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The Best Scope for 17 HMR Rifles: Top 11 Picks [Full Review]

Best Scope for 17 HMR

The 17 HMR is a fast and accurate cartridge that is gaining popularity for varmint hunting and casual target shooting at the shooting range.

No matter how good your cartridges and rifles are, however, you need a great scope to maximize your shooting abilities.

That’s why I’ve covered some of the best scopes for 17 HMR rifles!

Best for Beginners
BARSKA 6-18x40mm AO Hot Magnum Scope
Best Overall
Hawke Vantage IR 4-12×40 .17 Rimfire Riflescope
Best Budget Scope
Simmons Truplex Riflescope

11 Best Scopes for 17 HMR Rifles – Full Reviews

1. Hawke Vantage IR 4-12×40 .17 Rimfire Riflescope

BEST OVERALL

Hawke Vantage IR 4-12x40 .17 Rimfire Riflescope

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Specifications:

  • Brand: Hawke Sports Optics
  • Dimensions: 16.3 x 8.5 x 7 inches
  • Weight: 2.46 lbs
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm

The best scope for 17 HMR need NOT break the bank!

For an affordable riflescope for mid-range to long-range shooting and varmint hunting, look no further than the Hawke Vantage IR.

Here’s why I recommend this scope if you want to strike fear into the hearts of varmints:

  • Fully multi-coated optics
  • Broad magnification
  • Can be used in dark environments
  • Adjustable objective lens
  • Fogproof and waterproof
  • Second focal plane reticle
  • Great for both short and long ranges

You’ll be AMAZED by the image quality and superior optics on the Hawke Vantage IR. I sure was!

The high-quality lenses with a whopping 11 layers of anti-reflection allow for maximum brightness with minimum glare.

The image quality was SO CLEAR that I can even see varmint that blends in with the surroundings. Talk about contrast!

What I really like about this scope, however, is its RETICLE.

The illuminated reticle is made specifically for a .17 HMR and has accurate 10x military spacing that features a precision etched 4 Mil Dots in every direction.

These mil dots are etched onto the second focal plane of the scope, allowing for a proportional reticle regardless of magnification. 

It also has aim points for bullet drop compensation set for 100 to 350 yards.

Illumination settings can be adjusted with a dedicated side dial next to the windage and elevation adjustment turrets.

Additionally, it comes with an adjustable objective lens that allows for easy and quick parallax correction.

As for construction, the Vantage IR riflescope is constructed using a LIGHTWEIGHT aluminum housing with an anodized hard count.

The design of the single-piece tube allows for improved accuracy and optimum performance from the shooter. 

However, one problem I encountered with this scope is its ultra-thin crosshairs. I wouldn’t recommend using this if you have bad eyesight.

The Vantage IR Riflescope is also not recommended for spring or gas piston airguns of more than 12 ft lbs.

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Great quality glass and reticle
  • Lightweight and durable
  • Easy to use and adjust
Cons
  • Thin crosshairs
  • Not recommended for spring/gas pistons airguns more than 12 ft-lbs

2. BARSKA 6-18x40mm AO Hot Magnum Scope

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

BARSKA 6-18x40mm AO Hot Magnum Scope

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Specifications:

  • Brand: BARSKA
  • Dimensions: 16.2 x 1.9 x 1.7 inches
  • Weight: 1.28 lbs
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm

Are you a beginner shooter looking for a scope that won’t break the bank?

If so, I’d recommend the Barska 6-18x40mm AO Hot Magnum Scope as the best rifle scope for you for the following reasons:

  • Impressive magnification range
  • Clear, fully multi-coated lenses
  • and bullet drop compensation

This sought-after scope by Barska has revolutionary bullet drop technology that has pre-calculated trajectories.

Its elevation knob can adequately compensate for any .17 Magnum rimfire elliptical drop that uses the 17-grain bullet.

I like the 30/30 reticle crosshair on this scope because it allows for easy and quick aiming.

