5 Best Scopes for Ruger 10/22

The Ruger 10/22 is a popular rimfire rifle for target shooting, plinking and small-game hunting. Choosing the right scope can make it easier to acquire targets, see fine details and take advantage of the rifle’s accuracy. However, the best scope for a Ruger 10/22 depends on how you intend to use it.

A lightweight scope with low magnification is practical for close-range plinking, while a higher-magnification optic can help with precision shooting at longer distances. Rimfire-specific features, generous eye relief, a clear reticle and compatibility with the rifle’s mounting system also deserve attention.

In this guide, we compare five riflescopes with different features, magnification ranges and price points to help you find one that suits your Ruger 10/22, whether you prioritize simplicity, versatility or precision.

Quick Recommendations

• Choose the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire if: You want a versatile scope with a wide field of view at low magnification and a rimfire-specific parallax setting.

• Choose the Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 Rimfire if: You want a lightweight optic with a simple reticle and a compact setup.

• Choose the Simmons Pro Rimfire 3-9×32 if: You want adjustable magnification, a .22-specific reticle and a practical, budget-conscious option.

• Choose the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire if: You prefer additional magnification for viewing smaller targets and a dedicated rimfire reticle.

• Choose the Hawke Vantage IR 3-9×40 Rimfire HV if: You want an illuminated reticle designed around .22 LR high-velocity ammunition.

How These Products Were Chosen

These scopes were selected based on their suitability for a .22 LR rifle, magnification range, optical specifications, weight, reticle design, parallax settings, construction and practical versatility. Particular attention was given to rimfire-specific features, since the short distances and trajectory of .22 LR ammunition create different requirements from those of many centerfire rifles.

Manufacturer specifications and product documentation provide the basis for the comparison. Each scope serves a different type of shooter, so the recommendations focus on practical differences rather than unsupported performance rankings.

1. Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire

Best For: All-around Ruger 10/22 use

The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire is a variable-power scope designed for rimfire rifles. Its modest magnification range, 32mm objective lens and 50-yard parallax setting make it a practical option for a Ruger 10/22 used for recreational shooting and general-purpose applications.

The scope features fully multi-coated lenses, a second focal plane V-Plex reticle and a nitrogen-purged, O-ring-sealed tube.

Why Choose It

The 2-7x magnification range provides a useful balance between a wide viewing area and additional target detail. At 2x, the scope offers a generous field of view, while 7x provides more magnification for viewing smaller targets.

Its rimfire-specific 50-yard parallax setting is also relevant to the typical distances associated with .22 LR shooting. The capped turrets help prevent accidental adjustments during regular handling.

Key Features

• Magnification: 2-7x

• Objective lens: 32mm

• Reticle: V-Plex MOA, second focal plane

• Eye relief: 3.9 inches

• Field of view: 42 to 12.6 feet at 100 yards

• Tube diameter: 1 inch

• Parallax setting: 50 yards

• Weight: 13.9 ounces

• Construction: Waterproof, fogproof and shockproof

What These Features Mean in Real Use

The 32mm objective lens keeps the scope relatively compact without adding unnecessary bulk to the Ruger 10/22. Fully multi-coated lenses help improve light transmission and image clarity.

The V-Plex reticle uses a simple crosshair arrangement, which keeps the sight picture uncluttered. Additionally, the fast-focus eyepiece makes it easier to adjust reticle focus to suit your eyesight.

The fixed 50-yard parallax setting is suited to common rimfire distances, although it does not offer the flexibility of an adjustable objective.

Trade-Offs

The Crossfire II offers straightforward controls and a practical magnification range. However, its 7x maximum magnification is more limited than that of 3-9x scopes. Its capped turrets also favor a set-and-use approach rather than frequent adjustments.

May Not Be Ideal If

This scope may not suit shooters who need higher magnification or adjustable parallax for precision target work at varying distances.

Pros

• Rimfire-specific 50-yard parallax

• Lightweight, compact design

• Fully multi-coated lenses

• Generous field of view at low magnification

• Waterproof and fogproof construction

Cons

• Maximum magnification is limited to 7x

• Fixed parallax setting

• Non-illuminated reticle

Decision Summary

Best if: You want a versatile, uncomplicated rimfire scope for general Ruger 10/22 use.

Consider another option if: You need higher magnification or adjustable parallax.

2. Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 Rimfire

Best For: Lightweight Ruger 10/22 setups

The Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 Rimfire is a compact variable-power riflescope designed for shooters who value low weight and straightforward operation. With an objective lens slightly larger than that of the Vortex Crossfire II, it provides an alternative for those seeking a lightweight optical setup.

Leupold’s published specifications list a weight of 11.1 ounces for the VX-Freedom 2-7×33 configuration, with the rimfire version featuring a 60-yard fixed parallax setting. The Rimfire MOA reticle option offers fine reference marks for estimating adjustments.

Why Choose It

The lightweight construction helps preserve the Ruger 10/22’s manageable handling characteristics. Its 2-7x magnification range is suitable for viewing targets at different distances without making the scope unnecessarily large.

