The best scope for .22 Mag can transform this versatile rimfire rifle into a highly accurate tool for hunting, plinking, or target shooting. Known for its flat trajectory and reliable performance on small game and varmints, the .22 Magnum performs best when paired with an optic that offers clear glass, practical magnification, and dependable durability.
Whether you’re after a budget-friendly option for casual range days or a premium scope for precision long-range shots, choosing the right combination of magnification, reticle type, and build quality will ensure you get the most out of your rifle.
Best Scope for 22 Mag
1) Vortex Crossfire II Rimfire 2–7×32
The Vortex Crossfire II Rimfire 2–7×32 is one of the Best Scope for 22 Mag, it features; Durable aluminum construction for rugged outdoor use, True MOA Dead-Hold BDC reticle with .01 mil increments for accurate shooting among other incredible features.
The Vortex Crossfire II Rimfire 2–7×32 is a purpose-built optic designed for rimfire rifles, offering reliability and clarity at an affordable price. Built with durable aluminum construction, it provides a lightweight yet rugged build that can withstand demanding hunting conditions.
The scope features a True MOA Dead-Hold BDC reticle with .01 mil increments, allowing for accurate holdovers and precise shot placement at varying ranges. Its extra-wide field of view of 12.6 feet makes it easy to track moving targets and maintain situational awareness.
For quick and efficient target acquisition, the fast focus eyepiece system paired with a generous 3.9-inch eye relief ensures comfort and speed. Additionally, its waterproof and fogproof design with an O-ring seal and fog-dispersing lens guarantees clear visibility, even in unpredictable weather conditions.
Pros
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Durable aluminum construction for rugged outdoor use
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True MOA Dead-Hold BDC reticle with .01 mil increments for accurate shooting
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Wide 12.6 ft field of view for better target tracking
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Fast focus system with 3.9″ eye relief for quick targeting
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Waterproof and fogproof for reliable performance in all weather
Cons
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Limited magnification range (2–7x) may not suit long-distance shooting
2) Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm Riflescope
The Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4x20mm Riflescope (Model #180590) is designed for hunters and shooters who value rugged dependability, crisp clarity, and ease of use. Featuring a MOA-Ring reticle with capped finger click adjustments, this scope allows for straightforward precision in the field.
With its 3:1 zoom ratio, users enjoy versatile magnification; dial down to 1.5x for quick, close-range encounters or zoom up to 4x for longer shots. Built with hardened surface coatings, the lenses meet strict military-grade scratch resistance standards, ensuring long-lasting protection and clear views even in harsh conditions.
Proudly designed, machined, and assembled in the USA, the VX-Freedom is also 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, making it a reliable companion in all environments. Backed by Leupold’s legendary customer care, this riflescope combines durability and trusted performance in a lightweight, matte-finish package.
Pros
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MOA-Ring reticle with capped finger click adjustments for precise aiming
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3:1 zoom ratio offers versatility for close to mid-range shooting
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Military-grade scratch-resistant coatings for lens protection
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100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for all-weather reliability
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Lightweight and compact design with a sleek matte finish
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Backed by Leupold’s renowned lifetime support
Cons
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Limited maximum magnification (4x) may not suit long-range precision shooting
3) Hawke Riflescope Vantage IR
The Hawke Vantage IR is a versatile riflescope is one of the Best Scope for 22 Mag, it features; 11-layer fully multi-coated optics provide excellent clarity, Strong 1-inch mono-tube chassis ensures durability and stability among other incredible features.
The Hawke Vantage IR is a versatile riflescope built for clarity, strength, and reliable performance in the field. Its 11-layer fully multi-coated optics deliver excellent light transmission and image sharpness, ensuring crisp target visibility even in challenging lighting conditions.
Constructed with a 1-inch mono-tube chassis, the scope offers superior durability and stability under recoil. The adjustable objective provides parallax correction, while the Mil Dot Center Reticle offers multiple aim points for precise hold-over and hold-under shooting.
For smooth operation, it features 1/4 MOA low-profile fingertip turrets, a fast-focus eyebell, and a high-torque zoom ring for quick adjustments. Built to withstand harsh environments, the Vantage IR is waterproof, shockproof, and nitrogen-purged, backed by a Hawke Worldwide Warranty for peace of mind.
