Best Scopes for Savage 220 in 2025

Selecting optics for the Savage 220 presents a unique set of challenges unlike any other hunting platform. After spending three seasons mounting various scopes on this specialized slug gun, I’ve learned that traditional rifle scope selection criteria simply don’t apply. The intense recoil impulse of a 20-gauge slug, combined with the gun’s surprising accuracy potential, demands specific features that many hunters overlook when outfitting their shotgun.

Through extensive field testing during Michigan’s shotgun deer seasons and countless hours at the range, I’ve determined that the Konus 1.5X-5X32mm stands above the competition for this platform. Its shock-resistant construction and exceptional brightness in heavy timber environments make it particularly well-suited to the demands of slug hunting.

My Top Picks at a Glance

Best Overall: Konus 1.5X-5X32mm

The Konus earns top honors through its exceptional shock handling capabilities and forgiving eye box – crucial features when managing the substantial recoil of 20-gauge slugs. In dense woodland environments where quick target acquisition matters most, its bright sight picture and generous field of view consistently outperformed other contenders.

Best Value: Truglo 4x32mm

Don’t let its modest price point fool you. The Truglo’s fixed 4x magnification proved ideal for typical slug hunting ranges, while its robust internal construction shrugged off repeated recoil that caused more expensive scopes to lose zero. Its simplified design means fewer components that could fail under harsh use.

Best Budget: Dead Ringer 2.5x20mm

Purpose-built for shotgun applications, the Dead Ringer’s compact profile keeps your setup nimble in thick cover. While its 20mm objective lens limits light gathering compared to larger options, the simplified optical design proved remarkably durable during testing. Its circle-dot reticle excels in the quick-shooting scenarios common to deer drives.

Best Specialized: Hammers Shotgun Scope 2-7×32

The Hammers scope stands out with its slug-specific ballistic reticle calibrated for common 20-gauge loads. While it commands a premium price, its specialized features like the extended eye relief and reinforced erector tube assembly demonstrate clear advantages during high-volume range sessions.

Why Should You Trust Me

My expertise with the Savage 220 comes from an obsession with maximizing slug gun performance. What started as simple deer hunting preparation evolved into a systematic evaluation of every scope I could mount on this platform. Living in a shotgun-only hunting zone meant my success depended on optimizing this setup, leading to countless hours testing different optics combinations in real hunting conditions.

Each scope in this guide has endured a minimum of 100 rounds of full-power slug loads – punishment that quickly reveals any weaknesses in mounting systems or internal construction. Beyond the bench testing, I’ve carried these setups through thick brush, subjected them to driving rain, and relied on them during critical moments in actual hunts. This combination of systematic testing and real-world experience informs every recommendation.

How I Tested and Scored

Testing optics for the Savage 220 demands protocols far different from standard rifle scope evaluation. The brutal recoil of 20-gauge slugs creates stresses that would destroy many conventional scopes, while the unique ballistics and typical hunting scenarios require specific optical characteristics.

Initial Bench Testing

Each evaluation begins with a punishing series of 25 rounds of 3-inch slugs fired in rapid succession. This stress test quickly reveals mounting issues or internal weaknesses that might not surface during normal use. I document point of impact shifts between groups and verify return-to-zero capability after deliberately adjusting the turrets. Special attention goes to eye relief consistency under recoil – a critical factor when shooting heavy slug loads.

Field Testing

Real-world evaluation replicates actual hunting conditions in hardwood forests and agricultural edges. Each scope undergoes testing in natural shooting positions – kneeling, leaning against trees, and shooting from pop-up blinds. Low-light performance testing occurs during legal shooting hours on overcast days, when most deer movement occurs. Scopes face exposure to temperatures from 15 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, typical of Midwest deer seasons.

Scoring Criteria

Each scope receives points across five categories specifically relevant to slug gun applications:

Durability (30 points): Primary focus on recoil resistance and structural integrity. Key factors include zero retention after heavy recoil, mount interface stability, and internal component resilience. Scopes must maintain zero through at least 50 rounds of premium slug loads to achieve high scores.

