Optic suggestions for Diana model 48/52

[Blueduck]

After a few months of research I plan on buying a Diana model 48/52 .22 to control a growing ground squirrel problem on my property. Though I have been shooting for many years I am new to the high power springer game and would like suggestions on an appropriate optic. Do I need a specific optic designed for springers? My research so far has been inconclusive...folks seem to be all over the place. I have 4 acres and most of my shots will be between 20-50 yards. My eyesight is not the best so I would like to zoom in on these critters! Budget $200-250 Thank you in advance for any and all advice. It is much appreciated.

 

[boscoebrea]

First off you need a strong one-piece mount,I used a drooper rail, Mounted an old Bushnell Legend Japanese scope with no problems.
That springer needs a good strong scope so make sure the scope is rated for a springer,a heavy-hitting springer.

 

[grackleblast]

After a few months of research I plan on buying a Diana model 48/52 .22 to control a growing ground squirrel problem on my property. Though I have been shooting for many years I am new to the high power springer game and would like suggestions on an appropriate optic. Do I need a specific optic designed for springers? My research so far has been inconclusive...folks seem to be all over the place. I have 4 acres and most of my shots will be between 20-50 yards. My eyesight is not the best so I would like to zoom in on these critters! Budget $200-250 Thank you in advance for any and all advice. It is much appreciated.

Get a scope with a lifetime unconditional warranty.......................you will probably be needing it. Those are known as scope killers due to the aggressive shot cycle.

 

[flatpick65]

I too bought a Model 48 about seven years ago. It was my first “real” air rifle (sans Crosman 760 from my boyhoood). I put a Hawke Vantage 4x12x50 IR with a Diana ZR mount and it has yet to destroy that scope and if it does Hawke’s warranty will cover it. That shot cycle is vicious. Unless you are dead set on the side lever of the the 48/52, you might consider a Model 460 Under lever. I bought one of those last year and it hits every bit as hard as the 48 with a much smoother shot cycle. It is a more comfortable “field carry” gun than the 48 as it has a slimmer profile although it’s not much lighter. It’s sporting a cheap Centerpoint 3x9x44 with the lock down turrets and probably has at least 1500 cycles and is still holding on so……. If it breaks a drop another $100 (or less) at Wally World for a replacement. If I pick up a springer it seems to always be the 460 over the 48. If you haven’t already purchased the 48 and can compare the two side by side. You might change your mind.

 

[Blueduck]

I too bought a Model 48 about seven years ago. It was my first “real” air rifle (sans Crosman 760 from my boyhoood). I put a Hawke Vantage 4x12x50 IR with a Diana ZR mount and it has yet to destroy that scope and if it does Hawke’s warranty will cover it. That shot cycle is vicious. Unless you are dead set on the side lever of the the 48/52, you might consider a Model 460 Under lever. I bought one of those last year and it hits every bit as hard as the 48 with a much smoother shot cycle. It is a more comfortable “field carry” gun than the 48 as it has a slimmer profile although it’s not much lighter. It’s sporting a cheap Centerpoint 3x9x44 with the lock down turrets and probably has at least 1500 cycles and is still holding on so……. If it breaks a drop another $100 (or less) at Wally World for a replacement. If I pick up a springer it seems to always be the 460 over the 48. If you haven’t already purchased the 48 and can compare the two side by side. You might change your mind.

Thanks. I'll look into it