The best scope for 22lr long range shooting should offer clear optics, precise adjustments, and a suitable magnification range. It should allow for precise bullet drop compensation and windage adjustments, enabling shooters to engage targets at extended distances.
With the right scope, shooters can unlock the full potential of their .22 LR rifle and enjoy challenging long-range shooting with impressive accuracy.
Small game hunting, plinking, and target practice are some of the outdoor activities that the 22lr Excels at. It has a lightweight design and produces minimal recoil which makes a great tool for beginners. If you have a 22lr rifle, investing in a fitting scope will make it more versatile and help you get the most out of your shooting expedition.
What is the best magnification for a 22 LR rifle?
The best magnification for a .22 LR rifle will majorly depend on the intended use(plinking, target shooting, small game hunting, and even some varmint control). Considering the relatively short effective range of the .22 LR cartridge, a moderate magnification range of around 3x to 9x is often recommended for most shooting applications.
At lower magnifications (let’s say 3x to 4x), shooters can enjoy a wider field of view, which is beneficial for engaging moving targets or shooting in close-quarters situations. This lower magnification range is often preferred for plinking or shooting at shorter distances.
On the other hand, higher magnifications (around 7x to 9x) can be useful when shooting at longer distances, such as small game hunting or precision target shooting. It allows for more precise shot placement and better target identification.
In this post, we have outlined below some of the best scopes for 22lr suitable for long-range shooting. Whether you use your 22lr for big game hunting or target shooting, these scopes will give you a remarkable shooting experience. Let’s take a look.
Best Scopes for 22lr Long Range Shooting
1) Simmons 22 MAG 3-9x32mm Riflescope
Simmons 22 MAG 3-9x32mm Riflescope is the best scope for 22lr long range shooting, this rifle scope delivers stunning performance and reliability which makes it stand out among the rest. It brings to the table a wide range of features at an amazingly low cost. It is also very easy to use too.
Featuring an adjustable 3-9x magnification, the scope is ideal for shooting targets at both close quarters and long ranges. It provides a wide viewing angle at the low 3x magnification and better target acquisition at long ranges with the 9x magnification.
It also features a Quick Target Acquisition eyepiece for quick target acquisition and a long eye relief that helps keep your eye safe from high recoiling rifles.
The scope features fully multi-coated optics that maximize light transmission and attenuate light loss via reflection to create bright and crisp image views.
It also has a HydroShield lens coating which provides clear image views in any weather conditions. Furthermore, it has a parallax correction preset from 50 yards to infinity and SureGrip rubber surfaces which simplify adjustments even in wet conditions.
To top it all, the scope is fully waterproof and fog proof for use under any weather condition and shockproof to stand anything you throw at it.
Specifications
- Reticle: Truplex
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 10.7 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.75 in
- Weight: 10 oz
- Length: 12 in
- Attachment/Mount Type: Ring
Pros
- Truplex reticle for quick and easy target acquisition
- SureGrip rubber surfaces
- High-quality optical glass
- HydroShield lens coating
- Quick Target Acquisition eyepiece
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Adjustable 3-9x magnification
- Parallax-free from 50 yards to infinity
- Long eye relief
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
2) Burris Droptine 4.5-14x42mm Riflescope
When it comes to versatility, you can never go wrong with the Droptime Riflescope from Burris. It is ideal for hunting, tactical shooting, and military applications. It also has the focus set at 50 yards which makes it an exceptional choice for .22 LR ammo.
The scope has an adjustable magnification making it ideal for short and long-range applications. Additionally, it has a simple, rugged reticle that has a holdover for precise shooting at long ranges and precision-ground glass that is multi-coated to provide excellent low-light performance.
Another good thing about the scope is that it is made with ease of use in mind. Weighing just 0.81 pounds, it is ultralight for easy carrying in the field. It also boasts low-profile turrets that are finger adjustable and a long eye relief that allows for snug observation in any shooting position. Above all, the scope is double-spring tensioned to stand harsh field use.
Specifications
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 3 – 9 mm
- Reticle: Ballistic Plex
- Eye Relief: 3.1 – 3.8 in
- Weight: 18 oz
- Length: 13 in
Pros
- Multi-coated glass
- Variable magnification
- Simple Ballistic Plex reticle
- Lightweight and compact
- Focus set at 50 yards
- Finger-adjustable low-profile turret
- Matte black finish
- Separate eyepiece and power ring included
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
3) Trijicon 4×32 ACOG Rifle Scope
The Trijicon ACOG is a fixed power rifle scope that offers tremendous performance even in low-light settings. It uses fiber optics and tritium to provide a bright aiming point. It also has an illuminated BDC and target-ranging reticle for accurate aiming in low-light settings.
This compact rifle scope is virtually indestructible. It is shock resistant to military standards and recoil resistant as well. It is also filled with dry nitrogen to mitigate fogging and is waterproof as well for use even when it is raining.
