Why is it that hitting a bullseye at fifty yards seems easier than finding the best scope for a springer air rifle? If you’ve spent time with a spring-piston air rifle, you already know they pack a surprising amount of recoil, enough to shake apart a cheap scope in no time. Because of this, selecting the best scope for springer air rifle involves more than just magnification or clarity. It also involves precision, durability, and the capacity to manage a springer’s special double recoil.
I’ll review the best scopes in this guide that are made to last and help you shoot tighter groups, whether you’re hunting small game, target shooting, or plinking. Together, we can find you the best scope to transform your air rifle!
Factors to consider when buying the Best Scope for Springer Air Rifle
Springer-Rated Durability
Standard rifle scopes can be destroyed by the special double recoil of springer air rifles. Since air rifles are made to withstand both forward and reverse recoil, look for scopes that are specifically rated for them.
Magnification
Consider your air rifle’s use. For small game hunting and general plinking, a 3-9x40mm scope is an excellent all-around option. If you enjoy shooting with accuracy, a 4-12x or 6-24x scope might be more appropriate.
Parallax Adjustment
A scope with an adjustable objective (AO) or side parallax adjustment is essential for air rifles, which are frequently used at closer ranges. This guarantees a sharp and clear reticle up to ten yards away.
Reticle Type
Select a reticle based on your shooting preferences. Simple duplex reticles are simpler for quick target acquisition, while mildot reticles are excellent for holdover and range estimation.
Lens Quality
Fully multi-coated lenses improve light transmission, reduce glare, and provide a crisp, clear image. This is essential for hunting in low-light conditions or hitting precise targets at a distance.
Best Scope for Springer Air Rifle
1) Hawke Airmax 3-9×40 AO
Specifications
- 3 – 9 x magnification
- 40mm objective lens
- 4 – 13 mm exit pupil
- 13.6 – 37.2 ft at 100 yds field of view
- 3.5 in eye relief
- 80 MOA adjustment range
- 0.25 MOA adjustment click value
- 16-layer fully multi-coated optics
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Glass etched reticle
- Adjustable objective
The Hawke Airmax 3-9×40 AO is a high-end scope made especially for air rifles, which makes it a great option for fans of springer airguns. With Hawke’s AMX reticle, which offers precise holdover points for increased accuracy, this scope is designed to withstand the demanding double recoil of spring-piston rifles. Target shooting and small-game hunting are made possible by the adjustable objective (AO), which guarantees parallax correction even at close range.
Its fully multi-coated optics provide sharp, bright images even in low light. Durability in any weather is guaranteed by the shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof qualities. The Hawke Airmax 3-9×40 AO is an excellent option if you’re searching for a tough, dependable airgun scope or pinpoint accuracy.
Pros
- Versatile 3-9x magnification range
- The 40mm objective lens allows for good light transmission
- The SFP reticle maintains a consistent size regardless of magnification
- The adjustable objective allows for parallax adjustment
- The AMX reticle provides multiple aim points
- Durable, shockproof, and waterproof construction
- Fast-focus eyepiece
- High-quality optics
Cons
- The reticle is nonilluminated
2) UTG 3-9×32 BugBuster
Specifications
- 3-9x magnification
- 32mm objective lens
- Second focal plane
- 3.2 – 4.2 in eye relief
- 14 – 37.7 ft at 100 yds field of view
- 1/4 MOA adjustment clicks
- Zero lockable and zero resettable target turrets
- Adjustable objective
The UTG 3-9×32 BugBuster is a compact, durable scope that is designed to withstand the powerful recoil of springer air rifles while providing exceptional accuracy and longevity. UTG’s True Strength platform is a dependable option for shooting in all weather conditions because it is shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof. While the illuminated Mil-Dot reticle improves visibility in a variety of lighting conditions, the adjustable objective (AO) down to 3 yards enables crystal-clear focus at close and long ranges.
With zero-reset functionality and lockable turrets, shooters can make precise adjustments without fear of losing their settings. With its compact, airgun-rated design, the BugBuster 3-9×32 offers superior performance for both target shooting and small-game hunting.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Flexible 3-9x magnification range
- Mil-Dot reticle with red and green illumination
- Emerald-coated lenses
- The adjustable objective
- It is shockproof, fog-proof, and rainproof
- Zero-reset turrets
Cons
- The field of view narrows as you increase the magnification
3) Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-9×40 scope
Specifications
- 3 – 9x magnification
- 40 mm objective lens
- 4.4 – 13.3 mm exit pupil
- 3.8 – 4.4 in eye relief
- 60 MOA adjustment range
- 100 yds to infinity focus range
- 100 yds parallax
- Second focal plane reticle
- Adjustable objective
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-9×40 is a robust and adaptable scope that works incredibly well with springer air rifles because of its shockproof design, which can tolerate a lot of recoil. Its fully multi-coated lens system produces bright, clear images with exceptional light transmission, making it perfect for target shooting and hunting in a variety of lighting situations.
