Today I’m going to show you the best M&P 15-22 scopes.
In fact:
I’ve hand-tested over 25 scopes and red dots alone for this review.
The best part?
I’ve sorted the scopes by use. So whether you’re on a budget or need the best for home defense, you’ll find it here.
Let’s dive in!
| Best Scopes for M&P 15-22 | Category | Price |
|---|---|---|
Best M&P 15-22 Scope | $299.99 | |
| Best Red Dot Sight | $399.00 | |
| Best for the Budget | $30.00 | |
| Best for Home Defense | $230.00 |
M&P 15-22 Scope vs. Red Dot Sight
Let’s say you picked up a Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 and you’re thinking that the factory iron sights aren’t enough.
The M&P 15-22 itself is solid and consistent but it doesn’t come with the bells and whistles you’re looking for.
This brings up the question… Should you get a rifle scope or a red dot?
Should you get a rifle scope?
The M&P 15-22 is designed for close-range shooting, so by mounting one of the best rifle scopes, you’ll be increasing your target range and enhancing accuracy.
Straight out of the box, the M&P 15-22 performs well between 50-100 yards.
Shooting targets beyond 100 yards?
That’s when it becomes a challenge— at least in terms of accuracy. Hence why you’ll need mid-range scopes like 2-7x32mm or long-range scopes like 4-9x40mm.
Not sure what the scope numbers mean?
The first number identifies the magnification while the second number identifies the diameter of the objective lens.
When choosing a rifle scope, you want to make sure you also consider glass clarity, reticle, overall durability, and compatibility.
Thankfully, the M&P 15-22 rifle comes with flip-out iron sights and a Picatinny rail which gives you a wide range of options.
But don’t worry, we’ll cover all of that in detail later on.
What about a red dot sight?
If you’re planning on using your M&P 15-22 for CQB or home defense, then you’ll need a red dot.
If you choose to go for the best red dot sights, pick one with good battery life and durability.
If you need one specifically for the range or competition shooting, then performance and accuracy are a higher priority.
All in all, there are good rifle scopes and optics you can use with your M&P 15-22.
In this guide, I’m going to show you the best ones that will make your setup a whole lot better.
The Best Scopes for M&P 15-22
If you’re pressed on time, here’s a quick list of the best M&P 15-22 scopes:
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Scope: Best Scope
- Aimpoint ACO Red Dot Reflex Sight with Mount: Best Red Dot Sight
- Barska 3-9×32 Plinker-22: Best for the Budget
- Vortex Venom Red Dot Sight: Best for Home Defense
1. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Scope: Best M&P 15-22 Scope
When it comes to the best rifle scope, my first stop is always to look at Leupold Optics.
That brought the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Scope to my attention.
- Model #181307 - VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope with a Hunt-Plex reticle and a Matte finish
This optic comes with legendary clarity and durable construction. Being a crowd favorite, it’s one of the best scopes under $300.
So, is it worth every dollar?
Keep reading to find out…
Glass Clarity & Reticle
The Leupold VX-Freedom rifle scope comes with exceptional glass clarity.
Thanks to Leupold’s patented Twilight Light Management System, the VX-Freedom performs remarkably well in low light conditions.
Who doesn’t like the added hours of fog-proof, target shooting enjoyment?
The Leupold VX-Freedom comes with a standard duplex reticle in the second focal plane. SFP means the reticle size will remain the same even as the target size increases and decreases through its magnification range.
There’s nothing special about the reticle, but it works. The distance from the center of the crosshairs to the thick portion of the duplex measures right at 4 MOA.
If you’re not a fan of that, the VX series has mil dots and ballistic reticles as an option.
Eye Relief
The Leupold VX-Freedom comes with 3.6 inches of comfortable eye relief.
It also comes with a generous eye box. You don’t need to be perfectly lined up to get a good field of view.
I will say though: the eye box does significantly tighten up at the highest magnification setting.
Durability
The Leupold VX-Freedom rifle scope offers tough construction paired with a stylish design.
Made with mil-spec aircraft-grade aluminum, this optic is fully waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof.
I’ve tested the Leupold VX-Freedom in variable weather conditions and terrain and it didn’t disappoint.
Dimension-wise, this scope measures 12.39 inches and weighs 12.2 ounces. Thanks to its lightweight design, I can carry my rifle comfortably on long hunting trips.
Windage & Elevation
The Leupold VX-Freedom comes with excellent Custom Dial System turrets marked in yards.
This helps with bullet-drop compensation and quick adjustments. It’s super easy to manipulate, even when wearing gloves.
Zeroing was quick and easy. I sighted the scope at 100 yards in three shots.