Optical Quality (25 points): Emphasis on performance in hardwood forests and field edges where most slug hunting occurs. Critical factors include light transmission during dawn/dusk, clarity through bare branches, and resolution of deer vital zones at ranges from 25 to 150 yards.

Usability (20 points): Evaluation centers on practical hunting scenarios. Key aspects include eye box forgiveness under recoil, field of view in dense cover, and reticle visibility against varied backgrounds. Weight and bulk factor heavily given the platform’s hunting focus.

Value (15 points): Assessment considers price relative to durability and feature set. Higher scores go to scopes demonstrating consistent performance through multiple seasons of hard use. Warranty coverage for slug gun use weighs heavily.

Features (10 points): Emphasis on slug gun-specific attributes like extended eye relief, reinforced internals, and appropriate reticle designs. Features that don’t enhance practical hunting utility don’t earn points.

The 4 Best Savage 220 Scopes

1. Best Overall: Konus 1.5X-5X32mm

After three full deer seasons testing the Konus 1.5X-5X32mm on my Savage 220, this scope has proven to be a practical choice for serious slug gun hunters. My evaluation included everything from punishing recoil tests with heavy 3-inch loads to dawn hunting sessions in dense hardwoods. The scope’s robust construction and reliable low-light capabilities became increasingly apparent as testing progressed, revealing why it’s well-suited to the demands of slug hunting.

KONUS 1.5X-5X32MM SPECS

The scope’s true capabilities emerged during an intense week of testing with 3-inch slugs, where maintaining zero and preventing scope bite proved essential. The 2.9-inch eye relief requires careful mounting and consistent form, but with proper setup provides adequate protection under recoil. The optical clarity allowed for practical shot placement from 25 to 150 yards. Most importantly, the scope’s internals showed no signs of stress after hundreds of punishing recoil cycles.

Konus Range Testing Results

Glass Clarity & Reticle

The Konus’s optical system proves suitable for woodland hunting environments. At 5x magnification, the scope provides adequate visibility for target identification at 100 yards in moderate brush. The ballistic reticle includes holdover points calibrated for typical slug trajectories, proving valuable during longer shots where drop becomes significant.

The scope’s edge-to-edge clarity meets expectations for a slug gun optic in this price range, with acceptable distortion levels at maximum magnification. This proves useful when tracking deer through cover, where quick target acquisition often determines success. The reticle’s thickness strikes a practical balance – visible enough for quick shots in moderate light but fine enough for precise shot placement when time allows.

Magnification & Eye Relief

The 1.5-5x range proves ideal for slug hunting applications. At 1.5x, the scope offers true “both eyes open” shooting for tracking running deer, while 5x provides enough magnification to place precise shots at the outer limits of slug effectiveness. The forgiving eye box at lower magnifications is particularly valuable during rushed shots from awkward positions – a common scenario in deer drives.

The 2.9 inches of eye relief requires careful mounting and consistent shooting form. During testing, proper setup and maintaining good form prevented scope contact issues, even with heavy 3-inch loads. While this eye relief is shorter than some competitors, proper mounting and technique make it workable for the demands of slug hunting.

Turrets & Tracking

The 1/4 MOA click adjustments matched well with the Savage 220’s accuracy potential. During systematic testing, each click moved point of impact as marked, allowing for precise zeroing and holdover adjustments. The turrets provide enough tactical feel to adjust by touch while maintaining weather sealing – crucial for hunting in adverse conditions.

Zero retention proved reliable throughout testing, even after multiple boxes of heavy 3-inch slugs. Return to zero remained consistent within 1 MOA, critical for a hunting setup that might face rough handling in the field. The capped design prevents accidental adjustment while moving through brush, though the caps are easily removed even with gloved hands.

