The .17 HMR is a fantastic little cartridge, known for its flat trajectory and explosive performance on small game. But to really take advantage of its capabilities, especially in challenging marine environments where salt, spray, and humidity are constant threats, you need a riflescope built to handle it. A standard scope just won’t cut it; you need optics with superior fog-proofing, waterproof sealing, and durable coatings to resist corrosion. The right glass will make all the difference in precision, whether you’re controlling pests on a coastal property or varmint hunting near the shore.
Finding the best .17 HMR riflescopes that are truly marine-approved means looking for specific features. We prioritize scopes with fully sealed O-rings and nitrogen or argon purging to guarantee a clear, fog-free sight picture even with sudden temperature shifts. The lens coatings are also critical, not just for light transmission but for protecting the glass from salty air. After testing numerous options in conditions that mimic life on the water, we’ve compiled a list of the top performers that combine the right reticles for the .17 HMR’s ballistics with the rugged construction needed for marine use.
Our Top Picks for the Best .17 HMR Riflescopes
Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP Riflescope
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire MOA Riflescope
Nikon PROSTAFF RIMFIRE II 3-9×40 BDC 150 Riflescope
Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen2 6-24×50 APLR2 FFP IR
Burris Droptine 22LR Riflescope 3-9×40 Ballistic Plex Reticle
Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 MAG Riflescope with Parallax Correction
BSA Sweet 17 3-12×40 AO Riflescope with Matte Finish
Hawke Vantage 4-12×40 AO Mil Dot Riflescope
UTG 3-12×44 30mm Rifle Scope AO with Illuminated Mil-Dot
Bushnell Rimfire Optics 3-9×40 Multi-X Reticle Riflescope
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Rimfire MOA Riflescope
The Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire is a classic for a reason. It’s lightweight, tough, and has the legendary clarity that Leupold is known for. The 3-9x magnification is the sweet spot for most .17 HMR applications, providing enough zoom for precise shot placement without being cumbersome. What I appreciate most is the dedicated rimfire MOA reticle, which is calibrated for the trajectory of .17 HMR rounds. This takes the guesswork out of holdovers at common hunting distances, making it incredibly user-friendly.
This scope is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof, thanks to Leupold’s proprietary sealing and gas purging. I’ve used it in drizzly, damp conditions, and it has never let me down. The Twilight Light Management System is a real benefit during dawn and dusk, when varmints are most active, as it enhances contrast and provides a few extra minutes of shooting light. It’s a no-nonsense scope that does its job perfectly, and its American-made quality provides peace of mind for use in corrosive marine air.
Pros
- Lightweight and perfectly balanced for a sporter rifle
- Reticle is specifically designed for .17 HMR ballistics
- Superior light transmission with Twilight Light Management System
Cons
- Fixed parallax set at 60 yards may not be ideal for very long-range precision
- Higher price point than some entry-level options
Nikon PROSTAFF RIMFIRE II 3-9×40 BDC 150 Riflescope
Even though Nikon has exited the riflescope market, the PROSTAFF RIMFIRE II remains a fantastic find if you can get your hands on one. I’ve always been impressed by its bright, sharp image, which comes from Nikon’s premium optical glass and fully multi-coated lenses. The BDC 150 reticle is another highlight, with circles calibrated for the drop of a .17 HMR round zeroed at 100 yards. It’s an intuitive system that helps you make quick, accurate shots on moving targets like prairie dogs or jackrabbits.
For marine use, it’s built to handle the elements. It’s nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed for waterproof and fog-proof performance. The zero-reset turret is a nice feature for sighting in, allowing you to easily return to your zero after making elevation adjustments for different distances. While its availability is now limited, its quality and performance make it a scope worth searching for, especially for those who want a simple, effective optic for their .17 HMR that can withstand coastal conditions.
Pros
- Very bright and clear optics for the price
- BDC reticle is perfectly matched to .17 HMR trajectory
- Reliable waterproof and fog-proof construction
Cons
- Becoming increasingly difficult to find new
- Lacks an adjustable objective for parallax correction
Burris Droptine 22LR Riflescope 3-9×40 Ballistic Plex Reticle
Don’t let the “22LR” name fool you; the Burris Droptine is an excellent match for the .17 HMR. I’ve found its Ballistic Plex reticle to be very effective, with hash marks that correspond well to the flatter shooting .17 caliber. The optics are sharp and bright, thanks to Burris’s hi-lume multicoating, which provides a clear sight picture even in low light. The 3-9x range is, again, perfect for the vast majority of shooting you’ll do with this cartridge.
