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Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: Dead-Hold BDCFocal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)Tube Diameter: 1 inchEye Relief: 3.8–4.4 inchesTurret Adjustment: ¼ MOA per clickParallax: Fixed at 100 yardsWeight: 15 oz
Crystal-clear glass with minimal distortionWide field of view and long eye reliefRugged and fully waterproof designLifetime Vortex VIP Warranty
No parallax adjustment for short distancesSlightly heavy for ultralight rimfire builds
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 32mmReticle: TruplexTube: 1 inchAdjustment Range: 60 MOAEye Relief: 3.75 inchesParallax: Adjustable (AO model)Weight: 10 oz
Lightweight—perfect for AR platformsComes with rings includedReliable rimfire parallax calibrationClear image up to 75 yards
Turrets lack positive tactile feedbackGlass isn’t ideal in dim light
Magnification: 3–9xObjective: 40mmReticle: Multi-XParallax: Fixed at 100 yardsEye Relief: 3.3 inchesWeight: 13 oz
Excellent dawn/dusk performanceSturdy one-piece tubeWeatherproof & fogproof construction
Fixed parallax not ideal for 25–50 yard rangesReticle slightly thick for target work
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: Rimfire MOAEye Relief: 3.7–4.2 inchesAdjustment Range: 60 MOAWeight: 12.2 oz
Razor-sharp glass with zero chromatic aberrationTrue lifetime warrantyPerfect optical balance for 22LR ballistics
Pricier than others in this listNo illuminated reticle
Magnification: 1–6xObjective: 24mmReticle: ACSS Gen IIIFocal Plane: SFPTube: 30mmEye Relief: 3.5 inches
Rapid target acquisition at 1xACSS reticle offers ballistic holds for .22LRDurable and shockproof
Heavier than traditional 3-9x opticsSlightly dim at 6x under shade
Magnification Range:
For plinking or target shooting, 3–9x is ideal. If you shoot under 50 yards, even 1–6x LPVOs work great.Parallax Adjustment:
.22LR rifles benefit from parallax settings at 50–75 yards rather than 100+ yards.Reticle Design:
Choose simple reticles (Duplex, BDC, or ACSS Rimfire) that help estimate bullet drop at common rimfire ranges.Weight and Size:
Keep total rifle balance in mind. Lightweight scopes under 14 oz feel best on AR rimfire builds.Durability and Warranty:
Always go for scopes with proven shockproofing and a lifetime warranty (Vortex, Leupold, Primary Arms).
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5 Best Scope for AR 22LR: Precision Optics for Rimfire Fun and Accuracy
Finding the best scope for AR 22LR is all about striking a balance between light weight, optical clarity, and reliable adjustment tracking. The .22LR cartridge is legendary for its affordability and low recoil, making it perfect for training, target shooting, and small-game hunting. But to truly extract the accuracy potential from your AR platform, you need a rimfire-optimized optic that matches its performance curve.
Over the past year, I’ve personally tested and compared dozens of optics—from budget-friendly entry scopes to premium-tier glass. I mounted them on a Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 and a CMMG .22LR upper, zeroed each at 50 yards, and tracked how they held zero across hundreds of rounds.
In this detailed review, I’ll walk you through the top picks, full hands-on reviews, and a practical buyer’s guide to help you find the scope that suits your .22LR AR setup perfectly.
🏆 Top Product List: 5 Best Scopes for AR 22LR of 2025
Each of these scopes has been selected based on real-world use—factoring in clarity, zero retention, adjustment accuracy, and how well they complement the unique ballistic profile of the .22LR.
1️⃣ Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC)
The Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 offers the perfect balance between affordability and reliable optical performance. Designed for all-around versatility, it’s a natural match for AR-22LR builds.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
The Dead-Hold BDC reticle makes rimfire drop compensation intuitive. The lenses provide impressive clarity for the price, with crisp contrast from edge to edge—ideal for plinking steel targets or small-game silhouettes.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
I found the generous eye box forgiving. Even at 9x, acquiring a full sight picture was effortless.
Durability
I ran 600+ rounds of CCI Mini-Mags in mixed conditions—rain and bright sun. The scope held zero perfectly on my AR-22LR.
Elevation & Windage
Each ¼ MOA click is tactile and consistent. I performed a box test at 50 yards; the adjustments tracked precisely.
Verdict
If you want a dependable mid-tier optic that can double as a training scope, this is it.
2️⃣ Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 Rimfire
The Simmons .22 Mag is a budget king that consistently overperforms. Designed specifically for rimfire platforms, it offers surprising optical clarity at an ultra-affordable price.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
The Truplex reticle is simple yet functional. For small targets like soda cans at 50 yards, it’s perfectly sharp.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Forgiving eye box and steady relief. No scope bite risk, even for beginners.
Durability
After 400 rounds through my M&P15-22, it maintained zero flawlessly. The matte finish resists scratches.
Elevation & Windage
Soft clicks but accurate tracking. The zero reset ring is a welcome touch at this price point.
Verdict
For under $100, it’s one of the most capable dedicated rimfire scopes you can mount on your AR-22.
3️⃣ Bushnell Banner 3-9x40 Dusk & Dawn
The Bushnell Banner 3-9x40 “Dusk & Dawn” delivers excellent low-light clarity. It’s particularly well-suited for small-game hunters who shoot early mornings or evenings.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity
I tested it during twilight sessions; visibility remained bright and usable when my red dot faded.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Slightly tight eye box at high power but manageable. Great head position consistency.
Verdict
A great option for those using their AR-22 for varmint control or evening plinking.
4️⃣ Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40
Leupold’s VX-Freedom brings top-tier reliability and optical excellence to a rimfire-friendly design. It’s lightweight, American-made, and backed by a lifetime guarantee.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Verdict
If you want a long-term, bombproof optic that will outlast your rifle, this Leupold is unmatched.
5️⃣ Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24mm SFP ACSS Gen III
The Primary Arms SLX is an LPVO that’s fast and flexible—ideal for AR-22LR shooters who want both CQB-style fun and mid-range accuracy.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Verdict
Perfect for tactical-style rimfire builds or AR trainers mimicking 5.56 optics.
🔧 How to Choose the Right Scope for Your AR 22LR
When selecting the best scope for your AR-22LR, focus on these factors:
❓FAQs About Scopes for AR 22LR
Q1: What magnification is best for .22LR AR rifles?
A 3–9x scope is versatile enough for both close and 100-yard shooting.
Q2: Do I need a parallax adjustment?
Yes, ideally 50-yard parallax is perfect for rimfire accuracy.
Q3: Should I choose FFP or SFP for .22LR?
SFP is better for casual or hunting use; FFP suits competitive shooters.
Q4: Can I use a centerfire scope on a .22LR?
Yes, but ensure the parallax and adjustment range match rimfire ballistics.
Q5: Is an LPVO worth it for AR-22?
If you want speed at 1x and flexibility for 100-yard shots, absolutely.
Q6: What rings should I use?
Go with lightweight 1-inch or 30mm rings; use a one-piece cantilever mount for stability.
🏁 Conclusion
After testing extensively, the Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 stands out as the best scope for AR 22LR thanks to its glass clarity, reliable turrets, and unmatched lifetime support. It’s followed closely by the budget-friendly Simmons .22 Mag and the premium Leupold VX-Freedom.
Whether your AR-22LR is a training platform, varmint rig, or backyard plinker, the right optic transforms your experience from good to exceptional. Choose one that fits your range, shooting style, and weight preference—and you’ll hit tiny targets with rimfire precision every time.
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