The Top 10 Best 22LR Rimfire Rifle Scopes for hunting and recreational shooting is brought to you by The Old Deer Hunters. Our goal is to help you find the best 22LR rifle scope for your small game hunting requirements. These are not “target scopes”, but are primarily designed for hunting and casual target practice. Our Top 10 Best 22LR Rimfire Rifle Scopes range in price from $60-$299.
All of Top 10 Best 22LR Rimfire Rifle Scopes are engineered to be in focus and parallax free at 50-60 yards, or have an adjustable objective for adjusting parallax and focus. You will be able to clearly see your target at typical 22LR hunting distances even at maximum magnification. This feature is what sets 22LR rimfire scopes apart from high power rifle scopes. High power rifle scopes are normally set to be in focus at about 100-150 yards.
Theses scopes have very good warranties (most have lifetime warranty) and will provide years of service to the average hunter and shooter. I have only recommended scopes from companies that I trust and scopes I have used.
If you do not have time to read the entire Top 10 Best 22LR Rimfire Rifle Scopes review, I have provided a quick list that will help you get your shopping done quickly. Most shooters have favorite brands of optics they use like Leupold, Vortex, Burris and Bushnell, but you may find some very good scopes on this list that are new to you like Hawke, Mueller and Athlon Optics. Scroll down to the bottom of the review to see the features of top rated 22 rimfire scopes that we think are important when purchasing a rimfire rifle scope.
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Top 10 Best 22 Rimfire Scopes Quick List
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire MOA Riflescope $299 at Amazon
Vortex Optics Diamondback 2-7×35 Rimfire Scope $199 at Amazon
Bushnell Rimfire 3-9×40 Riflescope with DZ22 Reticle $99 at Amazon
Hawke Vantage IR 3-9×40 Rimfire 22 Rifle Scope $227 at Amazon
Mueller Optics (APV) All Purpose Hunting Rifle Scope $144 at Amazon
Athlon Optics Neos 4-12×40 Riflescopes $170 at Amazon
Burris Droptine Riflescope with Ballistic Plex .22 Reticle, 3-9x 4 $123 at Amazon
Simmons Truplex .22 MAG 3-9x32mm Riflescope $60 at Amazon
Primary Arms Classic Series 6x32mm Rifle Scope – ACSS-22LR $150 at Amazon
Crimson Trace Brushline Pro Riflescope $158 at Amazon
Bushnell Rimfire 3-9×40 Riflescope with DZ22 Reticle
Bushnell Rimfire 3-9×40 Riflescope with DZ22 Reticle $99 at Amazon
Affordable 22 Rimfire Scope with BDC Reticle for 40 Grain 22 AMMO
The Bushnell Rimfire 3-9×40 scope stands out as an excellent choice for a .22 rimfire rifle. Specifically engineered to optimize performance with the 40-grain .22 LR ammunition, this scope ensures consistent accuracy and precision shooting.
One of its key advantages is the BDC reticle with hold positions extending to 125 yards. This feature enables shooters to compensate for bullet drop at varying distances, making it easier to hit targets accurately, especially when dealing with the trajectory characteristics of a .22 LR round. All you have to do is zero the scope for 50 yards and the other BDC points will be set for each yardage. Whether you’re targeting varmints, small game, or simply enjoying some plinking, this scope’s DZ22 Reticle with drop points up to 125 yards provides the necessary tools for success.
Furthermore, the scope’s one-piece, aircraft-grade aluminum body offers exceptional durability for hunting in adverse weather conditions. This waterproof construction ensures that the scope remains reliable and functional even after prolonged periods of use in the field.
The capped turrets play a crucial role in preserving your scope settings during shooting sessions. By protecting adjustments from accidental knocks or bumps, these turrets maintain zero, ensuring consistent performance and eliminating the need for frequent re-zeroing.
The Multi-Coated lenses enhance image clarity, resolution, and contrast, facilitating quicker target acquisition and improved shot placement. This feature is particularly beneficial for .22 LR rifles, where precise shot placement is essential, especially when hunting small game or engaging targets at varying distances.
