Finding the best scope for rossi rs22 can transform this affordable rimfire rifle into a precision shooting machine that punches well above its price point. The Rossi RS22 is a semi-automatic .22 LR rifle that has quickly gained popularity among budget-conscious shooters who refuse to compromise on reliability and accuracy. With its 18-inch barrel, lightweight synthetic stock, and impressive out-of-the-box accuracy, the RS22 represents exceptional value in the rimfire market.
What makes the Rossi RS22 particularly appealing is its versatility. Whether you’re introducing a young shooter to the fundamentals of marksmanship, controlling pests around your property, hunting small game like squirrels and rabbits, or simply enjoying an afternoon of plinking at the range, this rifle handles it all with ease. The RS22 features a 10-round detachable rotary magazine that feeds reliably, and the rifle’s blowback action cycles smoothly with everything from standard velocity to high-velocity ammunition. The factory fiber optic sights are decent, but mounting a quality scope truly unlocks this rifle’s potential.
The RS22 comes equipped with an 11mm dovetail rail machined into the receiver, which is the European standard for rimfire rifles. This means you’ll need scope rings that fit either 11mm dovetails or a rail adapter to convert to the more common 3/8″ Weaver/Picatinny system. The good news is that quality mounting solutions are readily available and affordable. When selecting a scope for your RS22, you want something that matches the rifle’s intended purpose: lightweight, durable, and appropriately magnified for .22 LR shooting distances.
Since the .22 Long Rifle cartridge is effective out to about 100-125 yards for most applications, you don’t need excessive magnification. A scope in the 3-9x or 4x range is ideal, providing enough power to see your target clearly without being overkill. You’ll also want to consider weight, as the RS22 is a lightweight rifle, and adding a heavy scope can throw off its balance. In this guide, I’ll introduce you to five excellent scope options that complement the Rossi RS22 perfectly, ranging from budget-friendly choices to premium optics that will serve you for decades.
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Name | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32mm Truplex Reticle | SureGrip rubber surfaces, TrueZero windage and elevation, QTA eyepiece | [Link] |
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BSA Sweet 22 3-9x40mm Side Focus | Side parallax adjustment, multi-coated optics, specially calibrated for .22 LR | [Link] |
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Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm Multi-X Reticle | Fast Focus eyepiece, Butler Creek flip-up caps, 1/4 MOA finger click adjustments | [Link] |
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Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rimfire | Second focal plane reticle, fully multi-coated lenses, lightweight design | [Link] |
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Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9x40mm BDC 150 | BDC 150 reticle for .22 LR, zero-reset turrets, optimized for rimfire | [Link] |
Let’s explore each of these scopes in detail so you can choose the perfect optic that matches your shooting style, budget, and the kind of accuracy you’re looking to achieve with your Rossi RS22.
1) Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32mm – Best Budget Scope for Rossi RS22
When you’re working with a budget-friendly rifle like the Rossi RS22, it makes perfect sense to pair it with an equally affordable scope that doesn’t sacrifice essential features. The Simmons .22 Mag series has been a staple in the rimfire community for years, and this 3-9x32mm model delivers everything you need for successful .22 shooting without unnecessary frills or inflated pricing. Simmons understands that not every shooter has hundreds of dollars to invest in optics, and they’ve crafted a scope that respects both your wallet and your shooting ambitions.
The 3-9x magnification range is absolutely ideal for the .22 Long Rifle cartridge and the Rossi RS22’s capabilities. At 3x, you maintain a wide field of view that’s perfect for tracking moving targets like squirrels darting through trees or for quick target acquisition during plinking sessions. Dial it up to 9x, and you have more than enough magnification to clearly see .22 caliber holes in paper targets at 50 yards or to place precise shots on small pests at the rifle’s maximum effective range. The 32mm objective lens strikes a nice balance between light gathering capability and keeping the scope compact and lightweight.
