Air rifles are becoming increasingly popular, both for recreational use and as a tool for pest control. Air rifles come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but they all have one thing in common: they fire pellets using compressed air or gas.
Because of the way they operate, air rifles have different recoil patterns than traditional firearms. As a result, many scope manufacturers now offer models specifically designed for air rifles. That being said, it is possible to use a regular scope on an air rifle.
However, be prepared for the increased recoil by using a heavier spring or adding weight to the stock.
Do I Need An Air Rifle Specific Scope?
If you’re thinking about getting an air rifle, you might be wondering if you need a special scope. The answer is: it depends.
If you’re planning on using your air rifle for hunting, you’ll definitely need a scope that’s designed specifically for air rifles. These scopes are built to withstand the recoil of an air rifle. Besides that, they also feature special reticles that help to compensate for the unique trajectory of air pellets.
On the other hand, if you’re just going to be plinking around at targets, you can probably get by with a regular scope.
Why Do I Need A Special Air Rifle Scope?
When it comes to shooting, whether it be for hunting or target practice, having a quality scope is essential. A good scope can help you to hit your target more accurately, which is why many people choose to invest in a specialized air rifle scope.
While a regular rifle scope can work for air rifles, there are a few reasons why an air rifle scope is often the better choice.
- An air rifle scope is designed to withstand the recoil of an air rifle. The recoil of an air rifle can be much stronger than that of a regular rifle, and a regular scope might not be able to handle the force.
- Such rifle scopes are often designed with a higher magnification than regular scopes. Air rifles generally have a lower velocity than regular rifles. You need a scope that can help you to see your target more clearly.
- Air rifle scopes are often lighter in weight than regular scopes. This is important because an air rifle is often lighter in weight than a regular rifle, and you don’t want your scope to make your gun too top-heavy.
In short, there are many reasons why you might want to invest in a specialized air rifle scope.
Best Air Gun Rated Scopes List
| Scope | Feature | Best For |
| Bushnell Scopechief VI B&L 2.5x-8x32mm | High-quality rifle scope that is ideal for hunting and target shooting Superior light transmission and clarity | PCP air rifle |
| CenterPoint Optics LR416AORG2 | Reticle with an illuminated center dot Magnification 16x and a 40mm objective lens | Spring air rifle |
Can You Use A Regular Scope On A PCP Air Rifle?
One of the best things about PCP air rifles is that these are the strongest types of rifles yet there is no real recoil going on. That means you can use any type of scope on these rifles, even the ones meant for high-powered hunting rifles.
The other great thing about PCP air rifles is that they are very accurate right out of the box so you don’t have to do too much in terms of tuning them to your liking. You can find a good deal on a used PCP air rifle and still get a great scope to go along with it.
Just remember that when you are shopping for a scope, pay attention to the power rating. You don’t want one that is too powerful for your rifle because it will just be wasted money.
A 3-9x40mm scope is more than enough power for most PCP air rifles. Anything beyond that and you are probably just paying for extra features that you don’t need.
Can You Use A 22 Scope On An Air Rifle?
Though air rifles are often thought of as mere toys, many serious shooters use them for target practice, small game hunting, and even pest control. Many air rifles are capable of shooting very accurately, and as a result, they can benefit from the use of a scope.
Not all scopes are created equal, and some are better suited for air rifles than others. For example, a 22 scope is designed for use with 22 caliber firearms.
- While it can be used on an air rifle, the smaller size of an air rifle may make it more difficult to sight in the scope properly.
- The recoil of an air rifle can be hard on a 22 scope, and as a result, it may not hold its zero as well as a scope that is designed specifically for air rifles.
For these reasons, it is generally best to use a scope that is designed specifically for air rifles when shooting an air rifle. Though it may cost a bit more, it will likely provide you with a better shooting experience in the long run.
Also Read: What is the best scope for my 270 Rifle?
Can A Bushnell Scope Be Used On An Air Gun?
There are a variety of different scopes on the market designed specifically for air guns, and while a Bushnell scope can technically be used on an air gun, it may not provide the best results.
Air guns generate a lot of vibration when they’re fired, and that can cause the image in a scope to blur. That’s why most scope manufacturers recommend using an air gun rated scope on an air gun.
