BSA Sweet 17 3-12x 40mm RGB Cross Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope Review

My first impression of BSA Sweet 17 3-12x 40mm RGB Cross Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope

Rimfire rifles, especially those chambered in .17 HMR, hold a special place in the hearts of many varmint hunters and target shooters. The flat trajectory and relatively low recoil of the .17 HMR make it a joy to shoot. When I first laid eyes on the BSA Sweet 17 3-12x 40mm RGB Cross Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope, I was intrigued by its specific design for this popular cartridge.

I was looking for an optic that could handle the unique ballistics of the .17 HMR without breaking the bank. I wanted something with adjustable parallax and a reticle that would be useful in low-light conditions. The BSA Sweet 17 seemed to fit the bill.

Out of the box, the scope has a solid feel. Its matte black finish gives it a tactical appearance. The turrets are easy to grip. Compared to a Vortex Diamondback or a Leupold VX-Freedom in similar magnification ranges, the BSA feels a bit bulkier. However, it promises specific calibration for my rifle. Initially, I was excited to see if its ballistic compensation claims held water in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting BSA Sweet 17 3-12x 40mm RGB Cross Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

I mounted the BSA Sweet 17 on my Savage A17 and headed to my favorite prairie dog hunting spot. The terrain is vast and open, with shots ranging from 50 to 200 yards being common. The conditions were typical for early summer in Wyoming: sunny with a moderate breeze.

Getting behind the scope, the first thing I noticed was the surprisingly clear glass for a scope in this price range. The side parallax adjustment was easy to use. Dialing it in from 10 yards to infinity allowed for a sharp image at various distances. The illuminated reticle, offering red, green, and blue options, was helpful as the sun began to set. After a few test shots, the ballistic turret began to feel very intuitive. There was a learning curve, but the results were apparent.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the BSA Sweet 17 has proven to be a reliable performer. The scope has held zero consistently, even after some rough handling in the field. There are a few minor scratches on the matte finish from rubbing against my rifle case. These are purely cosmetic.

Cleaning the lenses is simple with a microfiber cloth. I’ve found that a quick wipe-down after each hunting trip keeps the scope in excellent condition. It definitely outperforms some cheaper scopes I’ve used in the past. It does not, however, achieve the same quality glass as other premium options on the market.

Breaking Down the Features of BSA Sweet 17 3-12x 40mm RGB Cross Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope

Specifications

The BSA Sweet 17 3-12x 40mm RGB Cross Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope boasts several key specifications. The magnification ranges from 3x to 12x, offering versatility for both close and longer-range shots. It also has a 40mm objective lens. This allows for ample light gathering. The field of view spans from 8.3 to 33 feet at 100 yards. This provides a good balance between situational awareness and target focus.

Eye relief is a comfortable 4 inches. The 1-inch tube diameter makes it compatible with a wide range of scope rings. Weighing in at 18.3 ounces, the scope adds a noticeable but manageable amount of weight to the rifle. The illuminated RGB Cross reticle and adjustable parallax (10 yards to infinity) further enhance its utility. The .25 MOA adjustment size allows for precise corrections. These specifications contribute to its accuracy and ease of use.

Performance & Functionality

The BSA Sweet 17 performs admirably within its intended role. Its accuracy is excellent, especially when the ballistic turret is properly calibrated for your specific .17 HMR load. The illuminated reticle is a game-changer in low-light conditions. The ability to switch between red, green, and blue illumination provides flexibility to adapt to varying ambient light.

Its main weakness lies in its optical clarity compared to higher-end scopes. While perfectly adequate for most hunting situations, the image isn’t as crisp or bright as you’d find in a premium optic. This scope definitely meets expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the BSA Sweet 17 is robust for its price point. The materials used feel durable, and the matte black finish provides a non-reflective surface that’s ideal for hunting. The scope’s weight is manageable. It does not make the rifle feel overly unbalanced.

The turrets are easy to grip and adjust, even with gloved hands. Overall, the scope is user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and adjustment to get it dialed in.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the BSA Sweet 17 should last for many years. The scope’s construction appears solid, and I haven’t experienced any mechanical failures during testing. Maintenance is straightforward. Keeping the lenses clean and storing the scope properly when not in use will help prolong its lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The BSA Sweet 17 comes with a 3-inch sunshade. This is a welcome addition for reducing glare in bright sunlight. There aren’t many customization options available for this specific model. You can use any standard 1-inch scope rings to mount it to your rifle.

It is compatible with various aftermarket lens covers for added protection.

Pros and Cons of BSA Sweet 17 3-12x 40mm RGB Cross Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope