Choosing the right scope for a .22 WMR rifle isn’t as straightforward as it looks. The cartridge sits in a unique sweet spot: it’s far more powerful and flatter-shooting than the .22 LR, yet it isn’t built for extreme long-range shooting. That makes scope selection tricky too much magnification and you’re wasting money, too little and you’re leaving accuracy on the table. Most shooters get it wrong by either slapping on a bargain optic that won’t hold zero, or overspending on glass designed for centerfire rifles. Both choices cripple performance.
The truth is, the .22 WMR demands a scope tailored to its strengths. You need optics that deliver crisp clarity at moderate ranges, dependable tracking for small targets, and enough durability to handle field use without shifting zero. Features like rimfire-specific reticles, adjustable parallax for closer shots, and reliable low-to-mid-range magnification make all the difference.
In this guide, we cut through the noise and break down the 6 best scopes for .22 WMR available on Amazon. These aren’t just popular picks—they’re proven performers that balance affordability, reliability, and practicality. Whether you’re hunting varmints, taking out small game, or punching paper at the range, these scopes will maximize what your .22 WMR can really do.
6 Best Scopes for 22 WMR
1.Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire is one of the most popular rimfire scopes on the market, designed specifically to complement the strengths of cartridges like the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR). The .22 WMR is a step up from the .22 LR, offering greater velocity, flatter trajectories, and extended range making it a favorite for varmint hunters, small-game shooters, and plinkers who want more punch out of a rimfire platform. But here’s the problem: choosing the wrong scope often robs the .22 WMR of its potential. Too much magnification leads to tunnel vision and wasted money, while bargain scopes often fail to hold zero or fog up in the field.
That’s where the Crossfire II 2-7×32 shines. It’s built with the practical realities of rimfire shooting in mind. The 2-7× magnification range is perfect for the distances where the .22 WMR excels, giving shooters the flexibility to make quick shots at 25 yards or stretch out past 150 yards with confidence. Its V-Plex reticle keeps things simple and uncluttered, which is exactly what you want when tracking varmints on the move. With long eye relief, a forgiving eye box, and a fast-focus eyepiece, this scope is quick to use, even in awkward field positions or when seconds matter.
Vortex also built this optic to last. A single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube, combined with nitrogen purging and O-ring sealing, makes the Crossfire II shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof. Hunters can carry it through brush, rain, or drastic temperature changes without worrying about performance. And unlike many competitors, Vortex backs this optic with their unlimited, unconditional VIP Warranty, ensuring that if anything goes wrong, your investment is protected for life.
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire isn’t just another budget-friendly optic—it’s a scope that’s earned a reputation as a go-to choice for serious rimfire shooters. It combines clarity, durability, and practicality in a way few competitors can match, making it one of the smartest upgrades you can put on your .22 WMR rifle.
Key Specifications
- Magnification: 2-7×
- Objective Lens: 32 mm
- Reticle: V-Plex (all-purpose hunting reticle)
- Tube Construction: Single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum
- Lens Coating: Fully multi-coated, anti-reflective
- Adjustment Type: Finger adjustable MOA capped reset turrets
- Field of View: 42–12.6 ft @ 100 yds
- Eye Relief: ~3.9 inches
- Weatherproofing: O-ring sealed, nitrogen purged (waterproof, fogproof, shockproof)
- Weight: 14.3 oz
- Warranty: Vortex VIP Lifetime Warranty
Product Features
- Versatile V-Plex Reticle
The V-Plex reticle is perfect for small game and varmint hunting. Its clean design avoids clutter, making it easy to track fast-moving targets like squirrels, rabbits, or prairie dogs. - Magnification Suited for Rimfire Ranges
With 2-7× zoom, the Crossfire II covers the entire spectrum of typical rimfire shooting distances. At 2×, it’s excellent for quick shots at close range. At 7×, you get the precision needed for shots out to 150 yards without the “tunnel vision” effect common in higher-magnification scopes. - Generous Eye Relief & Forgiving Eye Box
Long eye relief (~3.9 in) and a forgiving eye box reduce the strain of maintaining a perfect cheek weld. This is especially valuable for younger shooters or when firing from awkward field positions. - Low-Light Performance
Fully multi-coated, anti-reflective lenses ensure crisp, bright images. Dawn and dusk hunts—the prime time for varmints—benefit from the scope’s ability to pull in light even with its compact 32 mm objective lens. - Field Durability
Constructed from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, the Crossfire II handles bumps, recoil, and rough handling without losing zero. Its waterproof and fogproof sealing makes it reliable in rain, snow, or sudden temperature shifts. - Resettable MOA Turrets
The capped, finger-adjustable turrets make zeroing straightforward. Once sighted in, you can reset them to zero, giving confidence for future adjustments without losing track of your baseline. - Lightweight & Balanced Design
Weighing just 14.3 oz, this scope won’t throw off the balance of a lightweight rimfire rifle. Hunters carrying their rifle all day will appreciate the minimal added weight. - Vortex VIP Warranty
The lifetime VIP Warranty is the ace up Vortex’s sleeve. No matter who owns it, if the scope is damaged or defective, Vortex repairs or replaces it. Few warranties are this comprehensive in the optics world.
