Finding the best 22 rimfire scope for the money can transform your plinking and small game hunting experience without emptying your wallet. The .22 Long Rifle cartridge has been America’s most popular rimfire round since its introduction by J. Stevens Arms & Tool Company back in 1887, and for good reason. This diminutive cartridge offers affordable shooting, minimal recoil, and surprising accuracy that makes it perfect for teaching new shooters, controlling pests, hunting squirrels and rabbits, and enjoying countless hours of target practice without breaking the bank on ammunition. With modern .22 LR ammo capable of impressive accuracy out to 100 yards and beyond, pairing your rimfire rifle with quality optics makes perfect sense.
The beauty of .22 rimfire rifles is their versatility and accessibility, but here’s something many shooters overlook: mounting a quality scope on your .22 can dramatically improve your accuracy and extend your effective range. Whether you’re shooting a classic Ruger 10/22, a precision oriented CZ 457, a budget friendly Savage MKII, or any other rimfire platform, the right scope amplifies your rifle’s capability. The minimal recoil of the .22 LR means even budget scopes can maintain zero reliably, making this one area where you don’t necessarily need to spend premium dollars to get excellent performance.
When shopping for rimfire scopes, there are specific considerations that differ from centerfire applications. Parallax adjustment becomes critical because rimfire shooting often involves targets at varying distances from 25 to 100 yards, where parallax error can significantly impact accuracy. Magnification needs are different too; while a .308 might want a 3-9x scope, a .22 rimfire benefits from higher magnification in the 3-12x or even 4-16x range to resolve small targets at distance. And because .22 ammo is so affordable, rimfire shooters tend to shoot more, making durability and value proposition equally important considerations.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through five exceptional scopes that deliver outstanding performance for .22 rimfire applications without demanding premium prices. Each represents excellent value, proven reliability, and features specifically useful for rimfire shooting. Let’s explore what makes these scopes stand out and help you find the perfect match for your rimfire rifle.
| Scope | Best For |
|---|---|
| Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 | Best Overall for 22 Rimfire |
| Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×40 AO | Best Value Adjustable Objective |
| Simmons .22 Mag 3-9×32 | Best Budget Option |
| BSA Sweet 22 3-9×40 | Best for Side Focus |
| Mueller APV 4.5-14×40 AO | Best High Magnification Value |
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Name | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 | BDC 150 reticle, adjustable objective, optimized for rimfire | Check Price |
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Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×40 AO | Fully multicoated lenses, adjustable objective, lifetime warranty | Check Price |
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Simmons .22 Mag 3-9×32 | TrueZero windage adjustment, compact design, incredibly affordable | Check Price |
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BSA Sweet 22 3-9×40 | Side parallax adjustment, multi-grain BDC, designed specifically for .22 | Check Price |
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Mueller APV 4.5-14×40 AO | High magnification, adjustable objective, target turrets | Check Price |
Whether you’re teaching your kids to shoot, competing in rimfire matches, hunting small game, or simply enjoying affordable trigger time, these five scopes represent the best value options for .22 rimfire applications. Each has been selected based on optical quality appropriate for rimfire distances, useful features like parallax adjustment, and most importantly, delivering excellent performance without requiring a premium investment.
1) Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 (Best Overall for 22 Rimfire)
The Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 stands as the gold standard for rimfire scopes that deliver premium features without the premium price tag. What sets this scope apart from generic optics is that Nikon specifically engineered it for .22 rimfire applications rather than simply downsizing a centerfire design. The BDC 150 reticle is calibrated for the trajectory of .22 LR ammunition, with holdover points designed for the rainbow arc that rimfire rounds follow at extended distances. This means you can zero at 50 yards and use the BDC marks for precise holdovers out to 150 yards without doing mental gymnastics or consulting ballistic charts.
