Description
Picture this: you’re walking the back forty, the sun’s low, and you spot a varmint at 75 yards. You need a rifle that’s light, fast, and hits with authority without the bark of a centerfire. That’s the niche the Savage A17 HM2 17 HM2 (Hornady Mach 2), 20″ Barrel, Black Color, Black Polymer Stock, Detachable Rotary Magazine fills perfectly. It’s a dedicated, blowback-action rimfire rifle built for speed and flat trajectory, turning small game and pest control into a precise, low-recoil affair.
Here’s the thing—the 17 Hornady Mach 2 cartridge is the star. It pushes a 17-grain V-Max bullet at over 2,100 feet per second, offering a much flatter trajectory and harder hit than a standard .22 LR. Savage’s unique delayed blowback action is engineered specifically for this high-pressure rimfire round, ensuring reliable cycling and consistent accuracy. The rifle comes in at a trim 5.8 lbs, making it an easy carry for long walks. The 20-inch barrel provides an optimal balance for velocity and maneuverability in brush or from a truck window.
Key Features
The black polymer stock is built for the field. It’s durable, weather-resistant, and features Savage’s classic ergonomics with a raised comb for a solid cheek weld. The matte black finish on the barrel and action reduces glare—a practical touch for dawn or dusk operations. The detachable rotary magazine is a standout. It holds 10 rounds of 17 HM2 and feeds with exceptional reliability. This system is drop-in ready and avoids the feed issues sometimes seen in box magazines with rimfire cartridges. Simply load, click it into the well, and you’re set.
Accuracy is where this setup shines. The barrel is capped with an AccuTrigger, Savage’s user-adjustable trigger system. You can tune the pull weight to your preference, breaking cleanly for precise shot placement. When it comes to mounting optics, the receiver is drilled and tapped. It’s ready for standard rimfire bases, making it compatible with popular optics from brands like Vortex (Crossfire II Rimfire) or Leupold (VX-Freedom Rimfire). The total package, priced at $317.24, delivers serious capability without a serious investment.
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 17 Hornady Mach 2 (17 HM2) |
| Barrel Length | 20 Inches |
| Overall Length | 40.5 Inches |
| Weight | 5.8 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 Rounds |
| Stock | Black Polymer |
| Action | Delayed Blowback |
| Trigger | User-Adjustable AccuTrigger |
Pros & Cons
Pros: Extremely flat-shooting for a rimfire. The delayed blowback action is reliable with the high-pressure 17 HM2 round. The AccuTrigger is a major upgrade for accuracy. The 10-round rotary magazine feeds smoothly. Lightweight and easy to carry all day. Great value for a specialized tool.
Cons: Ammunition is more specialized and can be less common than .22 LR. The 17 HM2, while potent, is not a substitute for a .22 WMR on larger pests at extended range. The polymer stock is functional but not fancy.
Who This Rifle Is For
This is a purpose-built tool for the Missouri shooter who values efficiency. It’s for the farmer or landowner needing to control ground squirrels, prairie dogs, or raccoons with minimal noise and maximum effect. It’s for the hunter who wants a dedicated, accurate small-game rifle that extends their effective range beyond a standard .22 LR. It’s also an excellent, low-cost trainer for newer shooters to learn fundamentals with minimal recoil but real-world ballistic performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 17 HM2 the same as a .17 HMR?
A: No. The 17 Hornady Mach 2 (17 HM2) is a distinct cartridge based on a necked-down .22 Long Rifle case. The .17 HMR is based on a necked-down .22 WMR case and is significantly more powerful. The A17 HM2 is specifically chambered for the 17 HM2 and should not fire .17 HMR ammunition.
Q: What’s the effective range for varmints?
A: With its high velocity and flat trajectory, the 17 HM2 is effective on small varmints like squirrels and prairie dogs out to 125-150 yards with good shot placement. Wind becomes a more significant factor beyond 100 yards due to the lightweight bullet.
Q: Does it come with sights?
A: No, the A17 HM2 model comes with a receiver that is drilled and tapped for scope mounts only. You will need to purchase a rimfire-specific optic and corresponding bases or a one-piece mount to use the rifle. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases when you order online.
If you need a rimfire that pushes the envelope on performance for pest control or small game, the Savage A17 HM2 delivers specialized capability at a practical price. This rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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