In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of the best scopes for 22 WMR, highlighting their key features, strengths, and ideal uses.
I’ll also share my top picks, break down the most important factors to consider when buying a scope for this cartridge, and answer a few common questions to help you make a confident choice.
The .22 WMR rimfire cartridge is known for its flat trajectory, versatility, and effectiveness for hunting small game or target shooting at mid-range distances, and a good scope helps you take full advantage of those strengths.
Here is a summary of the Best Scopes for 22 WMR
- Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 2-7x33mm Rifle Scope – Best Lightweight Option
- Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope – Best Overall
- Vortex Crossfire HD 2-7×35 Rimfire Rifle Scope – Best Budget
- Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope – Best Value for Versatility
- Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope – Best Long-Range
About the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire
(Image Credits: wikipedia)
The .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR or .22 Magnum), introduced by Winchester in 1959, is a longer, larger-case rimfire cartridge (a lengthened .22 WRF) that delivers significantly higher velocity and energy than .22 LR—originally with a 40-grain bullet near 2,000 ft/s and today loaded from about 30–50 grains with velocities roughly 1,530–2,200 ft/s depending on bullet weight.
Its larger case and seated-bullet design mean .22 WMR will not fit in .22 LR chambers (and using .22 LR in a .22 WMR chamber is dangerous), and the cartridge produces a flatter trajectory, greater penetration, and more reliable expansion at range; a 40-grain load sighted for a 3-inch target has an effective point-blank range near 125 yards.
Those traits make the .22 WMR an excellent short-to-medium range hunting round for varmints and small game (and a pleasant low-recoil choice for target shooting), and it was the only rimfire cartridge of the 20th century to achieve widespread commercial success.
What to Look for in a .22 WMR Scope?
When choosing a scope for a .22 WMR rifle, several factors come into play to ensure accuracy, reliability, and versatility.
Magnification is a key consideration, as rimfire cartridges are often used for small game hunting or target shooting at moderate distances—making a variable range such as 2-7x or 3-9x ideal.
Optical clarity is equally important, so look for fully multi-coated or HD glass that enhances light transmission and provides sharp, true-to-color images even in low-light conditions.
Reticle design should match your shooting style; a simple duplex or V-Plex reticle works well for hunting, while rimfire-specific reticles help with precise holdovers.
Durability is another crucial factor, with waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction ensuring reliable performance in different weather conditions.
Easy-to-use adjustment turrets with 1/4 MOA clicks add precision, while features like parallax adjustment and fast-focus eyepieces improve accuracy and speed on target.
Finally, consider warranties and overall value—brands like Leupold and Vortex offer lifetime coverage, giving peace of mind for long-term use.
Why a Scope for 22 WMR?
A scope for a .22 WMR is essential because it allows you to take full advantage of the cartridge’s flat trajectory and extended range compared to other rimfire rounds.
While iron sights can work at close distances, a quality scope provides the magnification and clarity needed for accurate shots out to 150 yards or more, which is where the .22 WMR truly shines.
Scopes also make it easier to engage small targets, whether you’re hunting varmints, small game, or fine-tuning accuracy at the range.
Beyond magnification, a scope designed for .22 WMR often includes features like rimfire-adjusted parallax, durable construction, and reliable reticles that help compensate for bullet drop.
In short, a scope transforms the .22 WMR into a far more versatile and effective tool, giving shooters the precision and confidence needed in the field or on the range.
Best Scopes for 22 WMR
1) Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 2-7x33mm Rifle Scope
The Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 2-7x33mm Rifle Scope is the best scope for 22 WMR, it offers the right balance of magnification, durability, and optical clarity for small game hunting, varmint control, and target shooting. With its Rimfire-MOA reticle and parallax adjustment set to 60 yards, this scope is tailored for rimfire cartridges, giving shooters precise accuracy where it matters most.
The Twilight Light Management System is a key advantage, providing up to 10 extra minutes of shooting light while cutting glare and improving image clarity during dawn and dusk conditions. This makes it particularly effective for hunters who rely on rimfire rifles in low-light environments.
