Finding the best scopes for .338 Marlin Express can be a tough exercise. We know this too well; no wonder we have handpicked the best scopes to make selecting a good scope as easy as child’s play. Whether you are a seasoned hunter or a newcomer to this shooting world, you will surely find a scope to suit your needs.
The .338 Marlin Express has earned a place among hunters and shooters because of its majestic performance, merging power and accuracy in a lever-action rifle. The cartridge begs a good scope that is versatile and effective to perform at its best.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Scopes For .338 Marlin Express
Ease of Adjustment
Most scopes have windage and elevation adjustments. Others also included a parallax knob for setting parallax. Turrets are used to make these adjustments. The best scopes for .338 Marlin Express should have tactile and crisp clicks to confirm when adjustments have been made. Besides, they should not be super easy to adjust to the extent that they unintentionally mess up your settings. To cater to this, some scopes have a locking mechanism that keeps the turret in position.
Reticle
A popular type among hunting scopes is the Duplex reticle. Its lines thicken a short distance from the center, allowing the reticle to stand out against a dark background with minimal visual clutter.
Other common types include Mil-dot and BDC, which offer additional information helping you to make windage and elevation adjustments without fiddling with the turrets.
A good reticle is one that you are comfortable using and suits your shooting situation.
Image Quality
The quality of the lenses determines image quality. Scopes for .338 Marlin Express should allow efficient light penetration, which contributes to image quality. They should also have anti-reflection to minimize glare and light loss. The best scopes for .338 Marlin Express have fully multi-coated lenses that boost image clarity and offer scratches and scuffs protection.
Weatherproofing
There are high chances of encountering harsh weather conditions on your mission. A scope without weather protection is a waste of money, as you will have to stop hunting in the not-so-ideal weather conditions. The scope can be damaged, making you go to the market to get another scope. To prevent this, get a scope that is completely waterproof and fogproof. This is evident through inclusions like gas purging and o-ring seals.
8 Best Scopes for .338 Marlin Express
1) Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x50mm Riflescope
If you are low on budget, Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x50mm is an ideal option. It harbors spectacular features, although it is economical. It is so good it will leave you wondering why you haven’t been using it.
The scope has maximum strength and rigidity because it is finished with aircraft-grade aluminum. A good scope for .336 Marlin Express must be weather-tight; thankfully, this Vortex offering is waterproof and fogproof.
Anti-reflective fully multi-coated lenses heighten light-gathering capacity, generating stellar images. A fast-focus eyepiece makes reticle focusing a cinch, allowing speedy target acquisition.
You will love the finger-adjustable capped reset turrets with MOA clicks that easily return to zero after sighting in. The eye relief is long, and the eyebox is forgiving, making it easy to see and obtain the target.
Features
- High-strength single-piece tube
- Fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Finger-adjustable turrets with caps
- 50mm objective lens
- Fully multi-coated
- Eyepiece with a fast focus
Pros
- Performs as great as it appears
- Formidable clarity
- Reasonable pricing
- VIP warranty gives you peace of mind
Cons
- None
2) Vortex Crossfire II AO 6-18x44mm Riflescope
Another Crossfire model is this one with a superb magnification going as high as 18x. This generous magnification makes the scope ideal for endless applications and will exemplify performance regardless of range.
The single-piece tube includes nitrogen purging and o-ring seals for relentless performance in all weather. The entire body is assembled from aircraft-grade aluminum, which is resilient and sturdy.
Turrets are essential in any scope as they facilitate fast and successful targeting. Those in the Crossfire II do not disappoint. The MOA turrets are resettable and achieve maximum repeatability when altering windage and elevation.
The adjustable objective eliminates parallax and maximizes image focus. Instant reticle focusing is achieved by the fast-focusing design.
The lens system is fully multi-coated to enhance light transmission, translating to clear and bright pictures. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is another add-on, so estimating holdover is not needed; the reticle will do it for you.
The scope has a reasonable price tag despite the advanced features it brings to the table.
