Finding the best scope for Savage 220 slug gun means understanding what makes this firearm so unique in the shooting world. The Savage 220 represents a groundbreaking achievement in slug gun design, being the first bolt-action shotgun specifically engineered from the ground up for shooting sabot slugs with rifle-like accuracy. Unlike traditional shotguns adapted for slugs, the 220 features a true rifle-style action with a 22-inch fully rifled barrel that stabilizes modern sabot slugs to deliver accuracy that rivals many centerfire rifles. This platform is chambered in 20 gauge, which provides a perfect balance between manageable recoil and devastating terminal performance on whitetail deer and similar-sized game out to 200 yards and beyond.
What sets the Savage 220 apart is its AccuTrigger system, which delivers a crisp, adjustable pull that most shotguns can only dream about. This trigger alone transforms the shooting experience, allowing you to break shots cleanly without the gritty, heavy pulls that plague traditional slug guns. The 220’s bolt action provides exceptional strength and rigidity, creating a rock-solid lockup that ensures consistent accuracy shot after shot. The detachable box magazine holds two rounds, giving you quick follow-up capability if that first slug doesn’t connect perfectly. With modern sabot slugs like the Hornady SST or Federal Trophy Copper pushing 2,000 feet per second from the muzzle, you’re looking at flat trajectories and hard-hitting energy that drops deer in their tracks.
Choosing the right scope for your Savage 220 is absolutely critical because this firearm is capable of genuine precision that cheap optics simply cannot exploit. You need an optic that can handle the unique recoil characteristics of slug guns, which deliver a slower, heavier push compared to centerfire rifles. Your scope must also provide enough magnification to identify vitals at 150 to 200 yards while maintaining a wide field of view for tracking moving deer through thick cover. Eye relief becomes crucial because slug gun recoil can be punishing, and you want enough distance between your eye and the scope to prevent injury. The scopes we’ve selected represent the best options for maximizing the Savage 220’s impressive capabilities, from budget-conscious choices to premium optics that wring every bit of performance from this exceptional slug gun.
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Name | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 BDC 150 | BDC 150 reticle calibrated for slugs, generous eye relief, waterproof construction | Link |
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Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 Shotgun/Muzzleloader | Heavy recoil rated, fast-focus eyepiece, Twilight Light System | Link |
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Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout | Extended eye relief, second focal plane V-Plex reticle, shockproof construction | Link |
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Bushnell Trophy XLT 3-9×40 Multi-X | Multi-X reticle, 91% light transmission, Butler Creek flip-up caps | Link |
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Burris Fullfield E1 3-9×40 Ballistic Plex | Ballistic Plex reticle, index-matched HiLume lenses, positive steel-on-steel adjustments | Link |
These five scopes represent carefully selected options that match the Savage 220’s capabilities while addressing the specific challenges of slug gun hunting. Each has been chosen for its ability to withstand heavy recoil, provide appropriate magnification for realistic slug shooting distances, and deliver the optical clarity needed to place precise shots in heavy cover or low-light conditions where big bucks appear.
1. Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 BDC 150 (Best Scope for Savage 220 Overall Value)
The Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 with BDC 150 reticle might carry “Rimfire” in its name, but don’t let that fool you because this scope has become a cult favorite among slug gun hunters who understand what makes an optic truly effective on sabot-shooting platforms. What makes this scope brilliant for the Savage 220 is the BDC 150 reticle, which was specifically designed for the trajectory of shotgun slugs and muzzleloaders. The reticle features aim points at 50, 100, and 150 yards that correspond remarkably well with the ballistic arc of modern sabot slugs like the Hornady SST and Federal Trophy Copper when zeroed at 50 yards. This means you can hold dead-on at close range, use the first circle for 100-yard shots, and the second circle gets you right in the vitals at 150 yards without any holdover guesswork.
