Crickett Compact Silver 4x32mm Scope Includes Rings Review

My first impression of Crickett Compact Silver 4x32mm Scope Includes Rings

The Crickett Compact Silver 4x32mm Scope Includes Rings is marketed as an entry-level optic, seemingly designed for the Crickett line of single-shot rifles popular among youth shooters. At a price point hovering around $56.99, it promises a simple, effective aiming solution for those just starting out, or for anyone looking for a lightweight, no-frills scope for a small-caliber firearm. My interest was piqued because I’ve been teaching my niece the basics of marksmanship, and her Crickett rifle was in desperate need of an optic.

I needed a scope that was easy to use, durable enough to withstand the handling of a young shooter, and, most importantly, wouldn’t break the bank. Several other scopes in this price range caught my eye, including some generic Chinese-made models with similar specifications, and a slightly pricier Bushnell rimfire scope. I ultimately chose the Crickett scope because it seemed like a matched set designed specifically for the rifle she already owned, potentially guaranteeing a better fit and simpler installation. Upon unboxing the scope, my initial impression was a mix of cautious optimism and a healthy dose of skepticism.

The silver finish gives it a somewhat toy-like appearance, but the glass seemed clear enough and the rings felt reasonably sturdy. The weight was surprisingly light, which is a definite plus for a youth rifle. Overall, I was cautiously optimistic, hoping that its performance would outweigh its somewhat basic aesthetics.

Real-World Testing: Putting Crickett Compact Silver 4x32mm Scope Includes Rings to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the Crickett Compact Silver 4x32mm Scope Includes Rings came during a family outing to our local shooting range. The weather was clear and sunny, ideal conditions for sighting in a new scope. Mounting the scope onto the Crickett rifle was straightforward, thanks to the included rings, although I did need to ensure proper alignment and tightening to prevent slippage.

Initially, I was impressed with the clarity of the image at 4x magnification, especially considering the price point. However, I soon discovered that the eye relief was quite short, requiring me to position my eye very close to the scope to achieve a full field of view. This proved challenging for my niece, who struggled to maintain the correct head position.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Crickett Compact Silver 4x32mm Scope Includes Rings has held up reasonably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the scope body itself, though the silver finish has picked up a few minor scratches. Cleaning the lenses is easy enough with a microfiber cloth, and the adjustments, while basic, have remained consistent.

The biggest issue remains the short eye relief, which continues to be a challenge for younger shooters. While the scope has held zero reasonably well, I wouldn’t trust it for serious precision shooting. It’s perfectly adequate for plinking and introducing basic aiming skills, but it’s not a high-performance optic. Overall, it performs as expected for its price, but doesn’t exceed expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Crickett Compact Silver 4x32mm Scope Includes Rings

Specifications

• Magnification: 4x. This fixed magnification is simple and easy to use for beginners, providing a clear, consistent view.
• Objective Lens Diameter: 32mm. This allows for sufficient light gathering for daytime shooting.
• Finish: Silver. While aesthetically not for everyone, the silver finish adds a touch of uniqueness and can be easier to spot in low-light conditions compared to matte black.
• Rings: Included. This is a major advantage, as it saves the user the hassle and expense of purchasing separate rings.

Performance & Functionality

The Crickett Compact Silver 4x32mm Scope Includes Rings performs its basic function adequately. Accuracy is acceptable within the limitations of a fixed 4x magnification and the inherent accuracy of the Crickett rifle itself. Its strengths lie in its simplicity and ease of use, while its weaknesses include the short eye relief and limited adjustment range.

It meets the basic expectations for a budget-friendly scope designed for introductory shooting. Improvements could be made to the eye relief and adjustment knobs for enhanced user experience.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is adequate for the price point, with a lightweight aluminum body. The scope is compact and relatively easy to handle, though the silver finish may not appeal to all users. The short eye relief presents an ergonomic challenge, especially for younger shooters or those wearing glasses.

There is a definite learning curve associated with finding the optimal eye position, which can be frustrating for beginners.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its simple construction, the Crickett Compact Silver 4x32mm Scope Includes Rings appears to be reasonably durable. With proper care and storage, it should last for several years of light use. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses with a soft cloth.

It’s unlikely to withstand extreme conditions or heavy recoil, but it is perfectly adequate for its intended purpose.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Crickett Compact Silver 4x32mm Scope Includes Rings comes with the necessary mounting rings, eliminating the need for additional purchases. There are no other officially supported accessories or customization options, but users could potentially replace the rings with higher-quality alternatives if desired. The scope is compatible with any rifle that accepts standard Weaver-style scope rings.

However, given the overall quality and price point of the scope, extensive customization is probably not worth the investment.

Pros and Cons of Crickett Compact Silver 4x32mm Scope Includes Rings

Who Should Buy Crickett Compact Silver 4x32mm Scope Includes Rings?

The Crickett Compact Silver 4x32mm Scope Includes Rings is perfect for:

• Beginner shooters
• Parents teaching children marksmanship
• Anyone looking for a budget-friendly scope for a .22 rifle

Who should skip this product?

• Experienced shooters seeking high-precision optics
• Anyone who needs adjustable magnification or long eye relief

A must-have modification would be higher-quality scope rings if the included ones fail.

Conclusion on Crickett Compact Silver 4x32mm Scope Includes Rings

The Crickett Compact Silver 4x32mm Scope Includes Rings is a decent entry-level optic that offers acceptable performance at an affordable price. While it has limitations, such as the short eye relief and basic adjustments, it’s a suitable option for beginners or those looking for a simple, lightweight scope for a .22 rifle. The inclusion of mounting rings adds value and simplifies the installation process.

The price is justified for what you get: a basic, functional scope that will get the job done for introductory shooting. I would cautiously recommend it to those who understand its limitations and are primarily concerned with affordability and ease of use. Overall, it’s a reasonable option for its intended purpose. However, investing in a higher-quality scope with better eye relief and adjustment options might be a better long-term investment for serious shooters.