10 Best Scopes for .22-250 in 2022

When it comes to hunting varmint at long distances, few calibers meet a .22-250 rifle’s effectiveness. With enough power and diameter to bring down a medium-sized target in one shot, it is a go-to option for most hunters worldwide. Shooting accurately with a rifle of this caliber is not easy, though. That’s why we want to show you the best scope for 22 250. 

After a long day of walking in the woods and finally finding the right target to bring down, it would be a pity if you missed. You can prevent that with the proper scope.

Below, you’ll find some of the best scopes for this caliber. Then you’ll find a brief guide on how to pick the right one. And if you don’t know how to mount it, we’ll also teach you so. Take a look below to find out!

10 Best Scopes for .22-250 Reviews in 2022 – A Quick Comparison Table

IMAGE	PRODUCT	FEATURES	PRICE
	Vortex Optics Crossfire II AO 30mm	• Dimensions: 14.5 x 2 x 1.73 inches • fully multi-coated lenses • Anti-reflective	Check Price
	Vortex Optics Diamondback Riflescope	• Multiple configurations • Slug shotgun • Multi-coated for crstyal clear	Check Price
	CVLIFE Hunting Illuminated Gun Scope	• Diameter: 50mm • Field Of View: 28 ft @ 100 yards • Click Value: 1/8 inch @ 100 yards	Check Price
	Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1 inch	• Good for hunting/shooting • Parallax removal to the shooter while anti-reflective • Ultra-forgiving eye box	Check Price
	Leupold VX-3i Riflescope	• Lightweight, rugged performance • Unparalleled low light performance • Designed, machined, & assembled in the USA	Check Price
	Athlon Optics Argos BTR Riflescope	• First Focal Plane Reticle • Etched Glass Reticle • 6061 T6 Aluminum	Check Price
	Vortex Viper PA Riflescope	• Incorporating our premium • Fully multi-coated • Extra-low dispersion lenses brings excellent resolution	Check Price
	Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Riflescope	• VMR-1 Reticle (MOA) is perfect for accurate holds at extended ranges • Fully multi-coated • Extra-low dispersion lenses brings excellent resolution and color fidelity	Check Price
	Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Riflescope	• Waterproof Construction • Fully Multi Coated • Argon Purged Fog-Proofing	Check Price
	Nikon M-Tactical MK1-MOA	• Side Focus Parallax Adjustment • Ergonomic Design Features • Waterproof, Fogproof, Shockproof	Check Price

Finding the right scope for a rifle that handles .22 caliber rounds wasn’t easy. We had to consider several factors, going from magnification to effective range and overall ease of use. Luckily, we found 10 models that were completely worth a try. 

Whether you’re looking to hunt small mammals or just train your aim – you’ll find scope for your rifle within our reviews: 

1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II AO 30mm

The Crossfire II comes ready to tackle even their most demanding shots for shooters who want backed-up quality.

It all starts with 4-16x magnification. This power level is more than enough to get over 1,000 yards of image visibility. Sure enough, it will be more than enough to make a .22-250 rifle shoot accurately.

Such a level of magnification matches well with a fully multi-coated lens. It delivers the anti-reflection and image quality necessary to get every shot on target. At 30mm of tube size with a 50mm objective lens, you can expect next-level brightness and clarity.

As for the reticle, you’ll obtain a BDC system with an SFP design. Boasting MOA adjustments with capped reset turrets, you won’t have any problem adjusting your sight comfortably every time.

To make aiming even easier, the scope boasts a long eye relief, a safe eye box, and a fast-focus eyepiece, making it super-easy to use.

Lastly, you’ll get an aircraft-grade aluminum build that withstands shocks, fog, and humidity – making it ideal for harsh environments. 

2. Vortex Optics Diamondback Riflescope

Coming back to Vortex Optics, we now find the Diamondback riflescope. Like every scope from this brand, it leaves no build, accuracy, or ease of use to be desired.

A hard-anodized finish, for example, makes it a shockproof and scratch-resistant scope. Yet, the Argon purging and O-ring seals make it stand out, preventing any type of humidity from going in.

This construction protects the high-quality, fully multi-coated lenses. They deliver the brightest image, even close to dusk or dawn. 

You get the opportunity to pick either the Dead-Hold BDC or the V-Plex reticle. Either one performs amazingly well. 

More importantly, you can decide between a 3-9x, a 3.5-10x, or a 4-12x magnification system. The objective lens also changes, available in 40mm and 50mm, ideal for most long-range shots. 

