how good are their lower end scopes? I'm not interested in buying junk, or spending 500 on a scope for a 22 that gets beat up.

Absolutely not interested in other brands period.

I've had no issues with the Rifleman, Marksman and Freedom lines. Not on 22s, but have several of my own (and mounted numerous for friends) on 30-30s, 30-06, 308s , etc.

I was a big fan of the VX1 and VX2 lines when those were a thing

I've got vx2 on other guns, happy with that. For something that might take a beating I'd like to go cheaper.

I know you ask about leupold but look at the vortex copper head. Duhnams has then for 99 bucks !! Got one on my 270 and clarity is unreal.

Seems I was paying $200 for the Rifleman, Marksman, Freedom ones. Through Cabelas and Amazon. Not sure you find a new Leupold for under 200. Haven't bought one since last year, so not sure what current market is.

Edit - Quick review of internet looks like those days are done.

Got this one on a 22 mag... straight 4x , think I gave 250$ .... no problems, holds 0 and very clear glass

Have no fear in the lower models. Quality and clarity are still there. I enjoy fixed power scopes so I like their fx line when you can find them. The fx 6x36 sit on top of 2 .17 hornets, 4 .22 hornets, and 1 .22KH.

I hunted with a Leopold M8 4x on my 270 for twenty years before I found out I was supposed to spend a bunch of money on a scope. The M8 6x is pretty sweet also.

I believe Leupold holds the quality level up in all the price point levels they make.

Several lower end Leupolds on .22 and no problems.

No rifle there is will shoot better than it's sights or scope. Some iron sights cost more than the scopes you are talking about. There is a reason some are more expensive.

True but most 22s aren't benchrest grade in accuracy to start with. Minute of squirrel is good enough.

I just put a FXll 4x33 on a Hornet. I like it.

Just come across this one that may make a good rimfire scope. It's also available in a mildot and bdc reticle.

https://athlonoptics.com/product/rifle-scopes-talos-3-12x40-center-x-sfp/

Iv got a VX2 on a Ruger 22mag
Been on there 15 year or more, I’m guessing
Great scope, never any problem with it, been banged around a bit.

Leupold scopes used to have a lifetime warranty. If you can pick up a good used Leupold scope, it is covered for life.

natchez has the weaver classic 4x16 in stock, best scope I ever had on a rimfire