A Look at the .17 HMR Landscape
The crack of a rimfire rifle, followed by the satisfying thud of a bullet striking its target, is a sound cherished by many. For those seeking accuracy and performance in a compact package, the .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (.17 HMR) cartridge has become a popular choice. And when it comes to readily available .17 HMR rifles, the Savage Arms B.Mag stands out. This article, dedicated to providing honest and comprehensive Savage Hmr 17 Reviews, will delve deep into this intriguing firearm, exploring its features, analyzing its performance, and ultimately helping you decide if it’s the right rifle for you.
Before we get started with this particular rifle, a brief overview of the .17 HMR cartridge itself is in order. The .17 HMR is a high-velocity rimfire round that’s essentially a .22 WMR case necked down to accept a .17-caliber bullet. The result? A flat-shooting round with impressive accuracy potential, especially at moderate ranges. This makes it a superb choice for varmint hunting, target shooting, and pest control where ranges are typically within two hundred yards. Its popularity stems from its exceptional ballistic coefficient, leading to reduced wind drift, and a flatter trajectory compared to similar rounds, making it easier to hit what you are aiming at.
Introducing the Savage B.Mag: The Rifle in Focus
Savage Arms is a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the firearms world. Known for its reliable bolt-action rifles, innovative AccuTrigger system, and a commitment to value, Savage has a strong reputation amongst shooters. The Savage B.Mag was designed to capitalize on the growing .17 HMR market, offering an accessible and capable rifle for hunters and enthusiasts.
The B.Mag .17 HMR is a bolt-action rifle designed for accuracy and ease of use. It is intended to be a practical and affordable option for those new to shooting or looking for a reliable rifle for pest control or target practice. We’ll be scrutinizing its design, performance, and whether it lives up to the hype, in this Savage Hmr 17 Reviews piece.
Unveiling the Key Features
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Savage B.Mag is its straightforward and functional design. The rifle aims for ease of use and value, and as a result, the features reflect this.
The B.Mag typically features a synthetic stock, often made of a durable polymer. These stocks are generally lightweight and weather-resistant, making them ideal for outdoor use in varied conditions. The stock’s design usually prioritizes ergonomics, which translates to a comfortable feel when shouldering the rifle and acquiring a target. You can expect a streamlined, functional shape without overly complex contours.
The action on the B.Mag is a unique design, which is part of the cost saving effort. The bolt system operates smoothly, and the rifle typically uses a rotary magazine. The magazine, which is often a detachable design, holds a good amount of rounds, allowing for quick follow-up shots.
Crucially, the Savage B.Mag is equipped with the AccuTrigger system, a significant selling point. This trigger mechanism is known for its crisp break and adjustable pull weight. The AccuTrigger provides a cleaner and more consistent trigger pull, leading to improved accuracy.
The barrel length of the B.Mag varies depending on the specific model, but it usually falls in the range of 20 to 22 inches. The barrel is typically made of carbon steel and is precision-rifled to optimize accuracy. The overall design aims to deliver a balance of performance and value.
Delving into the Action and Bolt
The B.Mag’s action is a distinctive aspect of its design. The bolt itself is generally smooth in operation, allowing for quick cycling and reloading. The bolt lift angle, the amount of space needed to raise the bolt for ejection, is generally not excessively high, which helps in quicker follow-up shots. The bolt handle is usually sized for comfortable manipulation, even with gloved hands.
The B.Mag’s action is designed to be robust and reliable. There is no need to worry about complicated mechanisms that are prone to malfunctions. The design focus is on providing a reliable and consistent firing platform. It efficiently extracts spent casings and chambers new rounds, ensuring a smooth shooting experience.
The bolt is a critical component for this rifle. Proper care and maintenance will enhance its performance and extend its life.
The Barrel and Accuracy: Where the Rubber Meets the Road
The barrel, the heart of any rifle, is a crucial factor in its accuracy. The barrel of the Savage B.Mag is typically made from carbon steel, and the machining is usually very good. The precise rifling provides the necessary spin to stabilize the .17 HMR bullets.
Accuracy is a primary goal of the .17 HMR platform, and the B.Mag has always been a good performer. Expect to achieve sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) groups at one hundred yards with the right ammunition and a skilled shooter. The rifle’s inherent accuracy, combined with the AccuTrigger, makes it a capable performer for target shooting and hunting.
