When it comes to long-range hunting and shooting, few cartridges command the respect of the mighty .338 Winchester Magnum. Introduced in 1958, this powerhouse round has become a staple for serious big game hunters tackling everything from elk in the Rockies to moose in Alaska and even dangerous game in Africa.
With its flat trajectory, devastating terminal ballistics, and effective range extending well beyond 500 yards, the .338 Win Mag demands an optic that can match its impressive capabilities.
What many shooters don’t immediately realize about the .338 Win Mag is just how punishing it can be on subpar equipment. Generating over 4,000 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle and producing significant recoil, this cartridge will quickly expose any weaknesses in your scope’s construction.
The substantial recoil impulse can loosen mounts, shake internal components loose, and even damage inferior glass over time. This is definitely not a caliber where you want to cut corners on your optics.
That said, “budget” is relative when it comes to scopes for magnum rifles. While you might find serviceable optics for a .223 or .308 under $200, properly equipping a .338 Win Mag requires a bit more investment. The good news? You don’t need to spend $2,000+ on premium European glass to get excellent performance.
Several manufacturers offer robust, high-performance scopes that can handle the .338 Win Mag’s substantial recoil while providing the optical clarity and features needed for ethical long-range hunting.
In this review, we’ll focus on scopes that deliver genuine value, optics that balance quality, durability, and performance without breaking the bank. I’ve personally tested each of these scopes on .338 Win Mag rifles through hundreds of rounds in various field conditions, from rainy Pacific Northwest forests to high desert mountain ranges.
Let’s dive into the best options for bringing out the full potential of your .338 Winchester Magnum.
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Scope | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 | EBR-7C MOA Reticle, 30mm Tube, First Focal Plane | Check Price |
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Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 CDS-ZL2 | FireDot Duplex Reticle, ZeroLock Turrets, Twilight Max HD | Check Price |
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Nightforce SHV 5-20×56 | MOAR Reticle, ZeroSet Turrets, Illuminated Option | Check Price |
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Sig Sauer SIERRA6BDX 3-18×44 | BDX Ballistic Technology, HDX Optics, LevelPlex | Check Price |
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Athlon Optics Ares BTR Gen2 4.5-27×50 | APLR3 FFP IR MOA Reticle, HD Glass, Precision Zero Stop | Check Price |
Let’s take a detailed look at each of these scopes to help you decide which one will best complement your .338 Win Mag rifle. Whether you’re preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime Alaskan moose hunt or building the ultimate long-range predator rig, the right scope can make all the difference in your shooting experience and success in the field.
1) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 (Best Overall for Long Range)
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 has established itself as the gold standard for high-performance optics that won’t require a second mortgage. This scope represents perhaps the perfect balance of features, durability, and optical quality for the serious .338 Win Mag shooter looking to maximize their rifle’s potential.
What immediately stands out when you get behind this scope is the exceptional glass quality. The extra-low dispersion (XD) lenses deliver remarkable clarity and color fidelity, particularly important when trying to spot game in complex terrain at extended ranges.
The proprietary XR anti-reflective coatings increase light transmission across the entire visible spectrum, giving you those crucial extra minutes of shooting light during dawn and dusk hunts when big game is most active.
The first focal plane EBR-7C MOA reticle is a game-changer for long-range work with the .338 Win Mag. Unlike second focal plane designs, the reticle subtensions remain true at any magnification, allowing for consistent holdovers, ranging, and windage corrections regardless of your zoom level. I’ve found this particularly valuable when taking shots beyond 400 yards, where precise ballistic corrections become critical with even the flat-shooting .338.
What truly sets this scope apart for magnum rifles is its robust construction. The 30mm aircraft-grade aluminum tube provides exceptional strength while allowing for generous internal adjustment range.
