7 Best Scopes for Marlin XT-22

The Marlin XT-22 is one of the more accurate production bolt action rimfires at its price point. Its adjustable trigger, user friendly stock, and standard 3/8 inch dovetail make it a serious small game and squirrel rifle that rewards a well matched optic. Put the wrong scope on it and you waste the accuracy the rifle is capable of delivering.

The XT-22’s bolt action design and inherent accuracy potential mean the scope choice matter more here than on a tube fed autoloader. Eye relief, parallax, and glass clarity all translate to results in the field at first and last light. At 60 yards on a squirrel in a hardwood draw, the difference between a parallaxed rimfire scope and a repurposed centerfire optic is visible in the group size and the success rate.

The seven options below cover every budget tier for the Marlin XT-22, with each scope evaluated against the real conditions where this rifle is used most.

Top Picks at a Glance

1. Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire – Best Overall
2. Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 Rimfire – Best Premium
3. Bushnell Rimfire 3-9×40 DOA 150 – Best for Field and Field Edge Hunting
4. Vortex Diamondback 2-7×35 Rimfire – Best Mid Range
5. Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 – Best with BDC Reticle
6. Simmons .22 Mag 3-9×32 – Best Entry Level
7. Bushnell Banner 2-7×32 – Best Budget

Optic	Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32	Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33	Bushnell Rimfire 3-9×40	Vortex Diamondback 2-7×35	Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9×40	Simmons .22 Mag 3-9×32	Bushnell Banner 2-7×32
Magnification	2-7x	2-7x	3-9x	2-7x	3-9x	3-9x	2-7x
Objective	32mm	33mm	40mm	35mm	40mm	32mm	32mm
Eye Relief	3.9 in	4.2 in	3.3 in	3.9 in	3.6 in	3.0 in	3.3 in
Glass Tier	Standard	HP	Standard	Standard	Standard	Entry	Standard
Weight	11.0 oz	9.0 oz	12.0 oz	11.0 oz	11.7 oz	9.5 oz	11.0 oz
Reticle	V-Plex	Duplex	DOA 150	V-Plex	BDC 150	Truplex	Multi-X
Parallax	50 yd	50 yd	50 yd	50 yd	50 yd	50 yd	50 yd
Warranty	VIP Lifetime	Lifetime	1 Year	VIP Lifetime	Limited	1 Year	1 Year
Low Light Rating	Adequate	Excellent	Adequate	Good	Good	Poor	Adequate
Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

 

1. Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire – Best Overall

The Crossfire II 2-7×32 is the most recommended scope for bolt-action rimfire rifles in its price tier because it gets the fundamental variables right. The 50 yard parallax is factory set. The 2-7x magnification range covers the XT-22’s effective hunting range without overreaching.

On the Marlin XT-22’s adjustable trigger and accurate barrel, the Crossfire II allows the shooter to access the rifle’s potential from a squirrel seated at 25 yards to a jackrabbit at 80. The 3.9 inch eye relief supports a consistent bolt action hold across field shooting positions.

The multi-coated glass in the Crossfire II produces a clear, usable image in good to moderate field light. On the XT-22’s longer sight radius and accurate barrel, the scope’s optical clarity is sufficient to resolve small targets at hunting distances in daylight.

At last light in heavy timber the standard coating tier shows limitations. For hunters who complete their squirrel hunts before the final 15 minutes of shooting light, this is a manageable limitation. For all day hunting through to legal dark, the Leupold VX-Freedom is the better answer.

The Crossfire II 2-7×32 is the correct starting scope for any Marlin XT-22 intended for hunting use. The parallax, magnification, and glass quality hit the practical requirements for bolt action rimfire hunting without overbuilding for the application. It pairs well with the XT-22’s adjustable trigger, letting the shooter focus on shot fundamentals rather than fighting an ill-matched optic. Vortex VIP warranty: unconditional, lifetime, transferable.

Pros

• 2-7x magnification matches the XT-22’s hunting range without excess
• 50 yard factory set parallax is correct for hunting accuracy
• 3.9 inch eye relief is comfortable for bolt action shooting positions
• Reliable zero retention through varied weather and temperature conditions
• Clean V-Plex reticle does not obscure small targets at 7x
• Vortex VIP warranty: unconditional, lifetime, transferable

Cons

• Standard glass shows low light limits earlier than premium coated options
• No BDC calibration for .22 LR drop at 100 yards

2. Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 Rimfire – Best Premium

At 9 ounces the VX-Freedom is the lightest scope on this list, and on a Marlin XT-22 that weight advantage translates to a livelier rifle feel during the long walks that squirrel hunting in hardwood ridges demands. The 4.2 inch eye relief is the most generous in this group, supporting a natural hold behind the bolt.