Built to withstand the harshest conditions, the VX-Freedom Rimfire is crafted from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum and tested to perform in temperatures ranging from -20 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Its rugged design is 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring long-term reliability in any environment. Precision 1/4 MOA finger-click adjustments make zeroing simple and repeatable, while the scratch-resistant lenses protect optical quality even after years of field use.
Designed, machined, and assembled in the USA, this scope carries the hallmark of Leupold’s craftsmanship, making it a dependable and versatile choice for .22 WMR shooters.
Pros
- Parallax adjusted at 60 yards, ideal for rimfire shooting
- Twilight Light Management System enhances low-light performance
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for reliable durability
- Lightweight and rugged aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Crisp 1/4 MOA adjustments for consistent precision
- Made in the USA with high-quality craftsmanship
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle may be less visible in very low light
2) Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
The Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is an excellent option for shooters looking to maximize the potential of their .22 WMR rifles. Featuring the Rimfire MOA reticle, it offers wide 5 MOA hashes for quick reference and fine crosshairs for precise aiming, with 25 MOA of bullet drop compensation in 1 MOA increments.
This design makes it a versatile tool for small game hunting and varmint shooting where precision and consistency are crucial.
Its 3-9x magnification range and 40mm objective lens provide a balance between field of view and clarity, making it useful for both close-range target acquisition and extending shots out to the limits of rimfire accuracy.
Durability is another strong point of the VX-Freedom series. Constructed from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, the 1-inch maintube is completely waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring reliability in the harshest conditions.
The lenses are scratch resistant to military standards, giving the optic long-lasting clarity. The Twilight Light Management System improves brightness and reduces glare in low light, adding valuable minutes of shooting time during dawn and dusk.
Precision 1/4 MOA finger click adjustments for windage and elevation deliver repeatable accuracy, while the Custom Dial System (CDS) option allows you to customize the elevation dial to match your specific ammunition and environmental conditions, making long-range shooting far more straightforward.
Pros
- Rimfire MOA reticle provides precise holdovers for bullet drop compensation
- Twilight Light Management System improves visibility in low-light conditions
- Rugged 6061-T6 aircraft aluminum construction ensures long-term durability
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof performance
- Scratch resistant lenses for clear, lasting optics
- Custom Dial System allows personalized ballistic tuning
- 3-9x magnification range suits a wide variety of shooting needs
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle may be harder to use in very dark conditions
3) Vortex Crossfire HD 2-7×35 Rimfire Rifle Scope
The Vortex Crossfire HD 2-7×35 Rimfire Rifle Scope is designed to deliver reliable accuracy and clear optics for rimfire shooters, making it an excellent fit for the .22 WMR platform. Its HD Optical System incorporates carefully selected glass elements to enhance resolution, reduce chromatic aberration, and provide excellent color fidelity with edge-to-edge clarity.
Combined with fully multi-coated lenses that maximize light transmission, this scope ensures a crisp, bright image even in lower-light conditions such as early morning or late evening hunts. With a magnification range of 2-7x, it is versatile enough for both close-range plinking and medium-range varmint hunting.
The scope features the V-Plex reticle, a simple and effective design that is well-suited for a wide variety of applications. Hunters and target shooters alike will appreciate the fast-focus eyepiece, which allows rapid reticle adjustment for quick target acquisition.
Constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum with a matte black anodized finish, the Crossfire HD is built to handle tough environments. It is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring dependable performance in all weather conditions.
Adding peace of mind, Vortex backs this optic with their VIP Warranty, an unlimited lifetime guarantee that covers repair or replacement if the scope ever becomes damaged or defective.
