The Savage 17 HMR Stainless is a popular choice among .17 HMR enthusiasts, prized for its accuracy, reliability, and the inherent advantages of a stainless steel construction. This comprehensive guide will delve into the features, performance, and overall value proposition of this specific model, helping you determine if it's the right fit for your shooting needs.
What Makes the Savage 17 HMR Stainless Stand Out?
Several key features distinguish the Savage 17 HMR Stainless from the competition:
Superior Stainless Steel Construction
The stainless steel receiver and barrel offer significant advantages. This translates to:
- Enhanced Durability: Resistance to rust and corrosion, crucial for handling various weather conditions and extending the rifle's lifespan.
- Increased Accuracy: The stainless steel barrel maintains its accuracy over time better than a blued barrel, reducing the need for frequent cleaning and maintaining consistent performance.
- Longevity: A stainless steel rifle will withstand the test of time far better than one with a blued finish.
Accuracy and Precision
Savage rifles are renowned for their accuracy, and the 17 HMR Stainless is no exception. The AccuTrigger system allows for a crisp, clean break, minimizing trigger pull variability and enhancing shot precision. Coupled with the quality of the barrel, this contributes to impressive accuracy at longer ranges for a rimfire rifle.
Versatile Use Cases
The .17 HMR cartridge itself is incredibly versatile. This makes the Savage 17 HMR Stainless suitable for various applications, including:
- Small Game Hunting: The .17 HMR is lethal on small game like rabbits, squirrels, and prairie dogs. Its flat trajectory and accuracy make long-range shots more manageable.
- Pest Control: Its accuracy and stopping power make it effective for controlling varmints and pests around the property.
- Target Shooting: The rifle's inherent accuracy makes it an excellent choice for target practice and honing your shooting skills.
User-Friendly Features
Beyond the performance aspects, the Savage 17 HMR Stainless boasts several user-friendly features:
- Easy to Handle: The rifle's weight and balance make it comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
- Relatively Low Recoil: The .17 HMR cartridge's lower recoil compared to centerfire cartridges makes it pleasant to shoot, even for new shooters.
- Easy Maintenance: Cleaning and maintaining the stainless steel finish is straightforward.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
While the Savage 17 HMR Stainless offers many benefits, it's important to acknowledge potential downsides:
- Ammunition Cost: .17 HMR ammunition can be more expensive than some other rimfire cartridges.
- Limited Range: While accurate at longer distances for a rimfire, the .17 HMR still has a shorter effective range compared to many centerfire rounds.
Conclusion: Is the Savage 17 HMR Stainless Right for You?
The Savage 17 HMR Stainless is a robust, accurate, and versatile rimfire rifle perfectly suited for small game hunting, pest control, and target shooting. Its stainless steel construction ensures durability and longevity, while the AccuTrigger system enhances accuracy. The relatively low recoil makes it enjoyable for shooters of all skill levels. While ammunition costs are slightly higher, the performance and reliability make the investment worthwhile for many users. Consider your specific needs and budget before making a purchase. However, for a dependable and accurate .17 HMR rifle, the Savage 17 HMR Stainless remains a strong contender.
