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

August 4, 2025August 4, 2025 by Curtis

Understanding the .17 WSM Cartridge

Introduction

On this planet of rimfire rifles, a distinct segment has carved itself out for a cartridge that provides exceptional 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 selecting the best rifle is usually a problem, particularly with so many choices accessible. This information delves into the specifics of this thrilling spherical and helps you discover the most effective .17 WSM rifle to fit your wants.

The .17 WSM’s Core Traits

The muse of the .17 WSM’s enchantment is its blistering velocity. In comparison with the venerable .22 Lengthy Rifle, the .17 WSM delivers considerably increased muzzle velocities. You may simply discover .17 WSM hundreds pushing bullets effectively past three thousand toes per second. This uncooked velocity is what permits for the spectacular downrange vitality, particularly contemplating the comparatively gentle bullets typically 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 distant. A flat trajectory is vital for correct pictures at various ranges, significantly within the discipline the place time is of the essence.

Excellent Use Instances

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

Drawbacks and Issues

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

Ammunition Availability

Availability can be one thing to think about. Whereas rising, the collection of .17 WSM ammunition isn’t as huge because the .22 LR or the .17 HMR. You’ll need to guarantee that your most popular ammunition is constantly in inventory earlier than committing to the cartridge.

Rifle Development

Lastly, keep in mind that .17 WSM rifles are designed to deal with the upper pressures related to the spherical. Correct building, together with a powerful motion and a barrel optimized for the cartridge’s traits, is crucial for security and constant efficiency.

Choice Standards for the Finest .17 WSM Rifles

Accuracy is Key

Discovering the best .17 WSM rifle requires cautious analysis. This is a breakdown of the important thing components to think about:
Accuracy is paramount. You need a rifle that constantly locations pictures the place you plan them to go. Components resembling barrel high quality, the bedding of the motion inside the inventory, the crispness of the set off, and the ammunition you utilize all play very 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. Think about 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 sometimes weatherproof and require minimal upkeep. The barrel’s high quality additionally impacts accuracy, with premium barrels typically exhibiting superior efficiency.

Options Matter

Options can improve your taking pictures expertise. Bolt-action rifles typically excel in accuracy and reliability. Semi-automatic rifles, nonetheless, supply fast follow-up pictures, which will be a bonus when varmint looking. A very good 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.

Worth and Worth

Worth and worth are all the time vital. Set a price range and examine rifles inside that vary. Take a look at the general price of possession. Think about ammunition prices, scope prices, and any equipment you may want. A barely costlier rifle that delivers superior efficiency and lasts a very long time could in the end show to be a greater worth than a less expensive choice that sacrifices high quality.

Prime .17 WSM Rifles

Savage Arms A17

Let’s delve right into a collection of glorious .17 WSM rifles which are accessible. Every entry beneath gives an in depth take a look at a selected mannequin, contemplating its options, efficiency, and perfect utility.

This bolt-action rifle has grow to be a well-liked alternative for these getting into the .17 WSM world. It gives a wonderful stability of affordability and efficiency.

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

Franklin Armory F17-L

Franklin Armory has constructed its repute 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.
Professionals: Quick follow-up pictures, dependable operation, glorious construct high quality.
Cons: Worth is usually a bit increased 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

In the event you’re searching for the last word .17 WSM expertise, Volquartsen is a reputation to think about. 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.
Professionals: 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 perfect.

Ruger 77/17 WSM

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

Key Specs: Bolt-action, traditional design, dependable motion.
Professionals: Rugged building, good accuracy, a variety of aftermarket equipment.
Cons: Some discover the set off requires enchancment.
Efficiency and Accuracy: Delivers constant accuracy with a wide range of ammunition sorts.
Goal Viewers: Hunters and shooters searching for 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 completely different to the .17 WSM market.

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

CZ 527 Varmint

CZ firearms have grow to be a favourite for good cause. The 527 Varmint is a unbelievable choice.

Key Specs: Bolt-action, heavy barrel, and well-made.
Professionals: Distinctive accuracy, lovely construct high quality, and an excellent value.
Cons: Journal can typically be a priority.
Efficiency and Accuracy: Wonderful accuracy with a wide range of ammunition sorts.
Goal Viewers: Shooters searching for a extremely correct and trendy bolt-action rifle.

Winchester Wildcat WSM

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

Key Specs: Bolt motion, rugged design, sturdy building.
Professionals: Sturdy building, budget-friendly.
Cons: Might require upgrades to realize peak efficiency.
Efficiency and Accuracy: A strong alternative, identified for being a strong rifle for varmint looking.
Goal Viewers: Shooters on a price range searching for a succesful varmint rifle.

Savage Arms B.Magazine

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

Key Specs: Bolt-action, budget-friendly.
Professionals: Inexpensive, 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 gives spectacular options.

Key Specs: Bolt-action, carbon fiber barrel.
Professionals: Light-weight, unbelievable accuracy, and high-quality supplies.
Cons: Worth.
Efficiency and Accuracy: Identified for its distinctive accuracy.
Goal Viewers: Hunters who demand the most effective.

Howa 1500 .17 WSM

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

Key Specs: Bolt-action, dependable and correct.
Professionals: Wonderful construct high quality, and strong efficiency.
Cons: Could be a bit heavy.
Efficiency and Accuracy: Correct and dependable.
Goal Viewers: Hunters and shooters who need a dependable bolt-action rifle.

Weatherby Vanguard .17 WSM

Weatherby gives an excellent choice within the .17 WSM class.

Key Specs: Bolt-action, high-quality barrel.
Professionals: Wonderful accuracy potential, and construct high quality.
Cons: Excessive-end value.
Efficiency and Accuracy: The rifle gives constant efficiency.
Goal Viewers: Shooters who need 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.
Professionals: Wonderful accuracy, good construct high quality.
Cons: May be pricey.
Efficiency and Accuracy: This rifle constantly delivers spectacular teams.
Goal Viewers: These searching for top-tier accuracy.

Franchi Momentum .17 WSM

Franchi additionally produces glorious rifles.

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

Thompson Middle Compass .17 WSM

The Thompson Middle Compass gives good worth.

Key Specs: Bolt-action.
Professionals: Inexpensive, with good options.
Cons: Restricted equipment.
Efficiency and Accuracy: A succesful choice.
Goal Viewers: These on a price range.

Mossberg Patriot .17 WSM

Mossberg is well-known for producing good firearms.

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

CVA Cascade .17 WSM

CVA is a strong choice for a .17 WSM rifle.

Key Specs: Bolt-action.
Professionals: Prime quality, good construct.
Cons: Worth.
Efficiency and Accuracy: Delivers correct and dependable outcomes.
Goal Viewers: Hunters searching for a top quality rifle.

Further Issues

Optics and Scopes

Past deciding on the rifle, different components affect your .17 WSM taking pictures expertise:

Pairing your rifle with the best optic is vital. A high-quality scope with acceptable magnification and an goal lens will maximize your accuracy. Think about 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 alternative considerably impacts accuracy. Totally different manufacturers and bullet weights carry out in a different way in every rifle. Experiment with varied hundreds to find which ammunition your particular rifle shoots essentially 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 atmosphere 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 most effective rifle, contemplate your particular person wants, price range, and meant use. Fastidiously assess the choice standards – accuracy, construct high quality, options, and worth – and examine 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 gratifying taking pictures. In the end, the most effective rifle is the one which meets your taking pictures model and objective.

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 determination. Keep in mind to think about your price range, 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.