Magnification & Parallax
The Leupold VX-Freedom comes with 3-9x magnification.
The higher magnification range provides versatility. It’s more than enough for your M&P 15-22.
In fact:
The Leupold VX-Freedom can double as the best AR-15 scope or on any larger caliber rifle.
The objective lens on this scope is 40mm, which makes it the largest on our list. There’s little or no distortion even at maximum magnification.
The Leupold VX-Freedom has no parallax adjustment. Parallax is fixed at 80 yards but the image is sharp from 30 yards to infinity with bullet-drop compensation.
Mounting & Installation
The Leupold VX-Freedom doesn’t come with mounting options.
So, I mounted the VX-Freedom on my M&P 15-22 using Leupold Rifleman Scope Rings (1″ – .22 RF 3/8-inch Detachable See-Thru Rings).
- Model #57323 - Rifleman Rings 1" 22 RF 3/8-inch Detachable See-Thru Rings with a Matte finish
- Precision machined from aircraft grade aluminum
- Includes all mounting screws
I do wish it came with a scope cover or caps. I recommend getting the Leupold Alumina Lens Shade 4″ 40mm for dust and scratch resistance.
- Model #56190 - Alumina lens shade in size 4"--40mm and Matte finish
Also, I replaced the flimsy bikini caps with the Leupold Alumina Flip Back Lens Cover.
- Model #59055 - Alumina flip back lens cover kit in standard EP
Is the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Scope worth it?
If you’re looking for the best scope that boasts the most impressive specs, get the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm rifle scope.
- Model #181307 - VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope with a Hunt-Plex reticle and a Matte finish
Why? Because it features…
- Good eye-relief
- Waterproof, shock-proof, fog-proof
- CDS reliable turrets
- Multiple Reticle Options
- 3-9x Variable Magnification
- Twilight Light Management System
- Mil-spec, aircraft-grade construction
Also, Leupold backs all their rifle scopes with a Lifetime Warranty.
If your rifle scope has any defects or stops working altogether, Leupold will repair or replace it for free – whether you’re the original owner or not.
For the cherry on top: a warranty card isn’t required and there’s no time limit.
For this alone, all the best Leupold rifle scopes are a top choice.
2. Aimpoint ACO Red Dot Reflex Sight 2 MOA with Mount: Best Red Dot Sight
Aimpoint has a reputation for building the best red dot sights for rifles, including the M&P 15-22.
- Aimpoint quality and performance at an entry-level price.
- 2 MOA dot with 9 low light and daylight brightness settings.
- Includes mount configured for absolute co-witness with standard height sights.
The fact that the military uses it screams reliability, durability, and dependability.
If you like fast-paced running and gunning like me, you’ll love the Aimpoint ACO red dot sight.
Let’s take a closer look…
Glass Clarity & Reticle
You can expect a bright, clear, and crisp red dot with the Aimpoint ACO.
The front lens has a reddish-orange, anti-reflective tint and the rear lens is clear with a slight blue hue. Don’t worry, neither will be an issue.
The lenses also have astigmatism correction— just like the best prism scopes. This is a great option if you see a “blurry” or “jagged” dot.
The sight comes with 10 rotary intensity settings: 1 off and 9 daylight settings, the last one extra bright. I find the lowest setting is perfect for indoor shooting and home defense.
With the Aimpoint ACO, you get 10,000 hours or up to one year of consistent use from its single DL1/3N battery.
I’m slightly disappointed considering this is significantly lower compared to its older brother (the Aimpoint PRO).
But, it did last me a full year on the same battery (I kept it below the 7 setting). That’s still pretty doable.
Eye Relief
Like all red dots sights, the Aimpoint ACO comes with unlimited eye relief.
This sight comes with an unlimited field of view and is parallax-free.
It’s easy to work, easy to adjust, and accurate at variable ranges. After 5 rounds at 50 yards, I was in the bullseye.
Durability
The Aimpoint ACO is designed to stand up to abuse and harsh conditions.
This red dot sight is 6.75 inches long and weighs 7.8 ounces. You won’t feel it on your rifle at all.
It comes in a black, semi-matte finish and is honed from hard-anodized aluminum alloy for that legendary Aimpoint ruggedness.
It’s also waterproof up to a depth of 15 feet which makes it easy to fight intruders without needing to get out of your jacuzzi.
Windage & Elevation
The Aimpoint ACO comes with durable turrets on the top and side for windage and elevation adjustments.
The rubber cap rings prevent over-tightening and help me from losing the little caps.
Quick tip:
Don’t try to adjust windage and elevation mechanisms if you encounter resistance; instead, check the alignment of the rail to the barrel.