That said, if you’re set on using a Bushnell scope, there are a few things you can do to help reduce the risk of image blur.
- Mount the scope securely to the gun.
- Use lower magnification settings – the more you zoom in, the more likely it is that you’ll get blur vision
- Adjust the focus frequently as even small changes in vibration can cause the image to become blurred.
By following these tips, you can use a Bushnell scope on an air gun, but it’s important to keep in mind that it may not provide the same clear image as an air gun-specific scope. Here are a few Bushnell air gun rated scopes
- Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 3-9X 40mm Multi-X Reticle Riflescope
- Bushnell Trophy 3-9X 50mm Multi-X Reticle Rifle Scope
- Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope, 1x25mm
- Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 4-12X 40mm Multi-X Reticle AObRiflescope
- Bushnell Engage Riflescope
Can A Vortex Scope Be Used On An Air Rifle?
Vortex optics are some of the best in the world, and they can be used on air rifles with no problems. The company makes a variety of models that are specifically designed for air rifles.
All Vortex optics are designed to withstand the recoil of an air rifle, and they are also built to be rugged and durable. Some of the best Vortex air gun rated scopes are,
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II SFP, 1 inch Tube Riflescopes
- Vortex Optics Strike Eagle SFP Riflescope
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II AO, SFP 30mm Tube Riflescopes
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II AO, SFP, 1 inch Tube Riflescopes
- Vortex Optics Diamondback SFP Riflescopes
- Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical FFP Riflescopes
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7X32 Rimfire, SFP Rifle Scope
- Vortex Optics Copperhead 4-12×44 SFP Riflescope
- Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II FFP Riflescopes
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x 32 Scout, SFP, 1 Inch Tube Riflescope
Can A Leupold Scope Be Used On An Air Rifle?
A popular question we get here at Leupold is whether or not our scopes can be used on air rifles. The answer is a resounding yes! In fact, all of our scopes are springer-rated.
It means they’re tough enough to handle the recoil of a high-powered air rifle. Not only that but these scopes are also designed to withstand the rigors of repeated use, making them ideal for both casual plinking and serious target practice.
Top-rated Leupold scopes for air rifles are,
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope
- Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Riflescope
- Leupold VX-Freedom 450 Bushmaster 3-9×40 Riflescope
- Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4X20mm Riflescope
- Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14x50mm Riflescope
Can A Simmons Scope Be Used On An Air Rifle?
Simmons are widely considered to be one of the best brands on the market, and their products are used by hunters and target shooters alike. So, can a Simmons scope be used on an air rifle? The answer is yes, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
- Simmons scopes are designed for use with Rimfire rifles, so they may not be compatible with all air rifles.
- These scopes tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum, so they may not be the best option for those on a budget.
- While Simmons scopes can be used on air rifles, they may not provide the same level of performance as they do when used with firearms.
You can still opt for Simmons and choose any from the below list,
- Simmons 3-9x32mm. 22 Waterproof Fog proof Matte Black Riflescope
- Simmons 8-Point 3-9×50 mm Riflescope with Truplex Reticle
- Simmons Truplex .22 Mag Riflescope
- Simmons Truplex Riflescope (3x9x40, Matte)
- Simmons Truplex 8-Point Riflescope (3-9×32, Matte)
- Simmons Whitetail Classic Black Fmcw Black granite
- Simmons 655124 1-6×24 Predator/Varmint Black, Riflescope
- Simmons 2-7×32 Black FMC, Exp Elevation.22 & .17
Will Using A Regular Scope On An Air Rifle Destroy The Scope?
No, a regular scope will not destroy an air rifle. In fact, using a higher quality scope can actually improve accuracy.
The main difference between an air rifle and a traditional firearm is the level of recoil, or the kickback when the gun is fired.
Since air rifles have very little recoil, they can use lighter, less durable construction materials. As a result, they are often less expensive than traditional firearms.
However, this does not mean that they are not precision instruments. In fact, many air rifles are highly accurate and can benefit from the use of a good scope. A regular scope will not be damaged by the much lower level of recoil, and it can actually help to improve accuracy.
Binos enthusiast since I was 12 – A real expert in all things optics including rifle scopes and red dots. Live in Dubai & love writing, beaches and eating!
