The Ruger Mini 30 rifle is a highly effective and versatile action rifle that performs superbly when paired with a high-quality scope. The best scopes for Mini 30 action rifles are specially engineered to provide precise aiming in all weather conditions to cater to the diverse applications of the Ruger Mini 30.
The Ruger Mini 30 excels in short-range shooting applications but mounting a quality scope helps extend the effective range of the rifle. The rifle uses powerful rounds, which produce high recoil. Excellent scopes for this rifle need to be durably constructed to withstand the recoil and deliver relentless performance for many years.
Pairing the rifle with a high-quality rifle scope guarantees accurate and quick shots. As a result, your performance is exponentially improved whether hunting, shooting, or in a competition. To help you find a perfect match for your Ruger Mini 30, we have a comprehensive review of the best scopes for Mini 30. Let’s have a look.
1) Bushnell AR Optics 4.5-18x40mm Riflescope
You don’t have to break an arm and a leg to own this scope. At a pretty affordable cost, Bushnell AR Optics is packed with mind-blowing features that would otherwise be found in more expensive scopes.
Featuring BDC turrets this riflescope allows precise shot placement making it one of the best scopes for MINI 30 for hunting. The scope utilizes a Drop Zone 223 reticle with a crisp BDC-style reticle with holdover dots placed on the elevation crosshair for a maximum of 500 yards.
It’s engineered to be zeroed at 100 yards, and the SFP reticle is accurate at all magnification powers. If you are looking for a great scope to stretch your Ruger Mini 30 limits, look no further than the Bushnell AR Optics 4.5-18x40mm Rifle Scope
Regarding optics, the scope is designed with high-quality glass that is fully multi-coated to maximize light transmission. Combine this with Ultrawide Band Coatings, the scope delivers clear images across all lighting conditions.
Exposed turrets facilitate easy windage and elevation adjustments. An IPX7 rating means fog and waterproof protection, allowing you to stay longer in the field. A fast-focus eyepiece allows sharp focusing of the reticle. This is essential if you don’t have the luxury of time on your side to acquire the target.
The 4.5-18x magnification implies the scope is perfect for close to long ranges. Another exciting feature is the Mil-dot adjustments. The MIL target turrets on the AR Optics scope are exposed and enormous. They move in 0.1 MIL increments and have a total elevation and windage movement of 18 MILs each revolution.
For fast magnification changes, the scope includes a throw lever. This AR Optics scope is a favorite for many thanks to its price and performance. Undoubtedly, Bushnell AR Optics 4.5-18x40mm Rifle Scope is one of the best scopes for Mini 30.
Features
- Fully multi-coated optics
- A fast-focus eyepiece
- Mil-dot adjustments
- Exposed turrets for firm adjustments
- Throw lever for smooth magnification adjustments
- DZ-223 reticle
- 6 inches of eye relief
- Side focus for parallax corrections
Pros
- Well priced
- Great magnification range
- Fast target acquisition
- Excellent quality glass
- Clear glass
- Easy to use
Cons
- Large BDC reticle dots
- Insufficient eye relief
2) Leapers UTG 3-12x44mm Riflescope
UTG 3-12x44mm Riflescope is one of the best scopes for Mini 30 for anyone looking for a compact hunting rifle scope. The scope incorporates a state-of-the-art design and harbors impressive features that deliver outstanding performance.
It includes the SWAT (Side Wheel Adjustable Turret), which has a parallax range of ten yards to infinity. The scope ensures you waste no time in achieving your mission.
For enhanced accuracy, the scope has the 36-color Mil-dot reticle for hassle-free taking down your targets. The diverse color settings allow you to select one perfect for your needs with a simple click of a button.
Since scopes are meant for outdoor use where you have no idea of the conditions you will face, Leapers UTG 3-12x44mm Riflescope has a durable construction. A 30mm tube construction makes it ideal for Mini 30.
It is entirely sealed and filled with dry nitrogen gas for waterproof and fog-proof performance. The exterior can also survive inevitable bumps and falls when using a scope. Its unique housing construction allows for uninterrupted illumination even when used under high recoil.
Additionally, the scope’s lenses have an Emerald coating that is helpful in optimal light transmission resulting in bright, clear, and sharp images. Its versatile 3-12x magnification makes it a great scope for the Mini 30. Combine this with its reliability and efficiency, and the scope will be a great partner for your Ruger Mini 30.
