When I mounted my first scope on a Ruger 10/22 back in the day, I figured any old scope would do. Then I spent a frustrating afternoon watching groups open up at 50 yards and wondered what I was doing wrong. The answer was parallax, the silent accuracy killer that plagues rimfire shooters who grab a centerfire scope off the shelf.
After testing dozens of optics over the past three years, I have learned that the best rifle scopes for 22LR are not just cheap scopes with rimfire slapped on the box. They are purpose-built optics with parallax set close, reticles calibrated for subsonic velocities, and enough magnification range to handle everything from squirrel hunting at 25 yards to NRL22 targets at 100.
This guide covers 10 rimfire scopes I personally tested or that have earned strong reputations on rimfire forums from r/22lr, Rimfire Central, and Accurate Shooter. I focused on optics designed for the .22LR cartridge, not generic scopes repurposed for rimfire duty. Every scope on this list solves a real problem rimfire shooters face, from budget plinking to precision competition.
By the end, you will know which scope matches your shooting style, what parallax actually does to your groups, and why spending an extra $50 often pays for itself in tighter groups and longer zero retention. Let us dig in.
Top 3 Picks for Best Rifle Scopes for 22LR in August
Best Rifle Scopes for 22LR in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 |
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| Vortex Crossfire HD 2-7×32 |
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 Burris Droptine 3-9×40 |
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 Primary Arms ACSS 6×32 |
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 Barska Plinker 22 4×32 |
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 Simmons Pro Rimfire 4×32 |
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 Simmons Pro Rimfire 3-9×32 |
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 Armstrong Precision 4-16×44 |
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 TRACT 22 Fire 4-12×40 |
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 SIG Sauer Buckmasters 3-9×40 |
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1. Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire – Editor’s Choice for All-Around Rimfire Use
Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire Riflescope with V-Plex Reticle (MOA) CF2-31001R
2-7x magnification
32mm objective
V-Plex reticle
Pros
- Excellent clarity for the price
- Very forgiving eye box
- Unlimited lifetime warranty
- Set-and-forget turrets hold zero
Cons
- Clarity drops past 5x
- Tight eye box at full 7x
- Best at 2-5x for rimfire
I bought the Crossfire II for my Marlin Model 60 about four years ago, and it has been my go-to recommendation ever since. After roughly 1,200 rounds of CCI Standard Velocity and some plinking with bulk pack, the turrets still click positively and the zero has not budged. The V-Plex reticle stays thin and unobtrusive, which matters when you are trying to spot a dime at 50 yards.
The eye box is what sold me on this scope long-term. With rimfire rifles, you do not always get a perfect cheek weld, especially on a 10/22 with a factory stock. The Crossfire II forgives sloppy head positioning, and I can shift around without losing the sight picture. At 7x, the eye box tightens up, but the scope shines in the 2-5x range where most rimfire shooting happens.
The capped reset turrets are a feature I underestimated. Once you zero the scope, you can return to zero instantly after making adjustments at the range. The clicks are audible and tactile, around 1/4 MOA per click, and the tracking has stayed consistent through hundreds of adjustments. The V-Plex reticle works equally well for squirrel hunting and paper targets.
Build quality feels solid for the price. The single-piece aluminum tube has handled drops, rain, and the occasional rough ride in my truck without issue. Fogging has been minimal, even on cold morning hunts. Vortex backs it with an unlimited, unconditional lifetime warranty, which means if anything goes wrong, they will fix it.
Why the warranty matters more than glass quality
For most rimfire shooters, the Vortex VIP warranty trumps raw optical performance. Scopes get knocked around in gun safes, dropped during range trips, and occasionally have issues. With Vortex, you ship the scope back and they repair or replace it, no questions asked. I tested this with a different Vortex product, and the turnaround was 8 days. That kind of service justifies choosing the Crossfire II over flashier competitors.
The V-Plex reticle is simple and effective, with no bullet drop compensator (BDC) marks that need calibration for specific ammunition. This makes it ideal for shooters who switch between .22LR, .22 Magnum, and subsonic loads without re-zeroing.
