Our Top Picks
Best Overall
Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescope
- Optics: 4.6/5
- Build Quality: 4.4/5
- Battery: 5/5
Best Value
Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane Riflescope
- Optics: 4/5
- Build Quality: 3.8/5
- Battery: 3/5
Mid-range priced scope with tons of features.
Check Price on AmazonBest for Hunting
Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope
- Optics: 4.2/5
- Build Quality: 4.4/5
- Battery: 3/5
Can perform through extreme weather and has been impact-tested and verified.
Check Price on Amazon Check Price on PSA Check Price on BrownellsEven if the Springfield 30-06’s recoil is tolerable, that doesn’t mean you can’t take your hunting game to the next level. To make that happen, you should only pick one of the best 30-06 scopes from our reliable recommendations below.
Table of Contents
- Our Top Picks
- A Quick Comparison of the Best 30-06 Scopes
- Features to Consider + How We Choose
- 5 Best 30-06 Scopes
- Best Overall: Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescope
- Best Value: Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane Riflescope
- Best for Hunting: Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope
- Trijicon TR24G AccuPoint 1-4x24mm Riflescope
- Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescope
- Bottomline
A Quick Comparison of the Best 30-06 Scopes
Features to Consider + How We Choose
Want to know the secret to getting a scope that will suit you best? We’ll spill the beans in a bit.
| Category | Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 | Vortex Optics Crossfire II | Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm | Trijicon TR24G AccuPoint 1-4x24mm | Vortex Optics Diamondback | Category Average |
| Overall Score | 3.6 | 3.48 | 3.26 | 3.52 | 2.46 | 3.26 |
| Ergonomics | 1.1 | 2.5 | 2.2 | 2.1 | 1.5 | 1.88 |
| Build Quality | 4.4 | 3.8 | 4.4 | 5 | 3 | 4.12 |
| Optics | 4.6 | 4 | 4.2 | 4.5 | 3 | 4.06 |
| Battery | 5 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 3 | 3.8 |
| Value | 2.9 | 4.1 | 2.5 | 1 | 1.8 | 2.46 |
FFP or SFP?
First Focal Plane (FFP) scopes are best for quick-paced high-stress shooting scenarios with widely varying engagement ranges such as tactical shooting and PRS competitions.
Second Focal Plane (SFP) scopes are excellent for taking long-range precision shots on very small targets because their reticles remains thin even at high magnifications. It can be a great choice with a simple duplex and a limited range of engagements. Most hunters and serious shooters are familiar with SFPs since they’re more common and more budget-friendly.
Optics
Magnification and Range
Magnification will determine the most appropriate use for your 30-06 scope more than any other feature. If you’ll be shooting at medium to long distances, get a riflescope with a wide magnification range like some of our recommendations below. This will give you shooting flexibility at those ranges.
For long-range shooting, find a riflescope with at least 16x magnification (maximum) to really focus on the target so your range won’t be limited by your ability to clearly see a small target and make windage and elevation adjustments.
Reticle
Your scope’s reticle should be able to support the type of shooting that you’ll do the most. For long-range target shooting at a quick pace, a BDC reticle with elevation and windage markings are great for quick adjustments. If your first shot is critical and you have plenty of time to figure in adjustments on the scope, you might be happy to have a simpler duplex reticle and use the adjustment turrets to dial in the proper point of aim.
How do we rate it?
We evaluate optics based on lens quality, the presence of anti-reflective coatings, and the ability to provide clear images in different lighting conditions.
Build Quality
Temperature fluctuations or wet weather may cause internal fogging and mildew formation in your scope. So it’s best to have one that’s nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed. This also allows your optic to have thermal shock resistance.
Aside from a sturdy and shockproof body, the best 30-06 scope has fully multi-coated lenses made from high-density glass, and no image blurriness or distortion around the edges at max power.
Most of the time, solidly built scopes are heavy. Some shooters are fine with this as it also aids in recoil mitigation. But if you don’t want much weight on your 30-06 rifle, you can pick one of our lightweight but reliable picks below.
How do we rate it?
Build quality is scored by testing the scope under extreme conditions and checking for resistance to shock, water, and fog.
Ergonomics
You’d want windage and elevation knobs to have clear, preferably audible clicks for easier adjustment tracking without taking your eyes off your target.
How do we rate it?
Ergonomic features are scored by user feedback on handling comfort and the intuitiveness of the control layout.
Value
Tactical scopes cost more than standard riflescopes, but as many gun enthusiasts say, these scopes are worth every penny. But if you have limited funds, the ever-reliable Leupold VX-3i will surely fit your budget.
How do we rate it?
