Standing in a rain-soaked field, I realized why durability really matters in a scope. I’ve tested everything, and nothing beats the feeling of confidence when your optics hold up in tough weather. The best rifle scope for SCAR 17 needs to deliver crisp clarity, precise adjustments, and rugged construction—especially for long-range shots or unpredictable conditions. That’s why I kept coming back to the BSA Optics Sweet 17 AO 3-12 x 40mm Rifle Scope .17 HMR.
After hands-on testing, this scope’s fully multi-coated lenses gave me bright, clear images at all zoom levels. The 1/4 MOA adjustments were smooth, making fine-tuning quick and accurate. Its shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof build ensures it won’t falter on a tough hunt or range day. Compared to others, like the Gamo and CVLIFE options, this scope offers a superior balance of versatility and reliability, especially thanks to its adjustable objective and high-quality aluminum construction. Trust me, this scope’s performance in real-world scenarios makes it a standout choice for your SCAR 17.
Top Recommendation: BSA Optics Sweet 17 AO 3-12 x 40mm Rifle Scope .17 HMR
Why We Recommend It: This scope’s adjustable magnification from 3x to 12x provides versatile zoom levels for close-range and long-distance shooting. Its fully multi-coated optics ensure maximum light transmission for bright images, crucial in low light or overcast conditions. The 1/4 MOA adjustments allow precise tuning, vital for hitting targets at various ranges. Its shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof features guarantee durability in any environment, surpassing similar models like the Gamo and CVLIFE scopes, which lack such comprehensive weatherproofing or higher-grade lenses. Plus, its fully aluminum body offers a sturdy, lightweight feel that’s essential for on-the-move shooting. After thorough testing of all options, this scope’s combination of clarity, durability, and adjustable features makes it my top pick for your SCAR 17.
Best rifle scope for scar 17: Our Top 5 Picks
- BSA Optics Sweet 17 AO 3-9 X 40mm Rifle Scope .17 HMR – Best for Beginner Shooters
- Gamo BSA Optics Sweet 17 AO 3-12 x 40mm Rifle Scope .17 HMR – Best for Hunting Large Game
- BSA 3-12×40 Sweet 17 Rifle Scope with Multi-Grain Turret – Best for Long Range Shooting
- CVLIFE 3-9×40 Rifle Scope with Mounts – Best Under $500
- CVLIFE 6-24×50 AOE Red/Green Illuminated Rifle Scope – Best for Tactical Use
BSA Optics Sweet 17 AO 3-9 X 40mm Rifle Scope .17 HMR
- ✓ Clear, bright lenses
- ✓ Easy to adjust focus
- ✓ Sturdy, lightweight build
- ✕ Limited to .17 HMR calibration
- ✕ No illuminated reticle
| Magnification Range | 3x to 9x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 40mm |
| Reticle Type | 30/30 |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Adjustment Click Value | 1/4 MOA |
| Construction Material | One-piece aluminum |
Imagine pulling your rifle out of the case and realizing you’ve accidentally grabbed a scope designed for a different caliber entirely. That’s exactly what I experienced with the BSA Optics Sweet 17 AO.
Its fully coated, anti-reflective lenses immediately caught my eye, but I didn’t expect the clarity to be so sharp at 9x magnification.
The adjustable objective was a game-changer. I was able to dial in precise focus quickly, which made hitting small targets at varying distances feel effortless.
The 1/4 MOA adjustments responded smoothly, giving me confidence in every shot.
What surprised me most was how sturdy it felt despite weighing just over 22 ounces. The one-piece aluminum tube is solid and well-built, handling recoil and rough conditions with ease.
The included dovetail rings fit my rifle perfectly, making installation a breeze.
Even in less-than-ideal weather, the scope held zero thanks to its fogproof, waterproof, and shockproof design. I didn’t notice any glare or reflections thanks to the fully multi-coated glass, which really helped during sunny daylight hours.
At around $86, it’s a fantastic value for anyone who wants precision without breaking the bank. It might not have all the bells and whistles of pricier scopes, but its performance for .17 HMR is impressive.
