.30-30 is a classic shooting rifle in the US. Since its introduction in 1895, it has been a favorite of seven generations for its hunting and military capabilities. It is regarded as one of the best for deer hunting.
It turns 125 years old this year. We decided to celebrate its birthday by discussing the best scopes for .30-30. This weapon is highly suitable for small to medium game hunting as is. But if you pair it with the right scope, it’s performance will drastically improve.
Below we have listed some of the best scopes for a .30-30. If you are looking to purchase one, this article will prove to be a useful read because the units we recommend are top performers in their respective categories. So without further ado, let us begin.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Scopes For .30-30
- OUR TOP PICK: UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope
- RUNNER-UP: Vortex Optics Crossfire II
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Vortex Optics Diamondback
Comparison Chart of the Best Scopes For .30-30
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What Makes a Scope Suitable for a .30-30?
Shopping for a new scope as a beginner can be overwhelming, especially the first time. The vast range of varying products can confuse anyone. Don’t believe us? Ask a pro to share their experience. As you transition from a beginner to a pro, choosing a suitable scope starts coming naturally. In the meantime, here are some aspects that make a scope suitable for a .30-30.
Magnification
The effective range of a .30-30 is around 200 yards. So the scope of 7x to 9x magnification is suitable for it. A unit with a magnification higher than that will be useless because you won’t see where the bullet hits the ground.
Contrary to what most people believe, a scope with variable magnification is not always the best. Having full control comes at the cost of target acquisition speed. With fixed magnification, you locate the target yourself and then view it through the scope to obtain a better view. We think that a fixed magnification scope is better for .30-30.
Objective Lens
An objective lens allows light to enter the scope. The bigger it is, the more light will come through, and the better and clearer the image will be. But a bigger objective lens also means a heavier scope. For a .30-30, an objective lens of around 32 mm is just right as it offers the right combination of light transmission and weight.
Anti-Reflective Coating
The lenses used in rifle scopes are treated with multiple layers of special anti-reflective films. These coatings prevent the light from reflecting outwards, thus making the target of your presence.
Different scopes have different lens coating configurations. But for a .30-30, a fully multi-coated configuration is the best. It means that both objective and focal lenses are treated with multiple layers of anti-reflective coatings.
Eye Relief
Eye-relief is the measurement of the maximum distance between the focal lens and your eye that allows a clear target image. For a .30-30, the eye-relief distance of six inches is perfect. This is because it does not have a lot of recoil power.
How Accurate is a .30-30?
.30-30 is a lever-action cartridge. While lever-action rifles may not be considered the most accurate long-range rifles, .30-30 rifles have plenty of other factors working in their favor.
Weight-wise, they are lighter so you can easily shoulder them for a better aim. They also boast a soft recoil. Their back-up shots are also much quicker, so you don’t have to move your eyes away from the target while levering in another round.
To summarize its accuracy in a nutshell, a .30-30 zeroed at 200 yards, shoots three inches high at 100 yards, and only 12 inches low at 300 yards. These numbers prove that it is a legitimate medium-range cartridge for accurate shooters.
Key Terms to Know
To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean.
- Magnification: This is the minimum and maximum amount of magnification the scope provides 4x means the image is magnified four times larger than its actual size.
- Type of Reticle: The reticle is the central aiming point, also known as the crosshair, when viewed through the scope. (BDC, Firedot, and MilDot, Illuminated, and Duplex are common types).
- Parallax: The amount of visual shift that is noticeable when viewing through various angles. This occurs when the image appears behind or in front of the reticle.
- Objective Lens: This is the component used for gathering light. Larger diameters let in more light for dim lighting conditions.
- Focal Plane: This refers to whether the reticle changes size as you zoom or not. FFP (First Focal Plane) reticles change size as you zoom while SFP (Second Focal Plane) reticles are always the same size regardless of zoom.
- Eye Relief: This is the distance between your eye and the outermost lens of the scope that enables full view of the image without distortion or a black circle around the edge.
- Field of View: This refers to the width of the area you can view through the lens of the scope.
- Adjustment Type and Click Value: This is measured in MOA (Minutes Of Angle) or MRAD/MIL (Mill Radians) and both refer to the amount of correction being applied to the height and width to accurately hit your target. MOA is based on degrees and angles while MRAD is based on radial lines (units of an angle). The click value refers to how much change in the measurement occurs with each “click”.
- Length and Weight: The length of the scope and carrying weight of the scope.
Review of the Best Scopes For. 30-30
If you are a hunting enthusiast, you will surely have a .30-30 in your rifle collection. As it is a preferred round for small game hunting, people believe that you don’t need a scope for it.
