A Legacy of Firepower, A Modern Marvel
Are you seeking a rimfire rifle that gracefully blends the classic charm of lever-action design with the modern precision of today’s ammunition? The world of rimfire shooting offers a diverse array of options, but few combine nostalgia with such consistent accuracy and performance as the 17 HMR lever action. This review delves into the heart of this unique category, exploring its key features, dissecting its performance, and ultimately helping you determine if this rifle is the perfect fit for your shooting needs.
The lever-action rifle holds a special place in the hearts of firearm enthusiasts. Its iconic design, the satisfying “clack” of the lever, and its association with the American West evoke a sense of history and rugged individualism. For over a century, the lever-action has been a symbol of reliability and versatility. Initially popularized in centerfire calibers, the lever-action design has found a niche in rimfire, bringing classic handling to smaller, more economical cartridges.
The .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (.17 HMR) cartridge is a modern marvel, offering an incredibly flat trajectory and impressive accuracy for a rimfire round. Born from the marriage of the .22 WMR case and a smaller .17 caliber bullet, the .17 HMR quickly gained a following for its performance in varmint hunting and target shooting. Its high velocity and relatively low bullet drop make it a favorite for longer-range rimfire shooting, offering a significant advantage over traditional .22 Long Rifle.
The combination of these two elements – the lever-action rifle and the .17 HMR cartridge – creates a distinct package. It’s a rifle that celebrates history while delivering modern performance. The manual operation of the lever-action, while potentially slower than a semi-automatic, provides an inherent reliability and a tactile connection to the shooting experience. The .17 HMR cartridge offers a level of precision that enhances this connection, allowing for tighter groups and a greater effective range than other rimfire options.
Examining the Building Blocks: Key Features in Focus
When evaluating a 17 HMR lever action, several key features deserve close examination. These elements will ultimately define your experience with the rifle, from its handling to its accuracy.
The selection of manufacturers producing .17 HMR lever actions is somewhat more limited than for other rifle types, but the available options still offer a variety of choices. The most prominent name associated with this combination is arguably Henry Repeating Arms. Henry has built a reputation for producing beautifully crafted lever-action rifles, often with a focus on quality materials and a smooth, reliable action. Other manufacturers, although potentially with less emphasis on this specific configuration, have offered 17 HMR lever actions at different times as well.
The .17 HMR cartridge itself is the heart of the matter. The .17 HMR boasts a high muzzle velocity, typically exceeding three times the speed of sound, thanks to its smaller, lighter bullet propelled by a relatively large amount of powder. This high velocity translates into a flatter trajectory, allowing for more accurate shots at longer ranges. Common bullet weights are in the range of 17 to 20 grains. The ballistic coefficient, a measure of the bullet’s ability to overcome air resistance, is typically quite good for these small, high-velocity bullets, further enhancing their long-range performance. The effective range for this cartridge is often considered to be around 150 to 200 yards for hunting small game, although careful shooters can achieve even greater distances on a target range.
The barrel is another crucial element. The barrel length impacts the overall velocity of the bullet. The longer the barrel, the more efficiently the powder can burn, thus yielding higher velocities. However, longer barrels can also make the rifle slightly less maneuverable. The material used in the barrel construction also matters. High-quality barrels, whether made of blued steel or stainless steel, contribute to the rifle’s overall accuracy and durability. Rifling, the spiral grooves inside the barrel, is crucial for imparting spin to the bullet, stabilizing it in flight and maximizing accuracy.
The lever-action mechanism is, of course, the defining feature. It’s an ingenious design that relies on a lever, usually positioned beneath the receiver, to cycle the action. Pulling the lever down and then forward extracts the spent cartridge case, then cocks the hammer, and finally, feeds a fresh round from the magazine into the chamber. The speed and smoothness of this operation vary depending on the rifle’s design and build quality. A well-engineered lever action will feel effortless, allowing for rapid follow-up shots. It is a slower action compared to a semi-automatic, but the added reliability and mechanical simplicity is often preferred by many. The magazine capacity varies, but it is often around 10 to 12 rounds in many 17 HMR lever actions.
The stock and overall ergonomics play a major role in comfort and handling. The stock material can be wood, contributing a classic aesthetic and feel, or synthetic materials like polymer, which can be lighter and more resistant to the elements. The design of the stock, including the shape of the grip and the length of pull, affects how the rifle fits the shooter. The ideal length of pull allows the shooter to comfortably bring the rifle to their shoulder and achieve a good sight picture.
