Best 30-06 Scope Recommendations for The Money

Going back into time for a few moments – 1906, to be more specific – we’re witnessing the birth of the .30-06 cartridge, in the United States, as the military was in big need for a replacement for the 30-03 rimless service round. And little did everybody know that it was an absolutely historic moment!

Initially, the 30-06 was developed with one thing in mind: to satisfy the big necessity for a lighter service round, with increased velocity, and, most important, pointed.

Fast forward to our days, it’s definitely one of the most popular cartridges in the world, being used for both sporting. And there are quite a few good reasons behind the cartridge’s popularity: it’s handy, accurate, and definitely reasonably priced.

Hunters prefer it because it’s moderate enough when it comes to recoil, so even beginners can use it, while its flexibility can cover a wide array of North American game. Considering this, it’s more than obvious that such a popular cartridge needs to be paired with some of the best scopes on the market, in order to obtain the best results. Unless you want to limit its functionality and affect the overall user experience. But we’re convinced that you don’t want to see this happening.

In this case, there’s just one big question left: What’s the best scope for 30-06 cartridges?

If you’re dealing with this question as well, quite often, then you’re in the best place, as today we’re going to look at some of the best – at least in our opinion – models of scopes available on the market.

Still, before talking about our models of choice, let’s see what specific features you should look for when buying a 30-06 scope, shall we?

So, first thing first, you should understand that there’s no such thing as the perfect scope. Why? Because everybody has different needs when it comes to hunting or sporting and it’s really difficult for a manufacturer to come up with a model able to satisfy all needs. A lot of them tried creating one, but they are still far from perfection. Considering this, our list with the best 30-06 scopes will contain solely items that are at least close to perfection.

Image by Curiosandrelics | CC BY-SA 3.0

Ok, now that we’ve clarified a very important aspect, let’s see which basic features you should be aware of before purchasing:

The objective lens: Or, if you prefer, the front glass of the scope. Make sure you check its size, as it needs to be directly proportional to both the field of view, but also the amount of transmitted light. Still, you don’t need to worry about these if you’re going to pick one of the models presented below, as all of them were carefully selected to fit all needs and requirements.
The tube Or the scope body: In most cases, it measures one inch or 30mm in length. Always check the rings holding it, making sure they are exactly (no, EXACTLY, in fact) the same size as the tube.
The adjustments knobs: A standard model should be able to change the impact in just one click. Also, you can adjust it using solely the pressure of your finger, as well as a flat-tip screwdriver.

Besides this basic information, let’s also go through a couple of common terms used when describing scopes, in order to better understand what you’re looking at:

Single/fixed power: This means that you cannot adjust the scope’s power. In contrast, there are models with variable power, meaning exactly the opposite.
Objective size: It’s simple, as this refers to the size of the objective lens. Basically, the larger the objective, the heavier and bulkier the scope will be. You decide if this is a plus or minus.
Coating: It refers to the lens, as some models can repel water or even block wavelengths. This determined how much reflection you might experience while hunting or sporting.
Charged scope: A scope that has been filled with nitrogen (or oxygen, depending on the model) so it can keep fog and moisture away.

Ok, enough with the information. Let’s see which scopes are worth splashing the cash on!

Best 30-06 Scope Recommendations

Athlon Optics Helos BTR Illuminated APLR2 MOA Riflescope

Looking forward to buying a high-end rifle scope? The search no more, as we have just the perfect recommendation for you: The Athlon Optics Helos BTR.

Solid and well-built, it remains valid at all power settings, allowing you to take advantage of the specially designed reticles – which also shrinks and grows along – at full capacity. Also, it’s worth mentioning that it comes with a locking feature, on both elevation and windage turrets, so you can simply pull them up to Dial, then push them down and lock them in place.

