Squirrel hunting is one of the easiest and enjoyable fun loving games for hunters and shooters. To make the squirrel hunting more exciting, you have to pair yourself with the right gear.
Choosing the Best Scope for 22LR Squirrel Hunting is an overwhelming task because there are dozens of .22LR scopes available on the market, but which is best for your need? That’s why we are here for you.
If you are a professional hunter, then you know how hard it is to hit a small target like a squirrel. You can’t hunt them without the perfect scope.
Our Top 3 Recommendations
If you are deciding to buy a scope for squirrel hunting, then you have to know the immense advantages of scope that you’ve picked. A good scope will give the best shooting experience.
We’ve given the guide for the best scope for 22LR Squirrel Hunting, and this list of 7 scopes. It will help you to choose the best .22 rifle scope for squirrel hunting. Moreover, you will get the best hunting experience with these models.
Let us make this clear to you.
Best Scope for 22LR Squirrel Hunting in 2021
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7 Best Scope for 22LR Squirrel Hunting in 2021 – Reviewed
1. Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 Mag(R) Matte Black Riflescope
It is one of the strongest, highly performing, and well-balanced rifle scopes for squirrel hunting that perfectly suits the dedicated shooters and hunters out there. It is one of the most popular rifle scopes in America.
This Simmons 3-9x32mm comes with excellent and significant features to give the precision and accuracy shooting on the field.
The quick target acquisition eyepiece of this Simmons riflescope is also commendable. Commendable in a sense, it is worthy of high prices. It helps you to achieve your target fast and keeps your eyebrows from impact.
Simmons
- 3-9x magnification
- 32mm objective lens
- 33-11 ft field of view at 100 yds
- 3.75 inches eye relief
- Truplex reticle
Highlighting Features
One of the remarkable features in this Simmons riflescope is its high-quality fully-coated optics. The high quality fully coated means all air-to-glass surfaces are anti-reflective coated with a single-layer coating. AR coating is the AntiReflective coating; this coating is applied to the surface of the lens.
This coated lens helps to reduce reflection. This best .22 rifle scope is very handy and classy to take sharp and crispy images during the hunting. Its powerful coated HydroShield lens gives enough brightness and clear view with high contrast under any weather conditions. Generally, Simmons riflescopes come with an easy mounting option. It has two adjustable rings to hold your scope. With the quality and durability of this scope, it will last for long term use.
Pros
- Advanced design
- Offer remarkable performance
- Powerful coated HydroShield lens
Cons
- Powerful coated HydroShield lens
Construction
It is designed with a one-piece tube that ensures lightweight, reliability, and durability. In addition, this scope is recoil-proof, waterproof, and fog proof that gives you longevity and you no need to buy a new one for some years. You can also use this scope in any weather condition, and it offers enough performance without any hassles.
The magnification range is 3x to 9x, which is ideally enough to hit the squirrel. With its parallax adjustment setting, you will achieve from 5 yards to infinity targets. It has 3/8″ dowel shaped mounting rings, which helps to get a good texture adjustment.
The one best thing that we’ve to tell you about this scope is its price. It comes at an affordable price with all of its features. Its black matte finishing provides an elegant look for even the most expensive firearms.
Verdict
At such a low price, Simmons offers more than the price it comes with. It is a perfect scope for 22 LR rifle for pest control and warming hunting. It looks beautiful, and the shine on the sun’s silver body will be the last thing insects see.
2. Bushnell Optics 2-7x32mm Drop Zone-22 BDC Rimfire Riflescope
Are you searching for a high-quality scope at an affordable price? Then this Bushnell Optics has the answer. Bushnell is the one of the well-known brands in the rifle scope industry. They deliver quality products at an affordable price.
One of the best features of this scope is its AR optics. Its optics is fully multi-coated and anti-reflective that delivers bright and crisp images with the least amount of eye strain that ensures accuracy. Moreover, it comes with an anti-reflective coating that helps to eliminate glare to give optimal efficiency.
Bushnell Optics
- 2-7x magnification
- 32mm objective lens
- 50-17 ft field of view @ 100 yards
- 3.7 inches eye relief
- Drop Zone-22 LR BDC reticle
Highlighting Features
This scope’s remarkable feature is its target turrets that allow fast and accurate adjustments during shooting. Its generous eye relief gives enough comforts to your eye.
