5 Best Scopes for 30-06

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This is a detailed review of the best scope for 30-06 recommendations. Let’s dive in.

Do you spend most of your leisure time hunting mid-sized and large game? Most probably you are using a 30-06 rifle which is one of the most popular hunting rifles in the world.

As a hunting rifle, it has moderate recoil which makes it ideal even for inexperienced hunters. If you use this rifle to hunt, you probably have been searching for a compatible scope which is one handy item when hunting.

Hunters’ needs differ and so do scopes qualities. Most hunters using this rifle will be shooting long-range therefore they will need a scope with a proper magnification range with a large objective lens.

With the wide range of scopes available for the .30-06, there comes a wide range of quality too.

Some are expensive but of exceptional quality, others cost less but of poor quality and there are those that strike a balance between affordability, quality, and performance just like the -30-06 has done to hunters.

What Size of Scope Do I Need for a 30-06?

The best scope magnification for a .30-06 rifle can vary depending on your intended use and shooting conditions. Here are some general guidelines to help you choose the right magnification range for your .30-06 rifle:

If you plan to use your .30-06 for close to medium-range shooting, such as hunting in dense woods or engaging targets at shorter distances, a low magnification scope in the range of 1-4x or 1-6x can be a good choice. It provides a wide field of view, making it easier to acquire targets quickly in close quarters.

For all-around versatility, a medium magnification scope in the range of 3-9x or 4-12x is a popular choice for .30-06 rifles. This magnification range allows you to engage targets at moderate distances with good precision while still providing enough field of view for close-range encounters.

If you intend to use your .30-06 for long-range shooting, such as varmint hunting or precision target shooting, a high magnification scope with 12x or higher can be beneficial. This will allow you to see distant targets more clearly and make precise shots at extended ranges.

Best Scope for 30-06-Top Recommendations

 

Here is a summary of the best 30-06 scopes

 

1) Vortex Diamondback HP 4-16x42mm Rifle Scope

Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-16x42 SFP

 

  • Weight:18 oz
  • Length: 12.5 inches
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 42 mm
  • Magnification: 4 – 16 x
  • Reticle: Dead-Hold BDC / V-Plex
  • Tube Diameter: 1 inch

 

2) Simmons 8-point 3-9x50mm Riflescope

 

Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope

 

 

  • Weight:13.2 oz
  • Length:14 inches
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
  • Magnification: 3 – 9x
  • Reticle: Truplex
  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm

 

 

3) Vortex Viper HST 6-24x50mm Rifle Scope

Vortex Viper HST 6-24x50mm Rifle Scope

 

  • Weight:22.6 oz
  • Length:15.5 inches
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
  • Magnification: 6 – 24 x
  • Reticle: VMR-1
  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm

 

 

4) Burris Fullfield II 4.5-14×42 mm Rifle Scope

Burris Fullfield II 4.5-14x42mm Ballistic Plex Riflescope

 

  • Weight:18.6 oz
  • Length:13.8 inches
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm
  • Magnification: 4.5 – 14 x
  • Reticle: Ballistic Plex
  • Tube Diameter: 1 inch

 

 

5) Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44mm Rifle Scope

Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44mm Rifle Scope

 

  • Weight:19 oz
  • Length:13.5 inches
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 44 mm
  • Magnification: 3 – 18 x
  • Reticle: Firedot duplex
  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm

 

 

 

 

Now let’s comprehensively go through the riflescopes.

 

1) Vortex Diamondback HP 4-16x42mm Rifle Scope

Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-16x42 SFP

 

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As one of the Best scopes for 30-06  this  Diamondback 4-16×42 SFP comes equipped with an array of high-quality features that you won’t find in other scopes.

It features 4x-12x magnification settings and a 40mm objective lens which is multicoated to enhance light transmission even in low-light conditions.

The lens is integrated with a fast focus eye-piece to let you focus your reticle fast.