Pros
- Purpose-built magnification for rimfire rifles
- Bright, clear glass even in low light
- Forgiving eye relief and eye box
- Lightweight and balanced for small-caliber rifles
- Durable, shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof construction
- Resettable capped turrets for ease of use
- Industry-leading VIP Warranty
Cons
- Fixed parallax (set at 50 yards, which may limit versatility for very close or longer shots)
2.Bushnell Banner / Bushnell Legend 3-9×40
The 3-9×40 riflescope has been the most common optic format in American hunting for decades—and for good reason. The magnification range is versatile enough for close brush shots and long field edges, while the 40mm objective lens balances brightness with a compact profile. Bushnell has long been a go-to brand in this category, and the Banner / Legend 3-9×40 continues that tradition. Designed with rugged dependability and clear glass at an affordable price, this scope is built to perform in real hunting conditions without breaking the bank.
Unlike cheap generic optics, the Bushnell combines multi-coated optics for brightness, a Multi-X reticle for simplicity, and a 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction that ensures it can take abuse in the field. Whether you’re setting it up on a .22 WMR for varmint hunting, a deer rifle, or even as an all-around optic for a budget AR, the Bushnell Banner / Legend 3-9×40 delivers reliable performance in a no-nonsense package.
Key Features
1. Multi-Coated Optics
The lenses are treated with multiple layers of anti-reflective coatings, which maximize light transmission and improve clarity during dawn or dusk—the critical moments when game is most active. This gives hunters an edge in low-light conditions where cheaper scopes often fail.
2. Multi-X Reticle
Bushnell keeps the reticle clean and straightforward. The Multi-X is essentially a duplex-style crosshair, making target acquisition fast and intuitive. For hunters who don’t want clutter or complicated holdover marks, this design keeps things simple and effective.
3. 100% Waterproof, Fogproof, Shockproof Construction
The scope is nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed, ensuring that no matter the weather—rain, snow, or rapid temperature changes—the internal optics stay clear and moisture-free. The shockproof build means it can handle recoil from larger calibers without losing zero.
4. Versatile Magnification (3–9×)
The classic 3-9× range is versatile for everything from close-range brush hunting to mid-range shots across open terrain. At 3×, the field of view is wide enough for quick target acquisition, while 9× allows precision on distant targets.
5. 40mm Objective Lens
A 40mm objective lens strikes a balance between brightness and portability. It gathers enough light for dawn and dusk use while keeping the scope lightweight and easy to mount on most rifles without high rings.
Specifications
- Magnification: 3–9×
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm
- Reticle: Multi-X (duplex-style)
- Construction: 100% waterproof, fogproof, shockproof
- Optics: Multi-coated
Pros
- Clear, bright glass for the price
- Rugged all-weather construction
- Simple and intuitive reticle
- Versatile magnification for hunting and target shooting
- Affordable without feeling “cheap”
Cons
- Lacks advanced features like side focus or illuminated reticle
3.Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4×20 (1 inch)
The Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4×20 is a riflescope designed for hunters who demand quick target acquisition, rugged construction, and crystal-clear optics in a compact package. Unlike higher-magnification scopes that slow you down in the brush, this low-power optic excels in fast-action hunting environments—think hogs at close range, whitetails in thick timber, or dangerous game encounters where every second counts.
Weighing just 9.59 ounces and built on a 1-inch aluminum tube, the VX-Freedom is one of the lightest and most streamlined optics in its class. Its 1.5-4× magnification gives shooters the flexibility to transition from wide field-of-view shots at close range to precision aiming out past 200 yards. And because it’s a Leupold, you’re getting the brand’s legendary durability—engineered to be fogproof, waterproof, and recoil-resistant for a lifetime of use in the field.
For hunters who want a scope that complements fast-handling rifles like lever actions, AR platforms, or lightweight bolt guns, the VX-Freedom 1.5-4×20 strikes a near-perfect balance between simplicity, performance, and reliability.
Key Features
1. Lightweight and Compact Design
At under 10 ounces, this scope won’t weigh down your rifle. Its smaller 20mm objective lens keeps it sleek and easy to mount on a variety of platforms, making it ideal for mobile hunters or rifles carried long distances.
2. 1.5–4× Magnification Range
This versatile range gives you a wide field of view at low power for quick shots up close, while still offering enough magnification to make precise shots at mid-range distances.
3. Rugged Aluminum Construction
Built from aircraft-grade aluminum, the scope is tough enough to handle recoil and rough hunting conditions without losing zero.
4. All-Weather Reliability
As with all Leupold scopes, the VX-Freedom is tested to be waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring dependable performance no matter the conditions.
5. Built for Hunting
With its uncluttered reticle and streamlined design, the scope is tailor-made for hunters who prioritize speed and clarity over unnecessary complexity.
Specifications
- Brand: Leupold
- Compatible Devices: Rifle
- Color: Black
- Sport: Hunting
- Weight: 9.59 ounces
- Material: Aluminum
- Tube Size: 1 inch
- Magnification: 1.5–4×
- Objective Lens Diameter: 20mm
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and compact
- Wide field of view at low magnification
- Rugged and weatherproof design
- Trusted Leupold glass and durability
- Perfect for fast-action hunting
Cons
- Limited magnification range compared to more versatile hunting optics
4.Barska Plinker-22 3-9×32
The Barska Plinker-22 3-9×32 riflescope was designed with rimfire shooters in mind, particularly those running .22 LR and .22 WMR platforms. As the name suggests, it’s built for plinking—casual target shooting, small-game hunting, and training. But don’t let the modest price point fool you. This optic comes with features that give shooters real usability in the field, like fully coated optics for improved clarity, parallax-free performance at 100 yards, and rugged construction to handle everyday use.
Many low-cost rimfire scopes suffer from blurry glass, unreliable turrets, and poor durability, but Barska has built the Plinker-22 line to stand out in the entry-level market. With its 3–9× magnification, 30/30 crosshair reticle, and 1/4 MOA turret adjustments, it’s versatile enough for tin cans at 25 yards and varmints stretching out beyond 100 yards. Plus, its waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof design ensures it’s not just a fair-weather optic. For shooters who want a dependable rimfire scope without spending hundreds, the Plinker-22 is one of the strongest contenders in its class.
Key Features
1. 3–9× Magnification with 32mm Objective Lens
This magnification range is the most popular for rimfire rifles, offering flexibility for both close-range plinking and mid-range target practice or hunting. The 32mm lens keeps the scope compact while still gathering enough light for daytime use.
2. 1/4 MOA Click Adjustments
The finger-adjustable turrets allow shooters to dial in precision at the range. Each click moves the point of impact 1/4 MOA, which translates to 1/4 inch at 100 yards—ideal for fine-tuning a .22 rifle’s accuracy.
3. Fully Coated Optics
Barska equips the Plinker-22 with fully coated glass to enhance brightness and clarity, reducing glare and improving visibility in varied lighting conditions.
4. Waterproof, Fogproof, and Shockproof
Built with a rigid 1-inch aluminum tube, this scope is nitrogen-purged and sealed, protecting it from the elements and ensuring it performs reliably in changing weather.
5. Parallax-Free at 100 Yards
By eliminating parallax error at 100 yards, the scope helps new and casual shooters get more consistent accuracy without constantly worrying about head positioning.
6. 30/30 Crosshair Reticle
The simple duplex-style reticle makes aiming straightforward, perfect for both beginners and experienced shooters who prefer uncluttered sight pictures.
Specifications
- Magnification: 3–9×
- Objective Lens Diameter: 32mm
- Tube Diameter: 1 inch
- Reticle: 30/30 crosshair (duplex-style)
- Turret Adjustments: 1/4 MOA per click
- Parallax Setting: 100 yards
- Construction: Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof
Pros
- Affordable entry-level rimfire scope
- Good clarity with fully coated optics
- 1/4 MOA adjustments improve precision
- Lightweight and compact
- Durable enough for outdoor use
Cons
- Parallax fixed at 100 yards limits versatility for closer distances
5.CVLIFE 6-24×50 AO Illuminated
The CVLIFE 6-24×50 AO Illuminated (EagleFeather Z03) is built for shooters who want to stretch their rifles to longer ranges without spending a fortune. At first glance, its features sound like something you’d expect on a much pricier optic: 6–24× magnification, a large 50mm objective lens, an adjustable objective for parallax correction, and an illuminated Mil-Dot reticle. But CVLIFE goes even further by including extras like flip-up lens caps, mounting rings, and spare batteries right in the box—making it a ready-to-mount solution for airsoft rifles, rimfire setups, and even centerfire hunting rifles.
Where most budget optics fall short is in clarity, durability, and turret precision. That’s where this scope tries to break the mold. With multi-coated green lenses designed to reduce glare and maximize light transmission, an aluminum single-piece tube that’s waterproof, fogproof, and recoil tested to 1000G, and resettable precision turrets with 1/4 MOA adjustments, the CVLIFE 6-24×50 positions itself as a versatile, all-weather scope capable of handling everything from plinking to varmint control to mid-range target shooting.
For shooters on a budget who want long-range capability without emptying their wallets, the CVLIFE 6-24×50 AO Illuminated delivers a surprisingly well-rounded package.
Key Features
1. Versatile 6–24× Magnification with 50mm Objective
The wide zoom range lets you move from mid-range shooting at 6× to precision aiming at 24×. The large 50mm objective helps maintain brightness at higher magnifications.
2. Adjustable Objective (AO)
The parallax adjustment fine-tunes focus and eliminates parallax error at varying distances. This makes long-range shooting more accurate, especially for precision target work or varmint hunting.
3. Dual-Illuminated Mil-Dot Reticle
The reticle can be illuminated in either red or green, giving flexibility for different lighting environments. The Mil-Dot pattern also provides holdover points for windage and elevation, useful in long-range shooting scenarios.
4. Precision Reset Turrets
Exposed turrets with audible 1/4 MOA clicks allow for quick, accurate adjustments. The reset-to-zero feature ensures easier tracking and dialing without losing reference points.
5. Rugged Construction
Made from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, the scope is built to withstand recoil. It has been tested to handle more than 500 rounds at 1000G impact, ensuring reliability on common calibers like .223, .308, and even .30-06. Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof sealing further enhances durability.
6. Complete Package
Unlike many scopes that require extra purchases, this one includes flip-up lens covers, scope rings, wrenches, spare CR2032 batteries, and a cleaning cloth.
Specifications
- Magnification: 6–24×
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
- Reticle: Dual-illuminated red/green Mil-Dot
- Adjustments: 1/4 MOA per click, ±25 MOA max windage/elevation
- Tube Material: Aircraft-grade aluminum
- Weight: ~22 oz (approximate)
- Durability: Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof (1000G tested)
- Compatibility: Airsoft, rimfire (.22 LR, .17 HMR), 10/22, 5.56/.223, .308, .30-06
Pros
- Very affordable for its feature set
- Wide magnification range suitable for long-range practice
- Illuminated Mil-Dot reticle for versatility in light conditions
- AO parallax adjustment improves precision at different ranges
- Comes with rings and accessories included
- Rugged build with proven recoil resistance
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than low-power scopes
6.Vortex Optics Copperhead Second Focal Plane Riflescope & Copperhead HD 10×42 Binoculars Bundle
Hunters and outdoor enthusiasts often face the challenge of balancing performance, reliability, and affordability when choosing optics. Vortex Optics answers this problem with the Copperhead Riflescope and HD Binoculars Bundle, a package that delivers professional-grade quality without the premium price tag. Whether you’re glassing game at long distances or lining up your shot across varying ranges, this combo equips you with the precision and clarity needed for success in the field.
The riflescope provides a dependable 4-12x magnification range that covers close- to mid-range hunting situations, while the 10×42 binoculars give you a wide, crisp view for spotting and tracking. Both are engineered with durability in mind, featuring waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction that ensures dependable performance in rugged terrain and unpredictable weather. For hunters who demand trustworthy gear, this bundle offers a well-rounded solution that enhances both scouting and shooting efficiency.
By combining a Dead-Hold BDC reticle riflescope and HD optical binoculars, Vortex provides hunters with a synergy of accuracy and observation. This bundle is not only practical but also ensures you get the most out of every outing without having to invest in separate premium optics. It’s built for hunters who value reliability and clarity above all else, making it a strong contender for anyone seeking dependable glass in a single package.
Product Features
- Vortex Copperhead Riflescope (4-12×44)
- Dead-Hold BDC Reticle – Ideal for hunting at varying ranges where estimating hold-over is critical.
- Fully Multi-Coated Lenses – Multiple anti-reflective coatings boost light transmission for bright, clear images.
- Durable Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Build – A solid one-piece tube design that resists magnum recoil.
