If you enjoy shooting targets at a long-range distance, then .338 Lapua Magnum is just the ideal choice for you. This rifle is designed specifically to hit long targets at some distance with better accuracy. The feel of holding this incredible bottleneck, rimless, and centerfire rifle cartridge is just something that cannot be explained in words. While you may not feel the need for many additions to this rifle, a decent long-range scope is necessary for shooting with more accuracy.
A scope will provide a zoomed-in sight of the target. It will also help you improve your aim and hit the bull’s eye every time you pull out that trigger. From military to civilian, you can easily see the trend of hunting with .338 Lapua Magnum for long-range shots. However, if you are after accuracy and perfection in your shots, buying a premium long-range scope is your best bet. You will be able to take out any animal or other tough targets by pairing your Lapua with a perfect scope.
But with so many different scopes in the market and everyone claiming to be the best, it’s never easy for you to find the best scope worth your money. If you are considering shooting at long ranges with .338 Lapua, you need to pick a decent scope among all the different options. In addition, you need to know what type of scope will work best with your rifle to make an informed purchase.
Despite having so many options for scopes, it is common for anyone to feel overwhelmed and make any random decision. But hunting or long-range shooting is all about accuracy, perfection, and the efforts you put into it. Therefore, it becomes vital that you know exactly what to look for in a scope for your .338 Lapua Magnum. Once you are familiar with some key components of a premium quality scope, you will be able to make a better decision.
Brief History Of Lapua Magnum .338
Lapua is a bottleneck, rimless rifle cartridge with a centerfire system. It was developed back in the 1980s for use as a long-range sniper cartridge for military use. This caliber is based on necked down .338 Lapua, which has similar dimensions, only around 200 grains lighter due to lower pressure. The brass case does not hold a rim, and the cartridge is loaded with a lot of explosive energy on weight. There are some variations available from different sources.
The first .388 Lapua Magnum was manufactured in 1982 under the military operations of United states. Since then, these rifles have changed a lot and are now used by civilians for hunting at long range. he cartridge dimensions are .338″ length and .630″ diameter. Based on the bullet mass, some commonly used .338 Lapua Magnum cartridges across the globe includes:
- 19.44 g (300 gr) Lapua Scenar GB528 VLD
- 16.20 g (250 gr) Lapua Scenar GB488 VLD
- 12.96 g (200 gr) SP
- 18.47 g (285 gr) Hornady HPBT
- 16.20 g (250 gr) Partition
If you are going on a venture that involves long range hunting, then try these variants of .388 Lapua Magnum cartridges for best experience. Over the years, this cartridge has been widely used in many military operations worldwide. Their efficiency in hitting long-range targets effectively has made them quite popular among civilians for long-range hunting. These rifles are now readily available for hunting some dangerous animals and hitting long-range shots accurately.
What To Look For While Buying Scopes For .338 Lapua Magnum?
It is common to feel the adrenaline spiking after seeing many great options of long-range scopes for .338 Lapua Magnum. However, you need to keep your mind composed and understand that not every scope is built the same. You can get your hands on the best scopes in the market only by checking out some top-quality features. Take a quick peek at a few things you need to look for in your scopes for .338 Lapua Magnum:
- Magnification Power
The magnification power of your scope must be in the range of 4-12x. For example, if you plan to shoot at long distances, you need to find out a scope with a 10X zoom in it. This is because 10x zoom is good enough to accurately visualize your target at long ranges. Magnification varies shapely based on the requirements of different users and the overall shooting range. For example, long-range hunting requires higher magnification, while short-range can easily be coped with a smaller magnification scope.
- Field of View
Always check how big your field of view is with your new scope. You need to make sure that it will be in the same range as another rifle you own and provide you with an adequate viewing area for long-range shots. Also, never forget that a wide field of view can help you get a better picture or target, and make sure the magnification power is high enough for that size.
