Nikon M-308 Review: To Buy or Not to Buy?

 

Founded in 1917, Nikon is one of the oldest imaging companies there is. Which is why this review about one of their most recent products the Nikon M-308 will be fascinating even for those that are not very adept with rifles. After the success that Nikon enjoyed with the M-223 series, they decided to launch three more entries that are caliber specific. The M-308 is particularly calibrated for the .308 Winchester cartridge.

If you recently got yourself a Winchester and had been struggling with getting a good riflescope to pair with your gun, you might want to read this Nikon M-308 review and see what this rifle scope could offer you and, why you ought to be considering it in the near future.

nikon m-308 scope

The Pros and Cons of Using a Nikon M-308

Pros

As you’re about to see in this Nikon M-308 review, there are plenty of exciting and innovative features that are packed into the scope. Each of these is critically thought to offer the best experience under all circumstances.

  • 1. Durable rifle scope The Nikon M-308 features a BDC 800 reticle that is shockproof, waterproof and fog proof. These features protect the riflescope from external factors and allow it offer longer service even under different weather elements.
  • 2. High-quality performance With an Ultra ClearCoat optical system and a BDC 800 reticle, the scope also has features like a 4× zoom ratio and a rapid action turrets that offer the user ultimate vision and flexibility with how they can use the scope. You are guaranteed of high performance and deliverance courtesy of the assortment of features that come with the rifle scope.
  • 3. Impressive rifle scope lens Fully multicoated optics with a side objective lens (42mm) with an exit pupil of 2.62-10.55 mm complete with a flip-open lens cover provide up to 95% of light transmission. The lens is usable during the day until dusk. The flip-open cover keeps the integrity of lens intact and protects it from scratches and accumulation of dirt.
  • 4. Sizeable scope Even with an extensive array of features and plenty of wiggle room as shown in this Nikon M-308 review, the scope is built from a one piece main body tube which makes it easier to work with and also to mount. The size of the lens keeps the mechanics of holding the weapon intact and can be comfortably used for offhand shooting without requiring additional aids.
  • 5. Advanced technology Cutting-edge features that include; the Spot on Ballistic Match Technology, spring-loaded instant zero-rest Turrets, and a quick focus eyepiece all make the rifle scope more adaptable, scalable and applicable to a broad range of terrains.
  • 6. Complete mounting kit Before you get to use the scope, you have to mount it on the rifle. The Nikon M-308 comes with one piece of mount and is complete with the Allan keys that you will need for the fastening. You don’t need to invest in a separate mounting kit.

It is also worth mentioning in this Nikon M-308 review that the rifle scope comes with a lifetime warranty. It acts as security to assure you that you’re making an investment in a sturdy, uniquely built and durable product that will be able to last.

nikon m-308 scope

Cons

Despite the impressive collection of features and benefits, there are a couple of drawbacks as covered in different Nikon M-308 reviews that you ought to be aware of.
To begin with, the rifle scope great as it is, is built for particular types of guns. As much as there are quite a number of rifles that fit the .308 category, there are plenty more that are locked out. Obviously, this means that owners of other types of guns might not find the device useful and, if you have to purchase the device and own a rifle that is not a matching caliber, you might have to buy a new rifle as well to make the most out of the scope.

Also, because of the BDC reticle, the rifle scope is best used for short range applications of below 500 yards. Within such range, the scope is quite accurate but is moderately accurate at longer ranges. With enough experience, it is possible to use the scope over long range with plenty of success.

Featuring a built-in 20 MOA slope, users that are not highly adept to calculating the distance might find using the feature slightly challenging especially in ranges other than 100 yards because of the precise and fragmented measurement. However, in most instances, this is a necessary evil that you can learn over time.

The single body build is greatly highlighted in this Nikon M-308 review and reduces the weight and size of the scope drastically. However, that also makes it less portable since you can’t take it apart for more economical storing on transit.

Who Is this Product Best For?

nikon m-308 scope

The Nikon M-308 is a caliber specific riflescope. It is built to maximize the performance of the .308 rifles. While the rifles in this class are best suited for long range applications on a wide scale of use, paired with this rifle scope the rifle is best suited for hunters.

