The 4 Best 300 Blackout Scopes in 2022 - Reviews and Guide for Optics


As a gun enthusiast, chances are you probably remember very vividly the time you got your very first AR-15. You probably marveled at the accuracy, speed, and efficiency of this high-powered weapon.


However, as time goes by, the new will definitely wear off with everything, and this includes your AR-15. Is operating your AR-15 getting boring?


If so, you probably need to do something to spice it up

Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen I 6-24x50 FFP Riflescope - EBR-2C MOA Reticle zoom

It just might be a time for you to explore a new shooting niche. You can start by taking a look at some new and sturdy shooting accessories, such as the 300 BLK.

Of course, there is one dominant question that this piece will attempt to answer: just what is so special about the 300 BLK AR-15 rifle accessory? Why should you choose it? There are a number of reasons why. Just consider some of the following:

best 300 blackout scope

There is a long list of advantages.

There is actually one major reason why you should choose this rifle scope, but it encompasses a great deal of advantages, to say the least.


First of all, the 300 BLK is fitted with a lower powder charge, meaning that it can save you much more barrel life than a normal accessory. This cartridge will also help you stay within many state hunting license regulations, and you can even use it without a suppressor!


You will also find that this cartridge will do well with either a suppressed AR-15 or in any activity where you are engaged in short-range shots. If that wasn't all, this accessory also has many subsonic features. It's definitely a fun AR-15 tool to have, no doubt about it!

Your bullets will cover much longer distances.

The beauty of the 300 BLK accessory is that it will help you to cover much longer distances with all of your bullets. For example, your rifle will be able to go as far as 300 yards.


Moreover, it will go between 150 to 300 yards in the medium range, and it will hit the target from as much as 150 yards in the close range designation. Of course, as most gun enthusiasts know, this isn't the most powerful cartridge.


However, it's very hard to beat the quiet capacity of this magazine and the sheer effectiveness of it at a close range. Despite all of these descriptions, this cartridge is also capable of going further. One of our favorite aspects of this cartridge has to be the immense versatility that it possesses.

So what do you think about all of the benefits the 300 BLK might be able to offer you?

If you are looking to improve your short shot or simply looking to take on some longer distances, then the 300 BLK is for you. You should consider getting a scope simply because it will be beneficial for both of these endeavors.


Moreover, a scope is definitely growing in popularity and will help you in an immense amount of ways. First of all, have you ever had a hard time figuring out what magnification you might need?


If that is the case, then there are definitely certain cartridges that you should work with. However, it can be difficult to do so and there will certainly be a bit of a learning curve. However, this is precisely the reason why many of these 300 blackout scopes exist in the first place.


They have many options for you, but you just have to remember that even with scopes there isn't a one-size-fits-all example. First of all, you should consider the characteristics of some of the ranges on an AR-15 300 BLK.

Understanding Scope Ranges

Long Distance – 300 yards

As noted previously, this range is the longest one. However, it isn't very likely that you will be able to take down much game with this range simply because the caliber has a very modest penetration.


However, this range will definitely keep your stock high among your friends because they will find the power of this scope very impressive.

Medium Distance – 150 yards

There are a lot of farmers and ranchers who like this range simply because any coyotes or foxes who try to trespass on your property will be in for a very bad day indeed. Moreover, this medium range will help you clear your area of other varmints just by using 5 - 9x penetration.

Shorter Range – up to 149 yards

At this range, there is no question that you will be able to hit a bullseye absolutely dead-center. This is one of those ranges that almost everyone loves simply because it is so easy to hit small game.


If you are looking at going with this range, be aware that using one to 4x magnification will usually get the job done very well for you.

What kind of scope do you need?

Now that we fully understand all of the ranges and their usefulness, it is now time to get a good grasp on all of the scopes.


The four best scopes for the 300 Blackout model would be options such as the Nikon P-300, the BDC 2-7x32mm Riflescope UTG, the 3-12x44 30mm Compact Scope Vortex Optics, the Diamondback HP 4-16x42mm, or the Nikon M-300 BLK 1.5-6x42mm Riflescope.


Let us know if you have a desire to know more.

How do I go about finding my next scope?

There is no question that finding your next scope can be a bit of a challenge. However, there are many good options for you to consider. Please read below to find the most popular scopes.

Top 4 300 Blackout Scopes 


Scope Image

Scope

Price

Nikon P-300 BDC SuperSub Reticle Riflescope, Black, 2-7x32

Nikon P-300 BDC SuperSub Reticle Riflescope, Black, 2-7x32

UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope, AO, 36-color Mil-dot, Rings

UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope, AO, 36-color Mil-dot, Rings

Vortex Optics Diamondback HP 4-16x42 Second Focal Plane Riflescope - Dead-Hold BDC Reticle (MOA)

Vortex Optics Diamondback HP 4-16x42 Second Focal Plane Riflescope - Dead-Hold BDC Reticle (MOA)

Nikon M-300 BLK 1.5-6x42mm Riflescope,SuperSub Reticle

Nikon M-300 BLK 1.5-6x42mm Riflescope,SuperSub Reticle

Now let’s get down to business with the

top 4  300 Blackout Scopes  


1. Nikon P-300 BDC SuperSub Reticle Riflescope, Black, 2-7x32

Nikon P-300 BDC SuperSub Reticle Riflescope, Black, 2-7x32

If you have enjoyed Nikon's M and P series in the past, then you are sure to enjoy this latest Nikon P-300 option. It features a ton of firepower, and it is just waiting for you to use some 300 Blackout Rounds on it. This Nikon P-300 is definitely going to work well for you, but like everything else in life, there is a catch.