With an impressive magnification range between 6-18x power, the Hot Magnum scope allows for both close-up and range views of the target.

While the 18x magnification is AMAZING for long-distance shooting, its 6x magnification may not be the best for short-range shooting. 

I think this scope is BEST used for distances between 100 to 300 yards. 

However, it can have a limited viewing range.

At low magnification, it offers a 14.5-foot FOV at 100 yards. At maximum magnification, however, this reduces to a 4.5ft FOV.

Because of this small FOV, I had a hard time shooting small targets. Not to mention the short 3.1-inch eye relief, which did not help.

Pros
  • Budget-friendly
  • Easy to use
  • Adjustable and versatile
  • Compact and lightweight
Cons
  • Small FOV
  • Low eye relief

3. Simmons Truplex Riflescope

BEST BUDGET SCOPE

Simmons Truplex Riflescope

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Specifications:

  • Brand: Simmons
  • Dimensions: 15.5 x 5.63 x 2.25 inches
  • Weight: 0.54 lbs
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm

The Simmons Truplex Riflescope is a great 17 HMR scope for those on a budget. 

It’s durable, has clear glass, a great reticle, AND a quick target acquisition eyepiece.

However, one thing that makes the Truplex Riflescope different from other scopes is its flexible eye relief.

Unlike other scopes with fixed eye relief, the eye relief on the Simmons Truplex Riflescope changes with magnification from 3 to 4 inches.

However, one caveat this has is that the fully coated lens isn’t multilayered.

I’ve found that this lack of protection against glare affects the clarity of this 17 HMR scope.

The Truplex reticle, however, makes up for this issue!

It’s basically a Duplex reticle, but either way, it’s still a good choice for those with poor eyesight.

It is also great for both beginners and more experienced shooters. 

This scope for 17 HMR also has finger-adjustable turrets that allow you to make easy windage and elevation adjustments.

While these turrets have audible clicks that take away any guessing games, they do lack zero stops, meaning that the turrets can’t just be reset to zero.

Despite these caveats, I’m glad this scope performs well WHILE still saving me some money.

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Great for those with poor eyesight
  • Easily adjustable turrets
Cons
  • Lack of multi-coated optics
  • Turrets don't reset to zero

4. Bushnell Banner Dusk Dawn Multi X Reticle Riflescope

BEST FOR LOW-LIGHT SHOOTING

Bushnell Banner Dusk Dawn Multi X Reticle Riflescope

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Specifications:

  • Brand: Bushnell
  • Dimensions: 16.3 x 2.5 x 3.12 inches
  • Weight: 0.81 lbs
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm

In my experience, the best times to hunt are usually at dusk or dawn.

Thankfully, Bushnell is well aware of this, so they’ve made the Bushnell Banner Dusk Dawn scope. It is:

  • Great for low-light situations
  • Incredibly durable, fog proof, and waterproof
  • Aesthetically pleasing design
  • Precise MOA clicks
  • Affordable

What really sets this rifle scope apart is its Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DBD) multi-coat.

I had clear and bright images, even in the early mornings!

It also comes with the Multi-X reticle, which has what every traditional huntsman needs and wants in a scope.

This Multi-X reticle has thicker outer lines and a thinner center area, so you won’t lose sight of the center, resulting in a more accurate aim.

When combined with the fast-focus eyepiece, targeting and shooting are a walk in the park!

The Bushnell Banner Dusk Dawn scope has an eye relief of 3.3 inches. 

It comes up a bit short compared to most scopes with 3.5, but it can still handle powerful recoil while keeping my eye safe!

While the Bushnell Banner Dusk Dawn Scope is perfect for the 17 HMR, this extremely VERSATILE scope is great for other rifles, shotguns, and muzzleloaders. 

HOWEVER, its field view is somewhat narrower than some others.

