8 Best Scope for 22 WMR

Get ready to revolutionize your shooting experience with the finest scope tailor-made for your 22 WMR rifle. This review of the best scope for 22 WMR will take you into the world of remarkable scopes designed to captivate your senses, combining exceptional clarity, remarkable versatility, and effortless functionality. The scopes are a true game-changer for discerning buyers like you. Therefore, let’s dive in!

What does The 22 WMR Stand for?

The term “22 WMR” stands for .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire. It is a rimfire ammunition cartridge designed for firearms chambered in .22 WMR caliber. 22 refers to the bullet diameter of 0.22 inches or 5.6mm. “Winchester Magnum”

What is .22 WMR good for?

The .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR) cartridge is a very versatile cartridge that is suitable for the following:

  1. Small game hunting: It is used for hunting small game such as raccoons, possums, and foxes.
  2. Varmint hunting: The cartridge is often used for targeting small pests such as rabbits, squirrels, and prairie dogs.
  3. Self-defense: Although it is not commonly used, some individuals use it for self-defense and personal protection due to its compact handguns and reduced recoil.
  4. Training and practice: It is an excellent training tool for beginners.

Is a 17 more powerful than a .22 mag?

In terms of power, the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR) cartridge generally has more energy and velocity compared to the .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (.17 HMR) cartridge. The 22 WMR fires a heavier bullet at higher velocities, resulting in more kinetic energy upon impact.

Best Scope for 22 WMR

1) Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Scout Rifle Scope

Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Scout Rifle Scope

 

Benefits

The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope is a well-regarded scope for your rifle. It has top-notch features that are very beneficial for taking your shooting skills to the next level.

With a variable magnification range of 2x to 7x, the scope offers the magnification you need whether it is for closer shots or increased magnification for longer distances.

The 32mm objective lens diameter allows adequate light to enter the scope, resulting in bright and clear images, even in low-light conditions.

The scope has a second focal plane (SFP) reticle design, meaning the size of the reticle remains constant regardless of the magnification setting thus offering consistent aiming points throughout the magnification range.

It is a reliable scope made from aircraft-grade aluminum for durability, with O-rings to prevent moisture, dust, debris, and more from entering the tube and disrupting the performance.

Key Features

  • Magnification: 2 – 7 x
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
  • Eye Relief: 9.45 inches
  • Length: 10.5 inches
  • Width: 3.5 inches
  • Exit Pupil: 4.57 – 16 mm
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
  • Weight: 12 oz
  • Field of View, Linear: 5.2 – 18.3 ft at 100 yds

2) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope 

Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope 

 

Benefits

The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is designed for 22 WMR as it is a versatile and reliable scope from a trusted brand.

The scope features a 3-9x magnification range, that allows you to zoom in and out to adapt to different shooting distances. Both close-range shooting and medium-range shooting.

It offers a 1-inch tube diameter, making it compatible with a wide range of mounting systems and allowing for easy installation on most rifles.

Building a matte black finish adds a sleek and low-profile look to the scope, reducing glare and reflections. It is also built with durable housing to be able to withstand harsh environments.

With the MOA (Minute of Angle) adjustments, the scope provides precise and incremental adjustments for windage and elevation.

Key Features

  • Magnification 3 – 9 x
  • Objective Lens Diameter 40 mm
  • Exit Pupil 4.7 mm
  • Length 12.39 inches
  • Reticle Focal Plane Second Focal Plane (SFP)
  • Eye Relief 4.2 – 3.7 inches
  • Weight 12.2 oz
  • Field of View, Linear 33.1 – 13.6 ft at 100 yds
  • Tube Diameter 1 inch

3) Vortex Viper HS 4-16x50mm Rifle Scope

Vortex Viper HS 4-16x50mm Rifle Scope

 

Benefits

On to the next, we have the Vortex Viper HS 4-16x50mm 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane Rifle Scope. It is regarded to be one of the best scopes for 22 WMR.

With features such as a 4x to 16x magnification range, the scope can engage in targets at various distances. It allows for both close-quarters and long-range shooting.