What I really appreciate about the Simmons .22 Mag is its practical design features. The SureGrip rubber surfaces on the eyepiece and magnification ring make adjustments easy even with cold or wet hands, which is crucial when you’re hunting in less-than-ideal conditions. The TrueZero windage and elevation adjustment system provides reliable, repeatable clicks that help you zero the rifle and maintain that zero through extended shooting sessions. The QTA (Quick Target Acquisition) eyepiece is designed for fast focusing, getting you on target quickly without fumbling with adjustments.
The Truplex reticle is a straightforward crosshair design with thicker outer posts that thin down at the center, making it easy to acquire targets quickly while still providing a fine aiming point for precision shots. The scope is nitrogen-purged to prevent internal fogging, and while it’s not built to military specifications, it’s more than durable enough to handle the minimal recoil of the .22 LR cartridge. At this price point, you’re getting a functional, reliable scope that will serve you well for years of casual shooting, hunting, and target practice. For shooters who want to keep their total investment low while still enjoying the benefits of magnified optics, the Simmons .22 Mag is tough to beat.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 32mm |
| Reticle Type | Truplex |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Adjustment | TrueZero windage/elevation |
| Eye Relief | 3.75 inches |
| Special Features | SureGrip surfaces, QTA eyepiece |
| Fog Proof | Nitrogen purged |
Pros
- Extremely affordable without sacrificing basic functionality
- Perfect magnification range for rimfire shooting
- SureGrip surfaces make adjustments easy in any conditions
- Lightweight design won’t weigh down your RS22
- Simple, effective Truplex reticle for fast target acquisition
Cons
- Glass clarity isn’t as crisp as premium scopes in challenging light
The Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32mm proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy accurate shooting with your Rossi RS22. This scope delivers solid performance at a price that leaves plenty of money in your budget for ammunition and range time. Check out the Simmons .22 Mag and discover why it’s been a favorite among rimfire shooters for years.
Check Price on Amazon2) BSA Sweet 22 3-9x40mm – Best Feature-Rich Scope for Rossi RS22
The BSA Sweet 22 series represents a significant step up in features and capabilities while maintaining a reasonable price point that won’t shock your wallet. BSA specifically designed this scope for .22 Long Rifle shooters, and it shows in every aspect of the design. The Sweet 22 has earned a loyal following among serious rimfire enthusiasts who appreciate having advanced features typically found on much more expensive scopes. This is the scope for shooters who want to maximize their Rossi RS22’s accuracy potential without compromising on functionality.
The standout feature of the BSA Sweet 22 is its side-mounted parallax adjustment, which is relatively rare on rimfire scopes in this price range. Parallax becomes significant when shooting at varying distances, and the ability to adjust it eliminates aiming errors that can cause misses on small targets. The adjustment ring is calibrated from 10 yards to infinity, which means you can eliminate parallax whether you’re shooting at close-range targets or reaching out to the RS22’s maximum effective range. This feature alone makes the Sweet 22 an excellent choice for precision target shooting.
The 3-9x magnification paired with a 40mm objective lens provides excellent light gathering capability, making this scope particularly well-suited for dawn and dusk hunting when small game is most active. The larger objective lens compared to 32mm scopes translates to a brighter image, especially at higher magnifications. BSA has applied multi-layer anti-reflective coatings to all air-to-glass surfaces, which improves light transmission and image clarity while reducing glare that can spook wary game animals.
Another thoughtful feature is the Sweet 22’s reticle, which is specifically calibrated for common .22 LR trajectories. The reticle includes holdover marks that correspond to specific distances when using standard-velocity ammunition, taking the guesswork out of longer shots. The scope’s finger-adjustable turrets click precisely in 1/4 MOA increments, making it easy to fine-tune your zero or compensate for wind and distance. The one-piece tube construction provides the strength needed to maintain zero shot after shot, and the scope is fully waterproof and fog-proof for all-weather reliability. At approximately 15 ounces, it’s slightly heavier than ultra-compact scopes, but that weight comes with enhanced features and build quality that serious shooters will appreciate.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Reticle Type | Sweet 22 (calibrated for .22 LR) |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Parallax Adjustment | Side focus, 10 yards to infinity |
| Click Value | 1/4 MOA |
| Weight | Approximately 15 ounces |
| Coating | Multi-coated optics |
Pros
- Side parallax adjustment eliminates aiming errors at all distances
- 40mm objective lens provides excellent light gathering
- Reticle specifically calibrated for .22 LR trajectories
- Multi-coated optics deliver clear, bright images
- Outstanding feature set for the price point
Cons
- Slightly heavier than ultra-lightweight rimfire scopes
The BSA Sweet 22 3-9x40mm gives you premium features without premium pricing, making it an excellent match for shooters who want to extract maximum accuracy from their Rossi RS22. This scope transforms your rifle into a precision instrument capable of impressive performance. Check out the BSA Sweet 22 and see why it’s considered one of the best values in rimfire optics.
Check Price on Amazon3) Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm – Best All-Purpose Scope for Rossi RS22
The Bushnell Trophy series has been a trusted name in hunting optics for decades, and this 3-9x40mm model brings that heritage to the rimfire world with impressive results. Bushnell has built their reputation on delivering reliable, well-built scopes that perform in the field season after season, and the Trophy line exemplifies these values. This is my top pick for all-purpose use on the Rossi RS22 because it strikes the perfect balance between optical quality, durability, features, and value that appeals to both hunters and target shooters alike.
The Trophy’s optical system features fully multi-coated lenses that maximize light transmission for bright, clear images even in low-light conditions. When you’re hunting squirrels in the early morning fog or tracking rabbits during that last precious light of evening, the Trophy delivers the image clarity you need to make accurate shots. The 40mm objective lens gathers plenty of light without making the scope unnecessarily bulky, and the optical quality is noticeably superior to budget-level scopes. Colors appear natural and true, and the resolution is sharp enough to clearly see small details on distant targets.
One feature I particularly appreciate is the Fast Focus eyepiece, which allows you to quickly adjust the reticle’s clarity to match your eye. This means faster target acquisition and less time fiddling with focus adjustments when you should be shooting. The Multi-X reticle is a classic design that works beautifully for both hunting and target shooting, with thick outer posts that draw your eye naturally to the center and a fine crosshair for precise aiming. The reticle remains visible against various backgrounds, whether you’re aiming at a brown squirrel against tree bark or a white paper target at the range.
Bushnell includes Butler Creek flip-up lens caps with the Trophy, which is a nice touch that protects your investment from scratches, dirt, and moisture when you’re carrying the rifle in the field. The scope’s one-piece tube construction ensures strength and reliability, and it’s completely waterproof and fog-proof for dependable performance in any weather. The finger-adjustable turrets click in precise 1/4 MOA increments with positive tactile feedback, making it easy to zero your RS22 and make adjustments as needed. At 14.5 ounces, the Trophy adds minimal weight to your rifle while providing the durability and optical performance that will serve you well for years of shooting adventures.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Reticle Type | Multi-X |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Eye Relief | 4 inches |
| Click Value | 1/4 MOA finger adjustments |
| Included | Butler Creek flip-up caps |
| Construction | Waterproof, fog-proof |
Pros
- Fully multi-coated lenses deliver excellent image quality
- Fast Focus eyepiece for quick target acquisition
- Includes quality Butler Creek lens caps
- Classic Multi-X reticle works great for hunting and targets
- Proven durability backed by Bushnell’s reputation
Cons
- Mid-tier pricing may stretch tight budgets
The Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm represents the sweet spot where quality, features, and value converge. This scope will enhance your Rossi RS22’s capabilities across every shooting application while providing reliability you can count on. Check out the Bushnell Trophy and experience why it’s been a favorite among hunters and shooters for generations.
