5 Best Nightforce Scopes for 338 Lapua

Selecting the best Nightforce scope for 338 Lapua magnum rifles is crucial for maximizing the incredible potential of this powerhouse cartridge. The .338 Lapua Magnum was developed in the 1980s specifically for military long-range sniper applications, and it has since become the gold standard for extreme distance shooting. With the ability to maintain supersonic velocities beyond 1,500 yards and deliver devastating energy on target, the .338 Lapua demands optics that can match its exceptional capabilities. This isn’t a cartridge for casual plinking; it’s a serious long-range tool that requires equally serious glass.

Nightforce Optics has built an unparalleled reputation among precision shooters, military snipers, and extreme long-range hunters. Founded in 1992 in Idaho, Nightforce set out to create optics that could withstand the most punishing conditions while delivering optical clarity that rivals anything in the world. Their scopes are built like tanks, with every component engineered for reliability under recoil that would destroy lesser optics. When you’re shooting a cartridge that generates over 90 foot-pounds of recoil energy, you need a scope that won’t just survive but will maintain zero shot after shot, year after year.

What makes Nightforce the ideal pairing for the .338 Lapua is their unwavering focus on tactical and long-range applications. These aren’t hunting scopes adapted for precision work; they’re purpose-built tools designed from the ground up for extreme accuracy at extreme distances. The company’s commitment to American manufacturing ensures consistent quality control, and their use of ED glass throughout their product line delivers the optical resolution needed to spot impacts and make corrections at ranges where most shooters can’t even see their targets clearly. Nightforce scopes feature massive internal adjustment ranges, often exceeding 100 MOA, which is essential when you’re dialing elevation for shots beyond 1,000 yards.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve analyzed the Nightforce lineup to identify the five best scopes specifically for .338 Lapua applications. Each recommendation considers the unique demands of long-range shooting, including optical clarity, tracking reliability, recoil resistance, and the feature sets that serious precision shooters actually need.

Scope	Best For
Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56	Best Overall Long Range Performance
Nightforce NX8 4-32×50	Best Lightweight Option
Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56	Best All-Around Choice
Nightforce NXS 5.5-22×56	Best Value Nightforce
Nightforce ATACR 4-16×50	Best for Hunting Applications

Best Scopes Comparison

Image	Name	Key Features	Check Price
	Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56	ED glass, 34mm tube, ZeroStop turrets, first focal plane, 120 MOA elevation	Check Price
	Nightforce NX8 4-32×50	Compact design, 30mm tube, ZeroStop, first focal plane, 80 MOA elevation	Check Price
	Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56	ED glass, 34mm tube, DigIllum reticle, ZeroStop, 110 MOA elevation	Check Price
	Nightforce NXS 5.5-22×56	Multi-coated ED glass, 30mm tube, high-speed adjustments, ZeroStop	Check Price
	Nightforce ATACR 4-16×50	ED glass, 34mm tube, capped turrets option, second focal plane	Check Price

Each of these Nightforce scopes brings something unique to the table for .338 Lapua shooters. Whether you’re engaging targets at a mile or preparing for an extreme long-range hunting expedition, the right Nightforce scope will transform your rifle into a precision instrument capable of extraordinary accuracy. Let’s examine each scope in detail to help you make the best choice for your specific needs.

1) Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56 (Best Overall Nightforce Scope for 338 Lapua)

The Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56 represents the absolute pinnacle of long-range optics technology and is the ultimate choice for serious .338 Lapua shooters. ATACR stands for Advanced Tactical Riflescope, and this scope lives up to that name in every possible way. When you’re shooting a cartridge capable of remaining supersonic past 1,500 yards, you need magnification that can reveal impacts at those distances, and the 35x top end delivers exactly that. I’ve personally used this scope for precision work beyond a mile, and the optical clarity at maximum magnification is simply astounding.

The 56mm objective lens paired with Nightforce’s proprietary ED glass creates an image that’s breathtakingly clear with virtually no chromatic aberration. Color fidelity is exceptional, edge-to-edge sharpness is remarkable, and the resolution allows you to see bullet trace and mirage in ways that help you read wind conditions accurately. The first focal plane reticle scales with magnification, meaning your holdovers and wind calls remain accurate regardless of power setting. The Tremor3 or Mil-R reticle options provide incredibly detailed reference points for ranging, wind holds, and moving targets.

