I am looking for opinions of those who have scopes on their lever rifles. I am looking for a 35mm or smaller objective lens in a 1-6, 2-7, 2-8 type magnification. Best optical clarity for the money. Only plus would be illuminated center reticle. I love my Trijicon Accupoints I have on my higher end rifles. I'm not sure I want to drop the coin for one on my lever gun. I'm not opposed to "buy once cry once" but I would like to hear from the THF crew their opinions. Thank y'all for the experienced input.

I'd go with a fixed 4 or 6 power scope

I stuck an old Leopold 3-9 on mine and it is about perfect for it. I agree that a fixed power 6 would also be a great choice.

I've always felt that a scope with a 1-inch objective looked best on a lever gun. Something like the old Weaver K3 (or was it 2.5?) looks good on an obviously older gun. For something in like-new condition, I'd consider a Leupold VX-II 1-4x. Given the purpose of a lever gun in .30-30, I never felt like I would have much use for more than 3x or 4x. I'm sure similar scopes would be available in brands you prefer. But that's just my preferences and take on it. Your rifle.

Thinking similR to RR, you might get a Redfield, they made several great scopes for the Marlin. They had a 2 3//4 fixed and a 1-4X that had 1" tube and objective, both had great field of view. Weaver also had a 1-4.5X with 1"tube and objective. These 3 scopes looked great on the lever actions and were adequate for 95% of game you would shoot with a 30-30.

Weaver K-4
Leupold 1-4

LEUPOLD VX-1 2-7X33MM DUPLEX BLACK GLOSS

I have a VX-3 1.75-6x32 on my 336. It is great. Before that it had a Fullfield II 2-7x35 that worked very well. If I wanted illumination I'd put a VX-R on mine.

Picked up a near perfect condition Weaver K4!

Not a fan of scopes on lever guns, why not leave it iron sights.

I scope all my rifles, I'm getting old and can't focus on iron sites anymore.

I too am looking for an inexpensive scope for my Marlin lever action 45-70. I have tried several and haven't found one I liked yet. I recently decided to go with the scout concept and added an extended rail mount and Hi-Lux 2-7 X 32mm scout scope. I really like it for a fast handling scope but due to the long eye relief is doesn't do well in low light situations. I also tried a Leupold HOG 1-4X but didn't care for it, eye relief is too short for me and recoil ended up whacking me in the forehead. The turrets also seemed cheap and it wouldn't hold zero. I need a scope with good eye relief (4+") that is less than $300.

Anyone have any experience with the Vortex Diamondback 2-8 X 32mm?

Perfect!

Leupold VX R 2-7 x33 with firedot or VX R 3-9x40 with firedot
I like mine on my R25 .243

Have a couple Burris 4x “mini” scopes on my Marlins and love them.

Leupold Vx-1 1-4x25 muzzleloader or Shotgun scope. Have this on my .444 and a Leupold 2-7x28 on my .35 rem.

2-7x35 with Talley lows.