In this post, we will focus on the best scope for 30-06 elk hunting recommendations. Elks are very common in North America. These mountain creatures are swift and extremely powerful.
These animals are large and dangerous creatures, so if you’re an experienced hunter, you know you must be skillful and have a powerful weapon to take them down. The 30-06 Springfield is among the most favored calibers for elk hunting.
Elk hunters who love to pursue prey at different ranges favor this powerful cartridge because of its ballistic properties. Pairing the 30-06 with the right rifle enhances accuracy and precision, resulting in a successful hunting spree.
Best Scope Magnification for 30-06
The best magnification for your .30-06 rifle scope depends on your intended shooting distance, target size, and personal preferences. Go for (3-9x or 2-7x) for Low to Medium Magnification (2-12x or 3-15x) for medium range magnification and (4-16x or 6-24x) for high magnification range.
Whether a professional hunter or rookie, here are the best scopes for 30-06 elk hunting that will not disappoint you.
Best Scopes for 30-06 Elk Hunting
1) Vortex Viper PA 6.5-20x50mm SFP Riflescope
Vortex Viper PA 6.5-20x50mm Riflescope is the best scope for 30-06 elk hunting for a reason. The scope has a medium price yet boasts features that would otherwise be found in expensive riflescopes.
First off, it has an outstanding light transmission. This scope makes use of extra-low dispersion glass to achieve that. This contributes to higher resolution and color quality.
Every glass surface that comes into contact with air has multiple anti-reflective coatings. This enables it to transmit light optimally and provide incredibly clear images at all magnifications.
With this scope’s unique MAG-Bar technology, you can adjust the zoom settings without turning your head. This scope doesn’t disappoint when it comes to adjustments and zoom controls.
Utilizing the zero-reset control couldn’t be easier. All you have to do is raise the reset turrets, turn the dial back to zero, and then lower them again to complete the process.
It also ticks all the boxes regarding construction. Constructed from robust aircraft-grade aluminum, the scope guarantees life-long performance. This rugged construction implies shockproof capability. The lenses are argon-purged and O-ring sealed. This means that this scope resists water, fog, and dust.
Features
- Mil-dot, V-Plex, and dead-hold BDC reticle options
- Aircraft-grade aluminum body
- A fast-focus eyepiece
- Precision-Glide erector system
- MAG-Bar feature
- Scratch and dent-resistant Armortek coating
- 50mm objective lens
- Versatile 6.5-20x magnification
Pros
- Unparalleled images across all magnification levels
- Top-grade construction
- Easy-to-use controls
- Multiple reticle options
- It comes with the Vortex VIP warranty
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
2) Vortex Diamondback 3.5-10x50mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Diamondback 3.5-10x50mm Rifle Scope is the ideal companion for elk hunters wielding a .30-06. Its solid construction, fog-proof and waterproof capabilities, precise optics, and thoughtful design features make it one of the best scopes for the task.
Crafted from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, this scope is built to withstand the harshest of hunting conditions. One of its standout features is the argon purging, which guarantees a waterproof and fog-proof performance.
The fully multi-coated optics ensure optimal light transmission, providing a clear and bright image, even in low-light conditions. When stalking elk during dawn or dusk, this scope enhances your visibility, giving you the edge you need.
Elk hunting demands precision, and the Dead-Hold BDC reticle excels in this regard. Its custom design eliminates the need for guesswork when making hold-over and windage corrections resulting in more accurate shots and fewer missed opportunities.
With a magnification range of 3.5-10x and a 50mm objective lens, this scope is perfectly suited for elk hunting. It offers the versatility to adapt to different hunting scenarios, from long-range shots to close encounters in dense forests.
The one-inch tubes, fast-focus eyepiece, and low-capped turrets provide ease of use and quick adjustments in the field. Additionally, the reset turrets allow you to re-index the turret housing to zero after sighting in, ensuring that your settings remain locked in place.
The scope’s durability is further underscored by its shockproof design, with lenses securely locked in position. The hard anodized finish not only enhances its longevity but also adds a sleek and rugged aesthetic.
Features
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- Hard Anodized Finish
- Eye Relief: 3.3 – 3.6 in
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Aircraft Grade Aluminum Construction
- Fully Multi-Coated Optics
- Rugged construction to withstand recoil and impact
- Parallax: 100 yds
Pros
- Ideal for big game
- Waterproof and fogproof performance
- Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy construction for durability and strength
- Fast-focus eyepiece for easy and quick reticle focusing
Cons
- None
3) Burris Fullfield II 6.5-20×50 mm Rifle Scope
The Burris Fullfield II 6.5-20x50mm Rifle Scope is a popular choice among hunters and shooters who demand premium performance without breaking the bank. With its exceptional optical quality, low-light performance, ease of use, and rugged durability, it’s a scope that will enhance your hunting experience.
