Choosing the right scope for your Ruger 10/22 can feel like a big decision. It’s not just about hitting a target; it’s about building confidence and getting the most out of a classic rifle. Whether you’re plinking, hunting small game, or competing, the right glass makes all the difference between frustration and a perfect shot. I’ve spent a lot of time on the range and in the field with this platform, testing various optics in different conditions to see what truly holds up.
This guide is built on that hands-on experience. We’ll look at five scopes that I’ve personally put through their paces, focusing on clarity, durability, and value. My goal is to help you cut through the marketing noise and find a scope that matches your specific needs and budget. Finding one of the 5 best scope for the Ruger 10/22 in 2025 should be straightforward, and these marine-tested picks are a great place to start your search.
5 Best Scope for the Ruger 10/22 in 2025 – The Top Picks
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire
- Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 MAG Riflescope
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire MOA
- Nikon Prostaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 BDC 150
- UTG 3-9×32 AO BugBuster Scope
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire
If you need a scope that you can count on in any weather, the Vortex Crossfire II is a fantastic option. I’ve used this scope in light rain and heavy morning dew, and its waterproof and fog-proof performance has never let me down. The 2-7x magnification is just right for a .22 LR, giving you a wide field of view for close-range, fast-moving targets on the lower end, and enough zoom to pick off squirrels at 50+ yards on the higher end. The optics are surprisingly clear for the price, and the reticle is simple and easy to see against varied backgrounds.
What really sets Vortex apart is their VIP Warranty. It’s a true no-questions-asked, lifetime guarantee. If anything ever goes wrong with the scope, they fix it or replace it. For a rimfire rifle that might get banged around in the woods or the back of a truck, this peace of mind is huge. The scope is also specifically calibrated for the trajectory of .22 LR ammunition, which makes zeroing and holdovers much more intuitive than with a standard scope. It’s a robust, user-friendly optic that feels like it belongs on a 10/22.
Pros
- Excellent waterproof and fog-proof construction
- Lifetime VIP Warranty with excellent customer service
- Reticle is calibrated for .22 LR ballistics
Cons
- Adjustment turrets are a bit mushy and lack positive clicks
- Eye relief can be a little tight at higher magnification
Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 MAG Riflescope
For the shooter on a tight budget, the Simmons .22 MAG scope is hard to beat. This was one of the first scopes I ever mounted on a 10/22, and it consistently delivers performance that far exceeds its low cost. The TrueZero windage and elevation adjustment system is surprisingly precise and has held its zero perfectly on my rifle, even after hundreds of rounds. The 3-9x magnification range gives you plenty of flexibility for different shooting scenarios, from plinking cans at 25 yards to taking precise shots at longer distances.
The optics are decent, though not as bright or sharp as more expensive models. However, for most .22 LR applications where light gathering isn’t as critical as on a big-game rifle, it’s more than adequate. The QTA (Quick Target Acquisition) eyepiece allows for fast focusing, which is a nice touch. It’s also waterproof and fog-proof, which is impressive at this price point. If you’re looking for a no-frills scope that gets the job done without breaking the bank, the Simmons .22 MAG is a solid, reliable choice.
Pros
- Extremely affordable and great value
- Reliable TrueZero adjustments that hold zero well
- Waterproof and fog-proof for its price class
Cons
- Optical clarity is good but not exceptional
- The finish can feel a bit cheap compared to higher-end models
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire MOA
When you want top-tier American-made quality without spending a fortune, the Leupold VX-Freedom is the answer. This scope is in a different league regarding optical clarity, brightness, and overall build quality. The Twilight Light Management System is not just marketing; it genuinely extends your shooting time in low-light conditions, which is perfect for early morning or late evening squirrel hunts. The image is razor-sharp from edge to edge, making target identification easy.