This matches well with the addition of metal-on-metal turrets with a precise glide-erector tracking system. Getting your aim on target will be a lot easier with this.

3. CVLIFE Hunting Illuminated Gun Scope

If you’re going for more affordable options, then the illuminate hunting scope may be the perfect alternative. 

With a power level of 6-24x, you can magnify at over 1,000 yards without losing image quality. Along with an adjustable 50mm objective lens, it helps you adjust to any target distance with outstanding clarity.

As for overall comfort, you can enjoy the adjustable dioptric lens eyepiece. Whether you use glasses or prefer staying at a long distance from the scope, you’ll have no problem setting it up to your needs.

Changing windage and elevation won’t be much of a problem. Practical and comfortable turrets will help you make smooth and accurate adjustments. 

These adjustments pair up nicely with a Rangefinder reticle. It is ideal for making accurate aims in every single shot. 

We also found the illuminated reticle to be super-helpful, helping you change between green and red. Shooting in the dawn or dusk won’t be much of a problem with this scope.

4. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1 inch

When it comes to scopes that leave nothing to the imagination, the Crossfire II enters as one of the best. This Crossfire II variation boasts a 1-inch tube size, making it a slightly thinner alternative than its 30mm cousin.

But this site doesn’t take any quality. You can still enjoy it at 40mm, 44mm, or 50mm of an objective lens. What’s even better, you can also pick between the 4-12x or the 6-18x version. Any .22-250 rifle will work wonders with this scope.

But magnification and size are not everything. This scope also stands out for the V-Plex, Dead-Hold BDC, and V-Brite Illuminated reticle options. Whatever you pick, you’ll use capped reset turrets with MOA clicks and a reset system, making it ideal for demanding users.

It gains even more value when considering the long eye relief, helping you aim with maximum comfort. And with the fast-focus eyepiece, getting the reticle on target won’t take much time or effort.

Despite all of that, the scope boasts an aircraft-grade aluminum build that protects against shocks, water, and fog. 

5. Leupold VX-3i Riflescope

Designed to match even the highest expectations and built to withstands the harshest of environments, the VX-3i from Leupold is a riflescope you don’t want to overlook.

At first, you’ll notice a 40mm objective lens. The image quality is outstanding, especially with a Twilight Max Light System that delivers the brightest and clearest image you can expect. Even in the lowest-light environments, this lens will make it easy to put the reticle in place.

Such a high-quality, objective lens works like a charm with a DiamondCoat2 coating. It increases light transmission even more while still preventing wear over time. 

All of that works perfectly for the 4.5-14x power capacity. Magnifying at over 1,000 yards won’t be much of a problem. Getting precise shots at half of that with a .22-250 rifle won’t be much of a problem.

Don’t forget about the 1/4 MOA adjustment turrets. Offering maximum adjustability and repeatability, they will surely meet your standards.

But if there’s something that places Leupold scopes apart is their construction. This one boasts a proprietary gas blend and 6061-T6 aluminum build that withstands deep underwater pressure. If that’s not enough, it can also handle the heaviest of recoils and extreme temperatures.

6. Athlon Optics Argos BTR Riflescope

Another brand that stands out for its massively reliable quality is Athlon Optics. For that reason, the Argos BTR made it into our list as a go-to alternative for a decent cost.

Many features set it apart from competitors, starting with an APLM MIL reticle. This is an illuminated version that increases visibility, even in the darkest of environments. 

The reticle matches well with the XPL fully multi-coated lenses. They increase light transmission exponentially, making it easier to use in low-light environments where other scopes fail. The 50mm objective lens and 30mm tube size make the image quality even better.

To set it apart, the reticle offers an FFP system. That means it will move alongside the magnification to adjust it accurately with your MIL adjustments.

The magnification level is at 6-24x, making it one of the longest-range options on the list. This matches well with the MIL adjustment turrets, helping you change windage, elevation, and even parallax.

With such a level of accuracy-oriented features, the scope boasts a 6061-T6 aluminum build, argon-purged design, and a mechanical recoil system. This combination prevents damage from humidity, shocks, fog, and even the harshest of recoils (a .22-250 rifle will feel like a no-brainer).

7. Vortex Viper PA Riflescope

Offering simplicity buttons of quality, the Viper PA from Vortex helps you achieve the most accurate shots without over-trying. 

