We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best 22 Scopes 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Vortex Optics Razor HD Spotting Scope 22-48x65 Angled

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,134
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
404 reviews

Durability and Weather Resistance
The new model is more rugged with a better design, making it easier to handle and pack.

The Vortex Optics Razor HD Spotting Scope 22-48x65 Angled is a high-quality spotting scope ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and bird watchers. Its magnification range of 22-48x provides versatility for various viewing distances, while the 65mm objective lens diameter ensures bright and clear images. The Triplet Apochromatic lens and high-density, extra-low dispersion glass deliver exceptional resolution and color fidelity, making it easier to identify fine details. The XR Plus anti-reflective coatings enhance brightness, particularly useful in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk.

The helical focus allows for smooth and precise adjustments, and the multi-position eyecup ensures comfortable viewing with adequate eye relief, even for those who wear glasses. The locking collar is a convenient feature, allowing the user to rotate the scope to achieve the best viewing angle without hassle. Durability is a strong suit of the Razor HD, as it is O-ring sealed and argon purged to ensure waterproof and fogproof performance. The Armortek coatings protect the lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt, while the rubber armor provides a robust grip and protection from impacts.

The included accessories, such as the eyepiece cap, objective lens cover, and custom-fitted neoprene case, add value and protection for the scope. However, the scope is on the heavier side, weighing approximately 3.5 pounds, which might be a consideration for those looking to travel light. Additionally, its price point might be higher compared to other spotting scopes, but this is justified by its premium build and lifetime warranty that guarantees repair or replacement if it becomes damaged. The Vortex Optics Razor HD Spotting Scope is a reliable and high-performing tool suitable for any serious outdoor enthusiast looking for top-notch optical quality and durability.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,134
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
404 reviews

Durability and Weather Resistance
The new model is more rugged with a better design, making it easier to handle and pack.
#2

Nightforce NX8-4-32x50mm ZeroStop Digillum Illumination Second Focal Plane (F2/SFP) 30mm Tube Durable Precise Waterproof Fogproof Hunting Gun Scope, MOAR-CF2D Reticle

Rating
9.1
Magnification

Most important from
13 reviews

Magnification
The large magnification range and precise adjustments make it a valuable tool for serious shooters seeking dependable accuracy.

The Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm scope is a solid choice for hunters and shooters who want a versatile and durable scope with a wide magnification range. Its 4x to 32x zoom lets you quickly switch from close to long-distance targets, and the large 50mm objective lens helps bring in bright, clear images even in lower light. The reticle is in the second focal plane, meaning it stays the same size no matter the zoom level, which some users find easier for quick target acquisition. The MOAR-CF2D reticle is designed for accuracy with clearly marked hold points, which helps when you need to make precise shots.

The Digillum illumination system improves reticle visibility in dawn, dusk, or shadowy conditions, and you can adjust the brightness to match your surroundings. Eye relief of 3.5 inches offers a comfortable and safe viewing distance, though some might prefer a bit more for heavy-recoiling rifles. Parallax can be adjusted, allowing better focus on targets at different distances, which is important for long-range shooting. The scope’s rugged build, waterproof and fogproof features mean it can handle tough outdoor environments without worry.

Weighing about 29 ounces, it is moderately heavy, so it’s best suited for those who don’t mind a bit of extra weight on their rifle. While priced higher than entry-level scopes, its clarity, precise adjustments, and robust construction make it a great investment for serious hunters or marksmen wanting dependable performance in the field.

Rating
9.1
Magnification

Most important from
13 reviews

Magnification
The large magnification range and precise adjustments make it a valuable tool for serious shooters seeking dependable accuracy.
#3

Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32 Scout, Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescope - V-Plex Reticle

Rating
8.2
Reticle Type
Eye Relief
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
13595 reviews

Reticle Type
The scope delivers clear and bright optics, providing sharp and accurate sight pictures even on smaller rifles.
Eye Relief
Generous eye relief ensures comfortable and quick target acquisition without the typical 'scope black eye' effect.
Durability and Weather Resistance
It offers excellent value, combining solid performance and durability at a very reasonable price point.

The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32 Scout riflescope is designed with scout rifles and hunting in mind, offering a versatile 2-7x magnification range that suits both close and moderate distance shooting. Its 32mm objective lens is a solid middle ground, providing a bright image without adding much bulk or weight. The V-Plex reticle is a straightforward, popular choice for general hunting, helping you aim quickly without complicated markings. One standout feature is the generous 9.45 inches of eye relief, which means you can position your eye comfortably behind the scope and still get a clear sight picture—great if you move your head quickly when aiming. The field of view at 42 feet allows a good amount of area to see at 100 yards, balancing detail and visibility fairly well for this magnification.

