The 10/22 Ruger is a legendary rifle known for its accuracy and reliability. Whether you’re using it for plinking, hunting, or target shooting, having the right sights can make all the difference in hitting your mark.
In this article, we’ll explore the various types of sights available for the 10/22 and highlight the best Ruger 10/22 sights on the market.
Types of Sights
Open Sights
Open sights, also known as iron sights, are the most traditional and basic type of firearm sight. They consist of a front post sight and a rear notch sight. To aim, you align the front post within the rear notch, placing it on target.
Open sights are simple, rugged, and require no batteries, making them reliable for various shooting scenarios.
Tech Sights
Tech sights are an evolution of open sights designed to enhance accuracy and usability. Tech sights typically offer a longer sight radius, which increases precision.
Tech sights often include elevation and windage adjustments, allowing for fine-tuning to achieve precise shots. Tech sights are favored by competitive shooters and those looking to upgrade their Ruger 10/22’s iron sights.
Peep Sight Picture
A peep sight, also known as an aperture sight, is a specific type of open sight with a small, circular aperture in the rear.
To aim, you look through this aperture and align it with the front post sight and your target. Peep sights provide a more precise aiming point than traditional open sights and are known for their accuracy, particularly in target shooting.
Telescopic Sights
Telescopic sights, commonly referred to as scopes, provide magnification for precise shooting at longer distances.
These sights come in various magnification levels and feature a reticle (crosshairs) for aiming. Scopes are ideal for hunters and precision shooters who need to engage targets at extended ranges.
Red Dot Sight
Red dots use a non-magnifying reflector to project a red dot or reticle onto the target. Shooters aim by aligning the dot with their target. Red dots are known for their quick target acquisition and are suitable for close to mid-range shooting.
They come in various sizes and are versatile for a wide range of applications.
Holographic Sights
Holographic sights are similar to red dot sights but use a more complex holographic reticle. The holographic reticle is displayed in the sight’s window, allowing for rapid and precise target acquisition.
These sights are popular among law enforcement and military personnel due to their speed and accuracy.
Sights vs Scopes
Sights and scopes serve different purposes in shooting:
Sights (open sights, peep sights, red dot sights, and holographic sights) are typically used for close to mid-range shooting and offer quick target acquisition.
Scopes are designed for long-range precision shooting and provide magnification for distant targets. They are ideal for hunting and precision shooting.
The choice between sights and scopes depends on your shooting style and the intended use of your 10/22.
Factors to Consider When Buying Ruger 10/22 Sights
Sight Type
Consider the type of sight that best suits your shooting needs. Determine whether you prefer the simplicity of iron sights, the speed of a red dot sight or holographic sights, or the precision of scopes for long-range shooting.
Material
The material of your sight is crucial for durability. Look for sights made from high-quality materials such as steel, aluminum, or polymer. A rugged construction ensures your sight can withstand harsh conditions.
Reticle
The reticle, or aiming point, varies between different sights. Consider the type of reticle that aligns with your shooting style. For example, peep sights have a simple aperture, while red dot and holographic sights project a dot or reticle onto the target.
Style
The style and aesthetics of your sight may be a personal preference, but it’s worth considering. Some shooters prefer the classic look of iron sights, while others appreciate the modern design of electronic sights like red dots and holographics. A visually pleasing sight can enhance your shooting experience.
Best Sights for Ruger 10/22 Reviewed
Now that we’ve covered the basics let’s explore some of the best Ruger 10/22 sights on the market
1. Vortex Strikefire II 1x30mm 4MOA Red Dot Sight
When it comes to having the best red dot sight for your Ruger 10/22, the Vortex Strikefire II stands out as a popular and reliable choice.
Specifications:
- Magnification: 1x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 30mm
- Dot Size: 4 MOA (Minute of Angle)
- Battery Life: Up to 6,000 hours on the lowest setting
- Brightness Settings: 10 levels
- Parallax-Free: Yes
- Material: Aircraft-grade aluminum
- Waterproof and Fogproof: Yes
- Mounting Type: Cantilever mount included
- Weight: 7.2 ounces
- Length: 5.6 inches
Key Features:
Red Dot Clarity: The 4 MOA red dot offers a clear and precise aiming point, making target acquisition quick and easy.
