Ever wondered what makes a squirrel hunt truly successful? It’s not just about your trusty .22 rifle; it’s also about what you see through your scope! For many hunters, picking the perfect scope for squirrel hunting feels like a riddle wrapped in an enigma. You want to hit those quick, small targets, but the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming. Which magnification is best? What about the reticle? These are the questions that can make even experienced hunters scratch their heads.
Choosing the wrong scope can lead to missed shots and frustration, turning what should be an enjoyable outing into a disappointing one. But don’t worry! This guide is here to clear the fog. We’re going to break down the essential features of a .22 scope specifically for squirrel hunting. By the end, you’ll understand what to look for, why it matters, and how to pick a scope that will help you bag more bushy-tailed targets.
So, if you’re ready to improve your accuracy and make every shot count, stick around. We’re about to dive deep into the world of .22 scopes and find the perfect match for your next squirrel adventure!
Our Top 5 22 Scope For Squirrel Hunting Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 22 Scope For Squirrel Hunting Detailed Reviews
1. Barska AC10380 Plinker-22 Scope 3-9×32 30/30 Reticle with Rings
Rating: 9.5/10
The Barska AC10380 Plinker-22 Scope is a solid choice for anyone looking to improve their aim on .22 caliber firearms. This scope offers a versatile 3-9x magnification, which is great for various shooting distances. It comes ready to mount with included rings, making setup a breeze. Its black finish looks sharp on most rifles.
What We Like:
- The 3-9x magnification lets you zoom in on targets easily.
- It has 1/4 MOA click adjustments for super accurate aiming.
- Fully coated optics give you a really clear picture.
- It’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, so it can handle rough conditions.
- The scope is built tough with a 1″ tube.
- It’s parallax free at 100 yards, which helps you hit targets close up.
- The 30/30 crosshair reticle makes aiming simple and fast.
- It comes with rings, so you have everything you need to get started.
What Could Be Improved:
- While good for .22s, it might not be powerful enough for very long-range shooting.
- The 100-yard parallax setting means adjustments are needed for very close shots.
Overall, the Barska AC10380 Plinker-22 Scope is a dependable and user-friendly option for plinking and small game hunting. It provides clear views and precise adjustments at a great value.
2. CVLIFE 4×32 Compact Rifle Scope Crosshair Optics Hunting Scope with 20mm Mounts
Rating: 9.2/10
The CVLIFE 4×32 Compact Rifle Scope is a handy tool for hunters and sport shooters. It offers a clear view and is built tough for outdoor adventures. Its compact size makes it easy to handle and quick to use.
What We Like:
- It has a 4x magnification, which is great for seeing targets clearly.
- The fully coated optical glass provides bright, high-contrast images.
- It’s made from strong aluminum alloy, so it’s very durable.
- The scope is sealed with inert gas, making it fog-proof, shock-proof, and waterproof. You can use it in any weather.
- Its compact length of 7.48 inches helps with quick aiming.
- It comes with 20mm mounts, so it’s ready to go.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 4x magnification might not be enough for very long-distance shots.
- While durable, the materials might not be as premium as higher-priced scopes.
Overall, the CVLIFE 4×32 Compact Rifle Scope offers good value. It’s a reliable option for many shooting needs.
3. CVLIFE 3-9×40 Rifle Scope
Rating: 8.8/10
The CVLIFE 3-9×40 Rifle Scope is a versatile tool for any hunter. It helps you see your target clearly and aim accurately in different lighting. This scope comes with everything you need to get started right away.
What We Like:
- It has both red and green lights with 5 brightness levels. This helps you see your target well, even when it’s dark or very bright.
- The view is very clear because of the special coated lens. It lets in lots of light, so you see your target better.
- You can adjust the magnification from 3x to 9x. This lets you zoom in on targets far away.
- The scope is made of strong aluminum. It’s waterproof and fog-proof, so it works in any weather.
- It’s easy to put on your rifle with the included mounts.
- You can adjust the aiming points easily. They click into place, and you can set them back to zero.
- It works for people who wear glasses or don’t. The eyepiece can be adjusted.
What Could Be Improved:
- The eye relief might be a bit short for some users, especially when using higher magnifications.
- While sturdy, the overall construction, though good for the price, might not feel as premium as higher-end scopes.
This CVLIFE scope offers great value for its features. It’s a solid choice for hunters looking for a reliable and affordable way to improve their aim.
4. EZshoot 3-9×40 AO Rifle Scope – Dual Illuminated Reticle 22 Scope for Hunting – 1 Inch Tube Long Range SFP Riflescopes with 20mm Scope Rings
Rating: 9.1/10
The EZshoot 3-9×40 AO Rifle Scope is a great choice for hunters who need a reliable scope for medium to long-range shots. It offers adjustable magnification and a clear view, even in tough lighting. This scope comes with everything you need to get started, including scope rings and lens caps.
What We Like:
- The 3-9x magnification lets you zoom in on targets from far away.
- The adjustable objective lens helps you focus clearly at different distances.
- The dual-color illuminated reticle (red and green) makes it easy to see your target in bright sun or dim light.
- It has a long eye relief, so your eye won’t get tired easily when you’re looking through the scope.
- The turrets have clear clicks for precise adjustments.
- It’s built tough with aircraft-grade aluminum and is waterproof and fogproof.
- It comes with all the accessories you need, like scope rings and batteries.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a slightly wider field of view at the lowest magnification.
- While the reticle is clear, some advanced shooters might prefer finer reticle options for extreme long-range precision.
This scope offers excellent value for its features. It’s a solid option for serious hunters.
