The Savage Arms 17 HMR rifles represent one of the most successful marriages of precision engineering and innovative cartridge technology in modern rimfire shooting. Since the introduction of the 17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire in 2002, this revolutionary cartridge has transformed varmint hunting and precision rimfire shooting by delivering centerfire-like performance in a convenient rimfire package. The 17 HMR pushes a 17-grain bullet at over 2,550 feet per second, creating a flat trajectory that extends effective rimfire range well beyond traditional 22 LR capabilities.
Savage Arms has been at the forefront of 17 HMR rifle development, offering multiple platforms that showcase the cartridge’s exceptional accuracy potential. Models like the B.MAG series, Mark II series, and A17 have earned reputations for delivering sub-MOA accuracy straight from the factory, making them favorites among varmint hunters, target shooters, and small game hunters who demand precision. The 17 HMR’s ballistic advantages become most apparent when paired with quality optics that can fully exploit its flat trajectory and impressive downrange energy retention.
The 17 HMR’s ballistic characteristics create unique requirements for scope selection that differ from both traditional rimfire cartridges and centerfire rounds. With a muzzle velocity exceeding 2,550 fps and maintaining supersonic flight beyond 200 yards, the 17 HMR delivers a remarkably flat trajectory that makes holdover calculations simple out to extended ranges. However, the cartridge’s lightweight bullet makes it susceptible to wind drift, requiring scopes with sufficient magnification for precise wind reading and shot placement.
Savage’s AccuTrigger system, found on most modern 17 HMR models, provides the precise trigger control necessary to realize the cartridge’s accuracy potential. This user-adjustable trigger typically breaks cleanly at 2.5-6 pounds, allowing shooters to take full advantage of the rifle’s mechanical accuracy. When combined with Savage’s button-rifled barrels and rigid receiver designs, these rifles regularly produce groups well under 1 MOA with quality ammunition.
The 17 HMR’s intended applications – primarily varmint hunting, pest control, and precision target shooting – benefit greatly from scopes with higher magnification ranges than typical rimfire applications. Prairie dog towns, ground squirrel colonies, and other varmint hunting scenarios often present shot opportunities from 100 to 300+ yards, where the 17 HMR’s flat trajectory and retained energy make ethical shots possible with proper optics.
Modern scope technology has evolved to meet the specific needs of precision rimfire shooters, offering features like precise tracking systems, excellent glass quality, and magnification ranges that complement the 17 HMR’s extended effective range. Let’s examine the top scopes that will help you maximize your Savage 17 HMR’s impressive accuracy potential.
1) Vortex Viper HS 4-16x44mm (Best Overall Performance)
The Vortex Viper HS 4-16x44mm emerges as our top choice for Savage 17 HMR rifles, delivering an exceptional combination of optical clarity, mechanical precision, and practical features that perfectly complement the cartridge’s unique ballistic characteristics. This scope represents Vortex’s commitment to providing serious performance at a reasonable price point, making premium features accessible to dedicated rimfire shooters who demand accuracy.
What sets the Viper HS apart is its versatile magnification range that covers every practical application for the 17 HMR. At 4x magnification, the scope provides adequate field of view for scanning varmint colonies or tracking moving targets, while the 16x maximum magnification offers sufficient power for precise shot placement on small targets at the 17 HMR’s extended effective range. This magnification range hits the sweet spot for varmint hunting where target sizes can vary dramatically based on species and distance.
The optical system utilizes premium fully multi-coated lenses that deliver exceptional clarity and light transmission crucial for early morning and late evening hunting when varmints are most active. The 44mm objective lens gathers sufficient light for extended shooting sessions while maintaining a reasonable profile that doesn’t interfere with shooting positions or rifle handling. Color fidelity is excellent, helping hunters distinguish small targets from complex backgrounds common in varmint hunting environments.
The scope’s mechanical systems are where it truly excels for precision rimfire work. The tracking system provides precise 1/4 MOA adjustments that move consistently and return to zero reliably, essential for the precise holdover adjustments often required when shooting the wind-sensitive 17 HMR at varying ranges. The capped turrets protect the adjustment mechanisms while providing clear, tactile clicks that work reliably even with cold hands during early morning hunts.
One particularly valuable feature for 17 HMR shooters is the Dead-Hold BDC reticle, which provides multiple aiming points calibrated for specific ballistic trajectories. While originally designed for centerfire cartridges, the reticle’s holdover points align remarkably well with the 17 HMR’s trajectory when properly validated at the range. This allows for quick shots at various ranges without requiring turret adjustments.