The optical quality in the ProStaff Rimfire II is where Nikon’s decades of optical expertise really shine through. The fully multicoated lenses deliver bright, clear images with excellent color fidelity and contrast. Nikon’s proprietary lens coatings maximize light transmission, which becomes particularly valuable during early morning squirrel hunts or late evening plinking sessions when light conditions are less than ideal. The 40mm objective lens provides generous light gathering for a rimfire scope while keeping the overall package compact and lightweight. At 3x magnification, the field of view is wide enough for tracking moving targets like running rabbits, while 9x provides sufficient detail for precise shot placement on small targets at distance.
The adjustable objective is a critical feature for rimfire shooting that many budget scopes omit. Parallax error becomes significant when shooting at the varying distances typical of rimfire use, and the ProStaff’s adjustable objective allows you to dial out parallax from 50 feet to infinity. This ensures your point of aim matches your point of impact regardless of target distance, which is crucial when you’re trying to nail squirrels at 75 yards or hit one-inch targets at 50 yards. The adjustment ring is smooth and marked with distance indicators, making it easy to set correctly for your target distance.
Construction quality reflects Nikon’s commitment to producing reliable optics at accessible prices. The scope body is one piece aluminum construction with a matte black finish that resists scratches and wear. It’s waterproof, fogproof, and nitrogen purged to prevent internal moisture issues. The turrets provide quarter MOA adjustments with positive clicks you can both hear and feel, and they’re finger adjustable without requiring tools or coins. At just 13.4 ounces, the ProStaff won’t weigh down even the lightest rimfire rifles. Nikon backs this scope with their limited lifetime warranty, giving you confidence in your investment. For rimfire shooters who want a purpose built scope with features that matter, optical quality that impresses, and reliability that lasts, the ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 delivers exceptional value that’s tough to beat at any price point.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.6 inches |
| Weight | 13.4 oz |
| Length | 12 inches |
| Adjustment | 1/4 MOA click adjustments |
| Reticle | BDC 150 |
| Parallax Adjustment | 50 feet to infinity |
Pros
- BDC 150 reticle specifically designed for .22 LR trajectory
- Excellent optical quality with Nikon’s premium lens coatings
- Adjustable objective eliminates parallax at rimfire distances
- Purpose built for rimfire rather than adapted from centerfire design
- Lightweight construction won’t weigh down your rifle
- Generous eye relief comfortable for extended shooting
- Nikon’s limited lifetime warranty provides long term protection
Cons
- Discontinued model may be harder to find in stock
Ready to unlock your rimfire rifle’s full potential? The Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 delivers purpose-built performance with features specifically designed for .22 shooting. This is the scope that serious rimfire shooters trust for everything from competition to small game hunting.
Check Price on Amazon2) Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×40 AO (Best Value Adjustable Objective)
The Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×40 AO proves that you can get exceptional optical performance and useful features at a price point that won’t make you think twice. Vortex has built an impressive reputation over the past two decades by offering quality optics with features typically found on more expensive scopes, all backed by the best warranty in the optics industry. The 4-12x magnification range is ideally suited for rimfire applications, starting at a useful 4x for closer shots while extending to 12x for resolving small targets at 100 yards or making precise shots on distant prairie dogs and ground squirrels. This magnification range gives you more top-end power than traditional 3-9x scopes, which becomes valuable when you’re trying to hit two-inch targets at extended rimfire distances.
The optical system in the Crossfire II punches well above its price point. Vortex uses fully multicoated lenses on all air-to-glass surfaces, maximizing light transmission and delivering bright, clear images throughout the magnification range. The glass quality is impressive for a budget-oriented scope, with good edge-to-edge clarity and minimal chromatic aberration. Colors appear natural and contrast is excellent, making it easy to distinguish your target against varied backgrounds. The 40mm objective provides good light gathering capability without adding unnecessary bulk or weight to your rimfire rifle. Whether you’re shooting paper targets at the range or hunting squirrels in the woods, the Crossfire II delivers the optical clarity you need to place precise shots.
