If you are in the hunt for the best scope for 30-06 under $200, you have come to the right place. In this post, we have compiled a list of the best sub-$200 scopes that work well with the 30-06 cartridge. These scopes are extremely reliable, functional, and ideal for both hunting and shooting applications.
Over the last few years, rifle scopes have become more affordable thanks to modern technological advancement. Today, there is a wide range of scopes that offer a perfect combination of reliable performance and affordability. These scopes are a great option for beginners as well as advanced hunters and shooters looking for an economical scope to add to their tool set.
Before we dive into our top picks, let’s take a look at the key attributes of the best scope for 30-06 under $200, shall we?
What Makes a Great Scope for 30-06 Under $200
Multiple aspects make a scope great for 30-06 apart from the budget-friendly cost. For starters, a good scope has a magnification that is ideal for your hunting or shooting needs. With the right magnification, you will be able to spot your targets even at longer ranges.
Secondly, a good scope has quality glass and proper lens coatings for bright and clear image generation. On top of that, a scope that is recommended for use with the 30-06 has a reticle that stays clear even in poor light settings. This in turn results in easy aiming and more accurate shot placement.
A great scope for 30-o6 is also well-built to stand up to rough field conditions. It is also waterproof and fog proof to offer dependable performance in different weather conditions. To top it all, the scope offers ample eye relief of not less than 3.5 inches for comfortable glassing with or without eyeglasses.
6 Best Scopes for 30-06 Under $200
Let’s us now take a look at the best scope for 30-06 under $200 available on the market today.
#1) Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescopes
The 4-12×44 Crossfire II is the arguably best scope for 30-06 under $200 out there. It offers remarkable performance which makes it ideal for use whether you use the .30-06 for hunting and shooting.
This top-quality rifle scope is made with hunters in mind. It has a lightweight design which enhances its portability. Furthermore, it has fully multi-coated lenses which optimize transmission of light in low light settings such as dawn and dusk to provide clear and bright image views. It also features a wide viewing angle that aids in quick target acquisition and a second focal plane Dead-Hold BDC MOA reticle which is ideal for hunting and shooting at different ranges where estimating holdover is a concern.
Another thing that makes the scope stand out is the durable make. It has a tough make to stand up to any punishment you subject it to. It has a single-piece tube crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum. The entire tube is then coated with a hard anodized finish which helps prevent corrosion and rust for added protection. It is also nitrogen purged to keep the lenses fog free and O-ring sealed to lock out moisture and dust.
This Vortex rifle scope also brings to the table a a fast focus eye piece that aids in simple reticle focusing and ample eye relief for quick target acquisition. It also has resettable MOA turrets that are capped for added protection from impacts and bumps.
Features
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Fast focus eyepiece
- 1-piece main tube
- Robust aircraft-grade aluminum housing
- Second focal plane Dead-Hold BDC MOA reticle
- Resettable MOA turrets
- Variable 4-12x magnification
Pros
- Long eye relief
- Lightweight and portable design
- Quick and straightforward reticle focusing
- Easy to use
Cons
- Lacks reticle illumination
#2) CVLIFE Hunting Rifle Scope
This high-quality hunting rifle scope from CVLIFE is one of the most versatile optics out there. It pairs well with the 30-06 and comes with a wide array of top-quality features to help take your hunting skills a notch higher.
The scope features a variable magnification which spans from 6x to 24x. At close ranges, it offers a large viewing angle which comes in handy when tracking fast moving game. It also offers high resolution at the highest magnification for easy target acquisition.
In addition to having a large 50mm objective lens, this scope boasts fully multi-coated optics which provide exceptional optical performance from dawn to dusk. These coatings are made to last long and stand fading from normal wear and tear. To add on that, the scope has an adjustable objective lens which aids in sharper target image focusing, range estimation and parallax elimination.
Another impressive thing about the scope is that it’s built ready for rugged outdoor use. It is crafted on an ultra-sturdy 1-inch machined aluminum tube which enhances its strength and durability. It also has a smart design which provides precise windage and elevation adjustment. Above all, the scope has a lightweight design for convenient portability.
