The Remington 700 is one of the most beloved bolt-action rifles of all time, and the .30-06 700 in my safe gets a workout more often than many other guns in my collection. This is also one of the most popular hunting platforms for larger game, which means you can find them in multiple calibers and variations.
I’ve also had the opportunity to try many of the various scopes that are available for the Remington 700, and out of the countless optics systems on the market, there are only a few that stand out from the crowd. Some are just good scopes, and others are something truly exceptional for the 700.
We’re going to take a look at the best Remington 700 scope options for 2023, including the best glass for both the .30-06 and the .308 versions. We’ll look at the overall best scope for your money, as well as the best one for long range, and a solid budget scope. If you are looking for a short answer – the Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 is the best scope for Remington 700 according to my tests.
The Best 4 Scopes for Remington 700
- Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 SFP Rifle Scope Gen III – Best For Remington 700 .308
- Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x50mm – Best For Remington 700 .30-06
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-24×50 BDC – Best Long Range Scope for Rem 700
- Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 3-9×40 – Best Budget Scope
1. Primary Arms SLX 1-6×24 SFP Rifle Scope Gen III – Best For Remington 700 .308
My top pick for the best scope for Remington 700 .308 is the Primary Arms SLX. It is a second focal plane (SFP) scope that features a unique reticle called the ACSS, or the Advanced Combined Sighting System. The ACSS is arguably one of my favorite features of the Primary Arms SLX, other than the superb image quality. This reticle is particularly advantageous for quick target acquisition and estimating range, setting it apart from traditional reticles found in scopes like the Vortex Viper.
This 3rd generation scope comes hot on the heels of the 2nd generation flagship scope, and it takes everything that Gen II was, and adds to it. The clear, bright image lets you acquire your target smoothly and easily, and the partial illumination has 11 levels of brightness powered by a common CR2032 wafer battery. The illumination is especially helpful in overcast conditions, providing clear visibility of the reticle against a variety of backgrounds.
I also love that this scope is completely IP67 waterproof and fog resistant, with the aircraft-grade 6063 aluminum alloy tube standing up to just about anything you can throw at it, and anything you can throw it at. Its robust construction offers peace of mind, especially in rugged outdoor conditions where scopes are often put to the test. There are a hundred reasons this is one of the best low-powered variable optics, or LPVOs, on the market today, but we’re only going into the biggest ones.
Glass Clarity & Reticle
I had to set my expectations accordingly before checking out the image quality since many LPVOs are designed with smaller objective lenses that don’t gather as much light as you’d like them to. However, the Primary Arms SLX holds its own against competitors, offering excellent clarity and contrast, even in lower light conditions. The image is crystal clear at all magnification levels and has minimal distortion.
The reticle is really where this scope excels. Its intuitiveness is comparable to some of the more expensive scopes on the market, providing a level of functionality that is hard to find in this price range. The ACSS is one of the most well-designed and functional reticles I’ve used, ever. It is designed to be used in a more defensive shooting scenario, comes calibrated for several ammo types, and is created to facilitate faster firing and accurate shots on moving targets. That’s right, the ACSS has marks for targets moving at both 3.1 mph and 8.6 mph, and even has a 5 mph wind hold.
The reticle does have partial illumination, and the brighter settings out of the 11 individual brightness settings are easy to see in the midday sun. However, in extremely bright conditions, the illumination can be overwhelmed, making it less visible. The reticle is accurate out to 400 yards, which is just about the maximum range that you’ll be shooting in nearly all situations. While the center dot is not as precise as a 1 MOA dot, it is more than adequate for most hunting and shooting situations, providing a good balance between precision and visibility. It works incredibly well at all levels of magnification.
