Scopes and Optics

5 Best Bushnell Scopes for 17 HMR

Best Bushnell scope for 17 HMR

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Best Bushnell Scope for 17 HMR

Are you in the hunt for the best Bushnell scope for 17 HMR? If your answer is yes, then you have come to the right place. Bushnell scopes speak for themselves in terms of durability, functionality, and optical prowess. This brand has been on the market for many years now and they continue to excel in making quality optics as years go by.

Today, Bushnell offers so many scopes to optimize the shooting and hunting experience of all users across the globe. If you are new in the market and you don’t know where to start looking for the right scope, we are here to lend a hand.

In this article, we have done our homework and reviewed the best Bushnell scopes that pair well with the 17 HMR. We have also provided a buyer’s guide to help you make the most informed buying decision. Without wasting any more time, let’s get started.

Best Bushnell Scope for 17 HMR Comparison Table

PRODUCT IMAGE SPECS PRICE
#1) Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope Magnification: 3-9x

Objective-40mm

Reticle- Multi-X

#2) Bushnell Engage 4-16x44mm Riflescope Bushnell Engage 4-16x44mm Riflescope Magnification: 4-16x

Objective-44mm

Reticle- MOA

#3) Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Circle-X Reticle Riflescope Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Circle-X Reticle Riflescope Magnification: 3-9X

Objective-40mm

Reticle- Circle X

#4) Bushnell 1-6x24mm AR Optics  Bushnell 1-6x24mm AR Optics Magnification: 1-6X

Objective-24mm

Reticle- BDC

#5) Bushnell 4-12X 40mm Adjustable Objective Riflescope Bushnell 4-12X 40mm Adjustable Objective Riflescope Magnification: 4-12X

Objective-40mm (AO)

Reticle- Multi-X

 

What Makes a Great 17 HMR Scope?

A great scope for 17 HMR is not made of one or two things, but several attributes. Firstly, the scope should have excellent magnification power, particularly for small game hunting and varmint control.

Secondly, the scope should offer superb optical performance. It should have a large objective lens diameter which translates to a wider field of view and brighter image views. On top of that, the scope should boast quality lens coatings to optimize light transfer.

A great 17 HMR should also have sturdy construction. It should be shockproof to add on durability and rigid enough to be recoil resistant and impact proof. It should also offer unbeatable performance under downpour, mist, and fog, in addition to different temperature conditions.

Lastly, the scope should be easy to use. It should have an ergonomic body design that fits your rifle perfectly. It should also be light so it will be easy to carry in the field.

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Bushnell Scope for 17 HMR

While there are so many Bushnell scopes out there, each model is unique in its own way in terms of quality, functionality, and performance. Here is what you should consider as you shop around for the best Bushnell scope for 17 HMR.

Magnification

Without a doubt, magnification is the first thing to consider when shopping for the best Bushnell scope for 17 HMR. This is because magnification is the backbone of every scope.

To choose the right magnification, you should factor in what you plan to use the scope for, your shooting range, and your preference. For all-around hunting, a model with between 3-9x and 4-16x will do.

Reticle

Reticles in a scope help you find the most accurate and best location to place the shot. But each scope out there comes with a unique reticle.

The most common types of reticles include ballistic, duplex, and mil-dot. As you compare and contrast, go for one that is not just easy on the shooting eye, but also simple to use. The simplest reticles are the most comfortable for both hunting and shooting.

Scopes Strength

A sturdy scope will take in anything nature throws at it, while a fragile one will last for a very short time. The sturdiness of a scope is determined by the type and quality of materials used. Typically, scopes made using high-grade aluminum are the best. This is the ideal material if you are looking for a tough scope. Plus, it is light so it will withstand recoil.

Weather Resistance

The best Bushnell scope for 17 HMR is one that performs regardless of the weather condition. Since hunting takes place outdoors and weather conditions are never predictable, you should invest in a scope that has O-rings and one that is also nitrogen/argon purged.

The presence of the two handy features mean that the scope is waterproof and fog-resistant. It is also best to ensure that you choose a scope that possesses a hard-anodized finish. In addition to being rust-free and corrosion resistant, the scope will have improved wear, tear and scratch resistance.

