Finding the best rifle scopes for 22lr can completely change how you shoot. Whether you are plinking tin cans at 25 yards, chasing squirrels through autumn woods, or running NRL22 stages, the right optic makes every trigger pull more confident and accurate.
Our team spent three months testing 10 rimfire scopes on Ruger 10/22 and CZ 457 rifles. We shot over 4,000 rounds of standard and high-velocity .22LR ammunition at distances from 25 to 100 yards. We tracked group sizes, checked zero retention after rough handling, and compared glass clarity in early morning low-light conditions.
The .22LR cartridge is unique because it flies at relatively low velocities and follows a curved trajectory. That means parallax settings, reticle design, and magnification range all matter more than they do for centerfire optics. A scope set at 100-yard parallax will produce aiming errors at the 50-yard distances where most rimfire shooting happens.
In this guide, we break down our top 10 picks organized by use case and budget. If you want to explore optics at different price tiers, check our guides on the best rifle scopes under $500 or long-range rifle scopes for higher-caliber builds.
Top 3 Picks for Best Rifle Scopes for 22LR
These three scopes stood out across all our testing categories. Each one earned its badge through consistent performance on the range and in the field.
Burris Droptine 3-9x40
- Ballistic Plex .22 Reticle
- Hi-Lume Coating
- Picatinny Mount
- Forever Warranty
SIG SAUER Buckmasters 3-9x40
- BDC Reticle to 500yd
- Throw Lever
- Low Dispersion Glass
- Waterproof
Best Rifle Scopes for 22LR in 2026
Here is our full comparison of all 10 rimfire scopes we tested. Each entry includes the magnification range, reticle type, and key features so you can quickly find the right match for your shooting style.
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Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32
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Bushnell Banner 2 3-9x40
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Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40
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Hawke Vantage IR 4-12x40 AO
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Burris Droptine 3-9x40
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Primary Arms 6x32 ACSS-22LR
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SIG SAUER Buckmasters 3-9x40
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Barska Plinker-22 3-9x32
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TRACT 22 FIRE 4-12x40
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Armstrong Precision Rimfire 4-16x44
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1. Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 – Best Overall Rimfire Scope
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32 Rimfire, Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescope - V-Plex Reticle
2-7x32 Magnification
V-Plex Reticle
1-inch Tube
13.9 Ounces
Pros
- Long eye relief and forgiving eye box
- Fully multi-coated bright glass
- Capped reset turrets
- Aircraft grade aluminum tube
- Unlimited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Not night vision compatible
- Fixed parallax at 100 yards
I mounted the Vortex Crossfire II on my Ruger 10/22 and immediately noticed the forgiving eye box. Unlike some budget scopes where you have to position your head perfectly, this one let me acquire the target quickly from various shooting positions. After 500 rounds over two range sessions, the zero held firm without any adjustment needed.
The 2-7x magnification range is honestly perfect for .22LR distances. At 2x, I could track moving targets like squirrels through brush without losing the sight picture. Cranking up to 7x gave me enough magnification for precise shot placement on 50-yard steel plates.
Glass clarity surprised me for this price tier. The fully multi-coated lenses delivered a bright, sharp image even during the golden hour when I do most of my small game hunting. I compared it side-by-side with scopes costing twice as much and the Crossfire II held its own.
The V-Plex reticle is simple and effective. It draws your eye to the center without cluttering the field of view. For hunting applications where quick target acquisition matters more than holdover references, this reticle design is hard to beat.
Parallax and Distance Performance
The Crossfire II has a fixed parallax set at 100 yards. At typical rimfire distances of 25 to 75 yards, you will notice minor parallax error if your eye shifts off-center. I found this manageable for plinking and casual hunting, but precision target shooters who want sub-MOA groups at 50 yards may find it limiting.
For most shooters, this parallax setting works fine because the .22LR trajectory and group sizes at rimfire distances mask the slight aiming error. If you primarily shoot at 50 yards and closer, this scope will serve you well.
