Our Top Picks
Overall Best Optic for SCAR 17
NightForce ATACR 1-8×24
The ATACR offers exceptional glass quality, ensuring crisp and clear images.
- Build Quality: 4.5/5
- Optics: 4.4/5
- Battery: 3.4/5
MSRP:
Check PriceBest Fixed Magnification
Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35
The 3.5x magnification offers a good balance between close-quarters and longer-range engagements.
- Build Quality: 4.6/5
- Optics: 4.6/5
- Battery: 3/5
MSRP:
Check PriceBest LPVO
Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24
It features a lightweight and streamlined design, so it is extremely easy to handle.
- Build Quality: 4/5
- Optics: 4.2/5
- Battery: 3/5
MSRP:
Check PriceThe SCAR 17 is a versatile rifle capable of both accurate close-range and effective long-range shooting. It’s used in various scenarios, including tactical, hunting, and recreational shooting.
We understand that the right optic can transform your shooting experience, offering accuracy, reliability, and unmatched performance. In this article, we will be your guide in finding the best optic for your SCAR 17. Whether you’re a tactical shooter, hunter, or enthusiast, our insights will help you make an informed choice that perfectly complements this badass rifle.
Table of Contents
How to Choose the Best Optic for SCAR 17
Choosing the best optic for your SCAR 17 rifle doesn’t mean picking just any scope. It involves considering several key factors to ensure your scope not only enhances your shooting experience but also withstands the rugged demands of use. Here’s what to look for:
| Features | NightForce ATACR 1-8×24 | Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35 | Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II-E | Leupold Mark 5HD 2-10×30 | Elcan SpecterDR 1.5-6×42 | Category Average |
| Overall Score | 3.2 | 3.02 | 2.8 | 3.3 | 3.38 | 3.14 |
| Ergonomics | 2.7 | 1.9 | 1.8 | 1.5 | 1.6 | 1.9 |
| Build Quality | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4 | 4.5 | 4.7 | 4.46 |
| Optics | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.46 |
| Battery | 3.4 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 5 | 3.88 |
| Value | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Ergonomics
Ergonomics refers to how well the scope fits you and your shooting style. Can you make all the adjustments easily? Does the scope feel like an extension of your eye when you’re lining up a shot? If the answer is “Heck, yeah,” then you’re on the right track.
Eye Relief and Field of View
- Eye relief is the distance from the rear lens your eye needs to be to see the full image. Longer eye relief can be more comfortable and safer, especially on high-recoil rifles like the SCAR 17.
- Field of view refers to the width of the area you can see through the scope at a specific distance. A wider field of view is beneficial for situational awareness, especially at lower magnifications.
How do we rate it?
Is the scope’s weight balanced, or does it make your rifle feel like you’re lugging around a medieval weapon? A top-rated scope in ergonomics should feel intuitive like it’s an extension of yourself rather than an awkward appendage.
Build Quality
- The SCAR 17 is known for its recoil, so you need an optic that can withstand this. Look for riflescopes made with high-quality materials like aircraft-grade aluminum.
- Check for weather resistance. Features like waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant designs are essential for a durable optic.
How do we rate it?
Is it waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof? A high rating in this category means your scope is the tank of the optics world—reliable, tough, and ready for anything Mother Nature throws at it.
Illumination
Consider illuminated reticles if you plan to shoot in low-light conditions. They enhance visibility and accuracy in challenging lighting.
How do we rate it?
We give higher scores to scopes that offer a range of brightness settings that accommodate various lighting conditions without overwhelming your night vision. It should have the right amount of light, just where you need it, without lighting up like a Christmas tree.
Optics
Optics are the heart of any scope. This is where the magic happens—or doesn’t. You want crystal-clear images, vibrant colors, and enough light coming through that you could practically shoot by moonlight (though I wouldn’t recommend it). Look for high-quality glass, multi-coated lenses, and a generous objective lens size.
Magnification Range
- Determine your primary shooting distance. If you shoot at varied ranges, consider a variable magnification scope.
- For close to medium-range, a 1-4x, 1-6x, or 1-8x magnification is typically sufficient. For longer ranges, consider scopes with higher magnification like 3-9x or more.
