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title: Best Red Dot for .308 Rifle – Precision Meets Power in 2026

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# **5 Best Red Dot for .308 Rifle – Precision Meets Power in 2026**

Finding the **best red dot for .308 rifle** can be tricky because you need an optic that handles heavy recoil while maintaining pinpoint accuracy at medium ranges. The .308 Winchester isn’t a soft shooter—so not every red dot can endure its punch or offer the precision needed for tactical, hunting, or range applications. After years of testing optics across multiple platforms (AR-10, SCAR 17, and bolt-action builds), I’ve found a select few red dots that truly perform. Below are my top recommendations, tested for durability, clarity, and accuracy under real conditions.

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## **Top 5 Best Red Dot Sights for .308 Rifles (Quick List)**

* [**Trijicon MRO**](https://reddotx.com/dp/B013XADFXM)
* [**Aimpoint PRO**](https://reddotx.com/dp/B007GDR0I4)
* [**EOTECH EXPS3**](https://reddotx.com/dp/B0034PXYRY)
* [**Holosun 510C**](https://reddotx.com/dp/B01MT5RJLD)
* [**Vortex Strikefire 2**](https://reddotx.com/dp/B08MVYFH9M)


### **1. Trijicon MRO**

![Trijicon MRO](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/712PMB+NAhL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)

**Description:**
The Trijicon MRO (Miniature Rifle Optic) is one of the toughest red dots available today. Designed with military-grade housing and top-tier glass, it’s purpose-built for high-caliber rifles like the .308.

**Specs:**

* Reticle: 2.0 MOA dot
* Battery Life: Up to 5 years on setting 3
* Mount: Absolute or Lower 1/3 Co-witness
* Weight: 5.1 oz
* Waterproof: 100 feet

**My Experience:**
When I mounted the MRO on my AR-10, the first thing I noticed was the massive field of view. It allows for both-eyes-open shooting, making target transitions incredibly fast. Even after firing over 500 rounds of .308, zero retention was flawless. The elevation and windage turrets click precisely and stay locked under recoil.

**Customer Feedback:**
On Reddit and AR15.com, users praise its durability—many stating it “just won’t quit” after years of hard use. Some note minor edge distortion at extreme angles, but it’s barely noticeable in real shooting.

**Mounting:**
Mounts directly to Picatinny or M-LOK rails with the right adapter—Trijicon’s own mount is highly stable.

[**╰┈➤ Explore User Feedback and Current Pricing on Amazon**](https://reddotx.com/dp/B013XADFXM)

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### **2. Aimpoint PRO (Patrol Rifle Optic)**

![Aimpoint PRO](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61ZNs+QpxRL._AC_SL1280_.jpg)

**Description:**
The Aimpoint PRO is a professional-grade red dot known for reliability under extreme conditions. It’s used by law enforcement and shooters who demand consistent performance from a battle-proven optic.

**Specs:**

* Reticle: 2 MOA red dot
* Battery Life: 30,000+ hours
* Submersible: Up to 150 feet
* Weight: 11.6 oz
* Mount: QRP2 mount with spacer

**My Experience:**
I ran this optic on a DPMS .308 platform for over a year. The battery literally outlasted several range seasons, and zero shift never occurred even after repeated drops and cleaning cycles. The glass clarity is exceptional, and the slight blue tint helps reduce glare in bright light.

**Customer Feedback:**
Forum users often compare it to the MRO or EOTech EXPS3 but mention Aimpoint’s unbeatable battery life and resilience as key advantages.

**Mounting:**
Comes with a QRP2 mount—directly compatible with most .308 rifles using Picatinny rails.

[**╰┈➤ Explore User Feedback and Current Pricing on Amazon**](https://reddotx.com/dp/B007GDR0I4)

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### **3. EOTECH EXPS3**

![EOTECH EXPS3](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71B5ve9no0L._AC_SL1500_.jpg)

**Description:**
The EOTECH EXPS3 is a holographic weapon sight that pairs exceptionally well with the .308 for close-to-medium engagement. Its reticle design allows rapid target acquisition even in dynamic conditions.

**Specs:**

* Reticle: 68 MOA ring with 1 MOA dot
* Night Vision Compatible
* Battery Life: ~600 hours
* Weight: 11.2 oz
* Mount: Quick-detach lever

**My Experience:**
When running the EXPS3 on a SCAR 17, it handled recoil like a champ. The reticle allowed me to stay fast on steel at 100 yards and engage silhouettes out to 300 yards with a magnifier. The eye relief is forgiving, and the brightness control is perfect for both daylight and low-light conditions.

