Introduction
The world of rimfire rifles offers a thrilling blend of accuracy, affordability, and versatility. Within this landscape, the Savage Bmag in the increasingly popular 17 WSM (Winchester Super Magnum) caliber has carved a significant niche. This article will delve into a comprehensive guide and review of the Savage Bmag 17 WSM, exploring its features, performance, advantages, and disadvantages, while offering insights into its suitability for various applications. If you’re considering a rimfire rifle for varmint hunting, target practice, or simply enjoy the thrill of precision shooting, the Savage Bmag 17 WSM deserves a closer look.
Background on the 17 WSM Cartridge
The 17 WSM cartridge is, in many ways, a modern marvel of rimfire engineering. Its history is relatively recent, conceived to push the boundaries of what’s possible in a rimfire round. Developed by Winchester, the 17 WSM was intended to deliver exceptional performance in terms of velocity and effective range, setting a new benchmark in the rimfire world. This cartridge owes its existence to the .27 caliber nail gun cartridge as its base.
The ballistic performance of the 17 WSM is truly impressive. Bullets, typically weighing around twenty grains, can achieve muzzle velocities that routinely exceed three thousand feet per second. This high velocity translates into a remarkably flat trajectory, minimizing the need for holdover at moderate to longer ranges. The energy on target is substantially higher than the more traditional 17 HMR, making it a more effective option for varmint hunting, particularly on larger targets. Wind drift, a significant concern for rimfire shooters, is also minimized due to the higher velocity and ballistic coefficient of the 17 WSM bullets.
The advantages of the 17 WSM are numerous. The flat trajectory makes accurate shots easier, particularly in windy conditions, and extends the effective range compared to other rimfire calibers. Its downrange energy is potent enough for effective varmint control, dispatching critters such as prairie dogs, groundhogs, and other small predators with relative ease. The inherently lower recoil makes the rifle comfortable to shoot, allowing for quicker follow-up shots. The 17 WSM provides impressive performance without the added expense and complexity of centerfire rifles.
However, the 17 WSM does have its drawbacks. Ammunition costs, while competitive, are generally higher than more common rimfire rounds. Another factor to consider is the barrel life. The 17 WSM’s high velocity and the resulting heat generated by the firing process will inevitably contribute to quicker barrel wear. Finally, availability of ammunition, while improving, may not be as wide-spread as for some of the more established rimfire calibers.
Savage Bmag Rifle Overview
Let’s now turn our attention to the Savage Bmag rifle itself. This rifle, a direct product of the Savage Arms company, has been specifically designed around the 17 WSM cartridge. It represents a blend of innovative design and affordable accessibility, making it a popular choice among rimfire enthusiasts. The Bmag has undergone some refinements over the years, which we’ll also address.
The Savage Bmag’s core features begin with its bolt-action design, a proven mechanism known for reliability and precision. The bolt action ensures a secure lockup of the cartridge, contributing to accuracy. The rotary magazine, a departure from the traditional box magazines, is a hallmark of the Bmag’s design. It provides a streamlined profile and facilitates feeding, though the original magazine design has received considerable criticism for its reliability. The AccuTrigger system, a signature Savage innovation, is another key component. The AccuTrigger is user-adjustable, allowing shooters to customize the trigger pull weight for a crisp, clean break, further enhancing accuracy potential. The Bmag’s barrel plays a crucial role in the rifle’s performance. The barrel material, typically carbon steel, contributes to its overall weight and durability. The barrel length, commonly around twenty-two inches, balances handling and ballistic performance, offering a good compromise between accuracy and maneuverability. The rate of twist, specifically engineered for the 17 WSM’s bullet weight, optimizes bullet stabilization for enhanced accuracy. The stock of the Bmag is an integral part of the rifle’s overall handling characteristics. Often manufactured from synthetic materials, the stock offers durability and weather resistance. The stock’s design, including its ergonomics and cheek weld, contributes to the shooter’s comfort and the ability to acquire a sight picture quickly and consistently. The Bmag’s overall appearance is modern and functional. The design prioritizes utility and affordability, resulting in a rifle that is both practical and appealing.
Regarding the available models and variations, it’s worth noting that Savage has offered the Bmag in different configurations. These variations primarily involve changes in the stock material, the addition of factory-mounted scopes, and minor refinements to the overall design. Early versions faced some criticism regarding the magazine’s reliability, a factor that Savage addressed by improving the magazine design in subsequent iterations. The Bmag has evolved over time, incorporating feedback from shooters and incorporating enhancements to enhance its overall performance.
Performance and Handling
The crucial test of any rifle lies in its performance. We’ll delve into how the Savage Bmag 17 WSM performs in real-world scenarios, focusing on accuracy and handling.
