Best Scope for Squirrel Hunting
Squirrel hunting is a longstanding practice and a favorite outdoor activity for many people. The proper gear is crucial for a successful hunting expedition, regardless of your level of experience or desire to improve. For squirrel hunting, a reliable scope is one of the most essential pieces of equipment. You can take morally sound shots that decrease your target’s suffering if you have a decent scope.
We’ll look at the importance of choosing the best scope for squirrel hunting in this guide, along with the key considerations that should guide your selection. From magnification levels to reticle choices, we will cover all the information you need to select the best sight for your hunting needs. Take a look at squirrel hunting scopes, grab your gun, and practice your accuracy!
Importance of Choosing the Best Scope for Squirrel Hunting
For various reasons, selecting the ideal scope for squirrel hunting is crucial.
- Accuracy: When shooting at squirrels, who are tiny, nimble targets, a high-quality scope improves your accuracy by giving you a clean, exact sight image.
- Precision: Accurate targeting is essential while hunting squirrels, particularly in areas with plenty of cover or at longer ranges when accurate shots are required to prevent injuring the animal. A good scope makes this possible.
- Effective Range: By enlarging the target, a good scope increases your effective shooting range. This makes it simpler to identify squirrels and allows you to confidently shoot at longer ranges.
- Comfort: To avoid eye strain and tiredness during prolonged hunting sessions, the ideal scope for squirrel hunting should have ergonomic design elements and suitable eye relief.
- Adaptability: There are a variety of settings in which squirrel hunting may occur, including wide areas and deep woodlands. Selecting a flexible scope that can be adjusted to various hunting situations guarantees that you’ll be ready for any situation that arises.
- Ethical Hunting: Humane and clean kills are possible with a high-quality scope, reducing the possibility of hurting squirrels without taking them. The integrity of the sport and the preservation of animal populations depend on ethical hunting methods.
Well, let’s take a look at our 5 best scope for squirrel hunting.
Best Scope for Squirrel Hunting
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Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
Since it has excellent light transmission and high-quality optics that provide a clear and bright sight picture even in low light—a benefit that can be especially useful during the hours of dawn and dusk when squirrels are most active—the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is, in fact, the best scope for squirrel hunting.
This sight is versatile for squirrel hunting in different conditions, with a magnification range of 3–9x. When shooting close-range targets in dense foliage, lower magnification settings (3x) work best. Higher magnification (up to 9x) might be helpful for more accurate long-range shots.
The VX-Freedom is another example of the legendary tough design of Leupold scopes. It is designed to endure stress, recoil, and inclement weather, guaranteeing dependability and durability in the field. Because the VX-Freedom is sealed, nitrogen-filled, and waterproof, you may hunt in bad weather without having to worry about fog or moisture impeding your view.
The VX-Freedom is lightweight and won’t add extra bulk to your rifle setup at only 12.2 ounces, making it convenient to carry for extended periods of time on squirrel hunting excursions. You can see squirrels more easily in low light with to Leupold’s Twilight Light Management System, which maximizes light transmission and improves vision during the crucial dawn and twilight hours.
The VX-Freedom, like all Leupold scopes, is protected by Leupold’s renowned lifetime warranty, offering assurance of high-quality workmanship and peace of mind.
Features
- 3-9x Magnification
- 40mm Objective Lens
- Twilight Light Management System
- ¼ MOA Finger Click Adjustments
- Scratch-Resistant Lenses
- Waterproof and Fog-Proof
Pros
- Excellent Optical Clarity
- Rugged and Reliable
- Simple and Functional Reticle
- Leupold’s Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- No Illuminated Reticle Option
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Vortex Razor HD LHT 3-15×42
The second great option for squirrel hunting is the Vortex Razor HD LHT 3-15×42, a high-end rifle scope with remarkable optical performance and adaptability. It allows for precision shots at different distances, from close-range shots in thick cover to long-range shots in broad fields, thanks to its wide range of magnification settings.
Its 42mm objective lens provides good low-light performance without adding undue bulk to your rifle configuration by striking a compromise between light-gathering capabilities and a small form factor. It can be useful to go squirrel hunting at dawn and twilight since the HD optical system and completely multi-coated lenses provide crisp, high-quality photos with superb color accuracy and contrast, even in low light.
Your hunting success will increase thanks to the glass-etched reticle, which offers exact aiming points for precise shot placement. The Razor HD LHT minimizes extra bulk in your rifle configuration by maintaining a relatively small and lightweight design even with its high-end functionality.
