Introduction
The .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire, or .17 HMR, has carved a unique niche in the shooting world. Celebrated for its flat trajectory, impressive accuracy, and relatively low recoil, this cartridge has become a favorite among hunters and target shooters alike. It offers a compelling blend of performance and affordability, making it an ideal choice for a variety of shooting disciplines. Among the manufacturers that have embraced the .17 HMR, Savage Arms stands out, consistently delivering quality rifles known for their accuracy and value. This is where the Savage Arms 17 HMR 93R17 BTVS comes into play, a rifle that embodies the potential of the .17 HMR cartridge, providing a platform for exceptional performance.
The Legacy of Savage Arms and the 93R17 Series
Delving into the legacy of Savage Arms, one appreciates a long standing dedication to craftsmanship. The company’s commitment to innovation and affordability has earned it a loyal following of shooters of all experience levels. Their rimfire rifles have consistently performed well, gaining a reputation for producing accurate, reliable firearms at accessible price points. The 93R17 series is a testament to this tradition, offering a wide range of models designed to meet the diverse needs of shooters. From standard sporter rifles to varmint-specific configurations, the 93R17 series has become a mainstay in the rimfire world.
The 93R17 BTVS – A Closer Look
Considering the range of options within the 93R17 series, the BTVS variant, which stands for Bull Barrel, Target, Varmint Stock, deserves special attention. It’s a rifle engineered to maximize accuracy and to provide the shooter with enhanced performance. The key features that set the BTVS apart from other models within the Savage Arms 93R17 family are the precision-engineered bull barrel, the specialized stock, and the renowned AccuTrigger. These design elements combine to create a shooting experience that is both satisfying and accurate.
The Bull Barrel Advantage
One of the most critical components of the Savage Arms 17 HMR 93R17 Bull Barrel is, obviously, its barrel. This heavy-profile barrel plays a significant role in the rifle’s exceptional accuracy. It is typically constructed from carbon steel or stainless steel, offering superior durability and resistance to wear and tear. The increased mass of the bull barrel helps in several ways, including reduced barrel whip or vibrations during firing. This stability translates to more consistent shot placement and tighter groupings. Rifling is precisely engineered to deliver optimal bullet stabilization, ensuring the .17 HMR projectiles perform to their utmost potential. The barrel’s length provides a balance between velocity and maneuverability, further enhancing the rifle’s overall performance. The craftsmanship ensures that the barrel aligns flawlessly with the action and bolt head, thus reducing any opportunities for inaccuracies.
Ergonomic Design and Stock Features
The stock of the 93R17 BTVS is designed with the user in mind. It’s often constructed from laminated hardwood, offering stability and a visually appealing finish. The ergonomic design is a hallmark of the BTVS, with a comfortable cheekpiece designed to promote proper eye alignment with the scope, and a beavertail forend that provides excellent grip and stability when shooting from a rest. This design is carefully considered to promote optimal handling and shooter comfort. This stock allows shooters to hold the rifle steady and aim with precision. These subtle yet important features enhance the overall shooting experience, contributing to the rifle’s reputation for providing a comfortable and accurate shooting experience.
The AccuTrigger: A Mark of Precision
A defining feature of the Savage Arms line is the AccuTrigger, and it’s incorporated into the 93R17 BTVS. The AccuTrigger is a user-adjustable trigger mechanism that gives shooters complete control over trigger pull weight. This feature gives shooters the flexibility to optimize the trigger pull for the individual shooting style and preference. The AccuTrigger’s design also includes a unique safety system that prevents accidental discharge, further enhancing shooter safety. The crisp, clean break of the AccuTrigger, combined with its adjustability, contributes significantly to the overall accuracy of the rifle. It allows for precise shot placement, which is a key benefit for both target shooting and hunting applications.
The Smooth Bolt Action
The action of the 93R17 BTVS is another key factor in its accuracy and ease of use. The bolt action is known for its smooth and reliable operation, allowing for quick and easy follow-up shots. The bolt cycles smoothly, providing a consistent action that minimizes disruptions during rapid firing. The bolt head is designed to ensure consistent lockup, which contributes to enhanced accuracy. Bolt action rifles often provide a level of precision that surpasses other action types, making it a great design for accurate rimfire rifles.
Magazine Functionality
Regarding magazine functionality, the Savage Arms 17 HMR 93R17 Bull Barrel typically comes with a detachable magazine. Magazine capacity, which is commonly ten rounds, provides ample capacity for a wide range of shooting activities. The detachable magazine makes loading and unloading easy, and it ensures that reloading is also simple and fast. The magazines are engineered to provide reliable feeding.
Additional Design Elements
Beyond the core features, the 93R17 BTVS boasts several other well-thought-out design elements. The receiver is drilled and tapped to accommodate scope mounts, making it simple to attach an optic and maximize the rifle’s potential. Some models include sling swivel studs, allowing for convenient carrying. The carefully considered design demonstrates a commitment to providing a complete and user-friendly shooting experience. All of these features work together to provide the shooter with a well-designed, accurate, and reliable firearm.