Another strength of the scope is that it offers outstanding optical performance. It is made with high-quality glass which provides a clear field of view from dawn to dusk.
All the lenses are multi-coated to maximize light transmission for bright and clear-sight pictures. The scope also has a Bindon Aiming Concept which increases situation awareness by allowing for both-eyes-open shooting.
Specifications
- Length: 5.8 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 8 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 36.8 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 1.5 in
- Weight: 15.1 oz
Pros
- Fog-proof and water resistant
- Shock-resistant and recoil proof
- Fixed power design
- Multi-coated lenses
- Adjustable brightness setting
- Lightweight design
- Both eyes open design
Cons
- Fixed magnification
4) Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire Riflescope
Vortex is a leading brand in the optics industry. It manufactures high-quality optics and this quality is maintained in its Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire Riflescope the best scope for 22lr long range shooting for short to midrange applications. This rifle scope has a V-Plex reticle which is an all-purpose hunting reticle.
It features a variable magnification power which allows for a wider field of view at close ranges and more accurate target acquisition at longer ranges. Furthermore, the scope has a fast-focus eyepiece that aids in easy reticle focusing and long eye relief to help you acquire your targets quickly.
When it comes to construction, the scope is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum which maximizes strength and rigidity. Additionally, it is O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged to deliver reliable waterproof, and fog-proof performance.
In addition to everything else, this rifle scope has resettable MOA turrets and anti-reflective fully multi-coated lenses which provide bright and crisp views from sunrise to sunset.
Specifications
- Length: 11.3 in
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 4.57 – 16 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.9 – 4.7 in
- Weight: 14.3 oz
- Attachment/Mount Type: Ring
Pros
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Resettable MOA turrets
- Anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Variable 2-7x magnification
- Long eye relief
- Lightweight design
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Hard anodized finish
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
5) CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope
If you are on the hunt for a 22lr scope that will perform in any environment, look no further than the CVLIFE 3-9×40 R4 Reticle Scope. It features a variable 3-9x magnification ideal for shooting targets at both short and long ranges and a 40mm objective lens which provides crisp views at every magnification setting.
This rifle scope has fully multi-coated lenses which maximize light transmission to provide high-contrast and color-accurate images. It is light as a feather for easy portability and offers generous eye relief for quick target acquisition.
Furthermore, you can use the scope under any weather condition. It is fully sealed to lock out moisture, dirt, dust, and other debris. It is also filled with nitrogen to prevent fog buildup.
In terms of construction, the scope is built on an ultra-sturdy 1-inch machined aluminum tube for great durability. To add on that, it has a special inner and outer structure which makes it shockproof and provides more accurate windage and elevation adjustment.
Specifications
- Field of View: 25′ – 14′ @ 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 3.5″
- Exit Pupil: 0.2″ – 0.67″
- Length: 12.20″
- Weight: 0.76 lb.
- Rings Type: 20mm Picatinny High Profile
Pros
- Fully multi-coated glass
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- Scratch-resistant coatings
- 3-9x variable magnification
- 20mm Picatinny mount
- Precise windage and elevation adjustment turrets
Cons
- None
6) Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
If you are looking for the best scope for 22lr long range shooting for the money, Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope suits you. It features a beautiful design and quality features as well.
This rifle scope is built to last. It is made with premium-grade materials to provide the ultimate durability. It also has a waterproof construction which prevents fogging in wet and cloudy environments. Furthermore, it features quality optics that provide exceptional HD clarity and fully multi-coated optics which ensure that you get bright and clear images all the time.
For added convenience, this rifle scope has a fast focus eyepiece that helps in quick reticle adjustment, a lightweight design for convenient portability, and a user-friendly Multi-X reticle to help you acquire your targets with ease.
To top it all, the scope has resettable windage and elevation adjustments that are capped for added protection.
Specifications
- Weight: 13 oz
- Exit Pupil (mm): 13@3x 4.4@9x
- Eye Relief: 6”
- Length: 12”
- Reticle: Multi-X
Pros
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Second focal plane Multi-X reticle
- IPX4 waterproof rating
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Finger-adjustable windage and elevation adjustment
- Durable construction
- Ample eye relief
- 3-9x magnification range
Cons
- None
7) Barska 3-9×32 Plinker-22 Rifle Scope
Another best scope for 22lr Long Range Shooting in our list is the Barska AC10380 Plinker -22 Scope. This riflescope provides exceptional performance and it is precision engineered for your .22 rifles and rimfires.
Featuring 3-9x magnification, the scope provides high performance at short quarters and long ranges as well. It has 1/4 MOA click adjustments and a 30/30 crosshair reticle which is ideal for any type of shooting. Furthermore, the scope is parallax free from 100 yards for greater accuracy at short ranges.
