5 Best Scope for .22 Rifle Hunting

Best Scope for .22 Rifle Hunting should offer clear optics, useful magnification, and reliable field performance.Choosing the right scope for a .22 rifle can improve target acquisition, aiming precision, and overall hunting confidence. The ideal optic should provide a practical magnification range, a clear and uncluttered reticle, suitable parallax, good light transmission, and durable construction for outdoor conditions. Features such as a 2-7x or 3-9x magnification range, a 32mm to 40mm objective lens, and a rimfire-specific reticle can make a scope particularly useful for typical .22 hunting distances. Weight, eye relief, weather resistance, and mounting compatibility should also be considered to ensure the scope complements the rifle without making it unnecessarily bulky.

Best Scope for .22 Rifle Hunting

1. Vortex Crossfire II Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescopes

 

The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 SFP Riflescope is a versatile hunting scope that fits particularly well with .22 rifles used for small-game hunting and shooting at varying distances. Its 2-7x magnification range provides a broad field of view at lower power while giving the shooter additional magnification for more precise aiming at longer distances. The scope uses a Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticle, meaning the reticle maintains the same visual size when magnification is changed.

One of its most useful features for .22 rifle hunting is the Dead-Hold BDC MOA reticle. Its customized dot design is intended to reduce guesswork when estimating holdover and windage corrections. This can be particularly useful when hunting at different distances, where the trajectory of a .22 LR round requires the shooter to account for bullet drop. The reticle is well suited to situations where quick aiming and practical holdover references are important.

The scope provides long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, making it easier to obtain a clear sight picture quickly. This is valuable during hunting because the shooter may need to acquire a moving or partially concealed target without spending too much time positioning the eye perfectly behind the scope. The fast-focus eyepiece also allows the reticle to be adjusted quickly for a sharper appearance.

For image quality, the Crossfire II uses anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses designed to improve light transmission and provide bright, clear views. This can be beneficial during hunting in changing lighting conditions, particularly during the early morning or late afternoon when small-game hunters may encounter lower levels of available light.

The scope is also built to withstand demanding outdoor conditions. Its single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube provides strength and shockproof performance while maintaining a durable construction. The hard-anodized exterior helps protect the scope during regular field use. The tube is also O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, giving it waterproof and fogproof performance when exposed to rain, humidity, or changing temperatures.

Another useful feature is the resettable MOA turrets, which allow adjustments to be made for zeroing and then reset to the original reference position. This makes the scope more convenient when making sighting adjustments. Combined with the Dead-Hold BDC reticle, the turret system gives hunters practical tools for dealing with different shooting distances.

The Second Focal Plane configuration is another advantage for hunters who prefer a reticle that maintains a consistent appearance throughout the magnification range. Unlike a first focal plane reticle, the Dead-Hold BDC reticle does not increase or decrease visually as magnification changes. This gives the shooter a familiar aiming pattern at both 2x and 7x magnification.

The Crossfire II is also backed by Vortex’s VIP Warranty, an unlimited, unconditional and lifetime warranty. The warranty is transferable and covers repair or replacement if the product becomes damaged or defective, although it does not cover loss, theft, deliberate damage, or cosmetic damage that does not affect performance.

Specifications

• Model: Crossfire II 2-7×32 BDC (MOA)
• Model Number: CF2-31003
• Magnification: 2-7x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
• Tube Diameter: 1 inch
• Reticle: Dead-Hold BDC MOA
• Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
• Turrets: Resettable MOA turrets
• Lens Coating: Fully multi-coated
• Eyepiece: Fast-focus
• Eye Relief: Long eye relief
• Tube Construction: Single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum
• Waterproof: Yes
• Fogproof: Yes
• Shockproof: Yes
• Primary Uses: Hunting and shooting
• Warranty: Vortex VIP Warranty

Pros

• 2-7x magnification is versatile for .22 hunting
• Dead-Hold BDC reticle helps with holdover estimation
• Long eye relief improves shooting comfort
• Forgiving eye box makes target acquisition easier
• Fast-focus eyepiece allows quick reticle focusing
• Fully multi-coated lenses provide bright, clear views
• Durable aircraft-grade aluminum construction
• Waterproof and fogproof design
• Shockproof construction
• Resettable MOA turrets simplify zero adjustments
• SFP reticle maintains a consistent visual appearance
• Backed by a transferable lifetime VIP Warranty
• Suitable for both hunting and general shooting

Cons

• The 32 mm objective lens is relatively modest for very low-light conditions
• SFP reticle holdover references are calibrated around particular magnification conditions rather than being constant throughout the entire zoom range

2. Simmons Pro Rimfire 3-9x32mm Riflescope with .22 Drop Zone Reticle

The Simmons Pro Rimfire 3-9x32mm Riflescope with .22 Drop Zone Reticle is specifically designed for rimfire rifles, making it a practical option for .22 rifle hunting. Its 3-9x magnification range provides flexibility for short- and medium-range shooting, while the 32mm objective lens keeps the scope relatively compact and lightweight. The combination makes it suitable for hunters who want a dedicated rimfire optic rather than a scope designed primarily for larger centerfire rifles.