The adjustable objective marked from 10 yards to infinity is particularly valuable for rimfire shooting. Unlike scopes with fixed parallax settings, the Crossfire II allows you to eliminate parallax error at any distance from very close plinking to maximum effective range. This adjustability is crucial when you’re shooting at the varying distances typical of rimfire use, whether that’s 25-yard targets, 50-yard zeroing, or 100-yard precision work. The AO ring turns smoothly and is clearly marked, making it easy to set correctly. Proper parallax adjustment ensures your point of aim matches your point of impact, which directly translates to better accuracy and tighter groups.
What really separates Vortex from the competition is their VIP warranty—an unlimited, unconditional lifetime warranty that covers any damage for any reason, no questions asked. You break it, they fix it or replace it, period. This warranty is fully transferable too, so it stays with the scope even if you sell it. The Crossfire II features a durable one-piece tube construction, nitrogen purged internals for fogproofing, and complete waterproofing. The turrets provide quarter MOA adjustments with positive clicks, and they’re capped to prevent accidental adjustment in the field. At 15.9 ounces, it’s reasonably lightweight for a 4-12x scope. For rimfire shooters who want higher magnification capability, excellent optical quality, and the peace of mind that comes with Vortex’s legendary warranty, the Crossfire II 4-12×40 AO represents outstanding value that’s tough to match.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 4-12x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.1-4 inches |
| Weight | 15.9 oz |
| Length | 12.5 inches |
| Adjustment | 1/4 MOA click adjustments |
| Reticle | Dead-Hold BDC or V-Plex |
| Parallax Adjustment | 10 yards to infinity |
Pros
- Higher magnification range perfect for precision rimfire work
- Fully multicoated lenses deliver impressive optical clarity
- Adjustable objective eliminates parallax from 10 yards to infinity
- Vortex VIP unlimited lifetime warranty covers absolutely everything
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle option provides holdover reference points
- Solid construction handles rimfire use reliably
- Excellent value delivers premium features at budget price
Cons
- Slightly heavier than lower magnification options
Want premium features without the premium price? The Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×40 AO delivers exceptional optical performance and useful magnification range backed by the industry’s best warranty. This scope proves you don’t need to spend big to get serious rimfire capability.
Check Price on Amazon3) Simmons .22 Mag 3-9×32 (Best Budget Option)
The Simmons .22 Mag 3-9×32 proves that you can mount quality optics on your rimfire rifle without spending more than a couple boxes of match ammunition. Simmons has been producing affordable optics since 1983, and while they don’t claim to compete with premium German glass, they’ve mastered the art of delivering functional, reliable scopes at prices that make sense for casual shooters and budget-conscious enthusiasts. The 3-9x magnification range is the classic do-everything combination that’s served American shooters well for generations, providing adequate magnification for any reasonable rimfire application from backyard plinking to small game hunting at typical distances.
The 32mm objective lens is smaller than the 40mm objectives found on many competitors, but this actually works in your favor for a rimfire application. The compact objective keeps the scope lightweight and allows you to mount it lower on your rifle, which can improve cheek weld and shooting comfort. The optical quality is honest for the price—you’re getting clear, usable glass that’s fully coated to improve light transmission. Will it match the edge-to-edge sharpness and color fidelity of scopes costing three times as much? No, but it delivers perfectly adequate optical performance for knocking tin cans off fence posts or filling your game bag with squirrels and rabbits. The image is clear enough to see what you’re aiming at, which is ultimately what matters for practical rimfire shooting.
One clever feature Simmons includes is their TrueZero windage adjustment system, which uses a spring loaded adjustment mechanism designed to keep your windage setting locked in place even under recoil. While .22 LR doesn’t generate meaningful recoil, this system ensures your zero stays put through countless shots and the inevitable bumps and knocks that happen when you’re carrying a rifle around in the field or tossing it in the truck. The elevation and windage adjustments are made in quarter MOA clicks that are distinct enough to count, though not as crisp as more expensive scopes. For zeroing and occasional adjustments, they work perfectly fine.