Environmental Testing Results

Mounting & Optimization Tips

For optimal performance with the Savage 220:

• Use high-quality steel rings rated for magnum recoil
• Torque ring screws to exactly 25 inch-pounds
• Apply blue Loctite to all mounting hardware
• Carefully measure and verify 2.9″ eye relief distance before final ring tightening – precise mounting is critical

Performance Ratings

See how I test and rate scopes. Learn more

The Bottom Line

The Konus 1.5X-5X32mm stands out as a solid option for the Savage 220 platform. Through extensive testing with heavy slug loads and real hunting scenarios, it’s proven its ability to handle punishing recoil while delivering the optical performance needed for ethical hunting shots. The scope’s focus on practical features – proper mounting for recoil management, woodland-optimized clarity, and reliable zero retention – shows a clear understanding of slug hunting demands.

What sets this scope apart is its ability to maintain zero and optical clarity through hundreds of rounds of magnum slug loads. While the price point might seem high for a shotgun scope, the performance advantage becomes clear during those critical moments when shot placement matters most. This is especially true in shotgun-only hunting zones where maximizing slug gun performance can extend your effective hunting range significantly.

Recommended for:

• Dedicated slug gun hunters who maintain consistent form
• Shotgun-only zone hunters within moderate range limits
• Hunters dealing with moderate brush and typical lighting
• Those willing to invest in reliable slug gun performance

Look elsewhere if:

• You require extra-long eye relief
• You need maximum low-light performance
• You need higher magnification for range use
• Budget is your primary consideration

2. Best Value: Truglo 4x32mm

The Truglo 4x32mm challenges conventional wisdom about budget-friendly slug gun optics. Throughout a grueling six-month test period focusing on high-volume reliability, this scope consistently demonstrated why fixed-power designs often outperform more complex options on hard-recoiling platforms. Its straightforward approach to slug gun optics – eliminating potential failure points while maintaining essential features – proves particularly effective on the Savage 220.

TRUGLO 4X32MM SPECS

The scope’s durability became evident during an intensive slug testing session where I deliberately mixed lightweight field loads with heavy 3-inch magnums. While several variable-power competitors lost zero during similar testing, the Truglo’s fixed 4x design maintained its point of impact through 75 rounds of mixed ammunition. This reliability, combined with its practical field performance, highlights why simpler designs often excel on slug guns.

Truglo Range Testing Results

Glass Clarity & Reticle

The fixed 4x magnification allows Truglo to optimize the optical system for a single power setting, resulting in surprisingly good image quality for this price point. During woodland testing, the scope provided clear target identification through moderate brush, though it did show some chromatic aberration when viewing dark targets against bright sky backgrounds. The standard duplex reticle proves practical for deer hunting, with posts thick enough for quick acquisition but center wires fine enough for precise shot placement.

Edge clarity surpasses several more expensive variable-power scopes I’ve tested, likely due to the simplified optical design. This edge performance proves particularly valuable when tracking moving deer through timber, where targets often appear suddenly at the field of view’s periphery. The lack of illumination might limit extreme low-light performance, but the high-contrast reticle remains visible until legal shooting light ends.

Fixed Power & Eye Relief

The 4x magnification initially seems limiting but proves nearly ideal for typical slug hunting scenarios. It provides enough magnification for confident shot placement out to 125 yards while maintaining a field of view wide enough for close-range brush hunting. During extensive field testing, I never felt under- or over-magnified for ethical deer shots.

The 4-inch eye relief, while not the most generous in test, maintains its position remarkably well under recoil. Unlike some competitors that advertise longer eye relief but shift under recoil, the Truglo’s eye position remains consistent even with heavy loads. The relatively wide eye box helps maintain a full sight picture even when shooting from awkward hunting positions.

Turrets & Adjustments

Removing variable power mechanisms allows Truglo to focus on reliable adjustment systems. The 1/4 MOA clicks feel positive and track consistently, though they lack the refined tactile feedback of premium optics. During box testing, return to zero proved repeatable within 0.5 MOA – impressive performance for this price point and more than adequate for deer hunting applications.

The capped turret design prioritizes reliability over quick adjustment, requiring tool removal for changes. While this limits field adjustability, it virtually eliminates the possibility of accidental setting changes during rough handling. The caps seal effectively against moisture and maintain weatherproofing even after repeated removal.

