Have you ever wondered what makes a Savage 17 HMR truly shine? It’s a fantastic rifle, great for plinking and small game hunting. But to get the most out of it, you need the right scope. Choosing one can feel like navigating a maze! You want clear sights, good magnification, and something that fits your budget. It’s easy to get lost in all the technical terms and confusing choices.
Picking the wrong scope can mean missed shots and frustration. You might pay too much for features you don’t need, or end up with a scope that just doesn’t perform well. This guide is here to help you cut through the confusion. We’ll break down what really matters when you’re looking for a scope for your Savage 17 HMR.
By reading on, you’ll learn what makes a scope a good match for this specific rifle. We’ll talk about important features in simple terms, so you can make a smart choice. Get ready to discover how to find a scope that will help you hit your target with confidence. Let’s dive in and find the perfect view for your Savage 17 HMR!
Our Top 5 Scope For Savage 17 Hmr Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Scope For Savage 17 Hmr Detailed Reviews
1. Gamo BSA Optics Sweet 17 AO 3-12 x 40mm Rifle Scope .17 HMR
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready to take your shooting to the next level with the Gamo BSA Optics Sweet 17 AO 3-12 x 40mm Rifle Scope. This scope is built specifically for the .17 HMR rifle and its 17-grain bullet. It offers clear views and precise aiming for hunters and target shooters alike. You can easily adjust the magnification from 3x to 12x. The 40mm adjustable objective helps you focus on targets at different distances. It even comes with rings, so you’re ready to mount it right away.
What We Like:
- Designed specifically for the .17 HMR rifle and 17 gr. bullet.
- Adjustable objective (AO) lets you fine-tune focus for clear shots.
- Magnification range of 3x to 12x suits various shooting situations.
- Fully coated glass lenses provide bright, sharp images.
- Rings are included, making it easy to install.
- Good eye relief of 3 inches for comfortable shooting.
- Generous W/E adjustment range of 35 for sighting in.
- Comes with a 1-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The field of view at higher magnification (10 ft at 100 yards) can be a bit narrow for fast-moving targets.
- Parallax setting starts at 7.5 yards, which might be too far for very close-range plinking.
This scope is a solid choice for .17 HMR owners looking for improved accuracy and clarity. It offers great value for its intended purpose.
2. Gamo BSA Optics Sweet 17 AO 3-9 X 40mm Rifle Scope .17 HMR
Rating: 8.5/10
The Gamo BSA Optics Sweet 17 AO 3-9 X 40mm Rifle Scope is built for .17 HMR shooters. It is calibrated specifically for the 17-grain .17 HMR bullet. This scope helps you hit your targets accurately.
What We Like:
- It comes ready to go with 2-piece dovetail rings.
- The scope has fully coated, anti-reflective glass lenses. This means you get a clear view.
- It is shockproof, fogproof, and waterproof. You can use it in tough weather.
- The adjustable objective (AO) lets you focus clearly at different distances.
- It’s made from a strong, one-piece aluminum body.
- The 3-9x magnification is great for many shooting situations.
- The 30/30 reticle is easy to see.
What Could Be Improved:
- The weight of 22.3 oz might feel a bit heavy to some shooters.
- The 12.12-inch length is standard, but some might prefer a more compact option.
This scope offers good value for .17 HMR enthusiasts. It provides clear views and rugged durability for your shooting adventures.
3. Gotical
Rating: 8.9/10
Upgrade your Savage Rascal rifle with the GOTICAL 2-Piece Scope Mount Base Kit. This kit lets you easily attach your favorite scope. It’s made from strong aluminum and looks great with its matte black finish.
What We Like:
- It’s built tough from aircraft-grade aluminum.
- The matte black finish looks sharp.
- It fits the Savage Rascal perfectly thanks to its special bottom design.
- It uses standard Picatinny/M1913 rails, so you have lots of scope choices.
- Screws and a wrench are included, making installation easier.
- The instructions specify a 20-inch lbs torque setting for the screws, which helps ensure a secure fit.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “21.2 Inch Long” in the product title seems to refer to the total length of the two pieces combined, which might be a bit confusing.
- The “5 pieces #6-48 20-inch lbs of torque screws” are described as “20-inch lbs of torque screws,” which is a bit of an odd phrasing; it should likely be “screws with a torque specification of 20 inch-lbs.”
This scope mount base kit is a solid choice for any Savage Rascal owner looking to add a scope. It’s well-made and designed to work right with your rifle.
4. SME SSI Sight-Rite Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter for 17 HMR Gauge
Rating: 9.1/10
Get your 17 HMR rifle sighted in fast and easy with the SME SSI Sight-Rite Chamber Cartridge Laser Bore Sighter. This tool helps you line up your scope without firing a single shot.
What We Like:
- It makes sighting your gun super simple.
- The laser is bright and accurate for easy aiming.
- It’s built tough with a strong casing that will last a long time.
- It’s made just for the 17 HMR caliber, so it fits perfectly.
- Batteries are included, so you can use it right away.
What Could Be Improved:
- The laser is Class IIIR, which means you need to be careful and not shine it directly into eyes.
The SME SSI Sight-Rite is a reliable tool for any shooter. It’s designed for accuracy and ease, making it a great addition to your shooting gear.
5. BSA 3-12X40 Sweet 17 Rifle Scope with Multi-Grain Turret
Rating: 9.4/10
The BSA 3-12X40 Sweet 17 Rifle Scope is built for the .17HMR cartridge. Its adjustable magnification goes from 3x to 12x. This scope helps you see your target clearly. It’s also tough and ready for different weather.
What We Like:
- Designed for .17HMR, it shoots great with 17-grain and 20-grain bullets.
- The turret is made for these specific bullet weights, making aiming easier.
- Fully multi-coated lenses give you a bright and clear picture.
- It has 4 inches of eye relief, which is comfortable for your eyes.
- The scope is shockproof, fogproof, and waterproof. It can handle rough use and bad weather.
- The 1/4 MOA adjustments are precise for fine-tuning your aim.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 3-12x magnification range might be a bit limited for very long-range shooting.
- While good for .17HMR, it’s not versatile for other calibers.
This BSA Sweet 17 scope is a solid choice for .17HMR shooters. It offers clear views and reliable performance.
Finding the Right Scope for Your Savage 17 HMR
The Savage 17 HMR is a fantastic rifle known for its accuracy and speed. To get the most out of it, you need a good scope. This guide will help you choose the perfect one. We’ll cover what to look for, what makes a scope good or bad, and how different scopes work for different situations.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a scope, keep these important features in mind:
- Magnification: This tells you how much closer the scope makes things appear. For the 17 HMR, which is often used for varmint hunting and target shooting at medium ranges, a variable magnification between 3-9x or 4-12x is usually a great choice. This lets you zoom in for small targets or zoom out for a wider view.
- Objective Lens Diameter: This is the big lens at the front of the scope. A larger objective lens (like 40mm or 50mm) lets in more light. More light means a brighter picture, especially when it’s getting dark.
- Reticle: This is the crosshair or aiming point you see inside the scope. Simple duplex reticles are easy to use. Some scopes have more advanced reticles with markings that help you estimate distance or holdover for wind.
- Eye Relief: This is the distance between your eye and the scope’s eyepiece where you get a clear picture. Good eye relief is important for safety, especially on rifles with recoil. You don’t want the scope hitting your forehead!
- Turrets: These are the knobs on top and side of the scope used to adjust your aim. Look for turrets that are easy to adjust and “click” clearly so you know how much you’re moving your point of aim. Some turrets are “capped” to protect them from getting bumped.
Important Materials
The materials a scope is made from affect its toughness and how well it performs.