The scope fetures high-grade optical glass that not only provides remarkable brightness and clarity but also boasts lasting durability. The precision-ground lenses are larger than those found in comparable scopes, a design choice that greatly enhances light transmission for clear and vivid images in low-light conditions.
The Fullfield II doesn’t just stop at optical quality; it goes further with its Index-matched, Hi-Lume multicoating. This feature significantly aids in low-light performance and glare elimination, effectively increasing your chances of a successful shot. Whether you’re tracking game at sunrise or sunset, this scope will maintain excellent visibility.
Its integrated eyepiece design ensures a no-slip grip for easy and quick adjustments, even when wearing gloves or in less-than-ideal weather conditions. You can confidently make precise adjustments on the fly.The positive steel-on-steel adjustments assure that your settings remain locked in place, even after repeated use. You can count on consistent and reliable performance, shot after shot.
Durability is a key consideration for any rifle scope, and this one doesn’t disappoint. Its stress-free, solid one-piece outer tube is built to withstand the shock and vibrations generated by the heaviest recoils. Whether you’re using a high-powered rifle or facing the kickback of a big game firearm, this scope can take it all in stride.
Features
- Aircraft Grade Aluminum Construction
- Adjustable Parallax
- Ballistic MilDot Reticle
- Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Index-matched, Hi-Lume multicoated optics
Pros
- Low-light performance and glare reduction enhanced by the multicoated optics
- Integrated-eyepiece design
- Shockproof and withstand recoil and harsh conditions
- Affordable price
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
4) Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm Riflescope
Leupold scopes are known for being among the best on the market, and the VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm is no different. The scope brings many features that make it a candidate on our list of the best models for 30-06 elk hunting.
To begin with, the scope is built like a tank. This incredible scope is made of aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum. The scope can face challenging environments with such housing and still look brand new. It is also entirely shockproof, fogproof, and waterproof. This means that it won’t let you down even in bad weather. The lenses are resistant to scratches for increased durability.
The scope’s 1.5-4x magnification makes it ideal for fast target acquisition at close distances. The variable magnification allows you to zoom in on targets with increased clarity and less distortion.
A feature that reinforces light transmission is the Twilight Light Management System. This comes in handy in poorly lit conditions by providing extra minutes of shooting light so that not even darkness can stop you from enjoying your activity.
Features
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- 20mm objective lens
- 5-4x magnification
- Twilight Light Management System
- Finger click dial system
- 3:1 zoom ratio
- Scratch resistant lenses
- One-inch tube
Pros
- Lightweight hence easy to carry
- Designed with long-lasting materials
- The power adjustment ring is smooth and reliable
- Ideal for all conditions
- Phenomenal clarity
Cons
- No BDC Dial
5) Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm SFP Riflescope
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm is an A-grade optic that promises a successful elk hunting experience. Many hunters favor it as it comes at a price that’s easy on your wallet yet doesn’t compromise performance. The scope qualifies as a top choice thanks to its robust build, clear optics, and formidable eye relief.
An exciting feature of the scope is the fully multi-coated optics that allow superior light gathering in all light settings. This ensures clear and bright images even in dismal lighting.
This scope’s variable 2-7x magnification makes it perfect for close- and medium-range shooting. Viewing distant targets up close offers a wide field of view and richness in every detail.
Like other top-notch scopes from Vortex, the Crossfire 2-7x32mm is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum for great performance in all terrains. The scope is waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof to enhance durability. This implies a job well done regardless of the environmental condition.
Another interesting attribute of the scope is the capped turrets that prevent accidental movements while providing extra protection from exterior components.
Features
- One-inch tube diameter
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- 2-7x magnification
- Capped turrets
- Hard anodized finish
- Made of robust aircraft-grade aluminum
- Fully multi-coated optics
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Suffices in all conditions
- Generous eye relief
- Affordable
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
6) ATN ThOR 4 4-40x75mm Thermal Smart HD Riflescope
If you are looking for a riflescope that delivers incredible performance day and night, the ATN ThOR 4 4-40x75mm is what you need. The scope combines features like dual-stream video and recoil-activated video to make it easier for you to record all of your hunting expeditions.
It also brings an ultra-sensitive next-gen sensor for unmatched performance. Since elk hunting means walking for long miles, the scope is made with lightweight in mind. You can therefore carry it for long distances without it hindering mobility. It sports a 30mm tube and traditional ergonomics to make shooting simple and comfortable.
It has top-notch optics that offer sight pictures in HD quality to help improve your long-range shooting accuracy, even on the darkest nights. The battery running out of juice will be the least of your concerns, as when fully charged, the unit provides more than 16 hours of continuous operation.