Pros
  • High-quality optics
  • Budget-friendly
  • Versatile
Cons
  • Narrow field of view

5. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope

BEST VERSATILE SCOPE

Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope

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Specifications:

  • Brand: Leupold
  • Dimensions: 14 x 3 x 2.75 inches
  • Weight: 1 lb

The Leupold VX-Freedom riflescope was specifically designed with performance and ease of use in mind. 

I think it’s easy to see why this is one of the best scopes for a .17 HMR rifle.

This scope offers you CRISP images all throughout the magnification range.

Speaking of magnification range, it is extremely versatile and suitable for most shooting situations.

At low magnification, it is perfect for close-range shooting, while its higher magnification is great for long ranges.

You can enjoy maximum accuracy and performance on this riflescope with the Leupold Custom Dial System, which can easily be installed and customized. 

A great feature of this scope would be the Twilight Light Management System, which adds 20 extra minutes of brightness for shooting at dawn and dusk.

This works based on its lens coating, which improves light transmission while reducing glare.

Made with an aircraft-grade aluminum construction to make it resistant to adverse elements, this scope is the KING in durability.

It also has incredibly high eye relief at 4.17 inches. 

Making elevation and windage adjustments are quick, and easy thanks to the low-profile turrets that I’ve found are very easy to adjust. 

However, this does end up on the pricier side.

Pros
  • Generous eye relief
  • High-quality optics and light transmission
  • Easy adjustments
  • Fog proof, waterproof, and shockproof
Cons
  • Pricey

6. Vortex Optics Crossfire II

BEST VALUE

Vortex Optics Crossfire II

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Specifications:

  • Brand: Vortex Optics
  • Dimensions: 14 x 3 x 3 inches
  • Weight: 1.4 lbs
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 32 mm

The Vortex Optics Crossfire II is fitted with the Dead-Hold BDC reticle with MOA markings that suit various hunting styles and tactical shooting.

This Dead-Hold BDC reticle on the second focal plane doesn’t change in size when adjusting magnification, making it great for shooting long-range targets.

With a magnification range of 2-7x, the Vortex Optics Crossfire II can really OPTIMIZE a .17 HMR for up to 400 yards of clarity.

Add to this the fast-focus eyepiece, and you’ve got yourself a winner!

The Vortex Optics II also features long eye relief (3-4 inches) and a super forgiving eye box.

These features, along with the fast-focus eyepiece, make the perfect recipe for a clean, fast shot!

Construction-wise, this rifle scope is made of a single one-inch tube of aircraft-grade aluminum.

Additionally, its optical chambers are nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed to protect against fog, dust, and even the shock from recoil.

With this scope, you really need not fear the harsh conditions of your shooting!

And, if ever you do happen to run into a problem with this scope, it is covered by the Vortex Lifetime Warranty.

However, I don’t think this scope is the best for short-range shooting.

While the Vortex Optics Crossfire II is great and sturdy, it can also be a little weighty.

Pros
  • Clear and bright lenses
  • Wide field of view
  • Great for long term use
Cons
  • Pricey
  • A bit heavy

7. BSA Guns 3-12×40 Sweet 17 Riflescope

BEST FOR LONG-RANGE

BSA Guns 3-12x40 Sweet 17 Riflescope

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Specifications:

  • Brand: BSA
  • Dimensions: 18.5 x 4 x 3 inches
  • Weight: 1.1 lbs

This scope from BSA Optics was designed specifically for the .17 HMR rifle.

It comes with side parallax adjustments that can be adjusted from 10 yards to infinity to optimize the long-distance shooting ability of a .17 HMR rifle. 

With a fully multi-coated lens with fast focus and a 3″ sunshade, I can assure you that you’ll get a crisp and bright picture no matter how far away your target is.

HOWEVER, it can lose clarity in low light.

Pros
  • Durable, waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof
  • Wide range of magnification
  • Parallax adjustment
  • Specifically made for the .17 HMR rifle
  • Best for long-range shooting
Cons
  • Loses clarity in low light situations

8. Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9x40mm BDC Riflescope

BEST FOR DEER HUNTERS

Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9x40mm BDC Riflescope

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Specifications:

  • Brand: Nikon
  • Dimensions: 15.75 x 3.5 x 4.75 inches
  • Weight: 11 oz

If you’re a deer hunter looking for a precise shot, I’d like to introduce you to the Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9x40mm BDC Riflescope.