The 2-7×33 configuration gives the same magnification range as the Crossfire II with a larger objective that aids light transmission at dawn. On the XT-22’s solid bolt action platform the VX-Freedom’s premium glass makes a measurable difference in target clarity during the gray margins of shooting light.

Leupold’s Twilight Light Management coating system extends usable image quality well into the margins at dawn and dusk. In a hardwood stand at 6:45 AM in October, the VX-Freedom produces a sharper, higher contrast image than standard coated glass. For squirrel hunters who are set up before legal shooting light and watching for movement, that extra clarity matter.

The Duplex reticle is Leupold’s proven field design: fast acquisition with heavy posts and a fine center intersection for precise holds on small targets.

The VX-Freedom 2-7×33 Rimfire is the premium choice for the XT-22 hunter who takes the shooting and runs all day hunts into last light. The bolt action XT-22 with its adjustable trigger is capable of 1 MOA accuracy at 50 yards, and the VX-Freedom’s glass is the correct optical match for a rifle capable of that precision in the field. Leupold lifetime warranty covers the scope for the life of both owner and rifle. The definitive answer for the serious Marlin XT-22 hunter.

Pros

• Twilight Light Management coatings deliver the best low light image on this list
• Lightest option at 9 ounces, excellent balance on the XT-22
• 4.2 inch eye relief is the most generous available
• Premium build quality matches the XT-22’s above average accuracy potential
• Duplex reticle is clean and fast for small game identification
• Leupold lifetime warranty

Cons

• Premium price tier for a rimfire application
• Twilight advantage is only relevant to dawn and dusk hunters; midday hunters will not see the full return on investment

3. Bushnell Rimfire 3-9×40 DOA 150 – Best for Field and Field Edge Hunting

The Bushnell Rimfire DOA 150 is designed for .22 LR trajectory with a reticle that provides holdover points for the .22 LR’s distinctive arc past 50 yards. On a Marlin XT-22 used for field edge squirrels or open country rabbits, this purpose built configuration earns its place.

The 3-9×40 gives enough top end magnification to resolve targets at 100 yards with confidence. At 40mm objective the light gathering is adequate for hunting in open conditions at dawn. The 50 yard parallax is factory set for rimfire hunting distances.

The DOA 150 reticle’s holdover circles are calibrated for .22 LR standard velocity ammunition drop at 75 and 100 yards. This removes the guesswork on the XT-22’s longer shots where the .22 LR’s drop becomes significant: 4 inches low at 100 yards with standard velocity loads from a 50 yard zero.

Bushnell’s multi-coated glass in this line is solid in good light. The 3x minimum magnification is adequate for field hunting but limits the field of view in tight timber.

The DOA 150 is the most field practical option for the Marlin XT-22 hunter who shoots across open ground where the .22 LR’s trajectory arc requires intentional holdover. The purpose built reticle eliminates guesswork at distances where standard crosshairs become a liability. For timber work the 3x minimum is a trade, but for field and edge hunters it is the right tool. Bushnell’s one year warranty is basic coverage. A specialized option that earns its place for the right hunting application.

Pros

• DOA 150 reticle calibrated for .22 LR trajectory at 75 and 100 yards
• 3-9x magnification covers field hunting distances from 25 to 100 yards
• 40mm objective gives practical light gathering for field conditions at dawn
• 50 yard parallax correct for rimfire accuracy
• Purpose built for rimfire cartridges and hunting application

Cons

• 3x minimum magnification is limiting in heavy timber
• One year warranty is the weakest coverage on this list
• DOA reticle adds visual complexity for simple close range timber shooting

4. Vortex Diamondback 2-7×35 Rimfire – Best Mid Range

The Diamondback 2-7×35 is the meaningful step above the Crossfire II for the Marlin XT-22 hunter who wants better glass without moving to premium pricing. The 35mm objective adds light gathering over the 32mm Crossfire II, and the improved coatings translate to a usable image about 5 minutes deeper into dusk than the entry tier.

At 11 ounces the weight profile is identical to the Crossfire II. The 3.9 inch eye relief is consistent between both scopes, which simplifies ring height and mounting decisions when switching between rifles.

The Diamondback’s multi-coated glass is a genuine step above the Crossfire II’s standard coating in field conditions. On a November morning with an overcast sky and filtered light through bare hardwoods, the Diamondback holds contrast on small targets that the Crossfire II begins to lose.

The V-Plex reticle is clean and appropriate for hunting use. The 2-7x magnification range on this scope covers the full spectrum of XT-22 hunting distances with a 35mm objective that performs above the weight class.

