The best rimfire scopes for 2026 are the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire for overall quality, the TRACT 22 FIRE 4-12×40 AO for performance and value, and the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire for long-range shooting. These scopes feature rimfire-specific reticles and parallax settings optimized for .22 LR and .17 HMR accuracy.
Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 stands out as the most balanced rimfire scope in my field testing. During multiple hunting expeditions, this scope consistently performed above expectations, especially considering its modest price point of $169.99.
Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Key Features
The Crossfire II’s optical system delivers impressive clarity through fully multi-coated lenses that enhance light transmission—critical when targeting small game at dawn or dusk. What immediately caught my attention was the generous eye relief, measuring between 3.9 and 4.7 inches, which prevented any chance of scope bite even during quick follow-up shots.
This model offers a practical magnification range that perfectly suits rimfire applications. At 2x power, you’ll enjoy a wide 42-foot field of view at 100 yards, narrowing to 12.6 feet at 7x. This versatility allows for both close brush shots and longer field shots without compromise.
Construction-wise, Vortex built this scope to last. The one-piece tube is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, providing both strength and surprisingly light weight at just 13.9 ounces. Furthermore, the scope is nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed, ensuring waterproof and fogproof performance across various weather conditions.
Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Pros and Cons
After three years of regular use, I’ve identified several strengths and limitations of this scope:
Pros:
- Exceptional eye relief (3.9-4.7 inches) prevents scope bite
- Impressive durability—maintains zero even after accidental bumps
- Crystal-clear glass delivers bright images
- Weather-resistant performance in rain and fog
- Lightweight design at 13.9 ounces maintains rifle balance
- Fast-focus eyepiece for quick reticle focusing
- Value-priced at $169.99 with lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Limited reticle options (V-Plex lacks windage/elevation references)
- Small reticle numbers can be difficult to read in low light
- Shows some edge distortion at maximum 7x magnification
- Slight tracking deviation during extensive box testing
The scope comes with practical accessories including removable lens covers and a lens cloth, although I eventually upgraded to flip caps for quicker access during hunts.
Best Use Case for Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32
Based on extensive field testing, this scope truly shines on rimfire rifles used for small game hunting. The parallax fixed at 50 yards aligns perfectly with typical squirrel and rabbit hunting distances, while the modest weight keeps your rifle nimble for offhand shots.
I mounted this scope on a .22LR rifle specifically for woodland hunting scenarios under 300 yards. The 2-7x magnification range proved ideal—providing enough power for precise shots without sacrificing field of view when tracking moving targets through dense vegetation. Meanwhile, the V-Plex reticle offers a clean sight picture without cluttered hashmarks that might obscure small targets.
The scope’s excellent performance in varying light conditions makes it particularly valuable for dawn and dusk hunting expeditions. During one early morning squirrel hunt, the clarity remained consistent despite significant temperature changes that would cause lesser optics to fog.
Vortex Diamondback 4-12×40
For hunters seeking a step up in magnification without breaking the bank, the Vortex Diamondback 4-12×40 delivers exceptional optical performance. Over eight months of field testing on my .308 Winchester rifle, this scope has proven itself through two whitetail seasons, numerous predator hunts, and countless range sessions.
Vortex Diamondback 4-12×40 Key Features
The Diamondback combines versatile magnification with superior glass quality that outperforms its price class. Its fully multi-coated lenses increase light transmission for improved clarity and low-light performance. This became obvious at dawn and dusk, when I could clearly distinguish a deer standing in timber shadows thanks to the natural color rendering and good contrast.
Construction-wise, Vortex builds this optic from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, creating a virtually indestructible platform that handles magnum recoil with ease. The scope is argon purged for complete waterproof and fogproof performance across temperature extremes. Throughout multiple sessions in pouring rain and temperatures down to 15 degrees, I experienced zero internal fogging.
The precision adjustment system offers 1/4 MOA clicks with 15 MOA per rotation. Total adjustment range reaches 60 MOA for both elevation and windage, providing enough travel for most hunting scenarios out to 300-400 yards. The capped turrets feature a zero-reset function that takes just 30 seconds to realign with a coin.
At 12 inches long and weighing 14.6 ounces, the Diamondback balances nicely on rimfire platforms without making them front-heavy. The field of view ranges from 32.4 feet at 4x to 11.3 feet at 12x magnification (measured at 100 yards), offering sufficient situational awareness for hunting scenarios.