Multiple Brightness Settings: With 10 brightness levels, you can adapt the sight to various lighting conditions, from bright daylight to low-light situations.
Parallax-Free: The Vortex Strikefire II is designed to be parallax-free, meaning the point of impact remains consistent, regardless of your eye’s position.
Durable Construction: Built with ruggedness in mind, this sight features an aircraft-grade aluminum body that can withstand rough handling and the elements.
Long Battery Life: The sight’s battery can last up to an impressive 6,000 hours on the lowest brightness setting, ensuring you won’t need constant battery changes.
Cantilever Mount: The included cantilever mount provides a convenient and secure way to attach the sight to your 10/22 Ruger.
Pros:
- Easy and quick target acquisition.
- Versatile brightness settings for all lighting conditions.
- Durable and weatherproof construction.
- Parallax-free design ensures consistent accuracy.
- Long battery life minimizes downtime.
- Cantilever mount included for convenience.
Cons:
- The 4 MOA dot may not be ideal for ultra-precise shooting at longer distances.
- Some users may find the sight a bit heavier compared to other red dots.
Final Verdict:
The Vortex Strikefire II 1x30mm 4MOA Red Dot Sight is a solid choice for 10/22 Ruger owners looking to enhance their shooting experience. Its clarity, durability, and versatility make it a reliable companion for various shooting applications.
The inclusion of a cantilever mount is a thoughtful addition, simplifying the mounting process. While the 4 MOA dot might not be suitable for extreme precision shooting, it excels in providing quick and accurate target acquisition, making it an excellent all-around red dot sight for most shooters.
If you value quality and performance, the Strikefire II will definitely be one of the best Ruger 10/22 sights you can find.
2. Holosun HS510C MOA Circle Reflex Red Dot Sight
The Holosun HS510C is a top-tier reflex red dot sight renowned for its performance and versatility, making it one of our top picks for the list of the best Ruger 10/22 sights.
Specifications:
- Reticle Type: 2 MOA dot and 65 MOA circle
- Battery Life: Up to 50,000 hours (on a single CR2032 battery)
- Brightness Settings: 10 daylight and 2-night vision compatible settings
- Parallax-Free: Yes
- Material: High-strength aluminum
- Waterproof and Fogproof: Yes
- Mounting Type: Quick-detach mount included
- Weight: 8.3 ounces
- Length: 3.3 inches
Key Features:
Dual Reticle System: The HS510C features both a 2 MOA dot and a 65 MOA circle reticle, providing versatility for precise aiming or rapid target acquisition.
Long Battery Life: This red dot comes with a battery life of up to 50,000 hours, this sight can last for years on a single CR2032 battery.
Multiple Brightness Settings: The red dot offers 10 daylight settings and 2-night vision compatible settings, ensuring optimal visibility in various lighting conditions.
Parallax-Free Design: Like the best reflex sights, this red dot maintains point-of-impact consistency regardless of eye position.
Durable Construction: Crafted from high-strength aluminum, this sight can withstand harsh conditions.
Quick-Detach Mount: The quick-detach mount simplifies installation and removal for convenience and versatility.
Pros:
- Versatile dual reticle system for various shooting scenarios.
- Exceptional battery life ensures long-term use.
- Wide range of brightness settings for any lighting condition.
- Parallax-free design enhances accuracy.
- Durable construction for longevity.
- Quick-detach mount for easy installation and removal.
Cons:
- May be considered a bit pricey for budget-conscious buyers.
- Some users may find the sight a tad heavy compared to lighter alternatives.
Final Verdict:
The Holosun HS510C MOA Circle Reflex Red Dot Sight is a standout choice for Ruger 10/22 enthusiasts looking for a high-performance reflex sight. Its dual reticle system, extended battery life, and excellent durability make it a top-tier option in the market.
Whether you’re engaged in precision shooting or need rapid target acquisition, the HS510C delivers on both fronts. While it may be a bit more expensive than some alternatives, its feature set justifies the investment for those who demand quality and reliability.
With the Holosun HS510C on your Ruger 10/22, you’ll be well-equipped for a wide range of shooting activities, from competitive shooting to hunting and beyond, making it one of the top contenders as one of the best Ruger 10/22 sights.
3. Samson B TM Sight Package for 10/22
The Samson B TM Sight Package is a comprehensive solution for 10/22 owners looking to upgrade their sights.
