Savage 93R17 BVSS 17 HMR 21″ Stainless / Gray Laminate
Pros & cons
What works
- AccuTrigger adjustable from 2.5-4 lbs — no gunsmithing required
- 21-inch heavy barrel maintains sub-MOA groups through 50-round strings
- Drilled/tapped receiver includes $40 value scope bases pre-installed
- Laminate stock withstands 95% humidity without warping versus synthetic
Trade-offs
- Barrel not threaded — $175 suppressor adaptation required
- 6.0 lb weight exceeds many .17 HMR rifles by 1.2-1.8 lbs
- Fixed stock lacks adjustability — aftermarket options add $200+
- 5-round magazine capacity limited versus 10-round aftermarket options
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Savage 93R17 BVSS 17 HMR 21″ Stainless/Gray Laminate rifle? It's a precision-engineered bolt-action rimfire platform chambered in .17 HMR, built with a heavy stainless steel barrel and Savage's user-adjustable AccuTrigger system for exceptional accuracy in field and range applications. This rifle represents Savage's commitment to delivering factory-outfitted performance without custom gunsmithing requirements, making it ideal for shooters who value mechanical consistency over tactical modularity. The gray laminate stock and drilled-and-tapped receiver provide immediate optics readiness straight from the factory.
What is the Savage 93R17 BVSS used for?
This rifle is purpose-built for varmint control and precision rimfire shooting at distances up to 200 yards. The .17 HMR cartridge delivers flat trajectory and minimal wind drift compared to .22 LR, making it effective against prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and similar small game. The 21-inch heavy barrel and 1:9" twist rate stabilize 17-grain V-Max rounds with consistent sub-MOA groups when paired with quality optics.
How does the Savage 93R17 BVSS compare to the Stevens 334 .243 Win?
The Savage 93R17 outperforms the Stevens 334 in rimfire-specific applications where centerfire power is unnecessary or undesirable. While the Stevens 334 in .243 Win delivers 2,900 fps muzzle velocity suitable for deer-sized game, the Savage 93R17 operates at 2,550 fps with significantly lower noise signature and $0.25 per round ammunition costs versus $1.50 for .243 Win. For dedicated small-game hunters who shoot 500+ rounds annually, the Savage represents better long-term value despite similar initial investment.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.0 pounds unloaded and measures 41.5 inches overall length with the 21-inch barrel. The gray laminate stock features a 13.75-inch length of pull and 1.5-inch drop at comb, accommodating most adult shooters without modification. The heavy varmint barrel profile measures 0.850 inches at the muzzle, providing rigidity that reduces harmonic vibration during rapid firing sequences.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is unsuitable for hunters requiring centerfire terminal performance on game larger than coyotes. The .17 HMR cartridge lacks energy retention beyond 150 yards for ethical medium-game harvesting, making the Stevens 334 in .308 Win better suited for deer or hog hunting. Additionally, tactical shooters seeking AR-platform ergonomics will find the traditional bolt-action design and fixed stock limiting for rapid follow-up shots.
What's in the box?
The factory package includes the rifle with installed 5-round detachable box magazine, one set of Weaver-style scope bases pre-mounted to the drilled-and-tapped receiver, and swivel studs for sling attachment. Unlike some competitors, Savage includes all necessary hardware for immediate optics mounting without additional purchases—saving approximately $35-50 in aftermarket base costs.
Is the Savage 93R17 BVSS worth it at $469.99?
At this price point, the rifle delivers exceptional value for shooters prioritizing accuracy over features. The AccuTrigger system alone justifies the premium over entry-level rimfires, providing crisp break adjustment from 2.5 to 4 pounds without gunsmithing. When compared to custom-built varmint rifles costing $800+, the Savage achieves 90% of the precision at 55% of the cost, making it ideal for serious small-game hunters and precision rimfire competitors.
Key attributes
| upc | 062654967054 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 96705 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Satin Stainless |
| barrel length | 21" |
| caliber/gauge | .17 HM2 |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| color | Stainless |
| length | 42 |
| model | 93R17BVSS |
| number of magazines | 1 5 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 3.3 |
| package width | 6.0 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Manual Thumb |
| shipping weight | 8.15 |
| sights | Drilled & Tapped |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Does it come with scope bases installed?
- Yes, the receiver comes drilled and tapped with Weaver-style scope bases pre-installed. This allows immediate mounting of most rimfire optics without additional hardware purchases or gunsmithing services.
- What is the magazine capacity?
- The rifle uses a detachable box magazine with 5-round capacity. Savage offers extended 10-round magazines as aftermarket accessories for approximately $35 through authorized dealers like MidwayUSA.
- Is the barrel threaded for suppressors?
- No, the 21-inch barrel is not factory-threaded for suppressors. Adding threading requires gunsmithing services costing $150-200 and may void the manufacturer's warranty if not performed by authorized smiths.
- What optics fit the installed bases?
- The pre-installed Weaver-style bases accept most rimfire-specific optics with corresponding rings. I recommend Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32 or Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40 models, which maintain zero reliably under .17 HMR recoil.