Best Rimfire Scope for 22LR Rifles: Complete Scopes Review

It’s no secret that rimfire scopes are ESSENTIAL for your shooting games.

They bring out the BEST your gun can offer, so naturally, you also only want the best scope for you!

So if you’re in the market for the best rimfire scope, I’m here to help!

I’ve narrowed down the list of best scopes based on the different needs you may have and what you’ll be using them for; you’re sure to find one here that will suit your 22 LR rifle best.

Let’s dive in!

Best Value

Vortex Optics Diamondback 22LR

• Magnification: 2-7x
• Diameter: 35mm
• Eye Relief: 3.1-3.5 in

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Best Overall

Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire Riflescope

• Magnification: 3-9x
• Diameter: 40mm
• Eye Relief: 3.6-4.1 in

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Best Budget Pick

Nikon Prostaff Rimfire II 3-9×40

• Magnification: 3-9x
• Diameter: 40mm
• Eye Relief: 3.6 in

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The 8 Best Rimfire Scopes for .22LR Rifles

1. Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire Riflescope

BEST OVERALL

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• Weight: 12.2 oz/346 g
• Linear FOV (ft/100 yards): 33.7-13.6
• Linear FOV (m/100 m): 11.22-4.54
• Eye Relief (in): 4.17-3.66
• Eye Relief (mm): 106-93
• Elevation and Windage Adjustment Turrets Range: 60 MOA/17.5 MIL
• Exit Pupil: 5.0 mm
• Body: Aircraft-grade aluminum tube
• Color: Matte Black

The Leupold VX-Freedom series of the reputable Leupold uses 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum for the bodies.

In my experience, this scope had NO trouble doing its job, even during the toughest outdoor conditions.

You know Leupold is not all talk, and their rimfire rifle scopes are actually built to LAST!

In fact, it might even outlive the 22 LR rifles you mount it on!

You will definitely appreciate the Rimfire MOA reticle! Here are a few reasons why I did!

• Proprietary Leupold Design
• Based on the T-MOA reticle
• Provided hash-marks in 1 MOA increments
• Features 25 MOA of measurement
• 5 MOA hash is wider for quick reference
• Thinner hash-marks for rimfire-specific targets
• Non-caliber specific type

However, it would’ve been really useful to have a parallax adjustment knob, which it didn’t.

Because of how high-quality the Leupold VX Freedom scope is, some might find it too pricey. I know I did.

But I appreciate its quality build and flexibility at longer ranges.

I am extremely satisfied to have gotten MORE than what I paid for. It can even compete with other higher-end 22 LR rimfire scopes!

2. Vortex Optics Diamondback 22LR

BEST VALUE

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• Dimensions‏: ‎13.7 x 3.3 x 2.7 inches
• Weight: 14.2 oz
• Color: Matte Black
• V-Plex MOA
• Adjustment Graduation: 1/4 MOA
• Travel per Rotation: 15 MOA
• Max Windage and Elevation Adjustment Turrets: 100 MOA
• Power Magnification Range: 2-7x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 35mm
• Eye Relief (in): 3.9

The Vortex Optics Diamondback 22LR is an upgrade from their older sibling, the Crossfire II Rimfire line.

While this model’s a little more expensive than its predecessor, this upgrade will give you more bang for your buck!

This .22 rimfire from Vortex optics is hunting-focused with its V-Plex reticle, and I’m a huge fan of its generous eye relief at 3.9 inches!

No more scope bite for me!

What TRULY surprised me was their amazing customer service, and that’s saying something considering my super low expectations regarding this.

Although big brands promise excellence, sometimes you’ll run into a manufacturing error, which can be a huge headache to deal with.

But not with Vortex! All it took was ONE call or email about any reasonable complaint, and they’ll deliver a replacement at NO COST!

And it doesn’t end there.

Your Vortex Optics Diamondback also comes with a transferable lifetime warranty! Vortex Optics will always honor their warranty.

You don’t even have to show them your receipt!

3. Nikon Prostaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 Bullet Drop Compensator 150

BEST BUDGET PICK

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• Product Dimensions: 19.2 x 4 x 4.5 inches
• Weight: 13 Oz
• Magnification Power Range: 3-12x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm
• Exit Pupil: 13.33 mm
• Adjustment Gradation: 1/2

Nikon isn’t excellent in just making cameras.

They’re also the best when it comes to EVERYTHING in the optics world, especially rimfire optics scopes.

They’ve had a longstanding reputation for quality for YEARS, and it really shows in their Prostaff Rimfire.

