Squirrel hunting with a .22LR demands precision and consistency more than raw power. You’re often taking small, careful shots through brush, branches, and shifting light. A good rimfire scope should be clear, lightweight, and fast to acquire targets without overcomplicating things. Below are some of the most reliable and field-proven scopes that suit this style of hunting.
In This Article
- Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7×35
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40
- Bushnell Banner 3-9×40
- Armstrong Precision Rimfire 4-16×44
- Monstrum Banshee 1-6×24
- Simmons PRO Hunter 3-9×40
Best 22LR Scopes for Squirrel Hunting -Reviews
1) Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7×35
The Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7×35 is one of the few scopes that genuinely feels tailored for .22LR hunting rather than adapted from a centerfire design. The biggest advantage is its rimfire-specific configuration, especially the fixed parallax set at 50 yards. That detail alone makes a noticeable difference in real-world shooting, reducing aiming error at the distances where squirrel hunting actually happens.
Optically, the scope performs well above entry-level. The transition between magnification levels is smooth and useful, not just there for spec sheet appeal. The glass is clear and sharp, with strong contrast that helps separate a squirrel from bark and leaves. It handles low-light conditions under canopy effectively, maintaining a usable image when cheaper scopes start to look dull. The V-Plex reticle keeps things simple and uncluttered, which suits fast, instinctive shooting.
Build quality is solid. It’s lightweight, well-balanced on a rimfire rifle, and built from a single-piece tube that holds zero reliably. It’s also fully sealed and nitrogen purged, so weather isn’t a concern in the field.
This scope doesn’t try to do everything, it focuses on doing the fundamentals right, and for squirrel hunting, that’s exactly what you want.
Pros
- Parallax set at 50 yards for true rimfire accuracy
- Clear, sharp glass with good contrast
- Ideal 2-7x magnification range
- Lightweight and durable construction
- Simple, fast V-Plex reticle
Cons
- No holdover marks for longer distances
- Turrets not meant for frequent dialing
- Reticle may feel too basic for advanced shooters
2) Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32
The Crossfire II 2-7×32 is one of the most practical scopes you can mount on a .22LR for squirrel hunting. Its magnification range is nearly perfect for wooded environments, where most shots fall between 15 and 60 yards. At 2x, it gives you a wide field of view for quick target pickup, while 7x provides enough precision for headshots on still squirrels. The glass clarity is impressive for the price point, with good contrast and decent low-light performance under tree cover.
What stands out is its durability. Vortex built this scope to handle rough handling, and it holds zero reliably even after long days in the field. The V-Plex reticle keeps things simple, allowing you to focus on shot placement rather than interpreting complex markings. It’s not a flashy optic, but it performs consistently where it matters.
Pros
- Ideal magnification range for rimfire hunting
- Solid build and reliable zero retention
- Clear glass for its price class
- Lightweight and easy to handle
Cons
- Basic reticle lacks advanced holdover marks
- Turrets are not designed for frequent dialing
3) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40
The VX-Freedom 3-9×40 is a step up in optical quality and overall refinement. Leupold’s glass is known for its brightness and edge-to-edge clarity, and this scope delivers excellent performance in the low-light conditions you often encounter while squirrel hunting. Early mornings and late afternoons are where this scope really proves its worth, maintaining visibility when cheaper optics start to fade.
Its 3-9x magnification range gives you flexibility, though most squirrel hunters will stay between 3x and 6x. The duplex reticle is clean and intuitive, making it easy to place precise shots without distraction. One of its biggest strengths is how lightweight it feels on a rimfire rifle, maintaining balance and preventing fatigue during long hunts.
Leupold’s reputation for ruggedness also shows here. It’s built to last, and it holds zero exceptionally well over time, even with repeated use.
Pros
- Excellent glass clarity and brightness
- Lightweight and well-balanced
- Reliable and durable construction
- Clean, effective duplex reticle
Cons
- Higher price than entry-level options
- Limited reticle options for advanced shooters
4) Bushnell Banner 3-9×40
The Bushnell Banner 3-9×40 is one of the most accessible and widely used hunting scopes for a reason. It delivers dependable performance at a budget-friendly price, making it a great option for hunters who want solid results without overspending. The Dusk & Dawn Brightness coating helps enhance visibility during low-light periods, which is critical when squirrels are most active.
