BSA Sweet 17 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope Review

My first impression of BSA Sweet 17 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope

The world of rimfire rifles has exploded in recent years, and with it, the demand for optics tailored to the unique ballistics of cartridges like the .17 HMR. I’ve always been a fan of a good rimfire for small game hunting and target practice, but finding the right scope that balances performance, affordability, and specific caliber requirements has been a constant quest. That’s why the BSA Sweet 17 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope immediately caught my eye, promising a dedicated solution for .17 HMR enthusiasts.

For years, I struggled to find an optic that offered both clear glass and precise adjustments without breaking the bank. Many scopes either lacked the necessary features for accurate rimfire shooting or cost more than the rifle itself. The BSA Sweet 17 seemed like a viable option, offering an adjustable objective (AO) for parallax correction, a feature crucial for achieving consistent accuracy at varying distances with the .17 HMR.

Upon unboxing the BSA Sweet 17, my first impression was that it’s a no-frills, functional optic. The black finish and straightforward design gave it a classic look. Picking it up, the weight of 22.30 oz felt substantial enough to suggest decent build quality, yet light enough not to overly burden a lightweight rimfire rifle. It came with 2pc dovetail rings which was an unexpected and welcomed addition.

Compared to a similar Simmons scope I had used in the past, the BSA Sweet 17 felt slightly more robust. Compared to a high-end Leupold rimfire scope, the difference in glass clarity was noticeable, but the price point made the trade-off understandable. Ultimately, I chose the BSA Sweet 17 because of its dedicated .17 HMR calibration, adjustable objective, and appealing price.

My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. The scope appeared well-made for its price, and the features seemed promising, but the real test would be how it performed in the field. The presence of the adjustable objective was definitely encouraging.

Real-World Testing: Putting BSA Sweet 17 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

I mounted the BSA Sweet 17 on my trusty Savage .17 HMR rifle and headed to my local shooting range. The range offered a variety of distances, allowing me to thoroughly test the scope’s adjustable objective and accuracy at different ranges. The initial zeroing process was straightforward.

I tested the scope on a relatively clear, sunny day. Adjusting the objective to eliminate parallax at different distances proved to be effective. While the image wasn’t as crystal clear as higher-end optics, it was certainly adequate for accurately engaging targets. No issues were observed, but I did feel the adjustments were a little stiff.

The scope was easy enough to use, though the AO adjustment ring felt a little stiff initially. It took a few minutes to get accustomed to the reticle and the feel of the adjustments. I was pleased with the eye relief.

The only minor issue I encountered was the stiffness of the AO adjustment ring, which required a bit of extra effort to turn. Otherwise, the first-time use was positive and encouraged further testing. I was pleasantly surprised with the quality of the fully-coated lenses.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the BSA Sweet 17 has held up reasonably well. It has seen a variety of conditions. The scope still functions as intended, and I haven’t noticed any significant degradation in performance.

There are some minor signs of wear and tear on the finish. A few scratches have appeared from rubbing against rifle cases and branches during field use. The scope has remained waterproof and fogproof during damp mornings and light rain.

Cleaning the lenses is simple, requiring only a lens cloth and a few gentle swipes. Overall, the scope has been relatively easy to maintain. It certainly outperforms the cheap, generic scopes I’ve used in the past. The price-to-performance ratio is really impressive.

Breaking Down the Features of BSA Sweet 17 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope

Specifications

The BSA Sweet 17 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope is designed specifically for the .17 HMR cartridge. It features a magnification range of 3-9x, offering versatility for various shooting distances. The 40mm objective lens allows for sufficient light gathering, providing a bright image even in less-than-ideal conditions.

The scope is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, making it suitable for outdoor use in diverse environments. It uses a 30/30 Duplex reticle, a classic design that provides a clear aiming point without obstructing the target. The adjustable objective (AO) allows for parallax correction from 7.5 yards to infinity, crucial for precise rimfire shooting.

