Best Scope For 30-06 Rifles: Top 8 Picks – Read It! Before Buying :)

The 30-06 cartridge is the go-to cartridge for many hunters in North America. This means that 30-06 rifles are popular in North America. While a 30-06 rifle will help you take down almost anything that roams our forests, it must be paired with the right scope. And this is what this article is here for. To help you find the perfect match for your 30.06 rifles and also to help you discover the best scope for 30 06.

The 30 06 rifles have been in use for over 120 years now. A large portion of the estimated 30 million registered sporting rifle owners in the US use the 30 06 cartridges for big game hunting.

First introduced in 1905, the 30 06 cartridges have remained the most popular cartridge among big game hunters for years. Given that the 30-06 rifle is one of the most popular rifles in America, there are bound to be numerous scope selections to choose from. With this vast selection of scopes finding the best rifle scope for a 30-06 rifle can be a daunting affair. While some scopes offer high-quality performance, they are pricey. Others are affordable but tend to perform poorly.

Therefore, you have to find a scope that has the right balance of affordability and quality. To do this, you have to know the criteria that the 30-06 scopes must meet. This criterion is discussed below.

Our TOP 30-06 Scopes Picks

Last update on 2024-04-24 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

What To Consider When Choosing The Scopes For 30-06

The main factors to consider when buying a scope for your 30 06 are;

Field Of View

The 30 06 cartridges are used for long-range shooting. Therefore, the field of view of scope will be of great importance to any hunter using a 30 06 rifle.

If you are using a .22lr rifle then you can consider this best 22lr scope review

Since the field of view depends on a scope’s magnification range, I recommend going for an adjustable magnification of 3-9X. The low magnification guarantees a large field of view which will be essential.

A fixed magnification scope will not do as it will limit you. Also, high magnification will lower the field of view of a scope. Nonetheless, it is possible to have a scope with high magnification and a wide field of view if the objective lens is big enough.

If you are going for a scope with a magnification range of more than 9X it needs to have an objective lens that is 50 mm in diameter or more. This is to balance out the high magnification.

Objective Lens

There is never room for error when making long-distance shots. As such, the scope you select for your 30 06 should be the best long-range scope for 30-06 you can afford.

In other words, the objective glasses of the scope should be able to gather as much light as possible. This is especially since you will be hunting mainly at dawn and dusk.

The right scope for your 30 06 should have objective glasses of 40 mm or 50 mm. Anything below 40 mm will hinder your ability to spot targets from long distances. On the other hand, anything beyond 50 mm will be too much of a load to carry.

Scope Rings

Scope rings are of great importance when choosing a scope for a 30 06 rifle. While some scopes come without scope rings, others come with them included. Based on my personal experience, it is better to purchase a scope with rings included.

However, if you do buy a scope without rings, make sure you know the correct rings to get for your scope. If you make the mistake of buying the rings, sighting the scope will be almost impossible. With the right information finding the quality scope rings for 30-06 will not be a problem.

Durability

The rifle scope you choose for your rifle should be durable enough to withstand harsh weather. Most high-end scopes are made using aircraft-grade aluminum or an alloy of magnesium. These two materials are durable. Thus, I recommend settling on scopes made from either of the two materials.

Apart from the above-discussed factors there are other factors to consider

Read the another popular cartridge 308 scope review from here – https://huntingnook.com/best-scope-for-308/

Other Factors To Consider

• The first is price, as already stated, it is important that you go for a scope that fits your budget. Remember it is possible to get a scope for as low as $100 and as high as $ 1000
• Magnifying power is also important to consider since you want the 3006 scope for deer hunting it is important that you select a scope with a high magnification range of maybe 6X to 24X. However, it is important to balance between magnification and field of view (FOV).
• The quality of adjustment knobs of scope will influence how easy it is to adjust and focus your scope in the field. Thus, the adjustment knob is another important factor to consider.
• The brand name of the scope you wish to buy also matters, brands such as Nikon, Leupold, and Vortex are known for manufacturing high-quality scopes.

The Best Scope For 30 06 Reviews

Best Leupold Scope For 30 06 : Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Matte Duplex

The Leupold Vx-3i 3.5-10X 40mm duplex fulfills all the criteria of the best value scope for .30-06. To begin with, this scope has a large 40 mm objective lens that sucks in enough light to give you a clear picture of your target.

This large objective glass size is backed by an adjustable magnification range of 3.5 to 10X. The minimal 3.5 X magnification guarantees a wide enough field of view, while the maximum 10X magnification guarantees high magnification. Therefore, you get a great FOV without compromising on magnification.

To make things more exciting, the scope is made from aluminum, which is a tough yet lightweight material. Therefore, while it weighs 2 pounds, it can withstand almost anything that Mother Nature throws at it. Adjusting the magnification is easy even with gloves thanks to the scope’s power selector.