Lastly, the Bushnell Rimfire 3-9×40 scope is backed by Bushnell’s Ironclad lifetime warranty, providing peace of mind and reassurance of its quality and durability. Despite its affordability compared to higher-end scopes, its performance, durability, and tailored features make it a standout choice for anyone looking to maximize the potential of their .22 rimfire rifle.
Best Features Of This Scope;
- BDC Reticle: The BDC reticle with hold positions extending to 125 yards.
- Durable Construction
- Multi-Coated Lenses: The Multi-Coated lenses enhance image clarity, resolution, and contrast, facilitating quicker target acquisition and improved shot placement. This feature is particularly advantageous for .22 LR rifles, where precise shot placement is crucial for hunting small game or engaging targets at varying distances.
- Ironclad Lifetime Warranty
- Good Value at Low Price Point
I am an Amazon affiliate so if you purchase one of these scopes I may get small commission.
Hawke Vantage IR 3-9×40 Rimfire 22 Rifle Scope
Hawke Vantage IR 3-9×40 Rimfire 22 Rifle Scope $227 at Amazon
The Hawke Vantage IR 3-9×40 is an exceptional choice for small game hunting, offering a range of features tailored to enhance the hunting experience and ensure success in the field. Not only is this scope good for 22 Rimfire rifles, but also a great choice for air rifles. The adjustable objective keeps your target in focus at any range.
I have one of one of these Hawke Rimfire Scopes on my Benjamin Marauder air rifle and it is super clear. We were shooting nickel size targets with ease. The adjustable objective gives you a focused image at any distance from 10 yards out to infinity. It is also available in 4-12X magnification.
Its 1-inch monotube design provides the stability and durability necessary for small game hunting, even when faced cold or rainy weather conditions. This robust construction ensures that the scope remains reliable and accurate, allowing hunters to focus on hunting even when the going gets rough.
The fully multi-coated lenses of the Vantage delivers clarity, brightness, and contrast. With 11 layers of coatings, these lenses ensure maximum light transmission, even in low-light conditions commonly encountered during dawn or dusk hunts. This enhanced optical performance enables hunters to take small game when they are most active.
The low-profile finger adjustable turrets of the Vantage IR 3-9×40 allow for quick and precise adjustments, ensuring that hunters can easily zero the scope. Additionally, the protective caps on the turrets keep them safe from the elements, ensuring reliability in any weather conditions.
Finally, the inclusion of Hawke Match Mount 1-inch 2-piece Medium Weaver Scope Rings ensures secure mounting of the scope to the rifle, providing hunters with confidence in the stability of their setup.
Overall, the Hawke Vantage IR 3-9×40 is a top-tier choice for small game hunting among the Top 10 Best 22LR Rimfire Rifle Scopes. It is a great choice for 22LR, 17 HRM or an air rifle.
Best Features Of This Scope;
- Fully Multi-Coated Lenses: The fully multi-coated lenses deliver exceptional clarity, brightness, and contrast. With 11 layers of coatings, these lenses maximize light transmission.
- Hawke Match Mount Scope Rings: The inclusion of Hawke Match Mount 1-inch 2-piece Medium Weaver Scope Rings ensures secure mounting of the scope to the rifle, providing hunters with confidence in the stability of their setup.
- Versatile Compatibility: The scope is suitable for various rifles, including 22LR, 17 HRM, or air rifles, making it a versatile option for different shooting applications.
- Weatherproof Construction
Vortex Optics Diamondback 2-7×35 Rimfire Scope
Vortex Optics Diamondback 2-7×35 Rimfire Scope $199 at Amazon
The Diamondback 2-7×35 Rimfire riflescope is an excellent match for 22 rimfire rifles, whether you’re hunting or honing your skills at the range. Its 2-7X magnification range makes it easy to pick up speedy little rabbits and squirrels on the ground or reaching up into the treetops.
The V-Plex reticle is particularly well-suited for hunting applications. Its simple yet effective design provides quick target acquisition and precise aiming, making it ideal for hunting small game with a 22 rimfire rifle. Additionally, the reticle’s versatility extends to target shooting, where its uncluttered design allows for easy shot placement and accurate adjustments. The bottom heavy post can also be used as a hold over aiming point much like a BDC reticle
Optical clarity is paramount for both hunting and target shooting, and the Diamondback delivers with fully multi-coated lenses. These lenses ensure crystal-clear images with bright and vivid colors, crucial for spotting game in various lighting conditions or shot placement on small targets at the range.
