Best Scope for 30-06

[BIRD DOG]

Anyhelp would be appreciated - I have a 243 that needs another scope due to rought conditions and handling - Going to use the scope on the 30-06 for the 243 - I am in the market for another scope for this gun (30-06)- price range will be up to 500 dollars - thanks for any help!

[cowboy4513]

I would go for a 3-9 or a 4-12leupold or any of the same power scopes but from Nikon i have good things to say about those scopes.

[diamondaranch]

Leupold or Nightforce for any caliber rifle. However, the nightforce is out of that price range you mention.

best of luck

[timbercruiser]

You can get a Zeiss Conquest 3x9x40 for about $400 or a Bushnell Elite 3x9x40 for about $270.

[redrockgrizzly]

go with Nikon. great scope for a great price.

[Superpig]

For all around use you really can't beat a variable. I like something in the 3-9 range, but don't eliminate a 2.5-10 or 3.5-10. Since you have $500 to spend there are a number of good scopes out there for you. The Leupold VXIII 3.5-10X40, Zeiss Conquest 3-9X40, Bushnell Elite 4200 2.5-10X40, & Nikon Monarch 3-9X40. These are all in your price range and I've listed them in the order in which I think they perform. I own all of these scopes and this is how I categorize them. I would say the Leupold & Zeiss are a toss up and I don't think one clearly outperforms the other. Also, they have the best eye relief.

[NBDeerHunter]

I agree with superpigs comments. those are all very good scopes and I am sure you wouldn't be disappointed by any of them. I have a 30-06 myself and couldn't afford any of the scopes listed and I have a simmons 3.8X12X44OA (I know it isn't top of the line) and I am pleased with it. It hasn't caused me any issues to date and I only paid a little over $200CAD for it.
If I had a $500 budget for a scope I would probably go with the Leopold. Just my 2 cents worth

[Bow4Bo]

I've got a Bushnell elite on my 30-06, I love it, and only paid a little over $200 for it.

[spudrow]

Nikon or Leupold. Leupold is American made, if that matters?

[NoKnees]

$350-500 is a real nice price range for hunting scopes. You get a lot for the dollar. The Ziess conquest would be my choice butthe Burris sig select/Lupie VXIII, 3x9x40 Nikon Monarch and the Bushnell 4200 2.5x10x40are quite nice as well. You wouldn't wrong with any of them.

If you could forgo the 9X or 10X I saw that Natchez has the 1.5x6x36 elite 4200 on sale for $250. That would be a great scope for someone who hunts the thick stuff.