Top Rimfire Scope Picks From Outdoor Life's 2026 Testing
November 7, 2026
Outdoor Life's gear editors rank the best rimfire scopes of 2026, from basic budget optics to precision models, drawing on the magazine's optics testing.
Key points
- Best overall: The Nightforce NX6 2-12x42 F1, about $1,800. The author praises its versatility, zero stop and close focus down to 11 yards, though some may find the reticle too busy.
- Best for competition: The Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36x56 won an innovation award for its zero system. Testers called it excellent but pricey at around $4,000.
- Crossover pick: The Bushnell R7 4-20x50, about $950, was named the top hunting scope in the wider test and kept its zero after three drops.
- Budget picks: The Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7x33 costs close to $300 and is called a good rabbit and squirrel scope. The Vortex Crossfire II is simple, with an excellent warranty.
- Smart scope: The Burris Eliminator 6 4-20x52 ranges targets and shows the hold, and works best within 800 yards.
Quick take
The author says backyard plinkers need only a simple duplex reticle, while precision rimfire competition calls for a first focal plane reticle and plenty of turret adjustment. The article also calls simple, cheap scopes the best fit for new shooters.
Read the full story at Outdoor Life.