What is the best rimfire scope? The Top 8 Best Rimfire Rifle Scopes

Click here for the Best Rimfire Scopes available in 2017!

top rimfire scopeHaving basic knowledge about different kinds of scopes will help you choose the best rifle scope, given the fact there are many types available. Because there is a high demand for these kinds of devices, it is inevitable that more and more manufacturers might compromise quality over quantity.

As such, leaving the choice to you on whether or not to buy them will depend on the knowledge you have in determining the right scope for your personal use. If you are not acquainted with it, you may avail the help of scope shops for that matter.

The purpose of this article is to compare scopes in order to find the best rimfire scope for one’s own purposes. To accomplish this goal, we are going to review eight rimfire scopes from different manufacturers. The rimfire rifle scopes under spotlight are the following in the comparison table below:

The Top 8 Best Rimfire Scopes Comparison Table

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Of the rimfire riflescopes included in this review, the Sightron and Leupold are premium evaluated scopes. Burris, Weaver, and Nikon speak to the middle value class. The low value class is goes to the Simmons and Bushnell models.

Elements are anything but difficult to publicize, however they just tell a little piece of the story. The genuine cost in any riflescope is the optical and mechanical nature of its segments, the exactness of its design, and the consideration taken in get together and quality control. These are the variables that hoist premium scopes over the pack. 100% quality control of each scope, for instance, is pricey; however, justified regardless of the expense.

It is these “off camera” components, which are essentially inconceivable for the normal buyer to find out, that have the greatest effect in cost and the execution/strength of a scope in the years to come. That is the reason the producer’s notoriety, their great name earned over numerous years, is so essential. It is the buyer’s genuine evidence of a riflescope’s intrinsic quality.

The outline of a riflescope is additionally vital. Every optical framework is by nature a progression of bargains and a few scopes offer preferred adjusted execution over others. Variables to consider are the following: optical sharpness, light transmission, field of perspective, eye relief, windage and height alteration range, modification precision and repeatability, mounting latitude, eye box latitude, weight, and size. Indeed, even the strength of riflescopes’ outer completion fluctuates broadly. 

The Top 8 Best Rimfire Scopes

Bushnell .22 Rimfire 3-9x32 Riflescope (Black)

Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 50 customers. Click the image for prices and reviews!

Bushnell Rimfire 3-9x32mm

The Bushnell Rimfire 3-9x32mm is the best when it comes to accurate shooting. This rimfire scope is perfect to use even in extreme weathers, even with dim lighting. Its tube is both waterproof and fog proof and it measures about an inch. It is best scope for 22 rifle. Even when you are on the move, its elevation options and 1/4 M.O.A. fingertip windage will make sure that your target is on focus. The optics are fully coated and the change rings are easy to grip.

Features:

  • This scope is equipped with a 32 mm objective lens, capable of magnification 3 to 9 times.
  • The scope includes optics that are fully coated
  • It has 1/4 M.O.A. fingertip windage

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Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars form over 10 customers. Click the image for prices and reviews!

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars form over 10 customers. Click the image for prices and reviews!

Bushnell Rimfire 4x32mm

The Bushnell Rimfire 4x32mm has the same features with its brother, the 3-9x32mm, so it cannot be avoided that the description might be the same. However, this scope is recommended to those who want a fixed 4x scope but do not want to spend a load of cash.

This scope has a parallax setting of 50 yards. The one-inch tube is also fog proof and waterproof and it can magnify your target up to four times. The Bushnell Rimfire 4x32mm is perfect for little game hunting and can be mounted on a shotgun.

Features:

  • This scope is equipped with a 32 mm objective lens, capable of magnification 4 times.
  • The scope includes optics that are fully coated
  • Multi-X reticle
  • It has 1/4 M.O.A. fingertip windage

The casing of the scope is completely sealed, essentially making it fog proof and water proof. This feature makes this scope still usable in bad weather without having to worry of its performance.

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Weaver Rimfire 2.5-7X28 Riflescope (Matte)

Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 10 customers. Click the image for prices and reviews!

Weaver Classic Rimfire 2.5-7x28mm

The Weaver Classic rimfire will make your adult air rifles more functional than ever.

The optics are fully coated and offers a non-glare feature.

This scope will work out well even in conditions with dim lighting.

It still produces sharp images and has the capacity to withstand multidirectional recoil in adult airguns. 

This is one of the best rimfire scopes available, rated 4.8 out 5 stars from over 10 customers.

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Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 8 customers. Click the image for prices and reviews!

Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 8 customers. Click the image for prices and reviews!

Leupold VX-II 3-9x33mm EFR

EFR is an acronym for Developed Center Range. The scope’s flexible objective centers up to 10 meters, which makes it particularly suitable for utilization on air rifles and rimfire rifles. In addition to EFR, this premium extension gloats a bolting quick center eyepiece, Leupold’s Multi-Coat 4 completely multi-covered optics, fine Duplex reticle 1/4 MOA coin alterations, and it coated in matte black.

