First Thoughts on the BSA Sweet 17 3-12x 40mm RGB Cross Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 8.30 – 33 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-12x Adjustable Magnification, 13.30″ Length
The BSA Sweet 17 3-12x 40mm RGB Cross Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope aims to deliver precision and versatility for .17 HMR enthusiasts. Marketed towards varmint hunters and target shooters, it boasts features like side parallax adjustment, a ballistically calibrated elevation turret, and an illuminated reticle. Could this affordable scope deliver on its promises, or would it be another case of getting what you pay for?
My .17 HMR had been sitting in the safe, underutilized due to an inadequate optic. I needed a scope that could handle the .17 HMR’s unique trajectory and offer reliable performance in various lighting conditions, especially for nighttime predator control. This scope seemed to offer the features I needed without breaking the bank.
Out of the box, the BSA Sweet 17 felt surprisingly solid. The matte black finish looked clean, and the turrets had a decent tactile feel. Compared to a Bushnell rimfire scope I’d used previously, the BSA felt a bit more robust, though not quite as refined as a Leupold I own.
I picked the BSA Sweet 17 over a Simmons scope due to the BSA‘s dedicated .17 HMR ballistic calibration and the illuminated reticle; features the Simmons lacked. Initial impressions were cautiously optimistic. I was excited to mount it and see what it could do.
Real-World Testing: Putting BSA Sweet 17 3-12x 40mm RGB Cross Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 8.30 – 33 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-12x Adjustable Magnification, 13.30″ Length to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the BSA Sweet 17 primarily at my local shooting range, focusing on accuracy at 50, 100, and 200 yards. I also took it out on a nighttime coyote hunt. The scope performed adequately in clear weather, but the image quality noticeably degraded in low light conditions.
The side parallax adjustment proved useful for eliminating parallax error at different distances. However, the turrets felt a bit mushy, and I wasn’t entirely confident in their repeatability. After getting it sighted in, the BSA did seem to hold zero pretty well, even after multiple shots.
The illuminated reticle was a welcome addition for nighttime shooting. Although the illumination wasn’t incredibly bright, it provided enough contrast to acquire targets against dark backgrounds. Initially, the scope was simple enough to use, but learning the specific yardages associated with each BDC (bullet drop compensation) hash mark required considerable range time.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the BSA Sweet 17 has held up surprisingly well, considering its price point. While the matte black finish shows a few minor scratches, the scope’s internal components seem to be functioning as intended.
I’ve noticed a slight decrease in image clarity over time. The lens caps are cheap plastic and one has already broken. Cleaning the lenses is relatively straightforward with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution.
Compared to my higher-end scopes, the BSA definitely falls short in terms of optical clarity and overall robustness. Still, it’s a decent performer for its price, especially when paired with a .17 HMR for varmint hunting at reasonable distances. It has exceeded my expectations for a budget optic.
Breaking Down the Features of BSA Sweet 17 3-12x 40mm RGB Cross Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 8.30 – 33 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-12x Adjustable Magnification, 13.30″ Length
Specifications
The BSA Sweet 17 3-12x 40mm RGB Cross Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope features a 3-12x adjustable magnification range, making it suitable for various shooting distances. Its 40mm objective lens gathers ample light for a clear sight picture, and the matte black finish reduces glare.
- Magnification: 3-12x adjustable.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm.
- Reticle: RGB (Red, Green, Blue) illuminated cross reticle. The color options allow for customization based on lighting conditions.
- Eye Relief: 4 inches, providing comfortable viewing and reducing the risk of scope bite.
- Field of View: 8.30 – 33 ft @ 100 yds, offering a wide view for target acquisition.
- Length: 13.30 inches, a relatively compact size for easy mounting and handling.
- Side Parallax Adjustment: From 10 yards to infinity, allowing for precise focusing at various distances.
- Ballistically Calibrated Elevation Turret: Optimized for 17gr and 20gr .17 HMR cartridges for easy bullet drop compensation.
