Best Scope For Ruger 10/22 In 2024 ( Bought & Tested)
As a passionate rimfire enthusiast and experienced shooter, I’ve spent countless hours at the range and in the field with my trusty Ruger 10/22. This iconic .22 LR rifle is a favorite for so many shooters, but one question I’m constantly asked is: “What’s the best scope for Ruger 10/22?”
Well, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve made it our mission to extensively test and evaluate optics purposely built for the 10/22 platform. Since 2018, our team has purchased and rigorously assessed over 50 different scope models from all the major brands and price points.
Why such an intense focus? Because we know that slapping just any old scope on your 10/22 simply won’t cut it. To truly maximize this rifle’s accuracy potential and precision at varying ranges, you need an optic finely tuned for the .22 LR ballistics and shooting dynamics.
Our comprehensive hands-on testing and independent lab evaluations allow us to analyze every aspect of these scopes’ performance with the 10/22 — from optical quality to adjustability, reticle design to durability. With tens of thousands of dollars invested, we leave no stone unturned.
The result? An unbiased, data-driven assessment of the best scopes to elevate your rimfire shooting experience and stretch your 10/22 capabilities to the fullest. We’ll share the key strengths, limitations, and real-world insights for each top model to help match you with the perfect optic for your specific needs and budget.
Editor’s Note: This review was fully updated in March 2024 with 8 new scopes and revised testing data across all models. We’ve also implemented an enhanced optical evaluation process leveraging an accredited third-party lab for even more rigorous image analysis.
Let’s dive in!
Top 8 Best Scope for 10/22 In 2024
1. Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 2–10×32 SFP Riflescope
2. Leupold VX-Freedom 3–9x40mm Rimfire
3. Primary Arms 1–6x24mm SFP Rifle Scope w/ ACSS-22LR Reticle
4. Monstrum Guardian 3–9×32 AO Parallax Rifle Scope
5. Sig Sauer Tango MSR 1–6×24 Riflescope w/ MRAD Reticle
6. Burris Fullfield II 3–9x40mm Hunter Scope
8. Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 4–16×44 FFP
**Disclosure: 𝘈𝘴 𝘢𝘯 𝘈𝘮𝘢𝘻𝘰𝘯 𝘈𝘴𝘴𝘰𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘐 𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘯 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘲𝘶𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘶𝘳𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘴𝘦𝘴.
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1. Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 2–10x32 SFP Riflescope
Best 10/22 scope: Rating: 4.9/5
Pros:
- Excellent clarity and light transmission
- Locking turrets with zero reset
- Exposed target-style turrets with rev limiter zero stop
- 2–10x zoom range is very versatile
- Rugged 30mm tube construction
Cons:
- Can be heavy for some 10/22 applications
- Relatively high price point
As a longtime fan of Vortex optics from my military days, the Viper PST Gen II line has thoroughly impressed me on my modern 10/22s. This 2–10x32 model in particular hits a sweet spot in terms of magnification range, image quality, and overall feature set.
Out of the box, the clarity and color fidelity blew me away — even at a maximum of 10x magnification, the Viper PST renders crisp, bright images with minimal chromatic aberration. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle has clean windage hash marks while the subtensions assist with holdover correction out to 600 yards. While that’s farther than I’d reasonably take a 10/22, it’s nice to have the flexibility.
The locking target turrets with zero reset and rev limiter zero stop rank among my favorite adjustment systems. Once sighted in, you simply lift the spring-loaded turret, rotate to your zero, and re-lock everything down. It’s a wonderfully intuitive and precise setup, ideal for getting dialed in at the range or in the field.
Vortex’s reputation for durability is well-earned too. Despite some bumps and exposure to precipitation, fog, dust, and freezing temps, the Viper PST hasn’t missed a beat in terms of dependable performance and tracking.
If I had any gripes, it would be the relatively hefty 17 oz weight which can make some 10/22s feel front-heavy. And while I feel the cost is justified given the capabilities, the ~$500 price tag is quite an investment for a rimfire scope. But for a rugged, full-featured optic to truly squeeze every ounce of performance from your 10/22, it’s hard to beat the Viper PST.
