Looking for the best scope for 338 RUM? Then you know how complex it can be to always get a correct shot knowing that it is one is one of the most powerful .338-caliber rounds. Investing in the best scopes for 338 RUM(Remington Ultra Magnum) will change the narrative. The scopes illustrated here are highly prized because of their durability, precision, and clarity and will harness the cartridge’s potential. A combination of a good riflescope, patience, and practice will graduate your shooting skills from amateur to professional.
The .338 RUM is a long-range, capable cartridge with magnificent stopping power. It is perfect for raking down larger game at long distances. This cartridge provides enormous energy down range and has a flat trajectory. Keep reading to find out more about various scopes that make a great pair with the cartridge.
338 RUM History and Performance
History of the .338 Remington Ultra Magnum (338 RUM)
The .338 Remington Ultra Magnum (338 RUM) was officially released in 2002 by Remington Arms. It is part of the Remington long action ultra magnum cartridge family, which includes the 7mm, 300, .338, and .375 Ultra Magnum cartridges.
The .338 RUM made its debut in Remington’s model 700 Sendero long-range rifle, featuring a rigid stock with an aluminum chassis and the M700 action paired with a heavy barrel. However, the .338 RUM did not gain significant popularity as a chambering for the Sendero and was discontinued in 2002. Nevertheless, it has been chambered in other M700 rifles and is available in its original Sendero configuration through Remington’s custom shop.
Performance of the .338 RUM:
The .338 RUM is a well-balanced cartridge designed for hunting large-bodied game at close to extended ranges.
In terms of velocity, the .338 RUM can achieve similar speeds to the .340 Weatherby and is comparable in power to the .338 Lapua. For long-range loads, the .338 RUM is recommended to use a Wyatt magazine box when employing long, sleek bullet designs. However, without additional magazine space, the cartridge performs well with more traditional hunting bullets, including the SST. Single-feeding ammunition loaded with the longest match-style bullets is also an option.
Considerations When Buying the Best Scope for 338 RUM
Durability
You will encounter different conditions when hunting with your .338 RUM. For that reason, you should have a model that withstands anything thrown at it. The best scope is fashioned from aircraft-grade aluminum for long-lasting use.
The riflescope should also be waterproof and fogproof to suffice in extreme weather conditions. Shockproofing is also pertinent to ensure it survives heavy recoil and holds zero even under the harshest vibrations.
Clarity
Clarity is the second factor when it comes to selecting the best scopes for .338 RUM. You’re buying a scope to see clearly, so the scope should excel at this. Look for full multi-coating on the lenses to boost the level of light transmission. Good clarity translates into a sharp aim, giving you better focus. This ultimately produces a better sight picture.
Turrets
A scope worth investing in should have fine turrets for windage and elevation adjustment. Turrets that provide audible and tactile feedback are awesome, as you don’t have to watch them as you make adjustments. Also, look for zero-stop and reset turrets, as these are easy to manipulate. A decent set of turrets allows compensation of variables like wind and elevation when placing a shot, even on far-away targets.
Eye Relief
Another major aspect to think about is eye relief. A scope with more eye relief at maximum magnification reduces the likelihood of it causing a black eye once you take a shot. More eye relief is better for the best scopes for .338 RUM. Settle for a scope with a minimum of 3.5 inches. Scopes with more than 4 inches of eye relief are even better at protecting you from injury caused by sudden recoil.
Best Scopes for 338 RUM
Buying a scope is a huge investment. A crowded market makes it daunting to know which scope works best for you. You need to be knowledgeable to avoid the mistake of spending money on a low-quality scope. We have a collection of the best scopes that are truly capable of satisfying .338 RUM enthusiasts. Let’s dive in:
1) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm Riflescope
Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm tops the best scope for 338 RUM List.
The scope sports an EBR-2C illuminated reticle on the front focal plane. Being FFP means it remains true to the magnification power set. This feature enables you to measure a target and then calculate the range of the target at any zoom setting.
The MRAD reticle is illuminated in red with an off position between each setting. This comes into play when hunting in areas with faint light.
The scope is indeed built for the hunt. It constitutes aircraft-grade aluminum, which is robust and shockproof. The waterproof and fogproof inclusions will make it function issue-free in harsh weather conditions.
It has high-quality tactical-style turrets with satisfying feedback. They are of good size with a machine knurling into them. Adjusting them is an easy task, even with wet or gloved hands.
Additionally, the Viper PST comes with XD glass with XR Plus multiple coatings. This is a powerful combination that creates sharper, clearer, and high-resolution images. It also boosts light collection power and provides anti-reflective properties. The massive lens size also contributes to these properties.
