RUGER 77/17 17WSM 20″ 6RD WALNUT
About this product
The Ruger 77/17 17WSM 20″ 6RD WALNUT is a purpose-built bolt-action rifle chambered for the .17 Winchester Super Magnum cartridge, designed for shooters who demand precision in a rimfire platform. This rifle isn't a plinking toy; it's engineered for applications where traditional rimfire calibers fall short on trajectory and wind resistance, utilizing cold hammer-forged barrel technology for consistent long-range accuracy. For context, the Stevens 334 series offers similar bolt-action reliability in centerfire calibers like the .308 Win at a lower price point, but they serve entirely different ballistic niches.
What is the Ruger 77/17 used for?
The Ruger 77/17 is a specialized tool for varmint control and extended-range small-game hunting where its flat-shooting .17 WSM cartridge excels. With its 20-inch cold hammer-forged barrel and integral scope mounts, it's built to deliver sub-MOA accuracy with quality ammunition at ranges exceeding 200 yards. This makes it ideal for dispatching prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and similar pests with terminal authority, where slower .22 LR or .22 WMR rounds would struggle with wind drift and energy retention.
How does the Ruger 77/17 compare to the Stevens 334?
The Ruger 77/17 is superior in mechanical accuracy and out-of-the-box readiness for optics, while the Stevens 334 in .243 Win — our editorial take offers greater terminal power at a significantly lower cost. The key difference is the action: Ruger uses a solid-steel receiver with machined-in scope bases and a steel, Mauser-type extractor for absolute lockup, whereas the Stevens utilizes a two-lug bolt design on a simpler receiver that requires separate scope mounting hardware. For pure precision shooting with a rimfire, the Ruger is the better tool; for a budget-friendly, low-recoil deer rifle, the Stevens holds the advantage.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.5 pounds unloaded, with an overall length of 40.5 inches and a 20-inch barrel length. The walnut stock adds approximately 3.2 pounds to the total system weight, providing a stable shooting platform that dampens vibration and settles quickly in field positions. The detachable rotary magazine protrudes less than 0.25 inches from the stock when inserted, maintaining a clean profile and balance point centered just ahead of the receiver.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for a first-time shooter seeking an inexpensive .22 LR trainer, nor for a hunter needing a heavy-caliber centerfire for medium to large game. The .17 WSM cartridge, while potent for its class, lacks the energy for ethical deer hunting in most jurisdictions and ammunition costs roughly 75 cents per round versus 10 cents for standard .22 LR. If your primary use is casual target shooting under 100 yards, a standard rimfire or a platform like the Stevens 555 shotgun for clay sports would be a more cost-effective choice.
What's in the box?
You receive the Ruger 77/17 rifle, one 6-round detachable rotary magazine, and a set of 1-inch scope rings that mate directly to the integral receiver bases. The package does not include a scope, sling, or case. The included rings are machined from steel and designed for a specific 1-inch tube diameter; if you plan to use a 30mm tube scope, you will need to purchase aftermarket rings from companies like Warne or Leupold at an additional cost of $40-$80.
Is the Ruger 77/17 worth it at $989.99?
Yes, if you require the specific ballistic performance of the .17 WSM cartridge coupled with Ruger's top-tier 77-series build quality. The $989.99 price reflects the cold hammer-forged barrel, machined steel receiver, and walnut stock—features that ensure durability and precision over thousands of rounds. For shooters who won't exploit the cartridge's 250-yard effective range or who prioritize low ammunition cost, a $600 Stevens 334 in .223 Remington delivers 90% of the utility for 60% of the price.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Cold hammer-forged 20-inch barrel — ensures consistent rifling for sub-MOA accuracy with match-grade ammo
- Solid-steel receiver with integral scope bases — eliminates a potential point of zero shift versus screwed-on bases
- Weighs 6.5 lbs — provides a stable field platform without being burdensome during extended carries
- Detachable 6-round rotary magazine — feeds reliably and sits flush to maintain balance
Trade-offs
- Proprietary scope ring system — limits mounting options and adds cost for non-1-inch tube optics
- .17 WSM ammunition costs ~$0.75/round — 7x more expensive than standard .22 LR for practice
- Limited aftermarket support — fewer stock and trigger options compared to Remington 700 or Tikka T1x patterns
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 736676072224 |
| manufacturer | Ruger / Sturm, Ruger & Co. |
| manufacturer part number | 7222 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | .17 WSM |
| capacity | 6 + 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 40.50 |
| model | 77/17 |
| package height | 2.5 |
| package width | 6.0 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | 3 Position |
| shipping weight | 7.75 |
| sights | Drilled & Tapped |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket stocks?
- Yes, but options are limited compared to more common actions like the Remington 700. The Ruger 77/17 uses a specific short-action footprint unique to the 77-series; manufacturers like Boyds and MPI offer custom wood and synthetic stocks starting around $250, but expect a 4-8 week lead time for fitting and finishing.
- Does it fit standard scope bases?
- No. The receiver comes with integral, machined scope mounting bases as part of its solid-steel construction. You must use the included 1-inch Ruger rings or purchase proprietary Ruger-pattern rings in 30mm or 34mm sizes from companies like Talley or Ruger directly, which typically cost $50 to $120 per set.
- How long does shipping take?
- Firearm shipments to your selected FFL dealer typically process within 2 business days of cleared payment, with transit taking 3-7 additional business days depending on carrier and destination. All shipments comply with 18 USC § 922 and require an approved Form 4473 and background check at the receiving FFL before transfer.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Returns on new firearms are only accepted for verified manufacturing defects, assessed by our certified armorers within 30 days of transfer. Non-defective returns are not accepted due to federal regulations regarding serialized items. We recommend handling a similar model at a local retailer to confirm fit before purchasing.