Magnification & Parallax
The Aimpoint ACO has 1x magnification, suitable for medium-range target shooting up to 100 yards.
The low magnification makes it more useful in close-quarter situations, such as home defense.
Mounting & Installation
The stand-out feature of the Aimpoint ACO is the integrated Picatinny rail mount. It fits right onto the M&P 15-22 with no problem.
The fixed height mount is designed for absolute co-witness with standard height sights.
I simply snapped it on and turned the attachment knob three times. Once installed, the red dot sat firmly on my M&P 15-22.
There’s one thing Aimpoint didn’t include: lens covers.
So, I bought the Aimpoint Lens Cover (Flip-up Front)
- Fits Aimpoint Comp, PRO, ACO and 9000 red dot sights
- Spring-loaded cover for quick and easy openingv
- Watertight to seal out moisture and dust
and the Aimpoint Lens Cover (Flip-up Rear). Both cost me $40.
- Clear lens cover allows fast aiming without opening the cover
- Fits Aimpoint Comp, PRO, ACO, and 9000 red dot sights
- Spring-loaded cover for quick and easy opening
Given the Aimpoint ACO’s performance, the lacking accessory is more than acceptable.
Is the Aimpoint ACO Red Dot Reflex Sight worth it?
The Aimpoint ACO red dot sight is a significant investment. But as the wise would say: buy once, cry once.
- Aimpoint quality and performance at an entry-level price.
- 2 MOA dot with 9 low light and daylight brightness settings.
- Includes mount configured for absolute co-witness with standard height sights.
Why? It features:
- Killer accuracy at medium range
- Rugged construction
- 10 brightness settings
- Acceptable battery life
- Co-witnessing with standard heights
Thanks to Aimpoint’s Warranty, the sight is backed up for 10 years for personal use beginning from the date of purchase.
It also covers up to 2 years for professional or competition use. You just need to provide a copy of the original receipt.
Lastly, here’s a point to ponder:
What happens when the batteries on your red-dot die? Hopefully, you have a backup. If you don’t want that to happen, check out my best backup iron sights review!
3. Barska 3-9×32 Plinker-22: Best for the Budget
For the price that the Barska 3-9×32 brings, the features and quality are beyond average.
- 3-9x magnification scope features 1/4 MOA click adjustments for precision accuracy.
- Fully coated optics provides impressive viewing clarity.
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof scope that’s built with extra-rigid construction and a tube with a diameter of 1".
This scope is a great choice for beginners and recreational shooters. It’s simple, accurate, and affordable, like the Nikon ProStaff Rimfire scope.
This $30 scope boasts 1,500 4-star reviews on Amazon.
Why? Let’s find out!
Glass Clarity & Reticle
To be honest, I wasn’t hoping to see mind-blowing clarity.
BUT:
The bright and distinct image views of the Barska 3-9×32 Plinker-22 proved me wrong.
Although the objective lens isn’t multi-coated, it performed well in lighted conditions.
The scope comes with a 30/30 reticle, which is a simple crosshair for easy targeting and is easy to get used to like the Nikon ProStaff Rimfire.
Eye Relief
The Barska Plinker-22 sports 3.5 inches of eye relief— more than enough for the M&P 15-22.
This comfortable distance between my eye and the scope provides that much-needed clear view.
The field of view at 100 yards varies between 13 and 39 feet.
Durability
The Barska Plinker-22 is built to last.
This scope tips the scale just below 12 ounces. With the M&P 22 as a lightweight .22 semi-automatic, it makes sense to mount a lightweight scope right?
This Barska Plinker-22 is advertised as waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof. Even after a couple of drop tests, this optic didn’t budge. Nikon has a similar budget optic in the Nikon ProStaff Rimfire if you want another option.
Plus:
It’s nice to know that some rain during a pig or coyote hunt won’t hurt this scope.
Windage & Elevation
Barska 3-9×32 Plinker-22’s adjustment knobs have nice, audible clicks.
This scope offers ¼ inch click adjustments to fine-tune for windage and elevation. The turrets are also capped to prevent dirt and debris from getting into the mechanism.
I zeroed it at 100 yards and easily hit rabbit-size targets at 200 yards.
If you’re looking to go further than that, the best long-range scopes will be a better option.
As long as the screws are tight, the Barska Plinker-22 should hold zero. I’ve had mine on for several years and it’s still zeroed.
Magnification & Parallax
The Barska Plinker-22’s magnification range is 2-7x.
Considering 100-yard shots can be made with no magnification at all, 7x is plenty.
