The best power scopes for a 22 250 need to complement one of the most versatile and impressive varmint cartridges ever developed. The .22-250 Remington, which gained commercial status in 1965 after decades as a popular wildcat cartridge, delivers blistering velocities that can push a 55-grain bullet at over 3,680 feet per second. This incredible speed makes it absolutely devastating on prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and coyotes while maintaining pinpoint accuracy at extended ranges.
Originally developed by wildcatters in the 1930s by necking down the .250 Savage case to accept .224-caliber bullets, the .22-250 quickly earned a reputation among varmint hunters and competitive shooters. The cartridge’s exceptional flat trajectory and minimal wind drift make it ideal for those long shots across open country where varmints typically present themselves. With proper ammunition, the .22-250 can maintain sub-MOA accuracy well beyond 300 yards, making it a favorite for both ranch work and precision varmint hunting.
However, the .22-250’s high velocity comes with unique optical requirements. The flat trajectory means you need scopes with sufficient magnification to clearly identify small targets at distance, while the cartridge’s inherent accuracy demands optics that won’t limit your rifle’s precision potential. Additionally, the moderate recoil makes it comfortable to shoot with higher magnification scopes that might be punishing on harder-kicking cartridges.
Power scopes for the .22-250 typically range from 4-16x up to 6-24x or higher, providing the magnification needed for precise varmint work while maintaining enough field of view for quick target acquisition. Whether you’re clearing prairie dogs from a ranch, calling coyotes in predator-rich areas, or competing in precision rifle matches, your scope choice directly impacts your success. The five power scopes we’ve selected represent the best options for maximizing your .22-250’s incredible potential across various applications and budgets.
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Name | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm | First focal plane, exposed turrets, side focus parallax | Check Price |
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Leupold VX-3i LRP 4.5-14x50mm | Long range precision, target turrets, side focus | Check Price |
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Primary Arms GLx 4-16x50mm FFP | First focal plane, ACSS reticle, Japanese glass | Check Price |
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Athlon Ares BTR Gen 2 4.5-27x50mm | Extreme magnification range, HD glass, zero stop | Check Price |
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Bushnell Elite Tactical DMR II 3.5-21x50mm | Tactical features, Deploy MOA reticle, side focus | Check Price |
The following five power scopes represent carefully selected options that excel with the .22-250 Remington. Each scope has been chosen for its ability to handle the precision demands of varmint hunting while providing the magnification range needed to exploit this cartridge’s exceptional long-range capabilities.
1) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm (Best Overall Power Scope for 22 250)
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm stands as the ultimate precision instrument for serious .22-250 shooters who demand professional-grade performance without breaking the bank. This scope transforms your .22-250 into a true long-range varmint rifle, offering the magnification range and tracking precision necessary to exploit every bit of the cartridge’s impressive ballistic potential. With its 5x magnification ratio, you get incredible versatility from close-range coyote calling to extreme-distance prairie dog work.
What immediately sets this scope apart is the first focal plane reticle system, a feature typically reserved for much more expensive optics. Unlike traditional second focal plane scopes where subtensions only remain accurate at maximum magnification, the FFP design keeps all reticle measurements true at any power setting. This proves invaluable when making quick range estimations or holdover calculations at varying magnifications during fast-paced varmint hunting scenarios.
The EBR-4 MOA reticle transforms this scope into a ballistic computer, providing precise holdover points and wind correction marks that work perfectly with the .22-250’s flat trajectory. The Christmas tree-style lower portion offers multiple aiming points for various distances, while the clean upper portion maintains an uncluttered sight picture for precision work. This reticle design allows you to engage multiple targets at different ranges without touching the turrets.
Optical performance matches the scope’s tactical heritage. The 50mm objective lens provides excellent light transmission for early morning and late evening shooting sessions when varmints are most active. Vortex’s XD lens elements deliver exceptional clarity and color fidelity across the entire magnification range, while the fully multi-coated optics ensure maximum light transmission and contrast.