Features:

  • Field of view (at 100 yards) – 21′-7′
  • Weight (ounces) – 19
  • Overall length – 14.5″
  • Eye relief – 4.3″
  • Exit pupil (mm) – 9-2.7
  • Adjustment range (at 100 yards) – 50″

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Sightron SII 3-9x36mm AO

Sightron SII Series 36x42 BRD Rifle Scope

Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3 customers. Click the image for prices and reviews!

The Sightron SII 3-9x36mm AO is not only for rimfire use, but also works for air rifles and centerfire rifles. The scope is compatible for 17 HMR, scopes for 22 rifles, and 22 WMR. Its crosshair reticles makes it perfect for small game hunting.

Features:

  • Magnification: 3-9x
  • Objective diameter: 36mm
  • Field of View at 100 yards: 11′ at 9x, 33′ at 3x
  • Eye Relief: 3.5-4.2″
  • Reticle Type: Fine crosshair
  • Parallax: Adjustable from 10 yards to infinity
  • Click Value: 1/4 MOA
  • Windage/Elevation Travel: 80″
  • Weight: 14.3 ounces
  • Length: 12.32″

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Rated 5 out of 5 stars from 1 customer. Click the image for prices and reviews!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars from 1 customer. Click the image for prices and reviews!

Burris Timberline 3-9x32mm

The Burris Timberline 3-9x32mm has optics that can be magnified 3 to 9 times and comes in a lot of features.

It is perfect for low light conditions, and is made of a very sturdy material that serve as its anti-shock feature.

In buying this scope, a mounting unit is not included, but you can purchase a Burris PEPR mount.

It also features multi-covered lenses in order to counter glare. The package also has a manual in order for the use to adjust alignments and settings.

Regarding clarity, brightness optics, parallax, strength, and value, the Burris Timberline 3-9x32mm is worthy of purchase.

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Simmons .22 Mag TruPlex Reticle Rimfire Riflescope with Ring, 3-9x32mm (Matte)

Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 563 customers. Click the image for prices and reviews!

Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32mm AO

The Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32mm AO scope has 40 mm lens, and is able to magnify target from 3 to 12 times. The optics are fully coated but not particularly multi coated. Still, this scope is able to reduce glare, and it has flexible turrets.

This model has objectives that you may be able to adjust depending on the range needed. This is one of those scopes that are extremely low priced but works decently.

Because of this, it is hailed the best selling rimfire scope in the United States. If you do not plan on spending too much for a rimfire scope, Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32mm AO scope is perfect for you.

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Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 120 customers. Click the image for prices and customer reviews!

Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 120 customers. Click the image for prices and customer reviews!

Nikon Prostaff Rimfire Classic 4x32mm

The Nikon Prostaff Rimfire Classic 4x32mm is designed for high-end rifles.

This powerful scope may be able to magnify 4-12 times and has a huge 40mm reticle. It can be mounted on an .17 hmr as well.

This scope boasts its industry standard nitrogen cleansed tube, completely covered optics, and O ring fixed body for greatest waterproof and fog control.

Intended for heavier applications than a rimfire shooter will see, the ProStaff is a .17 HMR scope that will never disappoint you and is among the best .17 HMR scopes.

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How to Look for the Best Rimfire Scope

Buying the scopes for your rifle might be exciting yes, but you must not be too hasty in picking your scope. These things may come with quite a high price so you may want to be care lest you buy the scope you are not comfortable with. Getting this right in your first time can save you money and make you feel good about yourself and the hobby that you are currently on.

So, here are some of the specs you must consider important and may want to take a look at when in stores thinking of buying the scopes for your rifle.

  • Fog proof – this is critical specially when hunting and working on the field where a fair weather is no guarantee. Most of the times, they also come with water proof and shock proof feature. Virtually every scope manufacturer today claim up to a certain degree of fog proof, water proof and shock proof to their products. Try to go with brands having high satisfaction rates.
  • Optical Zoom – this is also an important aspect in scopes for rimfire. It must be balanced that when zooming out, you may have the option to see the entire thing. When zooming in, objects may seem to become less clear, pixilated, or grainy, so you may want to consider superior clarity and zooming ability too.
  • Style – some would say this may not be very important but the thing is, when you’re a beginner and not quite used to the feeling of seeing through a scope, comfort may be largely affected by the style of the scope. Generally, a straight bodied scope is preferred and a lot better for beginners. They offer ease when trying to get a target on and easier to use if rifle can be rested on tripods or windows. The angled body is good for when standing in a field.

Scope Brands Worth Considering

Buying new scopes for your rifle can be a very exciting shopping event. Probably buying anything new might be exciting for anyone. The thing is, when buying new scopes for a rifle, one must be careful in considering the uses of the rifle, of the scope and purpose of the new scope to buy. Certain characteristics should be looked at when looking for the best scopes for your rifle.

Here is a list that you may want to check out before choosing the scope to buy. Each of these brands specialize in certain fields so it is important to look carefully and choose on what you may want to use your scopes for rimfire.