Pros

Looking at the major advantages of the Athlon Optics Helos BTR, the first thing you’ll notice is that you’re getting an advanced model that’s not actually breaking your budget.
It comes with an illuminated reticle, which increases the visibility at night, but also during dusk and down, as well as pretty much any other low light environment.
You won’t deal with any moisture in the tube, as the inertia gas used by the manufacturer has bigger molecules, able to purge everything out of the tube.

Cons

Sure, we’re not saying that this is a perfect product. As some users report, in most cases, it can lose focus after using it for some time, which can be somehow annoying.
Even though this can be solved on your own, the scope doesn’t come with any covers, something that can be considered unacceptable after looking at the price.
After using it at 100 yards with 30-06 cartridges, we were impressed by the performance, not to mention that we’re convinced that it can perform beautifully even at 1000 yards.
To wrap it up, the Athlon Optics Helos BTR is a scope offering quality optics for a reasonable price, being excellent for those who want to step up their shooting game a bit.

Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope with Truplex Reticle

If you’re on a budget and want to try out a more than decent rifle scope, then Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm is the perfect solution.

At under $100, this rifle scope assures bright, high-contrast images in order for you to keep good track of your mark. Simmons has demonstrated that is able to stay relevant in the industry, incorporating new technology into their products. The Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm is no exception

Pros

With a 3x-9x magnification and a generous 50mm objective lens, the Simmons 8-Point can bring colour in the darkest of places. You’ll have no problem taking your game to the next level, considering that the product also comes with fully-coated lenses and high-quality glass.
Take it with you no matter the conditions. The Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm is waterproof, fog-proof, and recoil-proof, so it can adapt in all kinds of environments.
Maybe not from the start, but somewhere down the line, probably at your first try, you’ll notice how this piece is crafted. A high quality scope, made from aircraft aluminum and given a black nitride finish. The advantages? Guaranteed corrosion resistance and minimum reflections.

Cons

No rifle scope is without flows and the Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm does have its own. Some are just manufacturers errors, ones you could somehow expect from a product pointed for those on a budget.
Some users reports claim that the adjustment ring remains stuck between 3x to 6x. Although the picture is bright and clear like the company assured, this remains a problem for objectives that are quite far from the viewer’s perspective.
And although you can clearly see the target, that doesn’t necessarily mean you can hit it. Or that’s what many users say about the time they zero the scope. It seems they constantly had to readjust it after every few rounds to make it work.
All in all, Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm comes at a good price and meets today’s technology requirements, but has some vivid flaws you should acknowledge first.

UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope

Glance your eyes with the next product, the UTG 3-12X44 30mm compact scope, one of the top rifle scopes for guns enthusiasts our there. Designed using only the latest technology, the UTG 3-12X44 30mm offers some premium features, ones that will raise your heartbeat every time you have the scope in your hands.

If you are looking for a rifle scope that is capable of long-range shooting, then your desire is fulfilled. Once you’ll notice the 30-Millimeter tube built on True Strength Platform, you’ll know this is a purchase for you.

Pros

While shooting a target, you’ll need Zero Resetting and Locking Target Turrets. Luckily for you, the UTG 3-12X44 30mm has both features. Most consistent and precise adjustment, one that will not fade away after a few shots.
Special circuit and housing design for uninterrupted illumination even under heavy recoil will allow you to set on the target and not have to worry about losing your aim.
The color of the scope is custom-built with his 36 different colors. You can change it at any time just by hitting one button. Therefore, when the light goes darker or lighter, you’ll still have the precision advantage.

Cons

The manufacturer praises the UTG 3-12X44 30mm rifle scope, claiming that will hold zero every time, no matter the circumstances. However, despite being pretty accurate, with good clarity, well adjust on objective, the scope doesn’t always keep zero according to some dissatisfied customers.
Furthermore, combined with some powerful guns, the electronic color LED cannot withstand the recoil. The color reticle will shut off after a few rounds, but we’re almost convinced that this isn’t something that will bother you that much.
Bottom line, the UTG 3-12X44 30mm is the kind of rifle scope with some interesting features and comes at an affordable price. But it doesn’t deliver everything that it promises and that can be a little bit disappointing.

