The Savage 301 .410 is a unique shotgun, perfect for small game hunting and pest control. To get the best out of this firearm, you need a scope that complements its features. After extensive research and hands-on testing, I’ve compiled a list of the top scopes that perfectly fit the Savage 301 .410. These scopes enhance accuracy, ensure reliable performance, and provide the best value for your investment.
Top 5 Best Scope for Savage 301 .410 on the Market
Note: The following advice comes from my personal perspective. What works for me might not work for you, but hopefully it sparks some ideas!
Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32 Rimfire
Specifications:
Magnification: 2-7x
Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
Eye Relief: 3.9 inches
Field of View: 42-12.6 feet/100 yards
Tube Size: 1 inch
Adjustment Graduation: 1/4 MOA
Max Elevation Adjustment: 60 MOA
Max Windage Adjustment: 60 MOA
Length: 11.3 inches
Weight: 14 ounces
Best Features:
Fully multi-coated lenses for increased light transmission
Capped reset turrets for quick re-indexing of the turret to zero after sighting in the scope
Fast focus eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focusing
Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction
Pros:
Excellent clarity and brightness
Durable and robust construction
User-friendly and easy to mount
Affordable price point
Cons:
Limited magnification range
Slightly heavier than some competitors
Experience and Fit for Savage 301 .410:
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32 is an excellent match for the Savage 301 .410 due to its sturdy build and superb optical performance. During my field tests, the scope provided clear and bright images, even in low light conditions. The capped reset turrets made zeroing the scope a breeze, and I appreciated the fast-focus eyepiece, which allowed me to quickly adapt to different shooting scenarios.
Online Customer Comments:
Many customers praised the Vortex Crossfire II for its exceptional clarity and ease of use. Users frequently mentioned that it holds zero well and withstands the recoil of various firearms, making it a versatile choice for the Savage 301 .410.
Twilight Light Management System for superior low-light performance
Scratch-resistant lenses for added durability
Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
Custom Dial System (CDS) for tailored ballistic settings
Pros:
Excellent low-light performance
Durable and lightweight design
Easy to adjust and maintain
High-quality optics
Cons:
Higher price point
Custom Dial System requires additional setup
Experience and Fit for Savage 301 .410:
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 is a premium option that offers outstanding performance in various lighting conditions. Its Twilight Light Management System is particularly beneficial for early morning or late evening hunts. The scope's lightweight design ensures that it doesn't add unnecessary bulk to the Savage 301 .410, making it comfortable to handle.
Online Customer Comments:
Customers consistently highlight the Leupold VX-Freedom’s superior clarity and light-gathering capabilities. Many users appreciate its robust construction and the precision of the Custom Dial System, which allows for tailored adjustments based on specific ammunition and shooting conditions.
The Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9x40 BDC is a versatile scope that excels in various shooting scenarios. The BDC reticle is particularly useful for making precise shots at different distances. During my testing, the scope maintained its zero well, and the spring-loaded instant zero-reset turrets made adjustments quick and easy. This scope's robust build ensures it can handle the recoil of the Savage 301 .410 without any issues.
Online Customer Comments:
Users frequently praise the Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II for its clarity and the utility of the BDC reticle. Many reviewers mention that the scope offers great value for its price, providing features typically found in more expensive models.
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope 3-9x40
Specifications:
Magnification: 3-9x
Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm
Eye Relief: 3.3 inches
Field of View: 40-14 feet/100 yards
Tube Size: 1 inch
Adjustment Graduation: 1/4 MOA
Max Elevation Adjustment: 60 MOA
Max Windage Adjustment: 60 MOA
Length: 12 inches
Weight: 13 ounces
Best Features:
Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses for enhanced clarity in low light
Multi-X reticle for accurate aiming
One-piece tube for durability
Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
Pros:
Excellent low-light performance
Durable one-piece construction
Affordable price
Clear and bright optics
Cons:
Eye relief could be better
Slightly heavier than other models
Experience and Fit for Savage 301 .410:
The Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn is an excellent budget-friendly option for the Savage 301 .410. Its DDB multi-coated lenses provided exceptional clarity during my early morning and late evening hunts. The Multi-X reticle was straightforward and allowed for quick and accurate aiming. Despite being slightly heavier, the scope's robust build ensured it could handle the shotgun's recoil effectively.