Another good thing about the scope is the robust construction. It is extra-rigid and shockproof to handle rough field use. It is also waterproof and fog proof so you can shoot with great confidence under any weather condition.
Above all, the scope boasts fully coated optics which provide razor-sharp clarity for impressive viewing.
Specifications
- Reticle: 30/30
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 3.6 – 10.7 mm
- Length: 12 in
- Parallax: 50 yds
- Eye Relief: 3.5 in
Pros
- Windage and elevation turrets
- 3-9x magnification
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Shockproof all-steel body
- Two 3/8 dovetail mounting rings included
- Parallax free at 100 yards
- Lightweight design
- Fully coated optics
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
8) Tasco 3-9×32 .22 MAG39X32D Rifle Scope
The TASCO MAG39X32D is a bright and clear rimfire scope that is tailor-made for the .22 rimfire rifles. It features a wide range of magnification from 3x to 9x magnification and a 32mm objective lens which maximizes light collection to provide clear views at very magnification settings.
The scope has a 50-yard parallax setting, a 30/30 reticle that is very simple to use and Magenta multi-layered lens coatings which reduce light reflection to generate bright and crisp image views.
Moreover, the scope has a lightweight design for easy portability and it is 100% waterproof and fog-free for use even under harsh weather conditions.
Specifications
- Eye Relief: 3″
- Weight: 11.3 oz.
- Reticle Type: 30/30
- Parallax Setting: 50 yards
- Tube Diameter: 1″
- Windage/Elevation: .1/4 M.O.A Adjustments
- Length: 12.75″
Pros
- Matte finish
- 30/30 reticle
- Variable 3-9x magnification
- 50-yard parallax setting
- Magenta multi-layered lens coatings
- 100% waterproof and fog-free
- Fully coated optics
- Lightweight design
Cons
- None
Related: 6 Best Spotting Scopes for Long-Range Shooting
Buying Guide for the Best Scope for 22lr Long Range Shooting
Material
Scopes for 22lr that are made of aluminum alloy or aircraft-grade aluminum are ideal. These materials are not only hard-wearing but also shockproof Additionally, scopes made with aluminum are mostly rustproof, so you can use them in any weather condition.
Weatherproof
All types of weather conditions can strike when you are out in the field shooting, so you need to go for a scope that is capable of standing in all weather conditions. Scopes that are O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged are more sought after as they offer reliable waterproof and fog-proof performance under any weather condition.
Magnification
For long-range shooting with the 22lr, it is important to get a scope with high magnification. Typically, the 22lr rifle works well with 3x to 9x scopes for targeting objects at both close range and long ranges. This magnification range also works well for numerous shooting applications as well as small-game hunting.
Lens Quality
A scope that provides clear and sharp image views will make your shooting expedition more successful. To achieve this, the scope should boast high-quality optics preferably HD, ED, or better. The scope should also have fully multi-coated/ fully-coated lenses for bright and vivid image generation.
Weight
The next thing you should consider is the weight of your scope. The 22lr rifle is a relatively lightweight rifle. Adding a big scope that is bulky will not only change the balance of the rifle but also interfere with its accuracy. So, make sure that you get a scope that is lightweight.
Best Scope for 22lr Long Range Shooting FAQs
Do you need a scope for 22lr?
Yes. While you can shoot targets at close ranges without a scope, it is much easier when you use a scope. For long-range shooting, a scope is a must-have tool. It will give you better sight pictures and increase your odds of making an accurate hit.
What scope magnification do I need for the 22lr?
The best scope for shooting with the 22lr is one with a moderate magnification. Generally, a scope with a variable power of up to 9x will be ideal for targeting objects from close to long ranges. You can also get a scope with 12x maximum magnification for extra long-range shooting.
Is it necessary to have an adjustable parallax feature in a Riflescope for .22 LR long-range shooting?
Having an adjustable parallax feature in a scope can be beneficial for long-range shooting with any caliber, including .22 LR. It helps to eliminate parallax error, which can affect shot accuracy at different distances.
While not strictly necessary for shorter ranges, an adjustable parallax feature becomes increasingly important as the shooting distance extends. It allows for fine-tuning the focus and ensuring optimal
Which reticle type is recommended for long-range shooting with a .22 LR rifle?
When it comes to reticle types for long-range shooting with a .22 LR rifle, it often comes down to personal preference. However, reticles with bullet drop compensation (BDC) or hash marks for holdovers can be advantageous.
These reticles provide reference points for estimating bullet drop and can help compensate for the arc of the .22 LR trajectory at longer distances. Mil-dot or MOA-based reticles are also popular choices, as they offer precise aiming points and facilitate windage adjustments.
clarity and accuracy.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you have found this comprehensive review enlightening. Remember that the shooting expedition you intend to use the scope for will determine which scope you go for. For long-range shooting with the 22lr, all the scopes listed above will help ensure an accurate hit on your target.