Choosing the best scope for Mini 30 can be a bit overwhelming, as there is a wide range of options available on the market. Factors such as magnification, reticle type, and durability all play a role in selecting the right scope for your needs.
The Ruger Mini 30 embodies reliability and versatility. The Mini-30 is a popular rifle that is widely used for hunting, self-defense, and target shooting.
When aiming at targets at close range, the Ruger Mini 30 is incredibly handy. Despite being a short-range rifle, it frequently fires powerful bullets and has the potential for heavy recoils. The rifle is perfect for diverse applications, including competition, hunting, and shooting.
Regardless of what you decide to use the rifle for, it is crucial to equip it with a scope. Since the rifle is high-recoiling, it is instrumental that the scope you pair it with is up for the task. This post has put together a detailed review of the best scopes for the Ruger Mini 30. Let’s dive in.
Choosing the Best Scope for Mini 30
Magnification
The best scope magnification for a Mini-30 depends on the shooting situation and personal preference. A lower magnification of 1-4x or 2-7x can be suitable for short-range shooting, such as hunting in dense woods or shooting at targets within 100 yards. On the other hand, a higher magnification of 3-9x or 4-12x can be useful for long-range shooting, such as shooting at targets at distances greater than 100 yards.
Additionally, you can choose the scope’s magnification range based on your preferences. Some shooters and hunters require a lesser magnification range, while others perform better with a higher magnification range.
A versatile scope with variable magnification options can be a good choice for those who want the flexibility to shoot at different distances. For example, a scope with a magnification range of 1-6x or 2-10x can be a good option as it allows for both short and long-range shooting.
Depending on where you typically hunt, how you shoot, and your tastes, you should decide on the magnification range for your Mini 30 scope based on the above.
Objective lens diameter
To obtain a bright and clear view, get a scope with a larger objective lens(24mm to 50mm) since you need one that can deliver clear images even in dim lighting.
The lens of the scope should have a coating and multiple layers that keep it from collecting dust and moisture while ensuring maximum brightness in your scope. To guarantee a performance that is both water- and fog-proof, look for multicoated lenses.
Eye relief
You should check the eye relief of any scope that offers a longer eye distance because a short eye relief could harm your eye. In higher recoiling guns, protecting oneself and avoiding the scope eye is crucial.
You will avoid it because it is one of the most awful things on the range or in the field. As a result, you should compare your scope and keep this aspect in mind while making your purchase.
Build Quality and Durability
Using a scope outdoors implies you have no idea what weather to anticipate. The conditions can be adverse at times. Because of this, a durable scope is essential.
Aircraft-grade aluminum is commonly used to make the best scopes. For reliability in all weather circumstances, the scope must also be waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof.
A durable scope is essential for shooting in rugged conditions, such as hunting in rough terrain or shooting in inclement weather. Look for scopes that are made from high-quality materials and are shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof.
Reticle
The type of reticle you choose will depend on your personal preference and shooting style. For example, a simple crosshair reticle may be suitable for hunting, while a red dot reticle can be an excellent choice for quick target acquisition.
Mounting
A scope that is easy to mount and align with the rifle’s bore is crucial for accuracy. The scope should be securely attached to the rifle to prevent any movement or wobbling during shooting.
Best Scopes for Mini 30
1) Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Riflescope
Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm is a top-tier riflescope for the Mini 30 for many reasons. The scope comes at a price that is easy on your wallet yet doesn’t take performance lightly. Thanks to its robust build, clear optics, and formidable eye relief, the scope qualifies as a top choice.
An exciting feature of the scope is the fully multi-coated optics that allow superior light gathering in all light settings. This ensures clear and bright images even in dismal lighting.
This scope’s variable 2-7x magnification makes it perfect for both close-range and medium-range shooting. When viewing distant targets up close, it offers a wide field of view and richness in every detail.
Like other top-notch scopes from Vortex, the Crossfire 2-7x32mm is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum for great performance in all terrains. To enhance durability, the scope is waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof. This implies a job well done regardless of the environmental condition.
Another interesting attribute of the scope is the capped turrets which prevent accidental movements while also providing extra protection from exterior components.
Features
- One-inch tube diameter
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
- 2-7x magnification
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
- Capped turrets
- Hard anodized finish
- Made of robust aircraft-grade aluminum
- Fully multi-coated optics
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Suffices in all conditions
- Generous eye relief
- Affordable
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
2) Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40mm Riflescope
The Crossfire II 3-9x40mm Riflescope is specifically designed for discerning hunters and shooters who demand top-notch performance and reliability and is one of the best Scopes for Mini 30, the scope features a long eye relief, a fast-focus eyepiece, resettable turrets and fully multi-coated lenses for ultimate performance.
The scope features a hard anodized, single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube that is nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed for waterproof and fog-proof performance.
