The 30-06 Springfield was and remains a popular cartridge to date and is now mostly used for big game hunting.
When I bought my Winchester Model 70 Featherweight, it came with a nice Leupold Rifleman 3-9x scope that is now discontinued. Since I really want an upgrade for it, I got started on the search for the best scopes for 30-06.
To consolidate my list of potentials, I included a few that I own and some in-demand favorites to compare cost, reticle options, magnification, and more.
Here are my personal faves to date!
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We purchase as many of the optics for our tests as possible, and run them through their paces to make sure they will perform at the range and in the field.
Our combined decades of experience from hunting and target shooting, to big game hunting and competitions has been integral in putting together this round-up of the best riflescopes for 30-06.
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The Best Riflescopes for 30-06 in 2024
1. Maven CRS.2 4-16x44 – Best Overall
The Maven CRS.2, though simple in design, offers exceptional optical quality and the simplicity that hunters want. From hands-on experience with the CRS.2, I can recommend it as a top hunting scope for the 30-06.
Pros:
- Price
- CSHR SFP reticle
- C-Series glass
- Side focus
- Zero reset
Cons:
- Eye relief at max power
Really the only complaint I have is the 2.4” eye relief at max 16x power. Given that it’s an SFP scope, it’s very likely you’ll need to sit at max mag to make those long-range shots and the eye box is rather unforgiving if you’re not perfectly inside it.
Other than that, the CRS.2 glass is awesome and is exactly what I expect of a Maven scope. With ED glass, there’s excellent control of CA. With the side focus, I can always acquire sharp resolution especially for distance.
With the CSHR reticle, I zeroed for 200 yards and have holdovers to go the distance. Though simple, it has 4x zoom which is a new standard for hunters. With quality to boot as well, it’s a favorite of mine on top the Model 70 in 30-06 for my mountain elk hunts.
2. Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40 – Best for the Money
If you want a lot of bang for the buck, the Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40 is a great place to find it. It’s a get-it-done kind of scope that costs approximately $200.
Pros:
- Cost
- Argon gas
- Dead-Hold BDC MOA reticle
- 4-12x configuration
Cons:
- Eye relief
The Diamondback 4-12x scope is pretty much everything you’ll need for the 30-06. It’s tough, parallax is fixed at 100 yards, and there’s enough adjustment travel to get zeroed and still stretch the distance a little for most of your 30-06 Springfield shooting.
Unlike the Crossfire series, the Diamondback is different in that Vortex says it’s been Argon purged. Argon gas is typically reserved for high-end scopes whereas Nitrogen is usually the inert gas of choice for most scopes.
Supposedly the eye relief is 3.1” at max 12x power. That’s a lot, but it seems the eye box is very finicky according to buyers.
Though the turrets have been described to be on the slightly softer side, it’s easy to get zeroed and you’re not really dialing for long shots on this scope. The Dead-Hold BDC MOA reticle provides for some drop and wind holdovers, so it’s a get-it-done, no-nonsense kind of scope for a get-it-done, no-nonsense kind of hunter.
3. Maven CRS.1 3-12x40 – Best for Hunting
Overall, Maven’s CRS series of scopes are made for hunting whether it’s on a 30-06, .308, 6.5 Creedmoor or other popular hunting rifle. The CRS.1 is different to the CRS.2 in configuration but features the same CSHR reticle and simplistic design.
Pros:
- Price
- C-series glass
- CSHR SFP Reticle
- 3-12x configuration
- Zero reset
Cons:
- Clarity at 25 yards
The CRS.1 is different from the CRS.2 in a couple ways with one being the lack of a side focus. I'd say it doesn't need one, and it's not a must-have feature. However, this does make the sight picture a little hairy under 50 yards – clarity is not terrible, but it does get a little soft at 25 yards.
It has C-series glass which includes ED elements for excellent control of chromatic aberration. It’s made in Japan, and the scope turrets can also be reset to zero even though this benefit is not marketed by Maven.
The CRS.1 takes the traditional 3-9x40 configuration and modernizes it with 4x zoom to see further. With the CSHR reticle, it’s simple and made for some holding over as you’re not really dialing in a ton with this scope. It’s tough, tracks accurately, super clear, and it’s easy to use. This is exactly what a hunter with a 30-06 needs.
4. Athlon Argos BTR 6-24x50 Gen 2 – Best for Long Range
Athlon is well known for jamming a lot into a cost-effective product. One such scope that is worthy of this praise is the Argos BTR 6-24x50. With plenty to brag about, it’s no doubt a long-range workhorse at a cost-friendly price.
