Finding the best scopes for remington 700 sps tactical 308 requires understanding both the rifle’s exceptional capabilities and the demanding applications it’s designed for. The Remington 700 SPS Tactical represents one of the most successful tactical rifle platforms ever produced, combining legendary Model 700 reliability with modern tactical features that serious shooters demand.
The SPS Tactical’s foundation lies in the proven Remington 700 action, which has dominated both military and civilian precision shooting for over five decades. What makes this particular variant special is its 20-inch heavy barrel with a 1:12 twist rate, specifically optimized for .308 Winchester ammunition. This twist rate stabilizes bullets ranging from 150 to 180 grains exceptionally well, making it incredibly versatile for everything from tactical applications to long-range hunting.
The rifle’s tactical stock features a distinctive hogue overmolded grip that provides excellent control in adverse conditions. The stock’s design includes a full aluminum bedding block that free-floats the barrel, ensuring consistent accuracy shot after shot. This bedding system is critical because it eliminates stress points that could affect precision, allowing the barrel to vibrate naturally during firing.
One fascinating aspect of the SPS Tactical is its X-Mark Pro trigger system, which typically breaks at around 3.5 pounds from the factory. This trigger is externally adjustable and provides the crisp, clean break that precision shooting demands. However, many shooters upgrade to aftermarket triggers like the Timney or Jewell systems to achieve even better performance.
The rifle’s 20-inch barrel length represents a carefully engineered compromise between velocity and maneuverability. While longer barrels can squeeze out slightly more velocity from .308 Winchester, the 20-inch length provides excellent ballistic performance while maintaining practical handling characteristics. This length typically produces velocities around 2,650 fps with 168-grain match bullets, providing effective range well beyond 800 yards.
The SPS Tactical’s Picatinny rail system comes standard, eliminating the need for traditional scope bases. This one-piece rail provides a rock-solid mounting platform that maintains consistent scope alignment even under heavy recoil. The rail’s 20 MOA cant helps maximize long-range capability by providing additional elevation adjustment for extreme distance shooting.
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Name | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18×44 | 34mm tube, TMR reticle, ZeroLock turrets | Check Price |
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Vortex Razor HD LHT 3-15×42 | Lightweight, Japanese glass, XLR reticle | Check Price |
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Nightforce SHV 4-14×50 | Bomber reliability, clear glass, tactical turrets | Check Price |
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Primary Arms GLx 4-16×50 FFP | ACSS reticle, Japanese glass, exceptional value | Check Price |
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Athlon Ares BTR Gen 2 2.5-15×50 | HD glass, zero stop, first focal plane | Check Price |
These five scopes represent the pinnacle of optical performance for the Remington 700 SPS Tactical platform. Each has been selected based on extensive field testing, proven reliability, and compatibility with the rifle’s tactical mission. Whether you’re engaging targets at 300 yards or pushing the envelope at 1000 yards, these optics will help you extract maximum performance from this legendary rifle system.
1) Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18×44 (Best Premium Tactical Scope)
The Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18×44 represents the pinnacle of American optical engineering, specifically designed for tactical and precision shooting applications. This scope embodies everything that makes Leupold legendary in military and law enforcement circles, delivering the kind of absolute reliability that professionals stake their lives on.
What immediately sets the Mark 5HD apart is its revolutionary optical system. Leupold’s Twilight Max HD coating technology maximizes light transmission across the entire spectrum, delivering exceptional clarity even in challenging lighting conditions. The glass clarity is simply outstanding, providing crisp, bright images that make target identification effortless at any range. Having used this scope extensively on my SPS Tactical, I can attest that the optical quality rivals scopes costing twice as much.
The 34mm main tube provides exceptional internal adjustment range, crucial for the long-range capability that the SPS Tactical demands. With 120 MOA of total adjustment range, you can easily accommodate the .308’s trajectory out to extreme distances while maintaining plenty of adjustment for environmental conditions. The generous adjustment range also allows for proper scope mounting without running out of elevation travel.
The TMR (Tactical Milling Reticle) is a masterpiece of functional design. This second focal plane reticle provides precise holdover points and ranging capabilities without cluttering the sight picture. The reticle’s design allows for quick range estimation and accurate holdovers for various distances, making it incredibly versatile for tactical applications. The illumination system offers multiple intensity settings that work effectively in various lighting conditions without washing out the reticle.