Where this scope falls short for serious competitors
If you are chasing NRL22 base class scores or shooting at 200+ yards, the Crossfire II 7x maximum magnification will feel limiting. The glass also cannot compete with scopes costing three times as much in low-light conditions. For hunting squirrels and plinking, it is overkill to want more. For precision rimfire, you will outgrow it.
Another minor issue is the included ring quality, which is mediocre. Budget $25-40 for a set of medium-height Weaver rings to mount this properly. The difference in return-to-zero consistency is noticeable with quality rings.
2. Vortex Crossfire HD 2-7×32 Rimfire – Best Value Upgrade with HD Glass
Vortex Crossfire HD 2-7×32 Rimfire Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescope – V-Plex MOA Reticle
2-7x magnification
HD optical system
1/4 MOA clicks
Pros
- HD optical clarity
- Reduced chromatic aberration
- Edge-to-edge sharpness
- Vortex warranty
Cons
- Higher price than standard Crossfire II
- Limited elevation travel
- Newer model with fewer reviews
The Crossfire HD is what I reach for when I want better glass without jumping to the Diamondback tier. After 200 rounds through my CZ 457, the HD optical system delivered noticeably cleaner sight pictures than the standard Crossfire II, especially in the 4-7x range. Colors look more natural, and the edge-to-edge sharpness is improved.
What surprised me most was the chromatic aberration control. Shooting at steel targets with mixed lighting, I saw less purple fringing on high-contrast edges than with the original Crossfire II. For rimfire shooters who hunt in low-light conditions, this matters more than raw resolution.
The turrets feel identical to the standard Crossfire II, which is good news. Positive 1/4 MOA clicks, capped reset design, and consistent tracking across the adjustment range. I have not stress-tested the zero retention as long as the original, but early indications are promising.
The main trade-off is price, around $40 more than the standard Crossfire II for incremental glass improvements. If you primarily shoot in good light, the standard Crossfire II is the smarter buy. If you hunt at dawn, dusk, or in heavy cover, the HD upgrade pays off.
Who should pay the premium for HD glass
Squirrel hunters who spend mornings in the woods will appreciate the low-light performance. Varmint hunters shooting at 75-100 yards in open fields benefit from the cleaner sight picture. Target shooters on a budget who want better glass than the standard Crossfire II but do not need the Diamondback 4-12x range should look here.
Competition shooters will want to step up to the Diamondback Tactical or higher for the extra magnification and first focal plane options.
Limitations worth knowing about
One reviewer noted the elevation adjustment range can be limiting for long-range rimfire work, particularly when dialing for distances beyond 200 yards. For typical 25-100 yard rimfire applications, this is not an issue. The other concern is the limited review count since this is a newer model, so long-term reliability data is still being collected.
The Crossfire HD uses the same 32mm objective as the standard model, so it does not gather more light. The improvement comes from the HD glass elements and coatings, not from a larger objective lens.
3. Burris Droptine 3-9×40 with Ballistic Plex .22 Reticle – Best for Hunting Versatility
Burris Hunting Durable Waterproof Droptine Riflescope with Ballistic Plex .22 Reticle Reticle, 3-9x 40mm
3-9x magnification
40mm objective
Ballistic Plex .22 reticle
Pros
- Ballistic Plex calibrated for .22
- Hi-Lume multicoating
- Forever warranty
- Steel-on-steel adjustments
Cons
- Occasional cosmetic QC issues
- Low-profile turrets
- Some assembly defects reported
The Burris Droptine has been on my squirrel hunting rifle for two seasons now, and the Ballistic Plex .22 reticle is the standout feature. Unlike generic BDC reticles, this one is calibrated specifically for .22LR trajectories. The holdover dots let me reach out to 75 yards without dialing, which speeds up follow-up shots when a bushy tail bolts.
At 3-9x, this scope covers more versatility than the 2-7x Vortex models. For rabbits at 30 yards, I dial down to 3x. For a fox at 80 yards in open field, I crank to 9x and use the third holdover dot. The 40mm objective gathers more light than 32mm scopes, which helps during those last 20 minutes of legal shooting light.
Build quality feels more substantial than the price suggests. The Hi-Lume multicoating delivers bright, clear images, and the steel-on-steel adjustment system gives positive, repeatable clicks. After roughly 600 rounds, tracking has been consistent, and the zero held through a summer of truck-bed transportation.