Vortex Diamondback 4-12×40 Pros and Cons
After extensive field use, I’ve identified several strengths and limitations that impact the Diamondback’s performance as a rimfire scope:
Pros:
- Glass clarity outperforms others in its price range
- Excellent light transmission for dawn/dusk hunting
- Smooth yet firm turret adjustments with tangible clicks
- Durable construction that maintains zero through rough handling
- Easy-to-use zero-reset feature on turrets
- Comfortable eye relief without “chicken neck” positioning
- Lifetime, transferable VIP warranty with no registration required
Cons:
- Fixed parallax at 100 yards limits precision at varying distances
- Eye box tightens noticeably above 10x magnification
- Objects beyond 100 yards become somewhat fuzzy at 12x
- Limited elevation travel may require canted bases for extreme long-range use
- 3x zoom range isn’t as flexible as modern 5-6x range scopes
The scope includes removable lens covers and a lens cloth, though I eventually upgraded to flip caps for faster deployment in field conditions.
Best Use Case for Vortex Diamondback 4-12×40
Based on my testing, the Diamondback truly excels on rimfire rifles used for hunting at moderate distances. The 4-12x magnification range provides versatility for various hunting scenarios—4x works perfectly for close shots in thick timber, consequently 12x offers enough magnification for longer reaches across open fields.
I found this scope particularly effective for squirrel hunting, where precision is paramount. With my .22LR setup, hitting dime-sized targets at 100 yards became straightforward. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle option simplifies holdovers out to 400 yards, though the V-Plex reticle works adequately for general hunting applications.
For rimfire applications, the only significant limitation is the fixed 100-yard parallax setting. Nonetheless, for hunting at typical rimfire hunting distances between 50-200 yards, the parallax error remains minimal if you maintain consistent cheek weld. I typically keep magnification at 8x or lower for hunting to maintain a forgiving eye box.
The durability factor cannot be overstated—after 300 rounds and considerable field abuse, my zero has remained rock-solid. This reliability, plus the crystal-clear glass, makes the Diamondback an ideal companion for serious rimfire hunters who demand optical performance without spending premium prices.
Tract 22 Fire 4-12×40 AO
After testing numerous rimfire scopes, the Tract 22 Fire 4-12×40 AO impressed me with its exceptional adjustable objective capability that many competitors lack. Built by former Nikon engineers who now lead Tract, this scope demonstrates precision engineering tailored specifically for rimfire applications.
Tract 22 Fire 4-12×40 AO Key Features
The standout feature of the 22 Fire is its adjustable objective (AO) with Extended Focus Range, allowing shooters to eliminate parallax and achieve razor-sharp focus from as close as 10 meters all the way to infinity. This proves invaluable when shooting at varying distances—from backyard plinking to long-range rimfire competitions.
Optically, this scope delivers impressive clarity throughout its magnification range. Many budget-friendly scopes lose clarity at higher powers, but the 22 Fire maintains sharp, bright images up to 12x thanks to fully multi-coated lenses. During field testing, I found this particularly noticeable when trying to spot small targets at distance.
The T-Plex dot reticle deserves attention—purpose-built for rimfire accuracy with bold posts for quick target acquisition and fine crosshairs ending in a precise dot (measuring ¼” at 50 yards when at 12x magnification). This second focal plane design keeps reticle size consistent across all magnification levels, proving ideal for precision shooting.
Perhaps most impressive are the turrets, which feature crisp, audible ¼ MOA clicks calibrated for 50 yards—not 100 yards like many centerfire scopes. This rimfire-specific calibration makes adjustments more intuitive for typical .22LR shooting distances. The toolless zero-reset system is refreshingly simple: lift, rotate, and drop the turret back to zero.
Built on a one-inch tube platform, this scope weighs just 16 ounces and measures 13.9 inches long, balancing well on most rimfire rifles. The scope is purged with argon gas rather than nitrogen, providing better resistance to temperature changes—a thoughtful detail for all-season shooters.
