Best Scopes For Small Game Hunting
For small game hunting, the majority of hunters advise using.22lr rifle caliber. It is important to note that this rifle caliber was created primarily for plinking, target practice, and pest management. For shooting aficionados on a tight budget, it is a reasonable choice.
So if you’re bent on going turkey hunting, we advise using a small-caliber centerfire round like the.22 Hornet, .22-250, or.223. This is due to the fact that rimfire cartridges are prohibited in some states that permit turkey hunting.
You should only consider models made for rimfire rifles when looking for the best scope for small game hunting. The scope you purchase should therefore have a fixed parallax setting for 50 yards.
Additionally, rimfire rifles do not require a high magnification optic. A low magnification scope is advised since it has a large field of view. Finding moving targets, like as squirrels scurrying through dense brush, is incredibly simple with these scopes.
This review’s main objective is to assist you in focusing your search and making an informed purchase. Continue reading to learn more about the important variables you should take into account before purchasing the best scope for small game hunting.
Let’s get started right now.
Best Scopes For Small Game Hunting- Our Top Picks
-
Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire is one of the best solutions for you if you’re seeking for the best scope for small game hunting. Hunting rifle rounds like the are compatible with this sight. 22lr. To make sure it lasts a long time, it is made of sturdy materials.
This scope is intended for hunters and shooters who want a dependable scope that will provide them the precision they require. This is due to the fact that it has excellent optics that provide you the clearest view at all magnification levels.
Given its lightweight construction, this scope is suggested by the majority of small game hunters. You won’t feel burdened when hunting because this will interfere with your ability to hunt or hit targets.
This scope’s use of the V-Plex MOA Reticle sets it apart from other models. For hunting small game, this all-purpose reticle is suggested.
A 100 percent waterproof and fog-proof performance is provided by the O-ring seals and nitrogen purging. Additionally, it is built with finger-adjustable MOA click capped reset turrets. After sighting in the scope, you can reset to zero.
Features
- Good clarity and excellent optics.
- Reset turrets that are capped and simple to operate are part of a good correction system.
- Its strong aluminum construction makes it a very robust scope.
- Constructed with completely multi-coated optics and a sun screen that reduces glare.
- Even shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof.
-
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9X40mm Riflescope
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9X40mm is a good option if you’re looking for a scope with lots of features. Given that it offers one of the finest price-to-performance ratios among scopes in its price range, this scope will provide you value for your money.
Most seasonal hunters choose this sight since you may select from a variety of reticle styles. These reticle styles include Duplex, CDS Tri MOA, and Ultimate Slam.
The Twilight Light Management System is a unique aspect of this scope. You can utilize your gun successfully in any lighting condition thanks to this system’s illumination optimization.
Additionally, this scope’s lens is coated to shield it from scuffs and dust particles. It also features an easy-focus eyepiece and premium, fingertip adjustable turrets.
In comparison to other scopes, this one has a great warranty. By doing this, it is ensured that any damage to the scope will be repaired.
Features
- It offers the finest value for the money.
- You will have a clean, unimpeded view thanks to the coated lens.
- It is equipped with the original Twilight Management System.
- It has a simple-focus eyepiece.
- Superior, easily adjustable turrets.
- A 3:1 zoom ratio.
- Lenses with scratch protection.
- Aluminum of the 6061-T6 aircraft grade.
- 1 inch maintube
-
Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 Riflescope
A lightweight riflescope with a ton of features to provide you the clearest vision is the Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33. This scope is made to perform consistently over the whole visual spectrum.
The Twilight Management System is a unique aspect of its scope. You can use your gun efficiently thanks to this function in practically any lighting condition.
Additionally, the turrets have 75 MOA in total adjustments and 1/4 MOA clicks. Your small game hunting will improve thanks to this feature.
This scope was made with highly strong materials that will last for a very long period. For every dollar you spend on it, you’ll get value from this.
Features
- It is made from strong materials.
- Using it is pretty simple.
- Lightweight construction.
- A Twilight Management System is included.
- Motion Sensor Technology extends battery life (MST).
- Fogproof, waterproof, and lifetime performance guarantees.
-
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 4-12x44mm Dead-Hold BDC (MOA) Reticle Riflescope
The dead hold BDC reticle on the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 4-12x44mm scope produces sharp images at all magnification levels.
