Understanding the Savage 220 and Its Role
The Savage 220: Precision in a Shotgun
The Savage 220 shotgun has carved a niche for itself in the hunting world, particularly among those seeking a reliable, accurate, and versatile firearm for deer and other big game. Its bolt-action design, chambered for 20-gauge slugs, offers exceptional accuracy and range, making it a favorite for hunters who demand precision. But to truly unlock the Savage 220’s potential, the right optic is absolutely crucial. A quality scope is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity for maximizing accuracy and extending your effective range, transforming your hunt and enhancing your success in the field.
Why a Scope is Essential
Choosing the correct scope for your Savage 220 can be a daunting task. With countless options available, navigating the specifications, features, and price points can feel overwhelming. This article is crafted to guide you through the process, offering insights into the critical features, considerations, and ultimately, recommendations for scopes that will take your Savage 220 to the next level. From understanding the rifle’s strengths to selecting the ideal magnification, reticle, and mounting system, we’ll equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision and choose a scope that complements your hunting style and improves your performance in any environment.
The Savage 220 and its Purpose
The Savage 220 isn’t just another shotgun; it’s a precision instrument. Its bolt-action mechanism contributes significantly to its inherent accuracy advantage over traditional pump-action shotguns. This rifle is frequently chosen for its exceptional performance with 20-gauge slugs. This allows hunters to accurately hit their targets at distances previously unattainable with other types of shotguns.
Hunting Applications
The Savage 220 is most commonly used in situations where hunters encounter deer, hogs, and other medium to large game. Many hunters favor it for hunting in areas where the use of rifles is limited or prohibited, such as heavily wooded areas or zones with specific regulations. The Savage 220 offers an effective hunting tool with more range than a traditional shotgun using buckshot, yet with the precision generally associated with rifles.
Extending Range and Accuracy
While the Savage 220 is often lauded for its accuracy, it still needs a scope to reach its true potential. The effective range of a Savage 220, when firing quality slugs, can extend beyond yards. However, without a scope, accurately hitting targets at these longer distances can be extremely difficult. A scope eliminates the guesswork and provides the shooter with a clearer, more precise view of the target, leading to increased accuracy and confidence.
Adapting to Terrain
Furthermore, a scope enables hunters to utilize their Savage 220 effectively in areas of brush or wooded terrain. The magnified view of the scope allows hunters to identify targets more readily and make accurate shots, even when visibility is limited by dense foliage. This ability to extend the effective range and improve accuracy is what makes a great scope an integral part of any Savage 220 setup.
Critical Features to Consider When Choosing a Scope for Your Savage 220
Selecting the right scope is more than simply picking a brand name. Several critical features will significantly impact your shooting experience and hunting success. Understanding these elements is essential to choosing a scope that perfectly matches your needs and hunting style.
Zooming In on Magnification
Magnification power is arguably the most crucial aspect when selecting a scope. It determines how much closer and clearer the target appears to the shooter. The appropriate magnification range depends heavily on the hunting environment and the typical distances at which you expect to shoot. For the Savage 220, a versatile magnification range is ideal.
Ideal Magnification Ranges
For most hunting scenarios with the Savage 220, a scope with a magnification range such as 2-7x, 3-9x, or even 3-12x is frequently considered the most practical option. Lower magnification settings are perfect for close-range shots in dense cover, allowing for a wider field of view and quick target acquisition. Higher magnifications, on the other hand, offer increased precision at longer distances.
Matching Magnification to Hunting Distances
In many hunting areas, deer are frequently taken at ranges between one hundred and two hundred yards. A magnification range in the upper end of this range can greatly assist hunters in making the precise shots required for ethical harvesting. It’s a good practice to balance magnification with your hunting environment. The best scope gives you the versatility to increase or decrease magnification as the situation demands.
Assessing Objective Lens Size
The objective lens is the front lens of the scope, and its size directly impacts the amount of light that enters the scope. A larger objective lens allows more light to enter, resulting in a brighter image, especially in low-light conditions such as dawn and dusk. This can greatly aid in target identification and shot placement when the sun is low on the horizon or in heavy cloud cover.
Balancing Lens Size
However, a larger objective lens also has potential downsides. It typically increases the overall size and weight of the scope, which can impact the balance and handling of the rifle. It also increases the scope’s profile, potentially making it more difficult to mount and possibly increasing the risk of snagging on brush.
Optimizing Objective Lens Size
For the Savage 220, a balance is key. Consider objective lens sizes between millimeters. This provides a good balance between light-gathering ability, overall size, and weight. Choosing a scope with a smaller objective lens can enhance the scope’s portability, making it easier to use in varied terrain.
Deciphering Reticle Types
The reticle is the aiming point within the scope. The style of reticle impacts how quickly and accurately you can acquire your target and make a precise shot. Various reticle options are available, each with its specific advantages.
Reticle Options
Duplex reticles, with thick outer posts that taper to a fine crosshair, are a classic and versatile option. They are quick to acquire in various lighting conditions, making them suitable for quick shots at moving targets. A BDC (Bullet Drop Compensating) reticle incorporates additional aiming points below the crosshair to account for bullet drop at longer ranges. This allows for greater accuracy at extended distances. Illuminated reticles, which feature a lit-up aiming point, are especially beneficial in low-light conditions, increasing visibility and target acquisition speed.