Pros
- HD Optical System delivers excellent clarity and resolution
- Fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission for low-light performance
- V-Plex reticle is versatile for hunting and general shooting
- Fast focus eyepiece allows quick reticle adjustments
- Durable aircraft-grade aluminum construction with matte anodized finish
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for dependable field use
- Backed by Vortex’s unconditional lifetime VIP Warranty
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle may limit visibility in very dark conditions
4) Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope is a reliable optic that complements the .22 WMR perfectly, offering the clarity, durability, and versatility needed for small game hunting, plinking, and close to medium-range shooting. Built with a versatile 2-7x magnification range, it provides a wide field of view for quick target acquisition while still allowing enough zoom for precision shots at longer rimfire distances.
The V-Plex reticle is a simple, effective all-purpose design that works well across hunting and target shooting applications. Fully multi-coated lenses deliver sharp, bright images from dawn to dusk, while the fast-focus eyepiece makes reticle adjustments quick and effortless in the field.
The Diamondback Rimfire is engineered for lasting toughness with a solid one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum body and a hard anodized finish that resists scratches while reducing glare.
Metal-on-metal precision turrets allow for zero reset after sight-in, and the precision glide erector system ensures smooth magnification changes with reliable tracking.
Argon purging and O-ring sealing guarantee fogproof and waterproof performance, even in the harshest conditions.
On top of that, Vortex’s VIP Warranty provides lifetime coverage, offering complete peace of mind for hunters and shooters who want an optic that will endure years of use.
Pros
- Versatile 2-7x magnification ideal for rimfire shooting
- Fully multi-coated lenses provide excellent brightness and clarity
- V-Plex reticle is practical for both hunting and target shooting
- Rugged one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube with hard anodized finish
- Precision turrets and glide erector system ensure accuracy and repeatability
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction
- Covered by Vortex’s unconditional lifetime VIP Warranty
Cons
- Heavier than some compact rimfire-specific scopes
5) Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope
The Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope is a versatile and durable optic that pairs well with the .22 WMR for both hunting and target shooting. Built on a 1-inch mono-tube chassis, it provides superior strength and is fully nitrogen purged for waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof reliability.
Its 4-12x magnification range and 40mm objective lens make it an excellent option for medium-range shooting, giving shooters the ability to zoom in on varmints or small game with clarity and precision.
The fully multi-coated, 11-layer optics deliver excellent light transmission, while the fast-focus eyepiece and high-torque zoom ring ensure smooth adjustments in the field.
One of the defining features of this scope is its illuminated reticle system, offering both red and green options with five brightness levels to suit different lighting conditions. Combined with side focus parallax adjustment to infinity, it ensures accurate and consistent shot placement across varying distances.
The low-profile, no-snag turrets provide 1/4 MOA fingertip adjustments that can be easily reset to zero, making sighting in simple and repeatable. Included with the bundle are Hawke’s Match Mount 1-inch Weaver rings, made from high-grade aluminum with double hex screws and internal cushion tape that securely hold the scope in place without marking or damaging it.
This package adds value by providing everything needed to mount the scope and head directly into the field or range.
Pros
- Wide 4-12x magnification range suitable for medium-range hunting and shooting
- Fully multi-coated 11-layer optics deliver excellent clarity and brightness
- Illuminated reticle with red and green options and five brightness settings
- Side focus parallax adjustment to infinity improves accuracy at varying ranges
- Durable mono-tube construction that is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Low-profile turrets with precise 1/4 MOA adjustments and easy zero reset
- Includes high-quality Hawke Match Mount rings for secure mounting
Cons
- More magnification than necessary for very close-range plinking
Next Read: 8 Best Rimfire Scopes
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Scopes for 22 WMR
Here are the key factors to consider when choosing the best scopes for a .22 WMR:
Magnification Range
A .22 WMR is often used for small game hunting and target shooting at short to medium ranges, so choosing the right magnification is essential. Too much magnification can limit your field of view and add unnecessary weight, while too little magnification reduces precision at longer distances.
A versatile variable range, such as 2-7x or 3-9x, is often best, giving you both close-range speed and enough zoom for accuracy beyond 100 yards.