Also, based on a number of features on the rifle scope, like the magnification and the lightweight and sizeable nature of the scope, the M-308 is best used for hunting. It might also be excellent to work with in a shooting range. However, it is slightly shorthanded to be used for combat.

When it comes to scopes, high quality and performance rarely ever feature in the same description with low price. The Nikon M-308 is not only affordable but offers total value for the money with a carefully selected collection of features that make it better adapted for use.

The easy to use nature of the scope with the resetting turrets is user-friendly even to users that might not be very conversant with scopes especially given its clear optics and diverse zooming options.

The scope is superbly accurate with moderate length of up to 500 yards and moderately accurate over 500 yards. With skilled hands and a trained eye, it can prove to be very handy even at long range. It is a great scope to consider for hunters and for practicing at a shooting range. It is also an ideal pick if you’re considering it as your first scope. Hoping this Nikon M-308 review has shed light on your next rifle scope and what you should look for.

IMAGE SOURCE: 1, 2, 3

 

Sightron Scopes Reviews

Another great optics company making great rifle scopes, Sightron scopes comes to us as a humbler manufacturer than some of the previous riflescope companies we’ve talked about. Humbler in name, but not in style, though. While their brand had its birth in 1993, in just 23 years this scope and rifle optics designer has managed to assert its position as a leading competitor on this market.

Today, we’re here to present you with a complete guide to this awesome rifle optics manufacturer and its top-of-the-line scopes. On their website, the company states time and time again that their Sightron scopes are simply the best at acquiring targets and making sure the shooter never misses. We’re going to look at their scopes’ specs, to see if that’s true. Without any further delay, we suggest you put your eye on the target and read on!

Sightron Scope

About Sightron Scopes

There isn’t much info out there about Sightron Scopes. This may be on account of their serious model of doing business. Or maybe they just wanted to let their exquisite scopes speak for themselves. Either way, we know very little about the company itself, apart from a few simple facts.

Sightron Scopes began way back in the year 1993, as we’ve already mentioned. Over time, the company grew into what we see today. A company made by sportsmen to provide a solid range of equipment for professional and amateur shooters everywhere. While their incredible scopes have not been the subject of one-too-many reviews, they sure have made themselves known as a very serious company. Specifically, many professional sport shooters have employed Sightron scopes.

Today, although there’s not much talk around the internet about Sightron, there are clearly a lot of buyers for their products. We’ve asked ourselves why this is. Looking at their official catalog, you get the feeling that they put great care into making their scopes as best they can. You can see this by looking at the general features of Sightron Scopes presented below.

Sightron Scopes Specs

Like all serious companies that make rifle scopes, Sightron also have a few stand-out features that make their scopes worthwhile. Here’s a list:

  • The locking turret system. All Sightron scopes have a locking turret mechanism that enables them to immediately lock in place at that exact adjustment. This is especially good for harsh environmental conditions. The last thing you’ll want to do when out in the wild and humid forest is unintentionally change your scope’s knob positions.
  • The FAST system. This is basically a tuner that gives you the ability to make very fine adjustments to your sight. By enhancing the details of the field of view and stabilizing the focus, you will see a target four times clearer than with any other type of rifle scope.
  • Waterproofing. All Sightron scopes are waterproof. This may be a common feature with many scopes, but with Sightron, it’s especially good since it combines very well with all the other neat specifications of the Sightron rifle scopes.
  • Incredible resistance. A Sightron scope in and of itself can be a lethal weapon. That’s because the outer case is so hard, it would really take someone with great force to even make a dent in it. This rigid outer shell is made to keep the scope always in focus, no matter through how many harsh conditions you may put it to the test.
  • Nitrogen filling. Being waterproof, you probably already figured that Sightron scopes are also nitrogen filled. Nitrogen is almost always used with rifle scopes in order to fog proof them. If they were filled with air, it would be very easy for fog to form inside the scope. Nitrogen eliminates that possibility.
  • Customizable settings. For each purchase made directly from the company’s shop, they offer to customize your scope to fit you, your sport, and your rifle. You can change the turret, a few parallax options, and the reticle. Sightron reticles are incredibly varied: from simple crosses to complex models that need an instruction manual to be understood.
  • Lifetime warranty. Sightron scopes, like any reputable brand selling rifle scopes, offer a lifetime warranty for their products. This warranty is applicable in most cases in which the scope becomes unusable on account of something that they had guaranteed worked. For instance, say you buy a Sightron SIII 6-24×50 now and 40 years from now you drop it into a puddle of mud. If any drop of water gets in, Sightron will most definitely replace it, no questions asked.