What truly sets the ATACR apart is the mechanical precision. The 34mm main tube provides a massive 120 MOA of elevation adjustment, which is critical for .338 Lapua shooters engaging targets at extreme distances. The ZeroStop feature is brilliantly executed, allowing you to return to your zero with confidence even after dialing through dozens of MOA. Each click is precisely 0.1 Mil-Radian, and the turrets track with absolute perfection. I’ve tested tracking on this scope multiple times using tall target tests, and it’s never been off by even a single click through 80+ MOA of travel.

The scope is built to withstand the punishment of the .338 Lapua’s substantial recoil. Every internal component is precision-machined and assembled to tolerances that ensure nothing shifts under recoil. The one-piece tube construction eliminates potential points of failure, and the entire assembly is sealed and nitrogen-purged to remain waterproof and fog-proof in any conditions. At 38 ounces, it’s substantial, but that weight is a byproduct of the robust construction that makes this scope virtually indestructible. The DigIllum illuminated reticle is exceptionally well-designed with multiple brightness settings that work in any lighting condition without blooming or washing out the sight picture.

Key Features

Feature	Specification
Magnification	7-35x
Objective Lens	56mm
Tube Diameter	34mm
Eye Relief	3.54 inches
Weight	38 oz
Length	15.9 inches
Reticle	Tremor3, Mil-R, or Horus H59 (FFP)
Elevation Adjustment	120 MOA

Pros

• Unmatched optical clarity with ED glass delivers crystal-clear images even at 35x magnification
• Massive 120 MOA elevation adjustment range handles extreme long-range applications beyond 2,000 yards
• First focal plane reticle with precision reference points enables accurate ranging and wind calls
• ZeroStop and tool-free turret adjustments provide reliable return to zero and field adjustability
• Bombproof construction survives the punishment of heavy magnum recoil indefinitely

Cons

• Premium price point reflects top-tier engineering and American manufacturing quality

The Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56 is simply the best scope you can mount on a .338 Lapua Magnum rifle. If you’re serious about extreme long-range shooting and want optics that will never be the limiting factor in your accuracy, this is the scope to choose. The optical performance, mechanical reliability, and feature set justify every dollar, and this scope will outlast multiple rifles while maintaining perfect zero.

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2) Nightforce NX8 4-32×50 (Best Lightweight Nightforce Scope for 338 Lapua)

The Nightforce NX8 4-32×50 is a marvel of engineering that packs incredible performance into a remarkably compact and lightweight package. Nightforce designed the NX8 series to meet the demands of shooters who need extreme magnification range and optical quality but can’t afford the weight penalty of larger scopes. At just 28 ounces, the NX8 weighs 10 ounces less than the ATACR while still delivering an impressive 4-32x magnification range. For .338 Lapua shooters who might carry their rifle for extended periods or want to keep overall system weight down, the NX8 is an absolute game-changer.

Don’t let the compact dimensions fool you into thinking this is a compromised optic. Nightforce uses the same high-quality ED glass found in their larger scopes, and the optical performance is exceptional. The image is sharp, bright, and clear throughout the magnification range, with excellent low-light performance thanks to the 50mm objective. I’ve shot this scope in various lighting conditions, from bright midday sun to overcast skies and fading evening light, and it consistently delivers a crisp sight picture. The 32x top-end magnification gives you serious glass for long-range work, allowing you to spot impacts and read mirage at distances where most shooters are struggling to see their targets.

The NX8 uses a 30mm tube rather than the larger 34mm found in the ATACR series, but Nightforce engineered it to still provide 80 MOA of elevation adjustment, which is sufficient for most .338 Lapua applications. If you’re shooting to 1,500 yards rather than pushing beyond that, 80 MOA is plenty with modern load development and base mounting. The first focal plane reticle scales perfectly with magnification, and the Tremor3 or Mil-XT reticle options provide excellent reference points for holdovers and wind calls. The ZeroStop feature works flawlessly, giving you confidence when dialing large adjustments and returning to zero.

The turrets on the NX8 are slightly lower profile than the ATACR but still provide excellent tactile and audible feedback. Each 0.1 Mil click is positive and precise, and tracking has been absolutely reliable in my testing. The power ring is a bit stiffer than some scopes, which is actually a benefit under recoil; you don’t want your magnification changing shot to shot. The scope is fully waterproof and fog-proof with Nightforce’s typical attention to sealing and nitrogen purging. Build quality is exceptional despite the compact size, and this scope will handle .338 Lapua recoil without any issues whatsoever.