- Lens Coatings: Good lenses have special coatings. These coatings help light pass through better, reduce glare, and make the image sharper. Multi-coated lenses are generally better than single-coated ones.
- Body Construction: Most modern rifle scopes have bodies made from aluminum. Aircraft-grade aluminum is strong and lightweight. A well-built scope body can handle bumps and weather. Many are also filled with nitrogen or argon gas to prevent fogging on the inside.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a scope better or worse.
- Optical Clarity: This is how clear and sharp the image is. A high-quality scope will give you a very clear picture, even at higher magnifications. Cheaper scopes might look blurry or distorted.
- Light Transmission: A scope’s ability to gather and transmit light is crucial. Better scopes will give you a brighter image in low light conditions, like at dawn or dusk.
- Durability: A good scope can withstand recoil, drops, and harsh weather. If a scope is not well-made, it can break easily or lose its zero (meaning your shots won’t hit where you aim).
- Waterproofing and Fogproofing: Scopes made with good seals and filled with gas are protected from rain and fog. This is very important for hunting in different weather.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use your rifle will help you pick the right scope.
- Varmint Hunting: If you’re hunting small pests like prairie dogs or groundhogs, you’ll need a scope with good magnification to see them at a distance. A scope with a reticle that helps with holdover for wind can be very useful.
- Target Shooting: For punching paper at the range, a scope with clear optics and precise turrets is key. You want to be able to make small adjustments to fine-tune your accuracy.
- General Plinking: If you just enjoy shooting at targets for fun, a simpler, less expensive scope might be all you need. Focus on something that’s easy to use and provides a clear view.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best magnification range for a Savage 17 HMR scope?
A: A magnification range of 3-9x or 4-12x is usually best for the Savage 17 HMR. This gives you flexibility for different shooting distances.
Q: Do I need a scope with a large objective lens for my 17 HMR?
A: A larger objective lens (40mm or 50mm) helps gather more light, giving you a brighter image, especially in low light. It’s helpful but not always essential.
Q: What type of reticle is good for the 17 HMR?
A: A simple duplex reticle is easy to use. For more advanced shooting, reticles with distance markings can help with aiming at different ranges.
Q: How important is eye relief on a scope for the 17 HMR?
A: Eye relief is very important for safety. It’s the distance from your eye to the scope where you see a clear image. You don’t want the scope to hit your forehead.
Q: Are expensive lens coatings really worth it?
A: Yes, good lens coatings improve clarity, brightness, and reduce glare. This makes a big difference in how well you can see your target.
Q: Can I use any scope on my Savage 17 HMR?
A: While most scopes will physically fit, it’s best to choose one designed for rimfire rifles or one that can handle the typical ranges you’ll shoot the 17 HMR at.
Q: What does “waterproof” and “fogproof” mean for a scope?
A: Waterproof means the scope can handle rain or submersion without damage. Fogproof means the inside lenses won’t fog up in changing temperatures.
Q: How do I know if a scope is durable enough?
A: Look for scopes made with strong materials like aircraft-grade aluminum and those filled with nitrogen or argon gas. Reviews from other users can also tell you about durability.
Q: Will a cheaper scope work just as well for casual shooting?
A: For casual plinking, a simpler, less expensive scope can be fine. However, you might sacrifice optical clarity and durability.
Q: Where can I find good reviews for Savage 17 HMR scopes?
A: You can find reviews on gun websites, forums dedicated to firearms, and on the websites of major sporting goods retailers.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mette Morgan—a lifelong pet enthusiast and the heart behind PetNobs.com.. My journey with animals began at an early age, and over the years, I’ve gathered invaluable experiences and insights on everything from everyday pet care to the unique quirks each animal brings to our lives. Here at PetNobs, I share my genuine passion, practical tips, and personal stories to help you create a loving, well-informed environment for your furry, feathered, or scaled friends. Welcome to my little corner of the pet world—it’s a joy to have you here!