10 Best Scopes for 30 06 – All You Need for the Perfect Results

By
James Harper
James Harper
Research Writer
Being a professional journalist, James knows how to turn any topic into a comprehensive, easy-to-digest text. Even if you've never dealt with telescopes before, rest assured read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Charles Goebel
Charles Goebel
Expert Consultant
Charles holds a Master’s degree in Physics Engineering (optics and photonics specialization), has been teaching physics at school for almost 15 years and recently has star read more
Last updated: August 28, 2023
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Looking for the best scope for your Springfield 30-06? Then you are not alone. Many hunters and shooters love using the 30-06 in hunting as it can shoot up to 200 yards with less than a MOA. While 200 yards is impressive, you can achieve even farther distances by using a scope. A scope helps you to focus on your target easily and quickly. However, since there are several options and models on the market, it can be challenging finding the best model for you. It is for this reason that we have created this list for you.

The models are some of the best you can use right now and come with plenty of useful features while being affordable. Creating this list of the best scope for 30 06 options wasn’t very easy; however, we considered some important factors that helped us to arrive at the best models. Some of the factors we considered include objective lens diameter, magnification, field of view, eye relief, length, and weight. Aside from the detailed product reviews, we have also provided a buying guide that discusses each of the factors. Read on to find out our best picks.

Quick Summary

  • "The Diamondback has fully multi coated optics offering anti reflective and perfectly clear images and a single piece tube body which protects your image quality."
  • Best Value: Burris 4.5 x-14 x -42
    "This is one of the most unique scopes on the market:. Made to quickly center the target. BDC reticule scope. Compatible with different calibers."
  • Budget Pick: Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50
    "This unit is an excellent option for outdoor and hunting adventures:. Durable build and design. Low price. Locked zero."
  • "This model is one of the best in terms of performance in all types of weather:. Clear and bright. Excellent contrast. Reliable adjustments."
  • Best Tested Scope: Leupold FX3 6x42
    "This unit is great for different types of shooters regardless of their style:. Punisher tested. Easy to handle. Excellent turrets."
  • "The Vortex Optics Crossfire II is a great scope for hunters, plinkers or even the tactical shooting enthusiast"
  • Best IR Scope for 30.06: BARSKA 3-12x50 IR Huntmaster Pro
    "The Barska 3-12×50 IR Huntmaster Pro is an excellent scope with a modest price tag"
  • Best Entry-Level Scope: Vortex Optics Diamondback HP 4-16x42
    "The Diamondback is a stellar entry-level unit:. Impressive build quality. Reticle with Duplex simplicity. BDC accuracy."
  • Best Quick Focus: Nikon PROSTAFF P3 3-9x40
    "This model offers impressive optical performance and reliability over a lifetime of rough use:. Best quick focus. Matte or silver finish. Spring-loaded turrets."
  • "This model offers performance superior to many other options on the market:. Battery powered illuminated reticule. Sharp, bright lenses. Nice user interface."

Top 10 Scopes for 30 06 Review 2024

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1
Features
  • Objective lens diameter: 40 mm
  • Magnification: 4-12x
  • Field of view: 32.4-11.3 ft. at 100 yds.
  • Eye relief: 3.1 in.
  • Length: 12 in.
  • Weight: 14.6 oz.

More features: waterproof, fogproof, V-Plex reticle, fully multi-coated lenses, shockproof

Vortex has a great reputation for high quality, yet affordable optics that are also supplied with competitive warranties and great customer service. The Diamondback 4-12×40 is no exception. While it may lack some of the bells and whistles of more costly scopes, it is a solid performer that is a great option to be mounted on your gun. The Diamondback has fully multi-coated optics that offer anti reflective and perfectly clear images you would expect from this brand. The scope has a single piece tube body, which is fully fog proof and offers strength, and durability to protect the internal components and your image quality.

The Diamondback has a precision glide erector system and fast focus eyepiece which ensures that you have an instant, smooth and flawless experience even if you’re working in the harshest conditions. You can rely on this scope whether you’re hunting in the early morning fog, rainy conditions or bright sunlight.