Mounting Compatibility
The 1-inch tube diameter means you need standard 1-inch scope rings. I used medium-height Weaver-style rings on my 10/22 and had plenty of objective bell clearance with the 32mm lens. The scope weighs just 13.9 ounces, so it does not unbalance a lightweight rimfire rifle.
Vortex includes a cantilever mount recommendation for AR-style rimfire builds. On a traditional bolt-action or semi-auto .22, standard dovetail or Picatinny rings work perfectly. The Vortex VIP warranty covers this scope for life with no questions asked, which adds tremendous peace of mind.
2. Bushnell Banner 2 3-9×40 – Best Low-Light Rimfire Scope
Bushnell Banner 2 Hunting Riflescopes DOA Quick Ballistic Reticle (Non-Illuminated, 3-9x40)
3-9x40mm
DOA Quick Ballistic Reticle
IPX7 Waterproof
15 Ounces
Pros
- Excellent dawn and dusk performance
- DOA reticle with 6 aiming points
- Weaver rings included
- IPX7 waterproof rating
- Improved optics over original Banner
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
- Limited magnification flexibility
I tested the Bushnell Banner 2 during an early-morning squirrel hunt when light conditions were poor. The 40mm objective lens gathered enough light that I could clearly identify targets at 60 yards well before sunrise. The multi-coated optics made a visible difference compared to my older budget scopes.
The DOA Quick Ballistic Reticle took some getting used to, but once I understood the holdover points, it sped up my second-shot accuracy significantly. The six dead-on aiming points correspond to different distances, which is handy for varying shot distances in the field.
Bushnell includes Weaver-style aluminum rings in the box, which saves you money and a trip to the store. The scope mounted solidly to my rifle and maintained zero through a full day of hunting that included some rough handling in thick brush.
The IPX7 waterproof rating gave me confidence when an unexpected rain shower rolled in mid-hunt. Water beaded on the lens coating and the internal optics stayed completely fog-free throughout the session.
Low-Light and Reticle Visibility
The Banner 2 truly shines during the first and last 30 minutes of daylight. I compared it directly against two other scopes in similar price ranges, and the Bushnell delivered noticeably brighter images in low light. This is when small game hunting is most productive, so the advantage is real and practical.
The non-illuminated reticle was visible enough in most conditions. In very dark timber, I did wish for illumination, but the generous light transmission through the 40mm objective kept the reticle usable longer than I expected.
Value and Included Accessories
Getting quality Weaver rings included in the package adds solid value. The one-piece aluminum body feels rigid and well-built. For hunters who want a dependable scope without spending a fortune, the Banner 2 delivers where it counts.
The lifetime warranty from Bushnell matches what competitors offer at this price point. The scope carries a confidence factor that its 4.7-star rating from over 300 reviewers confirms.
3. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 – Premium Rimfire Pick
Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 3-9x40 (1 inch) Rimfire MOA Reticle Riflescope
3-9x40mm
Advanced Optical System
3:1 Zoom Ratio
12.2 Ounces
Pros
- Best-in-class glare reduction
- Extended glassing comfort
- Lightweight aluminum build
- Full lifetime guarantee
- Picatinny mount compatible
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited stock availability
The Leupold VX-Freedom is the scope I reached for when accuracy mattered most. Mounting it on my CZ 457 precision rimfire rifle, I immediately felt the difference in glass quality. The Advanced Optical System produces images that are crisp from edge to edge with virtually no distortion.
During a 100-yard benchrest session, I shot consistent half-inch groups with match-grade ammunition. The clarity of the glass let me see individual bullet holes at 9x magnification without needing a spotting scope between strings.
Weighing only 12.2 ounces, this is one of the lightest scopes in its class. On a lightweight .22 rifle, that weight savings matters when carrying the gun on long walks through hunting grounds.
The 3:1 zoom ratio gives you a versatile magnification range. At 3x, the field of view is wide enough for close-quarters squirrel hunting. At 9x, you have enough power for precise shot placement on small targets at 75 yards and beyond.
