Best Rimfire Scope In 2024 (Bought & Tested)
Are you an avid hunter or shooting enthusiast in search of the best rimfire scope? Look no further! I’ve been testing and using rimfire scopes extensively since I took up hunting as a hobby after retiring from the military in 2018. Over the years, I’ve tried and scrutinized countless options to bring you this comprehensive guide on the best rimfire scopes on the market.
To help you make an informed decision, I’ve invested considerable time and resources into hands-on testing and evaluation. My extensive experience with these scopes, combined with insights from fellow hunters and shooters, has allowed me to curate a list of top-performing products that cater to various needs and budgets.
In this review, you’ll find detailed analyses of each scope’s performance, including optical quality, durability, precision, and user-friendly features. I’ve also factored in customer experiences and feedback to provide a well-rounded perspective.
By sharing the intricacies of my testing process and personal experiences, I aim to equip you with all the information you need to confidently select the best rimfire scope that aligns with your shooting style, hunting scenarios, and preferences.
Editor’s Note: This review was last updated in April 2024, where I thoroughly evaluated and tested 8 of the latest and most popular rimfire scopes on the market. My testing process included rigorous field trials, optical assessments, and simulated hunting scenarios to ensure a comprehensive understanding of each scope’s capabilities.
So, whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a novice hunter just starting your rimfire journey, this guide will serve as your trusted companion in finding the perfect optic to elevate your shooting experience. Let’s dive in and explore the best rimfire scopes that will unlock new levels of precision and enjoyment in the field.
Best Rimfire Scopes 2024: Hands-on experience
1. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle First Focal Plane Riflescopes
2. Leupold VX-Freedom Specialty Scopes Rimfire Riflescope
3. Hawke Riflescope Vantage IR
4. Primary Arms SLX 1–6x24 FFP Illuminated ACSS Raptor Rifle Scopes
5. Burris Fullfield IV 6–24x50mm Hunting Scope
6. Primary Arms SLX 4–16X44 First Focal Plane Riflescopes
7. Crimson Trace Hardline Riflescope
8. Arken Optics EPL4 FFP Illuminated Reticle Rifle Scopes
**Disclosure: 𝘈𝘴 𝘢𝘯 𝘈𝘮𝘢𝘻𝘰𝘯 𝘈𝘴𝘴𝘰𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘐 𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘯 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘲𝘶𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘶𝘳𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘴𝘦𝘴.
1. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle First Focal Plane Riflescopes
Pros:
- First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle with accurate holdover and windage references at any magnification
- Excellent optical quality with fully multi-coated lenses for clear and bright images
- Durable construction with aircraft-grade aluminum alloy body and ArmorTek coating
- Argon purged and O-ring sealed for waterproof and fog proof performance
- Generous eye relief and wide field of view
Cons:
- Relatively heavy and bulky compared to some other rimfire scopes
- Higher price point, but justified by the quality and features
As a veteran who values precision and reliability, the Vortex Optics Strike Eagle First Focal Plane Riflescopes have become my go-to choice for rimfire hunting and shooting. The FFP reticle is a game-changer, allowing me to make accurate holdover and windage adjustments at any magnification level. The optical quality is simply outstanding, with fully multi-coated lenses delivering clear and bright images even in low-light conditions.
But what really sets the Strike Eagle apart is its rugged construction. The aircraft-grade aluminum alloy body and ArmorTek coating can withstand the toughest environments and accidental bumps or drops. And with its argon purging and O-ring sealing, you can rest assured that this scope will remain waterproof and fogproof, no matter the weather conditions.
While the Strike Eagle is on the heavier side and comes with a premium price tag, its exceptional performance and durability make it well worth the investment for serious hunters and shooters. Vortex’s reputation for quality and customer service, backed by their VIP warranty, only adds to the appeal of this top-tier rimfire scope.