Features
- Emerald coated lenses
- Durable 30mm body
- Variable magnification
- 44mm objective lens
- Mil-dot reticle
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
Pros
- Sturdy build
- Affordable
- High-quality lenses
- Continuous illumination
Cons
- Quite heavy
3) Trijicon AccuPoint TR-24 1-4x24mm Riflescope
Trijicon AccuPoint TR-24 1-4x24mm Riflescope makes a great pair for the Ruger Mini 30. It is favored by big game hunters who shoot at short ranges. Beyond the shooting range of the Mini 30, the 1-4x magnification range enables efficient targeting up to 400 yards.
One of the highlights of Accupoint TR-24 that makes it stand out among the best scopes for Mini 30 is both-eyes-open shooting that facilitates faster target engagement. This feature is very resourceful in close-quarter engagements. Furthermore, the reticle design allows quick target acquisition by ensuring speedy ranging.
Because the scope’s optics are fully multi-coated, maximum visibility is guaranteed. The lenses gather enough light that leads to vivid and bright target images. What this implies is the scope will not let you down even in dim conditions.
Besides, the scope will suffice no matter the environmental condition as it is engineered to be waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. Not even rain or snow will stop you from doing your favorite activity.
The fiber optic technology in this mini 30 scope helps automatically adjust the illumination level. Without question, the clarity of the images provided by this scope is unmatched. No battery is required for illumination, so battery charge and replacement will be the least of your worries.
The scope has an aircraft-grade aluminum body that survives the harshest conditions the scope is subjected to. There are turret knobs that are seamless to use and allow accurate and fast windage and elevation modifications. A long eye relief protects your eyes from injury caused by recoil.
Features
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Precise windage and elevation adjusters
- External turret knobs
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Tritium illumination for precise aiming in poor lighting conditions
- Fiber optics operate free of batteries
Pros
- The illumination that does not rely on batteries
- Sturdy construction
- Superior quality glass
- Lightweight
Cons
- Shorter eye relief
- 4x maximum power too low for the price
4) Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm Riflescope
If you intend to go for a shooting or hunting adventure with the Mini 30, pairing it with Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm Riflescope will improve your experience. Pairing the caliber with this scope does its justice.
The VX-Freedom 1.5-4×20 glass is crystal clear, meaning that it produces equally clear images. Mil-spec lens coatings are also present for high abrasion resistance. The outstanding optical prowess makes the VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm Rifle Scope one of the best scopes for Mini 30.
On bright, sunny days or snowy situations, the Twilight Light Management System improves low-light shooting while simultaneously reducing glare. So, you can use the scope at dusk and dawn without worrying about visibility.
Sealed with flat rubber washers, the scope is completely waterproof for reliable use in all weather conditions. Also, because it is fogproof, any fog or snow has zero chances of entering and damaging the scope.
Furthermore, the scope’s turrets and power control ring are well-sealed but perform seamlessly. It uses a Duplex reticle that dramatically improves your shooting experience.
The construction of the VX-Freedom is also formidable. It is made of aircraft-grade aluminum that survives harsh outdoor conditions. A matte finish also conceals your position to avoid spooking your prey.
Features
- One-inch body tube
- Matte black finish
- 3:1 zoom ratio
- Sturdy aluminum body
- Twilight Light Management System
- Waterproof and fogproof
- 1/4 MOA Finger-click Dial System
- Waterproof and fogproof
Pros
- Marked turrets
- Exceptionally clear gas
- Scratch-resistant lens
- Long eye relief
- Survives all weather conditions and terrain
- Compact
Cons
- The power isn’t enough for some shooting applications
5) Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm Riflescope
Leupold Optics are famed for superior quality, sturdiness, and numerous features that you can rely on for many years. Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x40mm Riflescope is no exception. This optic delivers the legendary Leupold’s performance making it one of the best scopes for Mini 30.
The 1/4-minute adjustments in the scope are precise, and the elevation turret employs the Custom Dial System with a zero lock to ensure that you always return to zero. The 40mm objective lens is ideal. It’s large enough to provide a crisp image in various lighting conditions yet tiny enough to enable a positioning low to the bore for optimal sight alignment.
Weighing only 16 ounces, the scope eliminates unnecessary weight that may weigh you down or hinder performance. So, if you are the kind of hunter who travels for long miles, this is the scope for you.
The lenses have a DiamondCoat coating that leads to superior light transmission. Along with that, the Xtended Twilight lens system provides extra shooting when in low-light settings.