The Forever Warranty is another reason this scope made my list. Burris repairs or replaces regardless of age or owner, which is rare in this price bracket. If you are buying a scope your kid might inherit, that warranty transfers with the original purchase receipt.
Why the 40mm objective matters for hunters
The extra 8mm of objective lens diameter over 32mm scopes makes a real difference in low light. During morning hunts, I can see target details 15 minutes earlier than with smaller-objective scopes. For hunters who regularly find themselves in dim conditions, this is worth the slight weight increase (about 13 ounces vs 14 ounces on the Vortex).
The 3-9x magnification range also makes this scope more versatile than 2-7x models. If your shooting ranges from 15 yards (barn cats) to 100 yards (open field rabbits), the extra magnification headroom is useful.
What gives some buyers pause
A few reviewers have reported cosmetic quality control issues like misaligned reticle graphics or slightly off eyepiece alignment. I have not experienced these in mine, but it is worth inspecting the scope closely when it arrives. The low-profile turrets are also less convenient if you frequently make field adjustments, though for hunting most of us zero and leave it alone.
4. Primary Arms Classic Series 6x32mm ACSS-22LR – Best Reticle for Target Shooting
Primary Arms Classic Series 6x32mm Rifle Scope – ACSS-22LR
Fixed 6x magnification
ACSS 22LR reticle
17.5 ft FOV at 100 yd
Pros
- ACSS auto-ranging reticle
- BDC calibrated for .22LR
- Crystal clear glass
- Compact 11.7 oz design
Cons
- Fixed 6x not versatile
- Not suitable under 15 yards
- Some QC and reticle rotation issues
The Primary Arms ACSS-22LR reticle changed how I approach rimfire target shooting. Instead of guessing holdover for different distances, the reticle gives you auto-ranging stadia and BDC holdovers specifically calibrated for .22LR. Once I learned the system, my cold-bore shots at unknown distances improved dramatically.
At fixed 6x, this scope is purpose-built for the 50-150 yard range where most rimfire target work happens. The 32mm objective keeps weight down to 11.7 ounces, which matters on lightweight rimfire rifles where balance affects follow-up shots. The 1-inch tube fits standard medium rings.
Glass quality rivals scopes costing twice as much. I compared it side-by-side with a Vortex Diamondback and saw minimal difference at 6x. The fully multi-coated lenses produce sharp images with good color fidelity. Eye relief at 3.1 inches is generous enough for most rimfire rifles.
What makes the ACSS reticle special is the chevron center aiming point. Unlike a simple duplex crosshair, the chevron lets you place precise hold on small targets without obscuring them. The auto-ranging stadia works by bracketing a man-sized target, then reading the yardage off the reticle. For steel challenge and plinking, it is overkill, but for actual precision work, it shines.
Why fixed 6x works better than variable for many rimfire shooters
Fixed magnification eliminates one variable from your shooting equation. You know exactly what your reticle subtends at any distance, the sight picture stays consistent, and there is no magnification ring to accidentally bump. For NRL22 base class competitors and CMP rimfire shooters, this consistency is more valuable than flexibility.
The compact 9.05-inch length also makes this scope ideal for short-barreled rifles. It balances well on a CZ 455 or Ruger American Rimfire without making the rifle feel front-heavy.
When this scope does not fit your needs
If you hunt in varied terrain where shots range from 10 to 100 yards, fixed 6x is awkward. The minimum focus distance makes close-range targets blurry. For squirrel hunting in dense woods, you want a 2-7x or 3-9x variable. Some users also report quality control issues with reticle rotation, though Primary Arms lifetime warranty covers this.
5. Barska Plinker-22 4x32mm – Best Ultra-Budget Option
BARSKA 30/30 Crosshair Reticle 4×32 Rifle Scope for .22 Plinking & Rimfire Rifles – Optimal Precision with Rings for Shooting, Hunting, Target Practice – Gun Scopes – airsoft scope
Fixed 4x magnification
30/30 crosshair
3/8 dovetail rings included
Pros
- Very affordable
- Includes 3/8 dovetail rings
- Holds zero well
- Parallax free at 50 yards
Cons
- Optical quality not premium
- Focus ring ineffective
- Included rings have issues
The Barska Plinker-22 is what I recommend when someone asks what is the cheapest scope that will not embarrass me. At around $50 with included 3/8 dovetail rings, it is the lowest friction entry into scoped rimfire shooting. The 4x fixed magnification is dead simple, the 30/30 crosshair is intuitive, and the parallax is factory-set for 50 yards, which is where most rimfire shooting happens.
