Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED Review

First Thoughts on the Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED

The Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED are a seemingly simple, yet incredibly crucial component for any rimfire enthusiast looking to mount a scope. Leupold is a name synonymous with quality optics and mounting solutions, and these rings aim to uphold that reputation. Having spent years tinkering with various rimfire rifles and struggling with subpar mounting systems, I was on the hunt for a reliable and precise set of rings. These rings promised a secure and repeatable zero, a feature often lacking in cheaper alternatives.

My journey began with a classic Ruger 10/22. I wanted to transform it into a tack-driving squirrel rifle. The factory sights were decent, but for truly stretching the capabilities of the .22 LR cartridge, an optic was essential. After enduring years of frustration using rings that shifted, loosened, or simply wouldn’t hold zero, I wanted rings that would last. The Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED seemed like the answer to my prayers.

Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of quality. The gloss finish gave them a sleek, polished look, and the weight felt substantial, suggesting solid construction. Compared to a set of generic rings I had previously used, these felt much more robust. They inspired confidence that they would be able to withstand the recoil of even high-velocity .22 rounds. I chose these over Weaver or Burris rimfire rings primarily because of Leupold’s stellar reputation and the promise of precise machining.

My initial reaction was excitement. Finally, a set of rings that looked and felt like they could deliver on their promise of secure scope mounting. It was a stark contrast to the skepticism that usually accompanied my scope-mounting endeavors. These rings look like they’ll live up to the Leupold name.

Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED to the Test

First Use Experience

The first outing for the Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED was at my local shooting range. The rings were mounted on my Ruger 10/22 and paired with a Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7×33 rimfire scope. I wanted to gauge their performance under controlled conditions. The weather was clear and mild, perfect for dialing in a new setup. I was testing different brands of ammo to see what the rifle liked the most.

Performance was immediately noticeable. The scope remained firmly in place, even after repeated volleys of high-velocity rounds. There was absolutely no sign of slippage or movement. Zeroing the scope was straightforward. The adjustments felt precise, and the groups tightened significantly compared to my previous setup. Even after switching to different brands of .22LR ammo, the zero stayed true, instilling confidence in the rings’ ability to maintain accuracy.

Installation was easy, which was a nice surprise. There was no need for excessive torque or forceful adjustments. The rings simply slipped onto the receiver and tightened securely. The first use was a success!

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED continue to impress. I’ve taken the rifle on several squirrel hunts in varying weather conditions. This includes a particularly wet and muddy trip where everything else got soaked. The rings have held up flawlessly.

Durability has proven to be excellent. There are no signs of wear or loosening, even after repeated use and exposure to the elements. The gloss finish has remained intact, resisting scratches and maintaining its sleek appearance. Regular maintenance involves simply wiping down the rings with a clean cloth to remove any dirt or debris.

Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper rings, the Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED are in a completely different league. My old rings required constant tightening and readjustment, which was a major source of frustration. These Leupold rings have remained rock solid, allowing me to focus on shooting rather than constantly worrying about my scope’s stability. The reliability of these rings is impressive.

Breaking Down the Features of Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED

Specifications

• Type: Rimfire. This designation ensures compatibility with the dovetail mounts commonly found on .22 rifles.
• Size: 1″. This indicates the diameter of the scope tube that the rings are designed to accommodate, making them suitable for most standard rimfire scopes.
• Height: 0.84″. This “Medium” height provides ample clearance for scopes with objective lenses up to approximately 40mm in diameter, depending on the rifle’s receiver.
• Tube Diameter: 13mm. This further clarifies that the rings are designed for scopes with a 1-inch (25.4mm) tube diameter. It reaffirms compatibility with most rimfire scopes.
• Finish: Gloss. The gloss finish adds an aesthetic appeal and enhances corrosion resistance. This provides a sleek and polished look.

These specifications are important because they dictate compatibility with various rifles and scopes. The right height ensures proper eye alignment and prevents the scope from contacting the barrel. The quality of the materials and construction is what allows them to maintain zero under recoil.

Performance & Functionality

The Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED excel at their primary job. They provide a rock-solid and repeatable mounting platform for rimfire scopes. Accuracy is enhanced by the rings’ ability to maintain zero, even after repeated shooting or exposure to harsh conditions. Reliability is exceptional, with no signs of slippage or loosening observed during testing.

The rings are strong, durable, and designed with precision in mind. One potential improvement could be offering different height options within the “Medium” category for more precise scope positioning. Overall, these rings meet and exceed expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED feature a simple yet effective design. The rings are constructed from high-quality steel, providing exceptional strength and durability. The gloss finish not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also provides a degree of corrosion resistance.

The rings are relatively lightweight and don’t add unnecessary bulk to the rifle. They are easy to install and require minimal adjustment. There is no learning curve associated with their use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED are built to last. The high-quality steel construction ensures exceptional durability, even under heavy use. The rings are resistant to scratches, dents, and corrosion.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a clean cloth. No special tools or cleaning agents are needed. Their longevity makes them a worthwhile investment for any serious rimfire shooter.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED do not come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited to choosing the appropriate ring height for the specific scope and rifle combination.

However, the rings are compatible with a wide range of rimfire scopes from various manufacturers. They can be used with both standard and Picatinny rail adapters, providing added versatility. Be sure to check compatibility with your receiver type.

Pros and Cons of Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED

Who Should Buy Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED?

The Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED are perfect for rimfire enthusiasts who demand reliability and precision from their scope mounting system. This includes hunters, competitive shooters, and recreational plinkers who value consistent accuracy. Anyone who has been frustrated with cheap, unreliable rings will appreciate the Leupold quality.

Those who should skip this product might be shooters on an extremely tight budget. There are cheaper alternatives available, although they often compromise on quality and performance. Also, users who prefer a matte finish might want to explore other options.

A must-have accessory would be a quality torque wrench to ensure proper tightening of the ring screws. Over-tightening can damage the scope tube. Also, consider a Picatinny rail adapter if your rifle doesn’t have a standard dovetail mount.

Conclusion on Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED

The Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED are an excellent investment for any rimfire shooter seeking a reliable and precise scope mounting solution. They deliver on their promise of rock-solid stability, ensuring consistent accuracy and peace of mind.

The price of $48.49 is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and performance. These rings are built to last and will likely outlive many scopes.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Leupold RIMFIRE RINGS 22 MED to anyone looking to upgrade their rimfire setup. Don’t settle for subpar rings that compromise accuracy and reliability. Invest in Leupold quality and experience the difference for yourself! Get yours today and start shooting with confidence.