Best Scope for Ruger 10/22 – The 6 Best Ones for Takedown, Carbine, and More

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If you have the Ruger 10/22 in your collection, then you can call yourself the proud owner of one of the most successful rimfire rifle designs in history. Established in 1964, Ruger continues to pump out the semi-automatic that everyone, including myself, loves to this day. Its inspiration was found in the standard US military firearm from WWII into the Vietnam War: the M1 Carbine.

You might not be fighting battles with this rifle, but I still think that it’s a great choice, especially for small game hunting and relatively close-range shooting. It serves every purpose, from hunting to defense, to target shooting, so you definitely won’t be disappointed with it if you decide to purchase it.

After all, there must have been a reason why the Ruger 10/22 rifle became so popular that the company released 11 different models to suit every niche of their users.

In addition to its origins in a trusted, American company, the Ruger 10/22 is popular for its:

  • Negligible recoil
  • Inexpensive ammunition
  • Easy handling
  • Easy customization
  • Lightweight (around 5lb)

Although this isn’t a youth rifle, it has the characteristics of one. That means it’s perfect for teaching a first-timer how to shoot. Even without an interest in hunting, who doesn’t love some innocent can or bottle target practice in the backyard? Very few people, let me tell you that.

Once you bought your Ruger 10/22, the only thing left to buy is a scope. I bought and reviewed a number of the most popular ones, so that I could prepare this list and give you a completely honest opinion about each of the scopes I included. So, without further ado, here is a scopes for Ruger 10/22 breakdown!

Editor's Choice
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32 Rimfire, SFP, V-Plex Reticle
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32 Rimfire, SFP, V-Plex Reticle
Best Leupold for Ruger 10/22
Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire Riflescope
Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire Riflescope
Budget Pick
Simmons Truplex .22 MAG 3-9x32mm Riflescope, Rimfire Rifle Scope
Simmons Truplex .22 MAG 3-9x32mm Riflescope, Rimfire Rifle Scope

My Top Scope for Ruger 10/22

Even though most people leave the best for the last, I decided to start this list by giving you my top choice from all the Ruger 10/22 scopes I tested recently.

In my humble opinion, the best scope for Ruger 10/22 you can buy at the moment is the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire – and there is a number of reasons for that

First of all – the brand. Vortex is one of those brands that you just know won’t disappoint you. Their scopes are of great quality, which means that they’ll be accompanying you in your hunting adventures for a good few years to come.

Secondly – the specifics. I won’t get into too much detail here, as you’ll learn all about why I think this is the best scope for Ruger 10/22 you can currently have in a more detailed review below. Just know that after testing out so many scopes for 10/22, I’m not exaggerating when I say that this one was the best choice out of all of them.

Of course, the easiest way to verify that would be to try out for yourself, but if you don’t have that option right now, you just have to trust me.

Why Should You Trust Me?

As you’re reading this guide, you might be wondering why you should trust my recommendations for your Ruger 10/22 scope. Let me assure you, I’ve been in your shoes. As a fellow Ruger 10/22 enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours testing and evaluating various scopes to find the perfect match for this iconic rifle. Every scope in this guide has been personally tested by me under real-world conditions.

I created this guide specifically for you, the Ruger 10/22 owner looking to enhance your shooting experience. Whether you’re a budget-conscious shooter or seeking top-of-the-line optics, I’ve carefully selected and reviewed a range of options to suit your needs. My goal is to provide you with honest, unbiased recommendations based on hands-on experience, so you can make an informed decision.

You can trust my expertise because I approach each review with you in mind. I highlight both the strengths and potential drawbacks of each scope, considering factors like optical clarity, durability, ease of use, and overall performance. Having used the Ruger 10/22 for years, I understand the specific requirements for scopes that pair well with this rifle. My aim is to help you find the perfect scope to elevate your shooting experience with your Ruger 10/22.

Get more information on how I test optics here.


My Top 6 Best Ruger 10/22 Scopes

After buying a rifle, buying a scope is the next step for those who want to enjoy their days or evenings hunting. However, picking the right one isn’t that easy, especially if you consider just how many different ones are available at the moment. Researching all of them would probably take you days, if not weeks.