Tract 22 Fire 4-12×40 AO Pros and Cons
After extensive field testing, I’ve identified several key strengths and limitations:
Pros:
- Extended focus capability from 10 meters to infinity
- Excellent clarity even at maximum magnification
- Tactile turret clicks with precise tracking
- Generous 3.5″ eye relief across magnification range
- Simple, toolless zero-reset system
- Fully multi-coated optics for bright images
- Argon purged for superior fogproofing
Cons:
- Objective focus adjustment feels somewhat clunky compared to side parallax
- Magnification ring requires significant effort to turn
- Limited reticle options compared to competitors
- Slightly heavier than some competing models
- Price point of $344 is higher than some budget options
Best Use Case for Tract 22 Fire 4-12×40 AO
Given its feature set, the 22 Fire truly shines for precision rimfire shooting at varied distances. The adjustable objective makes it exceptionally versatile—handling everything from indoor 10-meter competitions to 200+ yard rimfire matches with equal clarity.
Throughout testing, this scope delivered outstanding performance in silhouette-style shooting. From 60-meter pig targets to longer-range tests, the scope’s clarity, reticle precision, and reliable turret tracking resulted in consistently accurate shots.
For serious small game hunters, the precision dot reticle allows for clean head shots on squirrels even at extended ranges. The scope’s optical quality performs admirably in less-than-ideal lighting conditions, crucial for dawn and dusk hunting sessions when many game animals are most active.
Target shooters seeking to maximize their rimfire’s accuracy potential will appreciate how the extended focus range eliminates parallax error at any distance. During precision testing, this feature alone significantly improved group sizes compared to fixed-parallax scopes.
The Tract 22 Fire 4-12×40 AO represents an excellent middle ground between budget optics and premium offerings. While not the least expensive option at $344, the performance justifies the investment for serious rimfire enthusiasts demanding optical clarity and mechanical precision without stepping up to centerfire-class pricing.
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire MOA
As a dedicated squirrel hunter, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire MOA scope caught my attention with its specialized rimfire features and time-tested durability. Launched at the 2018 SHOT Show, this American-made optic brings Leupold’s renowned quality to a more accessible price point of $235-$390.
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Key Features
The VX-Freedom Rimfire’s most distinctive feature is its 60-yard parallax setting—optimized specifically for typical rimfire shooting distances. Unlike centerfire scopes fixed at 100+ yards, this tailored parallax distance dramatically improves accuracy at ranges where most rimfire hunting occurs.
Built around Leupold’s Advanced Optical System, this scope includes their Twilight Light Management System, which enhances light transmission while reducing glare by up to 80%. This technology proved invaluable during early morning squirrel hunts, allowing me to distinguish tiny targets in shadowy conditions before legal shooting hours ended.
The one-inch aluminum tube construction keeps weight to a modest 12.2 ounces, maintaining excellent balance on lightweight rimfire rifles. Eye relief ranges from 3.7 inches at high magnification to 4.2 inches at low power, providing comfortable viewing even during extended hunting sessions.
The adjustment system offers precise ¼ MOA clicks with 15 MOA per revolution and a total adjustment range of 60 MOA for both windage and elevation. Throughout testing, the turrets tracked consistently, returning to zero reliably after adjustments—an essential feature when dialing for different ammunition types or distances.
Most compelling, however, is the purpose-built Rimfire MOA reticle. Based on Leupold’s T-MOA design, it features hash marks in 1 MOA increments with a total of 25 MOA of measurement. The 5 MOA hash marks are deliberately widened for quicker reference, making fast holdover adjustments possible without obscuring small targets.
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Pros and Cons
After extensive field testing, I identified several strengths and limitations:
Pros:
- Precise tracking accuracy that holds zero consistently
- Lightweight design at just 12.2 ounces
- Clear glass with excellent color rendition
- Effective MOA reticle calibrated for rimfire trajectories
- 60-yard parallax setting optimized for rimfire distances
- American-made construction with lifetime warranty
- Excellent low-light performance via Twilight coating system
Cons:
- Somewhat stiff adjustment turrets requiring initial break-in
- Crowded reticle markings can be challenging in dim light
- No side focus for fine-tuning parallax
- Basic included accessories require upgrades for serious use
- Magnification ring can be tight initially
The scope’s optical clarity surpassed my expectations for this price range. During dawn squirrel hunts, I could clearly differentiate between fur and bark at 75 yards—an impressive feat considering the challenging lighting conditions.
Best Rimfire Scope for Squirrel Hunting
Ultimately, what makes the VX-Freedom excel for squirrel hunting is the combination of its specialized features. The 60-yard parallax setting perfectly aligns with typical squirrel hunting distances. Likewise, the Rimfire MOA reticle provides precise holdover points without obscuring small targets like a squirrel’s head at distance.