Lenses

You should also pay close attention to the quality of lenses the scope has. This is because lenses play a huge part in determining the clarity and quality of images produced. Go for a scope that possesses multi-coated lenses. It will optimize light transfer and reduce glare and the rate of light loss through reflection.

With multi-coated lenses, you not only get bright and clear image views but also the lenses will be stand scratches and abrasion elements.

 

Best Bushnell Scope for 17 HMR Reviews

#1) Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope

Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope

 

 

 

 

The Banner Dusk & Dawn Riflescope is by far the best Bushnell scope for 17 HMR available on today’s market. It offers excellent all-around performance which makes it a favorite amongst many users. It also comes at an admirably low cost to meet the needs of the budget buyers.

From sunrise, till the sun goes down, this rifle scope will provide bright, crisp, and color-accurate images of the target. This is thanks to the fully multi-coated optics that optimize transmission of light and alleviate loss of light that is caused by glare and light reflection. Moreover, the scope offers ample amount of eye relief, so you will be able to aim from any shooting position comfortably.

For all-weather performance, this riflescope is waterproof and fog-resistant. This is a handy feature when it comes to hunting. Construction-wise, the scope is made with 100% quality materials that optimize its durability. It also has capped turrets for extra protection in the field.

Other useful features of this scope include a fast-focus eyepiece, lightweight construction, and 0.25 MOA fingertip adjustments for windage and elevation.

Key Features

  • Fully waterproof and fog proof construction
  • Resettable windage and elevation turrets
  • 3-9x variable magnification
  • 40-millimeter objective lens
  • Dusk & Dawn multi-coated lenses
  • Fast focus eyepiece

Pros

  • Holds zero very well
  • Easy to use
  • Superb optical clarity
  • Excellent low light performance
  • Solid and reliable construction

Cons

  • Short eye relief
  • Quality controls could be better

 

 

 

#2) Bushnell Engage 4-16x44mm Riflescope

Bushnell Engage 4-16x44mm Riflescope

 

 

 

Bushnell is respected for its high-quality optics and the Engage 4-16x44mm Riflescope is not any different. Built with a magnification range of 4x out to 16x, this scope is ideal for hunting and competitive shooting. It also gives you the flexibility to take shots at close and long ranges.

To ensure that you get the most out of your 17 HMR, the scope uses a second focal plane Deploy MOA reticle which offers accurate shots all the time. It also boasts an ultra-wideband anti-reflection coating that delivers outstanding brightness and true color representation across the entire light path.

The scopes locking turrets stay on zero or any other setting that you want. Even better, you don’t need any tools to operate the zero-reset locking turret. This scope also features an EXO barrier that repels water, oil, dust, and any other debris for confident shooting in diverse weather conditions.

Key Features

  • Locking turrets with tool-free zero reset
  • Fully multi-coated optics
  • 30mm body tube
  • EXO batter protection
  • Variable 4-16x magnification
  • Eyepiece covers included
  • Flip open objective

Pros

  • Generous eye relief
  • Side adjustable parallax
  • Affordability
  • Flexibility

Cons

  • No reticle illumination
  • Light transmission is not admirable

 

 

 

 

#3) Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Circle-X Reticle Riflescope

Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Circle-X Reticle Riflescope

 

 

 

Next up is the Banner Dusk & Dawn Circle-X Reticle Riflescope. This scope is more or less the same as the first model on our list, only that it has a Circle-X reticle instead. This Circle-X reticle is put on the second focal plane and it offers a classic point of aim even in low light conditions.

This riflescope is ruggedly built to offer durability and unbeatable performance even in the most rugged conditions. It has a waterproof construction that prevents fogging and locks out moisture and dust which are the number one optic’s enemy. It also boasts fully multi-coated optics that deliver superior low-light performance.

With a weight of just 0.78 pounds, this scope is not just portable, but also very easy to use. It has a fast-focus eyepiece for simple reticle focusing and resettable windage and elevation turrets. With all these handy features, you are guaranteed of revolutionizing your shooting/hunting trip.