Specifications:
- Rear Sight Type: Flip-up sight (aperture)
- Front Sight Type: Post sight with protective wings
- Material: High-quality steel and aluminum
- Compatibility: Fits 10/22 rifles with a Picatinny rail
- Weight: 8.2 ounces (combined)
- Finish: Black anodized finish for durability
Key Features:
Rear Flip-Up Aperture Sight: The rear sights in this package is a flip-up sight ((aperture), allowing for precise aiming with a small aperture for accuracy or a larger aperture for quicker target acquisition.
Protective Wings: The front post sight is equipped with protective wings to shield it from damage, ensuring durability and reliability in the field.
High-Quality Materials: Crafted from robust steel and aluminum, these sights are built to withstand rugged use and adverse conditions.
Easy Installation: The package includes all necessary hardware and tools for easy installation on Ruger 10/22 rifles equipped with a Picatinny style rail.
Versatile Aiming Options: The combination of the rear aperture sight and front post sight provides versatile aiming options for different shooting scenarios.
Pros:
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Versatile aiming options with rear aperture and front post sights.
- Protective wings on the front sight enhance durability.
- Easy installation on Ruger 10/22 rifles with Picatinny rails.
- Provides a solid sighting solution for improved accuracy.
Cons:
- Requires a Picatinny style rail on your Ruger 10/22 for installation.
- Not as quick to acquire targets as red dot sights or holographic sights.
Final Verdict:
The Samson B TM Sight Package for Ruger 10/22 offers a solid sighting solution for those who prefer the classic appeal of the iron sight. Its combination of a rear flip-up aperture sight and a front post sight with protective wings provides versatile aiming options and durability.
These sights are constructed from high-quality materials, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of shooting in various conditions.
However, it’s important to note that this sight package may not be as quick to acquire targets as red dot or holographic sights. Additionally, your Ruger 10/22 must have a Picatinny rail for proper installation.
If you value the simplicity and reliability of an iron sight and are looking for an upgrade for your Ruger 10/22, the Samson B TM Sight Package is a dependable choice that will enhance your accuracy and shooting experience.
4. LPA TPU Adjustable Rear Sight for Ruger .22 Long Rifle
Specifications:
- Sight Type: Rear
- Adjustability: Elevation and windage adjustments
- Material: Steel construction
- Compatibility: Ruger .22 Long Rifle
- Finish: Blued finish for corrosion resistance
Key Features:
Windage and Elevation Adjustments: The LPA TPU Adjustable sight allows for precise adjustments for windage and elevation, enabling you to fine-tune your Ruger .22 Long Rifle for optimal accuracy.
Durable Construction: Constructed from high-quality steel with a corrosion-resistant blued finish, this great rear sight is built to withstand the test of time.
Compatibility: Specifically designed for Ruger .22 Long Rifle models, ensuring a perfect fit.
Pros:
- Adjustable for windage and elevation.
- Durable steel construction.
- Designed for Ruger .22 Long Rifle.
- Provides a reliable and accurate sighted picture.
Cons:
- Limited to rear Ruger 10/22 sights adjustments only; no sight included for the front.
- Installation may require gunsmithing skills for some users.
Final Verdict:
The LPA TPU Adjustable Rear Sights is an excellent choice for Ruger .22 Long Rifle owners seeking improved accuracy and adjustability.
Its windage and elevation adjustments enable precise aiming, and the steel construction ensures durability.
However, keep in mind that it’s a rear sight only, so you may need a compatible front sight for a complete sighted picture. Installation may also require some gunsmithing skills.
5. Hiviz LITEWAVE Interchangeable Front and Rear Sight Combo for Ruger 10/22
Specifications:
- Front Type: Interchangeable fiber optic sights
- Rear Sight Type: Interchangeable fiber optic
- Material: Steel and polymer construction
- Compatibility: Ruger 10/22
- Weight: Not specified
- Finish: Black and red fiber optic inserts
Key Features:
Interchangeable Fiber Optic Sights: Both the front and rear sights feature interchangeable fiber optic inserts, allowing you to customize your sight picture for different lighting conditions and preferences.
Durable Construction: Constructed with a combination of steel and polymer materials, this sight combo offers both durability and lightweight design.
Compatibility: Designed specifically for Ruger 10/22 rifles, ensuring a proper fit.
