In this guide, we explore the best 22 LR scopes for squirrel hunting, offering an ideal balance of magnification, reticle style and durability. Squirrel hunting with a .22 LR rifle is a blend of skill, patience, and precision. Whether you’re in dense woods or open fields, a high-quality scope can make the difference between a successful hunt and a missed opportunity.
The best 22 LR scopes for squirrel hunting are tuned for close-to-mid-range accuracy, swift target acquisition and excellent light transmission to help adapt to different lighting conditions.
When hunting squirrels with a .22 Long Rifle, the right optics make all the difference. In this guide, we will walk you through the best 22 LR scopes for squirrel hunting that offer a perfect mix of clarity, precision, and practicality.
Why a Good Scope Matters?
When hunting squirrels with a .22 LR, every shot counts. A high-quality scope is more than just a magnifier. It is your key to accuracy, quick target acquisition, and a successful hunt.
The key reasons why a good scope matters include:
- Precision on small targets: Squirrels are small and often move quickly, so a clear scope allows you to place shots accurately.
- Improved target acquisition: Good optics help you spot and track squirrels in dense foliage without delay.
- Compensation for bullet drop: While the .22 LR is effective at short ranges, a quality scope with appropriate reticles or adjustable turrets helps account for trajectory changes beyond 50 yards.
- Enhanced low-light performance: Squirrel hunting often occurs at dawn or dusk. A scope with good light transmission lenses lets you see clearly in dim conditions.
- Reduced shooting fatigue: Furthermore, the best 22 LR scopes for squirrel hunting are lightweight and ergonomically designed to make long hunts more comfortable.
- Increased confidence and consistency: Lastly, reliable optics let you focus on the hunt, ensuring more successful and ethical shots.
7 Best 22 LR Scopes for Squirrel Hunting
Top .22 LR scopes will help you spot and take down squirrels with confidence and precision. From budget-friendly options to premium choices, we have reviewed dedicated riflescopes tailored to the unique needs of small-game shooters.
Let’s take a look, shall we?
1) BSA Optics Sweet .22 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope
The BSA Optics Sweet .22 6-18x40mm scope is one of the best 22 LR scopes for squirrel hunting and harbors essential features to help you spot and take down squirrels with confidence and precision. It is designed specifically for small-caliber rifles, providing exceptional clarity and precision for varmint hunting, target shooting, and small-game applications.
With a magnification range of 6-18x, this scope offers flexibility for both short and longer-range shots. The 40mm objective lens ensures a bright and clear image, even in low-light conditions, while the fully coated optics minimize glare and enhance light transmission.
Furthermore, its adjustable side focus parallax allows shooters to fine-tune the scope for different distances, improving accuracy and reducing eye strain during prolonged sessions. The scope is also lightweight yet durable, making it easy to mount without adding significant weight to your rifle.
Pros
- Clear, bright optics with fully coated lenses
- Lightweight and easy to mount
- 6-18x magnification suitable for various ranges
- Adjustable side focus parallax for precision shooting
- Precise 1/4 MOA windage and elevation adjustments
- Durable aluminum construction
Cons
- Lacks illuminated reticle
- Limited weatherproofing for extreme conditions
2) Bushnell Banner R3 3-9x 40mm Rimfire Rifle Scope
The Bushnell Banner R3 3-9x 40mm Rimfire Rifle Scope is an impressive optic designed for precision shooting at a very accessible price point. It stands out as one of the best 22 LR scopes for squirrel hunting thanks to its versatile magnification, rimfire design, excellent transmission, and unbeatable value.
Its 3-9x magnification range makes it highly versatile, suitable for both close-range target practice and moderate-distance hunting. The versatile zoom power is complemented by a 40mm objective lens that provides a bright, clear sight picture even in low-light conditions, while the multi-coated optics reduce glare while enhancing contrast.
Regarding construction, its lightweight, compact design makes it easy to mount on a variety of rimfire rifles without adding unnecessary bulk. Additionally, it handles recoil well, maintaining zero over repeated shots, which is crucial for consistent accuracy.
In practical use, the Bushnell Banner R3 demonstrates reliability and performance that punches above its class. Its clear reticle is easy to see, and the crisp adjustment turrets respond smoothly without slipping, providing confidence when zeroing in on a target.
Pros
- Bright, clear optics with a 40mm objective lens
- Smooth and precise windage and elevation adjustments
- Lightweight and compact design for easy mounting
- Holds zero reliably, even with repeated shooting
- Affordable option with solid performance
- Easy-to-see reticle for fast target acquisition
- Durable construction for long-term use
Cons
- Not as feature-rich as higher-end scopes
3) Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 30 4-16x50mm Rifle Scope
As one of the best 22 LR scopes for squirrel hunting, the Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 30 4-16x50mm Rifle Scope is a versatile and reliable optic designed for shooters seeking precision and clarity across a variety of distances.
