Today, you will find the best 22LR scopes for target shooting. The .22LR caliber is one of the most popular calibers for target shooting. Being in the market for over a century now, this caliber continues to meet virtually all the needs of budget-minded target shooters across the globe.
It is fun and cheap to shoot with and with its versatility, you can use it for anything from recreational target shooting to small game hunting, plinking and more. If you use your 22LR for target shooting, you need a scope to complement its functionality.
In this post, we are going to show you the best 22LR scopes for target shooting available out there. These scopes will help you place your shots accurately and make your expedition spectacular. Without further ado, let’s dive right in.
#1) Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 2-7x33mm Rifle Scope
Carrying the renowned and highly respected Leupold name, the VX-Freedom Rimfire Riflescope offers relentless performance in any environment. It is built with a host of modern and improved features to ensure that it gets the job done every time.
Featuring 2-7x zoom power, the scope is ideal for target shooting at close and medium ranges. It offers generous eye relief for comfortable observation and a wide field of view to help you find targets quickly.
This rifle scope also possesses a Twilight Light Management System that augments the transmission of light in low-light settings and attenuates glare for bright, clear and color-rich sight pictures. The unrivaled optical prowess makes it one of the best 22LR scopes to buy.
The scope has a 1-inch body tube that is made to last. It is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum which maximizes both strength and durability. The unmatched durability makes VX-Freedom stand out among the best 22LR scopes for target shooting.
Additionally, this optic is designed with high-end sealing methods to stand up to extreme temperatures, elevation changes and weather elements. No matter the weather conditions, the scope will deliver relentless performance and get the job done.
Features
- Ergonomic power selector
- 1-inch main tube
- Matte finish
- Easy-to-read, high-contrast adjustment markings
- Twilight Light Management System
- 2-7x magnification
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
Pros
- American Quality
- Easy to use
- Lightweight and compact design
- Excellent image quality
Cons
- Glass could be better
- Non-illuminated reticle
#2) Athlon Optics 4.5-30 x 56 mm FFP Rifle Scope
For long-range target shooting, the Athlon 4.5-30 x 56 mm FFP Rifle Scope is your perfect match. It is built on a 34mm body tube which provides ample room for windage and elevation adjustment and reticle movement.
With the broad 4.5-30x magnification, this rifle scope gives you the flexibility to shoot targets at varying ranges. The 56mm aperture complements the broad zoom power by providing quality views even at the highest 30x setting.
Furthermore, the scope features a first focal plane reticle that offers precise holdover positions with finer details. It is illuminated to be visible even in low light settings and etched on the glass to offer higher durability and recoil resistance. Moreover, this optic comes with locking windage turrets to help prevent accidental adjustment and keep you zero all the time.
Construction-wise, the scope is made from 6061-T6 aerospace-quality aluminum. It offers superior mechanical integrity and durability. For all-weather reliability, this unit is waterproof and argon purged to counter fogging which happens when you move to an area with a bigger temperature gradient.
Other useful features included are a high-precision erector system, XPL coating and advanced fully multi-coated optics. No doubt Athlon Optics 4.5-30 x 56 mm Rifle Scope is one of the best 22LR scopes for target shooting in the industry.
Features
- Glass-etched first focal plane reticle
- Locking windage turret
- UHD glass
- Water, fog and shockproof
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Precision zero-stop system
- Heat-treated 1-piece 34mm main tube
Pros
- Broad magnification
- Exceptional long-range accuracy
- Solid construction
- Great eye relief
- Quick target engagement
- Unbeatable clarity and resolution
- Exposed turrets facilitate quick adjustments
- Reliable tracking
- Weatherproof performance
Cons
- High price
#3) Vortex Golden Eagle 15-60x52mm Rifle Scope
Vortex makes high-quality and functional optical devices and this is clear in the Golden Eagle 15-60x52mm Rifle Scope. It is uniquely designed to meet the needs of competition shooters in F-class, bench rest and a host of other shooting applications.
With a weight of just 29.5oz, this scope is feather-light and portable. The optically indexed lenses optimize image sharpness from edge to edge, while the plasma tech coatings offer unmatched optical clarity and durability.
