5 Best scope for 10/22

Table of Contents

Choosing the best scope for 10/22 can significantly enhance the performance and accuracy of this legendary rimfire rifle. Known for its versatility and reliability, the Ruger 10/22 is ideal for everything from casual plinking and small game hunting to competitive shooting.

However, to get the most out of your rifle, selecting the right optic is essential. With countless options available—from compact red dot sights to precision rifle scopes—it’s important to consider factors such as magnification range, reticle design, lens clarity, and durability.

Each scope offers unique benefits tailored to different shooting styles and environments. In this guide, we break down top-rated scopes, explain what to look for, and answer frequently asked questions to help you confidently choose the best scope for 10/22 that fits your needs and budget.

1)Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire

The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire Scope is an excellent optic designed for rimfire rifles like the Ruger 10/22, and it hits the sweet spot for performance, durability, and affordability. It’s built for shooters who demand reliability at close to medium ranges — whether for small game hunting, plinking, or target shooting. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle makes holdover estimation easy at varying ranges, helping shooters make fast and accurate shots without second-guessing.

Its standout features include long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, enabling quick sight picture and target acquisition. The fast-focus eyepiece allows shooters to instantly fine-tune the reticle focus, which is especially useful when tracking moving targets or shifting distances. The fully multi-coated, anti-reflective lenses provide bright, crisp images even during low-light conditions like early morning or dusk.

Durability is another strong point. The scope is constructed from a single-piece tube of aircraft-grade aluminum, making it extremely rugged and resistant to recoil and impact. O-ring sealing and nitrogen purging ensure waterproof and fog proof performance, even in unpredictable weather. The capped turrets and reset-to-zero function make adjustments easy and repeatable, perfect for rimfire users who shoot often and across varying distances.

The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire is easily one of the best scopes for 10/22, offering dependable performance, crystal-clear visuals, and rugged build quality — all wrapped in an unbeatable warranty. Whether you’re out plinking cans or chasing varmints, this scope has your back.

Key Features

Dead-Hold BDC Reticle: Ideal for shooting at varying ranges without needing constant holdover adjustments.
Fully Multi-Coated Lenses: For maximum light transmission and clarity.
Long Eye Relief & Forgiving Eye Box: Ensures fast target acquisition and comfortable shooting.
Fast-Focus Eyepiece: Quick and easy reticle focusing.
Shockproof, Waterproof, Fogproof: Built to withstand the elements and rough handling.
Lifetime VIP Warranty: Fully transferable and unconditional — repair or replacement guaranteed.

Specifications

Magnification: 2-7x
Objective Lens Diameter: 32mm
Tube Size: 1 inch
Reticle Type: Dead-Hold BDC (Second Focal Plane)
Eye Relief: 3.9 inches
Field of View (FOV): 42–12.6 ft at 100 yards
Adjustment Graduation: 1/4 MOA
Max Elevation/Windage Adjustment: 60 MOA
Parallax Setting: 50 yards (rimfire optimized)
Length: 11.3 inches
Weight: 14.3 oz

Pros

Crisp, bright optics with excellent low-light performance
Durable, shockproof construction — handles recoil well
Great eye relief, comfortable for extended sessions
Perfect magnification range for the 10/22
Backed by Vortex’s bulletproof warranty

Cons

Slightly heavier than ultra-light rimfire scopes

2)Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire MOA

The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire MOA scope is a powerful optic that brings premium performance to rimfire rifles like the Ruger 10/22, making it a top contender for the best scope for 10/22.

Designed, machined, and assembled in the USA, this scope delivers elite accuracy, crisp visuals, and rugged dependability — all in a lightweight package that complements your rimfire setup perfectly. It features a Rimfire MOA reticle, custom-designed by Leupold, offering precise 1 MOA hash marks for accurate holdovers and wind corrections, with an open upper section for easy spotting.

Built around a 3:1 zoom ratio, this scope is extremely versatile across different shooting ranges. It uses Leupold’s Twilight Light Management System, which maximizes visibility in low-light conditions — giving shooters more usable minutes at dawn and dusk.

The 1/4 MOA precision finger click adjustments make windage and elevation changes simple and tactile. And with long eye relief (4.2 – 3.7 inches) and a forgiving eye box, target acquisition is fast and comfortable — a must-have for varmint control or field shooting with your 10/22.

When it comes to construction, the VX-Freedom doesn’t cut corners. Made from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, the single-piece 1″ tube offers outstanding durability while keeping weight down to just 12.2 oz. It’s shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof, with scratch-resistant lenses that meet extreme military standards. Whether you’re trekking through rugged terrain or shooting in unpredictable weather, this scope holds zero and performs without fail.

