The rings I had on the Cricket were those kind that have the little sheetmetal 'hand' that catches onto the rimfire groove. I installed a set of vertically split rings that clamp on using Allen screws above the scope and below, at the cleavage which catches the grooves on the base adapter.
I think it made a difference. Maybe not. Maybe I just had a good day.
I know one thing, for sure and certain: It's on me now. No more excuses.