• Magnification: 3-9x: This allows for versatile use at both close and longer ranges.
• Objective: 40mm AO: Provides sufficient light gathering and adjustable parallax correction.
• Field of View: 34.20-11.50 ft @ 100 yds: Offers a decent field of view for target acquisition.
• Eye Relief: 3″: Provides comfortable viewing and helps prevent scope bite.
• Tube Diameter: 1″: Standard size for easy mounting with common rings.
• Length: 12.20″: Compact design that doesn’t add excessive weight.
• Weight: 22.30 oz: Relatively lightweight, suitable for rimfire rifles.
• Finish: Black: Durable and non-reflective finish.
• Reticle: 30 / 30 Duplex: Simple and effective aiming point.
• Parallax Adjustment: 7.5 yds-Infinity: Ensures accuracy at all distances.
• Adj Size: .25 MOA: Allows for precise adjustments.

These specifications contribute significantly to the scope’s performance. The adjustable objective is paramount for eliminating parallax error at different ranges, which is especially important for the .17 HMR due to its flat trajectory. The 3-9x magnification provides versatility for both close-range hunting and longer-range target shooting.

Performance & Functionality

The BSA Sweet 17 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope performs its intended job adequately, especially considering its price point. Accuracy is generally good once the parallax is properly adjusted, and the scope holds zero well. Reliability has been acceptable, with no major failures experienced during testing.

The strengths lie in its dedicated .17 HMR calibration and adjustable objective. The scope is easy to use and provides a clear image for target acquisition. One weakness is the slightly stiff AO adjustment ring.

The BSA Sweet 17 meets expectations for a budget-friendly .17 HMR scope. It’s not a high-end optic, but it provides sufficient performance for most rimfire shooting applications. The scope performs great for hunting squirrels.

Design & Ergonomics

The BSA Sweet 17 features a straightforward and functional design. The materials used are adequate for the price point, and the scope feels reasonably well-built. The weight is manageable and doesn’t make the rifle feel unbalanced.

The scope is generally user-friendly, though the stiff AO adjustment ring can be a minor inconvenience. The eye relief is comfortable, and the reticle is easy to see. A slight learning curve is present in understanding parallax adjustment, but it is minor.

Durability & Maintenance

The BSA Sweet 17 appears reasonably durable for its price. Some minor wear and tear are expected with regular use. The scope seems designed to last for several years with proper care.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses and exterior. The scope is not designed to be easily repaired, but replacement parts are unlikely to be needed with proper handling. The waterproof and fogproof construction help improve durability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The BSA Sweet 17 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope comes standard with 2pc dovetail rings. These rings are suitable for mounting the scope on rifles with a dovetail rail. No other accessories are included.

Customization options are limited, as the scope is designed as a complete unit. However, the 1-inch tube diameter means it’s compatible with a wide variety of aftermarket scope rings, should the included rings not meet your needs. Consider upgrading to higher-quality rings for a more secure and stable mount.

Pros and Cons of BSA Sweet 17 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope

Who Should Buy BSA Sweet 17 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope?

The BSA Sweet 17 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope is perfect for .17 HMR enthusiasts. It is also a great choice for small game hunters and target shooters on a budget. It is perfect for those who value affordability and dedicated .17 HMR performance.

This product should be skipped by those who demand top-tier optical clarity. The product is also not for those needing extreme long-range capabilities. Must-have accessories or modifications would include higher-quality scope rings and a lens cleaning kit.

Conclusion on BSA Sweet 17 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope

The BSA Sweet 17 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope offers a compelling value proposition for .17 HMR shooters seeking an affordable and functional optic. It provides adequate performance and dedicated .17 HMR calibration. The rifle scope has an adjustable objective for enhanced accuracy.

At a price of $63.49, the BSA Sweet 17 is definitely worth considering if you are seeking a budget-friendly optic for your .17 HMR rifle. While it may not offer the same level of performance as higher-end scopes, it provides a solid foundation for accurate and enjoyable rimfire shooting.

I would personally recommend the BSA Sweet 17 to anyone looking for a dedicated .17 HMR scope without breaking the bank. Get yours today and experience the difference a caliber-specific optic can make!