When it comes to optimizing the performance of a 17 HMR rifle, selecting the best scope is paramount to achieving superior accuracy and precision, in this guide we look at the best Vortex scope For 17 HMR.
The .17 HMR is widely used for small to medium-game hunting. It is a favorite for many hunters and recreational shooters. A suitable scope is a must to get the best out of the rifle. A good scope ensures you have perfect shots of your targets with unsurpassed accuracy.
The ideal scope for a 17 HMR must complement the rifle’s characteristics, offering clear visuals, ease of use, and reliable performance in various shooting scenarios
What does HMR stand for?
Hornady Magnum Rimfire, Popularly known as the .17 HMR, a rimfire rifle cartridge by Hornady
What is a 17 HMR good for?
Varmint Hunting
The 17 HMR is highly effective for hunting small varmints such as squirrels, rabbits, prairie dogs, and other pests. Its flat trajectory and high velocity makes it deadly accurate at medium-range distances, making it a favorite among varmint hunters.
Target Shooting
Due to its inherent accuracy and minimal recoil, the 17 HMR is widely used in target shooting competitions and casual shooting scenarios. Its ability to produce consistent results at various distances makes it a popular choice for precision shooting enthusiasts.
Plinking
Plinking, which involves informal shooting at cans, bottles, or other targets for recreational purposes, is an enjoyable pastime with the 17 HMR. Its low cost per round compared to centerfire cartridges makes it an economical option for plinking sessions.
Small Game Hunting
While primarily used for varmints, the 17 HMR can also be used for hunting small game like grouse and other birds, especially at shorter distances.
Pest Control
Farmers and landowners often use the 17 HMR to control pest populations that can cause damage to crops and property.
Best Vortex Scopes for 17 HMR
1) Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope is the best Vortex scope For 17 HMR, it features a Dead-Hold BDC reticle, long eye relief, fully multi-coated lenses, finger adjustable capped reset turrets, and of course a waterproof and fogproof performance.
This is a highly versatile riflescope that excels in hunting and shooting scenarios where estimating holdover is a concern. Equipped with the Dead-Hold BDC reticle, this scope provides precise aiming points for various ranges, ensuring accurate shots on targets of different distances.
Designed for ease of use and rapid target acquisition, the Crossfire II features long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box. Shooters can quickly establish a sight picture and acquire their targets with confidence, even in fast-paced situations. The fast-focus eyepiece further enhances usability, allowing for swift and effortless reticle focusing.
The anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses deliver bright and clear views, ensuring optimal visibility in all lighting conditions. With a maximum elevation adjustment of 60 MOA, the scope enables shooters to compensate for bullet drop and make precise adjustments to hit targets at various distances.
The capped reset turrets are conveniently finger adjustable, providing tactile MOA clicks. Once sighted in, these turrets can be reset to zero, allowing shooters to maintain their reference settings even after making adjustments.
Durability and reliability are paramount in Crossfire II’s design. Crafted from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, the scope guarantees robust strength and shockproof performance, handling recoil and harsh conditions without compromise.
O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, the Crossfire II ensures waterproof and fog proof performance, protecting the optics from moisture and maintaining clarity in challenging weather conditions.
Features
- Aircraft Grade Aluminum Construction
- Fully Multi-Coated optics
- Ring attachment
- Recoil and impact resistant
- Anodized finish
- Ample eye relief (3.9 – 4.7 in)
Pros
- Long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box
- Quick and easy reticle focusing
- Shockproof performance
- Bright and clear views with fully multicoated and anti-reflective lenses
- Finger adjustable capped reset turrets
- Waterproof and fog proof performance
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
2) Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm Riflescope
Next on our best Vortex scope For 17 HMR is the Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm is the ultimate long-range riflescope with unparalleled optical clarity and performance, making it a top-tier scope worth paying attention to.
It is designed with a robust yet lightweight aluminum chassis that is 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. These inclusions make it a pro when it comes to weather and recoil resistance.
The matte black anodized construction adds to the scope’s durability and lessens glare to conceal your position as you scout for prey.
This riflescope is designed with exposed turrets that provide unmatched tracking performance. A ribbed magnification ring facilitates effortless power changes on the fly so you never miss a shot.
Additionally, it features a fast-focus eyepiece that helps quickly locate the target. The optical prowess of the Diamondback is another reason why it tops our list.
Extra-low dispersion glass combines with fully multi-coated optics to guarantee stunning images with color accuracy and high resolution.
