Setting the record straight on this classic debate between the 30mm vs 1 inch rifle scope. 

Contemporary optics technology has advanced by leaps and bounds, especially over the last 50 years. In the modern age, state-of-the-art scopes give shooters the ability to build exactly what they want or need to best achieve their goals. 

30mm vs 1 Inch Rifle Scope

Scope descriptions can often seem jumbled with all the numbers and abbreviations. One of the numbers (and often the first) in a scope’s description highlights the diameter of the scope’s main tube. The two most common tube diameters are 1-inch (25.4 mm) and 30mm, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into those factors as well as the situations when each one shines or stutters.

Scopes were first mounted on rifles in the mid-1800s. Early optics used narrower tubes – usually around ½ inch. Over time, as optics quality and scope designs advanced, tube diameters adjusted to be better suited for the needs of modern shooters. 

The Champion

At present, the 1-inch scope is the most widely purchased tube diameter in the United States. Almost all serious manufacturers offer a variety of builds and add-on options to be able to appeal to all types of shooters. Accessories follow the trend. Scope rings for 1-inch scopes come in a variety of heights and thicknesses and are available with a whole gambit of additional features, such as built-in levels or quick-detach levers.

 

At present, the 1-inch scope is the most widely purchased tube diameter in the United States.

The Contender Rifle Scope

The 30mm scopes have traditionally been more popular among European shooters. But the beefier design is gaining huge popularity in North America as well. While the larger tube does not necessarily mean more light will pass into the eyes of the shooter, the internal lenses are larger and meant to enhance detail resolution and make objects appear brighter.

 

The beefier design of the 30mm rifle scope is quickly becoming the scope of choice across North America.

An Advantage of 30mm Tubes

One of the main advantages of a 30mm Tube is the increase in elevation adjustment.

The more spacious interior also permits the installation of additional mechanical parts. The guts of most 30mm rifle scopes will generally have extra adjustments available beyond what can fit inside of a 1-inch scope. Most notably, extra stops of windage and elevation. 

However, some companies install the same internal components in their 30mm scopes that they use in their 1-inch scopes. While this allows for greater adjustments in windage and elevation, it does not increase optical quality. Because of this, we recommend shooters ensure they use scopes with full-size internal lenses.

In practice, the extra adjustments give shooters the ability to adjust their scope’s crosshairs to account for more vertical bullet drop or horizontal effects, such as wind or the Coriolis effect, which is the movement of a bullet based on the rotation of the earth. The larger diameter also allows for thicker materials to be used and therefore tends to be more rigid and durable.

 

 

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Applications of Both Builds

Before diving into the applications of both scope builds, it is important to note that both can be used somewhat interchangeably. While differences exist between the two, the differences and variations between them are negligible. Nevertheless, shooters wanting to specialize should pay attention.

As mentioned above regarding the larger diameter of a 30mm tube, the construction of the scope is generally tougher and more durable – perfect in scenarios where a scope may experience some abuse. The added material comes with a negative: weight. While not always the case, 1-inch scopes tend to be substantially lighter than their 30mm cousins. 

The additional stops of adjustment that are available in a 30mm scope are more suited for longer range shooting. While a 1-inch scope can be very effective at longer ranges, shooters that want to be able to dial a scope to the exact milliradian may need the larger tube with the additional adjustments.

Finding the right rings to fit your 1 inch or 30mm scope has never been easier. TRACT offers a wide variety of mounts for your 1-inch scopes or 30mm scopes that fit either a Weaver Style Base or Picatinny Rail. 

Making the Decision

Hunters may face a conundrum when deciding between the 30mm vs 1 inch rifle scope. Those that prefer run-and-gun applications and the ability to cover ground quickly may favor the lighter weight of a 1-inch scope. Additionally, those that hunt in cover or anticipate quick shots may like the increased handiness of a smaller tube design. Hunters that shoot longer distances across canyons or grain fields or those that hunt in prairies and plains may experience longer shots and need to dial more elevation in their shots.

Those that use heavier bullets with more drop may also need the extra stops of adjustment provided by a 30mm. Bench shooters and long range competition shooters should almost certainly prefer a beefier scope with more capability. When weight is not a concern or shots over 500 yards are expected, a 30mm may be a better choice.

Both types of scopes have distinct strengths and weaknesses. Shooters should take the time to find a scope that best fits their needed application, shooting style, and body. With enough time and practice, you’ll know which is right for you.

 

TORIC 1" Rifle Scopes - High Optical Performance Without the Weight.