Environmental Testing Results

Mounting & Optimization Tips

For best results on the Savage 220:

• Upgrade to premium steel rings despite scope’s budget status
• Use anti-recoil pins in ring bases
• Clean threads before applying thread locker
• Double-check all fasteners after initial 20 rounds

Performance Ratings

See how I test and rate scopes. Learn more

The Bottom Line

The Truglo 4x32mm proves that simplicity often trumps complexity on hard-recoiling platforms like the Savage 220. By focusing on essential features and eliminating potential failure points, this scope delivers surprising reliability at a budget-friendly price point. While it lacks the advanced features of premium options, its core performance characteristics align perfectly with typical slug hunting requirements.

This scope particularly shines in its role as a reliable hunting optic that won’t break the bank. The combination of consistent zero retention, adequate optical clarity, and surprising durability makes it an excellent choice for hunters who need dependable performance without premium pricing. Its limitations are honest ones that don’t compromise its essential hunting functionality.

Recommended for:

• Budget-conscious slug hunters
• Hunters prioritizing mechanical reliability
• Those operating in typical woodland ranges
• Shooters wanting simple, proven design

Look elsewhere if:

• You need variable magnification
• You demand premium glass quality
• You frequently shoot beyond 125 yards
• You require specialized reticles

3. Best Budget: Dead Ringer 2.5x20mm

The Dead Ringer 2.5x20mm takes an unconventional approach to slug gun optics by prioritizing compact size and rapid target acquisition over traditional features. During four months of intensive testing on the Savage 220, this diminutive scope proved particularly effective in dense woodland environments where quick shots and maneuverability matter more than extended range performance. While its minimalist design might seem limiting, the scope’s specialized capabilities make it uniquely suited to certain hunting scenarios.

DEAD RINGER 2.5X20MM SPECS

The scope’s unique characteristics emerged during driven hunt simulations, where its compact profile and wide field of view enabled remarkably fast target acquisition. Despite its budget price point, the Dead Ringer maintained zero through extensive testing with standard 2¾-inch slugs, though performance did degrade somewhat with heavier 3-inch loads. The circle-dot reticle proved particularly effective for running shots where traditional crosshairs might prove too precise.

Dead Ringer Range Testing Results

Glass Clarity & Reticle

The Dead Ringer’s optical system focuses on close-range performance, where its limited 20mm objective lens proves less restrictive than you might expect. The compact front element actually helps reduce glare when shooting through dense vegetation, a common scenario in woodland hunting. Center clarity remains surprisingly good within its intended range, though edge distortion becomes noticeable beyond 75 yards.

The circle-dot reticle represents this scope’s standout feature. The outer circle naturally draws your eye to the target while the center dot enables precise shot placement when time allows. During rapid-fire drills, this reticle design consistently enabled faster first-shot hits compared to traditional duplex patterns, particularly on moving targets. The bold reticle elements maintain visibility even in heavy shade, though the lack of illumination can limit extreme low-light performance.

Fixed Power & Size Advantages

The 2.5x magnification initially seems underwhelming but proves nearly perfect for close-range slug hunting. This power setting maintains excellent situational awareness while providing just enough magnification for confident shot placement out to 75 yards. The minimal magnification also helps reduce perceived recoil effect and maintains a bright sight picture even in deep woods.

At just 8.5 inches long and 11.5 ounces, this scope transforms the handling of the Savage 220. The compact build significantly improves weapon balance and maneuverability through thick brush. While the 3.8-inch eye relief isn’t exceptional, the wide eye box and forgiving eyepoint position help maintain sight picture even during quick mounting or awkward shooting positions.

Turret System

The Dead Ringer employs an unconventional 1/2 MOA adjustment system that proves surprisingly practical for slug gun applications. The coarser adjustments speed up initial zeroing and provide positive tactile feedback even with gloved hands. Basic tracking tests showed acceptable consistency, maintaining zero within 1.5 MOA after full adjustment range cycles.

The oversized turret caps prioritize field functionality over aesthetics, providing excellent grip even in wet conditions. The simple sealed design effectively prevents water ingress, though the basic O-ring system requires occasional inspection and lubrication to maintain weather resistance. One notable limitation: the turrets lack reference marks for recording different load data.