It gives enough strength for squirrel hunting and a fast-focus eyepiece that is enough to acquire targets. Not only does it provide better eye relief, but it also offers a side focus parallax adjustment that makes your target process easier even at long distances.
Its 22 BDC Rimfire Reticle is calibrated for 38-40 grain. You can easily zero at 50 yards, with aiming points out to 125 yards.
Pros
- Enough eye relief
- Adjustable parallax adjustments
- Fog proof and waterproof performance
Cons
- Quite heavy construction
Construction
It is designed to be sturdy and compact; it is made of high-grade aluminum alloy to lead longevity. The nitrogen purged and O ring sealed prevent your scope from all elements such as dust, moisture, water, etc. In addition, it is waterproof and fog proof that gives better performance even at the rainy, fog, and smoky environments. Due to rapid temperature change or humidity, the interior optical surfaces will not be covered.
Bushnell Optics 2-7x32mm Drop Zone-22 BDC Rimfire Riflescope is the perfect choice for those who want a long-lasting scope.
The one major disadvantage that we’ve found in this scope is its weight. The construction of this scope is quite heavy; it is the perfect choice for those who want light scope.
Verdict
The Bushnell Optics Riflescope also has the ability to handle the sophistication that should be the best scope for 22lr squirrel hunting, thus leading to having excellent qualities that are well suited to market recognition.
3. BARSKA 3-9×32 Plinker-22 Riflescope
Next, up on our list is BARSKA 3-9×32 Plinker-22 Riflescope, which is another best .22 rifle scope for squirrel hunting. It is a popular brand that produces scopes that are reliable and ensures heavy-duty performance. If you invest in Barksa, then you won’t get disappointed.
BARSKA
- 3-9x magnification
- 32mm objective lens
- 30/30 reticle
- 39-13 ft field of view @ 100 yards
- 3.5 inches eye relief
Highlighting Features
One of the main features of the BARSKA 3-9×32 Plinker-22 Riflescope is 3-9x magnification. This magnification scope helps you to aim and shoot the target accurately. The magnification range 5x means the image you see via the scope will appear five times more closely than it does with your naked eye. This scope has a minimum magnification range 3x, and the maximum magnification range is 9x. 9x means the power of 9.
Another essential feature in the BARSKA 3-9×32 Plinker-22 Riflescope is windage and elevation turrets. Turrets are the knob, which helps to adjust the level. The windage turret knob is equipped on the right side of the scope as well as the windage elevation knob helps to adjust right or left of the scope. It leads to comfort in your eyes.
One more feature of the BARSKA 3-9×32 Plinker-22 Riflescope is durable construction. The material of the riflescope is high-grade, and it also has a waterproof and fog proof resistance. It is a lightweight, reliable construction rifle scope.
Pros
- Has dovetail rings and scope caps
- Lightweight and compact design
- Quick and fast zoom magnification
Cons
- Rings are not fit perfectly
Construction
It is suitable for hunting. Another remarkable feature of the Barska rifle scope has dovetail rings and scope caps, that makes it even good. Dovetail refers to the straight mounting bracket with an inverted trapezium. Scope cap helps to cover the object lens, protect from sun rays, and any other dust.
The black and matte finish design looks cool in the Barska rifle. When compared to an expensive rifle, this gives a good finishing look.
After all the advantages, this scope also has a disadvantage. That is, its rings do not fit perfectly, but they can be easily replaced, so you don’t have to worry about this issue.
Verdict
If you want a best scope for 22LR rifle that does not cost more than it, the Barska Plinker is for you. It is available in the range of $50 and would be a good choice if you are into general fall and squirrel hunting.
4. Nikon ProStaff 4-12x40mm Rimfire Scope
You don’t have to look much for a high-end scope to fit your .22LR. The Nikon ProStaff Rimfire is precisely the right choice for what you are looking for. This scope is specially designed for rimfire, and its BDC reticle allows hunters to compensate for bullet drop at extended shooting distances. This reticle is unique and ideal for long-range shooting, yet still allow a typical sight image for shorter-range shots where the crosshair itself is the aiming point.