While the scope doesn’t specify parallax adjustment, it’s common in scopes of this type to have fixed parallax at typical hunting distances, so it might not be ideal for extreme precision shooting at very long ranges. Built from aircraft-grade aluminum, it is tough and designed to handle rough conditions; plus, it’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, so it holds up well outdoors. The capped reset turrets let you zero in and easily return to zero after adjustments, which is helpful for hunters needing quick scope tweaks. The fully multi-coated lenses improve clarity and light transmission, enhancing image brightness.

This scope isn’t intended for night vision use and has a second focal plane reticle, meaning the reticle size doesn’t change with magnification, which some shooters may prefer for consistency but others might find limits detailed range estimation. The Crossfire II 2-7x32 Scout riflescope is a reliable, user-friendly choice for hunters and scout rifle users who want solid performance, durability, and easy target acquisition without extra complexity.

Rating
8.2
Reticle Type
Eye Relief
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
13595 reviews

Reticle Type
The scope delivers clear and bright optics, providing sharp and accurate sight pictures even on smaller rifles.
Eye Relief
Generous eye relief ensures comfortable and quick target acquisition without the typical 'scope black eye' effect.
Durability and Weather Resistance
It offers excellent value, combining solid performance and durability at a very reasonable price point.

Buying Guide for the Best 22 Scopes

When choosing a 22-scope, it's important to consider how you plan to use it. Whether you're target shooting, hunting, or just plinking, the right scope can make a big difference in your accuracy and overall shooting experience. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision and ensure you get a scope that meets your needs.
MagnificationMagnification refers to how much closer the target appears through the scope compared to the naked eye. This is important because it affects how well you can see and aim at your target. Scopes with lower magnification (1-4x) are great for close-range shooting and fast target acquisition. Medium magnification (5-9x) is suitable for mid-range shooting, while higher magnification (10x and above) is ideal for long-range precision. Choose a magnification level based on the typical distance you'll be shooting.
Objective Lens DiameterThe objective lens diameter is the size of the front lens of the scope, measured in millimeters. This spec is important because it affects the amount of light that enters the scope, impacting image brightness and clarity. Smaller diameters (20-32mm) are lighter and more compact, suitable for general use. Medium diameters (33-40mm) offer a good balance of light transmission and size, while larger diameters (41mm and above) provide the brightest images, ideal for low-light conditions. Consider where and when you'll be shooting to choose the right objective lens size.
Reticle TypeThe reticle, or crosshair, is the aiming point you see when looking through the scope. Different reticle types can help with various shooting scenarios. Simple crosshairs are great for general use, while more complex reticles with hash marks or dots can assist with range estimation and bullet drop compensation. Illuminated reticles are useful in low-light conditions. Think about your shooting style and needs to select a reticle that will help you aim more accurately.
Field of ViewField of view (FOV) is the width of the area you can see through the scope at a specific distance, usually measured in feet at 100 yards. A wider FOV allows you to see more of the target area, which is beneficial for tracking moving targets and situational awareness. Lower magnification scopes typically have a wider FOV, while higher magnification scopes have a narrower FOV. Choose a scope with a FOV that matches your shooting needs, whether it's for quick target acquisition or detailed long-range shots.
Eye ReliefEye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope's eyepiece where you can see the full image. This is important for comfort and safety, especially with higher recoil firearms. Scopes with longer eye relief (3-4 inches) are more comfortable and safer to use, reducing the risk of 'scope eye' injury. If you wear glasses or use a high-recoil rifle, look for scopes with generous eye relief to ensure a comfortable shooting experience.
Parallax AdjustmentParallax adjustment allows you to correct the parallax error, which occurs when the target and the reticle are not on the same focal plane. This is important for maintaining accuracy at different distances. Scopes without parallax adjustment are typically set for a specific distance (usually 100 yards), while those with adjustable parallax can be fine-tuned for various ranges. If you plan to shoot at different distances, a scope with parallax adjustment can help you maintain precision.
Durability and Weather ResistanceDurability and weather resistance are crucial for ensuring your scope can withstand the elements and rough handling. Look for scopes that are waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof to ensure they perform well in various conditions. High-quality materials and construction will also contribute to the scope's longevity. Consider the environments you'll be shooting in and choose a scope that can handle those conditions.

FAQ