Rimfire rifles are popular choices among hunters, target shooters, and even beginners. Whether you’re using your rimfire rifle for plinking, small game hunting, or competitive shooting, having the right rifle scope can significantly improve your accuracy and overall shooting experience. In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know about rimfire rifle scopes—what to look for, the different types available, and tips for choosing the right scope for your specific needs.
What Is a Rimfire Rifle?
Before diving into the world of scopes, let’s briefly understand what a rimfire rifle is. Rimfire rifles use ammunition where the firing pin strikes the rim of the cartridge to ignite the primer. The most common rimfire caliber is the .22 Long Rifle (LR), a low-recoil round that is widely used for small game hunting and target practice.
Why You Need a Scope for Your Rimfire Rifle
Scopes are essential for improving shooting accuracy. They allow shooters to see distant targets more clearly, provide crosshairs or reticles to aim, and often come with magnification to help with precision shooting at varying distances. A good scope will:
- Enhance your ability to shoot long distances with accuracy.
- Provide better clarity when aiming at small targets.
- Help compensate for wind and elevation adjustments.
H3: Rimfire Scopes vs. Centerfire Scopes
Rimfire rifle scopes are specifically designed for use with low-recoil firearms like the .22LR. In comparison, centerfire scopes are built to withstand the higher recoil of larger calibers. Rimfire scopes are usually lighter, smaller, and more affordable. Additionally, their parallax is set for shorter distances (typically around 50 yards), which makes them ideal for rimfire rifles.
Key Features to Look for in a Rimfire Rifle Scope
When choosing a scope for your rimfire rifle, there are several key features to consider. Below, we outline the most important factors to keep in mind:
1. Magnification Power
One of the most important factors when choosing a rimfire scope is magnification power. Magnification helps you zoom in on targets at varying distances. For rimfire rifles, a scope with a magnification range of 2-7x or 3-9x is typically sufficient, as rimfire shooting is usually done at shorter ranges, such as 50-100 yards.
- Low Magnification (1-4x): Ideal for close-range shooting.
- Medium Magnification (5-9x): Suitable for medium-range shots.
- High Magnification (10x and above): Good for long-range shooting, though not commonly needed for rimfire rifles.
2. Objective Lens Size
The objective lens size determines how much light the scope can gather, impacting clarity and brightness. A larger lens allows more light to pass through, resulting in a brighter image. For rimfire scopes, an objective lens size between 32mm and 40mm is usually ideal, as it provides a good balance between brightness and weight.
3. Reticle Type
The reticle, also known as crosshairs, is another essential feature to consider. Different reticle styles are available depending on your shooting preferences:
- Duplex Reticle: The most common reticle with thick outer lines that taper to thin inner lines.
- BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) Reticle: Helps to account for bullet drop over distance, making it useful for long-range shooting.
- Mil-Dot Reticle: Often used by experienced shooters for estimating range, wind, and bullet drop.
4. Parallax Adjustment
Parallax refers to the perceived shift of the reticle when the shooter moves their eye behind the scope. Most rimfire scopes have a fixed parallax set at 50 yards, which is perfect for small-game hunting and target shooting. However, if you’re planning to shoot at different ranges, you may want to opt for a scope with adjustable parallax.
5. Durability and Weather Resistance
If you plan to use your rimfire rifle outdoors, durability and weather resistance are critical. Look for scopes that are:
- Fog-proof: To ensure clear vision in humid or cold conditions.
- Waterproof: To protect against rain and water damage.
- Shockproof: To withstand any drops or impacts.
6. Eye Relief
Eye relief refers to the distance between your eye and the scope at which you can see the full image. A scope with longer eye relief (around 3-4 inches) provides a more comfortable and safer shooting experience, especially when shooting from different positions.
Popular Rimfire Rifle Scope Brands
Here are some of the top brands known for manufacturing high-quality rimfire rifle scopes:
H3: 1. Vortex Optics
Vortex Optics is known for offering affordable yet high-performing scopes. Their Vortex Crossfire II and Diamondback series are popular choices for rimfire rifles.
2. Leupold
Leupold is a well-established brand that produces premium scopes. Their Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire series offers excellent optical clarity and durability.
3. Nikon (Discontinued)
While Nikon no longer manufactures scopes, their Nikon Prostaff Rimfire II scopes are still available on the market and remain popular among rimfire shooters.
4. Bushnell
Bushnell scopes are budget-friendly, offering good quality for the price. Their Bushnell Banner and Bushnell Trophy series work well for rimfire rifles.
H3: 5. Simmons
For shooters on a tight budget, Simmons offers extremely affordable options, such as the Simmons 22 MAG series, which are well-suited for beginner rimfire shooters.
How to Mount a Rimfire Rifle Scope
Properly mounting your rifle scope is critical for accuracy. Follow these steps for best results:
1. Use Quality Scope Rings
Ensure you’re using the right-sized scope rings for your scope and rifle. Rimfire rifles often require 1-inch rings for standard scopes, but it’s important to double-check the size.
2. Level the Scope
Align the scope’s crosshairs with the rifle’s barrel using a bubble level. Ensuring everything is level helps prevent accuracy issues.
3. Tighten Screws to the Proper Torque
Over-tightening screws can damage the scope or rifle. Use a torque wrench to fasten screws to the manufacturer’s recommended torque level.
Conclusion
Choosing the right rimfire rifle scope can make a significant difference in your shooting performance. Whether you’re hunting, target shooting, or just having fun plinking, investing in a good scope that fits your needs will enhance your overall experience. Consider factors like magnification, durability, and reticle type to find the perfect scope for your rimfire rifle.
With the right setup, you’ll be hitting targets with precision in no time!
