Ever felt like your .22 rifle wasn’t reaching its full potential? Maybe you’re hitting the target, but not quite where you want to. A good scope can make all the difference, turning frustrating misses into satisfying bullseyes. Choosing the right .22 rifle scope for target shooting can be tough. There are so many options! It’s easy to get lost in the details and end up with something that doesn’t quite fit your needs.
Finding the perfect scope is important if you want to improve your accuracy and have more fun at the range. A good scope will let you see your target clearly, even at longer distances. It will also help you adjust your aim precisely. This means tighter groupings and more confidence in your shooting.
In this post, we’ll break down the key things to look for in a .22 rifle scope for target shooting. We’ll talk about magnification, objective lens size, reticle types, and more. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what features matter most and be ready to choose the best scope for your rifle and your shooting style. Let’s dive in and find the perfect optic to help you hit your mark every time!
Our Top 5 22 Rifle Scope For Target Shooting Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 22 Rifle Scope For Target Shooting Detailed Reviews
1. Highwild Resetting Target
Rating: 9.0/10
The Highwild Resetting Target offers a fun and convenient way to practice your .22 rimfire shooting skills. This target system features five steel prairie dog targets that automatically reset after you knock them all down. The large size and 2.5-inch targets provide a good challenge, helping you improve your accuracy at different distances. It’s designed for rimfire handguns and rifles using .22 caliber soft nose ammo.
What We Like:
- The auto-reset feature is a huge time-saver. You don’t have to walk downrange to reset the targets.
- It’s made of heavy-duty steel, so it can withstand repeated impacts.
- The target is easy to set up and take down. You just stick the feet into the ground.
- It folds flat, which makes it easy to store and transport.
- The included bullseye stickers help you see where you hit the target.
What Could Be Improved:
- It is strictly for .22 caliber rimfire, so you can’t use it with other calibers.
- While sturdy, very hard ground can make sticking the feet in a challenge.
- Some users might prefer larger target sizes for longer-range shooting.
In conclusion, the Highwild Resetting Target is a great investment for .22 rimfire enthusiasts who want a durable, portable, and self-resetting target system. It makes target practice more enjoyable and efficient.
2. Generic Acme Precision Benchrest Targets 22lr – X-Shot Scoring Software Compatible – 50 Pack
Rating: 9.2/10
The Generic Acme Precision Benchrest Targets are made for .22LR rifles. This 50-pack of red targets is compatible with X-Shot Scoring Software. Each target measures 11.7″ x 16.5″. They are great for practicing your shooting skills.
What We Like:
- The 15-point card stock is rigid. It’s easy to hang the target. You should use a cardboard backer for extra support.
- It works with X-Shot Scoring Software. This makes it easy to track your scores.
- The target has clear scoring rings. You can quickly see where your shots land.
- A 50-pack offers great value. It is good for frequent shooters and gun clubs.
- The targets are affordable. They are well-suited for practice at outdoor ranges. You can sight in a new gun or keep your skills sharp.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 15-point card stock could be thicker for better durability without a backer.
- More color options besides red could be offered.
- Pre-printed numbering on the scoring rings would be helpful. This would speed up scoring.
These targets are a good value for the price. They are a solid choice for anyone who shoots .22LR rifles regularly.
3. Highwild Triple Gong Spinner Target – Rated for .22 Rimfire Rifles and .22 Handguns – No Assembly Required
Rating: 9.0/10
The Highwild Triple Gong Spinner Target is a fun and easy way to practice your shooting skills. It’s designed for .22 rimfire rifles and handguns. The target comes ready to use. You don’t need to assemble anything. Just stick the legs into the ground and start shooting! It’s a great way to spend time at the range or in a safe outdoor area.
What We Like:
- It’s ready to use right out of the box. No assembly is needed!
- The target is made of strong steel. It can handle repeated hits from .22 rounds.
- It has three different sized targets. This adds variety to your shooting practice.
- The target automatically resets after each shot. You don’t have to walk downrange.