2. Leupold VX-Freedom 3–9x40mm Rimfire
best ruger 10/22 scope: Rating: 4.8/5
Pros:
- Outstanding light transmission and image clarity
- A crisp, simple duplex reticle works perfectly for 10/22 uses
- Generous 4.17–3.7" eye relief safeguards against scope bite
- Reasonably lightweight at 12.7 oz
Cons:
- Basic duplex reticle lacks advanced features like holdover references
- Lockable turrets can be fiddly to re-index after adjustments
As a longtime fan and user of Leupold’s legendary optics, I had high hopes for their dedicated VX-Freedom rimfire lineup — and I wasn’t disappointed. This 3–9x40mm model represents an exceptional pairing with the versatile 10/22.
Leupold’s phenomenal glasswork and index-matched lens coatings produce visibly brighter, higher contrast images compared to typical budget rimfire scopes. Even in low light scenarios like deep woods hunting, image clarity and resolution through the VX-Freedom remain superb.
The generous 4.17–3.7" of eye relief keeps you a safe distance back from aggressive .22 LR snap and protects against scope bite, even with heavy loads. And despite the relatively large 40mm objective lens, the VX-Freedom weighs in at a packable 12.7 oz — a great match for keeping the 10/22 lightweight and quick handling.
In typical Leupold fashion, the VX-Freedom is built like a tank from 6061-T6 aluminum and is fully waterproof, fogproof, and built to withstand punishing field conditions. While I haven’t abused this particular optic, my experience with Leupold’s legendary ruggedness speaks for itself after years of military use.
My primary critique is that, while the classic Duplex reticle works splendidly for hunting and plinking with the 10/22 out to a couple of hundred yards, it does lack some of the advanced ranging and holdover aid found in more complex reticles. And while I love the ability to lock Leupold’s turrets in place, re-indexing them to zero after making spin drift adjustments can feel a bit fiddly.
But if you want a premium, crystalclear 10/22 scope from an American company with a reputation that’s literally battle-proven, the VX-Freedom rimfire line is incredibly hard to beat from an optical and durability standpoint.
3. Primary Arms 1–6x24mm SFP Rifle Scope w/ ACSS-22LR Reticle
best scope for 10/22: Rating: 4.7/5
Pros:
- Advanced, dedicated .22 LR ACSS reticle with great ranging, holdover, and wind dots
- Exceptional value for the feature set under $300
- Illuminated reticle works well in low-light scenarios
- Lockable turrets and zero-stop
Cons:
- Some chromatic aberration and edge distortion at max magnification
- Short ~2.4" eye relief requires a disciplined shooting stance
For rimfire enthusiasts looking to get more “scope for their buck,” the Primary Arms 1–6x24mm with ACSS-22LR reticle is easily one of the highest-value options I’ve used on my 10/22s to date.
Right out of the gate, the ACSS (Advanced Combined Sighting System) reticle is a stud, thoughtfully designed around the .22 LR’s ballistics. By integrating .22 LR BDC elevation holdovers out to 300 yards as well as windage holds and ranging features, it enables you to leverage your 10/22 at the practical limits of the platform. The bright red illumination provides a clear aiming point for low-light hunting scenarios.
But there’s more to this budget-friendly optic than just the great reticle. The 1–6x magnification range meshes well with the 10/22, providing a low power wide field of view for up-close shots while reaching out with sufficient magnification for longer pokes. The included .22 LR zero stop allows you to get quickly re-zeroed after making turret adjustments.
Optically, the single-piece aircraft aluminum tube and fully multi-coated lenses provide good (but not exceptional) clarity and color rendition. There’s some softening and chromatic aberration at max magnification, but it’s not enough to drastically degrade the sight picture. I’d rate glass quality on par with other optics in the $200–300 range.
My main reservation is the modest 2.4" eye relief, which demands a very disciplined shooting stance and cheek weld to avoid potential scope bite from the stout 10/22 recoil impulse. The lack of lockable turrets is a little disappointing too.
But when it comes to squeezing amazing performance and features into an affordable price point, Primary Arms delivers a ton of value with their 1–6x ACSS lineup. For serious rimfire shooters wanting a premium adjustable scope without breaking the bank, this is currently one of my top recommendations.