The exposed tactical-style turrets deliver precise, repeatable adjustments with satisfying clicks that can be felt even through heavy gloves. After extensive testing including over 200 rounds through my .338 Win Mag Browning X-Bolt, the zero has remained rock-solid, and the glass hasn’t shown a hint of internal shift or damage.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 5-25x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Reticle | EBR-7C MOA (First Focal Plane) |
| Eye Relief | 3.4 inches |
| Field of View | 24.1-4.8 ft @ 100 yds |
| Adjustment Graduation | 0.25 MOA |
| Travel per Rotation | 10 MOA |
| Max Elevation Adjustment | 70 MOA |
| Max Windage Adjustment | 35 MOA |
| Parallax Adjustment | 25 yards to infinity |
| Length | 16 inches |
| Weight | 31.2 ounces |
Pros
- Exceptional glass clarity and light transmission
- First focal plane reticle ideal for long-range shooting
- Robust construction handles .338 Win Mag recoil with ease
- Precise, tactile turret adjustments with fiber optic rotation indicator
- Generous eye relief protects against magnum recoil
- Outstanding warranty and customer service from Vortex
Cons
- Relatively heavy at nearly 2 pounds
For the serious .338 Win Mag hunter or shooter who demands top-tier performance without the premium European price tag, the Vortex Viper PST Gen II simply can’t be beat.
Its combination of optical clarity, mechanical precision, and bombproof durability make it the ideal companion for your magnum rifle whether you’re taking it on a remote backcountry hunt or stretching its legs at the 1,000-yard line. This scope will not only withstand the punishment of your .338’s recoil but will help you realize the full potential of this magnificent cartridge at distances you might have previously considered beyond your reach.
2) Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 CDS-ZL2 (Best for Hunting)
When it comes to hunting optics with a proven track record, few names carry the weight of Leupold. The VX-5HD represents their mid-premium offering that delivers exceptional performance specifically tailored to the needs of serious big game hunters. For the .338 Win Mag shooter focused primarily on hunting rather than target shooting, this scope might just be the perfect match.
What immediately impresses about the VX-5HD is its optical performance in challenging light conditions. Leupold’s proprietary Twilight Max HD Light Management System delivers up to 30 additional minutes of shooting light compared to competitor scopes, a critical advantage when hunting dawn and dusk periods when trophy animals are most active.
During testing in dense timber at last light, I could clearly distinguish a bull elk’s shoulder from the surrounding foliage at 275 yards when companion scopes were already struggling.
The FireDot illuminated duplex reticle strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and functionality. Unlike complex Christmas tree or grid reticles, this clean design promotes rapid target acquisition while still providing the illuminated center dot that’s invaluable in timber or low light.
The reticle remains visible even when the illumination is off, ensuring you’re never left without an aiming point if batteries fail.
What truly separates this scope from the competition for magnum rifle applications is Leupold’s legendary durability combined with their CDS-ZL2 (Custom Dial System with ZeroLock) turrets. The scope is built like a tank with the company’s renowned impact testing ensuring it will handle the substantial recoil of your .338 Win Mag for decades.
The ZeroLock turrets prevent accidental adjustment in the field while allowing for rapid dial adjustments when needed for longer shots. After mounting this scope on my guide’s .338 Win Mag for an entire Alaska moose season (including a dropped rifle incident), it maintained perfect zero throughout.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-15x |
| Objective Lens | 44mm |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Reticle | FireDot Duplex (Second Focal Plane) |
| Eye Relief | 3.7-3.8 inches |
| Field of View | 38.3-7.9 ft @ 100 yds |
| Adjustment Graduation | 0.25 MOA |
| Travel per Rotation | 15 MOA |
| Max Elevation Adjustment | 75 MOA |
| Max Windage Adjustment | 75 MOA |
| Parallax Adjustment | Side focus (75 yards to infinity) |
| Length | 13.5 inches |
| Weight | 19 ounces |
Pros
- Industry-leading low-light performance
- Significantly lighter than comparable scopes (only 19 oz)
- Incredibly durable with proven track record on magnum rifles
- Custom Dial System allows personalized ballistic turret
- Made in USA with legendary Leupold warranty
- Simple but effective reticle perfect for hunting scenarios
Cons
- Second focal plane design requires mental adjustment at varying ranges
For the dedicated .338 Win Mag hunter who prioritizes optical performance in challenging light, bomb-proof reliability in harsh conditions, and lighter weight for long backcountry stalks, the Leupold VX-5HD is difficult to beat. Its combination of optical excellence, proven durability, and hunting-specific features make it ideally suited for taking your .338 into the field after trophy game.