The Razor HD LHT is shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof, and it is designed to handle the rigors of hunting. This ensures dependable performance in inclement weather and rough terrain. The Vortex Razor HD LHT 3-15×42 rifle scope is a great option for squirrel hunting fans who expect the best from their gear since it provides outstanding optical performance, durability, and adaptability.
Features
- 3-15x Magnification Range
- 42mm Objective Lens
- HD Optical System
- XR Plus Fully Multi-Coated Lenses
- Glass-etched Reticle
- ArmorTek Coating
- Waterproof, Fog-Proof, and Shockproof Construction
Pros
- Exceptional Optical Performance
- Versatile Magnification Range
- Precise and Durable Reticle Design
- Compact and Lightweight
Cons
- Relatively Expensive Compared to Other Options
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Burris 3-9×40 Droptine rimfire scope
Thirdly if you’re going squirrel hunting with rimfire rifles, the Burris 3-9×40 Droptine Rimfire Scope is a great option. Even in low light, the many coatings on the lenses and high-quality optics produce brilliant, crisp pictures that enable accurate shot placement.
For hunting in a variety of settings and at different shooting distances, the 3–9x magnification range provides flexibility. meant to be used only with rimfire rifles, guaranteeing best accuracy and performance with these weapons.
The Droptine Rimfire Scope is made to meet Burris’ exacting standards for long-term dependability, making it resistant to both harsh weather and hunting situations. Many different types of hunters can use the Burris Droptine Rimfire Scope since it is a great bargain given its features and capabilities.
Dependability, robustness, and affordability are features of the Burris 3-9×40 Droptine Rimfire Scope.
Features
- 3-9x Magnification Range
- 40mm Objective Lens
- Ballistic Plex Reticle
- Low-Profile Turrets
- Waterproof, Fog-Proof, and Shockproof
Pros
- Optical Clarity
- Rimfire Specific Design
- Sturdy and Reliable
- Affordable Price
Cons
- Limited Magnification Range
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Simmons 22 MAG 3-9x32mm Rimfire Rifle Scopes
The Simmons 22 MAG 3-9x32mm Rimfire Rifle Scope is commonly used by rimfire rifle enthusiasts for squirrel hunting, making it the fourth scope in the lineup. The range of the 3–9x magnification allows for versatility in various hunting conditions, allowing for long-range shots in wide spaces and close-range shots in regions with lots of cover.
It strikes a compromise between compactness and light transmission with a 32mm objective lens to provide good low-light performance without adding bulk to your rifle. Even in low light, the completely coated lenses provide precise shot placement by producing bright, crisp pictures.
Due to its non-obstructive nature, the Truplex reticle allows for easy use and enables quick target acquisition. Capable of enduring the demands of hunting, the Simmons 22 MAG is resistant to shock, fog, and water, guaranteeing reliable performance in tough situations.
The Simmons 22 MAG 3-9x32mm Rimfire Rifle Scope is a reliable and cost-effective option for those who use rimfire rifles to hunt squirrels. It is a great value for the cost and satisfies the requirements of plenty of budget-conscious hunters seeking an optic for their hunting expeditions, despite lacking some advanced features of pricier models.
Features
- 3-9x Magnification Range
- 32mm Objective Lens
- Quality Optics with a Durable Construction
- Easy Adjustments
- Waterproof, Fog-Proof, and Shockproof
Pros
- Suitable for Rimfire Rifles
- Simple and Functional Reticle
- Reliable Performance
- Ease of Use
- Affordable Price
Cons
- Limited Low-Light Performance
- Basic Features
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Bushnell Prime 3-12x40mm Rifle Scope
Not to be overlooked is the Bushnell Prime 3-12x40mm Rifle Scope, a flexible sight ideal for a range of hunting uses, including squirrel hunting. With its 3–12x magnification range, squirrel hunting may be done in a variety of settings, from up close and personal in thick cover to farther out and in more open spaces.
Its 40mm objective lens provides exceptional low-light performance without adding undue bulk to your weapon by striking a compromise between light transmission and compact dimensions. Visibility is guaranteed even in low light thanks to the completely multi-coated lenses, which provide crisp, clear pictures with outstanding light transmission.
The Bushnell Prime rifle scope is designed to meet the company’s exacting requirements for longevity. It is fog-proof, shockproof, and waterproof, guaranteeing dependable performance in the field.For its features and performance, the Bushnell Prime is incredibly affordable, making it suitable for a broad variety of hunters.
With its adaptability, dependability, and affordability, the Bushnell Prime 3-12x40mm Rifle Scope is a great option for squirrel hunting and other hunting uses. It offers hunters the qualities they need to be successful in the field thanks to its broad magnification range, excellent optics, and sturdy build.
