Choosing the best scope for 17 HMR will in a big way determine how effective your Hornady Magnum Rimfire rifle performs, the right scope will maximize its potential and performance.
The .17 HMR cartridge is popular for its exceptional accuracy and flat trajectory, making it a great choice for varmint hunters and target shooters. From eradicating pesky pests to honing your precision skills at the range, the 17 HMR will play a great role in unlocking your capabilities and potential.
Factors such as magnification, reticle type, and durability are critical in optimizing your shooting experience with a 17 HMR rifle. Join me as we look at the best scopes for 17 HMR, their specifications, pros, cons, and important considerations when choosing one.
About the 17 HMR Cartridge
The .17 HMR, or Hornady Magnum Rimfire, is a versatile and high-performance rimfire cartridge that has gained popularity among varmint hunters and target shooters alike. Introduced in 2002 by Hornady, the .17 HMR was designed to address the limitations of traditional .22 caliber rimfire cartridges by offering a flatter trajectory, increased accuracy, and superior energy retention at longer distances.
The cartridge features a necked-down case, allowing for the use of a smaller, lighter bullet with a caliber of .17 inches (4.5mm), resulting in a faster muzzle velocity and reduced wind drift.
The .17 HMR’s flat trajectory and excellent accuracy make it well-suited for precision shooting at extended ranges, making it particularly effective for dispatching small varmints and pests. It has become a popular choice for hunters targeting animals such as ground squirrels, prairie dogs, and other small game.
Additionally, the minimal recoil of the .17 HMR makes it accessible to a wide range of shooters, including those who may be sensitive to heavier recoiling cartridges. Whether for plinking, target shooting, or varmint hunting, the .17 HMR has carved out a niche as a reliable and effective rimfire cartridge.
Specifications and Where to Buy
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What is a .17 HMR good for?
The 17 HMR caliber is very effective for small-game animals like squirrels, rabbits, and prairie dogs. Varmint hunters use the 17 HMR to hunt coyotes, foxes, and bobcats.
Additionally, the 17 HMR is a great choice for turkey hunters who opt for a rimfire rifle to pursue wild turkeys. Its outstanding features, including a flat trajectory, high muzzle velocity, and minimal wind drift, make it an optimal selection for taking down small game such as ground squirrels and prairie dogs.
The cartridge’s precision and low recoil contribute to its popularity in activities like target shooting and plinking. Renowned for its blend of power and accuracy, the .17 HMR has carved out a specific niche among shooters who prioritize long-range precision and seek an efficient solution for managing small pests.
What is the accurate range on a 17 HMR?
The effective and accurate range of the .17 HMR cartridge is typically 200-250 yards or more. This rimfire cartridge is known for its flat trajectory and relatively high muzzle velocity, which contribute to its accuracy over longer distances compared to some other rimfire cartridges
What Makes the Best Scope for 17 HMR?
The best scope for 17 HMR should feature the following: First, the scope should have a magnification range suitable for the intended use. A variable magnification scope, such as 2-7x, 3-9x, or 4-12x, is often a good choice for the versatility it offers, allowing you to adapt to different shooting scenarios.
Consider a reticle designed for rimfire cartridges, like a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticle calibrated for the ballistics of a .17 HMR. This ensures accurate holdover points at different distances, simplifying aiming and improving accuracy.
Look for fully multi-coated lenses to maximize light transmission, clarity, and brightness. High-quality optics are essential for clear-sight pictures, especially in low-light conditions.
The scope should be durable enough to withstand the recoil of a .17 HMR. Features such as a one-piece tube construction made from aircraft-grade aluminum, shockproof design, and rugged construction contribute to durability.
Finger-adjustable turrets with precise and audible clicks are beneficial for making quick and accurate windage and elevation adjustments. Some scopes also have zero-reset turrets for easy sight-in adjustments. An adjustable objective (AO) or side parallax adjustment is helpful for correcting parallax at different distances, contributing to improved accuracy.
