The Tasco 22 Caliber Clam High Scope Rings Made a Bold First Impression
Mounting a scope on a rimfire rifle should be a straightforward affair. Too often, however, the rings designed for these rifles feel like an afterthought. That’s why the Tasco 22 Caliber Clam High Scope Rings caught my attention; at a mere $11.49, they promise a simple, effective solution for mounting scopes with larger objective lenses on .22 caliber rifles.
I was looking for an affordable, reliable way to mount a 40mm objective scope on my trusty old Marlin Model 60. The factory iron sights just weren’t cutting it for small game hunting. I needed something that offered decent clearance without breaking the bank.
Upon receiving the Tasco 22 Caliber Clam High Scope Rings, I was surprised by their lightweight construction. The matte black aluminum has a no-frills aesthetic. They didn’t feel cheap, exactly, but definitely utilitarian.
Compared to pricier steel rings, like those from Leupold or Weaver, these Tasco rings definitely lack the heft and perceived robustness. However, those rings often cost five to ten times as much! I picked these because of the price point and the stated “high” profile, aiming to avoid any clearance issues with the scope objective and the rifle’s barrel. My initial impression was cautious optimism.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tasco 22 Caliber Clam High Scope Rings to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Tasco 22 Caliber Clam High Scope Rings was at my local outdoor shooting range. It was a relatively mild day, around 65 degrees Fahrenheit with a slight breeze. I mounted the rings and scope onto my Marlin 60 in about ten minutes using a basic screwdriver. The clam design made it easy to align the scope and tighten the screws.
The rings held the scope securely during the initial zeroing process. I was pleasantly surprised by the consistency of the shots. I didn’t experience any noticeable scope slippage after firing about 100 rounds. The “high” profile proved necessary and effective. The scope’s objective cleared the barrel with room to spare.
However, the included screws felt a bit soft. I noticed some slight burring on the screw heads after tightening them down. I’d suggest using caution and not overtightening them.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and approximately 500 rounds through my Marlin 60, the Tasco 22 Caliber Clam High Scope Rings have largely held up. I’ve taken the rifle on a couple of squirrel hunts in moderately brushy terrain. I’ve also put it through its paces at the range.
There are some minor scratches on the matte black finish from brush and handling. The screws are still holding tight, although I’m careful to check them before each shooting session. The rings haven’t shifted or loosened significantly during extended use.
Maintaining these rings is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is all it takes to keep them clean. Compared to the set of steel rings I used previously, these feel less rock-solid, but the price difference is significant. For a budget-friendly option on a .22, they perform adequately.
Breaking Down the Features of Tasco 22 Caliber Clam High Scope Rings
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 Caliber – Specifically designed for .22 caliber rifles, ensuring a proper fit on the dovetail rail.
- Material: Matte Black Aluminum – Lightweight and corrosion-resistant aluminum provides a durable yet affordable mounting solution.
- Height: High (1″) – The “high” profile offers ample clearance for scopes with larger objective lenses, preventing contact with the rifle barrel.
- Design: Clam Shell – The clam shell design simplifies installation and allows for easy scope alignment.
- Finish: Matte Black – The non-reflective matte black finish reduces glare and blends seamlessly with most rifle scopes.
These specifications are crucial for ensuring compatibility and optimal performance. The .22 caliber designation guarantees a snug fit on most .22 rifle dovetails. The aluminum construction keeps the weight down, which is important for a lightweight rifle like a .22.
Performance & Functionality
The Tasco 22 Caliber Clam High Scope Rings perform their primary function adequately: securely mounting a scope. The “high” profile is essential for larger objective lenses. The clam shell design simplifies installation.
The rings’ main strength is their affordability. Their weakness is the less-than-premium materials. They meet my expectations for a budget-friendly option, but they don’t exceed them in terms of robustness or finish quality.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for the price. The aluminum feels reasonably sturdy, but it lacks the heft of steel rings. The rings are lightweight, which is a plus for a .22 rifle.
The clam shell design is user-friendly. There’s virtually no learning curve. Aligning the scope is straightforward, and tightening the screws is simple.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction should provide adequate durability for .22 caliber use. These rifles don’t produce significant recoil. Regular cleaning and light lubrication should help these rings last for several years.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after use is usually sufficient. Replacing the screws with higher-quality ones could extend the rings’ lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tasco 22 Caliber Clam High Scope Rings do not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available directly for the rings themselves.
However, the rings are compatible with a wide range of .22 caliber scopes from various brands. Upgrading the screws to higher-quality steel screws is a recommended modification for increased durability and peace of mind.
Pros and Cons of Tasco 22 Caliber Clam High Scope Rings
Pros
- Affordable price : At around $11.49, these rings are incredibly budget-friendly.
- High profile : Provides ample clearance for scopes with larger objective lenses.
- Easy installation : The clam shell design simplifies mounting and alignment.
- Lightweight aluminum : Keeps the overall weight of the rifle down.
- Adequate performance : Holds the scope securely for typical .22 caliber use.
Cons
- Less durable materials : Aluminum construction is less robust than steel.
- Soft screws : The included screws are prone to burring and should be tightened with caution.
Who Should Buy Tasco 22 Caliber Clam High Scope Rings?
The Tasco 22 Caliber Clam High Scope Rings are perfect for casual .22 rifle shooters, plinkers, and small game hunters on a tight budget. They are ideal for anyone looking for an inexpensive and easy-to-install scope mounting solution.
These rings are not suitable for shooters who demand maximum durability or plan to subject their rifles to heavy use or harsh conditions. Anyone who is mounting a very expensive or high-end scope may want to consider investing in more robust, higher-quality rings. A must-have modification is higher-quality replacement screws.
Conclusion on Tasco 22 Caliber Clam High Scope Rings
The Tasco 22 Caliber Clam High Scope Rings offer a simple and affordable solution for mounting scopes on .22 caliber rifles. The value proposition is strong. The low price makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious shooters.
I would recommend these rings to anyone looking for a basic, no-frills scope mounting solution for their .22 rifle. While they may not be the most durable or aesthetically pleasing option, they get the job done without breaking the bank. If you need a budget-friendly option for mounting a scope on your .22, give the Tasco 22 Caliber Clam High Scope Rings a try. They’ll let you put rounds on target and save your money for ammo!