- Reticle Style
This is important to check out when buying a scope for .338 Lapua Magnum. It does not matter your purpose for buying the scope, but you will find yourself using it for long-range shots most of the time. Therefore, it is necessary to select the right kind of reticle that can fit your needs and purpose of shooting. A good example would be the illuminated crosshair reticle in daytime conditions while aiming at targets at night, the best choice.
- Light Transmission
While buying a premium quality long-range scope, it is also vital that you check the level of light transmission. This is because a high level of light transmission can help you get bright pictures or target shots in the dark and provide a clear view even at night. The quality of good scope produces clear, bright, and crisp images with just the right contrast level. While buying scopes for .338 Lapua Magnum, look for a waterproof, fog proof, and anti-reflective lens that provides a clear image from dusk to dawn.
- Mounting System
It is quite common to see scopes with different mounting systems such as rings, tripods, or illuminated bases. While this may not be a deal-breaker, it will be good to find the right mounting system for your .338 Lapua Magnum. For example, mounts with rings are good on most rifles, whereas faster and easier release scopes are better for fast action shots in hunting conditions.
- Eye Relief
Eye relief is another thing you need to check out when shopping for .338 Lapua Magnum scopes. This affects the amount of muscle you need to move to aim with the rifle. You don’t want your eye to be in danger while shooting at a faraway target. For example, if there is a big difference between the eye relief of the rifle and scope, it will be difficult for you to get an accurate accuracy over longer-range shots.
You need to find out what kind of scope reticle style works best. There are different types, such as crosshairs or dot reticles, etc. But it all depends on your needs and purpose of shooting at long ranges with .338 Lapua Magnum.
Most Popular Scopes For .338 Lapua Magnum
Nowadays, it is quite easy to find a variety of scopes for .338 Lapua Magnum online after doing extensive research online. But it is always better to narrow down your choices and find out some of the best scopes for .338 Lapua Magnum available in the market. Take a look at our list of the top 5 best rifle scopes for .338 Lapua Magnum:
- Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 6-24×50 SFP Riflescope
Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 6-24×50 SFP Riflescope is a very brilliant and impressive scope for .338 Lapua Magnum available in the market. It is a high-quality long-range rifle scope with really awesome features. When you look at the specs of Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 6-24×50 SFP Riflescope, you will find some amazing properties. Vortex is a brand known to produce some gems of the scopes in the market, and this scope here is a prime example of premium classwork.
This scope offers extra-low dispersion through its multicoated lens set for better image clarity. The dynamics of this scope are built to provide fast focus, sharp colors of better quality, and high resolution of the image of targets. Additionally, it powers a precision-glider erector system that allows you to retain smoothness even after extra levels of zoom.
Whether you are a hardcore hunter or someone who hunts for fun and passion, Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 6 is the best tactical gear. You will get better vision and improved accuracy with the help of this premium-grade scope for .338 Lapua Magnum. The best part is it provides an incredible magnification of 24 times which is more than enough to hit targets upto a few miles. In addition, you do not have to stretch your budget to buy this XR, and Armortek coated scope with better durability and a longer lifespan.
Key Features
- An illuminated holdover dot and hash marks are designed to use as aim reference markers during low light situations.
- Made with premium quality lenses
- Durable design with perfect light transmission
- High magnification levels up to 24 times
- Reticles sub-tensions offer better accuracy
Pros
- Long-range with ultra-precision
- Easy to mount and accurate in zeroing
- Waterproof and fog proof with a stylish look
- Easy to install and use on .338 Lapua Magnum rifles
Cons
- Mounting is not up to the mark.
- Trijicon AccuPoint 5-20×50 Riflescope
If you are looking for a true companion for your .388 Laguna Magnum, then Trijicon is the option you should go for. This incredible scope offers a magnification of 5-20 times with better precision for different types of users. High magnification with better clarity if what Trijicon AccuPoint 5 is all about. This scope comes with a multicoated lens with an extra layer of protection for amazing light transmission.