    Why are we impressed?
  • What we loved about the Diamondback is the fantastic construction. This scope is well-built with clear glass that can hold its zero regardless of the conditions. There have been few complaints about defects and the scope is fully weatherproof, so you don’t need to worry if you tend to be out in adverse weather conditions. The optics are fully multi coated and the eyepiece has fast focus, which will enable you to spot and track without any issues.
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • The only area of potential improvement is a lack of parallax correction. The parallax is factory set to 100 yards, which means that you don’t have the ability to customize yardages for adjustable objectives. If you want this feature, you would need to opt for the Diamondback HP model. This is part of the High Performance line that has the same feature set as the Diamondback, but also offers parallax correction and other adjustment features. This does make the HP model more flexible, but it is reflected in the higher price tag.
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Features
  • Objective lens diameter: 42 mm
  • Magnification: 4.5-14x
  • Field of view: 9-23 ft. at 100 yds.
  • Eye relief: 3.1-3.8 in.
  • Length: 13.8 in.
  • Weight: 18 oz.

 More features: waterproof, fogproof, shockproof, HiLume multi-coatings, Ballistic Plex reticle with a lower vertical crosshair with small ballistic lines, forever warranty

The second product on the roundup is from Burris. The model is unique due to several features. It comes as a versatile scope useful for both long and short range riflescope. Therefore, if you are unsure at which of the scope to because of indecision on the type of range you want to shoot in, then this would be a good option.

What we liked: Burris has made this scope just like most of the other products. It is a versatile unit. With this scope, you can have an enjoyable time on any range that you are. It is built with parts and knobs clearly delineated. Therefore, whether you are an expert marksman or an amateur, you will find the model easy to use.

Another notable feature we like about this unit is the simplicity. It can shoot target at long distances. This is possible because of the 4.4X to 14.5X magnification power. Additionally, it has one of the best reticules we have reviewed in this price range. The scope offers a reticule with impressive trajectory compensation. With this design, it is perfect for hunting. Whether you are a beginner, you will love the long range accuracy it confers.

Another thing we like is that you can use the scope with different calibers. You can switch it between rifles and it will match any caliber easily. There is also parallax adjustment that helps to increase the chances of hitting the target over different types of distances. One interesting thing about the prallax adjustment knob is that it lies at the side of the scope. During use, we found that this placement is more comfortable than others that have the parallax knob on the top.

Overall, this unit comes at a nice price without compromising on quality. The wide magnification of up to 14X means you can hunt over long distances. The Burris is for you if you are an early adapter looking to try new innovations before your friends get the hang of it.

What could be better: One thing that could be better is the weight. Although the material of construction improves durability, it makes the scope quite heavy. Thus, the bulky size can affect how you hold the rifle.

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Features
  • Objective lens diameter: 50 mm
  • Magnification: 3-9x
  • Field of view: 31.4-10.5 ft. at 100 yds.
  • Eye relief: 3,75 in.
  • Length: 14 in.
  • Weight: 13.2 oz.

More features: waterproof, fogproof, recoilproof, QTA eyepiece, SureGrip audible-click windage and elevation adjustments, TrueZero fingertip windage and elevation adjustment system, Truplex reticle

Not many people would have expected to find this model on this list on the best scopes for 30-06. However, after thorough testing, comparison with other similar units in the price range, and the surprisingly useful feature, it takes the place of our budget pick.  If you are not scared to try something new while saving money, then you’ll likely love this model. It is cheap, easy on the eye and is superior to other cheap options on the market.

What we liked: There are several features on this model that we were surprised to find, mainly because of the low price. For example, the unit boasts of fully coated optics that gives a brighter image even in dark conditions. You also get handy turrets and impressive magnification.  Let’s see these features in more detail.

First there is the 3-9x 50mm lens that delivers super clear images and lets you to zoom in on a target very quickly. Due to the optic coating, you do not have a problem using it in low lighting situations. This design means that the lens uses every nit of light that enters it to improve brightness and clarity. This is a surprising feature in a budget model.

Additionally, the windage and elevation turrets are actually functional. They are very effective, and even as important, are easy to use. The turret is designed with knobs that offer sure grip and have an audible click when adjusted. It isn’t so audible to startle your target, though. Another thing we like about this aspect is the TrueZero system. This design ensures zeroing even if you use the model in bad conditions.

Sighting the target is quite easy too because of a robust QTA eyepiece.