The second focal plane ECR-1 MOA reticle maintains the same size at every zoom and the sub-tensions in it are essential for range estimation. Further, the scope has a fast-focus eyepiece that allows for simple and rapid focusing of the reticle, and a side focus adjustment for eliminating down-range parallax.
Above all, this rifle scope has sturdy aircraft-grade aluminum housing that is sealed with O-rings and argon purged to be fully waterproof and fogproof. Target shooters will love what the Golden Eagle 15-60×52 has to offer.
With its unique set of features specifically mapped out for competition shooters, this rifle scope will take your long-range shooting game a level up. The scope scores highly as one of the best 22LR scopes for target shooting.
Features
- 30mm main tube
- 15-60x magnification range
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Second focal plane ECR-1 MOA reticle
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Premium XR antireflective coatings
- Armortek protective lens coatings
- Aperture stop ring
Pros
- Ample amount of eye relief
- Robust and reliable construction
- Lightweight design
- Clear optics
- Unbeatable long-range accuracy
- Top-tier optics for high-quality performance
- Truthful adjustments help fine-tune shots
Cons
- Big budget
- Detached lens covers are easily lost
#4) Burris Signature HD Scope 5-25x50mm Rifle Scope
As one of the best 22LR Scopes for Target Shooting, the Signature HD 5-25x50mm Scope gives you the flexibility to shoot at different ranges. This is thanks to the adjustable 5x to 25x zoom and the large 50mm aperture that delivers fine image views at every magnification setting.
The optical finesse of this scope is admirable. The multi-coated optics augment light transmission and minimize light reflection. This gives you bright and clear sight pictures that are rich in edge-to-edge sharpness and color accuracy.
Anytime you are looking for a scope, you want to invest in a durable model. This is exactly what you get with this Burris Scope. It has a 30mm main tube made from aircraft-grade aluminum. It is also shockproof and weather-resistant for greater durability.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle
- Multi-coated optics
- 30mm main tube
- Water, fog and shockproof construction
- Zero stop turrets
- 5-25x variable magnification
- Matte finish
Pros
- Ruggedized construction
- Crisp clear optics
- Adjustable parallax
- HD clarity
Cons
- Costly
#5) Bushnell Optics Drop Zone-22 BDC Rimfire Reticle Riflescope
Bushnell is an industry leader in the field of optics. It makes quality and reliable optics and this is clear with the Drop Zone-22 BDC Rimfire Reticle Riflescope. The scope offers excellent optical precision and unmatched performance which makes it a perfect match for tactical shooting.
Featuring fully multi-coated optics, the scope offers incredible brightness and clarity under diverse light settings. The Drop Zone-22 BDC Rimfire Reticle stands out under any light settings providing accurate aiming points out to 500 yards. Moreover, the scope features a side parallax focus for parallax correction.
When it comes to construction, the scope is made from high-strength aluminum alloy and anodized-finished to keep it scratch-resistant and rust-proof. It is also O-ring sealed to prevent the entry of moisture or dust, and nitrogen purged to keep the lenses fog free.
Features
- Side focus parallax adjustment
- Fast focus eyepiece
- 1-inch body tube
- SFP Drop Zone-22 LR BDC Rimfire Reticle
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Fully multi-coated optics
- 1/4 MOA target turrets
Pros
- Excellent fit and finish
- Solid construction
- Ultra-lightweight design
- Long 3.7” eye relief
Cons
- Non-illuminated
#6) Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire SFP Riflescope
Lastly, we have the Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire SFP Riflescope. It is reasonably priced to meet the needs of budget buyers. And though it is easy on the wallet, it doesn’t compromise on quality or durability.
This scope is designed for dual use. You can use it for hunting and tactical applications under any weather as it is fully waterproof and fog proof. Construction-wise, it has a ruggedized housing that is shockproof and impact resistant as well.
In addition, it possesses a hard anodized finish that makes it virtually rust and scratch-proof, and an Armortek coating that protects the exterior lenses from scratches and dirt. The scope also has fully multi-coated lenses that augment light transmission for bright and clear sight pictures.
Above all, it brings to the table a fast-focus eyepiece that helps with quick reticle focusing and capped reset turrets which prevent accidental dialing while providing external protection of the turret.
