Target with Accuracy: 15 Best 17 Hmr Scopes for Precision Hunting and Sporting Success

Welcome to our roundup of the best 17 HMR scopes on the market! If you’re an avid fan of the 17 WSM caliber, it might be high time to upgrade your gear with a high-quality scope. In this article, we’ll be showcasing our top picks - all tested and approved for reliability, precision, and long-range performance. So, gear up, fellow 17 WSM enthusiasts, and get ready to discover the perfect scope for your rifle!

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Reviews

Vanguard Endeavor XF 15-45x60 Scope for 17 Hmr

The Vanguard Endeavor XF spotting scope is tailored for avid enthusiasts of outdoor adventures and nature, who possess a discerning eye for the great outdoors. It boasts a robust body constructed from magnesium and coated with rubber, providing both durability and protection from impact. Equipped with a variable magnification of 15-45x, this scope contains an angled eyepiece, making it adaptable to various scenarios, including shooting from a bench and window installation.

The Endeavor XF showcases an extensive field of view and includes a user-friendly focusing wheel that allows seamless adjustments. With a price point that caters to budget-conscious consumers, this scope presents a compelling choice for beginners seeking a reliable spotting scope for their outdoor pursuits.

Sig Sauer Oscar8 17 Hmr Spotting Scope

The Sig Sauer Oscar8 Spotting Scope offers an impressive 80mm objective lens and a 27x-55x magnification range, boasting enhanced light transmittance and optical performance with its HDX optical system. This feature-packed scope is equipped with Schmidt-Pechen prism and HD glass for superior chromatic aberration correction, resulting in clear, vibrant images.

Its angled eyepiece and rotating tripod collar provide versatile viewing angles, while the waterproof and fogproof design ensure dependable performance in any conditions. Adjustable eyecups offer customizable eye relief for comfortable use with or without glasses. A FDE rubber armor exterior secures a non-slip, durable construction, making it an excellent choice for sporting enthusiasts seeking top-notch performance.

Vortex Viper HD Spotting Scope for Precise Sight

The Vortex Viper HD 20-60x85 Angled Spotting Scope has been a game-changer for my bird watching hobby. The HD lens elements and XR fully multi-coated features create stunning, bright images, perfect for spotting birds from a distance.

The Porro prism and angled body design make it comfortable and easy to use, while the built-in sun visor reduces glare. The rubber eyecup is a nice touch, providing good eye relief without any fuss. The only downside was the weight, but with a good tripod, it’s manageable.

Overall, a great investment for serious bird watchers.

Vortex Razor HD High Power Spotting Scope

Experience nature like never before with the Vortex Razor HD 11-33x50 Angled Spotting Scope. The sharpness of the images coupled with the APO system and HD lens elements make it a must-have for those who love spotting.

The scope’s compact design and lightweight nature make it perfect for outdoor adventures like backpack hunting. The longer eye relief is a huge plus for those who wear glasses, and the rubber lip around the eyepiece adds durability to the product.

The lifetime no-fault warranty is an added bonus, making this spotting scope not only a great choice for its features, but also for its commitment to customer satisfaction.

Athlon Optics Talos 20-60x80 Spotting Scope - Angled Design with Nitrogen Purging and Multi-Coated Lenses

If you’re shopping for a dependable and versatile spotting scope, the Athlon Optics Talos 20-60x80 could be the one you’ve been searching for. With its angled design, this scope boasts an impressive 20x to 60x magnification range, making it suitable for use at the shooting range or when exploring nature.

One of the key elements of this Talos model is its fully multi-coated lenses. These lenses work to provide superior light transmission, ensuring bright and detailed images. Furthermore, the K9 glass prisms in the scope reflect a significant amount of light, helping to maintain image clarity even in challenging weather conditions. Its rugged construction, including waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant features, ensures that it’s a reliable choice for all sorts of outdoor activities.

While the Athlon Optics Talos 20-60x80 is a high-quality spotting scope, it does have some minor drawbacks. Some users have reported that the included tripod was not as sturdy as they preferred. Additionally, the eye relief can feel slightly restricted for certain individuals, making it a bit more challenging to find a comfortable viewing position.