Features
- Matte anodized finish
- 100% waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
- Fully multi-coated lens
- A fast-focus eyepiece
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- Magnification rib for instant adjustments
- Precision glide erector system
- Glass-etched reticle
Pros
- Optics deliver unparalleled brightness and sharpness
- Strong and durable Aircraft Grade Aluminum construction
- Parallax adjustable
- Sunshade is included
- Hard Anodized Finish for low glare and durability
- Fully Multi-Coated optics for bright crisp images
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
3) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15x44mm Riflescope
Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15x44mm Riflescope is the solution to your .17 HMR hunting and shooting needs. The scope is built like a tank with its aircraft-grade aluminum construction complemented by the Armortek lens coating that fights scratches and dirt.
The scope is ideal for challenging terrain and environmental conditions. It is made to perform in all severity of shooting and hunting as it is fully waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof.
In addition, it is made with extra-low dispersion glass that boosts resolution and color fidelity resulting in crystal-clear and crisp images. The fully multi-coated glass increases light collection for maximum brightness and sharpness.
Another facet that is a plus to the unsurpassed low-light performance of the scope is the illuminated reticle that helps in precise aiming in weak light.
The precision glide erector system ensures easy changing of zoom levels for pinpoint accuracy and precision.
Features
- A fast-focus eyepiece
- Radius bar
- Made of top-grade aluminum
- Tactical-style turrets
- Glass-etched, illuminated reticle
- Hard anodized design
- RZR Zero Stop
- Single-piece tube
- XR fully multi-coated optics
Pros
- Hard Anodized finish for low glare
- Fully Multi-Coated optics
- Ruggedly built for longevity
- Fast Focus Eyepiece
- Built-In Accuracy Features
Cons
- None
4) Vortex Diamondback 3.5-10x50mm Riflescope
Vortex Diamondback 3.5-10x50mm Riflescope features fully multi-coated optics that boost light collection resulting in clear and sharp images from sunrise to sunset. The scope comes at a price that will not dent your savings.
It is robustly made to withstand the brutal and severe conditions you will face in your hunting escapades. The aircraft-grade aluminum design ensures recoil and impact resistance.
Waterproofing and fog proofing are another aspect that is integrated into the scope. This is made possible by the seals and argon gas purging, making the scope ideal for all weather conditions.
Besides, this scope is hinged with capped reset turrets for precise windage and elevation adjustments and easy returning to zero after sighting in.
The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is valuable at ranges where holdover estimation is a concern,
Features
- Single-piece tube
- Made of top-tier aluminum for long-lasting use
- Completely waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
- A fast-focus eyepiece
- Versatile 3.5-10x magnification
- Capped reset turrets
- Precision glide erector system
- Fully multi-coated optics
Pros
- Rugged construction for impacts, recoil and durability
- Fully Multi-Coated optics for bright and clear images
- Hard Anodized for camouflage and low glare
- Lightweight
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
5) Vortex Viper HS 4-16x44mm Riflescope
Vortex Viper HS 4-16x44mm Riflescope also makes the cut on this review of the best Vortex scopes for .17 HMR. It is a perfect scope for those wanting to revamp their shooting experience, as it has many incredible features.
First, the scope is engineered with an advanced optical system combined with the 4x zoom range to deliver extreme versatility. The fully multi-coated XR lenses make images appear bright and sharp, while the extra-low dispersion glass increases resolution and color fidelity.
The 30mm aluminum tube is highly durable and will withstand rugged terrain. The generous 4 inches of eye relief allows quick and easy getting on your target and ensures your eye is not a victim of recoil-related bruises.
The turrets are capped and resettable to zero. Furthermore, the scope features a precision force spring and glide erector system.
Features
- A fast-focus eyepiece
- Side focus
- XR fully multi-coated lenses
- Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
- 4 inches of eye relief
- XD glass elements
- Hard anodized construction
- Armortek coated lenses
Pros
- Ample light collection
- Incredibly sharp and clear
- Rock solid constitution
- Exceptional tunability
- Fast Focus Eyepiece
- Capped Reset Turrets
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
6) Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x44mm Riflescope
If you are looking for precision in a scope, Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x44mm riflescope is what you should get. The scope is powerfully designed with a versatile 4-12x zoom that is ideal for diverse shooting locations.
The 44mm objective lens makes light gathering a clean affair. The lens is fully multi-coated to enhance light transmission for A-grade performance from dusk to dawn.
Vortex designed this scope to excel in all conditions thanks to its weatherproofing and shockproofing. The one-piece tube is crafted from aircraft-quality aluminum and has a hard anodized matte finish that is durable and camouflages the shooter’s position.
A fast-focus eyepiece helps keep the reticle focused and supports quick target acquisition. The tactile windage and elevation knobs adjust for a park walk. After sighting in, you can easily reset the turrets to zero for maximum repeatability.