Its magnification range works well for mixed distances, though it may feel slightly more zoom-heavy than necessary for close woodland shots. Still, at lower magnification, it provides a usable field of view, and at higher settings, it allows for precise shot placement when needed.
The scope is straightforward and easy to use. It doesn’t try to do too much, which actually works in its favor for beginners or hunters who prefer simplicity.
Pros
- Very affordable and widely available
- Good low-light performance for the price
- Simple and user-friendly design
- Reliable for general hunting use
Cons:
- Glass clarity not as sharp as premium models
- Bulkier compared to some rimfire-specific scopes
5) Armstrong Precision Rimfire 4-16×44
The Armstrong Precision Rimfire 4-16×44 is built for shooters who want more magnification and finer control, especially for longer or more precise shots. While 16x is more than necessary for typical squirrel hunting, the added magnification can be useful for identifying targets through dense foliage or for hunters who like stretching their .22LR to longer distances.
This scope typically includes an adjustable objective, which helps eliminate parallax at rimfire ranges. That’s a significant advantage when shooting small targets like squirrels, where even slight parallax error can throw off accuracy. The reticle design often includes holdover points, making it easier to compensate for bullet drop at varying distances.
However, it’s noticeably heavier than most traditional hunting scopes, which may affect rifle balance during long walks in the woods.
Pros
- High magnification for precision shooting
- Adjustable objective improves accuracy
- Detailed reticle for holdovers
- Good value for feature set
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than typical hunting scopes
- More magnification than most hunters actually need
6) Monstrum Banshee 1-6×24
The Monstrum Banshee 1-6×24 takes a different approach by offering a low-power variable optic (LPVO) style. At 1x, it functions almost like a red dot, allowing for extremely fast target acquisition, useful when squirrels are moving quickly or when shots are taken at very close range. At 6x, it still provides enough magnification for accurate placement at moderate distances.
This scope is best suited for hunters who prioritize speed and versatility over traditional magnification. The illuminated reticle can be helpful in low light, though it’s not essential for daytime squirrel hunting. Build quality is decent for the price, though it doesn’t match the refinement of higher-end optics.
It’s a practical choice for those who want a more dynamic shooting experience or who use their .22LR for multiple purposes beyond hunting.
Pros
- Extremely fast target acquisition at 1x
- Versatile magnification range
- Illuminated reticle option
- Good for multi-purpose use
Cons
- Not optimized specifically for precision rimfire hunting
- Glass clarity is average compared to premium scopes
7) Simmons PRO Hunter 3-9X40MM Riflescope
The Simmons ProHunter 3-9x40mm is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a dependable, budget-friendly scope for a .22 LR squirrel rifle. It delivers the features that matter most in the field, clear optics, practical magnification, and reliable performance, without adding unnecessary complexity. For hunters who want an affordable scope that can consistently place accurate shots on small game, the ProHunter is a compelling option.
The Truplex reticle keeps the sight picture clean and uncluttered. Its fine center crosshair allows for precise shot placement, while the thicker outer posts naturally draw your eye to the target. This straightforward design is ideal for squirrel hunting, where fast target acquisition and accuracy are more valuable than complex holdover marks.
The ProHunter is also built to withstand regular hunting use. Its weather-resistant construction handles rain and changing temperatures well, and once properly sighted in, it maintains zero reliably. Although it features a fixed parallax rather than an adjustable objective, this is rarely a disadvantage at normal squirrel hunting distances.
Pros
- Excellent value for the money
- Clear, bright fully coated optics
- Simple Truplex reticle for quick, accurate aiming
- Reliable zero retention
- Versatile 3-9x magnification range
Cons
- Fixed parallax limits optimization at varying distances
- Glass quality isn’t on par with premium scopes
- Turrets are designed for zeroing, not frequent dialing
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does .22LR stand for?
.22LR stands for .22 Long Rifle, one of the oldest and most widely used cartridges still in production today. It was developed in the late 1800s and has remained popular because of its simplicity, affordability, and versatility. The “.22” refers to the bullet diameter in inches, while “Long Rifle” distinguishes it from earlier .22 cartridges like the .22 Short. Despite its age, it continues to be a go-to choice for both beginners and experienced shooters.
Is the .22LR a rimfire?
