10 Best 22 Scopes 2026 in the United States

The Vortex Optics Razor HD Spotting Scope 22-48x65 Angled is a high-quality spotting scope ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and bird watchers. Its magnification range of 22-48x provides versatility for various viewing distances, while the 65mm objective lens diameter ensures bright and clear images. The Triplet Apochromatic lens and high-density, extra-low dispersion glass deliver exceptional resolution and color fidelity, making it easier to identify fine details. The XR Plus anti-reflective coatings enhance brightness, particularly useful in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk.

The helical focus allows for smooth and precise adjustments, and the multi-position eyecup ensures comfortable viewing with adequate eye relief, even for those who wear glasses. The locking collar is a convenient feature, allowing the user to rotate the scope to achieve the best viewing angle without hassle. Durability is a strong suit of the Razor HD, as it is O-ring sealed and argon purged to ensure waterproof and fogproof performance. The Armortek coatings protect the lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt, while the rubber armor provides a robust grip and protection from impacts.

The included accessories, such as the eyepiece cap, objective lens cover, and custom-fitted neoprene case, add value and protection for the scope. However, the scope is on the heavier side, weighing approximately 3.5 pounds, which might be a consideration for those looking to travel light. Additionally, its price point might be higher compared to other spotting scopes, but this is justified by its premium build and lifetime warranty that guarantees repair or replacement if it becomes damaged. The Vortex Optics Razor HD Spotting Scope is a reliable and high-performing tool suitable for any serious outdoor enthusiast looking for top-notch optical quality and durability.

The Nightforce NX8 2.5-20x50mm scope is built especially for hunters looking for a versatile and durable optic. Its wide 8x magnification range (2.5x to 20x) allows quick switching between close and long-distance shots, making it useful in different hunting situations. The large 50mm objective lens helps capture plenty of light for clear images, even in low-light conditions like dawn or dusk. The MIL-C reticle is simple but precise, with illuminated markings that help with aiming in tough conditions. You get a broad 41.8 feet field of view at the lowest magnification, which is helpful for tracking moving targets. Eye relief is a solid 3 inches, offering comfortable use without worrying about recoil impact. Parallax adjustment is effective down to just 11 yards, improving accuracy at varying distances.

One notable strength is its rugged design; it’s made to handle extreme weather and rough environments, with waterproof, fogproof, and shock-resistant features. The ZeroStop elevation adjustment is a handy feature for quickly returning to your zero point after long-range shots, which can save time and improve consistency. However, the scope weighs 1.77 pounds, so it might feel a bit heavy for those wanting a lightweight setup. Additionally, while the scope is very durable and feature-rich, it doesn’t include night vision capabilities, which might limit its use in total darkness.

This scope is suited for serious hunters who need a reliable, tough optic with a flexible zoom range and clear reticle for varied shooting conditions.

The Nightforce NXS 5.5-22x50mm scope is a solid choice for shooters seeking a versatile and precise optic for medium to long-range shooting. Its magnification range from 5.5x to 22x allows users to engage targets at varying distances with good clarity, supported by a large 50mm objective lens that lets in plenty of light for brighter images. The MOAR-T reticle, with fine .0625 MOA lines and 1 MOA markings, is helpful for accurate holdovers and windage corrections, though its center-only illumination means low-light visibility may not be as versatile as some illuminated reticles with multiple brightness settings.

Eye relief of 3.7 inches is comfortable, helping prevent scope glare and ensuring safe shooting, while the parallax adjustment from 50 yards to infinity aids in maintaining focus at various ranges, which is especially useful for precision shooting. The scope’s construction from titanium and its rugged design make it durable and weather-resistant, suitable for tough outdoor conditions and handling larger calibers without issue. The ZeroStop feature is a nice addition for quickly returning to zero after adjustments, saving time in the field.

On the downside, the scope is fairly long and weighs nearly two pounds, which may add noticeable weight to smaller rifles and affect handling. Also, being a second focal plane scope means the reticle size does not change with magnification, which may require some experience to estimate holdovers correctly at different zoom levels. This scope is well-suited for hunters and long-range shooters who want reliable performance, precise adjustments, and durability, though it may be bulkier than ideal for casual shooters or those prioritizing lightweight setups.