The Simmons .22 Mag is built to a price point, and that means making smart compromises. The scope body is aluminum with a matte finish, and while it’s not built to military specifications, it’s waterproof and shockproof enough for typical rimfire use. The scope comes with included rings, which is a nice touch that lets you mount it immediately without additional purchases. At 8.7 ounces, it’s wonderfully lightweight and won’t make your rifle feel front heavy. The eye relief is generous, and the fast focus eyepiece lets you dial in a sharp reticle. This is the scope you buy when you want to significantly improve your rimfire rifle’s capability without spending significant money. It’s perfect for youth rifles, budget builds, truck guns, or any situation where you want functional magnification without worrying about banging up expensive optics. The Simmons .22 Mag delivers honest performance at an honest price, which is exactly what many rimfire shooters need.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 32mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.75 inches |
| Weight | 8.7 oz |
| Length | 11.6 inches |
| Adjustment | 1/4 MOA click adjustments |
| Reticle | TruPlex |
| Included | Rings included |
Pros
- Incredibly affordable price point makes quality optics accessible
- TrueZero windage system maintains zero reliably
- Lightweight 32mm objective keeps rifle balanced and easy to handle
- Scope rings included saves additional expense
- Generous eye relief comfortable for all shooters
- Simple, effective reticle works well for rimfire distances
- Compact size perfect for youth rifles and budget builds
Cons
- Basic optical quality adequate but not exceptional compared to premium scopes
Looking to mount quality optics on your .22 without spending big? The Simmons .22 Mag 3-9×32 delivers functional performance at a price that makes sense for casual shooters and budget builds. This scope proves you can significantly upgrade your rimfire rifle’s capability for less than a tank of gas.
Check Price on Amazon4) BSA Sweet 22 3-9×40 (Best for Side Focus)
The BSA Sweet 22 3-9×40 brings a feature typically found on expensive target scopes to the rimfire world at an accessible price: side parallax adjustment. If you’ve ever struggled to adjust parallax using an awkward objective bell adjustment while trying to maintain your shooting position, you’ll immediately appreciate the convenience of side focus. This design allows you to eliminate parallax error without breaking your cheek weld or compromising your shooting position, which becomes particularly valuable during competitive shooting or when you’re settling in on game and don’t want to disturb your setup. BSA specifically designed the Sweet 22 line for rimfire applications, and it shows in the thoughtful features and calibration.
The multi-grain BDC reticle is one of the Sweet 22’s standout features. Unlike generic duplex reticles, the BDC provides holdover reference points specifically calculated for common .22 LR loads including 36-grain, 38-grain, and 40-grain ammunition. If you shoot different types of .22 ammo—maybe standard velocity for practice and high velocity for hunting—the multi-grain BDC gives you accurate holdover points for each. The reticle also includes ranging brackets based on typical rimfire target sizes, allowing you to estimate distance and make corrections without fancy rangefinders or laser technology. This is practical, useful information built right into your sight picture.
The optical quality in the Sweet 22 reflects BSA’s European heritage and decades of optics manufacturing experience. The fully coated lenses deliver good light transmission and clarity, producing bright images with acceptable sharpness across the magnification range. The 40mm objective provides solid light gathering capability for dawn and dusk shooting when squirrels and rabbits are most active. At 3x, you get a wide field of view for locating targets and tracking movement, while 9x provides sufficient magnification for precise aiming at extended distances. The image quality won’t wow you like premium optics, but it’s entirely adequate for any practical rimfire application and notably better than the absolute budget options.