Looking for the best scope for a Ruger 10/22 that combines premium optics with military-grade durability, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire MOA is a standout choice. Backed by Leupold’s lifetime guarantee, this scope offers serious value for shooters who demand accuracy, toughness, and top-tier performance in the field.

Key Features

Rimfire MOA Reticle: Proprietary design with 1 MOA hash marks for precision and quick reference
Twilight Light Management System: Enhances visibility in low-light conditions
3:1 Zoom Ratio: Covers a wide range of shooting applications
1/4 MOA Finger Click Adjustments: Quick, repeatable windage and elevation control
Scratch-Resistant Lenses: Built to military abrasion specs
Rugged & Weatherproof: Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction
Made in USA: Fully designed, machined, and assembled in Oregon

Specifications

Magnification: 3-9x
Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm
Reticle: Rimfire MOA (Non-Illuminated)
Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Tube Diameter: 1 inch
Exit Pupil: 4.7 mm
Eye Relief: 4.2 – 3.7 in
Field of View @ 100 yds: 33.1 – 13.6 ft
Adjustment Click Value: 1/4 MOA
Max Windage/Elevation Adjustment: 60 MOA
Length: 12.39 in
Weight: 12.2 oz
Parallax: Fixed
Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum
Lens Coating: Twilight Light Management System
Color & Finish: Matte Black
Mounting Type: Riflescope Ring
Shockproof / Fogproof / Waterproof: Yes

Pros

Exceptional clarity and brightness in low light
Durable, military-grade construction
Lightweight and balanced perfectly for the Ruger 10/22
Intuitive reticle with MOA hash marks
Made in the USA with lifetime reliability

Cons

Fixed parallax may limit precision for extreme close-range work

3)Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight

The Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight is a compact and durable optic that brings fast target acquisition and reliable accuracy to the range. Designed for simplicity and speed, it pairs especially well with rimfire rifles like the Ruger 10/22, making it a strong candidate for the best scope for 10/22.

Furthermore, the TRS-25 features a crisp 3 MOA red dot reticle that allows shooters to zero in on their targets with precision, even during quick engagements. Whether you’re plinking, hunting, or using your 10/22 for home defense, this sight delivers dependable performance.

Additionally, this red dot sight offers 11 brightness settings, which allow the reticle to remain visible in both bright daylight and dim conditions. The Amber-Bright high-contrast lens coating helps differentiate targets against busy backgrounds — for example, distinguishing a deer from tree bark or foliage.

Thanks to its unlimited eye relief, shooters can comfortably mount the optic in various positions without worrying about alignment or scope bite. It also mounts effortlessly to most Picatinny rails, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of firearms.

When it comes to durability, the TRS-25 doesn’t disappoint. Moreover, it’s built with a rugged housing and is 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, which makes it ready for harsh environments and unpredictable weather.

The internal components are nitrogen purged, preventing fogging even during rapid temperature shifts. In addition, the multi-coated optics provide a clear sight picture, and the tactical turrets allow for fast, on-the-fly windage and elevation adjustments. Powered by a CR2032 battery, this sight is both long-lasting and efficient.

Key Features

3 MOA Red Dot Reticle for quick, accurate target engagement
11 Brightness Settings for full lighting adaptability
Amber-Bright Coating enhances visibility in natural environments
Unlimited Eye Relief suits various mounting configurations
Multi-Coated Optics deliver sharp and bright visuals
Tactical Windage/Elevation Turrets allow fast, easy adjustments
Lightweight Design ideal for rimfire rifles like the Ruger 10/22

Specifications

Magnification: 1x
Objective Lens Diameter: 25mm
Reticle: 3 MOA Red Dot
Brightness Levels: 11
Eye Relief: Unlimited
Adjustment Range: 70+ MOA
Parallax Setting: 50 yards
Battery: CR2032
Waterproof / Fogproof / Shockproof: Yes
Mounting System: Picatinny Rail Compatible
Finish: Matte Black
Weight: Approx. 3.7 oz

Pros

Extremely fast and accurate target acquisition
Compact and lightweight for rimfire rifles
Holds up well in rugged outdoor conditions
Simple mounting and user-friendly operation
Affordable and reliable

Cons

Battery life can diminish quickly at high brightness settings

4)Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 Gen III

The Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 Gen III is a highly capable and affordable LPVO (low power variable optic) that offers exceptional versatility for rimfire and centerfire platforms alike. Thanks to its 1-6x magnification range, it’s an excellent match for shooters who need both rapid close-range target acquisition and the ability to reach out to mid-range distances with precision.