In summary, the Athlon Optics Talos 20-60x80 is a top option for those seeking a dependable spotting scope at an affordable price. Its numerous features and flexible magnification range make it a must-have for any outdoor adventurer. While it does have some minor drawbacks, they are certainly worth overlooking given the scope’s multitude of benefits.

Vortex Optics DBK HD: Affordable Budget Spotting Scope

I recently used the Vortex Optics DBK HD Spotting Scope for a bird watching outing, and it offered a fantastic viewing experience. The 45° angled viewing feature allowed me to get a comfortable and clear view of the birds without any strain on my neck. The 20-60x zoom eyepiece was perfect for capturing all the details of the birds from a distance, even in low light conditions. The large 85mm objective lens added to the brightness and clarity of the image, making it easier for me to spot the birds.

One feature that stood out was the Armortek lens coating, which protected the optics from dirt, oil, and debris. The scope’s waterproof and fog-resistant properties also proved useful during my outdoor excursion, as I wasn’t hindered by any dampness or moisture.

While I was pleased with the overall performance of the Vortex Optics DBK HD Spotting Scope, there were a few aspects that could be improved. The focus wheel was a bit stiff, which made it challenging to achieve the desired sharpness. Additionally, the eye relief was a bit loose and could easily be bumped out of position, which may have affected my viewing experience.

In summary, the Vortex Optics DBK HD Spotting Scope delivered impressive performance during my bird watching session. Its waterproof and fog-resistant features, along with the large objective lens and Armortek lens coating, provided a clear and comfortable viewing experience. However, the stiff focus wheel and loose eye relief could be areas of improvement for future models.

Vortex Viper HD 20-60x Spotting Scope - Versatile and High-Performance Scope for Outdoor Enthusiasts

When you’re scanning the landscape for your next hunting adventure, the Vortex Viper HD Spotting Scope is the perfect partner to help you spot your game with ease. This powerful scope boasts an impressive zoom range of 20-60x, ensuring you have a clear view whether you’re looking for a target at a distance or just need a closer look at something nearby.

But it’s not just the magnification that makes this scope stand out. The Viper HD boasts top-notch optical performance with HD lens elements, XR fully multi-coated lenses, and a dielectric coating that give you sharp, crisp images with incredible color fidelity, resolution, and light transmission. And no matter the weather, this scope is built to withstand the elements with its waterproof, fogproof design and ArmorTek coatings.

The scope also features a smooth helical-style focus for razor-sharp images, and adjustable eyecups to ensure a comfortable viewing experience. With a straight body design, this scope is easy to maneuver and position, making it a great choice for hunters on the go.

While this premium scope may come with a bit of a price tag, its reliable performance and top-quality construction make it a worthwhile investment for any serious hunter. And with a waterproof, fogproof design and lifetime warranty, you can have peace of mind knowing your scope is built to last.

Vortex Diamondback Affordable Budget Spotting Scope

Experience the unbeatable performance of the Vortex Diamondback spotting scope, designed to meet all your spotting needs at an affordable price. With a versatile 20-60x zoom eyepiece, this angled scope is perfect for capturing stunning images and targeting in low light conditions, making it a fantastic choice for hunters and birdwatchers alike.

Enjoy crystal-clear clarity with the fully XR multi-coated optics on all air-to-glass interfaces and dielectric prism coatings, ensuring an unmatched level of light throughput. The exterior lenses are even better protected with the ArmorTek scratch-resistant coating, ensuring your scope remains in top shape, even in harsh conditions.

The Vortex Diamondback spotting scope offers a wide range of magnification options, from 20x to 60x, allowing you to focus on objects at varying distances with ease. The 2-1 degrees close focus and 22-foot eye relief distance make this an excellent choice for both long-distance and close-up spotting scenarios.

One of the best features of this Vortex 20-60x80 angled spotting scope is its rotatable mounting bracket, which can turn 135° to either side, providing optimal viewing angles when needed. Waterproof and nitrogen-purged, this scope ensures a durable and reliable performance in all weather conditions.

Overall, the Vortex Diamondback 20-60x80 angled spotting scope offers an impressive combination of functionality, durability, and value for its price range – making it a top choice for anyone looking for a powerful and affordable spotting scope.