  • Leupold scopes – as quoted from the site itself “Our tactical scopes are made to be accurate, trustworthy and durable.” It demonstrates quality in its optics, and durability. It is also used by the military so quality can really be guaranteed. Though a bit pricy, but the features are well worth it.
  • Bushnell scopes – these scopes on the other hand are very affordable. Despite the affordable price, the scopes are still reliable, with prided precision due to its features like the fog proof lens, shock proof and water proof, multi-coated optics.
  • Nikon scopes – these scopes on the other hand are very pricy, but, it comes with a lifetime warranty so, you got nothing to worry about as long as you’re buying authentic Nikon scopes. It has got superior accuracy, multi-coated optics, and anti-reflective lenses.

The Things to Look At When You Buy Scopes

There are certainly a lot of things that you should consider when you are buying new scopes. You should make sure that you are going to get the best one that would satisfy all your needs. Thus, let us provide you a list of things that you should look at before buying:

  1. Price – Of course, rimfire scopes are not that cheap. However, it should not stop you from looking out for more affordable options from other brands, and from discounted prices, especially online. Before you finally buy one, it is still best for you to explore the market first.
  2. Quality – This could be a bit tricky especially if you are new to hunting. If you have a certain amount of experience already, then you should be able to determine already the best quality that you could get within your budget. Going back, if you are new to this and unsure of which one to buy, you could take a look at different forums and client feedback online so it could lead you towards the right direction of getting a good-quality scope.
  3. Technical Innovations – This is one of the characteristics that those experienced in the field look for already. There are surely different technical advancements presented by different brands so feel free to select the one that is most suitable for your hunting needs. On the other hand, if you are a new hobbyist (or you still consider yourself an amateur), then you could focus on cheaper and more basic scopes first before moving on to more advanced ones. Once that you are well-acquainted in hunting already and you already feel the need to graduate to a better scope, then that would be the perfect time to reward yourself with a technically advanced one.

Conclusion

There are a lot of uses a scope can have. If you are someone who loves adventures and outdoor exploration, having one is actually a must. If you are purchasing for the first time, you might be a bit overwhelmed of all the choices available. However, take it slow and choose based on your needs and level. You do not immediately need a complicated and very advanced scope if all you want to do is go bird watching. So shop wisely and look for something whose functions fit your purpose. Here are some guidelines on what to look for when choosing a scope.

To check the quality, you can get help from the sales person assigned to you. Also, you can tell by the brand as some brands often perform better than the rest. These brands usually come at a higher price but you can be sure they will deliver great products. You can also go for the cheaper ones but check the type of materials used whether it would be sturdy and withstand long wear. You can also ask if you can test the scopes just by peeking through the lens. If you see a good quality vision that does not make you feel dizzy, then you have a keeper.

Usually, people choose the scopes they buy based on what they want to use it for. If you want to go hunting or bird watching, you can go for lightweight scopes that can fit in your bag. A good size of the lens for this purpose could be 65 mm or less. The length may be up to 12 inches and it should be light enough to travel with. If you want to spot things in moving vehicles, then a larger lens would be needed and usually the price is higher.

On account of these rimfire scopes, it cannot be denied that value is a decent evidence of execution. The expensive Sightron and Leupold extensions are the most refined and are generally, the best of the bunch. They are suitable for an extensive variety of uses and will keep going for some, numerous years, conveying incredible execution the whole time. In the event that you possess a special rimfire rifle, you must never hesitate on trying out and investing on these scopes, albeit its high price.

The not so expensive Nikon, Burris, and Weaver models are average, obviously, but they are more popular to standard shooters than the expensive scopes. Nikon is perfect for .22 LR rifles, Weaver Classic is one of only a handful few rimfire scopes accessible in this extremely helpful amplification range, and the Burris Timberline would be a decent decision for a .17 HMR rifle. Most rimfire hunters will be very much fulfilled by any of these brands.

The low estimated Bushnell and Simmons work better than their humble expense would recommend. For the shooter on a tight budget, they are a major change over iron sights. There are a large number of modest rimfire rifles and a ton of them are using Bushnell or Simmons scopes.

We all know how the internet has grown to be a treasure chest of information. Anything that you don’t know about, you can simply type in the relevant keyword and you will be presented with numerous results on the subject. This is especially true if you are engaging in a new hobby and you are unfamiliar with the basics. For example, you might had the idea that you want to go hunting, but are reluctant to do so because you don’t’ know how things work exactly. Well, don’t fret the internet will be a great source of all the things that you need to know. There will be information about the right kind of rifle, to the do’s and don’ts when hunting and even the simple scope specifications.

Upon going online, you will probably come across a lot of rimfire scope review and other reviews about some equipment and hunting in general. Note down what other people say about these things and keep them in mind. It’s good to use these as a guide for your first hunting trip. If you are not familiar with the place, then look it up. Do not throw caution to the wind because a simple hunting trip can have disastrous consequences if it’s not done properly. Someone might get injured and that just takes the fun out of the activity.

Do not be in a hurry to rush to your hunting trip without having the right knowledge at your disposal. The simple process of choosing the right spotting scope should be tediously done in order to avoid troubles in the future. Remember that hunting is no joke, despite its appeal as a leisure activity. You will be dealing with a lot of elements and the thing you do not want is to end up getting mixed in the fray.

Click here for the Best Rimfire Scopes available in 2017!