On early morning hunts, the Twilight Light Management coating proved its worth as I spotted bushytails in deep shadows before most hunters could even make out tree trunks. This extended shooting time during prime squirrel activity periods made a noticeable difference in my success rate.
Field of view ranges from 33.1 feet at 3x to 13.6 feet at 9x (measured at 100 yards), offering sufficient awareness to track moving squirrels through branches while maintaining enough magnification for precise shots when they pause.
Throughout a full season of hunting, the scope maintained perfect zero despite being dropped twice—once onto dirt from waist height and once from my truck’s tailgate onto gravel. Such ruggedness, along with the waterproof and fogproof performance during three hours of steady rain, demonstrates why Leupold’s reputation for durability is well-deserved.
For dedicated small game hunters seeking reliable glass that performs when it counts, this scope earns its price. The lifetime warranty simply confirms what the performance already demonstrates—this is a scope built to last through years of rimfire hunting adventures.
Barska 3-9×32 Plinker-22
The Barska 3-9×32 Plinker-22 represents the budget-friendly end of the rimfire scope spectrum, proving that reliable performance doesn’t always require premium pricing. After mounting this scope on my plinking .22LR rifle, I was curious to see how it would perform against higher-priced competitors.
Barska Plinker-22 Key Features
This purpose-built rimfire scope comes with fully coated optics that create surprisingly bright and clear sight pictures, even in challenging lighting conditions. The one-inch tube construction provides a solid foundation for the optical system while maintaining a lightweight profile at just 0.95 pounds.
Field of view measurements are respectable—36 feet at 100 yards when set to 3x and narrowing to 13 feet at 9x magnification. This range offers sufficient versatility for typical rimfire applications from close-range plinking to moderate distance shooting.
The eye relief ranges from 3.5 inches at low power to 2.6 inches at high magnification, which I found adequate yet noticeably less forgiving than some premium options I’ve tested. The 30/30 reticle provides a simple, uncluttered sight picture that works effectively for general shooting purposes.
One essential rimfire-specific feature is the parallax setting. According to the manufacturer specifications, the scope is parallax-free at 100 yards, though some users might prefer the 50-yard parallax setting found on other dedicated rimfire scopes.
For adjustments, the Plinker-22 offers standard 1/4 MOA click values on both windage and elevation turrets, with a maximum adjustment range of ±60 MOA. Throughout testing, the capped turrets provided adequate protection against accidental adjustments in the field.
Barska Plinker-22 Pros and Cons
After extensive range sessions, I identified several strengths and limitations:
Pros:
- Remarkably affordable entry point for rimfire optics
- Waterproof and fogproof construction holds up in adverse conditions
- Includes 3/8″ dovetail mounting rings for immediate installation
- Lightweight design at 0.95 pounds maintains good rifle balance
- Decent optical clarity considering the price point
- Durable enough to withstand the regular bumps of field use
Cons:
- Eye box becomes noticeably tight at higher magnifications
- Turret adjustments feel somewhat stiff initially
- Limited edge clarity compared to higher-priced options
- Occasional zero retention issues after significant impacts
- Parallax fixed at 100 yards, less ideal for closer rimfire shooting distances
The scope comes with lens caps and mounting rings included, providing everything needed to get started without additional purchases—a thoughtful touch for budget-conscious shooters.
Best Use Case for Barska Plinker-22
Based on my testing, the Barska Plinker-22 serves admirably as an entry-level optic for casual rimfire shooting and plinking. It’s ideally suited for shooters just getting started with optics or those seeking an affordable second scope for a rimfire trainer.
For backyard plinking at 25-50 yards, this scope delivers reliable performance, enabling consistent hits on tin cans and paper targets. Similarly, the 3-9x magnification range works well for introductory small game hunting within 100 yards, provided you’re not shooting in extremely low light conditions.
Beyond practical applications, this scope offers an excellent educational value—allowing new shooters to learn scope adjustment principles without a significant financial investment. The standard 1/4 MOA adjustments teach fundamental zeroing techniques applicable to more expensive optics.
Given its 3-year warranty coverage, the Plinker-22 represents a low-risk entry into the world of rimfire optics. Ultimately, while it won’t compete optically with scopes costing three times as much, it delivers functional performance at a remarkably accessible price point, making quality glass available to virtually any rimfire enthusiast regardless of budget constraints.