The exposed turrets represent where this scope truly shines for precision shooting. Each 1/4 MOA click is positive and audible, providing the tactile feedback necessary for confident adjustments even with gloved hands during cold-weather hunting. The turrets track flawlessly and return to zero consistently, building the confidence essential for long-range success. Zero-stop functionality prevents accidental over-adjustment below your zero point.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 5-25x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Weight | 28.8 oz |
| Length | 16 inches |
| Eye Relief | 3.8 inches |
| Field of View | 21-4.4 feet at 100 yards |
| Turret Style | Exposed tactical with zero-stop |
| Reticle | EBR-4 MOA First Focal Plane |
Pros
- First focal plane reticle accurate at all magnifications
- Exceptional 5x magnification ratio for versatility
- Zero-stop turrets prevent confusion
- Outstanding optical clarity and resolution
- Tactical-grade tracking and repeatability
- Vortex VIP lifetime warranty
Cons
- Heavier weight may not suit all hunting situations
When you’re serious about pushing your .22-250 to its maximum potential and want a scope that delivers professional results without the professional price tag, the Viper PST Gen II represents the perfect balance of features, performance, and value that will serve you faithfully for years of varmint hunting adventures.
Check Price on Amazon2) Leupold VX-3i LRP 4.5-14x50mm (Best American Made Power Scope for 22 250)
The Leupold VX-3i LRP 4.5-14x50mm brings legendary American craftsmanship and proven field reliability to .22-250 shooters who demand precision without compromise. Leupold’s Long Range Precision series was specifically designed for shooters who need tactical-grade features in a hunting-weight package, making it an ideal match for the .22-250’s versatile performance envelope. This scope delivers the perfect magnification range for most varmint hunting scenarios while maintaining the lightweight construction that makes all-day shooting comfortable.
Built in Leupold’s Oregon facility using time-tested manufacturing processes, this scope represents over seven decades of American optical excellence. The Twilight Max Light Management System maximizes available light during those critical dawn and dusk periods when coyotes and other varmints are most active. Leupold’s proprietary lens coatings provide exceptional light transmission while virtually eliminating glare and internal reflections that can compromise your sight picture.
The target-style turrets set this scope apart from traditional hunting optics. These exposed turrets provide precise 1/4 MOA adjustments with positive, audible clicks that you can feel even with heavy gloves. The turrets are finger-adjustable yet lockable to prevent accidental movement during transport or field use. Each turret features clear, easy-to-read markings that remain visible in all lighting conditions, essential for making quick adjustments during fast-paced varmint encounters.
Side focus parallax adjustment ranges from 50 yards to infinity, ensuring perfect image clarity at any distance your .22-250 can effectively reach. This feature proves particularly valuable when switching between close-range coyote work and long-distance prairie dog shooting, allowing you to maintain sharp focus regardless of target distance. The parallax adjustment operates smoothly and locks firmly in position.
The 4.5-14x magnification range proves ideal for .22-250 applications. The lower end provides adequate field of view for scanning and target acquisition, while 14x offers sufficient magnification for precise shot placement on small varmints at extended ranges. The 50mm objective lens balances light-gathering capability with reasonable scope dimensions and weight.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 4.5-14x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Weight | 20.1 oz |
| Length | 13.6 inches |
| Eye Relief | 4.4 inches |
| Field of View | 23.3-7.4 feet at 100 yards |
| Turret Style | Target turrets with 1/4 MOA clicks |
| Made In | USA with lifetime warranty |
Pros
- American-made quality and craftsmanship
- Target turrets provide precise adjustments
- Twilight Max light management system
- Perfect magnification range for varmint hunting
- Side focus parallax adjustment
- Proven Leupold reliability and warranty
Cons
- Limited magnification range compared to some competitors
For shooters who value American manufacturing excellence and want a scope that perfectly complements their .22-250’s capabilities, the VX-3i LRP delivers time-tested reliability with the precision features needed for serious varmint work. This scope represents an investment in quality that will serve multiple rifle generations.
Check Price on Amazon3) Primary Arms GLx 4-16x50mm FFP (Best Value Power Scope for 22 250)
The Primary Arms GLx 4-16x50mm FFP delivers exceptional value for .22-250 shooters who want first focal plane precision without the premium price tag typically associated with such advanced features. This scope proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get professional-grade optics that can fully exploit your rifle’s potential. Built with Japanese glass and featuring Primary Arms’ innovative ACSS reticle system, this scope punches well above its weight class in both performance and features.
What makes this scope truly special is the ACSS (Advanced Combined Sighting System) reticle, which was specifically designed to simplify long-range shooting for both experienced marksmen and newcomers alike. The ACSS reticle provides automatic range estimation, bullet drop compensation, and wind drift correction all in one intuitive system. For .22-250 shooters, this means you can quickly determine range to target and apply the correct holdover without complex calculations or memorized drop charts.