5. BARSKA 4×32 Plinker-22 Silver Scope w/ 3/8-Inch Rings
Rating: 9.0/10
Ready to upgrade your .22 rifle? The BARSKA 4×32 Plinker-22 Silver Scope w/ 3/8-Inch Rings offers a clear view and steady aim. It’s designed for shooters who want more accuracy without a big price tag. This scope helps you hit your target with confidence.
What We Like:
- It has 4x magnification, which makes targets look bigger.
- The scope lets you make tiny adjustments for super accurate shots.
- Its lenses are coated, so you see things very clearly.
- The 30/30 reticle is simple and helps you aim quickly.
- It’s parallax-free at 50 yards, so close targets are easy to see.
- This scope is tough! It won’t get damaged by water, fog, or bumps.
- It comes with rings that fit 3/8-inch dovetail mounts.
What Could Be Improved:
- The magnification is fixed at 4x, so you can’t zoom in or out.
- The 1-inch tube might limit some mounting options for accessories.
This BARSKA scope is a solid choice for enhancing your .22 rifle’s performance. It offers good clarity and accuracy for its price point.
Finding the Right Scope for Your Squirrel Hunts
Squirrel hunting is a fun and rewarding pastime. It requires a keen eye and the right gear. A good scope can make a big difference. It helps you see those small targets clearly. This guide will help you pick the best scope for your squirrel hunting adventures in 2022.
Key Features to Look For
Magnification
Magnification is how much closer the scope makes things look. For squirrels, you don’t need super high power. A variable magnification scope is best. Look for something in the range of 3x to 9x. This lets you zoom in when you need to. It also gives you a wider view when you don’t.
Objective Lens Diameter
The objective lens is the big one at the front. It gathers light. A larger objective lens lets in more light. This makes the image brighter, especially in low light. For squirrel hunting, a 32mm or 40mm objective lens is usually good. It balances light gathering with the scope’s size and weight.
Reticle Type
The reticle is the crosshair you see inside the scope. Simple crosshairs are common. Some scopes have dots or other markings. For squirrels, a simple duplex reticle is often enough. It has thicker lines on the outside and thinner lines in the middle. This helps you aim precisely.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is the distance your eye can be from the scope’s eyepiece and still see a full picture. Good eye relief is important for safety. It prevents the scope from hitting your forehead when you shoot. Aim for at least 3 inches of eye relief.
Important Materials
The materials used in a scope affect its durability and performance. Most good scopes use aluminum for their main body. This is strong but light. The lenses are made of glass. Better quality glass gives you clearer images. Some scopes have coatings on the lenses. These coatings help reduce glare and improve light transmission.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built scope will last longer. It can handle bumps and knocks in the field. Look for scopes with a solid construction. They should feel sturdy. Waterproof and fog-proof features are also a big plus. This means the scope won’t fog up when the weather changes.
Lens Coatings
Good lens coatings make a big difference. They can make the image brighter and sharper. They also help reduce reflections. This makes it harder for squirrels to see you. Cheap scopes might have fewer or no coatings. This can lead to a dimmer, less clear picture.
Optical Clarity
Optical clarity refers to how sharp and clear the image is. Higher-quality lenses and coatings create better clarity. You want to be able to see the squirrel’s fur and its surroundings clearly. This helps you make sure it’s a squirrel and not something else. It also helps you aim accurately.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good scope makes shooting easier and more enjoyable. It helps you take more ethical shots. You can identify your target better. This means less wasted ammunition. It also means less chance of wounding an animal. For squirrel hunting, you’ll use your scope from early morning to late afternoon. You might be shooting at different distances. A scope that is easy to adjust and use is crucial.
Imagine you’re in the woods. You spot a squirrel high up in a tree. With a good scope, you can zoom in. You see its bushy tail. You can aim at its head. You make a clean shot. Without a good scope, you might not even see it clearly. Or you might miss. The scope helps you connect with your target.
It’s important to mount your scope correctly. A poorly mounted scope will not perform well. It can affect your accuracy. Make sure you use good scope rings and a sturdy base.
10 FAQs for ’22 Scope for Squirrel Hunting
Q: What is the best magnification for squirrel hunting?
A: A variable magnification between 3x and 9x is usually ideal for squirrel hunting. This offers flexibility for different distances.
Q: Should I get a scope with a large objective lens?
A: A larger objective lens (like 32mm or 40mm) gathers more light, making the image brighter. This is helpful in lower light conditions, but it also makes the scope heavier.
Q: What type of reticle is best for squirrels?
A: A simple duplex reticle is a great choice for squirrel hunting because it allows for precise aiming without being too busy.
Q: How important is eye relief?
A: Eye relief is very important for safety. It gives you enough distance from the scope so it doesn’t hit your forehead when you shoot.
Q: What material is a scope usually made of?
A: The main body of most good scopes is made from aluminum, which is strong and lightweight. The lenses are made of glass.
Q: Do lens coatings really make a difference?
A: Yes, lens coatings help reduce glare and improve the brightness and clarity of the image. They can make a big difference in seeing your target clearly.
Q: Is a waterproof scope necessary for squirrel hunting?
A: A waterproof and fog-proof scope is highly recommended. It ensures your scope will work well even if it rains or the temperature changes suddenly.
Q: Can I use a scope designed for big game hunting for squirrels?
A: While you can, scopes designed for squirrels often have lower magnification ranges and lighter weights, which are better suited for small, fast-moving targets.
Q: How do I know if a scope has good optical clarity?
A: Look for reviews that mention sharp images and good color reproduction. If possible, try looking through the scope yourself before buying.
Q: What is the most common mistake people make when buying a scope for squirrels?
A: A common mistake is buying a scope with excessively high magnification. This can make it harder to find the squirrel in the first place and can lead to a shaky image.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.