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Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmTube Diameter: 1 inchReticle: Dead-Hold BDC (MOA)Parallax: Fixed at 50 yardsEye Relief: 3.8 inchesExcellent clarity for its price rangeDead-Hold BDC helps with bullet drop at longer rangesDurable aluminum constructionSlightly heavy for a rimfire setupReticle could be finer for precision target shooting
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: Rimfire MOAParallax: 60 yardsWeight: 12.2 ozOutstanding optical performanceLifetime warrantyLightweight and compactPremium priceNo illumination
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 32mmParallax: 50 yardsEye Relief: 3.5 inchesReticle: TruplexInexpensive yet dependableIncludes rimfire ringsLightweightLimited low-light performancePlastic turrets
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: Multi-XEye Relief: 3.3 inchesCoating: DDB multi-coatingExcellent in low lightDurable one-piece tubeAffordableSlightly heavyNon-adjustable parallax
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 32mm AOReticle: Mil-Dot, illuminated (red/green)Parallax: Adjustable (3 yards to infinity)Excellent close-range parallax adjustmentDual illuminationShockproof, waterproof, fogproofSlightly bulky lookTurret caps can loosen
Parallax Setting: Choose optics with 50–60 yard parallax—ideal for rimfire ranges.Magnification: 3–9x is versatile; higher isn’t always better for the .22’s ballistic range.Reticle Type: Simple duplex or BDC reticles make aiming easier for beginners.Durability: Even though recoil is light, robust construction ensures longevity.Eye Relief: Look for 3.5+ inches for comfort and quick target acquisition.
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The 5 Best Scopes for .22 LR Rifles: My Hands-On Picks for Precision and Fun
Finding the best scope for .22 LR can be surprisingly challenging. The .22 Long Rifle is beloved for its affordability, low recoil, and versatility—ideal for plinking, small game hunting, and target shooting.
However, pairing it with the right optic can make all the difference between a casual day at the range and a precision shooting experience.
After years of testing rimfire setups, I’ve narrowed down my top picks that deliver crystal-clear optics, repeatable tracking, and rugged performance—all tailored for the unique ballistics of the .22 LR cartridge.
Top Product List: 5 Best Scopes for .22 LR Rifles of 2025
Here’s a quick rundown of my favorite scopes for the .22 LR platform:
1. Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC)
Vortex’s Crossfire II has long been a benchmark for budget-friendly optics, and this 3-9x40 BDC model is perfect for .22 LR shooters who want reliability and crystal-clear glass at an affordable price.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
The glass quality is exceptional under $200. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle makes it easy to compensate for the .22 LR’s steep drop-off beyond 75 yards.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Generous and forgiving, especially for newer shooters. I never had to struggle for a full sight picture.
Durability
I’ve used this scope on everything from a Ruger 10/22 to a CZ 457, and it held zero flawlessly through thousands of rounds.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Tactile and repeatable clicks—rare at this price point.
Magnification & Parallax
The 3–9x range is ideal for rimfire distances, and the 50-yard parallax setting suits .22 LR perfectly.
Mounting & Accessories
Standard 1-inch rings work great; I recommend medium height for bolt-action rifles.
Personal Experience
This scope transformed my Ruger 10/22 into a tack driver. I consistently hit 1-inch groups at 75 yards using CCI Mini-Mags.
Customer Discussions
On Reddit’s r/22LR community, users frequently praise this scope for its ruggedness and value.
Verdict
A reliable, all-around optic that balances cost, clarity, and ruggedness.
2. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 Rimfire
Made in the USA, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 is a precision-built optic that caters to serious rimfire marksmen looking for lifelong reliability and top-tier clarity.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
The glass is sharp edge-to-edge. The Rimfire MOA reticle offers perfect subtensions for .22 LR drop compensation.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Generous at 3.6 inches; you can shoot all day comfortably.
Durability
Built from aircraft-grade aluminum and nitrogen-sealed, it’s fogproof and waterproof.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Precise ¼-MOA clicks with a distinct tactile feel.
Magnification & Parallax
Perfect for rimfire distances up to 150 yards; parallax is tuned for .22 LR ballistics.