The positive features of Trijicon AccuPoint 5-20×50 Riflescope are its fantastic eye relief, power, and true windage and elevation. With its advanced fiber-optics system and tritium aiming mechanism, you will get faster target acquisition. Additionally, a dual illumination system automatically adjusts the brightness and contrast of the aiming point, which makes it the perfect addition for the .388 Lapua Magnum. If you are not getting perfect results with an automatic adjuster, you can always use the manual override option.
Multicoated lenses provide better vision in all weather conditions without having cleaning lenses. This Trijicon AccuPoint has a true windage and elevation adjustment system that offers you accurate adjustments with extreme precision. Additionally, the reticle is illuminated for better visibility during nighttime or low-light situations.
The main purpose of buying a long-range riflescope is to help you improve your shooting performance and maintain accuracy over longer distances. The thing is, you need to hit the target with a single shot. So, if you want to be at the top of your game, this scope for .338 Lapua Magnum and let the others envy your skill.
Key Features
- Good quality scope with the accurate magnification level
- Clear visibility over longer distances
- Adjustable windage and elevation features
- Accu-Point reticle system is bright and sharp
- Offer target images even at long distances
Pros
- Accurate scope with high precision levels.
- An excellent quality lens with perfect light transmission
- Easy to sight in and simple operation
- Durable design that lasts longer than normal
Cons
- Unreliable design of turrets
- Lower visibility of power selection rings
- Vortex Crossfire II 6-24x50mm AO Riflescope
Vortex Crossfire II 6-24x50mm AO Riflescope is the scope with great design and unique features for all professionals. This scope offers extra-low dispersion through its multicoated lens set, improving image quality and clarity. Additionally, it powers a precision glide erector system that allows you to retain smoothness even after extra levels of zoom.
With Vortex Crossfire II 6-24x50mm AO Riflescope, you will get a bright and clear lens with better picture quality. In addition, the objective coating on this scope makes it waterproof and fog proof in any weather conditions. The eyepiece parallax is also adjustable from 10 yards to infinity to provide a nice field of view.
The flexibility is the best part about this extraordinary rifle scope for .388 Lapua Magnum. It offers you a wide range of magnification up to 6x-24x, which is good enough for any user. Furthermore, the lenses used in this scope are multicoated for better clarity and light transmission. Lastly, the etched glass reticle offers better accuracy with perfect precision at its high zoom levels.
This Red/Green Dot scope is a rugged and reliable scope that offers an accurate site for you to hit that perfect shot every time. Vortex Crossfire II comes with a Maximum Elevation Adjustment of 100 MOA with a Maximum Windage Adjustment of 100 MOA. Additionally, you can choose between two dot colors and ten different brightness settings. The lenses of these scopes are multicoated and provide unlimited eye relief for the best hunting experience.
Key Features
- Multi-layer coating to avoid water from entering the interior
- Nitrogen purged scope for fog proof experience
- Premium quality clear reticle and glass
- Adjusts its focus at super speed
- Magnification power up to 6x-24x with stadia lines on the reticle for better accuracy
Pros
- Lightweight build with better durability
- Easy to use and durable controls
- Waterproof with long-range vision capability
- Mounts up perfectly with .388 Lapua magnum
Cons
- A bit high priced for a scope of the 6x-24x magnification range
- Vortex Optics Razor HD 5-20×50 Riflescope
If you are looking for a scope for .338 Lapua Magnum with more power storage and flexibility, you should consider Vortex Optics Razor HD 5-20×50 Riflescope. This scope boasts the best compact scope ever made with its unique construction design with a higher magnification range. Furthermore, there is no need to limit yourself while using Razor 5 scope with .338 Lapua Magnum, as there are 11 different brightness settings for you to choose from.
The illuminated reticle allows you to adjust your focus using red or green illumination control, which makes it reliable and helpful in different circumstances. Additionally, the lenses are multicoated and waterproof, making this scope ideal for all weather conditions. Finally, the eye relief is 40mm, giving you enough space to get perfect shots even if your target moves slightly.