The fast focus Eyepiece enables reticle focusing for individual eyesight. This feature enhances shooting comfort and ensures that the reticle remains sharp and clear for precise aiming. It is also great when more than one person uses the rifle so each person can quickly set the focus to their individual needs.
Furthermore, the scope’s metal-on-metal Precision turrets are the best you will find on a 22LR scope. This feature is valuable for both hunting and target shooting, as it ensures consistent accuracy and simplifies adjustments in the field or on the range.
Durability is a hallmark of the Diamondback series, with a solid one-piece tube construction and a hard-anodized finish, it carries a lifetime warranty. This rugged build provides shockproof performance, ensuring reliable operation in the field or on the range.The scope’s argon purging and O-ring sealing make it fog proof and waterproof, guaranteeing clear optics and reliable performance in any weather conditions.
Overall, the Diamondback 2-7×35 Rimfire riflescope is a top choice for 22 rimfire rifles, offering a combination of versatility, optical clarity, ease of use, durability, and reliability that is well-suited for both hunting and target shooting applications. Whether you’re pursuing small game in the field or refining your shooting skills at the range, this scope delivers the performance and features needed to excel with your 22 rimfire rifle.
Best Features Of This Scope;
Based on the description, the best features of the Diamondback 2-7×35 Rimfire riflescope are:
- V-Plex Reticle: Well-suited for hunting applications.
- Fully Multi-Coated Lenses: Ensure crystal-clear images with bright and vivid colors.
- Fast Focus Eyepiece: Enables quick reticle focusing for individual eyesight.
- Metal-on-Metal Precision Turrets: Offer the best precision for a 22LR scope, ensuring consistent accuracy and simplifying adjustments in the field or on the range.
- Durability
- Best Warranty
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire Riflescope
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire MOA Riflescope $299 at Amazon
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm rimfire scope features a 60-yard focus setting, popular 3-9 magnification range, and the Rimfire MOA reticle. It uses the Leupold Advanced Optical System for improved light transmission, glare reduction and excellent clarity.
I bought one of the Leupold Rimfire Scopes with the MOA reticle and it is even better than I expected. Super clear image, bright and the it has 1 MOA markings on the reticle so you can adjust your hold over very easily for long range targets. Parallax is set at 60 yards but the image is clear enough for hunting or target shooting out to over 100 yards. I think this is the leader of the Top 10 Best 22 Rimfire Scopes For 2024.
Designed Specifically For 22 Rimfire Rifles
Designed specifically for 22 rimfire rifles, the Model #174181 – VX-Freedom Rimfire 3-9×40 Riflescope is an exceptional choice. It features a Rimfire MOA Reticle, Capped Finger Click Adjustments, and a Matte finish, making it both versatile and practical for hunting or target shooting.
In Second Focal Plane scopes like this one, the reticle remains the same size while the target changes size with adjustments in magnification. This new Leupold MOA reticle lets you hold over with precise aiming points for longer range shooting.
Crafted, machined, and assembled in the USA, this scope has Leupold’s legendary quality and lifetime warranty. It is 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring optimal performance even in challenging weather conditions.
Offering exceptional value, I think this is the best 22 rimfire scope for hunting under $300, making it a top choice for shooters seeking the best 22LR rimfire scope for the money. Best image of the Top 10 Best 22LR Rimfire Rifle Scopes.
Best Features Of This Scope;
- 3-9 Magnification Range: Provides versatility for various shooting distances encountered during hunting or target shooting.
- Rimfire MOA Reticle: Specifically designed for 22 rimfire rifles, featuring 1 MOA markings for easy holdover adjustments, especially for long-range targets.
- Leupold Advanced Optical System: Improves light transmission, reduces glare, and ensures excellent clarity for a super clear and bright image.
