RE: Who makes the best .17 caliber rifle?
If you're talking 17hornady I'd probably stick to the Savage. In tests it out performed the Ruger (almost twice the price)and the New England Arms. Price on itt not sure. I pay dealer,s cost which is $162& change,figure on adding 10% and that should be in the neighborhood for the Savage.
As far as a scope ,maybe a Bushnell Trophy in a 3-12. A very nice scope for the money without emptying your wallet.