Online Customer Comments:
Customers often commend the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn for its performance in low light conditions. Many users also appreciate its affordability, making it an excellent value for hunters looking for a reliable scope without breaking the bank.
Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 Waterproof Fogproof Matte Black Riflescope
Specifications:
Magnification: 3-9x
Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
Eye Relief: 3.75 inches
Field of View: 31.4-10.5 feet/100 yards
Tube Size: 1 inch
Adjustment Graduation: 1/4 MOA
Max Elevation Adjustment: 60 MOA
Max Windage Adjustment: 60 MOA
Length: 12 inches
Weight: 10 ounces
Best Features:
HydroShield lens coating for a clear sight picture in any weather
SureGrip adjustments for easy handling
Truplex reticle for precision aiming
Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
Pros:
Lightweight and durable
Clear and bright optics
Easy to adjust and zero
Affordable
Cons:
Limited magnification range
Not as robust as higher-end models
Experience and Fit for Savage 301 .410:
The Simmons 3-9x32mm is a lightweight and affordable option that pairs well with the Savage 301 .410. Its HydroShield lens coating ensured clear visibility in various weather conditions during my field tests. The SureGrip adjustments were user-friendly, allowing for quick and easy changes on the fly. While it may not be as robust as some higher-end models, its performance and price make it an excellent choice for budget-conscious shooters.
Online Customer Comments:
Users frequently highlight the Simmons 3-9x32mm for its clarity and ease of use. Many customers appreciate its lightweight design, which makes it easy to handle and carry during long hunting trips.
When selecting a scope for your Savage 301 .410, consider the following factors:
Magnification: Depending on your hunting or shooting needs, choose a scope with appropriate magnification. For small game hunting and pest control, a 3-9x magnification range is often sufficient.
Objective Lens Diameter: A larger objective lens allows more light to enter the scope, providing a brighter image. However, larger lenses can also add weight to your setup.
Reticle Type: Different reticles serve different purposes. A simple duplex reticle is great for quick target acquisition, while a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticle helps with longer shots by compensating for bullet drop.
Durability: Ensure the scope is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. This is especially important for shotguns, which can have significant recoil.
Eye Relief: Eye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope where you can see the full field of view. Ample eye relief prevents scope eye, especially with the recoil from a shotgun.
Adjustability: Look for scopes with easy-to-use adjustment turrets for windage, elevation, and parallax.
Brand Reputation: Established brands like Vortex, Leupold, Nikon, Bushnell, and Simmons have a history of producing reliable optics.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a rifle scope on a shotgun like the Savage 301 .410?
A: Yes, you can use a rifle scope on a shotgun. However, ensure the scope can handle the recoil and has appropriate eye relief.
Q: What magnification is best for a .410 shotgun?
A: A scope with 2-7x or 3-9x magnification is typically sufficient for the ranges you’ll be shooting with a .410 shotgun.
Q: How important is eye relief for a shotgun scope?
A: Eye relief is crucial to avoid injury from recoil. Look for scopes with at least 3.5 inches of eye relief.
Q: Is a BDC reticle useful for a .410 shotgun?
A: A BDC reticle can be useful for longer shots, especially if you're using slugs. It helps compensate for bullet drop at various distances.
Q: How do I zero a scope on a Savage 301 .410?
A: To zero a scope, mount it securely on your shotgun, fire a group of shots at a target, and adjust the windage and elevation turrets until the point of impact matches the point of aim.
Conclusion
Selecting the best scope for your Savage 301 .410 can significantly enhance your shooting experience. Each of the scopes listed above offers unique features and benefits, making them well-suited for this versatile shotgun. Whether you prioritize clarity, low-light performance, or budget-friendly options, there's a scope on this list that will meet your needs.
From my personal experience and extensive testing, the Vortex Crossfire II stands out for its overall performance and value. Its clarity, durability, and user-friendly design make it a top choice for the Savage 301 .410. However, if you prefer premium features and are willing to invest more, the Leupold VX-Freedom offers unmatched low-light performance and precision.
Remember to consider your specific shooting requirements and preferences when choosing a scope. By doing so, you'll ensure that you select the best possible optic for your Savage 301 .410, enhancing your accuracy and enjoyment in the field.