Features
- Smart Mil-Dot reticle
- Recoil activated video
- Ultra-low-power profile
- 30mm tube
- Variable 4-40x magnification
- Components are recoil-resistant
- Built-in ballistic calculator
- One Shot Zero
- Smart rangefinder
Pros
- Unsurpassed resolution for incredible HD images
- Robustly made
- Decent battery life
- Easy to use
Cons
- Price
7) Primary Arms Orion 4-14x44mm Riflescope
Primary Arms Orion 4-14x44mm Riflescope concludes our list of the best scopes for 30-06 hunting. The scope is designed with a 30mm tube made of aircraft-grade 6063 aluminum that is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. This makes it a robust scope that does the job in all environmental conditions.
The scope guarantees unmatched light transmission. This is thanks to the fully multi-coated lenses allowing maximum light travel from the target to the shooter’s eye. It also promises a seamless operation, making it ideal for beginners.
The riflescope’s user-friendly ACSS Orion reticle makes it simple to determine coyote range without using a calculator or consulting a manual.
The turrets can be adjusted with your finger and have a loud audible click. Further, this scope is seamless to zero and holds the zero in the first focal plane quite well. The fact that the parallax knobs are on the side highlights the scope. As a result, adjustments are much more fluid when shooting from a distance. The side parallax knob is also very simple to turn.
Features
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Finger-adjustable turrets
- Side parallax knobs
- ACSS Orion reticle
- Matte finish
- Versatile 4-14x magnification
Pros
- Pocket-friendly price
- Lightweight
- Superior glass quality
- Multiple brightness settings
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
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Factors To Consider When Selecting The Best Scope for 30-06 Elk Hunting
Here are the most important considerations for the best scope for 30-06 elk hunting
Magnification
Up to about 300 yards, the 30-06 works admirably across short- to medium-range distances. A high-magnification scope is not required for this distance.
A variable power scope with up to 9x magnification will work within 200 yards. For hunting beyond 200 yards, purchasing a scope up to 15x will be perfect.
Weight
You will cover much ground when hunting as you look for elk. A lightweight scope will make your hunting trip less strenuous and more enjoyable. A portable, sturdy scope will also be simple to mount and use.
Eye relief
You need generous eye relief and an eye box to prevent scoping the eye. You are lucky if your gun is not overly strong, which is almost impossible. The next thing you will see in front of a mirror will be your head wrapped in a bandage if you do not take the time to check on your eye relief. Leave enough space between your eyes and the scope so that when the recoil returns, it won’t hit your eyes. An eye relief of at least 3.5 inches is ideal.
Durability
Since aircraft-grade aluminum is so strong and resilient, it is frequently used to produce high-quality scopes. It can resist rust, changing weather, and other elements damaging the scope. Exposure to heat, sun, and morning chill is inevitable when elk hunting. Additionally, there are times when the weather abruptly changes from a bright, sunny day to a rainy one. A solid coat that reinforces the scope will shield it from these elements.
Lens quality
Consider purchasing a scope with premium glass, such as HD and ED. It will improve your shot accuracy and provide a clean target view.
Further, the lenses must be multi-coated for enhanced scratch resistance and ideal light transmission.
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FAQs on the Best Scope for 30-06 Elk Hunting
1) What is the best time to hunt elk?
Like many other predators, elk are most active in the morning and the evening. Midday hunts might be successful during the rut, but if you want to see the most activity, aim for dawn and dusk.
2) What grain bullet is best for 30-06?
30-06 is more effective and adaptable than ever. It shoots flat enough with a decent 150-grain bullet for just about any deer hunting you can envision and works perfectly for the largest whitetail and mule deer. It works especially on elk, black bears, and moose with a 180-grain bullet.
3) What magnification scope is best for elk hunting?
Magnification varies with the shooter’s distance from the target. The further a shooter is from the target, the more magnification is necessary.
Magnification also influences the field of view, with higher magnification producing a smaller field of view. If the shooter wishes to scan a large area, he or she must use low magnification.
Furthermore, while elk are not often aggressive, they can be dangerous at times, so it is preferable to hunt at a safe distance of at least 300 yards.
All these needs call for a scope with a versatile magnification say 2-12x such as say the Leupold VX-6HD 2-12x42mm or 3-15x such as the Burris Veracity 3-15x50mm which also works great under low light.
Conclusion
When hunting elk, you need a powerful weapon to kill the animal completely or inflict severe harm. That is why the right scope is crucial in your hunting arsenal. Hopefully, this best scope for 30-06 elk hunting post has shone a light, and you can now make a purchase decision. Buying any of the scopes elucidated above is the wisest decision ever.
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