The right scope can unlock the full potential of a 22 Magnum rifle, giving you a clearer view of small targets, more precise aiming, and greater confidence in the field.
The best scopes combine practical magnification, sharp optics, dependable adjustments, and durable construction for small game hunting and target shooting.
In this guide, we review the top picks for different needs and budgets, highlight the key features to compare, explain what to consider before buying, and answers common questions to help you choose the right scope for your rifle.
What is a 22 Magnum Rifle?
A 22 Magnum rifle, also known as a .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire) rifle, is a firearm designed to shoot .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire ammunition. It offers higher velocity and greater energy than the common .22 LR cartridge, making it suitable for small game hunting, pest control where legal, and recreational target shooting.
Compared with a .22 LR rifle, a .22 Magnum rifle generally provides a flatter trajectory and more effective range, although actual performance depends on the ammunition and shooting conditions. It is commonly used for hunting animals such as rabbits and fox squirrels where permitted.
Unlike air rifles, a .22 Magnum rifle uses rimfire cartridges containing gunpowder and should only be used with the correct ammunition specified by the manufacturer.
Below is a Summary of our Best Scopes for a 22 Magnum Rifle
| Product | Best For |
|---|---|
| Burris Droptine 3-9×40 Ballistic Plex .22 | Best Overall |
| Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 | Best All Around |
| Vortex Triumph HD 3-9×40 SFP | Best for Optical Clarity |
| Hawke Vantage 4-12×40 Rimfire .22 WMR Riflescope Bundle | Best for Longer Range |
| Simmons Pro Rimfire 3-9x32mm | Best Budget Option |
Best Scope for a 22 Magnum Rifle
1) Burris Droptine 3-9×40 Ballistic Plex .22
The Burris Droptine 3-9×40 Ballistic Plex .22 is a practical choice for hunters who want a lightweight, dependable scope for a .22 Magnum rifle. Its versatile magnification range supports close and medium range hunting, while the 40mm objective lens helps deliver clear views across changing light conditions.
The Ballistic Plex .22 reticle provides useful holdover references for aiming at different distances, making it a convenient option for rimfire hunting. Its simple design helps with quick target acquisition without requiring complicated adjustments in the field.
Built with a one piece aluminum tube, shock resistant internal components, and Hi Lume multicoated optics, this scope is designed for regular outdoor use. The low profile adjustment turrets help prevent snags, while the included steel rings add value for buyers looking for a ready to mount package.
With its lightweight construction and 3 to 9x magnification, the Burris Droptine suits hunters who want to keep their .22 WMR rifle easy to carry and handle.
Key Specifications
- Magnification: 3 to 9x
- Objective lens: 40mm
- Tube diameter: 1 inch
- Reticle: Ballistic Plex .22
- Focal plane: Second focal plane
- Optical coatings: Hi Lume multicoating
- Construction: One piece aluminum tube
- Weight: Approximately 0.81 lb
- Adjustment turrets: Low profile windage and elevation
- Lens caps: Flip up style
- Included accessories: Deluxe steel rings
- Weather protection: Waterproof and fog proof
- Shock protection: Double spring tensioned internal assemblies
- Warranty: Burris lifetime warranty
Pros
- Offers useful 3 to 9x magnification for .22 Magnum hunting.
- Provides practical holdover references with the Ballistic Plex .22 reticle.
- Delivers bright, clear views through Hi Lume multicoated optics.
- Keeps the rifle lightweight at approximately 0.81 lb.
- Features a rugged one piece aluminum tube.
- Resists water, fog, and field related shocks.
- Includes deluxe steel rings for added value.
- Uses low profile turrets that are less likely to snag.
- Supports comfortable handling on lightweight rimfire rifles.
Cons
- The second focal plane reticle does not change apparent size with magnification.
2) Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40
The Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 is a versatile hunting scope for .22 Magnum rifles, offering practical magnification, clear optics, and a comfortable viewing experience. Its 3 to 9x zoom range works well for small game hunting and general shooting at typical rimfire hunting distances.
The fully multicoated lenses help produce a bright, clear sight picture, while the V Plex reticle provides a simple aiming reference without cluttering the view. The fast focus eyepiece also makes it easy to sharpen the reticle to suit your eyesight.
