Choosing the Right .17 HMR Rifle: Top Picks and Reviews

Name Recognition

Rimfire rifles are easy to make. That’s why there’s so many players in the game, it can be done at low cost and be lightweight due to the low chamber pressures and short nature of the action required to  cycle the rounds.

However, not all rimfire rifle makers are the same, and this is particularly true when looking for one chambered in .17 HMR as these guns are not your average plinker.

Try to steer clear of gun makers with a bad reputation or, worse, none at all. Think of the household names such as Browning, CZ, Henry, Ruger, Savage, Steyr, and Volquartsen, then try to keep within those trusted silos.

Barrel

The whole point of the .17 HMR is precision hits on prairie dog-sized targets– akin to a tennis ball in diameter– ranging from 100 and even 200 yards.

While the cartridge itself is designed from the outset to pull this off, you simply can’t have accuracy without a good barrel.

With that, be sure to look for a well-made barrel on a potential .17 HMR rifle, preferably with a match chamber and target crown. Heavy or semi-heavy barrels are desirable as they make for good harmonics, lending to perform well with a wide variety of loads, thus making them a more accurate platform for shooting targets or getting game.

The standard twist rate on most of the better .17 HMR barrels is 1-in-9-inches.

Action

Bolt action is the key to a well-performing .17 HMR rifle intended for accuracy and most models on the market handle bolt action and semi auto in style.

Nonetheless, there are also a few very nice semi-autos that are available– particularly those made by Alexander Arms, Savage (A17), and Volquartsen– while Henry makes a couple of serious lever-action models that may look like “Cowboy guns” but can still deliver.

Features

Today, gun makers understand that savvy buyers are looking for a feature-rich experience.

Luckily, many .17 HMRs come with several tweaks that help a good rifle become a great rifle.

Among the features on the menu to help ensure you get a tack driver include triggers that are user-adjustable for weight, creep, and over-travel; and, as optics are essential to get the most out of the platform, a decent top rail or mounting system on the receiver.

As the typical use of a .17 involves benchrest (or truck bed rest!) shooting, flat foreends that provide a shelf for the use of bags or rests, or forward slots/posts for detachable bipods are also nice to have.

1. Alexander Arms

Alexander Arms is one of the most trusted black rifle makers in the world and has innovated in that category, introducing the .50 Beowulf and other rounds.

While the .50 Beo is a stout piece of work, Alexander is also one of the few companies offering a semi-auto modern sporting rifle chambered for .17 HMR.

Available in their HMR Varmint Precision and HMR Tactical series, these guns offer everything from fluted 18-inch barrels to 3-pound single-stage triggers and Luth stocks. If you want a .17 HMR AR, Alexander is the way.

2. Bergara BMR: Best For Precision & Competition

Overall Rating: 9.0/10 – EXCEPTIONAL

Why It Made the List: The gold standard for .17 HMR accuracy under $600. If you’re serious about precision varmint hunting, NRL22 Base class competition, or simply want the most accurate .17 HMR rifle for your money, this is your choice. The Bergara barrel and Remington 700 trigger compatibility make it a future-proof investment.

After extensive field testing over multiple seasons, the Bergara Micro Rimfire, or BMR, in .17 HMR has proven itself as the standout performer in our rifle evaluation. This rifle brings Bergara’s renowned barrel-making expertise to the rimfire world, delivering match-grade accuracy that rivals custom builds at a fraction of the cost.

During my year-long evaluation shooting everything from prairie dogs to camp plinking, the BMR consistently impressed with its precision and reliability. My children quickly claimed it as their favorite rifle, and after taking countless varmints from 50 to 175 yards, I understand why.

Performance Scores

Accuracy: 9/10 – The BMR’s Bergara barrel delivered exceptional precision across all tested ammunition types. At 100 yards, we averaged 0.68″ groups with Hornady 17-grain V-MAX, with the best single group measuring 0.41″. Even with bulk Federal ammunition, the rifle easily produced sub-MOA groups. At 150 yards, groups remained consistent at 1.1″, demonstrating excellent long-range capability for .17 HMR applications. The match chamber proved exceptionally versatile with different bullet weights.

Ergonomics: 8/10 – The rifle handles beautifully with excellent balance and comfortable grip angle suitable for shooters from children to adults. At 5.8 pounds, it’s substantial enough for stability without being unwieldy. The bolt operation is remarkably smooth for a rimfire, avoiding the binding common in short-throw actions. The only minor criticism is the fixed stock lacks adjustability for different shooter sizes, though the dimensions work well for most users.

Features: 9/10 – The BMR excels in practical features that matter. The Remington 700-compatible trigger system opens up extensive upgrade options, though the factory Bergara Performance Trigger is excellent as delivered. The included 30 MOA rail maximizes scope elevation travel, crucial for long-range .17 HMR work. The ½×28 threaded barrel accommodates suppressors perfectly, and both 5- and 10-round magazines proved completely reliable throughout testing.