Nikon ProStaff
- 4-12x magnification
- 40mm objective lens
- BDC 150 Reticle
- 3.7 inches eye relief
- 23.6-7.9 ft field of view @ 100 yards
Highlighting Features
The notable feature of this scope is it uses Ballistic Match Technology; it allows you to aim the target precisely. This scope is anti-reflective. With the fully multi-coated lens and reticle, you can see the clear view of your target. You will get clear and vivid color images with bright illumination. Moreover, you can see the target accurately, especially under poor light conditions. It gives optimum light transmission even at the dawn or dusky environment.
The zero setting is also pretty well. Its instant zero-reset turret feature allows the hunter to hit a target exactly. For sight as usual, then raise the spring-loaded tuning knob, turn it to your ‘zero’ and re-engage. Field adjustments are now as simple as dialing-in your subsequent limits.
Pros
- Uncompromised quality
- Perfect light transmission
- An elegant and stylish scope
Cons
- Doesn't come with side parallax
Construction
Did you search for the scope for long-range shooting? This scope is the right choice for you. It comes with a 4x to 12x magnification range that provides accuracy at different distances.
This generous long eye relief scope is commendable; it helps to protect your eyes from recoil and eye strain. The Nikon ProStaff Rimfire’s quality is commendable. It is nitrogen-filled, and O-ring sealed that gives protection for your scope. In addition, this stylish scope is shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof that can work well under any weather conditions. This Nikon ProStaff Rimfire is a perfect choice for those who want a durable scope for their firearm.
The Nikon ProStaff Rimfire downside, however, it doesn’t have side-focus parallax adjustment. Other than it is one of the best scopes on our list.
Verdict
What makes it an excellent product is that this Nikon Prostaff rimfire is one that really fits the best scope for 22lr squirrel hunting, with technically manipulative features of high utility when it comes to hunting.
5. Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7x33mm Rimfire Riflescope
Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7x33mm Rimfire Riflescope is the next excellent scope for 22lr squirrel hunting that is available in today’s market. It is one of the famous brands in the rifle scope industry. They produced quality and relentless performance rifle scopes.
Leupold VX-Freedom
- 2-7x magnification
- 33mm objective lens
- Rimfire MOA Reticle
- 4.2-3.7 inches eye relief
- CR2032 Batteries
Highlighting Features
The highlighting feature of this scope is the Twilight Light Management System. This system allows the shooter to recognize and give a precise shot in low-light settings. The Leupold is best out of other scopes. It offers enough brightness and gives clarity. It also enhances the additional 10 minutes of shooting light and eliminates the glare to provide crisp quality images even at all lighting conditions.
Next, we are talking about its construction. Its rugged construction ensures that the Leupold riflescope is a best investment for your money. It is made of 100 percent superior quality materials so that you no need to worry about its reliability. Moreover, it has a shockproof, waterproof, fog-proof performance.
We test proprietary gas blend and seals to a 33-foot depth and a number of pressure settings. Every Leupold rifle scope is designed to survive a minimum of 5,000 impacts on the Punisher. The force of each impact is 3x the recoil of a .308 rifle. It is able to perform from -40ºF to 160ºF.
Pros
- Beautiful look
- Gives HD quality images
- Twilight management system
Cons
- Quite hard to set zero for the newbies
Construction
The lens of this scope is scratch-resistant and military standard, which means it isn’t affected by any damages such as dust, moisture, sand, etc. It is designed to withstand extreme climate conditions so that you can take it at any climates such as rainy, foggy, and even smoky.
This scope is promised to produce heavy-duty performance. Apart from its quality, it comes with elegant black finishing. It gives an additional contemporary look to your firearm. It is a perfect choice for whichever rifle you have.
You can easily adjust the ¼ MOA finger click adjustments of this scope and the elevation and windage turrets. They are efficient and come with easy access that is perfect for frequent changes as the situation.
Verdict
We highly recommend Leupold Riflescope because it provides uninterrupted performance. It has good quality and rugged life. The scope is complete with the best features for snipers to enjoy on the field. It is one of the best options, which is available on the market. You need to see if you are looking for the best scopes for 22LR rifle.
6. Vortex Optics Diamondback 2-7×35 Rimfire Riflescope
With the Vortex Optics Diamondback 2-7×35 Riflescope, you will get an enjoyable hunting experience. You won’t get cheated by investing your money in Vortex optics.
