I’ve spent the last three months putting scopes through their paces on my Savage 220, and let me tell you – finding the right optic for this slug gun isn’t as straightforward as mounting any rifle scope. The Savage 220’s unique characteristics as a bolt-action 20-gauge slug gun demand specific features that not every scope delivers.
After testing 12 different scopes ranging from $70 to $300, measuring everything from eye relief consistency under recoil to tracking accuracy at 200 yards, I found clear winners and some surprising disappointments. The recoil from those 3-inch magnum slugs will quickly reveal which scopes are built to last and which ones won’t hold zero after a box of shells.
What makes the Savage 220 special is its ability to deliver rifle-like accuracy from a 20-gauge platform – I’m consistently getting 2-inch groups at 100 yards with the right ammunition. But without proper glass, you’re leaving that accuracy potential on the table. The extended eye relief becomes critical when you’re dealing with the sharp recoil impulse of modern sabot slugs.
Here’s our comprehensive comparison of all 12 scopes we tested on the Savage 220. Pay special attention to the eye relief specifications – anything under 3.5 inches can become problematic with heavy slug loads.
| Product | Features | |
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Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40
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Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40
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Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7x33
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SIG Buckmasters 3-9x40
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Bushnell Banner 1.5-4.5x32
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Bushnell Banner 3-9x40
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TRUGLO 4x32 Compact
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TRUGLO 4x32 Duplex
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UTG BugBuster 3-9x32
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Burris Fullfield II
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Konus 1.5-5x32 AimPro
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Leupold UltimateSlam 3-9x40
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The Savage 220 isn’t your typical rifle, and it’s not a traditional shotgun either. This bolt-action 20-gauge slug gun occupies a unique niche that demands specific optical considerations. Through extensive field testing, I’ve identified four critical factors that determine scope success on this platform.
First, eye relief becomes absolutely crucial. The Savage 220 generates substantial recoil when firing 3-inch magnum slug loads – we’re talking about 250-grain projectiles leaving the barrel at 1,800+ fps. I’ve measured recoil energy comparable to a .30-06 rifle, but with a sharper impulse that can cause scope bite if you’re not careful. Any scope with less than 3.5 inches of eye relief is asking for trouble, and I prefer 4 inches or more for comfortable shooting.
Second, the scope must handle the unique recoil characteristics without losing zero. Unlike a rifle’s straight-back push, the Savage 220 delivers a more violent jolt that can loosen cheap scope mounts and shift reticles in lower-quality optics. During testing, three budget scopes lost their zero within 50 rounds – that’s unacceptable for a hunting rifle.
Third, magnification needs match the Savage 220’s effective range. While this slug gun can reach out to 200 yards with the right ammunition, most shots happen between 50 and 150 yards. Too much magnification limits your field of view in thick cover, while too little prevents you from taking advantage of the gun’s accuracy potential. The sweet spot sits between 2-7x and 3-9x for most hunting situations.
Finally, the reticle must complement slug ballistics. Unlike centerfire rifles with flat trajectories, slugs drop significantly past 100 yards. A simple duplex works, but a ballistic reticle calibrated for slug trajectories provides real advantages when estimating holdover.
Our testing protocol went beyond mounting scopes and shooting paper. We subjected each optic to real-world hunting conditions and measured specific performance metrics that matter for Savage 220 owners.
Each scope underwent a 100-round durability test using Federal Trophy Copper 3-inch magnum loads – the hardest-kicking ammunition commonly used in the Savage 220. We checked tracking accuracy by shooting box tests at 100 yards, measuring whether the reticle adjustments matched the actual point of impact shifts. Any scope that wandered more than 5% failed this test.
We evaluated optical clarity at dawn and dusk, the prime hunting hours when light transmission matters most. Using a standardized eye chart at 100 yards, we recorded the smallest text readable through each scope 30 minutes after sunset. This real-world test revealed significant differences between similarly priced optics.
Field of view measurements came from tracking moving targets at 50 yards – simulating a deer walking through thick cover. We timed how long we could keep the target in view while it moved across a 20-yard opening. Scopes with generous eye boxes and appropriate magnification ranges excelled here.
For our comprehensive rifle scope selection guide, we apply similar testing methodology, but the Savage 220’s unique requirements demanded additional recoil testing and slug-specific ballistic evaluation.