Glass Quality and Glare Reduction
Leupold claims best-in-class glare reduction, and my testing confirmed it. Shooting toward the sun on a clear afternoon produced minimal flare compared to other scopes I tested. This matters because hunting situations often involve awkward lighting angles.
The extended glassing comfort means you can spend time behind the scope without eye fatigue. I spent a full morning scanning for squirrels through the VX-Freedom and experienced zero eye strain, something I cannot say about every scope in this guide.
Warranty and Long-Term Value
The Leupold Full Lifetime Guarantee covers repair or replacement for the life of the scope. No paperwork or registration is required, which is how warranties should work. This scope costs more than most rimfire optics, but the build quality and warranty support justify the investment for serious shooters.
Stock availability is a concern since this scope frequently runs low. If you find it in stock and want premium glass on your .22LR, I recommend grabbing it without hesitation.
4. Hawke Vantage IR 4-12×40 AO – Best Adjustable Parallax Rimfire Scope
Hawke Vantage IR 4-12x40 AO Riflescope | Shockproof Waterproof Nitrogen-Purged 1" Tube Hunting Scope w/Adjustable Objective For Parallax Correction & Fast Focus Eyebell, Rimfire .17 HMR Reticle(14241)
4-12x40mm
Adjustable Objective
Illuminated Reticle
1-inch Tube
Pros
- Adjustable objective from 10 yards to infinity
- Red and green illumination with 5 levels
- 1/4 MOA clicks with 80 MOA travel
- Fast-focus eyebell
- No-Fault Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Lower review count than competitors
The Hawke Vantage IR solved my biggest rimfire scope frustration with its adjustable objective. Being able to dial parallax down to 10 yards transformed my close-range accuracy. At 25 yards, my groups tightened noticeably compared to fixed-parallax scopes.
The 4-12x magnification range gives you more power than most rimfire shooters need, but it is nice to have for precision work. I used 12x for load development testing and could clearly see bullet impact differences between standard and high-velocity ammunition at 50 yards.
The red and green illumination system offers five brightness levels per color. I found the lowest green setting perfect for dusk hunting without washing out the reticle. The illumination runs on a standard battery that lasts for months of regular use.
The BDC reticle on this model is calibrated for .17 HMR, which works reasonably well for .22LR with some mental adjustment. The distance markings on the reticle help you estimate holdover, but you will need to verify actual impact points for .22LR trajectories.
Adjustable Objective Performance
The adjustable objective is the standout feature here. I tested parallax correction at 10, 25, 50, and 75 yards. At each distance, the image snapped into sharp focus and eliminated the target shift that plagues fixed-parallax scopes at close range.
For precision rimfire shooters who demand maximum accuracy, this feature alone makes the Hawke worth the investment. The side-focus wheel turns smoothly and has clear yardage markings for reference.
Build Quality and Weather Resistance
The nitrogen-purged, 1-inch mono-tube chassis feels solid and well-sealed. I used it in light rain without any fogging issues. The capped low-profile resettable turrets protect your zero from accidental bumps during transport.
The Hawke No-Fault Lifetime Warranty covers even accidental damage, which is one of the most comprehensive warranty programs in the optics industry. This scope is built to last a lifetime of rimfire shooting.
5. Burris Droptine 3-9×40 – Best Value .22LR Scope
Burris Hunting Durable Waterproof Droptine Riflescope with Ballistic Plex .22 Reticle Reticle, 3-9x 40mm
3-9x40mm
Ballistic Plex .22 Reticle
Hi-Lume Multicoating
12.96 Ounces
Pros
- Ballistic Plex .22 reticle for rimfire trajectories
- Hi-Lume multicoating for low light
- Positive steel-on-steel adjustments
- Classic hunting configuration
- Burris Forever Warranty
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- No illumination option
The Burris Droptine earned its Best Value badge through consistent performance that punches above its price class. The Ballistic Plex .22 reticle is specifically designed for .22LR trajectories, which means the holdover marks actually correspond to real bullet drop for this cartridge.
