We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Rifle Scope For 22 Magnum 2026 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Vortex Crossfire HD 1.5-5.5x32 Scout Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescope - Illuminated Dead-Hold 2A BDC MOA Reticle

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,239
Magnification
Reticle Type
Parallax Adjustment

Most important from
70 reviews

Magnification
The glass clarity and optical quality are solid, delivering clear images without noticeable distortion even at higher magnifications.
Reticle Type
The illuminated reticle significantly enhances low-light shooting, making target acquisition much easier at dawn or dusk.
Parallax Adjustment
Absence of parallax adjustment is noticeable for short-range precision shooting, especially with PCP rifles.
Durability and Weather Resistance
The scope is built well and feels durable, with a weight that is slightly heavy but not problematic for most setups.

The Vortex Crossfire HD 1.5-5.5x32 Scout riflescope is a solid choice for anyone using a .22 Magnum rifle, especially if you want a versatile scope with good optical clarity. Its magnification range of 1.5 to 5.5x is well-suited for shooting at varying distances, from close to moderate ranges common with .22 Magnum cartridges. The 32mm objective lens helps gather enough light for clear images, and the fully multi-coated lenses improve visibility in low-light conditions like dawn or dusk. The illuminated Dead-Hold 2A BDC reticle is helpful for quick aiming and estimating holdover and windage, which is great if you're hunting or shooting in the field where conditions change. The fast-focus eyepiece aids in fast reticle adjustment, making target acquisition easier.

This model does not have parallax adjustment, which some shooters may miss because parallax correction helps sharpen the image at specific distances—particularly important in precision shooting with small calibers like the .22 Magnum. The scope is built from aircraft-grade aluminum, making it durable, waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof—ideal for outdoor use and rough handling. It is a second focal plane scope, meaning the reticle size does not change with magnification, which may limit precision holdovers at higher zooms. Also, it weighs about 1.5 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for ultralight setups. The lifetime, unconditional VIP warranty adds peace of mind.

This scope is well suited for hunters and casual target shooters using a .22 Magnum who want reliable optics and rugged construction without the complexity of high-end precision adjustments.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,239
Magnification
Reticle Type
Parallax Adjustment

Most important from
70 reviews

Magnification
The glass clarity and optical quality are solid, delivering clear images without noticeable distortion even at higher magnifications.
Reticle Type
The illuminated reticle significantly enhances low-light shooting, making target acquisition much easier at dawn or dusk.
Parallax Adjustment
Absence of parallax adjustment is noticeable for short-range precision shooting, especially with PCP rifles.
Durability and Weather Resistance
The scope is built well and feels durable, with a weight that is slightly heavy but not problematic for most setups.
#2

Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Illum. FireDot Duplex Reticle Riflescope

Rating
10.0
Magnification
Parallax Adjustment
Reticle Type

Most important from
367 reviews

Magnification
The scope delivers exceptionally crisp and clear optics, providing a sharp image without unnecessary gadgets or complexity.
Parallax Adjustment
Its side focus adjustment enhances precision, making it ideal for long-range shooting and fine-tuning focus on targets.
Reticle Type
The reticle design is thoughtfully executed, offering reliable tracking and consistent zero retention for accurate shooting.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Built with durable materials and backed by a lifetime warranty, this scope inspires confidence in its long-term reliability.

The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 riflescope offers a versatile magnification range from 3x to 15x, which is great for the varying distances you might encounter when shooting a .22 Magnum. Its 44mm objective lens is a good size to gather enough light for a clear image without being too bulky, helping maintain a balanced feel on lighter rifles. The illuminated FireDot Duplex reticle provides a clear aiming point that works well in different lighting conditions, which can be valuable during dawn or dusk hunting.

The side focus parallax adjustment is a strong feature that lets you quickly fine-tune focus to your target, reducing aiming errors caused by parallax—something especially useful for the precision needed with .22 Magnum rounds. Eye relief is comfortable for most shooters, which helps avoid scope shadowing or injury from recoil, though this scope is on the medium side compared to some specialized small-caliber scopes. Durability is a standout point: it’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof with a tough aluminum body and a hydrophobic lens coating that repels dirt and water. This means it can handle rough outdoor conditions without losing clarity or reliability.

One consideration is that the scope’s higher magnification and advanced features might be more than needed for casual plinking or very close-range use, potentially adding unnecessary weight or complexity. Its precision, adjustable features, and build quality make it an excellent choice for serious .22 Magnum shooters who want a reliable scope for hunting or target shooting. Plus, Leupold’s lifetime guarantee adds peace of mind for long-term ownership.

Rating
10.0
Magnification
Parallax Adjustment
Reticle Type

Most important from
367 reviews

Magnification
The scope delivers exceptionally crisp and clear optics, providing a sharp image without unnecessary gadgets or complexity.
Parallax Adjustment
Its side focus adjustment enhances precision, making it ideal for long-range shooting and fine-tuning focus on targets.
Reticle Type
The reticle design is thoughtfully executed, offering reliable tracking and consistent zero retention for accurate shooting.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Built with durable materials and backed by a lifetime warranty, this scope inspires confidence in its long-term reliability.
#3

Vortex Optics Diamondback 3-9x40 SFP Riflescope Dead-Hold BDC MOA , black

Rating
9.4
Magnification
Reticle Type
Eye Relief

Most important from
3146 reviews

Magnification
The variable magnification ring is smooth and user-friendly, providing the perfect zoom range for typical medium-range shooting scenarios.
Reticle Type
The Dead-Hold BDC reticle enhances aiming without complicated calculations, proving very effective in both range and field conditions.
Eye Relief
The generous eye relief and well-designed turrets contribute to a comfortable shooting experience without sacrificing precision.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Durability shines through with a solid build and quality materials that feel comparable to more expensive models, backed by an unbeatable lifetime warranty.