Yes, the .22LR is a rimfire cartridge, which means the primer compound is located inside the rim of the case rather than in a central primer pocket. When the firing pin strikes the rim, it ignites the powder. This design makes .22LR ammunition cheaper to manufacture, but it also means the cases are not suitable for reloading like centerfire cartridges. Rimfire rounds are generally less powerful, but they are ideal for low-recoil shooting.
What is the effective range of a .22LR?
The effective range of a .22LR depends on the purpose, but for practical accuracy, it typically falls between 50 and 100 yards. For squirrel hunting, most shots are taken within 50 to 75 yards, where the cartridge provides enough accuracy and energy for clean kills. While the bullet can travel much farther, both accuracy and impact energy drop significantly beyond 100 yards, making longer shots less reliable.
Is .22LR good for squirrel hunting?
Yes, the .22LR is considered one of the best calibers for squirrel hunting. It offers enough power to humanely take small game while minimizing damage to edible meat. Its low noise level also helps avoid spooking other animals in the area. However, success depends heavily on shot placement, with most hunters aiming for precise headshots to ensure a clean and ethical kill.
What magnification scope is best for .22LR?
For most .22LR applications, especially hunting, a scope in the 2-7x or 3-9x magnification range works best. Lower magnification provides a wider field of view, which is important for spotting and tracking small animals in dense cover. Higher magnification can help with precision at longer distances, but too much zoom can make it harder to acquire targets quickly. The key is balance, not maximum magnification.
Do you need a rimfire scope for a .22LR?
You don’t strictly need a rimfire-specific scope, but it does make a difference. Rimfire scopes are usually set with parallax adjusted to around 50 yards, which matches typical .22LR shooting distances. Standard scopes are often set at 100 yards, which can introduce slight aiming errors at closer ranges. While a regular scope will still work, a rimfire scope is better optimized for accuracy in real-world use.
What is parallax in a scope?
Parallax refers to the apparent shift of the reticle against the target when your eye moves slightly behind the scope. If parallax is not properly adjusted for the shooting distance, it can cause small aiming errors. With a .22LR, where targets are small and distances are short, this effect becomes more noticeable. That’s why scopes designed for rimfire rifles often use a 50-yard parallax setting.
Is .22LR ammo cheap?
Yes, .22LR ammunition is among the most affordable ammunition available. Its low cost is one of the main reasons for its popularity, allowing shooters to practice frequently without spending much. This affordability makes it ideal for beginners, high-volume shooting, and casual range use.
Can you reload .22LR ammo?
No, .22LR ammunition is not designed to be reloaded. Because the primer is built into the rim of the case, it cannot be easily replaced or reused. Unlike centerfire cartridges, which are commonly reloaded, rimfire cases are intended for single use and then discarded.
What rifles are commonly used for .22LR?
Some of the most popular .22LR rifles include the Ruger 10/22, Marlin Model 60, and Savage Mark II. These rifles are known for their reliability, accuracy, and ease of use. They are widely available and suitable for everything from casual shooting to serious small game hunting.
Does .22LR have recoil?
Yes, but the recoil is extremely light. Most shooters describe it as almost negligible, which makes it easy to shoot accurately and comfortably for long periods. This low recoil is one of the reasons the .22LR is so effective for training and skill development.
What’s the difference between .22LR and .22 Magnum?
The .22LR and .22 Magnum (also known as .22 WMR) differ mainly in power and performance. The .22 Magnum is faster, more powerful, and has a longer effective range, but it is also more expensive and produces more noise. The .22LR, on the other hand, is cheaper, quieter, and better suited for close-range shooting. The two are not interchangeable and require different firearms.
Is .22LR accurate?
Yes, the .22LR can be very accurate at short to medium distances, especially when paired with a good rifle and scope. Its low recoil helps maintain stability during shooting, and with proper technique, it is capable of tight groupings. This accuracy is one of the reasons it is widely used in both target shooting and small game hunting.
Final Thoughts
The best .22LR scope for squirrel hunting comes down to balance, clarity, magnification, and simplicity. You don’t need extreme zoom or overly complex reticles. What matters is how quickly you can acquire a target and place a precise shot. The scopes included in this article give a proper balance of all these aspects and make sure that they aren’t overkill for someone looking for a genuine scope for hunting squirrels.
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