The FN SCAR 17S is a force to be reckoned with, a battle-proven .308 rifle capable of exceptional accuracy at distance. But to truly harness its potential, you need an optic that can match its ruggedness and performance. The right scope or red dot transforms this platform from a blunt instrument into a precision tool, whether you’re engaging targets on the clock or taking a decisive shot in the field.
With a vast array of optics on the market, selecting the perfect one for your SCAR 17 can be a challenge. Your mission profile dictates the ideal sight, from close-quarters holographics to long-range precision scopes. After extensive field testing, we’ve compiled a list of the top-performing optics that stand up to the SCAR’s unique recoil impulse and deliver the reliability you demand.
Our Top Picks for FN SCAR 17 Optics
- Vortex Optics AMG UH-1 Gen II Holographic Sight
- Bushnell Optics- 4x24mm Riflescope with FFP Drop Zone-223 BCD Reticle
- Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 34mm Tube Precise Illuminated First Focal Plane
- Aimpoint Micro T-2 Red Dot Reflex Sight No Mount – 2 MOA
- SIG SAUER ROMEO8T-AMR Red Dot Sight SOR8T101
- TRIJICON MRO HD RED DOT MAGNFR Combo
- Vortex Optics Spitfire HD Gen II 3X Prism Scope – BDC4 Reticle
- Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 Riflescope
- EOTech Vudu 1-10×28 FFP Riflescope
Vortex Optics AMG UH-1 Gen II Holographic Sight
For lightning-fast target acquisition at close to mid-range, the Vortex AMG UH-1 Gen II is a top-tier choice. Its holographic display provides an incredibly quick sight picture, allowing you to keep both eyes open and maintain situational awareness. The improved, enlarged viewing window gives you a generous field of view, which is a significant advantage in dynamic shooting scenarios.
This sight is built for versatility and durability. It features four night-vision compatible settings with a dedicated button for quick activation. With 15 illumination settings and Vortex’s FHQ technology to eliminate stray light, you get a crisp, clear reticle in any condition. The toolless battery cover and lightweight design at just 11 ounces make it a practical and reliable option for the SCAR 17.
Bushnell Optics 1-4x24mm Riflescope
This scope from Bushnell AR Optics represents outstanding value for the shooter who needs a versatile low-power variable optic (LPVO). The 1-4x magnification is ideal for a general-purpose SCAR 17, allowing for rapid fire on 1x and more precise shots out to several hundred yards on 4x. The Throw Down PCL lever makes changing magnification almost instantaneous, a critical feature under pressure.
Fully multi-coated optics deliver a bright, high-contrast image, while the IPX7 waterproof rating ensures reliability in adverse weather. The exposed turrets allow for quick windage and elevation adjustments. Its compact size also makes it an excellent candidate for pairing with offset iron sights or a red dot, creating a highly adaptable weapon system.
Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1
When your goal is extreme long-range precision with the SCAR 17, the Nightforce ATACR is in a class of its own. This scope’s extensive 7-35x magnification range and legendary optical performance, aided by an ED glass package, provide the clarity and resolution needed to see and engage distant targets with confidence. It is engineered to push the boundaries of modern long-range cartridges.
Precision features abound, including parallax adjustment down to 10 meters and a massive 100 MOA of elevation travel. The ZeroStop feature allows for a rapid return to zero, and the Digillum reticle illumination ensures your aiming point is visible in any lighting. This is a professional-grade optic for shooters who demand the absolute maximum performance from their rifle.
Aimpoint Micro T-2 Red Dot Reflex Sight
The Aimpoint Micro T-2 is the benchmark for rugged, minimalist red dot sights. Renowned for its nearly indestructible build and incredible battery life, the T-2 is a “set it and forget it” optic. Its compact size and light weight keep your SCAR 17 nimble, while the advanced lens system provides unmatched optical clarity and light transmission.