BARSKA 3-12x50 IR Huntmaster Pro 30/30 IR Cross Riflescope

Stepping forward to another product, the BARSKA 3-12×50 IR Huntmaster Pro 30/30, an ideal purchase when lighting conditions are less than ideal, combining advanced optic technology.

There’s no way you’ll miss out on a rifle scope that brings fast-focus eye bell, large objective lens, and multi-coated optics deliver clear. All these on an affordable piece makes every gun lover’s day.

Pros

The illumination control has 10 different brightness settings to appropriately adjust for the conditions the hunter encounters. You’ll probably never find yourself in a situation where the BARSKA 3-12x50 IR Huntmaster Pro 30/30 can’t properly adjust the illumination on your favor.
With 3 to 12X magnification, you can adjust your aim to locate targets that are at long distances. The rifle scope is also water, fog and shock-proof, adjustable for windage, elevation, and rheostat.
This Huntmaster Pro rifle scope has the 30/30 IR Cross reticle, meaning that only the centre cross get illuminated. A simple and straightforward way for every hunter to accommodate for the target.

Cons

There’s no doubt that the BARSKA 3-12x50 IR Huntmaster Pro 30/30 offers some great features, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they work perfectly. For example, a 3 to 12X magnification is useless if it becomes blurry. And users claim that when they go for more than 9X, it all gets fuzzy really fast.
Adjust it at a powerful gun at your own risk. The scope’s glass is quite fragile and at recoils, there’s a strong possibility for it to break.
The BARSKA 3-12x50 IR Huntmaster Pro 30/30 is not a huge investment, considering the features it has at least on paper. However, the blurriness of the scope and the fragile glass makes for a product that is a risky choice, one that not guarantees quality.

Nikon ProStaff 3-9 x 40 Black Matte Riflescope (BDC)

The next product stands out from the crowd and is a dream for every hunter out there. The Nikon ProStaff 3-9 x 40 Black Matte Riflescope (BDC) primarily attracts because is a compact riflescope with 3 to 9x magnification and 40mm objective lens.

Then, you can’t ignore the fully multicoated optical system that transmits up to 98 per cent of available light. Maximum brightness from day to night, giving you great quality without making you spend a lot.

Pros

Nikon placed the zero-reset that has a spring-loaded adjustment knob, making your deer hunting mission a little easier. Rotate to your zero and proceed taking multiple shots without losing sight of your hunt.
This Nikon 30 06 scope with bullet drop compensator has one of its greatest features right in the name. The BDC reticle means you can adjust the bullet drop of up to 600 yards and allows you to hold “dead-on” at various ranges.
Don’t ignore the O-ring-sealed housing for waterproof and fog proof performance. Beat any kind of conditions to assure a perfect hunt.

Cons

The Nikon ProStaff 3-9 x 40 Black Matte Riflescope (BDC) is not perfect and some of its buyers were keen on having their opinion heard about the product. Just like any other rifle scope, this one from Nikon doesn’t always hold at zero. But unlike others, the Nikon ProStaff 3-9 x 40 Black Matte Riflescope (BDC) has few moments when it fails.
Although the optics are nice, the higher powered rifles can knock the crosshairs all over the place. Not what you would want when you’re out there hunting.
Despite some flaws, the Nikon ProStaff 3-9 x 40 Black Matte Riflescope (BDC) is a great rifle scope that lets you benefit from its features and allows you to claim the hunt with a near-perfect aim.

Leupold VX-2 4-12x40mm Compact Waterproof Fogproof Riflescope

Covered by Leupold Full Lifetime Guarantee, the Leupold VX-2 4-12x40mm is that type of riffle scope that no matter what problem you have with it, you know it will all be fixed on your conditions.

At the end of the day, you get what you pay for, and for under $500, you should be assured that you bought the right item. A rifle scope that you can quickly and easily adjust in the field.