Pros:
- Interchangeable fiber optic sights for versatile aiming.
- Durable construction with steel and polymer materials.
- Designed to fit Ruger 10/22 rifles.
- Enhanced visibility in varying lighting conditions.
Cons:
- Some users may find it challenging to switch out fiber optic inserts.
- Installation may require minor gunsmithing for a secure fit.
Final Verdict:
The Hiviz LITEWAVE Interchangeable Front and Rear Sight Combo is an excellent choice for Ruger 10/22 owners looking to enhance their sighted picture and visibility.
With interchangeable fiber optic inserts for both front and rear sights, you can adapt to different lighting conditions easily.
The combination of steel and polymer construction offers durability without adding excessive weight. While the installation may require minor gunsmithing for a secure fit, the improved visibility and versatility make it a worthwhile addition to your Ruger 10/22.
6. MSP Fiber Optic Front Sight
Specifications:
- Front Type: Fiber optic
- Compatibility: Ruger 10/22
- Material: Steel construction
- Finish: Black with fiber optic insert
Key Features:
Fiber Optic Ruger 10/22 Sights in the Front: The MSP Fiber Optic Sight features a bright and easily visible fiber optic insert, enhancing target acquisition and accuracy in various lighting conditions.
Durable Construction: Crafted from steel, this sight is built to withstand the rigors of shooting.
Compatibility: Designed specifically for 10/22 rifles, ensuring a proper fit.
Pros:
- Bright and visible fiber optic sight in the front.
- Durable steel construction.
- Designed to fit 10/22 rifles.
- Enhanced target acquisition in varying lighting conditions.
Cons:
- Only includes a sight in the front; you may need to pair it with a compatible rear sight for a complete sight edpicture.
- Some users may prefer a front and rear sight combo for comprehensive aiming.
Final Verdict:
The MSP Fiber Optic Front Sight is an excellent addition for 10/22 owners seeking improved target acquisition and accuracy in different lighting conditions.
Its bright fiber optic insert enhances visibility, and the steel construction ensures durability.
However, keep in mind that it’s a front sight only, so you may need to pair it with a compatible rear sight for a complete sighted picture. If you prefer a simple and effective solution to boost your 10/22’s accuracy, this sight is a solid choice.
Conclusion
Choosing the right sights for your 10/22 Ruger is crucial to improving your shooting accuracy and overall performance. After reviewing some of the best sights available for this iconic rifle, it’s clear that there are options to suit a variety of preferences and shooting styles.
Whether you opt for a red dot sight like the Vortex Strikefire II, a reflex sight such as the Holosun HS510C, or a traditional iron sight package like the Samson B TM Sight Package, your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Each of these sights offers unique advantages, from quick target acquisition to precision aiming, and they all come with their own set of features and benefits.
When making your selection, consider factors like the type of shooting you’ll be doing, the lighting conditions you’ll encounter, and your budget.
Additionally, think about whether you prefer the simplicity of iron sights or the convenience of electronic optics.
Regardless of which sight you choose, investing in a high-quality sighting system will greatly enhance your 10/22 Ruger experience, whether you’re using it for hunting, target shooting, or just enjoying some plinking fun.
With the right sight, you’ll be more accurate and confident in your shooting abilities.
So, take your time to explore the options, read user reviews, and make an informed decision. Your 10/22 Ruger deserves the best, and the right sight will help you unlock its full potential.
FAQ
Can I use a red dot sight and open sights together on my 10/22 Ruger?
Yes, some shooters opt for a combination of red dots and open sights. This allows for flexibility in various shooting scenarios.
You can use the red dot sight for quick target acquisition at shorter distances and transition to open sights for precision shooting at longer ranges.
Are holographic sights better than red dots?
Holographic sights and red dots both have their advantages. Holographic sights typically offer a more complex reticle for precise aiming and are known for their rapid target acquisition.
Red dots, on the other hand, are often more affordable and suitable for most shooting applications. The choice between them depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Can I mount a scope on my 10/22 if it doesn’t come with one?
Yes, you can mount a scope on your 10/22 using a Picatinny style rail or scope rings. Make sure the scope you choose is compatible with your rifle and suits your shooting requirements.
Scopes are excellent for long-range precision shooting but may not be as quick for close range engagements as red dot or holographic sights.