Are you on the hunt for the best Rimfire scopes? Today, we are going to look at the best Rimfire scopes suitable for every modern Rimfire rifle owner.
Adding a good quality scope on your Rimfire rifle maximizes your shooting range and improves your shooting accuracy as well. You’ll be able to easily surpass long-range targets and make your hunting or shooting more competitive.
What Makes a Great Rimfire Scope?
One of the most common air rifles is the .22LR. The rifle is popular because it’s reliable and uses cheap ammunition. Besides, the rifle is easy to use and adequately handles different shooting scenarios. To unlock the full power of this cartridge, you need to mount a high-quality rimfire scope.
A great rimfire scope should have quality construction. Although .22LR are low recoil rifles, a well-built scope can withstand harsh punishment in the field and therefore last for many years. Argon or nitrogen purging on the tubes and O-ring seals are imperative as they make a scope weatherproof for seamless hunting expeditions.
In terms of magnifications, a great rimfire scope should have adequate magnification for shooting at around 200 yards out. A scope with a maximum power of 9x is ideal for 22LR. If you want to extend the limits of your rifle, you can go to 12x. A scope with variable power is also ideal as it helps in different shooting applications.
Another attribute of a great rimfire scope is clarity. Scopes fitted with high-quality glass have excellent light transmission capabilities and so give the shooter vivid images of the targets. For scopes with variable power, the lenses should be able to maintain sharp images at all magnification settings.
10 Best Rimfire Scopes for .22 LR Rifles
Whether you are looking for a new rimfire scope or an upgrade, there are plenty of scopes on the market for you to choose from. With numerous options out there, choosing the best rimfire scope can be a hassle.
To help make the hunt for a high-quality rimfire scope easier, we did the homework for you and compiled a list of the best rimfire scopes. We have listed down the best rimfire scopes that can be relied upon for a superb shooting experience when using .22 LR rifles.
The review looks at the best Leupold Rimfire scopes, the best Vortex Rimfire scopes, and the best budget Rimfire scopes. Without further ado, let’s get started.
Best Leupold Rimfire Scopes
1) Leupold 113871 VX-1 Rimfire Scope
If you are looking for a short to mid-range magnification scope for your Rimfire rifle, you can hardly go wrong with the Leupold 113871 VX-1 Rimfire Scope. This scope is packed with high-quality features to help you get the most out of your firearm.
For starters, the lenses are fully multicoated to maximize light transmission and reduce glare. This results in the production of a bright and clear image view full of color contrast. For you to compensate for windage and ballistic bullet drop, the scope has 85MOA windage and elevation adjustments and 1/4 MOA impact point correction.
The reticle is housed on the second focal plane. This means that it will change its size as you change the magnification. Besides, this fine duplex reticle has thin crosshairs which make it easy for you to make accurate shots on small targets.
In terms of construction, the scope features an aluminum housing that’s durable yet lightweight. The 1” main tube is fully waterproof and fogproof so you can use it under any weather conditions.
For your convenience, the scope has a fast-focus eyepiece for easy reticle focusing. The windage and elevation turrets are also capped. Not to mention the low-profile zoom lever that’s easy to operate with a single finger.
Features
- Durable aluminum housing
- Fully waterproof and fogproof
- Capped windage and elevation turrets
- SFP fine duplex reticle
- A standard multicoat lens system
- Parallax adjustment from 60yards to infinity
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry around
- Made in the USA
- Perfect fit and finish
- Lead-free
- Full lifetime warranty
Cons
- Not for long-range shooting
2) Leupold 113872 VX-1 Rimfire Scope
The Leupold 113872 VX-1 Rimfire Scope is a great scope for any rimfire rifle out there. This riflescope provides clear image views under any situation. It’s easy to use and easy to aim as well.
What makes the scope stand out among the best rimfire scopes is its versatility. It’s compatible with a wide range of firearms. If you are a hunter who owns an array of firearms, this scope is good for you.
The optical performance of the scope is commendable. It comes with high-quality glass which provides razor-sharp images regardless of the lighting conditions. Besides, the index-matched lens system reduces reflections to provide clean and crisp clear images. And that’s not all. The Multi-Coat4 further enhances illumination and minimizes glare.
