Are 30mm scopes stronger than 1 inch scopes?

[Loper]

I’ve read several threads on this forum and others about 30mm scopes vs 1 inch scopes and it seems they both have pros and cons.

Two of the pros that come up for a 30mm scope is that they have more elevation to dial and that they are stronger. I understand why they have more elevation, but I don’t see any stated reasoning as to why 30mm scopes are stronger. Can someone elaborate on if 30mm scopes are really stronger than 1” scopes and if so, why?

 

[JCMCUBIC]

I'm not an expert, but with tubing, a larger diameter, with all other things being the same, will result in a stronger tube. The following online calculator shows this if you enter the same wall thickness, load, and length for 6061 T-6 aluminum.

Example inputs:
Wall thickness - .12
Load - 2000
Length - 7
Load Condition - Even distribution (or whichever you wish)
Material - 6061 T-6

The safety factor with 1" is: 1.495
The safety factor with 1.18" is: 2.202

Tube Calculator - Round, Rectangular & Square Pipes Capacity | Rogue Fabrication

www.roguefab.com

 

[Macintosh]

Fairly certain you can actually use thinner tubing for lower or same total weight, but still have a stiffer tube. Possibly other problems with thin tubing, but the diameter affects rigidity.