Impromptu Squirrel Hunt

[Pegwedge]

Howdy folks. I wasn't sure whether to post this here or on the rifle forum, but I figured I'd try here first. I'm visiting family at the moment and have brought along my 10/22. Brother wants me to go squirrel hunting with me in the morning. I have just one question.

My 10/22 is zeroed with Federal bulk ammo and all the Wal-Mart here had was Mini-mags. I won't have a chance to rezero before we go out. Would my scope be accurate enough to headshot squirrels with the increased velocity from the Mini-mags without adjustment? I also have access to a Marlin 60 with just iron sights. Would I be better off with that assuming I can remember how to use iron sights?

All in all, I jus hope this isn't a stupid question. I'm not too rifle savvy...

 

[cottswald]

Can be kinda of a crap shoot when you change ammo. I believe the velocity rating between the two should be close (1260 fps). Would also be good if the bullet size (grains) where about the same. Most likely there will be some variance but definitely worth a try. The variance may still be within "minute of squirrel head". Take advantage of your stalking skills and try to get within 30 yards or so. Gives you a little more margin for error.

Good Hunting. And post some pics if you score!

PS: For all practical purposes, the effect on zero will be the same whether using a scope or iron sights. Just remember that your zero variance will increase with distance.

 

[Pegwedge]

I'll definately do that.

Both the Federal and Mini-mags are 36 grain. I kinda figured that would help a bit. Thanks for advice though. I'd hate to have to leave my 10/22 behind.

 

[Rem.222]

One never knows from box to box where they will hit but one or two shots at can before hunt will confirm zero. Scoped rifle is my choice over irons most any day. Iron sighted rifle may not be any better sighted in for you.

 

[Pegwedge]

Went out this morning and it was coooooold. About 10 degrees when we got out and there was about six inches of snow on the ground from the day before. Fortunately the wind wasn't blowing so it wasn't too unbearable. I did get a chance to zero my scope before we got too far into the woods and it's a good thing I did. It shot high and a little to the left with the mini-mags. Probably would have caused some frustrating shots, if I had gotten a chance to take any... It was dead quiet in the woods this morning. No movement whatsoever. We were out for about three hours before we called it quits. The only living thing we saw all morning was a sparrow.

 

[cottswald]

Sometimes it's like that. Might have been a bit better if you'd waited till the day warmed up, but even so, it's hard to predict. Bet you go out next time and they'll be hop'n!

 

[Pegwedge]

We came back in about noon. Still no action and we figured it wasn't going to get much warmer so we called it quits. Still better than working.