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Magnification: 3-9xObjective Lens: 32mmReticle: TruplexTube Diameter: 1 inchParallax Setting: Fixed at 50 yardsWeight: 10 oz
Budget-friendly yet reliableSharp optics for the pricePerfect parallax for .22LR distancesIncludes rimfire rings
Not ideal for low-light shootingSlight edge distortion at high magnification
Magnification: 3-9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: Dead-Hold BDCEye Relief: 3.8 inchesTube: 1-inch aircraft-grade aluminumWeight: 15 oz
Lifetime warrantyExcellent optical quality for the classPrecise turretsIdeal magnification for AR rimfire
Slightly heavier than rimfire-only scopes
Magnification: 1-6xObjective Lens: 24mmReticle: Illuminated ACSS Gen III (SFP)Tube: 30mmField of View: 110–19 ft @ 100 yardsWeight: 17.9 oz
Ultra-fast target acquisitionDaylight-bright illuminationBuilt for AR platformsDurable and waterproof
Slightly heavy for pure rimfire use
Magnification: 1-6xObjective Lens: 24mmReticle: Illuminated SFPTube Diameter: 30mmClick Value: ½ MOAWeight: 18 oz
Outstanding optical clarityBright, daylight-visible reticleDurable anodized finishGreat eye box
Slightly stiff magnification ring
Magnification: 3-9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: DuplexTube Diameter: 1 inchEye Relief: 3.7–4.2 inchesWeight: 12.2 oz
Razor-sharp clarityExceptional low-light performanceLifetime warrantyLightweight and compact
Slightly higher cost
Magnification Range:
For most rimfire shooting, 1-6x (LPVO) or 3-9x (traditional) works perfectly.Reticle Type:
Simple duplex or BDC reticles help with quick aiming and bullet drop compensation.Parallax:
Prefer parallax fixed between 50–75 yards for rimfire rifles.Durability:
Look for waterproof, fog-proof scopes even though .22LR recoil is minimal.Eye Relief:
3.5–4 inches ensures comfort and fast sight acquisition.Weight & Balance:
Keep it light to maintain AR-style handling and quick transitions.Warranty & Brand Reputation:
Companies like Vortex and Leupold back their optics for life—always a plus.
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5 Best Scope for AR 15-22: Top Picks for Precision, Plinking, and Performance
Finding the best scope for AR 15-22 can transform your rimfire rifle from a casual plinker into a precision instrument. The AR-15 .22 LR platform offers low recoil, inexpensive ammunition, and the same ergonomics as a standard AR, making it perfect for training, varmint hunting, or range fun.
However, choosing the right optic can be confusing with so many LPVOs, rimfire scopes, and tactical options on the market. In this review, I’ll share my hands-on experiences and deep testing results to help you find the ideal scope for your setup.
Top Product List: 5 Best Scope for AR 15-22 of 2025
1. Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 Rimfire Scope
The Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 Rimfire scope is a purpose-built optic for rimfire rifles, offering lightweight construction and simple reliability. It’s one of the most affordable scopes that still delivers crisp visuals and dependable adjustments.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Glass clarity is surprisingly good, offering clear sight pictures up to 75 yards. The Truplex reticle is simple and fast for plinking.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Around 3.5 inches of eye relief makes it comfortable for younger shooters and quick transitions.
Durability
It’s waterproof, fog-proof, and recoil-resistant—more than enough for a .22LR rifle.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
¼ MOA clicks are consistent and hold zero well after several hundred rounds.
Magnification & Parallax
Fixed parallax at 50 yards is ideal for rimfire. The 3-9x range covers both target practice and small-game hunting.
Mounting & Accessories
Comes with rimfire rings—mounted easily on my Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 using standard Weaver rails.
My Personal Experience
After zeroing at 50 yards (took about 8 shots), the Simmons held zero perfectly over 500 rounds. It’s a no-fuss option that just works.
Online Comments
Rimfire shooters on Reddit and RimfireCentral echo the same praise: clear glass, holds zero, unbeatable value.
Verdict
For beginners and casual shooters, the Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 is the perfect entry-level optic.
2. Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC)
Vortex’s Crossfire II delivers premium features at a modest price point. Its Dead-Hold BDC reticle allows accurate holdovers for various distances.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Edge-to-edge clarity is excellent. The BDC reticle aids in compensating for .22LR drop out to 150 yards.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Generous eye relief, quick target acquisition. Works perfectly on my 15-22 with a cantilever mount.
Durability
Recoil-proof (even on .308), nitrogen-purged for fog resistance—overbuilt for rimfire use.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Crisp, audible clicks with accurate return-to-zero. I verified tracking with a “box test”—flawless.
Magnification & Parallax
Fixed parallax at 100 yards, but usable down to 25 yards with minimal distortion.
Mounting & Accessories
Mounted with Vortex Pro 1-inch rings. The process was smooth with no barrel interference.
My Personal Experience
I ran 400 rounds through the 15-22 and checked zero every 100 rounds—no shift whatsoever. The clarity during late afternoon shooting impressed me most.