You don’t have to do that though, because I did the work for you. I tested out some of the most praised scopes for Ruger 10/22 and chose six that I think would be the best choice for anyone looking for a scope. Whether you’re searching for the best Ruger 10/22 Takedown scopes or Carbine scopes, or other, here are the top six Ruger 10/22 scopes:

  1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire – V-Plex MOA – durable, well built, great optics and reticle.
  2. Simmons 3-9x32mm, .22 Mag(R) Matte Black – great budget scope.
  3. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire Scope – durable, great magnification settings and lenses.
  4. Athlon Optics Neos 3-9×40 BDC Rimfire Reticle – reliable for different kinds of hunting, lightweight and durable.
  5. Leupold FX-I Rimfire 4x28mm Fine Duplex Scope – parallax adjustment for 60 yards, Light Management System, durable and user-friendly.
  6. Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight – illuminated reticle, high-quality construction.

A quick note: You might have noticed that some Ruger 10/22 scopes say “BDC” while others don’t. Let me explain why. BDC stands for “bullet drop compensation. This simply means that you will not have to adjust the elevation for longer range shots. All you have to do is use the reticle that matches the distance you are shooting and pull the trigger.

Don’t settle for any less than the best. They’re all right here and can be mounted directly on your Ruger 10/22 today!

If you are a fan of Ruger like me, you can check Ruger mini 14 scope recommendations.


1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire – V-Plex MOA Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7x32 Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescope - Dead-Hold BDC Reticle

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As I already mentioned above, Vortex is a riflescope manufacturing company that is always on target (no pun intended) when it comes to their products – and the Rimfire version of the Crossfire II is definitely not an exception.

My Feelings after Using the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire

First thing I need to say is that Vortex scopes always impress me with how well they are built – and I say that after I already tested a number of products from them. This particular scope (and any other scope that is part of the Crossfire II range) is made from a single piece of an aircraft-grade anodized aluminum tube. What’s more, it’s also O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, which makes it both fog- and waterproof. This means that you can use your scope even in bad weather conditions.

When it comes to the reticle it comes with, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire has a V-Plex reticle, which should do you just fine for most hunting and shooting applications. Finally, it has a 3.9-inch eye relief, so if you’re worried about your eye getting tired and hurting, you don’t have to – the eye relief ensures every shot you take is as comfortable as possible.

Product Highlights

The scope is durable, built in a way that makes it possible to use even during bad weather conditions, which is definitely a plus, especially for those who have limited hunting time. The eye-relief ensures comfortable shots.

Common Problems and How to Deal with Them

One thing I have to say I didn’t enjoy is the way your target looks when you use higher magnification settings – it looks a bit washed out. So, if you’re someone who intends to use their scopes long distance, you might want to take a look at some of the other Ruger 10/22 scopes I have on the list.

Key Features

  • Made for aircraft-grade aluminum
  • O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged
  • Fogproof and waterproof
  • 3.9 inch eye relief
  • V-Plex reticle
PROS CONS
  • Well-build, made from aircraft-grade anodized aluminium tube
  • Can be used in bad weather conditions
  • Comes with a V-Plex reticle
  • Has a 3.9-inch eye relief
  • The target can look a little washed out when using higher magnification

Basic Perimeters

Manufacturer Vortex
Weigh 13.9 oz
Eye Relief 3.9 inches
Magnification 2-7x
Field of View 42-12.6 ft/100 yds

The Bottom Line

Apart from long-range shooting, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire impresses me on almost every front. It is durable and well built, fitted with excellent optics, and comes with a simple yet effective reticle. You surely can’t ask more from it.

My rating: 5/5

You can also check my best rimfire scopes guide, in which this scope also features.


2. Simmons 3-9x32mm, 0.22 Mag(R) Matte BlackSimmons 511039 3 - 9 x 32mm .22 Mag(R) Matte Black Riflescope

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If you’re on a budget and are looking for a scope that will deliver without making a dent in your pocket, then the Simmons 3-9×32 mm 0.22 Mag scope couldn’t be a better choice.