I recommend the Nikon Prostaff Rimfire if you’re looking for a budget rifle scope, but it definitely doesn’t feel like one.

Durable. Trusted. Affordable. What more do you need? The Nikon Prostaff Rimfire is an (almost) complete package!

I’d also recommend this rimfire riflescope for beginners, as it makes a great companion for dipping your toes in the water.

I’ve always appreciated the simplicity and easy usage of Nikon scopes, and this one made Rimfire shooting a lot EASIER for me.

UPDATE: Unfortunately, this scope has been discontinued and is no longer available. You may only find this scope through third-party sellers.

4. Simmons 3-9x32mm. 22

BEST SCOPE FOR BUDDING ENTHUSIASTS

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• Product Dimensions: 15.25 x 3.25 x 3 inches
• Weight: 9.6 Oz
• Color: Matte Black
• Parallax Correction Preset: 50 yards to infinity
• Objective Lens Diameter: 32mm
• Magnification Range: 3x to 9x
• Field of View (ft. @ 100 yards): 31.4/10.5
• Eye Relief (in): 3.75
• Exit Pupil (mm): 10.7 – 3.6
• MOA: 1/4
• Adjustment Range: 60/60
• Reticle: Truplex

If you’re a beginner looking for a rifle scope for target practice, you want reliability and quality that WON’T break the bank.

I think the Simmons would make a PERFECT rimfire rifle scope because it’s light and compact and has all the basic features down. 

The glass used is also SUPERIOR to other .22 rifle scopes in this price range. 

It even has a QTA (Quick Target Acquisition) eyepiece for eye relief, giving you great value for your money.

I also think it deserves the title of best budget scope for its affordability.

However, I have to deduct points for the mounting. You might have to try different scope rings to get secured nicely.

5. TASCO MAG39x32D Rimfire

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

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• Weight: 11.3 oz /320.4 g (without its o-ring)
• Product Dimensions: 12.75 x 1 inches
• Finish: Matte
• Exit Pupil (mm): 10.7mm @3x /3.6mm @9x
• Lens Coating: MML FC
• Power/Objective Lens (mm): 3 – 9x 32mm
• Field of View (ft.@100 yards/m@100m): 17.75′ – 6′ / 6 – 2
• Focus Type: Eyebell
• Parallax Setting: 50 yards/45.7 meters
• Eye Relief (in): 3
• Reticle Type: 30/30
• Windage and Elevation Turrets: 1/4 MOA
• Magnification Range: 3x to 9x

Whether you want to do big-game or small-game hunting, the TASCO rimfire rifle scope has your back.

You don’t have to be a veteran hunter to get the best one!

TASCO is known in the industry for making cost-effective rifle scopes WITHOUT compromising on quality, durability, and accuracy.

You can take this scope together with your .22 rifle on rough roads on all your big or small-game hunting adventures!

Another thing I love about this scope is its ACCURACY. 

Considering my limited skill set in rimfire shooting, I was surprised to land my targets with little problems!

This’ll help you fire dead on at any magnification range, as long as you’ve got the skill!

It can definitely keep up with any other higher-priced rimfire scope!

6. Sig Sauer SOR52001 Romeo 5

BEST RED DOT RETICLE

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• Product Dimensions: 4.72 x 3.03 x 0.76 inches
• Weight: 5.29 Oz
• Color: Matte Black
• Magnification Range: 1x
• Objective Clear Aperture: 20 mm
• Eye Relief: Unlimited
• Field of View: N/A
• Illumination Settings: 8 Daytime / 2 Night Vision
• Elevation and Windage Adjustment Range: +/- 40 MOA
• Reticle: 2 Red Dot
• Adjustment increments: 0.5
• Battery: (1) CR2032

I’ve included the Romeo 5 from Sig Sauer for any enthusiasts who want to stick to a red dot reticle design.

It’s the first scope on the list with a Stealth ID design!

It doesn’t look like any of the previous scopes I’ve featured, and once it’s mounted, it won’t be too obvious that your rifle is equipped with a rimfire scope.

The Romeo 5 is actually designed for a variety of uses.

While it’ll work fine for competitive shooters and hunters, it’s also ideal for military and law enforcement too!

It’s servicemen approved! What more could you want?

7. Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope

BUDGET DOT RETICLE OPTION

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• Product Dimensions: 5.4 x 3.4 x 2.2 inches
• Weight: 0.23 Oz
• Color: Matte Black
• Adjustment Range (Total): 70+
• Click Value: 1
• Dot Color: Red
• Exit Pupil (mm): 25mm / .894 inches
• Eye Relief (in.): Unlimited
• Field of View: N/A
• Lens Coating: Multi-coated
• Magnification Range x Objective Lens: 1x20mm
• Parallax Setting: 50 yards
• Brightness Settings: 11
• Reticle: 3-Dot
• Mount: Picatinny

I can’t wrap up this list with just one single dot reticle stealth design, so I’ve also added a BUDGET option.

The Bushnell Trophy is the BEST budget dot reticle in the market, promising excellent build quality, crisp red dot, and unlimited eye relief!

How’s that for a budget stealth scope?

Trust me; you can’t get a better budget red dot scope than the Bushnell. It’s excellent value for money!

8. Monstrum Tactical 1-4×24 FFP

BEST TACTICAL DESIGN

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• Magnification Range: 1-4x
• Objective Diameter: 24 mm
• Length: 9.6 in
• Weight: 1 lb 0 oz
• Reticle: Illuminated reticle
• Eye Relief: 4 – 4.5 inches
• Tube Diameter: 30 mm
• Scope Range: Short-Mid Range 300+ Yards
• Reticle: Red Dot

Do you want a rougher, cooler, and more tactical design? Then the Monstrum is the scope for you!

Say goodbye to those smooth, sleek scope designs and stand out in the field!

The Monstrum is another budget scope, but I recommend it since it’ll handle your essentials and basic shooting needs.

It has generous eye relief compared to its higher-priced competitors, and it has a clear sight picture.

Another budget red dot reticle complete with all the functions you need, all packed in a rough, bold, tactical design.

You can’t go wrong with this scope!

What Is a Rimfire Scope?

A rimfire is for short-range shooting.

Rimfire rifle scopes have a parallax adjustment setting of around 25 to 50 yards, and these scopes are made for rifles with LOW recoil.

In my experience, rimfire optics also have shorter eye relief.

Eye relief is the distance from the rear lens to your eyes to see the full sight picture.

A rimfire is generally CHEAPER than a centerfire scope. Scopes for 22LR don’t have as many features and, therefore, cost less.

And because they’re EASY to control, it makes them GREAT for beginners and for hunting small game!

What Features Should I Look Out For?

1. Power

What is the scope power or the magnification capacity of your scope?

You’ll likely only be shooting short-distance, so when shopping for 22LR scopes, I don’t think you need a high magnification capacity.

It’s different from using a centerfire scope for long-distance.

You’ll only need a 2-7x or a  3-9x.  A 4-16x scope magnification power is the MAXIMUM that I’d recommend using.

2. Turrets

There are two kinds of turrets:

Capped Turrets

You will only have to adjust this ONCE WHILE ZEROING.

This is the kind of turret you’ll want for your short-range shooting needs.

Exposed Turrets

This is the kind of turret you can MANUALLY ADJUST as often as you have to.

I’ve found this turret especially useful for long-range shooting and variable magnification scopes.

3. Adjustable Parallax

A centerfire scope is equipped with a side focus.

This is used when your target’s shooting distance suddenly changes from short to long-range, making it easier to adjust the parallax.

But for a rimfire rifle scope, there can be little to no adjustment regarding parallax.

There are some rimfires in the market that have parallax adjustment, but that’s usually just a plus.

This feature isn’t seen as essential in short-range target shooting, so don’t expect most scopes of this category to have it.

NOTE: You’ll eventually need an adjustable parallax as your shooting distance increases.

If you want to move up to mid- to high-range target shooting, I’d recommend considering the parallax adjustments when choosing a rifle scope for your 22 LR.

4. Focal Plane

There are two places where you could place your reticles in your 22 LR scope: the First Focal Plane or the Second Focal Plane:

• Placing them in the First Focal Plane (FFP) means putting them in front of the tube, making them closer to the objective lens. Doing this increases magnification and makes the lines look larger. This is best for long-range shooting.
• Now placing them at the back of the tube, or the Second Focal Plane (SFP), means your reticles are now farther from the objective lens. This placement puts it closer to the ocular lens and no longer changes the reticle size when adjusting the magnification, unlike FFP.

Okay, so which one’s better?

For rimfire, I’d recommend Second Focal Plane (SFP).

That’s because using the first focal plane at low scope power and being closer to the objective lens will just blur the crosshairs, lessening your accuracy.

SFP, on the other hand, will keep your crosshairs and targets clear even at low power!

5. Reticle Design

There are different reticle designs available for your scopes, the most common ones being:

Original Reticle

This features a single horizontal line and a single vertical line, forming a cross in the center for your scope aiming point.