Waterproof, Fogproof, and Shockproof: Ensure the scope is sealed with O-rings and filled with nitrogen or argon gas to make it waterproof, fogproof, and resistant to internal fogging. This makes the scope reliable in various weather conditions.
Best Scopes for 17 HMR
1) Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope stands out as the best scope for 17 HMR thanks to its mid to long-range capabilities, weatherproof and shockproof performance, durability, precision, and incredible multicoated optics for bright and clear images.
With Extra-low Dispersion (XD) glass, the resolution and color fidelity are enhanced significantly for exceptionally crisp and sharp images. TheFull Multi-Coatings and multiple anti-reflective layers on all air-to-glass surfaces, play a very important role in ensuring optimal light transmission even in low light conditions.
The Scope also features a First Focal Glass-Etched Reticle, which is located between two layers of glass, allowing for an intricate design while guaranteeing optimum durability and reliability in the field.
The scope’s Aircraft-Grade Aluminum robust construction offers unparalleled strength and rigidity. Its waterproof design with O-ring seals, fogproof nitrogen gas purging, and shockproof construction make it impervious to the elements, providing consistent and reliable performance in any environment. The Hard Anodized Finish not only adds durability but also creates a low-glare matte surface, effectively camouflaging the shooter’s position.
The Vortex Diamondback ensures ease of use with features like the Precision-Force Spring System, contributing to maximum repeatability and adjustment ease. The Precision-Glide Erector System facilitates smooth and clean gliding of components through all magnification ranges, while the Fast Focus Eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing. The Magnification Rib aids in swift magnification adjustments during the heat of action.
- Weight: 23.1 oz
- Length: 14 in
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Eye Relief: 3.8 in
- Mount Type: Ring
- Extra-low Dispersion (XD) glass for enhanced resolution and color fidelity for incredibly crisp and sharp images
- With Fully Multi-Coated optics there is a significant increase in light transmission for optimal brightness and clarity even in low-lighting conditions
- Glass-etched reticle with an intricate design protected between two layers of glass for durability and reliability even in challenging conditions.
- 30mm tube for maximized internal adjustment capabilities,strength, and rigidity
- Aircraft-Grade Aluminum for durability and reliability
- Waterproof, Fogproof, Shockproof
- Non-Illuminated
2) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is the best Leupold scope for 17 HMR, it is known for precision and reliability, thanks to its advanced optical system and weatherproof and shockproof construction.
With a versatile 3:1 zoom ratio, this scope brings to the table exceptional flexibility from close-quarters engagements to long-range precision shots.
Designed with user convenience in mind, the scope features an ergonomic power selector that ensures ease of use by allowing swift adjustments even in the most demanding conditions. You also get a fast-focus Locking Eyepiece for quick and precise reticle focusing, for fast and easy target acquisition.
The ultra-lightweight construction contributes to a nimble and balanced firearm setup without compromising durability. The scratch-resistant lenses not only enhance the longevity of the scope but also maintain optical clarity in the face of challenging environments.
The VX-Freedom is equipped with standard finger click adjustments, providing a tactile and audible response for effortless zeroing and windage/elevation corrections.
Designed to withstand the harsh hunting and shooting elements, this rifle scope is both waterproof and fogproof, ensuring reliable performance in diverse weather conditions.
The high-contrast adjustment markings further enhance the scope’s usability, allowing for quick and precise adjustments, even in low-light situations.
In a nutshell, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope combines incredible optics, user-friendly features, and a rugged design to deliver a superior shooting experience.
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum
- Mount Type: Ring
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Eye Relief: 4.2 – 3.7 in
- Weight: 12.2 oz
- Length: 12.39 in
- Mount Type: Ring
- Resettable Index Ring for re-zeroing
- Finger Click Windage adjustment
- Quick target acquisition
- Twilight Light Management System
- Waterproof and fog proof performance
- Scratch Resistant Lenses
- Fixed Parallax
- No Adjustable Objective
3) Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope is an exceptional choice for the 17 HMR cartridge. It is designed for close-range engagements on rimfire rifles, shotguns, and muzzleloaders, the V-Plex reticle, a popular all-purpose hunting reticle, ensures versatility for a wide range of hunting scenarios.