One of its outstanding features is the XR anti-reflective coatings on the lenses to maximize light transmission, resulting in a brighter and clearer image.

It has a sturdy construction with a single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube and is shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof, to ensure there is reliable performance in various weather conditions.

Key Features

  • Magnification: 4 – 16 x
  • Tube Diameter: 30 mm
  • Eye Relief: 4 inches
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
  • Field of View, Linear: 7.4 – 27.4 ft at 100 yds
  • Weight: 22 oz
  • Length: 13.7 inches
  • Exit Pupil: 1.13 – 12.5 mm

4) Barska 3-12×40 AO .17 Hot Magnum Rifle Scope

Barska 3-12x40 AO .17 Hot Magnum Rifle Scope

 

Benefits

The brand Barska offers quality scopes that are budget friendly to many and the Barska 3-12×40 AO .17 Hot Magnum Rifle Scope is not left behind.

It offers a magnification of 3-12x which is versatile enough for close-range shooting and long-range shooting. Not to forget the 40mm objective lens diameter that offers adequate light transmission.

This scope is specifically designed to handle the recoil that comes with the 22 WMR. With the quality and durable construction and added advantage of being 100% waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof.

Featuring the optical turret it makes adjustments fast and easy when required. The scope also has High-density optical glasses for crisp edge-to-edge clarity.

Key Features

  • Magnification: 3-12x
  • Eye Relief (inch): 3.1
  • Objective Lens (mm): 40
  • Exit Pupil (mm): 10.8-3.3
  • Weight (oz): 18.88
  • Length (inch): 13.
  • Focal Plain Second

5) Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope

Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope

 

Benefits

The Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm 1in Tube Second Focal Plane Rifle Scope is our next scope the best scope for 22 WMR.

It is equipped with a second focal plane (SFP) reticle, meaning the reticle remains the same size regardless of the magnification level. With that be assured of consistent sight picture and reticle measurements.

This scope, Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm, features high resistance to magnum force recoil because of the solid, one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum alloy construction.

Not to forget, it also includes adjustable turrets that provide precise and audible clicks for windage and elevation adjustments. The turrets can be zeroed thus allowing you to set your preferred zero point.

Last but not least, has a magnification of 2x to 7x for both close-range shooting and medium-range shooting and a 1-inch tube diameter that is built on a single-piece aluminum tube for durability and rigidity.

Key Features

  • Magnification: 2 – 7 x
  • Eye Relief: 3.1 – 3.5 inches
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 35 mm
  • Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
  • Exit Pupil: 5 – 17.5 mm
  • Length: 11.6 inches
  • Weight: 14.2 oz
  • Field of View, Linear: 19.3 – 64.3 ft at 100 yds
  • Length: 11.6 inches

6) BSA Optics 3-9x40mm AO .22 Rimfire Rifle Scope 

BSA Optics 3-9x40mm AO .22 Rimfire Rifle Scope 

 

Benefits

Next, we have the Barska 3-12×40 AO .17 Hot Magnum Rifle Scope. With its versatile magnification range of 3x to 12x, this scope allows shooters to adjust their zoom level to suit different shooting distances and targets.

The scope is designed with compatibility in mind, the reticle and turret adjustments are optimized for the bullet trajectory.

With the AO feature, this enables shooters to correct parallax errors, that occur when the target and reticle are not on the same focal plane. But by adjusting the objective lens, you can eliminate parallax and ensure that your crosshairs stay on target.

40mm objective lens diameter comes in handy as it gathers a decent amount of light, ensuring clear and bright images.

Durability is another important aspect of this scope. It is constructed with a rugged one-inch tube, capable of withstanding the recoil of a rifle, and has waterproof and fog-proof properties.