Online Comments
Vortex users consistently highlight durability and Vortex’s no-questions warranty as unbeatable perks.
Verdict
A rugged, long-lasting optic that elevates any AR 15-22 setup.
3. Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24mm SFP Illuminated ACSS Gen III
This LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic) is a professional-grade scope that brings tactical versatility to your AR 15-22. The ACSS reticle is calibrated for .223/5.56, but its intuitive holdovers also work perfectly for .22LR.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Exceptional clarity with vivid contrast. The ACSS reticle provides range estimation and moving-target leads—a major advantage in rimfire competition.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Comfortable at 3.3–3.5 inches, very forgiving. Great for both close-quarter drills and 100-yard precision.
Durability
Aircraft-grade aluminum housing; shockproof and waterproof. It easily survived drops and dusty environments.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Tactile, crisp adjustments. The capped turrets ensure you won’t accidentally shift zero in the field.
Magnification & Parallax
The 1x truly feels like a red dot—no distortion—while 6x lets you plink tiny targets at 100 yards.
Mounting & Accessories
I used a Primary Arms 30mm cantilever mount; it aligned perfectly on my M&P 15-22 rail.
My Personal Experience
After shooting steel silhouettes at 25–100 yards, I was impressed by the speed at 1x and precision at 6x. It felt like cheating during timed drills.
Online Comments
Users on Reddit’s r/ar15 praise this scope’s performance-to-price ratio, calling it a “budget Trijicon.”
Verdict
The SLX 1-6x24 brings pro-level performance to your .22 platform.
4. Arken Optics LH-6 1-6x24 Second Focal Plane LPVO
Arken’s LH-6 combines crystal-clear glass with a simple, illuminated reticle ideal for AR-style rifles. It’s a newer LPVO designed for speed and clarity.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
The glass is top-tier for this price. The illuminated reticle is visible even under bright sunlight.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
At 3.8 inches, it’s ideal for dynamic shooting positions. The eye box is forgiving at all zoom levels.
Durability
Built to military-grade shock standards—held zero after 500+ rimfire rounds easily.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Clicks are crisp and true; zero setting was intuitive.
Magnification & Parallax
1-6x is perfect for AR 15-22 versatility—from CQB-style plinking to 100-yard precision.
Mounting & Accessories
Mounted using Arken’s 30mm one-piece mount. Fit was excellent on a flat-top upper.
My Personal Experience
Tested on my AR 15-22 with 36gr CCI Mini-Mags at 50–100 yards. The reticle illumination helped during dusk sessions—clean, no flare.
Online Comments
Arken fans often highlight its “Razor-like” optical quality at half the price.
Verdict
If you want a premium LPVO without overspending, the LH-6 is my top tactical choice.
5. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40
The Leupold VX-Freedom brings legendary American craftsmanship and optical excellence. It’s lightweight, rugged, and built for accuracy.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Edge-to-edge perfection with zero chromatic aberration. The Duplex reticle remains visible even in dim conditions.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Generous and forgiving—Leupold nails the comfort factor.
Durability
100% waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. It’s built like a tank but feels featherlight.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
¼ MOA precision, smooth to adjust with tactile feedback.
Magnification & Parallax
Excellent tracking and reliable return-to-zero. Parallax is fixed at 60 yards—ideal for .22LR.
Mounting & Accessories
Installed using Leupold Rifleman rings. Mounted perfectly without shimming.
My Personal Experience
I’ve used it for squirrel hunting and range training. Even after 1,000+ rounds, zero never drifted. Its twilight clarity is phenomenal.
Online Comments
Users rave about its “Leupold clarity” and unmatched reliability.
Verdict
If you want premium optical performance for your AR 15-22, the VX-Freedom is worth every cent.
How to Choose the Right Scope for Your AR 15-22
FAQs
1. What magnification is best for an AR 15-22?
3-9x or 1-6x magnification is ideal for most uses from 25 to 150 yards.
2. Can I use a .223 scope on my .22LR AR?
Yes. The recoil is lighter, so any .223-rated optic will perform well.
3. What’s the best reticle for plinking and small game?
A BDC or simple duplex reticle helps with fast acquisition and holdover.
4. Do I need an illuminated reticle?
It’s helpful in low-light shooting or dark targets, but not essential.
5. How important is parallax for rimfire?
Crucial for precision—fixed parallax around 50 yards is best.
6. Should I get FFP or SFP for .22LR?
SFP is sufficient since you’ll shoot mostly within 100 yards.
7. Can LPVOs work well on AR 15-22?
Absolutely—they mimic tactical AR setups and offer versatility.
Conclusion
Choosing the best scope for AR 15-22 depends on your shooting style—whether you’re a casual plinker or a serious trainer. For affordability and simplicity, the Simmons .22 Mag is unbeatable. For clarity and all-around performance, the Vortex Crossfire II and Leupold VX-Freedom stand out. If you want tactical versatility, the Primary Arms SLX or Arken LH-6 LPVOs are excellent. Every optic reviewed here has been tested on the AR 15-22 platform and proven reliable—so whichever you choose, your rimfire rifle is about to become a precision tool.
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