Skip to content
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmTube Diameter: 1 inchReticle: Dead-Hold BDCEye Relief: 3.8 inchesWeight: 15 ozSuperb optical clarity for its priceReliable zero retentionIntuitive BDC reticle for quick shotsFully multi-coated lensesSlightly heavy for a rimfire rifleNo side parallax adjustment
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 40mmWeight: 12.2 ozReticle: DuplexTube: 1 inchEye Relief: 3.7 – 4.2 inchesOutstanding optical qualityUltra-lightweightRugged, waterproof designLifetime warrantyNo illumination optionLacks parallax adjustment
Magnification: 3–9xObjective: 40mm AOReticle: Illuminated Mil-DotWeight: 17 ozTube: 1 inchAdjustable parallaxRed/green illuminated reticleExcellent clarity for mid-tier opticSlightly heavier than othersTurrets lack tactile feedback
Magnification: 3–9xObjective Lens: 32mmReticle: TruplexWeight: 10 ozSuper affordableRimfire-specific parallax settingLightweight designLimited low-light performanceBasic construction
Magnification: 3–9xObjective: 40mmReticle: Multi-XEye Relief: 3.3 inchesSuperior light transmissionAffordable and durableSimple reticle designSlight edge distortion at high power
Magnification Range: For a flat-shooting cartridge like the Mach 2, 3–9x or 4–12x is perfect. Anything beyond is overkill for its 125-yard effective range.Parallax Setting: Choose scopes with a 50- or 60-yard parallax setting—these match rimfire ranges.Weight and Balance: A lightweight optic keeps your rimfire rifle lively and balanced.Reticle Choice: Simple duplex or BDC reticles work best. Overly complex reticles can obscure small targets.Build Quality: Ensure nitrogen purging, waterproofing, and shockproof construction for longevity.
More
Share
Explore
5 Best Scope for .17 Mach 2 – Precision Optics for Rimfire Perfection
Choosing the best scope for .17 Mach 2 can transform this nimble rimfire cartridge from a simple plinker into a precision varmint rig.
The .17 Mach 2, derived from the classic .22 LR case necked down to .17 caliber, is known for its flat trajectory, modest recoil, and laser-like precision at 100 yards.
But to maximize that accuracy, you need an optic that complements its potential—one that offers sharp glass, precise tracking, and a comfortable eye box without overpowering its light recoil.
After years of testing and hands-on experience, I’ve narrowed down the finest optics that elevate the .17 Mach 2’s performance in both hunting and target applications.
🏆 Top Product List: Best Scope for .17 Mach 2 of 2025
1. Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC)
Short Description: A go-to optic for rimfire and centerfire shooters alike, the Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 offers rugged reliability, crystal-clear optics, and intuitive holdovers that make it a perfect match for the .17 Mach 2.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle: The fully multi-coated lenses deliver bright, crisp views in variable lighting. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is ideal for small targets like squirrels or prairie dogs, offering holdover marks that align well with the .17 Mach 2’s flat trajectory.
Eye Relief & Eye Box: At nearly 4 inches of eye relief, it’s comfortable even for extended shooting sessions. The generous eye box allows quick target acquisition—important when your target is darting across a field.
Durability: Built from aircraft-grade aluminum, the Crossfire II is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof—ready for rugged outdoor use.
Elevation & Windage Knobs: Finger-adjustable capped turrets with tactile clicks make it easy to sight in at 50 or 100 yards with precision.
Magnification & Parallax: The 3–9x range fits perfectly for the .17 Mach 2’s ballistic curve. Parallax is factory-set at 100 yards, aligning with the cartridge’s sweet spot.
Mounting & Accessories: Standard 1-inch rings work seamlessly. I prefer medium rings for a good cheek weld on a rimfire rifle.
My Experience: I’ve used this scope extensively on my Ruger 77/17 Mach 2 and found it holds zero perfectly after hundreds of rounds. It’s a “set it and forget it” optic for this cartridge.
Online Comments: Reddit rimfire shooters often praise its optical quality, with one user noting it “outperforms scopes twice its price for squirrel hunting.”
Verdict: Exceptional performance-to-price ratio and a trusted name make this one of the top choices.
2. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40
Short Description: The VX-Freedom continues Leupold’s tradition of producing reliable optics that thrive in the field. Tailored for hunters, this scope balances clarity, lightweight design, and unbeatable American durability.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle: Leupold’s Twilight Light Management System makes dawn and dusk shooting a breeze. The Duplex reticle offers a clean sight picture for precision rimfire work.
Eye Relief & Eye Box: Generous eye relief prevents scope bite, even for quick mounting on lightweight rifles.
Durability: Legendary. I’ve dropped mine off a bench onto gravel—it didn’t lose zero. The VX-Freedom line is built for real-world abuse.
Knobs & Adjustments: ¼ MOA click turrets are consistent and repeatable.
Magnification & Parallax: Perfect for 50–150 yard shooting with the .17 Mach 2. Parallax is fixed at 60 yards—ideal for rimfire rifles.
My Experience: This scope pairs beautifully with my Savage A17 Mach 2. The clarity and repeatability make it my go-to for pest control.
Reddit Discussion: Hunters regularly cite the VX-Freedom as a “buy once, cry once” scope—worth every dollar.
Verdict: If you value top-tier clarity and reliability over bells and whistles, this is your pick.
3. Hawke Vantage 3-9x40 AO IR
Short Description: This versatile British-made scope excels in precision plinking and varmint hunting. Adjustable objective and illuminated reticle make it a great match for the flat-shooting .17 Mach 2.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle: The multi-coated glass and illuminated reticle make it perfect for dawn or dusk shooting, enhancing target contrast.
Eye Relief & Eye Box: A comfortable 3.5 inches of eye relief, wide enough for quick alignment.
Durability: Nitrogen-purged and shockproof, it handles rimfire recoil effortlessly.
My Experience: After several seasons of rabbit and crow hunting, it’s proven to be an incredible performer for under $150.
Online Comments: On rimfirecentral.com, many shooters recommend it as “the best value for small calibers.”
Verdict: A top-tier budget-friendly scope with premium features for serious .17 Mach 2 shooters.
4. Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 Rimfire
Short Description: A classic budget optic designed specifically for rimfire rifles. It’s lightweight, reliable, and provides a crisp image, making it ideal for the .17 Mach 2.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass & Reticle: Clear for daylight use with a simple reticle that aids quick aiming.
My Experience: I’ve used this on a youth rifle setup. For under $60, it’s unbeatable for backyard shooting or casual varmint hunting.
Reddit Feedback: Widely known as “the best cheap rimfire scope ever made.”
Verdict: A fantastic entry-level optic for light-duty use.
5. Bushnell Banner 3-9x40 Dusk & Dawn
Short Description: Designed for hunters who work in low light, the Banner offers surprising clarity and brightness at dawn and dusk.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
My Experience: This scope sits on my Marlin XT-17 Mach 2, and it excels in early morning varmint hunts.
Verdict: Budget-friendly, reliable, and bright—it’s ideal for hunters who don’t stop when the sun dips.
🎯 How to Choose the Right Scope for the .17 Mach 2
❓ FAQs
Q1: What is the effective range of the .17 Mach 2? Typically 125–150 yards for small game hunting with proper optics.
Q2: Should I get an adjustable objective scope? Yes, if you plan on shooting at varied ranges or for target work—it eliminates parallax errors.
Q3: Is a BDC reticle useful for .17 Mach 2? Definitely. It helps compensate for the slight drop beyond 100 yards.
Q4: Can I use centerfire scopes on a .17 Mach 2 rifle? Yes. The recoil is mild, so even high-quality centerfire optics will perform flawlessly.
Q5: Which mounting rings should I use? Medium rings on a 1-inch tube usually give a comfortable cheek weld.
Q6: Does illumination matter? For low-light hunting, an illuminated reticle (like on the Hawke Vantage) is a big plus.
🏁 Conclusion
After rigorous testing, the best scope for .17 Mach 2 depends on your purpose. If you’re hunting varmints and want premium performance, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 is unmatched. For those on a tighter budget, the Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 delivers unbeatable clarity and reliability. And if affordability is key, the Simmons .22 Mag 3-9x32 remains the classic choice.
Each of these optics enhances the already impressive precision of the .17 Mach 2, turning every shot into a confident, accurate strike.
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.