For decades, Ruger 10/22 rifles have been the most popular around the world. Whether you want it to quench your thirst for hunting games or need it for defense, this gun can meet all your needs. Since they do not cost much and require inexpensive ammunition, you can afford them even with a tight budget.
Besides, it has a minimum recoiling force which means you can handle the weapon easily and aim for perfect shots. The rifle also offers an area for customization, whereas the lightweight allows the user to carry it for long distances. Thus, for these and several other reasons, many shooters prefer to buy them. If you, too, own a Ruger 10/22 but can’t figure out why the shots are missing, then you must have forgotten to buy a quality riflescope.
Let’s assume you find a herd of deer grazing faraway. To hunt one of them, you will require a zooming mechanism. This will help in having a closer look necessary for precise aiming. Otherwise, approaching directly will alert them, and you will end up watching your prey fleeing away. Hence, to hunt smartly, a riflescope capable of working through different environments is required.
Below, you will find the list of scopes befitting your Ruger 10/22. We have also added a buying guide to share how you can estimate the quality level of scope.
Our Top Picks for Ruger 10/22 Scopes
1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II Riflescopes
Vortex Crossfire II is an entry-level scope with some outstanding features to make your hunting experience worthwhile. This below $200 scope offers a range of variations so you can mount it on different types of weapons. The magnification powers are available from 1-4x to up to 6-24x. You can buy it in 30mm or 1-inch tube diameter. In contrast, the size of the objective lens varies from 24mm to 56mm.
Moreover, you can find different reticle types and choose the one that suits your needs. The standard duplex, duplex with BDC, or duplex with an illuminated dot are the featured reticles. Out of which, dead-hold BDC-type reticles are the most popular. As prior estimation of shots makes aiming easier and shooting more precise.
On the other hand, the optics of Vortex Crossfire II are fully multi-coated, which reduces reflection and enhances the transmission of light. This secures clear vision under bright daylight as well as dim light conditions. For the scope with 3-9x magnification, the field of view is 32’ to 12.9’ at 100 yards. Whereas for the 4-12x magnification model, the FOV ranges between 24.7’ to 8.4’. Sufficient enough for better target acquisition.
To assist in holding zero, the windage and elevation turrets on the scope have a zero-reset feature. Depending upon each model, the adjustments offered vary. 40 MOA is the minimum adjustment option at 6-24x50mm scope. The maximum windage and elevation adjustment is 100 MOA at the 1-4x24mm model. Hence, by using these adjustment knobs, you can customize the position of scope as per your likings.
Pros
- Versatility
- Cost-Effective
- Durable Construction
- Good Quality Turrets
- Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- The Image Quality Lowers at High Magnification
2. Sig Sauer SOR52001 1x20mm Compact Red Dot Sight
If you are looking for a scope comprising an innovative set of features, the Sig Sauer Romeo5 is outright the best. The scope can fit Ruger’s, AR’s, AK’s, or any other rifle’s platform perfectly. As it has a 2 MOA red dot reticle, you can enjoy precise shots in both light and dark. The 2 MOA indicates that the red dot will not cover more than 2 inches of your target, so you can locate it even when zoomed.
Romeo5 runs on a CR2032 battery which is relatively inexpensive and can last for several months. Nonetheless, as the manufacturers supply a battery alongside the scope, you can start sighting right after buying. To extend the battery life, there is a unique MOTAC feature available on these optics. The Motion Activated Illimitations automatically switches on the sight when a slight movement is sensed. Also, it turns off illumination in case of inactivity for 120 seconds.
Furthermore, the scope has ten illumination modes, out of which eight are dedicated for daytime vision, and the two stabilizes your nighttime sighting. So, whether you hunt under the scorching sun or plan to search in the woods, these illumination settings can adjust effortlessly as per your requirement. Plus, the optics have a unique spectra coat that reduces glare and locks brighter images by boosting light transmission.