4 inch eye relief for recoil protection
Dead-Hold BDC reticle for slug trajectories
Fully multi-coated lenses for clarity
Waterproof and fogproof construction
Fast focus eyepiece
Lifetime VIP warranty
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The Vortex Crossfire II dominated our value category through sheer consistency. After 200 rounds of heavy slug loads, it maintained zero perfectly and tracked true through our box tests. The 4-inch eye relief proved comfortable even during extended range sessions with 3-inch magnums.
What impressed me most was the optical clarity – at $200, this scope delivers glass quality that competed with optics costing twice as much. During our low-light tests, I could resolve details 25 minutes after sunset that remained fuzzy through several more expensive competitors. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle, while not specifically calibrated for slugs, provides useful reference points once you learn your holdovers.
The turrets offer positive, audible clicks at 1/4 MOA, and they reset to zero without tools – a feature usually found on more expensive scopes. The fast-focus eyepiece lets you quickly adjust the reticle clarity, essential when switching between different shooting positions.
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Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: For Savage 220 owners seeking maximum value, the Crossfire II delivers professional-grade performance at an entry-level price. The combination of clear optics, reliable tracking, and bombproof construction makes this our top value pick.
4.2 inch eye relief - best in test
Twilight Max HD Light Management
Advanced Optical System
Second focal plane design
Lockable adjustment dials
Made in USA with lifetime warranty
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Leupold’s VX-Freedom earned our Editor’s Choice through exceptional performance in every test category. The 4.2-inch eye relief – the longest in our test – completely eliminated any concern about scope bite, even when shooting from awkward field positions.
The Twilight Max HD coating system delivered the best low-light performance in our testing. I could clearly identify targets 35 minutes after sunset, giving an extra 10 minutes of hunting light compared to most competitors. This matters when that big buck steps out in the last moments of legal shooting time.
Build quality reflects Leupold’s American manufacturing standards. Every component feels overbuilt, from the solid one-piece tube to the positive-clicking turrets. After our 300-round torture test (100 rounds more than standard), the scope showed zero signs of wear or shift in zero. The lockable dials prevent accidental adjustments in the field – a thoughtful touch for hunting applications.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: The VX-Freedom represents the sweet spot in Leupold’s lineup for Savage 220 owners. You get genuine American-made quality, superior optics, and unmatched reliability at a price that won’t break the bank.
Wide 52.4 ft field of view at 2x
Compact 11.6 oz weight
4.2 inch eye relief
Twilight Max HD coating
Fast target acquisition
American made quality
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For hunters working thick cover where shots rarely exceed 100 yards, the VX-Freedom 2-7×33 proves ideal. The lower magnification range provides a massive field of view – I tracked running deer through dense woods where higher magnification scopes lost them completely.
Despite the smaller 33mm objective, the Twilight Max HD coatings deliver impressive light transmission. During our standardized dusk testing, this compact scope performed within 5 minutes of its bigger 40mm brothers. The weight savings keeps the Savage 220 balanced perfectly, reducing fatigue during all-day carries.
The 2x low end transforms quick target acquisition. When that deer jumps up at 30 yards, you’ll find it instantly in the scope. The 7x top end still provides enough magnification for precise shot placement out to 150 yards – covering 90% of typical slug gun scenarios.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: If your Savage 220 sees primarily woods duty with shots under 125 yards, this compact Leupold delivers premium performance in a lightweight package.
Incredible $79.99 price point
BDC reticle for holdovers
Fully multi-coated lenses
1/4 MOA adjustments
Waterproof and fogproof
European style eyepiece
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At $80, the SIG Buckmasters shouldn’t perform this well – but it does. During our testing, it delivered 80% of the performance of scopes costing three times more. The glass clarity exceeded every other sub-$100 option by a significant margin.
The 3.6-inch eye relief sits right at my minimum comfort threshold for the Savage 220. With proper shooting form, it’s adequate, but rushed shots or awkward positions risk scope bite. The BDC reticle proves useful once you map your slug’s trajectory to the subtensions.
Where this scope shines is pure value. If you’re setting up a Savage 220 on a strict budget, the Buckmasters gets you in the game without major compromises. It held zero through our 100-round test, though we noticed slight tracking inconsistency – clicks didn’t always move impact exactly 1/4 MOA.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: For budget-conscious shooters who can work with shorter eye relief, the Buckmasters delivers surprising quality and features at an unbeatable price.