My Feelings after Using the Simmons 3-9×32 mm 0.22 Mag

First of all, it has a number of features that are present only in Simmons products, including the HydroShield lens coating, that ensures there will be no reflection or glare. That’s something many hunters will appreciate, as, after all, you probably want to see your target!

And since we’re talking about targets – this scope uses rapid target acquisition (RTA) technology. The eyepiece has a large, clear optical view that gives you a more in-focus vision. It definitely saves you time from wiggling and repositioning when you’re shooting from awkward spots.

Thanks to the SureGrip rubber, you won’t have to worry about the scope slipping out of your hand. Finally, the Simmons 3-9×32 mm 0.22 Mag has the steel-on-steel TrueZero system.

Product Highlights

This Simmons scope has a great price, Hyrdoshield lens coating, uses RTA technology and won’t fall out of your hands thanks to the SureGrip rubber used.

Common Problems and How to Deal with Them

Although this is a great scope, it isn’t free of some downsides, if I were to be completely honest with you. Just like most scopes in the lower price range, a screwdriver is necessary if you want to make any adjustments. Also, the adjustment clicks are not as distinct as in some other scopes. However, considering the fact that it is a budget scope, I didn’t mind it that much.

Key Features

  • 4x magnification
  • HydroShield lens coating
  • Rapid Target Acquisition (RTA) technology
  • Made out of SureGrip rubber
  • Steel-on-steel TrueZero system
PROS CONS
  • HydroShield lens coating means no glare or reflection
  • Rapid Target Acquisition
  • Steel-on-steel TrueZero system
  • SureGrip rubber ensures the scope won’t slip out of your hands
  • A screwdriver is necessary to make adjustments
  • Not clear adjustment clicks

Basic Perimeters

Manufacturer Simmons
Weigh 8.6 oz
Eye Relief 4
Magnification 4x
Field of View 21 ft/100 yds

The Bottom Line

Simmons pours a lot of heart into this product to offer you a good, budget scope. Although it has its share of downsides, I have to say that it is still worth considering, especially for that price – it’s by far the cheapest on our list and is such a good deal; it’s almost highway robbery. However, don’t use this scope for actual highway robbery!

My rating: 4/5

I believe the Simmons scope would also be a good scope for Marlin 60. If you are a fan of Marlin rifles, you can also check which are the best scopes for Marlin 336.


3. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rimfire Riflescope  Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire Riflescope

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Let me tell you – I’ve tested a lot of scopes in my lifetime. And I have to say that the Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire Riflescope isn’t your average piece of equipment.

My Feelings after Using the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rimfire Riflescope

First of all, it features some of the most abrasion-resistant lenses on the market – we’re talking about military standard resistance to scratches here. But the lens isn’t the only quality thing about this scope. It’s built out of aircraft quality aluminum and designed to function in inclement weather thanks to waterproof and fogproof sealing. The scope also has magnification settings that go from 3x to 9x with a 40 mm objective lens.

One more thing that needs to be mentioned when it comes to this scope is the Twilight Light Management System. Thanks to it you not only have a clearer view of the target, but you also get about 10 or so additional minutes of shooting light during dusk or dawn – a feature that many hunters will definitely make use of.

Product Highlights

The Leupold scope is military standard scratch-resistant. Made of aircraft-grade aluminum, it features the Twilight Light Management System that gives hunters more time during dawn and dusk.

Common Problems and How to Deal with Them

While the scope does have a set of excellent windage and elevation adjustment turrets, I found that they provide audible clicks each time you move them.

Key Features

  • 3-9x magnification
  • 40 mm objective lens
  • Waterproof, fogproof and shockproof
  • Abrasion-resistant lenses
  • Twilight Light Management System
PROS CONS
  • High-quality abrasion-resistant lenses
  • Twilight Light Management System
  • Audible click every time you change windage and elevation

Basic Perimeters

Manufacturer Leupold
Weigh 12.2 oz
Eye Relief 3.7-4.2 inches
Magnification 3-9x
Field of View 33.1-13.6 ft/100 yds

The Bottom Line

Overall, I have to say that I am very impressed with VX-Freedom. It offers excellent magnification settings for rifles of this type and extreme durability, plus some of the best lenses on the market. Where else can you find scope lenses designed for extreme scratch resistance and better light transmission?