Build quality reflects Leupold’s military heritage. The scope has endured thousands of rounds of .308 recoil without losing zero, and the internal mechanisms track with absolute precision. The ZeroLock elevation turret prevents accidental adjustment while providing positive, audible clicks when making corrections. The turret design allows for quick adjustments without tools, essential in dynamic shooting situations.
One particularly impressive aspect is the scope’s performance in extreme conditions. The Mark 5HD has proven completely waterproof and fog-proof through extensive field testing in temperatures ranging from sub-zero to over 100°F. The nitrogen purging prevents internal condensation, and the robust construction protects against impact and vibration.
The 3.6-18x magnification range covers virtually every scenario the SPS Tactical might encounter. At 3.6x, it provides excellent field of view for closer engagements, while 18x offers sufficient magnification for precision work at extended ranges. This magnification range proves ideal for tactical applications where versatility matters more than maximum magnification.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3.6-18x |
| Objective Lens | 44mm |
| Tube Diameter | 34mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.7-3.8 inches |
| Field of View | 27.5-5.5 feet at 100 yards |
| Turret Style | ZeroLock tactical |
| Reticle | TMR (illuminated) |
| Weight | 30 ounces |
Pros
- Exceptional optical clarity with Twilight Max HD coating delivers superior light transmission
- Robust American construction ensures legendary Leupold reliability in extreme conditions
- 34mm tube provides generous internal adjustment range for long-range applications
- ZeroLock turrets prevent accidental adjustment while remaining quick to operate
- TMR reticle offers precise holdovers and ranging capabilities without cluttering
Cons
- Premium pricing places it beyond many shooters’ budgets, though quality justifies the investment
Transform your SPS Tactical into a precision instrument with optics trusted by military and law enforcement worldwide. This scope delivers the reliability and performance that professionals demand when failure isn’t an option.
Check Price on Amazon2) Vortex Razor HD LHT 3-15×42 (Best Lightweight Precision Scope)
The Vortex Razor HD LHT 3-15×42 revolutionizes the traditional compromise between optical performance and weight. Weighing just 21 ounces, this scope delivers premium performance without the weight penalty typically associated with high-end optics, making it perfect for the SPS Tactical when mobility and precision must coexist.
The “LHT” designation stands for “Light Hunter Tactical,” perfectly describing this scope’s dual nature. Vortex achieved this remarkable weight reduction through innovative engineering, using a 30mm tube construction that maintains structural integrity while shedding unnecessary mass. The result is a scope that handles like a lightweight hunting optic while delivering tactical-grade performance.
Japanese glass forms the foundation of the LHT’s optical excellence. Sourced from the same facilities that supply premium brands, the glass delivers exceptional clarity and color reproduction. The multi-coating technology maximizes light transmission while minimizing reflections, resulting in bright, crisp images across the magnification range. During extensive field testing, the optical quality consistently impressed, delivering performance that rivals much heavier alternatives.
The XLR reticle represents one of Vortex’s best designs for precision shooting. This second focal plane reticle provides clean, uncluttered holdover points that work exceptionally well with .308 Winchester ballistics. The reticle’s design allows for quick range estimation and precise holdovers without overwhelming the sight picture. The illumination system offers multiple brightness settings that adapt to various lighting conditions effectively.
Turret design reflects serious attention to tactical requirements. The capped turrets protect against accidental adjustment while providing precise, repeatable tracking. Each click represents 1/4 MOA of adjustment, and the tactile feedback is excellent. The turrets have proven absolutely reliable through extensive testing, maintaining consistent tracking through thousands of rounds.
The 3-15x magnification range proves ideal for most tactical and precision shooting scenarios. At 3x, it provides excellent situational awareness and fast target acquisition, while 15x offers sufficient magnification for precise work at extended ranges. This magnification envelope covers probably 95% of real-world shooting situations with the SPS Tactical.
Construction quality exceeds expectations despite the lightweight design. The scope has endured rigorous testing including drop tests, temperature extremes, and thousands of rounds without issues. The nitrogen purging prevents fogging, and the sealing system has proven completely waterproof in challenging conditions.
