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Magnification: 3-9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: Dead-Hold BDC (MOA)Tube Diameter: 1 inchEye Relief: 3.8 inchesWeight: 15 ozParallax Setting: 100 yards
Excellent optical clarityReliable Vortex lifetime warrantyDead-Hold BDC reticle works well for .22 LRSmooth and precise turrets
Slightly large for the Chiappa’s ultralight frameNo adjustable parallax
Magnification: 3-9xObjective Lens: 32mmReticle: TruplexWeight: 10 ozTube: 1 inchEye Relief: 3.75 inches
Extremely light and compactClear glass for under $100Designed specifically for rimfire rifles
Turrets feel softNo illumination
Magnification: 3-9xObjective Lens: 32mmTube: 1 inchReticle: Mil-Dot (Illuminated Red/Green)Weight: 13 ozParallax: Adjustable (3 yards to ∞)
True AO parallax adjustmentDual illumination for low-lightShockproof, waterproof, fog-proof
Slightly bulky for its magnificationHeavier than the Simmons
Magnification: 4x (fixed)Objective Lens: 32mmReticle: Duplex CrosshairLength: 7.5 inWeight: 10 oz
Extremely compact and lightSimple, clear opticsHolds zero reliablyAffordable
No illumination or parallax adjustmentFixed magnification limits range flexibility
Magnification: 1-6xObjective Lens: 24mmReticle: ACSS IlluminatedTube: 30mmEye Relief: 3.5 inchesWeight: 16.9 oz
Excellent illumination systemDurable constructionFast target acquisition with ACSS reticleLifetime warranty
Slightly heavy for the ChiappaPricey compared to others on this list
5 Best Scope for Chiappa Little Badger: 2025 Expert Reviews and Field Tests
Finding the best scope for Chiappa Little Badger can be tricky because this ultra-light survival rifle is unlike most firearms. Its minimalist wire-frame stock, single-shot break action, and compact barrel make it perfect for backpacking or small-game hunting, but they also limit the size and weight of any optic. In this review, I’ll share my top tested scopes that balance size, performance, and durability for this unique rifle platform.
🔝 Top 5 Scopes for Chiappa Little Badger of 2025
Here’s a quick look at my best picks for this compact rimfire survival rifle:
1. Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC)
The Vortex Crossfire II is one of the most popular rimfire scopes for lightweight rifles like the Little Badger. It’s affordable, extremely clear for its price point, and built to withstand rugged use.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
The Crossfire II delivers surprisingly crisp images, even in low light. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle helps compensate for bullet drop at longer rimfire ranges, which is useful beyond 50 yards.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
With 3.8 inches of eye relief, it’s comfortable even for quick shoulder mounts. The eye box is forgiving, allowing fast target acquisition.
Durability
Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, nitrogen purged, and O-ring sealed — it’s waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. I’ve dropped mine during a muddy hike, and it held zero perfectly.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Capped turrets with 1/4 MOA clicks — tactile and audible. After zeroing at 50 yards, I confirmed solid tracking during my box test.
Magnification & Parallax
Smooth magnification from 3x for close brush shots to 9x for longer targets. While parallax is fixed at 100 yards, it still performs well from 25 to 75 yards.
Mounting & Accessories
I used medium-height 1-inch rings on a Picatinny adapter rail for the Little Badger. Barrel clearance was perfect, and balance remained good.
My Experience
I tested this setup with CCI Mini-Mag .22LR and Federal HV rounds. Zeroed at 50 yards within 10 shots, and it held perfectly after 300 rounds.
Online Feedback
Reddit users and rimfirecentral.com threads agree — the Crossfire II is a top pick for budget rimfire optics, often praised for durability.
Verdict
If you want reliability, clarity, and ruggedness, the Vortex Crossfire II is the best all-rounder for your Chiappa.
2. Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 Rimfire Scope
Simmons’ .22 Mag scope is a rimfire classic. Lightweight, affordable, and surprisingly bright, it pairs beautifully with the Chiappa Little Badger.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Despite its price, the Simmons glass is bright and sharp. The Truplex reticle provides a simple and fast sight picture.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Generous eye relief and easy-to-find eye box make it perfect for the Little Badger’s short stock.
Durability
It’s waterproof and fog-proof. Mine has survived months of rain and dust without losing zero.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Finger-adjustable knobs with 1/4 MOA clicks. They’re not as crisp as Vortex but adequate.