Features
- 3-12x Magnification Range
- 40mm Objective Lens
- Second Focal Plane (SFP) Reticle
- Multi-Turret System
- Side Parallax Adjustment
- Waterproof, Fog-Proof, and Shockproof
Pros
- Quality Optics
- Durable Construction
- Affordable Price
Cons
- Complexity of Multi-Turret System
See Also:
- 7 Best Shotgun Scopes for Deer Hunting
- Best Zeiss Long Range Hunting Scopes
- Best Hunting Scopes under 900
- 6 Best Vortex Scope for Coyote Hunting
How to Choose the Best Scope for Squirrel Hunting
Selecting the most suitable scope for hunting squirrels involves a thoughtful evaluation of multiple factors to guarantee the best possible results in different hunting scenarios. Check out this detailed walkthrough to assist you in choosing the best scope for squirrel hunting expeditions:
- Magnification ability: Hunting squirrels frequently requires aiming at little objectives within thick foliage or wooded regions. Choose a scope with moderate magnification, usually between 4x and 12x. This allows for sufficient zoom to precisely target squirrels at a reasonable range while still maintaining a wide field of view.
- Objective Lens Size: Increasing the size of the objective lens enables more light to come into the scope, leading to brighter and clearer images, particularly in dim lighting. For best results while hunting at dawn or dusk, try to achieve an objective lens diameter of approximately 40mm to 50mm.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: You may go squirrel hunting in difficult terrain and with erratic weather. Seek out scopes with sealed O-rings to keep moisture out and build quality materials like aircraft-grade aluminum. Furthermore, choose scopes with waterproof and fog-proof capabilities to guarantee dependable operation in any weather.Light Transmission and Clarity: To ensure sharp, clear images even in low light, use lenses that are completely or partially multi-coated to optimize light transmission. Superior glass and lens coatings reduce distortion and glare, giving precision aimers a bright, clear sight image.
- Eye Relief: To avoid scope eye injuries, enough eye relief is crucial while squirrel hunting because it sometimes requires shooting from uncomfortable positions or in confined locations. Select a scope that offers a minimum of 3 inches of generous eye relief to guarantee pleasant shooting without running the danger of harm.
Squirrel Hunting Tips and Tactics
Hunting squirrels may be rewarding but demanding; it requires a combination of patience, stealth, and shooting skill. Take into account these strategies and pointers to help you become a better squirrel-hunter:
- Examine the area you plan to hunt: Check out your potential hunting spots before you go. Take note of any indications of squirrel activity, such as gnawed nuts, defecation, or missing tree bark. Note their feeding and breeding locations.
- Pick the Appropriate Moment: For squirrels, the busiest times of day are early morning and late afternoon. Plan your hunting expeditions carefully to maximize your chances of seeing them.
- Be patient and quiet: squirrels have keen senses, especially when it comes to hearing and eyesight. Keep quiet and go carefully so as not to alarm them. Stop often and listen for squirrel sounds as they make their way through the branches.
- Use cover and concealment: to fit in with your surroundings, use natural components such as trees, plants, and fallen trees to camouflage yourself. Clothes with camouflage patterns can also help you blend in with the squirrels’ acute eyes.
- Use Still-Hunting Techniques: This type of hunting entails keeping a watchful eye out for squirrels while ambling gently through the woods. Relentlessly pause to take in your surroundings and hear any activity.
- Learn About Squirrel Sounds: To communicate with one another, squirrels employ a range of vocalizations, including chatter, chirps, and barking. Learn to recognize these noises to increase your chances of seeing active squirrels.
- Employ Decoys and Calls: These can be useful instruments for drawing squirrels within shot range. Use calls to simulate the sounds of distressed or mating squirrels and place decoys in appropriate locations.
- Practice Stealthy Shooting: Take your time to get a clear shot when you spy a squirrel. To guarantee a prompt and compassionate death, aim for the head or vitals. If required, use a shooting stick or rest to help you maintain your aim.
- Be Alert: Squirrels are infamous for their fast movements and capacity to quickly vanish into the forest. Remain concentrated and prepared to shoot at any time.
- Respect for Wildlife and rules: Always hunt morally and abide by local hunting rules and regulations. Make sure you hunt responsibly and consider how your actions affect the ecosystem.
Conclusion
As you have seen a vital choice that may greatly affect your squirrel hunting experience is choosing the appropriate scope. Your chances of making ethical, clean shots are increased, and your accuracy is improved with a high-quality scope.
You may improve your squirrel hunting experiences and have more success in the field by making an investment in a dependable and appropriate scope. Therefore, get the best scope for the job, practice, and go on exciting squirrel hunting trips in the wide outdoors. We hope this post and the advice it contains will help you in your search.