The fast-focus eyepiece guarantees quick target acquisition, and the Dead-Hold BDC reticle enables precise and speedy holdovers. The capped turrets are finger adjustable and reset to zero, making it easy and accurate to dial in shots. The Crossfire II is made with an O-ring-sealed, nitrogen-purged tube that is waterproof, fog-proof, and durable enough for any setting. This scope is a good option for any airgun shooter because it is dependable, clear, and long-lasting.
Pros
- Versatile magnification
- The objective lens gathers ample light
- The second focal plane maintains a consistent size
- Can withstand the recoil of firearms and adverse weather conditions
- High-quality optics
- Fast-focus eyepiece
Cons
- The reticle is non-illuminated
4) Athlon Talos 3-12×40 AO
Specifications
- 3 – 12 x magnification
- 40 mm objective lens
- 13.6 – 3.4 mm exit pupil
- 34.1 – 8.9 ft at 100 yds FOV
- 3.82 – 3.35 in eye relief
- Weighs 16.2 oz
- 10 yds to infinity parallax
The Athlon Talos 3-12×40 AO is a high-performance air rifle scope that offers remarkable clarity and precision while managing the special recoil of springer airguns. It is ideal for both short-range and long-range targets because of its adjustable objective (AO), which guarantees parallax-free shooting at different distances. Even in low light, the scope’s fully multi-coated lenses improve light transmission and produce a sharp, bright image.
In addition to providing precise holdover points for simple range estimation, the mil-dot reticle’s shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof design ensures durability in any weather. The Athlon Talos 3-12×40 AO provides the dependability and performance required for a fun shooting experience, whether you’re practicing your shooting techniques at the range or hunting small game.
Pros
- Adjustable objective
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Durable construction
- Mil-dot reticle
- Versatile magnification range
- Affordable
Cons
- None
5) SIG Sauer Whiskey3 3-9×40
Specifications
- 3 – 9 x magnification
- 40 mm objective lens
- 4.44 – 13.33 mm exit pupil
- 33.9 – 11.3 ft at 100 yds
- 3.5 in eye relief
- Weighs 15.7 oz
- 100 yds parallax
- 33.9 – 11.3 ft at 100 yds FOV
The SIG Sauer Whiskey3 3-9×40 is a premium, multipurpose scope made to perform superbly on springer air rifles. The scope’s SIG Sauer reticle enables accurate aim and fast adjustments, particularly in difficult situations.
The fog-proof, waterproof, and shockproof construction guarantees durability and dependability in any weather, while the fully multi-coated optics improve light transmission for bright, sharp images even in low light conditions. With a balance of quality and affordability, the Whiskey3 offers hunters and target shooters alike reliable performance and durability, even when subjected to the recoil of air rifles.
Pros
- Durable construction
- High-quality optics
- Versatile magnification
- Recoil-resistant
- Affordable
Cons
- None
Best Scope for Springer Air Rifle FAQs
Can I use any rifle scope on a springer air rifle?
No, the special double recoil of a spring-piston air rifle is too strong for standard rifle scopes. Lens shift or internal damage may result from using a standard scope. Always pick a scope made for springers and rated for airguns.
What is the best magnification for a springer air rifle scope?
Depending on your shooting requirements: 3-9x: Excellent for hunting small game and general shooting. For long-range precision shooting, 4-12x or 6-24x are the best options. Fixed 4x or 6x: Easy to use and dependable for shooting up close.
Why do springer air rifles have such strong recoil?
Due to the movement of the piston inside the rifle, springers produce recoil in two directions. A springer’s piston produces a forward and rearward jolt, which can harm scopes that aren’t designed for it, in contrast to guns that push back on recoil.
Do I need an adjustable objective (AO) or side parallax adjustment?
To maintain a clear and accurate sight picture at close range, often as close as 10 yards, an AO, or side parallax adjustment, is essential for air rifles.
What reticle is best for a springer air rifle?
Mildot Reticle: Aids in wind and holdover adjustments for accurate shooting. Duplex Reticle: Quick target acquisition with ease and simplicity. Illuminated reticle: helpful in dimly lit areas.
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Conclusion
The best scope for a springer air rifle isn’t just about clarity or magnification. It’s also about finding an optic that can withstand the unusual double recoil and still provide accurate and reliable performance. By choosing an airgun-rated scope with the proper mounting system, parallax adjustment, and durability, you can increase your accuracy and prolong the life of your optics.
Purchasing the best scope made for springers will provide a significant advantage when plinking, hunting, or shooting targets. To enjoy every shot with confidence, choose the best scope and mount it firmly. Happy shooting!
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