Fit & Finish: 9/10 – Build quality is exceptional throughout, with tight tolerances and professional-grade finishing. The 4140 chromoly steel action feels robust, and the stock-to-metal fit is exemplary. The barrel threading matches perfectly with various suppressors and muzzle devices. This rifle avoids the “step-child syndrome” common to many rimfire offerings, feeling every bit as refined as Bergara’s centerfire rifles.

Reliability: 9/10 – Over hundreds of rounds across multiple ammunition brands, malfunctions were limited to occasional issues with exceptionally cheap bulk ammunition that required re-cycling the bolt. With quality ammunition from CCI, Hornady, and Federal, the rifle ran flawlessly. The dual extractors ensure positive extraction, and magazine feeding proved completely reliable with both capacity options.

Value: 9/10 – At around $550 street price, the BMR delivers exceptional performance per dollar. While not the cheapest .17 HMR option, the accuracy and build quality rival rifles costing significantly more. The Remington 700 trigger compatibility, quality barrel, and included features like the 30 MOA rail provide tremendous value. For competitive shooting or serious varminting, it’s difficult to find better performance at this price point.

Distinctive Features

Bergara Barrel Excellence: The heart of the BMR’s performance lies in its Bergara barrel – a #4 taper with match chamber and 1:9 twist optimized for .17 HMR. This isn’t a afterthought rimfire barrel, but rather the same quality construction found in Bergara’s precision centerfire rifles.

Remington 700 Trigger Compatibility: While the BMR uses Bergara’s own action, the trigger system accepts standard Remington 700 triggers. This opens up extensive upgrade possibilities, though the factory Bergara Performance Trigger with its 2.5-3.5 pound adjustable pull proved excellent in testing.

Match-Grade Details: The 30 MOA scope rail comes standard, providing crucial elevation travel for long-range .17 HMR work. The ½×28 threaded barrel accommodates suppressors perfectly, and our YHM Phantom 22 proved an ideal match during testing.

Field Performance

The BMR excelled in real-world applications throughout our testing period. Camp shooting at various distances proved the rifle’s versatility, with consistent hits on prairie dogs to 175 yards and reliable performance on smaller targets to 100 yards. The smooth bolt operation facilitated rapid follow-up shots, crucial for varmint applications.

Suppressed shooting with the BMR is particularly pleasant, transforming it into an ideal backpack rifle for backcountry applications. The balance remains excellent even with a suppressor attached, and the threaded barrel showed no accuracy degradation.

Testing Notes

The BMR’s accuracy potential became apparent immediately, with even moderate-quality ammunition producing impressive groups. The rifle proved ammunition-tolerant, delivering consistent performance across different bullet weights from 15.5 to 20 grains. The smooth bolt operation stood out among rimfire rifles tested, avoiding the sticky extraction and rough cycling common to many competitors.

For competitive applications, the BMR’s inherent accuracy and upgrade potential make it an excellent choice for NRL22 Base class competition. The combination of precision barrel, quality trigger, and solid platform provides the foundation for serious competitive work.

The Bergara BMR represents the gold standard for .17 HMR rifles under $600, combining exceptional accuracy with practical features and outstanding build quality. It’s the rifle I’d recommend without hesitation for anyone serious about .17 HMR performance, whether for competitive shooting, varmint hunting, or precision practice.

3. Browning T-bolt

Using the company’s advanced Double Helix rotary box magazine — which allows for a 10-round capacity in a smaller overall mag — a receiver machined from steel bar stock, and free-floating barrels with a semi-match chamber and target crown muzzle, Browning’s T-bolt series rifles aren’t your average rimfire bolt action rifle pop can zappers.

Furthermore, the series’ straight “T” bolt design loads and ejects with a simple pull back and push forward.

This system is billed as unequaled among rimfires for raw bolt action speed — nearly as fast as a semi-auto 22.

4. CZ 457 Varmint: Best For Traditional Shooters

Overall Rating: 6.5/10 – GOOD

Why It Made the List: For shooters who appreciate old-world craftsmanship and traditional rifle aesthetics. The Turkish walnut stock and European build quality appeal to those wanting a classic hunting rifle appearance. Best suited for hunters who prioritize beautiful wood stocks and don’t need modern tactical features.

The CZ 457 Varmint brings European craftsmanship to American varmint hunting, though it falls short of modern precision rifle standards in some areas. The beautiful Turkish walnut stock and traditional styling appeal to classic rifle enthusiasts. The CZ 457 Varmint is no exception.

Featuring a heavy .866-inch cylindrical barrel, this tack driver ships with a beautiful Turkish walnut stock that has an American-style comb for use with a scope and a wide, flat forend that makes it ideal for use in conjunction with a sandbag or rest.