Accuracy testing is a key component in assessing any rifle. The method involves shooting groups at established distances, typically fifty and one hundred yards, from a stable shooting rest. The size of the groups, measured in inches, provides a quantifiable measure of the rifle’s precision. The Savage Bmag 17 WSM, when paired with quality ammunition and proper shooting technique, consistently demonstrates impressive accuracy. The groups consistently shrink in size as shooters optimize their loads and practice. Shooters often report accuracy that exceeds one MOA (Minute of Angle), meaning that the groups can be consistently placed within one inch at one hundred yards. The accuracy of the Bmag can be influenced by multiple factors, including the quality of ammunition, the characteristics of the scope and the wind conditions. Choosing premium ammunition and selecting a quality optic are critical for extracting maximum performance from the rifle. Wind plays a significant role in influencing the trajectory of lightweight bullets.
The recoil of the 17 WSM is extremely mild, making it an enjoyable rifle to shoot. The minimal recoil allows for quick follow-up shots, which is a significant advantage, particularly in varmint hunting scenarios. The overall feel when shooting the Bmag is comfortable. The ergonomic stock design contributes to a secure and comfortable hold. The shooter feels less fatigue over extended shooting sessions. The AccuTrigger contributes greatly to the shooting experience, its crisp break enhancing the shooter’s ability to achieve consistent results.
Magazine functionality and reliability, as mentioned earlier, are critical factors. While the original Bmag magazines received criticism, subsequent design revisions have improved reliability. Ensure the magazine is properly seated and that the cartridges are properly loaded.
The AccuTrigger deserves special mention. This feature is user-adjustable and allows shooters to tailor the trigger pull weight to their personal preference. The crisp, clean break of the AccuTrigger enhances accuracy by minimizing trigger-induced movement. Its adjustability is a significant advantage over standard factory triggers.
Pros and Cons of the Savage Bmag 17 WSM
A critical assessment of any firearm includes weighing its pros and cons. Let’s consider the specific advantages and disadvantages of the Savage Bmag 17 WSM.
The pros are numerous. The Savage Bmag 17 WSM provides excellent value for its price point. It offers exceptional accuracy, often exceeding expectations. It’s relatively lightweight and easy to handle, making it a pleasure to carry and use in the field. Its effectiveness in varmint hunting is undeniable, making it a popular choice for pest control.
However, the Bmag also has its drawbacks. The magazine system, while improved, can still present challenges. The barrel life is another factor to consider; due to the high velocity of the 17 WSM, barrel wear can occur more rapidly than with some other rimfire calibers. The use of plastic components in the stock construction might not appeal to everyone, though they do contribute to affordability and durability. The factory scope, if included, might need an upgrade, particularly if the shooter is seeking the maximum possible accuracy at longer distances.
Comparison to Other Rifles in its Class
How does the Savage Bmag 17 WSM compare to other rifles in its class? To put the Bmag’s performance in context, let’s compare it to its competitors.
Comparing it to other rifles chambered in 17 WSM, the Bmag generally holds its own. Rifles such as the Winchester Model 52 are revered for their precision, but they often come with a much higher price tag. The Bmag is generally more affordable. When comparing the Bmag to rifles chambered in 17 HMR, the primary difference is the ballistic advantage of the 17 WSM. The 17 WSM delivers superior range and energy. In the same price range, the Bmag offers excellent accuracy and features. It distinguishes itself from the competition by offering the higher performance of the 17 WSM cartridge.
Applications and Best Uses
The Savage Bmag 17 WSM has specific applications where it excels.
It’s ideally suited for varmint hunting, where its flat trajectory and high velocity give it a significant advantage. Target shooting at moderate ranges is another excellent application. For different applications, the shooter might choose a different scope or ammunition type. For hunting, a scope designed for varminting with a high magnification range is preferred.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity and reliability of the Savage Bmag 17 WSM.
Cleaning and lubrication is essential. After each shooting session, clean the bore with a bore snake or cleaning rod, applying a solvent to remove powder residue. Lubricate the bolt and other moving parts with a gun oil. Proper storage is also crucial. Store the rifle in a clean, dry environment, away from extreme temperatures and humidity. Address magazine issues promptly. Ensure the magazine is properly seated and that the cartridges are properly loaded. Should you experience feeding problems, disassembling and cleaning the magazine might be required.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Savage Bmag 17 WSM represents a compelling choice for those seeking a high-performance rimfire rifle. It balances accuracy, affordability, and a flat trajectory, making it well-suited for varmint hunting and target shooting. The advantages, including the 17 WSM’s ballistics, outweigh the disadvantages. The Bmag’s value proposition is undeniable. It is an excellent option for any shooter looking to experience the full potential of the 17 WSM cartridge. The Savage Bmag 17 WSM is particularly well-suited for varmint hunters and those who appreciate accuracy at extended ranges. The future of the 17 WSM cartridge appears bright, as ammunition and rifle manufacturers continue to refine and expand their offerings.
