Among the many types of rifles, a .17 HMR rifle is also one of them. HMR stands for Hornady Magnum Rimfire which is mainly used to hunt varmints at shorter ranges, from 200 to 4000 yards. As a side note, the .17 HMR round is a powerful round so it might be a nasty sight if you are to shoot targets close-up.
Although the .17 HMR rifle is popular for its flat shooting abilities as well as accurate shots, I am sure most of you would agree with me that adding a scope to it will improve its accuracy even more. After all, a scope’s primary function is to assist the shooter to make accurate shots regardless of any situation or light conditions. When it comes to a crucial moment, a scope’s assistance will be undeniable and a big advantage.
Hence, check out this review to choose the best scope for your .17 HMR.
Top 8 .17 HMR scope Comparison Table
| Name of product | Magnifications | Weight | Eye relief | Objective lens | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSA® Rifle Scope | 3-12x | 19.40 oz. | 3" | 40mm | $ |
| Nikon 6729 ProStaff | 4-12x | 1.2 lbs. | 3.7" | 40mm | $$$ |
| Burris Fullfield II | 2-7x | 12 oz. | 3.1-4.1" | 35mm | $$$ |
| Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn | 3-9x | 13 oz. | 3.3" | 40mm | $ |
| BSA Sweet 17 | 6-18x | 1.2 lbs. | 4" | 40mm | $$$ |
| BSA Sweet 17 Scope | 3-12x | 19.2 oz. | 4" | 40mm | $$ |
| Hawke Sport Optics | 4-12x | 17.1" | 3.5" | 40mm | $$$ |
| Simmons ProTarget | 3-12x | 1.8 lbs. | 3.9" | 40mm | $$ |
2) Look for the pages listed in the word doc below.
The top 8 scope for .17 HMR is decided by certain factors:
- Magnification
- Weight
- Length of eye relief
- Diameter of objective lens
- Price
Magnifications
A diverse range of magnifications could help you to use your scope at any light conditions whether it is for short distance or long distance.
Weight
A heavy scope may add additional weight to your AR 15. This indirectly inhibits movements so make sure you choose the optimum weight for your scope.
Eye relief length
Long eye relief for scopes gives you an added advantage during shooting targets at long range or near point blank. Longer eye relief also allows more shooting positions. However, long eye relief may cause smaller magnifications and may appear bulky as a result.
Diameter of objective lens
The bigger the diameter of objective lens, the more the light that can pass through for a brighter image as well the image would be more detailed.
BSA® 3 – 12×40 Sweet 17 Rifle Scope
The first best .17 HMR scope would be the BSA. The BSA best scope offers magnification from 3 to 12X and has an overall length of 13.5 inches. Specifically calibrated for multiple grain weights the quick change turret system is for the calibers such as .17HMR, .22LR, .223, .243, .270,.30.06.
The objective lens are adjustable and includes 17 gr turret drums. The scope weighs 19.40 oz. and the purchase includes a limited lifetime warranty. The objective lens diameter is 40 mm while the exit pupil range is 10.8-3.6 mm.
The field of view at 100 yards would be 28-‘7 and the optimum eye relief is 3″. Meanwhile, the parallax setting (moving the focal plane of the target and reticle in order to eliminate parallax) ranges from 10 to infinity.
The click adjustment value is 1/4″. Adjustment range is 30-30 and the BSA 3-12×40 IR Sweet 17 tube measures 4 5/8″ from the bell to the front of the scope. Only elevation turret can be adjusted on the go as the windage turret has screw cap.
The waterproof, shockproof and fogproof scope can still hold zero after over 100 rounds. With this best .17 HMR scope, you can actually see .17 caliber holes at 100 yards. The BSA best scope could probably be the easiest scope to sight in as well as to adjust.
Once you have sighted in at 100yards you’re good to go. I have been shooting using this at quarter sized targets from 125-150 yards with no problem, at nearly 200 yards a 1 1/2- 2″ group is easy to do.
