Ruger 10/22 is a popular and versatile semi-automatic rifle widely used for plinking, hunting small game, or target shooting. The versatility of this rifle is complemented by a quality optic that enhances accuracy, target acquisition, and overall performance. In this guide, we will explore some of the best scopes for Ruger 10/22 and help you find a model that caters to your specific needs and preferences.
Whether you use the Ruger 10/22 for small game hunting or recreation shooting, pairing it with a quality scope tailored to your specific needs is crucial to maximize its full potential. The scope will get you on target quickly, broaden your views, and enhance your precision even in the most challenging shooting environments.
About the Ruger 10/22
The Ruger 10/22 is a legendary series of semi-automatic rifles. It is renowned for its dependability, precision, and adaptability in varied shooting environments. The rifle is designed for the .22 Long Rifle rimfire cartridge and since its debut in 1964, it continues to be the go-to rimfire rifle for most hunters and firearm enthusiasts.
The stand-out features of this rifle are the blowback semi-auto action and patented 10-round rotary magazine. With the two handy features, it excels in performance and reliability. Additionally, it features a cold hammer-forged barrel, secured to the receiver with a distinctive two-screw V-block system to enhance accuracy.
The standard 10/22 Carbine model is built with a hardwood stock, blued barrel, and satin black receive. It also features a user-friendly push-button cross-bolt manual safety and an extended magazine release that make it easy to use for a wide range of applications from target shooting to plinking and small game hunting.
Another feature that distinguishes the Ruger 10/22 is its unparalleled aftermarket support. It is easy to customize with a wide range of accessories. It’s also possible to build a complete 10/22 without any Ruger-manufactured parts, thanks to the numerous third-party components and accessories available on the market.
If you’re looking for a basic scope for recreational shooting sessions or a more advanced model for competitive shooting, here are the best scopes for Ruger 10/22 to enhance your shooting experience.
Let’s take a look.
Best Scopes for Ruger 10/22
1) Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope
Specifications
- Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
- Magnification: 2 – 7 x
- Eye Relief: 3.9 – 4.7 in
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 4.57 – 16 mm
- Weight: 14.3 oz
- Length: 11.3 in
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope is the best scope for Ruger 10/22. It is a versatile and reliable optic, ideal for hunters and shooters who need a compact and lightweight scope without compromising performance.
Though compact, this rifle scope doesn’t cut corners or quality. It features a 2-7x magnification for easy target identification at close to medium ranges. The 32mm objective lens provides a clear and bright image, even in low light conditions, which is essential for easy target finding in a wide range of environments.
Weighing in at just 14.3 oz, this scope is designed for easy handling and maneuverability. It handles the recoil of this rifle effectively and enhances portability in the field. Furthermore, the scope has an eye relief of 3.9 to 4.7 inches for comfortable and safe shooting, even with eyeglasses.
Reticle-wise, the scope features a simple reticle housed in the second focal plane (SFP). It maintains its size across the magnification range, allowing for consistent and reliable aiming points. Over and above that, the 1-inch tube diameter is a standard size, making it easy to find compatible rings and mounts.
The scope’s construction is also rugged and durable, with a hard-anodized finish that resists scratches and corrosion. Additionally, the nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed design makes the Crossfire II waterproof and fog-proof.
Pros
- Generous eye relief for use with or without eyeglasses
- Compact and lightweight for easy carrying in the field
- Fully waterproof and fog-proof
- Simple to use second focal plane reticle
- Bright, clear, and high-quality optics
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
2) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
Specifications
- Magnification: 3 – 9 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 4.7 mm
- Eye Relief: 4.2 – 3.7 in
- Weight: 12.2 oz
- Length: 12.39 in
Leupold is known for its rugged and high-performance optics and the VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is not any different. This rifle scope is an excellent choice for hunters and shooters looking to take their shooting a notch higher.
The highlight of this optic is its optical performance. With a 40mm objective lens, it delivers bright and clear images even in low-light conditions. Furthermore, the high-quality glass elements and multi-coated lenses boost light transmission for bright and clear image views.
Regarding zoom power, the 3-9x variable magnification range provides versatile shooting capabilities, allowing users to accurately target game at varying distances. The scope also boasts a generous eye relief, ranging from 4.2 to 3.7 inches to ensure comfortable shooting experience while reducing the risk of scope bites.
