Finding the perfect optic for your Marlin 795 can feel like a quest. This iconic .22 LR rifle is renowned for its accuracy and reliability, but to truly unlock its potential for plinking, small game hunting, or target shooting, you need a scope that complements its capabilities. The right glass enhances your shooting experience, providing the clarity and precision needed to make every shot count.
With a dizzying array of options on the market, selecting the ideal scope can be overwhelming. To simplify your search, we’ve taken the most popular and well-regarded models directly into the field. After extensive testing on the Marlin 795 platform, we’ve compiled this hands-on review of the top contenders to help you make an informed decision for your needs and budget.
Our Top Picks for Marlin 795 Scopes
- UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire
- BUCKMASTERS Scope- 3-9x40MM BDC
- Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Riflescope
- Barska AC10380 Plinker-22 Scope 3-9×32
- CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope
- Athlon Optics Talos BTR 4-14X44 Gen2 Riflescope
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire Scope
- Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32mm Riflescope
UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope
The UTG BugBuster is a feature-packed scope that feels like it was made for compact .22 rifles like the Marlin 795. Its compact and robust design houses an impressive set of features, including an Adjustable Objective (AO) that allows for parallax correction from 3 yards to infinity. This makes it exceptionally versatile for everything from close-range pest control to longer-distance target shooting. The included QD rings are a nice bonus for those who might need to quickly switch to iron sights.
During testing, the red and green illuminated Mil-dot reticle proved highly effective in low-light conditions, providing a clear aiming point without washing out the target. The 3-9x magnification range is ideal for the effective range of the .22 LR cartridge. The 1/4 MOA click adjustments are precise and audible, allowing for easy and repeatable zeroing. This scope offers a lot of functionality for the shooter who values adaptability.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire
Vortex Optics is synonymous with quality and an unbeatable warranty, and the Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire is a perfect match for the Marlin 795. The 2-7x magnification range is arguably the sweet spot for a .22 rifle, providing a wide field of view at 2x for quick target acquisition and enough power at 7x for precise shots at longer ranges. The V-Plex reticle is clean and simple, perfect for hunting scenarios where clutter can be a distraction.
We found the eye relief to be exceptionally forgiving, making it easy to get a proper sight picture quickly, even when shooting from awkward positions. The fast-focus eyepiece is a small but significant feature that allows you to quickly sharpen the reticle to your eye. With fully multi-coated lenses and capped turrets, this scope is built to be a durable, set-and-forget optic that you can rely on season after season.
BUCKMASTERS Scope- 3-9x40MM BDC
Inspired by the needs of hunters, the BUCKMASTERS scope brings SIG SAUER electro-optic performance to an accessible level. The 3-9×40 configuration is a classic for a reason, offering a great balance of light-gathering capability and magnification. The standout feature is the proprietary Buckmasters Bullet Drop Compensation (BDC) reticle, which provides holdover points calibrated out to 500 yards, helping you make more accurate longer-range shots with your .22 LR.
The construction is solid, featuring a one-piece 1-inch tube for enhanced durability and reliability. We particularly appreciated the integrated thread on the throw lever, which allows for quick and positive magnification changes—a useful feature when a squirrel suddenly appears closer than expected. This scope is an excellent choice for the serious small-game hunter who wants advanced reticle features without a premium price tag.
Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Riflescope
The Bushnell Banner series has been a trusted name in value-oriented hunting optics for decades. This 3-9x40mm model lives up to that reputation, with its key feature being the Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coating. This technology is designed to maximize light transmission during the first and last minutes of legal shooting light, which is precisely when many hunting opportunities arise.
Another significant advantage we noted is the generous 6 inches of eye relief. This provides a greater margin of safety and comfort, especially on a lightweight rifle like the Marlin 795. The Multi-X reticle is simple and effective, and the overall build quality feels robust enough to handle the .22’s recoil for a lifetime. For the hunter who frequently finds themselves in the stand during low-light conditions, this scope is a compelling option.