The first focal plane design ensures that all ACSS reticle features remain accurate regardless of magnification setting. This proves particularly valuable during dynamic varmint hunting when you might need to quickly adjust magnification between shots. Whether you’re shooting at 4x for close coyotes or cranked up to 16x for distant prairie dogs, the reticle subtensions maintain their accuracy.
Japanese glass construction delivers optical performance that rivals scopes costing significantly more. The fully multi-coated lenses provide excellent light transmission and color fidelity, while the 50mm objective lens ensures adequate light gathering for low-light shooting situations. Edge-to-edge sharpness remains consistent across the entire magnification range, providing the clear sight picture essential for precision varmint work.
The capped turrets strike an excellent balance between precision and field practicality. While not as quick to adjust as exposed tactical turrets, they provide reliable tracking and protection from accidental movement during transport. The turrets offer precise 1/4 MOA clicks with positive feedback, and the scope tracks consistently shot after shot.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 4-16x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Weight | 24.7 oz |
| Length | 14.1 inches |
| Eye Relief | 4 inches |
| Field of View | 25.3-6.3 feet at 100 yards |
| Reticle | ACSS First Focal Plane |
| Glass Origin | Japanese |
Pros
- Innovative ACSS reticle simplifies long-range shooting
- First focal plane design at exceptional value price
- Japanese glass provides excellent optical quality
- Perfect magnification range for most varmint applications
- Reliable tracking and consistent performance
- Outstanding warranty and customer support
Cons
- Capped turrets not as quick to adjust as exposed versions
The Primary Arms GLx represents incredible value for shooters who want advanced features without the premium price. The ACSS reticle system alone makes this scope worth serious consideration, as it can significantly improve your long-range success rate while simplifying the shooting process.
Check Price on Amazon4) Athlon Ares BTR Gen 2 4.5-27x50mm (Best High Magnification Power Scope for 22 250)
The Athlon Ares BTR Gen 2 4.5-27x50mm offers extreme magnification capability that transforms your .22-250 into an ultra-precision varmint rifle capable of engaging the smallest targets at impressive distances. With its massive 6x magnification ratio and 27x maximum power, this scope provides the optical reach necessary for extreme-range prairie dog work or competitive precision shooting where every detail matters. This represents the cutting edge of what’s possible in long-range varmint optics.
The 27x maximum magnification opens up shooting possibilities that simply aren’t practical with lower-powered scopes. Prairie dogs that appear as tiny dots at 400 yards become clearly visible targets, while ground squirrels at 300 yards fill enough of your field of view for precise shot placement. This extreme magnification capability perfectly complements the .22-250’s inherent accuracy and flat trajectory, allowing you to exploit every bit of the cartridge’s precision potential.
HD glass construction throughout the optical system delivers the clarity and resolution necessary to make the high magnification usable rather than just impressive on paper. The fully multi-coated lenses provide exceptional light transmission while maintaining sharp, high-contrast images even at maximum magnification. Edge-to-edge sharpness remains consistent across the entire field of view, ensuring that your sight picture stays clean and precise regardless of where your target appears.
The first focal plane APLR2 MOA reticle was specifically designed for long-range precision work. The reticle features precise holdover marks and wind correction points that remain accurate at any magnification setting. The design balances precision with practicality, providing the reference points needed for extreme-range shooting without cluttering the sight picture during closer encounters.
Exposed turrets provide the precise adjustments necessary for long-range work. The zero-stop feature prevents you from dialing below your established zero, eliminating confusion during extended shooting sessions. Each 1/4 MOA click is positive and audible, providing the tactile feedback essential for confident adjustments in field conditions. The turrets track consistently and return to zero reliably, building the confidence necessary for precision shooting.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 4.5-27x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Weight | 31 oz |
| Length | 15.35 inches |
| Eye Relief | 4.02 inches |
| Field of View | 23.03-3.83 feet at 100 yards |
| Turret Style | Exposed tactical with zero-stop |
| Reticle | APLR2 MOA First Focal Plane |
Pros
- Extreme 27x magnification for ultimate precision
- First focal plane reticle accurate at all powers
- HD glass provides exceptional clarity
- Zero-stop turrets prevent confusion
- Excellent tracking and repeatability
- Outstanding value for the feature set
Cons
- Higher weight and length may not suit all applications
For varmint hunters and precision shooters who want to push the boundaries of what’s possible with their .22-250, the Ares BTR Gen 2 provides the optical capability to engage targets at distances that would be impossible with traditional hunting scopes. This scope unlocks the true long-range potential of the .22-250 cartridge.
