Nice optics but be aware of a few things - Nikon M-308 4-16x42mm Rifle Scope

First of all, this review does not reflect on this scope's capability as I haven't fully range tested it. I believe that many of the previous reviews attest to the abilities of the BDC feature, which is one of the main reasons I purchased it. Reputation does mean a lot, and I do think that Nikon offers a great value for the money.

My rifle is a POF .308 with a 16.5" barrel. One of the challenges I will be faced with is trying to create a handload to match Nikon's BDC system. In order to accomplish that, I will need to really push the limits as the scope requires a 168 grains bullet having a muzzle velocity of about 2,700 fps. I may struggle to accomplish that with a short barrel. If I fail, I will have two options. #1 I can use Nikon's Spot On web site and apply the velocity I accomplish for my rifle, or #2 I can custom order an elevation turret that matches my ammo ($99). I just want the purchaser to be aware of this nuance as you ARE purchasing a scope with a fixed BDC intended for a very specific load and velocity. Most of us will not shoot this exact load. Variances in velocity due to barrel length is the reason.

The other thing is be prepared to open the box with some disappointment as well as a surprise. If you visit the Nikon website and then return to Optics Planet and blindly order using Nikon's description of what's included, you'll discover they will not match. Nikon's website indicates that the M308 mount is included. IT IS NOT! This means that you WILL have to buy additional mount and/or rings. What was a surprise to me though was the included killFLASH ARD attachment. That was a nice bonus, but I could see why a purchaser could be ticked to learn that they thought a scope mount was included and feel cheated. I'm not sure why this changed, but it was not a big deal for me.

One thing to also consider is the large eyepiece. My POF is a flattop receiver, but I installed Troy back up sights. I had intended to mount this scope on a Bobro mount, but wasn't so sure it would clear the rear folding sight. I was glad I brought my rifle to the local Indy 1500 gun show, as a dealer helped me determine that mount wouldn't work with this scope with the folding rear sight. I ended up using a short riser and Weaver steel Extra High set of Grand Slam lever mount rings. The scope package does sit up a little higher than I want, but everything cleared, and I saved about $160.00. I had my heart set on the Bobro mount though. My point is expect a higher mount if you wish to clear a folding sight. At least the lever mount accomplishes the ability to remove the scope and have it reset to zero.

There were a couple of other reviews on this web site that indicated the difficulty in being able to get on target in low light conditions. I have played with this in low light, and thought it did extremely well. My only complaint is the loss of sight picture at higher magnifications if you move your head too much out of alignment with the eyepiece. This isn't unusual behavior, but should be considered if you compete in timed events at long distances. After all, this isn't a one thousand dollar scope, and shouldn't be compared to such. For me, investing in a five hundred dollar scope for a two thousand dollar rifle made good sense. It just cracks me up the price some people pay for scopes 3 to 4 as much with only marginally better performance. Nikon does have a lifetime warranty and very good customer service.

For me this was a great deal!

One last thing. My choice of recticle was the Nikoplex. I decided having the BDC turret with a standard recticle is more natural than having an eyepiece full of etching. I am more of a recreational shooter at fixed ranges. Otherwise, I would just get a BDC recticle and zero it in with ordinary turrets that are shorter as all the turret adjustments wouldn't be necessary. My choice wouldn't be the best for anyone wanting to make quick adjustments with a wide degree of ranges though.