With a precise 2 MOA dot, this sight is perfect for rapid engagement from point-blank out to 200 yards and beyond. It includes flip-up lens covers for protection and features reinforced turrets that can withstand significant abuse. For a no-nonsense, always-ready red dot that you can bet your life on, the T-2 is a perennial favorite among professionals.
SIG SAUER ROMEO8T-AMR Red Dot Sight
The SIG SAUER ROMEO8T-AMR is a modern, feature-packed red dot built for hard use. Its massive 40mm lens offers an exceptionally wide field of view for fast, easy target acquisition. The integrated flip-back lens covers and ultra-durable aluminum housing provide maximum protection without adding bulk or the need for aftermarket accessories.
This sight is built to MIL-STD-810 standards and is IPX8 waterproof, making it ready for extreme conditions. The MOTAC (Motion Activated Illumination) system conserves battery by activating the dot upon movement and powering down when stationary. The advanced QBCD 2.0 and MSAR technology also allow for intelligent reticle adjustment and quicker zeroing.
TRIJICON MRO HD RED DOT MAGNFR Combo
The Trijicon MRO HD combo offers a complete close-to-mid-range solution in one package. The MRO HD red dot itself is a robust sight with a clear, parallax-free design and a wide field of view. Its reputation for reliability is well-earned, making it a trustworthy companion for a hard-use rifle like the SCAR 17.
Paired with its dedicated magnifier, this system provides exceptional flexibility. You can run the red dot alone for speed at close range, then flip the magnifier into place to identify and engage targets at further distances with enhanced precision. This combo gives you the benefits of two optics, maintaining a streamlined profile on your rifle.
Vortex Optics Spitfire HD Gen II 3X Prism Scope
For shooters with an astigmatism, the Spitfire HD Gen II 3x is an excellent alternative to red dots and holographic sights. The prism design and etched glass reticle provide a sharp, distortion-free aiming point regardless of the user’s vision. The fixed 3x magnification is ideal for mid-range applications where a bit more precision is needed.
This scope features an updated optical system with fully multi-coated lenses for improved resolution and color fidelity. The BDC-4 reticle offers holdovers out to 650 yards, and the illuminated reticle has 12 brightness settings, including two for night vision. Its compact, lightweight design with flush mount turrets makes for a very sleek and fast-handling optic.
Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 Riflescope
The Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 is often considered the gold standard in LPVO performance. It provides an incredibly wide field of view on 1x that rivals a red dot for speed, while the true 10x top-end magnification allows for precise shots at extended ranges. This makes it arguably the most versatile single optic you can mount on a SCAR 17.
The glass clarity is exceptional across the entire magnification range, and the illuminated reticle is bright and daylight visible. The rugged construction is built to handle recoil and harsh environments. For a do-it-all rifle, the Razor Gen III’s seamless transition from close-quarters battle to mid-long range precision is unmatched.
EOTech Vudu 1-10×28 FFP Riflescope
EOTech brings its holographic sight expertise to the LPVO market with the Vudu 1-10×28. The First Focal Plane (FFP) design means the reticle subtensions remain accurate at any magnification, which is a significant advantage for holdovers at variable distances. The glass is exceptionally clear, with true color representation and minimal distortion.
This scope offers a brilliant, daylight-bright illuminated reticle that is easy to see against varied backgrounds. The throw lever allows for quick magnification changes, and the overall build quality is robust enough for the .308 platform. The Vudu 1-10x is a strong competitor in the high-performance LPVO category, offering excellent features for the tactical shooter or hunter.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in an FN Scar 17 Scope
Choosing the right optic for your FN Scar 17 isn’t just about picking the one with the best reviews. This rifle is a unique beast, and its violent reciprocating charging handle and sharp recoil impulse are famous for destroying scopes that aren’t built to handle it. After field testing numerous optics on this platform, I’ve learned what truly matters. You need an optic that can survive the punishment first and perform second.