In terms of durability, the device is durably made to ensure many years of use. It has a durable and compact 1-inch main tube that fits more legacy rings. The scope is also fully waterproof and fogproof so you can use it in all weather conditions.
Weighing about 0.51 pounds, the scope is lightweight and easy to carry and mount. This makes it convenient for hunting as you don’t have to toggle with unnecessary weight. To top it all, the scope features 1/4 MOA finger click adjustments for windage and elevation.
Features
- Multicoat 4 lens coating
- Fully waterproof and fogproof
- 1/4 MOA finger click windage and elevation adjustments
- Good lens and optical system
- Suitable for close and long-range viewing
Pros
- Extremely light, compact and easy to carry
- Easy to mount
- Affordable
- Versatile 3:1 zoom ratio
- Parallax adjusted for 60 yards
Cons
- Stiff dials when making adjustments
3) Leupold FX-I Rimfire 4×28 Fine Duplex
The other Leupold scope ideal for rimfire rifles is the Leupold FX-I Rimfire 4×28 Fine Duplex. This scope will improve your aim and views in a manner that you would not be able to do with the naked eyes.
Made for close and medium-range viewing, this optic offers a versatile 1:1 zoom ratio. It also has micro-friction dials which are marked in 1/4MOA increments for easy windage and elevation adjustments.
Built for rugged outdoor environments, the scope is durable and compact. The 1-inch main tube fits more legacy rings. It is also waterproof and fog proof for rugged reliability under different weather conditions.
More importantly, this USA-made scope is equipped with a Twilight Light Management System. It provides unparalleled image brightness and clarity in any lighting conditions. Overall, it is a compact and durable rimfire rifle that’s easy to use and highly reliable.
Features
- 1:1 zoom ratio
- Durable 1-inch main tube
- Fully waterproof and fogproof
- Twilight Light Management System
- Unparalleled performance
- Fully multi-coated lenses
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- User-friendly
- Made in the USA
- Great eye relief
Cons
- Low magnification
Best Vortex Rimfire Scopes
1) Vortex Optics Diamondback 2-7×35 Rimfire Riflescope
If you are on a budget, the Vortex Diamondback 2-7×35 Rimfire Riflescope is your ideal option. This classic hunting scope offers incredibly clear views and rugged reliability. This riflescope has a 2-7x magnification ideal for use at close to medium range. The versatile magnification is intended for a wide range of hunting applications.
The optical performance of this scope is commendable. The lenses are fully multi-coated for optimum light transmission. Besides, the fast-focus eyepiece allows for rapid and easy reticle focusing.
The scope’s durability will fit just about any style. Crafted with high-strength aluminum, the scope delivers long-lasting durability. The solid one-piece tune has a hard anodized finish which enhances durability while also making the scope durable. Additionally, the scope is argon purged and O-ring sealed to deliver waterproof and fog-free performance.
This high-performing scope weighs 14.2 ounces. The light design makes it easy to carry, handle and mount. It doesn’t add any unnecessary weight to your rimfire. Overall, the scope offers great value for money. It is also backed by an unlimited, unconditional lifetime warranty.
Features
- Metal-on-metal precision turrets
- Fogproof and waterproof
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- All-purpose V-Plex hunting reticle
Pros
- Not heavy
- Affordable
- Brilliant and clear views
- Backed by an unconditional lifetime warranty
Cons
- Poor eye relief
2) Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire Scope
Vortex makes high-quality optics and their Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire Riflescope is no exception. This rimfire riflescope offers great optical performance and dependability as well.
First, the scope offers a relatively long eye relief. At around 3.9 inches, your eyes are kept safe from heavy recoil rifles. Not to mention that it gives you comfortable views of the targets.
The lenses are fully multi-coated to enhance light transmission and reduce glare. This gives you bright and clear images even under low light conditions. Also, the scope has some excellent windage and elevation turrets that are easy to use. The turrets are capped and easy to reset to zero after sighting in.
