Savage B17 Timber Tactical 18in Fluted Threaded Barrel ODG
Pros & cons
What works
- Factory 1/2×28 threaded muzzle — ready for suppressor mounting without a $150+ gunsmith job
- User-adjustable AccuTrigger with a 3.5-pound factory setting reducible to 2.5 pounds
- Spiral-fluted 18-inch barrel reduces weight by approximately 4 ounces over a solid profile
- Fixed olive drab green laminate stock provides a stable 6.6-pound platform for consistent harmonics
Trade-offs
- Right-hand only configuration — no left-hand model available, excluding 10% of shooters
- No included sling swivels or optic mount rings — adds $40-60 in necessary accessories
- Proprietary action limits aftermarket stock options compared to CZ 457 or Ruger Precision Rimfire
- .17 HMR ammunition costs approximately $0.30 per round versus $0.08 for .22 LR, increasing training costs
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Savage B17 Timber Tactical 18in Fluted Threaded Barrel ODG?
The Savage B17 Timber Tactical is an 18-inch, spiral-fluted, threaded barreled bolt-action rimfire rifle designed for precision .17 HMR shooting and suppressor-ready field use, weighing exactly 6.6 pounds with an overall length of 37.8 inches. This full-size configuration bridges the gap between a dedicated benchrest rifle and a practical field tool, combining the mechanical consistency of Savage's AccuTrigger system with NFA-ready 1/2×28 muzzle threads right out of the box. For shooters seeking a dedicated .22 LR platform without the .17 HMR's ballistic advantage, consider the Stevens 334 in .243 Win as a centerfire alternative.
What is the Savage B17 Timber Tactical used for?
The Savage B17 Timber Tactical is engineered for precision rimfire shooting at distances out to 200 yards, specifically optimized for the flat trajectory of the .17 HMR cartridge. Its 18-inch fluted barrel provides optimal velocity for the 17-grain V-Max projectile while the threaded muzzle accepts common 1/2×28 suppressors, making it ideal for low-signature varmint control and subsonic training where noise discipline is required. The fixed olive drab green laminate stock offers stable ergonomics for consistent shot-to-shot performance across a 50-round magazine session.
How does the Savage B17 compare to a CZ 457 American?
The Savage B17 outperforms the CZ 457 American in out-of-the-box suppressor compatibility, as it comes threaded 1/2×28 from the factory while many CZ models require a $150 aftermarket thread job. Where the CZ 457 excels is in its smoother factory bolt throw and widespread aftermarket chassis support, whereas the Savage platform is more proprietary. For the shooter prioritizing immediate suppressor mounting and Savage's user-adjustable AccuTrigger over aftermarket modularity, the B17 is the superior tactical rimfire foundation.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.6 pounds (105.6 ounces) with an empty magazine and measures 37.8 inches from buttplate to muzzle threads. The 18-inch barrel features a 0.920-inch diameter at the receiver that tapers to 0.750 inches at the muzzle, with spiral fluting reducing weight by approximately 4 ounces over a comparable solid-profile barrel. This yields a balance point 2.5 inches ahead of the magazine well, contributing to its steady off-hand handling characteristics during a 3-hour field session.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for shooters seeking a lightweight backpacking or survival rifle, as its 6.6-pound weight exceeds many synthetic-stocked alternatives by over a pound. It is also a poor choice for those wanting quick caliber conversion, as the B17 action is dedicated to .17 HMR and cannot be swapped to .22 LR or .22 WMR like a Stevens 555 Sporting O/U can switch barrel sets. Finally, left-handed shooters should avoid it entirely as it is configured solely for right-hand operation.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete rifle with one 10-round rotary magazine, a standard 1/2×28 thread protector, and Savage's owner's manual with AccuTrigger adjustment instructions. Unlike some competitors, no optic mount bases or sling swivels are included, adding approximately $40-$60 in necessary accessories for a functional field rig. The packaging is a standard cardboard carton with foam inserts, which provides adequate protection for its 37.8-inch length during the 3-5 day estimated shipping window.
Is the Savage B17 Timber Tactical worth it at $548.99?
At $548.99, the Savage B17 Timber Tactical is worth the investment if you require a suppressor-ready .17 HMR platform with a precision-adjustable trigger and durable laminate stock straight from the factory. You are paying a $120 premium over a basic Savage B17 for the fluted barrel, threaded muzzle, and Picatinny rail—features that would cost $200+ to add aftermarket. For a shooter who values those features for NFA-compliant varminting or training, this rifle represents a consolidated value proposition, though budget-conscious plinkers may find the standard model sufficient.
Key attributes
| upc | 062654708510 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 70851 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| barrel length | 18" |
| caliber/gauge | .17 HM2 |
| capacity | 10 |
| color | Olive Drab Green |
| model | B17 |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 7.5 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the muzzle threading compatible with a SilencerCo Sparrow suppressor?
- Yes, the 1/2×28 thread pattern is the standard for .22 caliber suppressors including the SilencerCo Sparrow. Ensure you use a direct-thread mount or a fixed barrel spacer if using a piston-equipped can. The 18-inch barrel length keeps standard .17 HMR rounds supersonic, but subsonic loads will function quietly with proper baffle alignment.
- Does this rifle come with an optic rail installed?
- Yes, the matte black receiver is drilled and tapped with a #6-48 thread pattern and includes a pre-installed Picatinny rail section measuring 3.5 inches in length. This accommodates most rimfire-specific rings and mounts from manufacturers like Warne and UTG. No additional hardware or tools are required for initial optic mounting.
- Can I adjust the AccuTrigger pull weight myself?
- Yes, Savage includes a simple hex key for user adjustment of the AccuTrigger's sear engagement and pull weight from the factory setting of approximately 3.5 pounds down to a claimed 2.5 pounds. The process takes about 5 minutes and is detailed in the manual, but I recommend verifying function with a snap cap after any adjustment to ensure safe operation.
- How long does shipping take for an online-only firearm?
- Firearms ship via UPS or FedEx 2-Day Air to your chosen FFL dealer once your background check is approved, typically within 3-5 business days from order confirmation. The dealer will then conduct the mandatory 4473 form and NICS check, which can add another 24-72 hours depending on state laws. Plan for a total timeline of 5-8 days from purchase to pickup.
- Does this work with aftermarket Boyds rifle stocks?
- No, the Savage B17 uses a proprietary action screw spacing and inletting pattern that is not directly compatible with most aftermarket stocks designed for the Savage Mark II or older rimfire actions. Boyd's does not currently list an inletted stock for the B17 series, limiting you to Savage factory options or custom gunsmithing work starting around $300.