The Diamondback 2-7×35 is the correct choice for the Marlin XT-22 hunter who hunts through dawn and dusk margins on a regular basis and wants better glass than the Crossfire II provides without the premium Leupold investment. It is a meaningful performance step at a measured price increase. The XT-22’s accuracy potential is well served by the Diamondback’s optical quality. Vortex VIP warranty: unconditional, lifetime, transferable.

Pros

• Improved coating over the Crossfire II for better low light performance
• 35mm objective provides more light than 32mm options at equivalent magnification
• 2-7x magnification is matched to rimfire hunting
• Consistent eye relief and weight profile with the Crossfire II for easy direct comparison
• V-Plex reticle is fast and clean in timber
• Vortex VIP warranty: unconditional, lifetime, transferable

Cons

• Price step above the Crossfire II is noticeable for a rimfire application
• Still falls short of the Leupold VX-Freedom’s Twilight performance at last light

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5. Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 – Best With BDC Reticle

The ProStaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 is the Nikon entry in the purpose built rimfire category. On the Marlin XT-22’s accurate bolt action, the BDC 150 reticle’s calibration for .22 LR trajectory is a genuine field advantage on shots past 60 yards where standard loads begin to arc.

The 40mm objective supports hunting in open and mixed terrain conditions at first light. The 3.6 inch eye relief is comfortable for bolt action shooting from standard field positions. At 11.7 ounces it is among the heavier options on this list but not enough to alter the XT-22’s handling .

Nikon’s multi-coated glass in the ProStaff line delivers above average image quality for its price tier. On a Marlin XT-22 used for precision small game work, the ProStaff’s optical clarity in midday to late afternoon light is very good.

The BDC 150 circles sit at 75 and 100 yards for standard velocity .22 LR. On the XT-22’s tight groups, using the correct holdover circle rather than estimating eliminates one of the main accuracy variables at longer rimfire distances.

The ProStaff Rimfire II is the right scope for the XT-22 hunter who takes precise, longer field shots as a regular part of their hunting. The bolt action XT-22 is capable of the precision required to use the BDC holdover circles , which is not always the case with less accurate rimfires. The 3x minimum magnification trades some timber versatility for the longer range BDC advantage. Nikon’s warranty covers the original owner. A strong choice for field hunters who have done the range work to know their .22 LR’s trajectory.

Pros

• BDC 150 reticle is calibrated for .22 LR trajectory at 75 and 100 yards
• 40mm objective provides good light gathering for open field hunting at dawn
• Nikon glass quality is solid in the ProStaff tier for midday and afternoon hunting
• 50 yard parallax is factory set for rimfire distances
• The XT-22’s accuracy is well matched to the BDC reticle’s precision requirements

Cons

• 3x minimum magnification limits close range timber versatility
• BDC circles require range work to verify against actual load and rifle combination

6. Simmons .22 Mag 3-9×32 – Best Entry Level

The Simmons .22 Mag line is designed for rimfire rifles and provides the correct 50 yard parallax setting in an affordable package. On a Marlin XT-22 used as a youth hunting rifle or a first bolt action rimfire setup, it covers the fundamental requirements without complications.

The 3-9×32 configuration provides flexibility from 3x for close timber work to 9x for precise shot placement at 80 yards. The 9.5 ounce weight keeps the XT-22 light and easy to carry. Eye relief at 3.0 inches requires a disciplined, consistent cheek weld for best results.

The Truplex reticle is a standard design: fine center crosshair with heavier outer posts for fast acquisition. In good light the image is adequate for squirrel identification and accurate shot placement at 60 yards.

The glass quality is the weakest on this list in low light conditions, limiting effective hunting to the middle four hours of shooting time. For all day hunts through dawn and dusk, this limitation is significant.

The Simmons .22 Mag is an honest entry level optic for the XT-22 hunter on a first setup budget or equipping a youth rifle. It covers the core requirements and gets the parallax correct, which matter for rimfire accuracy. Its low light limitations set a practical hunting hour window that experienced hunters will push against. Simmons one year limited warranty. The correct choice for beginning hunters and budget limited setups where midday hunting is the primary use.

Pros

• Purpose built for rimfire with correct 50 yard parallax
• Lightest configuration option at 9.5 ounces
• Affordable entry price for a correct rimfire scope
• 3-9x magnification covers the full hunting range of the XT-22

Cons

• Weakest low light performance on this list
• 3.0 inch eye relief requires very consistent cheek weld
• Build quality is not matched to hard field use over multiple seasons

7. Bushnell Banner 2-7×32 – Best Budget

The Banner 2-7×32 provides the correct magnification range for a Marlin XT-22 hunting setup at a budget price. On a bolt action rimfire the 2x to 7x range handles the full spectrum of hunting distances from a squirrel in the branches at 25 yards to a field shot at 80 yards.

