Finding the best scopes for savage a17 rifles requires understanding this unique semi-automatic rimfire platform and its specific optical requirements. The Savage A17 represents a revolutionary breakthrough in .17 HMR technology, being the world’s first semi-automatic rifle chambered in this high-velocity varmint cartridge. What makes this rifle truly special is Savage’s innovative delayed blowback action system, which allows the rifle to safely cycle the high-pressure .17 HMR rounds that would destroy conventional blowback mechanisms found in other semi-automatic rimfire rifles.
The A17’s design philosophy centers around precision varmint hunting and small game control, where quick follow-up shots and exceptional accuracy are paramount. The .17 HMR cartridge delivers blistering velocities up to 2,550 feet per second with a 17-grain bullet, creating devastating energy transfer on prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and other varmints while maintaining flat trajectories out to 200 yards. This performance envelope demands optics that can keep pace with the rifle’s capabilities while withstanding the unique stresses of high-velocity rimfire shooting.
When selecting a scope for your Savage A17, several factors deserve special consideration. The rifle’s semi-automatic action generates different recoil impulses compared to bolt-action rifles, requiring scopes with robust internal mechanisms and reliable tracking systems. The .17 HMR’s flat trajectory and small bullet diameter benefit from higher magnification optics that reveal precise aiming points at extended ranges, while the cartridge’s wind sensitivity demands scopes with clear, high-contrast reticles for accurate holdover calculations.
The A17’s factory-drilled and tapped receiver accommodates standard Weaver-style scope bases, making mounting straightforward for most quality optics. However, the rifle’s intended use profile favors scopes in the 3-12x to 4-16x magnification range, providing sufficient power for precise varmint work while maintaining enough field of view for quick target acquisition on moving game. Whether you’re planning extended prairie dog sessions or backyard pest control, the right scope will transform your A17 into a precision varminting machine capable of delivering consistent accuracy that matches the rifle’s exceptional mechanical potential.
| Rank | Scope Name | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×44 AO | Best Overall Value |
| 2 | Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 | Best for Traditional Hunting |
| 3 | Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP | Best Advanced Features |
| 4 | Nikon Prostaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 | Best Budget Option |
| 5 | Burris Droptine 3-9×40 | Best Entry Level Performance |
Best Scopes Comparison
| Image | Name | Key Features | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×44 AO | Adjustable Objective, Dead-Hold BDC Reticle, Lifetime Warranty | Check Latest Price |
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Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 | Twilight Max HD System, CDS Compatible, American Made | Check Latest Price |
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Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP | First Focal Plane, ACSS Reticle, Japanese Glass | Check Latest Price |
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Nikon Prostaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 | BDC 150 Reticle, Optimized for Rimfire, Waterproof | Check Latest Price |
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Burris Droptine 3-9×40 | Multi-Coated Lenses, Nitrogen Filled, Hi-Lume Multicoating | Check Latest Price |
These five exceptional scopes have been carefully selected based on their compatibility with the Savage A17’s unique characteristics and intended applications. Each optic brings distinct advantages to the platform, from precision varmint hunting to recreational plinking, ensuring you’ll find the perfect match for your specific shooting requirements and budget considerations.
1) Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×44 AO (Best Overall Value for Varmint Hunting)
The Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×44 AO stands as the ultimate companion for your Savage A17, delivering professional-grade performance at a price point that won’t require a second mortgage. This scope represents Vortex’s commitment to bringing premium features to everyday shooters, combining the company’s legendary build quality with innovative design elements specifically suited to high-velocity rimfire applications. The 4-12x magnification range hits the sweet spot for .17 HMR shooting, providing enough low-end versatility for closer shots while offering sufficient high-end power for precise varmint work at extended ranges.
The adjustable objective (AO) feature sets this scope apart from fixed parallax competitors, allowing fine-tuning from 10 yards to infinity for crystal-clear target images regardless of distance. This capability proves invaluable when transitioning between close-range pest control and longer-range prairie dog work, ensuring your point of aim remains precisely where you expect it. The side-mounted adjustment turret operates with smooth precision, featuring clear yardage markings that eliminate guesswork in field conditions.
Vortex’s Dead-Hold BDC reticle transforms the A17 into a precision varminting system, providing multiple aiming points calibrated for .17 HMR trajectories. The reticle’s hash marks correspond to specific yardage increments when properly zeroed, allowing quick and accurate shots on varmints without the need for turret adjustments. The Christmas tree design also incorporates wind hold references, helping compensate for the .17 HMR’s wind sensitivity in challenging field conditions.
Optical performance reflects Vortex’s expertise in delivering clear, bright images across all lighting conditions. The fully multi-coated lenses maximize light transmission while minimizing glare and internal reflections, ensuring crisp target resolution during the prime shooting hours when varmints are most active. The 44mm objective lens gathers sufficient light for extended shooting sessions while maintaining a reasonable profile that won’t overwhelm the A17’s sleek lines.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 4-12x |
| Objective Lens | 44mm |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Eye Relief | 4 inches |
| Field of View | 26-8.8 feet @ 100 yards |
| Turret Style | Capped with 1/4 MOA clicks |
| Reticle | Dead-Hold BDC (Second Focal Plane) |
| Weight | 22.5 oz |
| Length | 12.9 inches |
| Warranty | VIP Unlimited Lifetime |
Pros
- Adjustable objective parallax eliminates parallax error at any distance from 10 yards to infinity
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle provides precise holdover points calibrated for .17 HMR ballistics
- Exceptional build quality with aircraft-grade aluminum construction and hard anodized finish
- Outstanding warranty coverage backed by Vortex’s famous VIP unlimited lifetime guarantee
- Perfect magnification range ideal for both close pest control and long-range varmint hunting
- Superior optical clarity with fully multi-coated lenses delivering bright, clear images
Cons
- Heavier weight compared to some competitors may affect rifle balance for extended carry
Transform your Savage A17 into the ultimate varminting machine with optics that match your rifle’s precision potential. This scope delivers the clarity, accuracy, and reliability you need to make every shot count, whether you’re controlling pests around the farm or pursuing challenging long-range varmints. Don’t compromise on performance when your shooting success depends on having the right optic for the job.
Check Price on Amazon2) Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 (Best for Traditional Hunting Applications)
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 brings over a century of American optical excellence to your Savage A17, delivering the legendary reliability and optical performance that has made Leupold a trusted name in hunting camps worldwide. This scope embodies the perfect marriage of traditional hunting optic design with modern technological advances, creating an instrument ideally suited for hunters who value proven performance over flashy features. Built in Oregon with the same meticulous attention to detail found in Leupold’s flagship models, the VX-Freedom carries forward a legacy of field-proven reliability that has earned the trust of generations of serious hunters.
The classic 3-9x magnification range represents the gold standard for hunting scopes, providing the versatility needed for diverse hunting scenarios from dense cover encounters to open-country shots. At 3x, the scope delivers a generous field of view perfect for tracking fast-moving small game or conducting quick follow-up shots on multiple varmints. The 9x high end provides sufficient magnification for precise shot placement on distant prairie dogs or ground squirrels, while still maintaining enough field of view to locate and track your targets effectively.
Leupold’s Twilight Max HD Light Management System elevates this scope above budget competitors, utilizing advanced coating technologies that dramatically extend usable shooting time during dawn and dusk periods. These specialized coatings maximize light transmission across the visible spectrum while maintaining natural color rendition, allowing you to distinguish subtle details in target identification and background separation. For varmint hunters who capitalize on early morning and late evening activity periods, this technology provides a tangible advantage in field performance.