One of its biggest advantages is the generous eye relief and forgiving eye box, which help you acquire targets quickly in the field. At just 14.8 ounces, it adds little weight to your rifle, making it suitable for extended hunting trips.
The scope features a durable, single piece aircraft grade aluminum tube with waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof protection. Its resettable turrets allow convenient zeroing, and the unlimited lifetime Vortex VIP Warranty adds long term peace of mind.
Key Specifications
- Magnification: 3 to 9x
- Objective lens: 40mm
- Tube diameter: 1 inch
- Reticle: V Plex
- Focal plane: Second focal plane
- Eye relief: 6 inches
- Field of view: 34.1 feet at 100 yards
- Adjustment graduation: 1/4 MOA per click
- Parallax setting: Fixed at 50 yards
- Weight: 14.8 ounces
- Construction: Single piece aircraft grade aluminum tube
- Lens coatings: Fully multicoated
- Weather protection: Waterproof, fogproof, and nitrogen purged
- Eyepiece: Fast focus
- Warranty: Unlimited lifetime, transferable VIP Warranty
Pros
- Offers versatile magnification for typical .22 Magnum hunting distances.
- Produces clear images with fully multicoated optics.
- Provides generous 6 inch eye relief for comfortable viewing.
- Features a forgiving eye box for quick target acquisition.
- Keeps rifle handling balanced with its lightweight construction.
- Includes precise 1/4 MOA adjustment clicks.
- Holds zero reliably when properly mounted and maintained.
- Features durable, weather resistant construction.
- Comes with Vortex’s unlimited lifetime VIP Warranty.
Cons
- The second focal plane reticle does not scale with magnification.
3) Vortex Triumph HD 3-9×40 SFP
The Vortex Triumph HD 3-9×40 SFP is a versatile hunting scope for .22 Magnum rifles, combining clear optics, practical magnification, and a useful Dead Hold BDC reticle. Its 3 to 9x zoom range works well for small game hunting and general shooting at typical rimfire distances.
The HD optical system and fully multicoated lenses help deliver sharp, bright images with good color detail. The 40mm objective lens also provides a practical balance between light gathering and overall rifle handling, making this scope suitable for hunting in varied outdoor conditions.
The Dead Hold BDC reticle provides additional aiming references for estimating holdover at different distances.
Weighing approximately 1.03 pounds, the Triumph HD is light enough for comfortable field use. Its aircraft grade aluminum construction, capped adjustment turrets, and waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof design support dependable performance in demanding hunting conditions.
The package also includes Hunter rings, a neoprene case, a custom turret tool, and a lens cloth. Combined with Vortex’s unlimited lifetime VIP Warranty, these accessories make it an appealing option for hunters seeking a complete scope package at a reasonable price.
Key Specifications
- Magnification: 3 to 9x
- Objective lens: 40mm
- Tube diameter: 1 inch
- Reticle: Dead Hold BDC MOA
- Focal plane: Second focal plane
- Eye relief: 3.9 inches
- Field of view: 39.1 feet at 3x and 12.7 feet at 9x, at 100 yards
- Adjustment graduation: 1/4 MOA per click
- Parallax setting: Fixed at 100 yards
- Weight: Approximately 1.03 pounds
- Construction: Aircraft grade aluminum tube
- Lens coatings: Fully multicoated
- Weather protection: Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Included accessories: Hunter rings, neoprene case, turret tool, and lens cloth
- Warranty: Unlimited lifetime, transferable VIP Warranty
Pros
- Delivers clear, sharp images through its HD optical system.
- Offers versatile 3 to 9x magnification for hunting.
- Provides useful holdover references with the Dead Hold BDC reticle.
- Keeps rifle handling comfortable with lightweight construction.
- Includes Hunter rings and useful protective accessories.
- Features capped turrets with precise 1/4 MOA adjustments.
- Offers waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof protection.
- Comes with Vortex’s unlimited lifetime VIP Warranty.
- Provides excellent value for a complete hunting scope package.
Cons
-
The BDC reticle is not calibrated specifically for .22 Magnum ammunition.