The 32mm objective lens improves accuracy and helps you spot targets quickly.
Also: this rimfire scope is parallax-free at 50 yards. This is where it has a leg up on the Nikon ProStaff Rimfire, because the latter can’t adjust parallax when the target is closer.
Mounting & Installation
The Barska Plinker-22 ships with 3/8-inch Dovetail mounting rings, lens covers, and lens cloths.
The “dovetail” scope rings have a 5/8″ width. The standard Weaver/Picatinny rails require a width of just over 13/16″.
Plus, the rings are not high-quality. They’re low profile with only 2 screws to secure the rifle scope. The scope was terribly off the first time out.
I suggest buying the Monstrum Precision Picatinny Scope Rings (1-inch Diameter).
- 1.00 inches in height, measured from the center of the rifle scope tube to the bottom plane of the Picatinny rail mount
- Monstrum Precision Scope Rings are precision crafted to a given height specification to match your particular rifle setup and preferred cheek weld
- 1 inch diameter rings for mounting standard 1 inch rifle scope tubes
I was able to easily mount the scope right onto my M&P 15-22 without issues. If you do encounter problems, here’s a great guide on how to adjust rifle scopes.
Is the Barska 3-9×32 Plinker-22 worth it?
If you’re looking for a reliable yet budget scope, the Barska 3-9×32 Plinker-22 is the answer.
- 3-9x magnification scope features 1/4 MOA click adjustments for precision accuracy.
- Fully coated optics provides impressive viewing clarity.
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof scope that’s built with extra-rigid construction and a tube with a diameter of 1".
Why? It comes with:
- Capped turrets
- Multi-coated lens
- Affordable price tag
- Weather-proof construction, including fog-proof
Plus, this Barska optic includes a limited lifetime manufacturer’s warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
Barska Plinker-22 rifle scopes are great all-around rimfire rifle scopes that won’t break your budget. The Nikon ProStaff Rimfire offers a close second.
For the money, I don’t think you can beat this rifle scope.
4. Vortex Venom Red Dot Sight: Best for Home Defense
For home defense, you’ll be engaging targets at close range. In that case, you can’t really beat a red dot sight with the best scope.
When your life’s on the line, you need an optic that’s high quality, durable, and accurate.
This leads us to the Vortex Venom. It’s the best M&P 15-22 red dot sight for home defense.
- The Venom Red Dot Sight-3 MOA promotes rapid target acquisition while providing a precise point of aim; getting shots down range and on target fast. The Venom's aluminum housing ensures this unit will...
- High quality, fully multi-coated lenses offer a clean, wide field of view. Power and dot intensity controls are conveniently located on the left side of the sight to choose between 10 brightness...
- The Venom also has an auto-brightness mode that uses an ambient light sensor to control dot intensity if the shooter prefers. Parallax Free
Here’s why…
Glass Clarity & Reticle
Like all Vortex products, the Venom’s glass is extremely crisp and clear.
This mid-range scope features a 3 MOA red dot. This means this RDS would cover a 3-inch area on a target that’s 100 yards away.
If that isn’t big enough, you can also get the 6 MOA model as it allows you to pick up a target quicker.
The sight’s fully multi-coated Armortek lenses didn’t produce glare or hazing. It’s also effective for preventing dust and scratches.
The Vortex Venom comes with 10 brightness settings— including both a manual and auto-brightness mode, which is awesome.
I prefer the auto-brightness mode because the reticle adjusts quickly and provides the right level of brightness regardless of lighting conditions. Plus, the sight will shut off automatically after 14 hours.
It’s also worth noting that if you’re on manual mode, the sight will remain at the last brightness you set before you turn it off.
On the downside, there’s no motion sensing or “shake awake” feature. This would’ve been a helpful feature if you’re in a pinch.
Eye Relief
With the Vortex Venom, you get unlimited eye relief for rapid target acquisition.
This scope also offers a wide and crisp field of view. I can see more of my surroundings and take accurate and efficient shots.
Durability
The Vortex Venom can handle whatever you throw at it— or whatever someone throws at you.
This sight only weighs 1.1 ounces, making it super lightweight and compact.
The Vortex Venom comes with O-ring seals that prevent moisture, dust, and debris. I don’t plan on swimming around but I did shoot in the rain and never lost performance.
Now to a very important aspect: the battery life.
The Vortex Venom can be used for up to 150 hours on the highest setting and 30,000 hours on the lower setting.
It has a top-load battery, which means you don’t need to re-zero your M&P 15-22 after changing the battery— unlike the Vortex Viper.
Windage & Elevation
The windage and elevation knobs on the top and side are sturdy.