Surprisingly, this model offers one of the best long-range sights on this roundup. The unit can give 31.4 feet view field at 100 yards.  Eye relief is also great here which in turn helps to reduce the chances of injuring yourself if using a rifle with powerful recoil action.

When you consider all these features and look at the price, it is clear that this is an absolute bargain buy.

What could be better: As this is a budget product, cuts are expected. While Simmons has tried in different aspects, the scope still falls short in terms of magnification. The limited magnification of just 3-9X means it is one of the lowest rated on this roundup.

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Features
  • Objective lens diameter: 40 mm
  • Magnification: 4-12x
  • Field of view: 10-21.5 ft. at 100 yds.
  • Eye relief: 4.2-3.7 in.
  • Length: 12.4 in.
  • Weight: 13.1 oz.

More features: waterproof, fogproof, shockproof, Twilight Light Management System, workmanship/materials lifetime guarantee

Leupold is one of the most popular options on the market today. And the Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12×40 is one of the top rated units from the manufacturer. This model sports a top-of-the-line reticule designed for rifle hunting and capable of shooting over different ranges. It also has impressive adjustments that set it apart from similar options from rival brands.

What we liked: This model is an excellent option for the price. The line of scopes from Leupold are made to satisfy almost all shooters. However, white rail hunters, vvarment shooters and target shooters will truly appreciate some of its finer features.

First, the 3:1 zoom ratio makes for a sturdy and impressive scope. This type of lens and zoom ratio allows you to see far distances easily. The material of the glass is lightweight and makes it easy to carry the scope with your rifle without been burdened. With this ratio, it is easy to adapt to short to medium distances in a jiffy.

The optical performance here is also impressive. Due to the full coating, you get accurate color transmission and clarity in spite of distance. The coating also results in a vivid display and contrast even in low light conditions.

Another thing we enjoyed is the quality construction. With an aluminum body and O-ring sealing, the Leupold Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12×40 is highly durable and weather resistant. In fact, it is one of the sturdiest models on this roundup. You’ll be hard pressed to find a unit that offers as much durability.  It is water and fog proof – giving a clear picture in almost all conditions.

The versatility is also something to be remarked on, and many users even tout this as the best feature of the product. Due to certain features like the versatile zoom ratio, you can adjust the scope until you get the image you desire. This helps you in windy conditions to hit your target accurately.

Next thing we liked is the Duplex reticule. A reticule is an essential part of an rifle scope, and the Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12×40 comes with a useful design that helps you aim more accurately in dark conditions.

On another note, Leupold offers a lifetime warranty on the Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12×40. Thus, you can get the scope replaced or repaired free of charge as long as you don’t void the warranty.

Lastly, the CDS elevation turrets found on the Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12×40 let the shooter adjust to different elevations easily.

What could be better: While the CDS elevation turrets are an excellent addition, we noticed that these do not always work. When they work, they are wonderful, however, more often than not, you’ll run into a snag when trying this system.

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5
Best Tested Scope

Leupold FX3 6x42

Features
  • Objective lens diameter: 42 mm
  • Magnification: 6x
  • Field of view: 17.3 ft. at 100 yds.
  • Eye relief: 4.4 in.
  • Length: 12.2 in.
  • Weight: 15 oz.

 More features: RFP, Punisher tested, waterproof, fogproof, shockproof, twilight light management system, ultra-light

Made in the USA, the Leupold FX3 6×42 is one of the best models from the manufacturer. It comes with a durable build and has undergone plenty of durability tests among other tests to ensure that it gives the best performance for you to enjoy.

What we liked: First, this is one of the most convenient options to use. Therefore, you don’t have to change the magnification anytime you want to sight your target since there is fixed 6x magnification. Offering a field of view of up to 17.3 feet at 100 yards, it is one of the most versatile options on this roundup.

The coating on the scopes’ lens is excellent. Leupold has coated the Leupold FX3 6×42 with the Twilight Light Management system. As we have earlier pointed out, this feature is a very handy one. Because of this coating, the lenses provide stunning contrast and brightness in different light conditions. The build of the lens combines with this technology to give one of the best scopes you can buy. Thus, you enjoy plenty of highlights and contrasts that improve shooting accuracy.  Apart from the improved shooting accuracy, this coating also prevents glare that can affect your sight. It goes both ways too because there is no reflection off the lens that can be seen by the target.