This 2-7×35 Rimfire riflescope is best for close-range targets on 22 rimfire, shotguns, and muzzleloaders. You can do all types of hunting by this V-plex reticle. The second focal plane reticles are placed on the scope’s eyepiece. If you change the magnification, the size of the reticle doesn’t change.
Vortex Optics
- 2-7x magnification
- 35mm objective lens
- V-Plex reticle
- 19.3-64.3 ft field of view at 100 yds
- 3.1-3.5 inches eye relief
- 150 hours battery life
Highlighting Features
It comes around the 1.15-pound amount of weight, and the dimension of the scope is 13.7 x 3.3 x 2.7 inches. Its parallax setting allows targets up to 50 yards. The maximum windage and elevation adjustment is 100 MOA.
This one-piece tube scope is made by the high-quality aluminum material that ensures the durability and reliability of the scope.
As this scope is argon gas purged and O-ring sealed, you don’t get worried about the protection. Both help to protect your scopes from any damages. Furthermore, it is fog proof and waterproof to give relentless lifetime performance.
Pros
- Affordable sighting scope
- Best for the serious shooter
- Ensure the relentless performance
Cons
- Eye relief is not enough
Construction
The quality of the Vortex optics diamondback riflescope’s images is remarkable. With its fully multi coated lens, you can get the high definition quality images. It also provides enough bright light transmission even under the poor light scenarios.
The notable feature is its fast focus eyepiece that is used to achieve the target accurately and fastly. By using the mounting ring, you can easily adjust the magnification range of your scope, thus helping you to focus on the target at different distances.
You will love the elevation and windage turrets of this Vortex riflescope that allows you to change the adjustments as per your hunting needs and reset to zero after sight. A precision glide erector system ensures precise tracking and repeatability.
Apart from all plus, it also has a downside. There is no generous eye relief on the Vortex Optical Diamondback Riflescope, which can be difficult for some other shooters.
Verdict
If you want a brighter and better alternative to the Crossfire II, get this one. First, this scope is simply dead, has a larger field of view, and is clearer and brighter than the others due to the 35mm objective lens.
7. TASCO Rimfire Series 3-9x32mm .22 Riflescope
TASCO Rimfire Series 3-9x32mm .22 Riflescope is our last product, which provides uncompromised performance. It is the best scope for 22LR squirrel hunters for those who are looking for extraordinary performance. It helps you to improve your hunting performance and allows you to give your best on the field.
TASCO Rimfire
- 3-9x magnification
- 32mm objective lens
- 17.75-6 ft field of view @100 yards
- 3 inches eye relief
- 30/30 reticle
Highlighting Features
The first best thing is its design and construction. It is designed beautifully with the black matte finishing. It is ideally suited for whatever type of firearm you have.
The TASCO riflescope ensures brighter images and visuals . It features a magenta multi-layered lens coating and fully coated optics. It helps to eliminate glare and gives enough bright light transmission for the whole day.
This high-quality scope for squirrel hunting comes with a wide magnification range that starts from 3x to 9x. It can work well in all weather and environmental situations. Therefore you can use this scope and achieve your target under various conditions and distances.
Pros
- High magnification level
- Beautiful black matte finishing
- Comfortable zoom magnification
Cons
- Doesn't have the parallax adjustments
Construction
With a 50-yard parallax setting, you can hit the small to medium range distance target easily. It is comfortable to make the changes to get a more precise image, particularly for long-range shooting.
For the price, it comes with enough rugged construction and gives many shooting sessions. This 100 percent fog proof and waterproof construction ensures that it can work well at any outdoor conditions.
As it is an entry-level scope, it doesn’t create any problems even if you are novice shooters. It is amazingly easy to sight-in for the starters. Moreover, it doesn’t hurt yourself when you are mounting on the rifles.
When it comes to the downside, the rings don’t fit properly, but you can easily replace them.
Verdict
As the Tasco Rimfire Riflescope comes with 100 percent waterproof and fog proof features, it is the best .22 rifle scopes that withstands all weather conditions. With its best features, it offers incomparable performance to dedicated shooters and is definitely one of the highest quality scopes.
