10 Best Varmint Scopes for 22-250 Rifles [Reviews]
Varmint hunters often use the .22-250 Remington rifle because of its ability to reach more than 4000 feet per second. They need rifles specifically designed to kill non-native or non-game animals considered to be nuisance vermin destroying native or domestic animals and plants.
If you are looking for the best varmint scopes for 22 250, the first thing you need to determine is your budget. You don’t want to find the perfect scope, with impressive features and end up being disappointed because you couldn’t afford it.
After determining your chosen price range, there are several other things you need to consider. For example, some wonder whether or not the fixed power riflescope is practical for varmint rifles.
Several trusted brands offer models that can handle not only varmint rifles but also other types of files. Other models have good reviews but they are from new and relatively unknown brands.
Comparing all these scopes from popular and unknown brands takes time. To help you choose the best scope for your varmint rifle more quickly, we wrote a review of ten highly recommended models.
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Name |
Magnification & OL |
Reticle |
FOV |
Price |
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Vortex Optics Crossfire II AO Riflescope |
6-18×44 |
Dead-Hold BDC |
15.2-15.3 ft @ 100 yds. 6-18x |
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Leupold Rifleman Review: 4-12x40mm Riflescope |
4-12X40Mm |
Wide Duplex reticle |
@100: 9.4 yards (19.9 ft) |
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Nikon ProStaff BDC Riflescope |
4-12X40 |
BDC reticle |
7.9 – 23.6 ft @ 100 yds |
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Bushnell Trophy Scope |
6-18x50mm |
Multi-X reticle |
20/6@6x / 7/2@18x (ft@100yds/m@100m) |
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Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Riflescope |
3-9×40 |
Circle-X Reticle |
36/12@3x 12/4.3@9x(ft@100yds/m@100m) |
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BARSKA Varmint scope Review : 6-24×42 AO MIL DOT |
6-24×42 |
Mil-Dot |
15/5at6x-4. 2/1. 4at24x(ftat100yds/mat100m) |
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BARSKA 4-16×50 AO Varmint 30 30 Riflescope |
4-16×50 |
30/30 reticle |
16-foot at 4X and 5.7-foot at 16X(@100yds) |
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Millett Illuminated Tactical Riflescope |
6-25 X 56 |
Mil-DotBar reticle |
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Nightforce NXS Review : 5.5-22x56mm |
5.5-22×56 |
Illuminated MOAR Reticle |
(5.5x: 17.5 ft/22x: 4.7 ft)(5.5x: 5.3 m/22x: 1.4 m) |
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Tasco Varmint 2.5-10x 42mm True Mil-Dot Reticle |
2.5-10x 42 |
Mil-Dot Reticle |
35′-9’/11.7-3 (ft.@100yds./m@100m) |
Our Picks
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Vortex Optics Crossfire II AO Riflescope |
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Score: 5 Andrew Garfield
The Crossfire II AO Riflescope from Vortex Optics is one of the best scopes for 22-250 at the entry level. Weighing 23.6 oz., it measures 14.5 x 2 x 1.7 inches while its tube has 30mm diameter and its objective lens diameter measures 50mm.
Fully multi-coated, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II AO Riflescope has increased light transmission. Its parallax setting is 10 yards to infinity and its eye relief is 4 inches.
The V-PLEX reticle of this scope is known as an all-purpose reticle used by hunters. It is designed with various hunting applications in mind.
Along with the scope is a lens cloth and removable lens covers. It also comes with a sunshade that measures 4 inches.
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With the Vortex Optics Crossfire II AO Riflescope, you don’t have to make guesses when dealing with holdover accuracy at long ranges. Its overall accuracy is even further maintained by its 30mm one-piece tube.
Not many affordable scopes can maintain accuracy from any range. If you take accuracy very seriously, this is the scope for you.
Leupold Rifleman Review : 4-12x40mm Riflescope |
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Score: 4.8 Andrew Garfield
Leupold has one of the best scopes for varmint rifles. Named the Rifleman, this affordable scope has 4-12x magnification and 40mm objective diameter.
With black matte finish, the Leupold Rifleman 4-12x40mm Riflescope was built with efficient components and materials, such as 6061-T6 aircraft quality aluminum. It weighs 13.1 oz. and is 12.3 inches long.
This scope is designed to deal with tough conditions. It can handle both the scorching heat of the sun and freezing snow.
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To help you achieve accuracy in varmint hunting consistently, use the Leupold Rifleman 4-12x40mm Riflescope on your rifle. This is the scope that you can regularly use whatever the weather condition is and will stay with you for years.
With this scope, you can hit targets from any distance easily. While you do, you don’t have to worry about your scope being destroyed by dirt, mud or debris.
Nikon ProStaff BDC Riflescope |
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Score: 4.8 Andrew Garfield
In general, the ProStaff BDC Riflescope from Nikon is one of the best all-around scopes out there. It is made of polymer and aluminum and it has extreme magnification that makes it ideal for varmint rifles for .22-250 purposes.