I tested the reticle accuracy by zeroing at 50 yards and then shooting at 75, 100, and 125 yards using the corresponding holdover marks. The results were impressively close to predicted impact points with standard-velocity ammunition.
The Hi-Lume multicoating produces bright images in challenging light. During a late-afternoon prairie dog shoot, I could see targets clearly at 80 yards when friends with similar-priced scopes struggled to pick up details.
The integrated-eyepiece design keeps things simple and rugged. No external parts to snag on gear or get bumped during transport. The positive steel-on-steel adjustments give tactile, audible clicks that repeat reliably.
Ballistic Plex .22 Reticle Details
This reticle is purpose-built for .22LR ballistics, which sets it apart from generic BDC reticles designed for centerfire cartridges. The holdover marks align with the specific arc of a .22LR bullet, making extended-range shots more predictable.
I found the reticle particularly useful for varying shot distances in the field. Instead of guessing holdover, I simply used the marked reference points and connected consistently at distances beyond my 50-yard zero.
Durability Under Field Conditions
The Droptine survived a hunting trip where my rifle took a hard knock against a tree. I checked the zero at the next range session and found it had not shifted at all. That kind of durability builds trust in the field.
The Burris Forever Warranty backs this scope for life. The scope body is waterproof and built to handle the recoil of anything from a .22LR up to harder-hitting calibers, which means it will never be the weak link on your rimfire rifle.
6. Primary Arms 6×32 ACSS-22LR – Best Purpose-Built Rimfire Reticle
Primary Arms Classic Series 6x32mm Rifle Scope - ACSS-22LR
Fixed 6x
32mm Objective
ACSS 22LR Reticle
11.7 Ounces
1-inch Tube
Pros
- ACSS 22LR reticle with BDC holdovers and wind holds
- Compact and lightweight at 11.7 oz
- Fixed 6x with clear sharp glass
- 1/4 MOA capped turrets with 50 MOA travel
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Fixed magnification is not variable
- Second focal plane design may not suit all preferences
The Primary Arms ACSS-22LR reticle is the most rimfire-specific reticle I have ever used. It combines BDC holdovers, auto-ranging stadia lines, and wind holds all calibrated specifically for .22LR ammunition. No guessing or conversion needed.
At first, I was skeptical about the fixed 6x magnification. After using it for a month of plinking and small game hunting, I realized that 6x is the sweet spot for .22LR distances. The fixed power means fewer moving parts, better durability, and consistent eye relief.
The scope is incredibly light at 11.7 ounces. On my lightweight backpacking .22 rifle, the balance felt perfect. The compact 9-inch length keeps the optic profile low and snag-free for hunting in dense brush.
Using the auto-ranging stadia, I could estimate target distance by matching the target size to the reticle marks. This feature worked well for steel plates of known sizes and helped me make faster hits at unknown distances.
ACSS 22LR Reticle Explained
The reticle provides bullet drop compensation out to the maximum effective range of .22LR ammunition. Each stadia line corresponds to a specific distance based on standard-velocity .22LR ballistics. The wind hold marks on either side help you compensate for crosswinds without dialing turrets.
This reticle design is ideal for NRL22 competition shooters who need fast, repeatable holds at known distances. It also excels for small game hunters who encounter varying shot distances in the field.
Fixed Power Advantages
Fixed magnification scopes offer several advantages for rimfire use. They are typically more durable than variable scopes because there are fewer internal moving parts. The point of impact stays consistent since the magnification never changes.
The trade-off is flexibility. If you need both close-range and long-range capability in one optic, a variable scope might serve you better. But for dedicated .22LR use at typical distances, the simplicity of 6x is hard to beat at this price point.
7. SIG SAUER Buckmasters 3-9×40 – Best Budget Hunting Scope
BUCKMASTERS Scope- 3-9x40MM BDC
3-9x40mm
Buckmasters BDC Reticle
1-inch Tube
Low Dispersion Glass
0.95 Pounds
Pros
- BDC reticle with holdover dots to 500 yards
- Integrated throw lever for fast magnification changes
- Low dispersion glass optical system
- Waterproof shockproof fogproof construction
- Excellent value pricing
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
- No night vision capability
SIG SAUER brought their optics expertise to the budget category with the Buckmasters line. The low dispersion glass surprised me with its clarity at this price point. Images were sharp and bright across the entire magnification range.
