When it comes to hunting and shooting, few cartridges can match the .30-06 Springfield because of its versatility and effectiveness. Matching with the rightful optics is key to pursuing this legendary cartridge’s potential. In this article, The Best 30-06 Rifle Scope Combo, we’ll unveil the top contenders that combine accuracy, durability, and performance to help you make every shot count.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice shooter, this guide will steer you toward the perfect scope and rifle combination, enhancing your shooting experience and increasing your chances of hitting your mark. Therefore let’s dive in!
What Magnification for 30-06?
For a .30-06 rifle, the ideal magnification falls in the 3-9x or 4-12x range for hunting purposes. This allows for a wide field of view at lower magnifications for close-range shooting while offering the capability to zoom in for more distant targets.
Is 30-06 Good for Long-range Shooting?
The .30-06 Springfield cartridge can be used for long-range shooting, but it may not be considered optimal for extreme long-range precision compared to some more specialized cartridges.
It is a versatile and available cartridge thus making it a viable choice for shooters looking to engage targets or game at moderate long-range distances, typically out to 800 yards or so.
What is More Powerful 3030 or 30-06?
The .30-06 Springfield cartridge is more powerful than the .30-30 Winchester cartridge. Here are a few comparisons:
- 30-06 Springfield (.30-06):
- Bullet Diameter: .308 inches (7.62mm)
- Typical Bullet Weight: 150 to 220 grains
- Muzzle Velocity: Varies by load but often in the range of 2,700 to 3,100 feet per second (fps)
- Muzzle Energy: Varies by load but often in the range of 2,500 to 3,000 foot-pounds of energy (ft-lbs)
- Effective Range: Can be effective at long ranges, often used for hunting larger game and long-range shooting
2. .30-30 Winchester (.30-30):
- Bullet Diameter: .308 inches (7.62mm)
- Typical Bullet Weight: 150 to 170 grains
- Muzzle Velocity: Typically around 2,200 to 2,500 fps
- Muzzle Energy: Typically around 1,800 to 2,000 ft-lbs
- Effective Range: Effective for hunting at shorter to moderate distances, often used for deer and similar-sized game
Best 30-06 Rifle Scope Combo
1) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
Our first pick is the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope, It is designed for the highest resolution image, even in the worst hunting conditions.
At its core, this scope features a versatile magnification range of 3-9x, making it ideal for a wide range of shooting applications. It can be used both in long-range and short-range.
With a 40mm objective lens, the scope gathers ample light to provide a bright and clear sight picture, even in low-light conditions, ensuring you never miss a crucial shot during dawn or dusk hunts.
Most Leupold scopes have quality optics and this is not left behind. The scope boasts a multi-coated lens system that enhances light transmission and minimizes glare, resulting in sharp, vivid images with excellent contrast.
Specifications
- Magnification: 3 – 9 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 4.7 mm
- Eye Relief: 4.2 – 3.7 inches
- Weight: 12.2 oz
- Length: 12.39 inches
- Field of View, Linear: 33.1 – 13.6 ft at 100 yds
Pros
- Has Scratch-Resistant Lenses
- 6061-T6 Aircraft Quality Aluminum
- Waterproof & Fog proof
- Twilight Light Management System
Cons
- None
2) Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen II 6-24X50mm Rifle Scope
Our second pick is the Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen II 6-24X50mm APLR2 Rifle Scope. Without a doubt, this scope is the most premium 30-06 rifle scope option on our list.
Has a versatile magnification of 6x to 24x, and it is tailored for medium-distance shooting and long-distance precision shooting. It’s perfect for everything from varmint hunting to competitive target shooting.
One of its outstanding features is its illuminated APLR2 first focal plane (FFP) reticle. This reticle is specifically designed for quick target acquisition and precise holdover corrections.
Has a 50mm objective lens, which allows for impressive light-gathering capabilities, making it easier to identify targets even in low-light conditions, such as at dawn or dusk.
For the construction, it boasts a rugged, single-piece 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum tube construction, ensuring that it can withstand the recoil of high-caliber rifles.
