If you are a hunting enthusiast who owns rimfire rifles and hopes to unleash its best potential, maybe it is perfect timing for you to accessorize it with the best rimfire scopes that will not cost you that much money.
If you want to lessen your chances of missing the targets and want to improve your shooting aim further, then it is indeed recommended for you to get a scope that will do the job for you.
If you have been wondering how there are rimfire scopes with premium qualities that can be bought for a price below a hundred dollars, this is the perfect place to know the truth.
Our Top 3 Recommendations
Best Overall
- Brand: UTG
- Objective Lens: 32 mm
- Reticle: RGB Mil-Dot
- Eye Relief: 3.2 - 4.2 in
- Magnification: 3-9 x
Best Value
- Brand: Bushnell
- Objective Lens: 40 mm
- Reticle: 30/30
- Eye Relief: 3 inches
- Magnification: 3-9 x
Best Long Range
- Brand: Nikon
- Objective Lens: 32 mm
- Reticle: 30/30
- Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
- Magnification: 3-9 x
Therefore, if you are a budget-conscious hunter, then you might consider reading this article that will feature, describe and list down the best rimfire scopes that you can buy in the markets for less than $100.
As you may have already discovered, your rimfire rifle is of very high quality and value. Rimfire rifles are a type of rifle that is usually light in weight.
With its unique ballistic characteristics, it is important to need a scope that can safeguard these characteristics. So, check out these best rimfire scopes that are offered only for a cost that does not exceed a hundred dollars.
10 Best Cheap Rimfire Scopes Under $100
10 Best Cheap Rimfire Scopes Under $100 in 2021 – Reviewed
1. UTG 3-9x 32mm 1’’ Bug Buster Scope
For a rimfire scope that is under the price of $100, this UTG Bug Buster scope model is something that you do not normally find. With an adjustable parallax, it can provide you a parallax-free view from beyond 3 yards, so this rimfire scope is pretty amazing. With no additional charges, this rimfire scope includes two lithium batteries and mounting rings as well.
This specific rimfire scope model is best known for its:
Ruggedly Designed and Built
As most durable scopes in the shooting industry, it is also engineered and built from aluminum. Aluminum is tested to be high in durability and strength, which makes it a top choice when it comes to every scope’s built and designs. This scope is built and engineered from the true platform of strength; thus, it is shockproof.
Water Proof, Fog Proof and Rain Proof Construction
When faced with a sudden ambient temperature change, this scope will not be fogged since it is nitrogen filled.
The inside chambers of this scope are filled with nitrogen that will not allow fogs to occur. In addition, this scope is also completely sealed. With that property, this scope can be relied on even after being immersed in water or being wet in the rain.
Sport Type
Hunting
Magnification
3-9x
Dimensions
9.84x3.35x3.94 in
Weight
13.76 Ounces
Objective lens
32 mm
Emerald Coating
The 1-inch tube of this scope is designed to deliver maximum light transmission due to the emerald coating of its lens. Together with its accommodating eye relief, this scope can be used for different versatile applications.
Magnification
When shooting for distances that are considered close-range and mid-range, this scope is the perfect one that you can find since its magnification range extends from 3 up to 9 times.
Pros
- Wide field of view
- Mil-dot reticle
- Comes with mounting rings
Cons
- May lacks in zero
2. Bushnell Banner Dusk and Dawn Riflescope
Rifles, shotguns, and muzzleloaders are just some of the firearms that this specific rimfire scope model is compatible with.
Bushnell is one of the most popular brands, but despite that, it still is offered for a budget-friendly price in order for all hunting enthusiasts to afford it.
When compared with the scopes of the same price range, this model surprisingly provides sight pictures that are much better in quality and in clarity. Its fast focus eyepiece is also of great help when partnered with its multi-coated optics.
This specific rimfire scope model is best known for its:
DDB Lens Coating System
This scope is enhanced with the type of system it has. If you are a hunter who loves to hunt at night or during times where there is a very little amount of light, this rimfire scope is an option you must consider.
This feature of having dusk to dawn brightness settings is reinforced with anti-reflective properties that further improves the quality of sight pictures you see through your scope.