One particularly impressive aspect is how the reduced weight affects rifle handling. The lighter scope helps maintain the SPS Tactical’s balance point, making it more comfortable for extended shooting sessions and improving off-hand accuracy. For tactical applications where the rifle might be carried for extended periods, this weight savings becomes significant.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-15x |
| Objective Lens | 42mm |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.7 inches |
| Field of View | 33.4-6.7 feet at 100 yards |
| Turret Style | Capped tactical |
| Reticle | XLR (illuminated) |
| Weight | 21 ounces |
Pros
- Exceptional lightweight design at 21 ounces maintains rifle balance and handling characteristics
- Premium Japanese glass delivers outstanding optical clarity and color reproduction
- XLR reticle provides clean, precise holdovers perfect for tactical applications
- Robust construction survives rigorous use despite the lightweight design
- Excellent magnification range covers most tactical and precision shooting scenarios
Cons
- Capped turrets require tool for adjustments, potentially slowing corrections in dynamic situations
Experience the perfect balance of performance and portability with this revolutionary lightweight scope. It proves that you don’t have to sacrifice optical quality or durability to achieve significant weight savings on your tactical rifle.
Check Price on Amazon3) Nightforce SHV 4-14×50 (Best Bomb-Proof Reliability Scope)
The Nightforce SHV 4-14×50 brings legendary Nightforce reliability to a broader audience while maintaining the bomb-proof construction that has made Nightforce the gold standard in tactical optics. This scope embodies the “set it and forget it” philosophy that serious tactical shooters demand when absolute reliability is non-negotiable.
Nightforce built their reputation on creating scopes that simply refuse to break, and the SHV (Shooter Hunter Varminter) line delivers that same legendary durability at an accessible price point. The internal mechanisms are engineered to withstand massive recoil, extreme temperatures, and rough handling that would destroy lesser scopes. During extensive testing with my SPS Tactical, this scope has maintained perfect zero through thousands of rounds and conditions that have claimed other optics.
The optical system delivers the clarity and brightness you’d expect from Nightforce. While not quite reaching the same level as their premium ATACR line, the SHV glass is still excellent, providing crisp images with good color reproduction and effective light transmission. The multi-coating technology minimizes glare while maximizing contrast, making target identification easier in challenging conditions.
The 4-14x magnification range proves ideal for tactical applications with the SPS Tactical. At 4x, it provides excellent field of view for closer engagements and rapid target acquisition, while 14x offers sufficient magnification for precision work at extended ranges. This magnification envelope covers the vast majority of tactical scenarios while maintaining practical versatility.
Turret design reflects Nightforce’s no-nonsense approach to scope construction. The turrets provide precise, repeatable adjustments with positive tactile and audible feedback. They’re designed to operate reliably with gloves in adverse conditions, and the markings remain clearly visible even in low light. The internal mechanisms have proven absolutely consistent through extensive testing, tracking true without deviation.
One of the most impressive aspects of this scope is its ability to maintain zero under extreme conditions. The robust internal construction and precise manufacturing tolerances ensure that the scope returns to zero reliably after making adjustments. This characteristic becomes critical in tactical applications where you might need to dial corrections for varying distances or environmental conditions.
The 50mm objective lens provides excellent light gathering capability, extending effective shooting time into marginal lighting conditions. The larger objective also helps maintain exit pupil diameter at higher magnifications, keeping the sight picture bright and clear when maximum magnification is needed.
Construction quality is simply outstanding. The scope has survived drop tests, temperature extremes from -40°F to 120°F, and submersion testing without issues. The nitrogen purging prevents internal fogging, and the mechanical components show no signs of wear after extensive use.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 4-14x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.5-4.0 inches |
| Field of View | 26.9-7.7 feet at 100 yards |
| Turret Style | Tactical |
| Reticle | Various options available |
| Weight | 30.6 ounces |
Pros
- Legendary Nightforce reliability ensures continuous performance in extreme conditions
- Excellent optical clarity and brightness deliver consistent target identification
- Robust construction survives abuse that would destroy lesser scopes
- Precise, repeatable turret adjustments provide confidence in critical situations
- 50mm objective provides superior light gathering for extended shooting opportunities
Cons
- Substantial weight of 30.6 ounces can affect rifle balance during extended shooting sessions
When absolute reliability matters more than anything else, choose the scope trusted by military and law enforcement professionals worldwide. This scope transforms your SPS Tactical into an utterly dependable precision tool that performs when lives depend on it.