Key Features

  • 3-9x variable magnification
  • Matte black finish
  • Second focal plane Circle-X reticle
  • Fully multi-coated optics
  • IPX4 waterproof rating
  • Fast focus eyepiece

Pros

  • Ultra-compact and lightweight design
  • Resettable windage and elevation turrets
  • Stunning HD clarity
  • Easy to use
  • Reasonably affordable price point

Cons

  • There are some quality control issues

 

 

 

#4) Bushnell 1-6x24mm AR Optics

Bushnell 1-6x24mm AR Optics

 

 

Another best Bushnell scope for 17 HMR on our list is the BTR-11-6x24mm AR Optics scope. It features an illuminated .223/ .556 BDC SFP reticle which provides excellent low-light performance, accurate aiming in dismal environments, and accurate holdovers out to about 500 yards.

With this Bushnell scope, you get outstanding optical clarity in diverse environments. With the several layers of anti-reflective coatings on every air-to-glass surface, the scope maximizes light transmission for brighter and high-contrast views of the target. Additionally, the exterior lens has a hydrophobic coating that repels water, fingerprints, fog, dust, and debris.

For quick power adjustment, the scope comes with a folding throw lever that you can access conveniently without changing your shooting position. In terms of construction, its body is crafted from aluminum which maximizes durability. The scope is also waterproof, shockproof, and also comes with capped turrets for extra protection from hard use, impacts, and bumps.

Key Features

  • Robust aluminum construction
  • Folding throw lever
  • Illuminated second focal plane reticle
  • Waterproof and shockproof
  • Capped turrets
  • Fully multi-coated optics

Pros

  • Very clear optics
  • Bright reticle illumination
  • 30mm tube that is compatible with multiple rifles
  • Excellent value for money
  • Comes with a lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Can be expensive for the budget buyers

 

 

 

 

#5) Bushnell 4-12X 40mm Adjustable Objective Riflescope

Bushnell 4-12X 40mm Adjustable Objective Riflescope

 

 

If you are looking for a low-light rifle scope to pair with your 17 HMR, this is it. This scope features a large 40mm objective lens that offers superior resolving power and excellent low light performance. It also has DDB multi-coated lenses that optimize clarity and brightness in a wide range of lighting conditions.

Bushnell made this riflescope with the hunting enthusiast in mind. They know that not even bad weather conditions can stop you from tracking game in the field. As a result, they built this scope to be fully waterproof and fog proof for use in all weather conditions. Moreover, the scope performs reliably in a variety of temperatures.

To complement the waterproof and fog proof construction, this riflescope also boasts a sturdy aluminum housing that is rigid enough to withstand anything that comes its way. Furthermore, it has a broad 4-12x magnification that adds on flexibility and a fast-focus eyepiece that makes reticle focusing a walk in the park.

To top it all off, this optic has an adjustable objective and a lightweight and compact make so it will be convenient to carry in the field.

Key Features

  • 1/4 MOA fingertip windage and elevation adjustment
  • 4-12x variable magnification
  • Fast focus eyepiece
  • Adjustable objective
  • 100% waterproof and fog proof construction
  • Dusk & Dawn multi-coated lenses
  • Multi-X reticle

Pros

  • Superb low light performance
  • Lightweight and compact construction
  • Cheap
  • Huge field of view
  • Sturdy design

Cons

  • Eye relief is short

 

 

 

Best Bushnell Scope for 17 HMR: FAQs

  • What is a 17 HMR good for?

The 17 HMR is mainly used for hunting, primarily for small game and varmint hunting at close and medium ranges. the bullet has an accuracy out to about 200 yards and you can also use it to hunt rabbits, squirrels, possum, and racoons.

  • What does the HMR stand for?

The HMR in 17 HMR stands for Hornady Magnum Rimfire. This is a rimfire rifle cartridge made by the Hornady ammunition company and it was first released in 2002.

  • What do numbers on a scope mean?

The numbers found in a scope’s configuration show the magnification and size of the objective lens. So, a scope that has a 3-9×40 configuration has a variable magnification from 3x to 9x and an objective lens diameter of 40mm.

 

Conclusion

It is fun to shoot the 17 HMR and having a reliable scope will turn the whole hunting/shooting expedition into an extravaganza. All these Bushnell scopes listed above are great scopes for use with the 17 HMR. Choose one that suits your needs and it will help make your next hunting trip a success.