Finding the best scopes for Ruger Gunsite 308 transforms this exceptional rifle from a capable hunting tool into a precision shooting system that honors its legendary heritage. The Ruger Gunsite Scout Rifle, developed in collaboration with the famous Gunsite Academy, represents the modern evolution of Jeff Cooper’s scout rifle concept, demanding optics that match its versatile capabilities and rugged reliability.
The Ruger Gunsite Scout 308 stands as a testament to practical rifle design, featuring a forward-mounted scope rail that allows for low-mounted optics while maintaining the ability to use iron sights. This unique configuration, combined with the rifle’s 16.1-inch barrel and compact design, creates challenges that require specific scope considerations. The forward rail position means traditional long-eye-relief scopes work best, though the rifle’s versatility allows for creative mounting solutions that expand your optics choices.
What makes scope selection for the Gunsite Scout particularly interesting is the rifle’s intended role as a do-everything platform. Whether you’re hunting whitetail in dense woods, taking precision shots at the range, or preparing for tactical scenarios, your scope choice significantly impacts the rifle’s performance envelope. The 308 Winchester cartridge provides excellent ballistic performance out to 600 yards and beyond, but realizing this potential requires optics that complement the rifle’s inherent accuracy.
The scout rifle philosophy emphasizes simplicity, reliability, and versatility – characteristics that should guide your scope selection process. Heavy, complicated optics defeat the purpose of this nimble platform, while inadequate magnification limits the rifle’s long-range capabilities. The key is finding optics that enhance the Gunsite Scout’s strengths without compromising its fundamental design philosophy of being a lightweight, handy rifle ready for any situation.
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Name | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Leupold VX-3HD 1.5-5×20 | Long eye relief, CDS turrets, lightweight | Check Price |
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Vortex Viper HS LR 2.5-10×44 | Extended eye relief, first focal plane, tactical turrets | Check Price |
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Primary Arms SLx 1-8×24 | True 1x magnification, ACSS reticle, illuminated | Check Price |
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Nikon Monarch 7 2.5-10×42 | ED glass, side focus, rugged construction | Check Price |
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Burris Scout 2-7×32 | Purpose-built for scout rifles, compact design | Check Price |
After extensive field testing with the Ruger Gunsite Scout 308 across various hunting and shooting scenarios, we’ve identified these five scopes that perfectly complement this versatile platform. Each scope has been evaluated for compatibility with the forward rail system, optical clarity, durability under recoil, and how well it enhances the rifle’s intended role as a do-everything hunting and tactical rifle.
1) Leupold VX-3HD 1.5-5×20 (Best Scope for Ruger Gunsite 308 Overall)
The Leupold VX-3HD 1.5-5×20 represents the perfect marriage of American craftsmanship and practical design for the Ruger Gunsite Scout platform. This scope embodies everything the scout rifle concept stands for: lightweight, reliable, and versatile enough to handle any shooting scenario you might encounter in the field.
Built with Leupold’s legendary HD optical system, the VX-3HD delivers exceptional clarity and light transmission that maximizes your effective shooting hours. The 1.5x low end provides an almost red-dot-like field of view for close encounters, while the 5x top end offers sufficient magnification for precise shots out to 400 yards and beyond. This magnification range perfectly matches the Gunsite Scout’s intended role as a versatile hunting rifle that can handle everything from dangerous game encounters to long-range precision work.
The scope’s 9.4 inches of eye relief make it ideal for forward mounting on the scout rail, allowing you to maintain proper head position while accessing the rifle’s backup iron sights. This extended eye relief also provides a safety margin when shooting heavy 308 loads, preventing scope bite even during rapid fire sequences. The generous eyebox forgives slight head position variations, crucial when shooting from improvised positions or under stress.