We believe otherwise. It is quite popular in deer hunting, so you need a good scope to be successful. Here is the complete list of the best scopes for .30-30.
Best Overall:
UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope x
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Seeing that this is one of the toughest scopes, buyers have been putting it to all sorts of usage. From well-maintained to completely rough and mean conditions, it can stand it all. Users report that it has clean and bright optics that are hard to come by at this price point. They have excellent customer support who are always willing to assist in any way they can.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This scope is equipped with a special circuit. It is also made with a unique housing design that ensures uninterrupted light transmission even during heavy recoil. It also features a one-click tech illumination memory. This feature allows you to revert back to the color and brightness adjustments that you have originally saved.
It is manufactured using high-quality materials. The body is completely weather-sealed and filled with nitrogen gas for an anti-fogging effect. Essentially, it is completely immune to environmental factors, so you can use it in any circumstances without worrying. It also comes with a lifetime warranty.
It is fitted with multi-emerald coated lenses for maximum internal light transmission with little to no outward reflection. It produces images that are high in clarity and brightness.
Bottom Line
UTG is so sure about the quality of this unit that it offers a lifetime warranty coverage to back it up. It also provides its clients with an amazing customer care service who is always eager to help.
This scope is the topper on our list. It has all the features that are characteristic of high-end products, yet it comes at a relatively low price. So if you are interested in purchasing a new scope for your .30-30, this is the way to go.
Product Specs
Magnification:
3 - 12x
Type of Reticle:
36-color UMOA
Parallax:
10 yds to Infinity
Objective Lens:
44 mm
Focal Plane:
Second Focal Plane
Eye Relief:
3.54 - 4 in
Field of View:
10 - 32 ft at 100 yds
Adjustment Type and Click Value:
0.25 MOA
Runner-up:
Vortex Optics Crossfire II
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
It has managed to impress buyers with its outstanding performance. They absolutely love the clear and detailed image it delivers. The red dot is reported to work flawlessly while the focus is also excellent. The one feature that has the buyers hooked is its warranty coverage. They go out of their way to attend to the needs of their customers.
Why it Stands Out to Us
What makes this great is that it is one of the most affordable rifle scopes available on the market. At such a low price, one may doubt its quality. Surprisingly, this is one of the sturdiest units. It features a single-piece aluminum tube construction.
It utilizes O-ring seals that effectively prevent dust, water, and other debris from entering. For further wearer-sealing, it is purged with nitrogen gas, so the insides do not fog up in varying temperatures.
We also like it for its ease of operation. It zeroes in without difficulty. You can easily shoot as many rounds as you want without changing the position.
It is equipped with an advanced optical system. The eye-relief is plentiful. At almost four inches, it is quite comfortable for most shooters. All the lenses are multi-coated with anti-reflective lens coating to provide a perfect, clear, and bright view.
Furthermore, it is backed up by a strong customer care service and extensive warranty coverage. In short, this scope is so reliable that it will last you a lifetime of service.
Bottom Line
This rifle scope ranks high on our list, and now you know why. It is an extremely rugged and sturdy product that can withstand any sort of adverse conditions. The view it delivers is very clear and accurate. Coming at an affordable price, this offers the right combination of quality and functionality.
Product Specs
Magnification:
2 - 7x
Type of Reticle:
Dead-Hold BDC
Parallax:
100 yds
Objective Lens:
32 mm
Focal Plane:
Second Focal Plane
Eye Relief:
3.9 - 4.7 in
Field of View:
42-12.6 ft at 100 yds
Adjustment Type and Click Value:
0.25 MOA
Best for the Money:
Vortex Optics Diamondback
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This unit has garnered lots of admiration. Buyers compare to it many more expensive products and say that it performs way better. Many have labeled it as a favorite for deer hunting. The stylish and solid single-frame design with its variable magnification is worth every penny of its price tag.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It is a quality product crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum. The single-piece body is solid and can withstand the test of time. The adjustable objective lens plays a vital role in eliminating parallax.
The focal lens of this riflescope has an ArmorTek top coating that protects the lens surface from impurities. This coating is also responsible for sheltering the other layers beneath it. The comfortable eye-relief offers an excellent long-range view.
It is very simple and easy-to-use with smooth side knobs that allow you to zero in easily. It is sturdy, yet quite comfortable to use. Being compact and lightweight, it won’t burden you.
Bottom Line
We really like this scope for its high-quality, as well as the amazingly affordable price tag. It boasts several hard-to-find features. It is a good choice for people who are interested in medium-range shooting. It compares quite well with similar devices that cost a lot more.