Features
- Hard anodized finish
- 1-inch tube diameter
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Capped reset turrets
- Second focal plane reticle
- Fully multi-coated optics
Pros
- Forgiving eye relief
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not ideal for long-range shooting
Further Reading
- Best Vortex AR-15 Scopes
- Rifle Scopes for Elk Hunting
- Best Scopes for Scar 17
- Budget Scopes for 300 Win Mag
What Makes a Great 22LR Scope?
Several attributes make a great 22LR scope. Firstly, it should be built from high-quality materials such as aluminum which is rugged, light and long-lasting. With durable housing comes the ability to withstand abuses, recoil and anything nature throws on the scope.
Secondly, the lenses of the scope should have quality coatings that increase light transmission. The reticle should be easy to use and it should work effectively at both close and long ranges.
The other thing that a great 22LR scope should have is sufficient magnification. Your ideal magnification will majorly depend on how far you want to see and any model with 10 maximum magnification or more will do.
Lastly, the scope should be simple to use, easy to set up, and light in weight so it will be easier for you to carry it around.
Read: Best Nightforce Hunting Scopes
How to Choose the Best 22LR Scopes for Target Shooting
Choosing a 22LR scope for target shooting is not something to do on a whip. Here are the important factors you should take into consideration that will help you make the correct buying decision.
Magnification
When it comes to target shooting, it is a good thing to have a scope with high magnification. However, your ideal magnification will depend mainly on the surroundings and how much distance you purpose to cover.
For shooting stationary targets where a large field of view is not critical, a scope with high magnification levels will do. Any model with 10x maximum magnification or more will help you place the shots with greater precision.
Accuracy
For target shooting with the 22LR, you need a scope that offers excellent accuracy. Generally, the accuracy of the scope depends on numerous factors like the type of reticle, quality of optics, and the ability of the scope to hold zero among others.
Clarity
Clarity is key in target shootings. You can hardly place an accurate shot if you can see the target. The best 22LR scopes for target shooting use high-end glass such as ED, XD, or HD. With such glass quality, you are guaranteed clear and better views of the target you are shooting, even in adverse shooting environments.
Durability
The durability of the scope depends on the type and quality of materials used to craft it. If a scope is built with high-grade materials like aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, it will give your many years of use. But if it’s made out of low-quality materials, it will end up breaking apart after a few applications only.
It will also be an added advantage if the scope you get is made to be operable under any weather condition.
Price
The pricing in scopes is different and can be determined by the quality of features, material composition, durability and the brand. With so many scopes to choose from, it is practical to get one that fits your budget and satisfies your tactical shooting needs.
Usability
The other thing you should also put into consideration is usability. A reliable 22LR scope for tactical shooting is simple to use, mount, adjust and carry. It should also be lightweight, so you will be able to carry it around with ease.
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Best 22LR Scopes for Target Shooting FAQs
Q: Do I Need an Illuminated Reticle for Tactical Shooting?
An illuminated reticle isn’t a mandatory feature in any shooting application. However, some shooting applications necessitate the use of an illuminated reticle for improved accuracy.
If you will be shooting targets in low light settings, an illuminated reticle will help ensure that you aim accurately.
However, if you shoot during the day when lighting is ample, an illuminated reticle isn’t necessary.
Q: What is Eye Relief on a Scope?
Eye relief is the maximum distance from your eye to the outer surface of the scope’s eyepiece. It measures in inches or millimeters and a long one is a key to ensuring that you have a comfortable viewing experience with or without eyeglasses.
Q: What Do Numbers on a Scope Mean?
The numbers on a scope show the size of the objective lens and the magnification power. In a model that has a 4.5-30x56mm configuration, it means that the magnification power is adjustable from 4.5x to 30x and the objective lens has a diameter of 56mm.
Read: Best 350 Legend Riflescopes
Final Shot
We hope that this article has given you all the information you need about the Best 22LR Scopes for Target Shooting. As you can see, there are numerous scopes that you can choose from. Any of the scopes we have listed above is designed to give you the important features you need for target shooting at varying ranges with excellent precision.