The riflescope’s long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, allow for quick acquisition of targets. The fast-focus eyepiece enables easy reticle focusing, and the anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses ensure bright and clear views for the user.
The riflescope’s capped reset turrets are finger adjustable, and the MOA clicks can be reset to zero after sighting in.
Features
- Long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box
- Aircraft Grade Aluminum construction
- 100 yds to infinity Focus range
- 150 hours of Battery life
- Ring attachment
- Weighs 15 oz
- Length:12 in
- 100 yds parallax
Pros
- Fast focus eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focusing
- Waterproof and fog proof performance
- Variable Magnification
- Strong and durable Aircraft Grade Aluminum Construction
- Hard Anodized Finish
Cons
- None
3) Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40mm Riflescope
If you’re searching for a high-quality riflescope, the Diamondback is an excellent choice with its exceptional image quality, sturdy construction, and impressive turret and eyepiece features.
The Diamondback riflescope is built with a one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, making it virtually indestructible and resistant to recoil. Additionally, it is waterproof and fog proof thanks to the argon purging.
The Diamondback riflescope has a range of configurations to choose from, with the 4-12×40 being an ideal option for big game, predator/varmint, muzzleloader, slug shotgun, and long-range applications.
Its Dead-Hold BDC reticle is perfect for shooting at varying ranges where hold-over estimation is a concern. The lenses are fully multi-coated, ensuring crystal clear and bright images from dawn until dusk.
The fast-focus eyepiece makes it easy to adjust the reticle, while the metal-on-metal precision turrets offer zero resets after sight-in. The precision glide erector system ensures accurate tracking and repeatability.
The scope has a solid one-piece tube with a hard anodized finish, making it shockproof and durable, and the scope is argon purged and O-ring sealed to provide lifetime waterproof and fog-proof performance.
Features
- Aircraft Grade Aluminum Construction
- 100 yds to infinity Focus range
- Fully Multi-Coated Optics
- Hard Anodized Finish
- Dead-Hold BDC Reticle
- Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Weighs 14.6 oz
Pros
- Fully multi-coated optics for crystal clear and bright images
- Fast focus eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focusing
- Ability to zero reset after sight-in with precision turrets
- Hard anodized finish
- Fog-proof and waterproof performance
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
4) Trijicon Accupoint TR-24 1-4x24mm Riflescope
With a litany of impressive features, Trijicon Accupoint TR-24 1-4x24mm is another candidate for the Mini 30. This scope is a great option for you if you’re looking for a robust and weatherproof construction since it is made with aircraft-grade aluminum. Because harsh environmental conditions are inevitable, it shields the scope from rust and corrosion.
The 1-4x magnification range allows you to easily target up to 500 yards beyond the Mini 30’s formidable range. One of this scope’s outstanding attributes is its second focal plane reticle, which maintains the same reticle size regardless of changes in magnification.
Even at higher magnification levels, it aids in achieving the appropriate aiming point.
The lenses are multi-coated so that visibility is the least of your worries, no matter the lighting condition.
This scope’s illumination does not require the usage of a battery, so you need not fret about charging and replacing the battery. The fiber optic technology in this scope controls the brightness level automatically. Using Trijicon’s Bindon Aiming Concept feature, the illuminated reticle offers a distinct aiming point that draws the shooter’s eye for rapid engagement.
Features
- Fully multi-coated with anti-reflective properties
- Capped turrets
- Bindon Aiming Concept for both-eyes-open shooting
- Aircraft-grade aluminum housing
- 2 inches of eye relief
- Consistent eye relief across all zoom levels
- Weatherproof
- A fast-focus eyepiece
Pros
- Illumination requires no batteries
- High-quality optics
- Durably made
- Notable low-light performance
Cons
- Not ideal for long range
5) Bushnell AR 1x25mm TRS-25 HiRise 3 MOA Red Dot Sight
The red dot reticle on the Bushnell AR 1x25mm TRS-25 is clear and precise. Not only is it clear, but it’s also bright. The sight allows both-eyes-open shooting and amazing accuracy, quick target acquisition, and increased shooter awareness. The sight assures stunning visibility thanks to Amber-Bright high-contrast lens coating. The multi-coated optics allows clear targets without any hassle.
CR2032 batteries are used to run the unit. This is a plus as they are cheap and long-lasting, so the battery running out of juice will be the least of your worries.
The tactical turrets on the TRS-25 enable quick field windage and elevation adjustments. The knobs click nicely and are tightly fastened.
The TRS-25 is designed to last. It weighs only 3.7 ounces making it incredibly lightweight, portable, and sturdy. The tube is completely water, fog, and shockproof, providing optimum performance. This is owing to the o-ring seals and nitrogen purging.