Pros
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11-layer fully multi-coated optics provide excellent clarity
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Strong 1-inch mono-tube chassis ensures durability and stability
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Adjustable objective with parallax correction for improved accuracy
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Mil Dot Center Reticle offers versatile aiming points
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Smooth fingertip turrets, fast focus, and high-torque zoom ring for quick adjustments
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Waterproof, shockproof, and nitrogen-purged for all-weather reliability
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Covered by Hawke’s Worldwide Warranty
Cons
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Slightly heavier compared to entry-level rimfire scopes
4) Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope
The Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope is one of the Best Scope for 22 Mag, it features; High-grade optical glass ensures brightness, clarity, and durability, Powerful 20x magnification ideal for long-range hunting among other incredible features.
The Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope is a popular and premium choice for hunters seeking long-range accuracy at an affordable price. Built with high-grade optical glass, it delivers excellent brightness, sharp clarity, and long-lasting durability, making it a dependable scope in the field.
With an impressive 20x magnification, this scope excels in long-range shooting, allowing hunters to confidently track and engage distant targets. Its large 50mm objective lens enhances light-gathering capability, producing bright, clear views even in low-light hunting conditions.
Equipped with a Ballistic Mil-Dot reticle, it provides precise hold-over and windage reference points, making it highly effective for varied hunting scenarios. Designed for performance and value, the Burris Fullfield II combines optical quality, ruggedness, and affordability into one versatile package.
Pros
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High-grade optical glass ensures brightness, clarity, and durability
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Powerful 20x magnification ideal for long-range hunting
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Large 50mm objective lens collects more light for brighter images
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Ballistic Mil-Dot reticle supports accurate hold-over and windage adjustments
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Affordable price point for a premium-quality hunting scope
Cons
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Higher magnification may be overkill for short to mid-range hunting
5) Simmons Truplex .22 Mag Riflescope
The Simmons Truplex .22 Mag Riflescope is an affordable yet feature-packed optic designed specifically for rimfire rifles. Known for being as easy on the wallet as it is on the eye, this scope offers high-quality features rarely seen at its price point. Its fully coated optics deliver brighter, high-contrast images, ensuring clear target visibility.
The scope includes 1/4-MOA SureGrip audible-click adjustments for windage and elevation, making fine-tuning effortless and precise. With the innovative TrueZero adjustment system, the scope holds zero reliably, even under tough shooting conditions.
The QTA (Quick Target Acquisition) eyepiece allows for fast and easy sighting, perfect for small game hunting and plinking. Ruggedly built to be waterproof, fogproof, and recoilproof, the Simmons Truplex .22 Mag delivers consistent performance and precision, making it a standout value in the rimfire riflescope category.
Pros
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Affordable price with excellent value for rimfire shooters
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Fully coated optics provide bright, high-contrast images
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TrueZero windage and elevation system stays locked tight to zero
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QTA eyepiece allows for fast and easy target acquisition
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Waterproof, fogproof, and recoilproof for reliable durability
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Simple 1/4-MOA SureGrip adjustments with audible clicks
Cons
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Basic feature set compared to higher-end scopes
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Scope for 22 Mag
1. Magnification Range
Magnification is one of the first considerations when choosing a scope for a .22 Mag. Since this caliber is often used for small game hunting, target shooting, and varmint control, a moderate magnification range like 2–7x or 3–9x is usually ideal.
Lower magnification provides a wider field of view for tracking fast-moving targets at closer ranges, while higher magnification helps with more precise long-distance shots. For specialized long-range use, higher magnification models (such as 4–12x or even 20x) can be considered, but most shooters find mid-range optics more versatile and practical.
2. Objective Lens Size
The objective lens diameter determines how much light the scope can gather, which directly impacts brightness and clarity. Larger lenses, such as 40mm or 50mm, provide excellent low-light performance and a clearer sight picture at higher magnifications. However, bigger lenses also make the scope heavier and may require higher mounting rings. A balance between brightness and portability is important; smaller 32mm lenses are lightweight and sufficient for most rimfire applications, while larger lenses are better suited for hunters who often shoot in dim conditions.
3. Reticle Type
The reticle design can make a big difference in accuracy. A simple Truplex or duplex reticle is easy to use for beginners and casual shooters, while BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) or Mil-Dot reticles provide holdover points for precise aiming at varying distances. For a versatile .22 Mag rifle used in both hunting and target practice, reticles that offer reference points for elevation and windage are highly valuable. Some scopes also include illuminated reticles (IR), which improve visibility in low-light situations like dawn or dusk hunts.
