This post is for you if you are looking for the best 30-06 scope. The scopes featured harbor a plethora of features guaranteed to deliver favorable results with the cartridge. Whatever use you intend to use the 30-06 for, the scopes will deliver amazing performance.
The 30-06 caliber epitomizes long-range accuracy and effective terminal performance. It has been used for decades as it excels at long ranges. With an effective range of about 1000 yards, the caliber needs an equally powerful scope.
What Magnification Do You Need?
Power is the bone of contention for any scope hence shouldn’t be overlooked. The 30-06 cartridge rifle is effective at long ranges without compromising accuracy.
Coupling the cartridge with high-magnification optics is important for the best performance. Scopes with power ranging from 10-12x are ideal. However, the cartridge can be sued for short to medium-range shooting. This said scopes with a zoom ranging up to 9x are effective in such scenarios.
Ultimately, the best magnification comes down to your personal preferences, shooting distance, and the intended target.
Best 30-06 Scopes
With a litany of scopes available, it can be daunting to determine the right one for your 30-06 rifle. We have the top-ranking scopes that are compatible with the cartridge rifle. Let’s find out more:
1) Vortex Viper 6.5-20x50mm Riflescope
Vortex has, over the years, garnered the market’s attention for manufacturing top-notch products, and the Vortex Viper 6.5-20x50mm riflescope attests to that. The scope will take your long-range shooting and hunting to the next big level.
One thing that helps achieve this is the versatile 6.5-20x zoom range. This power helps you take down a faraway target with pinpoint accuracy.
The scope has plenty to offer when it comes to adjustments and zoom knobs. It has a super easy-to-use zero reset control. A unique MAG-Bar system supports seamless power changes on the fly.
The fast-focus eyepiece helps you focus on your target when time and speed are of the essence.
The scope excels when it comes to light transmission. This is thanks to the extra-low dispersion glass, which enhances resolution and color fidelity. The optics have multiple layers of coating to achieve maximum light transmission for brilliant images.
Besides doing well in all lighting conditions, the scope also delivers unwaveringly in wet conditions. This is because it is fully sealed for waterproofing and purged with gas for fogproofing. In addition, it is shockproof to survive recoil heavy recoil and rugged conditions.
Construction-wise, the scope has a well-executed design to survive virtually any conditions. The 30mm tube constitutes aircraft-grade aluminum, laying a good foundation for the scope. This construction handles any abuse the scope is subjected to.
The scope’s coating is another facet that cannot be left out. The Armortek coating protects the lenses from dents and scratches.
Features
- 50mm objective lens
- Multiproof
- Matte finish that conceals your position
- Robust aluminum body
- Scratch and dent resistant Armortek coating
- Generous 6.5-20x power
- Zero reset turrets
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- Fully multi-coated for best-in-class image rendition
Pros
- Easy to use
- Generous eye relief
- Clear lens
- Durable build
- Intuitive controls
Cons
- A bit heavy
- The zoom adjustment knob could be better
2) Bushnell 756185 Trophy 6-18x50mm Riflescope
The best 30-06 scopes are built with more than one thing, which is clearly manifested by the Bushnell 756185 Trophy 6-18x50mm Riflescope. The scope has a ton of features to elevate your shooting performance.
First off, the scope is ideal for low-light situations. If you plan to hunt in the early morning hours or late evening, this scope has you covered. It is engineered with fully multi-coated lenses with anti-reflective compounds that guarantee maximum light transmission for highly visible images.
The side parallax adjustment adjusts and aligns the reticle so that you keep shooting without losing focus of your target.
The scope is perfect for hunters who love to move around in any weather. The unit is completely waterproof and fogproof hence ensuring the interior components are well-protected. It is also shockproof for recoil and impact resistance.
Furthermore, the turret caps have a low-profile design that delivers snag-free performance. Many hunters love the Multi-X reticle as it is intuitive and highly visible, delivering a fantastic hunting experience.