Features
- Multi-coated optics
- Powered by CR2032 batteries
- Seamless elevation and windage adjustments
- Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof
- Holds zero well
- Unlimited eye relief
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Pocket-friendly
- Sturdy construction
- Remarkable battery life
Cons
- The brightness knob is a bit stiff
6) Leapers UTG 3-12x44mm Riflescope
A successful hunting expedition calls for a great riflescope such as the Leapers UTG 3-12x44mm. Many shooters favor this riflescope as it is designed with state-of-the-art features for an exceptional experience.
To increase precision, it has a Mil-dot reticle in 36 colors. Depending on your environment, the colors are easy to change with a click of a button. You can hit your targets worry-free with this scope.
It has a side wheel adjustable turret called the SWAT that has a parallax range of 10 yards to infinity. You can successfully complete your task using the Mini 30 scope.
Another highlight of the scope is its 30mm tube, which is constructed of top-notch materials for unbeatable durability. It is shockproof and survives any bad weather it may be subjected to. Because of its unique and distinctive housing design, it illuminates continuously, even when there is a lot of recoil.
Besides that, the scope sports emerald-coated lenses that enable maximum light into the scope for vivid and crisp images no matter the time of day.
Features
- Side wheel adjustable turret
- Mil-dot reticle with 36 reticles
- The emerald coating on the lenses
- Crafted from high-quality materials
- Sealed and nitrogen filled for waterproof and fog proof performance
- Turrets can be reset to zero
- Matte finish
- 8 to 3.1 inches of eye relief
Pros
- Decent light transmission
- Affordable
- Robust construction
- Multiple color settings
Cons
- A bit bulky
7) Truglo Omnia 1-8x24mm Scope
Truglo Omnia 1-8x24mm is equipped with a high-grade optical system that delivers excellent target features. After all, a scope is valuable if it excels at any time of the day you want to use it. These optics are multi-coated to minimize glare and allow maximum light transmission.
This scope is a fantastic option for the Mini 30 because it is built with a single-piece 30mm tube. This scope’s robust design enables it to handle challenging environments and powerful rifle recoils.
This scope’s single tube is filled with nitrogen gas, which is resistant to dust, fog, water, and other substances. With this scope, you can hunt in any weather without worrying about the scope’s capabilities.
This scope’s 1x to 8x magnification range enables you to take precise shots at close range. Turrets have a lead spring design used to adjust the scope’s brightness and magnification.
Sharp adjustments can be made, and unintentional modifications are averted with the help of these locking turrets. This scope’s one-piece mounting is compatible with a wide range of modern rifles.
Features
- MOA reticle enhances accuracy
- 24mm objective lens
- 1-8x magnification
- 30mm body tube
- Matte finish
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Locking turrets
Pros
- Lightweight
- Performs well in all weather conditions
- Long-lasting design
- Superior optical system
Cons
- No parallax adjustment
Related
Best Scope for Mini 30 FAQs
Is the Mini 30 a good hunting rifle?
The Mini 30 is a fantastic small hunting carbine. It can, however, be more. It is also an excellent choice for short- to medium-range defense.
What magnification is ideal?
A proper magnification range should deliver the image clarity your scope offers. To do so, you must not only look for a larger magnification range but also one that produces clear, bright images. Select optics that meet a range of performance demands at all distances.
It needs to be versatile enough to fit your shooting style. If you frequently shoot at a long distance, you should choose the best scope for the Mini 30 based on your needs. Alternatively, a basic range scope will do if you’re shooting at close or medium ranges.
The magnification you choose for your Mini 30 scope will depend on the intended use of the rifle. For short-range shooting or hunting, a lower magnification such as 1-4x or 2-7x is sufficient. For longer-range shooting, a higher magnification such as 4-12x or 6-18x may be more appropriate.
Can I put a scope on the Ruger Mini 30?
Yes. You’ll be able to shoot more accurately and quickly if you pair your rifle with a high-quality scope. Many users favor low magnification scopes because the Ruger Mini 30 is typically utilized for close-range shooting. However, some users opt to use this weapon with mid or long-range scopes.
What is the eye relief on a Mini 30 scope?
The eye relief on a Mini 30 scope will vary depending on the specific model you choose. Typically, scopes designed for use on rifles chambered in 7.62x39mm will have an eye relief of around 3-4 inches.
What is the objective lens diameter on a Mini 30 scope?
The objective lens diameter on a Mini 30 scope will vary depending on the specific model you choose. Typically, scopes designed for use on rifles chambered in 7.62x39mm will have an objective lens diameter of around 40mm.
Conclusion
If you are still trying to choose the best scope for Mini 30, this review should make it easier for you. For a scope to qualify as excellent for the rifle, it needs to be durable, versatile, and deliver stellar performance. All the scopes mentioned here do exactly that. Selecting any of them means a fantastic hunting and shooting experience.