Parallax & Magnification
The magnification of the Primary Arms SLX is variable from 1x to 6x, and you’ll appreciate the relatively wide field of view for a 24mm objective lens. This range of magnification makes it versatile for both close-quarter and mid-range engagements, a feature that is often overlooked in LPVOs. At 100 yards, the Primary Arms SLX 1x magnification can see a wide field of view of 110 feet. At 6x magnification, the field of view is still 19.3 feet across. While the distortion at low zoom levels is minimal, it is more noticeable when quickly transitioning between different magnification levels.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
The turrets on the Primary Arms SLX are solid and accurate. Their tactile feedback is reassuring, and they are less prone to accidental adjustment than some other models. They adjust at a ½ MOA per click, and my box test determined that the adjustments were as accurate as I could prove with my setup. The precision of these adjustments is particularly impressive, providing confidence in maintaining zero over various shooting conditions. The windage and elevation adjustments on the Gen III Primary Arms SLX have an even wider range of adjustment than the Gen II scopes, with an additional 10 MOA of range.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
The eye relief of the Primary Arms SLX is a comfortable 3.5 inches on low magnification and 3.3 inches on high. This gives plenty of room for the safe operation of the firearm, as well as a little room for comfort. I feel like the eye box is more or less average for this class of scope, but the reticle design helps make target acquisition a split-second affair.
Durability
The durability of Primary Arms scopes is well-known, and the Primary Arms SLX doesn’t disappoint. Its resilience in extreme weather conditions makes it an excellent choice for hunters and shooters who frequent diverse environments. Even with full submersion in water and mud, the scope stays fog and moisture-free. The finish on the scope also resists wear and tear, maintaining its appearance even after prolonged use. The aluminum housing held up easily to a standard drop test and didn’t even lose its zero in the process. This level of durability is often found in more expensive scopes, making the Primary Arms SLX an exceptional value. The scope ring and mount hardware are also incredibly robust and can be torqued down without slippage or stripping the bolts.
Is the Primary Arms SLX scope worth it?
The Primary Arms SLX is worth it, even if it’s a little more costly than other optics. Its combination of durability, clarity, and unique reticle design makes it a standout choice in its class. It gives you a solid LPVO system for your Remington 700, with clear images and a rock-solid zero. The flexibility it provides for various shooting scenarios, from hunting to tactical use, adds to its overall value.
Pros
- Crystal clear imaging
- Waterproof, durable tube
- Mount stands up to powerful .308 recoil
- Crisp adjustment clicks on the turrets
- Additional battery storage in the cap
Cons
- Low light transmission makes use before dawn and after dusk challenging
- Partial illumination can be less effective in extremely bright conditions
2. Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14x50mm Riflescope – Best For Remington 700 .30-06
Leupold is one of the most popular and respected optics manufacturers, so it’s no wonder they have the best scope for .30-06 Remington 700 with the Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14×50. This scope is just one notch below the super-popular VX 5 HD scope but is far more affordable while still bringing the same performance that you would expect from a Leupold sight. When compared to other brands in the same price range, like Vortex, the VX-3HD stands out for its superior lens quality and durability.
When I tried out this scope, the first thought I had was that this scope would be perfect for hunting applications that don’t need long-distance shots but need to operate flawlessly in the mid-range space. Its versatility is evident, providing clear views and easy adjustments, making it ideal for various hunting situations, from dense forests to open fields. This is important to remember because even though it has a max magnification of 14x, your ammo probably won’t be able to maintain effectiveness for the full range of this scope.
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Leupold is known for its lens and image quality, and the Leupold VX-3HD is a perfect representative of that level of quality. The Elite Optical System ensures exceptional light transmission, providing bright, clear images even in low-light conditions. The glass quality rivals that of much more expensive scopes, offering a significant advantage in clarity and brightness. The field of view in particular was incredibly impressive, and since the eye box is so comfortable, your image won’t have the dreaded black ring or “tunnel” around it. The image is bright and brilliant, and while there’s a little quality loss at the higher magnification levels, it isn’t game-breaking, and it’s also to be expected to some extent. The reticle is a simple duplex, but it is well-suited for a variety of shooting applications, providing enough detail for precise shots without overcomplicating the view.
Parallax & Magnification
While the Leupold VX-3HD isn’t technically a long-range scope, it does still offer a very easy-to-use side parallax adjustment. This feature adds a layer of precision to long-range shots, a benefit that is not always available in scopes of this class. This gives you up to 15 MOA of adjustment with your CDS Zero Lock dial if you need to make a much longer shot. In practical use, the parallax adjustment was particularly useful during a hunting trip, allowing me to make precise shots at varying distances without losing focus on my target.