Performance and Accuracy Testing
When you take the Savage Arms 17 HMR 93R17 Bull Barrel out for a test, you can put it through a comprehensive evaluation. This is where the true potential of the rifle is realized, demonstrating its performance. The selection of ammunition is key; premium .17 HMR rounds are frequently used to test accuracy. The rifle is often fired at various distances, with 50 and 100 yards being common distances for group testing. These tests provide a clear picture of the rifle’s performance in various shooting scenarios.
Accuracy Results and Grouping
The results that are obtained with the 93R17 BTVS are often impressive. The combination of the bull barrel, the AccuTrigger, and the quality ammunition frequently leads to remarkably tight groupings. With careful shooting and good quality ammunition, it’s common to see groups averaging less than an inch at 100 yards. This level of accuracy allows shooters to enjoy both the target shooting experience and provides a definite advantage in hunting situations. The bull barrel’s stability, when combined with the other elements, contributes to shot consistency and the ability to place shots precisely where they need to go.
The Shooting Experience
When you handle and fire the Savage Arms 17 HMR 93R17 Bull Barrel, the user experience will impress you. Recoil is minimal, and the rifle’s balance makes it comfortable to hold and operate. The ergonomics of the stock facilitate a natural shooting posture, allowing shooters to maintain a steady and consistent aim. The easy handling makes it suitable for shooters of all ages and experience levels. The smooth bolt action and the crisp trigger further enhance the shooting experience, allowing for a satisfying and accurate shooting session.
Applications of the 93R17 BTVS
Hunting Applications
As a hunting firearm, the 93R17 BTVS shines. It’s a highly accurate platform for taking down small game. The .17 HMR cartridge’s flat trajectory and high velocity make it perfect for hunting varmints like prairie dogs, rabbits, and other small targets. Responsible hunters will appreciate the rifle’s accuracy, allowing them to make clean and ethical shots, minimizing suffering. When selecting this rifle for hunting, it’s crucial to be mindful of the effective range and shot placement.
Target Shooting and Plinking
The 93R17 BTVS is equally at home on the target range. Its inherent accuracy and consistent performance make it an ideal choice for target shooting competitions and recreational plinking. The ability to achieve tight groupings makes it a joy to shoot, giving shooters a sense of accomplishment. The low recoil and affordability of the .17 HMR cartridge make it easy to practice and improve marksmanship skills. Whether you’re participating in formal competitions or simply enjoying a day at the range, the BTVS provides a consistent and engaging experience.
Varmint Control
The Savage Arms 17 HMR 93R17 Bull Barrel has proven to be a capable tool for pest control. Its accuracy, and relatively low noise profile compared to larger calibers, allows for effective control of unwanted animals on farms, ranches, or other properties. The rifle’s effective range and precision allow for efficient and responsible varmint control. It can assist in protecting crops, livestock, and other valuable resources from damage.
Pros and Cons
Advantages of the BTVS
The advantages of the 93R17 BTVS are apparent when you examine its features. It offers remarkable accuracy and consistency, due in large part to the bull barrel and the AccuTrigger. It is very affordable when compared to many centerfire rifles, making it a practical option for shooters of all budgets. The AccuTrigger provides the user with a very fine and precise trigger, which will improve the user’s accuracy. The ergonomic stock design adds comfort and allows for a consistent shooting posture. The rifle’s ability to perform, both in the field for hunting and for sport shooting makes it an excellent choice.
Disadvantages to Consider
However, there are also some disadvantages to consider. The effective range of the .17 HMR is generally limited compared to centerfire cartridges, with wind drift becoming more of a factor at longer distances. Also, the .17 HMR ammunition costs somewhat more than .22 LR ammunition.
Comparison with Other .17 HMR Rifles
Comparing the 93R17 BTVS to other .17 HMR rifles on the market allows for more insight into its value. It’s a rifle in a very competitive category. While rifles from companies such as CZ, Ruger, and Marlin also provide excellent options, the Savage Arms 93R17 BTVS holds its own. The inclusion of the AccuTrigger and the bull barrel design are distinguishing features that contribute to its superior accuracy. These features and the quality of Savage Arms makes it an outstanding choice for shooters searching for top-tier performance at an accessible price.
Conclusion
In the realm of rimfire rifles, the Savage Arms 17 HMR 93R17 Bull Barrel truly excels. It combines precision engineering, user-friendly design, and a proven cartridge to provide a superior shooting experience. Whether you are a hunter seeking a reliable small game rifle, a target shooter striving for tight groups, or a landowner dealing with varmint control, the 93R17 BTVS is an excellent choice. Its combination of accuracy, reliability, and affordability makes it a compelling option for anyone looking to enter or advance in the .17 HMR shooting community. The 93R17 BTVS is a fine example of Savage Arms’ commitment to quality and its dedication to providing shooters with a reliable and rewarding firearm.
The Savage Arms 17 HMR 93R17 BTVS stands out. Its well-balanced characteristics make it the ideal choice for many shooters. Consider the rifle and its features to suit your own shooting needs. Whether you are a seasoned shooter or you’re a newcomer to the .17 HMR world, the BTVS will be a reliable and accurate rifle for years to come.