The Dead-Hold BDC reticle eliminated guesswork on windage and holdover corrections. This is handy when shooting at ranges where estimation of holdover is an issue.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle remains the same in all zoom levels
- 44mm objective lens
- Variable 4-12x magnification
- One-piece tube
- 100% waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
- Capped reset turrets
- 3.9 to 4.4 inches of eye relief
- Lenses are fully multi-coated
Pros
- Bright and clear optics
- Fully Multi-Coated optics
- The price is pocket friendly
- Generous amount of eye relief
Cons
- Non-illuminated
7) Vortex Viper HS-T 4-16x44mm Riflescope
Vortex Viper HS-T 4-16x44mm Riflescope wraps up our best Vortex scope For 17 HMR list. It is equipped with a myriad of features that make it precise, versatile, and durable, qualifying it as an excellent pair for the .17 HMR.
The optics housed in the scope are the best on the market. XR fully multi-coated lenses and extra-low dispersion glass deliver brighter, clearer images with high resolution and color fidelity.
The reticle hashmark ensures accurate holding of the scope at long ranges. The reticle is on the second focal plane and stays true across all magnification ranges.
In addition, the scope is fully waterproof and fogproof for top-class performance across various weather conditions. Shockproofing is not left on the back seat.
Moreover, the target-style turrets ensure maximum repeatability and are resettable to zero. The precision glide erector system facilitates easy zoom changes when situations demand.
Features
- Side focus
- Hard anodized construction
- A fast-focus eyepiece
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- Multiple layered optics
- Scratch-resistant Armortek coating
Pros
- Edge-to-edge clarity
- XR Fully Multi-Coated optics
- Exposed Tactical-Style Turrets
- Fast Focus Eyepiece
- Hard Anodized Finish
Cons
- Non-Illuminated
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How To Choose the Best Vortex Scope For 17 HMR
Here are several aspects to have in mind before purchasing the best Vortex scope for 17 HMR
Magnification
The first aspect to look at is the magnification. A scope with 2-7x or 3-9x magnification is ideal for most shooters. These options are perfect for close to medium-range shooting, typically within 200 yards.
If you intend to shoot at ranges exceeding 200 yards, use a scope with more magnification. A variable power of 4-12x would suffice. Also, remember that the .17 HMR has a trajectory affected by wind. This can complicate accurate shots at long ranges.
Durability
The build of a scope is crucial to look at. The scope should be constructed of premium materials for long-lasting use. It should be 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, as outdoor conditions are often severe and merciless.
Aircraft-grade aluminum is commonly used as it is robust and lightweight for easy handling.
Eye Relief
The .17 HMR is a low-recoiling rifle, so eye relief is not much of a concern. However, a scope with at least 3 inches is better and safer. Also, remember that you may want to use your optic on a heavier-hitting rifle at some point.
Clarity
The glass and lens quality affect the clarity of the scope. The best Vortex scopes for .17 HMR are fully multi-coated for maximum light-gathering capacity. This is beneficial when shooting in dismal lighting or shadows.
Reticle
There are many reticle options to choose from. It is best to have a second focal plane reticle for simple economic reasons. The .17 HMR is mostly used within 200 yards, so a pricey first focal plane reticle isn’t necessary.
Investing in a BDC or MOA/mil-dot reticle is a neat choice. The .17 HMR is a great round with a lot of drop and is prone to the whims of the wind. Therefore, a reticle that compensates for these issues is a huge bonus when shooting at long ranges.
Best Vortex Scope For 17 HMR FAQs
1) How powerful is the .17 HMR?
The .17 HMR is a very powerful rifle that can fire 17-grain bullets at an average of 2550 feet per second. It is the fastest rimfire rifle.
2) What is the .17 HMR used for?
The .17 HMR is widely used for small game and varmint hunting at medium ranges. Thanks to its bullet’s velocity and accuracy, it is suitable for hunting game like rabbits and racoons within 200 yards.
3) Why does a .17 HMR require a scope?
A scope is a valuable asset to ensure accurate shots when shooting at extended distances. It is widely used for small game and varmint hunting; hence a scope helps in achieving accurate and humane shots even on small targets like prairie dogs and squirrels.
4) What is the range of a 17 HMR?
The effective range of a.17 HMR rifle varies depending on the environment and shooter’s skills, but typically reaches 200 yards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32mm Rifle Scope emerges as the best Vortex scope for the 17 HMR cartridge, perfectly complementing the rifle’s characteristics and delivering exceptional performance.
By investing in any of the scopes, you can anticipate a revamp in your shooting experience. Each unit provides unique advantages and attributes, allowing you to select an option that meets your individual needs and preferences.
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