Sightron Rifle Scope

Other Useful Info about Sightron Scopes

Apart from the main features of Sightron Scopes listed above, you may want to know more specific info about the scope models themselves. We’ve also made a list of these interesting facts:

  • Sightron Scopes for sale to look for. These are the most amazing categories of Sightron scopes that you should most definitely watch for: Sightron SV series, Sightron SIII LR series, Sightron SIII series, Sightron S-TAC series, Sightron SII Big Sky series, Sightron SII series, Sightron SIH Series.
  • Sightron scopes that have the same system. The following Sightron models have the same sighting systems: the SII Big Sky, the SII, the S-TAC, and the SIII LR series.
  • The advantages of the Big Sky. The Big Sky has a bigger eye relief, better knobs for the turret, and an adjustable focus that can go down to as little as 10 yards.
  • The Zact-7 Revcoat. Look out for the Sightron Scopes labeled with a Z7 symbol. These make light transmission a dream, with levels as high as 90 to 91%.

Sightron Rifle Scope

Conclusion over Sightron Scopes

While not as famous as other scopes (Burris, Olympus, or Leupold), Sightron scopes do still manage to pack a major punch. Simply put: they can be just a reliable, at a slightly more affordable price tag. Don’t be afraid to pick up your Sightron scope today! We guarantee you will not regret it.

Image sources: 1, 2, 3

About the Long Eye Relief Scope and Why You’d Want One

Long eye relief scopes are a lesser known type of scope, but are very useful for their specific niche. Long eye relief scopes allow you to maintain a proper sight picture with your eye further away from the eyepiece that what is possible with a regular scope. This can be useful for many reasons.

[Read more…]

Nikon ProStaff 5 & 7 Take Hunting to a Different Level

The Nikon ProStaff models have been true and dedicated companions to hunters everywhere for as long as we can remember. For decades, they’ve made sure that you not only set your sight on a nice prize but that you actually shoot and hit. So dedicated to their craft, Nikon know to bring the best quality of rifle scopes built with paramount craftsmanship to the humble consumer for an equally humble price.

The value for money is just huge. They know how to do business. And you can see that by how well their products have fared over the last decades. They’ve sold countless scopes, making innumerable hunters and family protectors all over the hinterland of forests and untamed wilderness able to prove themselves on top of the food chain.

Nikon ProStaff 5

Nikon ProStaff models today make a silent majority of rifle owners stay on target, ready and able to down any kind of wild animal, be it small, medium, or big game. While they keep silent admirers of the Nippon brand, these men and women are not so silent anymore when they put their camo uniform on and their eye to the Nikon ProStaff 3-9×40’s sight.

Speaking of which, if there ever was a testimony to the reliability of the Nikon ProStaff rifle scope models, this is it. The Nikon ProStaff 3-9×40 is renowned for its versatility and flair, for its sleek look and top-of-the-line optics. All of this for an incredibly reasonable price. Makes one wonder why they decided to discontinue this amazing scope (more about this here).

While you can still find the Nikon ProStaff 3-9×40 for sale second hand, we would recommend taking a look at the newest Nikon ProStaff models. I’m talking, of course, about the Nikon ProStaff 5 and the Nikon ProStaff 7. In the following two sections of this review, we will be detailing all the information we have about these incredible optics devices.