Choosing the Right Reticle
For the Savage 220, a duplex reticle or a BDC reticle is often a good starting point. The choice will depend on the typical ranges at which you hunt. A BDC reticle will prove especially helpful if you intend to take longer-range shots. An illuminated reticle can be a boon for those who hunt in the early morning or late evening hours.
Considering Turrets and Adjustments
The turrets are the dials on the scope that are used to adjust the point of impact of the bullet. These adjustments are critical for zeroing your scope and making corrections for windage and elevation.
The Importance of Reliable Turrets
When choosing a scope, it’s essential to select one with reliable and precise turrets. MOA (Minute of Angle) and MRAD (Milliradian) are the two main units of measurement. Many hunters favor MOA, as the adjustment increments are familiar to them. The most crucial point is to select a scope with well-marked and easy-to-use turrets that provide crisp and repeatable adjustments.
Making Adjustments in the Field
The ability to make quick and accurate adjustments is crucial in the field. If your target is further away than expected, the ability to quickly dial in the required elevation correction can make the difference between a successful harvest and a missed opportunity.
Evaluating Durability and Weather Resistance
The rigors of hunting can be incredibly harsh. Your scope must be built to withstand recoil, impacts, and extreme weather conditions. Durability is paramount for a scope that will function reliably year after year.
Protecting Your Scope
Look for scopes that are waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. Nitrogen-purged scopes, in particular, are less prone to fogging up in changing temperatures. These features are essential for ensuring your scope will perform, regardless of the conditions. When choosing a scope, look for a construction that has been designed to withstand recoil from high-powered rounds.
Finding the Perfect Eye Relief
Eye relief is the distance between the scope’s eyepiece and your eye at which you can see a full, clear image. Proper eye relief is vital for both accuracy and safety. Too little eye relief can lead to a painful scope bite from the recoil, especially with a hard-kicking rifle like the Savage 220.
Ensuring Safety and Comfort
The Savage 220 can generate significant recoil. A good eye relief range for the Savage 220 is at least inches. This distance provides a buffer to protect your eye from injury while allowing for a comfortable and clear view of the target.
Balancing Budget and Features
The cost of a scope can range dramatically. The price will often be affected by the brand and features that are included. Determining a reasonable budget and sticking to it is crucial.
Prioritizing Needs
It’s essential to balance your needs with your budget. Investing in a high-quality scope will usually result in a more durable and accurate optic. Be realistic about what features are essential for your hunting style.
Making the Right Choice
Carefully consider the trade-offs between features and cost. Spending extra money on a scope can result in a significantly better hunting experience. Decide what features are important to you and select a scope that matches the needs.
Proper Scope Mounting
Even the best scope will perform poorly if it’s not mounted correctly. The scope rings and base you choose are just as critical as the scope itself. Ensure they are robust and specifically designed for the Savage 220.
Secure and Accurate Mounting
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions meticulously when mounting your scope. Proper alignment is essential. You might consider professional help if you don’t feel comfortable with the mounting process. Secure the scope to the base with care.
Budget-Friendly Scope Options
For those operating on a budget, several excellent scopes are available that offer impressive performance for the price.
Budget Scope Examples
A scope with magnification, an objective lens, and a simple reticle. This offers good optical clarity and can improve accuracy at various ranges.
Another great choice would be a scope with a 2-7x magnification and a durable build. This makes the scope reliable in the field.
Mid-Range Scope Options
These scopes provide a balance between quality and affordability.
Mid Range Scope Examples
A scope with magnification offers greater versatility. The scope allows for accurate shots at various ranges.
Consider a scope with features like a BDC reticle and robust adjustments. This scope improves accuracy at longer distances.
Premium Scope Options
For hunters who demand the best, premium scopes offer exceptional optical clarity, durable construction, and advanced features.
Premium Scope Examples
A scope with features offers outstanding image quality and precision.
Another great option is a scope with enhanced light transmission and durable construction. The scope ensures reliability in any hunting condition.
Zeroing and Sighting In
Once your scope is mounted, zeroing it is the next critical step. Properly zeroing your scope ensures that your bullets will hit where you are aiming.
The Zeroing Process
Begin by setting up a target at a known distance, typically yards. Use a stable shooting rest to minimize movement. Fire a three-shot group at the target and then adjust the turrets of the scope to bring your point of impact to the desired point of aim. Repeat this process, making small adjustments until your shots consistently hit the bullseye.
Conclusion
Selecting the right scope for your Savage 220 is an investment in your hunting success. By understanding the key features, considering your specific needs, and choosing a scope that matches your budget and shooting style, you can unlock the full potential of your rifle and enjoy greater accuracy and success in the field. A quality scope enhances your hunting experience.
Final Thoughts
Remember to thoroughly research different models and brands, read reviews, and if possible, handle and test scopes before making a purchase. With the right scope, your Savage 220 will become an even more formidable hunting tool, providing you with years of reliable performance and countless hunting adventures.