Construction features a one-piece aluminum tube with matte finish, and the scope is both waterproof and shockproof for reliable field use. The finger-adjustable turrets provide quarter MOA adjustments with audible clicks, and the elevation turret includes a reset feature for easy zeroing. The side focus adjustment ranges from 10 yards to infinity, covering every reasonable rimfire shooting distance. At 16.4 ounces, the Sweet 22 is on the heavier side for a 3-9x scope, but that weight includes the side focus mechanism and robust construction. BSA backs their optics with a limited lifetime warranty. For rimfire shooters who want the convenience of side parallax adjustment, a purpose-built BDC reticle, and solid performance at a fair price, the BSA Sweet 22 3-9×40 delivers features that punch above its price point. It’s particularly popular among rimfire competitors and serious squirrel hunters who appreciate the practical advantages side focus provides.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Eye Relief | 3-4 inches |
| Weight | 16.4 oz |
| Length | 12.5 inches |
| Adjustment | 1/4 MOA click adjustments |
| Reticle | Multi-grain BDC |
| Parallax Adjustment | Side focus 10 yards to infinity |
Pros
- Side parallax adjustment allows adjustments without breaking shooting position
- Multi-grain BDC reticle calibrated for different .22 LR loads
- Purpose-built specifically for rimfire applications
- 40mm objective provides good light gathering for low light shooting
- Ranging brackets help estimate distance in the field
- Fully coated optics deliver solid image quality
- Limited lifetime warranty provides long term coverage
Cons
- Heavier than some competing 3-9x scopes due to side focus mechanism
Want the convenience of side focus on your rimfire rifle? The BSA Sweet 22 3-9×40 brings this premium feature to the .22 world at an accessible price, combined with a smart BDC reticle designed specifically for rimfire trajectories. This scope delivers features that serious rimfire shooters appreciate without demanding a serious investment.
Check Price on Amazon5) Mueller APV 4.5-14×40 AO (Best High Magnification Value)
The Mueller APV 4.5-14×40 AO takes rimfire magnification into serious precision territory with its 14x top end, making it perfect for competitive rimfire shooters, varmint hunters, and anyone who wants to explore the accuracy potential of their .22 rifle at extended distances. Mueller Optics might not have the brand recognition of Leupold or Vortex, but they’ve built a loyal following among precision rimfire shooters who appreciate the company’s focus on delivering high magnification, useful features, and target-grade performance at prices that won’t require taking out a second mortgage. The 4.5-14x magnification range is substantial for a rimfire scope, but when you’re shooting one-inch groups at 100 yards or trying to hit prairie dogs at 150 yards, that extra magnification helps you resolve fine details and make precise wind calls.
The optical system in the APV delivers surprisingly good performance for the price point. Mueller uses fully multi-coated lenses that provide good light transmission and produce clear, bright images across the magnification range. The glass quality is respectable, with decent edge-to-edge sharpness and minimal chromatic aberration. You’ll notice more color fringing and softness at the edges compared to premium optics, but the center portion of the image where you’re actually aiming is clear and sharp. The 40mm objective is appropriately sized for this magnification range, providing sufficient light gathering without creating a massive, heavy scope that overwhelms your rimfire rifle. For daylight shooting, which covers the vast majority of rimfire applications, the APV provides the optical quality you need to place precise shots.
The adjustable objective is calibrated from 10 yards to infinity, giving you full parallax adjustment across any distance you’ll shoot a .22. This is particularly important at high magnifications where parallax error becomes more pronounced and can significantly impact accuracy. Being able to dial out parallax ensures your crosshair stays perfectly aligned with your target regardless of minor head position changes, which is crucial for consistency in competition or when you’re pushing your rimfire rifle’s accuracy envelope. The AO adjustment ring is clearly marked and turns smoothly with positive detents at common distances.
