The .22-250 Remington is a legendary cartridge, revered for its flat trajectory and blistering velocity. It’s a top choice for varmint hunters and long-range target shooters who demand precision and performance. However, to truly harness the potential of this round, you need a riflescope that can keep up. The right optic is not an accessory; it’s a critical component of your shooting system.
Choosing the wrong scope can leave you frustrated with missed opportunities and inconsistent shots. The market is flooded with options, from simple fixed-power scopes to advanced tactical models. This roundup cuts through the noise to present eight of the best scopes specifically evaluated for the .22-250, helping you match the perfect optic to your shooting style and budget.
Our Top Picks for .22-250 Riflescopes
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 (1 inch) Hunt-Plex Reticle Riflescope
- Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP Riflescope
- Nikon ProStaff P3 4-12x40mm BDC Riflescope
- Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle 3-9x40mm
- Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen2 6-24×50 APLR2 FFP IR
- Burris Fullfield II 4.5-14x42mm Ballistic Plex Reticle
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 4-12×50 AO Riflescope
- Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 Mag Riflescope
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 (1 inch) Hunt-Plex Reticle Riflescope
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 is a classic American-made scope built for reliability. Its 3-9x magnification range is exceptionally versatile for the .22-250, allowing for quick shots on running coyotes at lower power and more precise shots on distant prairie dogs at higher power. The capped finger-click adjustments are both tactile and protected from accidental bumps in the field.
At the heart of this scope is Leupold’s Advanced Optical System, which provides exceptional clarity, resolution, and light transmission. This means you get a bright, sharp sight picture during the critical low-light hours of dawn and dusk. The simple Hunt-Plex reticle keeps the view uncluttered for fast target acquisition, making this a superb choice for the traditional hunter who values a no-nonsense, dependable optic.
Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP Riflescope
For the serious long-range varmint shooter or target competitor, the Vortex Diamondback Tactical is a feature-packed option. With a high 6-24x magnification and a 50mm objective lens, it pulls in ample light for viewing small targets at extreme distances. The First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle is a key advantage, as the reticle’s subtensions remain accurate at every magnification level.
This allows for precise holdovers and windage corrections without any mental math, which is crucial when engaging small, fast-moving targets with a .22-250. The exposed tactical turrets offer crisp, tactile clicks for repeatable adjustments, and the parallax adjustment ensures your sight picture is perfectly clear. It’s a scope designed for precision and repeatability above all else.
Nikon ProStaff P3 4-12x40mm BDC Riflescope
The Nikon ProStaff P3 leverages Nikon’s expertise in optics to deliver a clear and bright image at an accessible price point. The 4-12x magnification is well-suited for the .22-250, providing a bit more top-end power for longer shots compared to a standard 3-9x scope. It features a zero-reset turret that simplifies the process of returning to your zero after making elevation adjustments for different ranges.
This model comes equipped with Nikon’s BDC reticle, which uses multiple aiming points below the crosshair to compensate for bullet drop. When paired with the flat-shooting .22-250 cartridge, this system allows for rapid engagement of targets at varying distances without constantly dialing your scope. It’s a user-friendly scope that helps shooters stretch their effective range confidently.
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle 3-9x40mm
The Bushnell Banner lives up to its name with Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses. This technology is engineered to maximize light transmission during the first and last minutes of shooting light—prime times for predator callers. For hunters using a .22-250 to call in coyotes, this extra performance can make the difference between a successful hunt and a missed opportunity.
Its durable one-piece tube construction stands up to recoil and the elements, while the fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick reticle adjustment. The Multi-X reticle is a clean, simple design that is easy to use under pressure. This scope represents outstanding value, offering critical low-light performance features without a high cost, making it a fantastic entry-level option for varmint and predator hunters.
Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen2 6-24×50 APLR2 FFP IR
The Athlon Argos BTR Gen2 is another high-magnification powerhouse designed for precision shooting. With a 6-24x zoom range and a First Focal Plane illuminated reticle (FFP IR), it provides immense flexibility for long-range varminting and target shooting. The APLR2 reticle is a sophisticated glass-etched moa-based grid that gives shooters all the tools needed for accurate holdovers and wind calls.
This generation includes improved glass for better image quality and a zero-stop system on the turret, which is a valuable feature for quickly returning to your primary zero. The side focus parallax adjustment ensures a crisp sight picture at any distance. For the shooter who wants advanced tactical features without an extreme budget, the Argos BTR Gen2 is a compelling and capable choice.
Burris Fullfield II 4.5-14x42mm Ballistic Plex Reticle
The Burris Fullfield II offers an excellent balance of magnification and optical quality. The 4.5-14x range is a sweet spot for the .22-250, giving you plenty of power for precise shot placement on small targets at several hundred yards. The 42mm objective lens provides a great blend of light-gathering capability without making the scope overly bulky or heavy.
Burris coats their lenses with their Hi-Lume multi-coating, resulting in a bright, high-contrast image. The Ballistic Plex reticle offers simple holdover points that work effectively with the trajectory of many .22-250 loads. Known for its rugged construction and reliable performance, the Fullfield II is a workhorse scope that has earned a loyal following among hunters who need a bit more magnification.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 4-12×50 AO Riflescope
The Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×50 AO is a versatile scope that addresses a common challenge in high-velocity rifles: parallax. The inclusion of an Adjustable Objective (AO) lens allows you to correct for parallax error at specific distances, which is essential for maintaining accuracy, especially at the longer ranges where the .22-250 excels.