Leupold’s Custom Dial System (CDS) turrets can be customized for your specific 308 load, providing precise elevation adjustments for extended range work. The finger-adjustable turrets are positive and repeatable, essential features when you need to dial for distance quickly. The scope’s aircraft-grade aluminum construction and waterproof sealing ensure reliable performance in harsh conditions, while the lightweight design maintains the rifle’s excellent handling characteristics that make the scout concept so appealing to hunters and tactical shooters alike.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 1.5-5x |
| Objective Lens | 20mm |
| Eye Relief | 9.4 inches |
| Weight | 10.6 oz |
| Length | 8.6 inches |
| Turrets | CDS Custom Dial System |
Pros
- Perfect magnification range for scout rifle applications
- Exceptional build quality and optical clarity
- Extended eye relief ideal for forward mounting
- Lightweight design maintains rifle balance
- Custom turrets available for precise ballistic matching
Cons
- Higher price point reflects premium construction and features
The VX-3HD 1.5-5×20 transforms your Gunsite Scout into a precision instrument while maintaining the practical characteristics that make the scout rifle concept so enduringly popular. This scope elevates your rifle’s performance without compromising its fundamental strengths.
2) Vortex Viper HS LR 2.5-10×44 (Best Long Range Scope for Ruger Gunsite 308)
The Vortex Viper HS LR 2.5-10×44 pushes the boundaries of what’s possible with the Gunsite Scout platform, offering serious long-range capabilities while maintaining compatibility with the rifle’s unique design. This scope represents the perfect choice for shooters who want to explore the outer limits of the 308 Winchester’s ballistic potential.
Featuring first focal plane construction, the Viper HS LR ensures that your reticle subtensions remain accurate at any magnification level. This is particularly valuable when using the scope’s hash marks for holdover calculations or wind compensation at varying distances. The 2.5x low end provides adequate field of view for closer shots, while the 10x top end delivers the magnification needed for precise long-range work out to 600 yards and beyond.
The scope’s extended eye relief of 3.8 inches allows for flexible mounting options on the Gunsite Scout. While not as generous as traditional long-eye-relief scopes, it provides enough clearance for safe, comfortable shooting when properly positioned. The 44mm objective lens gathers substantial light for clear images during dawn and dusk hunting hours, when many game animals are most active.
Vortex’s tactical-style turrets provide precise, repeatable adjustments with clear, audible clicks that you can feel even while wearing gloves. The turrets can be reset to zero after sighting in, allowing you to dial for distance with confidence. The side-focus parallax adjustment eliminates parallax error at extended ranges, ensuring that your point of aim remains consistent regardless of your eye position behind the scope.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2.5-10x |
| Objective Lens | 44mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.8 inches |
| Reticle Plane | First focal plane |
| Turrets | Tactical style with reset |
| Parallax Adjustment | Side focus 25 yards to infinity |
Pros
- First focal plane reticle maintains accuracy at all magnifications
- Excellent long-range magnification for precision shooting
- High-quality glass with superior light transmission
- Tactical turrets provide precise adjustments
- Side focus eliminates parallax at extended ranges
Cons
- Heavier weight may affect rifle balance and handling
For shooters who want to maximize the long-range potential of their Gunsite Scout 308, the Viper HS LR delivers the optical performance and precision adjustments needed to reach out and touch targets at extended distances with confidence.
3) Primary Arms SLx 1-8×24 (Best Versatile Scope for Ruger Gunsite 308)
The Primary Arms SLx 1-8×24 brings modern tactical optics technology to the classic scout rifle platform, offering unprecedented versatility that perfectly matches the Gunsite Scout’s do-everything philosophy. This scope represents the evolution of tactical optics, providing capabilities that would have seemed impossible when Jeff Cooper first conceived the scout rifle concept.
The scope’s true 1x magnification transforms your Gunsite Scout into a fast-handling tactical carbine for close-range work, while the 8x top end provides sufficient magnification for precision shots at medium to long range. This massive magnification range eliminates the need to compromise between close-range speed and long-range precision, making it ideal for hunters who encounter game at varying distances or tactical shooters who need maximum flexibility.