- It comes with bright target stickers. These make it easy to see the targets, even from far away.
- The portable design makes it easy to carry to different shooting spots.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s only rated for .22 rimfire. You can’t use it with larger caliber firearms.
- The legs might not be stable on very uneven ground.
This target is a great choice for .22 enthusiasts who want a simple and engaging shooting experience. With its durable construction and ease of use, the Highwild Triple Gong Spinner Target will provide hours of shooting fun.
4. 10 Pack – 12â€x18†Sight In Splatterburst Target – Instantly See Your Shots Burst Bright Florescent Yellow Upon Impact
Rating: 9.4/10
The 10 Pack – 12â€x18†Sight In Splatterburst Target lets you see your shots clearly. When you hit the target, a bright yellow burst appears. This means you don’t have to walk close to see where you shot. The targets are made in the USA. They are tough and can handle many shots from any type of gun. You can get them in packs of 25 or 50 if you need more.
What We Like:
- You can easily see your shots from far away. No more walking back and forth!
- The bright yellow bursts make it super clear where you hit.
- The target is strong and doesn’t rip easily. It can take a lot of hits.
- These targets work with all kinds of guns.
- They are made in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- The pack only has 10 targets. It would be nice if a smaller pack with fewer targets was available for people who don’t shoot often.
- The targets are not self-adhesive. You need to use tape or tacks to stick them up.
If you want to make sighting in your firearm easier, these targets are a great pick. You will spend less time walking and more time shooting.
5. KNINE OUTDOORS Hunting Shooting Taget Airgun Spinner Target
Rating: 9.1/10
The KNINE OUTDOORS Hunting Shooting Target is a fun and easy way to improve your shooting skills. This spinner target is built tough to handle both air rifles and .22 caliber firearms. It comes ready to use right out of the box, so you can start practicing right away. The three different sized targets will challenge you to become a more accurate shooter.
What We Like:
- It’s rated for both .177 and .22 air rifles, and it can even handle .22 rimfire rifles and handguns.
- The target is made of durable iron, so it can withstand a lot of shots.
- You get three targets with different diameters (1.65″, 2.25″, and 3.65″) to practice on.
- The 5mm target thickness provides good durability.
- Target stickers are included in two colors, so you can easily see where you’re hitting.
- No assembly is required. Just stick the leg in the ground and start shooting.
- The different sized targets help you improve your shooting accuracy.
- KNINE OUTDOORS offers 7/24 customer service if you need help.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, continuous use with .22 rimfire might eventually cause wear.
- The ground stake might not be ideal for all types of terrain. Consider a more stable base for very hard or soft ground.
In conclusion, the KNINE OUTDOORS Hunting Shooting Target is a great choice for shooters of all skill levels. It provides a fun and challenging way to improve your accuracy with both air rifles and .22 firearms.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best .22 Rifle Scope for Target Shooting
If you love target shooting with your .22 rifle, a good scope can make a huge difference. It helps you see the target clearly and shoot more accurately. This guide will walk you through what to look for when buying a .22 rifle scope for target shooting.
Key Features to Look For
When choosing a scope, consider these important features:
- Magnification: Magnification tells you how much bigger the target will appear. For target shooting, a variable power scope (like 3-9x or 4-12x) is often best. It lets you adjust the zoom depending on the distance to the target.
- Objective Lens Diameter: This is the size of the front lens of the scope. A larger lens (40mm or bigger) lets in more light, which makes the image brighter, especially in low-light conditions.
- Reticle: The reticle is the crosshair or aiming point inside the scope. Different reticle types exist. A fine crosshair is good for precise aiming, while a mil-dot reticle can help you estimate distances.
- Adjustments (Turrets): Turrets are knobs on the scope that you turn to adjust the point of impact. Look for turrets that are easy to grip and adjust, and that “click” clearly so you know how much you’ve moved them. MOA (Minute of Angle) adjustments are common.