The Nikon ProStaff BDC Riflescope has a 4-12x magnification and a 40mm objective lens. With the versatile magnification range, you get the flexibility that you need for the open prairies, heavy timber or any type of hunting situation.
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If you are not into high powered and oversized scopes, go for traditional scopes such as the Nikon ProStaff BDC Riflescope. This is ideal for hunting rifles.
This is the scope for those who are looking for one that is easy to zero. You may find the zoom stiff initially but it will eventually become smoother as you rotate it a few more times.
Bushnell Trophy Scope Review |
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Score: 4.2 Andrew Garfield
This lets you shoot very well even beyond close range, and for hunters and target shooters that’s all well and good. It can even be used for long range varmint shooting.
It helps that it’s a Bushnell, since that’s a brand that most people recognize for their commitment to quality.
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So what if it’s not as affordable as some other no-name models? It’s not just good, it’s a Bushnell. What you’re really paying for is exquisite accuracy and reliability, with the capacity to keep zero with no trouble. If you’re going to target prey at more than a hundred yards out, having this scope makes a whole lot of sense.
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Riflescope |
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Score: 4.6 Andrew Garfield
The Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn is an all-around scope. As the name suggests it’s ideal for early morning and early evening use. It is also made of heavy duty materials so it’s a good investment
The magnification level is pretty good. Even at the max the image doesn’t get blurry so it’s easy to see no matter what the time is. We also have to add this scope is waterproof.
A lot of scopes claim to be that, but the Bushnell does a batter job at it than most. It is also fog proof so the image you see is always clear. The Bushnell scope provides a lot of adjustment options, but they’re easy to use.
The scope is also low maintenance. The scope is also easier to mount compared to others and compatibility level is high. The scope’s manual is not the most comprehensive but the scope’s easy to use.
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The Bushnell Banner is a well-designed scope. It’s built primarily for hunting but you can also use it to take down varmint in your property, so we recommend this.
BARSKA Varmint scope Review |
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Score: 4 Andrew Garfield
This riflescope makes our list as it is ideal for anyone who wants a no frills scope. Its objective lens is very easy to adjust so you can fine tune your attempts to take out varmint. The high turrets’ easy grip adds to the convenience.
Its objective lens is not only large, but it is also effective in transmitting light. In terms of clarity the scope is among the best in this range. The Barska is designed mostly for hunting varmint, but it’s just as effective for hunting out in the woods.
The windage and elevation are quick to adjust so it’s easy for beginners to use. The scope itself is low maintenance so you can use it for a long time without cleaning. If it does need cleaning it has a lens cloth and scope cap so you don’t have to buy one to maintain this.
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The Barska 6-24×42 is a good rifle for killing varmint. It is a powerful riflescope, but it’s good for hunting varmint and other critters. For a lot of people it should do fine.
BARSKA 4-16×50 AO Varmint 30 30 Riflescope |
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Score: 4.3 Andrew Garfield
The Barska is a scope that improves the accuracy of any hunting rifle. Packaged with scope caps, the 16×50 has a 30/3 reticle and multi coated optics so you can be more effective with your aim.
With it 16x magnification you can zoom in on that varmint, and the 3.5 inch eye piece makes it comfortable to use. Its exit pupil is 12.5-3.1 mm, making it even more convenient for shooting. The optics are also waterproof, shockproof and fog proof.
The scope works well on different rifles, and it handles recoil well. It is also durable and once on your rifle won’t snap off. Even after firing a hundred rounds or more, the scope remains intact, so it’s good not just for varmint but also shooting a few practice rounds.
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The Barska 16×50 is just the kind of scope you will need to hunt down varmint. It is also a good choice for those who like hunting and want to improve their shooting accuracy without upgrading their rifle.
Millett Illuminated Tactical Riflescope |
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Score: 4.5 Andrew Garfield
Crafted with a matte black finish, the Illuminated Side Focus Tactical Riflescope from Millett Industries, a division of Bushnell, looks sleek. It has a 30mm tube diameter and it is a little large as compared to the Vortex Optics Crossfire II AO Riflescope.
The Millett Illuminated Side Focus Tactical Riflescope has a 50mm objective diameter, Mil-DotBar reticle, multicoated optics and 3.5-inch eye relief. The scope comes with a cover and flip-up lens covers.
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In terms of accuracy and durability, the Millett Illuminated Side Focus Tactical Riflescope is one of the best models in the affordable price range. Despite its affordability, it is packed with features that are very useful during hunting.
This scope is beautifully designed and is built to last for years. You get bright and crisp image from it, thanks to its multicoated optics, and its reticle performs well in varied lighting conditions.
Nightforce NXS Review |
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Score: 5 Andrew Garfield
One scope from Nightforce Optics is recommended for varmint rifles and is ideal for game hunters. Regarded as one of the best scopes for long ranges today, the NXS Riflescope has 5.5-22x56mm magnification and a 56mm objective lens.
