Looking for the best 22 rimfire scopes? If yes, this comprehensive buying guide will walk you through the best 22 rimfire scopes available and help you find the ideal model for your needs.
The .22 rimfire rifle is a popular firearm with unmatched versatility. As a beginner in shooting, it is ideal for honing your marksmanship, and as a seasoned hunter pursuing small game or a plinker enjoying a day at the range, the .22 rifle is a go-to choice for its low recoil, affordability, and widespread availability.
To truly maximize the accuracy and performance of a .22 rimfire rifle, pairing it with the right scope is essential.
What Makes a Great 22 Rimfire Scope?
Unlike high-powered centerfire rifles, the .22 rimfire operates at lower velocities and is typically used for shorter-range shooting, usually within 100 yards. A great .22 rimfire scopes should offer:
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Clear Optics: A great scope for a .22 Rimfire should offer sharp, high-contrast visuals to help shooters clearly identify small targets like squirrels or paper bullseyes.
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Precise Adjustments: Reliable and repeatable windage and elevation turrets are essential for dialing in accuracy. The best 22 rimfire scopes should allow for fine-tuned adjustments to account for bullet drop and wind, ensuring consistent shot placement whether you’re plinking or hunting.
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Lightweight Construction: Since .22 rifles are generally compact and lightweight, a heavy scope can upset the rifle’s balance. A well-designed scope should be light enough not to interfere with the handling and maneuverability of the firearm.
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Appropriate Magnification: The best scopes for rimfire rifles typically offer modest magnification, usually in the 2–7x or 3–9x range, suitable for short to mid-range shooting. This level of zoom helps shooters spot and engage small targets effectively without overcomplicating the sight picture.
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Durability: Even though .22 rifles have minimal recoil, a good scope should still be built to last. It should be robust enough to handle bumps, weather exposure, and regular adjustments without losing zero or clarity.
Best 22 Rimfire Scopes
1. Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire is the best 22 rimfire scope. It is a versatile and reliable optic tailored specifically for rimfire rifles.
The selling point of this rimfire scope is the variable magnification range from 2x to 7x. It provides excellent flexibility for short- to mid-range shooting, allowing for quick target acquisition at lower magnifications and precise shot placement at higher zoom levels.
Furthermore, the 32mm objective lens gathers ample light, offering a bright and clear sight picture, especially under daylight conditions. The scope also features a fast-focus eyepiece and capped turrets with a tactile and audible response, enabling easy zeroing and adjustments without needing tools.
Regarding reticle, the V-Plex reticle is a simple and uncluttered crosshair ideal for rimfire use. It is easy to use for shooters of all levels, including beginners.
Above all, this rimfire scope is constructed from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum that is rugged and durable enough to withstand recoil and rough handling.
Pros
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Generous eye relief
- Compact and lightweight design
- Sturdy and durable build quality
- User-friendly features
Cons
- Non-illuminated
2. Bushnell Rimfire 3-9×40 Illuminated Riflescope
The Bushnell Rimfire 3-9×40 Illuminated Riflescope delivers an excellent balance of clarity, durability, and value, for rimfire rifle users looking for precision and reliability.
The most notable feature of this rifle scope is its optical clarity. It features fully multi-coated optics that provide sharp, bright images even in low-light conditions, while the 40mm objective lens ensures a generous field of view.
Furthermore, the adjustable 3-9x magnification range offers flexibility for both close and medium-range shooting, making it ideal for hunting small game or target practice. The scope also features an illuminated reticle that provides excellent visibility against dark backgrounds or shaded environments.
With easily accessible adjustment turrets, zeroing the scope is straightforward, and the adjustments hold well under repeated use. Moreover, this rifle scope is built with a rugged, waterproof, and fog-proof design to stands up to harsh outdoor conditions without losing accuracy.