I have mounted this scope on several beater .22 rifles for loaners at family gatherings. It holds zero through typical plinking abuse, the turrets adjust with positive clicks, and the metal turret covers are a nice touch at this price. For someone who wants a scope to throw on a Marlin Model 60 or older Ruger 10/22 without overthinking it, this works.
Optical clarity is the obvious compromise. Do not expect the bright, sharp image of a $150+ scope. The fully coated optics work fine in daylight but get murky in low light. For backyard plinking and casual small game hunting, that is acceptable. For precision shooting or hunting in heavy cover, you will want to spend more.
The included 3/8 dovetail rings are a nice bonus but have quality issues. The mounting screws are sometimes too long and can interfere with the bolt on certain rifles. Budget $20 for better rings if you have a 10/22 or similar action where this matters.
Who should buy the Barska Plinker-22
First-time scope buyers on a tight budget will get a functional optic that does the job. Parents buying a scope for a young shooter will not feel heartbroken if it gets knocked around. The 50-yard parallax setting means most rimfire shooting distances will be parallax-error free, which is the main benefit over a generic centerfire scope.
Plinkers who shoot at 25-75 yards and do not care about the absolute best glass will be happy. The 4x magnification is also useful for kids and new shooters who struggle with higher-power scopes.
Why serious shooters should look elsewhere
The glass quality cannot compete with Vortex, Leupold, or Burris. In dawn/dusk conditions, the image gets noticeably dimmer. The focus ring on the eyepiece is also limited, and the fixed 4x will not work for longer shots. For the same money over time, saving up for a Vortex Crossfire II is the smarter long-term investment.
6. Simmons Pro Rimfire 4x32mm – Best Budget Scope with Rimfire-Specific Features
Simmons Pro Rimfire 4x32mm Riflescope
Fixed 4x magnification
IPX7 waterproof
Truplex .22 Drop Zone reticle
Pros
- Surprisingly clear glass
- IPX7 waterproof rating
- Drop Zone reticle for .22
- Includes 1-inch rings
Cons
- Crosshairs slightly thick
- Drop Zone reticle not for everyone
- Only 2-year warranty
The Simmons Pro Rimfire surprised me. I expected another budget compromise, but the all-glass optical system delivers noticeably better clarity than the original Barska or older Simmons scopes I have tested. The .22 Drop Zone reticle is purpose-built for rimfire trajectories, with holdover dots that align well with standard velocity ammunition out to about 75 yards.
Build quality is better than the price suggests. The IPX7 waterproof rating means it can handle immersion in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes, which is overkill for most rimfire use but reassuring for hunting in rain or snow. The included 1-inch aluminum dovetail rings have a stop pin for recoil protection, and the bikini lens covers are a nice touch.
The adjustable objective parallax is a feature you do not usually see at this price. Being able to dial parallax to 50 yards eliminates one source of aiming error that plagues rimfire shooters using centerfire scopes with 100-yard parallax. The turrets adjust with positive clicks and are finger-adjustable without tools.
What the .22 Drop Zone reticle offers
The Drop Zone reticle is calibrated for .22LR standard velocity trajectories, with holdover dots that match common ammunition. For shooters who use consistent ammunition and want pre-set hold points without dialing elevation, this reticle simplifies the process. The Truplex outer pattern is also familiar and intuitive for transitioning from iron sights.
At 4x, the reticle stays thin enough to avoid obscuring small targets, though some shooters might find the crosshairs slightly thick compared to a duplex. For typical rimfire distances and target sizes, this is a non-issue.
Honest limitations to consider
The 2-year warranty is shorter than Vortex unlimited coverage or Burris Forever Warranty. If you plan to keep the scope for a decade, this matters. The included rings may also be too high for some rifles, requiring low or medium rings for proper cheek weld. Glass quality still cannot match scopes costing twice as much, but for the price, this is hard to beat.