Features
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Side parallax adjustment
- Multi-X reticle
- Versatile power range
- Massive 50mm objective lens
- Capped turrets
- Fast focus eyepiece
- 5 inches of eye relief
Pros
- Excellent clarity
- Great value for money
- Price
- Includes lens caps
Cons
- Tools are required for re-zeroing
3) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm is the other best 30-06 scope that promises out-of-this-world results. The scope boasts a 3-9x power range that is perfect for close to medium ranges. The 40mm is a reasonable objective lens size for elk hunting.
The optical performance of the scope is in its league. An advanced optical system delivers impeccable light transmission. It also features the Twilight Max Light Management System that provides light when hunting in poorly lit conditions. The lenses are designed with durability in mind, as they are scratch-resistant.
You can take with you the scope in any weather with confidence that it will deliver as it is completely waterproof and fogproof.
Aircraft-grade aluminum is used to make the scope making it rugged to handle anything thrown at it.
It also has the Custom Dial System, which makes sure the scope has been perfectly tuned to your rifle’s ballistics. It uses the Hunt Plex reticle, perfect for hitting small targets in brush or crowded terrains.
Features
- Twilight Max Light Management System
- 3-9x zoom range
- 40mm objective lens
- Made of top-notch aircraft-grade aluminum
- Custom Dial System
- Fully weatherproof
- Scratch-resistant lenses
Pros
- Long-lasting design
Cons
- The turrets could be better
4) Burris Fullfield II 4.5-14x42mm Ballistic Plex Riflescope
Burris is a reputable brand in the scopes industry known for manufacturing top-quality products, and the Burris Fullfield II 4.5-14x42mm Riflescope is no different. The scope is made with accuracy and precision in mind, making it a candidate for the best 30-06 scopes review.
This scope has a Hi-Lume multi-coated optical glass that results in admirable images. With this, you can rely on the scope to deliver great images even in dismal lighting.
The adjustable parallax focus removes parallax, which could impede accuracy. The reticle is straightforward to use and delivers effectively. Its uncluttered design boosts accuracy when taking down a target at long distances.
The scope’s durability is also worth mentioning. The one-piece tube is sealed and gas purged for waterproof and fogproof features. It is also shockproof for recoil and impact resistance.
A matte black finish minimizes glare and reflection, allowing flawless performance in sunny conditions.
Also, the 4.5-14x zoom is ideal for various ranges and provides a wide field of view for fast target acquisition. You can accurately shoot at targets that are far away.
Features
- One-piece tube
- Multiproof technology
- Hi-Lume multi-coated lenses
- Matte black finish
- Adjustable parallax focus eliminates parallax
- Magnification ring for effortless adjustments
- Non-slip eyepiece design
- Straightforward reticle
Pros
- Generous power range
- Well priced
- Solid build quality
- Ample eye relief
- Unparalleled accuracy
Cons
- On the heavy side
5) Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9x40mm Riflescope
Next up is the Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9x40mm Riflescope. If you are a budget-conscious buyer looking for a long-lasting scope, this is the scope for you. The Spot On feature helps you unearth all of the precise aiming points on the reticle at various ranges. The reticle is a BDC type that is straightforward to use.
It features multi-coated optics with anti-reflective components for maximum light transmission and glare reduction. As a result, you get clear, sharp, and zero-distortion images.
Thanks to the dry nitrogen gas purging, the scope is fogproof and waterproof. It is also shockproof to withstand recoil. It will ensure drops and bruises without sacrificing performance in the field.
Zeroing with this device is a snap. The adjustments also retain your initial settings after setting in to ensure you don’t lose focus of the target. The eye relief is generous and protects your face from injury brought about by recoil.
With its lightweight design, the scope is easy to carry wherever you go. It also mounts easily, making it a best 30-06 scope. The tip of the iceberg is that the scope doesn’t cost a fortune.