When paired with the .30-06 the excellent BDC reticle of this scope will increase your effectiveness and distance accuracy by orders of magnitude. This scope is also sturdy enough to withstand the heavy recoil that rifle cartridges produce.

This is the ideal scope for hunting and shooting at varying ranges where estimating holdover would be a concern.

Features

  • 4x zoom offers highly versatile magnification.
  • Dead-Hold BDC reticle is good for hunting or shooting at varying ranges where estimating hold-over would be a concern.
  • Fully multicoated lenses for crystal clear bright images from dawn till dusk.
  • Fast focus eyepiece allows for quick and simple reticle focusing.
  • Metal-on-metal precision turrets provide the ability to zero reset after sight-in.
  • A solid one-piece tube with a hard anodized finish creates a shockproof and durable scope while helping camouflage the shooter’s position.
  • Waterproof and fog-proof properties make it ideal to be used in any weather conditions.

 

2) Simmons 8-point 3-9x50mm Riflescope

 

Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope

 

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This Simmons 8-point 50mm front end gathers more light enabling you to use your air rifle even in low-light conditions.

The Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope with Truplex Reticle features high-quality glass and fully multi-coated lenses that enhance light transmission for a brighter, higher-contrast image.

Its variable magnification enables the user to make that coveted headshot to guarantee a clean shot and its ¼ MOA SureGrip audible click windage and elevation adjustments help you dial in your shot.

It has a Quick Action Target eyepiece that enables easy target acquisition.

Features

  • Waterproof, recoil-proof, and fog-proof.
  • QTA eyepiece for fast and easy target acquisition.
  • Fully multi-coated, high-quality optics for the bright, high-contrast target image.
  • 1/4-MOA sure grip audible click windage and elevation adjustments.
  • 3-9x magnification. 50mm objective lens. 3.75-inch eye relief. 60” adjustment range at 100 yards.
  • True Zero fingertip windage and elevation adjustment system.
  • Triplex reticle.
  • Matte black finish.

 

3) Vortex Viper HST 6-24x50mm Rifle Scope

 

Vortex Viper PST 6-24X50 FFP MOA

 

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The magnification power of this riflescope is so high that you don’t need a spotting scope making it one of the best scopes for 30-06 rifles.

The scope’s glass, reticle, construction, and internal mechanism have a precision shooting tactical design.

It has a 50mm objective lens diameter which is large enough to produce bright and clear images.

You can, therefore, go hunting at any time of the day without worrying about lighting.

This Vortex Riflescope has a generous zoom range that makes it easier for you to aim at and acquire your target.

It is O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged to deliver waterproof and shockproof performance.

Features

  • O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged to deliver waterproof and shockproof performance.
  • Extra-low dispersion XD
  • The glass increases resolution and color fidelity giving you crystal-clear images.
  • Similar reticle and turret measurements allow accurate, fast dialing of shots.
  • A single-piece tube built from aircraft-grade aluminum ensures strength and shockproof performance.
  • Customized rotational stop helps return to zero after dialing temporary elevation correction.

 

4) Burris Fullfield II 4.5-14x42mm Ballistic Plex Riflescope

Burris Fullfield II 4.5-14x42mm Ballistic Plex Riflescope

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This is a short and long-range shooting riflescope designed for hunting, tactical, and target shooting.

Its high versatility makes it one of the ideal scopes to use with the 30-06.

It has a magnification range between 4.5-14x ideal for shooting a wide range of targets.

You can match this scope with any bullet weight or caliber, giving yourself more value for money.

This scope is also one of the best when it comes to accuracy at the range of its parallax adjustment.

It has coated lenses to optimize contrast, resolution, and performance even in low light conditions. It is also waterproof and fog proof.

Features

  • Completely waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof.
  • 1-piece tube construction, reinforced quad-seal gas seals, and Hi-Lume Multi-coated lenses.
  • Common and premium traditional hunting riflescopes at an affordable price.
  • It can be matched with any caliber or bullet weight.
  • Long-range accuracy in a design that is easy to use.
  • Ballistic Plex reticle, the easiest and most effective trajectory compensating reticle for hunting.