With a 4.5x to 14x magnification range, you can more or less cover any hunting or defense situation you may find yourself in. The magnification range is wide enough to be flexible yet controlled, providing clear views at various distances. The zoom is silky smooth, and you get a throw lever as well, which is a great addition for quick magnification changes in the field. While maxing out the zoom does require you to move closer for the shorter eye relief, the transition is smooth, and the change in eye relief is manageable.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
The windage and elevation adjustments are nice and tight, and they provide a special Zero Stop feature that lets you lock the turret into place with a special button. This makes keeping your zero simple, while still allowing for adjustments in the field to fit your shooting conditions. You have 75 minutes of windage adjustment, and 75 minutes to adjust for elevation as well, which is a relatively wide range.
The tactile feedback from these adjustments is precise and reassuring, enhancing the shooting experience. You can set your permanent zero by taking the cap off of the turret with the allen screws. Then adjust your turret to where you need your zero to be, and simply reinstall the cap to lock in your zero. This system is user-friendly and adds to the overall practicality of the scope. Just make sure you throw the cap removal tool in your bag or you won’t be able to change your zero later. I particularly appreciated the crisp and audible clicks of the knobs during a windy hunting day, ensuring I made the correct adjustments without second-guessing.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
This is a category where the Leupold VX-3HD outshines most others in the class. The generous eye relief makes it comfortable for shooters of all kinds, particularly those who wear glasses like me. It doesn’t matter how great a scope is, if it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient to use, which is why the eye box is so important. At high magnification, the Leupold VX-3HD has 3.6 inches of eye relief. At low magnification, it has a massive 4.4 inches. This flexibility in eye relief is especially advantageous when switching between different shooting positions. During a recent competitive shooting event, I experienced no strain or discomfort, despite the frequent position changes and varying distances.
Durability
Leupold has a rigorous and occasionally devastating quality control system in place that tests the recoil-handling ability of every scope they put out. Their commitment to durability is one of the key reasons many shooters prefer Leupold. This test is “The Punisher” which subjects the Leupold VX-3HD to a minimum of 5,000 impacts of a recoil force that is triple the recoil force of your .30-06. This extreme testing ensures that the scope can withstand the most challenging conditions.
The tube itself is made from aircraft-grade aluminum. Its robust construction not only guarantees longevity but also instills confidence during rugged outdoor adventures. It is completely designed, machined, and assembled in the USA to be 100% fog proof, waterproof, and shockproof. These features are particularly important for hunters who often face unpredictable weather conditions like me. I often hunt in heavy timber or mountain situations, and this scope is ready to take those long trips out in the bush, keeping you zero the whole time.
Is the Leupold VX-3HD scope worth it?
The Leupold VX-3HD is one of the more costly scopes in its class, but you also get some amazing features. Its superior optical quality, robust construction, and user-friendly features make it a wise investment for serious shooters. If you have the cabbage to put down, the Leupold VX-3HD is arguably the best scope for a .30-06 Remington 700. You’re paying a bit for the Leupold name, sure, but that Leupold name also has some of the most demanding quality controls in the industry.
Pros
- Forgiving eye box
- Large objective lens makes low-light shots much easier
- ZeroLock Custom Dial System makes setting a permanent zero simple
- Elite Optical System cuts glare and boosts light transmission.
- Side parallax adjustment adds precision to long-range shots.
Cons
- The reticle is a little plain, though functional
- Price point tends to make it less accessible
3. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-24×50 BDC – Best Long Range Scope for Rem 700
When you need a long-range scope, the Crossfire II from Vortex Optics has your back. Not only is this scope fairly affordable, it has incredible magnification, allowing you to see targets far away from you. Compared to other scopes in its price range, like the Bushnell Banner, the Crossfire II offers superior magnification capabilities. It’s also lightweight and easy to mount. The mounting process is straightforward, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced shooters. Immediately after unboxing it, one of the first things that you’ll notice is the turrets that are simple to adjust.