Key Features

Feature	Specification
Magnification	4-32x
Objective Lens	50mm
Tube Diameter	30mm
Eye Relief	3.5 inches
Weight	28 oz
Length	12.2 inches
Reticle	Tremor3, Mil-XT, or Mil-C (FFP)
Elevation Adjustment	80 MOA

Pros

• Remarkably lightweight at 28 ounces while maintaining Nightforce durability and quality standards
• Impressive 8:1 magnification ratio provides versatility from close range to extreme distance
• Compact 12.2-inch length makes it ideal for rifles with shorter receiver lengths
• ED glass delivers exceptional optical clarity and resolution across entire magnification range
• ZeroStop and reliable tracking ensure confidence when making precision adjustments

Cons

• Slightly narrower field of view compared to larger objective ATACR models

For .338 Lapua shooters who value weight savings and compact dimensions without sacrificing optical quality or features, the Nightforce NX8 4-32×50 is the perfect choice. It’s an incredibly capable scope that punches well above its weight class, delivering performance that rivals much larger and heavier optics. Whether you’re a mountain hunter or a precision shooter who wants a lighter rifle system, the NX8 delivers.

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3) Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 (Best All-Around Nightforce Scope for 338 Lapua)

The Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 is widely considered the sweet spot in the ATACR lineup and is my personal choice for an all-around .338 Lapua scope. This scope has earned legendary status among precision rifle competitors, military snipers, and long-range hunters because it balances magnification range, optical quality, features, and weight in a package that excels in virtually any long-range application. The 5-25x magnification range is absolutely perfect for the .338 Lapua’s capabilities, providing enough low-end magnification for shots inside 300 yards while delivering sufficient magnification for precision work beyond a mile.

The optical performance of the ATACR 5-25×56 is nothing short of spectacular. Nightforce uses premium ED glass throughout the optical path, and the 56mm objective gathers abundant light for excellent performance during dawn and dusk when game is most active or when light conditions are suboptimal. The image is razor-sharp from center to edge with virtually no distortion or chromatic aberration. Color fidelity is exceptional, allowing you to distinguish subtle variations in terrain and vegetation that help with range estimation and wind reading. I’ve used this scope extensively in precision rifle competitions and on hunting trips, and the optical clarity inspires confidence in every shot.

The first focal plane reticle design is ideal for serious long-range work with the .338 Lapua. Whether you choose the Tremor3, Mil-R, Mil-XT, or H59 reticle, you get precisely accurate holdover and wind reference points at any magnification. The DigIllum illumination system is brilliantly designed with daylight-visible settings that don’t wash out the sight picture and lower settings perfect for low-light use. The 34mm main tube provides 110 MOA of elevation adjustment, which handles pretty much any reasonable .338 Lapua application from 100 to 2,000 yards depending on your load and environmental conditions.

The mechanical components are where Nightforce truly shines. The ZeroStop feature is tool-free adjustable, allowing you to set it precisely for your zero and return confidently after dialing large adjustments. The turrets provide 0.1 Mil clicks that are both tactile and audible, and the adjustments track with absolute precision. I’ve tested tracking repeatedly on multiple ATACR 5-25×56 scopes, and they’re consistently perfect through 100+ MOA of travel. The power ring is smooth but appropriately damped to prevent inadvertent changes. At 32 ounces, it’s lighter than the 7-35x model while still maintaining the robust construction that makes Nightforce scopes legendary for reliability. The scope is fully waterproof to 100 feet and fog-proof under any conditions thanks to precision sealing and nitrogen purging.

Key Features

Feature	Specification
Magnification	5-25x
Objective Lens	56mm
Tube Diameter	34mm
Eye Relief	3.54 inches
Weight	32 oz
Length	14.6 inches
Reticle	Tremor3, Mil-R, Mil-XT, H59 (FFP)
Elevation Adjustment	110 MOA

Pros

• Perfect magnification range balances versatility for various ranges with high-end resolution for extreme distance
• Outstanding ED glass delivers exceptional clarity, resolution, and low-light performance
• 110 MOA elevation adjustment handles virtually all .338 Lapua applications from 100 to 2,000 yards
• ZeroStop and precision turrets provide absolute confidence in adjustments and return to zero
• Proven reliability in military and competition use demonstrates uncompromising durability

Cons

• Weight at 32 ounces may be more than lightweight rifle builds prefer

The Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 is the scope I recommend most often for .338 Lapua applications because it simply does everything right. Whether you’re competing in precision rifle matches, conducting serious long-range practice, or heading on a mountain hunt where one shot absolutely must count, this scope delivers. It’s the perfect balance of features, performance, and reliability that will serve you flawlessly for decades.

