Use a variable, something that'll crank down to about 4x and go up to at least 12x minimum. My 17AH's both have a 4-16 Weaver and it's not too much for this little cartridge. There's no recoil and you can use all 16x and see every hit.
That would be my call... I have a 4.5 x 14 on a 77/17, and admit that sage rats give me an opportunity to use all of its capabilities....the 17 Hornet would be just more of a good thing....
Addendum....
I have a 6 x 24 Weaver on my Ruger, but have to admit, I down graded because that was TOO Much scope on the 17 HMR.... maybe the Hornet could take advantage of the extra power...
previously I had tried tried a 3 x 9 Weaver and it was just a hair too short on power in my opinion...
