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Magnification: 5–25xObjective Lens: 56mmTube Diameter: 34mmReticle: VPR MIL FFPAdjustment: 0.1 MIL per clickWeight: 39 ozWarranty: LifetimeExceptional clarity for the priceRobust and waterproof designAccurate turret trackingSmooth magnification ringSlightly heavy for lightweight setups
Magnification: 6–24xObjective Lens: 50mmTube: 30mmReticle: APMR MIL FFP IRParallax: 10 yards to infinityWeight: 29.6 ozSmooth zoom and tactile turretsFully multi-coated opticsLifetime transferable warrantyReticle illumination not bright under full daylight
Magnification: 6–24xObjective Lens: 50mmReticle: EBR-2C (MRAD)Tube Diameter: 30mmField of View: 18–4.5 ft @100ydsParallax: 10 yards to infinityFFP precision for under $500Excellent Vortex warrantyReliable turret trackingSlight chromatic fringing at full magnification
Magnification: 3–18xObjective Lens: 50mmReticle: ACSS Athena BPR MILTube: 34mmParallax: 10 yards to infinityWeight: 32 ozSuperb reticle for fast rangingExtremely smooth turret actionExcellent parallax rangeSlightly heavy for a rimfire build
Magnification: 6–24xObjective Lens: 50mmReticle: VPR MILTube Diameter: 30mmClick Value: 0.1 MILWeight: 36.6 ozPrecise turret trackingExceptional build qualityGreat glass for the priceSlightly bulky on light rifles
Magnification Range: Most stages are under 200 yards. A 4–16x or 6–24x scope offers the flexibility to identify small targets while maintaining wide field of view.Parallax Adjustment: Ensure the parallax goes as low as 25 yards (some go down to 10) to keep close targets crisp.Reticle Type: FFP (First Focal Plane) reticles are preferred, allowing accurate holds at any zoom level.Turret Tracking: A dependable zero stop and tactile clicks are crucial for repeatable adjustments.Weight & Balance: While heavier scopes offer stability, lighter optics improve rifle handling in positional stages.Warranty: NRL22 rifles see extensive use — a lifetime warranty (like Vortex or Athlon) ensures peace of mind.
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Best Scope for NRL22: Top Optics for Precision Rimfire Competition
When searching for the best scope for NRL22, I’ve learned that precision rimfire shooting demands optics that deliver crystal-clear glass, repeatable turret tracking, and the perfect balance of magnification for short to mid-range targets.
Having spent hundreds of hours behind both high-end and budget-friendly scopes in .22LR matches, I know firsthand how much difference your optic makes between a clean hit and a frustrating miss.
Whether you’re competing at a club-level NRL22 match or fine-tuning your setup for a national event, this guide will help you choose a scope that elevates your performance.
Top Product List: Quick Overview
Detailed Reviews
1. Arken Optics EP5 5-25X56 Rifle Scope FFP
The Arken EP5 5-25x56 FFP has rapidly become one of my top choices for NRL22. Built with precision shooters in mind, it offers features usually found on scopes costing twice as much — including ED glass, zero stop turrets, and rugged construction.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
The glass clarity is impressive — edge-to-edge sharpness and minimal chromatic aberration. Through the reticle, I can clearly distinguish steel silhouettes at 100 yards even in variable light.
Eye relief & eye box: The 3.4-inch eye relief provides safety with bolt-action .22 rifles. The generous eye box makes quick transitions between targets smooth — a critical advantage in timed NRL22 stages.
Durability: I tested it mounted on a Ruger Precision Rimfire with 30mm rings and a 20 MOA rail. After more than 400 rounds, the zero held perfectly, even after several bumps in the field.
Elevation & windage: The tactile clicks (0.1 MIL) are solid and consistent, passing my box test flawlessly.
Magnification & parallax: Parallax adjusts down to 25 yards — ideal for NRL22. Even at 25x, image distortion is minimal.
Experience: I used this optic during a spring NRL22 match with targets from 25 to 200 yards. The clarity allowed me to read mirage and wind direction precisely, helping me secure first place in the production class.
Online reviews: Redditors frequently praise the EP5 for being a “budget Vortex Razor HD alternative,” citing its reliable zero stop and clear reticle.
Verdict: A stellar performer and arguably the best value in mid-tier optics for precision rimfire.
2. Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 FFP
The Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 is another heavy hitter for NRL22 shooters who want first-focal-plane precision at a reasonable cost. Athlon’s Japanese-engineered optics and precise turret tracking make it a reliable performer in rimfire matches.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
The glass quality is sharp with true color rendition. Edge clarity is solid, though not quite as crisp as higher-end models. The reticle is intuitive and well-suited for holdovers at 100 yards.
Mounted on my Tikka T1x with a 20 MOA base, it took only five shots to zero at 50 yards. After over 600 rounds, zero retention remained spot-on.
The parallax adjustment down to 10 yards is perfect for close-range KYL (Know Your Limits) targets. The turrets feel distinct with positive clicks — ideal for fast corrections during stages.
Experience: In windy conditions at a local match, I could make consistent corrections using the MIL reticle holds. The Argos’ light weight kept my setup balanced for quick positional transitions.
Customer discussions: On NRL22 forums, many competitors recommend the Argos as “the perfect entry-level FFP optic” for its price-to-performance ratio.
Verdict: An ideal scope for newcomers or budget-conscious shooters who want reliability without compromise.
3. Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical FFP 6-24x50
Vortex is a favorite in the NRL22 world, and the Diamondback Tactical FFP proves why. With dependable turrets, excellent warranty coverage, and consistent glass, it’s a go-to scope for intermediate competitors.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass clarity is above average — not Razor HD level, but perfectly serviceable for .22LR steel shooting. The EBR-2C reticle offers clear subtensions for precise holdovers.
Eye relief: 3.9 inches with a forgiving eye box makes it easy to shoot from awkward NRL positions.
Durability: After 500 rounds through my CZ 457, it endured rain and mud without fogging.
Experience: I used this scope during the 2024 fall NRL22 season. Its consistent tracking made elevation corrections straightforward.
Online opinions: Reddit users in r/longrange and r/nrl22 consistently list this model among “top mid-tier FFP scopes.”
Verdict: One of the most proven performers for those serious about rimfire competitions.
4. Primary Arms SLX 3-18x50mm FFP Gen II
Primary Arms has become synonymous with innovation in affordable optics. The SLX 3-18x50 FFP Gen II continues that trend — combining a first-focal-plane ACSS Athena reticle with great mechanical reliability.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
The glass clarity is surprisingly high — crisp at all magnifications. The ACSS reticle provides ranging and wind holds that are intuitive for small targets.
Mounted on my Bergara B14R, it required minimal adjustment to zero. The turrets deliver clean, audible clicks, and the zero stop feature is quick to set.
Experience: At a 100-yard precision stage, I could rapidly switch between steel plates using the ACSS holdovers without dialing.
Community insight: On NRL22 Facebook groups, the SLX is often mentioned as a “hidden gem” with professional-grade reticle design at a moderate price.
Verdict: A precision-oriented optic that performs far above its price range.
5. Arken Optics SH4J 6-24X50 Rifle Scope FFP
The Arken SH4J merges durability, premium features, and affordability into one of the most complete NRL22-ready packages. This scope is purpose-built for competitive shooters who need confidence shot after shot.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass & reticle: The VPR MIL reticle is fine enough for small .22LR targets. I noticed zero color fringing and superb light transmission during dawn shooting.
Eye relief: Stable 3.5 inches with a very forgiving eye box.
Durability: I mounted it on a Savage Mk II with Arken rings. The zero remained tight after several matches and transport between events.
Turrets: Among the most tactile in this price range. The elevation turret includes an effective zero stop.
Parallax & magnification: Adjustable from 25 yards to infinity — perfect for every NRL22 stage.
Experience: Competing in wet and windy conditions, this scope proved rugged and trustworthy. I especially loved the audible turret clicks when time was running out.
Online discussions: Shooters on r/Optics and SnipersHide forums rate it “a steal” for those who want Razor-like mechanics under $500.
Verdict: A competition-ready optic for serious shooters who demand reliable tracking and repeatability.
How to Choose the Right Scope for NRL22
When selecting the best scope for NRL22, consider the following:
FAQs
1. What magnification is best for NRL22?
A variable range of 4–16x or 6–24x covers most needs, allowing flexibility between short and long stages.
2. Do I need a first focal plane (FFP) scope for NRL22?
Yes, FFP is preferred because the reticle’s scale remains accurate at all magnification levels, critical for quick holdovers.
3. What parallax setting is ideal?
Scopes that adjust down to 10–25 yards work best, as NRL22 includes close-range targets.
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