Description
The Savage 25 Walking Varminter Bolt 17 Hornet 22″ Barrel Camo Stock is a lightweight, purpose-built bolt-action rifle designed for hunters who cover ground. It combines Savage’s proven accuracy with the efficient 17 Hornet cartridge in a trim, camo-clad package perfect for stalking prairie dogs, groundhogs, and other small varmints across open fields. At $575.46, it offers serious varmint performance without the premium price tag of many specialized rigs.
Key Features
- Lightweight & Handy: The slim profile and synthetic camo stock make it easy to carry all day, living up to its “Walking” name.
- 17 Hornet Chambering: Offers flatter trajectory and less wind drift than the .22 Hornet, with significantly less report and recoil than a .223 Remington.
- AccuTrigger: Savage’s user-adjustable trigger allows you to set the pull weight to your preference for a crisp, clean break—no gunsmithing required.
- 22″ Sporter Barrel: Provides a good balance of velocity and maneuverability without the bulk of a heavy varmint contour.
- Camo Synthetic Stock: Durable, weather-resistant, and provides a non-reflective finish for the field.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Action | Bolt Action |
| Caliber | 17 Hornet |
| Barrel Length | 22 Inches |
| Stock | Camo Synthetic |
| Magazine Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
| Trigger | Adjustable AccuTrigger |
Here’s the thing—the 17 Hornet is a handloader’s dream for ultimate consistency, but it also runs factory ammo from brands like Hornady and CCI. The rifle’s overall weight typically hovers around 6.5 pounds, making it a joy to tote on long walks. The real value is in the system: you get a ready-to-hunt rifle with a target-grade trigger and a cartridge that stretches your effective range on small pests while saving on powder and barrel wear compared to larger calibers.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Savage 25 is for the budget-conscious varminter who values stealth and efficiency. It’s ideal for Missouri farmers needing to control crop-damaging pests, or for hunters who enjoy the challenge of long-range shots on squirrels and prairie dogs without the muzzle blast of a .223. It’s also a great entry point for new shooters interested in precision rimfire-like shooting with centerfire performance. The package is drop-in ready, available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Excellent out-of-the-box accuracy typical of Savage; the adjustable AccuTrigger is a huge value-add; lightweight and easy to carry; 17 Hornet is cheap to shoot (if you handload) and easy on fur; camo finish is practical for field use.
Cons: Factory 17 Hornet ammo can be more expensive and less common than .223 Remington; not the best choice for larger predators like coyotes at extended ranges; synthetic stock may feel utilitarian compared to wood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the 17 Hornet compare to a .223 Remington for varmints?
A: The .223 has more power and a wider ammo selection, but the 17 Hornet has less recoil, far less noise, and uses about half the powder. It’s more than enough for groundhogs and prairie dogs out to 250+ yards, making it a quieter, neighbor-friendly option with lower operating costs.
Q: Is the AccuTrigger really that good?
A: Yes. For a rifle in this price range, it’s a standout feature. It’s fully adjustable by the user, breaks cleanly like a target trigger, and is a primary reason Savage rifles consistently punch above their weight class in the accuracy department. You’d typically find this on rifles costing hundreds more.
Q: What scope would you recommend for this rifle?
A: A variable-power scope in the 4-12x or 6-18x range from brands like Vortex Crossfire II or Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn is a perfect match. You need enough magnification to see small targets at distance, but a massive 50mm objective bell isn’t necessary—keep it light and streamlined to match the rifle’s ethos.
Look, if you need a dedicated, walk-and-stalk varmint rifle that delivers precision without draining your wallet, the Savage 25 Walking Varminter in 17 Hornet makes a compelling case. It’s a focused tool that excels at its specific job. Check availability and remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
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