When it comes to construction, the scope is made from aircraft-grade aluminum. This makes it durable while keeping weight at a minimum. Besides, the hard-anodized single-piece tube is O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged to deliver waterproof and fog-proof performance respectively. You’ll therefore be able to take the scope anywhere and worry less about reliability or durability.
Features
- Fully waterproof and fogproof
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Anti-reflective, fully multicoated lenses
- Capped reset turrets
- Fast focus eyepiece
Pros
- Multipurpose application
- Quick and easy reticle focusing
- Includes lens cap and a lens cleaning cloth
- Backed by a lifetime warranty
- Made in the USA
Cons
- A bit heavy
3) Vortex Optics Copperhead 4-12×44 Riflescope
Here is another hunting scope for the money. The Vortex Copperhead 4-12×44 riflescope is specifically made for hunters and shooters in need of a high-performance riflescope with trackable reliability.
The optical quality of this riflescope is commendable. The 44mm objective lens gathers optimum light for clear views. Besides, all air-to-glass surfaces are coated with several anti-reflective coatings to maximize light transmission.
This scope easily adjusts its magnification from 4x-12x and retains its brightness and clarity across the range. This makes it ideal for shooting at varying ranges and under different environments.
Made with high-strength aluminum alloy, the scope is durable and recoil-resistant. The turrets are capped to deter impact damage. Not to mention the fogproof and waterproof properties for all-weather performance.
Another impressive feature of this scope is the BDC reticle. This reticle is not only easy to use but also highly effective. It helps you shoot accurately across different distances. To top it all, the scope features a long eye relief that keeps you safe from heavy rifles.
Features
- Shockproof and weatherproof
- Long eye relief
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Capped turrets
- Aircraft-grade aluminum housing
Pros
- Lightweight
- Bright and clear views
- User-friendly
- Great value for money
Cons
- Poor low-light performance
Best Budget Rimfire Riflescopes
1) Simmons 3-9×32 .22 Riflescope
If you are looking for a well-made scope for the money, the Simmons 3-9×32 .22 Riflescope is worth trying. For starters, this USA-made scope delivers big game performance. It has a quick target acquisition eyepiece, holds zero pretty well and it’s reasonably accurate as well.
Whether you are a seasoned hunter/shooter or just a beginner, this scope is a great deal for you. The 3-9x magnification works for varying ranges, both close and long.
Plus, the eye relief is decent so you can enjoy comfortable viewing. The scope also features a SureGrip rubber surface which makes it simpler for you to make adjustments under different conditions or when wearing gloves.
All Simmons 3-9×32 .22 Riflescopes are made of aluminum. This makes it durable while keeping weight at a minimum. For added durability and all-weather reliability, this one-piece tube scope is shockproof, waterproof and fog-free.
In terms of optical performance, the lenses are fully coated to deliver bright and clear images with true-to-life colors. The Truplex reticle is housed on the SFP. It retains its size when the magnification is changed. This makes it a great aiming reticle for all rimfire hunting scopes.
Features
- HydroShield lens coating
- Truplex reticle
- Parallax elimination from 50 yards to infinity
- Fully shockproof, waterproof and fog-free
- Rimfire 3/8: Dovetail mounting rings included
- Fully coated optics
Pros
- Affordable
- Bright and clear image views
- Easy to use
- Durable
Cons
- Less accurate fingertip and elevation adjustment
2) BURRIS FullField Scope
The BURRIS FullField Scope is a preferred choice among many hunters thanks to its reliability and long-lasting durability at a decent price. This scope is compatible with a wide range of rifles.
More importantly, the scope is very easy to use. It has a simple, integrated eyepiece for quick target acquisition. Moreover, the eyepiece power ring has a non-slip grip for quick adjustment.
If you shoot at varying ranges, this is your ideal scope. It features a variable 3x magnification suitable for both close and long-range shooting. The high-performance optical glass provides optimum light transmission for bright and clear views. It is also multicoated so you can hunt under any lighting situation.
In terms of construction, the scope is very durable. The 1-piece tube construction makes it sturdy and hard-wearing. Plus it’s fully waterproof, fogproof and shockproof for rugged outdoor use. The magnification and zoom ring are made of metal and knurled for a non-slip grip and long-lasting durability.
