Finding the Best Scope For Cooper Model 22 is essential if you want to unlock the full precision potential of this highly accurate rimfire rifle. The Cooper Model 22 is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and sub-MOA performance, which means pairing it with the right optic is not optional—it’s critical. I’ve spent considerable time testing scopes on precision rimfire platforms, particularly .22 LR rifles using match-grade 40gr ammunition at distances from 50 to 200 yards. In this guide, I’ll walk you through six carefully selected scopes that match the Cooper’s precision, balance, and shooting style.
Top Product List: Best Scope For Cooper Model 22
Here are my top picks, each selected for a specific purpose:
- Arken Optics EPL4 FFP Illuminated Reticle – Best for precision rimfire competition
- Arken Optics SH4 GEN2 4-16X50 Rifle Scope FFP – Best value for long-range rimfire
- Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane – Best budget FFP option
- Athlon Optics Helos BTR GEN2 2-12x42 Rifle Scope – Best versatile mid-range scope
- Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 Rimfire – Best lightweight hunting option
- Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC) – Best all-around classic scope
Arken Optics EPL4 FFP Illuminated Reticle
This scope is a precision-focused optic designed for shooters who demand consistency at extended rimfire distances. I mounted it on a Cooper Model 22 using 30mm rings and tested it extensively at 50–200 yards.
Product Specs
- Magnification: 4-16x
- Objective: 44mm
- Tube: 30mm
- Reticle: FFP VHR
- Turret: 0.1 MIL
Pros
- Excellent tracking accuracy
- Clear reticle for holdovers
- Strong build quality
Cons
- Slightly heavy for a rimfire
- Illumination could be brighter
Glass clarity is impressive with minimal chromatic aberration. Edge-to-edge sharpness holds up well even at 16x, which is critical when shooting small targets like steel plates or squirrels. The reticle is in the first focal plane, making it ideal for holdovers at varying magnifications.
Eye relief is forgiving, around 3.5 inches, and the eye box is reasonably generous. Even at higher magnification, I didn’t struggle to acquire a full sight picture quickly.
Durability is one of its strengths. I ran about 500 rounds of .22 LR and confirmed zero retention with no shift. The turrets are tactile, with clean clicks, and passed my box test with consistent return to zero.
Magnification range is perfect for rimfire precision, and parallax adjustment down to close distances makes it ideal for 50-yard shooting. Mounting was straightforward with standard rings.
Personally, I found this scope shines in precision shooting scenarios, especially for target competitions. Online forums often highlight its tracking reliability and value compared to pricier optics.
Verdict
Best suited for precision shooters who want FFP functionality on a rimfire.
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Arken Optics SH4 GEN2 4-16X50 Rifle Scope FFP
This is one of the best value scopes I’ve tested on a Cooper Model 22, especially for shooters stretching out past 100 yards.
Product Specs
- Magnification: 4-16x
- Objective: 50mm
- Tube: 30mm
- Reticle: FFP VPR
- Turret: 0.1 MIL
Pros
- Bright image
- Excellent turret feel
- Affordable
Cons
- Heavy
- Slight edge distortion
The glass is bright thanks to the 50mm objective, though edge clarity isn’t perfect. Still, for the price, performance is outstanding.
Eye relief is comfortable, and the eye box is forgiving at mid magnification but tightens slightly at 16x. Durability is excellent; I tested it through multiple sessions and it held zero perfectly.
Turrets are one of the highlights—loud, tactile clicks with precise adjustments. The magnification range is ideal for rimfire out to 200 yards, and parallax adjustment works down to close distances.
My experience was very positive. It performs like a much more expensive optic. Reddit users frequently praise its tracking and value.
Verdict
Best value pick for long-range rimfire shooting.
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Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 First Focal Plane
A budget-friendly FFP scope that punches above its weight.
Product Specs
- Magnification: 6-24x
- Objective: 50mm
- Tube: 30mm
- Reticle: APMR MIL
- Turret: 0.1 MIL
Pros
- Affordable FFP
- Good magnification range
- Reliable tracking
Cons
- Glass slightly dim at high zoom
- Heavy
Clarity is decent but not premium. At 24x, some softness appears. The reticle is very usable for holdovers.
Eye relief is consistent, but the eye box tightens significantly at higher magnification. Durability is solid; it held zero after 400 rounds.