Pros

• Comes with gold rings
• Has a beautiful matte black finish
• Is lightweight and of average height
• Is an affordable scope

Cons

• The reticle is not illuminated

Specification

• 1-inch tube
• Second focal plane reticle position
• 4.4-inch eye relief
• 3.5X-10X magnification
• Duplex reticle

Verdict

When you are looking for a scope that is within your budget and is capable of going toe-to-toe with some of the priciest scopes out there, the Leupold Vx-3i is the scope for you. This scope is a great accessory to have attached on your rifle. Moreover, its matte black finish makes it inconspicuous in the forest. 

Its price and features make it a great scope for target practice. However, there is no reason why you cannot take out on a hunt. All things considered, this has to be the best Leupold 30-06 scope for a beginner or a hunter who does not want to spend a fortune on a scope.

Nikon ProStaff 4-12 x 40 Black Matte Riflescope (BDC)

 

Nikon has always been one of my favorite rifle scope manufacturers. As such, the Nikon Prostaff is one of my favorite riflescopes. Having used the Nikon Prostaff for some time now, I have become used to the BDC reticle with its see-through ballistic circles.

Additionally, the optical performance of this scope is up to Nikon’s high standards thanks to the 4-12X magnification. This magnification lets you shoot targets at a long distance. And it gets better; the scope has fully multi-coated optics and a 40 mm objective glass size. Thus all images appear clear and bright. With this magnification and objective pair, I have been able to hit targets from 600 yards out.

I find the eyepiece on this scope to be easy to focus on, and the 3.7 eye relief does not strain my eyes when aiming. Weighing 15 ounces and measures 14.1 inches in length, this scope is lightweight and compact enough.

Pros

• The patented BDC reticle allows for easy shooting of targets as far away as 600 yards
• The body of this scope is made from aluminum, meaning it is durable and capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions
• Easy adjustment knobs guarantee a flawless shooting experience
• This scope can be used on almost any rifle
• The quick focus 3.6-inch makes it easy to zoom in the field

Cons

• It is designed for long range only

Specification

• Aluminium construction
• 4-12X magnification
• fully multi coated lenses
• Zero-reset turrets
• Nitrogen filled tube
• BDC reticle

Verdict

This Nikon Prostaff scope is designed specifically for long-distance shooting. Thus, if you are looking for a scope that will give you the ability to make long-range shots, this is the scope for you.

Leupold VX-2 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope Review

Leupold is a company that has built a reputation for making quality scopes, and the VX-2 is no exception. This magnificent scope has been my go-to scope for some time now, and for good reasons.

For starters, this scope has a relatively lower magnification than some of the other 30 06 scopes I am used to. However, this is actually a good thing as the low 3-9X magnification makes it possible to shoot targets at long range and close range.

The 40 mm objective glasses is the kind of lens you would expect to find in a scope of this Leupold’s caliber. The scope weighs 11 ounces and is unlikely to add any weight to your rifle. Fashioned from aluminum, this scope is of good quality and can withstand any weather condition.

Pros

• It is a versatile scope that can be used for long and close range shooting
• It has an aluminum body that gives it a long life span
• Comes with an appealing matte black finish
• Images appear clear and bright on this scope
• This scope is lightweight and compact

Cons

• It does not perform well when used for close range.

Specification

• 3-9X magnification
• Duplex reticle
• Matte black finish
• 4.20-inch eye relief
• 34.06 FOV
• 11 ounces weight

Verdict

In summary, this Leupold scope does what it is designed to do. In this regard, it is the perfect scope for anyone interested in a versatile scope. In essence, it is the best hunting scope for 30-06 since it is versatile and crafted from aluminum.

Best Scope For 30-06 Elk Hunting: Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9×40 BDC Review

The Nikon Buckmasters II is hailed as the deer hunter’s best friend. So does this Nikon scope perform as it is claimed? I got to test one of my friends Nikon Buckmasters, and I have to admit it is a pretty good scope. As with all other Nikon scopes, the Buckmaster features the Bullet Drop Compensator Reticle, which comes in handy when you are out in the field.

The lenses on this scope are fully multi coated. According to some online reviews, the Buckmasters 2 transmits up to 98% of available light. To give it an edge over its predecessor the Buckmasters, this scope has resettable turrets, which I found to be easy to adjust.

There are no tools required, making the process of adjusting the turrets easy. The 3-9X magnification makes it a versatile scope for shooting long and close distance targets.

