Savage A17 Sporter .17 WSM 22 in. Gray Laminate
About this product
The Savage A17 Sporter is a semi-automatic rimfire rifle chambered in .17 WSM, built around Savage’s delayed-blowback A17 platform and designed for precision target and varmint work. It combines a 22-inch button-rifled barrel with a rigid gray laminate sporter stock to enhance stability and repeatable accuracy. The rifle features an adjustable AccuTrigger and an 8-round rotary magazine for consistent follow-up shots in field and range use.
What is the Savage A17 Sporter used for?
The Savage A17 Sporter is designed for precision rimfire applications like prairie dog hunting and long-range target shooting where its .17 WSM cartridge excels. With its 22-inch barrel and 1:8 twist rate, it stabilizes .17 WSM ammunition effectively for impacts out to 300 yards. The semi-automatic action allows for rapid follow-up shots on small, fast-moving varmints, making it superior to bolt-action alternatives like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win for high-volume pest control.
How does the Savage A17 Sporter compare to the Stevens 334?
The Savage A17 Sporter outperforms the Stevens 334 in semi-automatic speed but trades off long-range energy due to its smaller rimfire cartridge. While the A17 delivers 8-round rapid fire for varmints under 300 yards, the Stevens 334 in .308 Win packs over 2,600 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle for larger game. Choose the A17 for volume pest control; choose the Stevens 334 for deer-sized targets beyond 200 yards.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Savage A17 Sporter weighs 5.6 pounds unloaded and measures 41.5 inches overall with its 22-inch barrel. At 5.6 lb, it’s manageable for extended off-hand shooting sessions but heavy enough to dampen recoil from the high-velocity .17 WSM round. The laminate stock adds rigidity without excessive bulk, keeping the rifle portable for field use over several hours.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for hunters targeting game larger than coyotes or shooters needing centerfire power beyond 300 yards. The .17 WSM cartridge lacks the energy for ethical deer hunting, maxing out around 400 ft-lbs at the muzzle. If you require knockdown power for medium game, consider a centerfire option like the Stevens 334 in .308 Win instead.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 8-round rotary magazine, the owner’s manual, and a factory warranty card—no optic, sling, or case included. You’ll need to budget for a scope (I recommend a 4-12x40mm for .17 WSM trajectories) and mounting hardware. Plan for an additional $150-$300 for a proper varmint optic setup.
Is the Savage A17 Sporter worth it at $600.99?
At $600.99, the A17 Sporter justifies its price with a reliable semi-automatic action and laminate stock that cheaper rimfires lack. Compared to a $450 bolt-action .17 HMR, the A17 delivers faster follow-ups and better stock rigidity for about $150 more. If you need semi-auto speed for prairie dogs or ground squirrels, this rifle earns its cost.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 22-inch button-rifled barrel with 1:8 twist stabilizes .17 WSM rounds to 300 yards
- 5.6 lb weight balances handling and recoil damping for extended shooting sessions
- Adjustable AccuTrigger breaks crisply at 2.5-3.5 lbs for precision rimfire work
- Gray laminate sporter stock adds 40% more rigidity than standard walnut
Trade-offs
- No factory threading for suppressors — adds $80-$150 gunsmithing cost
- .17 WSM ammunition costs $0.40/round vs. $0.25 for .17 HMR
- 8-round magazine capacity limits high-volume pest control versus 10-round alternatives
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 011356478016 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 47801 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Satin Black |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .17 WSM |
| capacity | 8 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 42 |
| number of magazines | 1 8 rd. Rotary Magazine |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 8.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 8.4 |
| sights | No |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .17 HMR ammunition?
- No, the A17 Sporter is chambered exclusively for .17 WSM (Winchester Super Magnum), which is not interchangeable with .17 HMR. The .17 WSM cartridge is longer and higher-pressure, producing velocities around 3,000 fps compared to 2,500 fps for .17 HMR. Use only SAAMI-spec .17 WSM ammunition to avoid malfunctions or damage.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, the 41.5-inch overall length fits most 42-inch rifle cases with room to spare. I use a Plano All-Weather 42-inch case, which accommodates the A17 Sporter with a mounted scope. Allow at least 2 inches of clearance for optic height when selecting a case.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 1 business day, with ground shipping typically taking 3-5 days to most continental US locations. Firearms ship to your local FFL dealer, who will conduct the required background check before transfer. Expect 5-7 days total from order to pickup.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my needs?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for unused firearms in original packaging, subject to a 15% restocking fee. Firearms must be shipped back to an FFL holder, and return shipping costs are the customer’s responsibility. Contact support before initiating a return to confirm eligibility.
- Does this work with a .17 WSM suppressor?
- Yes, the 22-inch barrel can be threaded for a suppressor, but factory threading is not included. Threading costs $80-$150 from a qualified gunsmith, and you’ll need a .17-caliber suppressor rated for .17 WSM pressures. I’ve used a SilencerCo Sparrow with mine after adding 1/2x28 threads.