Pros
- Solid one-piece tube construction
- Adequate and forgiving eye relief
- Lightweight design
- Lighted reticle
- Premium features at an affordable price
Cons
- The turret adjustments lack the crisp, tactile feel found in higher-end scopes
3. Athlon Neos 3-9×40 Rimfire Scope
As one of the best 22 rimfire scopes, the Athlon Neos 3-9×40 Rimfire scope offers excellent performance for its price point, delivering reliability and optical clarity that surpass expectations for entry-level scopes.
Designed with beginners and casual shooters in mind, this scope offers clear and bright images. It has fully multi-coated lenses to enhance light transmission and a large 40mm objective lens that improves low-light performance.
The 3-9x magnification range provides ample versatility for both short- and mid-range shooting, making it a great choice for plinking, small game hunting, or target practice. Furthermore, the parallax setting is optimized for rimfire distances, ensuring precise focus and aiming performance at closer ranges where typical centerfire scopes may struggle.
Regarding reticle, the reticle is simple yet effective, offering easy target acquisition without unnecessary distractions.
To top it all off, this rimfire scope is built on a single-piece aluminum tube that is lightweight and durable enough to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Pros
- Shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof construction
- Smooth and repeatable adjustments for windage and elevation
- Generous eye relief
- Lightweight build
Cons
- The image clarity degrades noticeably at higher magnifications, especially in low-light conditions
4. Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope
Carrying the renowned Vortex name, the Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope delivers impressive performance tailored specifically for rimfire rifles.
Its build quality is solid and reliable, featuring a one-inch aircraft-grade aluminum tube that’s both shockproof and recoil-resistant. Furthermore, the optical tube is waterproof and fog-proof to ensure durability in various weather and field conditions.
The magnification range of 2-7x is ideal for small game hunting and target shooting at shorter to medium distances. It is complemented by fully multi-coated lenses that provide bright, crisp images with excellent color fidelity, even in low-light conditions.
With its fast-focus eyepiece and smooth, precise turret adjustments, sighting in is a breeze and maintaining zero is easy, even after repeated use. This scope is also designed with a second focal plane reticle that ensures that the reticle size stays consistent throughout the magnification range.
Pros
- Clean and uncluttered V-Plex reticle
- Lightweight and compact design
- Affordable price point
- Solid build quality
Cons
- Tight eye relief at maximum magnification
5. Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 2-7x33mm Rifle Scope
The Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 2-7x33mm Rifle Scope is a standout optic that blends performance, clarity, and durability into a compact package tailored for rimfire rifles.
With the 2-7x magnification range, it is ideal for short- to mid-range shooting, offering excellent versatility whether you’re plinking, varmint hunting, or target shooting. Moreover, the glass quality is impressive for its class, delivering crisp, bright images even in lower-light conditions, thanks in part to Leupold’s proprietary Twilight Light Management System.
The 33mm objective lens provides a wide field of view essential for rapid target finding. Furthermore, the rimfire-specific parallax adjustment enhances accuracy at shorter distances, which is crucial for .22 LR rifles.
Construction-wise, the scope is built to withstand the rigors of field use. It is 100% waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof, with a rugged aircraft-grade aluminum construction that holds zero reliably after repeated rounds.
Over and above that, the scope’s finger-adjustable 1/4 MOA turrets are tactile and precise, allowing for easy zeroing and field adjustments. Additionally, the duplex reticle is simple yet effective, offering quick target acquisition without clutter.
Pros
- Lightweight and sleek design
- Built to last
- Premium performance at an accessible price point
- Exceptional low-light performance
- Generous eye relief
Cons
- Non-illuminated
6. BARSKA 30/30 Crosshair Reticle Rifle Scope
Last but not least, we have the BARSKA 30/30 Crosshair Reticle Rifle Scope.
As one of the best 22 rimfire scopes, it is purpose‑built for .22 LR plinking and small‑game rimfire rifles, and its design choices reflect that niche perfectly. The 3‑9×32 mm configuration paired with the second focal plane gives beginners and casual shooters the versatility to zoom in on targets across different ranges.