Sport Type
Outdoors
Dimensions
17.7 x 2.9 x 2.4 inches
Magnification
6-18x
Objective Lens
50mm
Weight
1.1 pounds
Shock Proof, Water Proof, and Fog Proof Construction
Being a nitrogen-filled rimfire scope, this model repels fog and water from clouding the vision through its lens.
With that considered, this scope can be relied on when there are sudden changes in the ambient temperature or when wet with water from an unexpected downpour of rain. As described, this scope is 100% waterproof, shock-proof, and fog-proof
Pros
- Strong construction
- High clarity
- Better visibility
Cons
- Image blurs in high magnification
3. Nikon PROSTAFF RIMFIRE II 3-9x 40mm Scope
A 40-millimeter large objective lens and a magnification option that starts from 3x for up to 9x are just some of the remarkable features of this rimfire scope.
Even when you test this scope to its limit of 9x magnification, you will still be able to see sight pictures that are of almost high definition in quality.
Since this scope is a product from Nikon, you can expect it to reach your expectations when it comes to being a high-quality and well-performing scope.
No wonder why this scope is one of the most popular scopes on Amazon, making it one of the top-rated too.
This specific rimfire scope model is best known for its:
Toughness and Durability
Since the scopes from Nikon are tested to be indeed durable, they took it to the next level by enhancing this scope and making it waterproof, shock resistant, and also fog-proof.
Sport Type
Hunting
Dimensions
19.2 x 4 x 4.5 inches
Magnification
9x
Objective Lens
40mm
Weight
1.3 pounds
Fully Multi-Coated Optical System
When a rimfire scope is built to have a fully multi-coated optical system, expect that it provides one of the best qualities of sight pictures through the lens.
From this scope, you can expect that since it is built with one and it comes from Nikon. Nikon brand is known and famous to produces scopes that have the incomparable quality of optics.
Spot-on Ballistics Match Technology
If you have been doubting your precision when it comes to shooting, this scope has got your back. With its spot-on ballistics, you will never question your precision again. In fact, it will give you the confidence that you need.
Pros
- Variable magnification
- Easy to mount
- Easily adjustable
Cons
- Short eye relief
4. Sightmark Core SX 4x 32mm Rimfire Riflescope
Almost all hunting enthusiasts know that Sightmark is a brand that is famous in manufacturing the best scopes for crossbows. It also produces the best cheap rimfire scopes under $100 in the market with excellent features.
But did you know that it is also a brand that manufactures some of the best sighting tools for rifles? If you did not, it is the right time for you to know that this specific rimfire scope from Sightmark is of premium quality.
This scope is lightweight and compact in size that will improve your mobility in the woods or on the hunting grounds. With its affordable price comes some freebies too, such as scope rings and a scope cover made from neoprene.
This specific rimfire scope model is best known for its:
Ruggedly Designed and Built
With its rugged construction, this scope is known to be a durable scope that has a body made from aircraft-grade 6061-T6 Aluminum, which is indeed high in strength and longevity.
Despite it being designed for portability and compactness, this scope also excels when it comes to durability. With its anodized finish, it is resistant to corrosion.
Sport Type
Tactical & Military
Dimensions
9.5 x 2 x 2 inches
Magnification
4x
Objective Lens
32mm
Weight
1.1 pounds
Resettable Turrets
With this scope’s adjustable turrets, the gravity adjustments and windage effects can be so easy. For optimum shots adjustments, this feature is very helpful and incredible.
Multi-Coated Optics
This rimfire scope’s increased light transmission, improved color fidelity, high contrast, and enhanced resolution are all due to the fact that it is built with multi-coated optics that is further reinforced with anti-reflective properties.
With that said, glare, light scattering, and reflections are all reduced for a better sight picture.
Pros
- Compact and portable
- Lightweight
- Affordable
Cons
- Not suitable for other rifles
5. CVLIFE 2.5-10x 40e Green / Red Illuminated Scope
With this specific rimfire scope model from CVLIFE, you will be able to make use of a sight laser that will reduce the chances of you missing a shot because it doubles your accuracy when aiming shots.
