Best Scope for Marlin 60 – Top 10 Best Optics for Marlin Model 60 Reviews

Shooting a .22 rifle is a rite of passage for almost every shooting sports enthusiast. If you still enjoy taking out a .22 rifle for plinking from time to time, the Marlin Model 60 is a popular option. 

While plinking with iron sights is always fun, adding a scope to the equation can amp up the fun even more. 

If you don’t have time for the details, check out the list below for the best rated Marlin Model 60 Scopes:

1. Vortex Optics Diamondback 1.75-5×32 Scope
2. UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope
3. Konus KonusPro M30 1.5-6x44mm
4. Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Circle-X Reticle Riflescope
5. Vortex Optics Crossfire Red Dot Sight Gen II
6. TRUGLO TruBrite 30 Hunter 30mm Compact Shotgun/Rifle Scope
7. Sightmark Ultra Shot Multi Red & Green Plus Reflex Sight
8. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rimfire Riflescope
9. Feyachi Falcon 2-7x32mm
10. BARSKA 3-7×20 Rimfire Riflescope

Not Just Another .22 Rifle

With over 10 million Marlin 60s sold since its introduction in 1960, this iconic rimfire rifle is one of the most popular in history. It is the ideal gun for small game hunting, target shooting, vermin control, and plinking. It also provides a great introduction for those just learning to shoot a semi-automatic rifle.

What Makes the Marlin Model 60 So Great?

There are four main design features that make the Marlin Model 60 an ideal semi-automatic .22 rifle.

• Stock – Most models of the Marlin Model 60 have a Monte Carlo style stock. This proven style provides a comfortable and stable shooting hold as well as a classic and stylish look.
• Autoloading Action – While pretty much any .22 rifle is fun to shoot, there is something extra special about a semi-automatic .22. It has the ability to spit rounds downrange as fast as you can pull the trigger. The Marlin Model 60 features a side ejection action to discard spent shells in a safe direction. The bolt also has a “stay open” feature once the last shot has been fired. 
• Large Capacity – The less time spent reloading at the range or in the field, the better. With an impressive 14 shot capacity, the Model 60 offers rapid firing action. Quick follow-up shots are a must when engaging a fast moving quarry, like squirrels and rabbits.  It is also just plain old fun to plaster targets down range with a rapid volley of 14 shots.
• Micro-Groove Rifling – The unique rifling used in the Model 60 makes it one of the most accurate, factory-produced .22 rifles a shooter can buy. While most rifles use either 4, 6, or 8 deep rifling grooves, the Model 60 features 16 small lands and grooves. This results in less bullet deformity, which results in better accuracy.

Can I Mount a Scope on the Model 60?

Yes! The receiver on every Marlin Model 60 is grooved for a scope mount. You’ll want to make sure you get the correct scope mount or scope rings. Thankfully, there are plenty of available options on the market. A set of ⅜” dovetail rings will serve you well.

Best Marlin Model 60 Scopes on the Market Reviews

There are a ton of great scope options for the Model 60. Keep reading to see ten of the best scopes for this iconic firearm, including the best cheap options and the best rimfire scope for Marlin Model 60 .22 rifles.

 1   Vortex Optics Diamondback 1.75-5×32 Scope

The Diamondback from Vortex Optics is a can’t miss option for the Model 60. This scope offers serious versatility, which makes it ideal for a variety of shooting environments and conditions.

The Dead-Hold BDC reticle allows shooters to adapt to shooting at any range. This reticle is ideal for quick shooting in brush or at a swiftly moving target. Adjusting for various ranges with the Diamondback scope is made even easier with the quick focus eyepiece.

With fully multi-coated lenses, metal on metal turrets, and a one-piece tube construction, this scope can stand up to rough conditions. The O-ring seal and argon purged interior makes this scope fogproof and waterproof.

The Vortex Optics Diamondback is on the high end of the price range for a rimfire rifle, but it is hard to beat this one’s performance.

 2   UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope

The UTG BugBuster is the best scope for shooters who want more magnification on their Model 60. This scope features a one-inch tube for impressive light transmission. It also has an illuminated reticle for easy target acquisition in thick brush or dim light.

The lockable turrets feature ¼-MOA click adjustments. Those small adjustments are ideal for small .22 caliber bullets. The BDC reticle allows hunters to quickly estimate the distance to their target. The UTG BugBuster is sealed and filled with nitrogen. It is rainproof, fogproof, shockproof, and built to last.

This scope also includes a 2-inch sunshade, flip open lens caps, and quick-detachable rings.

 3   Konus KonusPro M30 1.5-6x44mm

The KonusPro M30 1.5-6×44 performs superbly on the Marlin Model 60 rimfire .22LR rifle.

One of the best features of this Konus optic is the etched glass reticle. This type of reticle can withstand repeated, forceful recoil. While recoil isn’t an issue with a rimfire rifle, it is always good to know a piece of gear is built with durability in mind.

The 1.5-6x magnification range of this scope is ideal for rimfire ranges. The ¼-MOA click adjustments allow hunters to fine tune the point of impact and dial their scope into the perfect range for their needs.

 4   Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Circle-X Reticle Riflescope

For Marlin Model 60 owners who typically shoot during low light conditions, the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn scope is a great choice. The large 40mm objective lens and Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses allow shooters, plinkers, and hunters to clearly see targets, even in dim conditions.

With ¼-MOA click adjustments, a fast focus eyepiece, and 100 percent waterproof construction, the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn is a great option for a low light rimfire scope.

 5   Vortex Optics Crossfire Red Dot Sight Gen II

If you want a scope that performs admirably on your Model 60, but is capable of serving double duty on another rifle or an air gun, look no further than the Vortex Optics Crossfire Red Dot Sight Gen II.

This red dot scope is ideal for cross-platform use and is easily mounted on a variety of weapons. The versatility makes it ideal for shooters who enjoy several different activities.

It offers a single point of aim in a compact, yet powerful, package. The Crossfire Red Dot Sight Gen II features a 2 MOA dot that allows for both rapid target acquisition and pinpoint accuracy at longer ranges.

The 50,000-hour battery life and night vision compatibility make this scope capable of producing accurate results in many different applications, conditions, and environments. This optic’s impressive light transmission results from anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces. Combined with its unlimited eye relief, acquiring a target with this scope is a simple task.

With 11 different illumination settings, a hard anodized finish, and aO-ring seals, the Vortex Optics Crossfire Red Dot Sight Gen II is an ideal choice for anyone who wants durability, versatility, and cross platform performance.

Whether you are a target shooter, plinker, small game hunter, or you want fast-shooting action with the .22LR platform, the Crossfire is the perfect red dot scope to add to your arsenal.

 6   TRUGLO TruBrite 30 Hunter 30mm Compact Shotgun/Rifle Scope

The TRUGLO TruBrite 30 Hunter Compact scope features a 30mm tube, which allows plenty of light to enter the scope. It also has 1-4x magnification for fast, easy target acquisition. This is an important feature for hunters targeting fast-moving game, like squirrels and other varmints.

This scope also provides easy target identification in low light conditions. The 3.75 inch eye relief and fully coated lenses make for a bright sight picture. 

The TRUGLO TruBrite 30 is filled with nitrogen, which makes it both fog proof and water resistant.

The scope features a wide field of view, turrets with ½-MOA click adjustments, and a pair of Weaver style mounting rings.

 7   Sightmark Ultra Shot Multi Red & Green Plus Reflex Sight

If you prefer fast and furious rimfire plinking action, a reflex sight like the Sightmark Ultra Shot is a great option. This optic is designed for close range and fast moving targets, and features a red/green illuminated reticle.

This durable scope is made with a cast aluminum housing for extra durability. It offers shooters a variety of reticle options. The quick detach mounting system makes storage a breeze.

The Sightmark Ultra shot Reflex Sight carries an IPX4 waterproof rating and is shockproof. With unlimited eye relief, a 1000-hour battery life, digital switch controls, and an internal locking system, the Sightmark Ultra Shot Reflex Sight is an awesome red dot scope for the Model 60.

 8   Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rimfire Riflescope

In the world of optics, it is usually a smart idea to spend a little more cash to get solid performance and reliability. For shooters who want to milk some extra accuracy out of their Marlin 60, the Leupold VX-Freedom rimfire scope is designed to do just that. 

The VX-Freedom features precision adjustment turrets, fully multi-coated lenses, and an easy-to-use Duplex reticle that is perfect for rimfire shooting. 

Built for durability, the VX-Freedom is crafted from 6061-T6 aircraft grade aluminum. The optic is completely waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. 

One of our favorite features is Leupold’s exclusive Twilight Light Management System. This optical system enhances light transmission and reduces glare to provide a bright, crisp sight picture even in low light.

 9   Feyachi Falcon 2-7x32mm

For a well-regarded scope that is easy on the wallet, look no further than the Feyachi Falcon 2-7x32mm rimfire scope. This scope features a fast focus eyepiece, comfortable eye relief for fast target acquisition, and a durable one-piece aircraft aluminum tube.

For a sub-$70 scope, you would be hard-pressed to find a better budget option than the Feyachi Falcon 2-7x32mm scope.

 10   BARSKA 3-7×20 Rimfire Riflescope

The BARSKA 3-2×20 Rimfire Riflescope is a perfect budget-friendly option for the Marlin Model 60. is a great option. Checking in at under $25, this scope adds classic style and decent performance to any rimfire rifle.

Don’t expect to be blown away by the performance or quality of this scope. It has a $25 price tag for a reason. However, if you just want a cheap scope for some occasional plinking, this rimfire scope will work without putting a huge dent in your wallet.

This scope also comes with the exact style of mounting rings needed to attach it to the grooves on the receiver of the Marlin Model 60.

Wrapping It Up

The .22 rifle is perfect for plinking, hunting, and getting rid of varmints. The ammo is cheap. It doesn’t have much recoil and makes very little noise. Did I mention they are also a lot of fun to shoot?

Adding a scope to a .22 rifle, and especially the Marlin Model 60, will crank the fun up several notches. It will also make the gun a more effective hunting tool. There are plenty of options on our list of the best scope for Marlin Model 60 to choose from. We’ve tried to include everything from cheap rimfire scopes to higher end models with impressive performance.