The Best Seventeen WSM Rifles: Top Picks for Accuracy, Performance, and Value

August 13, 2025August 13, 2025 by Christina

Understanding the .17 WSM Cartridge

Introduction

On the earth of rimfire rifles, a distinct segment has carved itself out for a cartridge that provides outstanding efficiency: the .17 Winchester Tremendous Magnum, or .17 WSM. This spherical guarantees spectacular velocities and a flat trajectory, making it a favourite amongst varmint hunters and goal shooters. However choosing the proper rifle is usually a problem, particularly with so many choices obtainable. This information delves into the specifics of this thrilling spherical and helps you discover the perfect .17 WSM rifle to fit your wants.

The .17 WSM’s Core Traits

The muse of the .17 WSM’s attraction is its blistering velocity. In comparison with the venerable .22 Lengthy Rifle, the .17 WSM delivers considerably larger muzzle velocities. You may simply discover .17 WSM masses pushing bullets properly past three thousand ft per second. This uncooked velocity is what permits for the spectacular downrange vitality, particularly contemplating the comparatively gentle bullets usually used.

Trajectory and Goal

One other benefit is the flat trajectory. The .17 WSM’s velocity permits the bullet to fly straighter over longer distances. This implies much less holdover compensation is required when aiming at targets far-off. A flat trajectory is vital for correct pictures at various ranges, notably within the subject the place time is of the essence.

Ideally suited Use Circumstances

The .17 WSM shines when coping with varmints. The excessive velocity and vitality switch translate to efficient terminal efficiency on small sport, making it a favourite amongst hunters focusing on prairie canines, groundhogs, and different pests. The cartridge’s comparatively low recoil additionally permits faster follow-up pictures.

Drawbacks and Concerns

Nonetheless, the .17 WSM is not with out its issues. One of many main drawbacks is the associated fee per spherical. .17 WSM ammunition usually prices greater than the ever present .22 Lengthy Rifle. You may should issue this into your long-term taking pictures funds.

Ammunition Availability

Availability can also be one thing to contemplate. Whereas rising, the number of .17 WSM ammunition isn’t as huge because the .22 LR or the .17 HMR. You’ll need to be sure that your most popular ammunition is persistently in inventory earlier than committing to the cartridge.

Rifle Development

Lastly, do not forget that .17 WSM rifles are designed to deal with the upper pressures related to the spherical. Correct building, together with a robust motion and a barrel optimized for the cartridge’s traits, is crucial for security and constant efficiency.

Choice Standards for the Greatest .17 WSM Rifles

Accuracy is Key

Discovering the precise .17 WSM rifle requires cautious analysis. This is a breakdown of the important thing components to contemplate:
Accuracy is paramount. You desire a rifle that persistently locations pictures the place you propose them to go. Elements equivalent to barrel high quality, the bedding of the motion throughout the inventory, the crispness of the set off, and the ammunition you employ all play important roles in accuracy. Search for rifles identified for his or her tight groupings and the flexibility to carry zero, even after many rounds fired.

Construct High quality Significance

Construct high quality is greater than pores and skin deep. Take into account the supplies used within the motion, the inventory, and the barrel. Metal actions are sturdy and immune to put on and tear, whereas artificial shares are usually weatherproof and require minimal upkeep. The barrel’s high quality additionally impacts accuracy, with premium barrels usually exhibiting superior efficiency.

Options Matter

Options can improve your taking pictures expertise. Bolt-action rifles usually excel in accuracy and reliability. Semi-automatic rifles, nonetheless, supply fast follow-up pictures, which might be a bonus when varmint looking. A great set off is crucial for correct taking pictures, with a lighter and crisper pull permitting for higher shot placement. The provision of scope mounting choices additionally issues.

Value and Worth

Value and worth are at all times vital. Set a funds and evaluate rifles inside that vary. Take a look at the general price of possession. Consider ammunition prices, scope prices, and any equipment you would possibly want. A barely dearer rifle that delivers superior efficiency and lasts a very long time might in the end show to be a greater worth than a less expensive possibility that sacrifices high quality.

High .17 WSM Rifles

Savage Arms A17

Let’s delve right into a number of wonderful .17 WSM rifles which are obtainable. Every entry under presents an in depth have a look at a selected mannequin, contemplating its options, efficiency, and splendid software.