Nikon ProStaff 5: Models & Specs

The ProStaff 5 is now the signature Nikon ProStaff rifle scope. Currently, there are a total of 18 models of the Nikon Prostaff 5. These range from the basic 2.5-10×40 Matte Nikoplex at 275.95 to the incredibly complex 4.5-18×40 SF Illuminated Reticle BDC coming in at 579.95. The latter presents some of the most sophisticated types of technology that you can see today mounted on a gun. Here are some of the amazing features of the ProStafdf 5 models:

  • Multicoated Optical System. A distinctive feature of the ProStaff models, the multicoated optical system enhances contrast and boosts luminosity accordingly. The image will appear sharp and the target will be clearly distinguished from the noisy background.
  • The Nikon Spot on System. This one is based on signature ballistic match technology created by Nikon themselves. It compensates for the type of cartridge that you are carrying so that all of your shots, no matter the bullet, will always strike where you want them to.
  • Unique BDC Signature Reticle. No matter how near or how far, your sight will stay put and you’ll be able to take home the hunt of your dreams. The ballistic circles in the reticle are made so that you can see through them. While being of great advantage when far away from the target, these rings are designed so they will also help when you’re close to the target.
  • Reticle Adjustment System. Their instant zero-reset turrets make sure that your tweaking with the Nikon Prostaff rifle scope while out hunting won’t completely ruin the calibration. Essentially, this acts like a memory function, keeping in mind your last used settings.
  • Customizable Custom Turrets. Using the Spot On system, you too can customize your dial so that it best fits you, your rifle, and your preferred bullets. This poses an incredible advantage to stock sights.
  • Ability to Adapt to Sunshade. Some Nikon ProStaff 5 models have the option to add a 40mm and/or a 50mm sunshade objective. This will keep out any form of glare and will block any dust and rain from sticking to the lens.

Add all these awesome features to the fact that the Nikon ProStaff 5 is waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and also fog proof, and you’ve got yourself an incredible scope. Both for your rifle and your hunting trips. The Illuminated reticle versions also come with colorful lights to take your marksmanship to the next level.

Nikon ProStaff 7: Models & Specs

Nikon ProStaff 5 & 7The ProStaff 7 is comparable to the ProStaff 5. It all comes down to preference, because in the performance department, some of the ProStaff 7 are better than some of the Nikon Prostaff 5, or the other way around. If should also be noted that the cheapest of the 10 ProStaff enters the market at about 299.99 (the 2.5-10×42 Matte Nikoplex), while the most expensive one is sold for 499.99 (the 4-16×50 SF Matte BDC). Here are the stand-out features of the ProStaff 7 (note that there are fewer features since most of the ProStaff 5 features also apply here):

  • 30mm body tube. The body tube of the Nikon ProStaff 7 is made so that it weighs as little as possible for as much durability and strength as possible.
  • Smooth Zooming Controls. You put your eye to the sight, you aim correctly, and you shoot. The zoom adjustment is so smooth, there’s absolutely no chance of dizziness while you’re hunting your big game from 500 yards away.
  • Bigger adjustment range. The adjustment range for the windage and elevation levels is much, much higher than for the ProStaff 5. Therefore, the Nikon ProStaff 7 is far better for things like long-distance hunting. The accuracy levels for some of the higher priced ProStaffs is simply surreal.

We know these don’t seem like much for the ProStaff 7, but remember to add them on top of all the others, and we’ve got ourselves a sight for sore eyes (not literally). Frankly, when it comes to recommending one of the two Nikon ProStaff models that are currently considered top of the line, we’re at a loss. They both are great.

Conclusion

What do you think of the Nikon ProStaff models? Do you like the new ones or would you prefer some of the old ones like the Nikon ProStaff 3-9×40, the Nikon ProStaff 4-12×40, or the 3-9×50? After all, most of the ProStaff riflescopes are incredible, and we here at Rifle Scope Center are confident that whichever you’ll pick, you’ll be making a good choice.

Image sources: 1, 2

8 Best Long Range Rifle Scopes

Looking for the best long range rifle scopes? There’s no greater pleasure than shooting at something from a mile away. Whether it’s a target in the shooting range in your backyard, a big game in the wilderness, or anywhere in between, cocking a long range rifle and sighting your target down a long range scope really is an immense thrill. Especially if you actually hit your mark. We’re here to make sure that you do with this article on the top 8 best long range rifle scopes for the money.