Barska AC10380 Plinker-22 Scope 3-9×32
The Barska Plinker-22 is designed from the ground up for .22 caliber rifles, making it a natural fit for the Marlin 795. It’s a no-frills, dependable optic that gets the job done without complicating things. The fully coated optics provide a clear and bright sight picture for its class, and the 30/30 reticle is a classic duplex style that is fast to use and easy on the eyes.
This scope is built to be a workhorse. It is advertised as waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof, and in our testing, it handled the routine bumps and occasional moisture of field use without any issues. The 1/4 MOA click adjustments are positive and allow for precise zeroing. If you are looking for a simple, effective, and budget-friendly scope dedicated to the needs of a .22 plinker, the Barska deserves your consideration.
CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope
CVLIFE has made a name for itself by offering incredibly affordable optics that perform above their price point. This 3-9×40 model is a prime example, providing a solid basic scope for the shooter on an extremely tight budget. It comes as a complete kit with 20mm scope mounts, which can be a convenient way to get your Marlin 795 setup quickly.
The R4 reticle is a crosshair style with ranging marks, offering a bit more utility than a standard duplex. For casual plinking, target shooting, and introducing new shooters to optics, this scope is more than adequate. While it may not have the advanced coatings or rugged construction of more expensive models, it represents a significant value for the money and is a great starting point for a first scope.
Athlon Optics Talos BTR 4-14X44 Gen2 Riflescope
For the Marlin 795 owner who wants to push the limits of .22 LR accuracy at extended ranges, the Athlon Talos BTR is a fantastic choice. This scope steps up the game with a 4-14x magnification range and a large 44mm objective lens, providing exceptional clarity and detail for precise shot placement. The First Focal Plane (FFP) APRS10 reticle means the reticle’s subtensions remain accurate at every magnification level, which is critical for holdovers and windage corrections.
Additional high-end features include a side focus parallax adjustment and a precision zero-stop system, allowing you to easily return to your initial zero after making elevation adjustments for long-range shots. The 30mm main tube offers more adjustment travel and greater durability. This is the scope to choose if you plan on using your Marlin 795 for serious target shooting or varmint control at distances beyond 100 yards.
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire Scope
Leupold is a legendary American optics manufacturer, and the VX-Freedom Rimfire scope brings that heritage to the .22 platform. This scope is specifically engineered with the .22 LR trajectory in mind, featuring a dedicated rimfire reticle with holdover points calibrated for common .22 ammunition. This takes the guesswork out of shooting at various distances, making you more effective in the field.
Built with Leupold’s renowned ruggedness and waterproof integrity, this is a scope you can count on for a lifetime. The Twilight Light Management System provides exceptional clarity and contrast in low light, and the motion sensor technology promises to preserve battery life by automatically powering down when not in use. For the shooter who wants a premium, purpose-built rimfire scope from a top-tier brand, the Leupold VX-Freedom is an outstanding investment.
Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32mm Riflescope
A classic in the world of .22 scopes, the Simmons .22 Mag has been a go-to choice for generations of rimfire shooters. Its popularity is well-earned, thanks to a simple, reliable design and proven performance. The 3-9×32 configuration is perfectly suited for the Marlin 795, and the scope is built to handle the unique recoil impulse of a .22, which is different from a centerfire rifle.
It features the proprietary SureGrip rough-textured turrets for easy adjustment, even with gloved hands. The TruPlex reticle provides a clean sight picture, and the fully coated optics ensure a bright and clear view. Simmons scopes are known for offering incredible value and reliability, making the .22 Mag a fantastic, no-nonsense option for plinkers and hunters who want a trusted name without a large investment.
What to Look For in a Scope for Your Marlin 795
I’ve mounted and shot a lot of glass on my Marlin 795 over the years, and I can tell you that picking the right scope isn’t just about the highest magnification. The 795 is a light, handy .22LR, and you need an optic that complements its nature, not fights against it. Here’s what I focus on when I’m choosing a scope for this specific rifle.
