The Ruger 10/22 is a popular rimfire rifle mostly used for short-range shooting applications such as plinking, small game hunting, and some short-range competitions.
The rifle is cheap to buy and customizable as well as being one of the easiest rifles to use. The best scope for it will need to take into consideration the range distance, weight, and the reticle style.
In this review and buying guide, we cover the Top 7 scopes for Ruger 10/22 and we give you a simple buying guide that you’ll need to make the best choice for Ruger 10/22 rifle.
The Best Scopes for Ruger 10/22 Rifles Are…
| Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Leupold FX-1 4x28mm Rimfire Riflescope |  Top Pick |
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| 2. Nikon PROSTAFF RIMFIRE II 3-9x40mm BDC150 Riflescope |  |
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| 3. Vortex Optics Diamondback 2-7x32mm Rimfire Riflescope |  |
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| 4. Burris Droptine 3-9x40mm Ballistic Plex.22 Riflescope |  |
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| 5. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rimfire SFP V-Plex Riflescope |  |
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| 6. Barska 3-7x20mm Rimfire Riflescope |  |
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| 7. Simmons Truplex .22 Mag 4x32mm Riflescope |  |
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1. Leupold FX-1 4x28mm Rimfire Riflescope — Best Scope for a Ruger 10/22
The Leupold FX-1 4x28mm Rimfire Riflescope is scaled down to be affordable but its features still maintain the same Golden Ring standards for the high-end Leupold scopes.
To begin with, the FX-1 offers a fixed magnification of 4x. This means that apart from being lightweight, the scope also delivers high-quality images with higher light retention because it has fewer glass parts.
The lenses are coated with Leupold proprietary Multi-Coat 4 system that delivers extreme optical clarity and high resolution even in very low light. The objective lens is small at 28mm which does not allow for a very wide FOV but it does feature a fast-focus eyepiece that helps the reticle achieve and maintain focused images.
It has a fine duplex reticle that is considered to be an all-purpose reticle. More importantly, this reticle is highly visible when hunting small game in thick bushes as it draws the eye to the center. Parallax for this scope is adjusted for 60 yards.
Specs
- 4x Magnification
- 28mm Objective Lens
- 1″ Tube Diameter
- 5″ Eye Relief
- Fine Duplex Reticle
- Weight 7.50oz
Pros
- Extremely light main tube with a classic design
- Exceptionally clear and bright images
- Rugged and tightly sealed for moisture
Cons
- Magnification limited to 50 yards
The scope utilizes a range of specific features that will deliver exceptional performance that makes it the best scope for Ruger 10/22 on our list.
Rating – 4.6/5
2. Nikon PROSTAFF RIMFIRE II 3-9x40mm BDC150 Riflescope — Best Scope for Ruger 10/22 Takedown
The Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9x40mm BDC150 Riflescope offers more great features than a budget scope should have. It is a lightweight scope with reliable and accurate optics, the perfect fit for your Ruger 10/22 takedown rifle.
It features the classic 3-9x hunters’ magnification that allows for small game hunting to about 100 yards. The fast-focus eyepiece and quick zero-reset turrets simplify field adjustments and allow for precise hunting.
The scope uses a BDC reticle that allows shooters to compensate for bullet drop up to 150 yards. The reticle is further optimized by Spot On which allows the reticle to match aiming points for various distances to your cartridge.
Nikon scopes excel at the clarity and brightness of their optics. The ProStaff delivers up to 98% light transmission, a feat unmatched by any other comparable scope. The lenses are fully multi-coated to deliver bright and high-resolution images.
Specs
- 3-9x Magnification
- 40mm Objective Lens
- 1″ Tube Diameter
- 6″ Eye Relief
- BDC 150 Reticle
- Weight 13.1oz
Pros
- Multicoated lenses retain 98% of light
- Spring-loaded instant zero turrets simplify field adjustments
- Spot On Ballistic Match Technology allows for precise aiming points
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof construction
Cons
- No parallax adjustments below 25 yards
The ProStaff Rimfire II is calibrated for use with the Ruger 10/22 for close and medium-range applications. It delivers high quality clear and bright optics at an affordable price.
Rating – 4.6/5
3. Vortex Optics Diamondback 2-7x32mm Rimfire Riflescope — Best Budget Scope for a Ruger 10/22
The Vortex Optics Diamondback 2-7x32mm Rimfire Riflescope comes with similar features to the Vortex Crossfire II but the general finish is a bit different. The Diamondback is a more compact and lighter scope and is faster at target acquisition.
The 2-7x magnification and 32mm objective lens allow for scoping to 100 yards. The Diamondback has a fast-focus eyepiece that works faster to focus on moving targets. It features the V-Plex MOA reticle that is suitable for all hunting applications. The reticle is in the second focal plane that provides better-aiming points on small targets.
