The Ruger 10/22 Competition is a highly regarded rifle among shooting enthusiasts, known for its precision, reliability, and versatility. To maximize its potential, choosing the right scope is essential. In this article, I'll walk you through some of the best scopes available for the Ruger 10/22 Competition, provide detailed reviews of each product, and offer guidance on selecting the perfect scope for your needs. Let's dive in.
Top 6 Best Scopes for Ruger 10/22 Competition on the Market
Note: The following advice comes from my personal perspective. What works for me might not work for you, but hopefully it sparks some ideas!
1. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rimfire MOA
Specifications
Magnification: 3-9x
Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm
Reticle: Rimfire MOA
Weight: 12.2 oz
Length: 12.39 inches
Eye Relief: 3.66 inches
Best Features
The Leupold VX-Freedom stands out with its Rimfire MOA reticle, which is perfect for precision shooting. Its advanced optical system provides excellent clarity, brightness, and resolution. The 3-9x magnification range is versatile, making it suitable for various shooting distances.
Pros
High-Quality Optics: The lenses provide clear and bright images even in low light conditions.
Durable Construction: Built to withstand harsh conditions, it's waterproof and fog proof.
Custom Dial System (CDS): Allows for quick and easy adjustments based on your specific ballistics.
Cons
Price: It’s on the higher end of the price spectrum.
Weight: Slightly heavier compared to some other scopes for the Ruger 10/22.
Experience and Fit
Using the Leupold VX-Freedom on my Ruger 10/22 Competition has been a game-changer. The clarity of the optics ensures that I can easily spot my target, and the CDS feature allows for rapid adjustments without losing my sight picture. This scope’s durability means I don't have to worry about it in various weather conditions.
Customer Comments
Many users praise the Leupold VX-Freedom for its crystal-clear optics and reliable performance. Some have mentioned that the price is justified given the quality and durability it offers.
The Vortex Crossfire II is known for its long eye relief and ultra-forgiving eye box, which makes target acquisition quick and easy. The fully multi-coated lenses provide a bright and clear view, while the V-Plex reticle is simple and effective for hunting and target shooting.
Pros
Affordability: Offers great features at a reasonable price.
Ease of Use: The capped reset turrets are finger adjustable with MOA clicks.
Durability: Shockproof construction ensures it can handle recoil and impact.
Cons
Limited Magnification: The 2-7x range might be restrictive for some long-distance shooters.
Weight: Heavier than some other options in this category.
Experience and Fit
Mounting the Vortex Crossfire II on my Ruger 10/22 Competition has been a pleasure. The generous eye relief allows me to get a full sight picture quickly, and the clarity of the optics is impressive for the price. This scope performs reliably, even in low-light conditions, which is a big plus for early morning or late evening shooting.
Customer Comments
Customers often highlight the value for money this scope provides. Many appreciate its ease of use and the clear, bright images it produces. Some, however, wish for a bit more magnification range.
The Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II features a BDC 150 reticle designed specifically for rimfire shooters. It also includes Nikon’s fully multi-coated optical system, which enhances light transmission for a brighter view. The consistent eye relief and generous field of view make it a top choice.
Pros
Specialized Reticle: The BDC 150 is great for longer-range rimfire shooting.
Clear Optics: Nikon’s multi-coated lenses provide superior clarity.
Durability: Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof.
Cons
Discontinued: Nikon has exited the riflescope market, which might affect future support.
Availability: Can be hard to find due to discontinuation.
Experience and Fit
The Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II is a fantastic match for the Ruger 10/22 Competition. The BDC 150 reticle makes it easy to shoot accurately at various distances without constant adjustments. The clarity and brightness of the optics make target acquisition straightforward and consistent.
Customer Comments
Users frequently praise this scope for its clear optics and the BDC reticle, which simplifies long-range shooting. The main complaint is about the discontinuation of Nikon's riflescope line, which raises concerns about long-term support.
4. Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 3-9x40 Multi-X Reticle
Specifications
Magnification: 3-9x
Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm
Reticle: Multi-X
Weight: 13 oz
Length: 12 inches
Eye Relief: 3.3 inches
Best Features
The Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn scope excels in low light conditions, thanks to its Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses. The Multi-X reticle is straightforward and effective for various shooting scenarios, from hunting to target practice.
Pros
Affordability: Offers excellent features at a very reasonable price.
Low Light Performance: DDB lenses are perfect for dawn and dusk conditions.
Durability: Waterproof and fog proof.
Cons
Eye Relief: Slightly shorter compared to other scopes.
Weight: Not the lightest option available.
Experience and Fit
The Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn scope has proven to be a reliable companion for my Ruger 10/22 Competition, especially in low light conditions. The Multi-X reticle is intuitive and easy to use, making quick target acquisition possible. The clarity of the optics at dawn and dusk is particularly impressive, ensuring I never miss a shot during these prime shooting times.
Customer Comments
Many users appreciate the Bushnell Banner for its performance in low light and its affordability. Some have mentioned the shorter eye relief as a minor drawback but still find it a great value overall.
The Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 Mag riflescope offers an excellent value with its fully coated optics and HydroShield lens coating, which ensures a clear sight picture in various weather conditions. The Truplex reticle is simple and effective, providing a clear aiming point.
Pros
Lightweight: One of the lighter scopes in its class.
Affordability: Very budget-friendly without sacrificing essential features.
Clear Optics: Fully coated lenses provide a bright and clear view.
Cons
Build Quality: Not as durable as some higher-end options.
Limited Features: Lacks some advanced features found in more expensive scopes.
Experience and Fit
The Simmons 3-9x32mm has been a solid addition to my Ruger 10/22 Competition. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle, and the clear optics ensure I can consistently hit my targets. Although it doesn’t have the bells and whistles of more expensive scopes, it performs well for its price point.
Customer Comments
Customers often highlight the Simmons scope’s great value and clear optics. Some mention that it’s not as durable as higher-end models, but for the price, it’s hard to beat.
The Primary Arms Classic Series features the ACSS 22LR BDC reticle, which is specifically designed for .22LR rifles. This reticle allows for quick range estimation and bullet drop compensation, making it highly effective for longer-range shooting. The fixed 6x magnification is ideal for consistent accuracy and simplicity.
Pros
Specialized Reticle: The ACSS 22LR BDC reticle is perfect for .22LR rifles.
Clarity: Multi-coated lenses provide bright and clear images.
Durable: Built to be shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof.
Cons
Fixed Magnification: Limited versatility compared to variable magnification scopes.
Weight: Heavier than some competitors.
Experience and Fit
Using the Primary Arms Classic Series on my Ruger 10/22 Competition has been a rewarding experience. The ACSS 22LR BDC reticle makes range estimation and bullet drop compensation a breeze, significantly improving my long-range shooting accuracy. The fixed 6x magnification ensures that I get a clear and consistent sight picture every time.
Customer Comments
Users praise the Primary Arms Classic Series for its specialized reticle and clarity. The fixed magnification is seen as a plus by those who value simplicity and consistency. Some, however, wish for variable magnification to add more versatility.
How to Choose the Best Scope for Ruger 10/22 Competition
Choosing the right scope for your Ruger 10/22 Competition can significantly impact your shooting experience. Here are some key factors to consider:
Magnification
For a .22LR rifle like the Ruger 10/22 Competition, a scope with a magnification range of 2-7x or 3-9x is typically sufficient. Fixed magnification scopes, such as a 6x, can also be a good choice for consistent accuracy.
Objective Lens Size
The objective lens size determines the amount of light that enters the scope. A 32mm or 40mm objective lens is usually ideal for a .22LR rifle, providing a good balance between light transmission and weight.
Reticle Type
For the Ruger 10/22 Competition, reticles designed for rimfire rifles, such as the BDC 150 or ACSS 22LR BDC, can be very beneficial. These reticles often include bullet drop compensation marks, which can help with accuracy at varying distances.
Durability
Look for scopes that are waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof. This ensures that your scope can withstand various weather conditions and rough handling.
Eye Relief
Adequate eye relief is essential to prevent eye strain and ensure a comfortable shooting experience. Aim for a scope with at least 3 inches of eye relief.
Price
Scopes for the Ruger 10/22 Competition can range from budget-friendly options to high-end models. Determine your budget and choose a scope that offers the best features within that range.
FAQs
1. What magnification is best for a Ruger 10/22 Competition?
A magnification range of 2-7x or 3-9x is typically sufficient for a .22LR rifle like the Ruger 10/22 Competition. Fixed magnification scopes, such as 6x, are also a good choice for consistent accuracy.
2. Are specialized reticles necessary for the Ruger 10/22 Competition?
Specialized reticles designed for rimfire rifles, such as the BDC 150 or ACSS 22LR BDC, can be very beneficial. They often include bullet drop compensation marks, which can help with accuracy at varying distances.
3. How important is durability in a scope for the Ruger 10/22 Competition?
Durability is very important. Look for scopes that are waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof to ensure they can withstand various weather conditions and rough handling.
4. What is the ideal objective lens size for a Ruger 10/22 Competition scope?
A 32mm or 40mm objective lens is usually ideal for a .22LR rifle, providing a good balance between light transmission and weight.
5. How much should I spend on a scope for my Ruger 10/22 Competition?
Scopes for the Ruger 10/22 Competition can range from budget-friendly options to high-end models. Determine your budget and choose a scope that offers the best features within that range.
Conclusion
Choosing the best scope for your Ruger 10/22 Competition can greatly enhance your shooting experience. Whether you prioritize clarity, specialized reticles, or durability, there is a scope out there that will meet your needs. The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rimfire MOA, Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32 Rimfire, Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9x40 BDC150, Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 3-9x40 Multi-X Reticle, Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 Mag Riflescope, and Primary Arms Classic Series 6x32mm are all excellent choices. Each offers unique features and advantages, ensuring that you can find the perfect match for your Ruger 10/22 Competition.