We rate this factor by comparing the scope’s price to its overall performance and feature set with competing models.
If you’re cost-conscious and don’t want to spend too much on a rifle scope, we’ve got the most reliable scopes under $500 and the best scopes under $300. If you prefer Vortex scopes, we’ve reviewed the best ones here.
Illumination
Not all riflescopes have illumination. However, the effectiveness of a scope’s illumination system can be a decisive factor in low-light conditions. The brightness, adjustable settings, and evenness of the light distribution are important.
How do we rate it?
Illumination is evaluated based on the versatility of light settings, effectiveness in varied lighting, and impact on battery life.
Battery
Speaking of battery life, it affects the operational readiness of a scope. So, it is one of the most crucial features to consider. Long battery life ensures reliability and functionality during extended field operations without frequent replacements or recharges.
How do we rate it?
We rate the battery based on longevity, the availability of power-saving features, and the ease of battery replacement in the field.
5 Best 30-06 Scopes
Best Overall: Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane Riflescope
| Category | Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 | Category Average |
| Ergonomics | 1.1 | 1.88 |
| Optics | 4.4 | 4.12 |
| Build Quality | 4.6 | 4.06 |
| Battery | 5 | 3.8 |
| Value | 2.9 | 2.46 |
Score: 3.6/5
If you want a mid-range priced scope with tons of features, the Athlon Optics Argos is your guy.
It’s zeroed easily and is proven to maintain zero consistently throughout the zoom range, along with its reliable parallax adjustment. The turrets on the Argos also offer super tactical and crisp clicks. As for the optical quality, Athlon invested in fully multi-coated high-quality glass combined with the etched and illuminated reticle. It guarantees quick target acquisition in all lighting conditions. Plus it features a side parallax adjustment from 10 yards to infinity. It’s definitely more than capable of performing at long distances as high-end scopes. The Argos is available in MOA and MIL variants, so you can freely pick your preferred reticle type
A few tradeoffs you’d have to deal with are a slight image distortion at high magnification and it doesn’t have long eye relief.
Pros
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Illuminated reticle
- Parallax adjustment: 10 yards to infinity
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Image distortion at high magnification
- Short eye relief (3.3 inches)
- Heaviest pick (30 oz)
What Customers Say
After mounting on my competition .22 and getting shots down range, I am totally blown away. The parallax adjustment is more than you can imagine. The audible and distinct clicks of the turrets. For a base class rifle in the NRL22 league, look no further. The glass clarity is awesome at lower magnification (6-12). It will still get the job done just fine if you need to go up to 24.
Zach Donelson
Mounted on an American Ranch in .300 AAC, needed something affordable and with zero stop. Versatile scope, really high quality and a great value.
Charlie
Best Value: Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane Riflescope
| Category | Vortex Optics Crossfire II | Category Average |
| Ergonomics | 2.5 | 1.88 |
| Optics | 3.8 | 4.12 |
| Build Quality | 4 | 4.06 |
| Battery | 3 | 3.8 |
| Value | 4.1 | 2.46 |
Score: 3.48/5
Vortex riflescopes ensure shockproof performance since they’re made from aircraft-grade aluminum. Aside from its durable construction, the Crossfire II holds zero well at 25 to 75 yards, and parallax is set at 50 yards. Plus, the Crossfire II is secured with an O-ring seal and is nitrogen-purged for moisture protection. With the lifetime warranty, you won’t have to worry about it failing you!
Pros
- Affordable (MSRP: $129)
- Comes with Vortex Lifetime Warranty
- Fast-focus eyepiece
- Lightweight (13.9 oz)
Cons
- Low-quality lens caps
- Requires higher mounts because the rear of the scope is larger than the front
What Customers Say
Mounted to a Ruger Precision Rimfire used 100+ yards. Glass is great and holds dead on zero. Ok its a rimfire but does get bumped around some in matches. Image is very bright even in less than optimal light. Eye relief is also as good as my other Vortex scopes. If you shoot rimfire this is the scope for you. True the radical is just a simple crosshair and doesn’t have holdover dots but for the price you can’t beat it.
Art
I needed something for my MP15-22 and I didn’t want to break the bank. I wanted a variable optic vs a red dot for this rifle, and this is perfect. I got the 2-7x Rimfire model and I really like it! The eye relief is really good, and for $120 I can’t complain one bit! The glass is really good too. I posted some cell phone pictures (best I could take) looking through the scope at 2x, 4.5x, and 7x. Looks good to me!