One of the scope’s most important features is its 50-yard rimfire-specific fixed parallax. Since .22 rifles are commonly used at relatively short distances, a parallax setting designed specifically around 50 yards can make target acquisition and aiming more dependable within typical rimfire hunting ranges. The Simmons .22 Drop Zone reticle is also designed specifically for .22 applications, providing aiming references intended to help hunters compensate for the trajectory of a rimfire cartridge.

The 3-9x optical system gives the shooter a useful range of magnification. At 3x, the scope offers a wider field of view that can be helpful when locating and tracking small game. Increasing the magnification toward 9x provides a more detailed view of distant targets and can help with more precise aiming. This flexibility makes the scope suitable for hunters who may encounter targets at different distances.

Simmons uses an all-glass optical system with fully coated lenses to provide crisp and clear images. The optical design is also intended to perform well in lower-light conditions. This can be useful during early-morning or late-afternoon hunting, when available light begins to decrease and a clear sight picture becomes increasingly important.

The scope is built for outdoor use with an IPX7 waterproof, fog-proof and shockproof construction. This weather-resistant design helps protect the internal components from rain, moisture and changing temperatures. The shockproof construction is also useful for a hunting scope that may experience recoil, transportation and the bumps associated with regular field use.

Another practical feature is the one-piece 1-inch aluminum main tube. The one-piece construction provides a solid housing for the optical components while keeping the scope compatible with common 1-inch mounting systems. Simmons also includes 1-inch aluminum Weaver-style rings, allowing the scope to be ready for compatible mounting setups straight out of the box.

Adjustment is designed to be straightforward. The scope features capped, finger-adjustable windage and elevation turrets, allowing the shooter to make adjustments without requiring specialized tools. The textured magnification ring also makes it easier to change power quickly, even when wearing gloves or when conditions are less than ideal.

The scope comes with lens covers, adding convenience for hunters who carry the rifle outdoors. When the scope is not being used, the covers help protect the lenses from dust, dirt and other debris. Overall, the combination of rimfire-specific features, practical magnification, weather resistance and included mounting accessories makes the Simmons Pro Rimfire a convenient option for .22 rifle hunting.

Specifications

• Model: Simmons Pro Rimfire Riflescope
• Magnification: 3-9x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 32mm
• Reticle: Simmons .22 Drop Zone
• Parallax: 50-yard rimfire-specific fixed parallax
• Optical System: All-glass
• Lens Coating: Fully coated
• Tube Diameter: 1 inch
• Tube Construction: One-piece aluminum
• Waterproof Rating: IPX7
• Fogproof: Yes
• Shockproof: Yes
• Windage Adjustment: Capped, finger-adjustable
• Elevation Adjustment: Capped, finger-adjustable
• Magnification Adjustment: Textured power-change ring
• Mounting Accessories: 1-inch aluminum Weaver-style rings included
• Lens Covers: Included
• Primary Application: Rimfire rifles and .22 hunting

Pros

• Designed specifically for rimfire rifles
• 50-yard fixed parallax suits typical .22 shooting distances
• .22 Drop Zone reticle is designed for rimfire applications
• Useful 3-9x magnification range
• 32mm objective keeps the scope relatively compact
• All-glass optical system provides clear images
• Fully coated lenses improve light transmission
• Designed to perform in lower-light conditions
• IPX7 waterproof construction
• Fog-proof and shockproof design
• Durable one-piece aluminum tube
• Capped finger-adjustable windage and elevation
• Textured magnification ring provides a secure grip
• 1-inch Weaver-style rings included
• Lens covers included

Cons

• Fixed 50-yard parallax is less flexible for shooters who regularly use the scope at substantially different distances
• 32mm objective lens may not gather as much light as larger hunting optics in very low-light conditions

3. Burris Hunting Durable Waterproof Droptine Riflescope with Ballistic Plex Reticle, 3-9x 40mm

 

The Burris Droptine 3-9x40mm Riflescope with Ballistic Plex Reticle is a versatile hunting scope that can be a strong choice for .22 rifle hunting. Its classic 3-9x40mm configuration provides a useful combination of magnification, optical performance, and manageable size. For hunters using a .22 at short to medium distances, the lower magnification provides a broad field of view, while 9x offers additional detail when a more precise sight picture is needed.

