Introduction
The frustration is palpable. The right-handed rifle, a beautifully crafted piece of machinery, sits nestled in your shoulder, but something feels…off. The cheek weld is awkward, the ejection port breathes fire in your face, and every movement feels like a compromise. For a left-handed shooter, the right-handed world of firearms can be a constant challenge. But there’s a solution, and this guide is dedicated to it: the world of the Left Handed 17 HMR Rifle.
This guide is your comprehensive resource, designed to help you navigate the often-challenging landscape of finding the perfect left-handed rifle for your .17 HMR needs. We’ll delve into the essential considerations, explore popular models, and offer invaluable tips to ensure you make an informed purchase, leading to a more comfortable, safer, and ultimately, more accurate shooting experience.
The .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire, or .17 HMR, is a marvel of modern ammunition. Its popularity stems from its impressive performance. This tiny, yet potent round offers flat trajectories, exceptional accuracy at moderate ranges, and devastating terminal ballistics for varmint hunting and target shooting. It’s a favorite among hunters seeking to control populations of small pests like prairie dogs, groundhogs, and even coyotes at reasonable distances. It’s also a fantastic round for plinking, target practice, and introducing new shooters to the sport. But to truly enjoy the advantages of the .17 HMR, you need a rifle that fits you.
This is where the Left Handed 17 HMR Rifle becomes paramount. This article will provide a wealth of information to help you find the perfect rifle for your needs.
Why Left-Handed Rifles Are Essential
The advantages of a left-handed rifle for a left-handed shooter are far from trivial; they are fundamental to achieving a comfortable and safe shooting experience.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Imagine the difference between using a tool designed for your dominant hand and one designed for the opposite. A right-handed rifle forces a left-handed shooter to contort their body. The cheek weld on the stock feels unnatural, the reach to the bolt or action is less efficient, and the overall posture can feel unbalanced. This discomfort extends to the entire shooting experience. A properly designed Left Handed 17 HMR Rifle solves these problems by providing a natural, intuitive fit. The stock is designed for a left-handed cheek weld, making aiming more natural and comfortable. The bolt handle or action is placed on the left side of the receiver, allowing for easy manipulation without breaking your shooting position or crossing your face. This intuitive design leads to better shot placement and reduces shooter fatigue.
Safety Considerations
Attempting to operate a right-handed rifle as a left-handed shooter can be inherently unsafe. When working the bolt on a right-handed rifle, you must often cross your face to manipulate the bolt handle. This can obstruct your view of the target and potentially lead to unsafe handling of the firearm. Ejection of spent casings from a right-handed rifle will eject casings across your face which can be very dangerous. This poses a risk of hot brass ejecting directly at the shooter’s face, potentially causing burns or other injuries. A Left Handed 17 HMR Rifle, however, addresses these concerns by allowing you to operate the rifle without crossing your face. The spent casing is ejected away from you, and all controls are designed for left-handed operation, leading to a safer and more enjoyable shooting experience.
Accuracy and Performance
Accuracy and performance are directly impacted by how comfortably a rifle fits the shooter. A poorly fitted rifle contributes to flinching, poor trigger control, and an overall inability to maintain consistent shot placement. A properly fitted Left Handed 17 HMR Rifle eliminates these issues. A comfortable cheek weld allows for consistent eye alignment with the scope or sights, and comfortable ergonomics make it easy to maintain proper trigger control. This translates directly to improved accuracy, shot after shot. When you can consistently repeat a good shooting position, and manipulate your rifle easily, you’re more likely to achieve tighter groupings and enjoy the shooting sport more fully.
Key Features To Consider When Choosing a Left-Handed 17 HMR Rifle
Choosing the right Left Handed 17 HMR Rifle requires careful consideration of several key features. Each of these factors contributes to the overall performance, feel, and suitability of the rifle for your specific needs.
Action Type
Action Type plays a significant role in both function and preference. Bolt-action rifles are known for their inherent accuracy and reliability. The manual operation of the bolt allows for precise cartridge loading and ejection, contributing to a consistent shooting experience. Bolt-action Left Handed 17 HMR Rifles are often favored for target shooting and hunting, where accuracy is paramount. The slower rate of fire is often not a concern in these situations. Bolt-action rifles usually provide very good value for the money.