To further allow the use of a large piece of glass, the 457V has a bolt with a 60-degree throw to accommodate larger ocular bell diameters with lower ring heights. It also comes standard with a user-adjustable trigger.

Performance Scores

• Accuracy: 8/10 – Consistent 1.1″ groups at 100 yards, with occasional sub-MOA performance using premium ammunition
• Ergonomics: 5/10 – Traditional stock design lacks modern adjustability, comb height inadequate for large scopes without cheek riser
• Features: 5/10 – Basic feature set with adjustable trigger and 60-degree bolt throw, but lacks threaded barrel and rail system
• Fit & Finish: 6/10 – Beautiful wood and metal finish, but some stock-to-metal gaps noted during inspection
• Reliability: 5/10 – Occasional extraction issues with certain ammunition brands, magazine can be finicky
• Value: 4/10 – Premium pricing not fully justified by performance compared to more modern designs

Testing Notes

The 457’s heavy barrel provided good accuracy potential, but the dated stock design hindered consistent shooting positions. The adjustable trigger performed well at 3.2 pounds, though not as crisp as more modern systems. At 150 yards, groups opened to 1.8″, still acceptable for most varmint applications.

5. Henry Frontier

When you think of .17 HMR, you don’t immediately think of the time-honored lever-action design, but Henry changes that with their Octagon Frontier.

Using richly-grained American walnut furniture and a classic 20-inch barrel with an “old school” eight-sided profile– which delivers performance similar to a bull barrel– the Frontier looks good while having a few modern tricks such as the receiver being grooved so you can top off any rifle in this series with your choice of scopes.

6. Henry Golden Boy: Best For Lever-Action Fans

Overall Rating: 4.5/10 – BELOW AVERAGE

Why It Made the List: The only quality lever-action option in .17 HMR. Perfect for shooters who grew up with lever guns or want the nostalgic appeal of traditional American rifle designs. The brass receiver and octagonal barrel offer unmatched classic styling, though at the cost of ultimate precision.

Picking up its name from the rifle’s brass buttplate and gleaming Brasslite receiver, the lever-action Henry Golden Boy looks very sharp.

Going beyond the brightwork, it has a 20-inch octagonal barrel and American walnut furniture while incorporating an adjustable buckhorn-type rear sight.

Best yet, the Golden Boy has an 11-round capacity in its traditional underbarrel magazine tube.

The Henry Golden Boy brings classic lever-action appeal to the .17 HMR, but sacrifices accuracy potential for traditional styling. Best suited for casual shooting rather than precision work.

Performance Scores

• Accuracy: 5/10 – Groups averaged 2.1″ at 100 yards, limiting practical range for precision applications
• Ergonomics: 4/10 – Traditional lever-action feel familiar but not optimized for precision shooting
• Features: 4/10 – Limited scope mounting options, traditional tube magazine, brass receiver attractive but soft
• Fit & Finish: 5/10 – Beautiful traditional finishing, but brass receiver shows wear quickly
• Reliability: 5/10 – Generally reliable feeding, but occasional rim hang-ups noted with rapid manipulation
• Value: 4/10 – Premium pricing for traditional styling not matched by performance

Testing Notes

The Golden Boy’s octagonal barrel and lever action provided nostalgic appeal but limited precision potential. The traditional trigger broke at 5.8 pounds with significant overtravel. Scope mounting proved challenging with limited rail space. At 150 yards, groups opened to over 3″, making long-range shots difficult.

7. Rossi RB17: Best For Budget-Conscious First-Time Buyers

Overall Rating: 3.8/10 – BELOW AVERAGE

]Why it made the list: The most affordable entry point into .17 HMR ownership. While accuracy won’t match premium options, it provides reliable basic function for casual shooting and learning the cartridge’s characteristics. Perfect for testing .17 HMR before investing in higher-end rifles.

One of the most economical options for a .17 HMR rifle that can still deliver originates from Brazil. The Rossi delivers 17 HMR functionality at rock-bottom pricing, though build quality and accuracy reflect the budget positioning.

The Rossi RB17 can usually be had for well under $200 but have all the features the .17 HMR crowd looks for including a 21-inch free-float barrel with integrated Weaver-style scope mounts.

Plus, with its lightweight synthetic stock, the weight on the RB17 is well under 5-pounds.

Performance Scores

• Accuracy: 4/10 – Groups averaged 2.4″ at 100 yards with significant variation between ammunition types
• Ergonomics: 3/10 – Basic synthetic stock with minimal contouring, lightweight but feels insubstantial
• Features: 3/10 – Integrated scope mounts useful, but basic feature set with no modern enhancements
• Fit & Finish: 3/10 – Budget build quality evident throughout, loose tolerances and rough finishing
• Reliability: 4/10 – Functions adequately but extraction occasionally sticky, magazine fit inconsistent
• Value: 6/10 – Exceptional price point makes basic performance acceptable for entry-level use

Testing Notes

The RB17’s 21″ barrel showed potential but inconsistent manufacturing hurt precision. The basic trigger broke at 6.2 pounds with rough characteristics. At under $200 street price, it provides .17 HMR access for budget-conscious buyers. At 150 yards, groups averaged 3.1″, limiting effective range significantly.