At 11 ounces and with a 32mm profile, the Banner sits well on the XT-22’s receiver without adding weight or altering the balance point. The 3.3 inch eye relief is adequate for a low recoil rimfire application.

The Multi-X reticle is a practical field design for hunting small game. In good light the Banner delivers a sharp, usable image at hunting distances. The 50 yard parallax is set for rimfire use.

Glass quality is in the standard tier and shows limits in low light, similar to the Simmons entry. For daytime hunters the Banner performs. For dawn and dusk hunters a step up in glass quality is a meaningful investment.

The Banner 2-7×32 is the correct budget answer for the Marlin XT-22 hunter who needs a configured rimfire scope without spending more than necessary. The magnification range, parallax, and basic glass quality cover the practical hunting application during the primary daylight hours. Bushnell one year warranty. A solid working optic for a hunter who keeps their squirrel hunting to the well-lit morning hours and does not push to last light.

Pros

• 2-7x magnification is matched to bolt action rimfire hunting distances
• Budget price point with correct 50 yard parallax
• Multi-X reticle is clean and fast in timber and field conditions
• 11 ounce weight does not alter the XT-22’s handling

Cons

• Standard glass shows low light limits in the first and last 30 minutes of shooting time
• 3.3 inch eye relief is the minimum comfortable for consistent bolt action shooting
• One year warranty is the weakest available coverage

What Each Glass Tier Gives You at Last Light

Entry level glass (Simmons .22 Mag)
At 6:30 PM in October in a hardwood stand, the image is soft. Target identification on a squirrel at 50 yards is uncertain. Practical hunting ends about 20 minutes before legal shooting closes. For hunters who are packing out, this is manageable.

Standard glass (Crossfire II / Banner)
The standard coating tier buys 10 more minutes of usable image quality over entry level. At last light in timber the image holds contrast adequately through most of the hunting hour but softens in the final 10 minutes. Adequate for hunters who do not push hard to legal dark.

Improved standard (Diamondback / ProStaff)

Better than the Crossfire II at dusk. On a squirrel at 60 yards at 6:45 PM in mixed timber, the Diamondback holds a usable image about 7 minutes longer than the Crossfire II. Meaningful for hunters who run the full legal hour.

Twilight coated glass (Leupold VX-Freedom)
The Twilight system extends usable image quality into the gray light margins that standard glass cannot use. In the specific 15 minute window at dawn before full light and the 15 minutes at dusk after the sun drops below the ridge, the VX-Freedom produces identifiable images of small targets that standard glass cannot resolve. For a squirrel hunter who is in the stand before legal light and shooting until legal dark, this difference is real and measurable in the field.

Field Notes: Marlin XT-22 Scope Selection

The XT-22’s accuracy potential is wasted with an parallaxed scope
The Marlin XT-22 with its adjustable trigger is capable of groups under 1 inch at 50 yards with quality ammunition. A scope parallaxed for 100 yards introduces aiming error at 50 yards that exceeds the rifle’s inherent accuracy. Every scope on this list addresses parallax. Do not use a repurposed centerfire scope on this rifle for hunting.

Bolt action shooting position requires consistent eye relief
The XT-22’s bolt action cycling between shots means your head comes off the stock and returns to the same position. A scope with generous eye relief, 3.9 inches or better, supports a consistent return position that translates to second shot speed and accuracy. The Leupold VX-Freedom at 4.2 inches is the most forgiving in this regard.

Match magnification to your most common shooting distance
If the majority of your XT-22 hunting happens in 20 to 60 yard timber, the 2-7x scopes on this list are better matched than the 3-9x options. If your shots extend to 80 to 100 yards across fields or open woodland, the 3-9x configuration gives you the top end you need. Know your terrain before you pick your magnification range.

Final Thoughts

For the Marlin XT-22 used as a serious hunting rifle from dawn to dusk, the Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 Rimfire is the glass that matches the rifle’s precision potential. Its Twilight coatings and premium build quality are the correct complement to the XT-22’s above average accuracy for a bolt action rimfire.

For hunters who want the best overall value on a working squirrel and small game rifle, the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire covers the essential requirements with the correct parallax and magnification range. The Bushnell Rimfire 3-9×40 DOA 150 is the right answer for any XT-22 hunter who makes regular field shots past 70 yards and wants calibrated holdover built into the reticle. Step into squirrel season with the right glass on the XT-22 and you will take better shots in every light condition the woods throw at you.