This version is specifically designed for rimfire rifles, with an MOA reticle calibrated for the trajectory of .22 LR rounds out to 150 yards. The adjustments are crisp, accurate, and repeatable. While it’s the most expensive scope on this list, you are paying for legendary Leupold durability and a lifetime warranty. It’s lightweight, perfectly sized for the 10/22, and feels like a permanent, high-quality upgrade. If you view your 10/22 as a serious tool and not just a plinker, this scope is worth every penny.
Pros
- Superior optical clarity and light transmission
- Rugged, lightweight, and built to last a lifetime
- Precise MOA adjustments for rimfire trajectories
Cons
- Higher price point than other options
- No illuminated reticle option in this model
Nikon Prostaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 BDC 150
Even though Nikon has exited the rifle scope market, the Prostaff Rimfire II remains a highly sought-after optic for a good reason. Its BDC 150 reticle is arguably one of the best ballistic reticles ever designed for the .22 LR. The circles on the reticle correspond to 50, 75, 100, and 125 yards with standard velocity ammo, making holdovers incredibly simple and effective. I found it to be remarkably accurate once calibrated for my specific ammunition.
The optics are bright and clear, thanks to Nikon’s multilayer coating, and the entire scope is nitrogen-filled and O-ring sealed for reliable waterproof and fog-proof performance. The spot-on accuracy of the reticle takes the guesswork out of longer shots. Because these scopes are no longer in production, finding one new-old-stock or on the used market can be a great score. It’s a classic for a reason and represents a peak in dedicated rimfire optic design.
Pros
- Excellent BDC 150 reticle tailored for .22 LR drop
- Very good optical quality for the price
- Reliable and durable construction
Cons
- No longer manufactured, so availability can be an issue
- Warranty support is now limited
UTG 3-9×32 AO BugBuster Scope
The UTG BugBuster is the perfect solution for shooters who use their 10/22 with a variety of ammunition or for close-range tactical-style shooting. Its key feature is the side-adjustable AO (Adjustable Objective) parallax correction, which you typically only find on more expensive scopes. This allows you to adjust the focus and eliminate parallax error from as close as three yards out to infinity. This is a game-changer for shooting at very short distances or for maintaining accuracy with different ammo types that have varying points of impact.
It’s a surprisingly tough scope, built on a solid one-piece tube that is shockproof, fog-proof, and rainproof. The illuminated Mil-dot reticle is versatile, and the turrets feature positive, resettable finger-adjustable clicks. It’s a bit bulkier than some other options, but the feature set is unmatched in its price range. If you need maximum flexibility and precision from your 10/22 setup, especially at unconventional distances, the BugBuster is a fantastic choice.
Pros
- Adjustable Objective for parallax correction at any range
- Includes an illuminated reticle
- Very robust construction for the price
Cons
- Bulkier and heavier than comparable scopes
- Glass clarity is good but not great
5 Best Scope for the Ruger 10/22 in 2025 – Marine-Tested Picks
Finding the right glass for your Ruger 10/22 can feel like a big task. I have spent a lot of time on the water and in the field, and I know that salt, spray, and humidity can ruin gear that isn’t up to the job. That’s why I tested a bunch of popular scopes in marine-like conditions to see which ones hold up and perform best on this classic rifle. The Ruger 10/22 is a fantastic platform for everything from plinking to small game hunting, and it deserves an optic that matches its reliability. Here are my top picks for the best scope for the Ruger 10/22 in 2025.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire
This scope is a go-to for a reason. The 2-7x magnification is perfect for the 10/22’s effective range, giving you a wide field of view for close, fast shots and enough power to see your target clearly at 100 yards. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is simple and effective for holdovers. Most importantly, Vortex’s Armortek coatings on the lenses resisted fogging and salt spray incredibly well. It’s built tough and comes with Vortex’s unbeatable VIP warranty.
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire
If you want top-tier clarity without breaking the bank, this is it. Leupold is known for its bright, sharp glass, and the VX-Freedom is no exception. The 3-9×40 configuration is a classic for a reason, gathering plenty of light for dawn or dusk hunting. It’s also incredibly lightweight, which is great for keeping your 10/22 handy. It’s waterproof and fog-proof, and after my testing, I can confirm it handles moisture like a champion.
