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Top 7 Best Scopes for 17 HMR in 2024

As a passionate marksman, I’ve journeyed through the vast expanse of precision shooting, constantly on the lookout for the gear that can elevate my experience. In my quest for accuracy and performance, I’ve come to realize the pivotal role that a high-quality scope plays, especially when it comes to the 17 HMR—a cartridge renowned for its flat trajectory and pinpoint accuracy.

Today, I’m thrilled to share my insights and discoveries on the best scope for 17 HMR, a compilation meticulously curated for enthusiasts who demand nothing but excellence.Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just beginning to explore the realms of long-range shooting, these top-tier scopes are set to redefine your shooting experience, ensuring that every shot is as thrilling as it is precise.

Top 7 Best Scopes for 17 HMR in 2024

  1. Vortex Optics Sonora 4-12×44 Riflescope
  2. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope
  3. BURRIS Fullfield E1 4.5-14x42mm Hunting Scope
  4. Bushnell Banner 4-12x40mm Riflescope
  5. Athlon Optics Talos BTR GEN2 4-14×44 Riflescopes
  6. Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope
  7. NIGHTFORCE SHV 5-20x56mm Zeroset .250 MOA Scope

1. Vortex Optics Sonora 4-12×44 Riflescope

The Vortex Optics Sonora Riflescope 4-12×44, with its Dead-Hold BDC reticle, is an excellent choice for hunters and shooters needing precision at varying ranges. Constructed from 1-inch aircraft-grade aluminum, this scope offers versatile adjustment capabilities. Its fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission, ensuring clear views in various conditions.

You’ll appreciate the locking diopter eyepiece, allowing for a personalized setting that stays put. The hard anodized finish provides a low-glare surface, minimizing distractions during use.

Moreover, its O-ring sealed and nitrogen-purged design guarantees water and fog-proof performance, while the rugged construction is built to withstand recoil and impact. Customers have given positive feedback on its quality, ease of mounting, and overall performance, particularly praising its clarity and good eye relief.

Despite mixed reviews on brightness compared to some competitors, it’s lauded for its value, especially for hunting under 300 yards. The scope’s affordability doesn’t compromise its quality, making it a solid option for those on a budget.

Best For: Hunters and shooters looking for a reliable, budget-friendly riflescope for ranges under 300 yards.

Pros:

  • Constructed from 1-inch aircraft-grade aluminum for durability and versatility
  • Fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission for clear views
  • O-ring sealed and nitrogen-purged for dependable water and fog-proof performance

Cons:

  • Mixed reviews on brightness and clarity compared to other brands

2. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope

For hunters seeking unmatched clarity and durability in their optics, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope stands out as an exceptional choice. Constructed from 6061-T6 aircraft quality aluminum, this scope is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring reliability in the toughest conditions.

It features the Twilight Light Management System, enhancing visibility in low-light situations. Its precision 1/4 MOA finger click adjustments allow for accurate shots. Being incredibly lightweight, it ensures that carrying it is never a burden. It features a magnification range of 3-9x paired with a 40mm objective lens, offering a clear field of view stretching to 13.6 feet at a distance of 100 yards. Leupold stands firmly behind this scope by offering a Full Lifetime Guarantee, a testament to their belief in its superior performance and enduring quality.

Best For: Hunters and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a reliable, durable, and high-quality riflescope for various light conditions.

Pros:

  • Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof design ensures durability and reliability in harsh conditions.
  • Twilight Light Management System enhances visibility in low-light situations, improving hunting success.
  • Leupold’s Full Lifetime Guarantee offers peace of mind and demonstrates the company’s confidence in their product.

Cons:

  • Some users may find the price point a bit high compared to other options on the market.

3. BURRIS Fullfield E1 4.5-14x42mm Hunting Scope

If you’re searching for unmatched clarity and durability in your 17 HMR rifle’s scope, Burris Fullfield E1 4.5-14x42mm stands out with its high-grade optical glass and robust construction. This hunting scope is engineered to deliver exceptional brightness and clarity, ensuring that your target is always in sharp focus. Its 1-piece outer tube is built to withstand heavy recoil, keeping your aim steady and precise, no matter the conditions.