I am displeased with the eye relief though as I had to have my eyeball in the exact right spot to be able to see anything. However, once you do you can hit anything. As a side note, when I keep both eyes open I’ve found it’s much easier to find the sweet spot for some reason.
Also, while you are aiming, the ocular lens will show your reflection and the background behind you. It might somewhat distract you when you take aim if it was a bit bright. On the positive side, the BSA scope sighted extremely well. Surprisingly, the turrets worked from 100 to 200 yards. Just make sure not to overtighten the small set screws equipped on the turrets.
Ensure to get very tall scope rings though. If not, you’ll have to remove the rear sight. Plus, I really like the drop compensation feature. As I sight the rifle in at 100 yards, I then set the elevation compensation knob to 100.
For your information, the correct Allen wrench is provided along with the scope. This is because the Allen screw is special that is not available elsewhere. After dialing in the actual range you are aiming for, you are dead on.
Overall in this .17 HMR scope review, you can’t go wrong for the price and you’ll be glad you bought this scope for the product performance.
Suitable for:
- Varmint and target shooters
- Nice groupings
Nikon 6729 ProStaff 4-12 x 40 Black Matte Riflescope (BDC)
The polymer and aluminum Nikon best .17 HMR scope is next in this list of reviews. The Nikon best scope is a compact riflescope that provides 4 to 12x magnification and 40mm objective lens. The fully multicoated optical system will ensure to transmit up to 98 percent of available light for bright, high contrast views.
Plus, Nikon also offers zero-reset turret with spring-loaded adjustment knob which means that the turret is marked from “0”-whatever the last moa is. At a given yardage, when you are done zeroing your rifle the turret might be on “6”. Then, you can reset it back to “0”. Now, you will start with the turret on “0” rather than an arbitrary number.
3.7 inches of eye relief is provided along with nitrogen-filled, O-ring-sealed housing for waterproof, fogproof performance. Meanwhile, the quick-focus eyepiece measures 14.1 inches. The Prostaff line of riflescopes guides you to stay on target in virtually any conditions.
The BDC reticle enables hunters to hold ‘dead-on’ at ranges to exceed those previously thought possible. On the other hand, the BDC’s unique see-through ballistic circles will offer an added advantage for long-range shooting. Yet, the scope will allow a normal sight picture for shorter-range shots in which the crosshair itself is the aiming point.
The finger adjustable 1/4-inch adjustments clicks positively. While maintaining your setting it will get you zeroed in quicker even with heavy recoil. Even when hunting in the least desirable condition, I would assure you that you will be surprised with the high-resolution images.
The needed flexibility is provided by the versatile magnification range for any type of hunting situation- regardless from heavy timber to the open prairies. Moreover, the generous and consistent eye relief will keep your brow safe even when you are with the heaviest recoiling cartridges, lightweight rifles or when you are exposed to severe shooting angles.
The objective diameter is 40mm while the exit pupil is 3.3-10mm. The field of view you may experience at 100 yards would be 7.3-23.6 feet. The 1 inch tube diameter has objective outside diameter of 50mm and eyepiece outside diameter of 44mm.
The maximum internal adjustment will be 60 MOA. Just sight in as usual and lift the spring-loaded adjustment knob. Then, rotate to your “zero,” and re-engage. It is now as simple as dialing in your subsequent ranges for field adjustments.
The finish is Matte black and it has sufficient eye relief throughout the power range for me with no blurring at edges. I used medium height rings and I got more than 1/4″ clearance at the objective end, over the heavy barrel with my Savage .17HMR w/thumbhole stock.
The downside of this Nikon best scope would be the limited eye relief in low light conditions such as in the early mornings as I experience white out with back light in AM shooting conditions. However in PM shooting, the light gathering is great.