It has a 40-millimeter large objective lens and magnification option that starts from 2.5x to 10x. With that range, you will already be able to spot and shot targets that are distanced from far away.
This specific rimfire scope model is best known for its:
Ruggedly Designed and Built
As Made from high-strength aircraft-grade aluminum, this scope has proven its durability even when ruggedly used in hunting or simply shooting.
When this built is partnered with its matte black finish, this rimfire scope is impressive, with its both aesthetics and durability.
Bullet Drop Compensator
When you are shooting targets that are from a distance between the range of 100 yards to 500 yards, this feature allows reticle’s quick adjustments to be easy. Adjusting will never be a hassle when you have this scope.
Sport Type
Hunting
Dimensions
8.5 x 3 x 3 inches
Magnification
2.5-10X
Objective Lens
40mm
Weight
20.5 oz
2 in 1 Design
This being an incredible rimfire scope is amazing, but it is built to be 2 in 1. It is also a sight laser. With these two special features combined, this scope is built to ensure unstoppable precision.
In addition, this scope is being sold for a very low price, and it still surprisingly has some freebies such as a cleaning cloth, scope mounts, an Allen key, and a lens cover.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Variable magnification
- Dual mounts
Cons
- Clarity blurs in high power
6. Simmons 511039 3-9x 32mm .22 Mag (R) Riflescope
With this rimfire scope’s unique coating and solid build, it is made to be very helpful when hunting during dusk and dawn. The Simmons brand is known for producing the scopes that have remarkable attributes and budget-friendly prices.
With this scope’s turrets that are very easy to adjust, you will never experience a problem with making some adjustments while being on the shooting grounds or in the woods.
This specific rimfire scope model is best known for its:
Sure-Grip Surfaces
This scope is designed to have rubber surfaces that will ensure a tight grip for simplifying adjustments even in any condition possible.
With this sure-grip rubber surface, you will get a hold on this scope when making adjustments that might distract you. In addition, you will still be able to easily adjust this rimfire scope’s settings even when you are wearing gloves.
Sport Type
Outdoors
Dimensions
15.25 x 3.2 x 3 inches
Magnification
3-9x
Objective Lens
32mm
Weight
9.6 oz
Hydro-Shield Lens Coating
This scope has a premium quality fully coated glass lens that ensures vivid and bright sight pictures. As mentioned above, this scope has an added unique coating that enhances it.
The hydro shield lens coating of this scope is another added unique feature that ensures clearer sight pictures.
Quick Target Acquisition (QTA) Eyepiece
If you have experienced some slow acquisition of your targets with other scopes, you will have an improved experience with this specific rimfire scope.
When partnered with its longer eye relief, this feature makes the acquisition of targets easily without any hassle.
Pros
- High quality optics
- Multiple coated lens
- Pocket-friendly
Cons
- Mounting rings lacks in holding
7. BARSKA 3-9x 32mm Plinker-22 Riflescope
This Barska scope has a total length of 12 inches and a 32-millimeter objective lens. When you buy this best cheap rimfire scope under $100, the mounting rings, lens cloth, and lens covers are all included together with its limited lifetime warranty.
This scope is portable, with a lightweight of 11.5 ounces. In addition, this rimfire scope is versatile that it is not only good at hunting and also functions well when used for practice shooting purposes.
This specific rimfire scope model is best known for its:
Ruggedly Designed and Built
With steel as the main component used for its body, this scope is made very high in strength and very durable. In addition, its matte black finish also adds some flavor to its powerfully aesthetic look on the outside.
Looks aside, this rimfire scope will be able to withstand outdoor conditions that are tough and harsh. In addition, this rimfire scope is also waterproof, shock-proof, and fog-proof; thus, having enhanced durability even when faced with different adverse situations in the shooting grounds.
Sport Type
Sports & Outdoors
Dimensions
15 x 3 x 3 inches
Magnification
3-9x
Objective Lens
32mm
Weight
11.46 oz
Click Adjustments
This scope has 0.25 click adjustments that make it very helpful when fine-tuning it for elevation and windage. In addition, this scope has some adjustment knobs that will allow you to react quickly when making adjustments under any condition in the field.