It would’ve been nice if there was an audible click with each adjustment, but the silence doesn’t bother me.
Vortex designed this red dot with flush-mounted turrets so they don’t move unless you use a screwdriver. Some shooters may prefer otherwise, but I personally think this makes it hold zero very, very well.
On that note:
Zeroing this bad boy was easy. I sighted it in at 25 yards, per Vortex’s recommendation. No problems whatsoever.
Magnification & Parallax
The Vortex Venom comes with 1x magnification.
This is great for target shooting between 25 to 100 yards, with plenty of wiggle room. I will say I’m impressed with its killer accuracy.
As with all red dot sights, the Vortex Venom will show a negligible amount of parallax.
Mounting & Installation
The great thing about the Vortex Venom is that it comes with a Weaver/Picatinny mount, making it easy to install on the M&P 15-22.
What else is in the box?
A T-15 Torx wrench, Rain cover, Lens cloth, Mounting screws, CR 1632 battery, and a Screwdriver.
Mounting the Vortex Venom on my M&P 15-22 was super simple since I had everything I needed.
Is the Vortex Venom Red Dot Sight worth it?
If you’re looking for an all-around, reliable optic for home defense: the Vortex Venom should be on your shortlist.
- The Venom Red Dot Sight-3 MOA promotes rapid target acquisition while providing a precise point of aim; getting shots down range and on target fast. The Venom's aluminum housing ensures this unit will...
- High quality, fully multi-coated lenses offer a clean, wide field of view. Power and dot intensity controls are conveniently located on the left side of the sight to choose between 10 brightness...
- The Venom also has an auto-brightness mode that uses an ambient light sensor to control dot intensity if the shooter prefers. Parallax Free
Why? It has:
- Crisp red dot
- 3- or 6-MOA option
- Unlimited eye-relief
- Long-lasting battery life
- Compact and durable construction
With Vortex’s VIP Warranty, they’ll repair or replace your damaged red dot sight. Not to mention, you can expect stellar customer service.
All in all, the Vortex Venom will impress you without a doubt.
By the way:
I’ve also got a list of the best M&P Shield night sights if you’re more into concealed carry pistols.
Now It’s Your Turn
I hope you enjoyed my Best Scopes for M&P 15-22 guide.
Now I want to turn it over to you:
Which rifle scope will you pick for your M&P 15-22? Or perhaps you already have one and would like to share your thoughts.
Either way, let me know by leaving a quick comment down below.
FAQ:
If you’re shooting your M&P 15-22 at close-range (between 0-100 yards), get a red dot. But if you’re shooting over 100 yards, go for a rifle scope.
The minimum sighting distance for the M&P 15-22 is 25 yards for paper or steel targets. Sight it in at 25 yards and you get an identical impact point at 100 yds.
Smith & Wesson lists many different types of the M&P 15-22. Some are threaded, some not.
Extend the stock on your M&P 15-22 to a length that’s comfortable. Shoulder the weapon and note where your cheek rests on the stock. Position the scope to where your dominant eye is able to see the largest field of view. The scope should be between 1 to 2 inches from your eye. The scope should also be just forward of your folded MBUS sight. The bells of the scope should be mounted as low as possible. For more details, here’s a great tutorial on how to properly mount a scope.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8rFOtmWqBUI
The magnifier you get will depend on the red dot sight you have.
The best option is to attach flip-side mounts to magnifiers. This design allows you to easily flip the magnifier in and out of place, depending on your need. The VMX-3T Magnifier will work with any of Vortex’s red dots but it’s not recommended for use with the prism scopes.
- The VMX-3T Magnifier and Flip Mount combo adds a 3x magnification to your rifle's red dot sight. Simple, fast, and effective, the push button design engages and disengages the flip mount allowing the...
- The lens are fully multi-coated maximizing resolution, light gathering capability, and color fidelity. Eye Relief-2.2 inches. Field of View-38.2 feet/100 yards
- The VMX-3T does not require any special sight-in. The dot centering screws can be used to help center your red dot image in the VMX-3T's field of view.
I‘ve also tried the TRS-25 with the UTG 3x Magnifier.
- Broadband Multi-coated Lens to Provide Crystal Clear 3X Image, Wide Field of View - 30% Bigger Than Comparable Models from Other Brands.Compatible Rail-Picatinny/Weaver.
- Windage/Elevation Adjustability for Optimum View Centering. Refer user manual for list of compatible manuals
- 42mm Center Height for Most Common Dot Sight Combination, Innovative Flip-to-Side Mechanism for Quick Transition between 1X and 3X Image.Objective Diameter:25mm;Field of View @ 100 yards:45'