Hog hunting often means chasing targets in thick cover, low light, and difficult terrain. When you’re running a .308, you need a scope that can stand up to recoil, deliver clarity in dawn or dusk light, and give you the flexibility to make quick shots as well as precise ones. A subpar optic can cost you a clean hit or even a shot opportunity. In this guide, we’ll walk through what really matters in a hog‑hunting scope for .308, and then review a set of powerful, reliable scopes you can buy today (or try to source in Nigeria/West Africa).
Quick Picks
- Best Overall: Leupold VX‑3i 3.5‑10×50
- Best Versatile Mid‑Range: Vortex Viper HS 2.5‑10×44
- Best for Extra Reach: Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3‑15×44
Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for in a .308 Scope for Hog Hunting
Before you pick a brand or model, consider these critical criteria:
- Recoil durability / mechanical strength: Ensure the scope is rated to handle .308 (and ideally higher) recoil. It must maintain zero after repeated shots.
- Magnification range: A balanced zoom (e.g. 3–10×, 2.5–10×, or 3–15×) gives you flexibility to hunt close in cover or take a longer shot. Overly high magnification (20×+) can be more of a hindrance in dense brush. Many shooters recommend staying in the 3–15× range for .308 platforms. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
- Reticle type & focal plane: A BDC or hash‑mark reticle helps with holdovers. A first focal plane (FFP) reticle keeps those markings accurate at all magnifications; a second focal plane (SFP) reticle can work well if you mostly use one magnification zone.
- Low‑light / optical performance: Hog activity often occurs in dim light (dawn, dusk, under brush). Good glass, fully multi‑coated lenses, and controlled glare are critical.
- Parallax / focus adjustment: Having side focus or an adjustable parallax helps you keep the reticle aligned with the target at different ranges (especially beyond 200 yards).
- Turret features & adjustments: Zero stop, exposed turrets, locking turrets, fine click values (¼ MOA or equivalent) all add utility in the field.
- Weight, length & balance: A scope that is too heavy or bulky may upset the balance of your rifle and make it tiring to carry in the field.
- Warranty & service network: A strong warranty (lifetime, damage coverage) and manufacturer service is a plus—especially when sourcing or repairing gear overseas.
Detailed Product Reviews
Leupold VX‑3i 3.5‑10×50
Who it’s for: Hunters who demand top optical performance with a reliable, all‑round zoom range.
Key Benefits:
- Outstanding clarity, even in low light
- Good balance of magnification for both close and moderate shots :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- Strong mechanical durability and consistent tracking over recoil cycles :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Pros:
- Edge‑to‑edge sharpness, minimal distortion
- Reliable turrets, smooth controls
- Well‑trusted brand & support
Cons:
- Relatively premium price
- Fixed parallax (often at ~150 yards) may limit precision beyond that distance
Final verdict & CTA: For a top‑tier, reliable scope that works in most hog hunting situations, the VX‑3i is a strong all-around choice. If you find it in local stock or via import, it’s worth the investment.
Vortex Viper HS 2.5‑10×44
Who it’s for: Hunters who split time between shorter-range brush stalking and mid-distance shots.
Key Benefits:
- Versatile magnification for common hog distances
- Durable build and respected warranty backing (Vortex’s VIP warranty)
- Good field of view at lower zooms
Pros:
- More flexibility for variable distances
- Strong optical performance for the price
- Well-known brand with good after‑sales support
Cons:
- May run out of “headroom” for very long shots (beyond ~400+ yards)
- At max magnification in twilight, image can dim slightly
Final verdict & CTA: A strong mid‑range pick. If most of your hog shots fall between 100 and 300 yards, this gives you excellent flexibility without overextending into extreme magnification.
Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3‑15×44
Who it’s for: Hunters who occasionally need that extra range or want more margin on further shots.
Key Benefits:
- Higher magnification for longer shots
- Better “headroom” to engage distant hogs or support shots
- Good reticle and feature set
Pros:
- More reach than typical hunting scopes
- Still manageable for general hunting use
Cons:
- Heft and weight increase
- May push optical limits at high zoom in low light
Final verdict & CTA: If you anticipate occasional shots in the 400‑yard+ range, the PST Gen II 3–15×44 gives you more breathing room. Just be sure your mount, rifle balance, and optics support it well.
Primary Arms SLx 3‑18×50 FFP
Who it’s for: Hunters who want a higher magnification, first focal plane option at a relatively lower cost.