Reticle Types
The reticle choice depends on your preference and shooting style. Options range from simple dot reticles to more complex BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles.
How do we rate it?
High marks go to scopes that offer excellent low-light performance and the ability to maintain a sharp, bright image under various conditions.
Battery
If your scope has any electronic components, like an illuminated reticle, then battery life is your new best friend. There’s nothing worse than getting ready for the perfect shot only to find your reticle as dark as your chances of hitting the target without it. Long battery life is a must. You should also have easy access to replace batteries and shouldn’t have to think about it much until you need it.
How do we rate it?
We give lower scores to scopes that require battery changes more often than you change your socks. High ratings go to models with efficient power usage and long-lasting battery life, ensuring you’re always ready for the shot, day or night.
Value
Value is not only about the price tag, it’s also about getting the most bang for your buck. Sure, you could drop a small fortune on a scope, but is it overkill? A good scope should fit both your budget and your needs, offering the features you’ll actually use without the fluff you won’t.
How do we rate it?
A high rating in value means the scope offers the best blend of quality and features for its price point, striking that sweet balance between cost and functionality. Think of it as the difference between a deal and a steal.
5 Best Optics for the SCAR 17
Best Overall: NightForce ATACR 1-8×24
| Factor | NightForce ATACR 1-8×24 | Category Average |
| Ergonomics | 2.7 | 1.9 |
| Build Quality | 4.5 | 4.46 |
| Optics | 4.4 | 4.46 |
| Battery | 3.4 | 3.88 |
| Value | 1 | 1 |
Our top pick is perfect for a wide range of shooting scenarios, from close-quarter combat to mid-range precision.
It features a robust construction that’s typical of NightForce, with weather-resistant capabilities, so you know it can withstand rugged use. The ATACR offers exceptional glass quality, ensuring crisp and clear images. Finally, the ZeroStop technology – it allows for a quick return to zero after dialing temporary elevation corrections.
Pros
- Illuminated reticle
- Long eye relief (3.7 inches)
- Night vision-compatible
- Clean reticle design
- Rugged construction
Cons
- Heavy (21 oz)
- Pricey
- Short battery life (29 hours brightest setting)
Score
Ergonomics – 2.7/5
Its rugged design can handle daily use and abuse.
Build Quality Score – 4.5/5
Can withstand rugged use
Optics Score – 4.4/5
We love it, especially in lowlight scenarios.
Battery Score – 3.4/5
Battery life could be improved.
Value Score – 1/5
It’s too pricey for a scope but worth it.
Overall Score – 3.2/5
What Customers Say
Pros: Works great at all ranges tested. Adjustable reticle brightness can go very high so shooting in all conditions is reliable and accurate. Excellent eye relief. Cons: A bit weighty and pricey but both are understandable given the ruggedness and quality.
Hunter
Best Fixed Magnification: Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35
| Factor | Trijicon ACOG 3.5×35 | Category Average |
| Ergonomics | 1.9 | 1.9 |
| Build Quality | 4.6 | 4.46 |
| Optics | 4.6 | 4.46 |
| Battery | 3 | 3.88 |
| Value | 1 | 1 |
If you’re planning to use your SCAR 17 under 200 yards, this ACOG scope is more than enough. The 3.5x magnification offers a good balance between close-quarters and longer-range engagements.
Another advantage of the fixed-power design is that there are fewer moving parts. The ACOG’s rugged construction pairs well with the SCAR 17, which is also designed for durability in challenging environments. Its illuminated reticle is powered by fiber optics and tritium, so you never have to worry about running out of battery!
it’s no 1000-yard scope, but it gets the job done.
On the downside, the ACOG adds some weight and bulk to the SCAR 17, which might be a concern for those needing a lighter setup. The eye relief of the ACOG is also shorter than ideal, which could be a factor in rapid-fire or dynamic shooting situations.
Pros
- Illuminated reticle
- Battery-free illumination
- Compact and lightweight (17.6 oz)
- Costs less than all our other picks
Cons
- Fixed magnification
- Short eye relief (2.39 in)
Score
Ergonomics Score – 1.9/5
Wish the eye relief was a bit longer.