What really sets this riflescope apart is the Nikon BDC reticle that allows the shooter to hold at longer ranges than previously thought. 

In addition to this, the spot-on ballistic match technology helps me find accurate aiming points on the reticle at various distances, even long-range!

Multiple layers of the anti-reflective compound on each glass surface help deliver clear, VIVID pictures every time (yes, even in low light!)

However, I’ve found this scope’s parallax adjustment fairly hard to use.

Pros
  • Durable, shockproof, waterproof, and fog proof
  • Great for both short and long-range shots
  • Has multi-coated lenses and provides a clear sight picture
  • Great eye relief with a 100-yards parallax setting
Cons
  • Can be hard to use parallax adjustment

9. Leupold VX-3i 1.5-5x20mm Riflescope

BEST LIGHTWEIGHT SCOPE

Leupold VX-3i 1.5-5x20mm Riflescope

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Specifications:

  • Brand: Leupold
  • Dimensions: 14 x 3 x 2.75 inches
  • Weight: 9.3 oz
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 20 mm

If you’re on the market for a lightweight scope for those long hunting trips, look no further than the Leupold VX-3i.

At only 9.3 oz, the Leupold VX-3i is incredibly lightweight and compact, partially due to its shorter tube (9.5 inches) and smaller objective lens.

However, it does have generous eye relief from 3.7 to 4.4 inches. 

However, despite the smaller-than-usual objective lens, the VX-3i still delivers a wide field of view and a versatile magnification range.

At 1.5x magnification, it offers a FOV of 68 ft at 100 yards, while at 5x magnification, the FOV is at 23.8 ft at 100 yards.

This large FOV is the perfect pairing for its Twilight Max Light Management System, giving me a CLEAR sight picture even in low light conditions.

Thanks to the VX-3i’s superior optics, you can be assured of a clear image at any magnification. 

Don’t turn your nose up at this scope! Despite its weight and size, it is waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof.

It’s even been tested up to depths of 33 feet with varying changes in pressure. Still, I don’t recommend dunking your scopes in water.

The Leupold VX-3i is sure to survive tough environments and conditions, including extreme temperatures.

Pros
  • Incredibly durable
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Wide FOV
Cons
  • Pricey
  • No lens covers

10. Tasco Target Varmit 6-24x42mm

BEST MAGNIFICATION

Tasco Target Varmit 6-24x42mm

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Specifications:

  • Brand: TASCO
  • Dimensions: ‎18 x 4 x 4 inches
  • Weight: 19.6 oz
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 42 mm

If you intend to use your scope for long-range plinking and small-game hunting, I highly recommend the Tasco Target Varmint 6-24x42mm.

This high-magnification scope is great for both home-range and long-range targets.

The Tasco Target Varmint 6-24x42mm has a HUGE objective lens with multi-coated optics to guarantee a clear and bright image regardless of magnification.

You can expect clear, ultra-bright imagery that helps you locate small targets with an easy kill shot. 

However, despite this objective lens size, I was surprised to find that this scope weighs only 19.6oz. It’s incredibly lightweight! 

I found it easy to make precise adjustments for the perfect image even with gloves on, thanks to the high-quality glove grip turrets. 

However, the Tasco Target Varmint lacks night vision, so it isn’t the best option for those who want to shoot at dusk or dawn.

Pros
  • Durable, fogproof, waterproof, and shockproof
  • Lightweight
  • Large objective lens and clear sight picture
  • High magnification range
Cons
  • Not ideal for low light shooting

11. Nikon PROSTAFF P5 3-12x42SF Riflescope

BEST FOR ACTIVE HUNTING

Nikon PROSTAFF P5 3-12x42SF Riflescope

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Specifications:

  • Brand: Nikon
  • Dimensions: ‎13.1 x 1.5 x 1.5 inches
  • Weight: 0.06 lbs
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 42 mm

The Nikon Prostaff P5 3-12x42SF is part of the trusted Nikon Prostaff series.

