The Savage 17 HMR is a popular choice among varmint hunters and target shooters due to its impressive accuracy and power. However, to fully exploit its potential, pairing it with the right scope is essential. In this article, I'll walk you through my top picks for the best scopes for the Savage 17 HMR, detailing their specifications, best features, pros, cons, user experiences, and online customer comments. Additionally, I'll provide guidance on how to choose the best scope for this rifle and answer some frequently asked questions.
Note: The following advice comes from my personal perspective. What works for me might not work for you, but hopefully it sparks some ideas!
1. Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32 Rimfire
Specifications:
Magnification: 2-7x
Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm
Eye Relief: 3.9 inches
Field of View: 42-12.6 feet/100 yards
Tube Size: 1 inch
Adjustment Graduation: 1/4 MOA
Max Elevation Adjustment: 60 MOA
Weight: 14.3 ounces
Best Features:
Fully Multi-Coated Lenses: Provides a clear, bright image.
Second Focal Plane Reticle: Maintains the same ideally-sized appearance.
Single-Piece Tube Construction: Enhances durability and performance.
Capped Reset Turrets: Allow re-indexing of the turret to zero after sighting in the scope.
Pros:
Excellent clarity and light transmission.
Durable and shockproof construction.
Easy to reset turrets.
Long eye relief for comfortable shooting.
Cons:
Limited magnification range.
The reticle might be too fine for low light conditions.
Experience and Fit for Savage 17 HMR:
When using the Vortex Crossfire II on my Savage 17 HMR, I found the scope to be exceptionally clear and bright. The 2-7x magnification range is perfect for the distances typically engaged with this rifle, and the long eye relief ensures comfort during extended shooting sessions. The capped turrets are a great feature for maintaining zero, especially when hunting in rugged terrain.
Online Customer Comments:
Many users on forums and review sites praise the Vortex Crossfire II for its clarity and value for money. One user mentioned, "For the price, the clarity and build quality are unmatched. Perfect for my 17 HMR." Another user highlighted the ease of resetting the turrets, which made zeroing the scope a breeze.
Rugged and Waterproof Construction: Ensures reliability in harsh conditions.
Scratch-Resistant Lenses: Maintain clarity and durability.
Lifetime Warranty: Reflects confidence in the product’s longevity.
Pros:
Superior low-light performance.
Lightweight and compact.
Durable construction.
Excellent warranty support.
Cons:
Slightly more expensive than some competitors.
Limited reticle options.
Experience and Fit for Savage 17 HMR:
The Leupold VX-Freedom is a fantastic match for the Savage 17 HMR. Its low-light performance is particularly beneficial for early morning or late evening hunts. The scope is lightweight, ensuring it doesn't add unnecessary heft to the rifle. The clear and crisp optics make target acquisition quick and precise.
Online Customer Comments:
Customers often laud Leupold's reputation for quality and durability. One review stated, "This scope performs like high-end models but at a fraction of the cost. The clarity and light management are superb." Another user mentioned the scope’s lightweight nature, making it an excellent choice for field use.
Nitrogen Purged and O-Ring Sealed: Ensures fog-proof and waterproof performance.
Pros:
Excellent long-range capability.
Clear and bright optics.
Easy to use and reset turrets.
Reliable in various weather conditions.
Cons:
Reticle can be complex for beginners.
Heavier than some other options.
Experience and Fit for Savage 17 HMR:
Using the Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II on my Savage 17 HMR, I appreciated the BDC reticle, which facilitated precise shots at varying distances. The clarity of the optics was outstanding, and the turrets were easy to adjust and reset. This scope is ideal for shooters looking to push the range limits of their 17 HMR.
Online Customer Comments:
Users frequently commend the Nikon ProStaff Rimfire II for its optical quality and BDC reticle. One user noted, "The BDC reticle is a game-changer for long-range shots. The clarity is top-notch for the price." Another user mentioned the robust construction and reliable performance in different weather conditions.
4. Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope 3-9x40
Specifications:
Magnification: 3-9x
Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm
Eye Relief: 3.3 inches
Field of View: 40-14 feet/100 yards
Tube Size: 1 inch
Adjustment Graduation: 1/4 MOA
Max Elevation Adjustment: 60 MOA
Weight: 13 ounces
Best Features:
Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) Coatings: Optimize clarity in low light conditions.
Multi-X Reticle: Simple and effective for various shooting scenarios.
Waterproof, Fogproof, and Shockproof: Suitable for all weather conditions.
Fast-Focus Eyepiece: Allows quick and easy reticle focusing.
Pros:
Affordable pricing.
Good low-light performance.
Durable and reliable construction.
Simple and easy to use reticle.
Cons:
Eye relief could be better.
Slightly heavier than some other models.
Experience and Fit for Savage 17 HMR:
The Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn scope is a great budget-friendly option for the Savage 17 HMR. Its low-light performance is impressive, making it suitable for dawn and dusk hunts. The Multi-X reticle is straightforward and user-friendly, enhancing the shooting experience without unnecessary complexity.
Online Customer Comments:
Users often highlight the scope’s value for money and low-light performance. One customer review stated, "For the price, this scope exceeds expectations. It's perfect for early morning varmint hunting." Another comment praised the simplicity of the reticle and the scope's durability.
HydroShield Coating: Ensures a clear sight picture in all conditions.
SureGrip Rubber Surfaces: Simplifies adjustments in any weather.
QTA (Quick Target Acquisition) Eyepiece: Allows for rapid target acquisition.
Truplex Reticle: Provides a clear and precise aiming point.
Pros:
Lightweight and compact.
Excellent value for money.
Easy to adjust and use.
Good eye relief.
Cons:
Limited magnification range.
Not as durable as higher-end models.
Experience and Fit for Savage 17 HMR:
The Simmons Truplex .22 Mag is a lightweight and affordable option that pairs well with the Savage 17 HMR. Its clear optics and simple reticle make it an excellent choice for plinking and varmint hunting. The scope's lightweight nature ensures that it doesn't hinder maneuverability, making it a great companion for field use.
Online Customer Comments:
Users appreciate the scope’s affordability and performance. One user review mentioned, "This scope offers great performance for the price. It's perfect for my 17 HMR." Another comment highlighted the ease of use and lightweight design, making it ideal for long shooting sessions.
The BSA Sweet 17 is specifically calibrated for the 17 HMR cartridge, making it an ideal match for the Savage 17 HMR. The adjustable objective ensures precise shots by eliminating parallax error, and the clear optics provide a bright and accurate sight picture. Although it is heavier than some other options, its performance and features make it a worthwhile choice.
Online Customer Comments:
Customers often commend the scope for its optimization for the 17 HMR cartridge. One review stated, "The BSA Sweet 17 is perfect for my Savage 17 HMR. The accuracy and clarity are excellent." Another user mentioned the ease of use and the benefit of the adjustable objective for long-range shooting.
When selecting a scope for your Savage 17 HMR, consider the following factors:
Magnification Range: Choose a magnification range that suits your shooting needs. For general varmint hunting and target shooting, a 3-9x scope is often sufficient.
Objective Lens Size: A larger objective lens allows more light to enter the scope, providing a clearer and brighter image, especially in low-light conditions.
Reticle Type: Select a reticle that matches your shooting style. For long-range shooting, a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticle can be advantageous.
Durability: Ensure the scope is constructed from high-quality materials and is shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof to withstand harsh conditions.
Eye Relief: Adequate eye relief is crucial for comfortable shooting, especially with high-recoil rifles.
Turret Adjustments: Look for scopes with easy-to-use and precise turret adjustments for windage and elevation.
Weight: Consider the weight of the scope, especially if you plan to carry your rifle over long distances.
FAQs
What magnification range is best for the Savage 17 HMR?
A 3-9x magnification range is ideal for most varmint hunting and target shooting scenarios with the Savage 17 HMR. It provides enough versatility for both close and long-range shots.
Is a BDC reticle necessary for the Savage 17 HMR?
While not necessary, a BDC reticle can be beneficial for long-range shooting by providing holdover points for different distances, making it easier to compensate for bullet drop.
Can I use a regular rifle scope on my Savage 17 HMR?
Yes, you can use a regular rifle scope on your Savage 17 HMR. However, scopes specifically designed for rimfire rifles, like the ones mentioned in this article, may offer better performance and features suited for the 17 HMR cartridge.