My rating: 4/5

Want to know how to mount your scope? Check how to mount a scope to your Ruger 10/22.


4. Athlon Optics Neos 3-9×40 BDC Rimfire Reticle

Athlon Optics , Neos , Riflescope , 3-9 x 40 Second Focal Plane (SFP) 1" Tube, Center X Reticle ,

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If you’re in search of a reliable scope for your rimfire rifle, then in my opinion, this Athlon Optics scope is definitely one you should take into consideration – for a variety of reasons.

My Feelings after Using the Athlon Optics Neos 3-9×40 BDC Rimfire Reticle

Firstly, let’s talk about the lens – this Ruger 10/22 scope features a multi-coated lens, which makes it so light that the chances of it affecting your weapon’s balance are slim. Thus, you’re getting a quality lens that provides you with good sight pictures in any ambient light conditions.

Secondly, the scope features capped and resettable finger adjustable windage and elevation turrets, which means that no matter what weather or environmental conditions you encounter on your hunt, you’ll be able to adjust your scope to fit them just fine.

The color choice is another thing that needs some attention – because the scope is matte black, you won’t have to worry about sun shining on it – from my experience, it’s a really important feature!

Just like the scope I was talking about before, this one also features magnification settings that go from 3x to 9x with a 40 mm objective lens.

One last feature that I’d definitely like to highlight in this Ruger 10/22 scope review is the high-quality BDC rimfire reticle that comes with the optic and that lets you estimate the bullet drop when shooting at farther distances. The BDC reticle is perfectly designed for use with .22 rimfire cartridges to ensure even greater accuracy.

Product Highlights

The Athlon Optics has excellent lenses and has capped and resettable finger adjustable windage and elevation turrets make it adjustable to any weather conditions, which is something I definitely appreciate.

Common Problems and How to Deal with Them

One thing I have to say I would love for this scope to include are rings and/or lens covers – however, it isn’t that much of a problem, as you can simply buy them separately.

Key Features

  • 3-9x magnification
  • 40 mm objective lens
  • Matte black
  • Multicoated lenses
  • Waterproof, fogproof and shockproof
  • BDC reticle
PROS CONS
  • Multi-coated lenses
  • Capped and resettable finger adjustable windage and elevation turrets
  • Matte black exterior
  • BDC rimfire reticle
  • Doesn’t come with rings or lens covers

Basic Perimeters

Manufacturer Athlon Optics
Weigh 17 oz
Eye Relief 2.99-3.07 inches
Magnification 3-9x
Field of View 37.8-12.6 ft/100 yds

The Bottom Line

All in all, this scope is a quality piece of equipment and a perfect accessory for rimfire 10-22 rifles. You’ll be able to rely on it both for varmint or more serious hunting and for backyard plinking or target shooting with your friends.

My rating: 4.5/5


5. Leupold FX-I Rimfire 4x28mm Fine Duplex ScopeLeupold FX-I Rimfire 4x28mm Riflescope, Duplex (58680) (58680)

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If you’re in need of a fixed optic for your Ruger 10/22 rifle, then the Leupold FX-I Rimfire 4×28 mm Fine Duplex Scope is the perfect choice.

My Feelings after Using the Leupold FX-I Rimfire 4x28mm Fine Duplex Scope

The scope is fixed at a magnification power of 4x, and it comes with a 28 mm objective lens, as well as parallax adjustment for 60 yards. So, to put it simply, it’s already perfectly tuned for its magnification setting.

Furthermore, the scope comes with precision ¼ MOA, finger-adjustable windage and elevation turrets, allowing you to precisely and quickly compensate for either variable and land shots even when conditions are less than ideal.

Leupold FX-I Rimfire 4×28 mm Fine Duplex Scope is not only scratch-resistant, but it is also pretty lightweight, so you definitely won’t notice any difference when using your rifle.