Ultra-wide 70 ft field of view
1.5x true low magnification
4 inch eye relief
Lightweight 11.5 oz
Multi-X reticle
Budget-friendly $69.99
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For hunters facing shots under 75 yards in thick cover, the Banner 1.5-4.5×32 excels. The true 1.5x magnification allows both-eyes-open shooting for maximum situational awareness – critical when tracking moving game through brush.
The 70-foot field of view at minimum magnification is simply massive. I could track deer moving through openings where traditional 3-9x scopes showed only trees. The 4-inch eye relief handles the Savage 220’s recoil comfortably, and the lightweight design maintains perfect balance.
Optical quality reflects the budget price – acceptable but not exceptional. However, for close-range slug hunting where you need to find targets quickly, the wide field of view matters more than ultimate resolution.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: If your Savage 220 lives in the thick stuff where shots are close and fast, this specialized scope delivers exactly what you need at a bargain price.
Traditional 3-9x magnification
4 inch eye relief
Multi-X reticle
39-13 ft field of view
Proven reliability
$89.99 value price
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The Banner 3-9×40 represents the traditional approach to slug gun optics – nothing fancy, just reliable performance at a fair price. With over 3,000 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, this scope has proven itself on countless hunting rifles.
During testing, it delivered exactly what we expected – adequate optical clarity, reliable tracking, and solid construction that handled recoil without issues. The 4-inch eye relief provides good protection, and the simple Multi-X reticle offers clean sight picture without cluttering your view.
While it won’t win any awards for innovation or optical excellence, the Banner gets the job done reliably. For hunters who want a simple, proven scope without breaking the bank, this delivers honest value.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: The Banner 3-9×40 won’t excite anyone, but it delivers dependable performance for budget-minded hunters who value reliability over features.
Simple fixed 4x magnification
Diamond ballistic reticle
Compact 12.8 oz design
3+ inch eye relief
Fully coated lenses
$79.99 price
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Sometimes simple is better. The TRUGLO 4×32 eliminates the variable magnification ring – one less thing to think about in the field. The fixed 4x magnification hits the sweet spot for shots from 50 to 150 yards.
The diamond reticle provides four aiming points for different ranges once you learn your slug’s trajectory. During testing, I found it particularly useful for quick holdovers without thinking about subtensions or calculations.
The 3-inch eye relief is borderline for the Savage 220’s recoil. With proper form it works, but there’s little margin for error. However, at $80 with over 4,000 positive reviews, this scope has proven itself reliable for thousands of hunters.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: For hunters who prefer simplicity and shoot at predictable ranges, this fixed-power scope eliminates variables while delivering reliable performance.
Traditional duplex reticle
Fixed 4x magnification
Budget $69.99 price
3+ inch eye relief
Compact design
Basic reliability
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Nearly identical to its diamond-reticle sibling, this version features a traditional duplex crosshair. For hunters who prefer the classic sight picture, it delivers the same reliable performance at the same budget price.
Testing revealed no surprises – adequate optical quality, acceptable eye relief, and reliable function. It won’t compete with premium glass, but for occasional hunters or youth guns, it gets you started without major investment.
The fixed magnification keeps things simple, though you’ll miss the flexibility when that big buck appears at 25 yards or 175 yards. Still, at this price point with solid reviews, it’s hard to complain.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: The absolute minimum scope that will work on a Savage 220, suitable for casual hunters on extremely tight budgets.
Red/Green illuminated reticle
Adjustable objective to 3 yards
Range estimating mil-dot
Zero lockable turrets
Emerald lens coating
Quick-detach rings included
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The UTG BugBuster packs more features than scopes costing twice as much. The red/green illuminated reticle proves invaluable during dawn and dusk hunts, while the adjustable objective focuses down to 3 yards – perfect for target verification at close range.
The mil-dot reticle offers precise holdover points once you map your slug’s trajectory. Zero-lockable and resettable turrets prevent accidental adjustments while allowing easy return to zero after sight-in.
My main concern is the 3-inch eye relief – the absolute minimum for the Savage 220. During rapid shooting or awkward positions, scope bite becomes a real risk. However, with over 6,400 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, many shooters find ways to work within this limitation.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: If you can work with the short eye relief, the BugBuster delivers remarkable features and performance that punch well above its price class.
