The Ruger Precision Rimfire 17 HMR is a versatile and accurate rifle that has gained popularity among target shooters, varmint hunters, and small game enthusiasts. With its remarkable precision and lightweight build, it’s an ideal rifle for long-range shooting with the right optics. However, choosing a scope for the Ruger Precision Rimfire 17 HMR doesn't have to break the bank. There are several budget-friendly scopes that will provide the clarity, magnification, and durability necessary for optimal shooting performance. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the best scopes for this rifle, specifically designed for target shooting and precision at an affordable price.

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Top Budget-Friendly Scopes for Ruger Precision Rimfire 17 HMR

Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 (Dead-Hold BDC)

Best Overall Value

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The Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 scope is widely regarded as one of the best budget-friendly optics available. With its 3-9x magnification, it provides enough flexibility for both close-range and mid-range shooting. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is excellent for range estimation and quick shots, making it ideal for the Ruger Precision Rimfire 17 HMR, which excels at mid-range target shooting.

Key Features:

Magnification: 3-9x

Objective Lens: 40mm

Reticle: Dead-Hold BDC

Eye Relief: 3.9 inches

Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof

Pros:

Great value for the price

Clear optics and accurate range estimation

Durable and built for all weather conditions

Cons:

Limited to 9x magnification, which may not be ideal for extreme long-range precision

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CVLIFE 3-9x40 AO Rifle Scope (Red/Green Illuminated)

Best Illuminated Reticle Scope for Low Light

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The CVLIFE 3-9x40 AO scope offers great features for those looking to get the most out of their 17 HMR without spending a fortune. This scope features an illuminated red/green reticle, which makes it a good option for shooting in low-light conditions, such as early mornings or late evenings. The adjustable objective lens ensures accurate parallax correction for targets at various distances.

Key Features:

Magnification: 3-9x

Objective Lens: 40mm

Reticle: Illuminated Crosshair (red/green)

Eye Relief: 3.3 inches

Adjustable objective for parallax correction

Pros:

Illuminated reticle for low-light shooting

Adjustable objective for parallax-free shooting

Affordable and reliable for target shooting

Cons:

The illumination can be a bit too bright at higher settings

The reticle isn’t as fine as higher-end options, making precision a bit harder at extreme ranges

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UTG 3-9x32 BugBuster AO

Best Compact and Lightweight Scope

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The UTG BugBuster AO 3-9x32 scope is perfect for shooters who want a compact and lightweight setup without sacrificing performance. This scope is ideal for rimfire rifles like the Ruger Precision Rimfire 17 HMR. With an adjustable parallax and illuminated reticle, it offers a versatile and affordable option for those looking to maximize their shooting experience at the range or in the field.

Key Features:

Magnification: 3-9x

Objective Lens: 32mm

Reticle: Illuminated Crosshair

Eye Relief: 3.2 inches

Adjustable parallax

Pros:

Compact and lightweight, perfect for rimfire rifles

Parallax adjustable from 5 yards to infinity

Illuminated reticle for low-light conditions

Cons:

Smaller objective lens (32mm) limits light transmission

The reticle illumination may not be bright enough in daylight conditions

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Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 3-9x40

Best for Low Light Precision

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If you are someone who enjoys shooting at dawn or dusk, the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 3-9x40 scope is an excellent option. This scope features the Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) coating to enhance light transmission, allowing for clearer target acquisition in low-light environments. This makes it ideal for early morning or late evening target shooting with the Ruger Precision Rimfire 17 HMR.

Key Features:

Magnification: 3-9x

Objective Lens: 40mm

Reticle: Multi-X

Eye Relief: 3.5 inches

DDB multi-coating for enhanced light transmission

Pros:

Excellent clarity in low-light conditions

Lightweight and durable

Easy-to-use and ideal for hunting or target shooting

Cons:

No illuminated reticle for dark environments

Basic reticle design compared to more specialized options

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Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40

Best for Long-Range Precision on a Budget

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The Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40 scope offers a higher magnification range, making it ideal for those who want to push their Ruger Precision Rimfire 17 HMR out to longer distances. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle provides easy holdovers for windage and elevation, while the rugged construction ensures it will withstand any rough conditions. If you're looking for a scope that delivers precision and clarity at extended ranges, this is a great option.

Key Features:

Magnification: 4-12x

Objective Lens: 40mm

Reticle: Dead-Hold BDC

Eye Relief: 3.1 inches

Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof

Pros:

Ideal for long-range precision shooting

Excellent glass clarity and durable construction

Great magnification for rimfire rifle distances

Cons:

No illuminated reticle

Heavier than compact options like the BugBuster

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Explore User Feedback and Current Pricing on Amazon⁠

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Choosing the Best Scope for the Ruger Precision Rimfire 17 HMR

When selecting the best scope for your Ruger Precision Rimfire 17 HMR, it's important to consider several factors:

Magnification: The Ruger Precision Rimfire is known for its accuracy at medium to long ranges. For most target shooters, a 3-9x or 4-12x magnification range is perfect, offering flexibility for both close and longer shots.

Reticle: For target shooting, a simple reticle like the Dead-Hold BDC or a Mil-Dot reticle will work well, helping with range estimation and windage adjustments. An illuminated reticle can be a huge bonus for low-light shooting.

Objective Lens: A 40mm objective lens is typically ideal for rimfire rifles, as it offers a good balance between light transmission and weight. However, if you plan to shoot in low-light conditions often, you might prefer a slightly larger objective lens like 42mm.

Durability: Even budget-friendly scopes should offer durability. Look for scopes that are shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof, especially if you plan to take your rifle outdoors.

Eye Relief: For safety and comfort, look for scopes with at least 3.5 inches of eye relief, which ensures that the recoil from the Ruger Precision Rimfire won't cause any discomfort.

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Conclusion

The Ruger Precision Rimfire 17 HMR is an outstanding rifle for precision target shooting, and pairing it with the right scope will only enhance its capabilities. Budget-friendly options like the Vortex Crossfire II, CVLIFE 3-9x40 AO, and Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn provide excellent performance without breaking the bank. Whether you’re shooting at the range or out in the field, these scopes will give you the clarity, precision, and durability you need for successful target shooting.

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