Dot Reticle

This scope reticle design features a single dot in the center as your scope aiming point.

Sometimes you have crosshairs from the top, bottom, left, and right of your scope aiming point, and sometimes the crosshair is completely missing from the scope rifles.

Duplex Reticle

This famous scope reticle is also known as Leupold’s Duplex Reticle, Simmons’ Truplex, Nikon’s Nikoplex, and Weaver’s Dual X.

The duplex scope reticle design is the standard, most common scope design and what I mostly use.

It’s popular because it’s versatile and suitable for either target shooting or hunting.

This scope design features the crosshairs thinning as it nears the center.

I’ve found that the duplex reticle scope is best for hunting in thick bushes.

The thin center gives you more precision and takes care of the sub tensions, while the thicker outside lines make locating your target easier.

Some scope designs also offer an illuminated reticle feature.

This is perfect for hunting in low-light conditions and is especially helpful for shooters with less-than-perfect eyesight.

However, this lens feature will probably need batteries to power up this illuminated reticle light and will cost you more.

Different brands also offer different lens coating options, the most common being multi-coating.

What’s the Difference Between a Centerfire and Rimfire Scope?

Centerfire and Rimfire ammunitions have different properties and features, which is why they have respective scopes meant for their own uses.

Here are some of the differences I’ve found between the two:

Centerfire Scopes

This scope typically has longer eye relief and can withstand high recoil shots. It also has a preset 100-yard parallax scope setting.

A centerfire scope will work best for mid and high-range shooting, but I wouldn’t recommend it for short-range shooting.

Rimfire Scopes

Thanks to the low recoil of a rimfire scope, there’s less risk of you getting hit by the scope after firing.

Without experience and preparation, the high recoil in a centerfire scope could cause bruises or even a cut around your eyes.

A Rimfire ammunition scope also comes in a lighter casing than a centerfire scope, which also affects the zeroing process in scopes.

If you are a newbie, the rimfire scope is perfect for you.

Why Should You Buy a One?

Because no matter how great your rifle is, you can’t use it properly without the proper rimfire scope.

Without a rimfire scope, you won’t be able to make the most of your cartridge’s capabilities, plus your range will be restricted, and you’ll be handicapping your accuracy.

How Do I Mount a Rimfire Scope?

Sometimes the rifle scope you buy comes pre-packaged with mounting hardware, and sometimes, it doesn’t.

And sometimes, the mounting equipment your scope comes with doesn’t really fit with your rifle, so what do you do?

When you place the order for your scope, make sure you also purchase all the right mounting hardware, like:

Bases

Some rifles will already have integral bases, but others won’t.

So you will need to check if you will still have to purchase them separately.

Rifles that don’t have built-in bases will have little screws to fill in the holes.

Rings

You might also need a set of rings since most manufacturers do not include these.

Or when they do, there will be times that they will not fit.

Loctite (Optional)

Loctite is a glue-like solution used to keep specific threaded objects on their thread.

You may be wondering, “But if I’m going to be threading, why do I need glue?”

Because over time, the screws will eventually unscrew themselves, which will make zeroing more difficult. In the worst case, the scope might even fall off your rifle.

This is where Loctite comes in.

In case the screws decide to unscrew themselves, Loctite will hold them in place.

Will I also need a lock too?

Not necessarily.

You can use a lock if you want to, but in my experience, screws with Loctite usually hold well enough.

How Do You Mount Your Scope?

Step 1: Find a Steady Table to Work On

Place something that can hold your rifle securely (a gun vise or cardboard box with the sides cut to fit your gun would do well).

Step 2: Safety First!

Remove the bolt from the rifle. Check if it is already unloaded (unload if it isn’t yet), and then remove the clip.

Step 3: Removing Screws

If your rifle does not have built-in bases, you will have to remove the screws that were used to fill in the holes first.

Step 4: Dry Mount

Following your manufacturer’s instructions manual, screw everything on your scope just to make sure everything fits.

Start with the bases and then the rings.

Step 5: Set Your Scope

Place the scope on the rings and pick up your rifle to get a feel of your eye relief (the distance from the glass at the back of the scope to your eye).

Hold your rifle as you would in the field and look through the scope, and then adjust it to your preferences accordingly.

Step 6: Rings & Squaring It Up

With your scope set, put the rings on top and square the reticles in your scope. You can do this with a leveling device if you have one.

If not, go look for a plumb line like the wall of a building or any straight line.

Now hold your rifle the way you usually would out in the field and compare the line of the reticle you see with the line you’re basing it on (like the side of the building).