Along the crosshairs’ bottom vertical line, the reticle features specific holdover points. You can estimate where your bullet will land thanks to this.
The Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x44mm scope stands out for having a second focal plane reticle that can be used even at the greatest magnification to calculate range, holdover, and wind drift correction.
The scope has a series of finger-adjustable, capped reset windage and elevation turrets. It is fairly simple to operate the turrets. Like other high-end rifle scopes, the 40mm objective lens catches light to give you a clean view.
The scope has a broad mounting range that is suitable for the majority of rifles. It is a top-notch scope with a 4x to 12x magnification range. This is ideal for applications requiring medium- to close-range shooting.
Features
- The low glare matte surface of the hard anodized finish helps to conceal your shooting stance.
- Over a wide range of temperatures, the nitrogen gas purging prevents internal fogging.
- The sturdy design can withstand impact and recoil.
- Multiple anti-reflective coatings used in proprietary coatings boost light transmission.
- For dependable performance, O-ring seals stop moisture, dust, and debris from entering.
-
Bushnell Engage 3-12x42mm Rifle Scope
A formidable scope made expressly for squirrel hunting with a rimfire is the Bushnell Engage 3-12×42. This scope has a ton of capabilities that will help you receive good photos even in dim lighting.
For the best light transmission, it is significant to note that the lens is multi-coated. It also includes Bushnell’s proprietary EXO Barrier lens for further security.
The side focus of this scope, which can concentrate as close as 10 yards, makes it special. This scope has a 30mm tube that is almost 20 ounces in weight. You must therefore purchase 30mm scope rings.
Additionally, the sole reticle option for this sight is Bushnell’s Deploy MOA reticle. The majority of hunters advise using this reticle for small game hunting. However, enthusiasts who are used to utilizing a typical duplex reticle can find it difficult to use this reticle.
Features
- High-quality glass is included.
- It includes the Deploy MOA reticle from Bushnell.
- It has a side focus down to 10 yards.
- 42mm objective lens, 3–12x magnification
- Optics with full multi-coating.
See Also:
Considerations to Make Before Purchasing the Best Scope for Small Game Hunting
For hunting small game, there are numerous different scopes on the market. In particular, if you are a rookie, choosing the proper scope can be a difficult undertaking. When looking for the best scope, you should take into account the following features:
Durability
To enhance the lifespan of the scope you choose, it should be made of sturdy materials. This guarantees their very long lifespan. Durable scopes can also endure strong impact and rebound even after extended use.
Reticle
We do not advise purchasing a scope with elevation and windage adjustments at distances more than 100 yards. This is due to the fact that at these distances, the bullet drop is frequently substantial. Furthermore, lit reticles might be excessively bright at this distance. Finding small targets becomes more challenging as a result.
Adjustable Objective
It is crucial to utilize a scope that lets you change the parallax. By improving accuracy at varied ranges and having a crisp sight image, this enables you to hit targets that are too small.
Magnification
As was already stated, small game hunting does not require a scope with a high magnification. Blurriness and eye fatigue will result from using high magnification scopes. Depending on the gun you own, we advise purchasing a 3-9x or 2-7x scope.
Lens Size
It is crucial to confirm the scope’s lens size before buying. The quality of the sight picture will decline below 32mm. It is too bulky for your weapon if it is larger than 40 or 42 mm. It is crucial to remember that you require a lightweight scope. Your experience hunting or shooting targets will be impacted by heavy optics throwing the balance off.
Best Scopes For Small Game Hunting FAQs
What magnification does a squirrel need?
The most prevalent and well-liked power range on the market right now is the 3–9 power range. The 3-9 power range of magnification provides enough magnification to satisfy “most” squirrel hunting requirements for many hunters.
What distance is a 3- 9×40 scope Good For?
Everyone will have their own tastes, thus it’s difficult to choose just one ideal magnification range for long-range shooting. You can shoot out to 1,000 yards just fine with a 3-9×40 if it has good turrets and decent optical clarity.
Conclusion
The features of the top scopes for small game hunting have been examined in today’s buying guide. These scopes are strong and able to withstand collision and recoil. You can efficiently utilize your rifle in practically any setting thanks to these optics.
To simplify the selecting process, it is crucial to outline your criteria first. To help you focus your search, we’ve also included some of the crucial elements you ought to take into account before purchasing the best scope for small game hunting.
This article should be able to assist you in locating the ideal scope for small game hunting.