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Magnification: 3-9xObjective Lens: 40mmReticle: Dead-Hold BDCTube Size: 1 inchEye Relief: 3.8 inchesWeight: 15 ozExcellent value for moneyClear, bright glassEasy zero retentionLifetime warrantySlightly limited for extreme long-range shooting
Magnification: 3-9xWeight: 12.2 ozEye Relief: 3.7-4.2 inchesReticle: DuplexTube: 1 inchCrystal-clear opticsSuperior light transmissionUltra-lightweight buildNo parallax adjustment
Magnification: 6-24xObjective Lens: 50mmReticle: APMR FFP IR MILTube: 30mmWeight: 29.6 ozFFP reticle accuracyIlluminated reticleSmooth turretsSlightly heavy for hunting
Magnification: 3-12xReticle: Ballistic E3Weight: 18 ozTube: 1 inchExcellent trackingClear, bright imageGood for both close and mid-rangeNo illumination option
Magnification: 3-18xTube: 30mmFFP ACSS Athena ReticleSide parallax adjustmentTactical precisionFFP clarityDurable buildA bit bulky for lightweight rifles
Magnification: 5-25xTube: 34mmReticle: VPR MILParallax: Side adjustableWeight: 39 ozIncredible turret precisionRazor-sharp FFP glassAffordable for its classHeavy for hunting rigs
Magnification: 4-16xReticle: Z-PlexTube: 30mmEye Relief: 3.5 inchesPremium optical performanceExceptional low-light visibilityGerman engineeringExpensive
Magnification Range: 3-9x is ideal for close to mid-range varmint hunting; 6-24x for precision or long-range.Reticle Type: BDC or MIL reticles are preferred for ballistic compensation.Optical Quality: High-quality lenses improve clarity, especially in dawn/dusk shooting.Durability: Look for fog-proof, shockproof, and waterproof construction.Weight: Lightweight scopes pair better with varmint rifles carried over long distances.
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The 7 Best Scopes for .17 Hornet in 2025: Precision Optics for Small Game and Varmint Hunters
Finding the best scope for .17 Hornet can be a challenge, especially when you want to take full advantage of this flat-shooting varmint round.
The .17 Hornet is famous for its laser-like trajectory and minimal recoil, making it a top pick for varmint hunters and precision shooters alike. In my years of shooting groundhogs, coyotes, and prairie dogs, I’ve tested dozens of scopes tailored for high-velocity small-caliber rifles.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top optics that maximize accuracy, light transmission, and field usability for the .17 Hornet.
Top Product List: 7 Best Scopes for .17 Hornet in 2025
Here’s a quick overview of my top choices before we dive into the detailed reviews:
1. Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC)
The Vortex Crossfire II is a classic all-rounder that pairs beautifully with the .17 Hornet. Its clarity, reliability, and affordability make it a go-to for beginners and seasoned varmint hunters alike.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The glass performs admirably in all light conditions, and the BDC reticle is perfect for compensating for bullet drop when using lightweight .17 Hornet rounds beyond 200 yards.
Eye Relief & Eye Box:
The forgiving eye box is a highlight, allowing quick target acquisition.
Durability:
Fully waterproof and fog-proof with nitrogen purging — typical Vortex quality.
Personal Experience:
This scope lived on my Savage Model 25 for two seasons. It’s simple, rugged, and consistent — ideal for 150-250 yard varmint shots.
Verdict:
A perfect entry-level optic for anyone pairing the .17 Hornet with precision varmint work.
2. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40
Leupold’s VX-Freedom line has earned legendary status for dependable optical performance. The VX-Freedom 3-9x40 brings lightweight precision to the .17 Hornet platform.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
The glass is sharp, and the Duplex reticle gives excellent contrast against fur and brush.
Durability:
Leupold’s lifetime warranty and weather-sealed construction ensure long service life.
My Experience:
Mounted on a CZ 527 .17 Hornet, this scope made my rifle a lightweight pest eliminator. I loved the crisp tracking and dependable zero hold even after dozens of rounds.
Verdict:
If you’re after rugged dependability and top-tier glass for field shooting, this is your pick.
3. Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24X50 FFP
For shooters stretching the .17 Hornet to 300+ yards, the Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 offers outstanding precision, a first focal plane reticle, and fantastic value.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Glass Clarity & Reticle:
Excellent for the price, with minimal chromatic aberration and great edge clarity.
Elevation & Windage:
Tactile, audible clicks make precise adjustments easy.
My Experience:
This scope transformed my Ruger 77/17 Hornet into a 400-yard tack driver. The FFP reticle made holdovers simple when shooting prairie dogs across open fields.
Verdict:
An unbeatable mid-range choice for serious varmint shooters who want to push their .17 Hornet to its ballistic limits.
4. Burris Fullfield IV 3-12x42
Burris’s Fullfield IV offers rugged durability with crisp optics. It’s a great balance between affordability and high-end performance.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Durability:
Shockproof and waterproof — this scope holds up well under field abuse.
My Experience:
I used this on a custom .17 Hornet varmint rig last season. The Ballistic E3 reticle made ranging intuitive, and the optical quality was better than scopes twice the cost.
Verdict:
A premium yet budget-friendly option for hunters who demand consistency.
5. Primary Arms SLX 3-18x50mm FFP Gen II
The Primary Arms SLX Gen II is one of the best high-magnification scopes for long-distance precision. Its ACSS Athena reticle offers unmatched ballistic versatility.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
My Experience:
This was a revelation on my heavy-barrel .17 Hornet setup. Perfect for 500-yard targets with smooth magnification transitions.
Verdict:
Ideal for precision shooters wanting long-range consistency.
6. Arken Optics EP5 5-25X56 FFP
The Arken EP5 is an emerging favorite among long-range enthusiasts. It’s a high-performance tactical scope with elite glass and durable design.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
Personal Thoughts:
This scope is more at home on the bench or bipod, but the tracking precision and clarity are superb. For those pushing the .17 Hornet to 500+ yards, it’s unbeatable.
Verdict:
A serious precision scope that turns your small-bore rifle into a sniper platform.
7. Zeiss Conquest V4 4-16x44
Zeiss optics are known for world-class glass, and the Conquest V4 lives up to that reputation. It delivers superior image resolution and contrast in all lighting.
Specs:
Pros:
Cons:
My Experience:
I’ve used this scope for precision pest control at dawn and dusk. The glass clarity is stunning — I could clearly see fur detail at 400 yards.
Verdict:
For shooters who demand the best and can afford it, this is the ultimate scope for .17 Hornet.
How to Choose the Right Scope for the .17 Hornet
When selecting the best scope for .17 Hornet, consider these factors:
FAQs
1. What magnification is best for a .17 Hornet rifle?
For general varmint hunting, 3-9x is sufficient. For long-range shooting, opt for 6-24x.
2. Is a first focal plane (FFP) scope better for .17 Hornet?
Yes, if you shoot beyond 300 yards, FFP scopes make holdovers consistent at any magnification.
3. Can I use a rimfire scope on a .17 Hornet?
It’s not recommended; the .17 Hornet’s recoil and range require centerfire-rated scopes.
4. What’s the effective range of a .17 Hornet with a good scope?
With quality optics and proper zeroing, accurate hits up to 400–450 yards are achievable.
5. Do I need parallax adjustment for .17 Hornet?
Yes, especially for precision shooting beyond 200 yards. Side parallax adjustment improves accuracy.
6. Which reticle is best for varmint hunting?
The BDC and fine crosshair reticles are most effective for tracking small, fast targets.
Conclusion
The .17 Hornet is a precision shooter’s dream — light recoil, flat trajectory, and exceptional velocity. Pairing it with the right optic makes all the difference. My personal recommendation for most shooters is the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 for its balance of clarity, weight, and reliability. For those who love stretching distance, the Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 6-24x50 FFP or Zeiss Conquest V4 4-16x44 will unlock the cartridge’s full potential.
Each of these optics has been tested in the field and proven under real-world varmint conditions — ensuring you get the performance your .17 Hornet deserves.
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