Also, the crosshairs are too thick to do precise work at 12X / 100 yards and beyond. All in all I would say that this scope is good enough but in my opinion the reticle is not good for high magnification shooting and belongs as a combat or hunting scope.
Suitable for:
- Combat or hunting
- Positive click adjustments
- Enhanced light transmission
Burris Fullfield II Ballistic Plex
Third best .17 HMR scope will be the Burris. The Burris scope has incremented reticle which is perfect for those close to mid-range shots. On the inside of the scope and cap the scope is well built and there is a sticker that will tell you what the clicks equal at 100 yards.
Also included in the best .17 HMR scope is a vast array of caliber stickers with holdover markings. The markings get placed on the scope or any other convenient place. These are marked for dead on at 100 yards as well as certain number of inches at 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 yards.
The eye relief is generous and the 32mm objective mounts with no problem when I used low rings. In my case, with a modified weaver no. 82 base along with low rings on a Handi rifle, leaving the iron sights on the rifle, the scope was the perfect size for mounting.
As a result, this put the scope objective behind and at the same time above the rear iron sight and the hammer in front and beneath the power ring. This puts the scope great for a perfect view on the rifle every time I threw it up.
However, you may notice that the click adjustments may not be as crisp when compared to a Leopold. Still, they are discernable if you take your time while adjusting the scope. Also, the power adjustment ring is a little stiff.
Through two trips to the range, the scope so far has held zero nicely. Through this to date I have about 300 rounds and am very happy with the purchase. It has the capability to withstand the shock of several heavy recoil shots without an issue.
Furthermore, for low light hunting the light gathering qualities on 2 and 3 power are great too. So far, I have shot at 200 yards or less so I cannot judge adequately for long range performance.
Please take note that the elevation and windage adjustments are set for ½ MOA per click which is opposed to the usual ¼. 1/2 MOA adjustment at 100 yards can move the impact by about 1/2″ on the target which will continue to become 1” at 200 yards.
Nonetheless, the turrets leave a lot to be desired for at it is difficult to turn with oddly weak detent. If you wish to make adjustments, it can be done with a coin or the base of a bullet casing or you can turn by hand if you are able and so desire.
One big feature that impressed me was the weight of this scope. The weight makes it good for mounting on more mobile platforms if you want to try such as an AR-15. In dawn/dusk conditions it won’t impair you too much but mostly if you do have younger eyes still.
Meanwhile, the reticle makes a good reference point after practicing with your specific cartridge.
Suitable for:
- Very well built
- Extremely clear
- Adequate eye relief
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle
Bushnell would be the next best .17 HMR scope in this list of reviews. The Bushnell scope has quality optics with stunning HD clarity and it is dusk and low-light riflescope with 3-9x magnification and 40mm objective lens.
The Dusk and Dawn Brightness (DDB) lenses are multicoated for clarity and brightness. Meanwhile, the Multi-X reticle is equipped with 1/4 MOA fingertip windage and elevation adjustments. The scope is made of 100-percent waterproof and fogproof construction.
With 3.3 inches of eye relief, the fast-focus eyepiece measures 12 inches long. The all-around big-game scope will give you the brightness and clarity you need to fill your tag when you are in those critical first and last minutes of daylight.
The Bushnell riflescope is designed to give you the advantage on those early morning and late evening hunts when the available light is low but your game activity is at its highest. If you don’t like fine cross hairs then you may like this scope. However, just so you know, the thinner the crosshair the more accurate your shot will be.
For the low cost, the Bushnell riflescope was in great shape with no QC issues. The clarity, reticle, parallax, depth of field at most zoom settings were all equivalent of much more expensive scopes. However, the clarity and depth of field do tend to fall off some at the extreme upper end of the zoom. Nonetheless, you can disregard that fact since over the rest of its range it is exceptional.
I zeroed it and generally shoot it at 100 yards and it was accurate out to 200 yards. With the directional arrows that were deeply etched with contrasting paint/anodizing, it served as a guideline and was easy to zero.
The standard 1/4 inch per click at 100 yards clicks are very positive without being hard to turn. It does have to be loosened in case you want to recalibrate the scope setting to be read zero when it is “zeroed”. I used on each turret two small jewelers Phillip head screws.
Personally, I would prefer the less easily stripped Torx or Allen head ones. Just make sure not to over tighten it. It doesn’t wander once dialed in and the the amount of light it lets in, especially at dusk and dawn, is impressive.
The glass was clear and it was easy to see reticle but tracking can be a little iffy. You would have to adjust for 2 MOA but the reticle only moves 1 MOA, or either moves more than the 2 MOA. It’ll stay put once you get it spot on though.
Also, the view can be a little distorted when you zoom in more than the 6x magnification. The front of the riflescope is larger to take in more light. That means that you will need taller scope rings to make the scope fit. Otherwise, the riflescope will sit on the rifle itself. Then, you won’t be able to properly tighten the scope down for accurate use.
All-in-all in this .17 HMR scope review, I’d recommend this scope if you need a budget-friendly optic.
Suitable for:
- At dawn/dusk
- Low light situations
- Hunting
BSA 6-18X40 Sweet 17 Rifle Scope
Another BSA scope also holds the place as one of the best .17 HMR optic. The 1/4 minute click adjustments and turret are calibrated for .17HMR 17gr. and .20gr Bullets. The objective is adjustable with 4″ eye relief.
Meanwhile, the variable power ranges from 6-18. The BSA optics is custom made for bullet – drop compensation. The BSA .17HMR scope is based on the trajectory-compensation scope which was originally crafted for military use.
Plus, the BSA Sweet 17 scope is nitrogen-filled for fogproof, shockproof and waterproof reliability. The scope has 6-18x magnification and a 40 mm objective diameter. The field of view at 100 yards would be 18.8 feet at 6x and 6.2 ft. at 18x.
The 1/4 M.O.A. adjustments are finger-adjustable and the finishing is Matte. The adjustable objective adjustment is placed on the front ring of the scope while the parallax fine adjustment is located on the left side of the scope. And yes it does come with lens covers on both front and rear that are both screw on/off type.
The standard duplex reticle has a blurry view when looking at a target a 100 yards with the parables set to 20 yards. However, if you match the paralex adjustment to the range you are hitting it will be clear. There is a focus knob on the side of the scope rather than having it on the front as many scopes do.
It is a good thing actually as the side focus is much easier to use when you are looking through the scope as you change the distance while you are shooting. The back end of the riflescope measures 1.76″ while the front (with sun shade on) is 1.94″. In my opinion, putting a cover on the back end will interfere with the focus adjustment.
On my 17 caliber Savage Rifle, the scope is extremely accurate even with my bad eyesight. Sometimes it is difficult to see varmints 100 yards away in shadowy places but after having this scope it brings them in clear and bright. It is a sure shot once the cross hairs are on the target.
On the flip side though is that you cannot turn the power all the way to the stops at 6X or 18X. You have to turn the nob back ever so slightly once you hit the stops or the image will be blurred a little. Also, adjusting the parallax to 100 yards is hard.
At 100 yards, I got pretty tight grouping but not as tight as 50 yards. Then, I proceeded to grouping within a quarter size spot. The result was not as clear as I thought it would be at 100 yard but maybe I was expecting more.
The 4” eye relief isn’t very impressive as why does a scope for a 17 HMR need a 4 inch eye relief since it’s not like it is going to kick like a .308 or a 30.06. Furthermore, I think 20 oz. is heavy but if you leave the shade tube off it will only be 19 oz.
My conclusion in this .17 HMR scope review would be that it does take some practice, practice and practice for you to become familiar with this scope.
Suitable for;
- Clarity
- 100 yard and 200 yard settings
BSA 3-12X40 Sweet 17 Rifle Scope with Multi-Grain Turret
The .17 HMR best scope review continues on to BSA Sweet 17 scope with multi-grain turret. The Sweet 17 scope has 1/4 minute click adjustments with 4″ eye relief. The turret is calibrated for .17HMR 17gr. and .20gr Bullets.
The lenses are fully multi-coated optics with 3-12 variable power. The .17 HMR scope is nitrogen-filled for fogproof, shockproof and waterproof reliability. The objective diameter is 40 mm while the field of view at 100 yds. is 33ft. at 3x and 8.3 ft. at 12x.
The 1/4 M.O.A. adjustments are finger-adjustable and the finishing is Matte. The scope has standard BSA reticle and weighs 19 1/5 ozs. The turret will have two (2) setting. The top one will be for a 17 Grain Bullet while the bottom or the second line under the first would be the setting for a 20 grain bullet.
In other words, when you are zeroing your firearm in at 100 yards, you set the turret for that range and set the scope for a 17 grain bullet or a 20 grain bullet based the markings that are on the turret. With this, you should be right on up to 250 yards.
Since the .17hmr commonly uses 17 and 20 gr bullets, the turret will enable you to compensate for bullet drop based on the bullet weight you are using. Therefore, when changing bullet weights you do not need to re-zero your scope.
My scope came with a multi-grain turret for elevation and there is no need to change the turret or nob for elevation. One turret will do both. There is also adjustment on the ocular for focus. Opposite the windage adjustment you will notice the parallax adjustment
Due to the 4 ” eye relief, be ready to buy different mounts and extended rings. Personally, I used a regular size Weaver scope mount for the 1″ tube. Do take note that the .17 HMR BSA scope is a duplex reticle and not an illuminated reticle.
The weight can be a little heavy for you but the turrets are easy to move after zeroing if you set them. It is easy to move them back at the zeroed correct range and it seems to hold true to move from various ranges like 100 – 150 and back to 100.
You must zero the rifle at 100 yards and then zero the turrets if you want for the BDC Turret compensator to be accurate. All you have to do is dial it up and shoot dead on from then on. Also, in order to get the tightest group as possible, I would suggest zeroing the scope using a bipod or a shooting bag and support the butt of the rifle to get the aim.
Overall in this .17 HMR scope review, the BSA riflescope is very well made and I would definitely recommend it for anyone who has a .17 caliber rifle.
Suitable for:
- Solid clicks turrets
- At the range
- The budget
Hawke Sport Optics Vantage 4-12×40 AO 17HMR IR Riflescope 14241
The review moves on towards Hawke as the best scope for .17 HMR. The .17 HMR illuminated reticle has 5 brightness levels available in red or green. The one-piece 1″ main tube came constructed with capped turrets with parallax adjustment.
The 11-layer fully multi-coated optics are designed for mid to long-range use. The Hawke Optics takes pride in the partially-illuminated crosshair reticle which could be used for most lighting conditions. Red is ideal for low-light conditions while on the other hand green is much easier to see in brighter ambient light or when you are using NVDs in extreme low-light or complete dark situations.
The 40mm objective draws in noticeable amounts of light when compared to smaller objectives. This is all the while maintaining a low profile. Meanwhile, the purpose of the covered turrets is that they will help guard against any accidental adjustments.
On the other hand, the fast-focus collar and knurled rheostat enables you to quickly adapt in rapidly changing situations. The lightweight Hawke .17 HMR scope is made of anodized aluminum housing which proves to be durable.
The 1″ one-piece main tube is nitrogen-filled and O-ring sealed for waterproof and fogproof performance. I am sure that those yard indicators will help tons to those who are new to hunting. The scope is duplex I believe, with tiny lighted cross hairs at 100 yards. Then there will be increments and yard indicators for 150, 200, 250, and 300 yards.
Out to 250 yards each reticle aim point was dead-on. The eye relief is consistent and I like that the turrets have audible and physical clicks. They seem somewhat squishy though. Meanwhile, the red / green illumination looks great at dusk and dawn without drowning the view.