- Parallax Adjustment: Parallax is when the reticle appears to move on the target if your eye moves. A scope with parallax adjustment lets you correct for this, making your shots more accurate, especially at longer distances. Many .22 scopes will have a fixed parallax set at 50 yards.
- Eye Relief: This is the distance between your eye and the scope lens where you can see a full image. It’s important to have enough eye relief to avoid getting “scope bite” (when the scope hits your eye during recoil).
Important Materials
The materials used to make a scope affect its durability and performance.
- Tube Material: Most scopes have aluminum tubes. Aluminum is lightweight and strong. Some higher-end scopes use steel, which is even stronger but also heavier.
- Lens Coatings: Lens coatings reduce glare and improve light transmission. Look for scopes with multi-coated lenses for the best image quality.
- Internal Components: The quality of the internal lenses and mechanisms affects the scope’s clarity and accuracy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors can make a scope better or worse.
- Glass Quality: High-quality glass provides a sharper, brighter image with better color fidelity.
- Construction Quality: A well-built scope will be more durable and hold its zero (the point of impact) better. Look for scopes that are waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
- Repeatability of Adjustments: When you adjust the turrets, the point of impact should change predictably and consistently. This is important for making accurate adjustments in the field.
- Warranty: A good warranty shows that the manufacturer stands behind their product.
User Experience and Use Cases
Consider how you will be using the scope. If you’re shooting targets at a fixed distance, a simple scope with fixed parallax may be fine. If you’re shooting at varying distances, a scope with adjustable parallax and magnification will be more useful.
Think about the size and weight of the scope. A larger, heavier scope may be more stable, but it can also make your rifle feel unbalanced. A smaller, lighter scope may be easier to carry and handle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What magnification is best for .22 target shooting?
A: Variable magnification scopes in the 3-9x or 4-12x range are popular. They allow you to adjust the zoom based on the distance to the target.
Q: What does “parallax” mean, and why is it important?
A: Parallax is when the reticle appears to move on the target if your eye moves. Adjustable parallax helps correct this for better accuracy.
Q: What is MOA, and how does it relate to scope adjustments?
A: MOA (Minute of Angle) is a unit of measurement for adjusting the scope. One MOA typically moves the point of impact 1 inch at 100 yards.
Q: What is eye relief, and why is it important?
A: Eye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope lens where you can see a full image. It’s important to have enough eye relief to avoid getting “scope bite.”
Q: What does “multi-coated lenses” mean?
A: Multi-coated lenses have multiple layers of coating that reduce glare and improve light transmission, resulting in a brighter, clearer image.
Q: What’s the difference between a fixed and adjustable objective?
A: A fixed objective doesn’t have parallax adjustment, while an adjustable objective lets you correct for parallax at different distances.
Q: Are expensive scopes always better?
A: Not always. While more expensive scopes often have better glass and construction, you can find excellent .22 scopes at reasonable prices.
Q: How do I mount a scope on my .22 rifle?
A: You’ll need scope rings that fit your rifle’s mounting system (like dovetail or Weaver rails). Follow the instructions that come with the rings to mount the scope securely.
Q: What is a mil-dot reticle?
A: A mil-dot reticle has dots along the crosshairs that can be used to estimate distances to the target. It’s more commonly used in long range centerfire rifles, but can be beneficial for .22LR as well.
Q: How do I sight in my .22 rifle scope?
A: Start by shooting at a target at a known distance (like 25 or 50 yards). Adjust the turrets to move the point of impact until it matches your aiming point.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Robert Contreras, a passionate archery instructor based in the USA. With years of experience under my belt, I’ve dedicated my life to mastering the art of archery and sharing its intricacies with enthusiasts of all levels. Through my website, 10Bows.com, I invite you to explore a treasure trove of tips, techniques, and personal insights that reflect my journey in the world of archery. Whether you’re picking up a bow for the first time or refining your skills, I’m here to help guide you toward precision, focus, and a deeper appreciation for this timeless sport.