The 3-9x magnification range is absolutely perfect for realistic slug gun hunting scenarios. At 3x, you have a wide enough field of view to track a deer moving through brush at close range, while 9x gives you enough magnification to clearly identify vitals and pick your shot placement at 150 to 200 yards. The 40mm objective lens gathers sufficient light for those critical dawn and dusk periods when mature bucks are moving, and Nikon’s multi-coated optics deliver bright, clear images with good contrast for picking out deer against complex backgrounds. The eye relief measures a generous 3.6 to 3.8 inches across the magnification range, which is crucial for a slug gun that delivers significant recoil. You want that safety margin to prevent scope bite when you’re focused on a buck and your form isn’t perfect.
Durability is where this scope really shines for the money. The one-piece aluminum tube is nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed, making it completely waterproof and fogproof even in the miserable weather conditions that characterize late-season deer hunting. The scope handles the heavy, pounding recoil of slug guns without losing zero, which is the kiss of death for any hunting optic. I’ve personally run these scopes on slug guns through multiple seasons, and they maintain zero reliably even after hundreds of rounds. The turrets offer 0.25 MOA click adjustments that are audible and tactile, making sight-in straightforward. The quick-focus eyepiece allows you to adjust the reticle clarity quickly without tools.
At a street price typically between $150 and $200, the ProStaff Rimfire II delivers performance that punches way above its weight class. You’re getting a purpose-designed slug gun reticle, reliable construction, and optical quality that handles the vast majority of hunting situations. For Savage 220 owners who want maximum performance without breaking the bank, this scope represents one of the smartest investments you can make. The BDC 150 reticle alone eliminates the most common reason for missed shots on deer, which is misjudging holdover at extended ranges.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification Range | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Reticle | BDC 150 (Second Focal Plane) |
| Turret Adjustments | 0.25 MOA |
| Eye Relief | 3.6-3.8 inches |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Weight | 14.8 ounces |
| Length | 11.8 inches |
Pros
- BDC 150 reticle specifically designed for slug trajectories eliminates guesswork for holdovers at common hunting distances
- Perfect magnification range provides both close-range capability and sufficient power for precise shot placement at distance
- Generous eye relief keeps your eye safe from recoil while maintaining a clear sight picture
- Excellent build quality with waterproof, fogproof construction that handles harsh weather and heavy recoil
- Outstanding value delivers purpose-built features at a price that won’t devastate your hunting budget
Cons
- Limited to 150-yard optimization means you’ll need to estimate holdovers if shooting beyond the reticle’s designed range
The Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 BDC 150 is the scope that should be sitting on top of most Savage 220 slug guns because it was genuinely designed for exactly this application. The combination of appropriate magnification, purpose-built reticle, and rugged construction makes it a no-brainer choice for hunters who want to exploit their slug gun’s accuracy without spending a fortune. Stop missing deer because you’re guessing at holdovers and get a scope that does the math for you.
Check Price on Amazon2. Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 Shotgun/Muzzleloader (Best Scope for Savage 220 Premium Quality)
The Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 Shotgun/Muzzleloader brings American optical engineering excellence to the slug gun world, delivering the kind of quality and reliability that has made Leupold the choice of serious hunters for over a century. This scope was purpose-built for the unique demands of slug guns and muzzleloaders, which means every design decision was made with heavy recoil and relatively short engagement ranges in mind. The heavy recoil rating ensures this scope will handle thousands of slug rounds without suffering the mechanical failures that plague scopes designed for lighter-recoiling centerfire rifles. When you’re sitting in a stand on a frigid November morning with one shot at a mature buck, you need absolute confidence that your equipment will perform flawlessly.
The 2-7x magnification range might seem conservative compared to scopes offering higher maximum magnification, but it’s perfectly optimized for realistic slug hunting distances. At 2x, you have an exceptionally wide field of view that allows you to track moving deer through heavy cover, making this scope brilliant for drives or still-hunting through thick timber. At 7x, you have more than enough magnification to clearly identify vitals and place precise shots at 200 yards, which represents the practical limit for most slug shooters. The 33mm objective lens is deliberately smaller than typical hunting scopes, which allows the scope to sit lower on the receiver for a more natural cheek weld and better balance on the Savage 220’s relatively short action.
Leupold’s Twilight Light System uses advanced lens coatings that maximize light transmission during the critical low-light periods when deer are most active. This isn’t just marketing hyperbole; you genuinely get several extra minutes of usable shooting light compared to budget scopes, and those minutes can be the difference between filling your tag and eating tag soup. The glass clarity is outstanding with excellent resolution and color fidelity that helps you pick out deer against complex backgrounds. The fast-focus eyepiece allows you to adjust reticle focus quickly even with gloves on, and the adjustment holds reliably once set. The generous eye relief of 3.7 to 4.2 inches provides excellent safety margin against recoil while maintaining a full sight picture.
The duplex reticle is simple and effective, with thick outer posts that draw your eye to the center and thin crosshairs that don’t obscure your target. The adjustments are precise and repeatable with audible, tactile clicks at 0.25 MOA increments. Leupold’s Quantum Optical System ensures the scope is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof across extreme temperature ranges. At approximately $250 to $350 depending on sales, this scope costs more than budget options, but you’re investing in genuine Leupold quality backed by their legendary warranty and customer service. This is a scope that will outlast your rifle and potentially serve multiple generations of hunters in your family.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification Range | 2-7x |
| Objective Lens | 33mm |
| Reticle | Duplex (Second Focal Plane) |
| Turret Adjustments | 0.25 MOA |
| Eye Relief | 3.7-4.2 inches |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Weight | 10.3 ounces |
| Length | 10.6 inches |
Pros
- Purpose-built for heavy recoiling firearms ensures long-term reliability under slug gun punishment
- Twilight Light System provides superior low-light performance during prime hunting hours
- Excellent eye relief keeps you safe from recoil while providing a full, clear sight picture
- Compact and lightweight design balances perfectly on the Savage 220 without making the rifle nose-heavy
- Legendary Leupold reliability backed by warranty and customer service that’s second to none in the industry
Cons
- Limited maximum magnification at 7x may feel restrictive if you regularly shoot slugs beyond 175 yards
The Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 Shotgun/Muzzleloader is the scope you choose when quality matters more than saving every possible dollar. This optic delivers the optical performance, mechanical reliability, and thoughtful design that separates good hunts from great ones. If you’ve invested in a premium slug gun like the Savage 220, pairing it with Leupold quality ensures you’re getting every bit of performance the rifle can deliver. This is heirloom-quality glass that will serve you faithfully for decades.
Check Price on Amazon3. Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout (Best Scope for Savage 220 Eye Relief)
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout brings something unique to slug gun applications with its extended eye relief design, making it an outstanding choice for shooters who want maximum safety margin against recoil or who prefer to mount their scope forward on the receiver. This Scout scope configuration offers eye relief ranging from 9.45 to 9.8 inches, which is more than double what traditional scopes provide. This massive eye relief means you can literally mount this scope over the ejection port on your Savage 220, allowing you to maintain your head in a completely upright position for better situational awareness and faster target acquisition when a buck suddenly appears in thick cover. The forward mounting position also allows you to use iron sights by looking under the scope if needed, though the Savage 220’s excellent accuracy makes this largely unnecessary.
The 2-7x magnification range covers all realistic slug hunting scenarios, from close encounters in dense hardwoods to carefully aimed shots across agricultural fields at 175 yards. At 2x, the field of view is exceptionally wide, giving you panoramic awareness that helps you track deer movement and position yourself for the shot. At 7x, you have sufficient magnification for precise shot placement and clear identification of shooter bucks versus young deer you might want to pass. The 32mm objective lens keeps the scope compact and lightweight at just 14.5 ounces, which means your Savage 220 stays balanced and easy to carry during all-day hunts. The smaller objective also means the scope sits relatively low on the receiver, maintaining a natural shooting position.
Vortex built this scope with their fully multi-coated optics that increase light transmission and provide bright, clear images even in marginal light conditions. The V-Plex reticle in the second focal plane features thick outer posts that quickly draw your eye to the center and thin crosshairs that provide a precise aiming point without covering up vitals on deer at distance. The reticle is simple, uncluttered, and fast to use under pressure when a buck is walking and you need to make the shot happen quickly. The scope tube is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum that’s been O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, making it completely waterproof and fogproof across all temperatures you’ll encounter during deer season.
The turrets provide 0.25 MOA click adjustments that are crisp and positive, making zeroing straightforward and allowing for precise corrections. The fast-focus eyepiece adjusts quickly for optimal reticle clarity. At a typical street price of $170 to $220, the Crossfire II Scout delivers excellent value, especially considering it’s backed by Vortex’s unconditional VIP Warranty that covers any damage for any reason forever. If you drop it, run over it with your truck, or your kid throws it across the yard, Vortex will repair or replace it no questions asked. This warranty alone provides peace of mind that makes Vortex scopes attractive for hunters who are hard on their equipment.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification Range | 2-7x |
| Objective Lens | 32mm |
| Reticle | V-Plex (Second Focal Plane) |
| Turret Adjustments | 0.25 MOA |
| Eye Relief | 9.45-9.8 inches |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Weight | 14.5 ounces |
| Length | 11.6 inches |
Pros
- Exceptional extended eye relief provides maximum safety against recoil and allows for forward mounting positions
- Wide field of view at low magnification helps you track moving deer through thick cover
- Lightweight and compact design keeps your Savage 220 balanced and easy to carry all day
- VIP Warranty covers any damage for any reason forever, even if you’re not the original owner
- Solid optical quality delivers bright, clear images with good resolution for the price point
Cons
- Extended eye relief requires specific mounting and may feel awkward if you’re accustomed to traditional scope positioning
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout offers a different approach to slug gun optics that pays real dividends in safety and versatility. The extended eye relief essentially eliminates any risk of scope bite, which is a genuine concern with heavy-recoiling slug guns. If you’ve been scoped before or you’re sensitive about taking recoil near your eye, this Scout configuration provides complete peace of mind. The combination of practical features, solid performance, and Vortex’s incredible warranty makes this a smart choice for Savage 220 owners.
Check Price on Amazon4. Bushnell Trophy XLT 3-9×40 Multi-X (Best Scope for Savage 220 Light Transmission)
The Bushnell Trophy XLT 3-9×40 Multi-X represents one of the best values in slug gun optics, delivering features and performance that typically cost significantly more in other brands. Bushnell’s Trophy line has been a workhorse for American hunters for decades, and the XLT version takes everything good about the original Trophy and improves it with premium lens coatings and construction. The XLT designation refers to Bushnell’s extra-low dispersion glass and advanced multi-coating system that achieves 91% light transmission. To put that in perspective, many scopes costing twice as much only achieve 85 to 88% light transmission. Those extra percentage points translate directly into brighter images and several additional minutes of shooting light during dawn and dusk when deer are most active.
The 3-9x magnification range is the classic hunting scope configuration that’s proven itself over millions of hunts across nearly a century. At 3x, you have a wide field of view perfect for close-range shots on moving deer or quick target acquisition in thick cover. At 9x, you have more than enough magnification for precise shot placement out to 200 yards, which represents the realistic maximum effective range for most slug shooters even with the accurate Savage 220. The 40mm objective lens provides excellent light gathering without making the scope excessively large or heavy. At 12.6 inches and 13.9 ounces, this scope balances well on the Savage 220 without creating a nose-heavy rifle that’s tiring to carry during all-day hunts.
The Multi-X reticle is Bushnell’s version of the classic duplex design, featuring heavy outer posts that quickly draw your eye to center and fine crosshairs that provide a precise aiming point. This reticle style has probably accounted for more filled deer tags than any other design because it’s simple, fast, and effective under pressure. When a buck appears and you need to make the shot happen in seconds, you don’t want to be fumbling with complex reticle features or trying to remember which hash mark to use. The Multi-X puts a clear aiming point exactly where you need it. The scope includes Butler Creek flip-up lens caps that protect your glass from scratches, dirt, and moisture while staying attached so you can’t lose them in the field.
The one-piece tube construction is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, with construction designed to handle heavy recoil. The turrets provide 0.25 MOA adjustments with positive clicks for straightforward zeroing. The fast-focus eyepiece allows quick reticle adjustment even with gloves on. At a typical price point of $120 to $180, the Trophy XLT delivers remarkable performance for the money. You’re getting premium light transmission, reliable construction, and features that cover everything you need for successful slug hunting. Bushnell backs this scope with a limited lifetime warranty, providing confidence in your investment.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification Range | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Reticle | Multi-X (Second Focal Plane) |
| Turret Adjustments | 0.25 MOA |
| Eye Relief | 3.9 inches |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Weight | 13.9 ounces |
| Length | 12.6 inches |
Pros
- Exceptional 91% light transmission provides bright, clear images and extends shooting hours during prime time
- Classic 3-9x magnification covers all realistic slug hunting distances with proven effectiveness
- Butler Creek caps included protect your investment and stay attached so you won’t lose them
- Excellent value proposition delivers premium features at a budget-friendly price point
- Proven reliability backed by decades of use by hunters who depend on their equipment
Cons
- Standard eye relief at 3.9 inches is adequate but less generous than some competitors designed specifically for heavy recoil
The Bushnell Trophy XLT 3-9×40 Multi-X proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get excellent optical performance on your Savage 220. The combination of outstanding light transmission, reliable construction, and practical features makes this scope a smart choice for hunters who want to maximize performance without breaking the bank. This is the scope that simply works, hunt after hunt, season after season, helping you fill tags and create memories without drawing attention to itself.
Check Price on Amazon5. Burris Fullfield E1 3-9×40 Ballistic Plex (Best Scope for Savage 220 Long Range Capability)
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9×40 with Ballistic Plex reticle brings thoughtful engineering and practical features together in a package that extends your effective range with the Savage 220. Burris has been building quality optics in America since 1971, and the Fullfield E1 represents their commitment to delivering professional-grade performance at prices working hunters can actually afford. The “E1” designation indicates this is an entry-level scope in Burris’s lineup, but don’t let that fool you because the Fullfield E1 offers features and optical quality that compete effectively with scopes costing considerably more from other manufacturers.
The Ballistic Plex reticle is what sets this scope apart for slug gun applications. Instead of a simple crosshair, the Ballistic Plex features additional aiming points below the main intersection that correspond to common trajectory drops at extended ranges. When zeroed at 100 yards, these hash marks provide accurate holdover references at 200, 300, and even 400 yards, though that last distance exceeds what most slug shooters will attempt. The beauty of this system is that it eliminates holdover guesswork. You know exactly where to place your crosshair for longer shots, dramatically increasing your hit probability on deer at the edges of fields or across large openings. This reticle essentially extends your effective range by giving you the confidence to take shots you might otherwise pass on because you’re uncertain about holdover.
The optical system uses index-matched, multi-coated HiLume lenses that maximize light transmission and contrast. The glass quality is legitimately excellent for the price point, with good edge-to-edge sharpness and minimal chromatic aberration. Colors are rendered accurately, which helps with target identification against complex backgrounds. The 3-9x magnification range provides versatility from close-range work to extended shots, and the 40mm objective gathers sufficient light for hunting during legal shooting hours. Eye relief measures a safe 3.1 to 3.8 inches across the magnification range, providing adequate distance from the eyepiece to prevent scope bite from slug gun recoil.
The scope construction features positive steel-on-steel windage and elevation adjustments that provide crisp, repeatable clicks at 0.25 MOA increments. Once you establish zero, the scope maintains it reliably through heavy recoil and rough handling. The one-piece tube is waterproof, shockproof, and nitrogen-filled to prevent internal fogging. At 12.2 inches and 12.3 ounces, the Fullfield E1 is compact and lightweight, keeping your Savage 220 balanced and easy to handle. With typical pricing between $180 and $250, this scope delivers excellent value, especially considering it’s backed by Burris’s Forever Warranty that covers any defects forever, no receipt or warranty card required.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification Range | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Reticle | Ballistic Plex (Second Focal Plane) |
| Turret Adjustments | 0.25 MOA |
| Eye Relief | 3.1-3.8 inches |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Weight | 12.3 ounces |
| Length | 12.2 inches |
Pros
- Ballistic Plex reticle provides accurate holdover references for extended range shots without turret adjustments
- Excellent optical quality with HiLume lenses delivering bright, clear images with good contrast
- Steel-on-steel adjustments provide positive, repeatable clicks that maintain zero reliably
- Lightweight and compact design keeps your rifle balanced and easy to carry all day
- Forever Warranty from Burris covers any defects for the life of the product with no paperwork required
Cons
- Slightly shorter eye relief on the low end may feel restrictive for shooters sensitive to recoil positioning
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9×40 Ballistic Plex is the scope you choose when you want to push your Savage 220 to its maximum effective range. The Ballistic Plex reticle transforms longer shots from guesswork into calculated precision, giving you the confidence to take ethical shots at distances that would otherwise require you to pass. Combined with solid optical performance, reliable construction, and Burris’s excellent warranty, this scope represents outstanding value for serious slug gun hunters who refuse to accept artificial limitations on their effective range.
Check Price on AmazonConclusion
Selecting the best scope for Savage 220 slug gun means matching the optic to your specific hunting style, typical engagement ranges, and budget while ensuring the scope can handle the unique demands of slug shooting. The Savage 220 represents a revolutionary approach to slug gun design, delivering accuracy that genuinely rivals many centerfire rifles when paired with quality sabot ammunition. This level of performance deserves an optic that can exploit it fully, and each scope in this comparison brings specific strengths that cater to different hunting scenarios and shooter preferences.
For hunters seeking the best overall value with a purpose-designed reticle, the Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 BDC 150 delivers exactly what slug shooters need at a price that won’t devastate your budget. The Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 Shotgun/Muzzleloader represents the premium choice, offering legendary Leupold quality and low-light performance for serious hunters who demand the best. If maximum eye relief and recoil protection are your priorities, the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout provides unique advantages with its extended eye relief design and incredible warranty coverage. The Bushnell Trophy XLT 3-9×40 Multi-X delivers exceptional light transmission and proven reliability for hunters who want premium performance without premium pricing.
For shooters who want to maximize their effective range, the Burris Fullfield E1 3-9×40 Ballistic Plex provides accurate holdover references that transform longer shots from guesswork into precision. Consider your typical hunting environments honestly. Do you hunt thick timber where shots rarely exceed 75 yards, or do you watch agricultural fields where 150 to 200-yard shots are common? Will you be hunting primarily during peak daylight, or are you in the stand during those magical but dim hours at dawn and dusk when light transmission becomes critical? Your honest answers to these questions will guide you toward the scope that best matches your needs.
The Savage 220 is capable of genuine precision that many shooters never fully exploit because they pair it with inadequate optics. Every scope in this comparison has proven itself under the heavy recoil of slug guns and in the challenging conditions that define deer season. Whether you’re after your first deer or your hundredth, the right scope transforms your Savage 220 from an accurate slug gun into a precision hunting tool that delivers confidence and performance when that big buck finally appears. Choose based on your realistic needs and hunting style, then spend time at the range confirming your zero and learning your equipment. The combination of the Savage 220’s inherent accuracy and a quality optic creates a slug gun system that will serve you faithfully for decades of successful hunts.
See Also: 5 Best Scopes for 22LR Silhouette
Richard Brown is a long-range shooting enthusiast and competitive shooter with extensive experience in scopes across multiple disciplines. He hunts regularly across the Midwest and has built his expertise through years of hands-on testing in both competitive shooting and hunting. Richard also instructs youth rifle shooting, which has given him perspective on scopes at every price point and skill level. He combines technical knowledge with practical field experience to provide honest reviews – contact me