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Magnification: 3-9xObjective Lens: 40mmTube Size: 1 inchReticle: Dead-Hold BDC (SFP)Eye Relief: 3.8 inchesWeight: 15 ozSuperb clarity for the priceExcellent eye relief and fast-focus eyepieceShockproof, fog-proof, and waterproofGreat BDC reticle for .17 WSM ballistic matchLacks side parallax adjustmentSlight chromatic aberration at high magnification
Magnification: 6-24xObjective Lens: 50mmReticle: APLR2 FFP IR MOATube: 30mmWeight: 29.6 ozCrystal-clear glass with edge-to-edge brightnessFirst focal plane reticle for consistent subtensionsExcellent tracking and repeatabilityIlluminated reticle ideal for low-light huntingSlightly heavy for lightweight rimfire setups
Magnification: 3-9xObjective Lens: 40mmTube Size: 1 inchReticle: DuplexWeight: 12.2 ozLightweight and compactExceptional optical clarityLifetime Leupold warrantySimple, intuitive designNo illuminationFixed parallax
Magnification: 5-25xObjective Lens: 56mmTube: 34mmReticle: VPR MIL FFPWeight: 37 ozExcellent turret feel and zero-stopVivid, bright opticsBuilt for rugged useFFP precisionHeavyOverkill for close-range hunting
Magnification: 3-9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: Multi-XEye Relief: 4 inchesVery affordableGreat low-light performanceLightweight designBasic adjustmentsNot ideal for long-range shooting
Magnification:
Choose 3-9x for general varmint hunting, 6-24x for long-range work.Reticle Type:
A BDC or FFP reticle helps match the flat trajectory of .17 WSM rounds.Durability:
Look for nitrogen-purged, waterproof, and shockproof designs.Parallax Adjustment:
Adjustable parallax is a must for precise long-range shots.Weight & Balance:
Keep your rifle balanced—avoid oversized scopes if you hunt on foot.
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5 Best Scopes for .17 WSM Rifles in 2025 – Precision Meets Performance
When it comes to varmint or small game hunting, precision is everything—and pairing your rifle with the best scope for .17 WSM can make all the difference. The .17 Winchester Super Magnum is known for its blistering speed and flat trajectory, but it also demands optics that can keep up with its ballistic potential.
Over the years, I’ve tested countless scopes across brands like Vortex, Athlon, and Arken, and in this article, I’ll break down my top recommendations for hunters and target shooters who want maximum clarity, repeatability, and confidence in every shot.
Top Product List: 5 Best Scopes for .17 WSM Rifles in 2025
Here’s a quick rundown of my top picks before we dive into the details:
1. Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC)
The Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 has long been a favorite among rimfire and small-caliber hunters. Its simplicity, ruggedness, and affordability make it a natural fit for .17 WSM rifles.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The Dead-Hold BDC reticle pairs beautifully with the flat trajectory of the .17 WSM. During my tests on prairie dogs at 150 yards, the reticle provided accurate holdovers without guesswork.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
Generous eye relief ensures comfort and fast target acquisition, even with a quick-shouldered rifle.
Durability:
Built from aircraft-grade aluminum, it’s taken its share of bumps in my truck and still holds zero.
My Personal Experience:
After months of use, I found the Vortex Crossfire II performs well in both daylight and dusk. Its light transmission punches above its price point.
Verdict:
An unbeatable entry-level optic for .17 WSM rifles, perfect for those who value reliability over flash.
2. Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 FFP
If you love stretching your .17 WSM to its limits, the Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 is an incredible performer with precise turrets and first focal plane accuracy.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The APLR2 MOA reticle is fine-tuned for long-range shooting. On a calm morning, I could repeatedly ring steel plates at 300 yards with my .17 WSM.
Durability:
It’s nitrogen-purged and fully waterproof. I’ve hunted through mist and snow, and the scope performed flawlessly.
My Personal Experience:
This scope turned my Savage B.Mag into a varmint sniper rifle. The turrets are crisp and reliable, returning to zero every time.
Verdict:
For long-range enthusiasts, this is hands-down the best scope for .17 WSM if you want tactical precision.
3. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40
The Leupold VX-Freedom combines American craftsmanship with unmatched clarity and rugged reliability—ideal for hunters who want simplicity and dependability.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The duplex reticle and Leupold’s Twilight Light Management system provide crisp images even during dawn or dusk.
My Experience:
This scope has been my go-to for quick shots on skittish groundhogs. Its tracking is spot-on, and it shrugs off recoil without losing zero.
Verdict:
A timeless hunting optic that complements the precision and speed of the .17 WSM cartridge beautifully.
4. Arken Optics EP5 5-25X56 FFP
The Arken EP5 is a beast designed for long-range marksmen who want top-tier features without a luxury price tag.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
My Experience:
I mounted this on a Ruger 77/17 and achieved repeatable 1/2 MOA groups out to 250 yards. The clarity at full zoom was phenomenal.
Verdict:
Perfect for those who like to push their .17 WSM’s ballistic limits.
5. Bushnell Banner 3-9x40 Dusk & Dawn
The Bushnell Banner remains one of the best budget-friendly hunting scopes, offering great light transmission and simplicity.
Product Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Verdict:
For beginners or those looking for a backup optic, the Banner delivers consistent results for small game and varmint shooting.
How to Choose the Right Scope for .17 WSM
FAQs
1. Can I use a .22 scope on a .17 WSM?
Yes, but ensure it can handle higher velocity recoil and offers enough magnification for the .17’s long-range accuracy.
2. What magnification is best for .17 WSM?
For most hunting, 3-9x or 4-12x is ideal; for long-range varminting, go 6-24x.
3. Is FFP better than SFP for .17 WSM?
FFP offers consistent holdovers at all zoom levels, beneficial for long-range shooting.
4. Are heavy scopes a problem?
They can affect balance, so opt for lightweight models if you’re stalking game.
5. What’s the effective range of .17 WSM with a good scope?
Expect accurate shots up to 250–300 yards with minimal wind interference.
Conclusion
Choosing the best scope for .17 WSM depends on your priorities—whether it’s the affordability of the Vortex Crossfire II, the precision of the Athlon Argos BTR, or the crystal clarity of the Leupold VX-Freedom. Each of these optics has proven itself in the field and on the bench, offering the balance of accuracy, durability, and optical performance that the .17 WSM deserves.
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