Best Rimfire Scopes – Top 9 Rated Rimfire Scope In 2023 Reviews

A rimfire rifle, as many of you will know, is the perfect gun for target practice and for taking shots at moving targets – especially big game. And a good rimfire scope is a must-have addition to your rifle for it to be as highly effective as possible.

But which is the best?

With more and more scope choices springing up on the market these days, it is becoming harder to know where to get some bang for your buck. That’s why we’ve decided to review the very best scopes currently available. We’ve chosen wisely and made sure that there’s a broad enough selection to suit various needs.

So let’s fire on through each of the options as we find the best rimfire scope for you…

Top 9 Best Rimfire Scopes On The Market 2023 Reviews

1 Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Riflescope – Most Versatile Rimfire Scope

First up, we’d like to introduce the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Riflescope. This is a scope that’s versatile and powerful, and it’s ideal for medium-range targeting.

It is actually an updated version of the original Vortex Crossfire. And it maintains many of the impressive characteristics of its older brother, such as the stripped-down streamline design.

Improved visuals…

This newer version shines in the visual department due to its fully multi-coated optics and a sunshade for glare reduction. These give you super-clear, bright, and vivid visuals from dawn right through till dusk.

Durable in all weather conditions…

The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Riflescope is also made to be extremely tough and durable, with its single-piece tube, aircraft-grade aluminum construction. It’s also been hard coat anodized for extra resilience and scratch-resistant performance. Plus, you benefit from machine-locked lenses that keep the lenses in pristine condition.

You can, therefore, be assured that this riflescope will maintain its functionality in wet and foggy conditions, and it uses a shockproof design.

This second focal plane riflescope also incorporates a fast-focus eyepiece, which allows you to quickly find your targets. Also, the capped resets turrets on this Vortex are smooth, predictable, and a pleasure to use.

2 Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 Waterproof Fogproof Matte Black Riflescope – Best All Round Rimfire Scope

Now, let’s take a look at this Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 Waterproof Fogproof Matte Black Riflescope. They offer this as a fog-proof, waterproof, and shockproof design, which is ideal for hunters that need a resilient scope.

Easy and adaptable…

It weighs in at a very reasonable 9.6 ounces and features a Truplex reticle that uses heavy lines that intersect in the middle with finer lines. The benefits of this type of reticle are that it is easy to use and very adaptable for short to mid-range targeting.

You also get parallax correction from 50 yards through to infinity. And, it’s also nice to get Rimfire ⅜ inch dovetail mounting rings included in this set-up. This scope makes use of a HydroShield coating to ensure a clear view, and it has high-quality glass installed that’s been fully coated to give you a sharp, clear, and crisp image.

The addition of SureGrip rubber surfaces makes tweaking adjustments a breeze, even under harsh conditions and with gloves on. Plus, you’ll be pleased to know that the field of view is nice and wide, with 31.4 feet at 100 yards to play with.

Stand out feature…

The most impressive aspect of this scope has to be the QTA (Quick Target Acquisition) eyepiece developed by Simmons. It offers plenty of eye relief so that acquiring targets becomes easy and effective.

3 Vortex Diamondback 2-7×35 Rimfire Riflescope

We now have another scope from Vortex in the form of the Diamondback 2-7×35 Rimfire Riflescope. It’s a second focal plane design with a V-Plex reticle and a 35mm objective lens diameter. The reticle is ideal for multiple hunting applications at short to mid-range.

A scope that can be relied on…

This is a scope made for shooters who need a scope that can cope with heavy magnum force recoil. This is mainly due to its solid and resilient one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum alloy construction. This choice of material also makes the scope a fairly lightweight option for rimfire shooters at 14.2 ounces.

Additionally, extra strength is added to the platform with its hard-anodized finish. This gives the scope better durability and scratch resistance. Plus, the optics are fully multi-coated for a sharp and bright image when you look through the lenses. Also, the Argon-purging makes this Vortex Diamondback retain excellent clarity by preventing fog from forming inside.

Superb value for a quality scope…

You get 0.25 MOA turret adjustments, water-resistance, 50 yards parallax, and shockproof performance with this scope. And the real draw has to be the price of this Vortex, which is very favorable when compared to other similar quality and performing competitors.

4 Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 1 inch Riflescope – Best Value Rimfire Scope

Moving on, let’s venture into the world of the Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 1 inch Riflescope. It’s a relatively new model from Leupold and offers the shooter a cost-effective yet rugged scope choice for their rimfire rifle.

Brightness and clarity…

If you’re looking to find a reasonably priced scope with exquisite brightness and clarity, then look no further. The lenses are fully multi-coated, and it features Leupold’s signature Twilight Light Management System. This balances the light entering your scope across the entire visible spectrum, leading to brighter and crisper imagery.