Features
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Adjustable parallax from 50 yards to infinity
- High-quality optical glass
- 1-piece construction
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
Pros
- Not heavy
- User-friendly
- Lifetime warranty
- Improved light transmission
- Affordable
Cons
- Dirt sticks on the glass easily
3) CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope
If you are on the hunt for a rimfire rifle scope that performs well in any conditions and environment, the CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope is your ideal choice. It is sharp, clear, and easy to focus on.
Made with hunters in mind, the scope offers superior image clarity. The fully multicoated glass provides over 90% light transmission, bright images and remarkable color contrast. Not to mention a scratch-resistant coating that protects the lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt.
The versatile 3-9x magnification works on varying ranges. You can use it to accurately shoot long-range targets or extend your shooting range to long-range. The elevation and windage adjustments turrets are conveniently placed for ease of use.
Another impressive feature of the scope is its durable construction. It features a special inner and outer structure for long-lasting durability. This unique design also makes the scope shockproof and resistant to harsh recoil. To top it all, the scope mounts easily fit standard 20mm Picatinny or Weaver rail.
Features
- Precise windage and elevation adjustment turrets
- Fully multicoated optics
- Fog-proof, rainproof and dirt proof
- Protective exterior lens coating
- Versatile zoom range
- Shockproof
Pro
- Fits standard 20mm Picatinny or Weaver rails
- Not heavy
- Durable
Cons
- No adjustable objective
4) Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24×50 FFP Riflescope
If you are a beginner and you are looking for a budget-friendly riflescope, you can hardly go wrong with the Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 riflescope. First, the scope is lightweight and easy to carry around. Weighing about 0.45kg, this scope is easy to use and easy to mount on any rimfire rifle.
It also features an impressive optical performance. The lenses are fully multicoated to minimize light reflection and maximize light transmission. They give you brighter and clearer image views than regular single-coated lenses. Besides, there is an XPL coating which gives you extra lens protection against dirt, oil, and scratches.
The scope is argon-purged to lock out moisture and dirt from the tube. This gives you better weatherproof performance and thermal stability. The whole unit is built from aircraft-grade aluminum for exceptional strength and durability.
Features
- Advanced fully multicoated lenses
- Glass etched reticle
- Crafted from 6061T6 aircraft-grade aluminum
- Waterproof and fogproof
- XPL coating
Pros
- Suitable for beginners
- Lightweight
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Poor eye relief
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Consideration when Choosing the Best Rimfire Scopes
Objective Lens Size
The objective lens is the part of the scope positioned at the front. Its main function is to collect and transmit light into the scope. Generally, if the objective lens is big, it will collect more light which results in bright and clear image views.
Lens Coating
Lens coating minimizes light reflection on the scope. There are multiple types of lens coatings. But, nowadays, most scopes have their lenses fully multicoated. This increases light transmission under different environments for bright, clear and true-to-life views.
Weatherproof
Given that you are going to use your scope outdoors, make sure that it has a weatherproofing ability so it’s reliable in all weather conditions. The weatherproofing performance is important especially if you are on the market for a hunting scope.
Eye relief
This is the distance between your eye and the scopes ocular lens. The longer the eye relief, the better the rimfire scope. Try to look for a scope with 3.5”-4” of eye relief. If you are using a heavy recoil rifle, such eye relief will keep your eye safe.
What Magnification Do You Need?
Before you buy any rimfire scope, you must determine what magnification you’ll need. Your intended shooting range will play a huge role in the magnification to go for.
If you plan on shooting varying ranges, get a scope with variable magnification. For close targets up to about 50 yards, try to look for a scope with 1-4x magnification. As the range increases, so should the magnification.
For medium targets from 50 to 100 yards, get a scope that offers 4-7x magnification. Lastly, look for a 7-9x scope if you intend to shoot long-range. That’s 100 yards and over.
Read: Best Scopes for 300 Yards
Conclusion
We hope that this review has given you the information you need to make the correct buying decision. Rimfire rifles remain a favorite among many hunters and shooters because of their ease of use. All of the scopes above are quality and great for rimfire rifles. Get any one of them and transform your rimfire rifle for the better.