Specifications
- Magnification: 6 – 24 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Exit Pupil: 8.2 – 2.1 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Eye Relief: 3.3 inches
- Length: 14.1 inches
- Weight: 30.3 oz
Pros
- It is fully multi-coated
- Has illuminated reticle
- Durable
- Has a zero-stop feature
Cons
- None
3) Vortex Viper PA 6.5-20x50mm Rifle Scope
Our third pick is the Vortex Viper PA 6.5-20x50mm Rifle Scope, 30mm Tube, and Second Focal Plane, It is a premium scope with an affordable price.
The Viper PA 6.5-20x50mm Rifle Scope features precise 1/4 MOA (Minute of Angle) click adjustments for windage and elevation.
For its construction, it is durable with a rugged, 30mm diameter tube crafted from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum.
Has a magnification range of 6.5x to 20x which allows you to zoom in on your target with precision, making it suitable for various shooting scenarios, from target practice to long-distance hunting.
In addition, the scope offers a Dead-Hold BDC reticle for convenient holdover points, enabling you to compensate for bullet drops at different distances without needing to dial in elevation adjustments continually.
Specifications
- Magnification 6.5 – 20 x
- Objective Lens Diameter 50 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Field of View, Linear 6.2 – 17.4 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief 3.1 – 3.3 inches
- Length 14.4 inches
- Weight 21.6 oz
- Exit Pupil 2.5 – 7.69 mm
Pros
- Has XR Fully Multi-Coated
- Second Focal Plane Reticle
- Has Hard Anodized Finish
- Has Capped Reset Turrets
- Waterproof, Fog proof, Shockproof
Cons
- None
4) Simmons 8 Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope
Lastly, we have the Simmons 8 Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope. It is one of the most affordable scopes in the market for 30-06 rifles.
This scope features a versatile magnification range of 3x to 9x, thus making it suitable for a wide range of shooting scenarios, from close-range shots to mid-range hunting.
It is equipped with a standard duplex reticle. The duplex reticle offers a clear and uncluttered sight picture, making it easy to acquire your target quickly.
Durability is a consideration with this scope. It is built with a one-inch tube made from sturdy materials, and it is shockproof to withstand the recoil of most rifles.
Specifications
- Description: 3 – 9 x 50
- Field of View (ft. @ 100 yds): 31.4/10.5
- Eye Relief (inches): 3.75
- Weight (ounces): 13.2
- Parallax Settings: 100 yds
- Exit Pupil (Millimeters): 16.6 – 5.6
Pros
- Very affordable
- Sturdy and durable
- High-quality optics
- Maintain clear bright pictures
Cons
- None
Factors to Consider When Choosing The Best 30-06 Rifle Scope Combo
When choosing the best .30-06 rifle scope combo, there are several important factors should be considered. They include:
- Intended Use: First determine the primary purpose of your rifle scope combo. Are you using it for hunting, target shooting, long-range precision shooting, or a combination of these activities?
- Durability and Build Quality: It is wise to consider the ruggedness of both the rifle and the scope. Look for scopes with a strong one-piece tube construction, waterproof and fog-proof capabilities, and shock resistance to handle recoil.
- Eye Relief: Always check the scope’s eye relief, because it is crucial for safety and comfort when firing high-recoil rifles. Longer eye relief is preferred, especially if you’re using a powerful .30-06 cartridge.
- Budget: Have a budget for the rifle scope combo. Quality optics vary in price, so balance your requirements with your budget to find the best value.
- Adjustability: Ensure the scope offers precise and repeatable adjustments for windage and elevation. Go for easy-to-use turrets for reliability in the field.
FAQS
- How do I mount the scope on my .30-06 rifle?
Mounting the scope requires compatible rings and bases. When purchasing ensure that you choose the appropriate height and style of rings and bases for your specific rifle and scope combination.
- Can I use a .30-06 rifle scope combo for hunting and target shooting? Yes, the versatility of the .30-06 cartridge makes it suitable for various shooting applications.
Final Thoughts
As a team, we hope you found good and great information for the best scope to pair with your rifle. We have listed top-notch scopes even from the lowest price such as the Simmons 8 Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope. Our top best scope is the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope, featuring quality optics, versatile magnification, durable construction, and will give you years of service.
Also, check out 5 Best Deer Hunting Scope for 30-06