The Custom Dial System (CDS) compatibility adds tremendous value for precision-minded shooters, allowing Leupold to create custom elevation turrets calibrated specifically to your .17 HMR load and preferred shooting distances. This feature transforms the scope from a traditional hunting optic into a precision instrument capable of delivering repeatable accuracy at predetermined ranges without holdover calculations or reticle references.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Eye Relief | 4.2 inches |
| Field of View | 33.5-11.2 feet @ 100 yards |
| Turret Style | Finger-adjustable with protective caps |
| Reticle | Duplex (Second Focal Plane) |
| Weight | 12.1 oz |
| Length | 12.6 inches |
| Warranty | Full Lifetime Guarantee |
Pros
- Legendary Leupold reliability backed by over 100 years of precision optics manufacturing
- Twilight Max HD coating system extends effective shooting time in low-light conditions
- CDS compatibility allows custom elevation dials matched to your specific ammunition
- Lightweight construction won’t significantly alter your rifle’s handling characteristics
- American craftsmanship built in Oregon with rigorous quality control standards
- Time-tested design proven reliable across decades of field use by serious hunters
Cons
- Traditional reticle design lacks modern ballistic compensation features found in newer scopes
The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 represents the pinnacle of traditional hunting optic design, delivering proven performance that will serve your Savage A17 faithfully for decades of hunting adventures. When reliability matters more than complexity, this scope provides the essential features you need without unnecessary bells and whistles that can complicate field use. Invest in American craftsmanship and optical excellence that has stood the test of time.
Check Price on Amazon3) Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP (Best Advanced Features for Precision Work)
The Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP revolutionizes what shooters can expect from mid-priced optics, delivering advanced features typically reserved for scopes costing significantly more while maintaining the reliability and optical quality that serious varmint hunters demand. This scope represents Primary Arms’ commitment to democratizing precision shooting technology, making first focal plane designs and sophisticated reticle systems accessible to everyday shooters who refuse to compromise on performance. The innovative engineering behind this optic proves that exceptional value doesn’t require sacrificing the advanced features that enhance shooting precision and field effectiveness.
The first focal plane design ensures reticle subtensions remain accurate throughout the entire magnification range, a critical advantage for precision varmint work where quick range estimates and holdover calculations can mean the difference between success and missed opportunities. Unlike second focal plane scopes where reticle measurements only work at maximum magnification, the SLx maintains consistent subtensions whether you’re dialed to 4x for close work or cranked to 14x for long-range precision shots.
The ACSS reticle system transforms complex ballistic calculations into intuitive aiming solutions, featuring integrated ranging brackets, wind holds, and elevation compensation points specifically designed for high-velocity cartridges like the .17 HMR. The reticle includes a precise center crosshair for exact aiming, surrounded by ranging brackets that help estimate target distances based on standard varmint sizes. Additional hash marks provide wind drift compensation and bullet drop references, creating a complete aiming system that reduces field guesswork.
Japanese glass construction delivers optical performance that rivals scopes costing twice as much, with excellent color fidelity and contrast that reveals subtle target details essential for precision varmint hunting. The fully multi-coated lens system maximizes light transmission while minimizing chromatic aberration, ensuring sharp, clear images across the entire field of view. The generous 44mm objective lens provides excellent light gathering capabilities for extended shooting sessions during prime varmint activity periods.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 4-14x |
| Objective Lens | 44mm |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Eye Relief | 3.5 inches |
| Field of View | 26.9-7.4 feet @ 100 yards |
| Turret Style | Capped with 1/4 MOA clicks |
| Reticle | ACSS HUD DMR (First Focal Plane) |
| Weight | 22.8 oz |
| Length | 13.4 inches |
| Warranty | 3-Year Warranty |
Pros
- First focal plane design maintains reticle accuracy at all magnification levels
- Advanced ACSS reticle provides integrated ranging, wind holds, and bullet drop compensation
- Japanese glass construction delivers exceptional optical clarity and color accuracy
- 30mm main tube provides increased internal adjustment range and enhanced strength
- Outstanding value proposition offers premium features at an accessible price point
- Intuitive reticle system simplifies complex ballistic calculations in field conditions
Cons
- Shorter warranty period compared to some competitors offering lifetime coverage
The Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP elevates your Savage A17 to professional precision levels, providing advanced optical technology that enhances your shooting capabilities and field success rate. When you’re ready to experience the advantages of first focal plane design and sophisticated reticle systems, this scope delivers performance that will exceed your expectations. Take your varmint hunting to the next level with optics designed for serious precision work.