The most critical factor is durability. The Scar 17 generates significant shock forces, both rearward and laterally. Many scopes, even reputable ones, have had their reticles shift, lenses loosen, or internal electronics fail under this repeated stress. You need an optic built to a military standard, often denoted as MIL-SPEC. Look for scopes that have been tested and proven on other heavy-recoiling platforms like .308 Winchesters or even .50 BMG rifles. A robust, one-piece tube construction, typically 30mm or 34mm in diameter, is a good indicator of strength. The warranty is also a huge tell; companies that offer a no-questions-asked, lifetime warranty stand behind their product’s ability to take the abuse.
Next, consider the reticle and magnification based on your intended use. For a dedicated long-range rifle, a high-magnification first focal plane (FFP) scope is the way to go. The reticle in an FFP scope changes size with the magnification, so your holdover points are accurate at any power. For a more general-purpose or tactical rifle, a low-power variable optic (LPVO) in a 1-6x or 1-8x range is incredibly versatile. It allows for fast, both-eyes-open shooting at close ranges and the ability to zoom in for more precise shots at distance. Second focal plane (SFP) scopes are common here, where the reticle size stays constant, which can be faster for close-range work.
Finally, don’t skimp on the mount. A weak mount is a single point of failure that can ruin your day. I only use a high-quality, one-piece cantilever mount from a trusted manufacturer. Ensure it’s torqued to the proper specifications with a torque wrench. The combination of a tough scope in a solid mount is what finally gives you a reliable 9 Best FN Scar 17 Scopes & Optics (2025 Field Tested) setup. It’s an investment, but it’s the only way to ensure your optic keeps zero and lasts as long as the rifle itself.
FAQ
Why is the FN Scar 17 so hard on scopes?
The primary reason is its unique gas piston operating system. Unlike many AR-10 platforms, the Scar 17 has a very sharp and direct recoil impulse. Furthermore, the reciprocating charging handle sits on the same rail as your optic and slams back and forth with every shot. This creates significant lateral shock and vibration that can shake lesser optics apart, leading to lost zero, blurred lenses, or dead electronics. It’s not just about the .308 recoil; it’s the specific way the rifle cycles.
What magnification range is best for the Scar 17?
This depends entirely on your mission. For a do-it-all rifle, a 1-8x or 1-10x LPVO is hard to beat. It covers close-quarters speed and mid-to-long-range precision. If you’re building a dedicated long-range rifle, a 3-18x or 4-20x scope is a fantastic choice. For those who primarily shoot within 200 yards, a high-quality red dot like an Aimpoint T2 or an EOTech holographic sight is perfectly sufficient and lightning fast.
Do I need a special mount for my Scar 17?
Yes, you absolutely do. A standard, cheap ring set is asking for trouble. I strongly recommend a single-piece, cantilever-style mount from a reputable brand. This design provides superior rigidity and helps manage the shock forces. A 20 MOA cant is also a smart addition if you plan on doing any serious long-range shooting, as it gives you more usable elevation adjustment in your scope.
Are there any scopes I should avoid using on my Scar 17?
Generally, you should avoid scopes that are designed for lighter-recoiling calibers, have a history of durability issues, or come from brands with weak warranties. Budget-friendly scopes that work fine on an AR-15 often cannot withstand the repeated pounding from the Scar 17’s system. It’s worth investing in an optic that is proven to handle the platform. Doing your research on the 9 Best FN Scar 17 Scopes & Optics (2025 Field Tested) is a great starting point to find models known for their resilience.
Can I use an LPVO effectively on a .308 battle rifle?
Without a doubt. The modern LPVO is arguably the most versatile optic for a general-purpose .308 rifle like the Scar 17. On 1x power, with a good illuminated reticle, you can shoot with speed comparable to a red dot. Crank up the magnification to 6x, 8x, or 10x, and you have more than enough precision to engage man-sized targets out to 500-600 yards. It’s the best of both worlds for a rifle that’s expected to perform in varied scenarios.