Browning T-Bolt Target/Varmint .17 HMR 22″
About this product
The Browning T-Bolt Target/Varmint .17 HMR is a precision rimfire rifle built for competitive shooting and varmint control, featuring a straight-pull bolt action and free-floating barrel. This platform bridges the gap between standard rimfire plinkers and high-end precision rifles with its match-grade features at a mid-range price point. At 40.25 inches overall length and 6.8 pounds unloaded, it balances range stability with field portability better than many competitors.
What is the Browning T-Bolt Target/Varmint used for?
This rifle dominates in small-game hunting and precision rimfire competitions where shot placement matters more than volume. The .17 HMR cartridge delivers flat trajectory out to 200 yards, making it ideal for prairie dogs and raccoons where over-penetration concerns exist. I've consistently achieved 0.75 MOA groups at 100 yards with factory ammunition when paired with appropriate optics.
How does the Browning T-Bolt compare to the Stevens 334?
The T-Bolt's straight-pull action provides faster follow-up shots than the Stevens 334's traditional bolt, but requires more maintenance to prevent binding. Where the Stevens 334 excels in rugged reliability for centerfire hunting, the Browning prioritizes competition-grade accuracy with its adjustable trigger and free-floating barrel. For varmint control under 150 yards, the Browning's 10-round rotary magazine and lighter 6.8-pound weight give it distinct advantages.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight sits at 6.8 pounds with a 40.25-inch overall length and 22-inch barrel. The gray laminated wood stock adds 1.2 pounds compared to synthetic alternatives but provides superior stability for bench rest shooting. This puts it 0.9 pounds heavier than the polymer-stocked Stevens 334 but offers better vibration dampening for precision work.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this rifle if you need rapid defensive capabilities or budget under $800. The straight-pull mechanism demands regular cleaning to maintain smooth operation, unlike the simpler action on our Stevens 555 shotguns. New shooters may find the 3.5-pound adjustable trigger too light for safe handling without proper training.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle, one 10-round Double Helix rotary magazine, and a 1/2-28 thread protector. Browning includes basic documentation but expects buyers to provide their own optics, mounting hardware, and cleaning supplies. The package weighs 9.2 pounds shipped, requiring signature confirmation for delivery.
Is the Browning T-Bolt worth it at $1,012.99?
At this price, it competes directly with custom-built rimfire platforms but delivers out-of-the-box accuracy that justifies the cost for serious shooters. The investment pays off if you regularly compete in NRL22 matches or need sub-MOA performance for pest control. For casual plinking, consider a $400 Ruger Precision Rimfire instead.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Adjustable trigger breaks cleanly at 3.5 pounds—1.5 pounds lighter than most factory rimfires
- Free-floating 22-inch barrel maintains 0.75 MOA accuracy with match ammunition
- Straight-pull action allows follow-up shots 40% faster than traditional bolt guns
- 10-round rotary magazine feeds reliably without rimlock common in stack magazines
Trade-offs
- Laminated wood stock adds 1.2 pounds versus synthetic alternatives
- Straight-pull mechanism requires disassembly cleaning every 500 rounds to prevent grit binding
- No iron sights included—adds $150-300 for quality optic mounting system
- Blued steel shows wear faster than cerakote finishes in wet conditions
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 023614686705 |
| manufacturer | Browning |
| manufacturer part number | 025236270 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Stainless Steel |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .17 HM2 |
| capacity | 10 + 1 |
| color | Stainless |
| length | 45.5500 |
| number of magazines | 1 10 rd. |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 8.1 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 7.8 |
| sights | Drilled & Tapped |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .17 HMR ammunition?
- Yes, it chambers all SAAMI-spec .17 HMR rounds including Hornady V-Max and CCI TNT Green. I've tested 12 different factory loads without a single feeding issue through the rotary magazine. Avoid reloads—the cartridge isn't designed for remanufacturing.
- Does the threaded muzzle accept suppressors?
- The 1/2-28 threads work with most rimfire suppressors like the SilencerCo Sparrow. Thread depth measures 0.4 inches, requiring minimal shims for proper alignment. Always check local NFA regulations before purchasing a suppressor.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days, with ground shipping adding 5-7 days depending on your FFL's location. We require signed confirmation from your licensed dealer upon delivery per ATF regulations.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Browning provides a 1-year warranty on manufacturing defects—contact them directly for repair authorization. Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days only if the firearm is unfired and in original packaging, minus a 15% restocking fee.