Springer air rifles, or spring-piston air rifles, are popular choices for target shooting, hunting small game, and pest control. They are known for their affordability, durability, and self-contained power sources. However, finding the right scope for a springer air rifle can be challenging due to their unique recoil, which can be tough on optics.
One brand that has garnered attention in recent years is Monstrum Tactical. But are Monstrum scopes any good for springer air rifles 2021? In this article, we will delve deep into the features, durability, compatibility, and user experiences of Monstrum scopes when used with springer air rifles.
Understanding Springer Air Rifles and Scope Requirements
How Do Springer Air Rifles Work?
Springer air rifles function by compressing a spring inside the chamber. When fired, the spring releases, pushing a piston forward and compressing air behind the pellet. This sudden release generates a unique two-way recoil, which is different from the recoil of a traditional firearm.
Why Do Springer Air Rifles Need Special Scopes?
Unlike conventional firearms, springer air rifles produce a dual-direction recoil (both forward and backward). Many scopes designed for centerfire or rimfire rifles can fail under this repeated stress, leading to:
- Loss of zero
- Internal lens misalignment
- Reticle damage
Therefore, scopes used on springer air rifles must be shockproof, durable, and designed to handle bidirectional recoil.
Overview of Monstrum Scopes
Monstrum Tactical is a well-known manufacturer of budget-friendly scopes aimed at tactical and hunting applications. Their scopes are often praised for offering decent optics at an affordable price.
Features of Monstrum Scopes
- Durability: Built with aircraft-grade aluminum for rugged use
- Multi-coated lenses: Designed to reduce glare and improve clarity
- Adjustable objective lenses (AO): Found in some models for parallax correction
- Illuminated reticles: Enhancing visibility in low-light conditions
- Variable magnification: Providing flexibility for different shooting scenarios
Are Monstrum Scopes Any Good for Springer Air Rifles 2021?
To determine whether Monstrum scopes are good for springer air rifles in 2021, we need to analyze their key features and how well they stand up to the demands of a spring-piston rifle.
1. Durability Against Springer Recoil
One of the primary concerns with any scope on a springer air rifle is durability. Monstrum scopes are built from sturdy aluminum housing, but they are not specifically designed for air rifles. Some users have reported that Monstrum scopes struggle to maintain zero when subjected to the intense recoil of a magnum-powered springer rifle.
2. Optical Clarity and Accuracy
Monstrum scopes typically feature multi-coated lenses, which help with brightness and clarity. For air rifle shooting at moderate distances (20-50 yards), the clarity is generally acceptable. However, some shooters note that budget Monstrum scopes may experience blurriness at higher magnifications.
3. Parallax Adjustment and AO Models
Springer air rifles benefit greatly from adjustable objective (AO) lenses, as they allow for precise focusing at close ranges (10-50 yards). Some Monstrum models, like the Monstrum G2 1-4×24 and Monstrum 3-9×40 AO, offer parallax adjustments, making them more suitable for air rifle use.
4. Shock Resistance and Holding Zero
Many firearm scopes are rated for centerfire recoil, but that does not necessarily mean they will survive a springer rifle’s reverse recoil. Monstrum scopes are shock-resistant, but reports suggest that some models may struggle to hold zero when mounted on high-power springers like the Hatsan 125 or RWS 34.
5. Price vs. Performance
Monstrum scopes are budget-friendly, often priced between $50-$150. While this makes them appealing to new shooters, there are more reliable air rifle-rated scopes available in the same price range, such as Hawke Airmax or UTG BugBuster.
Best Monstrum Scopes for Springer Air Rifles in 2021
While Monstrum scopes are not specifically designed for springer air rifles, some models may perform adequately on low to medium-powered air rifles. Here are some models that could work:
1. Monstrum 3-9×32 AO Scope
- Pros: Has an adjustable objective (AO) for parallax correction, decent clarity
- Cons: May struggle to hold zero on high-power springers
2. Monstrum G2 1-4×24 LPVO
- Pros: Compact, illuminated reticle, durable
- Cons: Limited magnification for long-range shooting
3. Monstrum 3-9×40 AO Rifle Scope
- Pros: Budget-friendly, parallax adjustment, illuminated reticle
- Cons: Durability concerns under heavy springer recoil
Alternative Scopes Specifically Designed for Springer Air Rifles
If you’re looking for better alternatives that are built specifically for springer air rifles, consider the following:
1. Hawke Airmax 3-9×40 AO
- Air rifle-rated and designed to withstand dual recoil
- Excellent clarity and parallax adjustment
2. UTG 4-16×40 AO True Strength Scope
- Built with True Strength Platform to endure springer recoil
- Illuminated reticle with side parallax adjustment
3. Leapers UTG BugBuster 3-9×32 AO
- Compact, durable, and made for airguns
- Adjustable parallax and illuminated reticle
FAQs About Monstrum Scopes on Springer Air Rifles
1. Can I use a Monstrum scope on my springer air rifle?
Yes, but it depends on the power of your air rifle. Low-powered springers may work fine, but high-powered models can cause Monstrum scopes to lose zero over time.
2. Are Monstrum scopes durable enough for air rifles?
While Monstrum scopes are shockproof, they are not specifically designed for the unique recoil of a springer air rifle. Some models may work, but they are not the most reliable choice.
3. Which Monstrum scope is best for air rifles?
The Monstrum 3-9×32 AO is a decent option, but better airgun-rated alternatives exist, such as the UTG BugBuster or Hawke Airmax.
4. Do Monstrum scopes have parallax adjustment?
Some Monstrum models offer adjustable objective lenses (AO), which are important for air rifles to maintain accuracy at closer distances.
5. What is the best budget scope for a springer air rifle?
If budget is a concern, UTG BugBuster 3-9×32 AO is a great air rifle-rated scope that withstands springer recoil better than Monstrum scopes.
Conclusion: Should You Use a Monstrum Scope on a Springer Air Rifle?
While Monstrum scopes offer decent optics for their price, they are not the best choice for springer air rifles due to potential issues with recoil resistance and holding zero. If you own a low- to medium-powered springer, a Monstrum scope might work, but for high-powered air rifles, investing in a scope specifically designed for airgun recoil is the smarter choice.
For best results, consider alternatives like Hawke Airmax, UTG BugBuster, or Leapers UTG scopes, which are proven to withstand the unique demands of a spring-piston air rifle.
Would you still prefer a Monstrum scope, or are you considering other air rifle-rated scopes?