The adjustment dials are another reason why we enjoy using this model. While controls can be tricky, especially on low quality scopes, that isn’t the case with this model. There is a textured lock ring to allow you adjust parameters on the scope. The dials are placed at the side; therefore, it doesn’t affect your shooting. Right in the middle of these dials is a turret erector system. Additionally, while there is no dedicated knob for parallax adjustment, the manufacturer has incorporated parallax adjustment into the lens.

The eye relief of 4.4” is cool, and it is the best of all the models that we have reviewed. Therefore, apart from using it with a Springfield 30-06, you can use it with other rifles with even stronger recoil action.

Just below the turret caps are the windage and elevation adjustments. The values on these adjustments are easy to read and varied. It makes for simple zeroing. There is also CDS that lets you adjust ranges based on the custom dial.

You’ll find it hard to find a more durable option in this category. It sports an aluminum construction to ensure long lasting use.

What could be better: While the reticule is manageable, the MOA reticule could be less fine and coarser. It doesn’t give enough information after sighting the target.

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Features
  • Objective lens diameter: 50 mm
  • Magnification: 4-12x
  • Field of view: 25.7-8.4 ft. at 100 yds.
  • Eye relief: 3.9 in.
  • Length: 14.2 in.
  • Weight: 20.6 oz.

More features: second focal plane, 1-inch tube, capped turret

The Vortex Optics Crossfire II is a great scope for hunters, plinkers or even the tactical shooting enthusiast. While it is not the most high end product, it is an affordable scope. The AR platform is a great fit for lever action guns, guide guns or heavier, large caliber guns. So, all calibers should benefit from this scope, which offers 1x to 4x magnification power.

The scope has a 30 mm diameter tube, which quickly picks up downrange targets. The tube is made with Aircraft Grade Aluminum with a matte anodized finish, which creates a sleek and tough tube. The main body has an O-ring seal filled with nitrogen, which creates a waterproof, shockproof and fogproof scope, so it can be used in pretty much all weather.

The scope has a “G” shock testing rating, but many users report that it holds up to a decent amount of shock. However, it is supported by a lifetime Vortex warranty. Another aspect that is common to many of the Vortex scopes is the glass quality. Regardless of the distance, you should find the target is exceptionally clear. It makes it possible to accurately place shots, which tends to be a difficulty with scopes at this price point. There is sufficient eye relief to benefit from safety without compromising on accuracy. The brightness level of the scope is always optimal, so you shouldn’t experience glare issues.

    What makes it special?
  • The scope has caps on the turrets that make it easier to make quick adjustments. This makes the scope very easy to use, as you can make your adjustments without needing to lower the sight and drop your target.
    What cons did we find?
  • If you’re planning on shooting at targets at distances of greater than 500 yards, you may find the scope lacking.
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7
Best IR Scope for 30.06

BARSKA 3-12x50 IR Huntmaster Pro

Features
  • Objective lens diameter: 50 mm
  • Magnification: 3-12x
  • Field of view: 35-10 ft. at 100 yds.
  • Eye relief: 2.7 in,
  • Length: 13 in.
  • Weight: 21.3 oz.

More features: IR, one-inch tube, 0.25-Iinch click value, limited lifetime warranty; water, fog and shock-proof

The Barska 3-12×50 IR Huntmaster Pro is an excellent scope with a modest price tag. It is an all purpose scope suitable for general hunting, target shooting and plinking. It features a 50mm multi coated objective lens that makes it a great option for low light conditions. The large diameter allows for greater light collection, while the multi coating minimizes reflections and glare. The scope also has an IR feature that provides pinpoint accuracy at dusk or in low light conditions.

This is a great scope for any carry around shooting activities. Although it is a little on the heavy side, it is only a little heavier than smaller scopes, yet it has 3 to 12x magnification power and an illumination control turret with an included lithium battery, which certainly offset the additional weight.

The scope has 2.7 inches of eye relief, which is  a lot shorter compared to scopes that are typically made for heavy caliber rifles. Many scopes in this niche have at least three inches of eye relief, in some cases up to six inches. This means that you will need to consider whether this is sufficient for you.

