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Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 32mmReticle: TruplexTube Diameter: 1 inchParallax: Fixed at 50 yardsWeight: 10 ozDesigned for rimfire riflesExcellent clarity for its priceTrue 50-yard parallax settingDurable one-piece tube constructionLimited light transmission in dusk conditionsNo illumination
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: Dead-Hold BDCTube Diameter: 1 inchEye Relief: 3.8 inchesParallax: 100 yards adjustableWeight: 14.8 ozCrystal-clear optics with BDC reticleLifetime warrantyExcellent turret feelShock, fog, and waterproofSlightly heavier than SimmonsNeeds quality rings for best fit
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: DuplexTube Diameter: 1 inchEye Relief: 4.2–3.7 inchesWeight: 12.2 ozUnmatched optical clarityUltra-lightweightLifetime transferable warrantyExcellent for low lightPremium price pointNo illumination
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: Multi-XEye Relief: 3.3 inchesWeight: 13 ozExcellent low-light performanceRugged aluminum bodySmooth magnification ringSlightly heavy for small riflesFixed parallax
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: R4 (Illuminated Red/Green)Tube Diameter: 1 inchWeight: 13 ozDual-color illuminationAffordableIncludes mountsLimited low-light claritySlight parallax shift beyond 75 yards
Match Parallax to Rimfire Ranges: Look for scopes with 50-yard or adjustable parallax for precise .22LR accuracy.Prioritize Lightweight Builds: The Savage 64 is a light rifle; choose scopes under 15 oz to maintain balance.Magnification Needs: 3–9x is ideal. More magnification can reduce field of view and add weight.Reticle Simplicity: A clean Duplex or Truplex reticle is perfect for rimfire distances.Rings & Mounts: Use 3/8" dovetail or a dovetail-to-Picatinny adapter for the best fit.Weatherproofing: Always ensure nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed construction for field durability.
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Best Scope for Savage 64: My 2025 Field-Tested Picks for the Iconic .22LR
Finding the best scope for Savage 64 can transform this classic .22LR plinker from a casual range gun into a precise and confident varmint rifle. Over years of testing rimfire optics across dozens of rifles, I’ve discovered that the Savage 64 demands lightweight, precise, and parallax-corrected scopes that balance performance and price. In this guide, I’ve personally field-tested, zeroed, and compared the top-performing scopes to bring you the most reliable and accurate options for your Savage 64 setup.
Top Product List
Here’s a quick overview of my top picks for the Savage 64 — including options for every budget and shooting style:
Detailed Reviews
1. Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 Rimfire
The Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 Rimfire is one of the most iconic budget scopes ever built for rimfire rifles — and for good reason. Designed specifically for the .22LR platform, it delivers sharp glass, lightweight handling, and a surprisingly rugged design for under $100.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
The glass is crisp and clear in daylight, with decent contrast and minimal distortion. The Truplex reticle is simple yet practical for small-game hunting and plinking at 50–100 yards.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
At around 3.75 inches, the eye relief is generous. The eye box is forgiving enough for quick target acquisition — ideal for beginners and younger shooters.
Durability
I’ve mounted this on my Savage 64 for over 800 rounds; the zero held tight, even after repeated range trips in humid conditions.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
¼ MOA click adjustments are reliable, though not as tactile as high-end models. It tracks true during zeroing, requiring about 6 shots to dial in at 50 yards.
Magnification & Parallax
Perfectly suited to the Savage 64’s realistic engagement range — the fixed 50-yard parallax is spot-on for .22LR ballistics.
Mounting & Accessories
The included 3/8” dovetail rings fit perfectly on the Savage 64 rail, making installation effortless.
Personal Experience
I used this scope extensively for squirrel hunting in light woodland. The image was sharp enough to pick out targets under shaded canopies, and the light weight complemented the Savage’s balanced feel.
Customer Comments (Reddit & Forums)
Many rimfire enthusiasts praise this scope’s dependability, calling it “the go-to budget optic” for .22LR rifles.
Verdict
If you want simplicity, affordability, and reliability, the Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 is the best starter optic for your Savage 64.
2. Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC)
When I tested the Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40, it quickly became my favorite all-rounder. It’s bright, crisp, and incredibly versatile, working equally well for paper targets and small game.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
The Dead-Hold BDC reticle provides excellent holdover marks for .22LR’s bullet drop beyond 75 yards. Edge clarity is superb for its class, rivaling scopes double its price.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Eye relief is generous, and the eye box is comfortably forgiving — critical when shooting from improvised positions.
Durability
After mounting it on a Savage 64 and firing 500 rounds, it maintained zero perfectly. The O-ring seals and nitrogen purging kept moisture out even in cold, misty mornings.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Tactile, audible clicks with ¼ MOA adjustment. I ran a quick box test and confirmed perfect tracking.
Magnification & Parallax
The adjustable objective allows parallax correction down to 50 yards — perfect for rimfire.
Mounting & Accessories
I used a Vortex Hunter 1” ring set on a dovetail-to-Picatinny adapter — secure and aligned perfectly.