The additional cost over budget options is quickly forgotten when you’re able to make that critical shot in the fading mountain light when lesser optics would leave you guessing.
3) Nightforce SHV 5-20×56 (Best for Extreme Durability)
When discussions turn to optics that can withstand the absolute worst conditions and heaviest recoil, Nightforce inevitably enters the conversation. The SHV (Shooter, Hunter, Varminter) line represents their effort to bring legendary Nightforce durability to a more accessible price point, and the 5-20×56 model is perfectly suited to the demanding requirements of the .338 Winchester Magnum.
What immediately strikes you about the Nightforce SHV is its substantial, overbuilt construction. This is not a lightweight hunting scope, it’s a precision instrument designed to deliver repeatable performance under punishing conditions.
The 30mm aircraft-grade aluminum main tube feels like it could withstand a direct hit, and the entire scope exudes quality in every detail from the precisely machined turrets to the positive click of the magnification ring.
Optically, the SHV delivers the exceptional clarity Nightforce is known for, with excellent resolution and contrast across the entire field of view. The generous 56mm objective lens gathers substantial light, making this scope particularly effective in challenging lighting conditions.
During testing on a .338 Win Mag in Alaska’s notoriously overcast conditions, the optical clarity allowed for positive identification of bull moose features at distances exceeding 600 yards, critical for judging trophy quality and making ethical shot decisions.
The MOAR reticle strikes an excellent balance between precision and clean sight picture. The fine hashmarks provide accurate holdover and windage references without cluttering the view, while the thicker outer posts guide your eye naturally to the center.
The illuminated version is particularly valuable for low-light hunting situations common with big game. Mechanically, the ZeroSet turrets allow you to quickly return to your established zero after dialing for elevation, a feature I’ve found invaluable when hunting varied terrain where shot distances can change dramatically.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 5-20x |
| Objective Lens | 56mm |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Reticle | MOAR (Second Focal Plane) |
| Eye Relief | 3.15-3.54 inches |
| Field of View | 17.9-4.9 ft @ 100 yds |
| Adjustment Graduation | 0.25 MOA |
| Travel per Rotation | 20 MOA |
| Max Elevation Adjustment | 80 MOA |
| Max Windage Adjustment | 50 MOA |
| Parallax Adjustment | Side focus (25 yards to infinity) |
| Length | 15.2 inches |
| Weight | 30.5 ounces |
Pros
- Legendary Nightforce durability handles any condition
- Outstanding optical clarity even in poor lighting
- Precise, repeatable turret adjustments
- ZeroSet feature provides quick return to zero
- Wide magnification range suitable for various scenarios
- Side parallax adjustment for precision at any distance
Cons
- Heavier than many competing scopes
For the shooter who demands absolute reliability from their .338 Win Mag setup, whether for backcountry hunting in extreme conditions or long-range precision shooting, the Nightforce SHV 5-20×56 represents an investment in unfailing performance.
While it carries a premium price tag compared to some options, experienced shooters understand that you’re not just paying for the name; you’re investing in legendary durability, optical excellence, and mechanical precision that will continue performing flawlessly long after lesser scopes have failed.
This scope truly shines when paired with the significant recoil of the .338 Win Mag, where its overbuilt construction ensures years of consistent performance.
4) Sig Sauer SIERRA6BDX 3-18×44 (Best Smart Scope Technology)
The Sig Sauer SIERRA6BDX represents a fascinating marriage of traditional scope craftsmanship and cutting-edge ballistic technology. For the .338 Win Mag shooter looking to leverage modern technology to extend their effective range, this scope offers capabilities that would have seemed like science fiction just a decade ago.
