Savage A22 Pro Varmint 17 HMR Rifle Review

Description

The Savage A22 Pro Varmint 17 HMR, 22″ Barrel, Wood, 10rd is a bolt-action rimfire rifle designed for precision small-game hunting and target shooting. It combines a classic hardwood stock with a heavy, free-floating barrel for enhanced accuracy, chambered in the flat-shooting .17 HMR cartridge. This rifle offers a reliable, no-fuss platform for varmint control at a practical price point of $554.50.

Key Features

• Heavy 22-Inch Barrel: Free-floated and button-rifled for consistent shot placement and reduced barrel harmonics.
• Classic American Walnut Stock: Provides a traditional look and stable shooting platform without the cost of synthetic composites.
• AccuTrigger System: User-adjustable trigger pull allows you to fine-tine the break for your preference—a standout feature in this price bracket.
• Detachable 10-Round Rotary Magazine: Offers reliable feeding and quick reloads for extended range sessions or pest control.
• Bolt-Action Simplicity: Robust design promises durability and ease of maintenance, with no gunsmithing required for standard operation.

Specifications & Details

Caliber	.17 HMR
Barrel Length	22 Inches
Stock Material	American Walnut
Magazine Capacity	10 Rounds
Action Type	Bolt Action
Trigger	Adjustable AccuTrigger

Weighing in around 6.5 pounds, the rifle balances well for offhand shots but remains steady from a bench. The .17 HMR round itself is a key spec—it screams out of the barrel at over 2,500 fps, offering a laser-like trajectory that makes connecting on small targets like prairie dogs or crows much easier than with standard .22 LR. Here’s the thing—you’re getting a feature set, namely that adjustable trigger and free-floated barrel, that often costs more from other brands.

Who This Rifle Is For

This is the budget-conscious shooter’s precision tool. It’s for the Missouri landowner who needs to manage ground squirrels or raccoons at 100+ yards without spending a fortune. It’s also a solid entry point for a new shooter wanting to learn fundamentals on a capable rifle, or for the plinker who values minute-of-angle accuracy over high-volume fire. If your priority is first-shot hits on small varmints, this setup delivers.

Pros & Cons: The Practical Tradeoffs

Pros: The accuracy potential for the price is excellent. The .17 HMR caliber offers superior ballistic performance to .22 LR for longer-range varminting. The walnut stock provides a classic, rigid feel that many shooters prefer. The AccuTrigger is a genuine upgrade that rivals triggers on rifles costing hundreds more. It’s a simple, reliable system that fits out of the box and just works.

Cons: Ammunition for .17 HMR is more expensive than .22 LR, so practice costs add up. The wood stock, while handsome, is more susceptible to dings and weather than a synthetic. It’s a dedicated varminter, not a general-purpose .22—so if you want one rifle for everything, a .22 LR model might be more versatile. That said, for its intended role, the tradeoffs lean heavily in its favor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does the .17 HMR compare to a .22 WMR for varmint hunting?

A: The .17 HMR generally has a flatter trajectory and is less susceptible to wind drift, making it slightly better for precise shots beyond 100 yards. The .22 WMR hits a bit harder at very close range, but for pure accuracy at distance, the .17 HMR often wins. Ammo cost and selection are similar.

Q: Can I mount a scope on this rifle?

A: Absolutely. The receiver is pre-drilled and tapped for scope mounts, compatible with standard rimfire bases from brands like Weaver or Leupold. Pairing it with a modest 3-9x40mm scope from Vortex or Nikon creates a very effective long-range small-game system.

Q: Is the magazine easy to find and are there other capacity options?

A: The 10-round rotary magazine is the standard for this model and is widely available. Savage also offers 5-round magazines for those with capacity restrictions in certain states. Spare magazines are a smart buy to keep your shooting session uninterrupted.

Available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, the Savage A22 Pro Varmint represents a focused value. You’re investing in a specific tool that excels at its job without superfluous cost. For under $600, you get a rifle capable of accuracy that can challenge models at a higher price, chambered in a potent little cartridge. Consider if your needs match its strengths.