Key Benefits:
- Illuminated reticle with ACSS Athena or similar
- Adjustable parallax (from near to infinity)
- Shockproof, fogproof, durable design
Pros:
- Good value per feature set
- First focal plane helps with holdovers across zoom levels
Cons:
- Glass may not match premium optics in extreme low light
- Heavier than simpler scopes
Final verdict & CTA: If you want more magnification and an FFP reticle but don’t want to step into ultra-premium price tiers, this is a solid choice. Just be mindful of its demands on optical clarity and mount stability.
Burris Scout 2‑7×32
Who it’s for: Hunters in thick cover, dark forest, or shorter shot distances needing fast acquisition.
Key Benefits:
- Very fast target acquisition at low zooms
- Low profile, compact build
Pros:
- Excellent for moving targets in dense brush
- Lightweight and compact for tight terrain
Cons:
- Limited range usefulness beyond ~300 yards
- Not ideal for long-range precision shots
Final verdict & CTA: A specialized but very effective tool when the hogs are close and you need speed. Not the best choice if you often engage at greater distances.
Burris Veracity PH (Ballistic‑Helped Hunting Scope)
Who it’s for: Hunters who want modern ballistic features combined with classic scope design.
Key Benefits:
- Electronic display that shows yardage as you dial elevation
- Full manual adjustment with traditional knobs
Pros:
- Good combination of smart tech + mechanical reliability
- Great for those who want to “dial and see yardage” instantly
Cons:
- Higher complexity—more parts that could fail
- Requires power, may need maintenance or battery changes
Final verdict & CTA: This one is more niche—but if you like ballistic assistance tools and want a modern edge, the Veracity PH gives you both tech and reliability (provided you maintain it well).
Comparison Table
| Name | Magnification / Tube | Strengths / Purpose | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leupold VX‑3i 3.5‑10×50 | 3.5–10× / 1″ | Top clarity, durable, well-rounded hunting scope | Fixed parallax, premium price |
| Vortex Viper HS 2.5‑10×44 | 2.5–10× / 30 mm | Balanced mid-range option, good flexibility | Less headroom for long shots |
| Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3‑15×44 | 3–15× / 30 mm | Extra magnification for extended shots | Bulkier, demands stronger mounting |
| Primary Arms SLx 3‑18×50 FFP | 3–18× / 30 mm | High magnification, FFP reticle, good value | Optical clarity a notch below premium |
| Burris Scout 2‑7×32 | 2–7× / 1″ | Fast acq, ideal for dense terrain | Limited long-range use |
| Burris Veracity PH | Varies (smart electronic + manual) | Ballistic assistance, hybrid smart scope | Complex, battery power required |
FAQ
What magnification range should I choose for a .308 hog hunting scope?
A flexible range like **3–10×** or **2.5–10×** is ideal for most hog hunting. This covers brush stalking and moderate shots. If you need more reach, going up to 15× is acceptable, but avoid overdoing magnification as it can reduce light and slow target acquisition.
Do I need a first focal plane (FFP) reticle?
No—it’s not mandatory. FFP is helpful if you frequently change magnification and want your holdover marks to scale correctly. But many hunters use second focal plane (SFP) scopes effectively, especially if they dial or memorize holds at one magnification.
Is parallax adjustment important?
Yes, especially when shooting beyond ~200 yards. Parallax or side focus allows you to ensure the reticle and target are on the same optical plane, reducing aiming error. Many quality scopes now include that feature.
Will the recoil from a .308 damage the scope?
Good, well‑built scopes rated for .308 or higher are designed to withstand recoil and hold zero. Low‑quality optics may drift or degrade—so stick with reputable brands and check user reviews or tracking tests.
Are illuminated reticles worth it?
Yes, especially for low-light conditions. They help let you see your crosshairs in twilight or under heavy brush. But avoid overly bright settings, which can wash out the image or distract your vision.
How do I mount and zero a hog hunting scope?
Use a high-quality mount and rings rated for your rifle. Torque them properly. Zero at a distance you expect to shoot most (e.g. 100 yards). Then confirm zero at farther yardages (200, 300). Practice using the reticle’s holdovers or dialing your turrets for windage and elevation in realistic field conditions.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Choosing the right scope for a .308 hog hunting rifle is about finding balance. You want clarity, durability, useful magnification, and good turret/reticle design. For most hunters, the Leupold VX‑3i 3.5‑10×50 edges ahead as the best overall thanks to its optical excellence and proven track record. If your hunting involves more varied ranges, the Vortex Viper HS offers excellent flexibility. And if you expect long shots, the PST Gen II 3–15×44 gives you extra reach with a strong feature set.
Let me know if you’d like a **custom list of scopes you can actually buy in Nigeria or West Africa**, with local prices and dealer links. I can dig that up next if you like.