    What makes it stand out?
  • This scope does represent great value for money. Although there are some issues, it does have some great features, which you may not expect at this price point.
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • One area where there is room for improvement is the warranty. The scope along with all Barska products is supplied with a Limited Lifetime Warranty. However, when you read the small print you need to pay a processing fee in addition to the shipping costs. There are no details about what this fee is for, but it does negate at least part of the warranty.
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8
Best Entry-Level Scope

Vortex Optics Diamondback HP 4-16x42

Features
  • Objective lens diameter: 42 mm
  • Magnification: 4-16x
  • Field of view: 6.1-23.8 ft. at 100 yds.
  • Eye relief: 4 in.
  • Length: 12.5 in.
  • Weight: 18 oz.

 More features: waterproof, fogproof, shockproof, fast focus eyepiece, precision-glide erector system, XR fully multi-coated

Description

Another model on our list is a stellar product from Vortex. Vortex is known for the high quality of its models, and this entry-level unit is no different. It is made of high-quality materials, simple to use and quite affordable.

What we liked:  First of all, we love the design and build of the scope. It is made of durable, high-quality materials. Hence, it will survive recoil, shocks, and bad weather. It also is water and fog-proof. Thus, you can rest assured that you’ll use it for a long time. To stop glare, the body is made with an anodized finish. Thus, it won’t startle the target as you shoot.

This riflescope comes with magnification settings between 4x to 16x. it also comes with a 50mm objective lens that makes for an excellent product. Another thing we likes is the concentration of the lens glass. This glass is an extra-low dispersion model. Therefore, you’ll find that it collects light to improve contrast and allow you to see better, even in poor visual conditions. Another notable thing we enjoyed in this unit is the fast focus. Thus, when you zoom the lens, it might blur for a moment and then corrects itself. With this feature, you can more easily focus on the reticle and catch the target quicker than with other models. The lens is a multicoated option, which in turn makes for a super durable and useful lens.

Aside from the above, the precision glide erector system is one of the best we have seen on a scope at this price. The smoothness and stability are exceptional. With the use of top-notch components, the scope ensures that you can switch sequences with much hassle and the model easily switches in almost any type of condition. In addition, the magnification rib increases rapid toggling between zoom levels.

One important part of any scope are the turrets. Well, the turrets here are useful and elevate the scope. It sports tactical turrets and even a side parallax adjustment knob. With these turrets, you can easily tune the elevation and windage.

What could have been better: Well, this is an excellent option. However during our testing, we observed that the reticule is a little thin. Apart from that, there is no other problem with this scope.

    What were we disappointed with?
  • Thin reticule
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9
Best Quick Focus

Nikon PROSTAFF P3 3-9x40

Features
  • Objective lens diameter: 40 mm
  • Magnification: 3-9x
  • Field of view: not specified
  • Eye relief: 3.6 in.
  • Length: 12.4 in.
  • Weight: 15 oz.

More features: fully multi-coated, versatile 3:1 zoom ratio, waterproof, fogproof, shockproof, SFP, quick focus eyepiece, spring-loaded instant zero-reset turrets

Nikon cameras are hugely popular, but did you know that the company also makes scopes for rifles? The rifle scopes from this manufacturer exhibit a similar impressive quality as what you find in the cameras. They are built to last and will survive recoils, drops, bumps, and a lifetime of hard use.

What we liked: The Nikon PROSTAFF P3 3-9×40 is a recent addition into the rifle scope line of product from the manufacturer. As such, it comes with plenty of the useful features loved by many that is found in older models while discarding some of those that people hate.

We love the 3X zoom system because it greatly improves your shooting accuracy. While iron sights are great on rifles, the scope will make it easier and quicker to hit targets.

Lenses are an integral part of every scope, and Nikon recognizes the importance. That is why much focus is on the lens. It comes with a multi-coating design. The anti-reflective coats on the lens help you to see better in poor lighting conditions while preventing glare and reflections. These also deliver brught pictures and enable you enjoy a high level of brightness and contrast in low light conditions.

Eye relief of 3.9” is quite generous, even if it isn’t as much as that found in the unit reviewed above. We observed throughout the testing period that the eye relief remains constant even after intense shooting and recoil.