Check Price on Amazon4) Nikon Prostaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 (Best Budget-Friendly Precision)
The Nikon Prostaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 represents the perfect intersection of Nikon’s legendary optical expertise and purpose-built rimfire optimization, delivering specialized features specifically engineered for high-performance rimfire cartridges like the .17 HMR. This scope embodies Nikon’s understanding that rimfire shooting demands different optical solutions than centerfire applications, incorporating design elements and reticle systems calibrated for the unique ballistic characteristics of rimfire ammunition. The result is an optic that maximizes the Savage A17’s accuracy potential while maintaining the affordability that makes precision shooting accessible to every shooter.
The BDC 150 reticle system transforms your A17 into a precision varminting instrument, featuring ballistic compensation circles specifically calibrated for .17 HMR trajectory patterns. Unlike generic reticles that require extensive calculation and field verification, the BDC 150 provides pre-calculated aiming points that correspond to specific yardage increments when properly zeroed with common .17 HMR loads. This system allows quick, accurate shots on varmints at extended ranges without the complexity of turret adjustments or holdover estimations.
Nikon’s multicoated optical system ensures maximum light transmission and image clarity across all lighting conditions, utilizing the same advanced coating technologies found in their professional camera lenses. The precision-ground lenses deliver edge-to-edge sharpness with minimal chromatic aberration, revealing fine target details essential for precise shot placement on small varmints. The 40mm objective provides excellent light gathering capabilities while maintaining a trim profile that complements the A17’s sleek design aesthetic.
The scope’s construction reflects Nikon’s commitment to reliability and durability, featuring a one-piece aluminum main tube that’s nitrogen-filled and O-ring sealed for complete waterproof and fog-proof performance. The internal mechanisms are engineered to withstand the unique stresses of semi-automatic rimfire shooting, including the rapid cycling forces and vibration patterns that can affect scope tracking and reliability over time.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Eye Relief | 3.6 inches |
| Field of View | 33.8-11.3 feet @ 100 yards |
| Turret Style | Spring-loaded instant zero-reset |
| Reticle | BDC 150 (Second Focal Plane) |
| Weight | 14.6 oz |
| Length | 12.4 inches |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
Pros
- BDC 150 reticle specifically calibrated for .17 HMR ballistic performance
- Rimfire-optimized design engineered for high-velocity rimfire cartridge characteristics
- Nikon optical quality delivers exceptional clarity and color fidelity
- Spring-loaded turrets provide instant zero-reset capability for field adjustments
- Excellent value pricing makes precision rimfire optics accessible to all shooters
- Compact, lightweight design maintains excellent rifle balance and handling
Cons
- Limited magnification range may not provide sufficient power for extreme long-range applications
The Nikon Prostaff Rimfire II 3-9×40 unlocks the precision potential of your Savage A17 with optics specifically designed for rimfire excellence. When you want proven optical quality combined with rimfire-specific features at an unbeatable price, this scope delivers everything you need for successful varmint hunting and precision shooting. Experience the difference that purpose-built rimfire optics make in your field performance.
Check Price on Amazon5) Burris Droptine 3-9×40 (Best Entry-Level Performance Value)
The Burris Droptine 3-9×40 exemplifies the company’s philosophy of making quality optics accessible to every hunter, delivering reliable performance and essential features at a price point that won’t strain modest budgets or intimidate new shooters entering the world of precision rimfire shooting. This scope represents Burris’s commitment to providing genuine optical value rather than compromising quality to meet aggressive price targets, ensuring that budget-conscious shooters don’t have to sacrifice reliability or performance when outfitting their Savage A17 for hunting adventures.
The proven 3-9x magnification range provides the versatility most hunters need for diverse shooting scenarios, from close-range pest control around farm buildings to longer shots on prairie dogs in open country. At the 3x setting, you’ll enjoy a wide field of view that makes target acquisition fast and intuitive, while the 9x high end delivers sufficient magnification for ethical shot placement on small varmints at reasonable hunting distances. This range perfectly matches the A17’s intended applications without unnecessary complexity that can complicate field use.