- User-Friendly Adjustments – Includes a locking diopter ring and generous eye relief for quick, comfortable sighting.
- Vortex Copperhead HD 10×42 Binoculars
- HD Optical System – Provides outstanding color fidelity, edge-to-edge sharpness, and excellent low-light performance.
- Fully Multi-Coated Lenses – Reduces glare and maximizes brightness in varying light conditions.
- Rugged Construction – Rubber armor delivers a non-slip grip and long-lasting durability.
- Tripod Adaptable – Can be mounted on a tripod or car window mount for stable viewing.
- Convenient Carry Options – Includes a GlassPak binocular harness and a comfort neck strap for ease of use in the field.
Key Specifications
- Riflescope Magnification: 4-12x
- Objective Lens Diameter (Riflescope): 44mm
- Reticle Type: Dead-Hold BDC
- Binocular Magnification: 10x
- Binocular Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm
- Build Material: Aircraft-Grade Aluminum (scope), Rubber-Armored Body (binoculars)
- Weather Resistance: Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof
Pros
- Excellent bundle value with both a riflescope and binoculars.
- Reliable performance in all weather and terrain conditions.
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle simplifies long-range shooting adjustments.
- Binoculars deliver crisp, high-contrast views with HD optics.
- Rugged, durable construction ensures long-lasting use.
Cons
- Slightly bulkier bundle for hunters who prefer ultra-light setups.
Also Read: 6 Best Hunting Knife of All Time
Factors to consider when choosing the Best Scopes for 22 WMR
1. Magnification Range
The .22 WMR is a flat-shooting rimfire cartridge, but it’s not a .308 or a 6.5 Creedmoor. Realistically, you’ll be shooting between 50 and 200 yards. That means a 3-9x or 4-12x magnification range is more than enough. Anything higher just adds unnecessary weight, cost, and tunnel vision.
2. Reticle Type
A simple duplex or BDC reticle works best for rimfire hunting and target shooting. Complex tactical reticles are overkill for a .22 WMR. A BDC reticle calibrated for rimfire ballistics helps compensate for drop at longer ranges without wasting time on calculations in the field.
3. Durability & Weather Resistance
Scopes for .22 WMR should still be shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof, even though recoil is mild. Cheap glass that fogs up or loses zero ruins your hunt instantly. A solid one-piece tube with nitrogen purging is a non-negotiable baseline.
4. Optical Quality
Good optics matter more than massive magnification. Look for fully multi-coated lenses that maximize light transmission. Since rimfires are often used for small game hunting at dawn or dusk, brightness and clarity are more important than zoom power.
Best Scopes for 22 WMR:FAQs
1. What is the best magnification for a .22 WMR scope?
For most hunters and target shooters, 3-9x or 4-12x is ideal. It covers close shots at 50 yards while still giving you the precision needed out past 150–200 yards. Going higher is overkill and often sacrifices field of view.
2. Can I use a centerfire rifle scope on a .22 WMR?
Yes, but it’s not always a smart choice. Centerfire scopes tend to be heavier, bulkier, and parallax-adjusted for 100+ yards. A rimfire-specific scope is usually lighter, parallax-corrected at shorter ranges, and better suited to the .22 WMR’s ballistics.
3. Is a BDC reticle worth it for .22 WMR?
Absolutely, if you plan on shooting beyond 100 yards. A BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticle helps you make quick holdover corrections without constantly dialing turrets. For small game or varmints, it’s a real time-saver.
4. What’s the difference between a .22 LR scope and a .22 WMR scope?
The .22 LR scope is typically designed for shorter ranges (50–75 yards) and has lower magnification. The .22 WMR shoots flatter and farther, so it benefits from slightly higher magnification (up to 12x) and better glass for longer shots.
5. Do I need an illuminated reticle for .22 WMR?
Not necessarily. An illuminated reticle can help during dawn, dusk, or in heavy cover, but it’s not essential. A scope with fully multi-coated lenses and good light transmission is far more important than paying extra for illumination you may never use.
Conclusion
Best Scopes for 22 WMR aren’t about chasing the highest magnification or the flashiest features—they’re about pairing this flat-shooting rimfire with optics that actually match its strengths. The .22 WMR excels in the 50–200 yard sweet spot, and the right scope should give you crystal-clear views, dependable tracking, and rugged reliability without unnecessary bulk.
The models we’ve covered tick those boxes. They bring together the features that matter most: bright glass, forgiving eye relief, reliable adjustments, and weatherproof durability. With the right choice, your .22 WMR rifle becomes a precision tool—equally ready for varmint hunting, small game, or range work.