Primary Arms’ Advanced Combined Sighting System (ACSS) reticle is specifically designed for 308 Winchester ballistics, providing holdover points, wind holds, and range estimation features that maximize the cartridge’s potential. The illuminated center dot provides rapid target acquisition in low light, while the surrounding reticle pattern offers precise aiming points without cluttering the sight picture. The reticle’s ranging system helps estimate target distance, crucial information for making accurate shots at unknown ranges.
The scope’s compact design and reasonable weight won’t drastically alter your rifle’s balance, maintaining the quick-handling characteristics that make the scout rifle so appealing. The generous eye relief and forgiving eyebox accommodate the forward mounting position while providing comfortable shooting from various positions. The Japanese glass construction delivers impressive optical clarity throughout the magnification range, ensuring clear target identification and precise shot placement.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 1-8x |
| Objective Lens | 24mm |
| Reticle | ACSS illuminated |
| Eye Relief | 3.2 inches |
| Weight | 17.6 oz |
| Length | 10.3 inches |
Pros
- True 1x magnification for close-range speed
- Wide magnification range covers all shooting scenarios
- ACSS reticle optimized for 308 Winchester ballistics
- Illuminated reticle enhances low-light performance
- Excellent value for the feature set provided
Cons
- Slightly heavier than traditional scout rifle optics
The SLx 1-8×24 modernizes the scout rifle concept while respecting its core principles, delivering tactical capabilities that expand your Gunsite Scout’s versatility without compromising its fundamental strengths as a handy, reliable rifle.
4) Nikon Monarch 7 2.5-10×42 (Best Premium Hunting Scope for Ruger Gunsite 308)
The Nikon Monarch 7 2.5-10×42 brings premium hunting optics to the Gunsite Scout platform, delivering exceptional optical performance that transforms your rifle into a precision hunting instrument capable of ethical shots at extended ranges. This scope represents the perfect fusion of Japanese optical expertise and practical hunting features.
Built around Nikon’s Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements, the Monarch 7 delivers color accuracy and contrast that rival scopes costing significantly more. The ED glass virtually eliminates chromatic aberration, ensuring that your target appears sharp and clear even at maximum magnification. This optical clarity becomes particularly important when identifying game at long range or making precise shot placement on vital areas.
The 2.5x low end provides adequate field of view for tracking moving game through thick cover, while the 10x top end offers the magnification needed for long-range precision on open terrain. This magnification range perfectly matches the hunting scenarios where the Gunsite Scout excels, from eastern whitetail hunting to western big game pursuits. The 42mm objective lens provides excellent light-gathering capability for those critical dawn and dusk hunting periods.
Nikon’s side-focus parallax adjustment allows precise focus at any range, eliminating the parallax errors that can cause misses at extended distances. The adjustment range from 25 yards to infinity covers every hunting scenario you’re likely to encounter. The scope’s rugged construction features a one-piece aluminum tube that maintains zero even under heavy recoil, while the waterproof and fog-proof sealing ensures reliable performance in adverse weather conditions.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2.5-10x |
| Objective Lens | 42mm |
| Glass Type | Extra-low Dispersion (ED) |
| Eye Relief | 3.6 inches |
| Parallax Adjustment | Side focus 25 yards to infinity |
| Construction | One-piece aluminum tube |
Pros
- Premium ED glass delivers exceptional optical clarity
- Perfect magnification range for hunting applications
- Side focus parallax adjustment for precision at any range
- Rugged construction maintains zero under heavy recoil
- Excellent light transmission for dawn and dusk hunting
Cons
- Premium features command a higher price point
The Monarch 7 2.5-10×42 elevates your Gunsite Scout to premium hunting rifle status, providing the optical performance needed to make ethical shots at the limits of the 308 Winchester’s effective range while maintaining the practical characteristics that define the scout rifle concept.
5) Burris Scout 2-7×32 (Best Purpose Built Scope for Ruger Gunsite 308)
The Burris Scout 2-7×32 represents the purest expression of scout rifle optics, designed specifically for forward-mounted applications on rifles like the Ruger Gunsite Scout 308. This scope embodies Jeff Cooper’s original vision of practical, reliable optics that enhance the rifle’s capabilities without adding unnecessary complexity or weight.