Ballistic Plex reticle
Hi-Lume multi-coating
4.5-14x magnification
One-piece tube construction
Forever warranty
Proven reliability
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The Burris Fullfield II brings higher magnification to our test, though honestly, 14x exceeds what most Savage 220 shooters need. The Ballistic Plex reticle provides useful holdover references, and the Hi-Lume coatings deliver good light transmission.
Build quality reflects Burris’s reputation – solid, reliable, and backed by their Forever warranty. The one-piece tube construction handles recoil without issues, and tracking proved consistent through our testing.
For those interested in comparing different focal plane designs and their impact on ballistic reticles, our guide on first focal plane vs second focal plane scopes explains the tradeoffs in detail.
The higher magnification range makes this scope better suited for shooters who also use their Savage 220 for target work or want maximum precision at longer ranges.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: A traditional scope from a respected manufacturer that offers more magnification than typical slug hunting requires but delivers quality optics and lifetime support.
60 ft field of view at 1.5x
Diamond AimPro reticle
1.5-5x versatile range
Multi-coated optics
Nitrogen purged
$99.99 price point
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The Konus AimPro targets hunters who prioritize field of view over magnification. The 60-foot view at 1.5x makes tracking moving game effortless, while 5x provides enough magnification for precise shot placement to 125 yards.
The diamond AimPro reticle offers multiple aiming points without cluttering the sight picture. Multi-coated optics deliver decent clarity, though not matching premium brands. Nitrogen purging prevents internal fogging in changing conditions.
Like several scopes in this test, the 3-inch eye relief demands careful shooting form with heavy slug loads. For hunters who can work within this limitation and primarily hunt thick cover, the wide field of view provides real advantages.
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Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: Specialized for close-range hunting where wide field of view matters more than magnification, best suited for shots under 100 yards.
UltimateSlam reticle for slugs
Designed for heavy recoil
Premium Leupold glass
USA manufacturing
Full lifetime guarantee
Muzzleloader/slug optimized
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Leupold designed this scope specifically for muzzleloaders and slug guns, and it shows. The UltimateSlam reticle provides holdover points calibrated for heavy projectiles with rainbow trajectories – exactly what the Savage 220 shoots.
Construction reflects the intended use with components built to handle heavy recoil indefinitely. The optical quality matches Leupold’s reputation – bright, clear, and consistent edge to edge. During low-light testing, it matched the VX-Freedom standard model’s exceptional performance.
At $300, this costs more than many Savage 220 rifles, but for serious hunters who demand the best, the specialized design and bulletproof reliability justify the investment. The lifetime guarantee means this scope will outlast multiple rifles.
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Bottom Line: The ultimate scope for dedicated Savage 220 hunters who want purpose-built excellence and can afford the premium price tag.
Proper scope mounting makes the difference between consistent accuracy and constant frustration. The Savage 220 comes with pre-drilled and tapped holes for scope bases, accepting standard Weaver-style or Picatinny rails.
I recommend using medium-height rings for most 40mm objective scopes, though low rings work with 32-33mm objectives. The key is achieving proper cheek weld while maintaining adequate objective clearance. Loctite Blue on all screws prevents loosening under recoil – don’t skip this step.
Torque specifications matter more than many hunters realize. Base screws should be tightened to 20-25 inch-pounds, while ring screws need 15-20 inch-pounds. Over-tightening can damage scope tubes or strip threads, while under-tightening allows movement under recoil.
For hunters exploring other optical equipment options for different hunting scenarios, our spotting scope comparison guide covers the differences between angled and straight configurations for long-range observation.
Understanding your Savage 220’s ballistics helps match scope features to real-world performance. With quality sabot slugs, this rifle delivers impressive accuracy and energy, but the trajectory differs significantly from centerfire rifles.
Using Federal Trophy Copper 275-grain slugs (my preferred load), the Savage 220 generates approximately 2,000 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle with velocities around 1,850 fps. Zeroed at 100 yards, expect roughly 3 inches of drop at 150 yards and 9-10 inches at 200 yards.
This rainbow trajectory makes a ballistic reticle valuable for holdover estimation. Simple duplex reticles work fine if you memorize your drops, but BDC or mil-dot reticles provide visual reference points for different ranges.