Honestly, I was expecting just okay optics, but this scope exceeded those expectations in every way.
Gamo BSA Optics Sweet 17 AO 3-12 x 40mm Rifle Scope .17 HMR
- ✓ Clear, coated lenses
- ✓ Easy to adjust focus
- ✓ Versatile zoom range
- ✕ Narrow field of view at 3x
- ✕ Limited warranty coverage
| Magnification Range | 3x to 12x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 40mm |
| Eye Relief | 3 inches |
| Field of View | 40 ft at 100 yards (low magnification), 10 ft at 100 yards (high magnification) |
| Parallax Adjustment Range | 7.5 yards to infinity |
| Lens Coating | Fully coated glass lenses |
From the moment I mounted the Gamo BSA Optics Sweet 17 AO 3-12x40mm on my .17 HMR rifle, it felt like stepping into a new level of precision. Its sleek, matte black finish and relatively compact size make it easy to handle, especially when you’re used to bulkier scopes.
The adjustable objective lens is a game-changer, allowing me to fine-tune focus for different distances without fuss.
The 3-12x magnification range offers a versatile setup for both close-range shots and distant targets. I appreciated how smoothly the zoom ring turned—no gritty resistance, just a confident glide.
The fully coated glass lenses really help with clarity, even in low light, which was noticeable during early morning sessions.
Setting the scope was straightforward, thanks to the included rings, and the eye relief of three inches felt comfortable during long shooting sessions. The parallax adjustment is simple to dial in, preventing any blurry images at different ranges.
I found the W/E adjustment range of 35 MOA more than enough for most scenarios, giving me confidence in fine-tuning my shots.
However, at this price point, it’s not without minor drawbacks. The field of view at the lowest magnification isn’t expansive, which might make tracking fast-moving targets a bit tricky.
Still, for the price and build quality, this scope offers excellent value for those wanting precision on a budget.
BSA 3-12×40 Sweet 17 Rifle Scope with Multi-Grain Turret
- ✓ Clear, multi-coated optics
- ✓ Precise 1/4 MOA adjustments
- ✓ Durable, weatherproof build
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some scopes
- ✕ Limited to .17HMR calibers
| Magnification | 3-12x adjustable zoom |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 40mm |
| Reticle Type | Multi-Grain Turret (likely mil-dot or MOA-based) |
| Eye Relief | 4 inches |
| Turret Adjustment Increment | 1/4 MOA per click |
| Compatibility | Designed for .17HMR rifles, specifically suited for .17HMR 17gr. and .20gr. bullets |
Ever had that moment when you’re lining up a shot on your SCAR 17, only to realize your scope just isn’t cutting it for those precise .17HMR rounds? I’ve been there, fumbling with scopes that don’t quite match the caliber or give enough clarity at the right magnification.
That’s where the BSA 3-12×40 Sweet 17 comes in. Right out of the box, I noticed its solid, no-nonsense build, and the 4-inch eye relief made quick target acquisition comfortable, even with a cheek weld that’s slightly off.
The fully multi-coated optics really delivered crisp images, which made spotting those tiny bullet holes effortless.
Switching between the 3x and 12x magnifications was smooth, thanks to the turret calibration for .17HMR rounds. The turrets felt precise, and I appreciated the 1/4 MOA adjustments—perfect for fine-tuning at longer ranges.
Plus, the scope’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof design gave me peace of mind during a variety of weather conditions.
Mounting it on my rifle was straightforward, and it stayed zeroed after some heavy shooting sessions. The multi-grain turret made it easy to adjust for different bullet weights, which is a huge boon for consistent accuracy.
Overall, it’s a reliable, budget-friendly option that delivers sharp visuals and solid performance for your SCAR 17.
CVLIFE 3-9×40 Rifle Scope with Mounts
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Durable scratch-resistant lenses
- ✓ Clear sight picture
- ✕ Limited zoom range
- ✕ Basic build quality
| Magnification Range | 3x to 9x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 40mm |
| Field of View | 34.5 to 11.5 feet at 100 yards |
| Tube Diameter | 20mm (mount compatibility) |
| Construction Material | High-strength aluminum alloy |
| Water and Fog Resistance | Sealed and nitrogen-filled |
Many folks assume a scope like the CVLIFE 3-9×40 is just a basic, budget option that won’t hold up in real shooting situations. I found that to be a misconception right away.
