Best Scope for .22-250 Rifles – 2022 Guide

.22-250 rifles are known for their high velocity and flat trajectory. These traits make them ideal for hunting small game. But there is a way that you can further improve these qualities. Adding a scope to your rifle is one of the best ways to do that. In this article, we will cover some of the best options for .22-250 rifles.

IMAGEPRODUCT 
  • Best overall
  • Optical coatings to reduce glare at any time of day
  • Adjustment options for wind and elevation
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  • Reticle expands and contracts automatically based on the range
  • Physical reticle serving as a fallback for interactive reticle
  • Illuminated reticle supporting nighttime shooting
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  • Best value for the money
  • Reticle reduces the need to consider holdover when firing at different distances
  • Finger operated turrets for easy adjustments
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  • Spring-loaded turrets for easy adjustments
  • Focuses quickly to maintain a consistent eye relief
  • Multi-coated glass to uphold optical integrity
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  • Lightweight design for easy transport
  • Shock resistance to prevent damage
  • Fog resistance to ensure clarity
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When Would I Use a Scope for 22 250?

Some question the need to have a scope, but there are plenty of reasons why it is beneficial to have one. These pieces of equipment are a great tool for any scenario where you need to see further than normal. These situations can occur often when hunting. Here are three times that a scope will improve your shooting.

Evaluating a Situation from Afar

Sometimes it is best to evaluate an area before approaching it. In those cases, scopes let you see further than you ever could with the naked eye. That is because magnification is one of the core capabilities of these shooting tools.

This magnification is helpful at a variety of ranges. But regardless of setting, a scope allows you to see what is far away without having to be there physically.

This can be exceptionally helpful when hunting. After all, you may not be the only one following your prey. 

By using a scope, you can detect potential predators well before they are near you. This feature may prove to be life-saving in certain scenarios. Without the ability to see from afar, you may come across a dangerous predatory animal aiming to feed on your kill.

Maintaining Accuracy Over Longer Distances

Magnification helps when you want to ensure that you are shooting as accurately as possible. That fundamental aspect of rifle scopes allows you to hone in on your target.

This breeds a higher level of accuracy over longer distances. So, having a scope could make the difference between hitting your target and missing it entirely.

Gaining a Competitive Advantage

It is reasonable to expect that you may have some competition as you hunt. Given that hunting is often a group outing, that competition may be friendly. But deep down, every hunter wants to outperform their peers.

Having a good scope may give you an edge over your competition. When you are hunting in a group, this tool, along with your skill, may lead to your hitting more targets than those around you.

Are Scopes for .22-250 Universal?

Dedicated .22-250 scopes with .22-250 specific reticles are meant for .22-250 rifles. Within the realm of .22-250 firearms, you can consider .22-250 scopes to be universal. Outside of that caliber, .22-250 scopes can be use with other calibers but the reticle may not apply.

What to Look for When Buying a Scope for .22-250

Lots of things to consider when shopping for a .22-250 scope. Variations in features will produce a different experience when using scopes especially. How fast you can adjust turrets or magnification, for instance. Here are some of the factors to look out for as you search for the best product.

Magnification Range

This indicates how much a scope will magnify the objects in view. A higher magnification range allows you to see further. But this comes at a cost. As the range increases, the field of vision within the view decreases. Balancing these factors based on your needs will help you find the right model for you.

Materials

The materials that comprise a scope have a significant impact on its performance and longevity. You will find that some of these products have special coatings to improve optics. Many are also made using durable metals. This helps each scope stand up to ongoing wear and tear. 

Weight

Weight is a critical aspect of a rifle scope. You don’t want using one to make your rifle too heavy. This not only makes transporting your rifle a more cumbersome experience. It could also affect the way your rifle feels in your hand by shifting the center of weight of your rifle. Feelings of discomfort as you shoot or carry your rifle will only decrease your accuracy.

Review of the Best Scopes for .22-250

Below you will find five of the best scopes for 22 250 rifles. Each product comes with unique advantages and disadvantages. Read on to find which one is right for your shooting needs.

Top Pick

Vortex 6-24×50 Diamondback Tactical FFP Riflescope

PROS

CONS

What Recent Buyers Report

Owners of the Vortex 6-24×50 Diamondback Tactical FFP Riflescope find that it outperforms other competitors on the market. This includes a high level of accuracy as well as the ability to maintain zero for longer than expected.

Customers found that the main drawback of this item is the reticle. Against backgrounds that are especially bright, the crosshairs become difficult to see.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This is a finely-tuned product that offers versatility. The ease with which you can adjust the scope based on wind and elevation is one of the most notable features. Overall, this is an extremely precise instrument. For instance, this scope allows you to make finite adjustments, even at the highest magnification levels.

Bottom Line

The Vortex 6-24×50 Diamondback Tactical FFP Riflescope is our top choice on this list. It is both precise and versatile, allowing you to make any adjustment you might need. The cons of this product are minimal, and the advantages far outweigh them.

Runner Up

Athlon Optics Argos BTR Riflescope

Athlon Optics , Argos BTR, Riflescope, 6-24 x 50 First Focal Plane (FFP) 30 mm Tube, Illuminated APMR MIL Reticle, Black

PROS

CONS

What Recent Buyers Report

Among all options on this list, owners complained most about the Athlon Optics Argos BTR Riflescope. Much of the pushback comes from the fact that the scope can lack clarity, especially at longer ranges.

However, these downsides may become irrelevant as you consider other aspects of this product. Mainly, you will find that it is affordable. It also comes with a reliable warranty that customers have had success leveraging. Beyond that, this tool remains sufficient in its primary functionality.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The most attractive feature of this scope is the dual reticles. One reticle is a physical etching in the glass. Regardless of range, you can rely on this reticle. The other reticle is a bit more complex. This reticle expands and contracts automatically as the range changes. This convenient feature can save you time as you switch between targets.