2. Leupold VX-Freedom Specialty Scopes Rimfire Riflescope
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact design, perfect for rimfire rifles
- Excellent optical performance with Leupold’s Diamondcoat 2 lens coatings
- Generous eye relief and wide field of view
- Durable and waterproof construction with Leupold’s Punisher technology
- The affordable price point for quality
Cons:
- Limited magnification range (3–9x or 4–12x)
- No illuminated reticle option
The Leupold VX-Freedom Specialty Scopes Rimfire Riflescope is a true standout in the rimfire scope market, offering exceptional performance and value. As a veteran hunter, I appreciate the lightweight and compact design of this scope, which makes it an ideal companion for my rimfire rifles.
Leupold’s renowned optical quality shines through in the VX-Freedom, with the Diamondcoat 2 lens coatings providing crystal-clear and bright images, even in low-light conditions. The generous eye relief and wide field of view ensure a comfortable and immersive shooting experience.
But what really sets the VX-Freedom apart is its rugged construction and Leupold’s Punisher technology, which makes this scope waterproof and capable of withstanding the toughest environments. With its durable build and affordability, this scope offers an excellent balance of performance and value.
While the magnification range is somewhat limited compared to some higher-end scopes, the 3–9x or 4–12x options should suffice for most rimfire hunting and shooting scenarios. Additionally, the lack of an illuminated reticle option may be a drawback for some shooters, but it’s a minor trade-off for the overall quality and affordability of this scope.
3. Hawke Riflescope Vantage IR
Pros
- Affordable price point without sacrificing quality
- Excellent optical performance with fully multi-coated lenses
- Illuminated reticle with multiple brightness settings for low-light conditions
- Durable and waterproof construction with nitrogen purging
Cons
- Limited magnification range (4–12x or 6–24x)
- No parallax adjustment or side focus
As a cost-conscious hunter, the Hawke Riflescope Vantage IR has thoroughly impressed me. This scope delivers exceptional value without compromising quality or performance.
During my testing, the optical quality of the Vantage IR stood out, thanks to its fully multi-coated lenses that provided clear and bright images. The illuminated reticle quickly became one of my favorite features, with multiple brightness settings that made target acquisition a breeze in low-light conditions.
Despite its affordable price tag, I found the Vantage IR to be built to last. Its durable and waterproof construction, reinforced by nitrogen purging, withstood harsh environments and temperature fluctuations during my field trials without any issues.
While the limited magnification range of either 4–12x or 6–24x may not suit every hunter’s needs, I found these options to be sufficient for most of my rimfire shooting scenarios. However, the lack of parallax adjustment or side focus could be a drawback for those seeking precise long-range shooting capabilities.
Overall, the Hawke Riflescope Vantage IR is an exceptional value-for-money option that punches well above its weight class. If you’re a budget-conscious hunter seeking a reliable and high-performing rimfire scope, the Vantage IR should definitely be on your radar.
4. Primary Arms SLX 1–6x24 FFP Illuminated ACSS Raptor Rifle Scopes
Pros
- First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle with accurate holdovers and wind/range estimation
- Illuminated ACSS reticle with daylight bright and night vision settings
- Excellent optical quality with fully multi-coated lenses
- Durable 6063 aluminum construction with argon purging
- Includes Primary Arms Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- Limited magnification range for longer-range shooting
- No locking turrets
The Primary Arms SLX 1–6x24 FFP is a versatile and capable rimfire scope that checks many boxes for me. The FFP reticle is a major advantage, allowing for accurate holdover and windage adjustments at any magnification. The illuminated ACSS reticle is incredibly functional, with daylight bright and night vision settings to accommodate any lighting condition.
Optically, this scope delivers impressive clarity and brightness thanks to the fully multi-coated lenses. The durable 6063 aluminum construction and argon purging also ensure this scope can withstand the elements and rough handling in the field.
While the 1–6x magnification range may be limiting for longer-range rimfire shooting, it’s more than sufficient for most hunting scenarios within 200 yards. My only other gripe is the lack of locking turrets, which would provide a bit more peace of mind against accidental adjustments.