Check Price on Amazon5) Bushnell Elite Tactical DMR II 3.5-21x50mm (Best Tactical Power Scope for 22 250)
The Bushnell Elite Tactical DMR II 3.5-21x50mm brings military-grade features and construction to civilian .22-250 shooters who demand uncompromising reliability and precision. Originally developed for military and law enforcement applications, this scope incorporates lessons learned from real-world tactical use into a package that excels for precision varmint hunting. The combination of robust construction, advanced features, and proven reliability makes this scope ideal for serious shooters who push their equipment to the limits.
The Deploy MOA reticle system represents one of the most practical innovations in modern scope design for .22-250 applications. This first focal plane reticle features a clean, uncluttered upper portion for precision shooting, while the lower section provides detailed holdover references for various distances. The reticle subtensions are calibrated to work perfectly with common .22-250 loads, allowing you to make quick, accurate shots without complex calculations or reference charts.
Optical performance reflects Bushnell’s commitment to tactical-grade clarity and precision. The ED Prime glass delivers exceptional resolution and color fidelity while minimizing chromatic aberration that can blur your sight picture at high magnifications. The RevLimiter Zero Stop turrets provide precise 1/4 MOA adjustments with positive clicks, while the zero-stop feature prevents you from accidentally dialing below your established zero point.
The 3.5-21x magnification range provides exceptional versatility for varied shooting scenarios. The lower magnification works perfectly for scanning and quick target acquisition during coyote calling, while the 21x maximum power provides sufficient magnification for precision shots on small varmints at extended ranges. This magnification range makes the scope equally at home on a walking varmint hunt or a precision shooting competition.
Construction quality reflects the scope’s tactical heritage. The 30mm main tube provides increased strength and internal adjustment range, while the aircraft-grade aluminum construction handles recoil and rough handling without losing zero. The scope is fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof to military specifications, ensuring reliable performance regardless of environmental conditions.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3.5-21x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Weight | 32 oz |
| Length | 15.2 inches |
| Eye Relief | 4.2 inches |
| Field of View | 30-5 feet at 100 yards |
| Turret Style | RevLimiter Zero Stop |
| Reticle | Deploy MOA First Focal Plane |
Pros
- Military-grade construction and reliability
- Deploy MOA reticle optimized for practical use
- RevLimiter Zero Stop turrets
- ED Prime glass for superior optical performance
- Excellent magnification range for versatility
- Proven durability in harsh conditions
Cons
- Higher weight reflects robust tactical construction
The Elite Tactical DMR II represents the ultimate fusion of military precision and civilian practicality. For .22-250 shooters who demand equipment that will perform flawlessly regardless of conditions or circumstances, this scope delivers tactical-grade reliability with the features needed for precision varmint work.
Check Price on AmazonConclusion
Selecting the right power scope for your .22-250 Remington represents a critical decision that directly impacts your shooting success and enjoyment. This exceptional cartridge, with its blistering 3,680+ fps velocities and inherent accuracy, deserves optics that can fully exploit its remarkable ballistic potential. Each of the five power scopes we’ve reviewed offers unique advantages tailored to different shooting styles, applications, and budgets while maintaining the precision and reliability this cartridge demands.
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm emerges as our top overall choice, delivering first focal plane precision with tactical-grade features at an exceptional value point. For those who prefer American manufacturing excellence, the Leupold VX-3i LRP 4.5-14x50mm provides time-tested reliability with target-grade precision. Budget-conscious shooters will find the Primary Arms GLx 4-16x50mm FFP offers remarkable value with its innovative ACSS reticle system and Japanese glass construction.
Extreme-range enthusiasts should seriously consider the Athlon Ares BTR Gen 2 4.5-27x50mm, which provides unprecedented magnification capability for ultimate precision work. Finally, the Bushnell Elite Tactical DMR II 3.5-21x50mm brings military-grade reliability and practical tactical features to serious varmint hunters who demand uncompromising performance.
The .22-250’s exceptional accuracy potential and flat trajectory make it one of the most rewarding cartridges for precision shooting, whether you’re clearing prairie dogs from ranch land, calling coyotes in predator-heavy areas, or competing in long-range matches. The right power scope choice ensures you’ll be ready to capitalize on every opportunity this remarkable cartridge presents, turning challenging shots into confident successes for decades of shooting adventures ahead.
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