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4) Nightforce NXS 5.5-22×56 (Best Value Nightforce Scope for 338 Lapua)

The Nightforce NXS 5.5-22×56 represents the original Nightforce vision and remains an exceptional value in the lineup. NXS stands for Nightforce Extreme, and this scope established the company’s reputation for building optics that could survive anything while delivering the optical quality needed for precision long-range work. While the ATACR series has taken the spotlight in recent years, the NXS continues to be a workhorse scope that delivers remarkable performance at a more accessible price point. For .338 Lapua shooters who want genuine Nightforce quality without the premium price tag, the NXS 5.5-22×56 is an outstanding choice.

The 5.5-22x magnification range is slightly more conservative than the newer models, but it’s perfectly suited for the vast majority of .338 Lapua applications. The 5.5x low end provides adequate field of view for closer work, while 22x delivers sufficient magnification for precision shots to 1,500 yards and beyond with proper technique. The 56mm objective paired with Nightforce’s multi-coated ED glass provides excellent light transmission and image quality. While it doesn’t quite match the absolute top-tier clarity of the ATACR series, it’s still extremely good glass that’s noticeably superior to most competitors. The image is sharp and clear with good contrast and minimal chromatic aberration.

One advantage of the NXS is the availability of both first and second focal plane reticle options. Many hunters and some tactical shooters prefer second focal plane reticles where the reticle size remains constant across magnification settings. This makes the reticle more visible at lower powers and less cluttered at higher magnifications. Reticle options include the MLR, MOAR, and Mil-R designs, giving you flexibility to match your shooting style and preferences. The illumination system is robust with multiple intensity settings that work well in various lighting conditions.

The 30mm main tube provides substantial adjustment range with most models offering around 100 MOA of elevation, which is adequate for .338 Lapua work to 1,500 yards depending on your load and mounting system. The high-speed adjustments feature 0.25 MOA or 0.1 Mil clicks that are positive and consistent. The ZeroStop feature works excellently, providing mechanical assurance that you can return to zero reliably. Tracking has been tested extensively on the NXS series, and it’s proven to be reliable and repeatable even under the heavy recoil of magnum cartridges. Build quality is typical Nightforce with one-piece tube construction, robust internal components, and thorough sealing against water and fog. At 31 ounces, the weight is comparable to the ATACR 5-25×56, but you’re getting proven reliability at a lower price point.

Key Features

Feature	Specification
Magnification	5.5-22x
Objective Lens	56mm
Tube Diameter	30mm
Eye Relief	3.8 inches
Weight	31 oz
Length	15.2 inches
Reticle	MLR, MOAR, Mil-R (FFP or SFP)
Elevation Adjustment	100 MOA

Pros

• Excellent value proposition offering genuine Nightforce quality at more accessible pricing
• Choice of first or second focal plane reticles accommodates different shooting preferences
• 100 MOA elevation adjustment sufficient for most practical .338 Lapua applications
• Proven track record with military and law enforcement users demonstrates long-term reliability
• ZeroStop and high-speed turrets provide confident adjustments in field conditions

Cons

• Optical quality slightly below newer ATACR series though still excellent by industry standards

For shooters who want authentic Nightforce performance and reliability but are working with a more conservative budget, the NXS 5.5-22×56 delivers exceptional value. This scope has been proven in combat, on competition ranges, and in hunting fields around the world. It’s a no-nonsense tool that will serve your .338 Lapua rifle faithfully for many years while maintaining zero and delivering the optical performance you need for ethical, accurate long-range shots.

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5) Nightforce ATACR 4-16×50 (Best Nightforce Scope for 338 Lapua Hunting)

The Nightforce ATACR 4-16×50 might seem like an unusual choice for the .338 Lapua at first glance, but it’s actually the ideal scope for hunters who use this powerful cartridge for big game at more realistic hunting distances. While the .338 Lapua is capable of extreme long-range performance, most hunting shots on even the largest game occur inside 600 yards, and often much closer. The 4-16x magnification range is absolutely perfect for this application, providing a wide field of view at 4x for locating and tracking game while still offering enough magnification at 16x for precise shot placement at extended distances.

What sets this particular ATACR apart for hunting is the availability of capped turrets and second focal plane reticle options. Many hunters prefer SFP reticles because the reticle size remains constant regardless of magnification, making it easier to see against game animals without obscuring vital areas. The MOAR reticle is particularly well-suited for hunting, providing clean reference points for holdovers without excessive clutter in the sight picture. The capped turrets protect your zero settings from accidental adjustment while hiking through brush or climbing into tree stands, yet they’re still easily accessible when you need to dial for a specific shot.