Features
- Weighs 31.2 ounces
- RZR Zero Stop
- Eye relief is 3.4 inches
- Made from aircraft-grade aluminum
- XR full coatings
- A magnification of 5x to 25x
- 30mm one-piece tube
- The reticle is on the first focal plane
Pros
- Reticle illumination
- XR Fully Multi-Coated
- Built-In Accuracy Features
- The radius bar provides a visual reference of the location of the turret
- Sizeable knobs with good adjustment clicks
- Highly durable Aircraft Grade Aluminum construction
- Quick and easy reticle focusing (Fast Focus Eyepiece)
Cons
- Heavy (31.2 oz)
2) Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Riflescope
Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm is a big deal. The riflescope is a beast when it comes to long-range shooting, coming second to none as far as accuracy and precision are concerned.
Windage and elevation adjustments have 0.1 MOA clicks for insane accuracy. The scope delivers clear pictures regardless of the magnification. You can see anything out to 1000 yards clearly and with high levels of contrast.
Twilight Max HD Light Management System provides additional minutes of shooting light while alleviating glare. Whether you are shooting in the morning, during the day, or evening, the scope promises stellar target views.
The scope is guaranteed for life. It is weatherproof to survive the elements. The glass is robust and will not shatter after a trigger pull. It has scratch-resistant properties for protection.
Take advantage of the magnificent 25x magnification that is easy to adjust using the removable throw lever that works smoothly with consistent resistance throughout the range.
Features
- Fast-focus eyepiece for reticle focusing
- Shockproof construction
- Side focus for parallax removal
- The glass is scratch-resistant
- Twilight Max HD Light Management System
- Versatile 5-25x magnification
- Full Lifetime Guarantee
Pros
- Unmatched low-light functionality
- Precise turret tracking
- The glass is clear and bright
- Precision side focus
- Backed by Leupold’s Full Lifetime Guarantee
- Expert sniper-level performance
- Waterproof/fogproof performance
Cons
- No Custom Dial System (CDS)
3) Element Optics Titan 5-25x56mm Riflescope
Element Optics Titan 5-25x56mm riflescope is a premium .338 RUM choice at a good price. It is ideal for medium to long ranges with its 5-25x magnification.This is your best scope for 308 RUM if you are looking for an affordable option.
Zooming in or out is a breeze using the removable throw lever included in the package. Parallax is adaptable from 10 yards to infinity.
The ED glass is fully multi-coated to deliver clearer and brighter pictures as aided by the huge objective lens.
The turrets have robust stainless steel internals to deal with constant adjustments, as they are frequently made in some shooting applications. A zero stop ensures the turrets are not victims of accidental adjustments.
The riflescope is waterproof and fogproof. Nitrogen filling makes it fogproof to withstand sudden temperature changes.
An illuminated reticle situated on the first focal plane implies it grows larger as you zoom in, making the reticle subtensions true at all magnifications.
Features
- Stable and easy-to-use turret system
- Fully multi-coated 56mm lens with ED glass
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
- Durable aircraft-grade aluminum creation
- Stainless steel internals on the turret system prolong life
- Resettable turrets with no tools required
- A sunshade, lens covers, and lens cloth included
- A removable magnification lever
Pros
- Superb tracking performance
- Rock-solid build
- Illuminated, First Focal Plane Reticle
- Clear glass
- Competitive Pricing
- Removable Magnification Throw Lever
- Tool-Free Resettable Turrets
Cons
- Heavy (39 oz)
4) EOTech Vudu 5-25x50mm Riflescope
This is another fine option for the best scopes for .338 RUM. It has a patented short platform enabling the attachment of a clip-on night vision or thermal device at the front of the scope.
XC high-density, low-dispersion glass with anti-reflective coatings enhanced light transmission and clarity from edge to edge.
O-ring seals prevent moisture penetration that could damage internal components, while nitrogen purging prevents internal fogging in cold or humid conditions. The housing is devised from aircraft-grade aluminum, which is supplemented by an anodized finish.
A locking system on the elevation turret prevents unwanted shifting that could ruin accuracy. Adjustment indicators are laser-etched, and the tough construction handles mishandling and recoil.
Features
- Gigantic 50mm lens for effective light transmission
- Throw lever for effortless magnification alterations
- High-quality glass with special components for stunning image quality
- Sealed and purged for weatherproof performance
- Deals with recoil well
- Single-piece tube
- 45 m to Infinity parallax
- Hard Anodized Finish
Pros
- Windage and elevation adjustments have a precise feel
- The glass is extremely good
- Tracks well
- XC High-Density Glass Optical coating
- Water-resistant and fog-resistant
- Shock-resistant
- Laser-etched adjustment indicators
Cons
- Water resistance to 1m only
5) NightForce ATACR 5-25x56mm Riflescope
NightForce ATACR 5-25x56mm riflescope boasts premium ED glass that produces clear visuals even at extended ranges. It has a first focal plane configuration, implying it gives you consistent reticle values no matter the zoom setting.