What makes the Mueller APV particularly attractive for serious rimfire shooters is the target-style turrets. These exposed turrets feature precise quarter MOA clicks that are audible and tactile, allowing you to make accurate adjustments for different distances or environmental conditions. The turrets can be reset to zero after initial sighting in, and finger adjustable design means you can dial corrections quickly without tools. This makes the APV ideal for rimfire competitions where you might engage targets at multiple distances, or for prairie dog hunting where you’re making frequent range adjustments. The scope features a one-inch tube, which limits internal adjustment range compared to 30mm tubes, but for rimfire applications where you’re not dialing massive elevation changes, it’s perfectly adequate. At around 18 ounces, the Mueller APV is the heaviest scope on this list, but that weight buys you high magnification and target features. For rimfire precision enthusiasts who want serious magnification and competitive-style features without competitive-level prices, the Mueller APV 4.5-14×40 AO delivers impressive capability and value.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 4.5-14x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 18 oz |
| Length | 13 inches |
| Adjustment | 1/4 MOA target turrets |
| Reticle | Fine crosshair with dot |
| Parallax Adjustment | 10 yards to infinity |
Pros
- High 14x magnification perfect for precision rimfire shooting
- Target-style turrets with quarter MOA clicks for accurate adjustments
- Adjustable objective eliminates parallax across all rimfire distances
- Reset-able turrets convenient for competition and multi-distance shooting
- Fully multi-coated lenses deliver good optical performance
- Fine crosshair reticle ideal for precise aiming on small targets
- Excellent value for high magnification with target features
Cons
- Heavier and longer than lower magnification rimfire scopes
Ready to push your rimfire accuracy to the next level? The Mueller APV 4.5-14×40 AO delivers high magnification and target-grade features that let you fully explore your .22 rifle’s precision potential. This scope brings competitive capabilities to your rimfire setup at a price that won’t make you hesitate.
Check Price on AmazonConclusion
Choosing the best .22 rimfire scope for the money comes down to matching features and performance to your specific shooting needs and budget. The rimfire platform offers unique advantages—minimal recoil, affordable ammunition, and surprising accuracy—that make it perfect for high-volume shooting, skills development, and pure enjoyment. Pairing your .22 rifle with an appropriate scope amplifies these advantages, extending your effective range and improving precision without the significant investment required for centerfire optics. Each scope we’ve covered delivers excellent value in different ways, from purpose-built rimfire designs to high magnification options for precision work.
The Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II represents the gold standard for purpose-built rimfire scopes, with its BDC 150 reticle specifically calibrated for .22 LR trajectory and features optimized for typical rimfire shooting distances. The Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×40 AO brings higher magnification capability and Vortex’s legendary VIP warranty, making it ideal for shooters who want more top-end power and absolute peace of mind. For budget-conscious shooters, the Simmons .22 Mag 3-9×32 proves you can mount quality optics for less than the cost of a few boxes of ammunition, while the BSA Sweet 22 3-9×40 brings the convenience of side parallax adjustment typically found only on expensive scopes.
If you’re serious about precision rimfire shooting or competition, the Mueller APV 4.5-14×40 AO provides high magnification and target-grade features at a fraction of what you’d pay for similar capability from premium brands. The exposed turrets and fine reticle make it perfect for dialing adjustments and pushing your accuracy to the maximum. Whether you’re teaching your kids to shoot, competing in rimfire matches, hunting small game, or simply enjoying affordable trigger time, these scopes deliver the optical quality, useful features, and reliability you need without demanding premium prices.
The beauty of rimfire optics is that the minimal recoil allows even budget scopes to maintain zero reliably, meaning you can get excellent performance without spending what you’d invest in centerfire glass. Consider how you’ll use your .22 rifle most often, decide which features matter most for your shooting style, and choose the scope that best balances performance and value for your needs. Any of these five options will significantly enhance your rimfire shooting experience and help you make the most of this versatile, economical platform. Mount quality glass on your .22, and you’ll discover accuracy and capability you didn’t know your rifle possessed.
See Also: 5 Best Scopes for 28 Nosler
Richard Brown is a long-range shooting enthusiast and competitive shooter with extensive experience in scopes across multiple disciplines. He hunts regularly across the Midwest and has built his expertise through years of hands-on testing in both competitive shooting and hunting. Richard also instructs youth rifle shooting, which has given him perspective on scopes at every price point and skill level. He combines technical knowledge with practical field experience to provide honest reviews – contact me