Check Price on Amazon4) Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rimfire – Best Compact Scope for Rossi RS22
The Vortex Crossfire II in its 2-7x32mm rimfire configuration brings everything shooters love about the Vortex brand to a package perfectly sized for the Rossi RS22. Vortex has revolutionized the optics industry by offering outstanding quality and features backed by an industry-leading warranty, all at prices that compete with brands offering far less. This particular model is purpose-built for rimfire rifles, with a lower magnification range and compact dimensions that complement the RS22’s lightweight, quick-handling characteristics perfectly.
The 2-7x magnification range might seem modest compared to 3-9x scopes, but it’s actually ideal for how most shooters use their .22 rifles. Starting at 2x gives you an incredibly wide field of view that makes tracking moving targets almost effortless, whether you’re following a running rabbit or engaging multiple steel targets in rapid succession. At 7x, you still have plenty of magnification for precise shots at 75-100 yards, which covers the vast majority of practical rimfire shooting scenarios. The lower magnification also means a more forgiving eye box, so you can get on target quickly without hunting for the perfect head position.
The 32mm objective lens keeps the scope’s profile compact and its weight down to just 9.9 ounces, making it one of the lightest scopes on this list. This is particularly important on the already lightweight RS22, as it maintains the rifle’s quick-handling balance that makes rimfire shooting so enjoyable. The Vortex Crossfire II features fully multi-coated lenses with quality glass that delivers bright, clear images with excellent resolution. The V-Plex reticle is a proven design that’s easy to see against various backgrounds and provides a fine aiming point for precision shooting.
What really sets Vortex apart is their VIP Warranty, which is truly unlimited and unconditional. If anything happens to this scope, whether it’s a manufacturing defect or you accidentally back over it with your truck, Vortex will repair or replace it at no charge, no questions asked. This level of customer support is unmatched in the industry and provides tremendous peace of mind. The scope’s one-piece tube construction is robust and reliable, and it’s fully waterproof and fog-proof thanks to O-ring seals and nitrogen purging. The capped turrets provide precise 1/4 MOA click adjustments for zeroing, and they’re protected from accidental bumps that could throw off your zero in the field.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 2-7x |
| Objective Lens | 32mm |
| Reticle Type | V-Plex (second focal plane) |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Eye Relief | 4 inches |
| Click Value | 1/4 MOA |
| Weight | 9.9 ounces |
| Warranty | VIP Unlimited Lifetime |
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight design maintains rifle’s handling characteristics
- Lower magnification range perfect for realistic rimfire distances
- Fully multi-coated lenses deliver excellent image quality
- VIP Warranty provides unbeatable peace of mind
- Compact size complements the RS22’s profile beautifully
Cons
- 7x maximum magnification may feel limiting for long-range enthusiasts
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rimfire is the ideal choice for shooters who appreciate quality construction, thoughtful design, and the confidence that comes with an unbeatable warranty. This scope enhances your Rossi RS22 without overwhelming it. Check out the Vortex Crossfire II and discover why Vortex has become one of the most trusted names in optics.
Check Price on Amazon5) Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9x40mm BDC 150 – Best Premium Scope for Rossi RS22
The Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II represents the pinnacle of rimfire optics technology, bringing professional-grade features and optical quality to shooters who demand the absolute best from their equipment. While this scope commands a premium price compared to other options on this list, it delivers performance and capabilities that justify the investment for serious shooters who want to unlock every bit of accuracy potential in their Rossi RS22. Nikon has been manufacturing world-class optics for over a century, and that expertise shines through in every aspect of the ProStaff Rimfire II’s design.
The defining feature of this scope is the BDC 150 reticle, which stands for Bullet Drop Compensating out to 150 yards. This isn’t just a generic reticle slapped onto a rimfire scope; it’s been precisely engineered and calibrated specifically for .22 Long Rifle trajectories using common ammunition weights and velocities. The reticle features distinct aiming circles below the main crosshair that correspond to 50, 75, 100, 125, and 150-yard distances when you zero the rifle at 25 yards. This eliminates all the guesswork from holdover calculations and allows you to simply place the appropriate circle on your target and fire with confidence.