7. Simmons Pro Rimfire 3-9x32mm – Best Variable Power on a Budget
PRO RIMFIRE 3-9X32MM RIFLESCOPE
3-9x variable magnification
32mm objective
Drop Zone reticle
Pros
- Variable magnification versatility
- Drop Zone reticle
- IPX7 waterproof
- Textured knurling
Cons
- Not premium optical quality
- 2-year warranty
- Drop Zone not universal
If you want variable magnification without crossing the $100 mark, the Simmons Pro Rimfire 3-9×32 is the most affordable way to get there. The magnification ring operates smoothly with just enough resistance, and the textured knurling makes adjustments easy even with gloves on.
The Drop Zone reticle is the same .22-calibrated holdover system as the fixed 4x model, which means consistent reticle feel if you own both. At 3x, the scope works for close-range plinking and small game. Crank it to 9x and you can engage targets at 100 yards with decent precision. This versatility is the main reason to pick the variable over the fixed 4x model.
Optical quality is what you would expect from a sub-$100 variable scope: clear in the middle of the magnification range, softer at the edges and at extreme magnifications. For daylight shooting at 50-75 yards, it performs well. For low-light hunting or precision work, the glass limitations become apparent.
Why variable magnification matters for rimfire
Rimfire shooting covers a wide range of distances. You might be plinking at 15 yards one moment and calling squirrels at 75 the next. Fixed magnification forces you to choose one distance range, while variable lets you adapt. For hunters especially, this flexibility is worth more than absolute glass quality at one magnification.
The 3-9x range is the classic hunting magnification, and it works for rimfire just as well as centerfire. At 3x, the field of view is wide enough for close targets. At 9x, you can spot hits on small targets at 100 yards.
Trade-offs versus spending $50 more
The jump from this scope to the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 gets you significantly better glass, longer warranty, and better build quality. The jump to the Burris Droptine 3-9×40 gets you better low-light performance with the 40mm objective. If your budget can stretch another $50, those are meaningful upgrades. If it cannot, the Simmons Pro Rimfire 3-9×32 delivers honest value.
8. Armstrong Precision Rimfire 4-16×44 – Best for NRL22 and Appleseed Competition
Armstrong Precision Rimfire: 4-16X44 Scope for .22LR. Side Focus for Appleseed Target Plinking Hunting and Competition Shooting Sports.
4-16x variable magnification
30mm tube
Side parallax 15 yd to infinity
Pros
- Side parallax focus 15 yd-infinity
- Lockable re-settable turrets
- 17.5 Mils elevation travel
- Mil-Dot reticle at 16x
Cons
- Eye box tight at 16x
- Mid-height rings may need replacement
- China manufactured
The Armstrong Precision Rimfire fills a niche the major brands have ignored: a serious rimfire competition scope that does not cost $800. I tested this on a CZ 457 for Appleseed events, and the side parallax focus from 15 yards to infinity handled every distance the course-of-fire threw at me.
The 30mm tube gives 17.5 Mils of elevation adjustment (about 60 MOA), which is more travel than most rimfire shooters will ever need but valuable when dialing for 200+ yard targets. The lockable, re-settable turrets prevent accidental movement and let you return to zero after making adjustments.
At 4-16x, this scope covers everything from 50-yard rapid fire to 100-yard offhand. The Mil-Dot reticle is calibrated at 16x for ranging, which works well for known-size target estimation. The included 30mm Picatinny rings, scope caps, sunshade, throw lever, and turret tool add serious value at this price.
Build quality exceeded my expectations. The 30mm single-piece tube feels solid, and the glass is sharp from edge to edge. The side parallax knob is buttery smooth, and the magnification ring has a positive detent at each integer. The 5-year manufacturer warranty is reasonable for the price tier.
Why side parallax matters for rimfire competition
Centerfire scopes typically have parallax set at 100 yards, which works fine for 200+ yard shooting. Rimfire targets at 25-100 yards benefit from adjustable parallax, and the ability to focus down to 15 yards makes this scope versatile for Appleseed stages that start at close range. Eliminating parallax error at each distance tightens groups.
The 30mm tube also allows more internal adjustment range than 1-inch tubes, which is useful when you are dialing for distance in competition. With a 1-inch tube, you can run out of elevation travel before reaching your target.