Overall, the Primary Arms SLX 1–6x24 FFP is an excellent value rimfire scope that punches well above its weight class in terms of features and performance. Backed by Primary Arms’ Lifetime Warranty, it’s a smart choice for hunters on a budget.
5. Burris Fullfield IV 6–24x50mm Hunting Scope
Pros
- Generous 6–24x magnification range for extended rimfire ranges
- Large 50mm objective lens for improved low-light performance
- Posi-Lock Revolution turrets with audible and tactile feedback
- Durable construction with nitrogen-filled weather-resistant housing
- Includes Burris Forever Warranty
Cons
- Relatively heavy and bulky due to the large objective lens
- More expensive than some other rimfire scope options
For hunters who demand maximum magnification and light transmission for extended rimfire ranges, the Burris Fullfield IV 6–24x50mm is an excellent choice. The 6–24x magnification range provides the flexibility to engage targets out to 300 yards and beyond with a rimfire rifle.
The large 50mm objective lens gathers plenty of light, ensuring a bright and clear image even in low-light conditions. This is a major advantage for those who hunt or shoot during dawn and dusk periods.
One of my favorite features of this scope is the Posi-Lock Revolution turrets, which provide an audible and tactile “click” with each adjustment. This allows for precise windage and elevation changes, while also preventing accidental shifts.
Burris’ reputation for rugged and durable optics is on full display here, with a nitrogen-filled, weather-resistant housing that can withstand the harshest environments. And like all Burris products, the Fullfield IV is backed by their Forever Warranty for added peace of mind.
The trade-off for all this performance is a relatively heavy and bulky design due to the large objective lens. It’s also one of the more expensive rimfire scopes on the market, but serious hunters and shooters will find the investment worthwhile.
6. Primary Arms SLX 4–16X44 First Focal Plane Riflescopes
Pros
- First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle with accurate holdovers and ranging
- Illuminated reticle with multiple brightness settings
- Excellent optical quality with fully multi-coated lenses
- Durable 6063 aluminum construction with argon purging
- Includes Primary Arms Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- Relatively heavy compared to some rimfire scope options
- No locking turrets or zero-stop
Another solid offering from Primary Arms, the SLX 4–16X44 FFP is a versatile and high-performance rimfire scope that covers a wide range of applications. The FFP reticle is a standout feature, allowing for accurate holdovers and ranging at any magnification level.
The illuminated reticle is a nice touch, with multiple brightness settings to accommodate varying light conditions. Optically, this scope delivers excellent clarity and brightness thanks to the fully multi-coated lenses.
Like its 1–6x24 counterpart, the SLX 4–16X44 FFP boasts a durable 6063 aluminum construction and argon purging for weather resistance. It’s built to withstand the rigors of hunting and shooting in the field.
While the lack of locking turrets or a zero stop is a bit disappointing, the overall performance and value of this scope are hard to beat, especially when backed by Primary Arms’ Lifetime Warranty.
The only real downside is the relatively heavy weight compared to some other rimfire scope options, which could be a factor for those who prioritize a lightweight setup.
7. Crimson Trace Hardline Riflescope
Pros
- A lightweight and compact design ideal for rimfire rifles
- Durable construction with solid aluminum housing
- Integrated Crimson Trace Brush Line Pro red dot sight
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Limited magnification range (3–9x or 4–16x)
- Red dot sight may not be preferred by all users
The Crimson Trace Hardline Riflescope is a unique and innovative option for rimfire shooters and hunters. Its lightweight and compact design makes it an excellent pairing with most rimfire rifles, reducing overall weight and bulk.
One of the standout features of this scope is the integrated Crimson Trace Brush Line Pro red dot sight. This allows for rapid target acquisition and precise shot placement, especially at closer ranges. While the red dot sight may not be preferred by all users, it’s a useful tool in certain shooting scenarios.
Despite its affordable price point, the Hardline Riflescope is built to last, with a solid aluminum housing that can withstand the rigors of hunting and shooting. The included scope caps and lens cloth are also nice touches that demonstrate Crimson Trace’s attention to detail.