These specifications combine to make this scope a viable option for .17 HMR users. The adjustable magnification, parallax adjustment, and calibrated turret offer the necessary tools for accurate shooting, while the illuminated reticle enhances visibility in low-light conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The BSA Sweet 17 performs its job adequately, providing a usable sight picture and consistent accuracy within its effective range. The BDC turret, once understood, simplifies holdover adjustments for longer shots with the .17 HMR cartridge.
The scope’s strengths lie in its affordability and dedicated .17 HMR features. Its weaknesses include its somewhat mushy turrets, mediocre glass quality (especially at higher magnifications), and less-than-stellar low-light performance. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly .17 HMR optic, but doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The BSA Sweet 17 features a simple, functional design. The matte black finish is aesthetically pleasing, and the scope’s weight is manageable. The turrets offer tactile feedback, though they lack the crispness of higher-end scopes.
The scope is relatively user-friendly, with straightforward magnification and parallax adjustments. However, the BDC system requires some experimentation to fully understand. The learning curve is minimal, but mastering the BDC takes range time.
Durability & Maintenance
The BSA Sweet 17 appears reasonably durable for its price point. The aluminum construction feels solid, but the plastic lens caps are a weak point. With proper care and storage, it should last for several years of moderate use.
Maintenance involves occasional lens cleaning and checking the tightness of the mounting rings. Repairing the scope may not be cost-effective, given its relatively low price. Simple cleaning is easy, but any internal repairs would likely require professional assistance or outright replacement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The BSA Sweet 17 typically comes with basic lens caps and mounting rings (although these rings are often of questionable quality and may need replacement). Customization options are limited to aftermarket rings.
It’s compatible with most standard scope rings designed for 1-inch tubes. Aftermarket rings like those from Weaver or Warne can improve mounting stability and overall reliability. There aren’t really any other customization options outside of scope rings.
Pros and Cons of BSA Sweet 17 3-12x 40mm RGB Cross Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 8.30 – 33 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-12x Adjustable Magnification, 13.30″ Length
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Ballistically calibrated turret specifically designed for .17 HMR cartridges simplifies long-range shooting.
- RGB illuminated reticle enhances visibility in various lighting conditions, particularly in low light.
- Side parallax adjustment allows for precise focusing at different distances, improving accuracy.
- Decent durability for the price means the scope can withstand moderate use.
Cons
- Mediocre glass quality and optical clarity, especially at higher magnifications.
- Mushy turret adjustments lack the crispness and repeatability of higher-end scopes.
- Cheap plastic lens caps are prone to breakage and offer minimal protection.
Who Should Buy BSA Sweet 17 3-12x 40mm RGB Cross Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 8.30 – 33 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 8.30 – 33 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-12x Adjustable Magnification, 13.30″ Length?
The BSA Sweet 17 is perfect for budget-conscious varmint hunters and recreational shooters who own a .17 HMR rifle. It’s also a good option for those seeking a dedicated .17 HMR scope with ballistically calibrated adjustments.
Those seeking top-tier optical performance, rugged durability, and precise, repeatable adjustments should skip this product. Competitive shooters and serious hunters who demand the best possible performance would be better served by investing in a higher-end optic. A must-have accessory is a set of quality scope rings; the included ones are usually inadequate.
Conclusion on BSA Sweet 17 3-12x 40mm RGB Cross Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 8.30 – 33 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-12x Adjustable Magnification, 13.30″ Length
The BSA Sweet 17 3-12x 40mm RGB Cross Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope is a serviceable optic that offers decent performance for its price. Its dedicated .17 HMR features and illuminated reticle make it a viable option for varmint hunting and recreational shooting.
At around $140, the price is justified given the scope’s functionality and features. It represents good value for those on a budget.
I would recommend the BSA Sweet 17 to .17 HMR owners looking for an affordable, dedicated scope with ballistically calibrated adjustments. Just be aware of its limitations in terms of optical quality and durability. If you’re on a budget and need a .17 HMR optic, give it a try.