Its 4-16x magnification range provides flexibility for both close-range hunting and long-range target shooting, while the large 50mm objective lens ensures excellent light transmission for bright, clear images even in low-light conditions.
Optically, the scope features fully multi-coated optics that enhance contrast and color fidelity, making it easier to distinguish targets in dense foliage or dim environments.
Furthermore, the robust 30mm tube offers durability and consistent performance under harsh field conditions, and the adjustable parallax and crisp turrets allow for precise windage and elevation adjustments.
In terms of usability, the Hawke Vantage 30 is intuitive and user-friendly, making it suitable for both novice and experienced marksmen. The reticle options are thoughtfully designed to provide quick target acquisition without cluttering the sight picture, and the scope holds zero reliably even after repeated recoil.
A balanced mix of features tailored for small game hunting and durable construction make this scope a dependable .22 LR companion for taking down squirrels season after season.
Pros
- Wide 4-16x magnification for versatility
- Large 50mm objective lens for excellent light gathering
- Fully multi-coated optics for enhanced clarity and color fidelity
- Durable 30mm tube construction
- Precise and reliable adjustment turrets
Cons
- Lacks some advanced features of premium scopes
4) Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 2-7x33mm Rifle Scope
Takes the guesswork out of trajectory at common rimfire ranges with the Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire 2-7x33mm rifle scope. This versatile optic is designed for precision and reliability in rimfire shooting, making it one of the best 22LR scopes for squirrel hunting.
Its 2-7x magnification range makes it ideal for both close-range target shooting and medium-distance varmint hunting, providing clear and crisp images throughout the zoom spectrum. Furthermore, the 33mm objective lens gathers ample light, delivering bright visuals even in low-light conditions such as early morning or late evening hunts.
Reticle-wise, the scope’s FireDot reticle is highly intuitive, allowing shooters to quickly acquire and maintain targets with confidence. Moreover, eye relief is generous, minimizing the risk of recoil impact while providing a comfortable shooting experience.
Durability and ease of use are standout features of the VX-Freedom Rimfire. The scope is built with a rugged one-piece tube and Leupold’s legendary waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof construction, ensuring it performs reliably in challenging outdoor conditions. It also features a fast-focus eyepiece for quick reticle adjustments.
Pros
- Crisp and clear optics
- Lightweight and well-balanced
- Durable, weather-resistant construction
- Fast-focus eyepiece for quick adjustments
- Easy-to-use windage and elevation turrets
Cons
- Limited to close and medium distance shooting
5) Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope
Vortex optics are renowned for their quality craftsmanship, and the Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope is no different. It is a versatile and reliable optic designed for rimfire rifles, offering a balance of precision and affordability.
Its 2-7x magnification range makes it adaptable for both close-range target shooting and longer-range plinking, while the 35mm objective lens delivers a bright, clear image even in low-light conditions.
Furthermore, the scope features fully multi-coated lenses that enhance light transmission and reduce glare, providing sharp, crisp visuals across the entire field of view.
Regarding handling, its compact and lightweight design ensures it doesn’t weigh down the rifle, making it easy to handle and maneuver in various shooting scenarios.
Above all, the scope also comes with Vortex’s Diamondback optics quality, ensuring a durable, fog-proof, and shock-resistant performance that withstands regular use in the field.
An adaptable magnification range offering a wide field of view for quick target acquisition, a dedicated reticle with a clear aiming point that makes lining up on fast-moving targets simple, and a rugged build are some of the main attributes that make the Diamondback rimfire scope one of the best 22 LR scopes for squirrel hunting.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact design
- Clear, bright optics with multi-coated lenses
- Durable, shock-proof, and fog-resistant
- Adjustable side focus and precise turrets
- BDC reticle for easy holdovers
- Versatile 2-7x magnification
Cons
- Limited low-light performance compared to higher-end scopes
6) Athlon Optics Neos 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope
As one of the best 22 LR scopes for squirrel hunting, it delivers impressive performance for shooters seeking a versatile, mid-range optic without breaking the bank. Its 4-12x magnification range allows for accurate target acquisition at both short and medium distances.
Moreover, the scope features a fully multi-coated optical system that enhances light transmission, delivering a bright and clear sight picture even in low-light conditions.
The 1-inch tube is constructed from durable aircraft-grade aluminum, offering reliable strength and resistance to recoil, while being lightweight enough to maintain the rifle’s balance. Additionally, the scope comes equipped with precise windage and elevation adjustments, allowing shooters to zero in accurately with minimal effort.
Other handy features it is coupled with are a reticle that is easy to see for quick target acquisition, and a magnification ring that operates smoothly without being too loose or too tight.
