.17 WSM - Should I Buy Now or Wait?

Powder Keg

Powder Keg

New member
After reading about performance issues with the Savage B-mag, I've decided if I buy a .17 WSM it will have to be with with a Bull barrel. That being said, I'm aware that some shooters say the 1:9 twist barrels currently offered by Savage do not adequately stabilize the 25 grain bullet. But if they shoot the 20 grain bullet in a 1:8 twist barrel IT won't deliver that MOA grouping.

I intend to use the rifle for small game / predators (Woodchuck, fox, coyote) and wonder if the 20 grain bullet from the 1:9 twist barrel will be adequate for the 'yote. For me, it's all about accuracy and a well placed shot.

Anyone?
 
I suggest using " search " in the boarder above. Just type in what you want to learn about and enjoy years of knowledge.

Welcome to PM !
 
I have a stainless bull barrel B-Mag with synthetic stock. Mine shoots better with the 25's, but does shoot the 20's reasonably well.

I'm happy with my B-mag. I hate all things synthetic, so I dropped mine into a Boyd's laminate thumbhole stock, which added about $100 to the mix - still cheaper than the Ruger 77/17 will be when it comes out finally. Apparently the new B-mag models come in a boyd's stock from factory, so that would save you a bit of hassle.
 
223 with the 40 grain varmint bullet 3300FPS. Faster and more types of 223s to choose from. Plus I have only seen about 1 out of 10 17WSM that was worth owning. JMO
 
The 1:9 twist does a better job with both ammo weights then the 1:8 twist. A heavy barrel model is a must, the sporter model has harmonics and over heating issues. I have both models and the 1:9 is a better choice.
 
Originally Posted By: sperazThe 1:9 twist does a better job with both ammo weights then the 1:8 twist. A heavy barrel model is a must, the sporter model has harmonics and over heating issues. I have both models and the 1:9 is a better choice.

it is my understanding that all new bmags are now 8 twist? they did that because everybody complained about terrible accuracy with the 9 twist?
 
Buy a shotgun instead, you'll get better groups. This comes from someone dumb enough to try 2 b-mags. As bad as i wanted it to shoot, they just would not do it.
 
Last edited:
Originally Posted By: GTOHunterWait and see what kind of price the new Ruger .17 WSM Rifle will be and the quality of it also!

I'm a Ruger fan. I'm excited about the new Ruger 17 WSM!! I hope they don't price it too high, but I bet it will be around the $700 range. Of course that's just a wild guess!
 
Why mess around and spend $700 on a rifle you can't reload for unless a necessity in some states due to hunting regulations. Get a .17 Hornet (mines an Ackley, CZ 527 re-barreled by Pac-Nor) and don't look back.
 
Originally Posted By: cmatera Why mess around and spend $700 on a rifle you can't reload for unless a necessity in some states due to hunting regulations. Get a .17 Hornet (mines an Ackley, CZ 527 re-barreled by Pac-Nor) and don't look back.

I don't reload..and I think the 17 Hornet is a bit much for the small game that I use the 17 WSM on. It's just personal choice, and the 17 WSM fits that niche that I'm looking for.
 
Originally Posted By: Doc25Maybe they'll put it in the American. That would be nice sub $400 gun with moa accuracy.

That would be great!! My Ruger American .223 is a tac driver!
 
Problem being...can't use centerfold where I do most of my hunting. It's shotgun and rimfire.

I'm a big Savage fan and was pretty excited about the B-Mag but all the problems surrounding it soured me to it.

Bummed because I really wanted them to be awesome.
 
Nothing ventured , nothing gained . At least find someone who has one and try it out . I love mine . My main this is daytime coon calling and it does that great. Shot a feral cat at my place . 20 yards , front shot into chest. Dropped straight down ,rolled over dead , not a twitch . No sign of entry and no exit. Big old tom , held by back feet its head touched the ground .Cats usually don't check out like that unless they really get the "hammer" . Same result on wood chuck , same distance. Jim.
 


Write your reply...
Back
Top