- Exceptional Value: Offers exceptional value for its price, being the best 22 rimfire scope for hunting under $300. It provides the best image quality among the Top 10 Best 22LR Rimfire Rifle Scopes, making it a top choice for shooters seeking the best performance for the money.
Mueller Optics (APV) All Purpose Hunting Rifle Scope
Mueller Optics (APV) All Purpose Hunting Rifle Scope $144 at Amazon
In my opinion, this scope has more great features than most scopes on the list. Clear image, multi-coated glass, adjustable focus down to 10 yards. Available in 2-7X, 4.5-14X and 6-18X and all are very affordable. The larger objective lens with excellent glass makes it bright and clear. It is a high-quality scope at an affordable price. One of these Mullers in the higher magnification models would be an excellent choice on a Ruger Precision Rimfire or a Tikka T1X.
The only con to this scope is that the eye box is small, so you have to take the time to center your eye behind the scope. For this reason it is probably better for targets than hunting but it provides great performance overall.
The Mueller All Purpose Scope is an excellent choice for both small game hunting and target practice, offering a range of features tailored to enhance the shooting experience in these scenarios. The adjustable objective ensures a clear image at any range.
Its exceptional edge-to-edge clarity gives you a great image for the price range, crucial for both hunting small game and achieving accuracy in target practice sessions. This clarity allows shooters to distinguish small targets and make precise shots with confidence, whether they’re aiming at elusive game or honing their marksmanship skills on the range.
The wide-angle field of view provided by this scope enhances situational awareness, allowing hunters to scan their surroundings effectively and spot game quickly. Similarly, in target practice, a wide field of view enables shooters to assess their shooting environment and track targets smoothly, improving overall performance and efficiency.
Durability is key for any hunting or shooting optic, and the Mueller All Purpose Scope is built to last. Its waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-proof construction ensures reliable performance in challenging weather conditions and rugged terrain, providing shooters with the confidence to pursue their targets without worrying about equipment failure.
Easy adjustments are essential for both hunting and target shooting, and this scope delivers with finger-adjustable turrets and a traditional eye-piece focus. These features enable shooters to make quick and precise adjustments to their aim, allowing them to adapt to changing shooting conditions or target distances effortlessly.
Additionally, the scope’s limited lifetime warranty provides shooters with peace of mind, knowing that their investment is protected and backed by Mueller Optics’ commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Overall, the Mueller 4.5-14×40 All Purpose Scope is a versatile and reliable optic suitable for small game hunting and target practice alike. Its combination of clarity, wide-angle field of view, durability, ease of adjustment, and warranty make it an excellent choice for shooters looking to enhance their shooting experience and achieve success in the field or on the range. Best choice of the Top 10 Best 22LR Rimfire Rifle Scopes for 17HMR rifles.
Best Features Of This Scope;
- Lifetime Warranty
- Adjustable Objective
- Available is several magnification ranges
- Wide Angle Lens
- Great Choice for 22LR, 17 HRM or an Air Rifle
Athlon Optics Neos 4-12×40 22LR Riflescope
Athlon Optics Neos 4-12×40 Riflescope $170 at Amazon
Athlon Optics makes great scopes with great glass and this Neos 22LR Rimfire scope is no exception The 4-12X magnification and adjustable parallax make this scope great for 17HMR as well as 22LR. Available with the 22LR BDC reticle to make longer shots much easier. Fully coated lens and lifetime warranty.
The Athlon Optics Neos 4-12×40 Riflescope offers precise adjustments with a 0.25 MOA Click Value and a total adjustment range of 60 MOA. Its Parallax adjustment from 10 yards to infinity ensures accurate targeting at various distances, making it versatile for hunting or target shooting.
Featuring fully multicoated optics, this riflescope effectively reduces reflected light and enhances light transmission, resulting in a brighter and clearer image compared to scopes with single coated lenses. This enhanced clarity improves visibility and target acquisition, even in low-light conditions.
Designed to withstand the harshest weather conditions, the Neos riflescope is waterproof, providing protection against moisture and accidental submersion underwater. This ensures durability and reliable performance in challenging environments.