Burris’s Hi-Lume multicoating technology ensures optimal light transmission and image brightness, utilizing multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces to maximize optical performance. While this coating system may not match the sophistication of premium alternatives, it delivers tangible improvements in image quality and low-light performance compared to uncoated or single-coated budget options. The result is noticeably brighter, clearer images during the dawn and dusk periods when many varmints are most active.
The scope’s mechanical systems are engineered for reliability and repeatability, featuring positive-click adjustments that provide consistent tracking and return to zero performance. The finger-adjustable turrets include protective caps that prevent accidental adjustment while allowing easy field modifications when needed. Internal nitrogen filling and O-ring sealing ensure complete weatherproofing, protecting your investment regardless of environmental conditions encountered in the field.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Magnification | 3-9x |
| Objective Lens | 40mm |
| Tube Diameter | 1 inch |
| Eye Relief | 3.1-4.1 inches |
| Field of View | 33-11 feet @ 100 yards |
| Turret Style | Finger-adjustable with protective caps |
| Reticle | Ballistic Plex (Second Focal Plane) |
| Weight | 12.9 oz |
| Length | 12.1 inches |
| Warranty | Forever Warranty |
Pros
- Outstanding value pricing delivers quality optics without breaking the budget
- Ballistic Plex reticle provides holdover references for extended shooting ranges
- Hi-Lume multicoating maximizes light transmission and image brightness
- Forever Warranty demonstrates manufacturer confidence and provides peace of mind
- Lightweight construction maintains excellent rifle handling and balance characteristics
- Proven reliability backed by Burris’s decades of optics manufacturing experience
Cons
- Basic feature set lacks advanced capabilities found in higher-priced alternatives
The Burris Droptine 3-9×40 proves that quality optics don’t have to cost a fortune, providing your Savage A17 with reliable performance that will enhance your shooting experience and field success. When budget considerations are important but you refuse to compromise on essential quality, this scope delivers the features you need at a price that makes sense. Start your precision rimfire journey with optics that offer genuine value and proven reliability.
Check Price on AmazonConclusion
Selecting the optimal scope for your Savage A17 ultimately depends on your specific shooting applications, performance expectations, and budget considerations, but each optic in our comprehensive review offers unique advantages that can transform your rimfire shooting experience. The beauty of the Savage A17 platform lies in its innovative semi-automatic action and exceptional accuracy potential, characteristics that are perfectly complemented by quality optics designed to maximize the rifle’s precision capabilities and enhance your field success across diverse hunting and shooting scenarios.
For shooters who demand the ultimate in versatility and features, the Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×44 AO stands as our top choice, combining adjustable objective parallax elimination with the practical Dead-Hold BDC reticle system that makes long-range varmint shooting more intuitive and successful. The Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 offers time-tested reliability and American craftsmanship for hunters who value traditional optical excellence, while the Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP brings advanced first focal plane technology and sophisticated reticle systems to shooters ready to embrace modern precision shooting techniques.
Budget-conscious shooters will find exceptional value in both the Nikon Prostaff Rimfire II 3-9×40, with its rimfire-specific BDC reticle calibrated for .17 HMR performance, and the Burris Droptine 3-9×40, which proves that quality optics remain accessible regardless of budget constraints. Each scope brings proven reliability and optical performance that will serve your A17 faithfully across years of hunting adventures and precision shooting sessions.
The Savage A17 represents a revolutionary achievement in rimfire technology, and pairing it with quality optics unlocks the full potential of this exceptional platform. Whether you’re pursuing challenging long-range varmints, controlling pests around agricultural operations, or simply enjoying precision recreational shooting, investing in proper optics will dramatically improve your accuracy, extend your effective range, and increase your overall shooting satisfaction and field success rate.
Richard Brown is a long-range shooting enthusiast and competitive shooter with extensive experience in scopes across multiple disciplines. He hunts regularly across the Midwest and has built his expertise through years of hands-on testing in both competitive shooting and hunting. Richard also instructs youth rifle shooting, which has given him perspective on scopes at every price point and skill level. He combines technical knowledge with practical field experience to provide honest reviews – contact me