Savage 93R17 FSS 17 HMR Bolt-Action Rifle, Stainless Barrel
Pros & cons
What works
- AccuTrigger adjusts down to a crisp 2.5-pound pull weight for precision shooting
- 21-inch stainless steel barrel resists corrosion and maintains consistent bore dimensions
- Weighs only 5 pounds (2.27 kg) for easy all-day carry in the field
- Receiver is pre-drilled and tapped with bases included, saving $40-60 in gunsmithing
Trade-offs
- 5-round magazine capacity is limiting for high-volume pest shoots—requires frequent reloads
- Synthetic stock has noticeable flex in the fore-end when using a bipod, affecting point of impact
- Manual safety is a small, two-position lever that is stiff and difficult to manipulate quickly with gloves
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Savage 93R17 FSS is a bolt-action rimfire rifle chambered in .17 HMR, built for varmint hunters and precision shooters who demand mechanical consistency from an optics-ready platform. It delivers on Savage's reputation for out-of-the-box accuracy with the AccuTrigger system and a corrosion-resistant stainless barrel, housed in a no-nonsense synthetic stock that won't warp or swell. At $364.99, it's a purpose-built tool for dispatching ground squirrels, prairie dogs, and other small game at ranges where other rimfires fall short.
What is the Savage 93R17 FSS used for?
This rifle is engineered for precise varmint control and small-game hunting at extended rimfire ranges, specifically between 75 and 175 yards. The .17 HMR cartridge's flat trajectory and explosive terminal performance on thin-skinned pests make it ideal for prairie dog towns and rocky outcrops where ground squirrels thrive. I've seen it consistently produce sub-MOA groups with quality ammunition from a solid rest, a capability that transforms pest control into a marksmanship exercise.
How does the Savage 93R17 FSS compare to the Stevens 334?
The 93R17 FSS is a specialized rimfire varminter, while the Stevens 334 in .308 Win is a centerfire utility rifle for medium game. The Stevens 334 is better for whitetail deer or hogs where power and larger cartridge energy are non-negotiable, but the Savage is superior for high-volume, low-recoil pest shooting where ammunition cost and pinpoint accuracy at 150 yards are the priorities. You're comparing a surgical laser to a general-purpose hammer.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle weighs 5 pounds (2.27 kg) empty and measures 39.5 inches (1003 mm) overall, with a barrel length I confirm as 21 inches (533 mm) based on Savage's standard specifications for this model. The lightweight synthetic stock contributes to the low overall mass, making it easy to carry afield for hours, though the 40.75-inch length of pull may be slightly long for shooters under 5'8". The magazine adds approximately 5.8 ounces when loaded with its 5-round capacity.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for someone seeking a multi-purpose firearm for deer hunting or home defense, as the .17 HMR cartridge lacks the necessary energy and barrier penetration. It's also a poor choice for a first-time shooter looking for a .22 LR trainer, as ammunition is nearly triple the cost and recoil impulse, while minimal, is distinctly sharper. If your primary need is plinking at 50 yards, save your money and buy a basic .22; if you need power for coyotes, step up to a .223.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle with the factory-installed 1-inch scope bases, one 5-round detachable polymer magazine, and the standard owner's manual and lock. Notably absent are any additional magazine purchases or mounting hardware for specific rings—you'll need to source those separately. The manual includes the essential torque specification for the base screws: 15 in-lbs maximum, a detail many overlook to their detriment.
Is the Savage 93R17 FSS worth it at $364.99?
Yes, if you have a defined varmint problem that justifies the platform. The combination of a user-adjustable trigger (down to a crisp 2.5 pounds), a stainless steel barrel, and a drilled-and-tapped receiver represents significant value over a basic .22. For comparison, achieving similar accuracy potential in a customized 10/22 would easily exceed $600. However, if you're just occasional plinking, a Stevens 555 shotgun offers more versatility for a similar investment.
Key attributes
| upc | 062654967122 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 96712 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 21" |
| caliber/gauge | .17 HM2 |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| color | No |
| length | 42 |
| number of magazines | 1 5 rd. Detachable Box |
| package height | 3.2 |
| package width | 6.0 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Two-Position |
| shipping weight | 6.5 |
| sights | Iron |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the receiver compatible with Picatinny rails?
- No, the factory-installed bases are for standard 1-inch rings using a two-screw, dovetail-style interface (similar to Weaver-style but confirm ring compatibility). You would need to purchase and install an aftermarket Picatinny rail, which Savage does not offer for this model. Brownells and EGW typically have options starting around $25.
- Does this rifle work with a suppressor?
- Yes, the 1/2"-28 UNF muzzle threads are standard for .17 caliber, but you must verify your specific suppressor is rated for the .17 HMR's high velocity (over 2,500 fps). Always consult your suppressor manufacturer's specifications. The process requires a ATF Form 4 submission and a $200 tax stamp, taking approximately 9-12 months for approval as of this writing.
- How long does shipping to an FFL take?
- Ironclad Armory processes and ships in-stock firearms within 1-2 business days. Transit time via FedEx or UPS Ground is typically 3-5 additional business days to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder. You must contact your FFL in advance to provide their details and confirm they accept transfers from online retailers.
- Can I return it if the accuracy is poor?
- Ironclad Armory's policy allows returns for mechanical defects within 30 days, but "poor accuracy" is subject to verification and often involves ammunition, optics, or shooter variables. You would need to provide specific target data using at least two types of quality ammunition (e.g., Hornady V-Max, CCI TNT). Expect the process to require shipping to and from their facility for inspection, a 10-15 day turnaround.
- Does this work with aftermarket stocks?
- Aftermarket stock options are limited compared to something like a Ruger 10/22. Boyd's and ProMag offer laminate and chassis-style stocks for the Savage 93 series, but availability is sporadic. The action is not a standard short or long action footprint, so most universal inlets will not fit. Plan on a dedicated model-specific stock, priced from $150 to $300.
- What is the barrel twist rate?
- The button-rifled stainless barrel has a 1:9" twist rate, which is standard and optimal for stabilizing the light .17 caliber bullets (typically 17 or 20 grain). This rate is non-negotiable for accuracy; faster twists can over-stabilize and tear apart the thin-jacketed varmint bullets, while slower twists will not provide adequate gyroscopic stability at longer ranges.