In terms of durability, you’ll likely be very pleased with this unit. The one-inch tube is made from aircraft grade aluminum to protect the unit from damage. Apart from the tube, other parts of the scope are also made of this aluminum material. Thus, from zoom rings to focus rings and turret caps, you can rest assured of durability.

Interestingly, and to our delight, the Nikon PROSTAFF P3 3-9×40 has different reticle choice. You can toggle between the BDC, Nikoplex, or Mil-dot options. Therefore, you can enjoy very precise sighting of targets.

When shooting, parallax is one of the most important considerations. This is important regardless of your level of expertise. Thankfully, the parallax setting on the N Nikon PROSTAFF P3 3-9×40 is awesome and great for all shooters. The Nikon PROSTAFF P3 3-9×40 comes with a nice feature that removes parallax and makes your shooting much more accurate.

Zeroing is easy on this model too because the elevation and windage turrets are spring-loaded. Thus, they can be zeroed very quickly.

You can get the model in wither matte or silver finish.

What could be better: As we pointed out earlier, this model can use a BDC reticule among other types of reticules. While the BDC option is great within around 600 yards, it is disappointing beyond that. We wish the BDC reticule were better beyond this distance.

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Features
  • Objective lens diameter: 40 mm
  • Magnification: 3-9x
  • Field of view: 11.8-35.5 ft. at 100 yds.
  • Eye relief: 3.5-3.7 in.
  • Length: 12.3 in.
  • Weight: 17 oz.

 More features: waterproof, Trijicon BAC Bindon Aiming Concept, LED reticle illumination

Last but not least on this list is the Trijicon RS20 AccuPower 3-9×40. The Trijicon brand is known for the high quality scopes and glasses it produces and their impressive durability. This model comes with impressive features apart from the ruggedness.

What we liked: Rifle scopes are common because they help you to see further and get more precise views of a target. You get more accuracy using the scope than you would by using the naked eye. The Trijicon RS20 AccuPower 3-9×40 comes with several nice features including a glass that offers more clarity than you’d ever expect. It gives you a bright, contrasting view that improves your accuracy. With this glass, the colors are accurately reproduced. All of these are important once you have a target in your crosshairs.

Durability wise, there are few brands that can compete with Trijicon RS20 AccuPower 3-9×40. This isn’t a big surprise considering that the brand supplies the ACOG optic used by the USA military. Thus, it will last for a very long time. It feels very solid to hold and is impervious to water. In fact, this model. Despite the battery power can be submerged up to ten feet without suffering any damage.

Adjustment knobs are another impressive facet of this model. It has MOA windage and elevation adjustment knobs that help you to vastly improve your accuracy. Furthermore, the diopter comes with an adjustment knob that is super easy to toggle. Interestingly, the manufacturer has also included a speed lever that makes you magnify the view even easier.

Reticules are another important feature to consider and this unit comes with a second focal plane reticule. Due to this design, the reticule remains fixed in size even after you change the magnification.

You can illuminate the reticule via the control knob.

What could be better: There’s no doubt that the second focal plane reticule has its perks. However, this reticule is poor for long range shooting. If you are looking to engage in long range shooting often, you might have a hard time using this model.

Another thing is the price. It is one of the most expensive options on the market and on this roundup.


Things to Consider

In the review above, we have had a detailed review of seven of the best scopes for 30 06 you can buy. These seven options come with different features that allow them offer you the best performance when paired with a Springfield 30-06 rifle. However, you might not be satisfied with the products we have reviewed. If you want to head out to buy something else that has caught your fancy, what are the factors you should consider? What information do you need that would assist you to make a smart buying choice? These questions and more will be answered in this buying guide section.

What to consider

The 30-06 rifle wasn’t always so popular. Prior to the 1900’s this rifle wasn’t available in North America. However, the first 30-06 cartridge was introduced to the USA military force to replace the 30-03 service round. This new option held many advantages. For one, it was lighter in weight, faster to load had higher velocity, and compatible with different calibers.

In modern times, this rifle has passed from being a predominately military cartridge to one found in civilian hands. It is one of the most popular on the market today for several reasons. For one, it is lightweight and easy to lug around. Despite the compact size, it is also very accurate and is easy enough to use by amateurs.