Pros

All controls are smooth and the 1/4 MOA precision finger click adjustments for windage and elevation should give the Leupold VX-2 4-12x40mm a proper elevation in your rankings. Add the absolute waterproof and fog proof integrity and you’ll see a couple of reasons why this item is so pricy, but also high-valued.
Brightness, clarity, and contrast can be set to favor all weather conditions, making you an unstoppable machine at the other end of the rifle scope. Maybe the optical clarity is not the best on the market, but in bright daylight, you’ll never notice the difference.

Cons

At this price, you can be sure there aren’t many things wrong with the Leupold VX-2 4-12x40mm. A few buyers have had complaints about some cheaps in the glass, but that’s easily solvable with a package return.
On a different matter, others have noticed that although the scope is excellent at close range, it doesn’t perform that well at long distances, plus foggy conditions. And we have to emphasize “not excellent” because the Leupold VX-2 4-12x40mm has performed at relatively decent standards.
As a conclusion, the Leupold VX-2 4-12x40mm is a rifle scope for those who can afford it and know what this item is capable of. Very few flaws and general satisfaction is guaranteed.

Vortex Optics Diamondback Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

A very popular name in the industry, Vortex Optics can produce extremely praised rifle scopes, one of them being the Diamondback 4-12×40. It is one of the multiple configurations in the Diamondback lineup and is ideal for the big game, predator/varmint, muzzleloader, slug shotgun, and long-range applications.

Despite its magnification range, the 30 06 bdc scope is not that big but has some weight on it. Nothing to be worried about, as it is around the same size as the rest of its competitors.

Pros

You must be thrilled about the fact that there is a Dead-Hold BDC reticle that is good for elk hunting or shooting at varying ranges where estimating hold-over would be a concern.
Furthermore, the Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40 has lenses that are fully multi-coated for crystal clear, bright images from dawn till dusk. The fast focus eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing, giving you a clear advantage.
Let’s not forget about the ability to zero reset after sight-in, all possible with metal on metal precision turrets.
Vortex Optics offers a lifetime warranty for this scope

Cons

Even though the Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40 can be highly praised by some users, others have turned their attention to the aspects the manufacturer managed to screw-up. Although the eyepiece can give you a series of advantages, some customers weren’t that pleased with how the eye relief performed.
And some claims say that out 100 yards the edges around the glass get really blurry. Add the fact that at high magnifications, the hunt allegedly becomes unseeable.
To sum things up, Vortex comes with yet another great product, but the Diamondback 4-12x40 does need some improvements to achieve the quality line showcased by the company.

Burris 3-9 x 40mm Fullfield II Ballistic Plex Rifle Scope

Let’s carry on with the Burris Fullfield II 3-9X40 rifle scope, an item with a great rating and plenty of customers who have declared themselves pleased with the product. Why is that? Because the Burris Fullfield II 3-9X40 is a premium traditional hunting riflescope at an affordable price.

You would definitely notice the high-grade optical glass that provides excellent brightness and clarity with lasting durability. A must-have for a hunter who awaits his prey at any given moment of the day.

Pros

The Burris Fullfield II 3-9X40 comes with a durable, integrated-eyepiece design that has a no-slip grip for easy adjustment in the field. Something every hunter should consider before going out into the wild.
To keep your zero even under heavy recoil and shock, it assures a recoil-proof with double spring tension assembly. If there is a common complaint about rifle scopes, that’s the one regarding keeping a tight zero.
Another thumbs up is that the Burris Fullfield II 3-9X40 is waterproof and fog-proof with quad-seal gas rings for superior durability.

Cons

A rifle scope without complaints is utopian, so let’s revisit what people have to say about the Burris Fullfield II 3-9X40. Some claim that the power adjustment from 3 to 9 power takes a very firm hand to turn. An aspect that is highly subjective.
And more complaints say that if you do reach the 9x, the image becomes very blurry. We’re talking about a nice looking and well-built rifle scope, but it can’t please everyone.
Although with some flaws, the Burris Fullfield II 3-9X40 is a popular choice for very good reason. If you’re not an idealist, then this rifle scope can work for you.