Pros
- Fully multi-coated lenses for bright, clear optics
- Durable 1-inch aircraft-grade aluminum tube
- Smooth and precise windage and elevation adjustments
- Lightweight and user-friendly design
- Resistant to recoil and everyday use
Cons
- Lacks side parallax adjustment
- No illuminated reticle option
7) Crimson Trace Brushline 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope
Last but not least, we have the Crimson Trace Brushline 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope. This optic impresses with its combination of clarity, durability, and versatility, making it a solid choice for both hunters and sport shooters.
Its 4-12x magnification range allows for effective targeting at short to medium distances, while the 40mm objective lens provides bright, clear images even in low-light conditions like dawn or dusk.
Regarding optics, the scope features fully coated optics that enhance light transmission and reduce glare, offering crisp, high-contrast views of your target. The reticle is precise and easy to use, allowing for quick target acquisition and reliable shot placement.
Additionally, the scope’s construction is rugged, with a waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant design that withstands harsh field conditions without compromising performance.
In addition to everything else, the turrets are tactile and easy to manipulate, allowing for quick windage and elevation corrections, while the fast-focus eyepiece ensures your reticle is always sharp.
Pros
- Clear and bright optics
- Easy to mount
- Durable, shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof construction
- Easy-to-use turrets for precise windage and elevation adjustments
- Lightweight design, comfortable for extended use
- Reliable zero retention even after repeated use
- Affordable without sacrificing performance
Cons
- Limited low-light performance compared to higher-end scopes
Further Reading
How to Choose the Best 22 LR Scopes for Squirrel Hunting
Magnification Range
For squirrel hunting, you don’t need extremely high magnification. Typically, a low to moderate range, like 2-7x or 3-9x, is ideal. Lower magnification allows you to track quick, small targets easily, while the upper range provides enough zoom for clearer shots at slightly longer distances. Too much magnification can narrow your field of view, making it harder to spot squirrels in thick foliage.
Objective Lens Size
Next, consider the objective lens size, which determines how much light enters the scope, affecting brightness and clarity. A lens between 20mm and 40mm is usually sufficient for daylight hunting.
A slightly larger lens can improve visibility in low-light conditions, such as dawn or dusk, but heavier lenses may throw off the balance of a lightweight .22 LR rifle. The key is to balance brightness and portability.
Read: Best Vortex Scopes for 308 Hunting
Reticle Type
The best 22 LR scopes for squirrel hunting feature a simple, easy-to-see reticle. Duplex or fine crosshair reticles provide precision without cluttering the view. For hunters who often encounter low-light conditions under tree cover, an illuminated reticle can make a difference, but it should be subtle enough not to blind or distract the shooter.
Eye Relief
Another important factor to consider is eye relief. This is the distance between your eye and the scope at which you can see the full sight picture. For a .22 LR, 3 to 4 inches of eye relief is generally sufficient. Adequate eye relief prevents scope bite from recoil, allows quick target acquisition, and makes it easier to maintain situational awareness in fast-paced hunting scenarios.
Read: Best Scopes for 17 HMR
Durability and Build Quality
Even though 22 LR rifles have minimal recoil, a durable scope is still essential. A sturdy aluminum or alloy body ensures the scope withstands the bumps and knocks of outdoor use. Waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant features keep the lens clear and the internal mechanisms functioning, no matter the weather or terrain.
Adjustment Turrets and Zeroing
Moreover, accurate windage and elevation adjustments are important for small targets at varying distances. Smooth, precise turrets let you zero your scope and maintain accuracy throughout a hunting session. Some of the best 22 LR scopes for squirrel hunting come with capped or locking turrets to prevent accidental changes while moving through brush or climbing over obstacles.
Weight and Balance
Lastly, consider weight and balance. Squirrel hunting often requires walking quietly through dense forests or sitting in elevated positions. A lightweight, compact scope keeps your rifle balanced and reduces fatigue. Additionally, a well-balanced rifle is easier to swing, track fast-moving targets, and maintain steady shots over long periods.
Read: Best Budget Spotting Scopes
FAQs
Q: What Magnification is Best for Squirrel Hunting?
A low to moderate magnification, typically 2-7x or 3-9x, works best. It balances clear sighting with a wide field of view to spot fast-moving squirrels.
Q: Do I Need An Illuminated Reticle?
It’s not mandatory, but the illumination gives you an edge when hunting squirrels in low-light conditions. Choose one with adjustable brightness to avoid glare or distraction.
Q: How Should I Maintain my Scope?
To maintain your scope, clean the lenses with a clean with a microfiber cloth, store it in a protective case, and check turrets for smooth operation. Avoid rough handling to maintain accuracy and durability.
Conclusion
To wrap it up, the right scope for squirrel hunting makes it easier to acquire targets quickly, take precise shots, and enjoy a more productive and satisfying hunting experience. Look at the attributes that each rifle scope brings to the table and choose one that works best for your budget and hunting needs.