Razor HD 5 is built to meet the requirements of professional and tactical shooters out there looking to get more perfection in long-range hunting. This low dispersion and high-density scope with premium quality XR coating give unmatched clear images. On top of everything, the first focal plane glass etched reticles are designed in a versatile manner that is perfect for achieving just perfect accuracy even at high zoom targets.
The reticle is made with precision and etched on the lens, making it easier to adjust your focus even at extreme ranges. In addition, the water resistance feature of this scope makes it an ideal choice for shooting in rainy weather conditions.
Key Features
- Optimized for use with magnum calibers
- Reticle illumination control makes it an easier sighting system
- Precision numbered turrets with locking features give you easy operation
- A precision flared lens cover is great for preventing debris from entering the interior of the lens
- Precisely machined & anodized 35mm tube
- Special rapid Zero Return feature
Pros
- Excellent magnification power with exceptional clarity
- Rangefinding reticle that helps you find your target in an instant
- Waterproof, fog proof, and scratch-resistant design
- Durable and lightweight design that provides durability and better precision over long ranges
Cons
- The turret is a bit high in this scope
- The flip-up caps are Flimsy
- NightForce SHV 5-20×56 Riflescope
NightForce SHV 5-20×56 Riflescope is one of the best scopes for .388 Lapua Magnum. It comes with 50mm objective lens dimensions and a magnification range of 5-20x. This is an ideal scope for high power rounds of .388 Lapua Magnum and offers precise shooting with the help of a 30mm tube. Moreover, this remarkable riflescope boasts durable and reliable construction and full waterproofing, making it ideal for all weather conditions.
This scope is designed so that it is precise enough to produce precise, accurate shots at every level of magnification. The fully multicoated lenses provide bright and clear images across the entire power magnification range. Furthermore, the blackened lenses of this scope are waterproof, which gives you an easy time getting a clear shot even if it is raining out there. This scope is available in four different variants, including
- Non-Illuminated MOAR Reticle
- Center Only Illumination Forceplex Reticle
- Center Only Illumination MOAR Reticle
- Non-Illuminated Forceplex Reticle
You also have the option to choose between two reticles that are illuminated and provide you with three modes of brightness and brightness control settings. Outstanding clarity, crisp images, and better resolution and colors of the target image are some of the many amazing features of NightForce SHV 5 scope for .388 Lapua Magnum.
The reticle lines are etched to make it easier to adjust your focus, even at extreme ranges. NightForce SHV scope is ideal for .388 Lapua Magnum, as it mounts up perfectly with such rifles. Whether you are going for a close-range shot or long-range targets, this scope is the perfect support for every need. With elevation adjustment of 80 MOA, ZeroSet technology for quick return, and an adjustment system for side parallax, this scope is worth every penny.
Key Features
- Waterproof, fog, and shockproof construction with multicoated lenses
- 30mm tube for more power storage and more precision
- Fully multicoated optics for perfect clarity across all levels of magnification
- Durable and reliable build with high waterproof feature and lightweight design
Pros
- Simple and easily understandable adjustment system
- 56mm lens for better magnification power
- Illumination can also be easily adjusted as per your preference
- Durable design that offers clear images with crisp colors
Cons
- The price is a bit too high than other options
- Managing the strings on its reticle can be confusing
Your hunt for the best scopes for .388 Lapua Magnum ends with these premium quality scopes shared here. You will be surprised to see how much of a change a premium quality scope can bring to your overall hunting experience. Go on to equip your rifles with these five best scopes mentioned above and hit your targets more accurately.
Advantages Of Using Scope For Hunting With .388 Lapua Magnum
Using a premium grade scope with .388 Lapua Magnum ensures better accuracy and allows you to hit the target more effectively. The simple definition of long-range scopes has changed to more like tactical gears over the years. Now, scopes are also available with variable magnification powers; you can set the magnification as per your requirements. Here’s a complete detailing of some of the advantages you get by using a premium quality scope:
- Precision
Using a scope with magnification power greater than 4x ensures better control over your target. The added precision of such scopes aids you in targeting your targets accurately. Even if your arms are getting heavy, the extra power given by high magnification scopes helps you maintain the required precision level.