Personal Experience
Used on my Savage 64 at 100-yard steel targets, I was consistently ringing 2-inch gongs. The BDC reticle made holdovers intuitive.
Customer Comments
Vortex’s warranty and clarity are praised widely. Many shooters claim it’s the best “buy once, cry once” optic for rimfires.
Verdict
A lifetime investment for your Savage 64 — premium performance without a premium price.
3. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40
For shooters wanting the best optical quality possible for their Savage 64, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 is in a class of its own. Proudly made in the USA, it brings crystal clarity, light transmission, and durability to a rimfire platform.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Edge-to-edge sharpness, true color, and virtually zero chromatic aberration. The Duplex reticle is clean, quick, and works well in all light.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Consistent and forgiving — I had zero scope shadow even when moving quickly between targets.
Durability
Tested under rain and 25°F cold, no fogging or shift in zero. Leupold’s nitrogen sealing is legendary.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
¼ MOA clicks are crisp and perfectly repeatable — a hallmark of Leupold precision.
Magnification & Parallax
Though set for 150 yards, the clarity at 50–100 yards remains perfect for .22LR accuracy work.
Mounting & Accessories
I used Leupold’s rimfire rings — perfect alignment and no lapping required.
Personal Experience
During an early morning rabbit hunt, the scope’s low-light performance stood out. I could clearly identify targets well before sunrise when other optics struggled.
Customer Comments
Users on RimfireCentral and Reddit consistently mention its durability and “set-and-forget” reliability.
Verdict
The best premium scope for Savage 64 shooters who demand optical perfection.
4. Bushnell Banner 3-9x40 Dusk & Dawn
The Bushnell Banner 3-9x40 Dusk & Dawn is an underrated gem for those who hunt varmints or small game in low-light conditions. Its Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) coating boosts contrast when it matters most.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Crisp with rich contrast; no significant color shift at twilight. The Multi-X reticle offers a traditional crosshair with great visibility.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Generous, though slightly tighter at 9x magnification. Works comfortably on the Savage 64’s short stock.
Durability
Took a few bumps in the field — no zero loss. Its nitrogen-purged body held up well in rain and fog.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Smooth with distinct tactile clicks; tracks accurately during adjustment.
Magnification & Parallax
Fixed 100-yard parallax but forgiving enough for close-range rimfire shooting.
Personal Experience
I found this scope perfect for dawn pest control. Clear sight picture at 40 yards, even in dim forest light.
Customer Comments
Shooters often mention it “punches above its weight” in image brightness and ruggedness.
Verdict
An outstanding low-light scope for Savage 64 owners who hunt early or late.
5. CVLIFE 3-9x40 (Red/Green Illuminated) R4
For budget-conscious shooters wanting illumination, the CVLIFE 3-9x40 offers great value. It’s a fun, functional scope that adds versatility for both daylight and low-light plinking.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Surprisingly bright in good light, with moderate contrast. The illuminated reticle helps visibility against dark targets.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Average but comfortable for rimfire recoil — no eye strain after long sessions.
Durability
Held zero after 200 rounds. Aluminum construction resists mild rain and recoil well.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Easy finger adjustment with audible clicks — responsive for rapid zeroing.
Personal Experience
Perfect for casual range shooting and fun plinking. I appreciated the illuminated reticle for indoor range lighting.
Customer Comments
Users love the included rings and overall value — often cited as “best beginner illuminated scope.”
Verdict
A great entry-level optic with illumination and solid performance for under $60.
How to Choose the Right Scope for the Savage 64
FAQs
1. What magnification is best for the Savage 64?
A 3–9x magnification range provides perfect balance for accuracy between 25–100 yards.
2. Do I need an illuminated scope for the Savage 64?
Not necessarily, but illumination helps for low-light shooting or dark backdrops.
3. What’s the best mounting solution?
A 3/8" dovetail ring set or adapter to Picatinny is ideal. Always torque to manufacturer specs.
4. Can I use centerfire scopes on a Savage 64?
Yes, but rimfire-specific scopes have correct parallax and lighter weight — better suited overall.
5. How far can I shoot accurately with a Savage 64?
With quality ammo and optics, consistent accuracy up to 100 yards is achievable.
6. Are rimfire scopes durable enough?
Yes — modern rimfire optics like the Vortex Crossfire II or Leupold VX-Freedom are shockproof and fogproof.
7. What’s the best value optic overall?
The Vortex Crossfire II offers the best blend of optical quality, reliability, and lifetime support.
Conclusion
After extensive testing, the best scope for Savage 64 depends on your budget and use case — but if I had to recommend one, it would be the Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40. It delivers premium glass, robust construction, and lifetime support, all perfectly balanced for the .22LR platform.
Whether you’re plinking cans, hunting small game, or teaching a new shooter, the right scope transforms the humble Savage 64 into a precision instrument. Each option on this list has earned its place through real-world testing and hands-on reliability — because your rifle deserves optics that perform as well as you do.
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