First Thoughts on the BSA Sweet 17 6-18x 40mm Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 6.20 – 18.80 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 13.20″ Length, 31-60mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 6-18x Adjustable Magnification
The BSA Sweet 17 6-18x 40mm Rifle Scope is marketed as a dedicated optic for the popular .17 HMR cartridge. Designed by BSA Optics, the scope promises multi-grain compensation and a clear sight picture for small game hunters and target shooters. After years of struggling with generic scopes on my .17 HMR, leading to frustrating inaccuracies, I was drawn to the Sweet 17’s specifically calibrated turrets.
My .17 HMR is primarily used for varmint control on my brother’s farm, where accurate shots are essential for humane dispatch. I needed a scope that could handle the .17 HMR’s unique ballistics and provide consistent point-of-impact at varying distances. Upon unboxing the BSA Sweet 17, I was immediately impressed by its solid feel and surprisingly clear glass for its price point. It felt substantial, certainly not cheap, with smoothly rotating turrets.
Compared to my old Bushnell Banner scope, the Sweet 17 felt like a step up in clarity and build. I also considered the Nikon Prostaff Rimfire, but the BSA’s dedicated .17 HMR turrets ultimately swayed me. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; I was eager to see how it performed in real-world conditions, but the initial quality seemed promising.
Real-World Testing: Putting BSA Sweet 17 6-18x 40mm Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 6.20 – 18.80 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 13.20″ Length, 31-60mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 6-18x Adjustable Magnification to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on zeroing the scope at 50 and 100 yards. The weather was partly cloudy with a slight breeze, providing decent, but not ideal, shooting conditions. I found the BSA Sweet 17 surprisingly easy to zero, given its multi-grain turrets. Adjustments felt precise, and I quickly dialed in my preferred 17-grain ammunition.
The scope performed adequately in the slightly overcast conditions, providing a reasonably bright sight picture, even at higher magnifications. I did not encounter any major issues, although the eye relief seemed a bit tight at higher power. It took a bit of adjusting to find the optimal head position.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, mainly for varmint control, the BSA Sweet 17 has proven to be reasonably durable. It’s weathered a few bumps and scrapes without losing zero, a testament to its “ball and coil spring erector tube retention” as BSA advertises. The finish shows minimal wear, and the turrets still click positively.
Maintenance has been simple; I just wipe down the lens with a microfiber cloth after each use. While it doesn’t outperform high-end scopes costing hundreds more, it definitely punches above its weight class. Compared to my previous budget scopes, the BSA Sweet 17 offers a noticeable improvement in clarity and accuracy for dedicated .17 HMR use.
Breaking Down the Features of BSA Sweet 17 6-18x 40mm Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 6.20 – 18.80 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 13.20″ Length, 31-60mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 6-18x Adjustable Magnification
Specifications
The BSA Sweet 17 6-18x 40mm Rifle Scope features a variable 6-18x adjustable magnification, allowing for versatility at different ranges. It boasts a 40mm objective lens, which aims to gather enough light for clear viewing in various lighting conditions. The scope has a 1-inch tube diameter, the standard size for easy mounting.
The Sweet 17 provides a generous 4-inch eye relief, which is designed to enhance shooter comfort and safety. Its field of view ranges from 6.20 to 18.80 feet at 100 yards, offering a reasonable viewing area. The scope measures 13.20 inches in length, making it compact enough for most .17 HMR rifles. These specifications combine to create an optic specifically tailored for the .17 HMR cartridge, optimizing accuracy and usability for small game hunting and target shooting.
Performance & Functionality
The BSA Sweet 17 performs admirably within its intended purpose, providing satisfactory accuracy and reliability for .17 HMR shooters. Its multi-grain turrets are a standout feature, allowing users to easily adjust for different bullet weights and distances. The clarity is decent, although not exceptional, providing an adequate sight picture for most shooting scenarios.
The scope’s strengths lie in its dedicated .17 HMR calibration and ease of adjustment. Its main weakness is the slight lack of low-light performance compared to higher-end optics. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly .17 HMR scope, offering a noticeable improvement over generic alternatives.
Design & Ergonomics
The BSA Sweet 17’s build quality is acceptable for its price point, utilizing durable materials that withstand typical field use. Its weight is moderate, not adding excessive bulk to the rifle. The scope is generally comfortable to use, with a smooth magnification ring and easily accessible turrets.
The Sweet 17 is reasonably user-friendly, requiring minimal learning curve for experienced shooters. Beginners may need some guidance on using the multi-grain turrets effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the BSA Sweet 17 should last for several years of regular use. The nitrogen-filled tube helps prevent internal fogging, ensuring clear visibility in varying weather conditions. Maintenance involves simple cleaning with a lens cloth and occasional inspection of the mounting rings.
Accessories and Customization Options
The BSA Sweet 17 comes with a 3-inch sunshade, which helps reduce glare in bright sunlight. There are no other included accessories, but the 1-inch tube diameter allows for compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket mounting rings. The turrets themselves cannot be swapped, as they are calibrated specifically for .17 HMR cartridges.
Pros and Cons of BSA Sweet 17 6-18x 40mm Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 6.20 – 18.80 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 13.20″ Length, 31-60mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 6-18x Adjustable Magnification
Pros
- Specifically calibrated for .17 HMR cartridges, ensuring accurate bullet drop compensation.
- Affordable price makes it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Decent glass clarity for its price range provides a usable sight picture.
- Durable construction withstands typical field use and bumps.
- Easy to adjust turrets allow for quick and precise zeroing and adjustments.
Cons
- Low-light performance could be improved.
- Eye relief can be tight at higher magnifications.
Who Should Buy BSA Sweet 17 6-18x 40mm Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 6.20 – 18.80 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 13.20″ Length, 31-60mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 6-18x Adjustable Magnification?
The BSA Sweet 17 is perfect for .17 HMR enthusiasts, small game hunters, and varmint controllers seeking an affordable, dedicated optic. It suits those who primarily shoot within 150 yards and appreciate the convenience of calibrated turrets. Budget-conscious shooters who want a step up from basic scopes will also find value in the Sweet 17.
This scope is not ideal for long-range target shooters, those who require exceptional low-light performance, or those who prefer a more versatile, multi-caliber optic. Consider a higher-end scope with adjustable parallax and better glass for those applications. A must-have accessory would be a quality set of 1-inch scope rings, ensuring a secure and stable mount on your rifle.
Conclusion on BSA Sweet 17 6-18x 40mm Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 6.20 – 18.80 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 13.20″ Length, 31-60mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 6-18x Adjustable Magnification
The BSA Sweet 17 6-18x 40mm Rifle Scope is a solid, budget-friendly option for .17 HMR shooters seeking improved accuracy and convenience. Its dedicated turrets make dialing in different grain weights a breeze, saving time and ammunition. At a price of $150.99, the value proposition is strong, making it an accessible upgrade for many.
I would personally recommend the BSA Sweet 17 to anyone looking for a dedicated .17 HMR scope without breaking the bank. If you’re tired of guessing bullet drop and want a reliable optic for small game hunting, give the Sweet 17 a try.