With all these features in mind, it stands to reason that this excellent rifle should be paired with an equally excellent scope. If it isn’t, it will still shoot well, but you’d be wasting its enormous potential. That is why we have made the list above for you to choose from.

Many manufacturers make models of scopes but not all these scopes are compatible with the 30-06. Thus, it is important to know what the right scopes are and how you can identify them.

One important factor to think about is the durability of the scope. You should look for models with water proof and fog proof performance, like the Leupold models we reviewed above. This will let you shoot in extreme conditions.

You should also consider getting a scope with wide magnification range that will improve your vision, and by extension, improve your shooting accuracy. There are other factors like adjustments and objective lenses to consider.

So, without further ado, let’s take each of these features and consider how they matter.

Magnification

10 Best Scopes for 30 06 – All You Need for the Perfect Results

From the name, it is quite clear what this is about. Magnification is what lets you see far way objects from your position. If you are shooting long range, then you would need a scope with powerful magnification.

Let’s see how this compares.

Shooting in a close range of around 200 yards, you will need a scope with decent, but not powerful magnification. This can be a scope within 1x to 4x magnification power.

Thankfully, the 30-06 is one powerful rifle that can shoot within such distances quite accurately.

If on the other hand you are shooting at least 400 yards, you would need something more powerful. Scopes with magnification of between 9X and higher are the best options for such distances.

Apart from the magnification power, you also need to consider the mode of magnification. There are two main types: Fixed and Variable.

As the name implies, fixed magnification refers to a scope that the magnification value cannot be adjusted. On the other hand, a variable scope can change magnification power.

The 30-06 is a versatile option on the market. Therefore, it is great for either long range or short range shooting. With this model, you can choose scopes with up to 12X magnification – it will simply improve your accuracy. While the rifle already has iron sights, you can add a scope to improve accuracy.

If you do not know the value of magnification to use, it is better to buy a scope with variable magnification within a wide range. That way, you can adjust it as you deem fit.

You want to go with a variable model that offers plenty of magnification. A low magnification can make it easier for you to see a wide view, an important factor for long range shooting.

If you choose a fixed magnification scope, your shots will be limited. You cannot adjust it.

Which should you therefore choose?

It majorly depends on your shooting range.

If you are a long range shooter (400 yards and more), then the Springfield 30-06 has got you covered. All you need is a scope with up to 9X or more magnification and you are good to go.  Medium range shooters will also find this model just great, as long as they pair it with a 4x – 9x magnification scope. Close range shooters can even shoot without a scope, but for the best results, they should consider getting a scope using 1-4 x magnification power.

Light Transmission

Unlike what is commonly believed, scopes do not actually hold any light. While you might hear ‘light gathering scopes’ this is just a misnomer.  Instead of gathering lights, these tools just transmit the light through the lenses all the way to your eyes. As this occurs, light is lost. Thus, when thinking about light transmission in your scope, you must look for a model that loses the least amount of light. Most of the scopes available on the market right now have a transmission accuracy of just around 90%. While some give as high as 98%, these are super expensive and hard to get,

What affects the amount of light? Well, it is the first factor we have considered – magnification!

The higher the magnification value of your scope, the less amount of light is transmitted to your eyes. The objective lens comes into play here (more on that later), because the larger the objective lens, the more light that gets through.

Eye Relief

Eye relief refers to the distance between your eye and the scope.

From our testing and reviews, the largest eye relief is around 4”. This is excellent because it gives you enough space to protect your eye if the gun has heavy recoil. If you shoot correctly, this will prevent the gun from hitting your face and causing damage to your eye.

If you are using a gun with plenty of kickback, then look for a scope with even more eye relief values. The downside of having so much eye relief is that you lose field of view.

Although the 30-06 comes with plenty of velocity, the recoil isn’t that much. Therefore, you can use it with scopes that have eye relief between 3 to 3.5”.

Objective Lens

The objective lens forms the most important part of the scope lens and is found at the end of the scope. It is an important piece in the scope because if the lens isn’t the right size or quality, your vision, and accuracy would suffer.

This lens is what allows light to pass through the eye piece correctly. If it isn’t well made, you will have problems with brightness, color accuracy, and contrast.

The bigger the lens is, the more light would pass through and the better your vision. However, with a bigger objective lens, you’ll have a bigger and heavier scope. If size matters a lot to you, you might have second thoughts about selecting a model with a large objective lens.

