Skip to content
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: Dead-Hold BDC (MOA)Tube Size: 1 inchEye Relief: 3.8–4.4 inchesAdjustment Graduation: ¼ MOAWeight: 15 ozBright and crisp glassForgiving eye boxDead-Hold BDC reticle great for long .17 HMR shotsExcellent warrantySlight edge distortion at max powerNo parallax adjustment
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: DuplexEye Relief: 3.7–4.2 inchesWeight: 12.2 ozParallax: Fixed at 60 yardsRazor-sharp optical qualityMade in the USAExcellent light transmissionLifetime guaranteePricier than entry-level scopesNo side parallax adjustment
Magnification: 6–24xObjective Lens: 50mmReticle: APLR2 FFP IR MOATube Diameter: 30mmEye Relief: 3.3 inchesWeight: 29 ozFirst focal plane reticleIlluminated markingsSmooth tracking turretsExcellent value for long-range shootingHeavier than rimfire-specific scopes
Magnification: 3–9xObjective: 32mmReticle: TruplexWeight: 10 ozParallax: Fixed at 50 yardsUltra-affordableClear optics for the priceComes with ringsDesigned for rimfire parallaxLimited durabilitySlight color shift at edges
Magnification: 3–9xObjective: 40mmReticle: Multi-XWeight: 13 ozSuperb brightness in twilightRugged constructionAffordableSlightly bulky for compact rifles
Magnification Range – 3–9x is ideal for general varminting, while 6–24x suits target shooters.Parallax Adjustment – Rimfire distances are short; a 50–100 yard parallax setting is best.Reticle Type – BDC or mildot reticles aid in compensating for drop and wind drift.Weight & Size – Lightweight scopes maintain balance on small rifles.Glass Quality – Fully multi-coated optics enhance clarity and color contrast.Durability – Even though recoil is light, you still want waterproof and fogproof construction.
More
Share
Explore
5 Best Scope for .17 HMR – Full Expert Review & Buying Guide
Finding the best scope for .17 HMR can transform your rimfire rifle from a simple varmint plinker into a precision tack driver.
The .17 HMR cartridge is famous for its flat trajectory, blistering speed, and surprising accuracy beyond 200 yards. But without a matching optic, you’re only halfway to unlocking its full potential.
After years of testing optics across fields, ranges, and varmint hunts, I’ve curated the finest scopes that perfectly complement this nimble round — from affordable rimfire glass to high-end precision optics that deliver exceptional clarity, tracking, and reliability.
🔝 Top Product List: 5 Best Scope for .17 HMR of 2025
1. Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC)
The Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 is an iconic choice for rimfire and centerfire alike — delivering rugged performance and crystal-clear views without breaking the bank.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The Crossfire II’s Dead-Hold BDC reticle makes holding for bullet drop intuitive — particularly important for the fast but light .17 HMR. Colors and contrast remain sharp even under cloudy or low-light conditions.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Generous eye relief and a wide eye box make for quick target acquisition, crucial when tracking small varmints like groundhogs or rabbits.
Durability:
Built with aircraft-grade aluminum and fully waterproof and fogproof construction, this scope easily withstands the recoil and rough field use typical of rimfire rifles.
Elevation & Windage Knobs:
Smooth, audible, and repeatable — the turrets maintain zero even after hundreds of shots.
Magnification & Parallax:
With 3-9x magnification, it’s ideal for short to mid-range use. Although there’s no adjustable parallax, factory set at 100 yards works perfectly for .17 HMR distances.
Mounting & Accessories:
Pairs well with medium 1” rings and sits beautifully atop rifles like the Savage 93R17 or Ruger American Rimfire.
Personal Experience:
I’ve used this scope for two years on a .17 HMR Ruger, and it’s been bulletproof. Sight picture remains crisp even after long-range zeroing sessions.
Online Customer Discussions:
Reddit users often praise its reliability and the Vortex warranty. Most agree it’s a sweet spot for under $200.
Verdict:
A perfect entry-level option with the quality of scopes twice its price.
2. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 embodies classic American craftsmanship — unmatched durability and crystal optics in a lightweight, rimfire-friendly package.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
Exceptional color fidelity and brightness, even in early dawn light. The Duplex reticle offers simplicity — perfect for clean and fast shots on varmints.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Leupold’s Twilight Light Management system ensures a generous exit pupil and forgiving eye relief, keeping your sight picture steady.
Durability:
This scope is tested to Leupold’s punishing recoil standards — it’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof beyond any rimfire’s recoil.