Pros

• The scope is 100% waterproof and fog proof
• All lenses are fully multicoated for a brighter and clearer image
• The BDC reticle is beneficial for providing fast aiming points for different shot distances
• The scope’s turrets are easy to adjust and do not require any tools

Cons

• Lacks an illuminated reticle

Specification

• Fully multicoated optics
• BDC reticle
• 3.6-inch eye relief
• 16.1-ounce weight
• 13.1 inches length
• 3-9X magnification

Verdict

To many hunters, the Buckmaster is a cheaper alternative to both the Nikon Monarch and the Nightforce. At its price point, the Buckmaster is ideal for medium-range hunting.

Thus, while it is not the ideal scope for long-range, it is a reliable scope that with great value for money. Additionally, the Buckmaster is a great scope for browning x bolt 30-06 from Nikon in its price point.

Also, it offers a bullet drop compensator and  For that good reason, we can say this Nikon Buckmaster is one of the best 30-06 scope with a bullet drop compensator.

Nikon Prostaff 3-9×40 Riflescope Review

Do not let the Nikon pro staff’s price fool you as this is one of the best scopes for 30-06 deer hunting in my possession. My Nikon Prostaff came with a beautiful matte black finish and lens caps.

While it is relatively cheaper compared to some of its siblings, this scope features Nikon’s proven and trusted BDC reticle. With this reticle, I am able to hit targets from distances of up to 600 yards. To bolster its optical performance, Nikon equips this scope with fully multicoated optics for bright and clear images.

But that’s not all; the zero-reset turret on this scope is easy to adjust especially when out in the field. Being that I enjoy long-range shooting, I was pleased with the pro staff’s 40 mm objective lens coupled with a 3-9X magnification. The two translate to an impressive FOV of 33.8 feet at 100 yards.

Pros

• Has a 3.6-inch eye relief for eye comfort
• The adjustable reticle allows for precision shooting
• The scope is made from lightweight aluminum and weighs 13.07 ounces
• It is offered at an affordable price

Cons

• At full zoom, the scope does get somewhat blurred

Specification

• Aluminium construction
• Lens caps
• Fully multicoated optics
• Zero-reset turrets
• Nitrogen filled 1-inch tube
• O-ring sealed
• BDC reticle

Verdict

If you want a cheaper alternative to some of the pricey scopes offered by Nikon, then this Prostaff Nikon BDC is the perfect model for you. This model can be used in all environments and works well for long and short-range hunting and shooting. It can be termed as a top-notch scope for any rifle. In particular, this is the best scope for tikka t3 .30-06 for those who cannot afford the pricier Monarch.

Simmons 8-Point Truplex Reticle Riflescope Review

The Simmons 8-Point Truplex Reticle scope is one of those scopes that are sold at almost a throwaway price. This alluringly affordable scope measures 13.8 inches long and weighs 13.2 ounces. As such, it might feel a bit bulky when attached to your 30 06 rifles, and you may be required to buy some high-rise rings. Nevertheless, the scope is extra-long for a reason.

Unlike other scopes reviewed above, this scope is fitted with a 50 mm objective lens, which sucks in more light than the average 40 mm lens found in most scopes. However, the magnification is the standard 3-9X. In regards to image quality, this scope’s image quality is quite surprising.

More surprising, is the fact that this scope comes with fully coated optics and a long eye relief of 3.75 inches. Given its price, this scope does not come with rings, meaning you will have to buy a pair of one-inch rings after buying this scope

Pros

• This scope is designed to be durable and can handle occasional and regular bumps and knocks
• The scope is waterproof and fog-proof thanks to its O-ring seal
• Has a large objective glass that facilitates enough light transmission

Cons

• The reticle is not illuminated
• Does not come with rings

Specification

• Fully coated optics
• ¼ MOA windage and elevation adjustments
• 3-9x magnification
• 31.4 feet field of view
• Waterproof construction

Verdict

The Simmons 8-point Truplex is one of the cheapest scopes available. However, just because it is cheap does not mean its quality is poor. On the contrary, this scope is a great scope for short to medium shooting and is one of the best hunting scopes for a 30 06 rifle.

Best Scope For 30-06 Remington 700: Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane

With the term High performance in its name, the Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 4-16X44 rifle scope must be a masterpiece. While it is not the top-notch scope from Vortex, it is right up there with the best.

This scope earns a spot on the list of the best scopes thanks to its premium features. Protecting the scope’s internal premium features is a one-inch tube crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum.

In addition to this, this scope has fully multi-coated lenses for crisp and sharp images. The interior of the one-inch tube is filled with argon gas, making it both waterproof and fog proof.

The lenses are made of extra-low dispersion glass that improves contrast and image brightness. This Diamondback boasts a 4-16X magnification and a 44mm objective lens. In essence, this scope has everything a hunter would need from a rifle scope.