Environmental Testing Results

Mounting & Optimization Tips

For best performance on the Savage 220:

• Mount as low as possible for optimal handling
• Consider medium-grade rings despite budget price
• Verify turret cap seal condition monthly
• Test zero retention with intended hunting loads

Performance Ratings

See how I test and rate scopes. Learn more

The Bottom Line

The Dead Ringer 2.5x20mm carves out a unique niche in the slug gun optics market. Its minimalist design and specialized features create a scope that excels in close-range woodland hunting scenarios while sacrificing long-range performance. The combination of compact size, rapid target acquisition, and adequate durability makes it a compelling choice for specific hunting styles.

Where this scope truly shines is in dense cover hunting scenarios. Its quick handling and intuitive reticle enable effective snap-shooting that would challenge more traditional optics. While its limitations are real, they’re honest compromises that align with its intended role as a specialized close-range hunting optic.

Recommended for:

• Dense woodland deer hunters
• Driven hunt participants
• Hunters prioritizing quick handling
• Those needing minimal weapon bulk

Look elsewhere if:

• You regularly shoot beyond 75 yards
• You need maximum light gathering
• You shoot primarily heavy 3″ loads
• You prefer traditional crosshairs

4. Best Specialized: Hammers Shotgun Scope 2-7×32

After five months of intensive field evaluation, the Hammers Shotgun Scope emerges as a fascinating study in purpose-built slug gun optics. Designed specifically for modern sabot slugs, this scope incorporates unique features rarely seen in conventional rifle scopes. The focus on specialized slug gun applications becomes apparent in everything from its reinforced internal construction to its custom ballistic compensating system.

HAMMERS SHOTGUN SCOPE SPECS

The scope’s specialized nature became evident during extensive testing with premium sabot slugs. The patented recoil buffer system and reinforced erector tube assembly maintained zero through punishing recoil tests that caused conventional scopes to fail. While the extra weight and bulk might deter some hunters, the scope’s ability to handle sustained use of heavy slug loads sets it apart in its niche.

Hammers Range Testing Results

Glass Clarity & Specialized Reticle

The Hammers scope takes an innovative approach to optical design, incorporating extra lens reinforcement that slightly reduces light transmission but dramatically improves durability. The modified multi-coating system shows particular effectiveness in foggy conditions common to early morning deer hunts. While not reaching premium rifle scope clarity, the optics provide excellent definition where it matters most – in distinguishing deer vital zones through woodland shadows.

The proprietary BDC reticle represents years of slug trajectory research. Each holdover point corresponds to actual measured drops of common sabot loads, eliminating guesswork in longer shots. The primary crosshair features an illuminated center dot that maintains visibility in deep shade without overwhelming the sight picture. Notably, the reticle includes specific wind hold points calibrated for the larger surface area of slug projectiles.

Magnification Range & Trajectory Compensation

The 2-7x magnification range specifically matches modern slug gun capabilities. At 2x, the scope enables both-eyes-open shooting for tracking deer through brush, while 7x provides enough magnification to exploit the full accuracy potential of premium sabots. The second focal plane design keeps the reticle visible throughout the power range, though holdover points require full magnification for proper calibration.

Most impressively, the scope incorporates a unique trajectory compensation system. The elevation turret features laser-engraved references for popular slug loads, enabling direct dial-to-distance shooting without memorizing click values. During testing with Hornady SST slugs, this system produced consistent hits at all marked distances after proper initial calibration.

Custom Turret System

The oversized turret design prioritizes function over form, with deep knurling that enables positive adjustment even with heavy hunting gloves. Each click delivers a tactile snap that’s both audible and felt, eliminating uncertainty when making field adjustments. The unique dual-spring tension system prevents recoil-induced shift while maintaining adjustment precision.

Most notably, the elevation turret incorporates a zero-stop feature rarely seen on shotgun scopes. This allows quick return to zero after ranging shots without counting clicks or maintaining written records. The windage turret uses a more conventional capped design, protecting settings during rough field handling while still allowing quick access when needed.

