The .22-250 is legendary for its flat-shooting speed and knockout power on coyotes, foxes, prairie dogs, and groundhogs. But to make the most of your rifle, you need a scope that’s just as sharp and reliable as your favorite varmint load—without breaking the bank. This guide covers the best scopes for .22-250 varmint hunting under $500, including what to look for and how to pick the perfect optic for your style and terrain.
Quick Picks
- Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44 FFP — Best Overall
- Burris Fullfield IV 4-16×50 — Best for Maximum Brightness
- Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP — Best Value
Buyer’s Guide: What Makes a Great .22-250 Varmint Scope?
When hunting varmints at distance, you need a scope that keeps up with the .22-250’s reach and speed. Here’s what to consider before you buy:
- Magnification: 4-16x is perfect for most varmint hunts—enough for long shots, but not too much for close-in opportunities. 4-14x or even 6-24x work well if you hunt wide-open country.
- Objective Size: Bigger lenses (44mm–50mm) deliver more light at dawn/dusk and help you spot small targets in the field.
- First Focal Plane (FFP): FFP scopes keep your holdovers and ranging accurate at any zoom—a big plus for unpredictable shots at varying ranges.
- Turrets: Exposed, zero-reset turrets are ideal for dialing shots at distance and correcting for wind.
- Reticle: Look for BDC, MOA, or mil-dot reticles for fast holdover/windage use—no clutter, just clear aiming points.
- Durability: Waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof construction is a must for long days in the field.
- Warranty: Pick a trusted brand with real warranty support—you want peace of mind for hard use.
Full Reviews — Top .22-250 Varmint Scopes Under $500
Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44 FFP
Who it’s for: Varmint hunters who want field-tough reliability, first focal plane accuracy, and crisp glass for stretching shots on coyotes, prairie dogs, and more.
- Key Benefits:
- 4-16x zoom covers close and distant varmints
- EBR-2C FFP reticle—holdovers are always accurate
- Exposed tactical turrets for fast dialing
- Fully multi-coated lenses for bright, sharp views
- Side parallax adjustment for sharp focus at any range
- Pros:
- Excellent glass and rugged build for the price
- Zero-reset, positive turrets
- Vortex VIP lifetime warranty
- Cons:
- Heavier than traditional hunting scopes
- No illumination
- Final Verdict: The Diamondback Tactical FFP is a rock-solid choice for serious varmint hunters on a budget. Click for the latest price and details:
See Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44 FFP Price
Burris Fullfield IV 4-16×50
Who it’s for: Varmint shooters who want a big, bright scope for dawn, dusk, and long shots in the field—plus a proven reticle for easy wind and holdover calls.
- Key Benefits:
- 4-16x magnification for both close and long-range shots
- Large 50mm objective for more brightness in low light
- Ballistic E3 reticle for quick, precise holds
- Durable, weatherproof construction
- Pros:
- Outstanding clarity and low light performance
- Simple, rugged controls
- Burris Forever Warranty
- Cons:
- Heavier than 40mm scopes
- No illumination or FFP option
- Final Verdict: If you hunt long hours in changing light or want a forgiving sight picture for small targets, the Fullfield IV 4-16×50 is a standout value. See price and specs:
See Burris Fullfield IV 4-16×50 Price
Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP
Who it’s for: Shooters who want first focal plane features, a smart reticle, and solid build quality at a price that’s easy on the wallet.
- Key Benefits:
- 4-14x FFP ACSS reticle—holdovers work at every zoom
- Side parallax adjustment
- Rugged, weatherproof construction
- Multiple reticle options for personal preference
- Pros:
- Excellent features for the price
- Primary Arms lifetime warranty
- Reliable tracking and zero retention
- Cons:
- Not as much max zoom as 6-24x scopes
- Not as bright as 50mm glass in the last few minutes of light
- Final Verdict: For hunters who want FFP precision and reliable holdovers on a budget, the SLx is a fantastic choice. Click for deals and details:
See Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP Price
Monstrum G3 6-24×50 FFP
Who it’s for: Varmint and target shooters who want max zoom, illuminated reticle, and tactical features—all at a budget price.
- Key Benefits:
- 6-24x magnification—perfect for prairie dog towns or far coyotes
- FFP illuminated MOA reticle
- Side focus, zero-stop turrets, and locking adjustments
- Includes sunshade and lens covers
- Pros:
- All the features of premium scopes at a bargain price
- Great for range and field
- Solid warranty and customer support
- Cons:
- Heavier and longer than hunting-specific scopes
- Glass is good for the price, but not premium
- Final Verdict: If you want big zoom, illuminated reticle, and dialing features for less, the Monstrum G3 is hard to beat under $300. See prices here:
See Monstrum G3 6-24×50 FFP Price
Bushnell Engage 4-16×44
Who it’s for: Hunters and shooters who want a rugged, reliable scope for field work, with simple controls and good low light performance.
- Key Benefits:
- 4-16x magnification—ideal for .22-250 ranges
- Deploy MOA reticle for fast holdovers and wind calls
- EXO Barrier coating keeps lenses clear of dust and water
- Side parallax adjustment and tool-less zero reset
- Pros:
- Easy to mount and use
- Holds zero even on heavy-recoiling rifles
- Great warranty for the price
- Cons:
- No illumination
- Not FFP
- Final Verdict: The Bushnell Engage 4-16×44 is a time-tested, high-value varmint scope that won’t let you down. Click for current pricing:
See Bushnell Engage 4-16×44 Price
Comparison Table
| Name | Magnification | Objective | FFP | Illuminated | Best For | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vortex Diamondback Tactical | 4-16x | 44mm | Yes | No | Overall Varmint | Check Price |
| Burris Fullfield IV | 4-16x | 50mm | No | No | Max Brightness | Check Price |
| Primary Arms SLx FFP | 4-14x | 44mm | Yes | No | Best Value | Check Price |
| Monstrum G3 | 6-24x | 50mm | Yes | Yes | Max Zoom | Check Price |
| Bushnell Engage | 4-16x | 44mm | No | No | Simplicity & Ruggedness | Check Price |
FAQ — Scopes for .22-250 Varmint Hunting
What’s the best magnification for .22-250 varmint hunting?
4-16x is perfect for most hunts—gives you wide field at low power and precision at distance. Go 6-24x for prairie dog towns or open country.
Is first focal plane (FFP) important?
FFP scopes keep your reticle accurate for holdovers and windage at any magnification—a huge advantage for unpredictable shots.
Are illuminated reticles needed for varmints?
Not required, but can help in early morning or late afternoon when animals are moving in low light. Otherwise, clear, bold reticles work great.
How important is objective size?
44mm is bright and light enough for most days. 50mm gives an extra edge at dawn and dusk, but adds weight and height to your setup.
What’s the best value scope under $500?
For most, the Vortex Diamondback Tactical FFP or Primary Arms SLx FFP give you premium features at a budget price. Both are backed by strong warranties and trusted by real hunters.
Conclusion & Call to Action
The .22-250 is all about flat-shooting speed and precision. With any of these scopes, you’ll stretch your effective range, spot more targets, and enjoy every hunt even more—all without breaking $500. Click any link above to check today’s deals and get ready for your best varmint season yet!