The .17 Winchester Super Magnum (WSM) is a remarkable cartridge, prized for its flat trajectory, high velocity, and minimal wind drift. This makes it an exceptional choice for varmint control and long-range target shooting. However, to truly harness the potential of this round, you need a riflescope that can keep up with its performance. The right optic will allow you to spot small targets at extended distances and make precise shots with confidence.
Choosing the wrong scope can leave you frustrated, missing the clarity and precision needed for the .17 WSM’s capabilities. Whether you’re hunting prairie dogs or punching paper, factors like magnification range, reticle type, and light transmission are critical. This roundup is designed to help you find the perfect match for your rifle, covering a range of options from budget-friendly picks to feature-packed models for serious shooters.
Top Rifle Scopes for Your .17 WSM
- Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP Rifle Scope
- Nikon ProStaff P3 3-9×40 BDC Rifle Scope
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Duplex Reticle Rifle Scope
- Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle 3-9×40 Rifle Scope
- Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen2 6-24×50 APLR2 FFP IR Rifle Scope
- Burris Fullfield II 3-9×40 Ballistic Plex Reticle Rifle Scope
- Simmons 3-9×32 .17 WSM Truplex Reticle Riflescope
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 4-12×40 AO V-Plex Reticle Rifle Scope
Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP Rifle Scope
For the shooter who demands precision at long range, the Vortex Diamondback Tactical is a top contender. Its First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle means the reticle’s subtensions remain accurate at any magnification level. This is a significant advantage for holdovers and windage corrections when engaging small targets at varying distances with your .17 WSM.
The 6-24x magnification range is ideal for seeing and hitting small varmints at extreme distances. The 50mm objective lens gathers ample light for clear sight pictures during dawn and dusk. Combined with a robust construction and Vortex’s legendary VIP warranty, this scope is built to perform in demanding conditions.
Nikon ProStaff P3 3-9×40 BDC Rifle Scope
The Nikon ProStaff P3 is a user-friendly scope that brings advanced features to a accessible package. It is equipped with a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensating) reticle, which is pre-calibrated to help you estimate holdover at different ranges. This can be a great asset for the fast-flying .17 WSM, allowing for quicker follow-up shots.
Fully multicoated lenses enhance light transmission, providing a bright and clear image. The spot-on ballistic match technology allows you to customize the BDC reticle to your specific rifle and ammunition combination, adding a layer of precision that is very welcome for this caliber.
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Duplex Reticle Rifle Scope
Leupold is a name synonymous with American-made quality and reliability. The VX-Freedom series continues this tradition, offering exceptional optical clarity and ruggedness. The Twilight Light Management System provides extra minutes of shooting light in low-light conditions, which is perfect for early morning or late evening hunts.
With a classic 3-9x magnification and a simple, uncluttered Duplex reticle, this scope is straightforward and effective. Its lightweight design and waterproof/fogproof construction ensure it can handle the elements, making it a dependable partner for your .17 WSM in the field.
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle 3-9×40 Rifle Scope
The Bushnell Banner lives up to its name with Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coatings designed to maximize light transmission during the critical low-light periods when many animals are most active. This feature provides a noticeable advantage when every bit of light matters for a clear shot.
This scope offers a solid 3-9×40 configuration that is well-suited for most .17 WSM applications. The durable one-piece tube construction is both waterproof and fog proof, ensuring reliable performance in all weather conditions. It represents excellent value for hunters seeking performance in low-light scenarios.
Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen2 6-24×50 APLR2 FFP IR Rifle Scope
The Athlon Argos BTR Gen2 is a feature-packed scope that competes with models costing much more. It features a First Focal Plane illuminated reticle (APLR2), which is ideal for precision shooting and low-light use. The zero-stop turrets allow for quick return to your primary zero, a useful feature for long-range target work.
With a high 6-24x magnification and a 50mm objective lens, this scope is built for seeing fine details at very long ranges, making it a strong match for the .17 WSM’s capabilities. The glass quality and turret feel offer a level of refinement that is impressive for its class.
Burris Fullfield II 3-9×40 Ballistic Plex Reticle Rifle Scope
Burris has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable and high-quality optics. The Fullfield II continues this legacy with its Ballistic Plex reticle, which provides aiming points for holdover at extended ranges without cluttering the view. This simplifies the process of connecting with targets at the outer limits of your .17 WSM’s range.
The scope’s index-matched, hand-ground lenses deliver a sharp, high-contrast image. Its sturdy construction and waterproof sealing make it a trustworthy choice for hunters who encounter rough terrain and unpredictable weather.
Simmons 3-9×32 .17 WSM Truplex Reticle Riflescope
The Simmons .17 WSM model is a budget-friendly option that is specifically calibrated for the trajectory of the .17 Winchester Super Magnum cartridge. This specialized reticle takes the guesswork out of holdover for this particular round, offering great value and convenience for hunters on a tight budget.