The Vortex Diamondback 3-9x40 riflescope is a solid choice for .22 Magnum shooters looking for a versatile optic. Its variable magnification from 3x to 9x allows for flexibility in both close and medium-range shooting, which suits the typical distances encountered with a .22 Magnum. The 40mm objective lens offers a good balance, providing bright and clear images without making the scope bulky. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is designed to help estimate hold-over for different ranges, making it easier to aim without complex calculations.

This scope generally includes decent handling of parallax at typical .22 Magnum ranges, supporting accurate shooting without requiring a dedicated parallax adjustment. Eye relief is generous, around 83mm, helping maintain a safe and comfortable distance from the scope during shooting. Built with a one-piece aluminum tube and a hard anodized finish, it offers strong durability and weather resistance, including fog proof and waterproof features thanks to argon purging and O-ring seals, making it reliable in various outdoor conditions. The metal turrets are precise and resettable, aiding easy zeroing and repeatable adjustments.

The scope lacks night vision compatibility and might be heavier than some ultra-light options, but at 0.9 pounds, it remains manageable for most users. Supported by Vortex's lifetime VIP warranty, this scope provides good value for hunters and target shooters using a .22 Magnum who want a dependable, user-friendly optic without breaking the bank.

Rating
9.4
Magnification
Reticle Type
Eye Relief

Most important from
3146 reviews

Magnification
The variable magnification ring is smooth and user-friendly, providing the perfect zoom range for typical medium-range shooting scenarios.
Reticle Type
The Dead-Hold BDC reticle enhances aiming without complicated calculations, proving very effective in both range and field conditions.
Eye Relief
The generous eye relief and well-designed turrets contribute to a comfortable shooting experience without sacrificing precision.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Durability shines through with a solid build and quality materials that feel comparable to more expensive models, backed by an unbeatable lifetime warranty.

Buying Guide for the Best Rifle Scope For 22 Magnum

Choosing the right rifle scope for your .22 Magnum is crucial for enhancing your shooting accuracy and overall experience. The right scope can make a significant difference in your ability to hit targets consistently, whether you're hunting small game or practicing at the range. To make an informed decision, you need to understand the key specifications and how they align with your shooting needs. Here are the essential specs to consider when selecting a rifle scope for your .22 Magnum.
MagnificationMagnification refers to how much closer the target appears through the scope compared to the naked eye. This is important because it affects your ability to see and aim at distant targets. Scopes typically have fixed or variable magnification. Fixed magnification scopes are simpler and often more durable, while variable magnification scopes offer more flexibility. For a .22 Magnum, which is often used for small game hunting and target shooting, a magnification range of 3-9x is usually sufficient. Higher magnifications can be useful for longer distances but may be overkill for typical .22 Magnum ranges.
Objective Lens DiameterThe objective lens diameter is the size of the front lens of the scope, measured in millimeters. This spec is important because it affects the amount of light that enters the scope, impacting image brightness and clarity. Larger objective lenses (40mm or more) allow more light and can provide a clearer image, especially in low-light conditions. However, they also make the scope bulkier and heavier. For a .22 Magnum, a 32mm to 40mm objective lens is usually a good balance between brightness and portability.
Reticle TypeThe reticle, or crosshair, is the aiming point you see when looking through the scope. Different reticle types serve different purposes. Simple duplex reticles are easy to use and great for general shooting. BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles help with long-range shooting by providing holdover points for bullet drop. Mil-dot reticles are useful for range estimation and windage adjustments. For a .22 Magnum, a duplex reticle is often sufficient, but if you plan on shooting at varying distances, a BDC reticle might be beneficial.
Parallax AdjustmentParallax adjustment helps ensure that the reticle stays on target even if you move your eye slightly. This is important for precision shooting, especially at longer distances. Scopes without parallax adjustment are typically set at a fixed distance (usually 50 or 100 yards). For a .22 Magnum, which is often used at shorter ranges, a scope with a fixed parallax setting at 50 yards is usually adequate. However, if you plan to shoot at varying distances, a scope with adjustable parallax can be more versatile.
Eye ReliefEye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope where you can see the full image. This is important for comfort and safety, especially with higher-recoil rifles. While the .22 Magnum has relatively low recoil, having sufficient eye relief (around 3-4 inches) ensures you can shoot comfortably and avoid any potential scope bite. Longer eye relief can also be beneficial if you wear glasses.
Durability and Weather ResistanceDurability and weather resistance are crucial for ensuring your scope can withstand the conditions you'll be shooting in. Look for scopes that are waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. These features ensure that your scope will perform reliably in various weather conditions and withstand the recoil of your rifle. For a .22 Magnum, which might be used in diverse environments, these features are essential for maintaining accuracy and longevity.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now