TASCO World Class 3-9x40 Riflescope w/30/30 Reticle (Matte)

Next up, we have the TASCO World Class 3-9×40 Riflescope, a great looking model with – and you can’t blame this for this, as it’s a personal preference – a smooth matte black finish. Also, considering the reviews it got, it appears to be a customer favorite, especially for those who hunt deer and big game.

But in most cases, it’s not just the looks that made a product good!

Pros

The World Class 3-9x40 is, technically speaking, a large model, with a large lens. Automatically, this means that it boosts light gathering power, but also has an excellent range of magnification.
You can easily take this model hunting even in rainy conditions, as it’s 100% waterproof, but also fog proof and shockproof.
As a bonus, it has an incredible magnification rate, starting from 3x, until 9x, so you can target even long-range objectives.

Cons

There are cases in which the adjustments are imprecise, which can be a big minus for hunters. Also, the range of adjustment can be very limited, which again, is a downside for this scope.
Some hunters say that the TASCO World Class 3-9x40 Riflescope is more of a short term solution, as on the long term it will get you on target, with quite a consistent accuracy, but you need to make everything possible to avoid dropping it.
And let’s not forget about the ‘sensibility’ of this scope. To be more specific, no matter how good you’re looking after it, you can end up with a fragile scope, after shooting numerous rounds through it.

Monstrum Tactical 4-14x44 First Focal Plane (FFP) Rifle Scope with Rangefinder Reticle and Adjustable Objective Lens

As our list is getting closer to an end, we’re looking at some very interesting products. For example, now we have the Monstrum Tactical 4-13×44 First Focal Plane scope, a high-precision model, with – you guessed it, 4-14x magnification, and an impressive 44mm objective lens.

And yes, we’ve also included this model into our selection because of the color, among other features. You just can’t go wrong with its Flat Dark Earth finish, if you ask us!

Pros

The scope comes with a first focal plane rangefinder reticle, providing easy-to-read ranging information. But this is not everything since the information remains constant all the time, no matter the magnification, thus resulting in faster range estimation, but also holdover correction.
It’s equipped with a state of the art adjustable objective lens, allowing you to achieve a sharp focus of the target, but also eliminates parallax.
Another feature that we really like is the touch-button controlled reticle illumination, in red and green, with several brightness intensities. This is incredibly useful at night or in low light environments! And it adds a plus of style and, why not, coolness to your rifle. Who doesn’t like a pretty little light while out in the dark? Yeah, thought so.

Cons

Surprisingly or not, this scope doesn’t have so many cons, but still, some users complain that the scope would not zero and this is a cheap model that isn’t worth the money. Obviously, this depends from user to user.
The parallax feature is also a minus, according to some buyers, who claim that they have verified this with Rangefinder. Again, it’s definitely an isolated case.
And finally, there’s also an issue with compatibility, as there are some rifles which can hold the Monstrum Tactival 4-13x44 First Focal Plane properly. This could be indeed a real issue, so that’s why we’re recommending to closely examine all details about the scope before eventually buying it. You don’t want to end up with a technically useless one, right?

Trijicon TR20-2G AccuPoint 3-9X40Mm Mil-Dot Crosshair Reticle with Green Dot Riflescope

Close to the finish line, but not quite there. The Trijicon TR20-2G AccuPoint 3-9X40Mm is a rifle scope that should be on every gun lover’s Christmas wish list. One with a fibre optic technology that automatically adjusts the brightness level and contrast of the reticle aiming point to available light conditions.

This rifle scope can withstand the harshest of weather conditions and deliver the perfect shot. And all in a lovely matte black color.