4) Hawke Vantage 4-12×40 Rimfire .22 WMR Riflescope Bundle
The Hawke Vantage 4-12×40 Rimfire .22 WMR Riflescope Bundle is a purpose built option for hunters who want a scope designed around .22 Magnum ballistics. Its 4 to 12x magnification range offers flexibility for small game hunting, while the 40mm objective lens provides a practical balance between brightness and size.
Its dedicated .22 WMR BDC reticle features holdover markings calibrated around a 40 grain projectile at 2,000 fps. This gives hunters useful aiming references at different distances, although actual bullet trajectories depend on ammunition, zero distance, and shooting conditions.
The scope also features 11 layer fully multicoated optics for clear images and a red or green illuminated reticle with five brightness settings. The adjustable objective allows parallax correction at different distances, which is particularly useful when shooting at closer rimfire ranges.
Built around a 1 inch aluminum mono tube, the Hawke Vantage is designed for outdoor use and offers waterproof and fogproof protection. The bundle includes two Weaver mounting rings, making it a convenient package for compatible rifles.
Key Specifications
- Magnification: 4 to 12x
- Objective lens: 40mm
- Tube diameter: 1 inch
- Reticle: Rimfire .22 WMR BDC
- Reticle calibration: 40 grain projectile at 2,000 fps
- Illumination: Red and green with five brightness levels
- Focal plane: Second focal plane
- Parallax adjustment: Adjustable objective
- Adjustment graduation: 1/4 MOA per click
- Construction: Aluminum mono tube
- Lens coatings: 11 layer fully multicoated optics
- Weather protection: Waterproof and fogproof
- Adjustment controls: Low profile fingertip turrets
- Included accessories: Two 1 inch Weaver rings
- Best suited for: .22 WMR and compatible rimfire rifles
Pros
- Features a BDC reticle calibrated for .22 WMR ballistics.
- Offers versatile 4 to 12x magnification for hunting.
- Provides adjustable parallax for closer shooting distances.
- Delivers clear images through fully multicoated optics.
- Includes red and green reticle illumination.
- Offers five brightness settings for different lighting conditions.
- Comes with Weaver rings for compatible mounting systems.
- Features precise 1/4 MOA adjustments.
- Uses durable aluminum mono tube construction.
- Provides useful features at a competitive price.
Cons
- The bundle is heavier than some basic hunting scopes.
5) Simmons Pro Rimfire 3-9x32mm
The Simmons Pro Rimfire 3-9x32mm is an affordable scope for hunters who want a lightweight, practical optic for a .22 Magnum rifle. Its 3 to 9x magnification range suits small game hunting and general shooting at typical rimfire distances, while the compact 32mm objective helps keep the rifle easy to carry.
The scope features a .22 Drop Zone reticle intended for rimfire shooting, providing a straightforward aiming reference for different distances. Its fixed 50 yard parallax setting is also suited to common rimfire hunting ranges, making it a practical option for shooters who do not need adjustable parallax.
Fully multicoated optics help deliver a clear sight picture, while the one piece aluminum tube provides a durable construction for regular outdoor use. The scope is also IPX7 waterproof and includes Weaver style mounting rings and lens covers.
For budget conscious hunters, the Simmons Pro Rimfire offers useful features without the cost of a more advanced optic. Its simple controls and lightweight design make it an accessible option, although checking the adjustment turrets during setup is worthwhile.
Key Specifications
- Magnification: 3 to 9x
- Objective lens: 32mm
- Tube diameter: 1 inch
- Reticle: .22 Drop Zone
- Focal plane: Second focal plane
- Parallax setting: Fixed at 50 yards
- Adjustment controls: Capped windage and elevation turrets
- Weight: Approximately 1 pound
- Construction: One piece aluminum main tube
- Lens coatings: Fully multicoated
- Weather protection: IPX7 waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Mounting system: Weaver style rings included
- Included accessories: Mounting rings and lens covers
- Warranty: 2 year manufacturer warranty
- Best suited for: .22 LR, .22 Magnum, and .17 HMR rimfire rifles
Pros
- Offers versatile 3 to 9x magnification for rimfire hunting.
