Description
The Savage A17 Target Thumbhole 17 HMR 22 in. Grey Laminate is a semi-automatic rimfire built for one thing: stacking rounds in a tight group at distance. Chambered in 17 HMR, it pairs a heavy fluted 22-inch barrel with a grey laminate thumbhole stock that locks your hand into a repeatable grip, shot after shot. This is a purpose-built precision tool, not a plinker.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | Savage Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | A17 Target Thumbhole |
| Material | Grey Laminate Stock, Carbon-Steel Barrel, Case-Hardened Receiver |
| Compatibility | 17 HMR (.17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire) |
| Finish | Blued Barrel, Hard-Chrome Bolt |
| Weight | 8.5 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Heavy Fluted 22-Inch Barrel: The extra mass and fluting dissipate heat faster and reduce barrel whip, keeping your point of impact consistent through a 10-round string. Why it matters: You don’t chase zero during a match.
- Delayed-Blowback Semi-Auto Action: Savage’s system cycles fast but delays unlock until chamber pressure drops, reducing bolt velocity and improving reliability with high-pressure 17 HMR loads. Why it matters: Fewer malfunctions and softer felt recoil.
- User-Adjustable AccuTrigger: Adjustable from 2.5 to 6 pounds without tools, giving you a crisp break with zero creep. Why it matters: A clean trigger press is the difference between a 10 and a 9 at 100 yards.
- 10-Round Rotary Magazine: The rotary design feeds the tiny 17 HMR cartridge without rim-lock or nose-dive, a common issue with stick mags. Why it matters: Reliable feeding equals fewer interruptions during a stage.
- Grey Laminate Thumbhole Stock: The thumbhole grip forces a consistent hand position, and the laminate resists warping from humidity or temperature changes. Why it matters: Repeatable cheek weld and trigger hand placement tighten your groups.
Who It’s For
This rifle is for the competitor who wants a semi-auto rimfire that can hang with bolt guns in accuracy. If you shoot NRL22, PRS Rimfire, or just want to ring steel at 200 yards without racking a bolt, the A17 Target delivers. It’s also a solid choice for varmint hunters who need fast follow-ups on coyotes or ground squirrels.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Accurate out of the box — sub-MOA with quality 17 HMR ammo
- Reliable delayed-blowback action eats mixed ammo
- AccuTrigger is genuinely adjustable and crisp
- Thumbhole stock improves ergonomics for prone and bench shooting
Cons
- Magazine capacity is limited to 10 rounds — no extended options available from Savage
- Heavy 8.5 lb weight is noticeable for offhand stages
Comparison: Savage A17 Target vs. Competitors
| Feature | Savage A17 Target Thumbhole | Ruger 10/22 Target (17 HMR variant) | Volquartsen Summit 17 HMR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 22 in. heavy fluted | 20 in. bull | 16.5 in. fluted |
| Action Type | Delayed-blowback semi-auto | Blowback semi-auto | Straight-pull bolt |
| Trigger | AccuTrigger, adjustable 2.5-6 lbs | Factory 5-6 lbs | Adjustable 2-4 lbs |
| Stock | Grey laminate thumbhole | Synthetic or wood | Laminate or chassis |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 rounds rotary | 10 rounds rotary | 10 rounds rotary |
| Weight | 8.5 lbs | 7.2 lbs | 6.8 lbs |
| Price | $683.06 | $550-$650 | $1,200-$1,500 |
The Ruger 10/22 Target is cheaper but lacks the delayed-blowback system and AccuTrigger. The Volquartsen Summit is lighter and more customizable but costs nearly double. The Savage splits the difference — you get competition-grade accuracy without the custom price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Savage A17 Target Thumbhole accurate enough for competition?
Yes. Per Savage Arms specs, the A17 Target is built for sub-MOA accuracy with quality 17 HMR ammunition. The heavy fluted barrel and AccuTrigger give you the consistency needed for NRL22 and PRS Rimfire stages. Many shooters report 0.75-inch groups at 100 yards.
Does the A17 Target use standard 10/22 magazines?
No. The A17 uses a proprietary 10-round rotary magazine designed specifically for the delayed-blowback action. It’s not compatible with Ruger 10/22 mags. The rotary design prevents rim-lock, which is critical for reliable feeding of the 17 HMR cartridge.
What kind of maintenance does the AccuTrigger require?
Minimal. The AccuTrigger is sealed and adjustable without tools. Per Savage, you should periodically check that the adjustment screw hasn’t backed out under recoil. A drop of light oil on the sear engagement surfaces every 500 rounds keeps it crisp.
Can I mount a scope directly to the receiver?
Yes. The receiver is drilled and tapped for standard Weaver/Picatinny bases. Most shooters use a 1-piece base for better alignment. The 22-inch barrel gives you plenty of rail space for a 50mm objective scope.
Is the 17 HMR round suitable for varmint hunting?
Absolutely. The 17 HMR pushes a 17-grain bullet at 2,550 fps, delivering explosive energy on small varmints like ground squirrels, prairie dogs, and rabbits. The A17’s semi-auto action lets you make fast follow-up shots. Just note that 17 HMR is not legal for deer in most states.
Why Buy From Us
- ✓ Nationwide delivery to all 50 states
- ✓ Ships within 1-2 business days
- ✓ 30-day return policy on unused items
- ✓ Secure checkout with encrypted payment
Related categories: Semi Auto Rifles | Rimfire Rifles | Competition Rifles
Last updated: April 2026
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