I’ve used Prostaff optics before, and they’re dependable and trustworthy, so I’m glad this quality scope was no different.

The P5 has enhanced performance and durability, with most of its parts made from aircraft-grade aluminum.

It also has ergonomic controls that have matching knurling for both aesthetic and enhanced grip.

There are NO guessing games with the precise and positive clicks on the reticle adjustments. 

I found the zero setting easy to attain and maintain, even under heavy recoil.

Additionally, the P5’s spring-filled Instant Zero-reset turret option offers confidence when sighting in. 

You’ll feel extra confident with the P5’s BDC reticle that allows a “dead on” setting at a wide variety of ranges.

This reticle also has transparent ballistic circles, which help in long-range shooting while still allowing for a normal sight picture at short range.

If you’re finding yourself dealing with parallax while sighting in, there’s no need to fear!

Additionally, the P5 features side focus parallax adjustment that allows the shooter to easily adjust settings without moving from their current position.

Pros
  • Great for moving targets
  • Incredibly durable
  • User-friendly and easy adjustments
  • Adjustable parallax
  • Versatile reticle and zoom ratio
Cons
  • Can be dim in low light

What to Consider for the Best Scope for 17 HMR Rifle

There are many factors to consider when looking for the best scopes. After all, you can’t just get the first scope you see.

What, then, do you have to take into consideration?

Here are some of the factors I consider whenever I buy the best scope for 17 HMR:

#1 Compatibility

Compatibility icon

What is the use of getting a rifle scope you cannot use?

Be sure to get a rifle scope that is compatible with both the ammunition you intend to use and the mounting system on the rifle.

Be sure that the scope does not hinder or obstruct your performance.

#2 Durability

Durability icon

Look for a quality scope that is reliable and rugged to be able to withstand the harsh, unexpected conditions on the field.

I recommend getting rifle scopes made of aircraft-grade aluminum.

If aircraft-grade aluminum is strong enough to withstand the harsh elements in flight, then it is undoubtedly strong enough to handle the recoil and harsh elements of your shooting expedition.

The best rifle scopes are also O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged to be waterproof and fog proof.

After all, you don’t want a scope that will suddenly bust out on you when it starts raining or fogging.

#3 Magnification

Magnification icon

The great thing about this rimfire cartridge is that it can be used for a variety of ranges:

  • Short range (< 100 yards): The .17 HMR is incredibly powerful at short ranges. If you are planning to use it at this range, it is best to go for a 2-4x magnification range. You can also go for a fixed magnification scope at this range.
  • Medium range (100 – 200 yards): The .17 HMR is perfect for medium-range shooting. At medium ranges, it is best to go for a 4-7x magnification.
  • Long range (> 200 yards): You need as much magnification as possible at this range. It is best to go for magnification above 7x.

When choosing magnification, note that a higher magnification comes with a smaller field of view.

Check out this comparison guide on rimfire and centerfire ammunition to learn more!

#4 Lens Coatings and Glass Quality

Lens Coatings icon

Be sure to look for high-quality glass with proper lens coating.

The quality of the glass ensures clarity at a higher magnification level, while lens coatings improve light transmission and increase lens durability. 

As a general assumption, expensive scopes usually have ultra-clear, high-quality glass, while cheaper scopes have clear glass with less light transmission.

When there’s optimized light, thanks to the lens coatings, the shooter is able to enjoy a vivid sight image. 

Additionally, lens coatings make it harder to scratch and destroy the glass. If you’re confused as to what the lens coating levels mean, here’s a quick rundown:

  • Coated: One lens has one surface with one layer of coating
  • Fully coated: All lenses have one layer of coating on both surfaces
  • Multi-coated: At least one lens has multiple layers of coating on at least one surface
  • Fully multi-coated: All lenses have multiple layers of coating on all surfaces

For best results, it’s best to find a scope with fully multi-coated lenses.