This bolt-action rifle has turn into a preferred selection for these getting into the .17 WSM world. It presents a wonderful steadiness of affordability and efficiency.

Key Specs: Bolt-action, AccuTrigger, artificial inventory, and {a magazine} capability.
Execs: Wonderful worth, the AccuTrigger is adjustable and gives a crisp really feel, total reliability.
Cons: Restricted aftermarket assist.
Efficiency and Accuracy: Usually able to reaching sub-MOA groupings with high quality ammunition.
Goal Viewers: Excellent for anybody in search of an reasonably priced and correct rifle for varmint looking and plinking.

Franklin Armory F17-L

Franklin Armory has constructed its fame for innovation and high quality, and their .17 WSM providing isn’t any exception. It is a rifle designed for efficiency and constructed to final.

Key Specs: Semi-automatic, light-weight design, high-quality barrel.
Execs: Quick follow-up pictures, dependable operation, wonderful construct high quality.
Cons: Value is usually a bit larger than some bolt-action fashions.
Efficiency and Accuracy: It delivers constant accuracy, and the semi-automatic motion permits for fast follow-up pictures on transferring targets.
Goal Viewers: Varmint hunters and people in search of a fast-handling rifle.

Volquartsen .17 WSM Customized Rifle

When you’re in search of the final word .17 WSM expertise, Volquartsen is a reputation to contemplate. They’re famend for his or her customized firearms and supply distinctive high quality and efficiency.

Key Specs: Customized-built, premium barrel, match-grade set off.
Execs: Unmatched accuracy, distinctive construct high quality, and easy motion.
Cons: Important funding.
Efficiency and Accuracy: Assured to ship sub-MOA accuracy.
Goal Viewers: Severe goal shooters and varmint hunters who demand the easiest.

Ruger 77/17 WSM

Ruger has a long-standing fame for producing reliable and correct rifles. The 77/17 WSM builds on this legacy.

Key Specs: Bolt-action, traditional design, dependable motion.
Execs: Rugged building, good accuracy, a variety of aftermarket equipment.
Cons: Some discover the set off requires enchancment.
Efficiency and Accuracy: Delivers constant accuracy with quite a lot of ammunition sorts.
Goal Viewers: Hunters and shooters in search of a dependable and well-built bolt-action rifle.

Browning T-Bolt .17 WSM

Browning’s T-Bolt is a singular rifle and provides one thing totally different to the .17 WSM market.

Key Specs: Bolt-action, straight-pull bolt, quick biking motion.
Execs: Clean and quick bolt motion, nice aesthetics, high-quality barrel.
Cons: Straight-pull motion might be unfamiliar to some.
Efficiency and Accuracy: Delivers wonderful accuracy, an excellent rifle for fast follow-up pictures.
Goal Viewers: Shooters who desire a easy and fast-cycling bolt-action rifle.

CZ 527 Varmint

CZ firearms have turn into a favourite for good cause. The 527 Varmint is a incredible possibility.

Key Specs: Bolt-action, heavy barrel, and well-made.
Execs: Distinctive accuracy, stunning construct high quality, and an excellent worth.
Cons: Journal can typically be a priority.
Efficiency and Accuracy: Wonderful accuracy with quite a lot of ammunition sorts.
Goal Viewers: Shooters in search of a extremely correct and classy bolt-action rifle.

Winchester Wildcat WSM

The Winchester Wildcat is a dependable possibility within the .17 WSM class.

Key Specs: Bolt motion, rugged design, sturdy building.
Execs: Sturdy building, budget-friendly.
Cons: Might require upgrades to realize peak efficiency.
Efficiency and Accuracy: A stable selection, identified for being a stable rifle for varmint looking.
Goal Viewers: Shooters on a funds in search of a succesful varmint rifle.

Savage Arms B.Magazine

The Savage Arms B.Magazine is a well known .17 WSM possibility.

Key Specs: Bolt-action, budget-friendly.
Execs: Reasonably priced, light-weight, and correct for the value.
Cons: Some studies of journal points, construct high quality is a bit decrease.
Efficiency and Accuracy: Good accuracy potential with correct ammunition choice.
Goal Viewers: Shooters who need an reasonably priced and correct rifle for plinking and varmint looking.

Christensen Arms Ridgeline .17 WSM

In case you are prepared to spend extra, this rifle presents spectacular options.