As for durability, the Romeo5 has an aluminum build that makes it rugged yet lightweight. The scope has an IPX-7 rating which means it can withstand immersion in 1-meter of water. Besides, the tube is nitrogen-purged, so fog or other environmental aspects will not hinder your view. You will also receive extra goodies like a cleaning cloth, cap cover, mounts, and wrench, making this package sufficient for all needs.
Pros
- Outstanding Built
- Waterproof & Fog-Proof
- MOTAC Feature
- Low and High Mount Supplied
- Long Battery Life
Cons
- A Bit Challenging to Make Illumination Settings With Gloves on
3. Simmons 3-9x32mm Matte Black Riflescope
Explicitly designed for .22 rifles, Simmons 3-9x32mm can fit firmly on your Ruger 10/22. But compatibility is not the only feature that has earned this scope a place in the list. A meager price tag ($50 approx.) and a combination of quality features are what make it a definite choice.
If you think that the manufacturers have cut corners with durability for low cost, this single-piece tube with anodized finishing is going to prove all your assumptions wrong. The scope weighs only 9.6 ounces, so you can showcase your skills more actively throughout the shooting or hunting contests. No matter the weather conditions, your scope will function smoothly, thanks to the SureGrip adjustments that provide a stable grip.
On the other hand, the optics installed never fails to offer a clear vision in all types of terrains and environments. As the lens is fully coated, it will provide maximum light transmission from dawn till dusk. Moreover, the HydroShield coating further enhances the shooter’s vision. Whereas the supplied lens caps protect the optics from dust or debris when not in use or during traveling.
The 3-9x magnification allows you to hunt faraway animals. The grooved zoom ring enables making accurate adjustments quickly. And the fast focus ring works perfectly to keep everything in focus. Plus, elevation and windage knobs are smooth to hold yet rigid while dialing to avoid unwanted changes. Threaded caps are also shipped to protect the longevity of these plastic turrets.
Pros
- Affordability
- Lightweight
- High-Grade Lenses with HydroShield Protection
- Rubber Grips Make the Adjustment Easier
- One-Piece Tube
Cons
- Not Suitable for Night Vision
4. Nikon PROSTAFF RIMFIRE II 3-9X40mm Scope
Nikon is a reputable name when it comes to optics, and that’s because of obvious reasons. The manufacturers are well-aware of their customers’ pain points, and they offer a solution to them in the form of affordability and above par quality. Nikon Prostaff Rimfire II has a rich matte casing that will make your weapon look attractive.
The magnification power ranges from 3x to 9x, while the image quality remains consistent throughout the zooming range. The 40mm objective lens is multi-coated and works perfectly for all light and weather conditions. At minimum magnification, you can have a field of view of 33.8’, which is enough for impeccable aiming. However, the FOV at 9x power is 4.4’, which again is adequate for target acquisition.
The BDC 150 reticle available on the scope offers estimated aiming points at varying distances. Besides, such a reticle compliments best with a Ruger 10/22 rifle. For utmost accuracy, there is a parallax adjustment feature that secures crystal-clear vision during long-range shooting contests.
Besides, Nikon Rimfire II supports Spot-On Ballistic technology. It is software that can run on either the computer or cell phone to inquire which ammunition suits best for a particular type of scope. It also educates the user about the right aiming points over different distances based on ammo loaded. Consequently, this technology saves the user time and money by recommending suitable matches to buy and initiate sharpshooting.
Pros
- Low-End Scope
- Can Resist Water, Fog, and Shocks
- Multi-Coated Optics
- Installs Zero-Reset Turrets
- Lifetime Warranty
Cons
- The Caps to Protect Turrets Are Fragile
5. Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 1x20mm Red Dot Sight Riflescope
For beginners, buying this red dot riflescope can be an apt decision as it requires minimal adjustments but can rightly teach you how to aim precise shots. Made of high-grade steel and a matte finish, the TRS-25 is all set to give your 10/22 takedown a sleek look for decades. Nonetheless, we do not drool over appearance only. The low cost, simplicity, versatility, and illuminated reticle have made it a distinguished addition to the market.
As the scope measures only 2.4 inches in length and weighs around 4.2 ounces, you can equip it on your shotguns, handguns, ARs, or other weapons to fire sure-shot targets. You cannot only mount the scope on any rifle, but you can also see through it in all light conditions. Using the adjustment wheel, you can switch between the 11 illumination levels and stick to the most desirable ones.
The 3 MOA red dot allows locating the target promptly and firing on-the-mark shots for the reticle. The MOA dot does not hinder your view while assisting in holding zero. The nitrogen-purged tube never fails to shield the interiors from all deteriorating aspects, resulting in crystal-clear viewing. To further upgrade the image quality, the optics have an amber coating that minimizes reflection and allows better light transmission.
With a fixed magnification of 1x, operating the scope is simply a no-brainer. However, if in the future you wish to add magnification power to your scope, buying a magnifier will suffice for the need. It is easy to install on Picatinny or Weaver rails. And the cheap 3V CR2032 battery can offer up to 3,000 hours of battery life.
Pros
- Easy to Use & Install
- Extremely Rugged
- 11 Illumination Levels
- Can Fit on Different Weapons Platforms
- Unlimited Eye-Relief
Cons
- Unavailability of Auto Shut-Off Feature to Prolong Battery Life
What to Consider When Buying a Scope for 10/22 Takedown
1. Durability
Considering that you are a hunting enthusiast, your search for prey can take you to the roughest terrains. Therefore, the scope you buy should be designed of a material strong enough to face rough handling and withstand the beatings. Aluminum and magnesium are ideal materials as they can work through all types of environmental conditions.
Moreover, the nitrogen purged tubes are confirmed that your scope’s interior is fully protected against fog, dirt and other contaminating particles. O-ring sealed scopes with protective coatings further contribute to increasing longevity. Not only do these features make a scope durable, but they also secure bright and crisp image quality for years.
2. Magnification Power
Your Ruger 10/22 has a maximum shooting range of 100 yards. Trying to shoot beyond this range will fail to yield accurate shots. Buying an expensive scope with a high magnification power of 10x or above will amount to pouring money down the drain. Instead, we suggest buying something more on a fitting end and within the rifle’s shooting range. Ideally, a scope with magnification of 9x or below and more straightforward zooming adjustments can perfectly match Ruger 10/22.
When talking about magnification, the objective lens configuration is also essential to consider. A significant objective lens renders a sharper and brighter viewing experience. On the other hand, the size increase may result in raising the overall weight of the scope. Thus, remaining somewhere between 32mm to 40mm will work best.
3. The Weight
Ruger 10/22 Takedown weighs around 5lbs. Mounting a scope considering equally or heavier than it will result in losing the balance of the rifle. Aiming for long-distance shots will also get complicated. Besides, carrying a gun equipped with bulky optics is tiresome.
On the other hand, a lighter scope can save you from facing all these problems. You can aim sharply, hunt from dawn till dusk without straining muscles, and enjoy a deer or turkey for a meal at dinner.
4. Cost
Generally, a scope having long-range magnification powers is expensive. But as mentioned, with 10/22 takedown, you won’t be needing to extend zooming to a higher level. Hence, buying an affordable scope with essential functions is more than enough to start hunting.
However, we suggest buying from tried and tested brands. As there are reputable manufacturers offering optics at low cost with premier guarantees, choosing them will ensure that the scope will function smoothly for a long time.
The Bottom Line
If you want to stay low-key with your hunting or shooting contests, the Sig Sauer SOR52001 and Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 are the apt scopes to buy. As they have a fixed magnification, the functioning won’t be perplexing, and you can learn sightings through them quickly.
In contrast, the other three products offer customization so that you can adjust the scope following your requirement. As for quality, all of them are made to last for decades, and you can trust them unquestionably.