Pros:
- Price
- FFP reticle
- Illumination
- Side focus
- Argon gas
Cons:
- No zero stop
Something that high-end, high-power scopes offer is a zero stop especially on scopes with exposed turrets. It should come as no surprise that the Argos BTR lacks a zero stop at its low price point. But with all else that it does have, it’s still a great scope for the 30-06.
It could be argued that the 30mm tube, glass-etched reticle, illumination, and exposed, over-sized elevation turret are features of a tactical scope, and I wouldn’t disagree. However, as a long-range scope, these features prove to be extremely helpful. Even though you’re not making 1000-yard shots with the 30-06, the Argos can still get you some distance and improve visibility for Western, backcountry, and open plains hunts.
At the same time, the side focus can come all the way down to 10 yards. The FFP reticle means better reticle visibility and subtention remains the same across the entire power range. There’s a lot of be had with the Athlon Argos, and if you want more for your buck, it’s a candidate for your 30-06.
5. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 – Best for Deer Hunting
The discontinued Leupold VX-3i scopes were all the rage for hunting rifles and they are still mentioned across the board. The VX-3HD have now replaced that series. However, the cheaper VX-Freedom unsurprisingly has become the new Leupold scope for deer hunting while also saving some money.
Pros:
- Traditional configuration
- Advanced optical system
- Finger click adjustments
- Fog/waterproof
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- Cost
The VX-Freedom, though cheaper than the VX-3HD, is still pretty expensive for what you’re getting. I’d describe it as an entry-level scope complete with entry-level glass. If you’re loyal to the manufacturer and their lifetime guarantee warranty, then you’ll compromise for the $300-ish price tag.
As far as performance goes, it works. If you plan on holding over for wind and drop, the Tri-MOA reticle would be the better option otherwise the simple duplex or Hunt-Plex would be the straightforward way to go. They are a bit thin, but the Hunt-Plex option does provide an unobstructed upper FOV.
It has the traditional 3:1 zoom ratio that many are familiar with, and this will certainly pair well for the average 30-06 deer hunter. If you didn’t know, then let me inform you that the VX-Freedom series are made in the USA.
6. Primary Arms GLx 1-6x24 FFP – Best LPVO for 30-06
I really like the Primary Arms GLx LPVO, and it’s a good platform for many types of hunting, and yes, I have put it on a 30-06. Though it’s perfect for the AR-15, I don’t see why you couldn’t opt for the GLx 1-6x for the 30 caliber rifle.
Pros:
- ACSS Raptor M6 reticle
- AutoLive
- Illumination
- Configurable turrets
- Long eye relief
Cons:
- No flip-up caps
There are few scopes that actually come with flip-up caps or even some type of caps at all. So, this isn’t necessarily a ding against Primary Arms, but it would sure be nice to complete the LPVO package with some lens protection. Moving on…
The GLx LPV could be overkill for a hunt, but I don’t think so. If you’re in timber or where most shots are under 200 yards, as could be very likely with the 30-06, an LPV is a great scope to consider. You have the benefits of close-range power but with some ability to stretch the distance if needed.
This is made possible with the ACSS M6 Raptor reticle. It’s calibrated for a few different calibers, but with range use and ballistics feedback, it can absolutely work for the 30-06 too. I like that the reticle is big even at 1x for an FFP scope. I love the clarity and sharpness of the center chevron instead of a dot.
The GLx is one of my favorite scopes, and for some types of hunts, it will work on your hunting rig.
7. Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32 – Best Budget
The Crossfire series is everyone’s favorite for affordability and performance. It’s entry-level, and it does the job. The Crossfire II comes in under $150, so it’s by far one of the best budget riflescopes for the 30-06 around.
Pros:
- Price
- Good optics
- Good eye relief
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- Lens covers included
Cons:
- No illumination
Not all hunters need illumination, but it sure is nice for those low-light hours when you can’t quite see black on dark, shady targets. Obviously, the Crossfire doesn't have it.
I’d say the optical quality between the entire Crossfire II series is about the same – good. It’s not what I'd call exceptional, but it’s clear and sharp enough. Of course, you could spend more for better glass, but the point is to stay within budget, right? It’s fully multi-coated which is excellent for its low price point.
Apparently, lens covers are included, and this is a big bonus for those of us who don’t want to pay extra for lens protection. I can’t say how good they are, but they’ll certainly be better than nothing.