Multi-Coated Optics
This scope is built for providing vivid and bright images through the use of its multi-coated optics. With this type of optics, you can be assured that you will always get sharp and clear sight pictures of the surroundings you are in.
Pros
- Versatile
- Precise adjustments
- Solid construction
- Valuable price
Cons
- Rings may not suitble for other rifles
8. Bushnell 613510 A Rimfire Optics Scope
Its parallax adjustment system is very reliable, and that is one of the rimfire scope’s best features. With its 36-millimeter objective lens, you will be able to have brighter sight pictures even when the sun is already down.
In addition, this scope is considered as great scope for varmint and coyote hunting too. This rimfire scope is considered versatile too, since it can be used for military purposes, tactical applications, and other uses too.
This specific rimfire scope model is best known for its:
Fast Focus Eyepiece
With a scope that has a fast-focus eyepiece, you will be able to have rapid or fast target acquisition; thus, making your shooting experience more comfortable.
This 1-inch tube rimfire scope will allow you to spot or acquire your targets as quickly as you will expect it to do.
Magnification
Although its magnification range is from 3.5x to 10x only, this rimfire scope is proven to be very reliable within long-range shootings. Hunters proved that this scope could be very reliable even when the distances are very far.
Sport Type
Tactical & Military
Dimensions
17 x 3 x 3 inches
Magnification
3.5-10x
Objective Lens
36mm
Weight
1.3 pounds
Multi-X Reticle
With this type of reticle, the rimfire scope has been made easier to use. Some say that this Multi-X type of illuminated reticle is its best asset since it provides sharper sight pictures when compared with the other scopes that are of higher prices.
Adjustable Objectives
This feature is what makes this scope a great help when wanting to achieve more precise shots and placements no matter the distance of your targets.
Pros
- Accurate aiming
- Excellent lens
- High magnification range
Cons
- Lacks in adjustments
9. TRUGLO 4x 32mm Compact Shotgun and Rimfire Scope
There will be no problem when you use this cheap rimfire scope under $100 for both your rifle and your shotgun. With its versatility, it will undoubtedly be of great help for both.
It is specifically designed for close-range hunting and for tactical purposes too. With its 4x magnification, it is made perfect for your close-range needs. It has a non-reflective matte finish that prevents corrosion and scratches from destroying its exterior.
This specific rimfire scope model is best known for its:
Water Proof and Fog Proof Construction
This scope is filled with nitrogen gas inside. With that property, this scope will be able to repel fogging and water moisture to occur and cloud the vision through the scope. It is waterproof and fog-proof since this scope is made both durable and reliable.
Durable Leaf Spring
This scope also provides easy adjustments for windage and elevations. Due to this feature, you will never experience any problems while adjusting windage and elevation.
Sport Type
Hunting & Military
Dimensions
8 x 10.5 x 2.25 inches
Magnification
4x
Objective Lens
32mm
Weight
11.36 Ounces
Ruggedly Designed and Built
This one-piece tube is made from aircraft quality of aluminum. With that material as the main component of this rimfire scope’s body, it is made very durable and high in strength too. Thus, it ensures longevity in the shooting grounds.
Fully Coated Lenses
With this feature, you will be assured that you will get the maximum possible brightness, contrast, and clarity that you desire to see through your scope.
No matter the lighting condition in the shooting grounds is, you can rely on this scope to be on its best performance.
Pros
- Durable construction
- Suitable for shotguns
- Excellent tactical look
- Quality mounting rings
Cons
- Absence of parallax adjustment
10. TASCO MAG39X32D Rimfire Riflescope
A rimfire scope with a magnification option that ranges from 3x to 9x is this specific model. It has a 32-millimeter objective lens and a very portable weight of 0.71 pounds only.
It is beautifully designed with a matte finish that matches its premium quality. Through the years, TASCO has continuously produced and manufactured a lineup of premium scopes sold at very affordable prices.
This rimfire scope is one of them. In addition, this rimfire scope will cause you no hassle when you mount it on your rifles.
