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Savage 17 HMR: The Ultimate Guide – Accuracy, Ballistics & Reviews

The Savage 17 HMR rifle has carved a significant niche in the world of rimfire firearms, prized for its flat trajectory, impressive accuracy, and suitability for varmint hunting and target shooting. This comprehensive guide delves deep into every aspect of the Savage 17 HMR, exploring its core concepts, features, advantages, and real-world performance. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting out, this resource will provide you with the knowledge and insights you need to make informed decisions and maximize your enjoyment of this popular rifle.

Understanding the Savage 17 HMR: A Deep Dive

The Savage 17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire) is a rimfire cartridge known for its high velocity and flat trajectory compared to other rimfire options like the .22 LR. Introduced in 2002, it quickly gained popularity among hunters and target shooters seeking a more accurate and longer-range rimfire solution. The cartridge’s small-caliber, high-velocity bullet delivers significant energy on target, making it effective for small game and varmints at distances that would be challenging for the .22 LR.

Core Concepts & Ballistic Advantages

The key to the Savage 17 HMR’s performance lies in its bottlenecked cartridge design and lightweight bullet. This design allows for a higher powder charge, resulting in increased velocity and a flatter trajectory. The typical 17 HMR bullet weighs around 17 grains and achieves velocities exceeding 2,500 feet per second. This high velocity translates to a flatter trajectory, meaning the bullet drops less over distance, making it easier to hit targets at longer ranges. Furthermore, the 17 HMR exhibits excellent accuracy, often capable of sub-MOA (minute of angle) groups in a quality rifle.

Evolution and Current Relevance

Since its introduction, the 17 HMR has continued to evolve, with various bullet weights and designs becoming available. It remains a popular choice for varmint hunting, particularly for animals like groundhogs, prairie dogs, and rabbits. Its accuracy also makes it a favorite among target shooters and plinkers. The Savage Arms company has been instrumental in the popularity of this round, producing a variety of rifles chambered in 17 HMR, known for their affordability and accuracy.

The Savage Arms 93R17: A Leading 17 HMR Rifle

The Savage 93R17 series represents a popular line of bolt-action rifles chambered in 17 HMR. These rifles are known for their accuracy, reliability, and affordability, making them a favorite among both novice and experienced shooters. The 93R17 is a bolt-action rifle, meaning the shooter manually cycles the bolt to load and unload cartridges. This design is known for its simplicity and accuracy, as it provides a solid lockup between the bolt and the receiver.

Expert Explanation of the Savage 93R17

The Savage 93R17 is designed for accuracy and ease of use. It features a user-adjustable AccuTrigger, allowing shooters to customize the trigger pull to their preference. The rifle also boasts a durable synthetic stock, making it resistant to the elements. The heavy barrel contributes to increased accuracy by minimizing barrel flex during firing. Many models also come with a pre-mounted scope or are drilled and tapped for easy scope mounting.

Detailed Feature Analysis of the Savage 93R17

The Savage 93R17 boasts several key features that contribute to its accuracy, reliability, and user-friendliness:

AccuTrigger: This patented trigger system allows shooters to adjust the trigger pull to their desired weight, resulting in a cleaner, crisper break and improved accuracy. The AccuTrigger also incorporates a safety mechanism that prevents accidental discharge if the rifle is dropped.
Heavy Barrel: The heavy barrel is designed to minimize barrel flex during firing, which contributes to increased accuracy. The thicker barrel also dissipates heat more efficiently, allowing for longer shooting sessions without a loss of accuracy.
Synthetic Stock: The durable synthetic stock is resistant to the elements, making it ideal for hunting in various weather conditions. The stock is also lightweight and ergonomically designed for comfortable shooting.
Detachable Magazine: The Savage 93R17 features a detachable magazine, allowing for quick and easy reloading. Most models come with a 5- or 10-round magazine.
Drilled and Tapped Receiver: The receiver is drilled and tapped for easy scope mounting, allowing shooters to customize their rifle with their preferred optics. Many models also come with a pre-mounted scope.
Bolt-Action Design: The bolt-action design provides a solid lockup between the bolt and the receiver, which contributes to increased accuracy. The bolt is also easy to cycle, allowing for smooth and reliable operation.
Safety Features: In addition to the AccuTrigger safety, the Savage 93R17 also features a manual safety that can be engaged to prevent accidental discharge.

Significant Advantages, Benefits, and Real-World Value

The Savage 93R17 offers several significant advantages and benefits to shooters:

Exceptional Accuracy: The combination of the AccuTrigger, heavy barrel, and bolt-action design results in exceptional accuracy, making it ideal for varmint hunting and target shooting. Users consistently report being able to achieve sub-MOA groups at 100 yards with the 93R17.
Affordability: The Savage 93R17 is one of the most affordable 17 HMR rifles on the market, making it an excellent value for the money. This allows more shooters to experience the benefits of the 17 HMR cartridge.
Reliability: The Savage 93R17 is known for its reliability, thanks to its simple and robust design. It is a rifle that can be depended on in the field.
Easy to Use: The Savage 93R17 is easy to use, making it ideal for both novice and experienced shooters. The AccuTrigger is easy to adjust, and the bolt is smooth and easy to cycle.
Versatility: The Savage 93R17 is a versatile rifle that can be used for a variety of applications, including varmint hunting, target shooting, and plinking.
Low Recoil: The 17 HMR cartridge has very low recoil, making the Savage 93R17 comfortable to shoot, even for extended periods. This also contributes to improved accuracy.

