In the past few years, the popularity of rimfire shooting has grown tremendously. If you are in the market for the best rimfire scope for 22LR, you have landed in the right place. This post highlights the best rimfire scopes for 22LR available on the market.
When it comes to varmint hunting, pest control, and recreational shooting, the 22LR is hard to beat. It is way more affordable than its competitors. and easy to use, even for beginners. Besides, it is fun to shoot, especially when you are hunting varmints.
Irrespective of the application you use your 22LR for, a quality scope is a valuable item to have. Way back, finding a quality rimfire scope was no easy feat. Most had poor quality glass and the adjustments were the worst. But with the modern advancements in the optics industry, everything has changed.
In this guide, we will be going over the top-rated rimfire scopes suitable for use with 22LR. Built with modern technology and high-quality features, these scopes are easy to use, accurate, and a handy companion for every application. But before we take a look at each scope in detail, let’s talk about the attributes that make a great rimfire scope for 22LR.
What Makes a Great Rimfire Scope for 22LR?
A great rimfire scope for 22LR is made of several facets and the first one is moderate magnification. The .22LR offers good performance at varying ranges from close to medium distances. On average, a variable power scope with 9x maximum magnification or less is more than sufficient.
Secondly, the scope has to have quality glass and good lens coatings to ensure that the images generated are bright, clear and detailed, even when you are shooting in unconducive lighting environments.
A great rimfire scope for 22LR should also have a solid construction to weather anything you subject it to. With quality construction also comes reliable performance irrespective of the shooting activity you will be engaged in.
Furthermore, the scope has to be as versatile as this caliber for you to get the most out of it. It should be operable in all weather conditions as well as in different temperatures.
Last but not least, the scope should be easy to operate. It should have a reticle that works for your individual rimfire needs and one the is simple to use. It should also have a compact size and low weight to ensure that it doesn’t come in your way when shooting.
8 Best Rimfire Scopes for 22LR
If you find yourself having a challenging time finding a scope that works for your specific rimfire needs, we are here to help. Here are the best rimfire scopes for 22LR to choose from. Let’s take a look.
1) Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7x33mm Riflescope, Rimfire MOA Reticle
Leupold is known for its quality, durable and reliable optics, and the VX-Freedom 2-7x33mm Riflescope delivers on that reputation. It offers a variable 2x to 7x magnification range and a wide array of other premium features which make it the best rimfire scope for 22LR.
The VX-Freedom series scopes are built with versatility in mind. This model is no any different as it is suitable for muzzleloaders, rimfire and centerfire guns. In terms of construction, it is crafted from 6061-T6 aircraft grade aluminum which offers unmatched strength and durability. It is also built with scratch resistant lenses to add on durability.
Moreover, this rifle scope boasts fully multi-coated lenses to minimize color aberrations and provide bright, true-to-life image views. It also employs a Twilight Light Management System which offers decent visibility, even when you are pursuing targets in the critically low light settings.
Another facet that makes it stand out is the Rimfire MOA reticle that is highly accurate and easy to use, even for beginners. Besides, the scope boasts repeatable 1/4 MOA precision finger click adjustment for windage and elevation.
Above all, it is 100% waterproof and fog proof for hunting and shooting in all weather conditions.
Features
- Repeatable 1/4 MOA precision finger clicks
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- 1-inch body tube
- Rimfire MOA reticle
- Twilight Light Management System
- Scratch resistant lenses
Pros
- Versatility
- Long eye relief
- Lightweight design
- Easy to use
- Low cost
Cons
- The scope comes with a fixed parallax
2) Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire Riflescope
The Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire Riflescope is your ideal option if you are on a budget. Although this rimfire rifle scope is easy on the wallet, it doesn’t cut corners on quality, reliability and durability. It is built to offer the highest levels of performance and dependability under any situation.
The scope brings to the table a long eye relief which makes target acquisition a breeze. It also comes with a fast focus eyepiece for quick focusing of the reticle and resettable MOA turrets that are capped to prevent accidental adjustments in the field.
This rimfire riflescope has a robust housing that guarantees longevity and durability. It has a single piece tube crafted from premium aircraft-grade aluminum. The tube is then O-ring sealed for waterproof and dust proof performance and nitrogen purged to keep the lenses free of fog. It is also coated with a hard anodized finish to prevent scratches and keep it from rusting.
This rimfire riflescope also features anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses which maximize the transmission of light to provide bright and clear views, even in poor lighting conditions.