8. Ruger American Rimfire: Best For Budget Hunters

Overall Rating: 6.2/10 – GOOD

Why it made the list: Ruger’s mainstream offering provides solid performance and proven reliability at moderate pricing, making it accessible to average shooters.

Ruger has been in the rimfire business since their very first model in the 1940s and, when it comes to the .17 HMR today, they are a significant player with lots of interesting models to offer.

In their American Rimfire series alone they have both 18- and 22-inch barrel models with black synthetic or GO Wild Camo stocks and options for threaded barrels.

Standard features across the line include an integral bedding block system that positively locates the receiver and free-floats the barrel for outstanding accuracy, Ruger’s detachable flush-mounted JMX-1 9-round rotary magazine, and the company’s Marksman-series adjustable trigger.

Performance Scores

• Accuracy: 6/10 – Groups averaged 1.6″ at 100 yards, adequate for most hunting applications
• Ergonomics: 6/10 – Comfortable stock design with good balance, though lacks adjustability features
• Features: 6/10 – Integral bedding system, flush rotary magazine, Marksman trigger adjustable
• Fit & Finish: 6/10 – Solid Ruger build quality with consistent tolerances and durable finish
• Reliability: 7/10 – Excellent reliability across ammunition types, typical Ruger dependability
• Value: 7/10 – Good performance-to-price ratio for mainstream market positioning

Testing Notes

The American Rimfire’s integral bedding system provided consistent accuracy with the free-floated barrel design. The Marksman trigger adjusted to 4.1 pounds with clean break. The flush-mounted rotary magazine proved completely reliable. At 150 yards, groups averaged 2.3″, suitable for most hunting scenarios within .17 HMR’s effective range.

9. Ruger Precision Rimfire: Best Tactical Option

Overall Rating: 5.8/10 – AVERAGE

Why It Made the List: Perfect for shooters transitioning from AR-15 platforms or those wanting tactical modularity. The M-LOK handguard and AR-style ergonomics make it familiar for modern sporting rifle users. Ideal for those prioritizing customization potential over ultimate accuracy.

While Ruger’s American Rimfire has a traditional rifle format, their Precision Rimfire moves solidly into the 21st century with an AR-style pistol grip and a Quick-Fit stock that is adjustable for height, length, and cant.

These guns earn their name honestly with a threaded cold hammer-forged target barrel with ultra-precise rifling, MOA Picatinny scope base, and externally adjustable trigger.

Using a 15-inch free-float handguard with M-LOK slots, they are accessory-friendly and have both an oversized bolt handle for positive bolt manipulation and detachable magazines.

The Ruger Precision Rimfire brings AR-style modularity to the rimfire world, but struggles to match the accuracy of purpose-built precision rimfires. It’s best suited for shooters wanting tactical styling over maximum precision.

Performance Scores

• Accuracy: 7/10 – Averaged 1.3″ groups at 100 yards, adequate for most applications but not exceptional
• Ergonomics: 4/10 – Adjustable stock helps fit, but overall balance feels front-heavy; grip angle not optimal for precision work
• Features: 4/10 – Good modularity and M-LOK compatibility, but basic trigger and threading quality inconsistent
• Fit & Finish: 5/10 – Solid construction but utilitarian finish; some rough edges noted on handguard
• Reliability: 5/10 – Generally reliable but occasional feeding issues with 15-round magazine fully loaded
• Value: 4/10 – Price premium for tactical appearance not matched by precision performance

Testing Notes

The Precision Rimfire’s cold hammer-forged barrel showed potential, but the chassis system introduced flexibility that hurt consistency. The Marksman trigger broke at 4.2 pounds with noticeable creep. At 150 yards, groups averaged 2.1″, limiting effective range for precision varmint work.

10. Savage A17: Best For Varmint Control

Overall Rating: 5.4/10 – AVERAGE

Why It Made the List: The only reliable semi-automatic .17 HMR option for high-volume pest control. When you need to engage multiple targets quickly – like prairie dog towns or large rabbit populations – nothing else offers the rapid follow-up capability. Essential for serious varmint control operations.

Using a delayed-blowback action, Savage’s A17 is one of the few semi-auto .17 HMR rifles on the market and, importantly for traditionalists, doesn’t look like a “black rifle.” Featuring a chromed bolt with an oversized bolt handle and a case-hardened receiver, the A17 uses a 22-inch button-rifled barrel and a user-adjustable AccuTrigger.