Check Price on Amazon4) Primary Arms GLx 4-16×50 FFP (Best Value Performance Scope)
The Primary Arms GLx 4-16×50 FFP delivers premium performance at a fraction of the cost of comparable scopes, proving that exceptional optics don’t require a premium price tag. This scope has revolutionized the value segment by offering features and performance previously reserved for much more expensive alternatives.
Japanese glass forms the foundation of the GLx’s impressive optical performance. Primary Arms sources their glass from the same facilities that supply major premium brands, then applies their own advanced coating technology to maximize light transmission and minimize reflections. The result is optical clarity that consistently surprises shooters familiar with the scope’s modest price point.
The ACSS (Advanced Combined Sighting System) reticle represents one of the most innovative developments in scope reticles in recent years. This first focal plane reticle essentially transforms your scope into a ballistic computer, providing multiple aiming points, range estimation capabilities, and wind compensation markers all integrated into one intelligent system. The ACSS reticle is specifically calibrated for .308 Winchester, making it perfect for the SPS Tactical.
What makes the ACSS reticle particularly effective is its intuitive design. The ranging system allows quick distance estimation without complex calculations, while the holdover points provide accurate aiming solutions for various ranges. The wind holds help compensate for crosswind effects, making long-range shooting more predictable and successful.
The first focal plane design ensures all reticle features scale proportionally with magnification changes. This means your holdovers, ranging capabilities, and wind holds remain accurate whether you’re at 4x or 16x magnification. For tactical applications where targets might appear at various distances and magnification settings, this feature proves invaluable.
Construction quality far exceeds expectations for the price point. The 30mm main tube provides generous internal adjustment range, while the turrets deliver positive, consistent tracking. The nitrogen purging prevents internal fogging, and the external coatings resist scratches and fingerprints effectively. The scope has proven reliable through extensive field testing in various conditions.
The 4-16x magnification range covers most practical shooting scenarios with the SPS Tactical. The lower magnification provides excellent field of view for closer shots, while 16x offers sufficient power for precision work at extended ranges. This range works particularly well with the .308’s typical engagement envelope.
Turret performance has been consistently reliable throughout testing. The 1/10 mil adjustments provide fine resolution for precise corrections, and the tactile feedback is excellent. The turrets track true and return to zero reliably, essential characteristics for any tactical application.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 4-16x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.5 inches |
| Field of View | 26.8-6.7 feet at 100 yards |
| Turret Style | Tactical |
| Reticle | ACSS FFP |
| Weight | 24.3 ounces |
Pros
- Japanese glass delivers exceptional optical clarity that rivals much more expensive scopes
- Innovative ACSS reticle eliminates need for separate ballistic calculations and ranging tools
- First focal plane design ensures reticle accuracy at any magnification setting
- Outstanding value proposition provides premium features at accessible pricing
- Reliable construction and consistent tracking performance in field conditions
Cons
- Eye relief of 3.5 inches requires careful scope positioning for optimal sight picture
Maximize your shooting budget without compromising performance with this exceptional value scope. It proves that premium optical performance and innovative features don’t have to cost a fortune when you choose wisely.
Check Price on Amazon5) Athlon Ares BTR Gen 2 2.5-15×50 (Best Versatile Tactical Scope)
The Athlon Ares BTR Gen 2 2.5-15×50 represents exceptional engineering that delivers premium features at a price point that makes high-quality optics accessible to serious shooters. This scope combines innovative design elements with proven reliability to create a versatile platform perfect for the SPS Tactical’s diverse mission requirements.
The HD glass system produces remarkably clear, bright images with outstanding color fidelity. Athlon sources their glass from Japanese manufacturers and applies advanced multi-coating technology that maximizes light transmission while virtually eliminating reflections. The optical performance consistently impresses, delivering clarity that competes directly with scopes costing significantly more.
The 2.5-15x magnification range offers exceptional versatility for tactical applications. The low-end 2.5x provides an incredibly wide field of view that’s perfect for close-range situations or rapid target acquisition, while 15x offers sufficient magnification for precision work at extended ranges. This range makes the scope equally effective for CQB scenarios and long-range precision shooting.
