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Magnification: 3-9xObjective Lens: 32mmReticle: TruplexEye Relief: 3.75 inchesWeight: 10 ozExcellent clarity for the priceLightweight and compactIncludes rimfire 3/8” dovetail ringsReliable zero retentionNot fog-proof in extreme humidityAdjustment turrets feel soft
Magnification: 3-9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: DuplexEye Relief: 4.2–3.7 inchesWeight: 12.2 ozCrystal-clear glassLifetime Leupold warrantyLightweight and weatherproofExcellent low-light visibilityPricier than entry-level scopesNon-illuminated reticle
Magnification: 3-9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: Dead-Hold BDCTube: 1-inchEye Relief: 3.8–4.4 inchesFully multi-coated opticsExcellent eye reliefLifetime VIP warrantyShockproof and nitrogen-purgedSlight edge distortion at full zoomNo illumination
Magnification: 3-9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: Multi-XWeight: 13 ozExceptional light transmissionRugged and waterproofAffordableSlightly heavyParallax fixed at 100 yards
Magnification: 3-9xReticle: Illuminated Mil-DotObjective: 40mm AOWeight: 15 ozIlluminated red/green reticleAdjustable parallaxExcellent clarityGreat for varmint and range use
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5 Best Scope for .22 Magnum — My Hands-On Review of 2025’s Top Rimfire Optics
Finding the best scope for .22 Magnum can be tricky. The .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire) is a versatile round—flat shooting, fast, and effective for small game hunting or target plinking out to 200 yards.
To match that performance, you need optics that balance magnification, clarity, and durability—without adding too much bulk or cost.
Over the years, I’ve tested dozens of rimfire scopes, and in this comprehensive review, I’ll share my top picks that bring out the full potential of your .22 Magnum rifle.
Top Product List: 5 Best Scope for .22 Magnum of 2025
Here’s a quick rundown of the top scopes I recommend for your .22 Magnum rifle:
1. Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 Rimfire — The Classic Budget Performer
The Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 is one of the most recognized rimfire scopes ever made. Designed specifically for .22 rifles, it delivers reliability and simplicity without breaking the bank.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
For an entry-level optic, the glass quality is surprisingly good. The Truplex reticle offers a clear aiming point and doesn’t clutter the view—perfect for small game or paper targets.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
At 3.75 inches, eye relief is comfortable for any rimfire rifle. The eye box is generous, helping with quick target acquisition.
Durability
The scope features a one-piece tube construction with coated lenses. It’s nitrogen purged, but it’s best used in mild weather.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
The clicks are soft but consistent. Each adjustment equals ¼ MOA, and it tracks well once zeroed.
Magnification & Parallax
With a 3-9x zoom range, it’s ideal for 50–150 yards. Parallax is fixed at 50 yards, tailored to rimfire shooting.
Mounting & Accessories
It comes with factory rings for a dovetail rail—no need to buy extras for standard .22 rifles.
My Experience
This was one of my first scopes on a Savage 93R17, and it held zero through hundreds of rounds. While not premium, it never failed me for squirrel hunts or plinking sessions.
Customer Feedback
Reddit and rimfire forums consistently praise it as “the best bang for the buck” in the sub-$100 category.
Verdict
If you’re just starting out with a .22 Magnum rifle or want a reliable spare optic, the Simmons .22 Mag is unbeatable for its price.
2. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 — Premium Clarity and Reliability
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 is an American-made optic built for hunters who demand consistency and crisp optical performance in any environment.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Leupold’s glass is legendary—sharp from edge to edge. The Duplex reticle is timeless, providing fast sight alignment without distraction.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Generous and forgiving, especially for shooters who wear glasses or use variable head positions.
Durability
Built like a tank yet feather-light. It’s 100% waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Precise tactile feedback with Leupold’s custom dial system for perfect zeroing.
Magnification & Parallax
The 3-9x magnification covers most rimfire applications. Parallax is set at 60 yards, ideal for .22 Magnum ballistics.
Mounting & Accessories
It mounts perfectly on 1-inch rings. I recommend medium-height mounts for bolt-action rifles.
My Experience
I’ve taken this scope from desert dust to winter chill, and it never lost zero. It’s my go-to for prairie dog shooting with the .22 WMR.
Customer Feedback
Users love its clarity and say it’s the “set-and-forget” optic for any rimfire setup.
Verdict
If you want a premium optic without the premium weight, the VX-Freedom is hard to beat.
3. Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC) — Precision and Value
Vortex built the Crossfire II to dominate the value category. With the Dead-Hold BDC reticle, it’s great for medium-range shooting where estimating holdover is key.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Color contrast is strong, even in overcast conditions. The Dead-Hold BDC helps you estimate bullet drop—great for stretching a .22 WMR to 200 yards.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Very forgiving, especially at lower magnifications. You can shoulder the rifle quickly and stay on target.
Durability
Aircraft-grade aluminum with O-ring sealing ensures long life, even under recoil or rough handling.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
1/4 MOA clicks are audible and crisp, holding zero after hundreds of shots.
Magnification & Parallax
Perfect balance for mid-range hunting or steel shooting. Fixed parallax at 100 yards, but still crisp closer in.
My Experience
Mounted this scope on my Ruger American .22 Magnum—zeroed in just three shots. It’s my choice for field varmint hunts.
Customer Feedback
Highly rated by shooters for value and Vortex’s unbeatable warranty.
Verdict
A professional-grade optic for under $200 that pairs beautifully with the accuracy of the .22 Magnum.
4. Bushnell Banner 3-9x40 Dusk & Dawn — Best for Twilight Hunts
Bushnell’s Banner 3-9x40 Dusk & Dawn scope is purpose-built for low-light performance, featuring DDB (Dusk & Dawn Brightness) multi-coated lenses.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
One of the brightest scopes in this price range. The Multi-X reticle is simple yet precise for small targets.
My Experience
At dawn squirrel hunts, it delivers clear visibility when cheaper optics would haze out. Its durability also impressed me through wet woods and fog.
5. Hawke Vantage 3-9x40 AO IR — Precision and Versatility
The Hawke Vantage 3-9x40 AO IR features an adjustable objective (AO) for parallax correction and an illuminated reticle for better visibility in low light.
Specs
Pros
Cons
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