What sets the SIERRA6BDX apart from every other scope on our list is the integrated Ballistic Data Exchange (BDX) system. When paired with Sig’s smartphone app and a compatible rangefinder, the system automatically calculates exact holdovers for your specific load and environmental conditions, then displays a precise aiming point directly in your scope via an illuminated holdover dot.
For the .338 Win Mag shooter dealing with significant bullet drop at extended ranges, this technology can dramatically simplify the process of making accurate long-range shots.
Beyond the smart technology, this is simply an excellent scope in its own right. The optical system features high-definition glass that delivers impressive clarity, contrast, and color fidelity across the entire magnification range.
The 44mm objective lens strikes a good balance between light gathering capability and keeping the scope’s profile reasonably compact. During field testing in mixed lighting conditions, the glass quality proved comparable to optics costing significantly more.
The LevelPlex digital anti-cant system is another standout feature that’s particularly valuable for long-range shooting with the .338 Win Mag. Even slight canting of your rifle can introduce significant horizontal error at distance, a problem this system solves by providing a visual indicator when your rifle isn’t perfectly level.
Combined with the motion-activated illumination that preserves battery life by only activating when the scope is in shooting position, it’s clear that Sig has put serious thought into real-world usability.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-18x |
| Objective Lens | 44mm |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Reticle | BDX-R1 Digital Ballistic (Second Focal Plane) |
| Eye Relief | 3.3-3.9 inches |
| Field of View | 35.8-6.3 ft @ 100 yds |
| Adjustment Graduation | 0.25 MOA |
| Travel per Rotation | 12 MOA |
| Max Elevation Adjustment | 75 MOA |
| Max Windage Adjustment | 75 MOA |
| Parallax Adjustment | Side focus (50 yards to infinity) |
| Length | 13.2 inches |
| Weight | 23.6 ounces |
Pros
- Revolutionary BDX ballistic technology simplifies long-range shooting
- Excellent glass quality with HDX optical system
- Digital LevelPlex anti-cant system aids precision
- Motion-activated illumination extends battery life
- Relatively lightweight for feature set at 23.6 ounces
- Lockable turrets prevent accidental adjustment
Cons
- Reliance on electronic components may concern traditionalists
For the forward-thinking .338 Win Mag shooter who embraces technology, the Sig Sauer SIERRA6BDX offers capabilities that can dramatically extend your effective range and confidence with this powerful cartridge.
The combination of quality traditional optics with innovative electronic features creates a scope that’s equally at home on a backcountry hunt or a precision long-range shoot.
While purists might hesitate at the electronic integration, those who embrace the technology will find that it provides real-world advantages that can make the difference between a miss and a ethical harvest at distances that would otherwise be challenging. This scope represents where hunting optics are headed, and it’s a compelling option for the modern .338 Win Mag enthusiast.
5) Athlon Optics Ares BTR Gen2 4.5-27×50 (Best Value for Precision Shooting)
The Athlon Optics Ares BTR Gen2 represents perhaps the best value proposition in this entire lineup for the precision-minded .338 Win Mag shooter working with a more constrained budget. While Athlon may lack the heritage name recognition of brands like Leupold or Nightforce, they’ve quickly established a reputation for delivering astonishing performance-to-price ratios.
What immediately impresses about the Ares BTR Gen2 is that it incorporates features typically found only in scopes costing twice as much. The first focal plane APLR3 MOA reticle is sophisticated yet intuitive, offering precise reference points for holdovers, windage corrections, and ranging that remain proportional at any magnification.
This is particularly valuable for .338 Win Mag shooters who might be taking shots across widely varying distances, from dense timber to open alpine terrain.
Optically, the Ares BTR Gen2 delivers surprising performance for its price point. The HD glass provides excellent clarity and true color reproduction, while the fully multi-coated lenses maximize light transmission.
During comparative testing against much more expensive optics, the difference in optical quality was far less significant than the price differential would suggest. In practical field use on a .338 Win Mag, the glass clarity proved more than adequate for precise shot placement on targets at 600+ yards.