Sights are essential for aiming. Many lever-action rifles feature iron sights, often a combination of a rear sight (like a buckhorn or open sight) and a front sight. Some models are also drilled and tapped to accept scope mounts. The presence of a scope mount allows for the addition of an optical sight, which can significantly improve accuracy, especially at longer ranges. For a .17 HMR, a scope with a variable magnification and a parallax adjustment is highly recommended.
Safety features are paramount in any firearm. Most 17 HMR lever actions incorporate a manual safety, which typically blocks the trigger from being pulled. Other safety features, like a cross-bolt safety, might also be present. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with all safety features before handling the rifle.
The trigger is an important aspect of shooting. The trigger pull weight, measured in pounds, should be crisp and consistent. A lighter trigger pull can improve accuracy, but the trigger should still be safe and prevent accidental discharge.
Finally, consider the overall weight and balance of the rifle. A well-balanced rifle will be easier to handle and point accurately. The weight of the rifle will also influence how it feels when shouldered and when firing. The weight can vary greatly, from approximately 5 pounds to 7 pounds.
Putting it to the Test: Analyzing Performance
Beyond the specifications, the true measure of a 17 HMR lever action lies in its performance. Rigorous testing can assess its accuracy, reliability, and overall suitability for various shooting applications.
Accuracy testing involves firing the rifle at targets at various distances, using a variety of ammunition brands and bullet weights. The resulting shot groups are measured to determine the rifle’s inherent accuracy. The closer the shots group together, the more accurate the rifle. The specific testing method typically involves shooting groups from a supported position (e.g., a benchrest) to minimize shooter error. Multiple groups are fired with each type of ammunition to get a reliable average. The distance will vary depending on the shooter’s intended usage, but distances such as 50, 100, and even 150 yards are common.
Velocity testing utilizes a chronograph, a device that measures the speed of bullets as they leave the barrel. This data provides insights into the ammunition’s performance and allows for comparison between different ammunition types. The chronograph will show the muzzle velocity of various loads, and the standard deviation of each set of shots can also offer information on consistency.
Reliability is tested by evaluating the rifle’s ability to feed, fire, and eject cartridges consistently. Feeding issues, such as failure to feed or failure to extract, are carefully noted. The testing includes firing a wide range of ammunition brands and bullet styles to assess the rifle’s compatibility with various loads. The overall functionality and handling of the rifle is evaluated.
Finally, a practical shooting experience should be had. Real-world shooting scenarios are critical to evaluate the rifle’s ergonomics, handling, and overall enjoyment. This can include target shooting, small game hunting, or varmint control, allowing one to assess the rifle’s comfort and performance in different situations. Recoil is minimal in this caliber, but its impact is also noted in this analysis.
Weighing the Options: Pros and Cons
Like any firearm, a 17 HMR lever action presents both advantages and disadvantages. A balanced evaluation is essential to determine if it meets your specific needs.
On the positive side, the inherent accuracy of the .17 HMR cartridge is a major draw. The flat trajectory and high velocity translate to tight groupings, making it ideal for target shooting and varmint hunting. The classic appeal of the lever-action design is another significant advantage. The smooth action and nostalgic feel provide an enjoyable shooting experience. The simplicity of a lever-action also contributes to reliability. The ease of use and handling make it a good choice for both beginners and experienced shooters. Its versatility makes it suitable for various shooting applications, from plinking to small game hunting.
However, there are also some potential drawbacks. The cost of the rifle, and the .17 HMR ammunition can be more than that of the common .22 LR. Some might find the manual operation of the lever action to be slower than that of a semi-automatic rifle. Magazine capacity is often limited compared to some other rimfire rifles.
Comparing and Contrasting: Alternatives to Consider
Before deciding on a 17 HMR lever action, it’s wise to consider other options.
The .17 HMR is available in other action types, such as bolt-action rifles and semi-automatic rifles. Bolt-action rifles often offer excellent accuracy and affordability but might not offer the same speed of follow-up shots as a lever-action or semi-automatic. Semi-automatic rifles can provide rapid follow-up shots but might have different levels of reliability and overall complexity than a lever-action. These choices have different pros and cons regarding accuracy, capacity, and price.
The Final Word: Making Your Decision
Ultimately, the 17 HMR lever action is a unique and compelling choice within the world of rimfire rifles. It offers a combination of historical significance, modern performance, and enjoyable handling. Its accuracy, flat trajectory, and classic design make it a worthy contender for various shooting purposes, from target practice to varmint control.
If you are seeking a rifle that celebrates the heritage of lever-action rifles while delivering the impressive accuracy of the .17 HMR, then the 17 HMR lever action is a strong contender. It’s a rifle that will bring a smile to your face with every shot and one that’s sure to be a favorite for years to come. Consider your specific shooting needs, and budget, but do not dismiss the appeal of a .17 HMR lever action.