The optical quality of the ProStaff Rimfire II is in a different league compared to budget scopes. Nikon uses fully multi-coated lenses throughout the optical path, maximizing light transmission and delivering images that are incredibly bright, sharp, and high-contrast. The resolution is so good that you can easily see .22 caliber bullet holes in paper targets at 50 yards, and the color rendition is accurate and natural. The 40mm objective lens provides excellent light gathering for those critical dawn and dusk hunting hours when squirrels and rabbits are most active.
Nikon’s spring-loaded instant zero-reset turrets are another standout feature that makes the ProStaff Rimfire II a joy to use. After you’ve zeroed your rifle, simply pull up on the turret cap, rotate it to align the zero mark, and press it back down. Now you have a perfect reference point if you ever need to make adjustments for different ammunition or shooting conditions, and you can always return to your original zero with confidence. The turrets click precisely in 1/4 MOA increments with positive tactile and audible feedback. The scope is built on a one-piece aluminum tube that’s been O-ring sealed and nitrogen-purged for complete waterproof and fog-proof reliability. Backed by Nikon’s lifetime warranty, this is a scope that will outlast your RS22 and serve you faithfully across multiple rifles and countless shooting adventures.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Reticle Type | BDC 150 (ballistic) |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Eye Relief | 3.6 inches |
| Click Value | 1/4 MOA |
| Turrets | Spring-loaded zero-reset |
| Warranty | Lifetime Nikon warranty |
Pros
- BDC 150 reticle engineered specifically for .22 LR ballistics
- Exceptional optical quality with fully multi-coated lenses
- Zero-reset turrets are incredibly user-friendly and practical
- Professional-grade build quality and reliability
- Makes long-range rimfire shooting significantly easier
Cons
- Premium pricing requires a larger investment upfront
The Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9x40mm BDC 150 is the ultimate scope for shooters who refuse to compromise on quality and want the best possible optic for their Rossi RS22. This scope transforms an affordable rifle into a precision instrument. Check out the Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II and experience what true optical excellence can do for your shooting.
Check Price on AmazonConclusion
Selecting the best scope for your Rossi RS22 comes down to matching your shooting style, budget, and accuracy expectations with the right combination of features and optical quality. The RS22 is an excellent rimfire rifle that offers remarkable accuracy and reliability at an affordable price, and it absolutely deserves quality optics to maximize its potential. Whether you’re plinking in the backyard, hunting small game, controlling pests, or teaching a new shooter the fundamentals, the right scope makes every shooting session more enjoyable and successful.
For budget-conscious shooters who want solid performance without breaking the bank, the Simmons .22 Mag delivers everything you need at a price that won’t make you think twice. The BSA Sweet 22 brings advanced features like side parallax adjustment to shooters who want more precision capability without stepping up to premium prices. The Bushnell Trophy represents the sweet spot of quality, durability, and value, making it an excellent all-purpose choice that excels in any application. The Vortex Crossfire II offers a compact, lightweight package backed by the best warranty in the business, perfect for shooters who value peace of mind and quality construction.
For those willing to invest in premium optics, the Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II with its BDC 150 reticle provides professional-grade performance that transforms the RS22 into a legitimate precision rifle capable of impressive accuracy at extended ranges. Each scope on this list will mount securely to the RS22’s 11mm dovetail rail using appropriate rings and will withstand the minimal recoil of the .22 LR cartridge for years of reliable service.
Consider how you primarily use your rifle when making your decision. Close-range plinking and hunting in thick cover favors lower magnification and wide fields of view. Precision target shooting benefits from parallax adjustment and ballistic reticles. All-around use calls for versatile magnification ranges and proven reliability. Also think about whether you value lightweight compactness or prefer larger objective lenses for better light gathering. The Rossi RS22 is a remarkably capable rifle that rewards good shooting technique and quality optics. Choose the scope that best fits your needs and budget, and you’ll have a combination that delivers accuracy, reliability, and shooting enjoyment for decades to come.
See Also: 5 Best Quick Detach Scope Mounts
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