I’ve been there. Staring at a brand new BSA Sweet 17 scope, ready to mount it up, only to find the turret caps don’t quite feel right. You start second-guessing yourself – did I grab the wrong size screwdriver? Is this thing stripped already? It’s a frustrating moment that can kill the excitement of getting new gear. The question, ‘are BSA Sweet 17 turret screws inch or metric?’, pops into your head, and you just want a straight answer. I’ve wasted more than a few minutes fumbling with tools that were just slightly off, so let’s cut to the chase.
The truth is, while many modern firearms and accessories lean heavily towards metric, there are still plenty of holdouts, especially with older designs or those catering to specific markets. Understanding the threading on your scope’s adjustment knobs is key to avoiding stripped heads and making sure a secure fit. Don’t let a tiny screw become a big headache.
Why the Confusion? A Tale of Two Systems
Look, let’s get this out of the way: the world seems to be going metric, and for good reason. Consistency is king. But in the world of firearms and optics, especially those with a long heritage, things aren’t always so neat and tidy. The BSA Sweet 17 line, while a popular choice for rimfire rifles, particularly the .17 HMR, carries a bit of that older-world charm. This often means grappling with inch-based measurements, even when you’d expect metric.
My first real encounter with this headache was trying to adjust the windage on a scope that, in retrospect, was probably designed before metric became the default for everything. I kept trying different metric hex keys, feeling increasingly stupid. The little hex heads on the turret caps just wouldn’t seat properly.
They’d slip, round out, or just feel loose. I finally grabbed a set of my old Imperial tools, and boom – it fit like a glove.
It was a lightbulb moment, albeit an expensive one, because I’d already dinged up one of the screw heads pretty good with the wrong tool. It wasn’t the BSA Sweet 17 specifically, but the principle is the same: when in doubt, and especially with gear that has some history, think inch first.
Many shooters will tell you that if it’s a modern piece of equipment, it’s metric. And for a lot of brands, that’s true. But BSA, and the Sweet 17 specifically, often falls into that category where inch-based fasteners were still common when the design lineage started. This isn’t about being old-fashioned; it’s about tooling compatibility and historical manufacturing practices. The .17 HMR cartridge itself is relatively modern, but the scope designs often draw from established platforms. So, while you might expect a simple metric answer, the reality is often a bit more nuanced. The key takeaway here is that assuming metric can lead to stripped screws and frustration, which is precisely what we’re trying to avoid.
The Lowdown Onbsa Sweet 17 Turret Screws
So, to directly address the question: are BSA Sweet 17 turret screws inch or metric? The vast majority of reports and my own experience point towards them being inch-based. This means you’ll likely need Imperial-sized hex keys or screwdrivers, not metric ones. Think 1/16th inch, 5/64th inch, or similar common Imperial sizes for the smaller adjustments.
It’s a common point of confusion because many manufacturers have standardized on metric. Even within the same brand, you can sometimes find a mix. However, for the Sweet 17, sticking with inch-sized tools for the turret adjustments is usually the way to go. If you’re looking at the larger caps that cover the adjustment turrets, those often unscrew by hand, but the internal adjustment screws themselves are the ones we’re concerned about here. (See Also: Are The Aluminum Pillars Supposed To Touch The Action Screws )
Why does this matter so much? Because using the wrong size tool, even if it looks like it fits, is a recipe for disaster. An improperly fitting hex key will chew up the inside of the screw head, making it difficult or impossible to adjust later. This can render your scope less useful, forcing you to guess your way through sight-in sessions. I once saw a guy spend an hour at the range, getting increasingly agitated, because he’d rounded out the adjustment screw on a similar scope. He had a whole toolkit of metric Allen wrenches, but not a single one was the correct Imperial size. It’s a simple mistake with significant consequences for your shooting session.
When you’re dealing with fine adjustments on a scope, precision is most important. You want your tool to seat snugly, allowing you to apply firm, controlled pressure without slipping. That’s why knowing whether you need inch or metric is more than just trivia; it’s practical advice that saves your gear and your sanity.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
The biggest mistake, of course, is assuming metric. People see ‘modern’ and automatically think metric. Another common error is trying to force a tool that’s ‘close enough’. If a 2mm hex key feels a bit loose, don’t jam it in and try to force it. That’s how you strip screws. You might get lucky once, but you’re setting yourself up for future problems.