- Features a reticle designed for .22 cartridge shooting.
- Uses a 50 yard parallax setting suited to common hunting distances.
- Keeps rifle handling comfortable with its lightweight design.
- Provides clear images through fully multicoated optics.
- Includes Weaver style mounting rings.
- Features waterproof and fogproof protection.
- Offers an affordable entry point for .22 Magnum shooters.
Cons
- Fixed parallax limits fine tuning at other distances.
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Advantages of Using these Scopes for a 22 Magnum Rifle
Improved Accuracy
A quality riflescope provides a clearer aiming point, helping you place shots more precisely when hunting small game or shooting targets. Magnification makes it easier to identify the intended point of aim at typical rimfire distances.
Better Target Visibility
Magnification helps you see small targets more clearly, especially in open fields or at longer distances. A suitable objective lens also helps deliver a bright, usable sight picture in different lighting conditions.
More Versatile Shooting Distances
Variable magnification lets you adjust the sight picture for close and distant targets. Lower power offers a wider field of view, while higher power helps with precise aiming at longer ranges.
Easier Aiming at Different Distances
A reticle designed for rimfire shooting can provide useful aiming references for different distances. When properly matched to your ammunition and rifle, these references can help you estimate holdover and make more consistent shots.
Greater Shooting Confidence
A well suited scope makes it easier to maintain a consistent sight picture and confirm your point of aim. Clear optics, reliable adjustments, and suitable magnification can improve confidence during hunting trips and target practice.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Scope for a 22 Magnum Rifle
Magnification
Choose magnification that matches your intended shooting distance. A 3 to 9x scope works well for many small game hunting and general shooting situations, offering flexibility for closer targets and more distant shots.
Objective Lens Size
The objective lens affects how much light enters the scope. A 32mm or 40mm lens can provide a practical balance of brightness, size, and weight for a .22 Magnum rifle used in the field.
Reticle Design
A simple duplex reticle offers quick aiming for general hunting, while a ballistic reticle provides additional aiming references for different distances. Select a design that suits your shooting style and learn its holdover points with your chosen ammunition.
Parallax Setting
Parallax can affect aiming precision when the target and reticle appear to shift relative to each other. A fixed setting around 50 yards suits many rimfire applications, while adjustable parallax offers greater flexibility for shooting at varying distances.
Optical Clarity and Lens Coatings
Clear optics help you identify targets and maintain a sharp sight picture. Fully multicoated lenses can improve light transmission and reduce reflections, which is useful when hunting during early morning or late afternoon.
Durability and Weather Resistance
A hunting scope should withstand regular handling, recoil, and changing outdoor conditions. Look for a sturdy tube, dependable adjustment controls, and waterproof, fogproof construction for reliable performance in the field.
Weight, Mounting, and Budget
A lightweight scope helps maintain the rifle’s balance during long hunting trips. Check that the tube diameter and mounting system are compatible with your rifle, and set a budget that balances optical quality, durability, and useful features.
FAQs
What Magnification Is Best for a .22 Magnum Rifle?
A 3 to 9x scope is a versatile choice for most .22 Magnum hunting and target shooting. It provides a wide enough view for closer targets while offering additional magnification for more precise aiming at longer distances.
Is a 3 to 9×40 Scope Good for a .22 Magnum Rifle?
Yes, a 3 to 9×40 scope offers flexible magnification and a 40mm objective lens for a useful balance of brightness and portability. It is well suited to small game hunting and general shooting in typical rimfire conditions.
Should I Choose a Ballistic Reticle for a .22 Magnum Rifle?
A ballistic reticle can help with aiming at different distances by providing additional holdover references. However, its accuracy depends on matching the reticle to your ammunition and confirming the aiming points through practice.
Conclusion
Choosing the best scope for a .22 Magnum rifle comes down to finding the right balance of magnification, optical clarity, durability, and ease of use.
A versatile 3 to 9x scope suits many small game hunting and target shooting needs, while a suitable reticle and reliable adjustments help improve aiming consistency at different distances.
Consider your typical shooting conditions, preferred features, and budget before making a decision. The right scope will help you get more from your rifle and enjoy greater confidence on every outing.