 

Related

 

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Scope for 30-06

  1. Field of view

30-06 cartridges are designed and meant for long-range shooting therefore, it is important that you look at the field of view options available before you decide on which one to choose.

The field of view varies based on the magnification, therefore you might want to go with one that offers an adjustable power range of up to 9x. a low magnification ensures that you will get a large field of view which is important for long-range shooting.

  1. Objective lens

A high-quality scope for the 30-06 rifle is one that handles and accommodates long-range shots well.

Therefore, it should have an objective lens that has the ability to gather as much light even at low light conditions, because most long-range hunters mostly hunt at dawn or at dusk. As a tip, the ideal scope for the .30-06 scope is one with an objective lens diameter of at least 40mm/50mm.

  1. Durability

The scope you decide to choose should be durable and heavy-duty for a lifetime. It should offer you value for your money. It should be able to handle harsh and extreme outdoor conditions.

Scopes made of aluminum alloy or aircraft-grade aluminum have proven to be the most durable offering you value for your money. In addition, scopes that are O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged ensure that your scope is fog proof, shockproof, and waterproof.

  1. Eye relief

Remember to compare different rifle scopes eye relief while choosing a scope for your 30-06. This is the distance between your eye and the ocular bell. At a minimum, your scope should have an eye relief of at least inches to ensure that your eyebrow is always safe, especially from heavy recoils and light weapons.

  1. Scope rings

Some scopes available on the market come with readily available rings, however, some of them don’t. It is therefore important for you to compare the options on this one if you don’t want to spend time finding suitable rings for your rifle.

When purchasing a scope with no rings included, ensure that you buy the properly sized rings or you can’t sight the scope. It’s therefore important that you carry out research on the correct rings for the 30-06 scope.

  1. Adjustable knobs

The other thing to consider is the quality of the scopes adjustment knobs. Consider a scope with ease of adjustments and effective focus.

Best Scope for 30-06 FAQs

  • What is the ideal size of scope rings on 30-06?

To start with, the scope ring size you need for your rifle depends on the scope’s model, size, make, and other components. To figure out the correct rings, you must first identify the size of the scope’s tube diameter then you can compare and find the right rings for your hunting rifle and scope.

  • What makes a great .30-06 Scope?

This depends on several factors which include magnification, brightness settings, battery life, and durability. The best scope should be built of high-grade materials to enhance its durability and it should be easy to adjust in any shooting position.

  • What magnification do I require?

The magnification power you will require depends on the distance at which you will be shooting. If shooting long-range, you will need a higher magnification of at least 9x if your shooting range is above 400 yards. For medium-range shooting, you need 4x-9x magnification power. However, it is mostly recommended that you go for a scope with a wide power range so it can be ideal for both short and long-range shooting.

Scopes for 30-06 Advantages

  1. Longer range

Scopes have lenses that enable you to see target objects that are far clearer.

  1. Better scores

Scopes enhance your shooting accuracy and there is no better feeling than being at the top in a shooting competition. Scopes help you shoot accurately without any waste of time.

  1. Improved accuracy

Having the ideal riflescope is the perfect way to ensure you have that accurate shot.

  1. Durability

Most of the 30-06 scopes offer you value for money as they are built from high-grade aluminum, a durable material that guarantees lifetime use.

Conclusion

It is important to have a riflescope compatible with the rifle you intend to use it with as it will help you take down the target easily giving you a wonderful hunting experience.

The scopes reviewed above are all compatible with the savage 30-06 rifle and by now you probably are aware of what makes a great scope for this kind of rifle.

Purchasing one of the rifle scopes reviewed above will help you practice game hunting and the more you practice, the more you sharpen your hunting skills.

See Also: 4 Best Scopes for 30-06 under $200