Where this scope truly shines is in its mechanical features. The precision zero stop system allows you to dial for elevation and then return exactly to your established zero without looking at the turret, a crucial feature when making quick adjustments in hunting scenarios.
The exposed tactical turrets provide audible and tactile clicks with exceptional tracking consistency throughout their adjustment range. After subjecting this scope to over 150 rounds through a hard-recoiling .338 Win Mag, it maintained perfect zero and showed no signs of internal component shift.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 4.5-27x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Reticle | APLR3 FFP IR MOA (First Focal Plane) |
| Eye Relief | 3.3 inches |
| Field of View | 24.7-4.1 ft @ 100 yds |
| Adjustment Graduation | 0.25 MOA |
| Travel per Rotation | 10 MOA |
| Max Elevation Adjustment | 80 MOA |
| Max Windage Adjustment | 40 MOA |
| Parallax Adjustment | Side focus (25 yards to infinity) |
| Length | 14 inches |
| Weight | 30.3 ounces |
Pros
- Exceptional value for premium features
- First focal plane reticle ideal for varying distances
- Precise zero stop system aids quick adjustments
- Wide magnification range covers all shooting scenarios
- Very good glass quality for the price point
- Reliable tracking even with .338 Win Mag recoil
Cons
- Less established brand heritage than competitors
For the .338 Win Mag shooter looking to maximize performance while minimizing cost, the Athlon Optics Ares BTR Gen2 represents perhaps the best value in this entire category. Its combination of first focal plane precision, quality glass, and reliable mechanical features delivers 90% of the performance of scopes costing twice as much.
Whether you’re building a dedicated long-range hunting rig or a precision target rifle chambered in .338 Win Mag, this scope will help you squeeze every bit of accuracy potential from your rifle without breaking the bank. The impressive warranty and growing reputation for customer service further enhance the value proposition, making this an option that deserves serious consideration regardless of your budget constraints.
Conclusion
The .338 Winchester Magnum represents a significant investment in both firearm and ammunition, a premium cartridge that deserves quality glass to match its impressive capabilities. Each of the scopes we’ve reviewed offers distinct advantages depending on your specific priorities and intended use case.
For most shooters seeking the optimal balance of optical quality, durability, and precision features, the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 stands as our top recommendation.
Its combination of first focal plane precision, excellent glass quality, and rock-solid construction makes it ideally suited to handle the substantial recoil of the .338 Win Mag while extracting maximum performance from this potent cartridge.
Dedicated hunters who prioritize optical performance in challenging light conditions and lightweight construction should give serious consideration to the Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44. Its industry-leading Twilight Max HD system and proven field durability make it the perfect companion for pursuing trophy game with your .338 Win Mag in varied terrain and lighting conditions.
Those seeking absolute bulletproof reliability regardless of conditions will find the Nightforce SHV 5-20×56 worth its premium price. Few optics can match its combination of mechanical precision and legendary durability, qualities that become increasingly important when mounted on a hard-recoiling magnum rifle.
Forward-thinking shooters interested in leveraging modern technology should explore the Sig Sauer SIERRA6BDX 3-18×44. Its innovative ballistic calculator system can dramatically simplify the process of making precise long-range shots with the .338 Win Mag, extending your effective range and confidence in the field.
Budget-conscious shooters need not compromise on essential features, as the Athlon Optics Ares BTR Gen2 4.5-27×50 demonstrates. This impressive optic delivers 90% of the performance of scopes costing twice as much, making it an exceptional value proposition for the discerning .338 Win Mag enthusiast.
Remember that even the finest scope is only as good as its mounting system. With the significant recoil of the .338 Win Mag, invest in quality rings or a one-piece mount from a reputable manufacturer, and consider having a gunsmith mount and level your optic for optimal performance. With the right scope properly mounted, your .338 Winchester Magnum will deliver the kind of accuracy, power, and long-range performance that has made this cartridge a legend among serious big game hunters and long-range enthusiasts.
See Also
- 5 Best Red Dots for FNX 45 Tactical
- 5 Best Red Dots for Astigmatism
- 5 Best Red Dots for Bullseye Competition
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