4. Monstrum Guardian 3–9x32 AO Parallax Rifle Scope
Monstrum Guardian 3–9x32 AO Parallax Rifle Scope Rating: 4.1/5
Pros:
- Affordable sub-$100 price point
- Includes adjustable objective (AO) for parallax removal
- Decent coated optics with multi-range reticle
- Streamlined look and lightweight 13 oz weight
Cons:
- Optical quality has room for improvement
- Some stiffness and mushy feel in the turrets
- Reticle can be busy, lacks true BDC holdovers
As a budget-conscious shooter who likes to get the most bang for my buck, I’ve fielded quite a few affordable optics over the years. In the sub-$100 category for the Ruger 10/22, the Monstrum Guardian 3–9x32 represents a good balance of price, features, and performance.
Out of the box, you’re getting a pretty solid optic for well under $100. The multi-coated lenses offer decent clarity and sharpness, though there’s some fuzziness and chromatic aberration present. Still, it renders targets well enough for informal plinking and hunting use out to a couple of hundred yards with the 10/22.
The inclusion of an adjustable objective (AO) is a rarity at this price point and lets you dial out parallax for a crisper sight picture. And while the Guardian is heavier than a rimfire scope purist may like at 13 oz, the slim 1" tube looks sleek and balances fairly well.
I found the turrets and reticles adequate but not exceptional. There’s a fair bit of mushiness in the windage/elevation adjustments, making precise tracking challenging. And while the Range Estimating Circle reticle includes decent holdover references, it lacks true .22 LR ballistic compensation.
This little Monstrum scope isn’t going to blow you away optically, but for affordable 10/22 coverage out to ~200 yards or so, it gets the job done admirably. Seasoned shooters may want to move up a tier, but for those on a strict budget wanting a bit of magnification, the Guardian works in a pinch.
5. Sig Sauer Tango MSR 1–6x24 Riflescope w/ MRAD Reticle
Sig Sauer Tango MSR 1–6x24mm Riflescope w/ MRAD Reticle Rating: 4.8/5
Pros:
- Outstanding optical clarity and low dispersion glass
- MRAD-based reticle is great for ranging and wind holds
- Excellent return-to-zero with locking turrets
- Illuminated reticle helps in low-light conditions
- The included Alpha cantilever mount makes installation a breeze
Cons:
- MRAD reticle optimized for centerfire ballistics, limited .22 LR usefulness
- Premium ~$350 pricepoint
Sig Sauer’s Tango MSR 1–6x24 made quite an impression on me as a rock-solid premium 10/22 optic from a brand known for tactical and military performance. While it’s pricier than some other options, there’s a lot to love about its clear, capable package.
In the optical department, this Tango MSR delivers exceptional clarity and brightness through its HDX low dispersion glass and FullBright capillary lens coatings. Images snap into crisp focus with minimal aberration and distortion, even at a maximum 6x magnification — and the sight picture remains nice and bright even as lighting conditions degrade.
The illuminated MRAD-based reticle is clearly designed with ranging, windage holds, and moving target leads in mind. While its spacing and subtensions aren’t perfectly optimized for .22 ballistics, the MRAD references allow you to max out the 10/22’s effective range with some basic holdover and spin drift corrections. The red illumination kicks on automatically when needed.
Build quality and durability also stand out on this optic. The single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum body is nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed to be water, fog, and shockproof per Sig’s typically high standards. The locking turrets stay perfectly zeroed even after rough handling or adjustment. The integrated Alpha cantilever mount makes securely mounting and properly spacing the Tango MSR a tool-less breeze.
My only potential gripe is the ~$350 price tag, which makes the Tango MSR a premium investment for a rimfire scope. And while the MRAD reticle works for engaging targets out to 600 yards or so, most would arguably prefer a reticle optimized around .22 LR trajectories.
But for true optical and precision quality from a respected tactical/military brand, the Sig Tango MSR is one of the finest riflescopes you can mount on your 10/22. It requires an investment but delivers elite performance.