While it has a slightly smaller 32mm objective lens, it remains a lightweight and functional scope for standard hunting ranges. The QTA (Quick Target Acquisition) eyepiece and waterproof/fogproof design make it a practical and no-fuss choice for getting started with the .17 WSM.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 4-12×40 AO V-Plex Reticle Rifle Scope
The Vortex Crossfire II offers a versatile magnification range of 4-12x, which is a great middle ground for both closer shots and reaching out a bit farther. A key feature is the Adjustable Objective (AO), which allows you to parallax at specific distances, increasing accuracy on small targets.
This scope provides the rugged reliability and crystal-clear optics that Vortex is known for, all backed by their unlimited lifetime warranty. The V-Plex reticle is simple and effective, making it easy to get on target quickly. It’s a fantastic all-around optic for the versatile .17 WSM.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Scope For 17 WSM
Choosing the right glass for your .17 WSM is crucial. This little cartridge is a laser beam, capable of impressive accuracy at extended ranges for its size. I’ve found that the key is matching the scope’s capabilities to the rifle’s inherent precision. You don’t need a massive, heavy scope, but you do need one with clear glass and reliable adjustments.
First, consider magnification. The .17 WSM is fantastic for varmints and small predators from 50 to 300 yards. For this, a variable power scope in the 4-12x, 6-18x, or 4-16x range is the sweet spot. This gives you a wide field of view for closer, faster shots and enough top-end magnification to see your tiny targets clearly at distance. I prefer something with a lower bottom end, like 4x or 6x, for versatility.
Next, the objective lens size matters for light gathering. A 40mm or 44mm objective is a great balance for most hunting scenarios. It keeps the scope profile low and manageable while pulling in plenty of light during dawn and dusk when critters are most active. You generally don’t need a 50mm bell on this platform unless you’re exclusively shooting from a bench.
The reticle is your command center. For a flat-shooting round like the .17 WSM, a simple duplex is fine, but a Mil-Dot or MOA-based reticle is a game-changer. It allows you to hold for wind and elevation without touching the turrets, which is super handy when a prairie dog pops up unexpectedly. I also strongly recommend a scope with an adjustable parallax. Factory-set parallax is often at 100 yards, but when you’re shooting at 250 yards, a parallax error can make your target look blurry and hurt your accuracy. A side-focus knob is a premium feature I always look for.
Finally, think about the turrets. If you’re a hunter who sighted in once and never touches the knobs again, capped turrets are perfect for protection. But if you enjoy long-range target shooting with your rimfire, exposed tactical-style turrets that are easy to dial are worth the investment. Just make sure they track accurately—what good are clicks if they don’t move the point of impact predictably? Durability and a good warranty from brands like Vortex or Leupold are the final pieces of the puzzle for a reliable best scope for 17 WSM.
FAQ
What is the best magnification range for a .17 WSM?
For the vast majority of shooting with a .17 WSM, I find a variable power scope in the 4-12x to 6-18x range to be ideal. This gives you the flexibility for closer, quick shots on the lower end and the precision needed for small targets like ground squirrels at 200+ yards on the higher end. A 4-16x scope is another excellent and popular choice that covers all the bases.
Is a .17 WSM strong enough to damage a scope?
While the .17 WSM is a rimfire cartridge, it generates significantly more energy than a standard .17 HMR or .22 LR. The recoil impulse is still very light, but it’s a sharp, fast jolt rather than a gentle push. A cheap, poorly made scope not built for any recoil could potentially lose zero or fail internally over time. It’s always best to choose a scope from a reputable manufacturer that is built to handle at least a centerfire rifle’s recoil, ensuring longevity and reliability on your best scope for 17 WSM.
Do I need an adjustable objective or side focus?
I highly recommend it, especially if you plan on shooting at varying distances. The .17 WSM is so flat-shooting that you will be engaging targets at 100, 200, and even 300 yards. Parallax error becomes a real factor at these ranges. An adjustable objective (AO) or, even better, a side-focus parallax knob allows you to eliminate this error, giving you a crisper sight picture and more precise shot placement. It’s one of those features you’ll be glad you have.
What type of reticle is best for this rifle?
This depends on your primary use. For pure hunting, a standard duplex reticle is simple and fast. For mixed use that includes target shooting, a reticle with hash marks like a Mil-Dot or an MOA scale is far superior. It lets you quickly compensate for wind drift and bullet drop without fiddling with the turrets. For a cartridge that can reach out as far as the .17 WSM, these holdover points are incredibly useful.
Should I get a scope with exposed or capped turrets?
This comes down to your shooting style. If you are a “set it and forget it” hunter who zeros the rifle and then uses holdovers for different ranges, capped turrets are perfect. They protect the dials from being accidentally moved. If you enjoy dialing your scope for exact range and wind conditions on the target range, then exposed tactical turrets are the way to go. They are easier to grip and adjust quickly and precisely.