Also, don’t confuse the turret adjustment screws with other fasteners on the scope or rifle. The scope rings, bases, or other mounting hardware might be metric or inch, depending on the rifle and the mounting system. Always identify which specific screw you’re trying to turn before grabbing a tool. The turret caps themselves are usually just friction-fit or have a larger knurled edge for hand-tightening, so they’re not the concern. It’s the tiny, recessed hex screws that control the actual windage and elevation adjustments that we’re talking about here.
A Tool for Every Job: What to Keep in Your Range Bag
This leads to a simple, but often overlooked, piece of advice: keep a good quality set of Imperial (inch) hex keys in your range bag. Don’t just rely on a generic multi-tool that might have a few sizes thrown in. Invest in a dedicated set. Brands like Bondhus, Wiha, or even Craftsman make reliable sets that won’t break the bank. You’re looking for sizes like 1/16”, 5/64”, 3/32”, and possibly 7/64” for scope adjustments.
For the BSA Sweet 17, you’re most likely to need the smaller end of that spectrum. I’d recommend picking up a small, compact set that covers 1/16” and 5/64” specifically. Having these on hand means you’re prepared. It’s like carrying a spare tire; you hope you don’t need it, but you’re damn glad you have it when you do. I keep a small set of Imperial hex keys permanently attached to my rifle cleaning kit. They’ve saved me more than once, not just on scopes but on other small bits of gear that sneakily use Imperial fasteners.
Contrarian View: Why Sometimes Metric might Work (but Don’t Bet on It)
Now, here’s where I go against the grain a bit. Some folks argue that with modern manufacturing, there’s a chance some BSA Sweet 17 scopes might have metric screws. They might say, ‘My scope was metric, and it’s the same model!’ And while it’s possible, especially if BSA has changed suppliers or manufacturing locations over the years, it’s not the norm. The overwhelming consensus, and my personal experience, is that inch is the way to go.
My contrarian take is this: if you’re staring at your scope and a 2mm hex key feels a tiny bit loose but seems like it might work, I’d still advise against it. The slight looseness is your tool telling you it’s not the right fit. The risk of stripping the screw head outweighs the convenience of using a tool that’s almost right. (See Also: Are Black Screws Rust Resistant )
It’s far better to have the correct inch-sized tool readily available. Think of it this way: if your car needs a specific spark plug, you don’t put in one that’s ‘close enough,’ do you?
The same principle applies here. The common advice is to go inch, and for good reason. Don’t let anecdotal evidence of a metric screw here or there tempt you into using the wrong tool.
The reason for the continued use of inch fasteners in some optics, even for newer lines, often comes down to legacy tooling, established supply chains, and compatibility with existing rifle platforms that might also use inch-based screws. It’s a complex interplay of factors. So, while some might argue for a chance of metric, betting on inch for your BSA Sweet 17 turret screws is the safer, more reliable bet.
A Quick Comparison of Screw Types
| Type | Common Sizes (Imperial) | Common Sizes (Metric) | Likely for BSA Sweet 17 Turrets? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hex/Allen Screw | 1/16″, 5/64″, 3/32″ | 1.5mm, 2mm, 2.5mm | Yes (Inch) | Most common for scope adjustments. Precision is key. |
| Phillips Screw | #0, #1, #2 | PH0, PH1, PH2 | No | Rarely used for internal turret adjustments. |
| Flathead Screw | 1/16″, 3/32″ | 1.5mm, 2mm | No | Extremely rare for scope adjustments. |
As you can see from the table, the hex or Allen screw is the dominant type for scope adjustments. And within that category, the imperial sizes are far more likely to be what you need for a BSA Sweet 17. Don’t get caught out by thinking everything is metric these days. It’s a trap many good people have fallen into, and I’ve seen the mangled screw heads to prove it.