If you want a bit of wiggle room for drop, the Dead-Hold BDC MOA reticle would be the reticle of choice. It’s in the SFP, so it’ll always stay visible and the same size regardless of the magnification setting.
For on-point performance on a budget, the Crossfire is a close-range hunting scope that many will recommend for ages.
A Guide to Choosing a Scope for 30-06
Cost
There’s plenty of advice to setting a budget for a scope for a 30-06 rifle. I’ve heard it all. “Spend double what your rifle cost you,” “spend at least half what your rifle cost,” “spend as much as you can afford.” I’ve even said a variation of the above in my lifetime.
While I can agree with all those statements, it really depends on what you need and what you’re going to be doing. My 30-06 is a hunting rifle but I do more range work with it than I get to be out in the hunt with it. The scope I have on it right now? The Maven CRS.1. Considering what I paid for the rifle, the scope is almost half the cost. For my needs? It’s perfect.
Since the 30-06 is a popular hunting cartridge, has some good recoil, and is likely used inside 400 yards, so overall quality is a must-have. It must be weather and shockproof, track accurately, hold zero, and glass must be clear so that you can see the target, what’s beyond, and the reticle in those golden hours. This calls for a scope that’s at least $100 at minimum but you will be happy with spending less than $1000.
| Product | Feature | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Maven CRS.2 | Best Overall | Under $600 |
| Vortex Diamondback | Best for the Money | Under $250 |
| Maven CRS.1 | Best for Hunting | Under $500 |
| Athlon Argos BTR | Best for Long Range | Under $500 |
| Leupold VX-Freedom | Best for Deer Hunting | Under $300 |
| Primary Arms GLx LPVO | Best LPVO | Under $600 |
| Vortex Crossfire II | Best Budget | Under $150 |
Magnification & Distance
The scope magnification will be determined by the realistic shooting distances you’ll be covering. Typically for the 30-06, anything beyond 400 yards can be considered long range while 200-400 yard is medium range with up to 200 yards as close-range.
The distance and magnification range may also be determined by the terrain. If you’re in timber country, you mightn’t ever take a shot past 200 yards. With the 30-06 being a flat-shooter, a duplex reticle and a good 2-7x or even 3-9x is more than enough to get it done.
This will be a subjective matter. If you take the rule of 1x power for every 100 yards, the magnification range will be low. If you have older eyes or just like a little more power, use 3x power for every 100 yards. This keeps you within the 1-12x power range with 4-16x platforms as a great all-purpose hunting configuration especially for those out West.
| Product | Magnification | Objective Lens |
|---|---|---|
| Maven CRS.2 | 4-16x | 44 mm |
| Vortex Diamondback | 4-12x | 40 mm |
| Maven CRS.1 | 3-12x | 40 mm |
| Athlon Argos BTR | 6-24x | 50 mm |
| Leupold VX-Freedom | 3-9x | 40 mm |
| Primary Arms GLx LPVO | 1-6x | 24 mm |
| Vortex Crossfire II | 2-7x | 32 mm |
Reticle
If we were to take 400 yards as a long-range shot for the 30-06 in a hunt, that’s about 30” in drop and somewhere between 7-8 MOA of adjustments. That’s a lot to dial in. But the point of keeping things simple is made possible by the reticle.
Most reticles these days are “calibrated” for a specific load. Though it’s marketed as calibrated, I’ve yet to come across a reticle that’s exactly to the nth degree as what’s advertised. So, you should always run your own ballistics and confirm at the range. Don’t forget that things like wind, inclines/declines also affect accuracy.
The point is that a reticle that allows for some holdovers is always a great idea for those shots beyond 200 yards. But keep the reticle simple – you don’t need a cluttered FOV for a 30-06.
| Product | Reticle | BDC | Focal Plane | Illumination |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maven CRS.2 | CSHR | Yes | SFP | No |
| Vortex Diamondback | Dead-Hold | Yes | SFP | No |
| Maven CRS.1 | CSHR | Yes | SFP | No |
| Athlon Argos BTR | APMR/APLR2 | Yes | FFP | Yes |
| Leupold VX-Freedom | Hunt-Plex | No | SFP | No |
| Primary Arms GLx LPVO | ACSS Raptor M6 | Yes | FFP | Yes |
| Vortex Crossfire II | Dead-Hold | Yes | SFP | No |
Specifications
Riflescope specifications that are important to consider for the 30-06 are eye relief, FOV, and parallax. These specs will give you an idea of a scope’s suitability for the 30-06 rifle and if it will meet your needs in the hunt or at the range.