Finally, the scope uses a proprietary Light Management System which allows you to continue shooting for a few more minutes even when the sun has set. But don’t be mistaken – this lighting system also helps you see your targets better during daytime. From my experience, this function is especially great for those hunting specific animals that are more likely to be active during evening hours than at midday.

Product Highlights

The Leupold FX-I Rimfire 4×28 mm Fine Duplex Scope is a very durable and scratch-resistant piece of equipment. Thanks to the Light Management System you can continue shooting even after the sun sets (or before it rises), and I have to say I love that feature.

Common Problems and How to Deal with Them

Truthfully, there’s nothing wrong with this Ruger 10/22 scope. However, I wish the reticle was illuminated.

Key Features

  • Fixed 4x magnification
  • 28 mm objective lens
  • Fine Duplex Scope
  • Light Management System
  • Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof
  • 60 yards parallax
PROS CONS
  • Comes tuned for its magnification settings
  • Has finger-adjustable windage and elevation turrets
  • Scratch-resistant and lightweight
  • Light Management System
  • The reticle isn’t illuminated

Basic Perimeters

Manufacturer Leupold
Weigh 7.5 oz
Eye Relief 4.5 inches
Magnification 4x
Field of View 25.5 ft/100 yds

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, it’s one of the best rimfire optics you can find, particularly for engagements below 60 yards. It’s a phenomenal pairing with Ruger 10/22 rifles and is built with durability and user-friendliness in mind.

My rating: 4.75/5


6. Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope

Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope, 1x25mm, Black

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The last position on my list of best Ruger 10/22 scopes is the Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope. If you’re looking for something different for your beloved weapon, then this scope might be exactly what you need.

My Feelings after Using the Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight Riflescope

Aside from features like aircraft-grade aluminum build or multi-coated lenses, this scope also offers an illuminated red dot optic. You won’t be able to magnify your sight picture – however, the 25 mm objective lens paints a red dot sight for you to line up with your target. That’s what, in my opinion, makes it a particularly good choice for short-range hunting with your Ruger rifle. Fortunately, the optic is already adjusted for parallax up to 50 yards.

The single knob on top of the optic lets you swap between 11 brightness settings, which ensure that the reticle can be used both in bright daylight and nighttime settings. Another great thing is that each setting clicks as you turn the knob, so you won’t have to worry about accidentally putting on a different illumination setting than the one you intended to use.

Like many other top-tier scopes I have included in this list already, it’s made with waterproof construction in mind, employing O-ring sealing and nitrogen purging for superior performance, even in wet environments.

Product Highlights

The Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Red Dot Sight is a quality Ruger 10/22 scope that will work best for short-range hunting. Thanks to the 11 brightness settings, you can see clearly both during the day and the night.

Common Problems and How to Deal with Them

One of the downfalls of this scope that I need to mention is the fact that it comes with Picatinny mounting rings by default – so, you need to keep that in mind if your rifle is already equipped with Weaver rings instead.

Key Features

  • No magnification
  • Unlimited eye relief and field of view
  • Illuminated red dot optic
  • 25 mm objective lens
  • 11 brightness settings
  • O-ring sealing and nitrogen purging
  • 50 yards parallax
PROS CONS
  • Comes with a red dot optic
  • Illumination settings change with a click
  • Quality build
  • Setting clicks whenever settings are being changed
  • Comes with Picatinny mourning rings

Basic Perimeters

Manufacturer Bushnell
Weigh 4 oz
Eye Relief Unlimited
Magnification 1x
Field of View Unlimited

The Bottom Line

All in all, Bushnell’s TRS-25 optic is a quality pick for any Ruger 10-22 owner who wants to primarily use the rifle at short to mid ranges, or someone who wants a tactical optic rather than a magnifying scope. The illuminated reticle and high-quality construction secure this as a solid pick for most.

My rating: 4.5/5

You can also check my full Bushnell TRS-25 Review.