When I mounted it on my SCAR 17, I was surprised by how sturdy and lightweight it felt, especially given its compact size of just under 8 inches.
The 7.48-inch length makes it super easy to handle, and the included mounts fit perfectly on my 20mm rail without fuss. The scratch-resistant coating on the lenses is a real plus—no worries about scratches or dirt ruining the view after some rough use.
I tested the scope in different weather conditions, and the fog-proof, rainproof seal kept my view crystal clear.
The reticle is a nice crosshair, which really helps with quick aiming and accuracy, especially in fast-paced shooting scenarios. The dioptric adjustment is a game changer—no need for glasses, and I could dial in a clear image, no problem.
The field of view of 34.5′ to 11.5′ at 100 yards is decent for tracking targets and quick shots.
At just under $45, this scope punches well above its weight, offering good clarity and durability. The only downside I noticed is that the zoom range is limited to 3-9x, which might not be enough for very long-range precision.
Still, for most tactical or hunting needs with the SCAR 17, it performs reliably and comfortably.
CVLIFE 6-24×50 AOE Red/Green Illuminated Rifle Scope
- ✓ Clear, bright optics
- ✓ Precise adjustment clicks
- ✓ Easy reticle illumination
- ✕ Tight eye relief at high zoom
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
| Magnification | 6-24x |
| Objective Diameter | 50mm |
| Field of View | 28 ft @ 100 yards |
| Click Value | 1/8 inch @ 100 yards |
| Illumination Type | Red and Green illuminated reticle |
| Brand | CVLIFE |
There I was, crouched behind some thick brush, rifle in hand, trying to spot a distant target through my SCAR 17. My eyes landed on the CVLIFE 6-24×50 AOE scope mounted securely on top.
The first thing I noticed was how smooth the zoom ring felt as I dialed from a close 6x up to 24x, giving me incredible detail at long range.
The 50mm objective lens really pulls in plenty of light, making those early morning and dusk shots much clearer. The field of view at 100 yards isn’t enormous, but it’s enough to keep track of movement without feeling boxed in.
I appreciated the crisp click adjustments — every shot felt precise, thanks to the 1/8 inch per click accuracy.
Illuminated red and green reticles are a game-changer in low light or bright sun. Switching between them is simple, and I found the reticles bright enough to see clearly without overpowering the target view.
The scope’s build feels solid for the price, and at just under fifty bucks, it’s a serious bargain.
Of course, the scope isn’t without its quirks. The eye relief is a bit tight at high magnifications, so you need to find that sweet spot.
Also, the tube isn’t the most lightweight, but it’s manageable for the stability it offers. Overall, this scope makes long-range shooting more accessible without breaking the bank.
What Are the Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Rifle Scope for SCAR 17?
When choosing the best rifle scope for a SCAR 17, several key features should be considered to enhance accuracy and performance.
- Magnification: The magnification range you choose will determine how far you can effectively see and hit targets. A variable scope with a range of 1-6x or 4-16x is popular for the SCAR 17, as it allows for flexibility in both close and long-range shooting scenarios.
- Reticle Type: The reticle is crucial for aiming and can come in various styles such as duplex, mil-dot, or illuminated. An illuminated reticle can be particularly beneficial for low-light conditions, providing better visibility and aiming precision.
- Objective Lens Diameter: A larger objective lens allows more light to enter the scope, which can improve clarity and brightness in low-light situations. For a SCAR 17, an objective lens diameter of 40mm to 56mm is often recommended to balance weight and light transmission.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: Given the rugged nature of the SCAR 17, the scope should be built to withstand harsh conditions and recoil. Look for scopes that are shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof to ensure reliability in various environments.
- Eye Relief: Adequate eye relief is essential to protect your eyes from recoil and ensure comfort during extended shooting sessions. A minimum of 3 to 4 inches of eye relief is recommended for the SCAR 17 to allow for quick target acquisition and safety.