Key Specs: Bolt-action, carbon fiber barrel.
Execs: Light-weight, unimaginable accuracy, and high-quality supplies.
Cons: Value.
Efficiency and Accuracy: Recognized for its distinctive accuracy.
Goal Viewers: Hunters who demand the perfect.

Howa 1500 .17 WSM

The Howa 1500 is a dependable selection for a .17 WSM.

Key Specs: Bolt-action, dependable and correct.
Execs: Wonderful construct high quality, and stable efficiency.
Cons: Generally is a bit heavy.
Efficiency and Accuracy: Correct and dependable.
Goal Viewers: Hunters and shooters who desire a dependable bolt-action rifle.

Weatherby Vanguard .17 WSM

Weatherby presents an excellent possibility within the .17 WSM class.

Key Specs: Bolt-action, high-quality barrel.
Execs: Wonderful accuracy potential, and construct high quality.
Cons: Excessive-end worth.
Efficiency and Accuracy: The rifle presents constant efficiency.
Goal Viewers: Shooters who desire a high-quality, correct rifle.

Bergara B-14R .17 WSM

Bergara rifles are identified for his or her accuracy.

Key Specs: Bolt-action, premium barrel.
Execs: Wonderful accuracy, good construct high quality.
Cons: Might be expensive.
Efficiency and Accuracy: This rifle persistently delivers spectacular teams.
Goal Viewers: These in search of top-tier accuracy.

Franchi Momentum .17 WSM

Franchi additionally produces wonderful rifles.

Key Specs: Bolt-action.
Execs: Excessive-quality construct.
Cons: Value.
Efficiency and Accuracy: Delivers stable accuracy.
Goal Viewers: Hunters and shooters who need good efficiency.

Thompson Middle Compass .17 WSM

The Thompson Middle Compass presents good worth.

Key Specs: Bolt-action.
Execs: Reasonably priced, with good options.
Cons: Restricted equipment.
Efficiency and Accuracy: A succesful possibility.
Goal Viewers: These on a funds.

Mossberg Patriot .17 WSM

Mossberg is well-known for producing good firearms.

Key Specs: Bolt-action, good total worth.
Execs: Funds-friendly, dependable.
Cons: Fundamental options.
Efficiency and Accuracy: Delivers constant outcomes.
Goal Viewers: Shooters in search of an reasonably priced possibility.

CVA Cascade .17 WSM

CVA is a stable possibility for a .17 WSM rifle.

Key Specs: Bolt-action.
Execs: Prime quality, good construct.
Cons: Value.
Efficiency and Accuracy: Delivers correct and dependable outcomes.
Goal Viewers: Hunters in search of a high quality rifle.

Extra Concerns

Optics and Scopes

Past choosing the rifle, different parts affect your .17 WSM taking pictures expertise:

Pairing your rifle with the precise optic is essential. A high-quality scope with applicable magnification and an goal lens will maximize your accuracy. Take into account scopes with adjustable turrets for elevation and windage to make exact changes for long-range pictures. Search for scopes designed to face up to the upper recoil forces.

Ammunition Choice

Ammunition selection considerably impacts accuracy. Totally different manufacturers and bullet weights carry out otherwise in every rifle. Experiment with numerous masses to find which ammunition your particular rifle shoots probably the most precisely.

Upkeep

Common upkeep is essential for preserving your rifle’s efficiency and longevity. Clear your .17 WSM rifle completely after every taking pictures session. Pay shut consideration to the barrel, eradicating fouling and residue. Correct storage in a climate-controlled surroundings will shield your rifle from corrosion and harm.

Conclusion

The .17 WSM is a compelling cartridge that gives a singular mix of velocity, trajectory, and vitality. When selecting the perfect rifle, contemplate your particular person wants, funds, and meant use. Rigorously assess the choice standards – accuracy, construct high quality, options, and worth – and evaluate fashions to search out the right match. Whether or not you’re a varmint hunter or a goal shooter, a well-chosen .17 WSM rifle can present years of satisfying taking pictures. In the end, the perfect rifle is the one which meets your taking pictures type and function.

Selecting the best rifle for the .17 WSM is essential for maximizing its potential. By understanding the cartridge, contemplating choice standards, and exploring the highest rifles talked about, you may make an knowledgeable choice. Bear in mind to consider your funds, meant use, and particular person preferences. Now, it is time to discover and discover the right .17 WSM rifle that can elevate your taking pictures expertise.