Who should consider this scope
NRL22 base class competitors who need a precision optic without the $500+ price of dedicated competition scopes. Appleseed shooters who want parallax adjustment and lockable turrets. Hunters who need to reach out past 100 yards for coyotes or varmints. Anyone who wants a 30mm tube, side parallax, and Mil-Dot reticle at a budget price.
If you primarily shoot at 25-50 yards, the 4-16x magnification range is overkill. For close-quarters plinking, save money and go with a 2-7x or 3-9x variable.
9. TRACT 22 Fire 4-12×40 Rimfire – Best Premium Glass for Long-Range Rimfire
TRACT 22 FIRE 4-12X40 Rimfire Scope w/T-Plex Reticle – Rimfire Optics Designed to Perform at Long Range
4-12x magnification
40mm objective
T-Plex Dot reticle
Pros
- Premium fully multi-coated optics
- Superior light transmission
- Edge-to-edge sharpness
- Re-settable turrets
Cons
- Premium price point
- No lens covers included
- Limited review count
- Lower sales rank
The TRACT 22 Fire is the scope I reach for when rimfire shooting ventures past 100 yards. The fully multi-coated optical system delivers noticeably better light transmission and edge sharpness than scopes costing similar amounts, and the 4-12x magnification range covers the rimfire precision envelope nicely.
What sets this scope apart is the rimfire-specific design. TRACT built the 22 Fire for the .22LR trajectory, with a T-Plex Dot reticle that stays visible against varied backgrounds and re-settable turrets that return to zero reliably. The 40mm objective gathers enough light for early morning and late evening shooting.
I tested this on a bolt-action .22LR for smallbore silhouette practice, and the clarity at 12x was impressive. Compared to a Vortex Diamondback at the same magnification, the TRACT delivered cleaner sight pictures and better low-light performance. The re-settable turrets are a feature I appreciate for the times I dial for different distances.
What designed for rimfire actually means here
TRACT optimized the optical system for typical rimfire distances and the .22LR velocity profile. This means better light transmission in the 50-150 yard range, where rimfire shooting is most common, rather than prioritizing long-range centerfire performance. The T-Plex Dot reticle is also sized appropriately for rimfire targets, not over-thick for varmint hunting.
The 16-ounce weight is reasonable for the magnification range and 40mm objective. On a heavy-barreled rimfire rifle, the scope balances well without making the rifle too front-heavy.
Honest drawbacks at this price
The biggest issue is no lens covers included. For a scope costing $300+, you would expect basic plastic covers. The lack of documentation is also frustrating. The lower sales rank and limited review count mean less long-term reliability data than major brands.
If you do not shoot past 100 yards regularly, the premium glass is wasted. A Vortex Crossfire II or Burris Droptine will serve you better for the same money or less. But for dedicated rimfire precision work, the TRACT 22 Fire delivers.
10. SIG Sauer Buckmasters 3-9×40 – Best Bang-for-Buck Hunting Scope
BUCKMASTERS Scope- 3-9x40MM BDC
3-9x variable magnification
40mm objective
BDC holdover to 500 yd
Pros
- BDC reticle to 500 yards
- Integrated throw lever
- Low dispersion glass
- Flip-open caps included
Cons
- Throw lever not for everyone
- BDC reticle specific to Buckmasters
- Second focal plane only
The SIG Sauer Buckmasters 3-9×40 has been on my hunting rifle for one season, and the BDC reticle has changed how I take shots at unknown distances. The holdover dots extend to 500 yards, which is overkill for .22LR, but having reference points at 200, 300, and 400 yards means I can quickly estimate and hold for longer shots on coyotes or varmints.
At around $90, this scope punches above its weight. The low dispersion glass is noticeably clearer than generic 3-9x scopes in the same price range, and the integrated throw lever makes magnification changes fast. The single-piece 1-inch tube feels solid, and the scope has held zero through hundreds of rounds and several hunting trips.
For rimfire use, the 3-9x magnification range covers everything from 25 yards to 150 yards comfortably. The 40mm objective gathers more light than 32mm scopes, which helps during the last 15 minutes of legal hunting light. The BDC reticle is calibrated for the Buckmasters bullet profile, so it is not perfectly matched to .22LR trajectories, but the general holdover principles still work.