With its index-matched, Hi-Lume multicoating, you’ll find that low-light performance and glare elimination are greatly enhanced, making early morning or late evening hunts more productive. The long-range MOA reticle further aids in engaging targets with extreme accuracy, providing a simple yet sophisticated aiming tool that’s perfect for precision shooting. Plus, the Burris Forever Warranty backs up its quality, ensuring you’re making a solid investment for your hunting adventures.

Best For: Hunters and precision shooters looking for a high-quality, durable scope with excellent clarity and low-light performance.

Pros:

  • High-grade optical glass ensures exceptional brightness and clarity.
  • Durable construction that withstands heavy recoil and maintains zero.
  • Index-matched, Hi-Lume multicoating enhances low-light performance and reduces glare.

Cons:

  • Higher price point may not fit all budgets.

4. Bushnell Banner 4-12x40mm Riflescope

Hunters seeking clarity and brightness in low light conditions will find the Bushnell Banner 4-12x40mm Riflescope, featuring Dusk & Dawn Brightness technology, an ideal match for their 17 HMR rifles. This scope, part of the Bushnell Banner series, boasts multi-coated lenses designed to enhance visual clarity and brightness during the early morning and late evening hunts, making it perfect for those who prefer hunting at dawn or dusk.

It’s also suitable for long-range centerfire shooting and adult break-barrel airguns, providing versatility for different hunting scenarios. The scope is fully multi-coated with an anti-reflective coating for high-contrast images, and its one-piece tube design guarantees durability. Additionally, it’s argon purged for fog-proofing and features IPX7 waterproof construction, ensuring it withstands harsh weather conditions.

This scope is highly regarded for its quality, clarity, and functionality across different rifles and distances, as evidenced by its customer rating.

Best For: Hunters and shooters looking for a versatile riflescope that excels in low-light conditions.

Pros:

  • Features Dusk & Dawn Brightness technology for enhanced visibility in low light.
  • Fully multi-coated lenses with anti-reflective coating for clear, high-contrast images.
  • Argon purged and IPX7 waterproof construction for durability in harsh weather conditions.

Cons:

  • May be considered heavy for some users

5. Athlon Optics Talos BTR GEN2 4-14×44 Riflescopes

Whether you’re an experienced marksman or just starting out, the Athlon Optics Talos BTR GEN2 4-14×44 scope is an exceptional pick for your 17 HMR rifle. Its first focal plane feature, combined with an affordable price, makes it a top choice for shooters of any skill level.

It’s equipped with advanced fully multi-coated glass, ensuring better light transmission and true color. Plus, its precision zero stop system allows for a sharp and precise return to your initial zero position. The scope is sealed and gas-purged, offering waterproof performance while being nitrogen purged and constructed from aircraft aluminum for durability.

With improved turrets, true precision zero stop, repeatable tracking, and an affordable price, it’s a top performer. Its fully multi-coated lenses and illuminated etched reticles enhance visibility and accuracy, making it a highly recommended addition to your rifle setup.

Best For: Individuals seeking a high-quality yet affordable first focal plane rifle scope for enhanced shooting accuracy and reliability.

Pros:

  • Advanced fully multi-coated glass ensures superior light transmission and true color fidelity.
  • Features a precision zero stop system for accurate and reliable return to zero positioning.
  • Waterproof, nitrogen-purged, and constructed from durable aircraft aluminum for extended field use.

Cons:

  • This might make it challenging for certain purchasers to assess the long-term dependability.

6. Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope

For enthusiasts seeking excellent clarity and durability in their 17 HMR rifles, the Burris Fullfield II Hunting Scope with its Ballistic Plex Reticle proves to be an exceptional choice. This scope offers high-grade optical glass that guarantees impressive brightness and clarity. With its Hi-Lume multicoating, you’ll find low-light performance greatly enhanced, making those early morning or late evening hunts more productive.