Factors like barrel wear and ammunition selection can significantly influence accuracy. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain peak performance. Experiment with different types of .17 HMR ammunition to find the load that the rifle shoots best. Several brands and bullet weights work well with the B.Mag.
A Closer Look at the Trigger System
The AccuTrigger, a signature feature of many Savage rifles, is a major selling point for the B.Mag. It allows for a very crisp and clean trigger pull with minimal creep.
The trigger pull weight is adjustable, allowing shooters to fine-tune the rifle’s performance to their preferences. A lighter trigger pull can contribute to improved accuracy. The adjustment process is usually easy, often involving a simple screw adjustment that can be handled with basic tools.
The AccuTrigger is designed to be safe. It features a small blade within the trigger that prevents the rifle from firing unless the trigger is fully depressed. This added layer of safety is particularly important, especially for new shooters. The trigger design minimizes the risk of accidental discharge. The AccuTrigger enhances the overall shooting experience.
Stock and Ergonomics: The Feel of the Rifle
The stock of the Savage B.Mag typically is made of a durable and weather-resistant synthetic material. The stock’s design often prioritizes ergonomics, providing a comfortable shooting experience. The stock’s shape and overall design contribute to a balanced and comfortable feel.
Ergonomics refer to how well the rifle fits and feels in the shooter’s hands. A well-designed stock enables shooters to comfortably shoulder the rifle and acquire a target. Comfort improves accuracy over time, and helps with follow up shots. The comb height of the stock, the part that rests against the shooter’s cheek, is typically well-designed, ensuring proper eye alignment with the scope.
The overall balance of the rifle, influenced by the stock’s design, contributes to comfortable shooting.
The Magazine and Feeding: Reliability Matters
The B.Mag typically uses a rotary magazine, designed for reliability and quick reloading. The magazine capacity is typically ample. The magazine’s design helps to prevent jams and misfeeds, a critical factor for accuracy and for quick follow-up shots.
The magazine is generally easy to load, providing a smooth feeding experience.
The ease of use and reliability of the magazine contribute to the overall enjoyment of using the B.Mag.
Performance on the Range and in the Field
When it comes to practical use, the Savage B.Mag excels.
Target shooting is where the B.Mag shines. The combination of accuracy, a smooth trigger, and easy operation makes it a fun and rewarding rifle for recreational shooting. Accuracy at longer ranges will provide opportunities to further improve the shooter’s skills. The flat trajectory of the .17 HMR round, paired with the B.Mag’s accuracy, allows for satisfying long-range shots.
For varmint hunting, the B.Mag is a solid choice. The .17 HMR’s high velocity and explosive bullets are deadly on small game such as prairie dogs, squirrels, and rabbits. The rifle’s accuracy and ease of carrying makes it ideal for scouting and hunting, especially for small game species. The .17 HMR is a good option for pest control around properties.
The B.Mag is easy to carry, and the lightweight nature of the rifle helps with long days in the field. Its simplicity and reliability make it a dependable hunting companion.
Summarizing the Pros and Cons
The pros include its accuracy potential, the AccuTrigger, affordable pricing, and ergonomic design. It also includes a reliable action and good value for the cost.
Cons can sometimes include the synthetic stock, the rotary magazine, and potential for minor feeding issues that can occur with some rounds. Additionally, some users might find that the .17 HMR is not ideal for larger game.
Evaluating the Value and Providing a Verdict
The Savage B.Mag offers exceptional value. It provides a high level of performance at an accessible price point. The rifle gives you a lot of bang for your buck.
This rifle is great for both beginners and experienced shooters looking for an accurate, reliable, and affordable .17 HMR rifle. It’s also a great option for varmint hunters or those looking for a versatile rifle for target shooting and pest control.
While it has minor drawbacks, such as a few reports of magazine issues, the overall performance and value are undeniable. The Savage B.Mag presents a compelling case for shooters seeking a .17 HMR rifle.
Final Thoughts
In the final analysis, the Savage B.Mag .17 HMR is a well-designed and affordable rifle that offers excellent value for its cost. It delivers impressive accuracy thanks to its AccuTrigger and accurate barrel. This makes it suitable for target shooting, varmint hunting, and pest control. If you are searching for Savage Hmr 17 Reviews and considering adding a .17 HMR rifle to your collection, the B.Mag warrants serious consideration. It provides a solid blend of performance, value, and user-friendliness, which makes it a worthy choice for shooters of various skill levels.