We’ll be looking at some of the top manufacturers of rifle scopes to see which of their esteemed sights actually make the best shoot. Many of these companies have been featured in our articles before, but never in this precise way. And since this is a rifle scope review center, we’re going to review the guns according to their specs, leaving the shooting to actual professionals who know what they’re doing. Our article will look at which of these long range rifle scopes gives you the best value for your money.

Best Long Range Rifle Scopes

Man looking through the scope on his wooden rifle gun

8 Best Long Range Rifle Scopes for the Money

8. Burris Eliminator III 4-16x50mm

Not one of the cheaper options on this list of long range rifle scopes, the Burris Eliminator III is a very sturdy sight for your rifle. Named as one of the best rifle scopes on the planet, you know it means business. It’s sturdy and robust but lightweight, it’s really sleek, but it can really pack a punch no matter how far you are from your target.

The best feature of the Burris Eliminator III is its reticle. The X96 is an amazing reticle – it has a powered display which draws energy from a small battery (which you can change very easily though you rarely need to). On it, you will be able to see displayed the distance from the target in yards as well as an estimate of how many dots you need to account for depending on the wind.

7. Leupold Mark 4 ER/T 8.5-25x50mm

We’ve talked about Leupold scopes before and gathered that they do make some of the meanest rifle scopes in the world. The Mark 4 ER/T 8.5-25×50 is no exception to that rule. It can pack an incredible shot from over 1,500 yards. The company actually says that it will heat a decent mark at over 1,800 yards. If we do the math with the other long range rifle scopes, it most definitely should.

6. Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56mm

Coming in at mostly the same performance results as the previous long range rifle scopes, the Nightforce ATACR model for a 25x rifle scope is an amazing sight to behold. It can down targets with ease and it’s 25x zoom makes certain that it will see as far as 1,800 yards. Still, most hunters and professional shooters don’t need that much zoom.

The Nightforce ATACR works amazingly at lower ranges. It features the MIL-R-5 Mils Reticle with very intricate windage adjustment capabilities.

5. Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56mm

With the zooming capabilities of this amazing scope, you know the Vortex Razor HD is ready for that wild hunting trip you’ve been planning. Snipers will simply love this rifle scope along with its amazing reticle. You can’t go wrong with choosing Vortex for any rifle scope needs, but these beauties particularly shine when tested for long range shooting.

The reticle featured on the Vortex Razor HD is a very advanced one with inlays to determine the range, the windage adjustments, as well as the holdover of the scope.

Best Long Range Rifle Scopes

sniper scope for hunting close up

4. Nikon ProStaff 5 3.5-14X50mm

Given, the Nikon ProStaff 5 3.5-14X50 hasn’t got that much zoom as any of the other long range rifle scopes on this list. Still, the incredible lighting adjustments that Nikon ProStaff scopes offer are incredible. You could probably see a target 1,000 yards away in almost no light.

If there’s one word that defines the ProStaff 5 3.5-14x50mm, that word is “exceptional.” If you don’t agree with us, you should check out our article on Nikon Rifle Scopes before you go on.

3. Swarovski Z6 5-30x50mm BT

Swarovski have made it their sole purpose of amazing the world of amateur and professional shooters everywhere. That’s because most all of their scopes are simply incredible. The lighting adjustments are out-of-this-world, the windage adjustments are so precise that your accuracy will be incredible, no matter what range you’re at.

It’s possible that you will hit any target, still or moving, at any range, be it 200 yards or 1,200 yards. Swarovski scopes, and particularly the Z6, make you almost forget that the fame of Swarovski comes from diamonds. However, just like their diamonds, Swarovski long range rifle scopes are brilliant.

2. US Optics LR-17 3.2-17x44mm

When it comes to long-range rifle scopes with which to actually hit your target, you can’t go wrong by choosing anything from US Optics. However, we particularly recommend the US Optics LR-17. Why? This mil-dot reticle, lo-profile, rapid focus long range rifle scope is exquisite.

With the ability to down anything from big game to small game to medium game, the LR-17 is especially good for hunting purposes. It can land a perfect shot on any target that’s up to 1,500 yards away. Even beyond that and the US Optics LR-17 will prove a trusty accessory.