Going the Distance: Maximize Your Shooting Range

Out-of-the-box, a Ruger 10/22 can shoot accurately up to approximately 50 yards with less than 1 MOA. (Source: mcarbo.com)

I know – it doesn’t sound like much, but they aren’t made to be a long-range rifle.

Otherwise, this timeless classic does precisely what it’s made to do. It hits small targets from a considerable distance without completely obliterating them. For many people (including me!), it also comes with a light wind of nostalgia. That’s because it’s the first gun we ever got to practice with as kids and still tote around today.

So what can you expect on your next trip to the range with your Ruger 10/22?

A Quick Guide to Distance: How Far will Your Bullet Go?

For an out-of-the-box Ruger 10/22 with an 18.5-in barrel length, keep these rough measurements in mind:

  • Long Range: about 100 yards and above
  • Medium Range: 50 – 100 yards
  • Close Range: under 50 yards

Remember, these ranges are simply an out-of-the-box standard. Ammo and aftermarket parts can cause the average range to deviate considerably. Believe it or not, they can make a noticeable difference. That’s why some people opt for longer barrels – a longer barrel gives a longer shot.

What Magnification Do You Need?

If you’re new to the game, you might not think that rifle scopes are is necessary for shooting a football field length or less. That’s far from the truth. Since this rifle is ideal for small targets, all the extra magnification power makes a difference in precision shooting. Besides, you have to be able to see what you are shooting to hit it, don’t you?

Generally, longer shots require higher magnification. What is magnification, and what does it mean? Check out my guide here to understand how lens measurements and magnifications work.

So which one will work best for your average shooting distance?

  • Long Range (100-yd and above)
  • Adept long-range shooting takes practice. Hitting small targets from this distance takes even more practice, better clarity, and higher magnification. The best Ruger 10/22 scope for long ranges has a magnification of around 6 to 9x.
  • Medium Range (50 – 100yd)
  • Shooting within this range probably means you have rats loose in the barn or moles digging up your yard. If you want to get an edge on them, you’ll want somewhere between 4 – 6x power.
  • Close Range (up to 50yd)
  • The Ruger 10/22 is ideal for close-range shooting. If you want a pinpoint accuracy to win that bet against your buddies, try 1 – 4x power. They’ll definitely be buying the next round and asking where you got your Ruger 10/22 scope.

In my opinion the best scope for Ruger 10/22 owners is the one that matches their marksmanship style. If you don’t require high power, stick to one that packs in more features with less range.

Alternatively, if you’re never sure when the next shot will be, play it safe with a wide variable. A proper scope will adjust quickly from 1x to 9x right when you need it!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Ruger 10/22 Takedown?

The Takedown, which was first launched in 2012, allows customers to disassemble their rifles and store them in a backpack or small container for travel or trekking. It’s no surprise that so many 10/22s have found their way into gun owners’ safes, given the variety of combinations and options available.

Are There Many Configurations For The 10/22?

The Ruger 10/22 is available from the factory in eight distinct configurations, providing purchasers lots of choices when it comes to the style and finish of their rifle.

Manufacturers have also released a bewildering array of Ruger 10/22 aftermarket accessories. Lightweight polymer stocks, such as those made by Magpul, have been added to add weather resistance and weight reduction to the mix. Drop-in triggers are available from a variety of manufacturers, all of which will improve the shooter’s experience. Franklin Armory also sells a binary trigger to liven up your range sessions. A fast search will give several possibilities for you, regardless of the improvement.

Why Does The Ruger 10/22 Use A Unique Magazine?

The Ruger 10/22 relies on a rotary-style box magazine for feeding. The magazine has a capacity of 10 to 25 rounds. This rotary magazine has a large capacity and a consistent feed system. The Ruger 10/22’s rimmed design, on the other hand, isn’t ideal for magazines.

Is The Ruger 10/22 Expensive?

The Ruger 10/22 is inexpensive and generally costs about $200. However, because of the massive amount of variations around this model, it’s not uncommon for customers to find certain 10/22 models that are far more expensive. But the base model sells for just a couple of hundred dollars.

What Is The History of the Ruger 10/22?