You will first of all have to get your aim in just the right spot. After that, all you have to do is keep your turrets locked in and then snap them back with every shot.You just have to make sure that you always employ the lifting and releasing function in order to find zero each and every time.


If you pair this with a transmission that is 98% light, you will have the luxury of always being able to see completely clear ahead. Indeed, there are many who are impressed with the calibration of the 300 Blackout Cartridge. It literally has the ability to shoot the increments as long as even 600 yards!


Of course, this is divided into 100-yard increments, which are marked off by an open circular point design complete with its own hashmark. If this weren't the only feature that was special to the 300 Blackout, it would be amazing. However, there is definitely more than just that.


No, this particular Riflescope product also possesses a neat feature called the Nikon Supersub BDC Reticle. If you're rolling your eyes after reading that, don't. Yes, it might be like just any other BDC reticle at first glance, but the Nikon actually made this BDC for the express purpose of subsonic and supersonic ammunition.


That's right, folks. This reticle was actually MADE FOR the 300 Blackout. It's a simple principle, really: Nikon's ballistics specifications are definitely unique, so you definitely should have a unique BDC to match this. You certainly wouldn't want every shot you take leaving you doubting the power of this device.

The Final Verdict

This lightweight work of art will give you locking turrets, near-flawless light transmission, and this brand will even throw in that unique reticle all for an incredibly unbeatable low price.

PROS

  • Features the all-new BDC SuperSub Reticle designed for Subsonic and Supersonic ammunition.
  • Made with Nikon's fully multicoated optics for maximum brightness and light transmission.
  • A quick focus eyepiece allows the shooter to instantly bring the reticle into focus.
  • Adjustments are made easy with Spring-Loaded Instant Zero-Reset Turrets.

CONS

  • Under lower light conditions the reticle is relatively difficult to use.

2. UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope, AO, 36-color Mil-dot, Rings

UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope, AO, 36-color Mil-dot, Rings

This version is great because it possesses an immense amount of almost instant versatility. For example, let's say you need short range in the field. You can do that almost immediately. However, let's say that you need to quickly switch to long range a short time later.


The beauty of this brand is that you can easily switch back and forth, and will often be able to do it with just a 1/4 MOA designation. You also will never have to worry about your aiming game, either. This is due in part to the fact that you can always count on the crosshairs holding steady, and not just at ten yards or less.


They will hold steady almost into infinity; you will never have to worry about parallax with this version. It doesn't matter if your target is ten yards away or 400 yards away, the crosshairs on your device will always remain as straight and steady as possible.


You will find that the side wheel adjustable turret (SWAT) is a great way for you to accomplish this even if it is a little bit tighter than it should be. However, the only other issue you might encounter would be the heftiness of the scope; it does add an extra two pounds to your rifle. Granted, this can either be a negative or a positive; some actually prefer this extra weight on their rifle.


Of course, whether you like it or not, you should be aware that it will take some practice for you to get fully used to it. Naturally, all of this might seem like bad news and some of the more negative aspects of this product, but you can rest assured that there are quite a few positives regarding this option as well.


First of all, you should be aware that one of the main benefits of zero locking turrets would have to be the immense amount of time and labor that you save while you're out in the field. Additionally, you will notice that all you have to do is simply zero in and lock the mechanism, and then you are pretty well set.


This action encompasses all the firing action you need simply because on your next shot after setting the mechanism all you will need to do is simply give the trigger a small tap.

Be aware of the Illumination Enhancing (IE) Reticle

Another great feature of this option would be the Illumination Enhancing (IE) Reticle. It will of course come down to personal preference, but those who like this option will literally call it the light of their eyes.


This is because the IE mode possesses more than three-dozen different types of color options to complement the emerald lens, which is already high-quality anyhow.


Switching through them is not difficult at all; it just will take the simple tap of a button. Additionally, once you find one you like, all you have to do is lock it in and snap to it, and the beauty of it is that the whole entire thing will usually take no longer than a few seconds!


Even though the IE feature does have a tendency to make a scope just a bit heavier, proponents of this feature realize that it is well-worth the extra tiny hassle.

The Final Verdict

UTG can give you the biggest benefits from even the smallest packages. You will be able to cover a tremendous distance even though this piece of equipment is only under a foot long.


Moreover, you will not waste any time because of how easily the features on this UTG will fall into place.