The scope’s construction reflects Vortex’s commitment to durability and reliability. The single-piece aluminum tube withstands the modest recoil of the 17 HMR while providing a solid foundation for the internal mechanisms. The scope is fully waterproof and fog-proof, essential for early morning hunts when temperature differentials can cause condensation issues with lesser optics.
Side parallax adjustment from 50 yards to infinity ensures optimal focus across the 17 HMR’s effective range, eliminating parallax error that could compromise the precision shooting this cartridge enables. This feature becomes particularly important at higher magnifications where parallax error is most apparent.
The fast-focus eyepiece allows quick reticle adjustment for different lighting conditions or users, while the generous eye relief accommodates various shooting positions and stock configurations common with Savage rimfire rifles.
| Key Features | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 4-16x |
| Objective Lens | 44mm |
| Reticle | Dead-Hold BDC |
| Adjustments | 1/4 MOA clicks |
| Eye Relief | 4 inches |
| Parallax | Side focus, 50 yards to infinity |
Pros
- Perfect magnification range for 17 HMR applications
- Excellent optical clarity and light transmission
- Precise tracking system for consistent accuracy
- BDC reticle well-suited to 17 HMR ballistics
- Outstanding warranty and customer service
- Side parallax adjustment for precision shooting
Cons
- Higher cost than basic rimfire scopes
The Vortex Viper HS 4-16x44mm provides the perfect balance of features, performance, and value for serious 17 HMR shooting, making it the ideal choice for hunters and shooters who want to fully exploit their Savage rifle’s accuracy potential.
2) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rimfire (Best Value Option)
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rimfire represents outstanding value in precision rimfire optics, delivering authentic Leupold quality and reliability at a price point that makes premium performance accessible to budget-conscious 17 HMR shooters. This scope has been specifically optimized for rimfire applications, incorporating features and adjustments that complement the unique characteristics of cartridges like the 17 HMR.
What makes the VX-Freedom Rimfire particularly appealing for 17 HMR use is its carefully chosen magnification range that covers the vast majority of practical shooting scenarios. The 3x low end provides adequate field of view for scanning and target acquisition, while 9x magnification offers sufficient power for precise shot placement out to 200+ yards where the 17 HMR remains highly effective. This range represents the sweet spot for most rimfire applications without the complexity or cost of higher magnification systems.
The rimfire-specific optimization becomes apparent in the scope’s internal adjustments and parallax setting. Unlike centerfire scopes that are typically parallax-free at 100 yards, the VX-Freedom Rimfire is optimized for 60 yards, much closer to typical rimfire shooting distances. This optimization ensures sharp target focus across the ranges where rimfire cartridges are most commonly used, improving accuracy potential at the distances that matter most.
Leupold’s optical excellence shines through even in this entry-level model, with multicoat 4 lens system delivering clear, bright images that make target identification easier in challenging lighting conditions. The Twilight Light Management System extends usable shooting time during the dawn and dusk periods when many varmints are most active, providing a practical advantage for hunters who time their outings to coincide with peak game activity.
The Duplex reticle provides clean, unobstructed sight pictures that don’t overwhelm small targets at distance. The heavy outer posts draw the eye quickly to center, while the fine crosshairs allow precise aiming without obscuring tiny targets like prairie dogs or ground squirrels at extended range. This reticle design has accounted for countless successful varmint hunts over the decades.
Mechanical reliability reflects Leupold’s legendary reputation for precision and durability. The finger-adjustable turrets provide reliable 1/4 MOA adjustments that track consistently and return to zero after field adjustments. While the adjustment range is somewhat limited compared to tactical scopes, it’s more than adequate for the 17 HMR’s relatively flat trajectory and typical shooting scenarios.
Construction quality maintains Leupold’s standards for reliability and durability. The aircraft-grade aluminum tube provides a solid foundation for the internal components, while complete waterproof and fog-proof sealing ensures reliable performance in adverse weather conditions. The scope easily handles the minimal recoil of the 17 HMR while maintaining zero through thousands of rounds.
The compact, lightweight design doesn’t overwhelm smaller Savage rimfire rifles, maintaining the quick-handling characteristics that make these rifles so appealing for field use. The scope mounts easily using standard rimfire scope rings and doesn’t require high rings that could compromise cheek weld or shooting position.