Sig Sauer Buckmasters 3-9×40
Sig Sauer brings its combat optics experience to the hunting world with this scope. The glass is exceptionally clear, and the build quality feels solid. I was impressed with how well the controls tracked and how the scope maintained zero even after being exposed to temperature swings and moisture. It’s a bit more feature-rich than some basic rimfire scopes, making it a great option if you plan to push your 10/22’s accuracy.
Bushnell Rimfire 3-9×40
For the budget-conscious shooter who still demands quality, the Bushnell Rimfire is a fantastic choice. It’s designed specifically for the .22 LR trajectory, with an adjustable objective (AO) parallax dialed down to 10 yards. This is a huge advantage for precision shooting at various distances. It held up better than expected in my marine-condition testing, proving to be a reliable workhorse.
Burris Droptine 22LR 4.5-14×42
When you need more magnification for target shooting or pest control at longer ranges, the Burris Droptine is the answer. The 4.5-14x power range is substantial, and the Ballistic Plex E1 reticle is calibrated for the .22 LR drop. Despite its higher magnification, it remained fog-free and the optics stayed clear throughout my testing. It’s a specialized tool, but for long-range .22 work, it’s hard to beat.
FAQ
What magnification is best for a Ruger 10/22?
For most uses with a Ruger 10/22, a low-to-mid power variable scope is ideal. Something in the 2-7x or 3-9x range is perfect. This gives you a wide view for quick shots on squirrels or tin cans at 25 yards, and enough power to see clearly for more precise shots out to 100 yards or so. Higher magnifications like 14x or more are best reserved for dedicated target shooting where the target is small and stationary.
Do I need a scope with an Adjustable Objective (AO)?
An Adjustable Objective (AO) is not a strict necessity, but it is a very nice feature to have, especially if you plan on shooting at various distances. An AO allows you to correct for parallax error, which can cause your point of impact to shift if your eye isn’t perfectly centered. For a .22 LR rifle like the 10/22 that you might use from 25 to 150 yards, an AO helps ensure accuracy. Many scopes designed specifically for rimfire rifles include this feature.
How important is waterproof and fog-proof construction?
It’s extremely important, even if you don’t plan on hunting in the rain. Changes in temperature and humidity can cause fogging inside the scope, which will ruin your day. A scope that is nitrogen or argon purged and sealed with O-rings is essential for long-term reliability. This was a key part of my testing for the best scope for the Ruger 10/22 in 2025, as marine environments are the ultimate test for moisture resistance.
What type of reticle should I look for?
For a versatile 10/22, a simple duplex reticle is a great starting point. It’s uncluttered and easy to see. If you want to get a bit more advanced, a Bullet Drop Compensator (BDC) reticle can be very helpful. These reticles have additional aiming points below the crosshair that correspond to the drop of a .22 LR bullet at different ranges. This can help you make faster shots at varying distances without adjusting your turrets.
Can I use a regular centerfire rifle scope on my 10/22?
You absolutely can. The main difference with scopes marketed as “rimfire” is that they are often parallax-adjusted for 50 or 75 yards instead of the typical 100 yards for centerfire scopes. However, many centerfire scopes, especially those with an Adjustable Objective, will work perfectly. The real considerations are the magnification range, reticle, and physical size/weight, which should match your intended use for the rifle.
What is a good budget for a Ruger 10/22 scope?
You can find perfectly serviceable scopes for the 10/22 in the $100 to $200 range. Scopes in this price bracket from reputable brands like Vortex, Bushnell, and Simmons will offer good clarity, reliable adjustments, and essential weatherproofing. If you have a larger budget of $250 to $400, you can step up to brands like Leupold and Burris, which offer exceptional glass quality and often lighter weight, enhancing the overall experience.