- Better Targeting And Accuracy
You will get superior targeting and shooting accuracy with high-grade long-range scopes like Vortex Viper PST II- 5-20×50 mm Riflescope or the NightForce Pro-Staff 5-20×56 mm Riflescope in .388 Lapua Magnum. This will help you get the needed precision and aim at targets easily.
- Accurate Sighting Process
Scope helps in the accurate sighting process since it has an additional feature like Target Turret Position Adjustment System that provides precise adjustments to easily get your target in line with the crosshairs. The windage and elevation adjustments are also easy to make using these high-grade scopes as they have a quick lockdown feature that allows you to easily adjust the scope’s settings as desired.
- Increase Your Hitting Range
The extra power of the scope helps you accurately identify your target’s distance and aims at that with a high level of precision. Therefore, this gives you a better range with reduced miss chances. Modern scopes improve your hunting experience and provide clear vision irrespective of the day and weather.
- Uninterrupted Performance In Every Weather
You can easily perform your task on the hunt in any weather and condition. Rain, fog, snow, and other climatic conditions won’t threaten you. You can easily perform your task of hunting by using this high-quality scope without worrying about changes in weather or windy conditions.
- Lightweight And Compact Design
As you know that heavy and bulky rifles with long barrels are difficult to carry around when hunting in long-range areas. Such scopes’ compact design helps you carry and use them comfortably while hunting at a great distance away from your place of residence.
Nowadays, scopes are also designed to reduce recoil while hunting long distances with .388 Lapua Magnum. All you need to pick a good quality scope among all the options in the market. Just mount your scope on your rifles, and you are all set to hit better targets on your next hunting expedition.
Frequently Asked Question
- What is a .338 Lapua Magnum?
It is a high-powered military cartridge for long-range shooting, also known as the .338 LM. It is based on the .375 H&H Magnum case and uses a 255.0 gr (12.7 g) Lapua Scenar bullet with a muzzle velocity of 3,300 fps (1,400 MPs).
- Who makes the .338 Lapua Magnum?
The mind behind finishing the design of the .338 Lapua Magnum was Nammo Lapua Oy. The first manufacturing of these rifles dates back to 1982 when under the military options of the United States, these .388 and 416 cartridges were manufactured.
- What is a .338 Lapua Magnum good for?
The .338 Lapua Magnum is a second-generation, magnum-type cartridge for long-range extreme accuracy shooting. It is best for penetrating body armors or hitting hard targets even at around 1500 meters or more.
- What is the best scope for .338 Lapua Magnum?
There are a lot of scopes for .338 Lapua Magnum, and each one has its pros and cons. However, for an affordable scope with the best performance, you can commit to vortex Optics as currently, they have the best scopes in the market, including Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 6.
- What does Lapua stand for?
The name Lapua is referred to as the designer of this rifle Nammo Lapua Oy. Also, Lapua is an old town in Finland located on the banks of the river Lapua. This town is located in the South Ostrobothnia region.
- Is the .338 Lapua Magnum or 6.5 Creedmoor better?
This is a question of your preference and preferences of your hunting area. The .338 Lapua Magnum is more powerful than the 6.5 Creedmoor as it can hit targets further away and has better penetration capacity than the 6.5 Creedmoor.
- Is 338 Lapua a good sniper rifle?
Yes, it is a great sniper rifle. 338 Lapua Magnum gives the best results at a distance of 500 meters and above. You can hit long-range targets clear without any major recoil by simply using a decent quality scope with your Lapua rifles.
- What’s the best long-range scope for 338 Lapua?
If you want to use a scope with .388 Lapua Magnum for long-range hitting only, you can go with Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 6-24×50 SFP Riflescope. This scope will give crisp images while hunting targets at long distances.
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