Turrets are crisp, though not as refined as higher-end optics. Parallax adjustment is effective for rimfire distances.
In my use, it’s ideal for budget shooters wanting FFP functionality. Online discussions confirm it’s a popular entry-level precision scope.
Verdict
Best budget FFP option.
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Athlon Optics Helos BTR GEN2 2-12x42 Rifle Scope
This scope offers versatility for both hunting and target shooting.
Product Specs
- Magnification: 2-12x
- Objective: 42mm
- Tube: 30mm
- Reticle: FFP
- Turret: 0.1 MIL
Pros
- Versatile zoom range
- Lightweight
- Good glass
Cons
- Limited top-end magnification
- Illumination average
Glass clarity is very good, especially in low light. Reticle is sharp and useful for quick shots.
Eye relief is generous, making it ideal for hunting. Durability is excellent with no zero shift.
Turrets are precise but slightly softer than premium models. Parallax adjustment is accurate.
I found this scope perfect for mixed use. Forums often recommend it for hunters using rimfire rifles.
Verdict
Best versatile option.
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Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 Rimfire
A lightweight scope designed specifically for rimfire rifles.
Product Specs
- Magnification: 3-9x
- Objective: 32mm
- Tube: 1 inch
- Reticle: Truplex
Pros
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- Easy to mount
Cons
- Limited features
- Basic glass
Clarity is acceptable for short-range shooting. Reticle is simple but effective.
Eye relief is comfortable, and the eye box is forgiving. Durability is decent for light use.
Turrets are basic but functional. Magnification is ideal for 50–100 yard shooting.
My experience shows it’s great for casual shooting. Online users like its simplicity.
Verdict
Best lightweight hunting scope.
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Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC)
A classic all-around scope with excellent reliability.
Product Specs
- Magnification: 3-9x
- Objective: 40mm
- Tube: 1 inch
- Reticle: BDC
Pros
- Great warranty
- Reliable
- Good clarity
Cons
- SFP only
- Basic turrets
Glass clarity is strong for the price. The BDC reticle helps with holdovers.
Eye relief is generous, and the eye box is forgiving. Durability is excellent with lifetime warranty.
Turrets are simple but reliable. Magnification suits most rimfire uses.
I’ve used this extensively and it never disappoints. Online feedback consistently praises its reliability.
Verdict
Best all-around scope.
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How to Choose the Right Scope for This Pistol
Choosing the right optic for a Cooper Model 22 requires understanding how rimfire ballistics differ from centerfire rifles. First, magnification matters more than you might think. Since .22 LR rounds drop significantly past 100 yards, a scope with at least 12x magnification allows you to see impacts clearly and make precise adjustments.
Second, parallax adjustment is critical. Rimfire shooting often happens at 50 yards or less, so scopes without adjustable parallax can result in blurry images or inaccurate shots. I always recommend scopes that adjust down to at least 25 yards.
Third, consider reticle type. First focal plane reticles are excellent for precision shooting because holdovers remain accurate at any magnification. However, second focal plane scopes are often simpler and better for hunting.
Weight is another factor. The Cooper Model 22 is a lightweight rifle, so pairing it with a heavy scope can affect balance. I prefer mid-weight optics unless I’m building a dedicated benchrest setup.
Finally, turret quality matters if you plan to dial adjustments. Accurate, repeatable turrets make a huge difference when shooting at varying distances.
FAQs
1. What magnification is best for Cooper Model 22?
I recommend 3-9x for hunting and 4-16x or higher for precision shooting.
2. Do I need parallax adjustment?
Yes, especially for rimfire shooting under 100 yards.
3. Is FFP or SFP better?
FFP is better for precision, while SFP is simpler for hunting.
4. What distance should I zero at?
I typically zero at 50 yards for .22 LR.
5. Can I use a heavy scope on this rifle?
You can, but it may affect balance and handling.
Conclusion
Selecting the Best Scope For Cooper Model 22 ultimately depends on your shooting style—whether it’s precision target work or small-game hunting. After testing these scopes extensively, I can confidently say each one offers unique strengths. If you want precision, go with Arken EPL4. For versatility, Athlon Helos is excellent. And for simplicity, the Vortex Crossfire II remains a solid choice. The right optic will elevate your shooting experience and let the Cooper Model 22 truly shine.