Product Specs
Magnification:
1.75 - 5x
Type of Reticle:
Dead-Hold BDC
Parallax:
100 yds
Objective Lens:
32 mm
Focal Plane:
Second Focal Plane
Eye Relief:
3.5 - 3.7 in
Field of View:
23.1 - 68.3 ft at 100 yds
Adjustment Type and Click Value:
0.25 MOA
Best Scope for .30-30 Lever Action Rifle:
Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope with Truplex Reticle
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers are extremely happy with their purchase. They love the design, which appears very chic when mounted. From the price point of view, no other product offers this much at this price. They like the smooth magnification function that zooms in or out without causing parallax.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We had to include this unit on our list as this is quite stylish and comes from a reputable brand. The exterior is coated with an anodized matte black finish, which gives off a very modern look and feels.
It is equipped with a QTA eyepiece that not only assists in providing a faster target acquisition but also in placing an accurate shot. The optics are also completely coated to provide a clear, bright, and sharp target image.
A unique feature is its Truplex reticle. It helps direct the eye to the connection of the crosswise. This significantly reduces eye-strain when focusing on small targets such as rabbits or squirrels.
It also features a rubber surface, which allows you to adjust it easily under any conditions, even with the gloves on.
Bottom Line
This is one sturdy and accurate scope for a .30-30 Lever action rifle. It should be your choice if you are planning to target some small game. The anodized rubber surface is great for making adjustments while the QTA eyepiece delivers a sharp and bright image to help you aim better. All in all, this is a product that is worth every penny you spend on it.
Product Specs
Magnification:
3 - 9x
Type of Reticle:
Truplex
Parallax:
100 yds
Objective Lens:
50 mm
Focal Plane:
Second Focal Plane
Eye Relief:
3.75 in
Field of View:
31.4 / 10.5 at 100 yds
Adjustment Type and Click Value:
0.25 MOA
Best Scope for Marlin .30-30 Scope:
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers are surprised at how well this scope performs. They suspected it to be good, but it managed to exceed all their expectations with its functionality. It allows wonderful light transmission even in low light conditions. The lenses are very bright and deliver a clear view. All in all, there is very little to dislike.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This scope is designed to fit the demands of any hunting expedition. It is a complete package of affordability, quality, and functionality. It allows great light transmission, which results in a very. clear and sharp picture.
The optics used for making this device are fully coated with multiple layers of protective coatings. These prevent reverse transmission and help improve the overall quality of the image.
It is built to last. The single-tube body is rugged and treated to withstand the adverse effects of weather. It is completely waterproof and is purged in nitrogen to achieve fog proofing. You can take it on the wildest hunting trips without a single worry.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a suitable scope for your Marlin .30-30, then the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope is a good choice. It has all the amazing features of any high-end device, yet it comes at a price that fits any budget.
Product Specs
Magnification:
3 - 9 x
Type of Reticle:
Multi-X
Parallax:
10 yds to infinity
Objective Lens:
40mm
Focal Plane:
Second Focal Plane
Eye Relief:
3.3 in
Field of View:
40 - 14 ft at 100 yards
Adjustment Type and Click Value:
0.25 MOA
Best Winchester .30-30 Scope:
Burris 200261
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyer reports make it clear that this rifle scope has gained a name for itself with its performance. Buyers really like the slim design that makes it unique. They have been using it in all sorts of varying conditions with nothing but praises to report. The longer eye relief is especially appreciated as it allows them to shoot with both eyes open.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Without a doubt, this unit is considered as one of the best variable power scopes. It has a 2x-7x magnification power optics with a 32mm objective lens diameter. Switching between different magnifications is also very smooth and easy.
The lenses utilized for it are high in quality and are treated with multiple coatings for a good and clear effect. The reticles are also very thin and precise. Combined, these ensure accurate and precise aiming.
One standout feature is its Ballistic drop marks. These allow you to shoot without having to adjust the elevation and windage knobs repeatedly. It is made to withstand hard recoil so it won’t shift any previously set adjustments because of it.
Bottom Line
Burris is a renowned manufacturer that is known for its wonderful service. This scope is perfect proof. It provides you a combination of clarity and durability at a very reasonable price. Operating it is also very easy. You will enjoy using it once you decide to buy it.