The scope’s one-piece tube construction offers extra strength over multi-piece tubes, enhancing durability and resistance to recoil. Additionally, the one-piece tube design effectively prevents moisture ingress, keeping the scope fog proof for its entire lifespan, even in humid conditions.
The reticle, etched on the glass, provides excellent sharpness for precise aiming. This feature enhances the riflescope’s reliability and precision, making it a reliable choice for hunters and shooters in various situation, especially on long shots.
Best Features Of This Scope;
- Versatile Magnification: The 4-12X magnification range makes this scope suitable for various shooting scenarios, including both close-range and long-distance shooting. It can be used effectively for both 17HMR and 22LR rifles.
- Adjustable Parallax: The adjustable parallax feature allows for precise targeting at different distances, enhancing accuracy and ensuring consistent performance across various shooting ranges.
- 22LR BDC Reticle:
- Fully Multicoated Optics: The fully multicoated optics reduce reflected light and enhance light transmission, resulting in a brighter and clearer image compared to scopes with single coated lenses. This ensures improved visibility and target acquisition, even in low-light conditions.
- Etched Glass Reticle: The reticle, etched on the glass, provides excellent sharpness for precise aiming. This feature enhances the riflescope’s reliability and precision, making it a reliable choice for hunters and shooters in various situations, especially on long shots.
- Lifetime Warranty:
Burris Droptine Riflescope with Ballistic Plex .22 Reticle, 3-9x 40mm
Burris Droptine Riflescope with Ballistic Plex .22 Reticle, 3-9x 4 $123 at Amazon
Burris makes much better scopes than they get credit for. I have used the Burris rimfire and center fire variable optics for years on hunting rifles and have nothing but good things to say about them. They even make a large game hunting scope with a laser ranger finder integrated into the reticle for long distance hunting and long-range shooting.
The Burris Droptine 22LR scope, Model 200019, is an exceptional choice for both small game hunting and target practice due to its tailored features and reliability.
With its focus set at just 50 yards, this scope is specifically optimized for the ballistic characteristics of .22 LR ammunition, making it ideal for small game hunting. The 3-9x magnification range provides versatility, allowing hunters to adapt to different shooting distances encountered in the field. Whether stalking speedy rabbits or aiming at stationary targets, the scope offers the clarity and precision needed for successful shots.
The simple yet rugged BDC (Bullet Drop Compensating) reticle enhances the scope’s effectiveness for small game hunting and target practice. Offering holdover points for precise shots at extended ranges, the reticle ensures accuracy and confidence in aiming. Additionally, the low-profile turret allows for easy finger adjustments, enabling shooters to make quick and precise corrections without disrupting their focus on the target.
Backed by the Burris Forever Warranty, this scope provides peace of mind and long-term reliability, making it a trusted companion for both seasoned hunters and new shooting enthusiasts. With its affordable price point, the Burris Droptine 22LR scope offers exceptional value for those seeking a high-quality optic for small game hunting and target practice. Whether pursuing game in the field or honing marksmanship skills at the range, this scope delivers the performance and features needed for success.
Best Features Of This Scope;
- Optimized Focus: The scope’s focus set at 50 yards is tailored for .22 LR ammunition, enhancing accuracy for small game hunting.
- Versatile Magnification: Its 3-9x magnification range allows for adaptation to different shooting distances encountered in the field, ensuring clarity and precision.
- Effective BDC Reticle: The simple yet rugged BDC reticle provides holdover points for precise shots at extended ranges, boosting accuracy and confidence in aiming.
- Burris Forever Warranty:
- Affordable Price Point:
Simmons Truplex .22 MAG 3-9x32mm Riflescope
Simmons Truplex .22 MAG 3-9x32mm Riflescope $60 at Amazon
I use a Simmons 22 MAG Scope on my Ruger 77/357 Magnum Rifle and it is a very good match. It is one of the best scopes in this price range and comes in stainless steel color as well as black. Rimfire scopes are also an excellent choice on pistol caliber carbines (PCC) in 9mm or 38/357 caliber. I have been hunting with it for a couple of years and it has held zero perfectly. I actually got 7 hogs in one day with that rifle while deer hunting.
