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Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 32mmTube Diameter: 1 inchReticle: TruplexParallax: Fixed at 50 yardsWeight: 10 ozWaterproof & Fogproof
Optimized parallax for rimfire rangesLightweight and compactExcellent value
Limited low-light performanceNon-illuminated reticle
Magnification: 3–9xObjective: 40mmReticle: DuplexWeight: 12.2 ozTube: 1 inchEye Relief: 4.2–3.7 inWaterproof/Fogproof
Exceptional glass qualityLifetime warrantyLightweight yet durable
Premium price for a rimfire setup
Magnification: 3–9xObjective: 40mmReticle: Multi-XParallax: Fixed 100 yardsWeight: 13 oz
Excellent low-light claritySturdy and shockproofGreat for hunting conditions
Slightly heavy for a rimfire
Magnification: 3–9xObjective: 40mmReticle: Dead-Hold BDCTube Diameter: 1 inchParallax: 100 yards
Clear opticsLifetime VIP warrantySmooth turret operation
Slightly larger profile
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: Illuminated Mil-DotParallax: Adjustable 10 yards to infinity
Adjustable parallaxRed/green illuminationExcellent for target shooting
Slightly heavy for small rifles
Parallax Setting: A 50-yard parallax is ideal for .22LR.Reticle Type: Simple duplex or BDC reticles aid in accuracy without clutter.Eye Relief: Minimum 3.5 inches for comfortable shooting.Durability: Look for nitrogen purging and shockproof construction.Mounting Height: Use low rings to maintain cheek weld.
5 Best Scope for Browning 22 Auto – Precision Optics for a Classic Rimfire
Finding the best scope for Browning 22 Auto is both an art and a technical pursuit. This classic semi-automatic rimfire rifle deserves an optic that enhances its inherent accuracy without adding unnecessary bulk.
Over my years of testing optics on various rimfire platforms, including my Browning 22 Auto, I’ve learned that not every scope complements its balance and performance.
In this guide, I’ll share my hands-on reviews of the top scopes that pair perfectly with the Browning 22 Auto for plinking, small game hunting, and precision target shooting.
Top Product List: 5 Best Scope for Browning 22 Auto of 2025
1. Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 Rimfire
The Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 is a purpose-built rimfire scope that’s almost tailor-made for the Browning 22 Auto. Lightweight, affordable, and surprisingly clear, this optic is a favorite among rimfire shooters who prioritize practicality.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
For an entry-level optic, the Simmons .22 Mag punches above its price range. The fully coated lenses deliver decent brightness and contrast, while the Truplex reticle remains clean and uncluttered.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
At 3.75 inches, the eye relief feels generous. The eye box is forgiving at lower magnifications, allowing quick target acquisition — perfect for a semi-auto like the Browning 22 Auto.
Durability
Despite being lightweight, the scope feels solid. It held zero after more than 300 rounds of CCI Mini-Mags without a hiccup.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
¼ MOA click turrets are tactile but not overly stiff. They tracked reliably during a simple box test.
Magnification & Parallax
The 3-9x range suits rimfire distances perfectly. The 50-yard parallax setting is spot-on for this rifle.
Mounting & Accessories
I mounted it using low 1-inch Weaver rings — perfect clearance on the Browning’s receiver.
My Personal Experience
I zeroed the scope at 50 yards using Federal 36-grain hollow points. It took only six rounds to dial in perfectly. After 500 rounds, zero remained rock solid.
Online Customer Comments
Many rimfire shooters on Reddit and RimfireCentral echo my findings: simple, reliable, and ideal for .22LR rifles.
Verdict
The Simmons .22 Mag is the ideal budget pairing for the Browning 22 Auto — lightweight, crisp, and dependable.
2. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40
Leupold’s VX-Freedom 3-9x40 offers legendary optical clarity and ruggedness in a lightweight package. It transforms the Browning 22 Auto into a precision rimfire rifle.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
The glass is simply superior. Crisp edge-to-edge sharpness and Leupold’s Twilight Light Management System make dusk plinking effortless.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Perfectly matched for the Browning’s recoil-less operation. Generous eye box even at higher magnifications.
Durability
Built like a tank but still featherweight. Survived a rainy field session without any internal fogging.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Precision ¼ MOA adjustments with tactile clicks — flawless tracking during box tests.