This balance makes it a top contender for those searching for the best scope for 10/22, particularly if you’re using your rifle for both plinking and small game hunting. The ACSS reticle is incredibly intuitive, combining BDC, wind holds, range estimation, and moving target leads into a single system that’s easy to master.

Moreover, the second focal plane design ensures the reticle remains the same size regardless of magnification, making target acquisition quick and consistent. At lower magnification, the large illuminated center horseshoe excels in speed, while at 6x power, the bullet drop compensator offers impressive precision.

Additionally, it features partial red illumination with 11 brightness settings, powered by a common CR2032 battery, which ensures excellent visibility in various lighting conditions. The reticle is specifically tuned for calibers like .22LR, 5.56, .308, and .45 ACP, offering flexibility across multiple firearm platforms.

When it comes to construction, the Primary Arms SLx doesn’t cut corners. Built from durable 6063 aluminum and finished with a hardcoat anodized matte black exterior, this scope is both rugged and lightweight. Furthermore, it’s IP67 waterproof and fog resistant, making it dependable in wet or unpredictable environments.

The lenses are fully multi-coated for optimal clarity and brightness, ensuring that your sight picture stays crisp from dawn to dusk. Whether you’re at the range or in the field, this scope can handle the elements and perform under pressure.

Key Features

1-6x Variable Magnification for close to mid-range versatility
ACSS Reticle with BDC, wind holds, range estimation & moving target leads
11 Brightness Settings with partial red illumination
Second Focal Plane Design keeps reticle consistent across magnification
Fully Multi-Coated Lenses for sharp clarity
6063 Aluminum Body with matte black hardcoat finish
IP67 Waterproof & Fog Resistant
Includes CR2032 Battery and Lifetime Warranty

Specifications

Magnification: 1-6x
Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm
Reticle: ACSS Standard / .22LR
Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Illumination: Partial Red, 11 Brightness Settings
Battery Type: CR2032
Material: 6063 Aluminum
Finish: Matte Black Anodized
Lens Coating: Fully Multi-Coated
Waterproof Rating: IP67
Fogproof & Shockproof: Yes
Warranty: Lifetime

Pros

Excellent reticle system for beginners and experienced shooters
Wide 1-6x magnification is ideal for both short and medium ranges
Lightweight yet rugged construction
Works well on .22LR rifles like the 10/22
Bright, crisp optics with intuitive aiming points

Cons

Slightly bulkier than red dot alternatives

5)UTG 3-9×32 BugBuster Scope

If you’re looking for a rugged, versatile optic for your rimfire rifle, the UTG 3-9×32 BugBuster Scope delivers impressive performance in a compact package. Built on UTG’s proprietary TRUE STRENGTH Platform, this scope is engineered to withstand harsh conditions while maintaining reliable performance.

In fact, it’s shockproof, fogproof, and rainproof—making it ideal for real-world environments. Thanks to its 3-9x variable magnification and adjustable objective lens from 3 yards to infinity, it provides parallax-free clarity whether you’re shooting up close or stretching your distance.

One of the most noteworthy features of the BugBuster is its Range Estimating Mil-dot Reticle, which enhances accuracy for both beginners and experienced marksmen. Moreover, it includes dual red/green illumination, allowing you to adapt the reticle color based on light and weather conditions.

Additionally, the scope’s 1-inch tube is emerald-coated for maximum light transmission, producing sharp, bright images even in low-light environments. Its generous eye relief and wide field of view also make it well-suited for close-quarters shooting—especially critical for tactical or fast-paced scenarios.

In terms of ease-of-use, the BugBuster’s premium lockable and resettable turrets offer precise 1/4 MOA click adjustments, which help you dial in your shots quickly and consistently. Furthermore, the scope comes fully equipped with valuable extras right out of the box: a 2-inch sunshade, flip-up lens caps, and quick-detach rings, making installation on your rifle fast and hassle-free. Whether you’re mounting it on an AR-style platform or a Ruger 10/22, the BugBuster is optimized for versatility and quick deployment.

Key Features

Built on UTG’s TRUE STRENGTH Platform for shockproof durability
1” Emerald-coated tube for maximum light transmission
Adjustable Objective (AO) from 3 yards to infinity
Range Estimating Mil-dot Reticle
Dual red/green reticle illumination with 11 brightness settings
Large field of view and generous eye relief
Includes sunshade, flip-up caps, and QD rings

Specifications

Magnification: 3-9x
Objective Lens: 32mm
Tube Diameter: 1 inch
Reticle: Mil-dot, Dual Illumination (Red/Green)
Parallax: Adjustable Objective, 3 yards to infinity
Turrets: Lockable & Resettable, 1/4 MOA per click
Material: Aircraft-grade aluminum
Length: Compact build
Waterproof / Fogproof / Shockproof: Yes
Mounting System: Quick-detach rings included
Accessories: 2” sunshade, flip-up lens caps

Pros

Rugged and weatherproof design
Parallax adjustment allows ultra-close focusing
Great for both beginners and advanced users
Easy installation with QD mounts included
Dual illumination enhances low-light usability
Exceptional value at its price point

Cons

Slightly heavier than similar compact scopes

key factors to consider when choosing the best scope for 10/22.

1. Magnification Range

The Ruger 10/22 is primarily a .22LR rifle, best suited for short to medium-range shooting. Therefore, a scope with moderate magnification—typically in the 2x to 9x range—is ideal. For example, the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 and Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 both offer versatile zoom levels, enabling shooters to easily transition from close-range plinking to longer-range target shooting or small game hunting. While a 1-6x scope like the Primary Arms SLx is great for fast acquisition and tactical-style use, higher magnification isn’t usually necessary unless you’re doing precision target work. Ultimately, choose magnification based on your most common shooting distances.

2. Reticle Type and Functionality

Reticle design plays a major role in how quickly and accurately you can acquire your target. Simple Mil-Dot, BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation), or MOA-based reticles—like those found in the UTG BugBuster, Leupold VX-Freedom, and Primary Arms SLx—offer useful holdover points and windage references without overwhelming the shooter. Reticles like the ACSS in the Primary Arms scope combine multiple functions like range estimation, holdovers, and target leads into one intuitive system. Consider your comfort level and application: simpler reticles may work better for casual shooting, while more advanced ones are valuable for hunting or tactical use.

3. Optical Quality and Lens Coatings

High-quality glass and fully multi-coated lenses are crucial for producing a bright, clear image, especially in low-light conditions like dawn or dusk. Scopes like the Vortex Crossfire II and Leupold VX-Freedom utilize anti-reflective coatings and proprietary systems (e.g., Leupold’s Twilight Light Management System) to enhance image clarity and visibility. Similarly, the UTG BugBuster’s emerald-coated lenses maximize light transmission for sharp visuals. If you’re serious about precision or frequently shoot in variable lighting, superior optics can make a big difference.

4. Durability and Weather Resistance

Rimfire rifles like the 10/22 are often used in rugged outdoor environments, so durability matters. Look for scopes built from aircraft-grade aluminum or similar materials that ensure resilience against recoil, drops, and harsh conditions. Models like the Bushnell TRS-25, UTG BugBuster, and Vortex Crossfire II feature shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof construction—often nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed for added protection. Durability is essential for maintaining zero and performance regardless of weather or terrain.

5. Eye Relief and Field of View

Generous eye relief is especially important for fast target acquisition and shooting comfort. For instance, scopes like the Vortex Crossfire II and UTG BugBuster offer long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, making them suitable for dynamic shooting positions or younger shooters. A wide field of view helps maintain situational awareness, especially when tracking small game or transitioning between targets. This is a key feature for both casual and competitive shooters who value speed and flexibility.

6. Turrets and Adjustability

Precision in shooting often depends on the ability to make accurate windage and elevation adjustments. Scopes with tactical or target turrets, like the UTG BugBuster and Bushnell TRS-25, provide fine 1/4 MOA click values for easy sighting in. Some models even feature zero-reset or lockable turrets, which are useful when making adjustments on the fly without losing your original zero. While these features aren’t mandatory for basic plinking, they’re highly beneficial for hunting or precision shooting.

7. Illumination and Lighting Conditions

Illuminated reticles offer a major advantage when shooting in low-light conditions, dense woods, or under overcast skies. For example, scopes like the Primary Arms SLx and UTG BugBuster come with red/green dual illumination and multiple brightness settings, allowing you to tailor visibility to the environment. On the other hand, non-illuminated scopes like the Leupold VX-Freedom rely on optical coatings for brightness. If you often shoot during dawn/dusk hours, illumination can significantly improve your accuracy.

8. Mounting and Compatibility

Lastly, ensure that the scope you choose is compatible with standard Picatinny or Weaver-style rails, which are common on 10/22 models. Some scopes like the Bushnell TRS-25 and UTG BugBuster even include QD (Quick Detach) rings, making installation straightforward. The mounting height and ring type should complement your rifle’s stock and intended eye relief. A proper mount setup is essential for both comfort and maintaining consistent accuracy.

FAQs

1. What magnification is best for a Ruger 10/22?

For the 10/22, which is a .22LR rifle commonly used for plinking, target shooting, and small game hunting, low to mid-range magnification is typically best. Scopes in the 2-7x or 3-9x range strike the right balance between clarity and versatility. These magnifications allow shooters to comfortably hit targets out to 100 yards or more, while still being effective at close range. For fast shooting or tactical-style use, 1-6x scopes like the Primary Arms SLx are also excellent choices. High magnification isn’t generally necessary unless you’re doing precision target work.

2. Do I need an illuminated reticle on my 10/22 scope?

An illuminated reticle isn’t essential, but it can significantly improve target visibility in low-light conditions, such as during early morning or dusk. Scopes like the UTG BugBuster and Primary Arms SLx feature red/green illumination with multiple brightness levels, allowing you to adapt to lighting changes quickly. If you’re mostly shooting in daylight or at the range, a non-illuminated scope like the Leupold VX-Freedom will work just fine. However, if you plan to hunt or shoot in dim environments, illuminated optics are worth the upgrade.

3. How important is lens coating and glass clarity?

Lens coatings and glass quality are critical for a bright, sharp image, especially in poor lighting. Fully multi-coated lenses, like those found in the Vortex Crossfire II and Leupold VX-Freedom, enhance light transmission and reduce glare. This is important when shooting in wooded areas or at dusk/dawn. Cheap scopes with uncoated or single-coated lenses often appear dim and hazy, which can hinder accuracy. For a clear edge-to-edge image, prioritize scopes with fully multi-coated, scratch-resistant lenses.

4. Is the 10/22 recoil strong enough to damage a scope?

Despite being a low-recoil rifle, it’s still essential to use a durable, shockproof scope, especially if you’re hunting or moving through rugged terrain. Models like the Vortex Crossfire II, UTG BugBuster, and Bushnell TRS-25 are built with shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof features that protect internal components and maintain zero. Even though .22LR has minimal recoil, cheap or poorly built scopes can lose accuracy or fog up easily, so it’s always worth investing in a rugged, sealed optic.

5. How important is eye relief for a 10/22 scope?

Eye relief—the distance between your eye and the scope where you still see a full image—is especially important for quick target acquisition and shooting comfort. Scopes like the Vortex Crossfire II and UTG BugBuster offer long and forgiving eye relief, which is great for both new shooters and those using varying shooting positions. Since the 10/22 doesn’t produce strong recoil, extremely long eye relief isn’t required, but a generous field of view and comfortable eye box improve the overall shooting experience.

6. What mounting system should I use for my scope?

Most 10/22 models come with Weaver or Picatinny rails, which are compatible with a wide range of scope rings and mounts. Some scopes, such as the UTG BugBuster and Bushnell TRS-25, come with quick-detach rings or built-in mounts, simplifying installation. Make sure the rings match the scope tube size (commonly 1 inch) and provide the correct height for a comfortable cheek weld. A secure, properly torqued mount ensures accuracy and repeatability.

7. What’s a good budget range for a quality 10/22 scope?

You don’t need to break the bank to get a high-quality scope for a 10/22. Solid optics range from around $75 to $250, depending on features and brand. For example, the Bushnell TRS-25 and UTG BugBuster offer excellent performance under $100, while the Leupold VX-Freedom and Vortex Crossfire II deliver premium optics and durability in the $150–$250 range. Focus on what features matter most to you—clarity, magnification, durability—then shop within your comfort zone.

Conclusion

Selecting the best scope for 10/22 ultimately comes down to aligning your choice with your shooting needs, environment, and budget. Whether you’re a casual plinker, small game hunter, or range enthusiast, the perfect optic enhances your accuracy, confidence, and overall shooting experience.

As we’ve seen, factors like magnification range, reticle design, build quality, light transmission, and added features such as illumination or adjustable turrets all play a significant role in scope performance. From compact red dot sights like the Bushnell TRS-25 for quick target acquisition, to versatile variable power scopes like the Vortex Crossfire II or Primary Arms SLx, there’s a reliable option for every kind of shooter.

By carefully considering your specific needs and understanding the features that matter most, you’ll be well-equipped to choose a scope that maximizes the potential of your 10/22 and delivers lasting value.