My 30-06 is a featherweight, so I feel like it has a bit of oomph more so than heavier rifles. This is one rifle that I like to make sure I have at least 3” of scope eye relief at minimum and that I mount it right to acquire it all.
For the ranges I would cover with the 30-06, field of view is pretty important. The wider, the better, but this is determined by the magnification. So, when you think more power for everything is best, less is more in this case.
While I really like a parallax adjustment feature either in the side focus or adjustable objective, I often forget to actually adjust it in the heat of the moment. Fixed parallax will work just fine for scopes with less than 12x power. These scopes will usually have it set for 100 yards.
| Product | Eye Relief | Field of View @ 100 Yards | Parallax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maven CRS.2 | 88-63 mm | 25.6-6.4 ft | Side focus |
| Vortex Diamondback | 3.1 inches | 32.4-11.3 ft | Fixed @ 100 yards |
| Maven CRS.1 | 79-62 mm | 34-8.5 ft | Fixed @ 100 yards |
| Athlon Argos BTR | 3.3 inches | 16.7-4.5 ft | Side focus |
| Leupold VX-Freedom | 4.2-3.7 inches | 33.1-13.6 ft | Fixed @ 150 yards |
| Primary Arms GLx LPVO | 3.5-3.3 inches | 104.7-18.3 ft | Fixed |
| Vortex Crossfire II | 3.9 inches | 42-12.6 ft | Fixed @ 100 yards |
Warranty
Anything can happen on a hunt or at the range, so a warranty is a vital consideration when purchasing any riflescope for a 30-06. Warranties vary but the best ones offer unconditional terms with no receipt required. As you can see, these are industry-best warranties from well-known manufacturers.
| Product | Warranty | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Maven CRS.2 | Unconditional Lifetime Warranty | Unconditional, lifetime, no receipt needed, fully transferable |
| Vortex Diamondback | VIP Warranty | Unconditional, unlimited, fully transferable |
| Maven CRS.1 | Unconditional Lifetime Warranty | Unconditional, lifetime, no receipt needed, fully transferable |
| Athlon Argos BTR | Lifetime Warranty | Lifetime, transferable, no receipt required |
| Leupold VX-Freedom | Lifetime Guarantee | No time limit, no proof of ownership, free repair/replacement |
| Primary Arms GLx LPVO | Lifetime Warranty | Lifetime, warranty covers malfunctions from normal wear and tear |
| Vortex Crossfire II | VIP Warranty | Unconditional, unlimited, fully transferable |
FAQ's
Depending on the distance, a scope with the 3-9x or 3-12x configuration is a good, all-purpose size for most styles of hunting with a 30-06. For shooting under 100 yards, a 1-6x or 2-7x configuration would work well.
Image by Tina Fa'apoi (Own Work) for Target Tamers
On average, the 30-06 Springfield is used primarily inside 400 yards with whitetails and mule deer taken at 350-385 yards without issue. With elk, it’s almost half the deer distance at 250 yards. The 30-06 caliber has lost about half its velocity by the time it gets to about 400 yards.
In general, the best zero distance depends on what you’re doing with the 30-06. I personally sighted in the Maven CRS.2 on the 30-06 for 200 yards. With the CSHR reticle, I have holdovers out to about 600 yards – more than I’d need with this rifle.
Though 100 yards is a good standard, I’ve also seen 85-yard, 165-yard, and 250-yard zeros. To each their own for the purpose.
Image by Tina Fa'apoi (Own Work) for Target Tamers
Felt recoil is subjective, and in my experience, though similar to shooting a .270 Win or .308 Win, it has a heavier kick. Quality-made riflescopes will not break under repeated recoil. This includes everything from the wire reticle to the erector system and optical assemblies.
The scope is likely to break from some other type of damage than from the recoil of a 30-06. In the case that something does happen, having quality warranty coverage will make all the difference.
30-06 Springfield: Popular Hunting Cartridge
For being over 100 years old, the 30-06 Springfield still remains one of today’s most common and popular hunting cartridges. New ones come and go and yet the 30-06 remains a favorite and tried-and-tested champ.
Since you’re likely hunting with it, consider the best scopes for 30-06 Springfield that have what it takes. This means they are suited to the conditions, have better than average glass clarity, appropriate magnification, and the right but simple reticle choice. With this in mind, you can hunt everything from coyotes to moose and bears!
Further Reading