Product Specs
Magnification:
2 - 7x
Type of Reticle:
Ballistic Plex
Objective Lens:
32 mm
Focal Plane:
Second Focal Plane
Eye Relief:
9.2 - 12 in
Field of View:
7 - 21 ft at 100 yds
Adjustment Type and Click Value:
0.25 MOA
Best Scope for Henry .30-30:
BARSKA 6-18x40 mm
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
We found this to be a popular choice amongst the owners of Henry .30-30. They really like the design that complements their rifle. They have reported that for such a low-priced scope, it delivers amazingly clear and bright views. They have been using it over varying distances with satisfying results.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This scope is designed to deliver over a higher range. Its magnification power goes up to 18x, which enables you to shoot accurately at even 300 yards.
It features high-quality lenses with multiple protective coatings for a bright and clear view. The interchangeable lenses are highly useful as they allow you to switch between .17 and .22 caliber rounds. Equipped with bullet drop technology, it offers a pre-calculated trajectory compensation to improve your chances of success.
Not many scopes are as accurate as this one. But all of them come at a significantly higher price.
Bottom Line
With a higher magnifying power of 6x to 18x, this scope is centered on performance. It is very accurate for long-range shooting, but don’t expect too much for short-range targets. There are only a handful of products compared to it in performance, but none of them comes at a price as cheap as this one.
Product Specs
Magnification:
6-18x
Type of Reticle:
30/30
Objective Lens:
40 mm
Focal Plane:
Second Focal Plane
Eye Relief:
3.1 in
Field of View:
4.5 - 14.5 ft at 100 yds
Adjustment Type and Click Value:
0.25 MOA
Should Any Scope Be Used on a .30-30?
.30-30 is around that can drop anything from rabbits to elks and everything in between. However, it is more popular for deer hunting. It can shoot effectively up to 200 yards and is apt at small to medium game. When you head out to buy a new scope for your .30-30, ditch the idea of buying any scope. Keep in mind that not every model suits every rifle. Here are some things to look for.
- Make sure that the size and weight of the scope you want to buy are appropriate with your rifle.
- The accompanying mount is compatible.
- Its magnification power as per your needs.
- It is rugged and durable to withstand harsh hunting conditions.
- It supports variable magnification because 30-30 is a versatile round.
Since you cannot use any scope on a .30-30, be sure to consider your hunting conditions, the size of your game, mounts, and other individual requirements before finalizing the purchase.
How Far Can a .30-30 Shoot?
The .30-30 is perfectly adequate for dropping a medium-sized game at a distance up to 170 yards. There have been some instances reported of hunters successfully dropping deer at a distance of 200 yards. So we can safely say that it can shoot effectively at up to 170 yards. After that, the bullet loses three to four inches of height. Its effectiveness decreases as the distance increases.
So what about the hunter securing a successful shot at 200 yards? We’ll say it's effectiveness also depends upon the shooter’s skill. Some people may shoot effectively at 200 yards while others may not score even at a short range of 50 yards. You can determine and increase your effective range by practicing at a target range.
Conclusion
.30-30 is a Winchester lever-action rifle cartridge designed for smokeless powder. It was the first small-bore sporting rifle cartridge in the US. It is considered a wonderful cartridge for hunting deer, black bear, and feral hogs at a short to moderate range.
We have listed some of the best .30-30 scopes for you to consider above. Which of these pairs best with your .30-30 is solely dependent upon your individual requirements. We agree that nothing is perfect, but these scopes are top performers in their respective categories. Purchase any of these, and you will be satisfied with its performance.
People Also Ask
Preparing for a hunting trip is as exciting as the trip itself, especially the selection of hunting shotguns. 30-30 is generally considered a good firearm. But is it good enough for your hunting trip? Not sure? Here are some frequently asked questions about .30-30 to help you figure it out yourself.
Is the .30-30 a Good Brush Gun?
A good brush gun is a firearm whose bullets do not divert after hitting the bush and brush. A .30-30 is considered a good brush gun. With its short length and heavy caliber, a shot fired from it stays on the path. It does not stray away from the target even if it has to tear through bushes to hit it. This is also the reason why the gun does not have much recoil.
Can a .30-30 Kill a Grizzly Bear?
A .30-30 can kill a grizzly bear, but you have to aim for a kill shot in the neck. Because of its inability to penetrate the skull, you have to take the unconventional route of shooting in the neck. That’s why you won’t see many expert hunters recommending to use one on a grizzly bear hunting trip.
What is Bigger, a .30-30 or .308?
Both 308 and .30-30 feature the same bullet size. Their casings are the reason they appear slightly different in size. The casing of the latter is slightly taller than that of the former. It has a round-ended bullet, which makes it appear short. The casing of the .308 has a larger capacity with a ponied bullet.