Weighing in at just 12.2 ounces and measuring 12.39 inches in length, the VX-Freedom is lightweight and compact, and a perfect fit for a wide range of rifles without adding unnecessary bulk. Its 1-inch tube diameter is compatible with most standard mounting systems, while the second focal plane (SFP) reticle maintains a consistent size across the magnification range, ensuring accuracy without any adjustments.
Above all, the scope has a rugged construction that is fully waterproof, dustproof, and fog-proof for reliable use even in adverse weather conditions.
Pros
- Excellent light transmission with a 40 mm objective lens
- Versatile 3-9x magnification range suitable for various shooting scenarios
- Lightweight and compact design, weighing only 12.2 ounces
- Good eye relief for comfortable and safe viewing
Cons
- Fixed parallax limits versatility for extremely close or long-range shots
3) Simmons 22 MAG 3-9x32mm Rifle Scope
Specifications
- Magnification: 3 – 9 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
- Field of View (ft. @ 100 yds): 31.4/10.5
- Eye Relief (inches): 3.75
- Exit Pupil (Millimeters): 10.7 – 3.6
- Weight (ounces): 10.8
- Click Value (MOA): 1/4
- Adjustment (Range): 60/60
- Reticle: Truplex
As one of the best scopes for Ruger 10/22, the Simmons 22 MAG 3-9x32mm Rifle Scope offers a blend of affordability and functionality. It is easy to use and a solid choice for all hunters, including beginners.
Featuring a 32 mm objective lens, this scope provides a bright and clear image, even in low-light conditions. The 3-9x magnification range is versatile enough for various shooting distances, from short to medium range. Furthermore, the stand-out feature which is the Truplex reticle is simple yet effective, offering a clear sight picture without unnecessary clutter.
Regarding user-convenience, this rifle scope is unparalleled. It weighs just 10 ounces so it is lightweight and easy to mount on a variety of rifles, without adding significant bulk. The 1-inch tube diameter is standard, allowing for compatibility with most mounting systems while generous 3.75 inches of eye relief ensure safe and comfortable shooting, with or without eyeglasses.
Durability-wise, the scope is built to withstand the typical rigors of outdoor use, with its shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof construction. Over and above that, features a 10.7mm exit pupil that contributes to a bright image and enhances the overall viewing experience, particularly at lower magnifications.
Pros
- Easy to use Truplex reticle for quick and easy target acquisition
- Waterproof and fog proof construction
- High-quality optical glass and fully-coated optics deliver bright, sharp images
- HydroShield lens coating helps maintain a clear sight picture, regardless of weather conditions
- Simmons’ SureGrip rubber surfaces for easy adjusting in any shooting conditions
Cons
- Durability issues
4) Vortex Diamondback 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope
Specifications
- Magnification: 2 – 7 x
- Reticle: V-Plex
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 5 – 17.5 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.1 – 3.5 in
- Weight: 14.2 oz
- Length: 11.6 in
This is the best scope for beginners. It is built with ease of use in mind and a plethora of other quality features to hone your shooting skills and make every expedition a success,
With a magnification range of 2 to 7x, the scope offers flexibility for both close and mid-range targeting, making it ideal for hunting in dense woods or open fields. The V-Plex reticle is straightforward and uncluttered, perfect for those who prefer a traditional crosshair without distractions.
Furthermore, the 1-inch tube diameter allows for easy mounting on a wide range of rifles, and the Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticle ensures that the reticle size remains constant as you adjust the magnification. This rifle scope also has a lightweight design of 4.2 oz and measure 11.6 inches in length for portability and ease of use.
Construction-wise, it combines quality optics and durable construction to stand up to abuse and rough handling. The scope is also fully waterproof and fog-proof so it is a dependable companion for any shooting adventure.
Pros
- Simple to use and all-purpose hunting reticle intended for a wide variety of hunting applications
- Lightweight and compact design
- Durable construction
- Versatile 2-7x magnification range
Cons
- Narrow eye relief
5) Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sight
Specifications
- Magnification: 1 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 30 mm
- Objective Window Size: 30 mm
- Reticle: 4 MOA
- Eye Relief: Unlimited
- Brightness Settings: 10
- Battery Life: 80,000 hours
- Length: 7.5 in
- Weight: 7.2 oz
The Vortex Optics Strikefire II Red Dot Sight is the last mention in our list of the best scopes for Ruger 10/22. This impressive optic is crafted with durability in mind and many quality features for shooters seeking reliability and versatility.