The fully multi-coated lenses deliver crystal clear and bright images even in low light conditions while the fast-focus eyepiece enhances user convenience by allowing quick and easy reticle focusing for rapid target acquisition.
Crafted with precision in mind, the metal-on-metal precision turrets offer the ability to zero reset after sight-in, providing shooters with a reliable and customizable experience. The precision glide erector system ensures accurate tracking and repeatability, crucial for maintaining consistency and precision during extended shooting sessions.
Durability and reliability are also very important for any scope, the scope features a solid one-piece tube with a hard anodized finish. This construction not only makes the scope shockproof, withstanding recoil and impact but also aids in camouflaging the shooter’s position with its low-glare matte surface. The scope is Argon purged and O-ring sealed for a fogproof and waterproof performance.
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Weight: 14.2 oz
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Eye Relief: 3.1 – 3.5 in
- Length: 11.6 in
- Mount Type: Ring
- Ideal for use on 22 rimfire, shotguns, and muzzleloaders
- Fully multi-coated lenses for crystal clear, bright images
- Accurate tracking and repeatability thanks to the precision glide erector System
- Shockproof and durable construction
- Waterproof and fog proof performance
- Non-Illuminated
- Not ideal for long-range applications
4) Bushnell 4-12×40 Rifle Scope
The Bushnell Banner 4-12×40 Rifle Scope is the best scope for 17 HMR for low light conditions. This high-power, variable scope is designed to excel in early-morning and late-evening light conditions.
This incredible scope is equipped with Multi-coated optics for optimal clarity and brightness, especially in low-light environments, thanks to the Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses. This feature extends precious minutes to every hunting day, offering hunters a competitive edge.
The one-piece tube design enhances durability and stability, ensuring the scope’s reliability in various shooting scenarios. The scope is crafted to meet the demands of diverse hunting applications with 100% waterproof/fogproof construction. Dry-nitrogen filling the scope further guarantees clear optics by preventing internal fogging.
Precision is at your fingertips with the 1/4 M.O.A. fingertip, resettable windage, and elevation adjustments, providing a customizable and user-friendly experience. The fast-focus eyepiece adds to the scope’s practicality, allowing for quick and efficient reticle focusing.
The Bushnell Banner 4-12×40 Rifle Scope is a versatile and reliable optic that excels in low-light conditions, making it a top choice for hunters engaged in long-range shooting or pursuing game during the crucial dawn and dusk hours
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Weight: 17.8 oz
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Eye Relief: 3.3 in
- Length: 12 in
- Mount Type: Ring
- Waterproof Construction
- Fully Multi-Coated with Multiple layers of anti-reflective coating on all air-to-glass surfaces
- Argon Purged Fog-Proofing
- Made for precision and versatility
- Optimal clarity and brightness even in low-light environments
- Not illuminated
5) Athlon Optics Neos 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope
The Athlon Optics Neos 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope features the BDC 22 Rim Fire reticle designed explicitly for rimfire applications. This reticle allows shooters to compensate for bullet drop at extended distances, particularly tailored for .22 LR rounds with a muzzle velocity of approximately 1,250 feet per second. Zeroed at 50 yards, the BDC22 Rim Fire reticle provides precise bullet drop compensation for 75, 100, 125, and 150 yards, enhancing accuracy and versatility in various shooting scenarios.
The fully multi-coated optics reduce reflected light and increase light transmission, resulting in a brighter image compared to normal single-coated lenses.
Crafted with durability in mind, the scope’s aircraft-grade aluminum construction provides extra strength, ensuring it can handle the toughest terrains for a lifetime of reliable use.
The heat-treated, one-piece tube construction not only adds strength but also aids in moisture prevention, keeping the scope fogproof throughout its lifespan. The Neos scope is further fortified by its waterproof design, protecting against the harshest weather conditions and accidental submersion underwater.
