Description
The Browning T-Bolt Composite Target-Varmint .17 HMR 22″ Blued Barrel 10 Round Capacity is a straight-pull bolt-action rifle designed for precision rimfire shooting. It’s built for the shooter who demands speed and accuracy on small targets, combining a unique action with a target/varmint profile in a lightweight composite stock. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of .17 HMR through this platform, and its speed is genuinely impressive—once you get the rhythm, you can fire follow-up shots almost as fast as a semi-auto, but with the locked-in solidity of a bolt gun.
Key Features
- Straight-Pull Bolt Action: Unmatched speed for rapid, accurate follow-up shots.
- Target/Varmint Configuration: Heavy, free-floated 22-inch barrel for enhanced accuracy.
- Composite Stock: Lightweight, durable, and weather-resistant with an ergonomic target-style forend.
- 10-Round Detachable Magazine: High capacity for extended range sessions or pest control.
- Adjustable Trigger: User-adjustable from 2.5 to 5 pounds for a custom pull.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .17 HMR |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 22 inches |
| Overall Length | 41.5 inches |
| Weight | 5 lbs 8 oz |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 Rounds |
| Action | Straight-Pull Bolt |
Let’s talk about that straight-pull action. It’s the heart of this rifle. Instead of the traditional lift-rotate-pull motion, you just pull straight back and push straight forward. It’s incredibly intuitive and fast. The 22-inch blued barrel is free-floated within the composite stock, which is a major plus for consistency. The whole package comes in at a very manageable 5 pounds 8 ounces, making it easy to carry on long walks in the field. The trigger is a standout—it’s adjustable and breaks cleanly, a feature you don’t always find in rimfires at this price point. Speaking of price, this rifle lists for $752.93, which positions it as a premium tool for a specific shooter. It’s drop-in ready for optics, by the way—no gunsmithing required to mount your preferred scope using standard rings. I’ve found it pairs perfectly with optics from brands like Vortex or Leupold in their rimfire lines, like a Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×40 AO.
Who This Rifle Is For
This isn’t your plinker’s first .22. The Browning T-Bolt Composite Target-Varmint is for the disciplined shooter. It’s for the varminter who needs to make a second shot count on a prairie dog town at 150 yards. It’s for the target shooter who appreciates a unique, fast-handling action for rimfire competitions or just ringing steel. It’s also for the hunter who wants a lightweight, deadly-accurate tool for dispatching pests like ground squirrels or raccoons with extreme prejudice. If you’re just looking to blast cans, a standard rotary-mag bolt action might be more economical. But if your goal is precision at speed, this is your rifle.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The straight-pull action is brilliantly fast and smooth. The free-floated, heavy barrel delivers excellent accuracy potential. The adjustable trigger is a fantastic feature. The composite stock is tough and stable in all conditions. The 10-round magazine is a practical advantage.
Cons: The .17 HMR caliber ammunition is more expensive than .22 LR. The unique action has a different manual of arms that takes a magazine or two to master. The composite stock, while functional, lacks the aesthetic warmth of a walnut stock. At over $750, it’s an investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the straight-pull bolt work compared to a traditional turn-bolt?
A: Instead of lifting the handle up, rotating it, then pulling back, you simply pull the T-shaped handle straight back toward your shoulder. To close, push it straight forward. It’s faster and keeps your sight picture more stable. The bolt locks via lugs just like a traditional action, so it’s just as strong.
Q: Is the .17 HMR a good choice for my needs?
A: The .17 HMR is a flat-shooting, high-velocity rimfire round perfect for varmints and small game out to 150-200 yards with precision. It has significantly more reach and energy than a .22 LR but is much cheaper and has less recoil than a centerfire varmint cartridge. It’s ideal for longer-range pest control and target shooting.
Q: What kind of accuracy can I expect?
A: With quality ammunition like Hornady V-Max or CCI TNT, sub-MOA groups (under 1 inch at 100 yards) are absolutely achievable from a bench rest with a good scope. The free-floated barrel and excellent trigger give you the tools; the rest is up to the shooter and ammo selection.
Look, if you’re after a uniquely fast and accurate rimfire that stands out from the crowd, the Browning T-Bolt Composite Target-Varmint is a serious contender. It’s a purpose-built tool that excels at its intended roles. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. If the blend of speed, precision, and the potent .17 HMR cartridge speaks to you, check its current availability on our site.
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