Features
- The magnification provides a wide field of view and precision at close and long ranges respectively
- 44mm objective lens
- Adjustable objective rids parallax
- Fully multi-coated optics
- MOA turrets with a resettable functionality
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- The tube is purged and sealed for weather protection
- Shockproof
Pros
- Awe-inspiring construction
- Crisp and clear image delivery
- Easy on your wallet
Cons
- 150 hours of battery life could be better
3) Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm Riflescope
Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm is not a mere tool; it is a game-changer and will dramatically elevate your .338 Marlin Express shooting. This powerhouse is tailored with a precision glide erector system that makes magnification changeovers seamless, even in extreme conditions.
Tactical turrets facilitate windage and elevation adjustments and have a zero reset, which makes returning to zero quick and stress-free. There are components in the erector spring system responsible for maximum repeatability.
Notably, this scope is devised from quality aluminum complemented by a hard anodized finish. Inside the scope are o-ring seals and nitrogen purging that protect the components from dirt, moisture, and fast temperature fluctuations.
Impeccable views that are brighter, clearer, high-resolution, and color-accurate are the outcome of the XD glass and fully multi-layered XR coatings.
The glass etching on the reticle provides an intricate, reliable, long-lasting design.
Features
- The scale of the reticle varies depending on the magnification
- Strong 30mm tube
- 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Low-glare matte exterior with outstanding durability
- Fully multi-coated with XD elements
- Magnification rib for smooth alterations
Pros
- Easy reticle focusing
- Good at dealing with recoil and weather adversaries
- Decent clarity
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
4) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope
Leupold VX-Freedom comes with 3-9x magnification and a 40mm objective lens. You can be certain that the light collection power of the scope is decent.
The scope comes with the Twilight Light Management System that increases shooting light and minimizes glare in case you’re shooting during the day.
The scope gets lots of praise when it comes to durability. The 6061-T6 aircraft-grade formation explains why. The weight and length are perfect, promoting an easy time when carrying or using the scope.
The matte black design and scratch-resistant lenses testify to the manufacturer’s dedication to producing a high-quality, long-lasting riflescope.
Add the waterproof and fogproof capability of the scope, and you are lucky to have a scope that will be through the most adverse conditions and continue to perform flawlessly.
Features
- Second focal plane
- Variable magnification
- Twilight light management system
- Generous eye relief of 3.7 to 4.2 inches
- Lenses are scratch-resistant
- One-inch weatherproof and shockproof tube
- MOA adjustments
Pros
- Wide field of view
- Cost-effective
- Ideal weight and length for easy handling
Cons
- Fixed Parallax
5) Burris Fullfield 3-9x40mm Riflescope
The Fullfield line of scopes is a relatively affordable line that gives hunters and shooters everything they desire in a scope. The Fullfield II 3-9x40mm riflescope has Hi-Lume multi-coated lenses that ensure breathtaking views with plenty of brightness, clarity, and sharpness minus glare.
The riflescope is waterproof and has nitrogen filling that keeps it fogproof. The integrated eyepiece is robust with a grip that is non-slip for headache-free adjustments on the go.
This Ballistic Plex scope’s tube is resistant to shock and vibrations. It will hold zero even when faced with harsh conditions.
With this reticle, you don’t have to worry about bullet drop as the scope handles it for you. Repeated accuracy will be yours with the positive steel-on-steel adjustments.
Features
- Fashioned from aircraft-grade aluminum
- Ballistic Plex reticle
- 3.1 to 3.4 inches of eye relief
- Multiple layers of Hi-Lume coating
- Capped knobs for adjustments
- Medium size and weight
- The tube is filled with dry nitrogen gas for performance in all conditions
Pros
- Versatile
- Great value for money
- Easy to adjust
- Generous eye relief range
Cons
- No reticle illumination
6) ATN X-Sight LTV 3-9x30mm Day/Night Hunting Riflescope
The ATN X-Sight is a straightforward unit with no frills that is available at a price that is hard to match. Image quality is excellent, whether day or night, with crispness and vividness you will absolutely love.
