Best Scope for 22 Magnum
The .22 Magnum is most frequently used for small game hunting. While it’s a smaller bullet than some hunters prefer, it can reliably take down game up to 20 pounds. This can make for an excellent small game cartridge at medium to long distances, if you have the scope to see your targets and increase your accuracy.
Magnification
The .22 Magnum has an effective range up to 125 yards. You might be able to stretch it as far as 300 yards. But if you are using the .22 Mag for hunting, we’re guessing you are shooting in the 100-150 yard range.
The size of your target is also important in selecting your magnification, and the .22 Magnum works best for game under 20 pounds. This means you will need extra magnification.
If you are pushing the limits of the .22 Mag and shooting over 200 yards, you’ll want 10x magnification are higher. If you are shooting in its most effective range of 100-150 yards, you’ll need 3-9x magnification. If you are shooting close range under 100 yards, you’ll want 3-5x magnification to see your targets clearly.
More magnification is not necessarily better. If you’re going to be shooting at 100-150 yards, more than 9x will just slow you down as you try to track fast-moving small game through a limited field of view. Choose the magnification based on the distance you will actually be shooting.
If you’re going to be shooting at a variety of distances, or want the ability to track game across a field, you may want to opt for a variable scope. These will offer you a range of magnifications. For use with the .22 Magnum on small game, a 2-7x or 3-9x will give you the options you are most likely to need in the field.
Reticles & Turrets
Many scopes come with sophisticated adjustment and aiming systems. These are most important at long distances, when you will need to adjust for windage and bullet drop. If you are shooting less than 150 yards, you will not need to learn these optics systems. It’s alright to choose reticles based on your personal preference for use in varmint shooting.
Though of course, if this is your first scope purchase and you want to use it to get used to the language of optics, you can certainly get a scope with all the bells and whistles! Choose locking turrets so that you don’t accidentally adjust your firearm without realizing it. Otherwise, the sophisticated reticles and turrets won’t get in your way.
In Conclusion…
Whenever you’re buying a scope, make sure to invest in a durable option from a reliable manufacturer. It’s best to get a scope that is “fully multicoated,” meaning weatherproofing and anti-reflective coat has been applied in multiple layers to every glass surface in the instrument. Otherwise, determine your specific needs to choose the scope that is right for your intended use with your .22 Magnum.