If eye relief is important to you, the Crossfire II would be a smart choice, as it has long eye relief so you don’t have to worry about getting a black eye if your rifle kicks back. This feature makes it particularly suitable for the Remington 700. No matter what type of shooting situation you’re in, whether you’re at the shooting range, hunting, or taking your Remington 700 out for tactical practice, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II has a lot of features you’ll enjoy.
Glass Clarity & Reticle
One of the most important parts of a scope is the glass. The Vortex Optics Crossfire II has reduced glare, thanks to the layers of anti-reflective coating on the fully multi-coated optics. This results in clear, sharp images that are particularly helpful in bright daylight conditions. This also allows fairly decent light transmission. However, compared to higher-end models, like those from Leupold or Swarovski, the Crossfire II falls short in extreme low-light conditions. The BDC reticle is particularly useful for estimating bullet drop at different distances, a feature I really liked.
Parallax & Magnification
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II has a fixed parallax of 100 yards, but this fixed setting is standard for most hunting scenarios and should suffice for most users. Where this scope shines is the magnification. It excels in providing a versatile zoom range, which is essential for both close and long-range shooting. In many cases, you won’t need more than 12x or so, but when you need to be able to aim at a target that’s further away, you want a scope that will get the job done. This one can go all the way up to 24x. This extensive magnification range is a standout feature, especially for users who engage in varied types of shooting from target practice to long-range hunting.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
When you’re out using your Remington 700, having a scope that is easy to use and adjust is really important. The simplicity and effectiveness of the adjustments make it suitable for users who need to make quick changes in the field. The Vortex Optics Crossfire II has capped finger adjustable turrets with the zero reset feature, making adjustments a breeze. However, I found the knobs lack tactile feedback and that may be a concern for shooters who rely on audible clicks to confirm adjustments. 
Eye Relief & Eye Box
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II does have generous eye relief, which is a major advantage for a wide range of shooters. This comes in handy if you’ll be wearing glasses while shooting like me, but the downside is the eye box is not very forgiving. You’ll need to be precise in aligning your eye with the scope, which might be a challenge in dynamic shooting situations. You have to be very exact in your positioning if you want to be able to fully see the sight picture. Along the edges, I noticed slight blurriness which can be a drawback, especially when tracking moving targets.
Durability
When you’re shopping for a new scope, durability is really important. The Crossfire II’s robust build makes it a reliable choice for rugged outdoor use. Luckily, you won’t have to worry too much about whether or not you’ll damage the Vortex Optics Crossfire II. This scope is solid, with minimal chance of damage happening. It is constructed from a single tube of aircraft-grade aluminum. This material ensures both lightweight handling and durability. It’s also O-ring sealed and purged with nitrogen, which makes it shockproof, fog proof, and waterproof. These features make the Crossfire II a versatile scope for all weather conditions, enhancing its usability in various environments, which I can confirm from my use. You’ll be able to take this out no matter what type of weather you’re experiencing.
Is the Vortex Optics Crossfire II scope worth it?
Overall, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II is a decent scope and would be worth buying. Its combination of high magnification, durability, and affordability make it a valuable addition to any shooter’s arsenal. The only thing to keep in mind is that the eye box is not very generous, so you’ll need to pay attention to that when using your scope, but overall this is a good choice. Despite its limitations in low light and the eye box, its strengths in versatility and durability make it a solid choice. You don’t have to worry that the deer you’ve been trying to get is going to be too far away and out of your field of view.
Pros
- Vortex Optics offers a lifetime transferable warranty
- Good price for the magnification
- Fully multi-coated lenses allow a clear view at various magnification
Cons
- Poor light transmission in low light situations
4. Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 3-9×40 – Best Budget Scope
The Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn is one of the most popular budget rifle scopes around, and for good reason. It’s a lightweight, sturdy choice whether you’re shooting at the range or you’re out on a hunting trip. When I used this scope on my Remington 700, one of the first things I noticed was how nice and lightweight it is. During a recent hunting trip, I appreciated this lightweight design as it didn’t add much weight to my rifle, making it easier to carry and handle during long hours in the field.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-operate scope that won’t break the bank, this is the one for you. Adjustments are straightforward to understand, the optics are crystal clear, and the 9x magnification is a big help when you need to see a target that is further in the distance. Finding another scope of this quality for such an affordable price is going to be a pretty hard feat to accomplish. I’ve used it under various lighting conditions, and the clarity remains consistent, a testament to its quality optics. However, I did notice that the field of view becomes slightly narrower at higher magnifications, which is expected but something to keep in mind.