Vortex Razor HD 22-48x65 Straight Spotting Scope: High-End Optics for Sharp, Crystal Clear Views

Introducing the Vortex Razor HD 22-48x65 Spotting Scope Straight - an innovative and high-end optical technology that sets new standards in the industry. The premium HD glass lens elements, hand-selected and precision-ground, offer razor-sharp, true-to-life views. The advanced optical elements eliminate aberrations, providing distortion-free and highly detailed images with remarkable clarity.

Fully multi-coated with XR coatings, this scope ensures maximum light transmission for optimal performance in low light conditions. Its angled body design adds comfort and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for any outdoor activity where observing objects from a distance is crucial. The Vortex Razor HD 22-48x65 Spotting Scope Straight is an excellent investment for those who demand superior performance and high-end optical capabilities.

Bushnell 20-60x80 Forge Spotting Scope for Accurate Rifle Shooting

Introducing the Bushnell FORGE Spotting Scope, a versatile tool that stands out with its impressive magnification of up to 60x and large 80 mm objective lens. This scope offers high-resolution, excellent light transmission, and superior performance in any lighting condition. The 45-degree eyepiece allows for flexible viewing, making it perfect for hunting, shooting, or nature observation.

The Bushnell FORGE is built to the highest specifications to ensure no detail is missed and features best-in-class coatings for an unparalleled image.

Vixen Field Scope Aroma 52-A Silver Gray 17 HMR Scope

The Vixen Field Scope Aroma 52-A (SG) is a sleek, silver-gray telescope designed for those who appreciate a compact, yet powerful scope. With an objective lens diameter of 52mm, this scope offers a crisp, clear view of the night sky. The focal length measures 278mm, and the eyepiece boasts a magnification of 25x, making it perfect for observing distant celestial objects.

Measuring 2.8 inches by 4 inches by 7 inches and weighing in at just 460g, this scope is incredibly lightweight and easy to handle. Its compact size makes it a great choice for those who enjoy stargazing while on-the-go. Despite its diminutive size, the Field Scope Aroma 52-A (SG) packs a serious punch, delivering impressive performance for its weight class.

Some users have praised this scope for its small body and portability, as well as its handsome silver-gray finish. Overall, the Vixen Field Scope Aroma 52-A (SG) is a versatile, well-designed telescope that is sure to captivate both novice and experienced astronomers alike.

Nikon Monarch 17 Hmr Spotting Scope

The Nikon Monarch Spotting Scope offers a delightful blend of convenience and exceptional performance, making it a top pick for anyone in the market for a reliable spotting scope. Its contrast-rich, color-accurate image is a testament to the brand’s reputation for outstanding optical quality, while its edge-to-edge sharpness ensures that you won’t miss even the smallest details in your view.

Equipped with an 82mm objective lens and a 20-60x zoom eyepiece, this angled-viewing scope is prepared to cater to a wide range of uses with ease. The multi-layer coatings on the lenses and prisms, coupled with the field flattener technology, provide bright, detailed views even in low-light conditions. Enabling a fine to coarse adjustment, the focusing ring adds precision to the experience, while its weather and temperature resilience ensures durability and reliability.

The Nikon Monarch’s ergonomic design is a standout feature, with specific knurling patterns on the focusing ring enhancing its operability. Its robust aluminum-alloy construction further adds to the scope’s durability and sleek appearance. The Type 1 bayonet mount with locking system simplifies the attachment and detachment process of eyepieces.

A notable aspect of the Nikon Monarch is the absence of condensation and fogging due to its nitrogen-filled body and waterproof eyepieces. With all these features, the Nikon Monarch Spotting Scope is a top-notch choice for anyone looking for an optimal blend of performance, durability, and functionality.

Vortex Optics Diamondback HD 20-60x85 Straight Spotting Scope - High Power, Low Light Performance

As a recent owner of the Vortex Optics Diamondback HD 20-60x85 Straight Spotting Scope, I can say that it’s been a game-changer for my outdoor adventures. I use it mainly for elk hunting, which often takes place during dawn and dusk when natural light is low. This diamondback scope has exceeded all my expectations.