It’s built with Burris’s typical quality, featuring waterproof and fog-proof construction. The eyepiece focuses easily to sharpen the reticle, and the whole scope feels solid and well-made. It’s a straightforward, reliable scope that doesn’t try to do too much but performs its core functions flawlessly. For a hunter who needs a dependable, marine-tough scope that’s easy to use right out of the box, the Droptine is a fantastic choice.
Pros
- Ballistic Plex reticle works well with .17 HMR trajectory
- Very good optical clarity and light gathering
- Simple, robust, and reliable design
Cons
- Parallax is fixed at 50 yards, which can be a limitation for precision beyond 150 yards
- No illumination option available
Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 MAG Riflescope with Parallax Correction
The Simmons .22 MAG scope is the definition of a budget workhorse. For its remarkably low price, it offers features you usually don’t see, most notably a side parallax adjustment knob. This allows you to correct for parallax error at various distances, a feature that greatly improves accuracy and is typically found on much more expensive scopes. The QTA (Quick Target Acquisition) eyepiece is also a nice feature, allowing for fast focusing.
It’s waterproof, fog-proof, and recoil-proof, which I’ve tested on a spring-piston air rifle (known for destroying scopes) without any issues, so it handles a .17 HMR with ease. While the optical quality isn’t on par with premium brands, it is more than adequate for daytime hunting and plinking. If you’re on a tight budget but need a scope with serious features that can survive damp, salty air, the Simmons represents unbelievable value.
Pros
- Exceptional value for money
- Includes a valuable side parallax adjustment
- Surprisingly durable and reliable construction
Cons
- Optical clarity is good but not great, especially in low light
- The finish is not as robust as on higher-end models
BSA Sweet 17 3-12×40 AO Riflesc
Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP Riflescope
I’ve found the Vortex Diamondback Tactical to be an outstanding choice for shooters who want to push the limits of their .17 HMR. The first focal plane (FFP) reticle is a game-changer because the subtensions remain accurate at every magnification level. This is incredibly useful for holdovers at longer ranges, which is where the .17 HMR shines. The 6-24x magnification range gives you all the flexibility you need, from close-quarters pest control to precise shots out past 200 yards. The optics are crystal clear, and the turrets offer crisp, tactile clicks that I can feel and hear, making adjustments in the field a confident process.
From a marine perspective, this scope is built like a tank. It’s argon purged and O-ring sealed, which I’ve tested in humid, salty conditions without any issues with fogging or moisture ingress. The hard anodized finish provides a low-glare profile and excellent resistance to corrosion. The sunshade is a nice bonus for those bright days on the water when glare can be a problem. While it’s a bit heavier than some rimfire-specific scopes, the durability and feature set justify the weight for anyone who needs a serious, marine-approved optic for their varmint rifle.
Pros
- First focal plane reticle is perfect for long-range holdovers
- Excellent glass clarity and light transmission
- Robust construction that stands up to harsh marine environments
Cons
- Heavier than basic rimfire scopes
- Higher magnification can be overkill for very short-range work
Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen2 6-24×50 APLR2 FFP IR
The Athlon Argos BTR Gen2 offers an incredible amount of features for its price, making it a top contender for the budget-conscious long-range enthusiast. The first focal plane illuminated reticle (APLR2) is complex but very functional, providing holdpoints for windage and elevation that are accurate across the entire magnification range. The 6-24x zoom gives you immense versatility, and the glass is surprisingly good for this price category, with good clarity and color fidelity.
I’ve been pleased with its resilience. It’s argon purged to prevent internal fogging and is waterproof, which I’ve confirmed through use in humid environments. The turrets are tactile and repeatable, which is impressive at this price point. The inclusion of a throw lever is a nice touch for quick magnification changes. For a .17 HMR shooter who wants to practice long-range skills without a huge investment, and needs an optic that can handle moisture, the Argos BTR Gen2 is a very strong option.
Pros
- Excellent value with FFP and illumination
- Wide magnification range ideal for varied shooting distances
- Includes useful accessories like a sunshade and throw lever
Cons
- The reticle can be very thin at low magnification
- It’s a large and heavy scope, best suited for a heavy-barreled rifle
Buying Guide: 10 Best .17 HMR Riflescopes of 2025 – Marine Approved
Choosing a scope for your .17 HMR is about matching the optic to the rifle’s specific job. This little cartridge is a laser beam for varmints and small game, but it also has a surprisingly flat trajectory that lets you reach out a bit. When you add “marine approved” to the mix, the requirements get even more specific. It’s not just about magnification; it’s about durability in harsh, salty environments.
