RE: new marlin .17 hmr
Nikon makes good scopes. I just got a Nikon Buckmasters for $165. They have the Nikon Pro Staff which is not quite as good of a scope but still a decent scope. Also i have a BSA scope on my 204 and it has never gave me any problem. I woudlnt want one on something with alot of recoil but on a small caliber or rimfire they will work fine.