Choosing the right optic for your .22LR rifle is a critical decision that can dramatically improve your accuracy and overall shooting experience. A rimfire scope is not just about magnification; it’s about finding a reliable partner for plinking, small game hunting, or target practice that complements the unique trajectory of the .22LR cartridge. The ideal scope brings clarity, precision, and confidence to every shot.
With a vast array of models on the market, selecting the perfect one can be a challenge. This guide simplifies your search by presenting a Marine-ranked selection of the top 10 rimfire scopes for 2025. We have evaluated each model for its optical quality, feature set, durability, and overall value to help you make an informed choice for your firearm.
The Top 10 Rimfire Scopes for Precision Shooting
- Simmons Truplex .22 MAG 3-9x32mm Riflescope
- Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24×50 Riflescope
- Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 1-8×24 Riflescope
- SIG SAUER Juliet3-Micro 3×22 mm Magnifier
- UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope, AO, RGB Mil-dot
- Vortex Optics AMG UH-1 Gen II Holographic Sight
- CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope
- BSA 3-9X40 Sweet 22 Rifle Scope
- Ncstar 3-9X42 Mark III Tactical GEN II
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire Riflescope
Simmons Truplex .22 MAG 3-9x32mm Riflescope
The Simmons Truplex .22 MAG is a purpose-built rimfire scope designed for reliable performance. Its versatile 3-9x magnification is ideal for close to mid-range shooting, making it a great companion for hunting squirrels or rabbits. The 32mm objective lens provides a clear and bright image, while the waterproof and fogproof construction ensures it can handle adverse weather conditions.
Quick target acquisition is a key benefit of the Truplex reticle, which remains effective even in the low light of early morning or late evening. This scope offers a straightforward, no-fuss experience that builds confidence for shooters of all levels. It represents a solid value for those seeking a dependable optic for their .22 rifle.
Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24×50 Riflescope
For the long-range rimfire enthusiast, the Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 is a formidable tool. Its high 6-24x magnification range and large 50mm objective lens are perfect for precision target shooting at extended distances. The first focal plane (FFP) design means the reticle’s size changes with magnification, allowing for accurate holdovers and windage corrections at any power setting.
The illuminated reticle is etched on glass, providing excellent durability and greater visibility during dawn or dusk. This scope is built for shooters who demand technical features and precision for competitive shooting or varmint control where every fraction of an inch matters.
Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 1-8×24 Riflescope
Offering incredible versatility, the Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 1-8×24 is an excellent choice for a fast-handling .22 rifle. The low 1x power setting allows for rapid, both-eyes-open shooting at close ranges, while the 8x top end provides enough magnification for precise shots out to 100 yards. Fully multicoated optics ensure a bright and clear sight picture.
This model features an illuminated reticle in the second focal plane, which is ideal for low-light conditions. With a generous 100 MOA of total adjustment and a robust construction, this scope is well-suited for a tactical-style rimfire or a general-purpose hunting rifle that requires speed and precision.
SIG SAUER Juliet3-Micro 3×22 mm Magnifier
The SIG SAUER Juliet3-Micro is not a traditional scope but a magnifier that pairs with a red dot sight to extend your effective range. Its ultra-compact and lightweight design adds minimal bulk to your setup while providing a 3x boost to your red dot’s magnification. This is perfect for a .22LR carbine where you want the speed of a red dot for close targets but the option for more precise shots.
Exceptional optical performance is delivered through high-performance lens coatings, including a Dielectric Coated Prism for excellent light transmission and clarity. Built from aircraft-grade aluminum, the Juliet3-Micro is durable enough for rigorous use while maintaining a streamlined profile.
UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope, AO, RGB Mil-dot
The UTG BugBuster is a feature-packed scope known for its compact size and robust performance. A key advantage is its Adjustable Objective (AO) lens, which allows for parallax adjustment from 3 yards to infinity. This makes it exceptionally useful for close-range shooting, a common scenario with .22LR rifles.
It includes a red and green illuminated Mil-dot reticle for enhanced visibility in various lighting conditions. The scope comes with QD (Quick Detach) rings, offering great convenience for mounting and remounting. Its solid build and comprehensive features present a strong value for shooters who need versatility.
Vortex Optics AMG UH-1 Gen II Holographic Sight
The Vortex AMG UH-1 Gen II brings advanced holographic sight technology to the rimfire world. It provides an incredibly fast sight picture for rapid target engagement, making it ideal for plinking or fast-moving small game. The large viewing window and intuitive EBR-CQB reticle allow for quick acquisition and shooting with both eyes open.
This sight includes four night-vision compatible settings and a dedicated NV button for specialized use. With FHQ technology to eliminate stray light and a toolless battery cover, it is built for reliability and ease of use in the field. It is a premium option for those who prioritize speed and advanced features.
CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope
The CVLIFE 3-9×40 scope is an entry-level model that offers solid performance for its category. The 3-9x magnification and 40mm objective lens provide a standard configuration suitable for most rimfire activities. It comes as a complete kit with 20mm scope mounts, making it ready to install right out of the box.
Featuring a simple R4 reticle crosshair, this scope provides a clear and uncluttered sight picture for general plinking and hunting. It represents a very accessible option for new shooters or those on a tight budget who need a functional and reliable optic.
BSA 3-9X40 Sweet 22 Rifle Scope
The BSA Sweet 22 is specifically engineered for the .22LR cartridge, featuring a side parallax adjustment calibrated for the bullet drop of common .22LR ammunition. This dedicated system helps shooters maintain accuracy at varying distances without needing to hold over manually. The multi-grain turret with zero reset allows for easy adjustments based on the specific load you are using.