Pros

Providing an image that is not blurry when the magnification increases is not easy and there are a few expensive tools that can’t get the job done. The Trijicon TR20-2G AccuPoint 3-9X40Mm adjusts to customer demands with a reticle size that remains constant as magnification increases which provides a more exact aiming point at higher magnifications.
But that’s not all. The illuminated reticle doesn’t project any illumination from the objective lens, making the Trijicon TR20-2G AccuPoint 3-9X40Mm somehow of a hidden gem if you haven’t purchased it yet.

Cons

You are probably used to hear in this section about multiple glitches regarding the product. However, our first counterpoint is about the price. At more than $700, the Trijicon TR20-2G AccuPoint 3-9X40Mm is not a “toy” that everyone can afford.
Some customers claim that the illuminated green dot is much smaller than they’ve anticipated, but overall the Trijicon TR20-2G AccuPoint 3-9X40Mm is highly-regarded among customers.
To sum things up about the Trijicon TR20-2G AccuPoint 3-9X40Mm, this may be one of the best rifle scopes we’ve tested. Of course, the price surely has something to do with the high-quality the item provides.

Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 2-7x32 AO Mil Dot Riflescope

Last but not least is the Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 2-7×32 AO Mil Dot Riflescope. An example that maybe sometimes it’s better to imagine a simple clean scope without tons of features. Because, you know, simplicity is key, even when it comes to 30-06 scopes.

And the Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 2-7×32 is exactly a blend of quality, versatility and affordability. Because we all want good things, but at a price we can afford.

Pros

The Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 2-7x32 may not be a technological state of the art masterpiece, but it has its edges. A 1/4 MOA low profile ‘no-snag’ fingertip turrets is something you’ll benefit from when purchasing it. The classic Mil Dot features multiple aim points for hold-over and hold-under
A clear target is what every hunter wants and demands from his rifle scope. Well, with an 11 layer fully multi-coated optics for excellent clarity, this should be a lot easier to obtain.
The parallax setting will adjust down to 5 yards according to the focus ring. The focus, when checked for minimum distance, actually delivered a crystal clear view at a close range.

Cons

What’s not to like about the Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 2-7x32? Well, this question gave a few responses from customers who’ve tried the product. It seems that the only answer that lined up for more than one was the fact that the eye relief is poor and must be perfectly lined up in order to see.
But, like in most cases, when it comes to complaints, it doesn’t mean that if a few users state one issue it will be the same for everybody else. We guess that it’s up to you to decide if this is really a situation.
Bottom line, considering the price and what this baby can do, we must say that the Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 2-7x32 seems a pretty solid choice, one you won’t regret in the future.

Conclusion

And this wraps it up, ladies and gents. These are some of the good scopes for 30-06 we could find. And believe us, we looked for some time!

Unfortunately, we cannot say that there is such thing as the perfect scope since all of them have their flaws, but this is what research is for. The good part, of course, is that we managed to find models suitable for both beginners and pros, whether we’re talking about hunting or sporting.

Most likely, a lot of you are wondering which of these is the one and only, the best value scope for 30-06. Well, this answer might disappoint you, but…it depends. It depends on your needs, on what you’re using the scope for and, obviously, your experience with a rifle. Consider these aspects, as well as anything else you consider important when buying the scope you always wanted.

Sure, we can pick a personal favorite and this is exactly what we’re going to do now!

We’re big fans of the Monstrum Tactical 4-13×44 First Focal Plane and we really don’t know if this is because of the impressive features list it’s boasting or the finish it comes in. We tend to say that it’s the latter – we admit, we’re suckers for a great design – but now seriously speaking, everything else this scope can do made us talk about it once again and recommend it.

It has an excellent lens, a big one, that is, and, even more important, magnification up to 14x. With such numbers, it’s actually very difficult to miss your target, after observing it far far away. Remember: 14x magnification. Let that sink in for a few moments!

But don’t take our choice for granted, as this is just our opinion and not necessarily the best. So it’s all up to you to pick the scope you want. However, we’re curious. Let us know which 30-06 scope you would pick, from the list above, and why, by dropping a few lines in the comments section below!

Tomas
Updated on July 15, 2020