Hey there, fellow hunters and night vision enthusiasts! Joel Mccartan here, and boy, do I have a treat for you today. We’re diving into the world of .22 Hornet scopes, and let me tell you, 2024 has some absolute gems for us to explore.
Now, if you’re anything like me, you know that pairing the right scope with your .22 Hornet can make all the difference between a successful hunt and a frustrating day in the field. I’ve spent countless hours testing various scopes, and I’m excited to share my top picks with you.
Before we dive in, let’s talk about why the .22 Hornet is such a fantastic caliber. It’s got that perfect balance of accuracy, low recoil, and enough punch for varmint hunting and target shooting. But to really make it shine, you need a scope that can keep up with its capabilities.
So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let’s explore the best scopes that’ll take your .22 Hornet shooting to the next level in 2024!
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire Scope
Kicking off our list is the Vortex Optics Crossfire II. I’ve got to tell you, this scope has been a game-changer for my .22 Hornet setup. The 2-7x magnification range is perfect for those close to medium-range shots that the Hornet excels at.
What I love about this scope:
- Crystal clear glass quality
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle for spot-on holdovers
- Rugged construction that can take a beating
One time, I took this scope out on a particularly rainy day, and it performed flawlessly. The waterproof and fogproof design really came through, giving me clear views even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope
Leupold has been a trusted name in optics for decades, and their VX-Freedom line shows why. This 3-9x40mm model is a perfect match for the .22 Hornet, offering versatility for various hunting scenarios.
Standout features:
- Twilight Light Management System for extended shooting hours
- Puncher-proof eyepiece for durability
- Lightweight design for easy carrying
I remember using this scope during a late-evening coyote hunt. The extra minutes of shooting light it provided made all the difference in bagging my target.
Nikon P-Tactical .223 3-9×40 Riflescope
Don’t let the .223 in the name fool you – this Nikon scope is an excellent choice for your .22 Hornet. The BDC 600 reticle is surprisingly well-suited for the Hornet’s ballistics.
Why it makes the cut:
- Quick-focus eyepiece for rapid target acquisition
- Generous eye relief for comfortable shooting
- Spring-loaded instant zero-reset turrets
During a prairie dog hunt last summer, the quick-focus eyepiece on this Nikon saved the day. Those little critters pop up and disappear in a blink, but I was able to get on target fast and make some impressive shots.
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 3-9x40mm Riflescope
If you’re like me and love those early morning or late evening hunts, the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn scope is a must-consider. It’s designed specifically for low-light conditions, which is when many varmints are most active.
Key features:
- Multi-coated lenses for exceptional brightness
- Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) coating for low-light performance
- Affordable price point without sacrificing quality
I’ve used this scope for early morning squirrel hunts, and the clarity it provides in those dim hours is truly impressive. It’s like having night vision without the hefty price tag!
SWFA SS 10×42 Tactical Riflescope
Now, I know what you’re thinking – a fixed 10x scope for a .22 Hornet? Trust me on this one. If you’re into precision shooting or longer-range varmint hunting, this SWFA scope is a hidden gem.
What sets it apart:
- Exceptional clarity and light transmission
- Mil-Quad reticle for precise holdovers
- Built like a tank for ultimate durability
I once took this scope to a 200-yard prairie dog shoot, and it performed admirably. The fixed magnification might seem limiting, but for specific applications, it’s hard to beat the optical quality you get at this price point.
Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24×50 FFP Riflescope
For those who want to stretch the legs of their .22 Hornet, the Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 is a fantastic option. It’s a bit overkill for close-range work, but for long-range varmint hunting or target shooting, it’s hard to beat.
Impressive features:
- First focal plane reticle for true holdovers at any magnification
- Illuminated reticle for low-light use
- Excellent value for a feature-packed scope
I’ve used this scope for some long-range ground squirrel control, and let me tell you, it’s like cheating. The ability to make precise shots at extended ranges really showcases what the .22 Hornet is capable of.
Simmons Truplex .22 Mag Riflescope
Don’t let the budget-friendly price fool you – the Simmons Truplex is a solid performer for the .22 Hornet. It’s an excellent choice for beginners or those looking for a reliable scope without breaking the bank.
Why it’s a great pick:
- HydroShield lens coating for clear views in any weather
- QTA (Quick Target Acquisition) eyepiece for fast targeting
- Lightweight design at just 10 ounces
This was the first scope I put on my .22 Hornet, and I still have a soft spot for it. It’s a great entry-level option that’ll serve you well while you’re learning the ropes.
Primary Arms SLx 4-14x44mm FFP Riflescope
Primary Arms has been making waves in the optics world, and their SLx line is a testament to their quality. This 4-14x44mm model is versatile enough for various .22 Hornet applications.