The first thing that struck me was its powerful magnification capability, which can go from 20x to 60x. Using it on a low-light day, even from a distance of 4 miles away, I could see individual pine branches with crystal clarity. I was especially impressed when I tested it during rainy weather - it handled the low-light conditions like a pro while delivering sharp, clear images.

The spotting scope boasts a sleek design that is not only pleasing to the eye but also quite practical. The helical focus wheel is smooth and easy to use even in the midst of action. The exterior has been thoughtfully streamlined to prevent any possible snagging, ensuring the scope remains secure and usable in all conditions.

However, like any product, it is not without its downsides. The diameter of the exit pupil seems quite small when fully extended, which can be a bit uncomfortable to the eye over a long period. Moreover, the scope could have done with a bit more light gathering ability when you reach the max 60X level - it tends to become slightly dimmer.

Notwithstanding these minor drawbacks, I’d say the Vortex Optics Diamondback HD 20-60x85 Straight Spotting Scope is one of the best investments I’ve made for my outdoor pursuits. If you’re someone who spends a lot of time in the wilderness and needs clarity in the darkest hours, this high-powered scope is just what you need.

Bushnell T Series FDE 15-45x60 Hunting Scope with Mil Hash Reticle

Bushnell’s 15-45x60 spotting scope has been a fantastic addition to my outdoor gear collection. The spotting scope’s 50mm objective lens offers a wide field of view, making it great for tracking moving targets over long distances.

One of the standout features for me is the Mil-Hash reticle, which works seamlessly with Mil-Base riflescope reticles to speed up the zeroing process. Additionally, the scope’s Fully Multi-Coated Optics system ensures crisp, clear images with minimal eye strain. The weather-resistant design with the water-repellent RainGuard HD coating is also a major bonus.

However, there were a couple of drawbacks to the scope. The weight of 23.4 oz might be challenging for prolonged use, especially in hunting or birdwatching situations. Also, the front lens cap’s Velcro stitching failed immediately, and the scope’s case seems too small for the product, making storage less convenient.

Overall, I find this spotting scope well worth the investment, as long as one is aware of its weight and packaging limitations.

Riton 5 Primal 17 Hmr Scope

The Riton 5 Primal scope has been a game changer for me in the field. As a marksman and hunter, I need an optic that can withstand the challenges of the outdoors. This scope, with its angled body and 15-45x magnification, has proved to be the perfect tool for my adventures.

The fully multi-coated optics, fog and waterproof features, and a price that won’t break the bank are just a few things that make this scope stand out. It’s the perfect companion for those who demand the best when it comes to their gear.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our 17 HMR Scope Buyer’s Guide. This comprehensive guide will cover essential features and considerations when choosing the ideal scope for your 17 HMR firearm, along with general advice to make the best purchase. Please remember to choose the correct scope for your specific needs and shooting preferences.

Types of 17 HMR Scope

Before diving into the important features, it is vital to understand that there are two main types of 17 HMR scopes: first focal plane (FFP) and second focal plane (SFP). SFP scopes have a reticle that is fixed at a specific distance from the lens and remains the same regardless of magnification. On the other hand, FFP scopes have a reticle that scales with the magnification, providing more flexibility when shooting at different distances.

Field of View

The field of view (FOV) refers to the width of the observable area at a given magnification level. A wider FOV is generally preferred for target shooting because it allows for faster target acquisition and better situational awareness. However, a more narrow FOV provides a clearer and sharper image for long-distance shooting.

Magnification

The magnification of your 17 HMR scope is essential in determining its capabilities for different shooting scenarios. Generally, higher magnification offers better accuracy and precision but comes at the cost of a narrower FOV and may result in a reduced focus on the target. Experienced hunters may appreciate a lower magnification for faster target acquisition, while those new to shooting may prefer higher magnification to improve accuracy.

Glass Quality & Brightness

A high-quality glass and adequate brightness settings are crucial for ensuring accurate shots when using your 17 HMR scope. A good quality glass will provide clear and sharp images even in low light conditions. Consider choosing a scope with high-quality optics and adjustable brightness settings to ensure optimal performance in varying light conditions.

FAQ

What is the difference between a 17 HMR scope and a standard rifle scope?