Features
- BDC reticle
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Black matte finish
- Spot On feature
- 6 inches of eye relief
Pros
- Appealing price
- Low in weight
- Backed by a lifetime warranty
- Sturdy build quality
Cons
- No mounting rings
6) Simmons 3-9x32mm Riflescope
The last product on our review of the best 30-06 scopes is the Simmons 3-9x32mm Riflescope. The adjustable 3-9x magnification makes the scope ideal for various ranges and provides crisp target images at those ranges.
The lenses are fully for glare, reflection, and scratch resistance and allow plenty of light into the scope for well-visible images. You can trust the scope to perform well in poorly lit situations.
It is also nitrogen-filled and O-ring sealed for waterproof and fog-free performance. The interior components deliver solid performance even in inclement weather.
The 3.7 inches of eye relief is ideal as it prevents your face from scope bites caused by heavy recoil. This means you can shoot without having to worry about going home with a half-moon decoration on your face.
A quick target acquisition eyepiece helps acquire the target easily and delivers stunning image quality.
A bonus for buying the scope is the rings and mounts included in the purchase.
Features
- Multiproof
- QTA eyepiece
- It holds zero well even after multiple rounds
- SureGrip turrets support easy adjustments
- HydroShield Coating protects the lenses
- Fully coated optics
Pros
- Adequate eye relief
- Price
- Easy adjustments
- Includes rings and mounts
Cons
- No reticle illumination
How To Choose the Best 30-06 Scope
There are many scopes available on the market, and not all are compatible with the 30-06. To help you make a more informed decision, here are some factors to guide you through:
Durability
The best 30-06 scope should be sturdy for lifelong performance. They should also withstand inclement weather and rough outdoor conditions. Go for a scope made of durable materials like aircraft-grade aluminum. O-ring seals and gas purging provide waterproof and fogproof features.
Cost
It is important to consider the cost when selecting a scope to pair with the 30-06. The best scope doesn’t necessarily have to be super expensive. Find a balance between quality and price without compromising on features.
Objective Lens Size
The objective lens size is the third factor to look at when choosing the best 30-06 scope. This is paramount as it determines the light transmission. The best scope is one with maximum light collection power, as most elk hunting occurs at dusk or dawn.
The best 30-06 scope should have an objective lens size between 40 and 50mm.
Magnification
The 30-06 is effective at long ranges. Most hunters use it at the 300-yard range. That said, power ranging from 3-9x or 4-12x is suitable for hunting with this cartridge.
Low-power scopes provide an impressive field of view and long eye relief, which is crucial for better periphery awareness.
Also Read: 6 Best 30-06 Leupold Scopes
Reticle
There are many reticle choices, including BDC, Mil-dot, and Duplex. Go through scopes to know the best reticle option. The best choice is one that gives you a cleaner shot and meets your personal preferences. It should ensure accuracy when hitting at long-range targets.
Best 30-06 Scope FAQs
Q: What Is the Accurate Range of a 30-06?
The effective range of the 30-30 is roughly 200 yards. It can also be accurate at shorter ranges, between 50 and 100 yards, for hunting medium-sized game such as deer and elk. The bullet can begin to lose velocity and energy at longer ranges, decreasing its accuracy and effectiveness.
Q: How Many Rounds Can a 30-06 Hold?
A tubular magazine is typically found beneath the barrel of lever-action 30-30 rifles. The magazine’s capacity can change based on the size of the cartridges being used and the length of the tube.
Lever-action 30-30 rifles often have magazines holding 6–7 rounds. However, depending on the specifics of the gun’s design, some models may have magazines with larger or smaller capacities.
Related: 6 Best 30-06 Elk Hunting Scopes
Q: Should You Put a Scope on a 30-06?
A scope is a valuable addition to a 30-30 rifle as it enhances accuracy and makes it easy to shoot at long-range targets. This is particularly handy for hunters who plan to shoot beyond 100 yards.
Conclusion
The 30-06 is a powerful cartridge that requires a quality scope to get the most out of it. All the scopes explained above are a valuable addition to your rifle. We hope you have found a scope that suits your needs and preferences.