Furthermore, the scope is built with a durable construction to offer reliable performance in all field conditions. It holds zero well after sighting in and the the shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof construction adds confidence when using it in varying weather conditions.
Regarding optics, the scope provides clear and consistent images through its fully coated optics, which enhance light transmission and reduce glare. The 40mm objective lens delivers a decent field of view for tracking moving targets and the 30/30 crosshair reticle provides a straightforward aiming point that works well for both beginners and experienced shooters.
Above all, this rifle scope has a lightweight design well-suited for hunting, plinking, or casual target shooting.
Pros
- User-friendly design
- Clean, uncluttered reticle
- Lightweight design
- Sturdy and versatile for hunting, plinking, or casual target shooting
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best 22 Rimfire Scopes
When selecting the best .22 rimfire scope, several important factors come into play to ensure optimal performance and satisfaction.
Magnification Power
First and foremost, magnification power is critical. Since .22 rifles are typically used for short to medium ranges, a scope with moderate magnification, such as 2-7x or 3-9x, is usually sufficient. These settings allow for accurate targeting without overcomplicating the aiming process.
Optical Clarity
Another crucial factor is the optical clarity. It refers to how clear, crisp, and detailed the image appears when viewed through the scope. Superior clarity allows you to identify targets more accurately and quickly, which can make all the difference in the field. For the best 22 rimfire scopes, opt for a model that features fully multi-coated lenses. These coatings reduce glare, increase light transmission, and enhance contrast.
Construction Quality
Alongside this, durability and construction matter significantly. The best 22 rimfire scopes should be shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof to withstand rough outdoor use and varying weather conditions. On top of that, the scope should have a robust construction to withstand abuse and rough handling.
Reticle Type
Another key consideration is reticle type. Many shooters prefer a simple duplex reticle for its ease of use, while others may opt for a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) reticle for more precise long-range shooting. Determine your shooting needs and choose a reticle that complements those needs.
Adjustment Turrets
Additionally, adjustment turrets and tracking should be reliable and easy to use. Look for scopes with precise, repeatable adjustments for windage and elevation to maintain zero effectively.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of the scope are particularly important for maintaining the balance of a lightweight rimfire rifle. A compact and lightweight design is ideal for reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions. It also makes the scope easy to mount and detach from the rifle when not in use.
Eye Relief
Furthermore, consider the eye relief and field of view. Ample eye relief enhances shooting comfort and safety, with or without eye glasses. The best 22 rimfire scopes should also feature a wide field of view for easier target acquisition and tracking.
Price and Value
Finally, price and value play a significant role. While high-end scopes offer premium features, there are many budget-friendly options that provide excellent performance for the casual or beginner shooter. Balance quality with cost to ensures you get the best scope for your needs without overspending.
FAQs
- What magnification is best for a .22 LR scope?
2-7x and 3-9x are the best magnification for a 22 rimfire scope. 2-7x is excellent for plinking and small game hunting while 3-9x provides more versatility for target shooting or longer-range use up to 100 yards.
- Is parallax adjustment important for .22 scopes?
Yes. Rimfire rifles are typically used at short distances from 25 to 100 yards. A scope with adjustable parallax or fixed parallax at 50 yards ensures better accuracy and focus at typical rimfire ranges.
- Do I need an illuminated reticle for a .22 rifle?
Yes. It’s optional but useful when hunting in low-light conditions of dawn and dusk, or darker targets or dense brush.
Conclusion
To wrap it up, choosing the best .22 rimfire scope comes down to matching your scope to your shooting style, whether it’s plinking, small game hunting, or target shooting.
All the scopes mentioned above offer a balanced mix of clarity, durability, and accuracy, all tailored for the lower recoil and shorter ranges typical of .22 LR rifles. Look at the attributes that make each scope the right purchase and choose accordingly.