Rifle Scope .22cal.

Question
Chuck: I have a Marlin 881 bolt action .22cal rifle that does not shoot well with the Tasco 4x32 scope. Both were bought in 1992. I have tried all kinds of different ammo and got the best, but not good results from the Federal Champions 40gr solid lead (510). After having many periods of practice I feel that both human error and ammo can be ruled out along with the rifle. I had it checked out by a good reliable gunsmith that has been in business for years, and said that the gun checked out good and that he recommend a better scope. Most people say that Tasco made lower grade scopes and would not comment further. So I am looking at scopes. Bushnell makes scopes designed for the .22, but feel that only spending $45-$50 bucks hardly makes up for, or exceeds in accuracy and quality for what is on the gun now. I plan on spending about $100-$150 on a good scope. The one in mind is a Nikon Prostaff 4x32 model 6305. I was wondering what you thought and what would your recommendations be on this subject? Would the Nikon 6305 be a good choice for the money?

Answer
Hello Gary. Your Marlin Model 881 is a standard utility grade rifle. It was not made for pinpoint accuracy. Although it has the famous Micro-Groove rifling, it does not have the competition grade barrel or trigger assembly to warrant a +- MOA. I would suggest that you start by removing the lead fouling from the bore and powder fouling in the chamber. If you do not have a rifle bench vise, buy one or build one. Clamp it in and start shooting the cheapest long rifle ammo you can find. Don't worry about sighting in at this point. Just concentrate on putting shot after shot down range to a target 25 feet away. If you have more than 1" spacing or erratic placement, take the stock off and put the barreled receiver in the vise. If there is still a variance of shot placement, you may have a problem with your rifle. If all goes well with the first firing fully assembled, then move on to sighting in with your open sites. Now that you are sure it is not your gun, try your Tasco scope again.If the shot placement changes any more than it did with your open sights, you need a new scope.
Now, you ask about a scope that will satisfy your needs. I have found the less expensive Tasco scopes to be lacking in fine tuning, since they are made for plinking or hunting small game. In my opinion, the adjustments are too course for target shooting. I do prefer a 1" tube scope when I shoot any rifle. I would suggest a 4X with a 1" tube. You can choose any brand or model in the under $50.00 price range. You ask if a NIKON PROSTAFF 4x32 model 6305 would be a good choice for the money?. Yes, it would if you first change your barrel over to one for sustained target accuracy and a target trigger replacement. I believe the standard Tasco scope that comes with most 22 cal. rifles has a 1/4" per click adjustment. Try to find one with a more fine tuned adjustment. I sold Bushnell for years, but if you get the $20.00 3/4" tube Sportview, you will be in the same shape as you began. It is wise that you are comparing prospective replacements, but stay around that $50 price range and don't put such a burden on your 881 to perform as well as the scope you mount on it. I hope this answers your question and thank you for asking for me. Charles Gage