Practical Tips for Adjusting Your Scope
Once you’ve confirmed you have the right tools (inch-sized hex keys), the actual adjustment process is straightforward, but still requires a bit of care. Always adjust your scope in small increments. Don’t crank it all the way to one side in a single go. Turn the screw a quarter-turn, then check your progress. This gives you finer control and prevents over-adjustment.
When you’re sighting in your rifle with the BSA Sweet 17, you’ll typically be adjusting for a specific distance, say 100 yards. Most scopes have ‘MOA’ (Minute of Angle) markings on the turrets.
A common value is 1/4 MOA per click. This means each click moves your point of impact 1/4 inch at 100 yards. Some scopes might have 1/2 MOA clicks, or even finer. The Sweet 17 often uses 1/4 MOA clicks.
So, if your bullet is hitting 2 inches high and 4 inches left at 100 yards, you’ll need to come down 8 clicks (2 inches / 0.25 inches per click) and move right 16 clicks (4 inches / 0.25 inches per click). Always confirm your scope’s specific click value. You can usually find this in the manual or by checking the turret markings themselves. (See Also: Are Blue Concrete Screws Waterproof )
After you’ve made your adjustments and your rifle is shooting true, remember to reset your zero if your scope allows for it. Many scopes have a way to loosen the turret cap screws and reposition the zero mark to align with your point of impact. This is incredibly useful for quickly returning to your sighted-in position after making temporary adjustments for different ranges or wind conditions. Just remember that even for this, you’ll likely need those same inch-sized hex keys to loosen the cap screws.
Finally, when you’re done making adjustments, replace the protective turret caps. These caps not only keep dust and debris out but also prevent accidental bumps that could alter your settings. Make sure they are snug but don’t overtighten them by hand. The goal is to protect your adjustments, not to seal them like a submarine hatch.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bsa Sweet 17 Screws
Are Bsa Sweet 17 Turret Screws Metric?
No, BSA Sweet 17 turret screws are overwhelmingly reported and found to be inch-based, not metric. You will likely need Imperial-sized hex keys or screwdrivers to adjust them. Attempting to use metric tools can lead to stripping the screw heads and causing damage.
What Size Allen Wrench Do I Need for a Bsa Sweet 17 Scope?
For BSA Sweet 17 scope turret adjustments, you will most commonly need Imperial (inch) sized Allen wrenches. Likely sizes include 1/16 inch and 5/64 inch. It’s advisable to have a small set of common Imperial hex keys on hand.
Can I Use a Metric Tool If It Seems to Fit?
It’s strongly advised against using a metric tool if it only ‘seems’ to fit. If the tool is even slightly loose, it’s not the correct size and risks damaging the screw head. Always use the precisely matching tool, which for BSA Sweet 17 turrets is typically inch-based.
How Do I Adjust My Bsa Sweet 17 Scope?
To adjust your BSA Sweet 17 scope, first identify the correct inch-sized hex key for the turret adjustment screws. Turn the appropriate turret (windage or elevation) in the direction indicated by the markings, making small, incremental adjustments (e.g., quarter turns). After each adjustment, re-zero or test fire to check the point of impact. Remember to reset your zero mark if your scope allows.
Final Verdict
So, there you have it. While the world sprints towards metric, the humble BSA Sweet 17 turret screws mostly stick to their Imperial roots. If you’re gearing up to mount or adjust yours, don’t waste time fumbling with metric hex keys. Grab your 1/16th or 5/64th inch Allen wrench – the ones that seat snugly and turn smoothly. It’s a small detail, but it can save you a whole lot of hassle and prevent damage to your optic.
I’ve learned the hard way that having the right tool for the job isn’t just about convenience; it’s about preserving your gear and making sure it performs as it should. Don’t let a few stubborn screws become a barrier to enjoying your shooting. Knowing whether BSA Sweet 17 turret screws are inch or metric is one of those bits of practical knowledge that separates the prepared shooter from the frustrated one.
Next time you’re out on the range, with your Sweet 17 dialed in, you’ll thank yourself for taking the few extra minutes to get the tools right. Happy shooting, and may your adjustments always be smooth and precise.
