For the compact and lightweight Ruger Hawkeye .308, you want a scope that won't add too much bulk while delivering crystal-clear performance. Excellent options in your $250–$700 budget include the Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm and the Vortex Viper HS 2.5-10x44.These configurations perfectly complement a short-barrel, maneuverable hunting rifle.Top Scope RecommendationsLeupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm ($500–$600): This is the quintessential deer hunting scope. It is incredibly lightweight (around 13 oz), features phenomenal glass for low-light conditions at dawn and dusk, and has a simple, easy-to-use duplex crosshair.Vortex Viper HS 2.5-10x44 ($500–$600): A highly popular choice for a .308. It strikes a great balance between weight, magnification, and light transmission, allowing for fast target acquisition in the timber while providing enough reach for longer shots.Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-12x40 ($300–$350): If you are on the lower end of your budget, this is an outstanding value. It offers clear glass, a great magnification range for deer, and exceptional durability.

I’d go with a Leupold, you just can’t go
Wrong! The Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40 has Leupold’s low-light optical performance and a lightweight build. It is also has a transferable lifetime warranty. 👀🔥❗️

Best for Hunting ($400 - $500): The Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40 brings Leupold’s elite low-light optical performance and a lightweight build into a versatile package. It is backed by a transferable lifetime warranty.
Trijicon Credo HX 2.5-15x42mm (~$600 - $700): If you want to hunt in a variety of environments (thick timber to open fields), this scope is built like a tank and features forgiving eye relief and illuminated reticles for fast target acquisition in low light. See details on Trijicon.
Vortex Viper HS 2.5-10x44mm (~$250 - $350): A frequent favorite among hunters for its rugged durability and crisp glass. The lower 2.5x magnification is brilliant for dense woods and close shots, while the 10x top end helps you reach out across clearings. Check specs at Vortex Optics.

Hi Scott and welcome. This will be subjective but, three recommended scopes for .308 from low, mid and high end are: Swamp Fox Patriot: -- budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/723042865/patriot+tactical+4-16x44+ffp+mil+30mm+tube+riflescope ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Whiskey: -- budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/155704/whiskey+4+4-16x44+ffp+black+moa ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- and the Trijicon Credo: -- budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/119115/trijicon+2900040+credo+3-9x+40mm+obj+35.50-11.80+ft+@+100+yds+fov+1+tube+matte+black+finish+led+illuminated+green+moa+precision ------------ I also recommend a Picatinny Mount for versatility: --- https://jackweigand.com/products/ruger-m77-mkii-rifle-scope-mounts-no-drill/ ----------- Cheers and stay safe!