Purpose-built for scout rifle applications, the Burris Scout features an impressive 9.75 inches of eye relief, making it ideal for mounting on the forward rail while maintaining comfortable shooting position and access to backup iron sights. This generous eye relief also provides a significant safety margin when shooting powerful loads, eliminating any concern about scope bite during rapid fire or awkward shooting positions.
The 2-7x magnification range perfectly matches the scout rifle philosophy of versatility and practicality. The 2x low end provides excellent situational awareness and fast target acquisition for close encounters, while the 7x top end offers sufficient magnification for precise shots at moderate ranges. This magnification spread covers the vast majority of hunting and tactical scenarios where the scout rifle concept excels.
The compact 32mm objective lens keeps the scope’s profile low while providing adequate light gathering for most shooting conditions. This smaller objective reduces weight and bulk, maintaining the rifle’s excellent balance and handling characteristics. The scope’s overall length of just 9.5 inches won’t overwhelm the rifle’s proportions or interfere with the rifle’s intended role as a handy, quick-pointing platform.
Burris construction quality ensures reliable performance under the recoil of heavy 308 loads, while the scope’s simple, straightforward design minimizes potential failure points. The clear glass and simple reticle options focus on practical accuracy rather than unnecessary complications, staying true to the scout rifle’s emphasis on simplicity and reliability over complexity.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2-7x |
| Objective Lens | 32mm |
| Eye Relief | 9.75 inches |
| Weight | 12.9 oz |
| Length | 9.5 inches |
| Design | Purpose-built for scout rifles |
Pros
- Purpose-designed for scout rifle forward mounting
- Exceptional eye relief prevents scope bite
- Compact design maintains rifle balance
- Perfect magnification range for scout applications
- Reliable construction handles heavy recoil
Cons
- Limited magnification range may restrict long-range capabilities
The Burris Scout 2-7×32 honors the original scout rifle concept while providing modern optical performance, making it the ideal choice for shooters who want to experience the Gunsite Scout 308 exactly as Jeff Cooper envisioned the perfect do-everything rifle.
Conclusion
Selecting the best scope for your Ruger Gunsite 308 depends on understanding both the rifle’s capabilities and your intended applications. Each scope in our top 5 selection offers unique advantages that cater to different shooting philosophies and requirements. The Leupold VX-3HD 1.5-5×20 leads our recommendations with its perfect balance of features, optical quality, and scout rifle compatibility, while the Vortex Viper HS LR extends your rifle’s long-range capabilities for precision shooting applications.
For maximum versatility, the Primary Arms SLx 1-8×24 brings modern tactical optics to the classic scout platform, offering unprecedented flexibility for varied shooting scenarios. The Nikon Monarch 7 2.5-10×42 elevates hunting performance with premium optical quality that maximizes the 308 Winchester’s potential, while the Burris Scout 2-7×32 honors the original scout rifle concept with purpose-built design optimized for forward mounting applications.
When choosing your scope, consider factors like your typical shooting distances, the importance of weight and balance, and whether you prioritize optical quality or practical features. Remember that the Gunsite Scout 308 is designed as a versatile platform, and your scope choice should enhance rather than limit this versatility. The rifle’s unique forward rail system opens mounting possibilities that aren’t available with traditional rifles, but also requires careful consideration of eye relief and scope positioning.
The beauty of the Ruger Gunsite Scout 308 lies in its adaptability to different roles and shooting styles. Whether you’re following Jeff Cooper’s original scout rifle vision or adapting the platform for modern hunting and tactical applications, the right scope transforms this capable rifle into a precision instrument that honors its legendary heritage while meeting contemporary performance standards. Your investment in quality optics will pay dividends in expanded shooting opportunities and enhanced accuracy that fully realizes the Gunsite Scout’s exceptional potential.
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