discerning .338 Lapua shooter who demands the absolute best and has the budget to match, the Schmidt & Bender PMII represents the gold standard in precision optics. I’ve witnessed professional military snipers consistently achieve first-round hits at extraordinary distances with these scopes, even under challenging environmental conditions.
The combination of flawless mechanical performance, stunning optical clarity, and bomb-proof durability makes this scope the ultimate companion for your precision .338 Lapua rifle. While the price point places it beyond many shooters’ budgets, those who invest in this remarkable piece of German engineering will enjoy optical performance that truly must be experienced to be appreciated.
5) Kahles K525i 5-25x56mm (Best Innovation)
Austrian optical manufacturer Kahles may not yet have the name recognition of some competitors in the American market, but their K525i scope has rapidly gained a devoted following among the most discerning precision shooters – for good reason. I first encountered this optic at the King of 2 Miles competition, where numerous top competitors had selected it for the most demanding long-range shooting event in the world.
What makes the K525i particularly well-suited for the .338 Lapua is its innovative approach to scope design. The most immediately noticeable feature is the optional left-side windage turret, a game-changer for right-handed shooters who no longer need to break their shooting position to make windage adjustments. When you’re making rapid follow-up shots or corrections in changing wind conditions, this seemingly simple innovation provides a meaningful advantage in both speed and comfort.
The optical performance of the K525i is absolutely top-tier, with exceptional clarity from edge to edge across the entire magnification range. The SKMR4 reticle (one of several options) provides a clean but comprehensive system of references for holdovers and wind holds, with an illuminated center section that maintains visibility in challenging light conditions without overwhelming your sight picture.
The MSR/MOAK click system provides positive, precise adjustments with absolutely no play or backlash – critical when you’re dialing for extreme distances with the .338 Lapua. With 29 MRAD (100 MOA) of elevation adjustment, you’ll have plenty of range to reach this cartridge’s full potential, while the zero stop feature ensures you can quickly return to your primary zero without counting clicks or rotations.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 5-25x |
| Objective Lens | 56mm |
| Tube Diameter | 34mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.7 inches |
| Field of View | 4.9-24.3 feet @ 100 yards |
| Weight | 33 ounces |
| Reticle | SKMR4 (illuminated) |
| Focal Plane | First |
Pros
- Innovative left-side windage option
- Outstanding optical clarity and resolution
- Precise, repeatable turret adjustments
- Relatively lightweight for feature set
- Parallel illumination system eliminates flare
- Competition-proven durability and performance
Cons
- Limited availability compared to major brands
For the .338 Lapua shooter who appreciates innovative design and exceptional European craftsmanship, the Kahles K525i represents a compelling option. I’ve witnessed top competitors consistently achieve remarkable results with these scopes, particularly in dynamic shooting scenarios where rapid adjustments are essential.
The combination of flawless optical performance, innovative features, and robust construction makes this scope an outstanding companion for your precision .338 Lapua rifle, whether you’re competing at the highest levels or pushing the boundaries of long-range hunting. Check out this remarkable piece of Austrian engineering and experience how Kahles is quietly revolutionizing precision optics for the most demanding shooters.
Conclusion
The .338 Lapua Magnum has rightfully earned its place among the premier long-range cartridges in the world, capable of delivering match-grade accuracy and devastating terminal performance at distances previously considered impossible. Selecting the right scope for this magnificent cartridge requires careful consideration of your specific shooting needs, budget constraints, and personal preferences.
For most serious long-range shooters, the Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm F1 offers the perfect combination of optical clarity, mechanical precision, and proven durability – making it my top recommendation for general .338 Lapua applications. Its rock-solid tracking and generous adjustment range perfectly complement the cartridge’s extended-range capabilities, while the robust construction has proven itself across countless rounds of punishing recoil.
Those seeking maximum magnification should strongly consider the Vortex Razor HD Gen III with its remarkable 6-36x range, while weight-conscious shooters will appreciate the Leupold Mark 5HD’s exceptional performance-to-weight ratio. For the ultimate in optical performance, the Schmidt & Bender PMII represents the pinnacle of precision scope engineering, and those who appreciate innovative design will find the Kahles K525i’s left-side windage option a legitimate game-changer for practical long-range shooting.
Remember that proper mounting is absolutely critical with the .338 Lapua Magnum. The substantial recoil will quickly expose any weaknesses in your mounting system, so invest in high-quality rings and bases, and consider having a professional gunsmith handle the installation. Additionally, familiarize yourself with your scope’s reticle and turret system through extensive practice before attempting extreme range shots.
Whichever scope you select, pair it with quality ammunition and a rifle capable of harnessing the .338 Lapua’s potential. With proper equipment and dedicated practice, you’ll discover why this cartridge has developed such a devoted following among serious long-range enthusiasts. The combination of flat trajectory, wind-bucking ability, and devastating terminal performance makes the .338 Lapua Magnum a truly special cartridge – one deserving of equally special optics.
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