Do I need a AO scope on a 22?
- Thread starter viking499
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rcmodel
Member in memoriam
At what ranges do you shoot?
Generally speaking, if you shoot normal .22 distances of 20 or more yards, you do not need AO unless using very powerful target type scopes.
If you shoot very close ranges you do need AO to get the close focus ability.
If you go over 9x - 10x power, you do need AO to adjust parallax out.
rc
Generally speaking, if you shoot normal .22 distances of 20 or more yards, you do not need AO unless using very powerful target type scopes.
If you shoot very close ranges you do need AO to get the close focus ability.
If you go over 9x - 10x power, you do need AO to adjust parallax out.
rc
aka108
Member
I have 22rf's that are scoped with AO's, 22 specific and some 3x9's with 100 yd parallax settings. I shoot mainly at 50 yds and I really can't tell much if any difference between the 3 types at that range.
The operative word is "...need...". It depends what what you plan to shoot, at what distance, and how much are you willing to spend? On .22LRs, I have the option of hunting with iron-sights, with a red dot, or with a scope. I have the following scopes: a 4X, a 3X-9X AO, a 4.5-14 AO and a 36X AO. If you want to shoot from hunting ranges out to 200 yards for fun and varmint, consider an AO scope. It all goes to intent, distance and how much you are willing to spend.
Edit to add: For what it's worth, if you do go with an AO, take a serious look even to BSA's Sweet 22. For the money, it isn't bad. Too, for the money, Mueller is not bad. For a straight 4X, take a look to the Nikon.
Geno
Edit to add: For what it's worth, if you do go with an AO, take a serious look even to BSA's Sweet 22. For the money, it isn't bad. Too, for the money, Mueller is not bad. For a straight 4X, take a look to the Nikon.
Geno
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Maverick223
Member
I prefer a AO on a target .22lr (or other rimfire), but it is not necessary for general hunting and plinking IMO.
I agree. A simple 4X, no AO needed. I have the Leupold 4X and frankly, it was no worth the money. Check the Nikon...half the price, all the quality. It also includes the rings for free.
Link: $109.95 (Nikon Prostaff Classic Rimfire Rifle Scope 4x 32mm Nikoplex Reticle with 3/8" Dovetail Rings Matte)
http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=149715
Geno
Link: $109.95 (Nikon Prostaff Classic Rimfire Rifle Scope 4x 32mm Nikoplex Reticle with 3/8" Dovetail Rings Matte)
http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=149715
Geno
i agree with the 4x for a squirrel hunting/plinking .22. i've had 3-9s and 2-7s (sold them all) and never felt underscoped with the 4x. if you and the rifle are up to it, hitting a squirrel's head with the aid of a 4x scope is not a problem at 50 yds or closer. however, there might be the "want" in the equation. good luck.
Maverick223
Member
I agree with pretty much everyone else, fixed 4x is perfect for your use. Want one on the cheap...get a Bushnell Sportview for about $30.00USD. Want one crystal clear...get a Zeiss Conquest for 10x that. In between you have various Sightron, Nikon, Vortex, and other Bushnell optics. Any of these should serve you well no matter what your budget is.
Uncle Mike
Member
I prefer AO on pretty much all my stuff, you may not need AO, but it is an asset most of the time.
While 4x will get the job done, there is nothing better than cranking up the power on a 2-10, 3-12 or 4-16 to see those tiny 22 holes in your target or observing your quarry at distance before poking a hole in it!
It's fun also to watch the bullets trace on the way to the target with some of the higher power settings, or see the goo fly out of the far side of a squirrel!
Big glass and high magnification I prefer! Unless your trying to keep weight down, or have a particular balance problem, the bigger glass will offer so much more fun and usefulness than the lower magnification scopes will.
Don't be afraid to use a scope with a big objective either, the more light, the better for you, and the worse it gets for the vermin rooting in your garden at dusk!
While you don't mention your price cap, the Weaver line is a good place to start. For the money conscience, the 44/40 series is good. Minox is another good one along with Vortex.
So, while you do not absolutely need a big objective, high magnification scope on a 22, if you do use such a animal, it will definitely be to you benefit!
While 4x will get the job done, there is nothing better than cranking up the power on a 2-10, 3-12 or 4-16 to see those tiny 22 holes in your target or observing your quarry at distance before poking a hole in it!
It's fun also to watch the bullets trace on the way to the target with some of the higher power settings, or see the goo fly out of the far side of a squirrel!
Big glass and high magnification I prefer! Unless your trying to keep weight down, or have a particular balance problem, the bigger glass will offer so much more fun and usefulness than the lower magnification scopes will.
Don't be afraid to use a scope with a big objective either, the more light, the better for you, and the worse it gets for the vermin rooting in your garden at dusk!
While you don't mention your price cap, the Weaver line is a good place to start. For the money conscience, the 44/40 series is good. Minox is another good one along with Vortex.
So, while you do not absolutely need a big objective, high magnification scope on a 22, if you do use such a animal, it will definitely be to you benefit!
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