The sturdy construction is evident, featuring a nitrogen-filled scope tube that prevents fogging. Plus, it’s waterproof and shockproof, ensuring it withstands the rigors of outdoor use. With a matte black finish, 3-9x magnification, and a 40mm objective lens, it’s designed to meet the demands of hunters and precision shooters alike. Customers consistently praise its reliability and performance, making it a recommended choice for anyone looking to upgrade their 17 HMR rifle.

Best For: Hunters and precision shooters looking for a durable scope with clear optics and reliable performance for their 17 HMR rifles.

Pros:

  • High-grade optical glass ensures excellent brightness and clarity.
  • Durable, waterproof, and shockproof construction suited for rigorous outdoor use.
  • Hi-Lume multicoating enhances low-light performance, ideal for early morning or late evening hunts.

Cons:

  • May require additional accessories for optimal setup, such as scope ring lapper and alignment tools.

7. NIGHTFORCE SHV 5-20x56mm Zeroset .250 MOA Scope

Ideal for long-range shooters, the NIGHTFORCE SHV 5-20x56mm Zeroset .250 MOA Scope frequently exceeds expectations with its precision adjustments and clear optics. As the powerhouse of the SHV series, this scope shines in various scenarios, from hitting varmints at close range to targeting big game or paper targets from afar. It’s packed with features like 80 MOA of elevation adjustment, side parallax adjustment, and ZeroSet technology, which allows you to quickly return to your initial zero setting. You’re also offered choices like the Forceplex and MOAR reticles, with or without center illumination, catering to your specific needs.

The scope’s robust build and crystal-clear glass have garnered praise, emphasizing its sturdy, reliable nature and exceptional glass quality that aids in precise tracking and maintaining zero. Despite some packaging concerns, the overall user experience remains overwhelmingly positive, especially for those focused on long-range precision. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned shooter, investing in this Nightforce scope could markedly improve your accuracy and shooting experience.

Best For: Long-range shooters looking for precision, durability, and versatility in various shooting scenarios.

Pros:

  • Exceptional clarity and precision adjustments enhance long-range shooting accuracy.
  • Robust build quality ensures durability and reliability under different environmental conditions.
  • ZeroSet technology allows for quick return to the initial zero setting, facilitating ease of use.

Cons:

  • Premium pricing may be a barrier for beginners or casual shooters.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Scopes for 17 HMR

When you’re in the market for a new scope for your 17 HMR rifle, there are several key factors you’ll need to take into account to make sure you get the best performance.

Optic clarity, magnification range, reticle type, durability, and adjustment features play vital roles in how well your scope will meet your shooting needs.

Understanding these aspects will help you make an informed choice that enhances your hunting or target shooting experience.

Optic Clarity Levels

Understanding optic clarity levels is vital as you select a scope for your 17 HMR rifle, ensuring sharp, clear images for precise targeting. Optic clarity refers to the crispness and clearness of the image seen through the scope.

Higher clarity allows for better target identification and precision, essential for hunting or shooting at longer distances. The factors that affect optic clarity include the quality of the lenses, the coatings applied to them, and their light transmission capabilities.

Quality optics with high clarity levels can greatly enhance your shooting experience and accuracy, making it easier to hit your target. When choosing a scope, always consider the optic clarity, as it’s essential for achieving the best possible outcomes in your shooting endeavors.

Magnification Range

Selecting the right magnification range for your 17 HMR rifle is important for matching your scope’s capabilities with your intended shooting activities. A versatile magnification range, such as 4-12x or 3-9x, is ideal for covering both short and medium-range scenarios. This flexibility means you can easily switch from quick, close-range target acquisition to zooming in for precise shots at longer distances.