Features
- Adjustable eyepiece
- 6x to 24x variable magnification
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Ultra-sturdy 1-inch tube
- Machined aluminum housing
- Adjustable objective lens
- Reliable windage and elevation
- Fits all standard 20mm Picatinny or Weaver rails
Pros
- Phenomenal value for money
- Clean and clear reticle
- Lightweight design
- Capped and easy to adjust turrets
Cons
- Scope mounts included are tough to fit on some rifles
#3) Pinty 3-9×40 Red Green Rangefinder Illuminated Optical Rifle Scope
Pinty optical devices are known for their reliability and this 3-9×40 Rifle Scope is not an exception. One striking characteristic of this scope is the rangefinder reticle. It provides rapid and simple aiming points when shooting targets at different distances. It also has dual green and red illuminations which provide the ultimate clarity you need to aim and shoot accurately in low light settings.
Moreover, the variable 3-9x magnification make this scope ultra-versatile. You can use the 3x when shooting targets at close quarters then ramp up to 9x for distant targets. Besides, it provides a wide field of view for rapid target scanning and exceptional image clarity at every magnification setting for greater accuracy.
This rifle scope is made with ease of use in mind. It mounts easily on any rifle with a Picatinny or Weaver mount rail. Even better, it comes with two 1” complementary scope rings so you don’t have to buy the rings separately. Other than that, it is built well to last long. It is crafted with high-quality aluminum which optimizes its durability.
To top it all, this scope has a lightweight body for easy portability and it is sealed with O-rings and nitrogen filled to offer a lifetime of reliable waterproof and fog proof performance.
Features
- Green and red reticle illuminations
- 3-9x variable magnification
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Two 1” complementary scope rings included
- 1-inch main tube
- Rangefinder reticle
- Fits all standard 20mm Picatinny rail
- Windage and elevation adjustment
Pros
- Lens cover and sunshade included
- Generous eye relief
- Wide field of view
- Clear lenses
- Easy adjustments
Cons
- Brightness adjusts to only 3 levels
#4) Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope
This Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Riflescope is another high-quality scope ideal for use with the 30-06. It is appropriate for all hunting activities in different environments at close and medium ranges.
Bushnell made this rifle scope with the low light hunter in mind. It features Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses which enhance light transmission for clarity and brightness even in low light settings. Better yet, it has high-quality glass which provides stunning HD clarity from sun rise to sunset, and a Multi-X second focal plane reticle which stays highly visible even in low light settings.
Moreover, the scope has a beautifully design that gives it a sleek and eye-catching look. In terms of construction, it is made from high-quality materials for long-term durability. Whether you like to hunt in forested areas or large, open plains, this riflescope is toughly made to stand anything that comes its way. It is also 100% waterproof and fog proof to offer reliable performance under any weather condition.
To top it all, it is equipped with a fast focus eyepiece to help you bring the reticle into focus quickly and resettable windage and elevation turrets which are capped for added protection from impacts and hard use.
Features
- Multi-X second focal plane reticle
- 100% waterproof and fog proof
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses
- Resettable windage and elevation turrets
- Variable 3-9x magnification
- 1/4 MOA windage and elevation adjustment
Pros
- Lightweight construction
- High-quality optics
- Great value for money
- Superb low light performance
Cons
- Short eye relief
#5) Burris Fullfield E1 Hunting Scope
Another best scope for 30-06 under $200 on our list is the Burris Fullfield E1 Hunting Scope. It has a variable magnification which spans from 4.5x to 14x to help you extend your long-range shooting capability.
This hunting scope offers excellent optical performance to make your hunting trip more rewarding. It features high-grade optical glass which provides outstanding image brightness and crispness with long-lasting durability. Furthermore, it has simple Ballistic Plex E1 reticle design which offers supreme accuracy in different environments. It is also built with a double internal spring tension system which helps the scope holds zero through shock, recoil and vibrations.
Another outstanding feature about the scope is durability. It is built ready to stand up to tough hunting conditions. It has a solid 1-piece outer tube which stands shock, vibrations and recoil. On top of that, the entire tube is then filled with nitrogen to prevent fogging in cold and rainy conditions, and it is also waterproof for use even when there is heavy downpour.
Features
- Solid and durable 1-piece outer tube
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Easy to grip power ring
- High-grade optical glass
- Ballistic Plex E1 reticle
- Parallax adjustment from 50 yards to infinity
- Robust steel housing
Pros
- Wide field of view
- Lightweight design
- Clear views on any power
- Tracks and holds zero well
Cons
- Power ring is excessively big
#6) Monstrum G2 6-24×50 First Focal Plane FFP Rifle Scope
The Monstrum G2 6-24×50 is one of the first focal plane rifle scopes available at a remarkably cheap price. It offers greater accuracy even at long ranges thanks to the functionally designed rangefinder reticle which provides faster range estimation. This reticle also features multiple brightness intensities for better visibility in different lighting environments.