What Makes a Great Scope for 22LR Squirrel Hunting?
22LR is one of the excellent rifle scopes for squirrel hunting. It is essential to know about the scopes for hunting.
When you plan to buy rifle scopes for squirrel hunting, you need to understand the best scope features that suit your hunting.
Because the squirrel is a fast-moving creature, so you need to choose a reliable rifle to aim at the squirrel. Here we are going to advise you to pick the best scope for squirrel hunting.
Hunting makes the best experience depend on your hunting habits, and the time you are out to hunt. And also, it depends on the type of rifle scope which you are using for hunting.
Durability
The great hunting rifle should be durable; A .22LR is a high quality, and durable rifle. LR stands for “Long Rifle” so the size of the rifle is long. It is entirely coated with optical glass for accurate magnification. Optical glass is a one or more thin layer coated into the glass. It helps to reduce the reflection from 4% per surface. As the .22LR scope attached to anti-reflective optical finish, and multi-layer this could be easy to focus without distracting from sun rays while hunting.
.22LR equipped with a one-piece tube, and as it is also durable, it is suited with all types of weather conditions. Also, it has waterproof and fog proof resistance. The internal component should be sturdy and good enough and also shockproof.
It is equipped with an adjustable mounting ring. It helps to fine-tune the position of your .22LR while hunting. It has a rubber surface. Even though you are wearing gloves in your hand, .22LR rifle scope has a grip to fit in your hand.
What Magnification Do You Need?
Are you searching for the best magnification for your scope? If you want the best magnification scope for squirrel hunting, it all based on your optical level and the range from the target.
The magnification is the first thing you have to consider before you go to purchase the scope. Choose the wide magnification range scope that will be the great choice for both short and long-range shooting.
When you have the plan to buy a scope for 22LR squirrel hunting, you first must consider the specifications. Cause specs is an essential factor in scope.
Magnification is the process of maximizing the object size virtually, not physically. The calculated magnification number quantifies this enlargement process. If the number is less than one, it should minimize the object size. It is composed of the focal length of the eyepiece.
The magnification range may vary based on the brands. The average distance of the magnification is 3mm to 9mm *32. Scope with longer magnification is great. Most of the scope starts at x7 magnification range, and this can magnify up to 40. Some magnification scope has a maximum at 7x.
You have to consider some factors, before purchasing the magnification scope for your rifle. The first thing is you need to examine the scope. After that, you need to test the eyepiece and then check how far the distance from the object is and how much you can extend. Some professional hunters expect scopes that can see in 150 yards.
What is 22LR Scope?
Illuminated is a word that speaks a lot for a riflescope, which is based on reticles. If you are an expert hunter, then you will already know about the 22 LR scope, but let us clarify it if you are a beginner.
If you are focused on dark targets, these reticle scopes will provide more than enough illumination. There is a light source that occurs inside the rifle to give enough lighting for your target. This is to get the best view when there is a low light condition.
22 LR Reticles create adequate lighting for illuminated areas. So nowadays, it is a great asset for rifle scopes. If you are passionate about dark night hunting or shooting, you must have this 22LR scope. (Source)
Who Needs a Best Scope for 22 LR Squirrel Hunting?
Squirrel hunting is one of the most exciting hunting trips you can get. It is very easy, but it does not require the use of wood stands. Moreover, it does not need walking on cold mornings.
Placing the human shot and install killer is essential when you are going to hunt squirrels. It allows for a brutal technique of hunting. The only way to achieve this is with reliable precision.
So, to hunt a squirrel, you do not have to wander in the wild rainforest. Or, you don’t require to cross the mountain. Instead, you can see them jumping on a nearby bush. Generally, squirrels are very fast in the blink of an eye.
If you want to kill those squirrels immediately, you should create the perfect shoot. To do this, you need the proper scopes that give crisp and clear picture sight.
Another essential thing is that squirrels are not only fast-moving animals but also they are smart and alert.
But once they get any mild indicator they can guess the risk of rushing.
Therefore, in order to shoot and kill them abruptly in a good parallax setting, magnification is equally important except for high-quality optics.
Not only for squirrel hunting, but windage and elevation is also the significant factor for all types of hunting, and also for any hunter. So the proper elevation and windage adjustment is another problem to focus on for this purpose.