With a 1x magnification and a 30mm objective lens diameter, the scope offers a clear and wide field of view for fast and easy target acquisition. The 4 MOA reticle is perfect for close to mid-range shooting, striking a good balance between precision and speed. Additionally, the sight features unlimited eye relief that adds to its versatility by accommodating a wide range of shooting stances and positions without compromising accuracy.
To help the reticle serve its purpose, this scope has fully multi-coated lenses that provide a clean and bright, unobscured point of view. It also boasts 10 brightness settings for users to adjust the reticle brightness to match various lighting conditions, from bright daylight to low-light environments.
Another standout feature of the Strikefire II is its remarkable battery life, boasting up to 80,000 hours on a single CR2 battery. This ensures that the sight remains ready for action over extended periods without frequent battery changes. Moreover, the optic’s compact and lightweight design allows for easy mounting on a variety of firearms without adding significant weight or bulk.
In addition to all these exceptional features, the sight has a robust construction that ensures durability and resilience against the elements, further enhancing its appeal as a go-to red dot sight for both recreational and tactical shooting.
Pros
- Large field of view for quick target finding
- Illuminated reticle with 10 adjustable brightness settings
- Remarkably long battery life
- Robust construction to ensure resilience against the elements
Cons
- Fixed magnification
Next Read: Best Scopes for Ruger 10/22 Squirrel Hunting
What Magnification Do You Need?
Ruger 10/22, a popular .22 LR rifle excels at close and medium-range shooting scenarios. It is mostly used for target shooting and small game hunting and a scope with moderate magnification such as 2-7x or 3-9x is usually ideal. These ranges provide enough flexibility for both close and mid-range shooting, which suits the typical uses of the 10/22.
A 2-7x magnification is the best for closer ranges and provides a wider field of view for rapid target finding and acquisitions. On the other hand, a 3-9x scope offers more versatility for varying distances and different shooting applications. However, both options are well-suited to the 10/22’s capabilities.
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Scope for Ruger 10/22
Whether you are looking to buy your first Ruger 10/22 scope or you are in the market for an upgrade, here are the key things you should consider before settling for any model.
Purpose
The Ruger 10/22 is a versatile rimfire rifle. Define what you’ll be using the rifle for, whether it is target shooting, plinking, or hunting. This will help determine the appropriate magnification and features.
Magnification
For most Ruger 10/22 shooting applications, a scope with magnification between 3x and 9x is usually sufficient. Higher magnifications are useful for more precise shooting at longer distances while lower magnifications provide a large field of view which is important for easy target identification.
Objective Lens Size
Larger objective lenses (e.g., 40mm) allow more light, improving low-light performance. However, they can make the scope heavier and bulkier. A 32mm or 40mm lens is often a good balance for the Ruger 10/22 scopes.
Durability
In rifle scopes, durability is determined by build quality. The Ruger 10/22 being a versatile rifle calls for a scope that can handle anything Mother Nature throws at it. So, look for scopes with a rugged design as well shockproof and weatherproof features.
Weight and Size
The next thing to consider is size and weight. The best scopes for Ruger 10/22 have a lightweight and compact design to complements the rifle’s size. Avoid bulky scopes as they affect the balance and handling of the rifle.
Reticle Type
The choice of your reticle is dependent on your specific shooting needs. There are different reticle types, such as crosshairs, BDC (bullet drop compensator), or illuminated reticles suitable for this rifle. So, choose one that matches your shooting preferences and conditions.
Parallax Adjustment
Most scopes offer adjustable parallax, which can help with accuracy, especially at varying distances. This feature is also useful if you plan to shoot at different ranges.
Eye Relief
Ensure the scope has adequate eye relief to avoid any discomfort or injury when shooting. The best scopes for Ruger 10/22 have a long eye relief of least 3.5 inches of eye relief to accommodate all users, with or without eyeglasses.
Adjustments and Controls
Consider how easy it is to make adjustments for windage and elevation. A scope with easy to adjust knobs helps with precise aiming and rapid target acquisition.
Price and Value
There are many scopes for Ruger 10/22 at various price points. Determine your budget and find a scope that offers the best value within that range, balancing cost with the features you need.
Final Words
To wrap it up, adding a quality scope on the Ruger 10/22 goes a long way to enhance precision and push this versatile rifle to its full potential. There are plenty of great scopes available on the marker and all the five models we have mentioned above are perfect for the 10/22’s capabilities.
Choosing the best scopes for Ruger 10/22 requires you to go through a plethora of models from different brands, but no matter what your budget and shooting needs are, there is a rifle scope out there for you.