The following selection highlights five rimfire scopes that are well-suited for .22 LR rifles, covering plinking, target practice, and competition shooting. Each option emphasizes durability, clear optics, and precise adjustment. Read on to compare reticles, magnification ranges, and build quality to find the best fit for your rimfire setup.
| Product | Brand | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Armstrong Precision Rimfire: 4-16X44 | Armstrong Enterprises LLC | Mil-Dot reticle, 17.5 mils elevation, lockable and re-settable turrets |
| Simmons Truplex .22 Mag 4×32 | Simmons | 4x magnification, TrueZero adjustment, rings included |
| Barska AC10380 Plinker-22 3-9×32 | Barska | 3-9x, 30/30 reticle, rings included |
| Hawke Vantage IR 3-9×40 | Hawke | Illuminated etched BDC reticle, fully multi-coated, waterproof |
| Bushnell R3 3-9×40 | Bushnell | Drop Zone 22 reticle, HD optical system, EXO barrier |
Armstrong Precision Rimfire: 4-16X44 Scope
The Armstrong Precision Rimfire scope offers a wide 4-16x magnification range suitable for varied targets and distances. It features a Mil-Dot reticle designed for range estimation at high magnification, with 17.5 mils (~60 MOA) of elevation adjustment. Lockable and re-settable turrets help prevent accidental changes and simplify dialing for windage and elevation, which is helpful in field conditions and competition settings. The inclusion of a Mil-Dot reticle and strong eye relief supports precise accuracy during rapid target transitions.
Simmons Truplex .22 Mag 4×32
The Simmons Truplex 4×32 is a compact rimfire riflescope designed for accuracy and reliability. With true zero adjustments and a clear 4x magnification, it provides crisp target images and easy aiming. The scope comes with rings included for straightforward mounting on most .22 rifles, making it a convenient option for beginners and seasoned shooters alike. Its durable construction ensures dependable performance in varied outdoor conditions and practice sessions.
Barska AC10380 Plinker-22 Scope
The Barska AC10380 Plinker-22 Scope provides a versatile 3-9x magnification range paired with a 30/30 reticle for quick target acquisition. It includes rings for easy mounting and features fully coated optics to deliver clear images. The scope’s rugged construction and waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof design enhance durability during casual plinking sessions and more demanding practice drills. The 1″ tube diameter supports standard mounting options on most rimfire rifles.
Hawke Vantage IR 3-9×40 Rimfire
The Hawke Vantage IR 3-9×40 Rimfire scope is designed specifically for .22 HV rifles, featuring an illuminated etched BDC reticle. The 11-layer multi-coated optics deliver bright, high-contrast images with improved light transmission. A 1″ mono-tube chassis provides strength, while nitrogen filling ensures waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof performance. The low-profile turrets allow fine adjustments with 1/4 MOA clicks, and Hawke backs this scope with a No-Fault warranty for field reliability.
Bushnell R3 3-9×40 Rimfire
The Bushnell R3 Rimfire scope features a Drop Zone 22 reticle tailored for rimfire accuracy, helping shooters gauge elevation and holdover on small targets. The HD optical system optimizes light transmission and clarity, while the EXO Barrier technology repels water, oil, dust, and debris to maintain clear lenses in challenging environments. This combination is designed for reliable field performance across varied light conditions and shooting scenarios.
Buying Guide
- Magnification range: For plinking and close-range target work, 3-9x provides flexibility. Higher mag options (4-16x) support longer ranges and detailed sighting in competition settings.
- Reticle type: Mil-Dot and etched reticles support range estimation and holdovers, essential for accurate rimfire shooting. Consider illumination if you plan to shoot in low light.
- Torped and tracking: Lockable or re-settable turrets help prevent drift during travel and field use. Ensure turrets lock securely and reset to zero reliably.
- Optical coatings: Fully multi-coated lenses improve light transmission and contrast, especially in dawn or dusk conditions. Anti-fog and waterproof features keep performance steady outdoors.
- Durability: Rimfire rounds generate less recoil than centerfire, but a robust mono-tube chassis and weather sealing still matter for longevity in the field.
- Mounting compatibility: Verify ring and rail compatibility (1″ tube diameter is common). Some scopes include rings; others require separate purchases.
- Budget vs. features: If you need basic reliability for casual shooting, entry-level models with durable construction and a clear image can be ideal. For competition, prioritize turret precision, reticle clarity, and repeatable adjustment
Choosing a rimfire scope involves balancing magnification, reticle style, durability, and budget. The options listed above span traditional and illuminated reticles, rugged builds, and practical features designed for .22LR rifles. Whether you’re aiming for tight groups on a practice range or engaging in competitive target events, these scopes offer dependable optics and adjustability to support accurate rimfire shooting.