Semi-automatic rifles, on the other hand, offer the advantage of rapid follow-up shots. The self-loading action cycles the bolt automatically, allowing for quicker follow-up shots on moving targets or when multiple shots are needed in quick succession. Semi-automatic Left Handed 17 HMR Rifles are ideal for varmint hunting, where multiple targets may present themselves quickly. However, semi-automatics can potentially be more susceptible to malfunctions than bolt-action rifles, and usually come with a higher price point.
Stock Design
Stock Design significantly impacts the ergonomics and overall feel of the rifle. The material of the stock affects durability, weight, and aesthetics. Wood stocks offer a classic look and feel, but they can be susceptible to warping due to changes in humidity. Synthetic stocks, made from materials like fiberglass or polymer, are extremely durable and resistant to weather. Composite stocks often combine the benefits of both, featuring a blend of materials to achieve optimal performance. Consider the material carefully.
The ergonomics of the stock are paramount for comfort and accuracy. The cheekpiece should allow for a comfortable and consistent cheek weld, ensuring proper eye alignment with the scope or sights. The length of pull, or the distance from the trigger to the butt of the stock, should be appropriate for your arm length. A grip that fits your hand comfortably also contributes to consistent trigger control. A poorly fitting stock will be an impediment to the shooter.
Barrel Length and Twist Rate
Barrel Length and Twist Rate are important considerations. The barrel length impacts both accuracy and velocity. Longer barrels can offer a slight increase in muzzle velocity, as the bullet has more time to accelerate within the barrel. Shorter barrels may be more maneuverable, especially in tight spaces.
The twist rate of the rifling, which determines how quickly the bullet spins as it travels down the barrel, should be matched to the weight of the .17 HMR bullet you plan to use. The correct twist rate will stabilize the bullet in flight, leading to improved accuracy. Most .17 HMR rifles use a 1:9 or 1:10 twist rate, which is generally suitable for the common bullet weights.
Sights and Optics
Sights and Optics are critical components for aiming and achieving accurate shots. Many Left Handed 17 HMR Rifles come with iron sights, which are traditional open sights that are fine for close-range shooting.
However, for the precision required for the .17 HMR, a scope is often the preferred choice. Scope mounting involves attaching a scope to the rifle using appropriate rings or mounts. A good scope provides magnification, allowing you to see the target more clearly at extended ranges. Choose a scope designed for rimfire rifles, as these scopes are typically parallax-adjusted for the closer ranges common with .17 HMR.
Trigger
Trigger quality influences accuracy. A good trigger pull should be crisp, consistent, and have a light weight. A trigger that is too heavy or has excessive travel can cause the shooter to jerk or anticipate the shot, negatively affecting accuracy. Adjustable triggers allow you to fine-tune the trigger pull to your preferences.
Popular Left-Handed 17 HMR Rifle Models
Let’s explore some popular options, keeping in mind that availability can vary.
Model 1: The Savage Arms A17 Left-Handed
The Savage Arms A17 is a well-regarded semi-automatic rifle. Savage has designed an action specifically for the .17 HMR, and it features a delayed-blowback action for increased reliability. Its features include a synthetic stock, a carbon steel barrel, and a rotary magazine. It’s generally considered a reliable and accurate semi-automatic option.
Pros: Reliable action, good accuracy for a semi-automatic, a reasonable price point, and the company also offers replacement parts.
Cons: The synthetic stock may not appeal to everyone aesthetically. Semi-automatic rifles require more cleaning and maintenance than bolt-action rifles.
Image: [Insert Image of Savage Arms A17 Left-Handed]
Model 2: The CZ 457 Varmint Left-Handed
The CZ 457 Varmint is a highly regarded bolt-action rifle known for its exceptional accuracy and quality. It features a cold hammer-forged barrel and a user-adjustable trigger. The CZ 457 offers smooth bolt operation and is extremely accurate.
Pros: Exceptional accuracy, smooth bolt action, adjustable trigger. Well-built and reliable.
Cons: Priced slightly higher than some other options.