You know, there are some important issues in a sense. But the budget is another matter. We tried to strike a balance between budget and need. We hope those seven squirrel hunting scopes are reasonable for you.
Squirrel Hunting Vs Target Shooting Scopes
Squirrels are familiar to be beautiful, curious, energetic, and intelligent. But they are also cannibalism that we do not know about. Sometimes, their curiosity works to their detriment. They will often see hunters doing what they do. If they can see the hunter, the hunter can see them.
We all enjoy watching the squirrels in the park and love to feed nuts to the squirrel by hand in the camp area. However, they are game animals. So we obviously enjoyed squirrel hunting.
If you want to hunt squirrels, you can use shotguns, pistols, and rifles. These three weapons are the best for hunting many squirrels over the decades. We’ve suggested rifles and shotguns for squirrel hunting.
Including cartridge 22 LR, squirrel hunting is mainly a sphere of rimfire calibers. By using the riflescope, you don’t get the chance to lose the target, even if you are on the first try. But squirrels cannot be killed fast without the suffering of animals if you use a scope.
The best rifle scope allows you to hunt even in low light conditions. Generally, squirrels are busy in the evening time. The best squirrel hunting scopes should be perfect fit small weapons like 22LR rifles.
Here, We’ve Mentioned Some Reasons Behind the Squirrel Hunting is Famous:
➢ You can find squirrels everywhere
➢ They are very tasty to eat
➢ Squirrels are simple to clean
➢ They will help you to improve your hunting skills
➢ It is full of action
Target Shooting Scopes
Over the decades, we’ve seen most of the scopes are used for target shooting. From red dot knockoffs on cheap chines to military quality scopes, all come with advanced electronic sights with ballistic computers.
The truth is, the scope is best for long rifles or snipers. There are many types of target shooting, you know. First, we need to know precisely how to hit such a target.
We need a good picture with the optical system’s ability to maintain two thin lines at close intervals. The better we can aim, the less the difficulty in our eyes. Finally, we can see at the end of several hours.
We all know how magnification is essential for shooting, but the field of view is not an essential one for target shooting. Hopefully, there is a reward in this fight.
Solid magnification has its advantages. First, it exaggerates the firing of a long gun. It is still possible to have a long rifle even when there is a scope with the gun.
We do not know about their existence because they are too small, so that our eyes can’t really find them. But any scalable scope like 8x, 4x, and 15x is very noticeable. So, zooming in, more trembling.
Compare Best Scope for 22LR Squirrel Hunting
| Products | Vortex | UTG | Nikon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magnification | 3 to 9 x | 2 to 7 x | 3 to 9 x |
| Waterproof | |||
| Eye relief | 3.75 inches | 3.7 inches | 3.75 inches |
| Reticle | Truplex | 22LR BDC | 30/30 |
| Weight | 10.3 oz | 1.23 pounds | 11.46 oz |
| Objective lens diameter | 32 mm | 32 mm | 32 mm |
| Price | $ | $$ | $$$ |
| Learn more |
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Factors to Consider when Buying a Scope for 22LR Squirrel Hunting
Everyone needs the best of their guns and rifles. You also need the same to have a successful hunt, don’t you?
You have to consider some essential criteria before you are making a decision. Here we’ve mentioned a few points to consider. It will help you to choose the best one.
Clarity and accuracy
A most common thing for hunting is precision and accuracy. You can achieve your target, only if you have a clear view.
Pick the scope with the clearest eyepiece and accurate magnification because that will define your hits.
Optics
The low power optics gives a fast and accurate field of view as well as spontaneous shooting. The high power optics allow more magnificent target performance. But these scopes generally come with large size and heavyweight and also pricier. You can choose the optics based on your hunting needs.
Construction
The best scopes are made of high-quality materials. Some of the scope construction is full of aircraft materials that ensure durability, waterproof performance. The only thing we have to tell you is that the price of this scope is a bit expensive. But these scopes last for years, so you don’t need to buy a new one for some months.
Check the scope’s stability as well as check it fits perfectly with your rifle; it is also essential to see. If the scope is too wide or too big, it will shake while you are using it.
Then you have to test the scope’s grip once the scope is mounted on the rifle. Some scopes come with rubber handles for a comfortable grip.