TAKE NOTE: If you intend to shoot solely in broad daylight, ultra-clear glass is not a priority.

You can choose to save on that aspect and splurge on other aspects instead.

Also, be sure to consider tube diameter to increase light transmission into the picture.

#5 Reticle

Reticle icon

The reticle refers to the part of the scope which tells you where the bullet will drop.

It is best to find riflescopes with customized reticles suited to your rifle’s needs.

There are reticles that are specifically calibrated for the .17 HMR rifle.

There are also reticles with bullet drop compensation reticles that can take into account the bullet’s velocity, style, and weight. A BDC reticle is best for long-range shooting and hunting.

If you’re going for a BDC reticle, look for one that matches the caliber of the cartridge you are using across the range you intend to use it for.

#6 Adjustments

Adjustments icon

Windage and elevation adjustments are typically done through the use of turrets or knobs on the riflescope.

Windage refers to horizontal adjustments, while elevation refers to vertical adjustments.

When buying a rifle scope for 17 HMR, look for windage and elevation knobs that are sturdy and won’t budge even on the field.

However, you also need to find a sweet spot wherein they will stay strong but can still be adjusted manually on the field if needed.

It is best to look for turrets with solid clicks when moved so that you’d know whether your setting was changed or not.

#7 Parallax

Parallax icon

I’d advise looking for riflescopes with parallax adjustments from 10 yards.

Standard parallax adjustment is between 50-100 yards and helps deal with distortions at short shooting ranges such as 25 yards.

However, parallax adjustment shouldn’t be a priority if you are just planning to use the scope for short distances.

#8 Eye Relief

Eye Relief icon

The great thing about the .17 HMR rifle is that it produces low recoil. Thus, eye relief isn’t as big a deal.

While a higher eye relief is preferable, you won’t turn into a panda from an eye relief of 2.5 inches.

Overview of the .17 HMR: Background, Performance, & Uses

The .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) was originally developed to duplicate the ballistics of the 5mm Remington Magnum Rimfire (RMR), which at the time was the fastest rimfire cartridge available.

The problem with RMRs was that the barrels and ammo were difficult to find. Thus, they had to find a more easily produced and accessible replacement.

By simply swapping the .22 Magnum casings with the stronger and more accessible  .17 caliber casings, the HMR ammunition and rifles were born. 

17 HMR Performance

A .17 HMR rifle with a 17 gr. projectile can give shooters extremely fast rimfire cartridges (2650 fps muzzle velocity, to be exact!).

This gives it a flat trajectory for maximum precision and accuracy at a long range.

In fact, the 17 HMR can be considered the rimfire primed cartridge with the best accuracy.

It is also known for hitting hard at downrange.

17 HMR Uses

HMR ammunition is available in soft tip, hollow point, and FMJ rounds.

Today, the .17 HMR is known as a vanquisher of small varmints and is a favorite for hunters, homesteaders, and, as of late, target shooters.

Additionally, it is the best cartridge for children who are only beginning to learn target shooting (WITH ADULT SUPERVISION).

17 HMR Rifles

Of course, not all rifles can handle the .17 HMR.

Here are some of the rifles that are compatible with this deadly accurate rimfire cartridge:

  • CZ-USA CZ 457 Varmint .17 HMR Bolt Action Rifle
  • Savage Rifle A17 .17HMR Semiauto 22″ W/ Accutrigger 47001
  • Browning T-bolt Composite Sporter 17 HMR 10 Round Bolt Action Rifle
  • Bergara BMR .17 HMR Bolt-action Rifle
  • Ruger Precision Rimfire .17 HMR Rifle
  • Ruger American Rimfire .17 HMR Rifle,
  • Henry Repeating Arms Golden Boy .17 HMR Lever Action Rifle
  • Henry Octagon Frontier .17 HMR Lever Action Rifle
  • Rossi RB17 Bolt Action Rifle

The above are just some of the rifles compatible with the .17HMR.