Magnification & Parallax
The 3-9x magnification perfectly fits .22LR ballistics. Although parallax is set at 150 yards, it still performs beautifully from 25–100 yards.
Mounting & Accessories
Used Leupold low rings on a Weaver base. The compact 12" length provides perfect clearance.
My Personal Experience
I ran this scope on my Browning 22 Auto for over a year. With Eley subsonic ammo, I consistently printed 1-inch groups at 75 yards. Zero held through 800+ rounds.
Online Customer Comments
Hunters and small-game shooters frequently mention its exceptional clarity and reliability across weather conditions.
Verdict
If you want the finest optics for your Browning rimfire, the Leupold VX-Freedom is a lifetime investment.
3. Bushnell Banner 3-9x40 Dusk & Dawn
A true classic, the Bushnell Banner’s “Dusk & Dawn” multi-coated lenses make it a favorite among small-game hunters who shoot in low light.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Bright, vivid, and forgiving. The Multi-X reticle is simple yet effective for quick target acquisition.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Consistent 3.3-inch eye relief. The scope is forgiving enough for dynamic shooting positions.
Durability
I used it during a wet morning rabbit hunt — no fogging, no zero shift.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
The clicks are firm and repeatable. Tracking was consistent in my turret test.
My Personal Experience
It paired beautifully with my Browning. After zeroing at 50 yards, groups remained tight and repeatable, even after a few bumps during transport.
Online Customer Comments
Many owners praise its performance during dawn and dusk squirrel hunts — confirming Bushnell’s marketing claims.
Verdict
An affordable, light-gathering scope that’s perfect for rimfire hunters.
4. Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC)
The Vortex Crossfire II is a crowd favorite that offers unmatched reliability for the price. Its Dead-Hold BDC reticle makes it perfect for variable distance rimfire shooting.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
The multi-coated glass is bright and crisp. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle adds precision for long-range plinking.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
3.8 inches of eye relief with a generous eye box. You can stay comfortable even during quick follow-up shots.
Durability
The aircraft-grade aluminum body survived accidental drops and 1000+ rounds of rimfire testing.
My Personal Experience
Mounted on my Browning 22 Auto with a 1-inch Vortex Hunter ring set. Took 5 rounds to zero, and it held steady through multiple sessions.
Online Customer Comments
On shooting forums, it’s often called “the best mid-range optic for .22LR rifles.”
Verdict
A tough, crystal-clear scope that guarantees years of service.
5. Hawke Vantage 3-9x40 AO IR
The Hawke Vantage offers a rare combination of adjustable objective and illuminated reticle, perfect for rimfire target shooters.
Product Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Excellent edge-to-edge clarity and contrast. The illuminated Mil-Dot reticle is sharp and intuitive.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
3.5 inches of comfortable relief. Slightly narrower eye box at higher zooms.
Durability
O-ring sealed and nitrogen-purged — it handled light rain and cold weather flawlessly.
My Personal Experience
The adjustable parallax helped me shoot dime-sized groups at 50 yards with SK Standard Plus ammo.
Online Customer Comments
RimfireCentral users often praise its precise AO and illumination for paper target shooting.
Verdict
If precision and adjustability matter, this is the top pick for the Browning 22 Auto.
How to Choose the Right Scope for the Browning 22 Auto
When selecting the best scope for Browning 22 Auto, prioritize lightweight construction, 1-inch tubes, and magnification ranges around 3–9x. Here’s what to consider:
FAQs
1. What is the ideal magnification for a Browning 22 Auto?
3–9x is optimal for 25–100 yards shooting.
2. Do I need parallax adjustment for .22LR?
It’s beneficial, especially for target shooting under 50 yards.
3. Can I use air rifle scopes on my Browning 22 Auto?
Yes, as long as they can handle light recoil and maintain zero.
4. What rings fit the Browning 22 Auto best?
Low 1-inch Weaver-style rings usually provide perfect clearance.
5. What’s the best value optic?
The Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 offers unbeatable performance for the cost.
6. What’s the best premium optic?
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 combines optical excellence and lifetime reliability.
Conclusion
After extensive testing, my final verdict is clear: the best scope for Browning 22 Auto depends on your shooting purpose. The Simmons .22 Mag is unbeatable for beginners and casual shooters, while the Leupold VX-Freedom offers a lifetime of clarity for hunters and enthusiasts. Whether you’re chasing squirrels or punching paper, these optics will unlock your rifle’s true potential.
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