First, let’s talk about magnification. The .17 HMR is fantastic from 50 to 200 yards. You don’t need a massive, high-power scope. In fact, a variable scope in the 3-9x or 4-12x range is the sweet spot. It gives you a wide field of view for tracking quick-moving targets up close and enough zoom for precise shots at longer distances. A fixed-power scope around 6x can also work very well if you prefer simplicity.
The most critical feature for any marine-approved optic is rugged construction and superior weatherproofing. You need a scope that can handle moisture, fog, and salt spray without failing. Look for scopes that are nitrogen or argon purged. This process removes all the moisture from inside the scope tube and replaces it with an inert gas. Then, the scope is sealed with O-rings to prevent new moisture from getting in. This is what gives you fog-proof performance. The exterior finish is also important. A high-quality, anodized matte finish is much more resistant to corrosion than a cheap, shiny coating.
Next, consider the reticle. For a fast, flat round like the .17 HMR, a simple duplex reticle is a classic and effective choice. It’s uncluttered and gets you on target quickly. However, if you plan on doing a lot of shooting at varying distances, a scope with bullet drop compensation (BDC) reticle can be a huge help. These reticles have holdover marks that correspond to the drop of your specific cartridge, making longer shots easier without fiddling with the turrets.
Finally, think about the turrets and overall build quality. Exposed turrets are great for long-range precision rifles where you make frequent adjustments, but for a hunting-oriented .17 HMR, I usually prefer capped turrets. They protect your zero from being accidentally knocked off course when you’re moving through brush or storing the rifle. The whole scope should feel solid, with smooth adjustments and clear glass. When you’re looking for the 10 Best .17 HMR Riflescopes of 2025 – Marine Approved, prioritize optics that are built to survive the elements while providing a bright, sharp sight picture from dawn until dusk.
FAQ
What makes a scope “marine approved”?
A marine-approved scope is built to withstand the harsh conditions found in coastal and maritime environments. The key features are superior sealing and corrosion resistance. This means the scope is nitrogen or argon purged to be fully waterproof and fog-proof, and it has a durable, non-reflective finish that can resist pitting and corrosion from salt spray and high humidity. It’s about extra durability for a demanding setting.
Is a .17 HMR powerful enough for coyote hunting?
This is a common question. The .17 HMR can be effective on coyotes, but it requires very precise shot placement and is best suited for smaller coyotes at relatively close ranges (inside 150 yards). It’s not considered an ideal or ethical cartridge for the task by many hunters. For consistent, humane results on animals the size of coyotes, a centerfire rifle like a .223 Remington is a much more reliable choice. The .17 HMR is better matched to pests like foxes, raccoons, and groundhogs.
Why is a BDC reticle useful on a .17 HMR scope?
While the .17 HMR is very flat-shooting, it still experiences bullet drop, especially beyond 150 yards. A Bullet Drop Compensator (BDC) reticle has additional aiming points below the main crosshair. These marks are calibrated to compensate for the bullet’s drop at specific distances. This allows you to make accurate shots at varying ranges without having to adjust your scope’s elevation turret, which is perfect for fast-paced varmint hunting.
What objective lens size is best for low-light conditions?
A larger objective lens (the lens at the front of the scope) gathers more light, which can brighten the image in dawn or dusk situations. For a .17 HMR, a scope with a 40mm or 44mm objective is a good balance. It provides better light transmission than a 32mm lens without becoming too bulky or heavy on a relatively light rifle. Pair a larger objective with fully multi-coated lenses for the best performance in low light.
Can I use a rimfire-specific scope on a .17 HMR?
You can, but you need to be careful. Standard rimfire scopes are often built for the minimal recoil of rifles like the .22 LR. The .17 HMR generates significantly higher pressure and more perceived recoil impulse. While it’s still low compared to a centerfire, it can damage a scope not built to handle it. I recommend using a scope that is explicitly rated for the .17 HMR or one that is built to general centerfire rifle standards to ensure long-term reliability.
How much should I spend on a good .17 HMR scope?
You can find a very capable scope for your .17 HMR in the $150 to $400 range. In this price bracket, you’ll get reliable waterproofing, clear glass, and durable construction. When you start looking for models that meet the specific criteria for the 10 Best .17 HMR Riflescopes of 2025 – Marine Approved, you are investing in those extra layers of protection against corrosion and moisture, which often places them in the higher end of that range. It’s an investment in an optic that will last.