**Customer Feedback:**
Redditors love its “speed and clarity,” especially when paired with the G33 magnifier. Some note its shorter battery life but accept that as a trade-off for unmatched reticle performance.

**Mounting:**
Comes ready with a quick-detach Picatinny mount—no adapter needed.

[**╰┈➤ Explore User Feedback and Current Pricing on Amazon**](https://reddotx.com/dp/B0034PXYRY)

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### **4. Holosun 510C**

![Holosun 510C](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/510K8e-qPjL._AC_SL1001_.jpg)

**Description:**
Holosun’s 510C has quickly become a fan favorite thanks to its multi-reticle system and solar fail-safe technology. It’s built from aircraft-grade aluminum and titanium, ensuring it can withstand the .308’s recoil.

**Specs:**

* Reticle: 2 MOA dot / 65 MOA circle
* Power: Solar + Battery (50,000 hrs)
* Weight: 8.3 oz
* Mount: Quick-release Picatinny

**My Experience:**
I mounted this on a Springfield M1A and was impressed by how well it held zero. The dual power system is a huge advantage—battery failure doesn’t mean you lose your dot. The 510C’s window is wide, giving a similar experience to an EOTech but at a fraction of the price.

**Customer Feedback:**
Online forums consistently highlight its reliability, clarity, and price-to-performance ratio. Some hunters appreciate the auto-brightness feature for dawn and dusk shooting.

**Mounting:**
Uses a built-in quick-release mount compatible with standard rails.

[**╰┈➤ Explore User Feedback and Current Pricing on Amazon**](https://reddotx.com/dp/B01MT5RJLD)

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### **5. Vortex Strikefire 2**

![Vortex Strikefire 2](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/710bd1bryyL._AC_SL1007_.jpg)

**Description:**
The Vortex Strikefire 2 is an affordable yet durable optic that punches well above its weight. It’s a favorite among shooters who want rugged dependability without a premium price tag.

**Specs:**

* Reticle: 4 MOA dot (Red/Green option)
* Battery Life: 80,000 hours
* Weight: 7.2 oz
* Mount: Cantilever mount included

**My Experience:**
I’ve used the Strikefire 2 on both AR-15 and AR-10 builds. For the .308, it maintains zero easily and gives crisp sight pictures. The controls are intuitive, and the brightness adjustment is quick for changing light environments.

**Customer Feedback:**
Users on the Vortex subreddit often mention that it’s “the best budget optic for .308s,” citing Vortex’s no-questions warranty as a major plus.

**Mounting:**
Comes with a cantilever mount—ideal height for co-witness on AR platforms.

[**╰┈➤ Explore User Feedback and Current Pricing on Amazon**](https://reddotx.com/dp/B08MVYFH9M)

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## **How to Choose the Right Red Dot Sight for a .308 Rifle**

1. **Durability & Recoil Resistance:**
   The .308 generates significant recoil. Look for optics with reinforced aluminum or titanium housings and proven track records on battle rifles.

2. **Battery Life:**
   Extended life (30,000+ hours) ensures reliability in the field. Aimpoint and Holosun excel here.

3. **Reticle Type:**
   Choose between a simple 2 MOA dot for precision or a circle-dot pattern for faster target acquisition.

4. **Mounting Compatibility:**
   Ensure your optic fits your rifle’s rail system—most .308s use Picatinny rails, but AR-10s might need risers for proper eye alignment.

5. **Magnifier Compatibility:**
   A 3x magnifier extends your red dot’s range for hunting or tactical shooting.

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## **FAQs**

**1. Can a red dot handle .308 recoil?**
Yes—models like the Aimpoint PRO, Holosun 510C, and Trijicon MRO are specifically built for it.

**2. Is a holographic sight better than a red dot for .308?**
For close-range speed, holographic sights like EOTECH EXPS3 shine. For endurance and battery life, go with a standard red dot.

**3. What MOA dot size is best for .308 rifles?**
A 2 MOA dot balances precision and visibility, ideal for shooting from 25 to 300 yards.

**4. Do I need a magnifier?**
Optional but helpful—especially if you’re hunting or shooting past 200 yards.

**5. What’s the best budget red dot for .308?**
The Vortex Strikefire 2 and Holosun 510C deliver unbeatable value for under $300.

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## **Conclusion**

The **best red dot for .308 rifle** should withstand recoil, retain zero, and provide clear, fast target acquisition in any condition. From the tank-like Aimpoint PRO to the versatile Holosun 510C, each optic on this list offers proven performance. Personally, I favor the Trijicon MRO for its field of view and ruggedness, but if you want maximum value, the Holosun 510C is hard to beat. Whichever you choose, these optics will transform your .308 into a faster, more precise tool for both range and field use.

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*Affiliate Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.*