1. Zeiss Victory FL Diavari 6–24x72mm

Admit it, you saw this coming from a mile away! Through a Zeiss Victory FL, of course. Zeiss actually make some of the most amazing scopes in the world. In fact, Zeiss make some of the most amazing optics in general. Cameras with Zeiss lenses are renowned for their sharpness.

So is the Diavari 6-24x72mm. We recommend you equip it with one of the Rapid-Z 7 reticles for a truly astounding targeting experience.

Best Long Range Rifle Scopes

Young man shooting with a rifle, against sunset with a sunburst between the scope and his eye

So, have you decided which of these long range rifle scopes will you be taking out for a shoot? We hope we’ve given some appropriate insight into this and that you will be as fascinated as we are about these rifle scopes. Let us know in the comments how your aim goes if you do decide to try out one of these scopes.

Image sources: depositphotos.com

Top 3 Rated Vortex Rifle Scopes

Vortex is a  a great choice of optic. This company offers scopes in a wide variety of product lines in many different price ranges. The tree scopes we’re discussing are from three different price tiers. The first scope is from the high end price range, and offers many premium features that justify that price, including a first focal plane precision etched reticle. The second scope’s price is a middle to high price scope and has many features to it that make it great for tactical shooting, and has a first focal plane optic, which makes it great for long range shooting and range finding. The final scope is a great entry level scope by vortex that still offers many great features that make it an amazing choice for the first time hunter and is well worth your look if you have a limited budget. All of these amazing scopes also feature illuminated reticles, making them great for shooting at targets that have less than optimal contrast compared to their background, and compared to a non-illuminated reticle.

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Top 3 Rated Leupold Rifle Scopes

Leupold is a well known maker of scopes, and offers a wide variety of products. The three we have chosen to give you an overview of come from three of the different price ranges that Leupold offers, though all are lower power scopes which makes them very useful for close range shooting. The first scope is from one of their more affordable lines of centerfire scopes, and is a fixed 4 power magnification. The second scope is from one the more middle of the road price range, and is also a low power scope, with a variable zoom that’s from 1.25 to 4 times. The final scope is from the higher end of Leupold’s scopes, and has a 1-6 times magnification, making extremely valuable for close to medium range shooting. This should hopefully help get you pointed in the right direction as you look for a great scope for your rifle.
[Read more…]

Top 3 Rated Zeiss Rifle Scopes

The Carl Zeiss company is known as a maker of many high end optical instruments, among other things. One of their product lines is rifle scopes, and they are amazing scopes, as on would expect from a German company that specializes in high end optics. Two of optics that we found to be top rated are from their middle of the road price range Conquest line, which offers many features of the high end scopes, while being affordable enough for the average middle class hunter to be able to afford. The last one is from the Terra product line, which is the entry level Zeiss scope, though it still retains all of the most important Zeiss features. This list of the three top rated Zeiss scopes will help you find what you are looking for quickly and efficiently!
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Top 3 Rated Nikon Rifle Scopes

If you’re searching for a good rifle scope, Nikon has some great ones to choose from. We’ve reviewed all of the popular Nikon rifles scopes and put together a list of the top 3 best-rated ones, so you can cut your research time in half. Check out our detailed overviews below, and enjoy the research time we have saved you. Enjoy!
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Nikon ProStaff Rimfire 3-9 x 40 Black Matte Riflescope (BDC 150)

After a long tiring week, you would want a hobby that will relieve stress but you can still enjoy the great outdoors. Hunting has been a sport many take pleasure in all over the world. It could be in shooting ranges animal hunting or playing airsoft. The problem here is when it comes to the long range shooting, how will you improve your accuracy and precision to aim the target when you can’t even see the mark? What you need is a rifle scope to improve your shooting. There are different kinds of rifle scope. One of the top selling companies is Nikon; it released Nikon Pro Staff Rim fire 3-9 x 40 Black Matte Riflescope (BDC 150) which is now available in Amazon an affordable price. It is the improved version of past rifle scopes made also by Nikon for additional features. [Read more…]