The integrated throw lever is a feature usually found on more expensive scopes. It lets you change magnification quickly without taking your eye off the target. During a fast-paced plinking session, this feature proved genuinely useful for transitioning between close and distant targets.
The Buckmasters BDC reticle extends to 500 yards, which is more range than most .22LR shooters will ever need. For rimfire use, the close-range holdover marks are what matter, and they worked well for 50 to 100-yard shooting.
I was impressed by the build quality. The single-piece 1-inch tube feels rigid, and the waterproof, shockproof, fogproof construction has held up through months of regular use without any issues.
Throw Lever and Handling
The integrated thread-in throw lever is one of my favorite features. Changing from 3x to 9x takes a fraction of a second with a flick of the lever. This matters for hunters who need to quickly adjust magnification when an animal appears at varying distances.
The lever is threaded into the magnification ring, so it is securely attached and will not loosen over time. It adds minimal bulk to the scope profile.
Glass Quality at This Price
The low dispersion glass optical system is impressive for a scope at this price. I compared it against optics costing significantly more and found the image quality competitive in good lighting conditions. In very low light, the smaller exit pupil at 9x becomes a slight limitation.
With 86% five-star ratings from over 320 reviewers, the market clearly agrees that this scope delivers excellent value. SIG SAUER quality at this price point makes the Buckmasters one of the best rifle scopes for 22lr on a budget.
8. Barska Plinker-22 3-9×32 – Most Affordable .22LR Scope
Barska AC10380 Plinker-22 Scope 3-9x32 30/30 Reticle with Rings , Black
3-9x32mm
30/30 Crosshair Reticle
Dovetail Mount
Rings Included
11.46 Ounces
Pros
- Affordable entry-level rimfire scope
- Includes mounting rings lens covers and cloth
- Waterproof fogproof and shockproof
- 3-9x variable magnification
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Basic 30/30 crosshair reticle with no BDC
- Parallax free at 100 yards not ideal for close rimfire distances
The Barska Plinker-22 is the most affordable scope in our lineup and it is purpose-built for .22 plinking. At this price, I had modest expectations, but the scope performed better than I anticipated for casual shooting sessions.
The 3-9x magnification range covers all typical .22LR shooting distances. I spent an afternoon plinking with friends at 25 to 75 yards and found the scope entirely adequate for hitting cans, clay pigeons, and spinning targets.
Barska includes mounting rings, lens covers, and a cleaning cloth in the package. For someone setting up their first .22 rifle, this all-inclusive package means you have everything needed to mount and start shooting without extra purchases.
The 30/30 crosshair reticle is basic but functional. It does not offer bullet drop compensation, but for plinking at known distances where you can dial in your hold, it works fine. The fully coated optics provide acceptable clarity for the price.
What to Expect at This Price
The glass clarity will not compete with scopes costing three or four times as much. In bright daylight, the image is clear enough for accurate shooting. In low light, you will notice the limitations compared to multi-coated optics on pricier scopes.
Zero retention has been acceptable in my testing. The scope held zero through several hundred rounds of .22LR fire. I would not trust it for hard-recoiling centerfire use, but for rimfire plinking it does the job.
Mounting and Setup
The included dovetail mount rings fit standard .22 rifle receivers directly. This is the same mounting system used on most Ruger 10/22 rifles and many other popular rimfire platforms. Installation took about five minutes with a basic screwdriver.
For the price of a couple boxes of ammunition, you get a functional scope with everything needed to start shooting. If you are building a budget plinking rifle or buying a first scope for a young shooter, the Barska Plinker-22 gets the job done.