The Rimfire MOA reticle variant is especially relevant to shooters who prefer additional reference marks rather than a basic duplex crosshair.

Key Features

• Magnification: 2-7x

• Objective lens: 33mm

• Reticle: Rimfire MOA, second focal plane

• Weight: 11.1 ounces

• Tube diameter: 1 inch

• Eye relief: 4.2 inches at low magnification, 3.7 inches at high magnification

• Parallax setting: 60 yards

• Adjustment: 1/4 MOA per click

• Construction: Waterproof and fogproof

What These Features Mean in Real Use

At just over 11 ounces, the scope adds relatively little weight to the rifle. This can be useful for shooters who carry their 10/22 over extended periods or prefer a balanced, lightweight setup.

The 33mm objective lens offers a reasonable compromise between light gathering and overall size. Its 2-7x magnification provides a broad field of view at the lower setting, with additional target detail at higher power.

The Rimfire MOA reticle provides reference marks in 1 MOA increments. These can help shooters understand angular adjustments, although actual bullet impact depends on ammunition, distance and the rifle’s zero.

Trade-Offs

The VX-Freedom emphasizes compactness and optical simplicity. Its 7x maximum magnification, however, offers less target enlargement than a 3-9x scope. Also, the fixed 60-yard parallax setting may not be ideal for every close-range precision application.

May Not Be Ideal If

It may not be the right fit if you want illuminated aiming points, higher magnification or a side-focus adjustment.

Pros

• Lightweight 11.1-ounce design

• Compact 2-7x magnification range

• Rimfire-specific reticle option

• Waterproof and fogproof

• Generous eye relief

Cons

• Limited to 7x maximum magnification

• Fixed parallax

• No illuminated reticle

Decision Summary

Best if: Keeping your Ruger 10/22 light and easy to handle is a priority.

Consider another option if: You want higher magnification or adjustable parallax.

3. Simmons Pro Rimfire 3-9×32

Best For: Budget-conscious buyers

The Simmons Pro Rimfire 3-9×32 is a rimfire-specific scope that combines variable magnification with a dedicated .22 Drop Zone reticle. It offers a useful range of magnification in a relatively compact configuration, making it an option for Ruger 10/22 owners who want more flexibility than a fixed-power scope provides.

Simmons, under the Bushnell brand, specifies a 50-yard rimfire parallax setting, fully coated lenses and IPX7 waterproof construction. The scope also includes one-inch Weaver-style mounting rings.

Why Choose It

The 3-9x magnification range allows users to adjust the image according to the target and viewing conditions. At 3x, the scope provides a wider field of view, while 9x gives more image enlargement for examining smaller targets.

Its .22 Drop Zone reticle is designed for rimfire use, and the capped turrets provide a straightforward adjustment system. The included mounting rings may also reduce the need to purchase separate compatible rings, although the rifle’s mounting configuration must be checked.

Key Features

• Magnification: 3-9x

• Objective lens: 32mm

• Reticle: Simmons .22 Drop Zone, second focal plane

• Tube diameter: 1 inch

• Parallax setting: 50 yards

• Waterproof rating: IPX7

• Turrets: Capped, finger-adjustable

• Elevation and windage adjustment: 1/4 MOA clicks

• Included accessories: Weaver-style rings and lens covers

What These Features Mean in Real Use

The 32mm objective lens helps keep the scope compact, while the variable magnification provides flexibility for different shooting environments.

The .22 Drop Zone reticle offers reference points intended for rimfire trajectories. However, the actual point of impact depends on ammunition velocity, bullet characteristics, sight height and zero distance. Shooters should verify any aiming references against their specific setup.

The IPX7 waterproof rating indicates protection against temporary immersion under specified test conditions. In addition, the fully coated optics and fogproof construction make the scope suitable for use in changing outdoor conditions.

Trade-Offs

The Simmons Pro Rimfire provides a dedicated rimfire reticle and a useful magnification range. However, its 32mm objective is smaller than the 40mm objectives found on some competing scopes. Its fully coated lenses also differ from the more extensive multi-coated optical systems offered by some higher-priced alternatives.

May Not Be Ideal If

It may not be the preferred choice for someone seeking premium optical coatings, a lightweight 2-7x configuration or a more specialized precision-target optic.

Pros

• 3-9x variable magnification

• Rimfire-specific .22 Drop Zone reticle

• 50-yard parallax setting

• IPX7 waterproof construction

• Mounting rings included

Cons

• Smaller 32mm objective lens

• No illuminated reticle

• Fixed parallax setting

Decision Summary

Best if: You want a practical rimfire scope with variable magnification and a dedicated .22 reticle.

Consider another option if: You prioritize a larger objective lens, adjustable parallax or advanced optical coatings.

4. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire

Best For: Versatile magnification and target detail

The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire is a variable-power scope designed for shooters who want a broader magnification range and a rimfire-specific aiming system. Its 40mm objective lens and 3-9x zoom range offer a different configuration from compact 2-7x scopes.