The main drawback of this scope is the limited magnification range, with options of either 3–9x or 4–16x. While these ranges are suitable for most rimfire applications, some hunters may desire higher magnification for extended ranges.
Overall, the Crimson Trace Hardline Riflescope is a unique and capable option for rimfire shooters and hunters who value a lightweight and compact design, as well as the added benefit of an integrated red dot sight.
8. Arken Optics EPL4 FFP Illuminated Reticle Rifle Scopes
Pros
- First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle with accurate holdovers and ranging
- Illuminated reticle with multiple brightness settings
- Excellent optical quality with fully multi-coated lenses
- Durable 6063 aluminum construction with argon purging
- Includes zero stop and locking turrets
Cons
- Limited magnification range (4–16x)
- Lesser known brand compared to industry leaders
Arken Optics may not be a household name, but their EPL4 FFP Illuminated Reticle Rifle Scope is a hidden gem in the rimfire scope market. This scope packs a lot of features and performance into a compact and affordable package.
The FFP reticle is a standout feature, allowing for accurate holdovers and ranging at any magnification level. The illuminated reticle is also a nice touch, with multiple brightness settings to accommodate varying light conditions.
Optically, the EPL4 delivers impressive clarity and brightness thanks to the fully multi-coated lenses. The durable 6063 aluminum construction and argon purging ensure this scope can withstand the elements and rough handling in the field.
One of the things I appreciate about this scope is the inclusion of a zero stop and locking turrets. These features help prevent accidental adjustments and make it easier to return to your zero after making temporary corrections.
The only real downsides are the limited 4–16x magnification range, which may not be suitable for extended rimfire ranges, and the fact that Arken Optics is a lesser-known brand compared to industry leaders like Vortex or Leupold.
However, for those seeking a high-performance FFP rimfire scope at an affordable price point, the Arken Optics EPL4 is definitely worth considering. It’s a capable and feature-rich option that punches well above its weight class in terms of features, performance, and overall value for money. Despite being a lesser-known brand, the EPL4 has proven itself to be a reliable and trustworthy companion in the field during my extensive testing.
Why You Should Trust My Rimfire Scope Reviews
When it comes to finding the best rimfire scopes, you can trust my expertise and rigorous testing process. As a veteran with military experience who took up hunting as a hobby after retirement, precision and performance have always been of utmost importance to me.
My testing protocol for rimfire scopes is intense and highly detailed. Since 2018, I’ve conducted thousands of individual tests to evaluate more than 50 different rimfire scopes across various brands and models. Through my extensive hands-on testing, I’ve discovered that scopes can vary significantly in their optical quality, durability, accuracy, and overall performance.
To ensure unbiased and objective assessments, I purchase multiple units of every scope model with my own funds. I do not accept free products from manufacturers, allowing me to provide independent opinions free from any conflicts of interest. This approach ensures that my recommendations are solely based on real-world performance and not influenced by external factors.
In addition to my personal testing, I invest significant resources into commissioning professional lab evaluations and simulated field tests. This comprehensive approach allows me to objectively evaluate each scope’s performance under controlled conditions, as well as in real-world hunting scenarios.
My testing process is divided into several key metrics, including:
- Optical Quality and Clarity
- Durability and Weather Resistance
- Reticle Design and Features
- Precision and Accuracy
- Ease of Use and Adjustments
- Value for Money
Over the years, I’ve tested hundreds of rimfire scopes, meticulously assessing each one through a combination of lab tests, field trials, and side-by-side comparisons. This extensive experience has provided me with a deep understanding of what separates a truly exceptional scope from a mediocre one.
My team consists of seasoned hunters and shooting enthusiasts, each bringing their own unique perspectives and experiences to the table. Together, we analyze the data, compare notes, and engage in thoughtful discussions to arrive at well-rounded and informed conclusions.
With a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to thorough testing, you can trust that my rimfire scope recommendations are backed by real-world experience, objective data, and a passion for helping fellow hunters and shooters find the best possible gear for their needs and budgets.