4. Optical Quality and Coatings
The clarity and sharpness of the image depend on the quality of glass and lens coatings. Scopes with fully multi-coated optics provide superior light transmission, reduced glare, and brighter images compared to single-coated lenses. High-quality glass, such as that used in premium scopes, enhances contrast and edge-to-edge clarity, which is particularly helpful when identifying small targets like squirrels or rabbits at a distance. Budget scopes may offer coated optics, but investing in better coatings improves both performance and durability.
5. Durability and Build Quality
Because .22 Mag rifles are often used in outdoor hunting scenarios, durability is key. Look for scopes with aircraft-grade aluminum construction and a one-piece tube design, which improve shock resistance and structural strength. Scopes that are waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof ensure reliable performance in harsh weather conditions. Nitrogen or argon purging prevents internal fogging, while O-ring seals keep out moisture and dust. A tough, well-built scope will last through years of hunting trips and recoil cycles without losing zero.
6. Adjustment System
Precision in shooting requires a reliable adjustment system. Features such as 1/4-MOA fingertip turrets with audible clicks make windage and elevation changes straightforward and accurate. Systems like TrueZero or capped finger click adjustments help keep the scope locked tightly to zero even under repeated recoil. Some scopes also feature an adjustable objective (AO) or side parallax adjustment, which corrects parallax error at different ranges and enhances accuracy during long shots.
7. Field of View and Eye Relief
A wide field of view (FOV) helps shooters track moving game and maintain situational awareness. Lower magnification settings naturally offer wider fields of view, making them excellent for quick shots at close range. Eye relief; the distance between your eye and the scope; should also be considered, especially for comfort and safety. Scopes with generous eye relief (3.5–4 inches) reduce the risk of scope bite and make it easier to acquire targets quickly, even in dynamic hunting scenarios.
8. Price and Value
Finally, budget plays an important role. Entry-level scopes like the Simmons .22 Mag Truplex are cost-effective and great for casual plinking or small game hunting, while mid-range models like the Vortex Crossfire II or Hawke Vantage IR provide more advanced features for serious shooters.
Premium scopes such as Leupold VX-Freedom or Burris Fullfield II deliver superior optical quality, durability, and warranties at a higher price point. The key is to match your investment with how you intend to use your .22 Mag; whether for casual range shooting or demanding long-range hunting.
FAQs
1. What magnification is best for a .22 Mag scope?
For most hunters and shooters, a 2–7x or 3–9x magnification range is ideal for the .22 Mag. These ranges provide versatility for small game hunting, plinking, and varmint control. Higher magnification scopes, such as 12x or even 20x, are useful for long-range target shooting, but for everyday hunting and field use, moderate magnification offers the best balance of clarity, accuracy, and field of view.
2. Which reticle type works best for .22 Mag rifles?
A simple duplex or Truplex reticle is excellent for beginners and casual shooters because it is easy to use and uncluttered. For more advanced shooting, BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) or Mil-Dot reticles provide multiple aim points, making them valuable for long-range hunting and windage adjustments. Some models also feature illuminated reticles (IR), which are especially helpful during dawn or dusk hunts when lighting is low.
3. Are budget scopes reliable for .22 Mag rifles?
Yes, budget-friendly scopes like the Simmons Truplex .22 Mag are very reliable for casual use and small game hunting. They typically feature coated optics, basic adjustment systems, and rugged designs suitable for rimfire recoil. However, mid-range options like the Vortex Crossfire II Rimfire or Hawke Vantage IR provide clearer optics, better adjustments, and more durability. Premium models, such as the Leupold VX-Freedom, deliver superior performance and warranties, making them ideal for serious hunters who want long-term reliability.
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Final Thoughts
Choosing the best scope for .22 Mag ultimately depends on how you plan to use your rifle, but the key factors remain consistent; clear optics, practical magnification, a reliable reticle, and rugged construction.
From affordable models like the Simmons Truplex .22 Mag for casual shooters to mid-range options such as the Vortex Crossfire II Rimfire and premium scopes like the Leupold VX-Freedom, there is an optic for every budget and need.
By matching your scope to your shooting style; whether it’s plinking at the range, hunting varmints, or stretching your shots at longer distances; you’ll maximize the potential of your .22 Magnum and enjoy greater accuracy and confidence in every shot.