It’s also good to know that the VX-Freedom is made with 6061-T6 Aluminum for solid, rugged, and dependable performance out in the field. It also comes with scratch-resistant lenses and 0.25 MOA click turret adjustments.

Feature-packed…

In addition, you can make use of a 3:1 zoom ratio for close to mid-range targeting. Plus, the matte finish prevents unwanted glare, which could startle your targets and send them running. It also uses a Duplex reticle, a style most experienced hunters and shooters should be familiar with.

All-in-all, this is a great value for the money offering from Leupold and is worth serious consideration.

5 Barska 3-9×32 Plinker-22 Riflescope for .22 Rifles and Rimfires – Best Deer Hunting Rimfire Scope

If you’re searching for a purpose-built scope, the Barska 3-9×32 Plinker-22 Riflescope for .22 Rifles and Rimfires could appeal to you. It’s an ideal addition for anyone that enjoys plinking or hunting, and the best part is that it’s super affordable.

The clarity you need…

It features fully coated bright, clear, and sharp optics so that you can clearly pick out targets at speed. It’s also a very durable scope that’s fog-proof, waterproof, and shockproof. Also, the one-inch monotube construction gives it strength and reliability, time and time again when out in the field.

The reticle is a 30/30 style, which is very good for the range estimation of deer. And then, you have 0.25 click turret adjustments to help you accurately find your target. The eye relief is satisfactory 3.5 inches, and the turrets are capped.

Stay on sight…

It’s also beneficial that this scope has a wide field of view, especially when hunting game such as deer. This is because they obviously move very quickly; therefore, if you’re using a scope with a narrow field of view, you’re more likely to lose sight of your target.

Barska offers a great rimfire scope for shooters of the .22 caliber. It’s lightweight at just 11.46 ounces. Plus, you get ⅜ inch dovetail rings, scope caps, and a Barska Limited Lifetime Warranty thrown in for good measure.

6 Barska 4×32 Plinker-22 Riflescope – Best Low Light Rimfire Scope

If plinking is one of your favorite pastimes, why not go for the BARSKA 4×32 Plinker-22 Riflescope in combination with your rimfire? It will also work well for hunters and has a solid array of features on board. Plus, it comes with rings so you can get it up and running in no time at all.

Lightweight performance…

The Plinker-22 Riflescope is a reasonable 16.08 ounces in weight. This isn’t the lightest scope we’ve come across, but it still fits comfortably in the lightweight category. All the optics are fully multi-coated so that you can experience high-quality clean, and crisp visuals. And, like every Barska, this scope is made waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof to make it ruggedly reliable out in the field.

Light up…

One of the biggest selling points of this scope is that it comes with illumination, which is obviously beneficial for shooters that are hunting at sunrise or sunset when the light is weak. Then you get a 30/30 reticle that’s preferred by deer hunters because it gives good range estimation.

Another important and strong functioning aspect of the scope is the turret adjustments. They have 0.25 MOA click values for windage and elevations. Also, you benefit from the scope being parallax-free up to 50 yards, which is about all you need when shooting a .22 rimfire.

7 BSA Optics Sweet 22 3-9x40mm Scope with Rings

For those looking for an all-in-one rimfire scope solution, here is the BSA Optics Sweet 22 3-9x40mm Scope with Rings. It makes use of a large 40mm objective lens, and you get 3-9x variable magnification combined with a 30/30 reticle, which is good for range estimation of large and fast game like deer.

This isn’t the lightest of scopes on our list at 23.3 ounces, but that actually might suit some shooters as it can steady heavy recoil in some cases. What is really impressive, however, is the 7.5 yards to infinity parallax adjustment. Plus, you get 0.25 MOA adjustments for windage and elevation.

The construction…

The scope is made from solid aluminum, which makes it durable and ready for rugged use. It is also a waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof design, ideal for hunters who want a reliable all weather scope option. And, it’s so easy to set-up straight out the box with the supplied dovetail rings and mount.

The fully multi-coated optics are nice and clear for short to mid-range targeting. Plus, there is a wide field of view, 34.2-11.5 yards at 100 yards, which is beneficial for hunters wanting to keep fast-moving targets in their sight.

8 Burris Droptine 2-7x35mm Riflescope

Next, we’re checking out the Burris Droptine 2-7x35mm Riflescope, made to be the “ultimate hunting scope” for various conditions. It comes with a 35mm objective, a non-reflective matte finish, and it’s extremely affordable.

Keep it simple…

Unlike most other scopes in this class, the Burris Droptine has only a 2x magnification. However, this is actually very advantageous for the close to mid-range shooter of deer and other fast-moving game. This is because it keeps things simple and gives you a good sight picture of your target.