Features
- Capped reset turrets
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Single-piece 1” main tube
- Waterproof and fog proof construction
- 2-7x magnification range
- Second focal plane V-Plex MOA reticle
- Fully multi-coated lenses
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight design
- Decent eye relief
- Great durability
- Bright and clear images
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Fixed parallax
- No ZeroStop to hold zero
3) Athlon Optics Argos BTR 6-24×50 Riflescope
The Argos BTR 6-24×50 Riflescope is one of the best rimfire scopes for 22LR for long range shooting and hunting. It has a variable 6-24x magnification power that makes it ideal for several shooting disciplines and a large 50mm objective which delivers quality image views at every zoom power.
The scope comes with an ATMR IR MOA reticle that is illuminated for visibility under all lighting conditions. The reticle is housed on the first focal plane to offer quick engagement of targets at low power and precise holdover positions with fine details at long ranges. It is also etched on glass to provide greater durability and higher resistance to shock and recoil.
Furthermore, the scope features fully multi-coated optics to reduce light reflection and glare. This increases light transmission to provide brighter and clearer image views under all lighting conditions. It also brings to the table a side parallax adjustment and an XPL coating which shields the lenses from dirt, grease and harsh elements.
Features
- 30mm body tube
- Vast 6-24x magnification
- First focal plane ATMR IR MOA reticle
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Illuminated and etched glass reticle
- Side parallax adjustment
Pros
- Reticle illumination
- Crisp clear glass
- Great value for money
- The parallax adjustment is highly accurate
Cons
- The illuminated reticle isn’t great in daylight conditions
4) Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope
Next, we have the Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope. Built with hunters in mind, this rifle scope is equipped with every feature you need to take your hunting skills with the 22LR to the next big level.
The scope has a variable 2-7x magnification range, suitable for pursuing game at close to medium ranges. At every magnification setting, it offers crystal clear image views to increase your odds of taking an accurate shot. It also employs an all-purpose V-Plex reticle which is perfect for a wide variety of hunting applications.
Like any other Vortex optic, the Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope is built for use under any weather condition. It is fully waterproof and fog proof for all weather reliability. To complement the all-weather housing, the scope has a robust aircraft aluminum body which is rigid enough to stand up to anything you subject it to.
Moreover, it is equipped with fully multi-coated optics which provide bright and clear image views under any lighting condition.
Overall, this is a versatile scope that offers unmatched accuracy with 22 rimfire, shotguns and muzzleloaders.
Features
- 1-inch tube diameter
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Second focal plane V-Plex reticle
- Hard anodized finish
- Capped reset turrets
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Water, fog and shockproof construction
- Precision glide erector system
Pros
- Bright and crisp clear optics
- Decent build quality
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Affordable price
Cons
- Poor eye relief
- Non-illuminated reticle
5) Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Adjustable Objective Riflescope
As one of the best rimfire scopes for 22LR, the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 4-12x40mm riflescope is designed to excel in low light environments. It is therefore a great companion when hunting game early in the morning and late evenings.
The scope is built to be operable under rain, mist and any other precipitation. This is thanks to the waterproof and fog proof construction. It also features a Multi-X reticle which offers a classic sight picture in any environment. In terms of construction, it has a robust aluminum body which is durable yet lightweight and portable.
This riflescope also brings to the table Dusk & Dawn multi-coated lenses for clarity and brightness in all lighting conditions. Other notable features included are a fast focus eyepiece for rapid focusing of the reticle and 1/4 MOA fingertip windage and elevation adjustments.
Features
- 4-12x magnification
- Waterproof and fog proof construction
- Fast focus eye piece
- Dusk & Dawn multi-coated lenses
- 1/4 MOA fingertip windage and elevation adjustments
- Multi-X reticle
Pros
- Stunning low light performance
- Solid aluminum construction
- Lightweight design
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Short eye relief
6) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope, Rimfire MOA Reticle
When it comes to plinking and small game hunting, you can hardly go wrong with the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope. Built around the extremely popular 3-9x magnification range, the scope is guarantee that you will have everything right when you set your foot in the field.
Like any other Leupold scope, this model is designed, machined and assembled in the USA and guaranteed for life. It has scratch resistant lenses to offer added protection in the field and a fully waterproof and fog proof housing for use in all weather conditions. The scope is also shockproof to stand up to anything you subject it to.
For performance in low light conditions, the scope employs a Twilight Light Management System which enhances light transfer and adds extra minutes of shooting light in twilight conditions. It also features a durable and compact, 1-inch main tube which is easy to mount and blends perfectly with most legacy rings.
Features
- Repeatable 1/4 MOA precision finger clicks
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Twilight Light Management System
- One-inch main tube
- Second focal plane reticle
- Scratch resistant lenses
- Matte finish
- Versatile 3-9x magnification
Pros
- Durable and reliable construction
- Compact and lightweight design
- Excellent performance in low light
- The glass clarity is great
Cons
- Fixed parallax
7) Simmons 510513 Truplex Riflescope
If you are looking for a budget rimfire scope for short to medium range shooting, you have found it in the Simmons 510513 Truplex Riflescope. This ultra-versatile scope offers quality, reliable and practical features at a remarkably inexpensive price tag.