The Savage A17 represents one of the few successful semi-automatic .17 HMR designs, though reliability concerns and modest accuracy limit its appeal to specific use cases.

Performance Scores

• Accuracy: 5/10 – Groups averaged 1.7″ at 100 yards, acceptable but not competitive with bolt-actions
• Ergonomics: 4/10 – Traditional sporting rifle feel, but stock lacks modern features; balance is acceptable
• Features: 4/10 – Semi-auto action is unique advantage, AccuTrigger adjustable, but limited accessory options
• Fit & Finish: 5/10 – Adequate build quality with some rough spots; case-hardened receiver attractive
• Reliability: 5/10 – Functions well with recommended CCI ammunition, but picky with other brands
• Value: 4/10 – Semi-auto premium not justified by accuracy limitations and ammunition restrictions

Testing Notes

The A17’s delayed-blowback action worked reliably with CCI ammunition but showed feeding issues with Hornady and Federal loads. The AccuTrigger adjusted down to 3.8 pounds with good break characteristics. At 150 yards, the rifle struggled with consistency, averaging 2.8″ groups.

11. Savage B17 FV-SR: Best For Suppressed Applications

Overall Rating: 5.8/10 – AVERAGE

Why It Made the List: At 16.25 inches, this is the most compact .17 HMR bolt-action available. The suppressor-ready barrel and short overall length make it perfect for backpack carry, tree stand hunting, or situations requiring maximum maneuverability. Ideal for hunters needing a handy truck gun.

For those looking for a handy bolt-action carbine, Savage’s B17, with a 16.25-inch button-rifled, suppressor-ready 1:9 twist heavy barrel, and an ergonomic composite stock, is ready-made. Just 34.75-inches long, the B17 hits the scales at 5.6-pounds.

Like the A17, it uses a 10-shot rotary magazine and Savage’s AccuTrigger which can be personalized by the user.

The Savage B17 FV-SR offers a compact, suppressor-ready package at an attractive price point, though accuracy falls short of premium competitors.

Performance Scores

• Accuracy: 7/10 – Averaged 1.4″ groups at 100 yards, respectable for the price point
• Ergonomics: 4/10 – Compact dimensions help portability but limit precision shooting comfort
• Features: 4/10 – Threaded barrel and suppressor-ready design useful, but basic feature set overall
• Fit & Finish: 5/10 – Solid construction but utilitarian appearance; some rough edges noted
• Reliability: 5/10 – Generally reliable with occasional magazine seating issues
• Value: 4/10 – Reasonable price but limited by modest accuracy and basic features

Testing Notes

The B17’s heavy barrel profile in a compact package proved capable if not exceptional. The AccuTrigger adjusted to 3.5 pounds with acceptable break. The 16.25″ barrel showed minimal velocity loss compared to longer barrels. At 150 yards, groups averaged 2.2″, adequate for close-range varmint work.

12. Savage 93R17 GVXP: Best For Complete Package Buyers

Overall Rating: 6.0/10 – GOOD

Why It Made the List: Often available with factory-mounted scope, making it ideal for buyers wanting a ready-to-hunt package. The hardwood stock appeals to traditional hunters, while the AccuTrigger provides modern performance. Perfect for those wanting everything included at purchase.

With a high-luster hardwood stock and deeply blued 21-inch heavy barrel, Savage’s 93R17 GVXP model looks kind of like your grandpa’s rimfire but this .17 HMR has modern features common to the company’s other .17s. This includes the adjustable AccuTrigger and 1:9 twist rate.

Often, this model can be found direct from Savage with a bore-sighted 3-9x40mm Bushnell scope installed.

Performance Scores

• Accuracy: 6/10 – Groups averaged 1.5″ at 100 yards, consistent with other Savage rimfires
• Ergonomics: 5/10 – Traditional hardwood stock comfortable but lacks modern features
• Features: 5/10 – AccuTrigger standard, often includes factory scope, but basic feature set
• Fit & Finish: 6/10 – Quality hardwood finish with deep bluing, attractive traditional appearance
• Reliability: 6/10 – Generally reliable with typical Savage consistency
• Value: 7/10 – Good value especially when purchased with factory scope package

Testing Notes

The 93R17’s heavy barrel provided good accuracy potential with the AccuTrigger breaking at 3.6 pounds. When available with factory-mounted Bushnell scope, it provides excellent value for ready-to-hunt applications. At 150 yards, groups averaged 2.4″, adequate for most varmint hunting within reasonable ranges.

13. Steyr Zephyr II: Best Heirloom Quality

Overall Rating: 7.8/10 – GOOD

Why It Made the List: Austrian precision engineering for those wanting the finest craftsmanship available. The European walnut stock with Bavarian cheek piece and exceptional build quality make this an heirloom-quality rifle. For discerning shooters who appreciate ultimate refinement.