The rimfire MOA version features a second focal plane reticle with 1 MOA reference marks and a 60-yard fixed parallax setting. Leupold lists 3.7 to 4.2 inches of eye relief across its 3-9×40 VX-Freedom configurations.

Why Choose It

The 3-9x magnification range offers flexibility for shooters who want to see more target detail at higher power. The 40mm objective lens also provides a larger light-collecting aperture than a 32mm lens, although actual brightness depends on magnification, lens quality and lighting conditions.

Its Rimfire MOA reticle is designed to provide useful visual reference points without making the sight picture excessively complicated.

Key Features

• Magnification: 3-9x

• Objective lens: 40mm

• Reticle: Rimfire MOA, second focal plane

• Tube diameter: 1 inch

• Eye relief: Approximately 3.7-4.2 inches

• Parallax setting: 60 yards

• Adjustment: 1/4 MOA per click

• Construction: Waterproof and fogproof

What These Features Mean in Real Use

The 3-9x zoom range allows you to choose a lower magnification for a broader view or a higher setting for increased image enlargement. This can be useful when viewing targets of different sizes.

The 40mm objective lens provides a larger exit pupil than a smaller objective lens at the same magnification. This can make the image easier to view in less favorable lighting, within the limits of the optical system.

The Rimfire MOA reticle includes graduated reference marks that help with understanding angular measurements. As a second focal plane reticle, its apparent size remains constant as magnification changes, but the subtensions are only accurate at the specified magnification.

Trade-Offs

The larger objective and 3-9x configuration provide more magnification and potential light-gathering capacity. However, the scope is physically larger than many 2-7x alternatives. Its fixed parallax setting also limits adjustment flexibility for close-range target shooting.

May Not Be Ideal If

This model may not be suitable if you want the smallest, lightest scope possible or need adjustable parallax for close-range precision work.

Pros

• Versatile 3-9x magnification

• Larger 40mm objective lens

• Dedicated Rimfire MOA reticle option

• Waterproof and fogproof design

• Useful eye relief

Cons

• Larger than compact 2-7x scopes

• Fixed parallax

• No illuminated reticle

Decision Summary

Best if: You want a versatile magnification range and a rimfire-specific reticle.

Consider another option if: Your priority is minimum weight or adjustable parallax.

5. Hawke Vantage IR 3-9×40 Rimfire HV

Best For: Rimfire-specific aiming references

The Hawke Vantage IR 3-9×40 Rimfire HV is designed around the trajectory characteristics of .22 LR high-velocity ammunition. It features an illuminated reticle with aiming references intended for specific rimfire ammunition conditions.

Hawke’s rimfire reticle design uses calculated aiming points based on .22 LR high-velocity ammunition, with its designated zero and magnification requirements. Published specifications for this configuration list a 40mm objective lens, 1-inch tube and approximately 15.2 ounces of weight.

Why Choose It

The main distinction of this Hawke scope is its dedicated rimfire reticle. Rather than relying on a simple crosshair, it offers additional aiming references intended to correspond to a particular .22 LR high-velocity trajectory.

The illuminated reticle can also improve reticle visibility against some backgrounds. Its 3-9x magnification range provides a flexible viewing range, while the 40mm objective lens offers a larger aperture than compact 32mm alternatives.

Key Features

• Magnification: 3-9x

• Objective lens: 40mm

• Reticle: Rimfire .22 LR HV, illuminated

• Tube diameter: 1 inch

• Weight: Approximately 15.2 ounces

• Focal plane: Second focal plane

• Parallax: Fixed, according to the listed configuration

• Construction: Nitrogen-purged, waterproof and fogproof

• Illumination: Red and green

What These Features Mean in Real Use

The 3-9x magnification provides the flexibility to adjust image size according to the viewing conditions. At lower magnification, the scope gives a wider field of view, while higher magnification increases target enlargement.

The illuminated reticle provides a choice of illumination colors, which can make the aiming pattern more visible against certain backgrounds. However, illumination does not improve the target image itself.

The rimfire HV reticle is intended for a particular ammunition velocity and zero configuration. Its reference points should not be assumed to match every .22 LR cartridge. Differences in ammunition, environmental conditions and actual velocity can change the trajectory.

Trade-Offs

The Hawke provides specialized reticle features that may appeal to shooters who want trajectory-based references. However, its additional reticle markings can make the sight picture more complex than a basic duplex reticle. It is also heavier than the compact options in this comparison.

May Not Be Ideal If

This scope may not suit someone who prefers a simple crosshair, uses different ammunition types regularly or wants a lightweight optic without illumination.

Pros

• Dedicated .22 LR high-velocity reticle

• Illuminated aiming references

• 3-9x variable magnification

• 40mm objective lens

• Waterproof and fogproof construction

Cons

• Heavier than compact rimfire scopes

• Reticle is designed around particular ammunition conditions

• More complex sight picture than a basic crosshair

Decision Summary

Best if: You want an illuminated, rimfire-specific reticle and are using compatible .22 LR high-velocity ammunition.

Consider another option if: You prefer a simple reticle or frequently switch between different ammunition types.