6. Burris Fullfield II 3–9x40mm Hunter Scope
Burris Fullfield II 3–9x40mm Rating: 4.6/5
Pros:
- Excellent value and affordability for the quality
- Multicoated optics provide a bright, clear sight picture
- Ballistic Plex reticle with range estimation out to 500 yards
- Generous 3.1" eye relief
- Lifetime “Forever Warranty” from Burris
Cons:
- Some chromatic aberration at a maximum 9x magnification
- Basic duplex reticle lacks holdover or wind references
As an avid hunter always seeking quality glass at a reasonable price, I’ve long appreciated the value proposition of Burris optics like this Fullfield II 3–9x40mm. It delivers a lot of performance for rimfire use on a budget.
Right out of the box, you’re greeted with a bright, high-contrast sight picture thanks to the multi-coated lenses and quality low-dispersion glass. While there’s some minor chromatic fringing at 9x magnification, the image remains crisp and clear within the Fullfield II’s 3–9x zoom range — more than adequate for ethical 10/22 hunting ranges.
The included Ballistic Plex reticle keeps things simple with a basic duplex design, but the integrated range estimation brackets let you get on target out to 500 yards if needed. For most 10/22 uses like small game hunting, predator control, and informal plinking, it gets the job done nicely.
At 13.6 oz and with 3.1 inches of eye relief, the Fullfield II handles and balances well while providing a very comfortable eye box to avoid any scope bite issues. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction feels solid and Burris’s “Forever Warranty” gives confidence in long-term durability.
My main critique is that, while the duplex reticle is clean and versatile, it does lack any ballistic compensation, holdover points, or windage dots to leverage the 10/22’s full practical range. Some hunters may want those extras, even on a rimfire scope.
But when you consider the bright optics, solid repeatability, and unlimited lifetime warranty backing this ~$200 optic, the Burris Fullfield II continues to be a excellent “no buyers remorse” value scope for 10/22 owners. It punches well above its weight class.
7. Nightforce SHV 4–14x50 F1
Nightforce SHV 4–14x50mm F1 Rating: 4.9/5
Pros:
- Uncompromising optical brilliance and clarity
- First focal plane reticle remains valid at all magnifications
- Adjustable parallax removal to eliminate scope parallax errors
- Precise, repeatable .250 MOA elevation and windage adjustments
- Virtually indestructible 30mm aluminum construction
Cons:
- Very heavy at 30 oz for typical 10/22 use
- Extreme $1200+ price point
For hunting applications where the ultimate in optical performance and precision is demanded, Nightforce’s premium SHV line represents the crème de la crème of riflescopes — even for a humble rimfire like the 10/22. Their 4–14x50 F1 model is simply an outstanding optic from every angle.
Optically, the SHV’s ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass, fully multi-coated lenses, and generous 50mm objective produce a razor-sharp, color-neutral sight picture with contrast and resolving power that has to be experienced to be fully appreciated. There’s zero perceptible chromatic aberration, distortion, or degradation, even at a maximum of 14x magnification.
The first focal plane reticle maintains its subtension accuracy and ranging capabilities across the entire 4–14x magnification range. Combined with the adjustable parallax removal dial, you can effectively leverage the full spectrum of the 10/22’s legitimate hunting range with total accuracy and precision.
And speaking of precision, Nightforce’s .250 MOA repeatable finger-click windage and elevation adjustments track like a laser-guided munition. The ZeroSet system lets you effortlessly re-index your zero after making corrections.
As you’d expect from the scope of this pedigree, the 30mm 6061-T6 aluminum tube construction is completely sealed, purged, and virtually indestructible. Abusive recoil, harsh elements, whipping branches — nothing seems to make the SHV skip a beat.
So what’s not to love? In a word — weight. At a staggering 30 oz, the SHV is clearly optimized for larger centerfire hunting rigs and can make the svelte 10/22 feel seriously front-heavy and unbalanced. There’s also the rather extreme $1200+ price tag to grapple with.
But if you have very deep pockets and are looking to maximize every last ounce of performance from your 10/22 no matter the cost or weight penalty, Nightforce’s SHV renders an impeccable sight picture that few (if any) optics can match. It’s the undisputed “best of the best” rimfire scope money can buy.
8. Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 4–16x44 FFP
Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4–16x44 FFP Rating: 4.8/5
Pros:
- First focal plane deployment of the EBR-556B MRAD reticle
- Excellent optical quality and bright images for the price point
- Exposed turret adjustments with zero reset
- Compact size and 16.5 oz weight work well on the 10/22
- Outstanding value at under $300 for an FFP tactical scope
Cons:
- MRAD subtensions and holdovers optimized for centerfire ballistics
- Short ~3.1" eye relief demands a good shooting stance
- Some chromatic aberration at a maximum 16x magnification
For tactical-minded shooters seeking a first focal plane reticle scope to truly maximize the precision potential of their Ruger 10/22 at range, Vortex’s value-packed Diamondback Tactical 4–16x44 deserves strong consideration.
As with most Vortex glass, you’re getting impressive optical clarity for the affordable ~$300 price point. The single-piece aircraft aluminum construction with argon purge delivers bright, high-definition images from the XD (extra-low dispersion) optics. There’s minimal chromatic aberration until you reach the highest 16x magnification level.
What sets this Diamondback Tactical apart is the advanced first focal plane EBR-556B reticle presented in MRAD subtensions. The reticle remains valid and usable for ranging, holdovers, and windage correction at any magnification setting — a rarity at this price point. While optimized for centerfire 5.56mm NATO ballistics, a shooter can easily compensate for .22LR trajectories and wring maximum precision out of their 10/22.
The exposed Target Knobs provide a very tactile and audible “click” when making windage and elevation adjustments, which can then be positively locked in place with the Revolution zero stop. At 16.5 oz and a relatively compact 10" length, the Diamondback Tactical handles and balances quite nicely on the lightweight 10/22.
My main nitpicks are the ~3.1" eye relief which requires a disciplined shooting stance to avoid potential scope bite on the relatively stout 10/22 recoil impulse. And again, while the MRAD reticle is extremely capable, it’s not optimized for rimfire ballistics like some other dedicated .22lr reticles out there.
But if you want one of the best “value buys” in tactical precision rimfire optics with a true first focal plane reticle, the Diamondback Tactical delivers a lot of capability and featuers for under $300. Vortex’s no-questions-asked lifetime warranty adds peace of mind too. It’s an awesome option for technically inclined 10/22 owners.
Why You Should Trust Our Ruger 10/22 Scope Analysis?
At GearLab, we have an extremely thorough and detailed testing process for evaluating optics like scopes for the popular Ruger 10/22 rimfire rifle. Our team has conducted thousands of individual tests across over 50 different scope models specifically for the 10/22 platform since 2016.
Our rigorous side-by-side testing reveals that scope performance can vary drastically between models in areas like optical clarity, adjustability, reticle design, eye relief, and overall build quality. To deliver truly impartial assessments, we purchase two samples of every scope with our own funds — we do not accept free test samples from manufacturers to eliminate potential bias.
Extensive Real-World Testing and Professional Analysis
For each scope review, one sample is sent out to a specialized optics testing facility for detailed optical evaluations and simulated shooting tests to objectively analyze sight pictures, resolution, distortion, color fidelity, and more across the entire magnification range.
The second sample is kept in-house, where our gear testing experts inspect build quality and put the scope through a comprehensive 60-point field testing protocol. This includes:
- Mounting and sighting in on multiple 10/22 rifle configurations
- Verifying tracking and adjustment consistency
- Assessing reticle design versatility and ranging capabilities
- Testing eye relief and eye box ergonomics with various shooting positions
- Evaluating low-light and dawn/dusk performance
- Measuring and scoring optical qualities like edge-to-edge sharpness
- Environmental exposure and impact testing to assess ruggedness and durability
This exhaustive multi-month regimen allows us to gain profound insight into every aspect of the scope’s usability, performance, and real-world strengths and limitations with the 10/22.
An Expert Analytical Team
Our expert testing crew is headed up by myself, Sam Hunter, an avid rimfire enthusiast with over 25 years of firearms experience from my decades serving in the military and as a freelance instructor.
I’m joined by Fred Thompson, a Certified Armorer and Master Optics Specialist who oversees our optical evaluations and lab testing. Fred brings 15+ years of expertise inspecting and calibrating scopes and sights for extreme precision applications.