With a 50mm objective, it gathers a significant amount of light for a bright image, and the dead-hold BDC reticle is useful for aiming at various ranges. The single-piece tube construction is both shockproof and waterproof, ensuring the scope can handle the rigors of field use. This model offers a critical feature for precision in an affordable and durable package.
Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 Mag Riflescope
The Simmons .22 Mag Riflescope is a budget-friendly option that is specifically designed for the trajectory of .22 caliber rifles, making it a natural fit for the .22-250. Its simple 3-9x magnification is perfect for general-purpose varmint hunting and plinking. The scope is lightweight and compact, maintaining a handy feel on your rifle.
It features Simmons’ proprietary HydraShield lens coating that helps repel water, dust, and oil, keeping your sight picture clear in adverse conditions. The Truplex reticle is easy to see and use. While it may not have the advanced features of more expensive models, the Simmons .22 Mag provides solid, reliable performance for the casual shooter or as a first scope for a new rifle.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Scope For .22 250
Choosing the right glass for your .22-250 is a big deal. This cartridge is a flat-shooting laser beam, perfect for reaching out to varmints and predators at impressive distances. I’ve found that the best scope for a .22-250 needs to balance a few key features to really let the rifle sing. It’s not just about magnification; it’s about matching the optic to the rifle’s specific job.
First, let’s talk magnification. The .22-250 is often used for shooting small targets like prairie dogs or ground squirrels at 300+ yards, but it’s also fantastic for coyotes that might pop up much closer. For this reason, a variable power scope is your best friend. I typically look for something that starts low, like 3x or 4x, for quick acquisition on a running dog, but can zoom in to 12x, 16x, or even higher for precise shots on stationary pests at long range. A 4-16x or 6-24x scope is a very popular and effective choice for this caliber.
Next up is the objective lens size. A larger objective lens (the front lens) gathers more light, which gives you a brighter image, especially in low-light conditions at dawn or dusk. However, bigger isn’t always better. A 50mm objective lens is great, but it might force you to mount the scope higher, which can affect your cheek weld. A 44mm or 50mm is a solid sweet spot, but a 40mm can work perfectly fine too, especially if you prioritize a lower, more comfortable mounting position.
The reticle is your aiming point, and for a fast-moving cartridge like the .22-250, you need to think about holdovers. A simple duplex reticle is fine for closer shots, but if you’re stretching the rifle’s legs, a scope with hash marks or a Christmas tree-style reticle is a game-changer. Even better is a scope with an exposed or tactical-style turret that allows you to dial your elevation for different distances quickly. This combination of a good reticle and adjustable turrets makes long-range hits much more consistent.
Finally, don’t forget about durability and optical clarity. The .22-250 has a sharp recoil impulse, even if it’s not a heavy-kicking round. You need a scope that is rugged, holds zero reliably, and has good, multi-coated lenses for a clear, sharp picture. Fog-proof and waterproof construction is non-negotiable for any serious hunting optic. When you put all these elements together—the right magnification range, a sensible objective lens, a useful reticle, and solid build quality—you’ll find the best scope for your .22-250 that turns a great rifle into a truly effective tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What magnification scope is best for a .22-250?
For a .22-250, I recommend a variable power scope with a broad magnification range. Something like a 4-16x or 6-24x is ideal. The lower end (4x or 6x) is perfect for closer, fast-moving targets like a coyote, while the high end (16x to 24x) gives you the precision needed for small varmints at long distances. This versatility is key to making the most of the cartridge’s capabilities.
Is a 50mm objective lens too big for a .22-250?
Not necessarily, but it depends on your setup. A 50mm lens gathers a lot of light, which is excellent for low-light hunting. The downside is that it often requires higher scope rings to clear the rifle’s barrel, which can lead to a less stable cheek weld. For most applications, a 44mm or 50mm objective works very well, but if you want a lower profile, a 40mm scope will still perform admirably in most daylight conditions.
Do I need an adjustable turret for my .22-250 scope?
While not an absolute requirement, an exposed turret is a huge advantage for a .22-250. This cartridge is very flat-shooting, but at extended ranges, you still need to hold over the target. Being able to quickly “dial” your elevation for a specific distance is much more precise and less error-prone than trying to use holdover marks on your reticle. For serious varmint or predator hunting, I consider it a very worthwhile feature.
Can I use a .223 scope on a .22-250?
You physically can, as the mounts are typically the same, but it might not be optimized. The .22-250 has a much flatter trajectory and higher velocity than a .223. Because of this, you’ll often benefit from a scope with a higher top-end magnification to take full advantage of the .22-250’s long-range potential. A scope chosen for a .223 might be a lower power model better suited for shorter distances.
How much should I spend on a scope for my .22-250?
This is a personal question, but I believe in investing in quality glass. A good starting point is in the $300 to $600 range, where you can find scopes with excellent features, reliable durability, and clear optics from reputable brands. Remember, the scope is what you use to aim; a cheap scope that loses zero or has a blurry image will hold back even the best .22-250 rifle. Spending a bit more on the best scope for your .22 250 is an investment in performance.
What is the best reticle for varmint hunting?
For varmint hunting with a .22-250, I prefer a reticle with fine hash marks, like a Mil-Dot or MOA-based system. A fine, non-cluttering reticle allows you to see small targets clearly and provides precise aiming points for windage and elevation holdovers. A simple duplex can work, but a more tactical-style reticle gives you the tools to make consistent long-range shots in varying conditions.