The field of view at 100 yards is 26.2-8.7′ while sub-tension set at 12x. The second focal plane reticle has zeroed range of 100 yard plus scope height of 1.75″. By the way, the .17 HMR riflescope runs on one included CR2032 coin-cell battery.
The maximum windage and elevation adjustment range is 80 MOA and the 1/4 MOA per click adjustments impact point correction. Moreover, the side parallax turret is adjustable from 10 yards to infinity.
One of the advantages of this Vantage riflescope is that the reticle is not thick which is great for shooting at small targets. Located on the front lens, the distance reading adjustment has been a great help. On the flip side, the turrets are not as crisp as they could be. I would advise you to adjust the parallax just right or you may see a 1/2″ to 1″ of reticle movement.
Nonetheless, the texture of the surface seems to enable the rings to hold tighter and the riflescope also seems to be very light.
My conclusion in this .17 HMR scope review is that this is a great product for the money.
Suitable for:
- Varmint hunting and target
- Audible adjustment clicks
- Consistent eye relief
Simmons ProTarget TruPlex Reticle
The last best .17 HMR scope review will be the Simmons. The Simmons optics has stunning HD clarity which is no surprise considering the 100% quality materials used and tested extensively. The lenses are multi-coated for incredible brightness and the turrets are finger-tip adjustable.
The magnification provided by the 1-inch tube is 3-12x and the objective lens is 40mm. Along with the equipped TruPlex reticle, it will be easier to pinpoint the smallest targets with your rimfire rifle.
There are 2 others besides the standard turret which I believe is unmarked. There is one calibrated for a .17 HMR along with another one calibrated for a .22LR. By referring to the numbers you can tell the difference. Having numbers up to 300 or 350 is the .17HMR turret while the .22LR I believe is only up to 100(yards).
Theoretically, you would just have to sight in your gun. For example, if you sight in at 50 yards, take the turret off and set it back on to ensure it’s on the 50 mark. Afterwards when you shoot, just dial the turret to the yardage. By doing so the best scope should be zeroed.
For this best .17 HMR scope, medium rings might work but still I would highly suggest high profile rings just to be safe. The rimfire scope is adjusted to be parallax free at 50 yards. Having said that this particular scope is parallax adjustable.
The eye relief is 1.78″ or 45mm. In case you are thinking of getting lens caps, I would recommend Butler Creek. Butler Creek makes 3 different styles by the way. The size depends on which style of cap you want but in my personal opinion, the objective will be a 28 for multi-flex, a 27 for flip open, or a 7 for blizzard.
On the other hand, the eyepiece would be a 20 for mulit-flex, a 20 for flip open, or a 6 for blizzard. Regarding the optics performance, the optic quality is better than ever even in low light conditions. However, the downside with side focus scopes is that they are unusually heavy. Somehow, the side focusing mechanism adds a lot of weight to the scope.
The part I like about though about this particular .17 HMR scope is the great work done on the power control ring which is easy to move in various positions. For the power range, it works well for my needs. Personally, I would have preferred if the turrets were not splined but adjusted with a standard set screw. Although the turrets are not perfection, for the price point of this scope they are just fine.
The scope’s material is of Meade Instruments which is for your information has also been made for high end commercial telescopes. The eye relief is great and the turrets truly positive 1/4″ per click at 100 yards (1/4 MOA).
Overall in this best .17 HMR scope review, I would highly suggest this product for you.
Suitable for:
- Three separate Bullet Drop Compensation (BDC) turrets
- Crisp optics and forgiving eye relief
- Compact riflescope
Conclusion
I hope these best .17 HMR scope review has been helpful for you to choose the best one for your .17 HMR. In order to hunt efficiently under low light conditions as well, you should get yourself a great night sight. Check out the top rated night sights for these weapons: