BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope Review

Let’s Dive into BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope

The BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope aims to be the perfect pairing for your .17 HMR rifle. It promises accuracy and ease-of-use with its adjustable parallax and specifically calibrated turret. Is it truly a “sweet” deal, or does its affordability come at a cost?

I’ve spent countless hours fine-tuning rifles for precision work, from nailing tight groups at long ranges to ethical hunting shots in challenging conditions. I needed a scope that could deliver consistent performance on my .17 HMR without breaking the bank. The BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope seemed like a potential solution to offer good value.

Upon unboxing, the scope felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The matte black finish looked clean, and the turrets had a tactile click. I immediately noted the weight, at nearly 20 ounces, feeling substantial.

I was also considering the Bushnell Rimfire Optics 3-9x40mm and the Simmons Truplex 3-9x32mm. I ultimately chose the BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope because of its higher magnification range and the promise of .17 HMR-specific calibration. I hoped the features would translate into better long-range accuracy with my .17 HMR rifle.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. While the build quality seemed decent, I was eager to see how it performed in real-world conditions. Could a budget-friendly scope truly deliver the precision needed for accurate .17 HMR shooting?

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

I mounted the BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope on my Savage 93R17 and headed to my local shooting range. The day was slightly overcast with a mild breeze, ideal conditions for sighting in a new scope. I zeroed the rifle at 50 yards and then started testing the scope at 100 and 150 yards.

The scope performed reasonably well at 100 yards, producing acceptable groups. However, at 150 yards and beyond, I noticed a significant drop in clarity. It was a struggle to make out the finer details of the target.

The ease of use was adequate. Adjusting the parallax was straightforward, but the turret clicks felt a little mushy and not as precise as I would have liked. I initially struggled to find the optimal eye relief, which required precise head positioning, corroborating feedback found elsewhere.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope has held up surprisingly well. There are no signs of major wear and tear, and the matte black finish has proven to be quite durable. I keep the lenses clean with a microfiber cloth and occasionally wipe down the scope body with a damp cloth.

The scope has maintained its zero, even after being subjected to some rough handling in the field. However, the image clarity at higher magnifications continues to be a limiting factor. It’s not a scope you’d want to rely on for making precise shots at extended ranges.

Compared to some of my higher-end scopes, the BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope clearly falls short in terms of optical quality. However, considering its price point, it’s a decent performer that gets the job done for casual target shooting and short-range hunting. Its lower clarity at range can be a drawback.

Breaking Down the Features of BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope

Specifications

• The BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope features a 40mm objective lens, gathering a decent amount of light for a bright image in most conditions. Larger objectives typically mean brighter images.
• It offers a 6-18x magnification range, providing versatility for both close-range and longer-range shooting. The higher magnification allows for more precise aiming at distant targets.
• The scope utilizes a 30/30 reticle (duplex), a classic design that provides a clear aiming point without obscuring the target. Simplicity allows for ease of use.
• It has a 1-inch tube diameter, which is a common size, making it compatible with a wide range of scope rings. A standard size allows for a wide range of mounting solutions.
• The scope is calibrated for the .17 HMR bullet, with specific turret adjustments designed for this cartridge. Calibrated adjustments simplify holdover calculations.
• It features adjustable parallax from 10 yards to infinity, allowing for precise focus at various distances. Parallax adjustment is crucial for maintaining accuracy.
• The adjustment click value is 1/4 MOA, providing relatively fine adjustments for precise zeroing. Fine adjustments are important for dialing in the perfect shot.
• The scope has an eye relief of 4 inches, offering comfortable viewing and reducing the risk of scope bite. Adequate eye relief is essential for shooter safety and comfort.
• It is constructed from aluminum, making it lightweight yet durable. Aluminum offers a good balance of weight and strength.
• The lenses are fully multi-coated, enhancing light transmission and image clarity. Multi-coating improves image brightness and reduces glare.
• The scope is waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof, ensuring reliable performance in various weather conditions. Durability is a key factor for outdoor use.

Performance & Functionality

The BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope performs adequately for its intended purpose. It allows for reasonably accurate shooting with a .17 HMR rifle, particularly at shorter ranges. The .17 HMR caliber specific turrets can simplify shots at known distances.

However, its optical quality is not on par with higher-end scopes. The image clarity decreases noticeably at higher magnifications and longer distances. This makes it more challenging to make precise shots, especially in low-light conditions.

The scope meets expectations for a budget-friendly option. But it certainly does not exceed them. It provides a usable sighting system for a .17 HMR, but it’s not a scope that will wow you with its performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope has a functional but unremarkable design. The matte black finish is practical and helps to reduce glare. However, the overall aesthetic is somewhat generic.

The build quality is acceptable for the price, but it doesn’t feel as robust as some of my more expensive scopes. The turrets, while functional, lack the crisp, tactile feel of higher-quality adjustments. The user-friendliness is adequate. However, finding the optimal eye relief can be a bit finicky.

Durability & Maintenance

The BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope appears to be reasonably durable. After several months of use, it has shown no signs of major wear and tear. The waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof construction gives me confidence that it can withstand the rigors of field use.

Maintenance is simple. Cleaning the lenses with a microfiber cloth is usually sufficient to keep the scope in good working order. The scope seems like it will last a decent amount of time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope comes with 17gr turret drums. These drums allow for quick and easy adjustments based on the distance to the target when using 17-grain .17 HMR ammunition. The included turret drums are a nice bonus.

There are no other specific customization options for the scope itself. However, it is compatible with a wide range of 1-inch scope rings, allowing you to choose the mounting system that best suits your rifle and shooting style. Aftermarket rings allow for custom height options.

Pros and Cons of BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope?

The BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope is perfect for casual target shooters and varmint hunters who primarily shoot at shorter ranges. It’s a good option for those on a tight budget who want a scope specifically designed for their .17 HMR rifle. It’s a great starter scope for .17 HMR owners.

Hunters needing crystal-clear images at long ranges, especially in low light, should skip this product. Competitive shooters looking for the utmost precision should also look elsewhere. Those with higher budgets can afford better glass.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality set of scope rings to ensure a secure and stable mount. Consider a sunshade to reduce glare in bright conditions.

Conclusion on BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope

The BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope offers a decent value proposition for .17 HMR enthusiasts on a budget. Its specific calibration for the cartridge and adjustable parallax are useful features. But its optical limitations are a significant drawback.

At around $165, the price is justified for what you get. However, be aware of its limitations and set your expectations accordingly. It’s not a high-end optic, but it will get the job done for many shooters.

I would recommend the BSA Optics Sweet .17 6-18x40mm Rifle Scope to those who understand its limitations and are primarily looking for an affordable and functional scope for their .17 HMR. If you need crystal-clear images at long ranges, you’ll need to spend more. It’s a good entry-level option for .17 HMR enthusiasts.