One of the most compelling aspects of the VX-Freedom Rimfire is Leupold’s legendary customer service and warranty support. This backing provides confidence for serious shooters who depend on their equipment for successful hunts or competitive shooting.
| Key Features | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Reticle | Duplex |
| Parallax | Fixed at 60 yards |
| Eye Relief | 4.2 inches |
| Weight | 12.1 ounces |
Pros
- Excellent value with authentic Leupold quality
- Rimfire-optimized parallax setting
- Time-tested 3-9x magnification range
- Lightweight design perfect for rimfire rifles
- Proven reliability and zero retention
- Outstanding warranty and customer support
Cons
- Fixed parallax limits long-range precision
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rimfire provides exceptional value for 17 HMR shooters who want proven performance and reliability without premium pricing, making it an excellent choice for most hunting and shooting applications.
3) Nikon BLACK FX1000 4-16x50mm (Best Long Range Performance)
The Nikon BLACK FX1000 4-16x50mm brings serious long-range capability to the 17 HMR platform, making it our choice for shooters who want to fully exploit the cartridge’s extended effective range and flat trajectory characteristics. This scope incorporates features typically found in tactical and precision rifle applications, adapted for the unique requirements of high-performance rimfire shooting where accuracy and precise tracking are paramount.
What sets the BLACK FX1000 apart for long-range rimfire work is its first focal plane (FFP) reticle system that remains properly proportioned at all magnifications. This feature becomes particularly valuable when using the 17 HMR at extended ranges where precise holdovers and wind corrections are necessary. The reticle’s hash marks maintain their subtension values regardless of magnification setting, allowing for accurate range estimation and ballistic corrections throughout the zoom range.
The 4-16x magnification range provides exceptional versatility for 17 HMR applications, from scanning for targets at 4x to precise long-range shooting at 16x magnification. The higher magnification capability allows shooters to fully exploit the 17 HMR’s accuracy potential at distances where the cartridge’s flat trajectory and retained energy make ethical shots possible on small varmints.
Optical performance is outstanding, with Nikon’s premium ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass delivering exceptional clarity and color fidelity that helps distinguish small targets from complex backgrounds. The 50mm objective lens gathers substantial light for early morning and late evening hunting sessions when many varmints are most active. The multicoat lens system provides excellent light transmission while minimizing the internal reflections that can compromise image quality in critical lighting conditions.
The scope’s mechanical systems are engineered for precision shooting applications, with tactile 1/4 MOA adjustments that track consistently and repeatably. The exposed turrets feature clear markings and positive detents that provide reliable adjustment even in cold weather or with gloved hands. The substantial adjustment range accommodates the various trajectories possible with different 17 HMR loads and shooting scenarios.
One of the most valuable features for precision rimfire shooting is the side parallax adjustment that ranges from 25 yards to infinity. This precise focus capability eliminates parallax error across the 17 HMR’s entire effective range, ensuring that point of aim equals point of impact regardless of shooting distance. This feature becomes critical at higher magnifications where parallax error can significantly impact accuracy.
The illuminated reticle option provides enhanced visibility in low-light conditions common during dawn and dusk hunting periods. The illumination is carefully calibrated to provide reticle visibility without washing out the target or compromising night vision, particularly valuable for predator hunting applications.
Construction quality reflects the scope’s tactical heritage, with a robust 30mm tube that provides additional internal adjustment range and enhanced durability. The scope easily withstands the modest recoil of the 17 HMR while providing a solid platform for the precision internal mechanisms.
The scope’s weight distribution is well-balanced, and while heavier than basic rimfire scopes, it doesn’t overwhelm properly configured Savage 17 HMR rifles. The additional weight actually helps steady the rifle for precision shooting applications where every fraction of an MOA matters.
| Key Features | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 4-16x |
| Objective Lens | 50mm |
| Reticle | First focal plane |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Parallax | 25 yards to infinity |
| Illumination | Available |
Pros
- First focal plane reticle for precise holdovers
- Excellent magnification range for long-range work
- Outstanding optical quality with ED glass
- Precise tracking and substantial adjustment range
- Side parallax adjustment for optimal focus
- Illuminated reticle option for low-light use
Cons
- Higher cost reflects advanced features
The Nikon BLACK FX1000 4-16x50mm is the ideal choice for serious 17 HMR shooters who want to explore the cartridge’s maximum effective range and accuracy potential with features typically found only on much more expensive precision rifle scopes.