Mounting & Accessories
Mounts easily on Weaver or Picatinny bases. Leupold’s rings are a solid match.
Personal Experience
I mounted this on my CZ 457 Varmint—crystal clarity and consistent zero through cold mornings and humid afternoons.
Customer Discussions
Forum threads consistently highlight Leupold’s reliability and crisp turrets—this scope is a long-term investment.
Verdict
If you want the ultimate rimfire optic, this is it. Clear, consistent, and built for decades.
3. Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 Rimfire
This classic Simmons scope has been a go-to for generations of rimfire shooters. It’s affordable, lightweight, and perfectly matched to the .22 LR platform.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Clearer than expected for under $60. The Truplex reticle is simple and uncluttered.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Good for casual plinking, though not as forgiving as pricier optics.
Durability
Holds zero surprisingly well on light recoil rifles like the Ruger American Rimfire.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Basic but functional. Don’t over-torque them.
Magnification & Parallax
Perfectly tuned for short-range shooting—ideal for 25–100 yards.
Personal Experience
I’ve used this on youth rifles—it’s simple, reliable, and perfect for new shooters.
Customer Discussions
Reddit users consistently call it “the best $50 scope you can buy.”
Verdict
A budget-friendly choice that doesn’t compromise on core performance.
4. Bushnell Banner 3-9x40 Dusk & Dawn
Bushnell’s Dusk & Dawn series offers fantastic low-light visibility, making it an underrated gem for early morning varmint hunts.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
The multi-coated optics shine in low-light—sunrise shots were bright and crisp.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Comfortable for most rifles; slight tunneling effect at 9x.
Durability
Survived a full season of squirrel hunting without losing zero.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Smooth, but not as tactile as higher-end options.
Magnification & Parallax
Fixed parallax at 100 yards—not ideal for rimfire but manageable for plinking and small game.
Personal Experience
On my Marlin XT-22, it delivered precise hits out to 125 yards with subsonic loads.
Customer Discussions
Highly rated on rimfirecentral.com as a budget-friendly hunting scope.
Verdict
Best for hunters who want affordable low-light performance.
5. UTG 3-9x32 BugBuster AO
Compact, rugged, and packed with features, the UTG BugBuster is a fan favorite for plinkers who love adjustability and illumination.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Bright, high-contrast image with functional illumination in shaded areas.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Generous and consistent across magnification.
Durability
This thing is a tank—perfect for youth rifles or rugged field use.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Precise, resettable zero turrets. Great tactile feedback.
Magnification & Parallax
Unmatched flexibility for rimfire; adjustable parallax down to 3 yards is superb.
Personal Experience
This is my favorite for pest control—it’s versatile, tough, and surprisingly clear for under $100.
Customer Discussions
Commonly recommended on airgun and .22 forums for durability and value.
Verdict
A feature-rich, rugged optic for the money-conscious shooter.
How to Choose the Right Scope for a .22 LR
When selecting the best scope for a .22 LR, focus on these key aspects:
FAQs
1. What’s the best magnification for a .22 LR scope?
3–9x is ideal, giving you flexibility from plinking at 25 yards to precise 100-yard shots.
2. Should I get an adjustable parallax scope for my .22?
Yes, if you shoot under 50 yards often. Adjustable objectives like the BugBuster AO make a noticeable difference.
3. Can I use a centerfire-rated scope on a .22 LR?
Absolutely. The mild recoil won’t harm a quality scope.
4. What rings should I use for .22 LR scopes?
Use low- to medium-height 1-inch rings for bolt actions, or see-through rings if you want to retain iron sight use.
5. Is illumination necessary?
Not essential but handy for dusk or shaded target sessions.
6. What’s the average cost of a good .22 LR scope?
Expect $100–$300 for a reliable, high-performing optic.
Conclusion
After years of testing, my top recommendation for the best scope for .22 LR is the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 Rimfire—its unmatched clarity, precision, and American-made quality make it the ultimate rimfire companion. For budget shooters, the Vortex Crossfire II and Simmons .22 Mag offer fantastic value and performance.
Whether you’re plinking cans or hunting small game, the right optic will elevate your .22 LR experience to a whole new level of accuracy and enjoyment.
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