9. TRACT 22 FIRE 4-12×40 – Premium Rimfire BDC Scope
TRACT 22 FIRE 4-12x40 Rimfire Scope w/BDC Reticle - Rimfire Optics Designed to Perform at Long Range
4-12x40mm
BDC Reticle to 150yd
75 Yard Parallax
Argon Purged
16 Ounces
Pros
- Fully multi-coated optical system with superior light transmission
- BDC reticle for rimfire bullet drop to 150 yards
- 75 yard parallax set specifically for rimfire
- Argon gas purged waterproof and fogproof
- Tool-free reset to zero turrets
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Low review count of 18
- BDC only extends to 150 yards
The TRACT 22 FIRE is specifically designed as a rimfire optic, and the 75-yard parallax setting proves it. This is closer to typical .22LR shooting distances than the 100-yard standard found on most general-purpose scopes. I immediately noticed tighter groups at 50 and 75 yards.
The fully multi-coated optical system delivers excellent light transmission. Images through this scope are bright and sharp with good contrast. Edge-to-edge sharpness is noticeably better than mid-tier alternatives.
The BDC reticle provides bullet drop compensation out to 150 yards, which covers the practical range of .22LR ammunition. The hand-turn windage and elevation adjustments produce audible quarter-inch clicks at 50 yards, and the reset-to-zero function works without any tools.
Argon gas purging is a premium touch that provides better thermal stability than nitrogen. The scope remained fog-free during rapid temperature changes when moving from a warm vehicle to a cold morning range session.
Parallax Setting Advantages
The 75-yard parallax is ideal for rimfire shooting. Most .22LR zero distances fall between 50 and 75 yards, so this setting minimizes parallax error at the distances where you shoot most. The difference compared to a 100-yard parallax scope is subtle but measurable in group sizes.
I tested this by shooting the same ammunition through scopes with different parallax settings at 50 yards. The TRACT produced consistently tighter groups, confirming that parallax alignment matters for rimfire precision.
Warranty and Brand Reputation
TRACT offers a lifetime warranty with no time limit and no paperwork required. The company is a smaller optics manufacturer that focuses on quality over volume. The lower review count reflects their direct-to-consumer business model rather than product quality concerns.
While the 4.1-star average rating is lower than other scopes in this guide, the small sample size of 18 reviews means a few negative experiences have outsized impact. My testing experience was positive across all performance metrics.
10. Armstrong Precision Rimfire 4-16×44 – Best Competition Rimfire Scope
Armstrong Precision Rimfire: 4-16X44 Scope for .22LR. Side Focus for Appleseed Target Plinking Hunting and Competition Shooting Sports.
4-16x44mm
Mil-Dot Reticle
Side Parallax 15yd to Infinity
Lockable Turrets
30mm Tube
Pros
- 17.5 Mils of elevation adjustment for long range
- Lockable and resettable turrets prevent accidental movement
- Side parallax focus from 15 yards to infinity
- Mil-Dot reticle with ranging at 16x
- Includes rings caps sunshade throw lever and turret tool
Cons
- Mil-Dot reticle requires learning curve
- Limited brand recognition and review count
The Armstrong Precision Rimfire scope is built for competition shooting and it shows. With 17.5 Mils of elevation adjustment, this scope has enough travel for NRL22 stages that push .22LR to its maximum effective range. I tested it at 200 yards and still had elevation adjustment remaining.
The side parallax focus works down to 15 yards, which is perfect for close-range NRL22 stages and Appleseed events. I could dial out parallax completely at every distance I encountered during testing.
The Mil-Dot reticle is calibrated at 16x magnification and provides ranging capability for targets of known size. This reticle system rewards shooters who invest time learning the math, but once mastered, it becomes a powerful precision tool.
The scope ships with an impressive accessory package. You get 30mm Picatinny rings, scope caps, a sunshade, a throw lever, and a turret tool. This is one of the most complete packages in our lineup and adds real value to the purchase.
Competition and NRL22 Performance
For NRL22 competition, this scope hits all the key requirements. The lockable turrets prevent accidental dial changes during stage transitions. The generous elevation travel handles the 200-plus yard steel targets that appear in advanced NRL22 courses of fire.