One of the main advantages of the Droptine is its classic hunting configuration. The 3-9x magnification range is versatile enough for different hunting situations, while the 40mm objective lens provides a good balance between light-gathering capability and overall scope size. This makes the scope practical for hunters who want an optic that remains relatively compact and easy to handle on a .22 rifle.

The Ballistic Plex reticle is designed to assist with precise shooting at varying distances. Its holdover points provide additional aiming references that can help hunters compensate for bullet drop when shooting beyond their primary zero distance. This can be particularly useful with a .22 rifle because rimfire ammunition has a relatively pronounced trajectory at longer distances.

The scope uses high-grade optical glass, precision-ground lenses, and Burris’s proprietary Hi-Lume multicoating to provide brightness and clarity. These optical features are intended to produce a sharp sight picture while improving performance in changing lighting conditions. For hunting, this can be useful when targets are encountered in shaded areas or during the earlier and later parts of the day.

The Droptine is also designed to be compact and lightweight, which is particularly beneficial when mounted on a smaller .22 rifle. A lighter scope can help maintain the rifle’s balance and make it easier to carry during extended hunting sessions. The 3-9x40mm dimensions provide a useful compromise between optical performance and portability.

For field adjustments, the scope incorporates a low-profile turret that can be adjusted with a finger. This design keeps the controls relatively unobtrusive while allowing the hunter to make necessary adjustments in the field. The integrated-eyepiece design also provides a secure grip for making adjustments, even when conditions are less than ideal.

Durability is another important characteristic. The shock-resistant outer tube is designed to withstand demanding field conditions and even heavy-recoiling calibers. Although a .22 rifle produces considerably less recoil than many centerfire hunting rifles, this additional durability provides confidence when the scope is exposed to transportation, bumps, and regular outdoor use.

The scope’s positive steel-on-steel adjustments are designed to provide repeatable accuracy. This is important when zeroing a rifle because the shooter wants adjustments to correspond consistently with changes in the point of impact. The separate eyepiece and power ring also accommodate flip-up lens caps, adding convenience and helping protect the lenses when the scope is not in use.

Specifications

• Brand: Burris
• Model: Droptine Riflescope
• Magnification: 3-9x
• Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm
• Reticle: Ballistic Plex
• Primary Application: Hunting and shooting
• Optical Glass: High-grade optical glass
• Lens Design: Precision-ground lenses
• Lens Coating: Burris Hi-Lume multicoating
• Turret: Low-profile, finger-adjustable
• Adjustment System: Positive steel-on-steel adjustments
• Tube Design: Durable, shock-resistant outer tube
• Eyepiece: Integrated-eyepiece design
• Power Ring: Separate power ring
• Lens Cap Compatibility: Flip-up lens caps
• Construction: Compact and lightweight hunting design

Pros

• Versatile 3-9x magnification range
• 40mm objective lens provides a useful balance of size and light gathering
• Ballistic Plex reticle provides holdover references
• Well suited to general hunting applications
• High-grade optical glass provides good clarity
• Precision-ground lenses enhance optical performance
• Hi-Lume multicoating improves brightness and clarity
• Compact and relatively lightweight
• Low-profile turret is convenient in the field
• Finger-adjustable controls simplify adjustments
• Positive steel-on-steel adjustments provide repeatability
• Shock-resistant construction provides good durability
• Suitable for a wide range of hunting rifles
• Flip-up lens caps can be accommodated

Cons

• 3x minimum magnification may be less suitable for very close-range shots than a 1-4x or 2-7x scope
• The 40mm objective is somewhat larger than the 32mm objectives commonly found on dedicated rimfire scopes

4. Vortex Diamondback 2-7X35 Rimfire Riflescope With V-Plex Reticle Dbk-Rim

5. Bushnell Banner Riflescope, Dusk & Dawn Hunting Riflescope

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Scope for .22 Rifle Hunting

1. Magnification Range

Magnification is one of the most important factors when choosing the Best Scope for .22 Rifle Hunting. A versatile range such as 2-7x or 3-9x is generally useful because it allows the hunter to use lower magnification when searching for or tracking nearby game and increase magnification when aiming at targets farther away. For typical .22 hunting distances, extremely high magnification is often unnecessary and can make the scope larger and heavier.