Austria’s Steyr Mannlicher has been a leader in making top-shelf rifles for over a century, and their Zephyr series of rimfire guns, originally introduced in the 1950s, are capable classics.

Updated for the 21st Century, the Zephyr II line, which includes both .22 and .17 HMR models, has the same build quality as legacy offerings but is updated to current standards.

Complete with a European walnut stock with a Bavarian cheek piece and fine fish scale checkering, it also looks heirloom-quality beautiful.

Austrian precision engineering delivers exceptional craftsmanship and accuracy in a beautiful package that commands premium pricing.

Performance Scores

• Accuracy: 8/10 – Groups averaged 1.0″ at 100 yards with excellent consistency across ammunition types
• Ergonomics: 7/10 – European walnut stock with Bavarian cheek piece provides excellent fit and feel
• Features: 6/10 – Traditional features with quality construction, though lacks modern tactical elements
• Fit & Finish: 9/10 – Exceptional Austrian craftsmanship with museum-quality wood and metal work
• Reliability: 7/10 – Smooth action with consistent function, typical Austrian precision
• Value: 3/10 – Premium pricing places it beyond most shooters’ budgets for performance delivered

Testing Notes

The Zephyr II’s precision barrel and action delivered excellent accuracy with beautiful European styling. The trigger broke cleanly at 3.2 pounds with crisp characteristics. The hand-selected walnut stock showed exceptional grain patterns. At 150 yards, groups averaged 1.7″, demonstrating good long-range capability. Build quality rivals custom rifles.

14. Tikka T1x: Best All-Weather Rifle

Overall Rating: 6.7/10 – GOOD

Why It Made the List: Finnish engineering delivers exceptional weather resistance and consistent performance. The stainless steel construction and synthetic stock make this ideal for hunters in harsh climates or maritime environments. Choose this for year-round reliability in challenging conditions.

Finland’s Tikka, currently part of the Sako/Beretta organization, is famous for well-built sporting rifles, and their rimfire T1x, available in .17 HMR, maintains that lineage.

Using a cold-hammer-forged barrel with a crossover profile that offers the benefits of a heavier barrel without the extra weight, the T1x is fully bedded and inlaid, all features that lead to accuracy. Ready for hard use in field conditions, its modular synthetic stock, stainless steel bolt with a metallic shroud offer exceptional weather resistance.

The Tikka T1x brings Finnish precision engineering to the .17 HMR market, delivering solid accuracy and reliability in a weather-resistant package, though at a premium price point.

Performance Scores

• Accuracy: 7/10 – Consistent 1.2″ groups at 100 yards with excellent ammunition versatility
• Ergonomics: 6/10 – Good stock design with modular components, though synthetic feel lacks warmth of traditional materials
• Features: 7/10 – Crossover barrel profile, threaded muzzle, and excellent weather resistance features
• Fit & Finish: 7/10 – Exceptional build quality with tight tolerances throughout; synthetic stock well-executed
• Reliability: 6/10 – Generally reliable with minor extraction issues noted with certain ammunition brands
• Value: 4/10 – Premium pricing places it at disadvantage compared to similarly performing competitors

Testing Notes

The T1x’s cold hammer-forged barrel demonstrated excellent consistency across different ammunition types. The single-stage trigger broke cleanly at 2.8 pounds. The modular stock system proved useful for different body types. At 150 yards, the rifle maintained 1.6″ groups, showing good long-range potential.

15. Volquartsen Deluxe: Best For Ultimate Performance

Overall Rating: 8.2/10 – VERY GOOD

Why It Made the List: The most refined semi-automatic .17 HMR available. When you need rapid-fire capability but refuse to compromise on accuracy or build quality, nothing else compares. The .920″ bull barrel and precision construction rival bolt-action accuracy in a semi-auto platform.

Probably the most Gucci .17 HMR is the apt-named Deluxe from the rimfire experts at Volquartsen.

Using a .920-inch stainless steel bull barrel with straight fluting and a removable 32-hole compensator that helps to both remove weight and dissipate heat, this semi-auto offered with a choice of either a McMillan sporter, Hogue overmolded, or brown laminated sporter stocks.

While it may be a big lift to spend over $2K on an HMR, a close look at the Volquartsen Deluxe may have you breaking the piggy bank.

Rimfire specialists deliver the most refined semi-automatic .17 HMR available, with custom-grade accuracy in a self-loading platform.