The streamlined 34mm tube diameter is a good addition. The windage turret is capped and combined with the marked parallax adjustment to elevate your shooting experience. A zero stop prevents accidental movements for uncompromised accuracy.
Low-light shooting is a breeze with this riflescope. This is thanks to the Digillum illumination, which operates with a single button operation. The settings contrast from dim to extremely bright, so you can choose the one that matches your lighting condition best.
You can manually shut off the illumination manually or rely on the unit to automatically do it after an hour of inactivity. This is a plus for battery saving and saves your money in the long run.
Features
- Power throw lever for instant magnification adjustments
- 34mm tube diameter
- Capped windage turret
- Zero stop function
- Digillum reticle illuminated
- Parallax adjustment has appropriate markings
- ED glass
- The eyepiece has enhanced engraving
Pros
- Digillum illuminationn
- Super clear and bright
- Well-built
- Capped windage adjustments
- Integrated Power Throw Lever (PTLTM)
Cons
- Expensive
6) Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm Riflescope
The Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm is devised with a first focal plane reticle for fast reads across various magnifications and lighting conditions. It is illuminated for precise aiming in dismal lighting.
The massive 56mm objective lens allows passage of maximum light and provides an expansive field of view. The lens is fully multi-coated to protect from damage-carrying elements and enhance image quality.
The extra-low dispersion glass amplifies resolution and contrast for true color images. A throw lever helps to change magnifications without hassle.
The locking turrets are stable and repeatability when making adjustments. They feature the RevStop Zero System for positive and quick return to zero after shifting.
Performance is uninterrupted, even in foul weather, courtesy of the waterproof and fogproof inclusions. It is also shockproof to cope with recoil and vibrations.
Features
- Fully multi-coated 56mm objective lens
- Locking turrets with a RevStop Zero System
- Wide magnification range
- Extra-low dispersion elements on the glass
- Side parallax adjustment
- 34mm tube
- 7 inches of eye relief
Pros
- Reticle illumination
- High-quality optical system
- Easy to use
- Narrow field of view because of the high magnification
Cons
- None
7) Burris Veracity 5-25x50mm Riflescope
Burris Veracity 5-25x50mm riflescope has a 30/30 reticle set-up for more precision when aiming. The scope is tailored from aircraft-grade aluminum that is tough and shockproof.
It handles elements without issue as it is completely waterproof and fogproof. The generous 5-25x magnification range offers accurate medium to long-range shooting.
The 56mm objective lens supports efficient light transmission and has Hi-Lume multi-coating for glare removal and low-light ability. The glass is top-tier to increase brightness and clarity.
The advanced windage and elevation adjustments are fast, accurate, and repeatable. They match the MOA measurement system of the reticle and have zero-click stop adjustment controls that ensure an easy revert to the initial yardage setting without counting clicks.
The side focus helps to adapt parallax from 50 yards to infinity. Glass etching on the first focal plane insinuates that the reticle changes as you zoom in or out. This is advantageous as the reticle markings eliminate the need to do any calculations.
Features
- Index-matched lenses featuring Hi-Lume multi-coating
- 50mm objective lens aids light penetration
- Accurate, repeatable adjustments for windage and elevation
- MOA SCR reticle improves detailed precision
- Nitrogen filled for anti-fog performance
- Holds zero through vibrations, recoil, and shock
- Side focus for adjustment of parallax
Pros
- Remarkable clarity
- Designed for serious big game and varmint hunters
- Surgical precision in long-range shooting
- Crisp adjustments
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
Related:6 Best Vortex Scopes for 1000 Yards
Best Scope for 338 RUM FAQs
What Is 24x Scope Suitable For?
If your target is significantly further than 200 meters away, a scope magnification of 13-14x is recommended. This magnification range is ideal for great visibility areas and wide open spaces where accuracy is pertinent.
How Do I Zero My Scope For .338 RUM?
You need to adjust the scope’s reticle to zero your scope for the cartridge. Doing this ensures the point of impact aligns with the desired point of aim at a particular distance. 100 yards is the standard distance for zeroing.
Is FFP Good for Precision Shooting?
Yes. A first focal plane reticle is highly recommended for precision shooting. Many long-range shooters prefer it because of its effectiveness and versatility.
What Magnification Range is Suitable for the .338 RUM?
The ideal magnification range depends on your intended use. For long-range shooting or hunting, a scope with variable magnification, such as 4-16x,5-25x, or 6-24x, is often recommended. This provides versatility for various distances.
Which Brands are Known for Producing Quality Scopes for High-Caliber Rifles?
Several reputable brands offer scopes suitable for high-caliber rifles, including Leupold, Vortex, Nightforce, Zeiss, and Schmidt & Bender. Consider factors like durability, clarity, and warranty when choosing a brand.
Final Thoughts
The choice of a .338 RUM scope significantly impacts your shooting experience. All the scopes in this guide will make your session. Elevate your shooting game by picking any of them. Happy hunting.