Scope power for 17hmr @ 100-125 yards?
- Thread starter Ohio Varmint Shooter
- Start date
At a Cabelas and they didn't suggest one of their 6-18X scopes with the elevation knob using the trajectory of the 17HMR ammo??? I have those on both of my 17HMRs, not that good of glass but just the calibrated turret makes them worth the money to me...and often on sale or discounted to make room of an "updated" model or new box design.
Sounds like the OP already made up his mind, but I too put a 4.5-14.5x40mm Nikon Buckmaster with SF on my 17hmr. I find I really can't see these small 17cal holes well... below about 14x @ 100 yards. 16, 18, 20, 24x would be even sweeter of course. For most of my varminting, I would probably put 16 power at about my minimum now, where I like to walk around dialed down to 9 or 10 but where I also like to target shoot/group test the different brands of ammo then. The little HMR has the ability to strike out there pretty far. Accurate, fun & potent round, so I decided to give it more than 9x.
For ground-hogs, I would limit your shots to about 125 yards. And you are definitely on the right track making them head shots or at least good solid upper body shots (neck, heart/lungs.) My varmint heavy barrel liked the 20 CCI Gamepoints better than anything (except the S&B V-MAX which they don't make any more). For ground-hogs, I would rate them 17 TNT's as BEST, then V-MAX, then 20 Gamepoint / XTP's, with the FMJ's being pretty much useless for anything other than headshots on squirrels maybe. The 20's penetrate like crazy, but I think may pencil through the animal a little too much.
Whatever glass you end up with, you should enjoy this new toy! A little light for ground-hogs IMO. I take the 22hornet, 222, 22-250, 243win out after them now, and just enjoy plinking with my hmr as my faster, more accurate 22. ;D
For ground-hogs, I would limit your shots to about 125 yards. And you are definitely on the right track making them head shots or at least good solid upper body shots (neck, heart/lungs.) My varmint heavy barrel liked the 20 CCI Gamepoints better than anything (except the S&B V-MAX which they don't make any more). For ground-hogs, I would rate them 17 TNT's as BEST, then V-MAX, then 20 Gamepoint / XTP's, with the FMJ's being pretty much useless for anything other than headshots on squirrels maybe. The 20's penetrate like crazy, but I think may pencil through the animal a little too much.
Whatever glass you end up with, you should enjoy this new toy! A little light for ground-hogs IMO. I take the 22hornet, 222, 22-250, 243win out after them now, and just enjoy plinking with my hmr as my faster, more accurate 22. ;D
If you have not purchased a scope yet, do yourself a favor and look at Vortex. The Vortex 4-12 Crossfire II can be purchased for $159. I realize it's at the high end of what you want to spend but all their scopes come with a lifetime transferable warranty. Dollar for dollar, the best glass I have ever used. They are quickly becoming a favorite in the shooting world and for good reason.
Kittitas George
Gold $$ Contributor
I use a quality fixed 10X on my Cooper 17HMR. After traveling a long way I don't want any failures. Good hi-quality scopes are inexpensive on the used market, also consider that the scope along with the rifle go on many trips, average it out, cheaper than fuel, lodging and food. Ten power will give good target definition at 100 yards and see the holes. Standing sage rats, close, aim at their feet, long shots aim just above their heads. After 225 yards get a bigger gun.
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