The 44mm objective lens gathers plenty of light for clear target identification at distance. At 16x magnification, I could clearly see .22LR bullet holes on paper at 100 yards, which sped up my zero confirmation process.
Value and Included Accessories
Getting rings, a sunshade, a throw lever, scope caps, and a turret tool in the same package saves you money on accessories. The 5-year manufacturer warranty provides reasonable coverage for a scope at this price point.
With 82% five-star ratings from 60 reviewers, the Armstrong Precision Rimfire delivers strong performance for competition shooters. The brand may not have the name recognition of Vortex or Leupold yet, but the product quality speaks for itself on the range.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Rifle Scope for 22LR?
Choosing the right rimfire scope comes down to understanding a few key factors that are specific to .22LR shooting. The cartridge has unique ballistics that influence what optic features matter most. Here is what we learned from our testing.
Parallax Settings for Rimfire
Parallax is the biggest difference between rimfire and centerfire scopes. Most general-purpose scopes have parallax fixed at 100 yards or beyond. Since most .22LR shooting happens at 25 to 75 yards, a 100-yard parallax setting introduces aiming errors at typical rimfire distances.
Look for a scope with parallax set at 50 to 75 yards, or one with an adjustable objective that lets you dial parallax for any distance. The TRACT 22 FIRE with its 75-yard setting and the Hawke Vantage with its adjustable objective are excellent choices. If you want to confirm your zero precisely, a good shooting rest for sighting in your rifle makes the process much more reliable.
Magnification Range
The .22LR cartridge is effective at 25 to 150 yards in most shooting scenarios. A magnification range of 2-7x or 3-9x covers these distances perfectly. Higher magnification options like 4-12x or 4-16x are useful for precision target work and competition but may be overkill for general plinking and small game hunting.
At close range (under 25 yards), lower magnification gives you a wider field of view and faster target acquisition. For squirrel hunting in thick brush, 2x to 4x is ideal. For 100-yard precision shooting, 9x to 12x lets you see your target clearly.
Reticle Types for .22LR
Three reticle types dominate rimfire shooting. The duplex or V-Plex reticle is simple and fast for hunting applications. BDC reticles calibrated for .22LR trajectories provide holdover references for extended-range shooting. Mil-Dot reticles offer ranging capability and wind compensation for competition use.
The best rimfire-specific reticles we tested were the Primary Arms ACSS-22LR and the Burris Ballistic Plex .22. Both are purpose-built for .22LR ballistics rather than adapted from centerfire designs.
Eye Relief and Shooting Comfort
Eye relief matters less for .22LR than for hard-recoiling calibers, but it still affects shooting comfort. Scopes with 3 to 4 inches of eye relief work well for rimfire rifles. A forgiving eye box, like the Vortex Crossfire II offers, makes quick shots easier.
If you wear glasses or shoot from unusual positions, prioritize scopes with generous eye relief and forgiving eye boxes. This reduces head position sensitivity and makes shooting more enjoyable.
Tube Diameter and Mounting
Most rimfire scopes use either 1-inch or 30mm main tubes. The 1-inch tube is the traditional standard and works with widely available rings. The 30mm tube offers more internal adjustment range but requires 30mm-specific rings.
Make sure to match your scope rings to your rifle’s mounting system. Ruger 10/22 rifles use a dovetail mount, while many bolt-action rimfire rifles use Picatinny rails. For alternative optic options, our guide to red dot sights for rifles covers non-magnified options that some rimfire shooters prefer for close-range work.
Glass Quality and Coatings
Glass quality directly affects image clarity, light transmission, and low-light performance. Look for fully multi-coated optics, which apply anti-reflective coatings to all lens surfaces. The Leupold VX-Freedom and TRACT 22 FIRE have the best glass in our lineup.
For small game hunters who shoot during dawn and dusk hours, glass quality is the most important factor. Better light transmission means more shooting time during prime hunting hours. If you primarily shoot targets during daylight, mid-tier glass is perfectly adequate.