As the .17 HMR grows in popularity, so does the list of firearms that use this powerful rimfire cartridge.

17 HMR vs. 22 WMR

17 HMR vs. 22 WMR

The 17 HMR and the 22 WMR are two of the most popular rounds used for varmint and small game hunting.

Before you decide to get a 17 HMR riflescope, here are a few things I recommend considering to see if this is really the rimfire cartridge for you.

Bullet Diameter

First of all, what is the difference between the 17 HMR and the 22 WMR?

The main difference between these two rimfire cartridges is the bullet diameter.

The bullet fired by the 17 HMR has a diameter of 0.172″, while the bullet fired by the 22 WMR has a diameter of 0.224″.

Trajectory

How does this manifest in the shot?

In general, 22 WMR bullets have more ft-lbs of kinetic energy due to their diameter.

The 17 HMR, however, shoots lighter bullets at a higher muzzle velocity, resulting in a flatter trajectory.

If you want to put it in numbers, the bullet drop in the 22 WMR is -16.5″, while the 17 HMR has a bullet drop of -8.5″.

Recoil

This difference in weight thus results in a difference in recoil.

The 17 HMR has an average recoil of 0.3 ft-lbs, while the 22 WMR has an average recoil of 0.5 ft-lbs.

While there is less recoil on the 17 HMR, the difference in recoil is barely noticeable, especially if it is just being used for target shooting.

Power

Because of this difference in weight, too, the 17 HMR has less power than the 22 WMR.

This means that the 22 WMR gives a cleaner kill compared to the 17 HMR, especially on bigger targets like coyotes.

Accuracy

What the 17 HMR lacks in kinetic energy, it makes up for in accuracy.

The 17 HMR gives the best possible accuracy, even better than the 22 WMR.

So if you want more accurate shots, I recommend going for the 17 HMR.

Distance

Both cartridges are good for short-range hunting and target shooting.

However, due to the higher velocity of the 17 HMR, it is better for long-range shooting than the 22 WMR.

17 HMR vs. Other Ammunition

Let us now take a quick glance at how the 17 HMR holds up to other types of ammunition.

For this table, the most typical measurements for each cartridge were used:

Cartridge Bullet FPS Muzzle-Energy (ft-lbs)
.17 HMR 17 grain V-Max 2550 245
.17 WSM 20 grain 3000 400
.22 WMR 40 grain JHP 1910 324
.22 LR High velocity 40 grain bullet 1250 139

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does HMR Stand For?

The HMR stands for Hornady Magnum Rimfire.

What Is the Effective Range of .17 HMR?

The .17 HMR bullet has an effective range of around 150 yards with a bullet drop of around 3′′-/+ at 150 yards (medium range).

What Is a .17 HMR Good For?

This cartridge is best for small game and varmint hunting at medium ranges.

Its precision and high velocity are great for hunting rabbits, raccoons, and possums at up to 200 yards.

However, it is also starting to gain popularity at the shooting range.

How Loud Is the .17 HMR?

When unsuppressed, the .17 HMR is around 117 dB.

What Is the Difference Between the 17 HMR and the 22 WMR?

The 22 WMR has a lower ballistic coefficient than the .17 HMR.

The .17 HMR also has a higher muzzle velocity, thus resulting in a flatter trajectory.

However, the heavier bullet of the WMR allows for more energy transfer at any point along with its effective range.

Final Words

The .17 HMR offers precision, power, and accuracy. Do not waste the edge that this cartridge gives you.

Either way, I can guarantee that every 17 HMR scope on this list has been tried and tested to earn its spot and are perfect for hunting small game.

Happy shooting!

FINAL TIP: For more top-rated and reliable scope options, you can check out our Guide on the Top Rifle Scopes under 500 Dollars.

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