Choosing the right scope for your Savage 220 is a critical decision that can define your next hunt. This dedicated slug gun is renowned for its accuracy and power, but to truly harness its potential, you need an optic that matches its capabilities. Whether you’re in dense timber or an open field, the correct magnification, reticle, and durability are paramount for a successful and ethical shot.
Our 2025 roundup is designed to guide you through the top options available. We’ve analyzed a range of scopes, from close-quarters tactical models to versatile hunting optics with extended magnification. This selection considers the unique demands of the Savage 220’s recoil and its role as a premier hunting firearm, ensuring you can make an informed choice for the season ahead.
Our Top Picks for the Savage 220
- Vortex Optics Ranger 1-4×24 Second Focal Plane Riflescope
- Athlon Talos BTR 1-4×24 Direct Dial Riflescope
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire Riflescope
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope
- Burris Fullfield II 3-9x40mm Ballistic Plex Riflescope
- Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9×40 BDC Reticle Riflescope
- Vortex Optics Diamondback HP 4-16×42 Riflescope
- Sig Sauer Whiskey3 3-9x40mm Hunting Duplex Riflescope
Vortex Optics Ranger 1-4×24 Second Focal Plane Riflescope
The Vortex Ranger is an exceptional choice for hunters who anticipate close to mid-range shots with their Savage 220. Its true 1x setting on the low end provides red-dot-like speed for fast target acquisition in thick cover, while the 4x magnification allows for more precise shot placement as distances increase. This versatility makes it ideal for driven hunts or still-hunting in mixed terrain.
Built on a robust one-piece aluminum tube, the Ranger is made to withstand the recoil of a 20-gauge slug gun. The exposed tactical turrets offer fast and accurate windage and elevation adjustments, and the CRS Zero Stop feature is invaluable for returning to your original zero after making temporary corrections in the field. With extra-low dispersion glass and proprietary coatings, the scope delivers crisp, bright images even in challenging light conditions.
Athlon Talos BTR 1-4×24 Direct Dial Riflescope
For the hunter seeking a feature-rich LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) without a premium price, the Athlon Talos BTR presents a compelling option. Its illuminated reticle enhances visibility during the critical low-light periods of dawn and dusk, ensuring your aiming point stands out against a dark background. The reticle is etched directly onto the glass, providing excellent durability and high resistance to the Savage 220’s recoil.
The fully multi-coated optics are a key benefit, effectively reducing glare and increasing light transmission for a brighter sight picture. This scope is designed to perform reliably under tough conditions, giving you the confidence to take a shot when the moment of truth arrives. The direct dial turrets offer a straightforward and tactile adjustment experience.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire Riflescope
While marketed for rimfire, the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 is a capable and forgiving scope that can serve well on a slug gun for certain applications. Its generous eye relief and ultra-forgiving eye box make it easy to acquire a sight picture quickly, which is a major advantage when a deer appears unexpectedly. The V-Plex reticle is a simple, uncluttered design perfect for a variety of hunting scenarios.
The fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick reticle focusing to suit your vision. Anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses ensure the image you see is as bright and clear as possible. The capped reset turrets are finger-adjustable for sighting in and can be easily reset to zero, a user-friendly feature for maintaining your preferred settings.
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 is a classic hunting scope that represents a perfect match for the Savage 220’s capabilities. The 3-9x magnification range is arguably the most versatile for North American big game, providing enough power for longer shots across a field while remaining usable at closer ranges. Its lightweight design keeps your overall setup manageable in the woods.
Leupold is renowned for its optical clarity, and the VX-Freedom lives up to that reputation with its Twilight Light Management System, which extends shooting light in the early morning and late evening. Rugged and waterproof, it is built to the highest standards of reliability. This scope offers exceptional value and performance from one of the most trusted names in optics.
Burris Fullfield II 3-9x40mm Ballistic Plex Riflescope
Burris has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality, affordable scopes, and the Fullfield II is a prime example. The 3-9×40 configuration provides a balanced field of view and magnification for most slug gun hunting situations. The Ballistic Plex reticle offers simple holdover points, which can be very useful for engaging targets at extended ranges where your slug may drop.
This scope features index-matched, hi-lume multi-coated lenses that maximize light transmission for a bright image. The precision-ground lenses ensure consistent clarity from edge to edge. Known for its durability, the Fullfield II can handle the repeated recoil of the Savage 220, making it a dependable partner for many hunting seasons to come.
Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9×40 BDC Reticle Riflescope
The Nikon Buckmasters II is a solid performer that brings Nikon’s expertise in optics to the hunting field. The 3-9×40 platform is versatile, and the BDC (Bullet Drop Compensating) reticle is designed to help you make accurate shots at varying distances without adjusting your turrets. This is particularly beneficial for hunters who may encounter game at unknown ranges.
Fully multi-coated lenses provide superior light gathering capability for clarity and brightness. The scope is nitrogen-filled and O-ring sealed for fog-proof and waterproof performance in all weather conditions. With its spot-on accuracy and reliable construction, the Buckmasters II is a scope you can count on when a trophy buck steps out.