The scope features fully-coated optics which generate bright, crisp and high contrast image views from sunrise till sunset. It also features a Truplex reticle that is very easy to use, even for beginners and a quick target acquisition eyepiece for fast and easy target acquisition.
This rifle scope is also waterproof and fog proof to offer a lifetime of reliable performance in all weather conditions.
Features
- Fully coated optics
- 1/4 MOA sure grip audible-click windage and elevation adjustments
- Truplex reticle
- Quick target acquisition eyepiece
- 3-9x magnification range
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof construction
Pros
- Bright and high-contrast image views
- Accurate
- Easy to use
- Easy on the pocket
Cons
- The scope is not fully fog proof
8) BSA Optics Sweet 22 SP 3-9x40mm Riflescope
Lastly, we have the BSA Optics Sweet 22 SP 3-9x40mm Riflescope. This riflescope is categorically designed for the .22LR and it features nearly everything you need to achieve the absolute best from your rimfire rifle.
It brings to the table multi-grain elevation turrets that are ballistically calibrated for a 36gr, 38gr and 40gr cartridges. The parallax in this scope is adjustable from 10 yards to infinity to ensure that you enjoy parallax-free viewing at longer ranges, and with the fully multi-coated optics, you are guaranteed of crisp, sharp and high contrast image views from dawn till dusk.
Furthermore, this 1-inch tube scope is built to provide unbeatable durability. It features a shockproof aluminum construction that is tough enough to take in any punishment you subject it to. Better yet, you can use even in the no so ideal weather conditions thanks to the waterproof and fog proof construction.
Other notable features included are a 30/30 reticle, built-in sunshade and an ultra-long 4-inch eye relief that allows for snug glassing, with or without eyewear.
Features
- 1/4 MOA adjustment
- Fully multi-coated lens
- Waterproof and fog proof
- 30/30 reticle
- Shockproof aluminum body
- 1-inch main tube
- Matte black finish
Pros
- Long eye relief
- Multi-grain turrets with zero reset
- Quality construction
- Simple to operate
Cons
- The reticle could be better
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Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Rimfire Scopes for 22LR
Reticle
A simple and clear reticle is all you need to make the best from your hunting or shooting expedition. Different rimfire scopes for 22LR have different reticle designs suitable for various applications. Identify your needs and preference, then settle for a reticle that is easy to use in all situations and one that is accurate as well.
Magnification
For most hunting and shooting scenarios where the .22LR is in use, the shots will hardly go over 150 yards. With such a range, a fixed or variable power scope with moderate magnification power will do.
On average, variable power scopes with up to 9x magnification are sufficient. Any magnification power higher than that will be an overkill.
Glass
A scope is as good as the glass it is built with. If the scope has poor quality glass, you will have a hard time finding targets and placing the shots accurately. Conversely, scopes with high-quality glass provide bright and clear image view which guarantees more accurate target acquisition, even in the not so ideal lighting conditions .
When making your selection, go for the highest glass quality you can afford. Also make sure that the scope has fully-coated or multi-coated lenses.
Durability
Durability is the other important factor you should consider. Given the plethora of scopes available out there, the best rimfire scopes for 22LR are those built of high quality materials. Such scopes perform reliably under any environmental condition and also stand up to bumps and scrapes that arise when you take a trip to the woods.
For greater durability, the scope should have single-piece main tube. It should also be waterproof and fog resistant for use even in the harshest weather conditions.
Weight
A scope that is going to be put on any .22 rifle should be lightweight. Generally, .22 rifles are lightweight and adding a heavy scope will throw off its balance and interfere with its accuracy. A heavy scope is also cumbersome to carry around, especially when you are hunting. A tip is to get a scope that weighs not more than 15oz.
Best Rimfire Scopes for 22LR FAQs
- What is the best rimfire scope for 22LR?
The best rimfire scope for 22LR entirely depends on your individual preference and the type of rimfire shooting you will be doing. There are so many scopes available out there, and it is hard to say that there is a particular model that works for everybody as our needs are different.
- Can you put any scope on a rimfire rifle?
It is best to use a rimfire scope on your rimfire rifle to optimize performance and for accuracy reasons. Nevertheless, you can use a centerfire scope on your rimfire rifle, provided that the base and rings are compatible with the centerfire scope that you are using.
Final Thoughts
We hope that this post has given you the insight into the best rimfire scopes for 22LR. Remember that, the type of rimfire shooting you will be doing largely determines which scope you get. All the scopes we have listed above are compatible with virtually every .22 rifle and offer the important features you need to become a better shooter/hunter. Look at the features that make the scope a good purchase and decide appropriately.