Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of using and reviewing various Savage 17 HMR rifles, and they never fail to impress. From their pinpoint accuracy to the innovation behind their design, these rifles are a go-to choice for small-game hunting and target shooting alike. Whether you’re an experienced shooter or just breaking into the scene, Savage’s 17 HMR lineup offers something for everyone. Here’s my deeper look into their performance, features, and why they should be on your radar.
In fact, newer variants like the Savage B17 Precision and the A17 Target Thumbhole have made their mark in NRL22-style competitions, showing just how far Savage has come in the rimfire game.
Pinpoint Accuracy Built for Precision
One standout trait of the Savage 17 HMR rifles is their exceptional accuracy. The .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) rounds make long-distance shooting remarkably consistent. With a muzzle velocity of up to 2,550 feet per second (FPS), these rifles outperform standard .22 LR in terms of trajectory and precision. During my personal tests, I consistently achieved groupings under 1 MOA at 100 yards, and even at 200 yards, the accuracy held strong despite occasional wind effects on the lightweight .17 caliber bullet.
Hornady has also released newer .17 HMR options like the V-MAX and Critical Defense lines, offering improved ballistic consistency and expansion, especially useful for varmint hunting.
For shooters who cherish nail-biting precision, these rifles deliver. I recommend pairing them with a high-quality scope like the Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 for even better results in the field.
Why Savage’s AccuTrigger™ Steals the Show
The AccuTrigger system, exclusive to Savage rifles, is a game-changer. It’s adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the pull weight between 1.5 to 6 pounds to suit your preferences. Personally, I love the crisp, consistent break this trigger offers—it’s confidence-boosting during hunts or competitions. The added safety mechanism ensures the rifle won’t fire unless the trigger is fully engaged, so you can feel secure knowing it prevents accidental discharge.
1. Savage 93R17 BVXP-SR At-One
A customizable beauty, this bolt-action rifle comes with a laminated thumbhole stock and a 21-inch heavy barrel. It’s built for those who demand both precision and a comfortable grip. As of 2025, newer versions may come with a factory-installed Picatinny rail, improving scope mounting ease.
Key Specs:
- Heavy barrel for better stability
- Laminated stock for improved control
2. Savage 93/93R17 FV-SR
This model is known for its threaded heavy barrel and user-adjustable AccuTrigger™, making it a reliable option for both beginners and seasoned hunters. Some recent runs now include a thread protector cap by default—ideal for keeping the barrel threads clean.
Key Specs:
- 16.5-inch barrel for portability
- Threaded barrel for suppressor compatibility
3. Savage 93/93R17 BTVSS
For those who want flawless aesthetics combined with high-tier accuracy, the BTVSS is an absolute treat. Its stainless steel barrel and stylish stock are perfect for precision shooting enthusiasts. In newer batches, enhanced bolt designs have improved cycling smoothness, especially with bulk ammo.
Key Specs:
- Heavy stainless steel barrel
- Thumbhole stock for ergonomic handling
4. Savage B17
Ideal for teen hunters or first-time shooters, the Savage B17 is lightweight, easy to handle, and built with robust materials that make it a long-lasting companion. The B17 lineup now includes the B17 Precision model, which features an MDT chassis and is competition-ready right out of the box.
Key Specs:
- 10-round detachable magazine
- Picatinny rail for sights and accessories
Pros
- Reliable accuracy with high-velocity .17 HMR rounds
- Adjustable AccuTrigger for a tailored shooting experience
- Versatile models catering to different shooting styles
- Minimal recoil, making it ideal for extended range sessions
- Durable, well-built rifles priced reasonably for their exceptional quality
Growing aftermarket support—stocks, triggers, and accessories are more widely available in 2025.
Cons
- Lightweight bullets sensitive to wind during long-distance shots
- Smaller 5-round magazine capacities for some models
- Matte finish on barrels can require extra care to prevent rust
Some older models are being phased out, which may make sourcing parts difficult over time.
Must-Have Accessories
To get the most from your Savage 17 HMR, consider these upgrades:
- Scopes: Reliable optics like the Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 can drastically enhance your targeting.
- Bipods: Stabilization tools, such as Harris Bipods, are perfect for precision shooting.
- Threaded Barrels: Add a suppressor for quieter operation—ideal for hunting situations.
- Adjustable comb risers or cheek pads: Help improve eye alignment with scopes, especially useful for youth or precision shooters.
Why Choose the Savage 17 HMR?
The Savage 17 HMR is not just a rifle—it’s an experience. Whether you’re venturing into varmint hunting or simply looking for a weekend target-shooting partner, these rifles won’t disappoint. Personally, their consistent performance, innovative AccuTrigger system, and customizable options make them a worthwhile investment for any shooter. Sure, wind and magazine size present minor challenges, but with the right techniques and accessories, these issues fade into the background.
FAQs
The Savage A17 is highly accurate, delivering sub-MOA groups at 100 yards and effective past 150 yards. Its delayed-blowback action and AccuTrigger ensure consistent, precise shots, perfect for small-game hunting.
Yes, Savage Arms produces .17 HMR rifles, including the B17 bolt-action and A17 semi-auto. These rifles offer great accuracy, reliability, and performance, making them excellent choices for varmint hunting and target shooting.
A .17 HMR can kill a deer with a perfect brain or spine shot, but it’s not ethical. The risk of wounding is high—use a larger caliber for clean, humane kills.
Yes, many shooters now use Savage 17 HMR rifles, particularly the B17 Precision and A17 Target Thumbhole models, in rimfire matches like NRL22. Their accuracy and customizable features make them a budget-friendly choice for competition shooting.
We provide trusted insights for responsible, law-abiding firearm owners. We do not sell firearms. Some links may be affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help support our product testing and honest reviews.