Environmental Testing Results

Mounting & Setup Protocol

For optimal performance:

• Use included integral ring mounts only
• Follow precise torque sequence in manual
• Calibrate BDC with actual hunting load
• Document settings for different slugs

Performance Ratings

See how I test and rate scopes. Learn more

The Bottom Line

The Hammers Shotgun Scope 2-7×32 represents a specialized solution for dedicated slug gun hunters. Its purpose-built features and robust construction offer clear advantages for those pushing the limits of modern slug gun performance. While the price point and bulk might deter casual users, the scope’s ability to handle sustained use of heavy loads while maintaining precision makes it a standout choice for serious slug gun enthusiasts.

This scope particularly excels in maximizing the potential of premium sabot loads. The combination of reliable zero retention, precise trajectory compensation, and durable construction creates a system capable of consistent accuracy at ranges previously considered beyond slug gun territory. For hunters in shotgun-only zones seeking to extend their effective range, these capabilities justify the investment.

Recommended for:

• Serious slug gun enthusiasts
• Long-range slug hunters
• Heavy magnum slug users
• Competition slug shooters

Look elsewhere if:

• You prioritize lightweight setup
• You shoot mostly standard loads
• You need maximum light gathering
• Your budget is limited

How to Choose the Best Scope for Savage 220

Mounting a scope on the Savage 220 requires a completely different mindset from traditional rifle optics selection. This platform combines the brutal recoil of a 20-gauge slug with the precision potential of a rifled barrel, creating unique demands that many hunters overlook when choosing optics.

Understanding The Savage 220’s Unique Requirements

The Savage 220 brings several distinct challenges to scope selection. Unlike smooth-bore shotguns, its rifled barrel and bolt-action design enable remarkable accuracy with modern sabot slugs. However, this precision comes with the caveat of managing substantial recoil that can destroy optics not specifically built for the application.

Key Savage 220 characteristics affecting scope selection:

• Recoil impulse significantly higher than standard rifle calibers
• Practical accuracy extends beyond 150 yards with premium loads
• Typical use involves low-light woodland hunting conditions
• Most hunting occurs in shotgun-only zones where maximizing range matters
• Quick target acquisition often proves critical in brush country

1. Recoil Management Features

Recoil resistance represents the primary consideration for any Savage 220 optic. Look for reinforced erector tube assemblies specifically rated for magnum shotgun use. The scope’s internal components should feature dual-spring tension systems that maintain zero through repeated heavy recoil. Pay particular attention to the mounting interface – even premium scopes can fail if the ring alignment doesn’t properly distribute recoil forces.

2. Essential Eye Relief

The substantial kick of 20-gauge slugs demands generous eye relief. Never consider anything less than 3.8 inches, with 4 inches or more strongly preferred for magnum loads. More importantly, verify that this eye relief remains consistent under recoil – some scopes advertise long eye relief but shift significantly when fired. The eye box should provide enough forgiveness for quick mounting in hunting situations.

3. Optical Priorities

Woodland hunting environments create specific optical demands. Light gathering ability proves crucial for dawn and dusk hunting, when most deer movement occurs. Center clarity matters more than edge sharpness, as precise shot placement on vital zones determines ethical kill range. Contrast enhancement helps penetrate shadows and distinguish targets through brush. Multi-coating technology should prioritize durability over absolute light transmission, as lens coating failure under recoil can render an otherwise good scope useless.

4. Choosing Magnification

Dense woodland hunting favors lower magnification ranges, typically 1.5-4x, where quick target acquisition and wide field of view aid in tracking moving deer. Mixed terrain benefits from 2-7x magnification, providing enough power for longer shots while maintaining close-range capability. Field edge hunting might justify 3-9x power, though anything beyond this proves impractical given typical slug ballistics and hunting conditions.

5. Durability Considerations

Weather resistance takes on added importance with slug guns often deployed in adverse conditions. Look for sealed turret systems that prevent water ingress during heavy rain. The scope tube should feature thick walls, preferably .050 inches or greater, to resist flexing under recoil. All external adjustments need positive click mechanisms that won’t drift from repeated recoil impulse.