The 4-12x range, in particular, offers a good balance, allowing for detailed aiming without sacrificing the ability to quickly engage targets closer to you. It’s essential to align the scope’s magnification range with your shooting preferences, whether you’re into varmint hunting, target shooting, or just plinking. This guarantees your scope enhances your shooting experience by providing the right level of zoom for your specific needs.

Reticle Type Choices

Given the diverse shooting applications of a 17 HMR rifle, it’s vital to select a reticle type that best fits your specific needs, whether you’re targeting distant targets or participating in close-range shooting.

BDC reticles are perfect for those who don’t want to adjust their scope constantly, offering an easy way to compensate for bullet drop at different distances.

If you prefer simplicity, a Duplex reticle provides a clear aiming point without clutter.

For precision enthusiasts, Mil-Dot reticles allow for accurate range estimation and holdover corrections, important for long-range shots.

Alternatively, MOA reticles give angular measurements for meticulous adjustments.

Your choice should reflect your shooting style, whether you aim for precision over long distances or quick targeting at various ranges.

Durability & Weatherproofing

When selecting a scope for your 17 HMR rifle, considering durability and weatherproofing is crucial for reliable performance in various conditions.

Look for scopes made from tough materials like aircraft-grade aluminum. This guarantees they can withstand heavy recoil and impacts without damage.

Additionally, scopes with O-ring seals and nitrogen purging offer water and fogproof performance, making them dependable in different weather conditions.

A hard anodized finish on the scope provides a low-glare matte surface, minimizing reflections that might disclose your position.

Finally, opt for scopes with fully multi-coated lenses. These enhance light transmission, granting clearer and brighter images, especially in low-light conditions.

Prioritizing these features ensures your scope remains dependable, regardless of the environment.

Adjustment Features

After considering the durability and weatherproofing of your 17 HMR rifle’s scope, it’s also important to focus on the adjustment features for best performance.

Look for scopes with precise and repeatable adjustment turrets. These allow for easy zeroing and guarantee your shot placement is accurate, no matter the distance or conditions. Scopes that offer a wide range of adjustment will enable you to adapt to various shooting scenarios.

Also, consider scopes with locking mechanisms on the adjustment turrets. This prevents accidental changes during use. Scopes that provide tactile and audible click adjustments are invaluable for quick and reliable changes in the field.

Lastly, opt for scopes with user-friendly adjustment features, making them especially suitable for beginners. These considerations will notably enhance your shooting accuracy and experience.

Mounting Options

Selecting the correct mounting system for your 17 HMR rifle, like Picatinny or Weaver options, is vital for ensuring stability and accuracy in your shots. You’ll want to make sure the scope you choose has robust mounting options. This guarantees proper alignment and consistent accuracy.

It’s also important to check if the scope comes with mounting rings or if you’ll need to purchase them separately. Opting for scopes that are easy to mount allows for quick installation and efficient adjustments, aligning with your shooting preferences.

Additionally, ensure the mounting options offer sufficient clearance for your rifle’s action and provide the right eye relief. This careful selection ensures your setup is both comfortable and precise, enhancing your shooting experience.

Price & Value

Understanding the balance between price and quality is essential when selecting a scope for your 17 HMR rifle.

When considering price and value, look for features such as quality lenses, durable construction, and reliable performance. It’s important to compare the pricing of different scopes against their features and benefits to identify the best value for your budget.

Additionally, check for warranties and customer service offerings to maximize the value of your purchase. Opt for scopes that strike a balance between price and quality to make sure you’re getting a good deal.

Also, consider the long-term value of a scope, including durability, warranty coverage, and overall performance for the price point, to make a wise investment.

Conclusion

Choosing the right scope for your 17 HMR rifle can greatly enhance your precision shooting experience. From the versatile Vortex Optics Sonora to the high-performing NIGHTFORCE SHV, there’s a scope tailored to every shooter’s needs.

Consider factors like magnification range, reticle type, and lens quality when making your pick. Remember, investing in a quality scope not only improves accuracy but also boosts your confidence in hitting those distant targets with precision.

Happy shooting!

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