The scope’s robust mechanical system, coupled with special designs on both the control and erector systems, ensures shockproof performance, withstanding 1000G recoil 1000 times. Additionally, the nitrogen purging dramatically reduces moisture inside the tube, contributing to the scope’s fogproof and waterproof capabilities.
In summary, the Athlon Optics Neos 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope stands out as a versatile and durable optic, ideal for rimfire applications. With its specialized BDC22 Rim Fire reticle, fully multi-coated optics, and rugged construction, this is one of the best scopes for 17 HMR.
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Weight: 18.1 oz
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Eye Relief: 3.39 in
- Length: 12.56 in
- Mount Type: Ring
- Fogproof and waterproof
- Shockproof and recoil resistance to withstand 1000G recoil for 1000 times
- Aircraft Grade Aluminum for extra strength and durability
- Fully Multicoated optics
- BDC 22 RimFire reticle
- Non-Illuminated
6) Vortex Crossfire II AO 4-12x40mm Riflescope
The Vortex Crossfire II AO 4-12x40mm Riflescope is a versatile and reliable riflescope designed to meet the demands of hunters and shooters alike. It features a Dead-Hold BDC reticle, which comes in handy in scenarios where estimating holdover is crucial, making it an excellent choice for hunting and shooting at varying ranges.
The adjustable objective of the Crossfire II provides not only image focus but also parallax removal, enhancing the shooter’s accuracy and clarity in different shooting situations. The anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses deliver bright and clear views, ensuring optimal performance in various lighting conditions.
Featuring long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, the Crossfire II enables shooters to quickly acquire a sight picture and target, enhancing overall responsiveness. The fast-focus eyepiece further facilitates quick and easy reticle focusing, ensuring a swift and efficient aiming process.
The capped reset turrets are finger adjustable with MOA clicks, allowing for precise adjustments, and can be easily reset to zero after sighting in.
The single-piece tube constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum ensures strength and shockproof performance, withstanding the rigors of challenging shooting environments. O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, the Crossfire II guarantees waterproof and fogproof performance, making it a reliable companion in adverse weather conditions.
In summary, the Vortex Crossfire II AO 4-12x40mm Riflescope combines precision, versatility, and durability, making it an excellent choice for shooters and hunters who demand reliable performance in a variety of shooting scenarios.
- Tube Diameter: 1 in
- Weight: 19.2 oz
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Eye Relief:4.4 in
- Length: 13.6 in
- Mount Type: Ring
Pros
- Anti-reflective and fully multi-coated lenses for bright and clear images
- Ample eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box
- Fast-focus eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focusing
- Aircraft-grade aluminum for strength and durability
- Shockproof and impact-resistant performance
- Waterproof and Fogproof
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
Related
Best Scope for 17 HMR FAQs
What magnification range is best for a .17 HMR?
The ideal magnification range should be versatile to meet various shooting scenarios, a variable magnification scope, such as 3-9x or 4-12x, is often recommended for .17 HMR rifles.
Do I need an adjustable objective (AO) for a 17 HMR scope?
An adjustable objective or side parallax adjustment is beneficial for correcting parallax at different distances, contributing to improved accuracy, especially at longer ranges.
What reputable brands offer scopes for .17 HMR rifles?
Brands like Vortex, Leupold, Athlon Optics, and Bushnell are known for producing quality optics, including scopes designed specifically for rimfire rifles like the .17 HMR.
Video Review
Here is a quick summary of the Best Scopes for 17 HMR
| 1) Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope
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(Buy on Opticsplanet, Buy on Amazon) |
| 2) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
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(Buy on Opticsplanet, Buy on Amazon) |
| 3) Vortex Diamondback Rimfire 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope
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(Buy on Opticsplanet, Buy on Amazon) |
| 4) Bushnell 4-12×40 Rifle Scope
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(Buy on Opticsplanet, Buy on Amazon) |
| 5) Athlon Optics Neos 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope
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(Buy on Opticsplanet, Buy on Amazon) |
| 6) Vortex Crossfire II AO 4-12x40mm Riflescope
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(Buy on Opticsplanet, Buy on Amazon) |