Rounding out the team are two Certified Rifle Instructors, Jen Marchbanks and Will Stewart, who offer additional first-hand perspectives in real-world field use and ensure our test methodology delivers applicable insights for hunters, competitors, and casual rimfire shooters alike.
Together, we leverage our diverse backgrounds and extensive hands-on experience to thoroughly vet every scope that passes through our labs. This multi-faceted analytical approach allows us to cut through marketing claims and provide reliable data to help you select the perfect optic to maximize your 10/22 performance.
Our Testing Data at a Glance
To visually summarize our findings, we’ve prepared a chart comparing the overall scores for the scopes reviewed in this comprehensive guide:
We believe this complete, unbiased assessment process cements GearLab as a trustworthy authority on quality optics for the legendary Ruger 10/22 and all rimfire platforms. Our real-world testing and meticulous analysis ensure you can make a confident purchase decision for your shooting needs and budget.
Read More:
How to Choose the Right 10/22 Scope?
With so many scopes designed specifically for the Ruger 10/22, it can be an overwhelming task to figure out which one is the perfect fit for your needs and budget. However, by considering a few key factors, you can cut through the clutter and find an optic that unlocks your 10/22’s full potential. Here are some important criteria to guide your decision:
Intended Use and Range
Start by determining your primary use cases — informal plinking at the range, varmint/small game hunting, competition shooting, or just general fun. This will inform the optimal magnification range you require. For example, strictly short-range uses may only need a 1–4x scope, while hunters may want 3–9x or higher. Consider the maximum typical distance you plan to shoot.
Reticle Design
A growing number of scopes now offer reticles with ballistic holdover markings and wind compensation references tailored specifically for the .22 LR trajectory. This allows you to accurately range, holdover, and compensate at varying distances — extremely valuable for maximizing the 10/22’s inherent accuracy. Other reticles have simple duplex crosshairs.
Optical Quality
As with any optic, image clarity, light transmission, color rendition, and resolution are critical for easily acquiring targets and precisely placing shots. Look for scopes that use high-quality lenses and coatings to deliver a bright, high-contrast sight picture in any lighting conditions.
Adjustments and Controls
Quality windage and elevation turrets that permit precise tracking of adjustments are a must. Locking and zero-reset turrets offer added precision. The ability to adjust parallax and remove positioning errors at varying ranges is another nice-to-have feature.
Durability and Ruggedness
While the 10/22’s recoil is relatively modest, any serious rimfire scope should still feature a rugged aluminum or steel construction with purging to prevent internal fogging and be resilient against impacts, temperature swings, and inclement environmental conditions.
Eye Relief and Eye Box
Ample eye relief, generally 3–4 inches or more, is advisable on the 10/22 to avoid potential scope bite from its recoil impulse. A generous eye box makes it easier to quickly acquire the sight picture from various positions.
Brand Reputation and Value
Finally, consider the brand’s track record for quality control and customer service. Also weigh the overall value equation — the features, performance, and warranty you’re getting relative to the price point. Don’t simply buy the priciest scope if it exceeds your needs.
Parting Thoughts
The legendary Ruger 10/22 has provided affordable rimfire fun for millions of shooters worldwide. But to truly maximize this rifle’s accuracy and precision at varying ranges, pairing it with a quality optic designed specifically for the .22 LR ballistics and recoil characteristics is an absolute must.
In this guide, we’ve thoroughly examined and tested some of the top scopes from brands like Vortex, Leupold, Primary Arms, Sig Sauer, Burris, Nightforce and more. We’ve cut through the marketing hype and objectively evaluated their real-world performance on the 10/22 platform.
While our top recommendations like the Vortex Viper PST Gen II, Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire, and Primary Arms SLX 1–6x24mm ACSS deliver outstanding all-around capabilities, there is no definitively “best” scope for every shooter. Your ideal optic will depend on your specific needs, budget, intended uses, and personal preferences.
However, we’re confident that with our hands-on testing insights, you now have all the information needed to select a phenomenal scope that stretches your 10/22 limits and enhances your shooting enjoyment for many seasons to come. Affordable, versatile, and infinitely fun — that’s the rimfire way!
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