Build Quality Score – 4.6/5
Compact but tough.
Optics Score – 4.6/5
3.5x magnification offers a good balance between close-quarters and longer-range use.
Battery Score – 3/5
Battery-free illumination but short battery life.
Value Score – 1/5
Costs less than all our other picks
Overall Score – 3.02/5
What Customers Say
The field of view is very comfortable. The clarity of the Optics is absolutely incredible. The low light sensitivity is unbelievable. I could make out everything in the neighborhood with nothing but Starlight and distant Street lamps. The magnification level is just about perfect for everything I want to do which is under 200 yards.
Montanamoondog
Best LPVO: Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24
| Factor | Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II-E | Category Average |
| Ergonomics | 1.8 | 1.9 |
| Build Quality | 4 | 4.46 |
| Optics | 4.2 | 4.46 |
| Battery | 3 | 3.88 |
| Value | 1 | 1 |
The Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24 features a lightweight and streamlined design, so it is extremely easy to handle. It comes with different reticle options (JM-1 BDC, VMR-2 MOA, VMR-2 MRAD), each designed for specific use cases.
The JM-1 BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticle is designed for rapid shooting at varying distances. It has a simple, clean design with a segmented circle and horizontal hash marks. It is ideal for quick target acquisition and estimating holdovers for bullet drop at different distances (like in 3-Gun competitions).
The VMR-2 reticle features a hash-marked ranging reticle with an illuminated center dot. It is designed for precise aiming, range estimation, windage corrections, and holdovers. This reticle design is suitable for both tactical applications and hunting, where precision and detailed hold points are needed.
Like every Vortex optic, the Razor HD GenII-E is precision-machined from aircraft-grade aluminum so it can withstand harsh conditions and rugged use. However, similar to the ACOG, the Razor HD Gen II-E is a premium optic and comes with a high price tag. But unlike the ACOG, it relies on batteries for illumination.
Pros
- Illuminated reticle
- Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof
- Capped turrets
- Generous eye relief (4 inches)
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
Cons
- Pricey
- Battery-dependent illumination
- Heavy (22.7 oz)
Score
Ergonomics Score – 1.8/5
Ideal eye relief length.
Build Quality Score – 4/5
Tough construction backed by no-questions-asked warranty.
Optics Score – 4.2/5
Fully multi-coated lenses and lightweight.
Battery Score – 3/5
Needs batteries for illumination.
Value Score – 1/5
Premium features at a premium price point.
Overall Score – 2.8/5
What Customers Say
The Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II-E is a really good and forgiving optic for your rifle. Between the eye-searingly bright red dot, the wide FOV, crystal clear glass and overall design, you are getting a lot of good features for your money. This is an easy recommend but make sure you are getting the reticle type you want before pulling the trigger.
Tipsy McStagger
Best MPVO: Leupold Mark 5HD 2-10×30
| Factor | Leupold Mark 5HD | Category Average |
| Ergonomics | 1.5 | 1.9 |
| Build Quality | 4.5 | 4.46 |
| Optics | 4.5 | 4.46 |
| Battery | 5 | 3.88 |
| Value | 1 | 1 |
Our best MPVO pick is a combination of Leupold’s reputation for quality and features suited for a range of shooting scenarios.
The Mark 5HD 2-10×30 is relatively compact, minimizing the impact on the SCAR 17’s balance and handling. If you are familiar with Leupold’s high standards, you know that it is reliable in various conditions, including regular use. And since this is a First Focal Plane scope, the reticle size scales with the magnification, maintaining the accuracy of holdovers and range estimations at all magnifications. It’s available in both a standard TMR reticle and an illuminated version.
We also appreciate how the lever in this model is just the right length because it complements the smooth action on the magnification setting. However, as with many high-end optics, the Leupold Mark 5HD series can be quite expensive. It will also add noticeable weight to your rifle.
Pros
- Bombproof, waterproof, and fog proof
- 96 hours of battery life
- Available in illuminated reticle
- Capped turrets
- Premium glass
- Rugged construction
- Comes with sunshade
- Long eye relief (3.7 inches)
Cons
- Heavy (24 oz)
- Pricey
- Battery-dependent illumination
Score
Ergonomics Score – 1.5/5
Adds noticeable weight to your rifle.
