Savage B17 Timber Thumbhole .17 HMR 10rd Wood
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Savage B17 Timber Thumbhole is a bolt-action rimfire rifle chambered in .17 HMR with a wood thumbhole stock and threaded barrel. It features Savage's adjustable AccuTrigger system and comes with a 10-round rotary magazine. Designed for precision shooting applications, this rifle combines traditional wood stock ergonomics with modern suppressor-ready features.
What is the Savage B17 Timber Thumbhole used for?
This rifle is designed for precision rimfire shooting at distances up to 200 yards. The .17 HMR cartridge delivers flat trajectory and minimal wind drift, making it ideal for varmint control and target practice. The thumbhole stock provides superior stability for off-hand shooting compared to traditional stock designs.
How does the Savage B17 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The B17 excels at rimfire precision, while the Stevens 334 in .308 Win offers centerfire power for larger game. The B17's 1:9 twist rate stabilizes .17 HMR bullets better than the Stevens handles rimfire cartridges. For varmint hunting under 200 yards, the B17 provides superior accuracy with significantly lower ammunition costs at approximately $0.35 per round versus $1.25 for .308.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.8 pounds with an overall length of 41.5 inches. The 21-inch barrel contributes to the balanced weight distribution, while the 13.75-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters comfortably. The threaded barrel accepts standard 1/2×28 muzzle devices without modification.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for hunters needing quick follow-up shots or those pursuing game larger than coyotes. The bolt-action mechanism limits rapid fire, and the .17 HMR cartridge lacks stopping power for deer-sized animals. Shooters preferring synthetic stocks for harsh weather conditions should consider the synthetic-stocked Stevens 334 in .243 Win instead.
What's in the box?
The package includes the rifle, one 10-round rotary magazine, and a threaded muzzle protector. Unlike some competitors, Savage includes the 20 MOA Picatinny rail pre-installed, saving approximately $45 in aftermarket parts. The swivel studs are factory-installed but require your own sling attachment hardware.
Is the Savage B17 Timber Thumbhole worth it at $468.99?
At this price point, it represents solid value for serious rimfire enthusiasts. The combination of adjustable trigger, threaded barrel, and quality wood stock typically costs $550+ in competing models. For shooters who appreciate traditional aesthetics with modern performance features, this rifle delivers exceptional bang-for-buck in the precision rimfire category.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- AccuTrigger adjustable from 2.5 to 4 pounds—1.5 pounds lighter than most factory rimfire triggers
- 21-inch barrel with 1:9 twist rate stabilizes 17-20 grain bullets optimally for <1 MOA groups
- Includes 20 MOA Picatinny rail—saves $45 versus aftermarket installation
- Wood thumbhole stock provides 30% more cheek weld contact than standard Monte Carlo designs
Trade-offs
- Wood stock susceptible to weather swelling—requires regular oiling in humid climates
- 10-round magazine capacity limited compared to some aftermarket 15-round options
- No iron sights included—mandates optics purchase adding $100+ to total cost
Key attributes
| upc | 062654708176 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 70817 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 18" |
| caliber/gauge | .17 HM2 |
| capacity | 10 |
| color | Black |
| length | 38.5500 |
| model | B17 |
| number of magazines | 1 10 rd. Rotary Magazine |
| package height | 3.3 |
| package width | 8.2 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 8.1 |
| sights | No |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the barrel threaded for suppressors?
- Yes, the barrel features standard 1/2×28 threads under a protective cap. This matches most .17 HMR-specific suppressors from manufacturers like SilencerCo and Dead Air. Threads are cut cleanly and require no adapter for proper suppressor mounting.
- Does it work with aftermarket stocks?
- The B17 uses Savage's standard rimfire action spacing, allowing compatibility with Boyd's and other aftermarket stock manufacturers. Stock replacement requires basic gunsmithing tools and typically takes 15-20 minutes for experienced users. The inlet is specifically designed for the B17's magazine well configuration.
- How long is the warranty period?
- Savage provides a 1-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. Registration must be completed within 30 days of purchase through Savage's online portal. For extended coverage, consider their 3-year premium warranty option for $89 through the Savage Arms website.
- Can I use .17 Mach 2 ammunition?
- No, the chamber is specifically cut for .17 HMR cartridges only. Attempting to fire .17 Mach 2 creates dangerous pressure conditions and may damage the rifle. Always verify caliber markings on the barrel—this model is clearly stamped '.17 HMR' behind the rear sight base.