Bottom Line

The Athlon Optics Argos BTR Riflescope just missed making the top spot. This item remains one of the top options. The dual reticle feature is especially useful in a variety of situations. Beyond that, slight blurring at longer distances is among the minimal drawbacks.

Best Budget Option

Vortex Optics Crossfire II Adjustable Objective

Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18x44 AO SFP Riflescope Dead-Hold BDC MOA

PROS

CONS

What Recent Buyers Report

Most owners found satisfaction in their purchase of the Vortex Optics Crossfire II Adjustable Objective. They note that it performs well while also having an attractive appearance. Some mention that their accuracy and consistency have improved noticeably since adopting this scope.

Other customers found some issues with their product. The most prevalent among these is that the turrets have an unorthodox configuration. This makes it challenging to make the adjustments you need to maintain accuracy at varying distances.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The most convenient quality of this option is that it reduces the need to estimate holdover at different ranges. It also has a long eye relief that makes focusing your vision through the scope much less taxing. Along with this, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II Adjustable Objective comes with a durable aluminum body.

Bottom Line

The Vortex Optics Crossfire II Adjustable Objective is one of the best choices on the market. It compares well even to the other products that we ranked higher. Perhaps the best part about this scope is its affordability. The price, paired with durability, makes for a fantastic product.

Nikon Prostaff P3 Predator Hunter Riflescope

Nikon Prostaff P3 Predator Hunter 3-9X40 Bdc Predator Riflescope

PROS

CONS

What Recent Buyers Report

Let’s provide some clarity about those pros and cons, specifically regarding the eye relief. It’s true that the Nikon Prostaff P3 Predator Hunter BDC Predator Riflescope has consistent eye relief. But owners found that eye relief to be consistently small.

Others found that this object performed well. This is especially true at mid-range distances. This item also proves to be long-lasting, meaning you won’t need to anticipate finding a replacement any time soon.

Why it Stands Out to Us

While turrets on other scopes can be hard to adjust, this is no problem for the Nikon Prostaff P3 Predator Hunter BDC Predator Riflescope. The turrets on this scope are spring-loaded. That makes it extremely easy to make adjustments, no matter how subtle they may be.

Bottom Line

The Nikon Prostaff P3 Predator Hunter BDC Predator Riflescope comes with ease of use and consistency. These are two of the most valuable qualities to look for in a 22 250 scope. They are also the reason that this product is great for beginner and intermediate sportsmen.

Leupold Rifleman 4-12x40mm Riflescope

Leupold Rifleman 4-12x40mm Riflescope, Wide Duplex (56170)

PROS

CONS

What Recent Buyers Report

As with other models, the turrets on the Leupold Rifleman 4-12x40mm Riflescope are difficult to adjust. Owners also found that at longer distances, the visuals become a bit blurry.

Still, this product proves to be affordable and straightforward. It may not feature the same high-end functionality of other scopes, but not everyone needs those specifications. As such, the Leupold Rifleman 4-12x40mm Riflescope is a suitable choice for a beginner.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The best part about this scope is that it has an extremely lightweight build. It tips the scales at less than 375 grams. This makes carrying this scope no issue at all. Despite being lightweight, this scope is durable with resistance to water, shock, and fog.

Bottom Line

The Leupold Rifleman 4-12x40mm Riflescope is all about efficiency. It is lightweight without sacrificing durability. While the turrets can be troublesome at times, that doesn’t mean that this scope is a bad option. On the contrary, it is among the best items available. 

Benefits of Investing in a Quality Scope for .22-250

You may still be wondering if a scope for a .22-250 rifle is worth purchasing. If the descriptions of the models above did not convince you, consider these other potential benefits. Here are a few of the ways that using a .22-250 scope can improve your shooting ability.

Improved Accuracy

Using a .22-250 scope will improve your accuracy. This is true for any range at which you plan to shoot. These items have pinpoint specifications that reduce errors in your shots. At the very least, it is fair to claim that a scope is a far more powerful optical device compared to the naked eye.

Better Consistency

Accuracy is one of the most fundamental skills for any sportsman. But accuracy during a single shot is not enough. Your goal should be to keep the same level of accuracy across multiple shots. The built-in features of a quality scope can help to improve your consistency in repeatedly hitting your targets.

Longer Range

This may be the most obvious benefit of owning a scope. Of course, you can always improve accuracy and consistency through practice alone. But you cannot train your eye to see farther than its natural limits. A scope solves that problem immediately. Using one will let you see and shoot over significantly longer distances.

Conclusion

Having the right scope for your rifle can make a significant difference in your shooting. In general, these units improve your accuracy and allow you to see beyond the natural limits of your eyesight. Knowing what to look for will let you find the right scope for you. The products listed here are currently some of the best options.

People Also Ask

Here are two of the most common questions related to .22-250 rifles. Refer to these to round out your knowledge as you search for a scope. Having a more comprehensive knowledge of the equipment you use will only help you make a more informed purchase.

What Is the Effective Range of .22-250?

Effective range refers to the distance within which you can expect a firearm to remain accurate. The effective range for .22-250 rifles is around 400 yards.

What Is a .22-250 Rifle Used for?

The common characteristics of .22-250 rifles make them suitable for specific shooting scenarios. Most often, sportsmen use .22-250 rifles for small game hunting.

Joseph Fox

Joseph Fox

Joseph Fox writes on a variety of topics ranging from reloading ammunition to gun cleaning. He has been featured on various publications like thetruthaboutguns, Sofrep & many more. Joseph is also the founder of Gunloading, where he reviews different types of reloading & firearm products available on the market.