Glass Clarity & Reticle
One of the biggest perks of the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn is how bright it is! Thanks to the Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lens, this scope provides excellent clarity even in low-light situations. The glass clarity is exceptional, with minimal distortion at the edges. This feature was particularly beneficial during my used in dawn and dusk when visibility is usually compromised.
The Multi-X reticle is on the second focal plane, so the reticle does not change sizes no matter how many times you adjust your magnification. It has a nice, fine aiming point that makes hitting your target a breeze. However, I noticed that in extremely bright conditions, the reticle could be a bit challenging to see, which might be a downside for some users.
Parallax & Magnification
The Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn has a magnification of 3-9x and an objective lens of 40mm, making this a great choice if you’ll be using your Remington 700 for medium-range shooting. You’ll have plenty of clarity for targets between 100 and 500 yards away from you. I found the parallax adjustment to be quite precise, allowing for accurate shooting even at the longer end of the range.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Are you tired of scopes that don’t give a clear indication as to what setting you’re on? Sure, you can look at the knob, but there has to be something better. The Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn’s adjustment knobs don’t leave you guessing. They have audible and positive clicks to let you know that you’ve gone so many notches from where you were previously. This tactile feedback was very helpful, especially when adjusting in the field without looking directly at the knobs.
You can make finer adjustments, thanks to the ¼ MOA capped turrets. There is no zero-stop functionality, but having finger-adjustable parts makes up for it. That said, the lack of a zero-stop can be an inconvenience, particularly when returning to a known distance after making several adjustments.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
One of the areas in which I felt this scope could have been a bit better is in the eye relief department. When set to the lowest magnification, it is very comfortable. Unfortunately, the more you zoom in, the tighter the relief gets. If you wear glasses like I do or need to ensure you have generous eye relief for any other reason, the 6-inch eye relief version would be a better choice for you. The eye box is also somewhat unforgiving at higher magnifications, requiring precise head placement for a clear view.
Durability
This is a scope that was built to last. While it is affordable enough to replace if it gets damaged, nobody wants to replace their scope all the time. Luckily, the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn is fog-proof, shockproof, and dry nitrogen filled to make it 100% waterproof. In my experience, it has stood up well to various weather conditions and rough handling.
Whether you’re looking for a scope you’d feel comfortable letting a kid learn with or you just want something super sturdy for yourself, this would be a good option. When I took it out to practice, I dropped it in my driveway right after it had rained and had no problems with it afterward. However, the finish does seem prone to scratching, which, while not affecting performance, can affect the aesthetics over time.
Is the Bushnell scope worth it?
For anyone that’s in the market for a new scope, but doesn’t have a huge budget to work with, the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn is worth it. It’s got a ton of great features but comes at a very affordable price point.
This scope is built to last. It’s shockproof, fog proof, and waterproof. Plus, all of Bushnell’s scopes have a 30-year warranty, just in case.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Nice, bright reticle is perfect for low-light situations
- Adjustments are easy and require no tools
- One of the most affordable options around
Cons
- Eye relief could be better
Conclusion
So, as you can see, there are some incredibly solid scopes for your 700 without dropping $1,000. While all four of the scopes we’ve highlighted are good options, there are benefits to some depending on what your shooting situation and needs are. As long as you factor in the context in which you’ll be using it, you’re bound to make a well-informed decision.
For example, if you need a scope for long-distance shots of 500 yards or more, you just can’t go wrong with the Vortex Crossfire II. On the other hand, if you aren’t trying to touch targets too far away but you need something that’s going to stand up to the firing cycle of your .30-06, the Leupold VX-3HD is going to rock your world.
No matter what flavor of 700 you’re partial to, there’s a scope in this list to help you track your targets. Consider what you need it for and factor in your budget, and you’ll be able to find the perfect scope for your needs.
Jerry Miculek is an experienced firearms and optics expert. Guns are not just a hobby for him, they are his passion and life. You can learn more about Jerry on our About us page.