Rifle scopes under $300

[pikeman007]

Can you guys suggest some scopes that cost under 300. Its for my 30-06. I have a 3.5-10x50mm right now and the deer look pretty small when they are out past 300 yards. Would like to get something that goes up to 14-18x. Thanks.

[Esoxchaser]

One heck of a lot of scope for a little bit of money. I had one I picked up for my kids Bull Barrel .17hmr. Was so impressed I now have 2, the second is on my .223 varminter.
http://muelleroptics.com/mt451440

[Phil T]

You should check the comments about Vortex scopes in the optics forum of 24HourCampfire.
For cheap, you can't beat Tasco World Class scopes(now owned by Bushnell). I am pleased with the 6-24X I have on one of my 22-250s. They can withstand 30-06 recoil. Tasco World Class scopes were recommended to me by a guy who only owns a 300 Win Mag. He uses his on everything from coyotes to elk.

[Nick Kanauz]

Well said Phil T...I have a World Class on my .300 Savage. It's a 3x9x50mm. When I'm on 9 power, the 30/30 cross hair only goes shoulder to rear hip. I've taken several deer 200-300 out and never had a problem with field of view. In fact, I usually only go up to 5-6 power on those shots...If you are having a problem sighting at that distance, it usually means that your scope is not "focused" properly. This can be accomplished my loosening the ring in front of the back eye piece, and lengthening or shortening it in or out. My scope is crystal clear. My buddy complained about the same thing, and I helped him adjust the focus...straightened it out for him. Good luck either way!:peepwall:

[fishinnut 3446]

My vote would be for the Vortex,I have 3 of them for the money and lifetime warr. you can't go wrong!I also have Simmons,Bushnell,Nikon,Leupold and I would rate these up there with the higher end scopes.

[Wade B AKA: Ruger2506]

Can you guys suggest some scopes that cost under 300. Its for my 30-06. I have a 3.5-10x50mm right now and the deer look pretty small when they are out past 300 yards. Would like to get something that goes up to 14-18x. Thanks.

You shouldn't be shooting 300 yards with a scope that comes in under $300.

Clarity and eye relief are everything when shooting long distances (scope power maxed out). That requires high dollar glass.

However for a mid-range scope I've been very impressed with the Nikon Monarch series. I would recommend spending the extra $200 and get into a Monarch. Actually I recommend Swarovski, but that's a bit spendy.

[Phil T]

Let's all be honest about our shooting abilities.
"You shouldn't be shooting 300 yards with a scope that comes in under $300." could have had the period after yards, and the rest of the sentence could have been left out.
I was on a collegiate rifle team many years ago, and I actually own hunting rifles that are accurate enough off the bench to shoot at 300 yards, but I don't lug a shooting bench with me when I'm hunting. For that distance, I need a really good rest. Even in a stable sitting position with a tight sling bracing my arm, I couldn't gurantee a clean killing shot at 300 yards. 200 yards is very possible, 300 would be iffy. 400 yards is time to get closer.

[outdoorsron]

Hello: Yes Wade there are a lot scopes under 300.00 that will shoot good at 300 yards and over. Most scopes built now that are 100.00 or over are better than 500.00 scopes made ten years ago. The coatings are much better than they used to have. Also not every one can afford the higher priced scopes and have to stay on a budget. Find out the return policy where you want to purchase the scope at in case it doesn't work for you. Just my opinion. Good Luck O - R

[Wade B AKA: Ruger2506]

Let's all be honest about our shooting abilities.
"You shouldn't be shooting 300 yards with a scope that comes in under $300." could have had the period after yards, and the rest of the sentence could have been left out.
I was on a collegiate rifle team many years ago, and I actually own hunting rifles that are accurate enough off the bench to shoot at 300 yards, but I don't lug a shooting bench with me when I'm hunting. For that distance, I need a really good rest. Even in a stable sitting position with a tight sling bracing my arm, I couldn't gurantee a clean killing shot at 300 yards. 200 yards is very possible, 300 would be iffy. 400 yards is time to get closer.

I'd argue that. For most "hunters" you are correct. However there are those of us who practice extensively to make long yard shots. And I mean LONG shots. Me personally, I wouldn't think twice to make a 400 yard shot form a prone position. Out to 600 is very doable with the right amount of practice and gear.

[Burr]

I was thinking completely along a different line when I read this. If he wants his "cost" to be under $300 - well, he can buy a brand new bargain bin scope for $325 - and have something he can always sell for $25.00. Or he can keep his eyes open for a top of the line scope in the secondary market and maybe spend 400, 450? But when it comes time to sell it, it will be worth $375-425 - cost $25.

Nikon Monarch, Leupold, Zeiss, Swarovski, all don't cost that much if you buy and sell used.

[jarhead]

Hello: Yes Wade there are a lot scopes under 300.00 that will shoot good at 300 yards and over. Most scopes built now that are 100.00 or over are better than 500.00 scopes made ten years ago. The coatings are much better than they used to have. Also not every one can afford the higher priced scopes and have to stay on a budget. Find out the return policy where you want to purchase the scope at in case it doesn't work for you. Just my opinion. Good Luck O - R

If you think a $100 scope of today is equal to or better than a $500 scope of ten years ago you have plenty to learn about optics. Plus there is more to a scope than coatings. Not all glass is created equal, then there is water proof, fog proof, lifetime guarantee , etc........ I'll take a 10 year old Leupold VX lll over any $100 scope of today.