4) Primary Arms SLx 4-14x44mm FFP (Best Features for the Money)
The Primary Arms SLx 4-14x44mm FFP delivers an impressive array of advanced features at a price point that makes sophisticated optics accessible to serious 17 HMR shooters on a budget. This scope represents Primary Arms’ commitment to providing tactical-grade capabilities in affordable packages, making first focal plane technology and precision tracking systems available to rimfire shooters who previously couldn’t justify premium scope investments.
What makes the SLx particularly compelling for 17 HMR use is its first focal plane reticle system combined with Primary Arms’ proprietary ACSS (Advanced Combined Sighting System) reticle. This innovative reticle design provides multiple ranging and holdover options specifically calibrated for various cartridge ballistics, including configurations that work exceptionally well with the 17 HMR’s trajectory characteristics.
The 4-14x magnification range hits the sweet spot for versatile 17 HMR applications, providing adequate low-end magnification for target acquisition and scanning while offering sufficient high-end power for precision work at extended ranges. This range covers everything from close-range pest control to long-range varmint hunting where the 17 HMR’s flat trajectory makes ethical shots possible.
Optical performance exceeds expectations for this price range, with fully multicoated lenses delivering clear, bright images with good contrast and color fidelity. The 44mm objective lens provides adequate light gathering for most hunting scenarios while maintaining a reasonable scope profile that doesn’t overwhelm smaller rimfire rifles. While not quite matching premium glass, the optical quality is more than adequate for practical shooting applications.
The scope’s mechanical systems represent outstanding value, with precise 1/10 mil adjustments that track consistently and repeatably. The exposed turrets feature clear markings and tactile detents that work reliably even in adverse conditions. The substantial internal adjustment range accommodates various shooting scenarios and ammunition types, providing flexibility for different applications.
One of the most valuable features is the side parallax adjustment ranging from 25 yards to infinity, ensuring optimal focus across the 17 HMR’s effective range. This feature eliminates parallax error that can compromise accuracy at higher magnifications, particularly important for precision shooting applications where small groups matter.
The ACSS reticle system provides multiple advantages for 17 HMR shooters, including ranging brackets for target size estimation, wind holds for dealing with the cartridge’s wind sensitivity, and holdover points that align well with typical 17 HMR trajectories. The reticle is designed to be intuitive for shooters familiar with basic ballistics concepts while providing advanced capabilities for those who want to fully exploit the system.
Construction quality reflects Primary Arms’ focus on durability and reliability, with a robust 30mm tube that withstands field use while providing additional internal adjustment space. The scope handles rimfire recoil easily while maintaining zero through extended shooting sessions.
The illuminated reticle option provides enhanced visibility during low-light conditions, with multiple brightness settings that accommodate various lighting scenarios without overwhelming the target or compromising vision. The illumination system is well-designed and reliable, adding practical utility for hunting applications.
Perhaps most importantly, the SLx delivers features typically found in scopes costing significantly more, making advanced capabilities accessible to budget-conscious shooters who want maximum performance per dollar invested.
| Key Features | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 4-14x |
| Objective Lens | 44mm |
| Reticle | ACSS first focal plane |
| Adjustments | 1/10 mil clicks |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Parallax | 25 yards to infinity |
Pros
- Outstanding feature set for the price point
- Advanced ACSS reticle system
- First focal plane for precise holdovers
- Excellent tracking and adjustment range
- Side parallax adjustment for precision
- Illuminated reticle option available
Cons
- Glass quality good but not premium level
The Primary Arms SLx 4-14x44mm FFP provides exceptional value for 17 HMR shooters who want advanced features and capabilities without premium pricing, making sophisticated optics technology accessible to serious rimfire enthusiasts.
5) Simmons 8-Point 3-9x40mm Truplex (Best Budget Option)
The Simmons 8-Point 3-9x40mm Truplex closes our selection as the best budget option for Savage 17 HMR rifles, proving that effective rimfire optics don’t require a substantial investment. This scope delivers the core performance characteristics needed for successful 17 HMR shooting while maintaining a price point that makes quality optics accessible to virtually any shooter, regardless of budget constraints.
What makes the 8-Point particularly appealing for budget-conscious 17 HMR shooters is how it focuses on delivering the essential features that matter most for practical accuracy. The 3-9x magnification range covers the vast majority of shooting scenarios from close-range pest control to medium-range varmint hunting, providing adequate power for precise shot placement without unnecessary complexity or cost.
The scope’s optical system, while not premium grade, delivers adequate clarity and brightness for practical shooting applications. The fully coated lenses provide reasonable light transmission and contrast, making target identification possible during normal hunting hours. The 40mm objective lens gathers sufficient light for most applications while maintaining a compact profile that doesn’t overwhelm smaller rimfire rifles.
One of the 8-Point’s strongest attributes is its simplicity and reliability. The straightforward design eliminates unnecessary features that can add cost and complexity, focusing instead on providing dependable basic performance. The Truplex reticle offers clean sight pictures with intuitive aiming points that don’t obscure small targets at distance.
The scope’s mechanical systems provide adequate precision for rimfire applications, with 1/4 MOA adjustments that track reasonably well for the price point. While not matching the precision of premium scopes, the adjustments are consistent enough for practical hunting and shooting applications. The capped turrets protect the adjustment mechanisms while providing clear reference points for field adjustments.
Construction quality reflects the budget pricing but still provides adequate durability for normal rimfire use. The scope handles the minimal recoil of the 17 HMR without difficulty and maintains reasonable zero retention through normal shooting sessions. While not as robust as premium scopes, the 8-Point provides adequate reliability for casual shooting and hunting applications.
The compact, lightweight design is well-suited to rimfire rifles, maintaining the quick-handling characteristics that make Savage 17 HMR rifles so appealing for field use. The scope mounts easily with standard rimfire rings and doesn’t require expensive mounting systems or modifications.
Perhaps most importantly, the 8-Point’s budget pricing makes it practical to outfit multiple rifles or provide backup optics without significant investment. This accessibility factor often outweighs the advanced features of more expensive scopes for shooters who want to get started with quality rimfire shooting without substantial financial commitment.
The scope includes basic weatherproofing that protects against normal field conditions, though it may not match the comprehensive sealing systems found in premium models. For normal hunting and shooting applications, the weather resistance is adequate for reliable performance.
The fixed parallax setting works reasonably well for typical rimfire shooting distances, though it may not provide optimal focus for precision shooting at extended ranges. For most 17 HMR applications within normal hunting ranges, this limitation doesn’t significantly impact practical accuracy.
| Key Features | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Reticle | Truplex |
| Adjustments | 1/4 MOA clicks |
| Eye Relief | 3.75 inches |
| Weight | 12.6 ounces |
Pros
- Extremely budget-friendly pricing
- Simple, reliable operation
- Adequate optical performance for the price
- Lightweight design suits rimfire rifles
- Easy installation and setup
- Good entry-level scope for new shooters
Cons
- Basic optical quality compared to premium models
The Simmons 8-Point 3-9x40mm Truplex provides an excellent entry point into quality rimfire optics, delivering adequate performance at a price that makes it accessible to any shooter wanting to upgrade from iron sights without substantial investment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing the Best Scope for 17 HMR Savage
What magnification range works best for the 17 HMR’s ballistic characteristics and typical shooting applications?
The 17 HMR’s flat trajectory and extended effective range benefit from higher magnification than traditional rimfire cartridges. A 3-9x scope covers most hunting scenarios adequately, while 4-16x scopes better exploit the cartridge’s long-range potential. For varmint hunting where shots from 100-300+ yards are common, higher magnification helps with precise shot placement on small targets. The cartridge’s wind sensitivity also makes higher magnification valuable for reading wind conditions. Most 17 HMR shooters find 4-12x or 4-16x scopes provide the best balance of versatility and precision for exploiting the cartridge’s capabilities.
Do I need special rimfire scope features, or can I use a centerfire scope on my Savage 17 HMR?
While centerfire scopes work fine on 17 HMR rifles mechanically, rimfire-specific features can provide advantages. Rimfire scopes typically have parallax settings optimized for closer distances (50-60 yards vs 100 yards for centerfire), better matching typical rimfire shooting ranges. The 17 HMR’s minimal recoil means you don’t need heavy-duty construction, allowing for lighter weight scopes that don’t overwhelm smaller rifles. However, the 17 HMR’s extended range capability means centerfire scopes with adjustable parallax and higher magnification ranges can be beneficial for long-range precision work.
How important is parallax adjustment for precision shooting with the 17 HMR?