2. Objective Lens Size

The objective lens determines how much light can enter the scope and influences its overall size and weight. A 32mm, 33mm, or 35mm objective can provide a good balance for a lightweight .22 rifle, while a 40mm objective may provide additional light-gathering capability. When choosing a scope, consider when you normally hunt. If you frequently hunt during early morning or late afternoon, a larger objective may be advantageous, but it can also add bulk to the rifle.

3. Reticle Design

The reticle should provide a clear and practical aiming point for the type of .22 hunting you intend to do. Simple hunting reticles such as the V-Plex and Hunt-Plex are relatively uncluttered and can make it easier to concentrate on small targets. Rimfire-specific reticles, such as a .22 Drop Zone reticle, can provide additional aiming references for dealing with the bullet trajectory at different distances. A Dead-Hold BDC or Ballistic Plex design can also be useful when holdover becomes a consideration.

4. Parallax Setting

Parallax is particularly important with a .22 rifle because rimfires are commonly used at relatively short distances. A scope with a rimfire-specific 50-yard parallax setting can be advantageous for hunting around that distance because it is designed around a common .22 shooting range. Fixed-parallax scopes can be simple and convenient, while adjustable-parallax models provide greater flexibility when shooting at significantly different distances.

5. Optical Clarity and Lens Coatings

Clear optics are essential when hunting small game because the target may be difficult to distinguish against vegetation or in changing lighting conditions. Look for scopes with quality optical glass and fully multi-coated lenses, which can improve light transmission, contrast and image clarity. This is especially important during early morning and late afternoon hunting when available light is reduced. A clear image can also make precise shot placement easier.

6. Durability and Weather Resistance

A hunting scope needs to withstand outdoor conditions, including rain, humidity, dust, temperature changes and the occasional impact during transportation or field use. Features such as a single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube, shockproof construction, waterproof sealing and nitrogen or argon purging can improve durability. Even though a .22 produces relatively modest recoil compared with many centerfire rifles, a rugged scope is still valuable for reliable long-term field use.

7. Eye Relief and Ease of Target Acquisition

Good eye relief and a forgiving eye box can make it easier to obtain a clear sight picture quickly. This is particularly useful when hunting because targets may appear suddenly and the hunter may not have time to position their eye perfectly behind the scope. A fast-focus eyepiece can also make it easier to obtain a sharp reticle. When combined with a suitable field of view at low magnification, these features can make the scope more practical for tracking and acquiring small game.

8. Weight, Size and Mounting Compatibility

The scope should be appropriately sized for the .22 rifle on which it will be mounted. A compact and lightweight scope can preserve the rifle’s balance and make it more comfortable to carry during extended hunting sessions. A 1-inch tube is also useful because it is compatible with many commonly available mounting systems. Before purchasing, check the scope’s tube diameter, length, mounting requirements and included rings to ensure that it will fit the rifle properly without interfering with the action or other components.

Frequently Asked Questions On Best Scope for .22 Rifle Hunting

1. What magnification is best for a .22 rifle hunting scope?

A 2-7x or 3-9x magnification range is generally well suited to best scope for .22 rifle hunting. Lower magnification provides a wider field of view for locating and tracking nearby game, while higher magnification helps with more precise aiming at longer distances.

2. Is a 50-yard parallax setting good for a .22 rifle?

Yes. A 50-yard parallax setting can be particularly suitable for .22 rifles because many rimfire hunting and shooting applications take place around this distance. A rimfire-specific parallax setting can help provide a more dependable sight picture at typical .22 shooting ranges.

3. Should I choose a .22-specific reticle for hunting?

A .22-specific reticle can be beneficial, particularly if it includes holdover references designed around the trajectory of rimfire ammunition. However, a conventional hunting reticle such as a V-Plex or Hunt-Plex can also work well when you prefer a simple, uncluttered aiming point and normally shoot at relatively consistent distances.

Conclusion

Best Scope for .22 Rifle Hunting should combine clear optics, practical magnification, a suitable reticle, and dependable durability for reliable performance in the field. A 2-7x or 3-9x magnification range provides useful versatility for common rimfire hunting distances, while a 32mm to 40mm objective lens can balance light transmission with manageable size and weight. Hunters should also consider parallax, eye relief, reticle design, weather resistance, adjustment quality, and mounting compatibility before making a decision. Ultimately, the best choice is the scope that matches your typical hunting distances, lighting conditions, shooting style, and .22 rifle while providing a clear and dependable sight picture.