This riflescope has an adjustable objective lens which allows for sharper focus of the image, range estimation and parallax elimination. Furthermore, it has a 1/4 MOA click windage and elevation adjustments with the ability to reset to zero with ease. It also boasts full multi-layer lens coatings which reduce chromatic aberrations to keep the sight pictures sharp, clear and color accurate.
To add on everything else, this scope has a sturdy aluminum housing which is nitrogen filled and sealed so it is fully waterproof and fog proof.
Features
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- Illuminated rangefinder reticle
- Full multi-layer lens coating
- Long eye relief
- Adjustable objective lens
- Touch-button controlled reticle illumination
- First focal plane reticle
- Variable 6-24x magnification
Pros
- Clear glass
- Accurate and consistent reticle
- Can target up to 1,500 yards
- Sharp image contrast
Cons
- Less clear images at high magnification
See Also
Factors to Consider when Choosing Best Scope for 30-06 Under $200
Whether you are looking to add into your collection of your 30-06 scopes or you are buying the first scope for your 30-06, here are some of the important things you should consider that will help you make an informed buying decision.
Optics
A 200 dollar scope might not have the top-tier optics found in the more expensive units. However, it should still have good optics to provide bright and clear sight pictures. It should also have proper lens coatings to optimize light transmission for bright and crisp image views when you use it in low light conditions like dawn or dusk.
Magnification
A scope with proper magnification will aid in quick target scanning as well as accurate shot placement. With so many options to choose from, look for a model that will give you the best performance depending on what you intend to use it for and how far you will be shooting. Additionally, if you select a scope with a high magnification, ensure that it also has high quality optics. This way, you will get high quality images even at the highest magnification.
Durability
A scope below $200 worth buying should have a reliable construction. The last thing you would want is to invest in a poor-quality scope that ends up breaking down only after a few hunting or shooting trips. To get a scope that offers long-lasting durability, look for model that is built with high-quality materials such as steel, aluminum or magnesium alloy. Such scopes will offer dependable durability even when you subject them to rough field conditions.
the best scope for 30-06 under $200 will also have reliable sealing to prevent entry of moisture and dirt that can damage the optics.
Reticle
The other important thing you should look at is the reticle. Every gun enthusiast out there prefers a simple reticle design for ease of use. On the other hand, tactical shooters prefer red dot sights as they offer fast and precise aiming points. To get the most out of your scope, make sure that it has a reticle that is not only simple to use, but also aligns with what you intend to use it for.
Eye Relief
Don’t forget to check the amount of eye relief that the scope has. If you are buying a rifle scope for the first time, eye relief is the maximum distance from your eye to the outer edge of the scope’s eyepiece.
Look for a scope that offers ample eye relief. This way, you will be able to use the scope comfortably with or without glasses. A scope with a long eye relief also aids in quick target acquisition, keeps your eye safe from high-recoiling weapons and reduces eye fatigue when you are hunting or shooting for many hours.
Best Scope for 30-06 Under $200 Frequently Asked Questions
- Are cheap scopes worth it?
Yes. Thanks to the modern technological advancements, it is now possible to get a good quality and top performing scope that is cost-effective.
- What is the difference between cheap and expensive rifle scopes?
The main difference between a cheap and expensive scope is the quality of glass used. Cheap scopes have low-quality glass and fewer features. They may not offer the clearest views especially when shooting in low light settings. On the other hand, expensive rifle scopes have high-end optical glass and more high-end features. They offer excellent performance in all lighting situations and great durability as well.
- How important is eye relief?
Eye relief is an important aspect to consider in a scope especially if you wear eyeglasses. A scope that offers eye relief will be comfortable to use even with your eyeglasses on. It will also aid in quick target acquisition and keep your eye safe from being hit by heavy recoiling rifles.
Conclusion
A good scope is a valuable accessory for both hunting and shooting. All the scopes listed above are not just affordable, but also reliable, versatile and functional. Before you decide to settle on a specific model, consider your needs and what activity you will be engaged in to help make the right buying decision. Whatever your plans and needs are, there is a rifle scope out there for you.