Your chances of hitting your target increase with a better and clearer view. As a result of the blackened lens edges, more light enters the shooter’s eye. This leads to a brighter image with more contrast.
Moreover, the outer tube of the scope is durably made with aircraft-grade aluminum. Not only that, it is waterproof and fog proof; hence will perfectly do the job in all weather conditions.
A long eye relief combined with a generous eye box helps you have the entire view of the target, enabling fast target acquisition.
Features
- Matte black finish
- Aluminum construction
- DiamondCoat on the lenses
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Xtended Twilight lens system
- 7 to 4.4 inches of eye relief
- Twin Bias Spring Erector system
- Blackened lens edges
- Side focus knob
- 3:1 zoom ratio
Pros
- The included durable lens cover protects the lens
- A long eye relief
- Lightweight
- Versatile magnification
- Pretty affordable
Cons
- Accessories such as caps and sunshades have to be bought separately
Further Reading
- Leupold Scopes for Mini 14
- Best 350 Legend BDC Scopes
- Vortex Scopes for 450 Bushmaster
- Best Varmint Scopes for 223
- Red Dot Sights for 45-70
Considerations when Selecting the Best Scopes for Mini 30
Magnification
Magnification is one of the most critical factors to consider when purchasing a scope because it affects target acquisition and vision.
The most frequent magnification range for hunting rifles is 4x or adjustable 3x and 9x scopes. For short-range shots below 100 yards, a scope with a lower magnification range can be ideal.
If you’re using full-scale guns and wish to shoot long distances, you’ll need a magnification range of 12- 20x.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is another significant consideration when purchasing a mini 30 scope because it affects target acquisition.
Short eye relief can lead to an eye injury. Generous eye relief is critical in high-recoiling rifles as it guarantees your protection.
Objective Lens
You’ll need a scope that can offer excellent images even in low-light situations, so opt for one with a bigger objective lens for a bright, crisp image.
When hunting at dawn or dusk, a scope with a larger lens lets in more light. If you intend to purchase a larger objective lens, keep in mind that you’ll have to mount the scope higher than you would if you bought a smaller objective lens. This will have an impact on the eye alignment as well as the consistency of the cheek weld.
As a result, many Ruger Mini users favor small-diameter objective lenses to avoid these concerns. Also, keep in mind that a larger lens means a heavier scope.
Construction
Using a scope outdoors means you are clueless about the conditions to expect. Sometimes, the conditions are unfavorable. That’s why a scope that is durably made is a must.
Most durable scopes are made of aircraft-grade aluminum. The scope must also be waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof for reliability in all conditions.
Read: Best Leupold Scopes for 444 Marlin
What Magnification Do You Need?
A suitable magnification range should deliver the image clarity that your scope provides. As a result, you need not only look for a larger magnification range but also one that provides crisp, bright images, which are critical while locating your target. Choose an optics solution that meets various performance requirements across all distances.
It should be versatile enough to accommodate your shooting style. If you are a frequent long-distance shooter, you will select the ideal sight for Mini 30 based on your requirements. Alternatively, if you’re shooting at mid or short-range distances, go with a simple range scope that will suffice.
Furthermore, it is critical to compare and contrast your scope with other models to determine which one is appropriate for your needs, scenario, and firing technique.
Finally, you must select the best scope with a good magnification range that will be useful in the field or the competition range.
Read: Best Savage 220 Scopes
Best Scopes for Mini 30 FAQs
Q: Can I Put a Scope on the Ruger Mini 30?
Yes. When you equip your rifle with high-quality scopes, you’ll have the ability to make more precise and speedy shots. Because the Ruger Mini 30 is primarily used for close-range shooting, many users prefer scopes with low magnification. Some users, however, choose to utilize mid or long-range scopes with this rifle.
Q: What is the Difference Between an FFP and SFP?
The key distinction is that regardless of magnification, an SFP reticle remains the same size. When using an FFP reticle, the size of the reticle varies when the magnification changes.
Q: What Does a 50mm Objective Lens mean on a Scope?
Such a massive objective lens size has enhanced image quality in low-light situations. High magnifications are more effective with a larger objective size, and image quality appears brighter. With a larger exit pupil, you’ll be able to find the sweet spot faster.
Conclusion
Having the right scope for Mini 30 is instrumental for an enhanced shooting and hunting experience. The ideal scope for your Ruger Mini 30 rifle is built to last, has reliable features, and provides good performance that will aid your naked eye in any shooting circumstance. And the scopes listed above boast all these.