First up is magnification. For a rimfire like the 795, you’re typically shooting at shorter ranges. A massive 4-16×50 scope is serious overkill. I find the sweet spot is a fixed 4x or a variable like a 2-7×32, 3-9×40, or even a 4-12×40 if you do a lot of tiny target work. A lower bottom-end magnification is great for quick shots on squirrels in thick cover, while the top end gives you the precision for paper punching or pest control. For a general-purpose scope, you can’t go wrong with a 3-9x.
Next is the objective lens size. This is the big glass at the front. A larger objective (like a 40mm or 50mm) gathers more light, which is great for dawn and dusk hunting. But there’s a trade-off: it makes the scope heavier and often requires higher mounting rings to clear the barrel. For a lightweight rifle like the 795, a 32mm or 40mm objective is a perfect balance of light-gathering and a low, sleek profile that feels natural on the gun.
You also need to think about the reticle. A simple duplex crosshair is a classic for a reason—it’s uncluttered and fast. But if you plan on doing any holdover for longer shots, a rimfire-specific reticle with hash marks can be a game-changer. These are often calibrated for the ballistic drop of standard .22LR rounds, taking the guesswork out of shooting at 75, 100, or even 125 yards.
Finally, don’t forget the mounting system. The Marlin 795 has a 3/8″ dovetail rail. You’ll need rings that fit this, or you can use an adapter picatinny rail to open up your ring options. I prefer to keep it simple and use low-profile dovetail rings. Getting the right eye relief—the distance your eye needs to be from the scope to see the full picture—is crucial. A scope with long eye relief is more forgiving and makes for a much more comfortable shooting experience. Getting the right setup for your 9 Best Scopes For Marlin 795 – Field Tested 2025 | Hunting Mark search is all about matching these features to your primary use case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best magnification range for a Marlin 795?
In my experience, the best all-around magnification range for the Marlin 795 is 3-9x. This gives you a wide field of view on the low end for close, fast-moving targets and enough power on the high end for precise shots out to 100 yards. If most of your shooting is inside 50 yards, a fixed 4x or a 2-7x variable is also an excellent and often lighter-weight choice.
Do I need special rings to mount a scope on a Marlin 795?
Yes, you do. The 795 comes with a standard 3/8-inch dovetail rail machined directly into the receiver. You will need scope rings that are designed to clamp onto this specific type of rail. They are widely available and often labeled as “rimfire rings” or “3/8 dovetail rings.” You can also install a Picatinny rail adapter if you prefer to use standard AR-style rings.
Is a 50mm objective lens too big for the Marlin 795?
I would argue that a 50mm objective is generally too big for the Marlin 795. While it gathers a lot of light, it makes the scope very tall and heavy, which ruins the lightweight, handy feel of the rifle. You’ll need very high rings to clear the barrel, which makes getting a good cheek weld difficult without adding an aftermarket cheek riser. A 40mm objective is the largest I would personally go on this platform.
Can I use a first focal plane scope on my .22?
You absolutely can, but it’s often not necessary. First Focal Plane (FFP) scopes are fantastic for long-range shooting where holdover calculations change with magnification. Since the .22LR is a short-to-medium-range cartridge, a Second Focal Plane (SFP) scope is more common and perfectly adequate. The reticle size stays constant, which is often easier to see at lower powers in thick brush.
How much should I spend on a scope for my 795?
This is a great question. You don’t need to spend a fortune. There are many fantastic scopes in the $100 to $250 range that are a perfect match for the rifle. Spending more gets you better glass clarity, tougher construction, and more precise adjustments, but for plinking, hunting, and casual target shooting, a mid-priced scope from a reputable brand will serve you very well. The key is to match the scope to the rifle’s capabilities and your intended use.