It all starts with variable 6.5-20x magnification. Ideal for long shots but still working for mid-range ones, you’ll find it an excellent option to go for. This pairs well with the 50mm objective lens that helps you get outstanding image quality, letting a lot of light go in.

The main tube is 30mm, adding an excellent high-quality image. But the advantage comes from the fully multi-coated lenses. These XR Coatings increase light exponentially while ensuring low dispersion. Along with an ArmorTek coat for protection, these lenses are set to surpass all your expectations.

As for the reticle, you’ll find a Mil-Dot alternative. Boasting MOA adjustments, an SFP design, and a set of capped reset turrets, getting super-accurate shots won’t be much of a problem with this scope.

To make it better, you can add the MAG-Bar system and the fast-focus eyepiece. Together, you can change magnification and aim on your target without losing a single second. 

8. Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Riflescope

Among high-quality scopes for long-range shooting, the Viper HS-T from Vortex stands out for its ease of use and unbeatable precision.

The scope has a unique semi-tactical build, meaning it works like a charm for hunting. Still, it also helps in more tactical scenarios. Boasting a VMR-1 reticle in either MOA or MRAD, you can pick whatever meets better with your demands.

You can also get it in a 4-16x magnification with a 44mm objective or 6-24x magnification with 50mm. Either way, you get the excellent XR fully multi-coated coatings that increase light transmission exponentially. 

Notably, it comes with excellent target-style turrets. They offer super-precise changes with a repeatable finger-adjustable click design. Along with a CRS Zero Stop feature, using them won’t be much of a problem. What’s even better, you obtain a side parallax system for optimal focus at any moment. 

Lastly, you get a next-level construction with an O-ring-sealed and argon-purged build. This combination ensures a waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof construction. 

9. Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Riflescope

Even in the darkest scenarios, spotting targets at long distances don’t have to be an impossible endeavor. The Banner Dusk & Dawn from Bushnell makes that possible.

It boasts a unique set of multi-coated lenses with Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB). The glass offers the most anti-reflective capacity while still promoting maximum light capture. Even in the darkest of hours of the day, watching your target won’t be much of a problem.

It gets even better when you add the 50mm objective lens that captures the largest image possible. Matched up with 6-18x magnification, the scope is ready to tackle hard shots at any time of the day.

That’s not enough, though. You also get a super-practical Multi-X reticle. Paired up with 1/4 MOA turrets, you can get your aim in any target super-fast. This becomes even truer with the fast-focus eyepiece, ideal for increasing accuracy and reducing aiming time.

And when it comes to durability, it also stands out. An O-ring sealed construction with Argon-filled optics delivers a fog-proof and waterproof construction that never disappoints. Shooting in harsh environments won’t be any problem. 

10. Nikon M-Tactical MK1-MOA

You don’t have to stick with long-range scopes only. Some models at mid-range distances can also perform effectively enough for a .22-250 rifle. One great example is the M-Tactical from Nikon.

Designed to work perfectly with semi-automatic rifles, it also works like a charm for hunting ones. Thanks to a 4-12x magnification, you’ll be able to reach over 600 yards of scoping range, making it ideal for hard shots with any .22-250.

The magnification matches with the 30mm main tube. Along with a 42mm objective lens, this combination ensures you get exceptional light transmission. Add up the multi-coated lens for a super-clear image every time.

But if there’s something about this scope that sets it apart is the MK1-MOA reticle. It is designed to make aiming super-simple. When used alongside the easy-to-use spring-loaded turrets, you’ll obtain maximum aiming ease. These turrets are zero-reset and come with grip-oriented knurling.

What’s more, the scope boasts a parallax turret so that you can focus the aim even more easily. This goes amazingly well with the generous eye relief for super-comfy scoping.

Don’t forget it is also a shockproof, fog-proof, and waterproof scope all around. Nitrogen purged ensures next-level thermal resistance. 

How to Buy the Ideal Scope for a .22-250 Rifle?

Even if you have a small idea of what scope to go for, you may still miss a thing or two that matter when finding the ideal one.

That’s why we want to teach you every single factor you shouldn’t dismiss before picking. If you’re genuinely interested in the best scope for 22 250, then you’ll read this brief guide: 

Magnification Level

Without the ideal power level on the scope, you won’t be able to zoom in and out of your target. What’s more, you won’t be able to enjoy the full power of a .22-250 caliber rifle.

For this reason, we typically recommend people to choose a scope that offers at least 9x magnification in the upper level. As for the lower level, anything between 2x and 4x is enough.