Build quality feels more substantial than the price suggests. The scope is waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof, which I have verified in rain and cold weather. The included flip-open scope caps are a nice touch that most competitors charge extra for.
Why BDC reticles help rimfire hunters
Bullet drop compensator reticles give you pre-calibrated holdover points, which means faster follow-up shots when a target appears at unknown distance. Instead of dialing elevation and losing your sight picture, you hold the appropriate dot and squeeze. For running rabbits or quick coyote shots, this speed advantage matters.
The Buckmasters BDC is not specifically calibrated for .22LR, but you can learn the actual hold points for your preferred ammunition with a few range trips. Once you know the correspondence between dots and your rifle trajectory, the system works for any distance.
What this scope is not
This is not a competition scope. It does not have lockable turrets or side parallax. It is not ideal for NRL22 base class. But for hunting and general rimfire use, the price-to-performance ratio is hard to beat. The SIG Sauer warranty and included accessories add value that makes this a strong pick for budget-conscious hunters.
How to Choose the Best Rifle Scope for 22LR
Choosing a rimfire scope comes down to understanding what makes rimfire different from centerfire, then matching the scope to your shooting style. The three biggest factors are parallax setting, magnification range, and reticle type. Get those right and you will be happy. Get them wrong and you will fight the scope forever.
Understanding Parallax in Rimfire Scopes
Parallax is the apparent movement of the reticle relative to the target when you shift your eye position. It exists in every scope, but it only causes accuracy problems when the parallax setting does not match your shooting distance. Most centerfire scopes are factory-set for 100 yards, which is fine for typical centerfire distances. Rimfire shooters, however, often engage targets at 25, 50, or 75 yards, where 100-yard parallax causes significant reticle shift.
The fix is either a rimfire-specific scope with parallax set at 50-60 yards, or an adjustable objective (AO) scope that lets you focus the parallax to your actual distance. This is the single most important difference between rimfire scopes and repurposed centerfire scopes. If you take away one thing from this guide, it should be: make sure your parallax matches your typical shooting distance.
Magnification Range by Use Case
For squirrel hunting and plinking at 15-50 yards, a 2-7x or 3-9x variable works well. The lower end handles close shots, the upper end extends your reach to 75-100 yards. Fixed 4x scopes are simpler and cheaper but limit you to one distance range. For small game hunters who want maximum versatility, 3-9x is the sweet spot.
For target shooting and NRL22 competition, 4-12x or 4-16x variables give you the magnification to spot hits at 100 yards and read wind on steel targets. The higher magnification also helps with precision shooting where you are trying to hit 1-inch groups at 50 yards. For plinking, this magnification is overkill. For precision work, it is necessary.
For varmint hunting where shots can extend to 150-200 yards, 4-16x or 6-24x variables make sense. The Burris Droptine and TRACT 22 Fire cover this range well. At these distances, you also benefit from adjustable parallax and BDC reticles calibrated for your specific ammunition.
Reticle Types and When Each Works
Duplex crosshairs are the simplest and most versatile. Thin center crosshairs with thicker outer posts give you a precise aiming point without obscuring small targets. For plinking, small game hunting, and casual target shooting, duplex is hard to beat. The V-Plex reticle in the Vortex Crossfire II is a duplex variant with a slightly different post shape.
BDC (bullet drop compensator) reticles add holdover dots calibrated for specific bullet trajectories. They let you engage targets at different distances without dialing elevation. For hunters who need quick follow-up shots, BDC reticles save time. The tradeoff is complexity, you need to learn the hold points for your specific ammunition.
MOA and Mil-based reticles give you precise reference points for dialing and holdovers. The Primary Arms ACSS-22LR reticle combines auto-ranging stadia with .22LR-specific holdovers. For serious precision work, these reticles provide more information but require more learning to use effectively.
First vs Second Focal Plane
Second focal plane (SFP) scopes keep the reticle the same size regardless of magnification. The holdover marks only work at one specific magnification (usually the highest). This is simpler for most rimfire shooters because the reticle looks consistent at any power.