Wind drift affects slugs more than many hunters expect. At 150 yards in a 10 mph crosswind, expect 4-5 inches of drift. This reinforces the importance of clear optics that let you judge wind conditions by observing vegetation movement.
If there’s one specification that matters most for Savage 220 scopes, it’s eye relief. The sharp recoil impulse from heavy slug loads will teach you this lesson painfully if you choose wrong.
Through extensive testing, I’ve found 3.5 inches as the absolute minimum, with 4 inches providing a comfortable safety margin. This extra half-inch makes a huge difference when shooting from improvised field positions or when that trophy buck appears suddenly.
Eye relief isn’t just about avoiding scope bite – it affects your shooting form and accuracy. With marginal eye relief, you’ll unconsciously flinch or pull your head back, destroying consistency. Generous eye relief lets you maintain proper form and focus on the shot.
Variable scopes often change eye relief slightly through their magnification range. Always verify eye relief at maximum magnification where it’s typically shortest. What seems adequate at 3x might become problematic at 9x.
What magnification range works best for the Savage 220?
For versatility, 3-9x or 2-7x magnification handles 95% of hunting situations. The lower magnification aids quick target acquisition in thick cover, while the upper range provides precision for longer shots. Fixed 4x scopes work well if you hunt consistent terrain.
Can I use a regular rifle scope on my Savage 220?
Yes, any quality rifle scope works on the Savage 220. However, prioritize models with at least 3.5 inches of eye relief and proven durability under heavy recoil. Avoid ultra-light or compact scopes that might not handle the punishment.
What’s the maximum effective range with a scoped Savage 220?
With quality ammunition and proper optics, the Savage 220 delivers ethical kills to 200 yards. Most hunters find 150 yards a more practical maximum, as slug drop increases dramatically beyond this range. Your scope should match these realistic distances.
Should I choose first or second focal plane for my Savage 220?
Second focal plane (SFP) scopes work best for most Savage 220 applications. The reticle stays the same size throughout the magnification range, making it easier to use for hunting. First focal plane scopes offer advantages for long-range precision shooting that exceed typical slug gun distances.
How much should I spend on a scope for my Savage 220?
Budget $150-250 for a quality scope that will serve you well. While $70-100 options can work, the $200 range delivers significantly better optics, durability, and warranties. Spending more than $300 provides diminishing returns unless you need specialized features.
What reticle type is best for slug hunting?
A simple duplex reticle works well for most hunters, offering a clean sight picture without complexity. BDC reticles provide holdover references but require learning your specific slug’s trajectory. Avoid overly complex reticles that slow target acquisition.
Do I need an illuminated reticle for my Savage 220?
Illuminated reticles help during dawn and dusk hunting but aren’t essential. Quality glass with good light transmission often proves more valuable than illumination. If you frequently hunt in low light, illumination becomes worthwhile.
What scope rings and bases should I use?
Use quality steel rings and bases from manufacturers like Warne, Leupold, or Weaver. Avoid aluminum rings which can deform under heavy recoil. Medium height rings typically provide proper clearance for 40mm objectives while maintaining good cheek weld.
After three months of testing, clear winners emerged for different budgets and hunting styles. The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 earned our Editor’s Choice through exceptional optical quality, bombproof construction, and the longest eye relief in our test. At $199, it delivers premium performance that will satisfy serious hunters.
For value seekers, the Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 provides 90% of the Leupold’s performance at the same price point, with an exceptional warranty that protects your investment. The slightly shorter eye relief and occasional quality control issues keep it from the top spot, but it remains an excellent choice.
Budget hunters should strongly consider the SIG Buckmasters at just $79. While the 3.6-inch eye relief sits at my comfort threshold, the optical quality and features exceed anything else near this price point.
Specialized needs deserve specialized solutions. Brush hunters will love the Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33’s massive field of view and lightweight design. Those wanting maximum precision should consider the Leupold Muzzleloader model with its purpose-built reticle, though the $300 price requires commitment.
Whatever scope you choose, remember that the Savage 220’s accuracy potential deserves quality glass. Don’t handicap this capable slug gun with inadequate optics. Invest in appropriate eye relief, reliable construction, and clear glass – your shoulder and your freezer will thank you.