A 17 HMR scope is specifically designed for use with a 17 HMR rifle. It is designed to provide accurate and precise shot placement at the distances typically associated with this caliber. This means that a 17 HMR scope will have a shorter magnification range compared to a standard rifle scope. Additionally, a 17 HMR scope may have features such as a lower parallax setting, which is designed to provide better accuracy at close to medium ranges.

Compared to a standard rifle scope, a 17 HMR scope will generally be more compact and lightweight, making it easier to carry and use in the field. Its design allows for faster target acquisition and easier sighting in at shorter distances, which can be advantageous in hunting situations. However, a 17 HMR scope may not be as versatile as a standard rifle scope, and may not be suitable for long-range shooting or other applications that require a wider magnification range.

What features should I look for when buying a 17 HMR scope?

When buying a 17 HMR scope, there are several features to consider. The first is magnification: a 17 HMR scope should ideally have a fixed magnification of 2-4x or variable magnification of 1-4x. This will provide the right level of magnification for close to medium range shooting, while still allowing for enough clarity and brightness for accurate shot placement.

Another important feature to look for is a reticle that is suitable for the type of hunting or shooting you plan to do. A duplex or mil-dot reticle is typically the best choice for a 17 HMR scope, as they provide good target acquisition and holdover capabilities. Additionally, a scope with a low parallax setting (around 50 yards) is ideal, as it will provide a more accurate sight picture for close to medium range shooting.

What is the difference between a fixed and variable magnification 17 HMR scope?

The primary difference between a fixed and variable magnification 17 HMR scope is the range of magnification options that they provide. A fixed magnification scope has a single magnification setting that cannot be adjusted, while a variable magnification scope has a range of magnification settings that can be adjusted.

A fixed magnification 17 HMR scope is typically easier to use, as there are no adjustments to make. This can make it a good choice for hunters or shooters who prefer a simplified, streamlined setup. However, a fixed magnification scope may not be as versatile as a variable magnification scope, and may not be suitable for all shooting situations.

What is the best way to mount a 17 HMR scope on my rifle?

The best way to mount a 17 HMR scope on your rifle is to use a high quality scope base and rings that are specifically designed for your rifle and scope combination. It is also important to make sure that the base and rings are properly torqued to ensure a secure and accurate mount. Additionally, it is always a good idea to have your scope installed by a professional gunsmith or optics expert to ensure that it is properly aligned and sighted in.

When mounting a 17 HMR scope, it is also important to consider the scope’s overall weight and balance. If the scope is too heavy or placed too far forward on the rifle, it can affect the rifle’s balance and accuracy. It is recommended to use a scope mount that is designed to provide a balanced and stable mount, while still allowing for easy adjustments and sighting in.

How do I sight in my 17 HMR scope?

Sighting in your 17 HMR scope involves adjusting the scope’s reticle to ensure that it is properly aligned with your rifles’ point of aim. This can be done using a variety of methods, such as boresighting or using a laser bore sight. Once the scope is roughly aligned, you will need to fire a series of shots at a known distance and adjust the scope accordingly.

To sight in your 17 HMR scope, follow these steps:

1. Make sure that your rifle and scope are properly mounted and aligned. 2. Choose a known distance and target. 3. Fire a test shot at the target. 4. Adjust the scope’s reticle as necessary to ensure that the bullet impacts where you want it to. 5. Continue firing test shots and adjusting the scope until you are satisfied with the accuracy and alignment of the scope. 6. Once you are satisfied, test the scope at different distances and under different conditions to ensure that it continues to perform well.

What is the best way to care for and maintain my 17 HMR scope?

Caring for and maintaining your 17 HMR scope involves several key steps. First and foremost, it is important to keep the scope clean and free from dust, dirt, and debris. This can be done using a high quality lens cleaning kit, which will allow you to safely and effectively clean the scope’s lenses and other surfaces.

In addition to regular cleaning, it is also important to properly store your scope when it is not in use. This may involve using a protective case or bag, or storing the scope in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. By taking proper care of your 17 HMR scope, you can help ensure that it remains accurate, reliable, and durable over time.

As an Amazon Affiliate we receive compensation from qualified purchases at no cost to you.