Elevation & Windage Knobs:
Precise ¼ MOA clicks make zeroing effortless.
Magnification & Parallax:
At 3–9x, it perfectly matches the .17 HMR’s effective range. The 60-yard parallax setting is tailor-made for rimfire.
Mounting & Accessories:
Slim profile mounts low, maintaining a comfortable cheek weld on most rimfire stocks.
My Experience:
I’ve paired this on my CZ 457, and it’s deadly accurate. From 50 to 200 yards, the zero hasn’t drifted once.
Customer Reviews:
Hunters on rimfirecentral.com rave about its crisp glass and long service life.
Verdict:
If you want an American-made optic with decades of field reliability, this is it.
3. Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24x50 FFP
For shooters stretching the legs of the .17 HMR beyond 200 yards, the Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24x50 FFP is a precision marvel that offers premium features at a budget price.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The FFP design means the reticle scales with magnification — perfect for consistent holdovers on distant prairie dogs. Illumination helps with low-light varmint hunts.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Eye relief is solid at 3.3 inches, but the eye box tightens slightly at 24x.
Durability:
Argon purged and shockproof — built like a tank for precision use.
Elevation & Windage Knobs:
Tactile clicks and reliable return-to-zero make it perfect for range sessions.
Magnification & Parallax:
Side parallax adjustment from 10 yards to infinity — perfect for rimfire ranges.
My Experience:
I used this for precision grouping tests. Its tracking was spot-on, and parallax adjustability was superb for .17 HMR’s flat trajectory.
Online Comments:
Reddit precision shooters frequently rank this scope as “best under $500 FFP.”
Verdict:
Ideal for those who want tactical precision from their .17 HMR setup.
4. Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 Rimfire
A classic among rimfire shooters, the Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 is a surprisingly capable optic for the price, tailored to rimfire rifles like the .17 HMR.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity:
Remarkably clear for a sub-$60 optic, with crisp focus out to 100 yards.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
Durability:
Not for heavy recoil rifles, but on a .17 HMR, it’s perfectly suited.
My Experience:
Mounted this on a Savage 93R17 for small pest control — zero held after hundreds of rounds.
Verdict:
A budget gem that consistently over-delivers for rimfire accuracy.
5. Bushnell Banner 3-9x40 Dusk & Dawn
The Bushnell Banner 3-9x40 Dusk & Dawn is made for hunters who chase varmints in low light — delivering bright optics and reliability for dawn-to-dusk adventures.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity:
Bushnell’s Dusk & Dawn coatings genuinely improve visibility at first and last light — ideal for coyote or fox hunting.
My Experience:
On my Marlin XT-17, it performed impressively in early morning fog.
Verdict:
A brilliant hunting scope for rimfire rifles that sees more dawn and dusk action.
🧩 How to Choose the Right Scope for .17 HMR
When selecting the best scope for .17 HMR, keep these factors in mind:
❓ FAQs
Q1: What magnification is ideal for a .17 HMR?
A 3–9x or 4–12x range is perfect for varmint shooting and plinking up to 200 yards.
Q2: Do I need a parallax adjustment?
Yes, for precise rimfire accuracy, adjustable parallax from 50 yards helps tremendously.
Q3: Are first focal plane scopes necessary for .17 HMR?
Not essential, but FFP models like the Athlon Argos BTR make long-range holdovers easier.
Q4: How much should I spend on a .17 HMR scope?
Between $100–$400 gets you excellent glass. Spend more if you want long-range or tactical precision.
Q5: Can I use a .22 LR scope on a .17 HMR?
Absolutely. Many .22 scopes, like the Simmons .22 Mag, work perfectly for .17 HMR’s mild recoil and similar ballistics.
Q6: Which reticle type is best for varmint hunting?
BDC and mildot reticles offer quick holdover points for unpredictable ranges.
Q7: How durable are rimfire scopes?
Top-tier brands like Vortex and Leupold ensure years of performance with lifetime warranties.
🏁 Conclusion
After testing countless optics, my top pick for versatility, clarity, and precision remains the Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC). It offers unmatched value for shooters seeking balance between affordability and performance. For those demanding higher-end precision, the Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 shines as a long-range star.
Ultimately, the best scope for .17 HMR is one that complements your shooting style — lightweight, accurate, and rugged enough to handle the field. Whichever you choose from this list, you’ll be maximizing every ounce of the .17 HMR’s ballistic brilliance.
Want to print your doc?
This is not the way.
This is not the way.
Try clicking the ··· in the right corner or using a keyboard shortcut (
CtrlP
) instead.