I am buying a H_R .223 and looking for a scope in the $100-$250 price range. Any suggestions for a scope that I can use to shoot ground squirrels.

I have Leupold, Thompson Center, Bushnel, Tasco and Simmons scopes none of which cost over $250 and all of which would be suitable for ground squirrels. My .223 has a 4-16X Tasco scope on it.

Some will critisize the lower end scopes such as Tasco; I guess I've been lucky because I've never had a problem with any of my scopes a number of which were purchased used.

You might try some online auction sites if you don't mind good used (actually hard to tell from new) equipment. Just be sure you know what the scopes cost new and exactly what you want in a scope so you don't pay too much. The the "gold ring" series of Leupold scopes are particularly attractive since the factory honors the lifetime warrenty even if you're not the original purchaser.

What about a used nikon buckmaster, or a used wearver V16.

A friend who is pecunious has been using Simmons scopes on his 223's with excellent results. He does not have anything to brag about but on the other hand he may be as good a shot as you know. They have a new "Master" line out now. Varmint scopes in the 4-14X range are quite useful.

I would highly recommend the Nikon Buckmaster 4.5-14 for $249 at The Optic Zone. A lot of scope for the money. In fact, IMHO, it compares with sopes in the $400 range.

I have had good luck with a Meuller. Good scope for the money.

http://theopticzone.com/detail.aspx?ID=3610

ZM

Just put a Swift 6X18X44 WA scope with MD ret. and target turrets on a .223 H&R.
$209 over the counter, not on sale.

This is my fourth or fifth Swift and I have had zero problems so far, 5 years+ use.
I also like the over-the-counter no hassles warranty, if I ever need it.
Sure beats sending it back to the manufacturer.

I have a Swift on a Ruger #1 in 223. Has been perfect.
Pete

Actually, I think on the best scopes for that application, is sort of inexpensive, but is durable and has a lot of features, and can take the beating that the Handi Rifle can take as a truck gun...

The Tasco 2.5 x 10 varmint scope.....

It has the mildots, target turrents and is a decent little scope...

They can be found for as cheap as a lowly $60.00.....and are as good as scopes costing a lot more...

cheers
seafire

I just received a Simmons Prarie Master 6X24X50 AO w/target turrets I ordered from Natchez for $69.95 plus $9.95 for a sunshade. Have not used it yet (I will tomorrow if the weather holds) so I can't recommend it just yet. Pretty clear optics, and it does feel good, very audible clicks and both the AO and power ring are smooth.

I did order two more to keep or put on rifles to sell if I don't like it. I figured for $80.00 what the heck.
The last Simmons I had worked very well for many years and I was sorry after I replaced it with a much more expensive scope that fogged up the very first weekend hunting.

You never know...

EDIT: 04/18 it was $69.95 + 9.95 for the sunshade NOT $79.95 + 9.95 and it rained like Noah yesterday, so I did not get to try it yet...

Twilli you guys have ground squirrels in New York?

The type scope I'd choose would be a Weaver Grand Slam a pretty nice scope at a reasonable price. A little higher than you stated but I find from experience that the clicks on the Weaver are much more repeatable than the scopes you're mentioning. I don't use clicks often except when hunting from a bench for Prairie Dogs very similar to the type of shooting your talking about with the ground squirrels. The basic difference is your targets a just a bit smaller. I’d take a look at the Grand Slam 6-20. I think the clarity is also better than the scopes above. I’d rate it with the Nikon Monarch, Leupold and the Bushnell 4200.

Weaver Grand Slam

I have 2 of the Simmons 44 Mag series. There 6.5X20X44, mounted on 2 Stevens 223's. They track well, glass is'nt bad. These have the re-setable target turrets. $99.00 from Natchez Shooters Supply.

Zeke could you post some observations on the Mueller? I've eyeballed it for a truck gun but have yet to hear from someone with real experience. Thanks, Nate

For all my regular hunting guns I use good glass,( Leupold, Burris) but I recently put together a cheap truck gun on a Husky action in 6.5x55 and I found a Sightron scope after I've heard great things about them, I am impressed as well. Bought a 3-9x40 Sightron S1 got it on E-bay new in the box for $100 plus $6 to ship. This thing is clear and bright, adjusts like clockwork and holds zero perfectly. Best $100 I've spent in a long while.
Before I bought it ( Sightron) I went the Simmons route and I hate to say it but I think they are junk and their customer service is reprehensible, you send money and a detailed message and a request for them to contact or reply to you and they send you a new scope and no correspondance.

I have a Handi Rifle in 223 w/ bull barrel and have a BSA 4x16 Mil Dot sitting on top of it. Price was less than $100.00 before taxes. Picked it up at a local store. They sell for less online. Crystal clear optics, front ocular adjustment, lighted reticle, sunshade is included, and adjustments are 1/8" @ 100 yds. I use it for coyotes, prairie dogs, and other assorted 'targets.'

I really like the Nikon Buckmaster line of scopes. They are about the least expensive scope that still offers what I consider an acceptable level of performance. A good scope and a good set of rings and you'll be set. I like Warne rings. If you haven't bought the rings already, you might take a look at them.

Hey twilli, I have a bushnell banner 6-18x50 AO on my 300 wm its a great scope i think for the price of 125.00

Hey Big Nate...My mueller is doing great on my 204. absolutely no complaints. And i have dialed the crap out of the adjustments and the zero is always there.