This scope has a excellent build quality and they are great options for short range, low recoil rifles. This scope has a vary good image and well worth the money. You even get scope rings with the scope.
The Simmons 22 MAG 3-9×32 Riflescope stands out as an exceptional choice for hunting with a .22LR rifle, boasting a suite of features tailored to enhance the hunting experience.
Its versatile 3-9x magnification range and 32mm objective lens offer hunters the flexibility to adapt to various hunting scenarios encountered in the field. Whether navigating dense underbrush or scanning open fields, this scope provides the ideal magnification for close to mid-range shooting, ensuring hunters can effectively engage their targets with precision.
The Truplex reticle, specifically designed for hunting applications, enables quick and easy target acquisition. Even in low-light conditions typical of dawn or dusk hunts, the reticle offers clear aiming points, facilitating accurate shots with confidence.
Durability is paramount for any hunting optic, and the Simmons 22 MAG riflescope is built to withstand the demands of outdoor use. Its waterproof and fog proof construction ensures reliable performance in adverse weather conditions, allowing hunters to pursue their quarry without concern for environmental factors affecting their scope’s performance.
Moreover, the riflescope’s compact and lightweight design is well-suited for use on a .22LR rifle, maintaining the firearm’s maneuverability and agility. This allows hunters to navigate through rugged terrain or stalk elusive game without added bulk or weight.
Best Features Of This Scope;
- Versatile Magnification Range: The 3-9x magnification range and 32mm objective lens provide flexibility for close to mid-range shooting scenarios.
- Truplex Reticle: Specifically designed for hunting applications.
- Durability
- Compact and Lightweight Design: Well-suited for use on a .22LR rifle, the compact and lightweight design maintains the firearm’s maneuverability and agility, allowing hunters to navigate rugged terrain or stalk elusive game without added bulk or weight.
Primary Arms Classic Series 6x32mm Rifle Scope – ACSS-22LR
Primary Arms Classic Series 6x32mm Rifle Scope – ACSS-22LR $150 at Amazon
If you want a scope for tactical training, this fixed power scope may be for you. This scope is a popular choice for AR’s like the Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22. You get a very nice scope with clear glass and the ACSS reticle that is similar to many tactical scopes. It has bullet drop compensation, range estimation and windage hold off marks for improved first round hit percentage. Compact and perfect for a Ruger 10/22.
The Primary Arms 6X32 Rifle Scope features the Patented ACSS 22LR reticle that is a perfect addition to your 1022 or other .22 caliber rifle. The ACSS 22LR reticle uses the BDC correlated with range estimation and wind holds, all in one simple system so you can use it for plinking, hunting, or competition. A manual is included to help you understand this unique ranging features and BDC in no time.
ACSS 22LR Reticle
ACSS (Advanced Combined Sighting System ) is a giant leap forward in reticle design that utilizes BDC correlated with range estimation and wind, in one simple to use system. The ACSS reticle increases first hit ratio and decreases time on target dramatically. It is a two-part reticle that allows you to be very fast from 0 to 100 yards and very accurate from 100 to 200 yards. The ACSS 22LR reticle is specifically designed for range clays, cans, bottles, small game and more.
Best Features Of This Scope;
ACSS 22LR Reticle
Lifetime Warranty
Lightweight and compact
Ideal for Tactical Style Training
Crimson Trace Brushline Pro Riflescope
Crimson Trace Brushline Pro 2-7X Riflescope $158 at Amazon
I have used Crimson Trace laser sights and scopes for years. They are tough and dependable. The Crimson Trace laser sight is my Laser of choice for my personal defense guns, so you can bet I trust this company. I am sure this new Brushline 22LR scope will meet your needs for a rimfire scope.
The compact size lends itself to bolt action rifles or a fast-shooting AR. This scope has the Crimson Trace Custom BDC rimfire reticle for precise hold over for ranges past 50 yards. Zero at 50 yards and the BDC is calibrated for 40 grain 22LR ammo. The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x40mm scope with the BDC Rimfire reticle has been optimized for the small-game hunter. This scope has a 1″ tube made of aerospace-grade aluminum, making it lightweight yet durable.