Then make sure that the scope reticle is set straight.

Step 7: Tighten the Screws

When you tighten, you have to be careful not to misalign the already squared reticles.

You do this by screwing both sides little by little, alternating between the two sides as you tighten.

But don’t make it too tight yet!

Step 8: Check Again

Make sure you did not misalign the reticle while tightening and look through your scope again, and then you can finish tightening.

This time, tighten them as hard as you can.

Step 9 (Optional): Loctite

This is where you use your Loctite, should you decide to use one for your scopes.

You can now glue and secure everything that has to be threaded in their respective places.

And now you’re ready to shoot!

How to Sight Your .22 Rifle Scope

Zeroing a .22 rifle scope shouldn’t be too difficult if you have patience.

It may seem like a little bit of trial and error, but with enough practice, zeroing will come like second nature!

1. Set Up, Aim, Fire

The first step is ensuring you have a solid foundation and everything is secure. Anchor your rifle and rest it on a flat surface.

Point your rifle toward your target (make sure you can see it CLEARLY). I recommend practicing at 100 yards, as anything less will not be as precise, and anything higher will be more susceptible to interference.

Aim for the center and pull the trigger. Examine the point of impact.

2. Adjust Accordingly and Fire Again

If your bullet did not hit the center (and it won’t, more often than not), go back and adjust all your knobs.

Adjust your windage and elevation to account for how much you missed. Realign your crosshair to the center and try again.

Once you think everything’s reset, shoot and examine again.

3. Repeat

As I said, it’s a little bit of trial and error until you hit the bullseye.

Keep practicing and adjusting until you get closer.

BUT! Do not overuse your rifle; give it time to cool down, or else the results may be worse.

Something to Consider Before Buying the Best 22 LR Rimfire Scopes

A rimfire will usually be cheaper than a centerfire scope but beware of a scope that’s TOO cheap.

A scope like that might be made of plastic, and plastic material won’t be able to withstand even the slightest recoil.

Furthermore, rimfires should also NEVER be mounted on air guns or other high-recoil rifles. They are NOT designed for high recoil and will be damaged beyond repair.

If you’re looking for more scopes that are reasonably priced and of great quality, I also have a buying guide on riflescopes for just under 500 dollars.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the Best Scope Magnification for .22 Rifles?

Since .22 rifle scopes are mostly for short-range shooting, a 1-8x or 2-7x should suffice for whatever kind of shooting you’re doing.

However, if you want to step up your game or try competitive shooting, 5-20x or 4-16x will do.

Is .22 Better Than 9mm?

I would say yes.

A .22 LR is simpler to use, has less recoil, and is more affordable. They’re good for users of ALL levels, especially beginners.

On the other hand, a 9mm has more recoil and is catered to self-defense shooters or experienced shooters.

How Much Money Should I Spend on a Rimfire Rifle Scope?

You can get a rimfire for as low as $100 or as high as $2000.

Some affordable ones for about $300 have excellent durability and warranty, so you can’t go wrong with a scope around that price.

If you can’t afford that and must settle for a $100 scope, make sure it has a good warranty policy because chances are it is not very good quality-wise.

Either way, it is important to consider your budget and the features you will need.

Honor Roll

If you are still undecided, here’s a quick summary of top picks for the best rimfire scopes:

Overall Champion: Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire Riflescope

The Leupold VX Freedom takes the crown.

With its durability that can last you generations, Leupold Optics has been a favorite among shooters for decades and will probably keep its reputation for decades to come.

If you have the budget, I highly recommend investing your money in a Leupold.

You can thank me later.

Not for you? Take a look at my Best Value and Budget Pick:

Unmatched Value: Vortex Optics Diamondback 22LR

Just the transferable lifetime warranty and superb customer service are enough for the Vortex Optics Diamondback to warrant its best value title.

No one does it like them.

That’s not even mentioning their scope’s superior quality, generous eye relief, and near-perfect reticle design.

It’s no wonder they’ve completely won me over!

Budget Pick: Nikon PROSTAFF RIMFIRE II 3-9×40 Bullet Drop Compensator 150

A trusted brand even outside the world of shooting, Nikon bags a Best Budget Scope title. It has every essential and more!

Excellent quality, durability, and even the best light transmission at 98%!

In Conclusion

Shopping for the best rimfire scopes can be a bit overwhelming, with so many choices in the market and every brand offering something enticing.

Whether it’s hunting small game or big game, I hope I’ve helped you choose the PERFECT scope that suits your needs.

Check out my guide on the best scopes at 500 yards to learn more!