Image: [Insert Image of CZ 457 Varmint Left-Handed]
Model 3: The Ruger American Rimfire Left-Handed
The Ruger American Rimfire is known for its accuracy, reliability, and affordability. It features a modular stock system, allowing you to change the length of pull and comb height. It comes with Ruger’s rotary magazine, and a crisp trigger.
Pros: Very accurate, affordable, modular stock system.
Cons: May feel less refined than some higher-end rifles.
Image: [Insert Image of Ruger American Rimfire Left-Handed]
These examples demonstrate the variety of available Left Handed 17 HMR Rifle models. The choice of the right rifle depends on your budget and desired features.
Where to Buy a Left-Handed 17 HMR Rifle
Finding the right Left Handed 17 HMR Rifle can sometimes be challenging due to limited availability.
Online Retailers
Online retailers offer a vast selection and competitive pricing. Explore online gun stores like GunBroker, Brownells, and others. These stores often have extensive catalogs and may have options that are difficult to find locally. Always ensure you are purchasing from a reputable retailer and that they comply with all local and federal laws. Shipping a firearm will usually involve sending the rifle to a local licensed firearms dealer for transfer.
Local Gun Shops
Local gun shops can provide personalized service and the opportunity to handle the rifle before you buy. Local shops may have limited selection, and prices may be somewhat higher, but buying from a local shop supports your community and allows you to ask questions and get advice from experienced gun enthusiasts. Check if they have any Left Handed 17 HMR Rifle rifles in stock.
Used Market
The used market can present opportunities to find a quality rifle at a lower price. Websites like GunBroker and local classifieds can be great options. Be sure to thoroughly inspect any used rifle before purchasing. Consider the condition of the barrel, the action, and the overall wear and tear. Be aware of local laws and regulations regarding private firearm sales.
Tips for Buying and Maintaining Your Left-Handed 17 HMR Rifle
Setting a budget is a crucial step. Consider the cost of the rifle, scope, mounts, and any other accessories you need. Determine how much you are willing to spend.
Research, research, research. Read reviews from other shooters and watch videos. Learn about the pros and cons of each model. Don’t hesitate to ask questions in online forums or at your local gun shop.
Proper cleaning and maintenance are vital to extending the life and maintaining the accuracy of your Left Handed 17 HMR Rifle. Clean your rifle after each shooting session, or at least periodically, to remove powder residue, lead buildup, and other debris. Use a cleaning rod, bore brush, and cleaning solvent specifically designed for firearms. Lubricate the action and other moving parts after cleaning.
Always prioritize safe gun handling practices. Treat every firearm as if it were loaded. Never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Be aware of your surroundings and the potential for ricochets. Always follow all safety protocols when handling a Left Handed 17 HMR Rifle.
Conclusion
Owning a Left Handed 17 HMR Rifle offers a significant advantage for the left-handed shooter. It provides enhanced comfort, increased safety, and improved accuracy. The .17 HMR cartridge, when paired with the right rifle, is a potent and enjoyable tool for varmint hunting, target shooting, and general plinking. By considering the key features, researching different models, and following proper maintenance and safety procedures, you can find the perfect Left Handed 17 HMR Rifle to meet your shooting needs. We hope that this guide gives you a good headstart in your search.
Go forth and explore the options. Visit your local gun shop, handle a few different rifles, and ask plenty of questions. With the right knowledge, you can acquire a Left Handed 17 HMR Rifle that you will enjoy for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the left-handed version more expensive?
Often, yes. Because left-handed models are produced in smaller quantities, manufacturers may charge more. But the benefits outweigh the cost.
Can I convert a right-handed rifle to left-handed?
Generally, no. Converting a right-handed rifle to left-handed is usually not practical or cost-effective. It often requires extensive modifications.
What is the effective range of a .17 HMR?
The effective range of a .17 HMR varies, but it is generally considered to be around 100-150 yards for hunting purposes, but some shooters can accurately hit targets beyond that range, up to 200 yards or more.
Where can I find accessories for my left-handed 17 HMR?
Most accessories, such as scopes, mounts, cleaning kits, and ammunition, are available for both right and left-handed rifles. Search online retailers or local gun shops for specific accessories.
Good luck with your search, and enjoy your shooting sport!
