It gets really difficult to choose a riflescope at times. They are almost identical in many cases, they offer similar results and they even look the same, right?
It gets even more difficult when you are trying to choose a unit comparing two devices from the same company. Nikon is a beast when it comes to producing riflescopes or anything focal and both the units that we will talk about in this article are good on their own standards.
They both are new, they both offer regular upgrades and we have seen hundreds of people who have used both successfully to get good results.
At the end of the day, it matters on how you use the device as a comparatively bad unit to naked eye might also produce quality results if rightly dealt with.
So, here is a comparison between two Nikon Riflescopes, all in detail, for you to help you decide that which one should you be getting.
Please read the buying guide to choose the best scope for 308 rifles.
- Nikon P-308 4-12x40 Riflescope
- Rating :
- The lenses have multiple layers, as well as anti reflective features that ensure bright and lively images. Quality pictures from day till night. Quick focus efficiency.
- Completely waterproof, shock proof and fog proof. Nitrogen purged and O ring sealed technology has ensured of such performance.
- Consistent eye protection design. Your eyes and brows will be safe whilst the operation of shooting different angles, recoiling cartridges etc.
- Ballistic Match Technology ensures that you get to have the precise focus points on the device that too at different yardages used for the respective load and ammunition.
- BDC 800 Reticle.
- Quality, focus and 4-12 magnification.
- Nikon M-308 4-16X42 Riflescope
- Rating :
- The lenses are multicoated which improves the picture quality by increasing the light, that is used for bright and clear pictures along with the accuracy of color.
- Completely waterproof, shock proof and fog proof as well. Will work under any weather condition with full efficiency. An anti reflective device included.
- Wider magnification range and four inches space of eye relief.
- Caliber Specific Technology. Specialized for AR-style rifles. Specific cartridges designed for higher adjustments and accuracy. Designed to adjust extra load for long range shooting.
- BDC 800 Reticle.
- Efficient for maximized accuracy.
Riflescope Comparison (P-308 vs M-308)
Let’s talk about the difference in riflescope when it comes to Nikon’s P-308 4-12X40 unit vs the M-308 4-16X42 unit.
Now, as they both are from Nikon, there will be some overlaps and you need to allow that to happen.
Having said that, there are a lot of differences between the two units and you must know them before choosing one. Riflescope is probably one of the most (if not the most) aspect that you will look for in a unit and it gets more difficult here as both offer pretty decent specs.
Let’s start with the speed comparison. With the speed of 2680 feet per second, this one will take care of everything if you are looking for fast results. On the other hand, M 308 will not be offering you the same speed the stability will be out of the world though.
If you care about the outer layer, you should definitely go with M 308. It is not only waterproof but also has a thicker body which will prevent all shock and more importantly, fog if you are in one of those tough environments.
If you are looking for a quick solution (quick focus, easy to install and spot on ballistic) then M series is the ideal solution to choose. Yes, it might be a bit costlier than the P series but the experience will be so much smoother if you are new to this.
On the other hand, if you like glass surface and bright photos, P series is definitely a good pick.
Where it gets difficult is the inability to differentiate these two units based on the ballistic match technology. As they both are from Nikon, they both have identical specs when it comes to that.
Also, they look quite similar if not the exact same if that’s what you are curious about.
Nikon Matte BDC vs M 308- SF 4-16X42
Now, what about the Matte BDC? Is it better than the regular P version to compare with the M series?
Once again, the result would not be pure black or white. It is a gray area.
The first thing you will notice in the matte version is obviously the matte layer on top of everything. I mean, it is in the name, right?
The matte body tube is not only for show. It will cover your windage and it will also provide up to 90 MOA of adjustments which is not available on the M series.
The reticle technology is also something very unique about the matte version that is not there in the regular one. If long range is your thing then this is a no-brainer. No matter what cartridge you pick, you can always get quite good range with the help of this scope.
The glass surface is nothing new and is available on the previous versions too. Therefore, it wouldn’t be wise to judge the scope based on that.
Which one to go for?
From the above comparison, we can see that both of the riflescopes are almost similar in terms of specifications and specialty.
However, even though they function almost in the same way, I would recommend you go with Nikon M-308 4-16X42 Riflescope. Because, even though it shares the same offerings with Nikon P-308 4-12×40 Riflescope, but its actual selling point feature is that it focuses on the accuracy of the images, where the other one focuses more on the targets and angles.
At the end of the day, you would want your outcomes to be as vivid as possible to the eye, so if you are looking for such features, you should buy the second product. And moreover, as well as this key selling point, it comes with all the other advantages that the first one is offering. So you will not be missing out on much either. So, according to our thoughts, the second option would be more efficient.