Magnification & Parallax
Parallax is fixed at 50 yards — ideal for .22 LR shooting.
Mounting & Accessories
Mounted easily with low-profile 1-inch rings. The compact design fits the Little Badger perfectly.
My Experience
After 200 rounds of CCI Standard Velocity, the scope held zero flawlessly. Accuracy at 50 yards was consistent with 1-inch groups.
Online Feedback
Many shooters on survival forums praise this as a go-to optic for ultralight rimfire rifles.
Verdict
A perfect match in size and weight, the Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 offers excellent rimfire performance for minimal cost.
3. UTG 3-9x32 BugBuster AO Compact Scope
The UTG BugBuster is compact, feature-packed, and built like a tank. It’s one of the most popular optics for small survival rifles.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Very good clarity for the price, and the illuminated Mil-Dot reticle adds versatility. Red illumination helps during twilight.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Eye relief around 3.5 inches; comfortable. The eye box is tight at high magnification but manageable.
Durability
This scope is known for being nearly indestructible. I tested it on my .22LR Little Badger and later on a PCP air rifle — zero held perfectly.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Precise and repeatable. The zero-locking feature is a rare bonus in this price range.
Magnification & Parallax
Adjustable Objective from 3 yards to infinity — great for plinking at 10 yards or hunting rabbits at 75.
Mounting & Accessories
Comes with medium rings included, which fit well on the Little Badger’s rail. Clearance is good even with the iron sights folded down.
My Experience
Took about 8 rounds to zero. I used Winchester M22 ammo and shot steel plates up to 75 yards — accurate and consistent.
Online Feedback
Rimfire shooters often call this scope the best value in compact optics. Reddit and airgun forums are full of positive reviews.
Verdict
If you want a feature-rich, rugged, and precise optic under $150, the BugBuster is a fantastic companion for the Chiappa Little Badger.
4. CVLIFE 4x32 Compact Rifle Scope
Short Description
The CVLIFE 4x32 is an ultra-light fixed power scope that perfectly matches the minimalist design of the Chiappa Little Badger.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
For a budget fixed scope, clarity is impressive. Edge-to-edge clarity is solid, and color fidelity is decent.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Eye relief is around 3.3 inches — comfortable for rimfire use. The eye box is forgiving and easy to acquire.
Durability
Shockproof and weather-resistant. After 250 rounds, zero remained rock solid.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Simple capped turrets, tool-adjustable. 1/4 MOA clicks, consistent and accurate.
Magnification & Parallax
Fixed at 4x with a preset parallax around 50 yards — ideal for plinking and pest control.
Mounting & Accessories
Includes integrated 20mm mounts, making it easy to install directly onto the Little Badger.
My Experience
Perfect for a survival or backpack rifle. The lightweight balance of the setup is unmatched.
Online Feedback
Many users call this the go-to choice for minimalist rimfire builds. Consistent reports of holding zero after extended use.
Verdict
If you prioritize simplicity, durability, and affordability, the CVLIFE 4x32 is an ideal companion for the Chiappa Little Badger.
5. Primary Arms SLX 1-6x24mm SFP Illuminated ACSS Gen III
The SLX 1-6x24mm SFP from Primary Arms offers premium glass, an illuminated ACSS reticle, and quick target acquisition for rimfire or small-caliber rifles.
Specs
Pros
Cons
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Optical quality is top-tier for the price range. The ACSS reticle provides precise holdovers and range estimation — even with .22LR trajectories.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
Comfortable and consistent eye relief across all magnifications. The wide field of view at 1x mimics a red dot for close shooting.
Durability
Built from high-strength aluminum and fully waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof. This scope will outlast the rifle.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
Tight, precise clicks with strong zero retention. 1/2 MOA adjustments.
Magnification & Parallax
The 1-6x range offers both close-quarters speed and mid-range accuracy. Fixed parallax at 100 yards.
Mounting & Accessories
Use low 30mm rings to keep the optic in line with the bore. Works perfectly with a folding survival setup.
My Experience
I tested it during a small-game hunt in light rain. Despite the weather, clarity stayed perfect, and illumination made a big difference in dim woods.
Online Feedback
Highly rated by rimfire and AR shooters alike for optical precision and versatility.
Verdict
If you want a professional-grade optic that can make your Little Badger feel like a tactical carbine, this is the one.
🔍 How to Choose the Right Scope for the Chiappa Little Badger
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