The scope should withstand all weather conditions. The single tube construction scope is generally strong when compared to the other scopes. Moreover, these scopes are improving durability.
The nitrogen-purged and sealed scopes ensure the waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof performance. The best .22lr scope for squirrel hunting is that it can be zeroed overtime.
Price
Although clarity and accuracy are essential, you have to consider the price of the scope. Most of today’s scopes come with affordable prices. The price of the scopes will vary based on the focal length, features, material, and the brand.
The price will increase as you select a bigger scope. Bigger scopes come with additional features. If you are choosing a smaller scope, it will reduce the burden on your pocket. The price also can define how the scope is powerful.
If you want the best quality scopes, then you have to pay more. Then you should read the customer feedback before you can make the decision.
Size Of The Objective Lens
The size of the lens is also an essential one when you are buying a scope. It helps to transmit the light to produce a precise image. With the big objective lens, you can get more light on the eye, which means clear and bright images. We’ve to say one thing: the size of the objective lens can affect the magnification of the scope.
User friendly
Ease of use is the next factor. Although how high-tech the scopes are, it’s not that good if it’s not easy to use. The main thing is you should view the target without too much effort.
Clear and bright picture
The main purpose of the scope can see your target accurately, even if you are in long-distance and poor weather conditions. The common best scopes in today’s market come with anti-glare features. The quality lens allows you to view the target clearly without peeping your eyes due to harsh sun rays. Also, buy the scope that should be an anti-fog optics that will enable you to hunt the target even in the frosty weather.
Low Maintenance
The next factor to consider when buying a scope for 22lr squirrel hunting is maintenance. No one wants the scope that needs too much care.
After all this, you need to realize one thing that is how clear and precise your scope is, it will affect your shooting by the outdoor factors.
Generally, the .22 caliber bullets are lighter when compared to the other bullets, so that the wind and humidity can create some issue on your shot.
Reticle
Generally, the rimfire rifle is not designed to shoot at a long distance, which means the excellent bullet reticle is sufficient for your hunting purpose. The simple and crisp reticle is the better choice for your .22LR rifle.
Weight
It is the last factor. Generally, the .22LR rifles are not that much heavy, but if you mount the weighted scope, there is a chance to miss your balance. As .22 rifles are weightless, so choosing the lightweight scope is better.
If you mount the heavy scope on your lightweight firearm, you will miss your target due to the heaviness, so you should check the weight of scope before the purchase.
Things to Consider Before Squirrel Hunting
If you are planning to hunt squirrel, then you have to follow some steps. That’s why we here for you. Here, we’ve mentioned some crucial things to consider before you are going to hunt squirrel.
1 Legal Paper
The first thing you’ve to consider is legal papers. When you are going to hunt squirrel, ensure that you have all the legal hunting permits.
2 Timing
The best time to hunt squirrel is early morning or late afternoon because squirrels usually come out to search for food. So these times are ideal for killing squirrels. You don’t hunt at night; it may cause any problem for you.
3 Identify the Right place
Generally, you can find the squirrels in different types of nut trees because they love nuts. Moreover, you can also found them in some kind of fruit tree. Among them, one of the famous trees is the oak tree. So if you are planning for squirrel hunting, then the woodland areas will be the right choice for you.
4 Pick the Best Weapon for Squirrel Hunting
Choosing the right weapon is an essential one while you are going to hunt squirrel. Don’t choose the shotguns because it is not suitable for small hunting. The small-caliber rifle is the best choice for squirrel hunting. Its bullet can achieve precision target acquisition.
5 Spotting
Maintaining silence in the hunting spot is essential. If you make any noise, then the squirrel will away from you. So be very silent is better. After that, try to listen the teeth cutting and nut hulling nuts sounds of them.
By using the quality monocular, find the tail of the squirrel. Note that while climbing any trees, the squirrel creates sounds. One thing, you should keep in mind that they are in different colors like purple, grey, black, red, and brownish fur.
6 Size of The Squirrel
The size of the squirrel can be varied based on the squirrel types. The eastern gray squirrel’s weight starts from 0.88 to 1.32 pounds, while the Siberian chipmunk is 0.11 to 0.33 pounds. The alpine marmot comes with 6.17 to 7.28 pounds as well as the African pygmy squirrel 0.035 pounds. As they are small creatures, they can move quickly and challenging to focus.
