Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Hunting Optics 30 mm vs 1"

What advantages/disadvantages are there between 30mm and 1" tubes for someone who doesn't adjust the elevation knob after sighting in?

None. The 30mm tube exists to allow more room for windage and elevation adjustment.

I think ingwe is correct in that being the biggest advantage of the 30mm tube. I think at one time 30mm was used for ease of internal access while building the scope, but I don't think that's a factor anymore.

I was thinking on this just yesterday and I haven't researched....someone else answer it for me:

If a 1" tube and a 30mm tube have the same wall thickness, which will be the stronger of the two?

It seems like I remember from long ago that a smaller tube with the same wall thickness will be stronger...but it's an old memory that is suspect.... Direction of force applied may need to be factored in.

The weight of a 30 mm tube would be a disadvantage.

Personally, it is easier for me to quickly find the target in the larger tube. It's more forgiving.

Also, comparing the same magnification scopes, the larger tubes seems to be brighter than the one-inch tube. Maybe it is because there is more light coming through.

IMO, the only advantage on the smaller tube is the lighter weight.

Um.....no....

Um.....yes.....

The 30mm tubes offer no advantage in terms of light transmission. That's simple science. But it is likely that some people are under that impression because they've compared 30mm-tubed scopes that are higher quality items and produce an image that "looks" better/brighter than a lesser 1-inch offering.

LOL!!!

I love my 1" Swaro's and can not even imagine paying more for a heavier scope without a major increase in magnification. Don't tell anyone but.... I shoot low to standard power variable powered scopes i.e. 2-7, 3-9 etc. It is a bad habit I know.

Exactly!

Larger outer diameter is stronger.

In general, the additional weight of tube & larger rings.

Its easy to market and sell "bigger is better" to Americans...

Not sure if this is already been addressed, however I've wondered if the reason that European makers commonly use the 30 mm tube diameter simply because it is a standard for them? Not for any other perceived virtues? That is, not because it is necessarily better than a 1 inch diameter tube

And illumination. Can't say that I've seen a 1" scope with an illuminated reticle.


Okie John

LOL to you too.

I always laugh at those that disagree with other member opinion but have no valid point to provide. Basically, all they provide is a worthless comment that has no value to anyone.

At least I voiced my personal opinion and why 30mm works for me.

You, on the other hand, cant even verbalize a full sentence. Assuming that you are a Millennial living out of your momma's basement so that may be a valid excuse for your worthless comments.

Those are both good points. They answer the question posed in my other post on this thread.

No..no..now wait a minute. A "LOL" will get one's post count up just the same as lengthy response.

Its been discussed on here many times before. Some should read more and post less

PS I moved out of the basement at 17 almost 40 years ago