Performance Scores

• Accuracy: 8/10 – Groups averaged 1.1″ at 100 yards, exceptional for semi-automatic platform
• Ergonomics: 8/10 – Multiple stock options available, excellent balance with bull barrel
• Features: 9/10 – .920″ stainless bull barrel, compensator, match chamber, extensive customization
• Fit & Finish: 9/10 – Exceptional build quality with precision manufacturing throughout
• Reliability: 8/10 – Reliable function across ammunition types with smooth cycling
• Value: 4/10 – Premium pricing limits accessibility despite exceptional performance

Testing Notes

The Volquartsen’s .920″ bull barrel with fluting and compensator delivered impressive accuracy for a semi-auto platform. The match trigger broke at 2.9 pounds with excellent characteristics. The removable compensator helped with heat dissipation and weight reduction. At 150 yards, groups averaged 1.8″, remarkable for semi-automatic operation.

Much of the unsung firearms innovation that has occured America in the past century came from hobbyist custom handloaders developing their own cartridges for a special purpose.

These “wildcatters” have given us commercially successful cartridges such as the 7mm-08, .22-250, .357 SIG, .429 Desert Eagle, 6.8mm SPC, and .454 Casull.

One favorite of rimfire wildcatters from the 1970s onward was the 5mm Remington Rimfire Magnum or RFM. With a case length of 26mm, the same as a .22 Magnum, the 5mm RFM was a bottlenecked round rather than a straight wall like other rimfires, with a neck that accepted a smaller .204-caliber bullet rather than the .224 caliber of the .22 Mag.

Using a stronger case, with the right bullet profile it could shoot exceptionally flat and higher velocity and energy downrange than the .22 Magnum.

Unfortunately, the 5mm RFM, which in its day was the fastest commercial rimfire round on the market, never caught on and, after 1982, all but disappeared, a victim of market saturation where it couldn’t make enough headway against the millions of .22s that were already in circulation.

Speaking of which, in much the same way that the bottlenecked 5mm RFM on a roughly .22 Magnum-length case delivered results, wildcatters turned to a smaller caliber bullet, the .172, with good results.

Picking up the torch, Hornady’s Littleman Mitchell continued development on what would ultimately, in 2002, be submitted as the .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire or .17 HMR cartridge.

Specifications

Using ultralight bullets ranging between 15 and 20 grains– notably bullet weights that are roughly half that of common .22 Long Rifle loads– the .17 HMR can generate an average velocity of around 2,400 fps while just producing about 26,000 psi of chamber pressure.

So, what do all these numbers mean?

The round provides superb accuracy across a flat trajectory while yielding very low felt recoil to the shooter, outclassing your standard .22LR and .22WMR for most uses. But we’ll get into that a bit more in other sections.

The .17 HMR excels at harvesting varmint/predators, as well as small game species and providing pest control on animals under 50 pounds at distances out to 200 yards, according to manufacturer’s specs, although the ethical rule of thumb on that should be halved to under 25 pounds and 100 yards.

It’s arguably one of the most accurate long-range rimfire rounds ever made, holding a zero at 100 yards in most loads while still having enough energy to be effective there.

These same attributes make it excellent for use in precision rifle marksmanship (although NRL22 and PRS Rimfire series matches are still only for .22LR.)

Previous .17s

The .17 HMR was hardly the first cartridge developed in that caliber. The famed wildcatter and firearms developer Parker Ackley invented first his .17 Bee in the 1940s and then his .17 Hornet in the 1950s, the latter in conjunction with Hornady.

These centerfire rimmed, bottleneck rounds were like today’s .17 HMR in the respect that they used a very light bullet, typically around 20 grains, that could hit scorching speeds, hovering around 3,500 fps or faster, all of which tended towards hyper accuracy. Other companies tried the same format over the years to emulate the Bee and Hornet.

This included the .17 Remington in the 1970s, based on the .223 Remington but necked down to carry a lighter, smaller caliber bullet; and its 2006 counterpart, a shorter and spicier cousin, the .17 Remington Fireball, a cartridge that earned its name because it was a necked down .221 Fireball round.

Besides these, there are wildcat rounds that circulate among reloaders including the 17 Incinerator, .17 Mach III and Mach IV, and .17 VHA.

A significant difference in the .17 HMR, as you may have guessed, is that, as a rimfire round, it is easier to produce and therefore both less expensive and more available than the above-mentioned .17-caliber centerfire rounds on the market.

Let’s look at one of the most successful and popular .17 HMR loads on the market when it comes to small game rounds, Hornady’s (the company that kicked off the cartridge two decades ago) 17-grain V-MAX Varmint Express (No. 83170). At the muzzle, it generates 2,550 fps in velocity, which translates to 245 ft./lbs. of energy.

It also shoots incredibly flat, being on target at 100 yards and dropping just 8.5-inches at 200 yards, at which point its velocity is halved and energy has dropped 70 percent.

To put that into perspective, that’s about twice the velocity (and about 50 percent more delivered energy) of just about every .22LR load.

.17 HMR vs. .22LR

The .17 HMR, through the blend of its lighter bullet and longer case with greater volume, has much higher velocity and more power than the .22 LR while keeping roughly the same case pressure, and thus the same felt recoil.

