As an avid hunter and night vision enthusiast, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with rimfire scopes over the years. Whether you’re plinking cans in the backyard or hunting small game, having the right scope on your .22LR can make all the difference. In this article, I’ll break down my top picks for the best rimfire scopes of 2024, based on hands-on testing and real-world use in the field.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire Riflescope
The Vortex Crossfire II continues to be my go-to recommendation for an all-around great rimfire scope. With its 2-7x magnification range, it’s versatile enough for both close-range plinking and reaching out to 100 yards or more. The glass clarity is excellent for the price point, and the simple V-Plex reticle is fast and intuitive.
I’ve mounted this scope on everything from my trusty Ruger 10/22 to custom precision .22 builds. The zero-reset turrets make field adjustments a breeze, and the aircraft-grade aluminum construction can take a beating. For under $200, it’s hard to beat the value.
Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7x33mm Riflescope
Leupold’s reputation for quality is well-deserved, and the VX-Freedom lives up to the hype. The glass clarity and light transmission are a step above most competitors in this price range. I particularly love the Twilight Light Management System, which gives me those precious extra minutes of shooting light during dawn and dusk hunts.
The duplex reticle is simple but effective for quick target acquisition on small game. While it lacks detailed holdover points, I’ve found I can consistently ring steel out to 150 yards once I learn the holdovers. At just over 11 ounces, it’s also one of the lightest options, perfect for keeping your rimfire setup nimble.
Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24×50 FFP
For the precision rimfire crowd, the Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 offers features typically found on scopes costing twice as much. The first focal plane ATMR MOA reticle is a game-changer for long-range rimfire shooting, with detailed holdover and windage points that remain proportional at all magnifications.
I’ve used this scope in NRL22 matches and was impressed by the precise tracking of the turrets. The side parallax adjustment (adjustable down to 10 yards) is critical for maintaining accuracy on close targets. While it may be overkill for casual plinking, serious target shooters will appreciate the capabilities.
Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Riflescope
Sometimes simple is best, and the Bushnell Banner delivers reliable performance at a budget-friendly price point. The 3-9x magnification range hits the sweet spot for most rimfire applications. I’ve found the Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses do provide noticeably better low-light performance compared to other scopes in this price range.
The circle-x reticle is fast for moving targets, making it a great choice for squirrel hunting or fast-action plinking. While it may lack some of the advanced features of pricier options, it’s a solid performer that won’t break the bank.
Primary Arms SLx 4-14x44mm FFP Rifle Scope
Primary Arms has made a name for themselves with feature-packed scopes at reasonable prices. The SLx 4-14x44mm is no exception, offering a first focal plane ACSS reticle specifically calibrated for .22LR ballistics. I’ve found this reticle to be incredibly intuitive for holdovers out to 200 yards and beyond.
The glass quality is good for the price, though not quite on par with some higher-end options. The zero-resettable turrets track well, and the side parallax adjustment is a nice touch. For shooters wanting to stretch the legs of their rimfire without breaking the bank, this is an excellent choice.
Nikon P-Tactical Rimfire 2-7×32
While Nikon has unfortunately discontinued their sport optics line, the P-Tactical Rimfire is still widely available and remains a top contender. The BDC reticle is calibrated for standard velocity .22LR ammo, making long-range shots a breeze once you learn your drops.
I’ve always been impressed by Nikon’s optical clarity, and this scope is no exception. The quick-focus eyepiece is great for acquiring targets rapidly, and the spring-loaded instant zero-reset turrets are a joy to use in the field. If you can find one, it’s still a fantastic rimfire optic in 2024.
Hawke Vantage IR 4-12×40 AO
Hawke may not be as well-known as some brands, but they produce some excellent rimfire-specific scopes. The Vantage IR features an illuminated reticle with holdover points calibrated for .22LR ballistics. I’ve found the illumination particularly useful for low-light hunting situations.
The adjustable objective (AO) allows for parallax correction down to 10 yards, critical for maintaining accuracy on close targets. The glass quality is quite good for the price point, and the 1/4 MOA clicks are positive and repeatable. It’s a versatile scope that works well for both hunting and target applications.
Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 Mag(R) Riflescope
For budget-conscious shooters, the Simmons .22 Mag is hard to beat. Despite its low price tag, it offers surprisingly good optical clarity and a robust build quality. The HydroShield coating helps maintain a clear sight picture in wet conditions – a feature I’ve appreciated on more than a few damp morning hunts.
The TrueZero adjustment system holds zero reliably, even on hard-recoiling .22 Magnum rifles. While it may lack some of the advanced features of pricier scopes, it’s a reliable performer that gets the job done without fuss.
SVBONY SV165 3-9x40mm Riflescope
SVBONY may not be a household name, but they’re making waves with their budget-friendly optics. The SV165 offers impressive features for the price, including an illuminated mil-dot reticle and side parallax adjustment. I’ve found the glass quality to be surprisingly good, though not quite up to par with more expensive options.
The 1/4 MOA click adjustments are crisp, and the zero-reset turrets are a nice touch at this price point. While I wouldn’t trust it for extreme precision work, it’s a solid choice for casual plinking and small game hunting on a tight budget.
Monstrum G2 1-4×24 FFP Rifle Scope
Rounding out our list is a bit of an unconventional choice. The Monstrum G2 is marketed more towards the tactical crowd, but I’ve found it to be an excellent option for rimfire AR-style builds or for shooters who prefer a more modern optic.
The first focal plane reticle is calibrated in MOA, making holdovers and ranging simple once you learn the system. The 1-4x magnification range is perfect for close-quarters shooting while still allowing you to reach out to 100 yards comfortably. The illuminated reticle is daylight bright, and the glass quality is good for the price point.
Conclusion
Choosing the right rimfire scope comes down to your specific needs and budget. For general all-around use, it’s hard to go wrong with the Vortex Crossfire II or Leupold VX-Freedom. Precision shooters will appreciate the features of the Athlon Argos BTR or Primary Arms SLx. Budget-conscious buyers still have great options with the Simmons .22 Mag or SVBONY SV165.
Remember, the best scope is the one that meets your needs and that you’ll actually get out and use. Don’t be afraid to invest in quality glass – a good scope will last through multiple rifles and years of use. Get out there, practice with your chosen optic, and most importantly, have fun! There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of ringing steel or nailing that perfect shot with your trusty .22LR.