Warranty Considerations
Forum discussions on r/22lr and accurateshooter consistently identify lifetime warranty as a critical factor. The Vortex VIP warranty, Burris Forever Warranty, and Leupold Full Lifetime Guarantee are the gold standards. These warranties cover the scope for life without requiring registration or paperwork.
A strong warranty protects your investment and reflects manufacturer confidence in product quality. For a scope you plan to use for decades, warranty support matters as much as any optical specification. For a broader look at premium optics, our spotting scopes for long-range shooting guide covers complementary optics for the range.
FAQs
What is the best yardage to sight in a 22LR rifle with a scope?
The best yardage to sight in a .22LR rifle is 50 yards. A 50-yard zero provides a near-flat trajectory out to about 60 yards and keeps bullet drop manageable at 75 to 100 yards. With standard-velocity ammunition, your bullet will strike approximately 1.5 inches low at 75 yards and about 4 inches low at 100 yards. For primarily close-range plinking at 25 yards or less, a 25-yard zero works well and requires minimal holdover at shorter distances.
What magnification is best for a 22 rifle?
A magnification range of 2-7x or 3-9x is ideal for most .22LR shooting. Lower magnification around 2x to 4x provides a wide field of view for close-range plinking and small game hunting at 25 to 50 yards. Higher magnification of 7x to 9x helps with precise shot placement at 75 to 100 yards. For NRL22 competition and precision target shooting, scopes ranging from 4-12x to 4-16x offer the magnification needed for longer-range rimfire stages.
What scope do pros use for rimfire?
Competitive rimfire shooters in NRL22 and precision events typically use scopes with higher magnification (4-16x or more), adjustable parallax, and fine reticles like Mil-Dot or MOA-based designs. Popular choices include the Armstrong Precision Rimfire 4-16×44, the Hawke Vantage with adjustable objective, and premium options from Leupold and Vortex. The key features pros look for are precise tracking turrets, ample elevation adjustment, and parallax correction down to 15-25 yards for close competition stages.
Do I need a rimfire-specific scope for my 22LR?
A rimfire-specific scope is not strictly required but is strongly recommended for best accuracy. Rimfire scopes have parallax settings optimized for 50 to 75 yards instead of the 100-yard standard on most centerfire scopes. This eliminates aiming errors at typical .22LR distances. Some rimfire scopes also feature BDC reticles calibrated specifically for .22LR bullet drop. However, you can use a centerfire scope on a .22LR rifle if it has an adjustable objective for parallax correction.
Can I use a centerfire scope on a 22LR rifle?
Yes, you can use a centerfire scope on a .22LR rifle. The main issue is parallax. Most centerfire scopes have fixed parallax at 100 yards or beyond, which causes aiming errors at the 25 to 75 yard distances where most rimfire shooting occurs. If your centerfire scope has an adjustable objective or side focus that goes down to 25-50 yards, it will work well on a .22LR rifle. The recoil of .22LR is minimal so it will not damage a centerfire-rated scope.
Conclusion: Best Rifle Scopes for 22LR in 2026
After three months of testing and over 4,000 rounds downrange, the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 remains our top pick for the best rifle scope for 22lr. Its combination of clear glass, forgiving eye box, lightweight build, and unlimited lifetime warranty is hard to beat at any price.
For hunters who shoot during low-light hours, the Bushnell Banner 2 3-9×40 delivers outstanding dawn and dusk performance. If you want premium glass and can spend more, the Leupold VX-Freedom is worth every penny for its optical clarity and build quality.
Competition shooters should look at the Armstrong Precision Rimfire 4-16×44 for NRL22 stages, while budget-conscious plinkers will be happy with either the SIG SAUER Buckmasters or the Primary Arms ACSS-22LR with its purpose-built rimfire reticle.
Whatever your shooting style, investing in the right optic transforms your .22LR experience. Pick the scope that matches your primary use case, mount it properly, and spend time at the range confirming your zero. Your groups will shrink and your shooting confidence will grow.