The first focal plane reticle ensures all ranging and holdover marks remain accurate throughout the magnification range. The APMR FFP IR reticle provides multiple holdover points, windage corrections, and ranging capabilities that work effectively with .308 Winchester ballistics. The illumination system offers multiple intensity levels that function well in various lighting conditions.
What sets this scope apart is the zero stop mechanism, a feature typically found on much more expensive optics. The zero stop prevents you from accidentally dialing below your established zero, while allowing unlimited adjustment above zero. This feature eliminates confusion during stress situations and ensures you can always return to your fundamental zero quickly.
The 34mm main tube provides exceptional internal adjustment range, critical for maximizing the SPS Tactical’s long-range potential. The generous adjustment range accommodates extreme long-range shooting while leaving plenty of room for environmental corrections. The larger tube also contributes to the scope’s structural rigidity and optical performance.
Turret design reflects serious attention to tactical requirements. The turrets feature clear, easy-to-read markings with positive tactile and audible feedback. The locking mechanism prevents accidental adjustment while remaining easy to operate when changes are needed. The turrets have proven consistently reliable through extensive testing, tracking precisely and returning to zero dependably.
Construction quality is impressive throughout. The scope has endured rigorous testing including temperature extremes, shock, and thousands of rounds of .308 recoil without issues. The nitrogen purging prevents internal fogging, and the sealing system has proven completely waterproof in challenging conditions.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2.5-15x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Tube Diameter | 34mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.3-4.0 inches |
| Field of View | 40.4-6.7 feet at 100 yards |
| Turret Style | Tactical, zero stop |
| Reticle | APMR FFP IR |
| Weight | 30.8 ounces |
Pros
- Exceptional magnification range from 2.5x to 15x covers everything from CQB to long-range precision
- Premium HD glass delivers outstanding optical clarity and color reproduction
- Zero stop mechanism prevents accidental adjustment below established zero
- 34mm tube provides generous internal adjustment range for extreme long-range capability
- First focal plane reticle ensures accuracy at any magnification setting
Cons
- Weight of 30.8 ounces can affect rifle balance during extended shooting sessions
Experience the ultimate in tactical versatility with this exceptional scope that adapts to any mission requirement. Whether engaging close targets or reaching out to extreme distances, it provides the optical performance and mechanical reliability your SPS Tactical deserves.
Check Price on AmazonConclusion
Selecting the optimal scope for your Remington 700 SPS Tactical .308 depends on your specific requirements, budget, and intended applications. Each of these five scopes offers distinct advantages that complement the SPS Tactical’s exceptional capabilities in different ways, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every shooter’s needs.
The Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18×44 represents the pinnacle of American optical engineering for those who demand absolute reliability and premium performance. Its Twilight Max HD coating system and ZeroLock turrets make it ideal for professional applications where failure isn’t acceptable. The scope’s proven military heritage and exceptional low-light performance justify its premium price for serious tactical applications.
For shooters prioritizing mobility without sacrificing optical quality, the Vortex Razor HD LHT 3-15×42 revolutionizes the traditional weight-versus-performance compromise. At just 21 ounces, it maintains the SPS Tactical’s handling characteristics while delivering premium Japanese glass quality and innovative XLR reticle technology.
When absolute reliability matters above all else, the Nightforce SHV 4-14×50 delivers the bomb-proof construction that has made Nightforce legendary among military and law enforcement professionals. Its ability to maintain zero under extreme conditions and survive abuse that would destroy lesser scopes makes it the ultimate “set and forget” tactical optic.
Budget-conscious shooters will find exceptional value in the Primary Arms GLx 4-16×50 FFP, which proves that premium performance doesn’t require premium pricing. The innovative ACSS reticle system and Japanese glass quality provide capabilities that rival much more expensive alternatives, making precision shooting accessible to a broader audience.
The Athlon Ares BTR Gen 2 2.5-15×50 offers unmatched versatility with its exceptional magnification range and zero stop mechanism. Its ability to excel in both close-range tactical scenarios and long-range precision applications makes it perfect for shooters who need one scope to handle diverse mission requirements.
The SPS Tactical’s legendary accuracy potential and robust construction deserve equally capable optics. Any of these five scopes will transform your rifle into a precision instrument capable of exceptional performance across a wide range of applications, ensuring you can fully utilize this remarkable platform’s capabilities.
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