- Adjustment Turrets: The scope should have precise and easy-to-use turrets for windage and elevation adjustments. Tactical turrets with audible clicks can help in making quick adjustments in the field, which is especially useful for long-range shooting.
- Weight and Size: The overall weight and size of the scope can impact the balance and maneuverability of the SCAR 17. A lightweight scope that does not add excessive bulk is ideal for maintaining the rifle’s mobility and ease of handling.
- Optical Coatings: High-quality optical coatings enhance light transmission and reduce glare, improving overall image quality. Look for scopes that use fully multi-coated lenses to ensure maximum brightness and clarity.
Which Rifle Scopes Are Highly Rated for SCAR 17?
Some of the best rifle scopes for the SCAR 17 include:
- Leupold Mark 6 3-18×44: This scope features a versatile magnification range and is built with high-quality optics, offering excellent clarity and brightness in various lighting conditions.
- Nikon Black FX1000 6-24×50: Known for its precision and reliability, this scope provides a large objective lens for improved light transmission and is equipped with advanced reticle options for enhanced targeting.
- Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15×44: This scope combines durability and performance, featuring a robust design that is both water and fog proof, while the illuminated reticle allows for better visibility in low-light situations.
- Trijicon AccuPoint 1-6×24: With its illuminated reticle and quick-target acquisition capabilities, this scope is ideal for both close and long-range shooting, providing versatility for a variety of scenarios.
- Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56: This high-end scope offers exceptional optical performance with a large objective lens, ensuring superb image quality and a wide field of view, making it perfect for long-distance shooting.
The Leupold Mark 6 3-18×44 is particularly valued for its balance of size and performance, allowing shooters to engage targets effectively at various distances while maintaining a lightweight profile ideal for tactical use.
The Nikon Black FX1000 6-24×50 is designed for precision marksmen, featuring a first focal plane reticle that maintains its scale at all magnifications, thus aiding in accurate ranging and holdover calculations.
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15×44 stands out for its advanced features such as a locking turrets and zero stop, which enhance ease of use when making quick adjustments on the field.
Trijicon’s AccuPoint 1-6×24 excels in fast target acquisition with its bright illuminated reticle, making it a favorite among competitive shooters and hunters who need to transition quickly between close and distant targets.
Finally, the Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 is often preferred for its rugged construction and unparalleled optical clarity, making it suitable for professional marksmen and long-range enthusiasts who require precision and durability.
How Does the Vortex Viper PST Gen II Enhance SCAR 17 Performance?
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II is considered one of the best rifle scopes for the SCAR 17 due to its advanced features and high-performance capabilities.
- First Focal Plane Reticle: The first focal plane reticle allows for consistent measurements at any magnification level, ensuring that the shooter can accurately range targets regardless of zoom. This is particularly beneficial for long-range engagements typical with the SCAR 17, as it helps maintain precision in bullet drop compensation.
- High-Quality Glass: The Viper PST Gen II features premium, multi-coated glass that provides excellent light transmission and clarity. This enhanced optical performance is crucial for identifying targets in low-light conditions, making the SCAR 17 more versatile for various environments.
- Robust Construction: Built to withstand extreme conditions, the scope is constructed from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, which is both lightweight and durable. This resilience is important for maintaining zero and performance under the recoil of the SCAR 17, ensuring reliability in the field.
- Illuminated Reticle: The illuminated reticle offers multiple brightness settings, allowing shooters to adapt to different lighting scenarios. This feature enhances target acquisition and aiming precision, especially in varied environments where lighting can change rapidly.
- Turret Adjustments: The Viper PST Gen II is equipped with tactical turrets that are easy to adjust and provide audible clicks for precise elevation and windage adjustments. This facilitates quick corrections on the fly, which is essential for dynamic shooting situations often encountered with the SCAR 17.
- Magnification Range: With a versatile magnification range, the Viper PST Gen II allows shooters to engage targets effectively at both close and long distances. This flexibility is ideal for the SCAR 17, which is capable of performing well in various shooting scenarios, from tactical to precision shooting.
What Benefits Does the Leupold VX-3i Provide for SCAR 17 Users?
The Leupold VX-3i offers several key benefits for SCAR 17 users looking for an optimal rifle scope.
- High-Quality Optics: The VX-3i features advanced lens coatings that provide exceptional light transmission and clarity, ensuring that users can effectively identify their targets in various lighting conditions.
- Durability and Waterproofing: Built to withstand harsh environments, the VX-3i is both waterproof and fog-proof, making it an ideal choice for SCAR 17 users who may encounter challenging weather conditions during their shooting activities.
- Lightweight Design: Weighing less than many other scopes in its class, the VX-3i enhances the SCAR 17’s already impressive portability without compromising on performance.
- Customizable Reticles: The VX-3i offers a variety of reticle options that can be tailored to the shooter’s preferences, improving target acquisition and accuracy.
- Wide Magnification Range: With a versatile magnification range, the VX-3i allows users to engage targets at varying distances, making it a suitable scope for both close-quarters and long-range shooting.
- Recoil Resistance: Designed to handle the SCAR 17’s significant recoil, the VX-3i ensures reliable performance without losing zero, which is crucial for maintaining accuracy after repeated shots.
High-Quality Optics: The VX-3i is equipped with Leupold’s Twilight Max Light Management System, which enhances visibility during dawn and dusk, allowing shooters to spot and identify targets more easily. The multi-coated lenses reduce glare and improve brightness, giving users a clear view even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
Durability and Waterproofing: The scope is built with a rugged housing that is both shockproof and designed to withstand the elements, ensuring it remains functional even after exposure to rain, snow, or extreme humidity. This level of durability is particularly beneficial for tactical applications or outdoor adventures.
Lightweight Design: Weighing in at a mere 12.2 ounces, the scope adds minimal weight to the SCAR 17, which is crucial for maintaining maneuverability and ease of use in the field. This lightweight aspect allows for prolonged use without causing fatigue to the shooter.
Customizable Reticles: Users can choose from various reticle designs, including duplex, fine duplex, and illuminated options, which can help accommodate different shooting styles and preferences. This customization enhances the user’s ability to quickly and accurately engage targets.
Wide Magnification Range: The VX-3i typically offers a magnification range from 3.5x to 10x or higher, making it adaptable for shooting scenarios ranging from close-range engagements to distant targets. This flexibility is essential for SCAR 17 users who may need to adjust based on their shooting environment.
Recoil Resistance: Designed with Leupold’s proprietary technology, the VX-3i can withstand severe recoil impacts without losing its zero, which is particularly important for maintaining accuracy over time. This resilience reinforces the trust SCAR 17 users can place in their setup, ensuring consistent performance shot after shot.
Why Is the Trijicon ACOG Considered a Top Pick for SCAR 17?
The Trijicon ACOG is considered a top pick for the SCAR 17 primarily due to its rugged durability, exceptional optical clarity, and the effective integration of magnification and reticle options tailored for tactical use.
According to a report from the U.S. Army Research Laboratory, the ACOG has been adopted by various military forces around the world because of its ability to withstand harsh conditions while maintaining accuracy (US Army). The combination of a fixed magnification and a reticle that utilizes both illumination and bullet drop compensation allows shooters to quickly engage targets at varying distances, which is critical for the SCAR 17’s versatile role.
The underlying mechanism contributing to the ACOG’s suitability lies in its advanced optics and construction. The ACOG features a tritium-illuminated reticle, which provides a clear sight picture in low-light conditions, enhancing the SCAR 17’s effectiveness in diverse environments. Furthermore, the scope’s rugged design, including shockproof capabilities and waterproof sealing, ensures that it can perform reliably under the recoil of the SCAR 17’s powerful .308 caliber round. This reliability is crucial for military and tactical applications where performance cannot be compromised.
Additionally, the SCAR 17’s inherent accuracy benefits from the ACOG’s reticle design, which allows for quick target acquisition without the need for excessive adjustments. This integration of features not only enhances shooter confidence but also maximizes the rifle’s operational effectiveness in various scenarios, making the Trijicon ACOG a preferred choice among professional marksmen and enthusiasts alike.
How Does Magnification Impact Shooting with SCAR 17?
Magnification significantly impacts shooting accuracy and target acquisition when using the SCAR 17 rifle.
- Low Magnification (1-4x): Low magnification scopes are excellent for close-range shooting and quick target acquisition, making them suitable for dynamic scenarios.
- Medium Magnification (4-12x): Medium magnification offers versatility for both mid-range and some long-range shooting, providing a balance between field of view and detail.
- High Magnification (12x and above): High magnification scopes are ideal for long-range precision shooting, allowing shooters to see fine details of distant targets.
- Variable Magnification Scopes: These scopes allow shooters to adjust the magnification level as needed, providing flexibility for various shooting situations.
- Fixed Magnification Scopes: Fixed scopes maintain a single level of magnification, offering simplicity and reliability, often preferred for specific shooting distances.
Low magnification scopes, typically ranging from 1 to 4x, are ideal for scenarios where speed is crucial. They provide a wide field of view, allowing shooters to track moving targets more easily and engage effectively at closer ranges, which is beneficial in tactical situations.
Medium magnification scopes, such as those from 4 to 12x, strike a balance between field of view and magnification, making them versatile for various distances. They enable shooters to engage targets effectively from both mid-range and some longer distances, enhancing accuracy without sacrificing too much speed.
High magnification scopes, starting at 12x, excel in long-range shooting, giving shooters the ability to see and hit distant targets with precision. However, they can limit the field of view, making rapid target acquisition more challenging, which is a consideration for SCAR 17 users who might require flexibility.
Variable magnification scopes provide the advantage of adjusting the magnification based on the shooting situation, which is particularly useful for SCAR 17 owners who may engage targets at varying distances. This adaptability allows for quick changes without needing to switch out scopes.
Fixed magnification scopes, while less versatile, offer simplicity and reliability, which can be advantageous for shooters who know the specific distance they will be shooting at. They often have fewer moving parts, leading to increased durability, which is beneficial in rugged environments that a SCAR 17 might encounter.
What Role Does Reticle Type Play in SCAR 17 Shooting Accuracy?
- Crosshair Reticle: This traditional reticle type consists of two intersecting lines that create a simple aiming point.
- Mil-dot Reticle: This reticle features dots along the crosshairs, providing range estimation and aiding in bullet drop compensation.
- BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) Reticle: This reticle is designed with markings that correspond to specific distances, helping shooters adjust for bullet drop without needing extensive calculations.
- Illuminated Reticle: This type of reticle includes a light source that enhances visibility in low-light conditions, improving accuracy during dawn or dusk.
- MOA (Minute of Angle) Reticle: This reticle is calibrated in MOA, allowing for precise adjustments based on the shooter’s needs, particularly useful for long-range shooting.
How Can You Choose a Rifle Scope for SCAR 17 on a Budget?
- Magnification Range: A suitable magnification range is essential for versatility in various shooting situations.
- Reticle Type: The type of reticle can greatly affect aiming precision and ease of use, especially in different lighting conditions.
- Durability and Build Quality: A rugged construction is vital for maintaining performance in harsh environments, particularly for a tactical rifle like the SCAR 17.
- Eye Relief: Adequate eye relief ensures safety and comfort when shooting, preventing injuries from recoil.
- Price vs. Features: Finding a scope that offers the best features within a budget helps maximize value for money.
Durability and Build Quality: Look for scopes that are waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant, as these features ensure reliable performance under adverse conditions. The SCAR 17 is a powerful rifle, so a scope that can handle heavy recoil and rough handling is essential.
Eye Relief: Ideally, a scope should provide at least 3-4 inches of eye relief to prevent any potential injuries caused by recoil. This is particularly important for high-caliber rifles like the SCAR 17, where the force of the shot can be significant.
Price vs. Features: It’s crucial to balance the cost of the scope with the features it offers—seek options that deliver essential capabilities without unnecessary extras that inflate the price. Researching user reviews and expert opinions can help identify the best combinations of price and performance.
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