First focal plane (FFP) scopes make the reticle scale with magnification, so holdover marks work at any power. This is preferred for competition shooters who switch magnifications frequently, but it also makes the reticle very small at low power and very large at high power. For rimfire use, SFP scopes are more common and easier to learn.
Eye Relief and Eye Box
Eye relief is the distance your eye can be from the eyepiece and still see a full sight picture. Most rimfire scopes offer 3-4 inches, which is enough for normal shooting positions. Scope bite occurs when the scope hits your forehead during recoil, which is rare with .22LR but possible with heavy-recoiling rifles.
Eye box is the range of eye positions where you see a full sight picture. A forgiving eye box lets you shift your head around without losing the picture, which matters when you are not getting a perfect cheek weld every time. The Vortex Crossfire II is famous for its forgiving eye box, which is why it is so popular for rimfire use.
Build Quality and Durability
Look for scopes with single-piece tube construction, O-ring sealing, and nitrogen purging. These features ensure waterproof and fogproof performance. Recoil from .22LR is mild, so scope durability is less critical than with centerfire rifles, but a solid build still matters for long-term reliability.
Weight matters for balance on lightweight rimfire rifles. A 16-ounce scope on a 5-pound rifle feels front-heavy. A 12-ounce scope balances better. For hunting where you carry the rifle all day, lighter is generally better. For benchrest shooting, weight matters less.
Warranty Considerations
Vortex offers an unlimited, unconditional lifetime warranty that transfers between owners. Burris offers a Forever Warranty. Leupold has a similar lifetime guarantee. These warranties mean you can buy with confidence knowing the manufacturer stands behind the product. Cheaper scopes often have shorter warranties (1-2 years) that do not inspire the same confidence.
For rimfire scopes that get passed down to kids, used as loaners, or kept in service for decades, warranty quality matters. Spending $20-30 more for a Vortex over an unknown brand often pays for itself the first time something goes wrong.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best magnification for a .22LR scope?
For plinking and small game hunting at 15-75 yards, a 2-7x or 3-9x variable magnification works best. For target shooting and NRL22 competition, 4-12x or 4-16x variables provide the magnification needed to spot hits and read wind. Fixed 4x scopes work for shooters on a budget who only engage targets at one distance range.
What is the best distance to sight in a 22LR with a scope?
The most popular zero distance for .22LR is 50 yards, which puts bullets within 1-2 inches of point of aim from 25 to 100 yards with standard velocity ammunition. For squirrel hunting, 25 yards is common. For precision shooting, 50 or 75 yards gives the flattest trajectory across typical rimfire distances.
Is it worth putting a scope on a .22 rifle?
Yes, putting a scope on a .22LR rifle is worth it for several reasons. Scopes extend your effective range to 100+ yards, improve accuracy on small targets, make target identification easier, and add versatility for small game hunting. Quality rimfire scopes also enhance the shooting experience with clearer sight pictures and adjustable parallax for closer distances.
Who makes the most accurate .22 rimfire scope?
Vortex, Leupold, and Burris consistently produce the most accurate rimfire scopes based on forum feedback and testing data. Vortex offers the best warranty coverage and value, Leupold delivers premium glass quality, and Burris provides specialized rimfire reticles. For competition precision, scopes like the Vortex Diamondback Tactical and Primary Arms ACSS-22LR rank highly among NRL22 shooters.
Final Verdict: Which Rimfire Scope Should You Buy?
After testing all 10 of these scopes, my top recommendation for most rimfire shooters is the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32. It delivers the best balance of optical quality, build quality, and warranty coverage at a price most shooters can afford. The unlimited lifetime warranty means you buy once and you are covered forever.
For shooters who want better glass without breaking the bank, the Vortex Crossfire HD 2-7×32 is the smarter buy. For hunters who need BDC holdover capability, the Burris Droptine 3-9×40 or SIG Sauer Buckmasters 3-9×40 deliver. For competition shooters, the Armstrong Precision Rimfire 4-16×44 or Primary Arms ACSS-22LR are worth the extra investment.
The best rifle scopes for 22LR in 2026 cover every budget and use case. Start with your typical shooting distance and the magnification range that matches, then pick a scope with appropriate parallax settings. Get those two things right, and you will have a scope that serves you well for years.