Vortex Optics Diamondback HP 4-16×42 Riflescope
For the hunter who plans to take full advantage of the Savage 220’s long-range accuracy, the Vortex Diamondback HP 4-16×42 is an excellent choice. The higher magnification range allows for precise shot placement at extended distances, making it ideal for hunting over large agricultural fields or open country. The 42mm objective lens paired with high-density, extra-low dispersion glass delivers a sharp, high-resolution image.
The patented ArmorTek coating protects the exterior lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt. With a hard-anodized, single-piece tube, the Diamondback HP is built to be tough and withstand harsh conditions. Its side focus parallax adjustment allows you to fine-tune the image focus and parallax for unmatched clarity at any range.
Sig Sauer Whiskey3 3-9x40mm Hunting Duplex Riflescope
Sig Sauer brings its combat optics heritage to the hunting world with the Whiskey3 series. This 3-9x40mm model features a simple and effective duplex reticle that gets you on target quickly. The magnification range is perfectly suited for the effective range of a slug, providing a wide field of view at 3x and enough detail for a precise aim at 9x.
Fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission for a bright and clear sight picture. The scope is shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof, ensuring reliable performance in any environment you hunt. With its robust construction and trusted brand name, the Whiskey3 is a scope that inspires confidence in the field.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Scopes For Savage 220
Choosing the right optic for your Savage 220 isn’t just about magnification; it’s about matching the scope to the unique characteristics of a dedicated slug gun. I’ve spent a lot of time behind these firearms, and the right glass makes all the difference in turning a good hunt into a successful one. Here’s what I focus on when picking a scope for my 220.
First and foremost, you need to consider eye relief. The Savage 220, chambered in 20-gauge slugs, has significant recoil. A scope with generous eye relief, I’d say a minimum of 3.5 inches, is non-negotiable for safety and comfort. It keeps the scope from “biting” you during recoil and makes for a quicker, more natural sight picture. This is my top priority every single time.
Next, let’s talk about magnification. A slug gun is not a long-range rifle. Realistically, your effective range is inside 200 yards. Because of this, I find that a low-to-mid power variable scope is the perfect fit. Something in the 1-6x, 2-7x, or 3-9x range gives you a wide field of view for close-in, fast-moving shots in thick cover, and enough power to make precise shots at 150 yards. A massive, high-power scope is just unnecessary weight and bulk on this platform.
The reticle is your direct link to the target. For a fast-handling gun like this, a simple duplex reticle is fantastic. It’s uncluttered and fast to use. However, if you plan on taking longer shots, a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticle calibrated for common slug trajectories can be a huge help. It takes the guesswork out of holdovers, but you must verify the drops with your specific ammunition at the range.
Finally, don’t skimp on build quality. The scope must be rugged enough to handle the 220’s sharp recoil impulse, shot after shot. Look for scopes that are nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed for fog-proof and waterproof performance. A durable, one-piece tube construction is also a good sign of a scope built to last. Pair your final choice with a set of strong, low-profile rings to get everything mounted solidly. Getting the right setup for the 8 Best Scopes For Savage 220 | Hunting Mark 2025 is about balancing these practical features to create a reliable and effective hunting tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal eye relief for a Savage 220 scope?
I consider a minimum of 3.5 inches of eye relief to be the safe starting point. More is almost always better. The Savage 220 generates a stout recoil, and a short eye relief will almost guarantee you get scoped—meaning the eyepiece will hit your eyebrow on firing. It’s a painful lesson you only need to learn once. I always prioritize scopes that specifically advertise long eye relief for hard-kicking firearms like slug guns and magnum rifles.
Can I use a regular rifle scope on my Savage 220?
You can, but you need to be careful. The primary concern is whether the scope is built to handle the specific recoil impulse of a shotgun. Some rifle scopes, especially those designed for lighter-recoiling calibers, can have their internal components damaged over time by the 220. I always look for scopes that the manufacturer states are rated for shotgun or magnum shotgun use. This gives me confidence that the scope’s internals are built tough enough for the long haul.
What magnification range is best for slug hunting?
For most slug hunting situations, where shots are inside 200 yards, I find a variable scope in the 1-6x, 2-7x, or 3-9x range to be the most versatile. The low end (1x, 2x, or 3x) is perfect for quick shots in dense woods, while the top end gives you the precision needed for a clean, ethical shot at longer distances across a field. A super high-power scope is overkill and will hinder you in close quarters.
Is a BDC reticle necessary for a slug gun?
It’s not necessary, but it can be very useful. A standard duplex reticle works perfectly fine for most hunters. However, if you plan to consistently push your range out towards 150-200 yards, a BDC reticle can help you compensate for bullet drop without fiddling with turrets. The key is to remember that BDC reticles are calibrated for specific ballistic profiles. You must test it at various distances with the exact slug you hunt with to know where each holdover mark actually hits.
What type of scope rings should I use?
I strongly recommend using a sturdy, one-piece base or a set of high-quality, low-profile rings. The Savage 220 has a drilled and tapped receiver ready for a base. Ensuring a solid mount is critical for maintaining zero under recoil. I avoid tall rings, as they can make getting a consistent cheek weld difficult. A low mount keeps everything tight to the rifle and promotes a more stable shooting position. When researching the 8 Best Scopes For Savage 220 | Hunting Mark 2025, remember that a good mount is just as important as the scope itself.