Pros

• Comes with a first focal plane reticle, glass-etched reticle
• Images appear clear and bright thanks to the ED glass and coatings
• The scope is lightweight and durable thanks to its aluminum construction
• The adjustment knobs on this scope turn smoothly
• It is affordable considering its features

Cons

• The scope’s finish can easily get scratched after some use

Specification

• first focal plane, glass-etched reticle
• 4-16X magnification
• 4-inch sunshade
• XD lenses
• Fully multicoated optics
• O-ring seals
• Argon gas purged tube

Verdict

When you are looking for a high-performance scope without having to empty your bank account, the Vortex Diamondback Tactical is the scope for you. The scope’s construction and features make it a great choice for hunters. In summary, it is one of the best scopes for 30-06 Remington 700. If you are looking best replacement trigger for Remington 700 then follow the link 

Vortex Viper Pst 6-24×50 Ffp Riflescope Review

The Vortex Viper Pst 6-24X50 is a scope that is in a league of its own. Designed to be as efficient as possible, this scope has an aluminum body. Weighing 23.7 ounces, this scope is designed to deliver accurate shots at long distances.

To do this, this scope is equipped with a 50 mm objective lens. The lens is backed by a magnification of 6-24X. Additionally, the lenses are made from extra low dispersion glass that guarantees optimal image quality. The easy to use adjustments add to the riflescope’s quality.

The rotational top turrets are customizable, meaning that you can return to zero. Locking rings ensure that the lenses are not affected by shock. This scope can be used in low light conditions thanks to its illuminated reticle.

Pros

• The main tube is robust and constructed from aluminum making it lightweight and durable
• The reticle on this scope is illuminated for use in low light conditions
• Reticle illumination can be adjusted using a control knob for ease of use
• The fully multicoated optics deliver sharp and clear images
• The scope is water and fog proof

Cons

• Has inadequate eye relief at lower magnifications

Specification

• 6-24X magnification
• 30 mm tube
• Illuminated reticle
• Extra-low dispersion glass lenses
• Aluminium construction

Verdict

This Vortex Viper scope is not the best for beginners due to its cost and complexity. Thus, it is one scope I would recommend to a pro hunter. Everything about this scope screams quality and is one of the best scopes for browning bar 30 06.

What Type of Scope Should You Have on a .30-06?

What does it mean to have a high-powered scope on your .30-06? This is an important question for all hunters who are considering purchasing a rifle. It can be a confusing process because there are so many different types of scopes and power levels available. What is the best type of scope for you? Consider these things before making a purchase: what type of hunting will you be doing, how far away do you plan on shooting from the target, and how much magnification power do you need. These three questions will help determine which scope would work best for you in the end!

You have to know how far away you will be shooting your target.

If it is less than 150 yards, then a scope with up to four magnification power should work fine for you. However, if the distance is over 200 yards and closer range-shooting isn’t something that you are interested in doing often then look for a high-powered scope of at least six or more in magnification power.

What type of hunting will you be doing?

You may not need one as powerful when hunting smaller game such as deer from close distances but would require higher-end scopes when looking for larger prey like elk and moose because they typically live further out into the wilds where visibility can become limited without some sort of assistance! There are also many different types of scopes from which to choose. For instance, there are long-range scopes that can be used for hunting large game if you live far away and need more magnification as well as tactical or military-grade riflescopes when precision is crucial to the hunt.

However, it may just come down to what your budget allows! Regardless of whether you have a low-end rifle or one that costs thousands of dollars then look at the type of scope you want before buying anything because they will vary in price accordingly.

Sighting in a .30-06 Rifle Scope: General Tips

Sighting in a rifle scope is one of the most important parts of shooting. Depending on what you are hunting, you may need different settings for your rifle.

For example, if you are shooting at a deer, then zeroing out at 100 yards will work best. However, if you’re trying to shoot an elk from far away (300-400 yards), then sight in at 200 yards because that’s where they’ll be when they’re closer to the hunter and it will make sure that there is no bullet drop when firing the shot.

For sighting with 30-06, you can sight in at three inches high and one inch low to hit the target anywhere between 100 yards-300 yards. If you’re having trouble hitting your mark then try shooting closer or farther away to make it more difficult for yourself where all of a sudden, it is much easier and you can get a feel for the range of your gun.

Sighting 30-06 with bullet compensator 180 grain it is wise to sight in at three inches high at 100 yards, and then four inches low at 250 yards.

If shooting an elk from far away (300-400 yards) sight in at 200 yards because they’ll be closer to the hunter when they get there

If sighting with .30-06 150-grain it’s great to sight in at 26 yards to perfect your aim on the target at 245 yards and then to be up at three inches high in between.

Conclusion

The market is flooded with all kinds of rifle scopes. Finding the right one for your 30 06 rifles can be difficult, especially if you do not know where to start. The best place to start is by researching the various scopes the market has to offer. The scopes that appear on this list are all designed for use with different types of rifles. In this regard, they are all compatible with the 30 06.