It has fully multi-coated lenses that increase light transmission and reduce glare. It also has a wider field of view that makes it well suited for hunting and tactical shooting.
The scope is made from a single piece 1″ aluminum alloy tube to make it lightweight. It is finished with a hard coat anodized finish in matte to reduce light reflection.
Specs
- 2-7x Magnification
- 35mm Objective Lens
- 1″ Tube Diameter
- 1″ Eye Relief
- V-Plex MOA SFP Reticle
- Weight 14.2oz
Pros
- Precision glide erector system that allows for easy magnification adjustments
- Capped turrets that allow for resetting without zeroing
- A heavy-duty scope that handles heavy recoil
- Fast focus eyepiece to range in on moving targets
Cons
- Some image distortion at 7x magnification
The Diamondback is the lighter and more affordable version of a precision sniper rifle. The compact shape and weight make it extremely agile to move with and well balanced for a lightweight rifle like the Ruger 10/22.
Rating – 4.4/5
4. Burris Droptine 3-9x40mm Ballistic Plex.22 Riflescope
The Burris Droptine 3-9x40mm Ballistic Plex.22 Riflescope delivers the quality and high performance that the Burris brand is known for. This scope is one of their best selling scopes calibrated for .22LR rifles.
It features the 3-9x classic magnification size for hunting scopes because it allows for close to mid-range target engagements that is the typical range for most hunters. It also comes with a 40mm objective lens that gives brighter images and better precision than other comparable scopes.
It features a Ballistic (BDC) reticle that is calibrated for .22LR which allows for long-range accuracy by providing the exact holdover measurements for the .22LR caliber. This simple reticle is easy to use and it allows for accuracy up to 500 yards.
The scope is parallax free up to 50yards, which is sufficient for the Ruger10/22 rifles and comes with positive click adjustments. It has a 1 ” solid single-piece tube built to last and withstands heavy recoil even though rimfire rifles have light recoil.
Specs
- 3-9x Magnification
- 40mm Objective Lens
- 1-3.8″ Eye Relief
- 1″ Tube Diameter
- Ballistic Plex BDC RFP Reticle
- Weight 13.0oz
Pros
- Has high-quality clear glass even at low light
- Easy to use range adjustments
- Durable and easy adjustment integrated eyepiece
Cons
- External lens fogs up easily
- No integrated software for ballistic calculations
The Droptine scope offers excellent optical clarity even at the highest magnification and has good quality turret adjustments. It’s top quality and durability at an aggressive price.
Rating – 4.4/5
5. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rimfire SFP V-Plex Riflescope — Best Scope For Ruger 10/22 Carbine
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rimfire SFP V-Plex Riflescope is flexible for various shooting applications. This scope is one of the best selling in the Vortex Crossfire II series because of its flexibility, durability and quality features.
One of the best features of this scope is the variable 2-7x magnification. This allows for close-range tactical and medium-range hunting. The scope delivers clear images but you may get some distortion at the highest magnification.
It comes with a 32mm objective lens that greatly helps in providing perfect images at medium range. The lenses are fully multi-coated and anti-reflective for clear and bright images. The scope provides an excellent 3.9″ eye relief which provides good eye distance especially if you’re just learning how to scope.
The scope uses the V-Plex MOA reticle in the second focal plane which is a feature that hunters will most appreciate. The fast focus eyepiece allows for quick target acquisition.
Vortex scopes are typically well constructed in aircraft-grade aluminum for durability and to keep the weight at a minimum. This scope is a single piece that adds to its durability and ability to remain waterproof sealed.
Specs
- 2-7x Magnification
- 32mm Objective Lens
- 1″ Tube Diameter
- 9″ Eye Relief
- V-Plex MOA SFP Reticle
- Weight 14.3oz
Pros
- Easy to adjust and resettable MOA capped turrets
- Delivers clear and bright images
- Adjustable Objective to adjust for parallax errors
Cons
- Some image distortion at 7x magnification
The Crossfire II gives a faster target acquisition and a generous eye relief which makes it perfect for sniper applications. It is also useful for target and range shooting.
Rating – 4.7/5
6. Barska 3-7x20mm Rimfire Riflescope
The Barska 3-7x20mm Rimfire Riflescope is designed specifically for small bore rifles such as the Ruger 10/22 rifles. It is parallax-free at 50 yards which is suitable for short rimfire ranges.
The Barska Rimfire is extremely lightweight and compact at just 4.87oz and has a 3/4″ tube diameter. The scope is ideal for recreational target shooting, competition shooting and small game hunting at close range. It comes with fully coated optics to improve the image clarity and it has precise 1/4MOA coin adjusted elevation and windage turrets.
It offers a 30/30 reticle in the second focal plane which is excellent for small game hunting and for having a visible reticle against busy backgrounds. Small-bore rifles have a very light recoil so the short 2.55″ inch eye relief of this scope will be sufficient for target acquisition.