Bill Ruger, Harry Sefried, and Doug McClenahan worked together to create the Ruger 10/22. The 10/22 was overengineered, as was everything the fastidious Ruger developed, yet it was eminently inexpensive thanks to its well-thought-out mechanisms. It was only $54.50 when it first came out.

Ruger delivered proofs of its next catalog, touting the new .22 rifle, to gun writers on March 24, 1964. Only three pre-production prototypes were available at the time. Even though it wasn’t formally publicized in gun publications until June of that year, visitors at the 1964 NRA Annual Meeting got to see and handle the rifle in Ruger’s booth later that spring.

Have Many Ruger 10/22 Models Been Sold?

To date, more than 6 million Ruger 10/22 rifles have been sold in all varieties, a figure that no doubt thrilled the late Bill Ruger. The 10/22, in fact, has carried the traditional Christmas “kid’s rifle” to realms that no other rimfire rifle has gone before.

Why Did The Ruger 10/22 Switch From Walnut Stocks?

Ruger switched to birch stocks in 1980 as the price of walnut rose. The stocks were eventually changed to maple. In 1986, laminated stocks were introduced, and in 1992, a stainless steel barrel was made available. The trigger housing was recently upgraded from aluminum to polymer.


What are you waiting for?

With that being said, I have reached the end of my best scopes for the Ruger 10/22 breakdown.

Do you want to get the advantage of those pesky creatures in your yard? Perhaps you want to get an edge on your buddies at the range? Either way, it won’t happen without the best scope for Ruger 10/22 rifles.

Whether you’re in need of a best Ruger 10/22 Takedown scope, Carbine scope, or a scope for yet another type of the Ruger 10/22 rifle, you can be sure that one of the ones I have included in my list will work perfectly with it.

What’s more, with so many low-budget options with high-quality performance, it’s hard to resist. You can go all out on high-dollar optics, but they won’t make a noticeable difference above other 10/22 scopes.

Beyond that, there isn’t any customization or special ammo that will match what the perfect scope can do. Find yours today and finally realize what you’re capable of accomplishing with that trusty old rifle on the wall.

If you own a more expensive rifle like the M1A, you can check which are the best scopes for m1a or read our more general best .308 scope guide.

15 thoughts on “Best Scope for Ruger 10/22 – The 6 Best Ones for Takedown, Carbine, and More”

  1. The best rimfire scope I’ve own is a Leupold vx-freedom rimfire. Its quite an expensive scope for 22, but I like it a lot. Second best to me would be the Vortex Crossfire. I was stuck between the leupold and the vortex, but went with the leupold because of the clarity and the reticle it has and I’m a big fan of vortex.

    Reply
  2. I was hoping to see some 4x scopes which would be plenty for a 10/22. I have an ancient Bushnell Sportview 4×15 I used for years but the reticle has rotated 45 degrees for some reason and Bushnell isn’t returning my emails so I am looking for another scope. The 4x is perfect for the 10/22 which is not a long range rifle. A 3×9 is overkill IMHO.

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  3. For the 10/22 Takedown I really like the UTG BugBuster 3-9×32. This scope fits on the takedown receiver and still fits in the storage bag that comes with the rifle. As for the normal 10/22, my dad swears by the BSA sweet .22 scopes. They seem to have great glass very clear and bright image and at a pretty good price too I think around $70

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  4. Just bought the Simmons 3-9×32 22mag scope listed above here and wanted to point out a couple things. First, a screwdriver is required to install the scope rings (included with scope) but adjustments can be done by hand, no screwdriver required. Second, adjustments are 1/4 MOA, which is much better than I was expecting. I just installed it on a Rossi RS22 but have not had the opportunity to shoot it yet. So far it seems like an incredible value considering what I paid ($50 at Sportsmans).

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  5. Why do you show a cool custom 10/22 with a nice looking scope then recommend cheap scopes. What is the scope in the picture? Thank you .

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    • It’s a Bushnell AR Optics Rimfire Rifle Scope 2-7x 32mm. About $130, but discontinued. The Vortex 2-7×32 listed above is a much better scope for the same price.

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