Scope Advice for Marlin 25MN

[Shenanigans]

I was given a Marlin 25MN (.22WMR) and I'm looking for an optic to put on it. Before I go any further, I'm not looking to spend more than $100 (rings incl.) because I just don't have the money for anything more. I've looked for days, read different reviews, and need some final advice before I put in an order/go pick one up/go back to square-one because I'm a fool. Right now, I'm looking at:

-Centerpoint 4-16x40 AO w/illuminated mil-dot
-Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 AO Truplex Reticle

They're both inexpensive, and from what I've read, are both decent options for what I'll be shooting. I like that the Simmons comes with rings, but I've heard they're not very good. I would also like some more magnification and a larger objective, but the 9x max and the 32mm objective aren't total turn-offs (yet).

The Centerpoint comes with rings, but they won't fit the 3/8" mount on the Marlin (I don't think they're 3/8", anyway), so I'd have to get new ones. I like the increased magnification and the mildot reticle (and that it can be illuminated--if need be). It also comes with flip-up lens caps, which is a nice toss-in.

What I'd like to hear is which will be the better scope, quality-wise (clarity, build quality, and longevity).

Just for some clarification, I'll be using the gun for target shooting probably <125 yds. and varmit shooting anywhere from 25-100 yds, depending.

Thanks, in advance, for any input.

 

[winchester '97]

great gun, the marlin, triggers are horrible out of the box but a little disassembly and filing can fix that, mine in .22lr will shoot the clip through one ragged 1/4 inch hole at 25 yards. i would go with the simmons .22 mag scope since it was designed for the caliber you will be using.

 

[federalfarmer]

Nikon fixed 4 power.

 

[boricua9mm]

I'm running a Simmons Master Series on my old pawn shop Model 25. Since they say you should spend the same amount on the scope as you did on the rifle, the Simmons suits it perfectly I am using the cheapo Leupold rimfire rings that can be found at Wal-Mart. They stand up to the vicious recoil of the fearsome .22LR just fine.

The previous owner chopped it down to 16.5" and painted the stock a turd brown color. I removed the crappy latex paint and refinished the ugly wood stock underneath. I did the pen spring mod on my trigger (there's a how-to on Rimfire Central) and it really helped to lighten the trigger pull a lot! If I do my part it will shoot quarter sized groups at 50 yards.

The magazines for the 25 are really funky. They have the mag release latch built into them. It's a good thing that the 25MN uses a different design.

Enjoy that little bolt, they are tons of fun! Especially with the price of centerfire ammo these days...