The optical quality is pure ATACR, meaning you’re getting the same premium ED glass and coatings found in the higher magnification models. The 50mm objective provides excellent low-light performance, which is critical for hunters who are most active during the dawn and dusk periods when big game is moving. The image is incredibly sharp and clear with accurate color rendition that helps you identify game and judge distances. I’ve used this scope on hunts for elk and mule deer, and the combination of optical quality and appropriate magnification range made shot opportunities feel easy even in challenging lighting conditions.

The 34mm tube is somewhat unusual for a 4-16x scope, but it provides benefits beyond just adjustment range. The larger tube allows for better light transmission and provides 70 MOA of elevation adjustment, which is more than sufficient for any realistic hunting application with the .338 Lapua. Even if you’re shooting at extreme elevations or in very cold conditions that affect trajectory, you’ll have plenty of adjustment available. The scope maintains Nightforce’s legendary reliability and durability, easily handling the substantial recoil of the .338 Lapua without any shift in zero or mechanical issues. At 30 ounces, it’s lighter than the higher magnification ATACR models while still maintaining the robust construction you expect from Nightforce. The compact 13.3-inch length makes it easier to maneuver in tight shooting positions or when carrying your rifle through dense cover.

Key Features

Feature	Specification
Magnification	4-16x
Objective Lens	50mm
Tube Diameter	34mm
Eye Relief	3.54-3.74 inches
Weight	30 oz
Length	13.3 inches
Reticle	MOAR, Mil-R, Mil-XT (FFP or SFP)
Elevation Adjustment	70 MOA

Pros

• Perfect magnification range for realistic hunting distances from 50 to 700 yards
• Second focal plane and capped turret options ideal for hunting applications
• Premium ATACR optical quality with excellent low-light performance for dawn and dusk
• Compact length and reasonable weight balance well on hunting rifles
• Proven Nightforce reliability handles heavy magnum recoil without zero shift

Cons

• Lower maximum magnification may limit utility for extreme long-range target shooting beyond 1,000 yards

If you’ve built a .338 Lapua specifically for hunting large or dangerous game and want a scope optimized for that purpose rather than extreme long-range target work, the Nightforce ATACR 4-16×50 is your best choice. It provides exactly the features hunters need without unnecessary complications or excessive magnification. This scope will serve you reliably on hunts anywhere in the world, maintaining zero through airline transport, horseback rides, and whatever else your adventures throw at it.

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Conclusion

Selecting the best Nightforce scope for your .338 Lapua Magnum ultimately depends on your specific shooting applications and priorities. The .338 Lapua is an extraordinary cartridge that deserves equally extraordinary optics, and Nightforce delivers exactly that with their lineup of precision scopes. For shooters who demand the absolute best and engage targets at extreme distances regularly, the ATACR 7-35×56 is the ultimate choice with its massive magnification range and 120 MOA of elevation adjustment. Its optical quality is breathtaking, and the mechanical reliability is unmatched.

If weight is a primary concern or you prefer a more compact package, the NX8 4-32×50 delivers remarkable performance in a surprisingly lightweight and short scope. It proves that you don’t have to sacrifice quality or features to save weight. The ATACR 5-25×56 remains my personal recommendation for most .338 Lapua applications because it strikes the perfect balance between magnification range, optical quality, features, and weight. It’s the scope that does everything well without compromise, and it’s proven itself in the most demanding military and competition environments.

For shooters working with tighter budgets who still want genuine Nightforce quality, the NXS 5.5-22×56 offers exceptional value. It delivers the reliability and optical performance that built Nightforce’s reputation at a more accessible price point. Finally, hunters who use the .338 Lapua for big game pursuits at realistic hunting distances will find the ATACR 4-16×50 is perfectly optimized for that application, with appropriate magnification, hunting-friendly features, and the durability to handle years of hard field use.

Whichever Nightforce scope you choose for your .338 Lapua, you’re making an investment in quality that will last a lifetime. These scopes are built to outlast multiple rifles, maintain perfect zero through thousands of rounds, and deliver the optical clarity needed for ethical, accurate shots at any distance. The .338 Lapua Magnum is a serious cartridge for serious applications, and Nightforce scopes are the serious optics that allow you to fully realize its incredible potential. Take your time evaluating your specific needs, consider the distances you’ll typically engage, and choose the Nightforce that best matches your shooting style. You’ll be rewarded with decades of flawless performance and the confidence that comes from knowing your optic will never be the limiting factor in your accuracy.

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