So I picked up an American Rifle this week in 30-06 as my first bolt gun (other than my Mosin) and want to put a scope on her.

I don't want to spend a fortune on a scope (I know buy once, cry once) but am willing to spend up to $300. This rifle is going to be used for me to learn how to shoot at distances greater than 100 yards and will likely be used for hunting down the road.

I have been doing as much reading as I can and at this point things are starting to run together

A few scopes I have been looking at are the Burris Fullfield ii, the Redfield Revolution and the Vortex Diamondback. Are there others that you would recommend? And should I look at the 3-9x40 or 4-12x40?
Also what are some good rings? I've heard good things about the Burris Zee rings. Medium height?

Thanks in advance for any help!

I put a Nikon Prostaff 3-9x on my Ruger american and am extremely happy so far.  Last I recall, Cabela's was having a sale on Nikon Buckmasters which are supposedly a step above, you should check those out too.

The bolt throw on the American is minor, so you can mount scopes fairly low.  Medium rings are a very safe bet for those sizes of scopes you mentioned, but you may be able to get away with low too.  I unfortunately am using high rings because that's what I had leftover from my attempt at scoping a Mosin Nagant.  As for what brand, I use some type of Leupold quick disconnect rings so that I can pack the rifle and scope into a case easier; they are fantastic as well.

Here ya go

3x9 will be fine, 4x12 is nice for taking really long shots, but not necessary

Thanks OP, I was literally going to post the same question & reason for purchase for a 308 Ruger American I am considering.

ive got a redfield revolution 3-9x40 on my 30-06 american. gander mountain has the scope for $159.99.

Nice I might have to pick one of these up too.

Thanks to the above posters too for their input. I ended up finding a Nikon Buckmaters 3-9x40 for 159.99 at cabelas and had bass pro price match so I didn't have to pay shipping. Also ordered a set of Burris signature Zee rings after hearing good things about them. Once I get the rings and get her mounted I'll post pics and hopefully a range report to follow

Got the scope mounted yesterday now just itching to get to the range...

Nice looking rig.