Key Features

  • Magnification: 3-12x
  • Description: 3-12×40 AO
  • Exit Pupil (mm): 10.8-3.3
  • Eye Relief (inch): 3.1
  • Length (inch): 13.75
  • Weight (oz): 18.88
  • Objective Lens (mm): 40
  • Focal Plain Second

7) Leapers UTG 4-16x50mm Hunter Rifle Scope 

Leapers UTG 4-16x50mm Hunter Rifle Scope

 

Benefits

The Leapers UTG 4-16x50mm Hunter Rifle Scope is well known for its high performance and durability. It features a one-inch tube made of high-quality aluminum, providing strength and resistance to recoil.

The variable magnification of 4x to 16x, allows shooters to zoom in on their targets and achieve precise aiming at different distances.

One of the notable features is the adjustable parallax setting. This enables shooters to eliminate parallax error, ensuring that the crosshairs and target remain perfectly aligned regardless of the shooting distance.

It also features premium zero locking and zero resetting target turrets with the most consistent and precise 1/4 MOA per click windage and elevation adjustment.

Key Features

  • Magnification: 4 – 16X
  • Eye Relief: 3.2″ – 3.0″
  • Exit Pupil: 12.5mm – 2.5mm
  • Weight: 25.7 oz
  • Objective Diameter: 50mm
  • Field of View @ 100 yards: 23′ – 5.8′
  • Tube Diameter: 1 Inch
  • Length: 378mm

8) Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope

Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope

 

Benefits

Lastly, on our list, we have the Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope.

The scope offers a flexible magnification range from 3x to 9x, this provides shooters with versatility to adapt to different shooting distances and targets.

With a 40mm objective lens, the scope has ample light transmission, resulting in clear and bright images, even in low-light conditions.

Also, the Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope offers a standard duplex reticle, meaning the duplex reticle offers a simple and uncluttered sight picture, with thicker outer lines and a thinner crosshair in the center.

It is constructed with durable and reliable housing, ensuring the scope can withstand recoil and endure harsh environmental conditions.

Key Features

  • Power / Obj Lens: 3-9x 40mm
  • Eye Relief (in / mm): 6 / 153
  • Weight (oz. / g): 13 / 369
  • Exit Pupil (mm): 13@3x 4.4@9x
  • Length (in / mm): 12 / 305

Factors to Consider When Choosing The Best Scope for 22 WMR

When choosing the best scope for a .22 WMR, there are a few factors you should take into consideration. They include:

  • Magnification Power: It is always important to choose a magnification range that will suit your shooting requirements. Magnification power provides shooters flexibility on the shooting range.
  • Weight: The weight of the scope is very important because by choosing the rightful weight there won’t be added weight onto your rifle. Go for scopes that are made of lightweight materials such as titanium or aluminum.
  • Durability: Durability is every buyer’s concern because you are investing your money and time in it. Look for scopes made with high-quality materials that can withstand the recoil of the .22 WMR
  • Clarity: You also need to consider the clarity of the scope for best performance. Look for a scope with a quality glass lens and easy-to-use reticle.
  • Parallax Adjustment: Some scopes offer parallax adjustment, which allows you to eliminate parallax error and ensure the reticle stays on target regardless of the shooting distance.
  • Price: Always determine your budget and find a scope that offers a good balance between price and performance.

FAQS

  • Are there budget-friendly options available for .22 WMR scopes?

Yes, there are scopes available at different price points to suit various budgets. Including the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope, Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Scout Rifle Scope and Vortex Viper HS 4-16x50mm Rifle Scope.

  • What is the effective range of a .22 magnum?

The effective range of a .22 WMR is considered to be around 125 to 150 yards (115 to 140 meters).

  • Is a 3 9×40 scope good for 22LR?

Yes, a 3-9×40 scope is generally a good choice for a .22LR (Long Rifle) rifle. On our list, we have the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope.

Final Thoughts

Folks, choosing the best scope for your .22 WMR rifle can greatly enhance your shooting experience and accuracy, and that is why we have given you a guided review of the best scopes in the market. We have also guided you on the factors such as the appropriate magnification range, suitable objective lens size, durability, and budget. Our team hopes and wishes that you will find the scope you are looking for to unlock the full potential of your rifle scope. With that Happy Shopping!

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