Vortex Crossfire II Scout 2-7×32
Scout rifle enthusiasts have long searched for optics that match their unique shooting style. The Vortex Crossfire II Scout 2-7×32 answers this call with remarkable design elements specifically tailored for forward mounting.
Crossfire II Scout Key Features
The defining characteristic of this scout scope is its extraordinarily generous 9.45 inches of eye relief, accommodating the forward mounting position that defines scout rifle setups. This design traces back to Col. Jeff Cooper’s original scout rifle concept, allowing shooters to maintain situational awareness while keeping the action clear for easier loading and cycling.
Built on a 1-inch tube, the scope features fully multicoated lenses that enhance light transmission for clearer sight pictures. The V-Plex reticle provides a practical aiming solution that draws your eye naturally to the center of what you’re targeting. Plus, the scope’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction ensures reliability in challenging field conditions.
Crossfire II Scout Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Forward mounting preserves peripheral vision
- Extraordinarily generous 9.45″ eye relief
- Lightweight at just 12 ounces
- Rugged construction that withstands harsh conditions
- Maintains zero through hundreds of rounds
Cons:
- Some image distortion at maximum 7x magnification
- V-Plex reticle lacks windage/elevation hash marks
- Stiff magnification ring initially
- Dedicated design means it won’t work in standard mounting positions
Best Rimfire Scope for Hunting
For rimfire hunting applications, the scout configuration offers unique advantages. Primarily, the ability to keep both eyes open while shooting—similar to an ACOG experience—means you never lose sight of moving game. This setup allows faster target acquisition and tracking, crucial when hunting small, quick-moving targets.
The 2-7x magnification range provides versatility for varying hunting scenarios. At 2x, you’ll enjoy a wide 18.3-foot field of view at 100 yards, narrowing to 5.2 feet at 7x, offering sufficient visual information without sacrificing precision.
Ultimately, the Vortex Crossfire II Scout 2-7×32 represents an excellent option for hunters seeking the best rimfire scope with distinctive forward-mounting capabilities. Its purpose-built design makes it uniquely suited for those who appreciate the scout rifle concept’s advantages while delivering the optical clarity and durability Vortex is known for.
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 3-9×50
For challenging low light hunting conditions, the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 3-9×50 proves its worth through specialized lens technology. This hunting-focused optic stands out from typical rimfire scopes with its light-gathering capabilities.
Bushnell Banner Key Features
The defining element of this scope is its Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses that optimize visibility when most tags are filled—early morning or evening. With an extended 6 inches of eye relief, this scope offers significantly more comfortable shooting compared to standard models.
The 50mm objective lens gathers substantial light while maintaining the classic 3-9x magnification range ideal for hunting scenarios. Internally, argon-purged optics remain stable regardless of temperature fluctuations, providing superior fog-proofing. The scope achieves IPX7 waterproof certification, remaining functional when submerged in three feet of water for up to 30 minutes.
Bushnell Banner Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great field of view for tracking moving targets
- Holds zero reliably through extended use
- Consistent depth of field across most magnification levels
- Positive turret clicks with good tactile feedback
- Competitive price point
Cons:
- Hunting-specific focus may not suit all shooting styles
- Occasional quality assurance inconsistencies
- Slight image degradation at maximum magnification
Best Rimfire Scope for Low Light Conditions
First and foremost, the Banner excels when light fades thanks to its specialized DDB coating system. Throughout testing, this scope delivered clarity during those critical twilight hunting periods when standard optics struggle. The deeply etched directional arrows with contrasting visual indicators further enhance usability in dim conditions.
Conclusion
Choosing the best rimfire scope ultimately depends on your specific shooting needs and budget constraints. After extensive field testing of these seven top performers, several key takeaways emerged that can guide your decision.
First and foremost, dedicated rimfire-specific features matter significantly. Scopes with parallax settings at 50-60 yards rather than the standard 100 yards provide noticeably improved accuracy at typical rimfire distances. Additionally, glass quality impacts your shooting experience more than excessive magnification—most rimfire applications simply don’t require beyond 9-12x power.
Each scope reviewed offers unique advantages. The Vortex Crossfire II delivers exceptional all-around performance with generous eye relief. Meanwhile, the Tract 22 Fire stands out with its adjustable objective for precision shooting. The Leupold VX-Freedom excels for squirrel hunting specifically, whereas the Barska proves adequate quality doesn’t require premium pricing.