Lens Coating

10 Best Scopes for 30 06 – All You Need for the Perfect Results

The lens coating is one of the factors that affect how effective the objective lens. A proper coating will give the right hue and brightness to the lens.

With a right coating, you would be able to use your scope in different weather conditions accurately. Since lenses are usually made from glass or some other reflective material, the light can reflect off it and alert your target. However, with the correct coating, reflection is prevented. It also helps you to keep glare away. You would not be blinded by light if the lens is properly coated.

There are four major types of coating. These are:

  • Single coating
  • Full coating
  • Multi coating
  • Full multi coating

As the name implies, single coating is done on a single layer of the scope’s lens. Full coating is a coating on the external glass of the lens. An example is the Leupold FX3 6×42 Multi-coating has the coating on the entire body of the lens and has one layer.  The last type, Full multi-coating has the entire external objective lens coated in various layers.

Choosing the right type of coating depends on your purpose. Most shooters prefer a fully coated lens. It helps to keep all the parts of the lens in top shape and can increase your vision and accuracy. Nevertheless, while the coating is surely important, you should keep in mind that it is a secondary factor. What is most important is how good the lens is. Even the best coating will be useless if the lens is of poor quality or too small to allow a sufficient amount of light to pass through.

Scope Reticule

Your scope, especially one for a 30-06, should have reticule. The reticule is visible when you look through the scope. It comes in the form of crosshairs and gives useful information that can affect your shooting accuracy. There are three types of reticules. Some scopes have just one while some have all three embedded in them. The types you will find are:

  • Duplex reticule
  • Mil-dot reticule
  • BDC reticule


Duplex reticule is easy to use and found in the most basic scopes.

The Mil-dot reticule has a useful feature to indicate the distance of your target.

BDC reticule is more complicated and combines plenty of information. It is good for all types of shooting.

The best type of reticule is that which you are most comfortable with using. Fortunately, some scopes, for example, the Nikon PROSTAFF P3 3-9×40 has all three types.

Durability

Unless you are shooting in an indoor range, you would need your scope to be weather resistant and durable. The weather proof model would be useful even in wet weather.

Our list above contains some very durable units. For instance, Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12×40 is made from high grade aluminium that confers durability.

Parallax Adjustment

Parallax can negatively affect your accuracy if not managed. Manufacturers have provided ways of dealing with this. For example, some offer a parallax adjustment knob. A model like Vortex Optics Diamondback HP 4-16×42 has this feature.

Others have in-built parallax adjustments in the lenses and others have installed a scope ring. If you are unsure about how to manage parallax, we recommend that you choose a model that already has this installed in the lenses. An example is the Burris 4.5 x-14 x -42.

FAQ

What is a 30 06 rifle suitable for?

This rifle is great for large game hunting, long range shooting, and general hunting.

At what age I can start to introduce my child to a 30 06 rifle?

There is no set age. It is up to you to make a wise decision as to when to introduce your child to hunting with the 30-06 rifle.

What is a common warranty on the 30 06 rifles scopes?

It depends on the manufacturer. However, many of the best models on the market offer a lifetime warranty.

Our verdict

If you are a hunter, chances are high that you know just how awesome a 30-06 rifle can be. Choosing the best scope for 30 06 will greatly improve your chances of accurately bringing down game. We have reviewed seven of the best options available right now. From our research, we believe the Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12×40, Burris 4.5 x-14 x -42, and Simmons 8-Point 3-9×50 are the best models. First, the Vortex scope comes with impressive build quality and multi-coated optics that offer perfectly clear images. The Burris is made to quickly center the target and give you all the information you’ll normally find in a BDC reticule scope. And the Simmons scope offers plenty of useful features and a durable design at a low price.

Go through our review and guide to find the best scope for 30 06 right now. Happy hunting!

References

1.
The Anatomy of a Scope - Guns and Ammo
Ever wonder what is going on inside a scope. Here is what is going on and how it affects you.
2.
The Incredible History Of The Ever-So-Versatile .30-06 - Off The Grid News
An old saying goes, “There is not very much that a man can’t fix, with 500 bucks and a .30-06!”
9,9
Total Score
Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12x40 - Editor’s Choice
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