The performance of the 20mm objective lens is adequate for the price of the scope but expect the reticle to be poorly visible against a dark background. Other than that, the 7x zoom offers clear images and the scopes can hold zero over multiple rounds.
Specs
- 3-7x Magnification
- 20mm Objective Lens
- 55″ Eye Relief
- 3/4″-19mm Tube Diameter
- 30/30 SFP Reticle
- Weight 4.87oz
Pros
- Easily affordable
- Delivers clear and bright images
- Lightweight and durable
- Smooth magnification adjustments
Cons
- Comes with poor quality rings
The scope works like you expect it to especially for the price. It has quality optics and the scope itself is quite durable. You may need to buy better quality mounting rings separately.
Rating – 4.0/5
7. Simmons Truplex .22 Mag 4x32mm Riflescope
The Simmons Truplex .22 Mag 4x32mm Riflescope comes with unique features that separate it from the rest. The scope is manufactured by Simmons Optics who have at least 35 years of experience in manufacturing innovative and value-priced rifle scopes for various applications.
This scope features a truplex reticle which is just a simple reticle that works well in close range and small game hunting. This scope is designed for the 50-yard range so the fixed 4x magnification will provide a sufficient field of view. The optics are fully coated to deliver bright and clear images with the assistance of a 32mm objective lens.
It offers a long 4″ eye relief which for a Ruger 10/22 is unnecessary because it produces a smaller image than it needs to be. On the other hand, the scope comes with a Quick Target Acquisition eyepiece for quick target acquisition and SureGrip which makes finger adjusting the turret caps very easy.
Specs
- 4x Magnification
- 32mm Objective Lens
- 4″ Eye Relief
- 1″ Tube Diameter
- Truplex Reticle
- Weight 8.6oz
Pros
- A high-quality glass that delivers clear, bright images
- A fixed magnification that delivers high-resolution images
- SureGrip for easy windage and elevation adjustments
- Holds zero well
- Lightweight and affordable
Cons
- Uncomfortably long eye relief for a rimfire scope
The scope is lightweight, attractive and offers excellent optics for a great price. It is also reliable and durable, a great addition to your Ruger10/22 rifle.
Rating – 4.3/5
Buying Guide: How to Get the Best Scope For Ruger 10/22 Rifle
The Ruger 10/22 is designed for small game hunting and recreational target shooting. The rifle was first produced in 1964 and has since been one of the most popular rimfire rifles in American history.
It has numerous third-party manufacturers who make parts and accessories that allow you to cosmetically customize your rifle or upgrade it for accuracy. The customization is so easy, it generally just takes the average shooter a screwdriver and a hex key to change parts of the rifle.
The Ruger 10/22 uses a .22 long rifle cartridge which is quite cheap. This rimfire ammunition also has an effective range of about 100 yards. It also has little or no recoil. This makes the Ruger 10/22 a good starting rifle for newbie shooters to build up skills and also use it for small game hunting or recreational shooting activities that are close range.
Magnification
The Ruger 10/22 is ideal for short-range shooting applications so you’ll want a magnification that allows for clear images at about 100-yards. This means you’ll be looking at a high magnification of 6x to 9x. A more powerful magnification at close range will deliver a poor resolution image.
The choice of fixed or variable magnification largely depends on the particular shooting activity. A fixed magnification almost guarantees a clear image compared to a variable. Also with a fixed magnification, you can use a smaller and lighter objective lens and still get high-resolution images.
However, a variable magnification on a Ruger 10/22 offers new shooters the ability to improve their skills on how to focus the lens.
Reticle
The reticles featured in our scopes are either BDC or Duplex reticles. The BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) reticle can calculate the elevation and give you a true point of aim.
The Duplex reticle is much simpler and more commonly found in hunting scopes. It works extremely well in the short-range because it features thick crosshairs that are easily visible against busy backgrounds like bushes and the like. It’s also easier to use because the thick crosshairs thin out to draw the eye towards the middle.
Objective Lens
The objective lens diameter will match the magnification size of the scope. Considering that we are in the close-range distance, a 32mm — 40mm lens will deliver bright, high-resolution images against the 6x -9x magnification and allow precision to about 150-yards.
Conclusion
The Ruger 10/22 is highly customizable which means there are many compatible Ruger 10/22 scope possibilities out there. What we’ve done in this article is to narrow down the possibilities to the best matching features that will help you narrow down and pick the best scope for your Ruger 10/22 rifle.
In summary, we found the Leupold FX-1 4x28mm Rimfire Riflescope to have the best compatible features for the Ruger 10/22. It has a 4x fixed magnification and 28mm objective lens that allows for accuracy to 100-yards. It also utilizes a simple duplex reticle and is made to the high-quality standards found on the higher-end Leupold reticles.