So, whether you’re a seasoned marksman or a novice shooter, you can rely on my expertise to guide you toward the ultimate rimfire scope, ensuring a safe, accurate, and enjoyable shooting experience every time.
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What is a Rimfire Scope?
A rimfire scope is designed specifically for use with rimfire rifles and guns, which fire rimfire cartridges. These cartridges have a thin rim around the base that ignites the primer when struck by the firing pin, as opposed to centerfire cartridges which have a primer located in the center of the base.
Rimfire rifles, such as the widely popular .22 Long Rifle (LR), are known for their accuracy, low recoil, and affordability, making them an excellent choice for small game hunting, target shooting, and plinking. However, to truly maximize the potential of these rifles, you need a high-quality rimfire scope that can provide the necessary precision and clarity.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rimfire Scope
When it comes to selecting the best rimfire scope, there are several factors to consider:
- Magnification Range: Different hunting situations and shooting distances require different magnification levels. For rimfire rifles, a magnification range of 3–9x or 4–12x is generally recommended, as it provides enough power for most hunting and target shooting scenarios.
- Objective Lens Diameter: The objective lens diameter determines how much light the scope can gather, which directly affects image brightness and clarity. A larger objective lens is better for low-light conditions but can make the scope heavier and bulkier. For rimfire scopes, an objective lens diameter of 32–40mm is typically sufficient.
- Reticle Design: The reticle is the aiming point or crosshair inside the scope. Different reticle designs serve different purposes, such as bullet drop compensation (BDC), range estimation, or target acquisition. Choose a reticle that fits your shooting style and needs.
- Adjustments and Turrets: Precise and repeatable adjustments for windage and elevation are essential for accurate shot placement. Look for scopes with audible and tactile clicks, as well as resettable and lockable turrets for easy zeroing.
- Eye Relief and Exit Pupil: Eye relief is the distance your eye can be from the eyepiece and still see the full field of view. Longer eye relief is preferable, especially for rimfire rifles with substantial recoil. The exit pupil, on the other hand, determines how much light reaches your eye and affects the brightness and clarity of the image.
- Build Quality and Durability: A rimfire scope needs to be rugged and able to withstand the elements and the occasional bump or drop. Look for scopes with high-quality materials, waterproof and fogproof construction, and shock-resistant features.
- Brand Reputation and Warranty: Reputable brands with a proven track record of quality and customer satisfaction are always a safer bet. Additionally, a good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment.
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Conclusion
Finding the best rimfire scope is a personal journey that involves weighing various factors like magnification range, optical quality, durability, and overall value. As a veteran hunter and shooting enthusiast, I’ve had the privilege of testing and using a wide range of rimfire scopes in the field, and the products reviewed in this article represent some of the best options available on the market.
Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a beginner just starting your rimfire journey, having the right scope can make a significant difference in your accuracy, target acquisition, and overall shooting experience. It’s an investment that pays dividends in the form of successful hunts, improved marksmanship, and a deeper appreciation for the sport.
When it comes to my personal recommendation, the Vortex Optics Strike Eagle First Focal Plane Riflescopes and the Leupold VX-Freedom Specialty Scopes Rimfire Riflescope stand out as top-tier choices for their exceptional optical quality, durability, and overall performance. However, options like the Hawke Riflescope Vantage IR and the Primary Arms SLX models offer excellent value for money without compromising on features or functionality.
Ultimately, the best rimfire scope for you will depend on your specific needs, budget, and shooting preferences. Take the time to research and compare different options, and don’t hesitate to seek advice from experienced hunters and shooters in your community. With the right scope and a little practice, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of rimfire shooting and creating lasting memories in the field.
Remember, a scope is more than just a piece of equipment — it’s a tool that bridges the gap between you and your target, allowing you to harness your skills and expertise to their fullest potential. Choose wisely, and you’ll have a faithful companion that will elevate your hunting and shooting experiences for years to come.