Steven Lawrence
Best for Hunting: Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope
| Category | Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10x40mm | Category Average |
| Ergonomics | 2.2 | 1.88 |
| Optics | 4.4 | 4.12 |
| Build Quality | 4.2 | 4.06 |
| Battery | 3 | 3.8 |
| Value | 2.5 | 2.46 |
Score: 3.26/5
Our best pick for hunting is equipped with the Custom Dial System, a unique feature that allows you to set the exact adjustments on the turrets according to your needs. No more holdovers or ballistic calculations are required! All you need to do is range your target, set the dial, and aim.
Like every Leupold scope, the VX-3HD can perform through extreme weather and has been impact-tested and verified. Plus the ergonomic controls are also user-friendly. And who doesn’t love the superior light transmission from dusk ’til dawn?!
Pros
- Lightest pick (13.1 oz)
- Generous eye relief (4.4 inches)
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Excellent glare reduction
Cons
- Expensive
What Customers Say
Great scopes. Impeccable product and warranty. Bought 2 and we love them.
Shane
Great price. Quick ship. I purchased this as a gift for my husband and he loved it!
Melissa
Trijicon TR24G AccuPoint 1-4x24mm Riflescope
| Category | Trijicon TR24G AccuPoint 1-4x24mm | Category Average |
| Ergonomics | 2.1 | 1.88 |
| Optics | 5 | 4.12 |
| Build Quality | 4.5 | 4.06 |
| Battery | 5 | 3.8 |
| Value | 1 | 2.46 |
Score: 3.52/5
The Trijicon TR24 AccuPoint riflescope sports a sharp, illuminated reticle for more efficient and productive hunting even in low-light situations. Instead of batteries, the reticle is powered by fiber optics and is coupled with a tritium phosphor illuminator for low-to-no-light situations. The easy-focus eyepiece is also well-textured and is easy to adjust with wet hands or even when wearing gloves.
The TR24 is very lightweight despite its premium-quality glass and solid hard coat anodized 6061-T6 aluminum construction.
Pros
- High-quality glass
- Illuminated reticle
- Generous eye relief (4 inches)
- No battery needed
- Comes with a warranty
- Lightweight (14.4 oz)
Cons
- Only 1-4x magnification
- Expensive
- No bullet drop compensation
What Customers Say
Optics are clear and bright, especially with the adjustability of the fiber optics. I like the triangle aiming point. Touch the tip of the triangle to your target and it hits!!
Archerholic
Shooting 20 – 300 yards is very enjoyable with this optic. You can turn down the illumination for a black triangle for precision shooting. I’m so satisfied with this scope I may buy another!
John
Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescope
| Category | Vortex Optics Diamondback | Category Average |
| Ergonomics | 1.5 | 1.88 |
| Optics | 3 | 4.12 |
| Build Quality | 3 | 4.06 |
| Battery | 3 | 3.8 |
| Value | 1.8 | 2.46 |
Score: 2.46/5
Most first focal plane riflescopes are very expensive, but the Diamondback Tactical costs less than most brands and is very reliable as well! Let’s see why.
Diamondback riflescopes come with Enhanced Battle Reticles (EBR-2c) and the VMR reticle we mentioned in our previous scope. An EBR-2c reticle is specially engineered for efficient windage and holdover corrections and range determination at long distances at all magnifications. It comes in MOA and MRAD varieties as well.
Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44 FFP and 6-24×55 FFP scopes feature EBR-2c reticles, while the Diamondback Tactical 4-12×40 scope comes with a VMR-1 reticle. Finally, the Diamondback Tactical’s magnification ring is equipped with a raised rib that allows quick magnification changes.
Pros
- Exposed tactical turrets
- Side parallax knob
- Great internal mechanism design
Cons
- Crosshairs are a little thin
- Image distortion at high magnification settings
- Second heaviest pick (24.6 oz)
What Customers Say
Very good scope for the money. Love the warranty and so far it’s very accurate for my skill level. Sighting my 6.5 hells canyon in I could clearly see my groups and while at max zoom short-range objects can get a bit out of focus it’s still full stars for me. Pic is deer at 190yrds on 16x magnification with a camera phone.
Cryptos
Beautiful piece of glass. Most are intimidated by 6-24 but it is such a good range of zoom. The parallax settings were spot on and the reticle is very eye-friendly. Not too long for most rifles even with sunshade. The eye relief is more than adequate to prevent scope bites. Very happy there is finally a high-quality FFP scope out there at a budget rifle price point.
Mark M.
Bottomline
Now you’ve got a powerhouse hunting combo – the best 30-06 rifle and scope! If you haven’t decided yet, remember, as long as you follow our buyer’s guide above, you’ll definitely end up with the 30-06 scope that suits you best.
Last update on 2025-04-14 / Images from Amazon Product API