This specific rimfire scope model is best known for its:
Magenta Multi-Layered Lens Coatings
The magenta coating of this rimfire scope is the one responsible for providing you the brightest and the clearest quality of sight pictures.
This multi-layered lens coating reduces the reflection seen through the scope; thus, improving your view. When it comes to optics, this scope’s quality is unparalleled when partnered with fully coated optics.
Sport Type
Hunting
Dimensions
14.1 x 3.5 inches
Magnification
3-9x
Objective Lens
32mm
Weight
11.36 Ounces
Magnification
With this scope’s magnification option that starts from 3x and extends for up to 9x, you can rely on this scope while doing your close-range and mid-range activities. You undoubtedly experience no hassle while seeing clear sight pictures within those two ranges.
Advanced Monotube Construction
This rimfire scope will allow you to made parallax settings and adjustments easily with the help of this feature. It can be of great help since you will not get distracted when adjusting some parallax settings while hunting or practicing.
Pros
- Anti-reflective lens
- Simple mounting rings
- Inexpensive
- Weather-resistant
Cons
- Mounting rings lacks in quality
Things to Consider Before Buying Best Cheap Rimfire Scopes under $100
To have a full understanding of the importance of the features mentioned above, here some guidelines that you might want to read. In this part, the factors that you must consider before choosing a rimfire scope will be discussed for maximum understanding. Some important factors are:
Durability
When you pay for something, you want it to last long. The same goes for rimfire scopes. You are going to pay for it, so it needs to be as durable as it can be in order to maximize the use of your money and make it worth it.
To make the explanation simpler, you have to check for the built and construction of the scope that you are going to buy since it is where the durability will depend.
The type of material used for the body and the other parts of scope are both factors that greatly affect its durability, specifically when exposed to rough conditions in the shooting grounds.
Magnification
The magnification of your rimfire scope depicts the type or shooting range you can use it for. That is why it is important for you to choose the perfect magnification.
Whether it is used for close-range, for mid-range, or for long-range shooting purposes. In addition, a wide magnification range is also a plus since you will be able to do a variety of activities with it during your hunting trips.
Furthermore, scopes that have wide magnification options often show versatility. But scopes that are specifically designed for a certain range have their strengths too.
Lens Quality
The quality of the sight picture you will see through your rimfire scope solely depends on the quality of the lens that your scope has.
The higher the quality, the clearer the sight pictures will be. So, it is important that you must consider lenses that are coated with high-quality materials to ensure high-quality sight pictures too.
In addition, lenses and optics of scopes are some of the main reasons that made you buy a scope, so be sure that you consider checking out first their qualities before you finally decide to buy a specific rimfire scope.
Parallax Adjustment
When buying a rimfire scope, you must know that rimfire scope manufacturers set their parallax adjustments at a distance of 75 yards.
So, be sure to check that first before picking a specific scope. Any value that is close to it is acceptable. Still, it depends on the purpose you are going to use it for and the location you are going to use it in.
Weight
When compared to other firearms, rimfires are often considered to be lighter in weight. Thus, fitting it with a heavy-duty scope will cause nothing but imbalance. In addition, it causes you to have worse aims and eventually to mess up your precision and accuracy.
So, it is best advisable to get a scope that will both be compatible with your rimfire rifle and will be a great help in improving your mobility in the shooting grounds as well.
Price
When talking about buying something, price is always a concern. In this article, you will experience less stress in considering the price since all of the rimfire scopes mentioned in the previous parts are under $100.
But when you are in the markets and faced with may rimfire scope of different price ranges, be sure that you consider buying one that is worth it, which is one that provides features that are matched with the cost it is offered for.
Bottom line
With almost unlimited options you can get from the markets nowadays, it might be difficult for you to pick the best scopes that are within your budget.
With that said, we hope that the list of the best rimfire scopes under $100 has somehow helped you in deciding about what to buy finally.
With their features and built, the rimfire scopes mentioned are indeed proven to be the best in some ways. They have the strengths that make them worthy of being on the list above. Just remember that choosing a scope for your rimfire must be a long-term investment, and you will not want to change scopes every now and then.
With that said, you have to be smart in choosing since your experience in hunting depends on that one big decision.