Built with a one-piece aluminum tube, this scope is both lightweight and durable. It is an excellent choice for hunters and target shooters who want an optic that understands the unique ballistics of their rimfire rifle, providing a distinct advantage in the field.
Ncstar 3-9X42 Mark III Tactical GEN II
The Ncstar Mark III Tactical GEN II offers a tactical aesthetic and functionality for your rimfire rifle. It features an integral quick-detach base that fits standard Picatinny rails, allowing for fast mounting and removal. The 3-9x magnification paired with a 42mm objective lens provides a good balance of field of view and light gathering.
This scope includes a range-estimating Mil-dot reticle pattern, which can be useful for judging distance to your target. Its tactical design and feature set make it a good match for .22LR rifles built in an AR-style platform or for shooters who prefer a more modern look.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire Riflescope
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 is a purpose-built rimfire scope that excels in providing a wide field of view and a forgiving eye box. The 2-7x magnification range is perfectly suited for the effective range of a .22LR, offering a low 2x for fast, close-range shots and a 7x for more precise aiming. It is calibrated for the .22LR trajectory, simplifying holdovers at common distances.
Backed by Vortex’s legendary VIP warranty, this scope is built to last. It is waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof, ensuring reliable performance in all conditions. The dead-hold BDC reticle is excellent for shooting at various ranges where estimating holdover is necessary.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right 22LR Scope
So, you’re looking for a scope for your .22 rifle. It’s a fun project, but with so many options, it can get confusing fast. I’ve mounted a lot of scopes on rimfires over the years, and I can tell you that the “best” one really depends on what you plan to do with it. Let’s break down the key things I always consider.
First up is magnification. For most .22LR shooting, you don’t need a ton of power. If you’re plinking cans at 50 yards or hunting squirrels in thick woods, a fixed 4x scope or a variable like a 2-7x or 3-9x is the sweet spot. It gives you a wide field of view for tracking moving targets and enough zoom for precise shots. Going with a massive 6-24x scope is overkill for a rimfire and can make finding a close, fast-moving target feel like looking through a drinking straw.
Next, think about the objective lens size. This is the big glass at the front. A larger objective (like 40mm or 44mm) lets in more light, which is great for dawn or dusk hunting. But it also means the scope sits higher on the rifle. For a low-profile .22 that’s light and handy, a 32mm or 40mm objective is often a perfect match, keeping everything compact and easy to carry.
Then there’s the reticle focus, or parallax. Most centerfire scopes are set to be parallax-free at 100 yards. Since a .22 is often used at much shorter distances—25 to 75 yards—this can cause a blurry target picture. This is why I specifically look for scopes with an Adjustable Objective (AO) or Side Focus (SF). These features let you dial out the parallax error for the exact distance you’re shooting, which is a huge help for accuracy. It’s one of the most important features for a dedicated rimfire scope.
Finally, consider the turrets and overall build. You don’t need bomb-proof, tactical-grade turrets for a .22, but you do want something that feels solid and holds zero. Exposed turrets are fine if you plan on dialing for different distances, but for a simple hunting rifle, capped turrets are great for keeping things simple and protected from bumps. When I put together my list of the 10 best 22LR scopes (rimfire) in 2025, I weighed all these factors to find options that deliver real value for your money.
FAQ
What magnification scope is best for a .22LR rifle?
For the vast majority of .22LR uses, a low-to-mid range magnification is perfect. I find that a fixed 4x scope is fantastic for simple plinking and woods-walking. If you want more flexibility, a variable scope in the 2-7x, 3-9x, or 4-12x range covers all the bases. It gives you a wide view for close shots and enough power to precisely aim at small targets like squirrels out to 75-100 yards. You really don’t need a high-powered, long-range scope for a rimfire.
Why do some .22 scopes have a ring on the objective bell?
That ring is for the Adjustable Objective (AO). It’s a critical feature for rimfire scopes. Since we shoot .22s at relatively short distances—like 25, 50, or 75 yards—the AO allows you to adjust the scope to be parallax-free at that specific range. This eliminates aiming error caused by your eye moving behind the scope and makes your target image much sharper. It’s a feature I always recommend for anyone serious about accuracy with their .22.
Is it worth spending a lot of money on a .22 scope?
This is a great question. You don’t need to spend a fortune, but you also shouldn’t buy the absolute cheapest thing you can find. A good quality scope in the low-to-mid price range will be plenty durable, hold its zero, and have clear glass. Spending more gets you better light transmission for low-light conditions, more precise adjustments, and generally tougher construction. It’s about finding a balance between your budget and the features you’ll actually use.
Can I use a centerfire rifle scope on my .22?
You absolutely can, but there’s a catch. Centerfire scopes are typically set to be parallax-free at 100 yards or more. If you use one on a .22 and shoot at 50 yards, you might notice the reticle appears to move on the target if you shift your head. This can hurt your accuracy. Some shooters don’t mind, but for the best performance, a scope with an AO that can be set for shorter distances is the better tool for the job. When looking at the best 22LR scopes (rimfire) in 2025, the presence of an AO is a key differentiator.
What does “rimfire-specific” mean in a scope?
A “rimfire-specific” scope is usually built with the .22 shooter in mind. This often means it comes from the factory with the parallax already set for a shorter distance, like 50 or 75 yards, so you might not need an AO. They also often have simpler, more user-friendly adjustments and are generally lighter and more compact to match the character of a .22 rifle. They’re just designed from the ground up to work well with the trajectory and typical use of a rimfire cartridge.