10 Best Rimfire Scopes 2026 in the United States

The Nightforce NX8 2.5-20x50mm F1 scope is a strong choice for rimfire shooters needing flexibility from close to long-range shooting. Its wide 8x magnification range (2.5x to 20x) allows for quick target acquisition at close distances and precise aiming at longer distances. The large 50mm objective lens helps gather plenty of light, improving clarity and brightness, which is especially useful in low-light conditions or dense cover. The MOAR reticle is clear and easy to see against different backgrounds, with illumination to assist in dim settings. Adjustable parallax starting as close as 11 yards means the scope stays sharp and accurate even at short rimfire ranges. Eye relief is comfortable for most shooters, making it easier to maintain a good sight picture and avoid recoil issues.

One of the standout features is the ZeroStop elevation adjustment, which lets you quickly return to your zero after making long-range corrections—great for consistent shooting in the field. Durability is excellent; the scope is built to handle extreme weather, dust, and rough handling, which is ideal for outdoor hunting or tactical use.

On the downside, the scope is on the heavier side (about 1.77 pounds), which might be a bit much for lightweight rimfire setups. Also, while the 50mm objective brings advantages in light gathering, it makes the scope bulkier and potentially harder to mount on smaller rifles. For those seeking a rugged, high-quality scope that excels in varied lighting and distances and don't mind the extra size and weight, the NX8 is a solid option for rimfire shooting.

The Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 is a versatile rimfire riflescope that covers a wide range of shooting needs. Its magnification range from 4x to 32x allows you to comfortably target everything from close, fast-moving game to very distant targets, with clear and sharp images at any zoom level. The large 50mm objective lens helps gather plenty of light for a bright sight picture, which is useful in low-light conditions like dawn or dusk.

The scope uses a Mil-XT reticle designed especially for precision shooting and competitive use, offering easy-to-read markings that help with quick aiming and range estimation. It has a first focal plane reticle, meaning the reticle adjusts size along with magnification, so the holdover points stay accurate at any zoom. Parallax can be adjusted from 11 yards to infinity, helping maintain a sharp target image and accurate aiming across various distances. Eye relief is 3.5 inches, which is comfortable and safe for most shooters, reducing the chance of recoil injury.

The scope is built with a tough aluminum body and includes features like ZeroStop for quick return to your zero setting, and a power throw lever for fast magnification changes. While weighing just under 2 pounds, it remains relatively lightweight for its size but still feels solid and durable. Some users might find the smaller exit pupil at higher magnifications (1.6mm at 32x) requires steadier hands or a tripod for best results. This scope is well-suited for hunters and precision shooters looking for a reliable, high-performance rimfire optic with a broad magnification range and useful tactical features.

The Leupold Mark 4HD 8-32x56 (34mm) M1C3 Side Focus FFP PR2-MOA Riflescope is a high-quality option for shooters needing precise and reliable performance. Its wide magnification range of 8-32x allows for detailed long-range viewing, which is ideal for rimfire shooting where accuracy matters. The large 56mm objective lens helps gather plenty of light, improving clarity and visibility even in low-light conditions like early mornings or late evenings. The first focal plane (FFP) reticle is a strong point—it scales with the magnification, so you can estimate range at any zoom level, a feature appreciated by more experienced shooters. The PR2-MOA reticle type is designed for quick and accurate adjustments, making it practical for hunting or target shooting.

Parallax adjustment on the side focus offers precise control to eliminate image blur at various distances, enhancing accuracy. Durability is excellent; it's made from sturdy aluminum, and the scope is fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring it holds up well in tough outdoor conditions. The matte finish reduces glare, which helps maintain a clear view in bright sunlight.

One consideration is the weight at 2.1 pounds, which is somewhat heavy compared to smaller rimfire scopes, potentially making it less ideal for lightweight setups or casual plinking. Also, it lacks night vision compatibility, so it's best suited for daylight or standard low-light scenarios rather than specialized night shooting. This scope is a robust choice for serious rimfire shooters who want excellent magnification, precise range estimation, and rugged build quality. It fits well for hunting and target shooting, especially when reliable performance in varying light and weather conditions is needed.