Build Quality Score – 4.5/5
It’s bombproof, end of discussion.
Optics Score – 4.5/5
You’ll get nothing but crisp and bright images.
Battery Score – 5/5
96 hours battery life.
Value Score – 1/5
Pretty pricey.
Overall Score – 3.3/5
What Customers Say
It’s tracking very accurately, so thumbs up on the tracking and repeatability as well.
Ultimate Reloader
Elcan SpecterDR 1.5-6×42
| Factor | Elcan SpecterDR | Category Average |
| Ergonomics | 1.6 | 1.9 |
| Build Quality | 4.7 | 4.46 |
| Optics | 4.8 | 4.46 |
| Battery | 5 | 3.88 |
| Value | 1 | 1 |
The Elcan SpecterDR is a great all-around optic for those who need a durable and versatile scope for different shooting environments. Whether you’ll be using your SCAR 17 for hunting, tactical use, or sport shooting, the SpecterDR will pass with flying colors.
It features an etched reticle that allows you to choose between a crosshair and a bright red dot. We also love the fact that the magnification throw levers are ambidextrous. However, as much as we love the SpecterDR’s tough construction, this scope is also pretty heavy.
Pros
- Night vision compatible
- Ambidextrous magnification throw levers
- Etched reticle
- Illuminated reticle
- Long battery life (1208 hrs on second highest RD setting)
Cons
- Heavy (23.2 oz)
- Very expensive
- Short eye relief (2.7 in)
Score
Ergonomics Score – 1.6/5
We appreciate the ambidextrous magnification levers.
Build Quality Score – 4.7/5
Tough build and heavy.
Optics Score – 4.6/5
Etched reticle for the win.
Battery Score – 5/5
Eye relief could be improved.
Value Score – 1/5
Prepare your wallet!
Overall Score – 3.38/5
What Customers Say
I am a combat vet and a prepper. With bomb proof design and construction and glass as clear as any available this is a world class optic.
Michael
Best Optic for SCAR 17: FAQs
What optics can survive the SCAR 17?
All the optics listed above are designed to handle the stress of heavy recoil and rough handling. So they’re all suitable for the SCAR 17.
How far can a SCAR 17 shoot?
The effective range of the SCAR 17, which is chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, varies based on several factors like ammunition type, shooter skill, and environmental conditions. Generally, it is capable of effective engagement out to 600-800 meters. With a skilled shooter and optimal conditions, it can potentially reach out to 1,000 meters or more.
What makes the SCAR rifle so good?
The SCAR (Special Operations Forces Combat Assault Rifle) series is highly regarded for several reasons:
- Modularity and Versatility: Easily configurable for different missions and roles.
- Reliability: Performs well in various environmental conditions.
- Ergonomics: Adjustable to fit different users and shooting styles.
- Recoil Management: Designed to handle recoil effectively, making it easier to shoot.
- Accuracy: Known for its inherent accuracy, partly due to its free-floating barrel.
Is the SCAR 17 a battle rifle?
Yes, the SCAR 17 can be classified as a battle rifle. It is chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, a full-power rifle cartridge, which is one of the defining characteristics of a battle rifle.
Battle rifles are designed to provide greater firepower at longer ranges compared to standard infantry rifles (like the M4 or SCAR 16), which are chambered in intermediate cartridges like 5.56x45mm NATO. The SCAR 17 is used by various military and law enforcement agencies around the world and fits the role of a modern battle rifle.
Conclusion: Best Optic for the SCAR 17
When selecting an optic for your SCAR 17, balance the factors we listed above with your specific needs and preferences. It’s also wise to read reviews and test different scopes when possible to find the best match for your rifle and shooting style.
If you want something rugged and simple, go with the ACOG. If you like more flexibility with zoom, pick between the Vortex and Leupold. The Elcan’s also tough and versatile but a bit heavier. Your SCAR 17 will work great with any of these, it just depends on your style and what you’re shooting at.
Last update on 2024-10-15 / Images from Amazon Product API