Parallax adjustment becomes increasingly important as magnification and shooting distance increase. The 17 HMR’s extended effective range means shots at 200+ yards are practical, where parallax error can significantly impact accuracy at higher magnifications. Fixed parallax scopes set for 60 yards may not provide optimal focus at longer ranges where the 17 HMR excels. For precision shooting, varmint hunting, or competitive applications, adjustable parallax allows optimal focus across the cartridge’s effective range, ensuring point of aim equals point of impact regardless of distance.
What reticle styles work best for the 17 HMR’s ballistic characteristics?
Simple duplex reticles work well for most 17 HMR applications, providing clean sight pictures without obscuring small targets. BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) reticles can be valuable for varmint hunting, as they provide holdover points for different ranges without requiring turret adjustments. The 17 HMR’s relatively flat trajectory means many BDC reticles designed for centerfire cartridges align reasonably well with 17 HMR ballistics. For precision shooting, mil-dot or MOA-based reticles provide precise reference points for windage and elevation adjustments, particularly valuable given the cartridge’s wind sensitivity.
How does the 17 HMR’s minimal recoil affect scope selection and mounting?
The 17 HMR’s minimal recoil means scopes don’t need heavy-duty construction designed for magnum cartridges, allowing for lighter, more affordable options that don’t overwhelm smaller rifles. Standard rimfire scope rings work fine, and you don’t need high-end mounting systems designed for heavy recoil. The lack of recoil also means scopes maintain zero better and suffer less mechanical stress, potentially extending their lifespan. However, ensure your chosen scope can handle at least moderate recoil in case you want to use it on other rifles in the future.
What should I consider when choosing between different price ranges for 17 HMR scopes?
Budget scopes ($50-150) provide basic functionality adequate for casual shooting and hunting within normal ranges. They typically offer fixed parallax and basic glass quality sufficient for most applications. Mid-range scopes ($200-500) often include adjustable parallax, better glass quality, and more precise tracking systems that better exploit the 17 HMR’s accuracy potential. Premium scopes ($500+) provide features like first focal plane reticles, exceptional glass quality, and precision tracking systems valuable for long-range work and competitive shooting. Consider your primary use case: casual hunting may not justify premium features, while precision varmint hunting or competition shooting benefits significantly from higher-quality optics that can fully exploit the 17 HMR’s capabilities.
Conclusion
Selecting the optimal scope for your Savage 17 HMR rifle represents a critical decision that can dramatically impact your shooting success and overall satisfaction with this exceptional cartridge. Throughout this comprehensive review, we’ve examined five outstanding scopes that represent different approaches to maximizing the 17 HMR’s impressive accuracy and extended-range capabilities, each tailored to specific shooting applications and budget requirements.
The Vortex Viper HS 4-16x44mm stands as our overall champion, delivering the perfect balance of magnification range, optical quality, and practical features that complement the 17 HMR’s unique ballistic characteristics. Its BDC reticle system and precise tracking make it ideal for serious varmint hunters who want to fully exploit the cartridge’s flat trajectory and extended effective range. For shooters seeking proven reliability and value, the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Rimfire provides authentic Leupold quality with rimfire-specific optimizations at an accessible price point.
Long-range enthusiasts will appreciate the Nikon BLACK FX1000 4-16x50mm’s first focal plane technology and precision features that enable accurate shooting at the maximum distances where the 17 HMR remains effective. The Primary Arms SLx 4-14x44mm FFP delivers an impressive array of advanced features typically found in much more expensive scopes, making sophisticated optics technology accessible to budget-conscious precision shooters. Finally, the Simmons 8-Point 3-9x40mm proves that effective rimfire optics don’t require substantial investment, providing adequate performance for casual shooting and hunting applications.
When making your final selection, consider your primary shooting applications, typical engagement ranges, and feature preferences. A prairie dog hunter operating at extended ranges has different requirements than a backyard pest controller or casual target shooter. The beauty of the Savage 17 HMR platform lies in its versatility – these rifles can adapt to various optical configurations while maintaining their exceptional accuracy potential.
Whether you choose the advanced features of premium optics, the proven reliability of established brands, or the accessibility of budget-friendly options, any of these five scopes will significantly enhance your Savage 17 HMR’s already impressive capabilities and help you achieve the precision shooting success this remarkable cartridge makes possible.
See Also: 5 Best Turret Reloading Presses