Originally designed for the American military, the Nightforce NXS5.5-22x56mm Riflescope is engineered with five different types of reticles. These are MOAR reticle, Velocity 1000 reticle, MOAR-20 MOA reticle, MIL-R-5 Mils reticle and MIL-DOT reticle.
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The Nightforce NXS5.5-22x56mm Riflescope is packed with features that enable it to deliver remarkable precision accuracy at very long ranges. It is an advanced optic that offers flawless tracking, sleek appearance and easy adjustment, among many other advantages.
The reticle of this scope has an impressively solid build. You can use this scope on large caliber rifles and still maintain zero and superior image quality.
Tasco Varmint Scope Review |
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Score: 4.3 Andrew Garfield
The Tasco Varmint is a well named scope, as that is what it is made for. With its clear optics you’ll be able to target varmint even with limited light.
The magnification is good for up to 2.5-10x so you don’t need to move from your spot to see the varmint and hit it. The multicoated optics and mil dot reticle work well for long range hunting as well.
For ease of use and clarity makes the Tasco Varmint more than adequate for shooting. There are ample adjustment options but it’s still easy to use.
And it is also accurate, allowing you to shoot up to 400 meters with a variety of rifles. The Tasco lets you shoot up to 725 m, so it is more versatile than the standard rifle scope.
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The Tasco Varmint is well named as it’s especially suited for varmint and critters. With its clear optics, magnification and durability, it’s what homeowners will find useful to keep the critters away.
How We Wrote This Review
There are very few available lists recommending scopes ideal for varmint rifles available. To make a list of ten recommended models, we studied the recommendations and reviews of varmint hunters themselves.
Some models recommended by varmint hunters are from unknown brands. However, there are no reliable sites that support the claims of such recommendations.
For the most part, we focused on the recommended models from popular brands. These scopes have comprehensive lists of features available and several reviews written by various gun enthusiasts.
The ten scopes that made it to our list are from Vortex Optics, Millett, Nikon, Leupold and Nightforce. Most of these scope models are for hunters who are on a budget.
How We Chose the Top 10
There are six aspects that you need to check when you are looking for the best varmint rifle scope for .22-250. These are lens coating and quality, overall durability, field of view, adjustments, magnification, dimensions and reticles.
It is the lens coating that gives the scope resistance, durability and clear vision no matter what the weather condition is. In terms of overall durability, consider not only the materials used and the coating but also the build quality of the adjustment pieces and the waterproofing quality.
Among the materials that make rifle scopes durable is the aircraft grade aluminum. Partnered with the perfect coating, this material can make the scope last for a lifetime. What gives the scope its field of view is the width of the objective lens.
Who Should Buy These Scopes?
There are many types of shooters who can find what kind of scope they need from our list. Those who want to shoot at difference distances up to 600 yards will like the Beileshi Tactical 2.5-10×40, but only if their rifle has the 20mm weaver dovetail rail.
Those who like to shoot during low light conditions will appreciate the Dusk and Dawn Brightness multi-coating in the Bushnell. If you want something tough but a bit big, the Pinty is a great choice.
The Hawk Varmint is for those who insist on scopes that will work through recoil every time, while small game shooters may go for the OTW.
For 22-250, there is a wide variety of scope with different objective sizes to choose from. In terms of adjustments, the two different types available on rifle scopes are elevation adjustment and windage adjustment.
In terms of magnification, you get remarkable target determination from scopes with 16x and above, which are heavier, more complicated and more expensive.
When it comes to dimensions, the most important things you need to consider are the sizes of the scope’s objective and the ocular lens. As for reticles, you want the design to fit your specific requirements.
Conclusion
Depending on your preferences, each of the scope included in this list can be considered the best varmint rifle scope for 22 250. You can expect these ten scopes to excel in lens coating and quality, overall durability, field of view, adjustments, magnification, dimensions and reticles.
While the ten scopes offer consistent accuracy, the levels are different. For example, if you want a scope that works for many different shooting conditions, you should take a look at the Beileshi Tactical 2.5-10×40 Rifle Gun Scope.
If you need a scope for target shooting or hunting , expensive topnotch scopes are ideal. If you have the budget, you may want to go with the Bushnell Trophy 6-18x50mm Rifle Scope with Multi-X Reticle. It’s not cheap, but there’s no debate about the Bushnell brand.
If you want a scope that’s primarily for tactical closer range use, then you will want to check out the Pinty 1.5-4x30mm Tactical Chevron Reticle Riflescope.
For precision accuracy at very long ranges, the OTW 6-24x50mm Rifle Scope does the job excellently. It’s also extremely affordable even while it provides you with a lot of goodies with the kit.
The Hawke Varmint 6-24×44 Rifle Scope is a bit more expensive, and it even lacks accessories like rings. On the other hand, it’s very durable and it even comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
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