One Shot Zero makes sighting in a breeze. All you have to do is take a shot, adjustment the reticle, and you’re done. The lithium battery provides a neat operating time of more than 10 hours so that you can have peace of mind when hunting in the early morning hours or during twilight. The need to change batteries over and over will also be eliminated.
Mounting is as easy as the actual manipulation. Once you’ve mounted the scope, you will not experience struggles using the controls as the scope has no bells and whistles that can cause fiddling.
The ATN quick detach mount is a valuable addition. You can take advantage of the profile manager of your scope and switch it from one platform to another without losing your zero.
Features
- Expansive field of view
- 720P quality recording of your footage
- The interface is user-friendly
- One Shot Zero
- 3-9x magnification
- The battery has more than 10 hours of run time
- Includes 30mm standard rings
Pros
- Ease of use
- It doesn’t take a toll on your savings
- Powerful battery
Cons
- Short battery life (10+ hours)
7) Vortex Viper HS 4-16x44mm Riflescope
Another top product that is a match for .338 Marlin Express is the Vortex Viper HS 4-16x44mm riflescope. It has a side focus adjustment on the left side, which promotes easy access as well as parallax elimination.
The XR full multi-coating fetches plenty of light, creating high brightness and clear images with no chromatic aberration. The XD glass increases resolution and color fidelity, making the images crispier.
The single-piece tube is fabricated from tough aluminum and has weatherproof capabilities. It is also shockproof to withstand vibrations and impact.
The caps on the turrets protect against harsh elements. Their resettable mechanism promotes fast reindexing to zero after sighting in.
Another aspect which is a plus is the exclusive Armortek coating found on Vortex riflescopes. The application fights scratches, dirt, and oil, maintaining the flawless functionality of the lenses.
The Mag-view fiber optic offers a visible point for power settings, while the fast-focus eyepiece hands an unfair edge when focusing the reticle. This helps you get onto the target in no time.
Features
- Smooth power adjustments using the precision glide erector system
- Side focus adjustment knob
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Hard anodized matte finish
- The coating on the lenses is dirt and scratch-resistant
- Argon purging prevents internal fogging
- Tight o-ring seals for waterproofing
- 3omm tube
- The reticle is on the second focal plane
Pros
- Decent low-light ability
- Perfect adjustment knobs
- Edge-to-edge clarity is superior
- Splendid reticle
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
8) Leupold VX-Freedom 6-18x40mm Riflescope
We wrap things up with this Leupold VX-Freedom 6-18x40mm riflescope. Experience surgical precision and accuracy when you mount this unit on your .338 Marlin Express.
Aside from being extremely accurate, the scope is hyper-durable. It is ruggedly engineered from high-quality aluminum and has scratch-resistant lenses.
The VX-Freedom is waterproof and fogproof; hence will endure hunting woes come rain come sunshine. It has been extreme recoil tested for unchangeable performance under recoil or vibrations.
Another good thing about it is the Twilight Light Management System that makes low-light shots a snap. This technology improves light penetration all day long. The 40mm objective lens is large enough to allow in good light.
Also, an ergonomic power selector helps with fast magnification changes in impromptu events.
Features
- High contrast adjustment markings that are easy to read
- 30mm tube size
- Extreme recoil tested
- Forged from aircraft-grade aluminum
- Twilight Light Management System
- Power selector for effortless transitions
Pros
- Less weight ideal for hunting
- Fine glass clarity
- Sufficient eye relief
- Accuracy is on point
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
What Magnification Do You Need?
The magnification you need is based on individual preferences and the type of shooting or hunting. For engaging targets at close ranges or hunts in dense woods, 2-6x magnification is adequate.
A medium to high magnification scope is required for longer-range shots and hunting in open plains. One with 4-12x will give you an upper hand.
You will be better off with a variable magnification scope as it enables you to change the settings to suit various circumstances. A scope with 3-9x or 4-12x effectively covers a wide range of distances.
Read: 8 Best Spotting Scopes under $1000
Conclusion
Ultimately, the best scope for .338 Marlin Express comes down to your shooting needs and preferences. Remember that a scope is not just a tool; it is the bridge between you and the target, so choose wisely. Any of the recommendations above are pretty great options.