Why do we recommend this? Well, it’s simple: most .22-250 rifles shoot accurately at distances between 150 and 600 yards. Anything above is typically too much, adding a lot more bullet drop that makes it harder to hit on target. And for that distances, the above range of magnification is enough. 

Be aware, though; experienced rifle shooters could hit on target even at distances of 1,000 yards or a bit more. In that case, a scope with 12x, 14x, or more magnification would work well. 

Tube & Objective Lens Size

It is a bit complicated to know the ideal tube size and the objective lens to go for. Because we want to make it simpler for you, we’re going to explain what they mean.

When we talk about tube size, we refer to the diameter of the main tube. This is typically the part between the lenses and the turrets. Most scopes have either 1-inch or 30mm tubes. A 30mm is a bit thicker, so it lets more light come in. The 1-inch tube is a bit thinner, but it is a lot less bulky.

Then you have the lenses from which you look. These are called objective lenses, which often contain the reticle. And sure enough, their size is measured in millimeters as well. Here, however, you will have tons of different sizes to consider, going from thin lenses at 30mm up to large 50mm models. 

Suppose you’re looking for maximum light transmission and clarity. In that case, you must consider the thickest scope possible and a wide objective lens.

For a .22-250 rifle, you won’t need more than a 40mm objective and a 1-inch tube for an effective long-range shot. Anything below may affect image clarity. 

Glass Quality & Lens Coatings

While the objective and tube size is essential, glass and tube size also have a considerable say in how clear and bright the image is.

There are various types of glasses. We typically recommend ED (extra-low dispersion) glass for the sharp and blur-free quality. This would be ideal for most .22-250 rifles, especially for the durability it offers.

As for coatings, you will find standard layers, multi-coated, fully coated, and fully multi-coated. Suffice to say, fully multi-coated are always our best bet. They increase the image quality exponentially while last a lot longer, boasting coatings that protect against scratches and external factors. 

Reticle Type

Once you’ve figured out the main factors of a scope, you should proceed to pick the right reticle. This will change your overall experience exponentially, so it is vital to choose the ideal one.

When it comes to a .22-250 rifle, you may need something simple but also accurate. For that reason, a Duplex or any of its variations (Truplex or V-Plex) would be ideal. Another worthwhile reticle type would be a BDC reticle. Either of these two with an MOA system would work perfectly. 

But if you’re a more experienced shooter, however, you may prefer more complicated MIL reticles. Some options like the APMR, VMR-1, and the MK-1 are excellent for MIL adjustments. They may help you increase long-range accuracy exponentially. However, these are mostly ideal for experienced rifle owners.

Turrets & Adjustments

It’s not enough to have an ideal reticle and magnification. You also want something that lets you adjust windage and elevation perfectly. 

For that, nothing would help you more than a set of repeatable turrets. Of course, you’ll want them to have a back-to-zero feature that makes them easier to use. More importantly, be sure they make a click when you move them so that you can gauge the ideal elevation and windage more easily.

If you’re going for a scope with adjustable parallax, then consider a parallax turret as well. It can be beneficial to find the perfect reticle position and make more accurate shots. 

Focal Planes

While searching for a scope, you’ll also find something called the focal plane. Some scopes offer an SFP (second focal plane), while others provide FFP (first focal plane). 

An SFP scope means the reticle doesn’t change in size when you zoom in and out. This can save you a lot of time and effort adjusting the reticle automatically to the magnification level.

Then you’ll find FFP scopes. Here, the reticle moves with the magnification. This is more helpful for experienced users who want more accurate holdover, range, and windage calculations. Sure enough, this one is a lot harder to use. 

For a .22-250 rifle, it all comes down to your demands. If you won’t always be shooting at a range longer than 400 yards, an SFP scope would be ideal. But if you prefer a bit more adjustability and accuracy at longer distances, then go for FFP. 

Eye Relief

Another similar feature to consider would be eye relief. This refers to the ideal distance to put your eye when looking through the scope.

It is crucial to pick the right one because most .22-250 rifles tend to have some recoil. With a short eye relief, you may end up with a hurt eyebrow. At the same time, you want to be as comfortable as possible.

For these two reasons, we typically recommend at least 3.5 inches of eye relief. Anything lower than that would be a bit unsafe and uncomfortable for this caliber.

Construction & Protection

Many people tend to overlook the construction of their scope, as they take it lightly. But it’s super-important, especially if you’re using the scope in highly demanding environments (too hot, too cold, too humid, etc.).

We recommend rugged high-grade metal constructions whether you’re using a .22-250 rifle or any other caliber. Aluminum is typically excellent. If the metal is anodized or brushed, then that’s even better to prevent corrosion and scratches.

Similarly, you’ll want an Argon-purged scope with O-ring seals. This combination makes the scope shock-resistant, waterproof, and fog-proof. 

How to Mount a Scope on a .22-250 Rifle?

Here, we hope to teach you the ins and out of mounting a scope on a .22-250 rifle. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn from the start or a bit experienced looking to refresh your knowledge, this guide may help you:

Prepare for the Job

First off, gather the tools and supplies for the job. This includes the following:

• A gun cradle (or clamp)
• Gunsmithing screwdriver
• Torque screwdriver
• Screws
• Scope level
• Scope adhesive (Rosin or Loctite)

Degrease the Supplies

Some of the supplies may come with some grease or debris that may affect the installation. That’s why we recommend degreasing them. You can use an evaporating cleaner on the screws, rings, screw holes, and bases. 

Secure the Rifle

Make sure the rifle is in a secure position. Here, you will need to use the cradle or clamps. To install the scope more smoothly and without errors, check that the rifle is aligned and level. 

Mount the Scope

Now that all the supplies, rifles, and scope are ready, you can start mounting it. Use the screws and tools as necessary. Be aware that all rifles are slightly different, so try to find where the screws and mounting base go.

Once the scope seems to be in the ideal place, you can check the height. Try to set it up as low as possible first, as it helps with tightening later on. 

Check Eye Relief 

With the scope almost entirely mounted, you’ll want to check the eye relief. The focus is to check whether the distance between your eye and the scope at high magnifications is ideal. It should feel comfortable at both high and low magnification. 

If there was an adjustment to be made, then do it now. Test again and be sure the is appropriately mounted.

Tighten & Secure

Now that you have the scope on the scope, it is time to secure it. We typically recommend using some kind of adhesive to secure it (and prevent any unwanted movement). You can avoid this if you feel the rings and screws are enough)

Tighten everything and secure it. Use to level to check that it is properly adjusted. If yes, then that’s it. You’ve successfully installed the scope on a .22-250 rifle. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

After going through the article, you may have found a thing or two about .22-250 scopes that intrigued you. Sadly, we may not have answered them before. Below, we bring common questions with their answers to fix that: 

What is a .22-250 rifle for?

First of all, how can you know what scope to pick if you don’t know what a .22-250 rifle is for? Luckily, it is a pretty popular caliber of the rifle. Initially, this caliber was designed as an alternative to the smaller .224 caliber but with higher velocity. Due to its effectiveness, it slowly became a staple for hunting varmint.

Nowadays, the .22-250 caliber is mostly dedicated to hunting small animals; thus, why it gets the optional name of .22 Varminter.

How different is a .22-250 from a standard .22 round?

The creation of the .22-250 was to put a large .250-3000 bullet into a .22 rifle by narrowing the bullet’s neck. That’s how the .22-250 came to life. 

People who invented it found that this caliber had incredible velocity. It was faster than a standard .22 round while being slightly thicker. Over time, mass production started. It became the go-to varmint-hunting choice due to its higher speed and more significant caliber than the average .22. 

What is the effective range of a .22-250 rifle?

It depends heavily on the shooter, of course. But generally, a .22-250 rifle can shoot accurately at distances between 400 and 600 yards. 

Can a .22-250 rifle shoot 1,000 yards?

Yes. Most .22-250 rifles can reach a long distance of over 1,000 yards with no problems. However, the effective range is typically 600, meaning that at 1,000 yards, the bullet will probably lose a lot of accuracies. A complex MIL scope and tons of shooting experience would be necessary to shoot accurately at this range. 

Conclusion

The process of choosing the best scope for 22 250 may take you a few hours or a few days. Either way, follow every single one of our recommendations. You will avoid mistakes that way. 

We made sure every scope on our reviews was ideal for any .22-250 rifle. More importantly, we only choose high-quality models that wouldn’t stop working out of anywhere. And with our buying guide, you should more than ready to pick the perfect scope for the job. 

So, if you’re looking to start your varmint-hunting season this year, you should pick one of these scopes. You’ll start with the perfect equipment that doesn’t disappoint. What are you waiting for, then?