Description
Picture this: you’re walking a fence line, looking for a varmint that’s been terrorizing the chickens. You need a rifle that’s light, accurate, and won’t break the bank on ammo. You don’t need tactical bells and whistles—you need a reliable tool that gets the job done without fuss. That’s the exact scenario where the Mossberg 817 Bolt Action 17HMR SS Black Sport Grip 21″ Barrel, Blued, 6rd shines. It’s a no-frills, bolt-action rimfire rifle built for precision small-game hunting and pest control at an astonishingly affordable price point.
So, what is it? The Mossberg 817 is a budget-friendly, bolt-action rimfire rifle chambered in the flat-shooting .17 HMR cartridge. It features a 21-inch blued steel barrel, a synthetic “Sport Grip” stock, and a 6-round detachable box magazine. Priced at just $195.60, it delivers exceptional value for hunters and shooters who prioritize accuracy and low-cost practice over premium features.
Let’s talk about where your money goes. The heart of this rifle is the .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (17 HMR) cartridge. Here’s the thing—this little round is a laser beam. It shoots flat, hits hard on small game out to 150+ yards, and offers accuracy that often rivals centerfire rifles costing much more. The 817’s bolt action is a simple, robust design that promotes steady, deliberate shooting. The synthetic stock is built for utility, not beauty, keeping the overall weight down and making it easy to carry all day. At just over 6 lbs unloaded, it’s a featherweight companion for long walks in the field.
The rifle is drop-in ready—you can take it from the box to the range with minimal setup. The 21-inch barrel provides a full sight radius for the included adjustable iron sights, a nice touch in this price range that lets you shoot immediately without needing to budget for a scope. That said, the receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts, making it ready for an upgrade when you are. Popular and affordable optics from brands like Vortex Crossfire II or Simmons 22 Mag work perfectly on this platform.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .17 HMR |
| Action | Bolt Action |
| Barrel Length | 21 Inches |
| Finish | Blued Steel |
| Stock | Synthetic Sport Grip |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 Rounds |
Pros & Cons: The Practical Trade-Offs
Pros: The price is the biggest win. For under $200, you get a capable, accurate hunting rifle. The .17 HMR cartridge is highly effective for varmints and offers low recoil. The included iron sights are a real value-add, and the light weight makes it exceptionally portable. It’s a simple, reliable design with fewer parts to fail.
Cons: You’re not getting a polished, smooth action out of the box—it may feel a bit rough initially but often wears in nicely. The synthetic stock is functional but basic. As with all firearm purchases, an FFL transfer is required. Also, remember that .17 HMR ammo, while fantastic, costs more than .22 LR.
Who is this rifle for? It’s ideal for the Missouri landowner needing a dedicated pest control tool, the new hunter looking for an affordable first rifle to learn marksmanship fundamentals, or the seasoned shooter wanting a low-cost, high-fun plinker. If your goal is hitting small targets at extended rimfire ranges without spending a fortune, this Mossberg answers the call.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the .17 HMR compare to .22 Magnum?
A: The .17 HMR generally shoots flatter and is more accurate at longer ranges (150-200 yards) than .22 WMR, making it superior for precision varmint shooting. However, .22 WMR may have a slight edge in close-range brush penetration due to a heavier bullet.
Q: Can a scope be mounted easily?
A: Yes. The receiver is pre-drilled and tapped for a standard scope base (weaver-style). Installing a base and rings is straightforward, allowing you to mount a wide variety of rimfire or low-power scopes to maximize the rifle’s accuracy potential.
Q: Is the magazine easy to find and purchase?
A: Mossberg 817 magazines are readily available from most online firearm parts retailers and directly from Mossberg. It’s always a good idea to have a spare, and they are typically priced in line with other factory magazines.
Ready to add this high-value varminter to your collection? This Mossberg 817 is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Check current inventory and start the simple purchase process on our site.
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