The glass is precision-ground and is fully multi-coated so that you get excellent clarity and brightness. The lenses also work impressively in low light conditions and have a good level of glare-resistance.

Quick shot capabilities…

The simple Ballistic Plex reticle has holdovers in place so that you can make quick snapshots for extended ranges. You also benefit from low profile turrets that are easily finger adjusted. Also, a separate eyepiece and power ring lets you add flip-up lens caps if desired.

Double spring tension internal assemblies make the Burris Droptine 2-7x35mm Riflescope shockproof, which makes it a longer-lasting and reliable scope than many other scope options in its price range.

9 Tasco 3-9×32 .22 MAG39X32D Rifle Scope

Last up, in our review, we have the Tasco 3-9×32 .22 MAG39X32D Rifle Scope, weighing in at a very favorable 11.3 ounces, without rings. It has a variable 3-9x magnification and comes in an anti-glare, matte black finish.

30/30 on the money…

If you’re primarily a deer hunter, then a 30/30 reticle should be a familiar concept for you. This type of reticle is made for range estimating deer but can work just as well for other types of larger game. And, this Tasco design doesn’t disappoint, with its clear estimation markers.

The glass is also nice and clear due to the Magenta multi-layered lens treatment. You also gain vivid color contrast and reasonable enough brightness levels, even in some of the lowest light conditions.

Don’t lose sight…

Many will be pleased to know that you benefit from 50 yards of parallax, and there’s a wide field of view to enjoy. This is ideal for deer hunters that may have to follow a deer in their sights as it rapidly tries to run away.

If there’s one complaint, the eye relief is not exceptional at 3 inches, so take care with that, unless you want a black eye. But we do like that they’ve added scope rings as part of this package.

Best Rimfire Scope Buying Guide

Now that we’ve checked out all of the different rimfire scope options, we want to run through which one’s are particularly suited for specific shooting needs.

Best Rimfire Scope for Deer Hunting

It seems clear that a scope with a 30/30 reticle and wide field of view is best suited for deer hunters. The scope should also be rugged and resilient as you could well be firing high powered rounds through the rimfire rifle that you have the scope mounted on.

So, taking all this into consideration, we would recommend the…

Barska 3-9×32 Plinker-22 Riflescope for .22 Rifles and Rimfires

This is a solid choice for deer hunters. The scope has excellent clarity, great eye relief, precision turret adjustments, and much more. Plus, it’s a lightweight design that won’t add any extra unwanted bulk to your platform.

Best Rimfire Scope for Low-light Conditions

There are two clear choices for the best performers in low light conditions. The first battery-powered illuminated option is the…

BARSKA 4×32 Plinker-22 Riflescope

It comes with a 30/30 illuminated reticle. So, if you are a hunter who wants to shoot deer or other big game during dawn and dusk, this Barska is well-placed to serve your needs.

For those that don’t want battery-powered illumination but still want a scope that can comfortably handle low light conditions, the obvious choice is the…

Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 1 inch Riflescope

…with its Twilight Light Management System. This balances the light entering your scope across the visible spectrum, leading to brighter and crisper imagery. Therefore, you will get clear visuals and more accurate shots in low light conditions with this Leupold than your average rimfire scope.

The Best Versatility Rimfire Scope

If you’re searching for a rimfire scope that can offer you effective variable range targeting. And also withstand various harsh conditions in the field, while still providing excellent clarity, we recommend the…

Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Riflescope

It’s a solid aluminum construction that comes with a fast-focus eyepiece. This means you can quickly focus on targets at various distances effectively. The lenses perform very well, the turret adjustments are precise, and Vortex offers this scope at a very reasonable price for what you get.

Best Value for the Money Rimfire Scope

It took a while to decide on this one, but in the end, we chose two out of the bunch as the best value for the money options.

Our first choice is the…

Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 1 inch Riflescope

This is because it offers you a quality 6061-T6 Aluminum construction, 0.25 MOA turret adjustments, and excellent optical clarity within a very reasonable price bracket.

The second best value for the money option that we think needs a mention is the…

Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Riflescope

It’s an improved design, and Vortex has a good following because of what they offer for such good pricing. And given that it’s waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof, it should work very well out in the field.

So, what is the Best Rimfire Scope?

That’s about it for this look into the world of rimfire scopes. We tried to choose a good array of options for different needs, so that you can decide on the perfect scope for your needs.

If we had to choose our favorite out of the rimfire scopes we’ve reviewed, it would definitely be the…

Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 Waterproof Fogproof Matte Black Riflescope

We love how easy and adaptable this scope is, and the QTA eyepiece works a treat. Plus, the Suregrip Coatings mean you can gain a good grip on your adjustment dials, even when wearing gloves.

So thanks again for stopping by, and good luck in finding the right scope for your needs.

Happy hunting!