Standout qualities:
- ACSS HUD DMR reticle for range estimation and holdovers
- First focal plane design for consistent reticle use
- Partial red illumination for low-light shooting
I’ve found this scope to be particularly useful for coyote hunting. The ability to quickly range targets and make accurate shots at various distances has significantly improved my success rate.
Hawke Vantage 4-12×40 AO Riflescope
Hawke might not be as well-known as some other brands, but they’re producing some excellent optics. The Vantage 4-12×40 AO is a great all-around scope for the .22 Hornet.
What I appreciate:
- 1/4 MOA fingertip adjustable turrets for precise zeroing
- 11-layer fully multi-coated lenses for bright, clear images
- Adjustable objective for parallax correction
This scope has become my go-to for general small game hunting. The clarity and adjustability make it easy to take ethical shots on everything from squirrels to rabbits.
Monstrum G2 1-4×24 FFP Riflescope
Rounding out our list is the Monstrum G2 1-4×24. While it might seem more suited for an AR-15, it’s actually a fantastic option for close-range .22 Hornet work, especially in brushy or wooded areas.
Why it made the list:
- True 1x magnification for both-eyes-open shooting
- Illuminated reticle with multiple brightness settings
- Affordable price point for a first focal plane scope
I’ve found this scope to be incredibly fun for running and gunning style varmint control. The quick target acquisition at low magnification, combined with the ability to zoom in for more precise shots, makes it a versatile option for the .22 Hornet.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Scope for Your .22 Hornet
Magnification Range
The .22 Hornet really shines at distances between 50 and 200 yards, so you’ll want a scope that excels in this range. I’ve found that scopes with a 3-9x or 4-12x magnification range are ideal for most Hornet applications. They offer enough versatility for close shots on small game and longer shots on varmints.
Personal tip: Don’t get too caught up in high magnification numbers. I once made the mistake of putting a 6-24x scope on my Hornet, thinking more power was better. In reality, I rarely used anything above 12x, and the extra weight wasn’t worth it.
Objective Lens Size
For the .22 Hornet, a 40mm objective lens is usually sufficient. It provides a good balance between light gathering capability and keeping the scope compact and lightweight. However, if you do a lot of low-light hunting, consider a 50mm objective for improved brightness.
Reticle Type
BDC (Bullet Drop Compensating) reticles can be very useful for the .22 Hornet, especially if you’re taking shots beyond 100 yards. However, make sure to choose a BDC reticle that’s calibrated for .22 Hornet ballistics, or at least something close.
I’m a big fan of simple duplex reticles for general hunting, but for precision varmint work, I prefer something with mil-dot or MOA hash marks for holdovers.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Your scope needs to withstand the elements and the recoil of your rifle. Look for scopes that are nitrogen or argon purged and O-ring sealed for waterproof and fogproof performance.
Story time: I once had a cheap scope fog up on me during a sudden rainstorm while I was after some pesky groundhogs. Needless to say, I learned my lesson about skimping on weather resistance!
Parallax Adjustment
While not always necessary for the shorter ranges typical of .22 Hornet shooting, having parallax adjustment (often in the form of an adjustable objective or side focus) can be beneficial for precision work, especially at longer ranges.
Budget
You don’t need to break the bank to get a quality scope for your .22 Hornet. There are excellent options available at various price points. Remember, it’s often worth investing a bit more for better optical quality and durability.
A Few More Tips from the Field
- Mount matters: Don’t forget to invest in quality rings or a mount for your scope. The best scope in the world won’t perform well if it’s not properly mounted.
- Know your zeros: With the .22 Hornet’s rainbow-like trajectory, it’s crucial to know your bullet’s path at different distances. I like to zero my Hornet at 100 yards and then confirm my holdovers at 50, 150, and 200 yards.
- Practice, practice, practice: Once you’ve chosen and mounted your scope, spend time at the range getting to know its features and how your rifle performs with it.
- Consider a sun shade: If you do a lot of shooting in bright conditions, a sun shade can help reduce glare and improve image quality.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right scope for your .22 Hornet is a personal decision that depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re after small game, varmints, or just enjoy plinking at the range, there’s a perfect scope out there for you.
Remember, the .22 Hornet is a versatile and enjoyable cartridge to shoot. With the right scope, you’ll be able to fully appreciate its capabilities and maybe even surprise yourself with what you can achieve.
I hope this guide has been helpful in your quest for the perfect .22 Hornet scope. If you have any questions or want to share your own experiences, don’t hesitate to reach out. After all, we’re all in this together, learning and improving our craft.
Now, get out there and make some memories with your newly scoped .22 Hornet. The fields and forests are calling, and there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of a well-placed shot on a beautiful day.
Until next time, happy hunting and safe shooting!
Happy hunting, and may your shots always find their mark. Until next time, this is Joel Mccartan signing off. Keep those scopes clean and your powder dry!