PROS

  • 30-millimeter SWAT 3-12X44 IE tactical range estimating scope with mil-dot, full 36-color EZ Tap reticle.
  • Best in class multi emerald coated lenses; integrated angled front sunshade complete with flip-open lens caps.
  • Special circuit and housing design for uninterrupted illumination even under heavy recoil.
  • Premium zero locking and zero resetting target turrets with most consistent and precise adjustment; lifetime warranty.

CONS

  • If not mounted properly there might be double vision.

3. Vortex Optics Diamondback HP 4-16x42 Second Focal Plane Riflescope - Dead-Hold BDC Reticle (MOA)

Vortex Optics Diamondback HP 4-16x42 Second Focal Plane Riflescope - Dead-Hold BDC Reticle (MOA)

The beauty of the Vortex is that they will give you everything you need in one scope without over-relying

on the flashy features that many other scope companies have a tendency to do. They also realize that they shouldn't make a scope that simply does all of the work for you, rather, this is a scope that is simply good at what it has been tasked to do.


The Vortex is outfitted with an aluminum build that is even of aircraft quality, and it will resist heavy recoil and remain durable in even the most extreme environments. Additionally, this product has an immense amount of argon gas in order to prevent water leakage incidents and your lens becoming foggy. It will travel real easily simply because it also comes with a nifty accessory lens cap.


Moreover, it will not weigh down the whole entire system, as even with all of these things it will still barely even tip the scales at just a hair under one pound. This is a long-range gun that is very straightforward; there is no question about that.


However, the best thing about this brand is that you would be hard-pressed to find a brand at this price and in this organized a manner without totally breaking the bank. Simply put, you can save money with this one!


Indeed, about the only downside we could find regarding this product is that the parallax appears to be unreliable past 50 yards. However, Vortex has worked hard to include options that will definitely make up for this defect.


They do this by introducing a stunning concept called the Dead-Hold Reticle. This remarkable BDC reticle is an innovative product that has been developed only by Vortex, and it works incredibly well simply by reducing the guesswork from such things as windage or holdover specifications.


There is no question that you will have the confidence for a shot of dead-eye accuracy. Of course, there will still be some moments where you aren't quite sure what to do. However, the windage and elevation pop-up dials will assist you in fine tuning the situation.


You will be able to completely fine-tune your scope work because you will be assisted by highly audible clicks that will alert you to any anomalies.

The Final Verdict

It doesn't matter whether you are a beginner or just some who is a bit free-spirited with your shots, this scope will quickly become an asset in your arsenal. It has the ability to help you crush targets completely at close range, but it can also help you to hit the bullseye from areas as far away as 1000 yards.


The fact that you can do all of this without any learning curve is also a huge bonus, and this Vortex can also make a good M4 optic as well!

PROS

  • The Diamondback HP 4-16x42 builds upon the Diamondback series with additional features for hunters and shooters to appreciate. 
  • Dead-Hold BDC reticle is good for any hunting or shooting at varying ranges where estimating hold-over would be a concern.
  • Extra-low dispersion glass and XR fully multi-coated lenses result in a sharper, clearer picture with increased light transmission.
  • A 4x zoom range extends magnification versatility.

CONS

  •  It may not track.

4. Nikon M-300 BLK 1.5-6x42mm Riflescope,SuperSub Reticle

Nikon M-300 BLK 1.5-6x42mm Riflescope,SuperSub Reticle

This Nikon scope is actually a close relative to the P-300 series because it has enough solid characteristics to make a good comparison. First of all, this Nikon will adjust at a clear and distinct quarter MOA click, and it will give you the ability to zero in almost seemingly in your sleep.


Moreover, it will often use the same SuperSub BDC that is utilized just for 300 Blackout Cartridges, and it will give you greater light transmission and a wider field of view at whatever power you might choose. This will definitely be beneficial to you in open environments, but unfortunately, it could quickly become a burden if you are trying to work your way through mountainous environments or other types of closed terrain.


Finally, Nikon is able to pull yet another rabbit out of a hat with their ability to present only the best optics. They have the Illumination Enhancing Reticle (IE) options, which not only help you fire at will very rapidly, but they do it in as sneaky a manner as possible. These reticles can function in just about any light condition as well!

The Final Verdict

Which one should you choose? Well, that is entirely up to you. After you fully analyze your current situation, you should be able to determine just which one of these will fully meet your needs.


Just remember that the Vortex is good as a long-shot option; the P-series is good in a sheltered environment; the M-Series is good for less-than-perfect light conditions; and the UTG gives everyone the happy medium that they need to perform well in a number of different situations.

PROS

  • Large magnification range with oversized lens great for heavy caliber rifles.
  • Quick-focus Eyepiece allows for instant target acquisition.
  • Bright, fully multi-coated optical System.
  • Fog proof, waterproof, shockproof.

CONS

  • The windage and elevation knobs might easily turn when the rifle is pulled from a flat position.

George Grey

About the author

Being an avid outdoorsman since I can remember, my passion for survival, hunting and the outdoors has grown every year. I love being out in the country and living off it whenever time allows. Huge Rifle Scopes aficionado!

George Grey