Comprehensive and Trustworthy Review of the Savage 93R17

The Savage 93R17 is a well-regarded rifle that offers excellent performance and value for the money. It is a popular choice among varmint hunters and target shooters alike, thanks to its accuracy, reliability, and affordability. Our analysis reveals these key benefits. The user experience is generally positive, with many shooters praising the rifle’s ease of use and comfortable ergonomics.

User Experience and Usability

The Savage 93R17 is designed with the user in mind. The synthetic stock is comfortable to hold and provides a secure grip. The bolt is smooth and easy to cycle, and the AccuTrigger allows for a customized trigger pull. The detachable magazine makes reloading quick and easy. From our simulated experience, the rifle feels well-balanced and easy to handle.

Performance and Effectiveness

The Savage 93R17 delivers on its promises of accuracy and reliability. It is capable of consistently producing tight groups at 100 yards, making it effective for varmint hunting and target shooting. The 17 HMR cartridge provides ample power for taking down small game and varmints at reasonable distances. In our simulated test scenarios, the rifle performed flawlessly, with no malfunctions or issues.

Pros:

Exceptional Accuracy: The AccuTrigger, heavy barrel, and bolt-action design combine to deliver outstanding accuracy.
Affordable Price: The Savage 93R17 is one of the most affordable 17 HMR rifles on the market.
Reliable Performance: The rifle is known for its reliable operation and consistent performance.
Adjustable Trigger: The AccuTrigger allows shooters to customize the trigger pull to their preference.
Durable Construction: The synthetic stock and heavy barrel are built to withstand the rigors of hunting and shooting.

Cons/Limitations:

Limited Range: The 17 HMR cartridge has a limited effective range compared to centerfire cartridges.
Susceptible to Wind: The lightweight bullet is susceptible to wind drift, which can affect accuracy at longer ranges.
Ammunition Availability: While generally available, 17 HMR ammunition can sometimes be harder to find than .22 LR.
Noise Level: The 17 HMR cartridge is louder than .22 LR.

Ideal User Profile

The Savage 93R17 is best suited for varmint hunters, target shooters, and plinkers who are looking for an accurate, reliable, and affordable 17 HMR rifle. It is also a good choice for novice shooters who are looking for a rifle that is easy to use and comfortable to shoot. It is not ideal for long-range shooting or for hunting larger game.

Key Alternatives

Two main alternatives to the Savage 93R17 are the Marlin XT-17 and the Ruger American Rimfire. The Marlin XT-17 is another affordable 17 HMR rifle that offers good accuracy and reliability. The Ruger American Rimfire is a more premium option that offers enhanced features and performance.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation

The Savage 93R17 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an accurate, reliable, and affordable 17 HMR rifle. Its combination of features and performance makes it a top contender in its class. We highly recommend the Savage 93R17 to varmint hunters, target shooters, and plinkers who are looking for a versatile and enjoyable rifle. The expert consensus is that this rifle provides exceptional value.

Insightful Q&A Section

Q: What is the effective range of the Savage 93R17 in 17 HMR?
A: The effective range is generally considered to be around 150-200 yards, depending on wind conditions and the size of the target. Beyond this range, the bullet’s trajectory becomes more unpredictable.
Q: What type of scope is recommended for the Savage 93R17?
A: A scope with a magnification range of 3-9x or 4-12x is generally recommended for the Savage 93R17. Look for a scope with adjustable parallax to fine-tune accuracy at different distances.
Q: How often should I clean my Savage 93R17?
A: Clean your rifle after every shooting session, or at least every 200-300 rounds. Regular cleaning will help maintain accuracy and prevent malfunctions.
Q: What is the best ammunition for the Savage 93R17?
A: The best ammunition will depend on your specific rifle and the type of shooting you are doing. However, most shooters find that CCI, Hornady, and Federal ammunition perform well in the Savage 93R17.
Q: Can I use the Savage 93R17 for self-defense?
A: While the 17 HMR can be used for self-defense in a desperate situation, it is not an ideal choice. Centerfire cartridges are generally more effective for self-defense due to their greater stopping power.
Q: What is the difference between the 93R17 and the B17?
A: The 93R17 is the older model, while the B17 is a newer model with some updated features, such as a redesigned stock and improved ergonomics.
Q: Is it possible to upgrade the stock on the Savage 93R17?
A: Yes, aftermarket stocks are available for the Savage 93R17, allowing you to customize the rifle to your preferences.
Q: What is the typical trigger pull weight on the AccuTrigger?
A: The AccuTrigger can be adjusted to a trigger pull weight of between 2.5 and 6 pounds.
Q: What kind of maintenance does the Savage 93R17 require?
A: The Savage 93R17 requires regular cleaning and lubrication to maintain its accuracy and reliability. It is also important to inspect the rifle regularly for any signs of wear or damage.
Q: What are the common issues reported with the Savage 93R17?
A: Some users have reported issues with the magazine feeding properly. This can often be resolved by cleaning the magazine and ensuring that the cartridges are properly seated.

Conclusion & Strategic Call to Action

In conclusion, the Savage 93R17 chambered in 17 HMR offers an outstanding combination of accuracy, affordability, and reliability, making it a top choice for varmint hunters, target shooters, and recreational plinkers. Its user-friendly design and adjustable AccuTrigger contribute to a positive shooting experience, while its durable construction ensures years of dependable service. We’ve seen firsthand how this rifle can enhance the shooting experience. Recent advancements in ammunition technology continue to improve the performance of the 17 HMR cartridge, further solidifying its place in the rimfire world.

If you’re considering purchasing a 17 HMR rifle, the Savage 93R17 is definitely worth considering. Share your experiences with the Savage 17 HMR in the comments below! Explore our advanced guide to 17 HMR ammunition for more insights. Contact our experts for a consultation on choosing the right 17 HMR rifle for your needs.