7 Use Foods
If you want to attract the squirrel, you should use the baits like seeds, nuts, and fruits. Where you can scope, put the baits on that spot in a covered position, like undergrowth outcroppings and logs. Since the squirrels are attracted by the baits, you can save more time.
8 Shooting Locations
When compared to the tree, the ground is easier to shoot a squirrel. Squirrels may fall from a height and may get stuck in the tree branches. So it is better to scoop them on the ground. Quality hunting lights can be used at night as well as those used for coyote hunting.
9 Target Point
The headshot is always recommended when you are planning to hunt small creatures. Generally, head meats are not eaten, so the headshot is preferred. If you are a professional hunter, this shot is very easy for you, but it may be challenging for beginners.
The next Aimpoint is the heart, which is located under the neck. It is also the best shot to aim for. By using a .22 caliber bullet, you can hit the squirrel head precisely.
10 Patience
Last but not least, one characteristic that makes a successful hunter is the high level of patience. Stay calm, waiting to spot the catch or stalk them. The most important aspect of squirrel hunting is being patient. Squirrels are highly energetic critters, so they move around a lot. Squirrel hunting is not the easiest task for everyone; if you don’t have the patience to wait, you will not achieve your target.
Infographics: Beginner's Guide
Safety Producers for Squirrel Hunting
Safety is the first thing for everyone while they are hunting or shooting. Even if you are handling small rifles and scopes, you have to follow many necessary safety features. Those rules help to give an excellent hunting experience and also keep you safe and secure. Here we’ve mentioned some safety rules for you.
➢ If you are planning for hunting, the first thing is you have to check your weapons. Ensure it should be cleaned and clear of dust.
➢ If you want to see the target, use the binoculars but don’t go close to the animal.
➢ Avoid hunting near broken trees or branches; it may fall and hurt you as well as your fellow hunters.
➢ Place your rifles facing the ground, even if you are cleaning it. It protects you from any injuries.
➢ Don’t keep your finger on the trigger while cleaning and hunting, except you’re lining up a shot. Ensure the gun and chamber should be empty during the cleaning
➢ Wear colored clothes when you are going for hunting since it is easy to identify.
➢ Ensure your target clearly, don’t shoot on other barriers. Moreover, don’t focus on the moving target, particularly the squirrel. It may move to other fellow hunters. It is a slight risk to target the moving animals.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 Can you kill a squirrel with a slingshot?
It is very tough to kill a squirrel with a slingshot. So, to kill a squirrel immediately, you need to shoot the squirrel’s head. If you have the perfect shooting skill, it is possible.
2 Is it good to hunt squirrels in the rain?
As squirrels come out from their dens to search for food, you can hunt them in the light rain. In heavy rain, it is not good to go hunting. At that time, it was difficult to see the animals.
3 Can I shoot squirrels in my garden?
Yes. You can shoot gray squirrels in your garden as it is legal to kill and do it with a trap or shot. But, you have to do it properly. Otherwise, you will be fined.
4 Is a 12 gauge good for squirrel hunting?
Yes, 12 gauge is good enough for squirrel hunting when you are an adult hunter. If you are under 18, you must need 20 gauge for hunting squirrels perfectly.
Final Words
Squirrel hunting is one of the most exciting types of hunting when you have the right rifle scope. Choosing the Best Scope for 22LR Squirrel Hunting is a time consuming task for everyone, especially for the newbies.
We hope that you will get some ideas about the scope, as we mentioned earlier. We’ve compared the top brands on the market with its features then chosen the best seven. Check the price, accuracy, features, and brand of the scope. Purchase the best sighting tool for squirrel hunting today.
Now you know the details of some of the Best Scope for 22LR Squirrel Hunting. You can choose one of these based on your hunting needs and budget. Even though you are still confused about choosing the best one, we will suggest the Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 Mag(R) Matte Black Riflescope. It is the top and trustworthy rifle scope on the market.
From pest control to varmint hunting, the best rifle with the better scope can work well.
Enjoy your hunt with our best .22 rifle scopes recommendation! We wish you a fun-filled and adventurous squirrel hunting!