Optical Clarity and Coatings
High-quality glass and coatings are crucial for producing sharp, bright images with true color fidelity. Fully multi-coated lenses maximize light transmission and reduce glare, allowing you to see clearly even in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk.
A scope with excellent optical clarity helps ensure you don’t miss important details when tracking or lining up a precise shot.
Reticle Design
The reticle plays a major role in how quickly and accurately you can acquire targets. Simple designs like a duplex or V-Plex reticle are excellent for hunting in varied terrain, while rimfire-specific reticles can provide holdover points for different distances.
Choosing a reticle that matches your shooting style ensures faster target acquisition and greater confidence in your shot placement.
Durability and Construction
A scope must be built to withstand the demands of field use. Strong, aircraft-grade aluminum or similar materials provide structural integrity while keeping weight manageable.
Look for scopes that are waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring that performance remains consistent in harsh environments. A well-built scope protects its internal components against recoil, impact, and temperature changes, extending its service life.
Adjustment Precision
Accurate and repeatable adjustments are critical for fine-tuning your rifle. Scopes with 1/4 MOA finger-click turrets allow for easy windage and elevation corrections, helping you dial in quickly.
Resettable turrets or systems that track reliably add convenience, especially when transitioning between distances. This precision ensures consistent accuracy every time you return to your scope.
Low-Light Performance
Since rimfire hunting often takes place in the early morning or late evening, low-light performance can make the difference between success and frustration. Scopes designed to maximize brightness and reduce glare give you a clearer sight picture in dim conditions.
Features like large objective lenses and specialized light management systems extend shooting time and improve confidence in challenging light.
Value and Warranty
A good scope should offer long-term performance without unnecessary cost. Consider the balance between features, optical quality, and price to ensure you’re getting the best value for your budget.
Additionally, a strong warranty provides peace of mind, covering defects or damage and ensuring the manufacturer stands behind the product. This adds significant value over the lifetime of the scope.
Read Also: 6 Best Red Dots for Rimfire Rifle
Best Scopes for 22 WMR FAQs
What magnification is best for a .22 WMR scope?
A magnification range of 2-7x or 3-9x is generally ideal for a .22 WMR. These ranges give enough versatility for small game hunting at closer distances while still providing clarity and precision for shots out to 150 yards or more. Higher magnification may be useful for target shooting but is not always necessary for field use.
Do I need a special reticle for .22 WMR?
Not necessarily. A simple duplex or V-Plex style reticle works well for most applications, offering quick target acquisition and easy sight alignment. However, a rimfire-specific reticle can be helpful, as it provides calibrated holdover points for different ranges, making it easier to compensate for bullet drop when shooting at varying distances.
Are durability and weatherproofing important for rimfire scopes?
Yes. Even though the .22 WMR has lighter recoil compared to centerfire rifles, a durable and well-sealed scope ensures reliable performance in changing weather and rough hunting conditions.
Look for scopes that are waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, as these features protect the optics and internal mechanisms, keeping your scope dependable in the field.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right scope for a .22 WMR can transform your shooting experience by giving you the clarity, precision, and reliability needed for both hunting and target shooting.
These scopes are designed to match the flat-shooting, versatile nature of the WMR, making them effective across short to mid-range distances in a variety of conditions.
After reviewing the options, my recommendation for best overall goes to the Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 3-9x40mm for its balance of performance, durability, and value.
For those looking for the best budget option, the Vortex Crossfire HD 2-7×35 is an excellent choice, delivering reliable optics without stretching your wallet.
If you want the best premium option, the Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 4-12x40mm stands out with its illuminated reticle and higher magnification range, ideal for longer shots and low-light conditions.
With these choices, you can match the right scope to your needs and bring out the best in your .22 WMR rifle.
Albert, the founder of Outdoormoran, is a dedicated outdoor enthusiast with a passion for delivering the most current, accurate, and easy-to-understand information on all different outdoor gear and optics. He shares his expertise with beginners by teaching the technical aspects of outdoor gear and optics through his comprehensive collection of guides.