Twice now I have tried to use a scope on 22s. Once with a fixed 2x the second time with a fastfire III. Neither time did I notice any real improvement in my accuracy. Both optics were mounted on Browning buckmarks. Am I alone?

What distance are you shooting at?

Adding an optic doesn't really aid one's techinque, but it does make it easier to see the sights and target. Yet, I have witnessed some fairly respectable shooters of iron sighted pistols completely fall apart trying to shoot offhand with magnification.

A scope does not make you a better shooter. It will allow you to see the target and aim more precisely at ranges of 50 yards and beyond. Scopes are at their best when shooting from a rest. Additionally, it takes more than a few outings to learn a scope. I suggest dry firing and concentrating on your hold and follow through. I mean 100s and 100s of dry fire cycles. One thing a scope does do is show you all of your technique flaws. If you cannot hold on target and follow through comfortably with an empty gun, adding a chambered round will certainly not help. Master the empty gun then head for the range.

I shoot tighter groups with an optic most of the time.

Well I have never been good off the bench so maybe that explains some of it.

i'm convinced that a scope is made for benchrest soooooooooo that's how I shoot them .

In hunting conditions I always try to use a deadfall log, tree branch, boulder, shooting sticks, etc. for a rest when I can. Sometimes though 2 handed offhand is all thats available. I suggest practicing them all with your hunting gear. Scope or irons.