It is nitrogen-purged, waterproof, shockproof. It has MOC-coated ELD glass, and the aggressive knurling on the magnification ring and turret ensures effortless adjustments. All Crimson Trace® scopes are covered under a Lifetime Warranty and is backed by our award-winning customer service team.
Best Features Of This Scope;
BDC Reticle
Lifetime Warranty
Lightweight and compact
Target Knob Turrets
Nikon Prostaff scopes are no longer manufactured.
Some people ask if they need a scope on their 22LR rifle. That is hard for me to say if you need one, but I certainly do. I use scopes on all my 22LR Rifles and have for years. Partly because of my less than perfect eyesight, but for other reasons also. I like a long-range scope for a 22LR so I can see small targets better. It is hard to make long shots with a cheap scope. The best rifle scopes I have found are center fire scopes with adjustable objectives, but I do not want to purchase expensive high power rife scopes for all of my 22LR’s.
Any of the scopes on the list are a good option for most people. Some of the best scopes in the optics industry on the list are the Leupold VX Freedom and Vortex Crossfire II, but not the Vortex Diamondback or Nikon P-Rimfire scopes. Any of these would be a top choice. I would like to test the Eotech Vudu and Maven CRS scopes but have. not had the opportunity.
Colonel Townsend Whelen once said, “Only accurate rifles are interesting.” I totally agree with him. If I have a 22 rifle, no matter how old it is or how much it cost, I want a variable power scope of at least 3-9X if not higher so I can get every bit of accuracy I can from that rifle. It is very easy and a lot of fun to shoot tin cans with open sights, but if I am hunting squirrels and want to make a clean head shot at 75 yards, I need a scope.
I also want to shoot very small groups at the range and maybe compete once in a while at a local match so I have to have a good scope for those trips to the range. Some of my rifles have no iron sights, so I have to use a scope with those rifles. Many of today’s rifles have no sights so either a scope or red dot is a must.
When choosing a scope for a 22LR, I want to be able to have no parallax or focusing issues at 50 yards. I tend to judge a 22LR rifle’s accuracy by how well it will group at 50 yards. I expect a “keeper” 22LR to be able to put 5 shots into a half inch group at 50 yards. I will work on it and change ammo and such to try to give it every chance to make the grade, but I must have a very good scope to achieve that level of accuracy.
The best rimfire scopes must be manufactured to be parallax-free at 50 yards from the factory, or have an adjustable objective or side focus. If a rifle scope is labeled “rimfire scope” that usually means it is set from the factory at 50 yards. Some will have an adjustable objective that focus down to as close as 10 yards like an air rifle scope.
Many center fire rifle scopes like the new Leupold VX-3HD series have side focus or extended focal range (EFR) objectives and will work fine for 22LR rifles. Theses scopes have the CDS system so you can order a custom elevation turret made for your favorite 22LR cartridge for excellent performance.
Of course, everyone is different, so I tried to find scopes to fit different hunting and shooting requirements. I found that several scope companies make rimfire scopes in many different magnifications and price levels. None of these scope are more than $300 but all of them are a good value at each price point.
I did not include the very cheap Chinese scopes, but several of the scopes are made in China to meet optic companies specifications. You may be surprised at how good the glass is in some of the scopes priced in the $100 range. They are also durable. I have owned or used most of these scopes and have never experienced a failure due to faulty workmanship. Most of my Top 10 Best 22 Rimfire Scopes For 2024 have life time warranties.
Center Fire Rifle Scopes For 22LR Rimfire Rifles
The main difference between center fire scopes and rimfire scopes is the parallax setting. If a center fire rifle scope has an adjustable objective or a side focus, it will be a great scope for a 22LR and especially a 17HMR rifle.
In the photo above you will see I am using a Leupold VX2 4-12x40AO center fire scope on my Tikka T1X 17HMR rifle. This is one of my favorite scopes for my rimfire rifles. That scope is now discontinued but you can still get Leupold VX-Freedom and VX3HD scopes with side focus.
Have a great day. We appreciate you stopping by The Old Deer Hunters. See the Old Deer Hunters Youtube channel for more videos about rifle scopes and thermal optics.
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