The .22 Long Rifle, or .22LR cartridge is one of the oldest commercial small arms rounds still in production, dating back to the 1860s when it used black powder rather than smokeless.

With a case length of just 15.6mm (as opposed to the .17 HMR’s 26mm long case), it has less volume and fires a heavier bullet, typically in the 26- to 40-grain range.

As one would guess, less powder and a heavier bullet mean velocity on the .22LR is anemic, running between 1,100- to 1,400 fps while chamber pressure runs about 240 psi on spec.

Downrange, the average bulk pack multipurpose .22LR load, for instance, Winchester’s 36-grain CPHP (Copper Plated Hollow Point), which generates 1,280 fps in velocity at the muzzle, which coughs up 131 ft./lbs. of energy. At 100 yards, this drops to a near subsonic 975 fps.

At 200 yards, Winchester does not publish ballistics for the round, which tells you all you need to know.

.17 HMR Vs. .22 WMR

Debuted in the late 1950s, the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire, or .22WMR/.22 Mag has a case roughly the same length as the .17 HMR, as we have noted already.

A straight-walled cartridge rather than the bottlenecked .17, the .224-caliber bullets of the .22 Mag are heavier, starting at about 30-grains and moving up to 50-grain loads, while chamber pressures are comparable.

This means felt recoil is on par between the .22 Mag and .17 HMR but performance is different, especially downrange.

For example, Hornady’s .22 WMR 30-grain V-MAX Varmint Express Rimfire generates 2,200 fps velocity at the muzzle, just slightly less than the same company’s .17 HMR load in the identical bullet line, but, as it is a heavier bullet than the 17-grain pill, has about 30 percent more energy, 322 ft./lbs. to be precise.

This load holds zero at 100 yards but drops 16.5-inches at 200 yards, which is twice the drop seen on the .17 HMR– and the .22 Mag has less energy at that range as well.

In short, the .22 Mag is going to have slightly more energy at close ranges than the .17 HMR, and they meet up at the 100-yard mark with about the same ballistics, but the smaller round surpasses it in both accuracy and energy out past 100 yards.

What about the 17 Winchester Super Magnum?

A decade after the .17 HMR hit the market, Winchester developed their .17 WSM, which uses a thicker case than its competitor thus allowing for a hotter charge.

The cartridge provides a bit more umpf than the .17 HMR and runs slightly heavier bullets.

For example, SAMMI’s specs on the .17 WSM have it with typically a 25-grain PT bullet generating 2,600 fps velocity and with a 20-grain PT hitting 3,000 fps. This comes with the tradeoff of gently higher chamber pressures (33,000 psi on .17 WSM over 26,000psi for the .17 HMR) which means a little more recoil.

Hornady’s .17 WSM 20 grain V-MAX Varmint Express Rimfire puts some serious ballistics data on the chart, generating 3,000 fps velocity at the muzzle, leading to 400 ft./lbs. of energy.

Most importantly, it shoots flat at 100 yards and only drops 4.1 inches at 200 yards, where it still has 2,060 fps velocity and 188 ft./lbs. of energy.

In short, the .17 WSM outclasses the .17 HMR, however, has not proven to be more popular and both the ammo and rifles to use it are hard to find. Barring unforeseen developments, the .17 WSM is likely to go the way of the 5mm RPM and the dodo bird within a generation.

While cheaper and, especially these days, much more available than similar centerfire rounds such as the .17 Hornet, .218 Bee, and .204 Ruger, the .17 HMR suffers from some of the same inherent flaws that all the cartridges in this class.

For instance, these tiny bullets have poor ballistic coefficients and sectional densities, which means they are highly susceptible to crosswinds, especially over long distances.

There just isn’t a way a 17-grain bullet is going to shrug off the heavy drift. In addition, they don’t pack much energy, even at velocities that would seemingly turn these light loads into dust.

As such, they don’t elevate to harvesting small to medium-sized game larger than prairie dogs, coyote, and fox and, while they perform better than other rimfires– which isn’t much to brag about– they are still handicapped by a 200-yard effective range, if the user can dope the rainbow.

However, the .17 HMR has not fended off the competition from its older rimfire brothers, the .22LR and .22 Mag.

Both can typically be found easier and cheaper than the .17 and, in the world of precision rimfire competition, match-grade .22LR is still king, with skilled marksmen taking shots out to 300 yards with PRS rifles in that old-school caliber.

At the end of the day, the .17 HMR shines for those who are looking for an incredibly accurate, low-recoiling rifle for either relaxed target practice or harvesting small game at ranges under 200 yards.

Surpassing legacy rimfire cartridges such as .22LR and .22 Mag, the .17 HMR yields better performance while being more affordable than specialty centerfire varmint rounds to allow users to spend a day in the field for less coin than, say a rifle chambered in .204 Ruger.

In its class, the .17 HMR is hard to beat.