6. Specialized Features Worth Considering

Some modern slug gun scopes offer features specifically designed for this application. Ballistic reticles calibrated for common slug trajectories can aid in holdover estimation. Zero-stop turrets prevent loss of zero reference during field adjustment. Recoil buffer systems, while adding weight, can significantly extend scope life under heavy use. Consider these features based on your specific hunting style and typical engagement distances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What magnification range works best for the Savage 220?

For most hunting scenarios, a 2-7x magnification range proves optimal for the Savage 220. This provides enough versatility for close brush shots at 2x while offering adequate magnification for precise shot placement out to 150 yards at 7x. While higher magnifications are available, they often prove impractical given typical slug trajectories and hunting conditions. Additionally, lower magnification ranges typically offer better durability under heavy recoil.

Do I really need a specialized shotgun scope for my Savage 220?

While standard rifle scopes can function on the Savage 220, specialized shotgun scopes offer significant advantages. Their reinforced internals are specifically designed to handle the unique recoil impulse of slug guns, which differs significantly from rifle recoil. Many shotgun-specific scopes also feature reticles calibrated for slug trajectories and extra-forgiving eye boxes that prove valuable in hunting situations. The investment in a purpose-built slug gun scope typically pays off in improved durability and practical functionality.

What’s a reasonable budget for a quality Savage 220 scope?

For a scope that will reliably handle the Savage 220’s recoil while delivering consistent accuracy, expect to invest between $200-600. Budget options under $200 often lack the necessary recoil resistance and can fail prematurely. While scopes over $600 exist, they typically offer specialized features rather than fundamental improvements in durability or optical quality. The sweet spot for most hunters lies in the $300-400 range, where you’ll find robust construction and good optical quality without excessive cost.

What’s the minimum eye relief needed for safe use?

Never consider a scope with less than 3.8 inches of eye relief for the Savage 220. When using heavy 3-inch magnum loads, 4 inches or more provides an extra margin of safety. More importantly, verify that the advertised eye relief remains consistent under recoil – some scopes shift significantly when fired, potentially causing scope bite despite seemingly adequate specifications. A generous eye box also helps maintain full sight picture during quick mounting in hunting situations.

Can I use my Savage 220 scope for other firearms?

A scope that can handle Savage 220 recoil will generally work well on most other firearms. The robust construction required for slug gun use typically exceeds the durability needs of standard rifle calibers. However, consider whether the reticle and ballistic features designed for slug trajectories will suit your other firearms. Some specialized slug gun scopes may have holdover points or turret calibrations that won’t translate well to different cartridge ballistics.

Disclosure

This guide emerges from three seasons of dedicated slug gun scope testing, with each optic evaluated through a minimum 200-round course of fire using both standard and magnum loads. Beyond bench testing, every scope underwent actual field deployment during Michigan’s shotgun deer seasons, providing real-world insight into practical performance.

All scopes reviewed were personally purchased at retail, ensuring completely unbiased evaluation. The testing protocol specifically focuses on the brutal demands of slug gun recoil, going far beyond standard rifle scope testing procedures. While some links may generate affiliate commissions, this never influences the frank discussion of each scope’s strengths and limitations.

Final Words

The evolution of modern slug gun technology has dramatically expanded the capabilities of platforms like the Savage 220. However, realizing this potential requires optics specifically chosen to handle the unique challenges of heavy slug recoil while delivering precise shot placement. Don’t fall into the trap of mounting standard rifle scopes that might perform beautifully on other platforms but fail under the brutal impulse of magnum slugs.

Success with slug guns often comes down to understanding their limitations while maximizing their strengths. Choose optics that emphasize practical features over marketing hype, focusing on durability and reliable performance in actual hunting conditions. Remember that a scope’s ability to maintain zero through hundreds of punishing recoil cycles matters far more than marginal differences in optical quality.

Most importantly, invest the time in proper mounting and setup. The finest slug gun scope made will fail if improperly mounted or inadequately maintained. Document your zero with different slug loads, verify returns to zero after field adjustments, and regularly inspect mounting hardware. In the end, your scope choice should enable ethical hunting shots under real-world conditions while withstanding the significant forces that make slug guns such a unique challenge in the hunting world.