Savage B17 F Left-Hand Bolt-Action Rifle
Pros & cons
What works
- Genuine left-hand action with reversed bolt handle and ejection port for southpaws
- AccuTrigger adjustable from ~2.5 to 6 lbs for predictable break
- Drilled and tapped receiver includes two-piece Weaver bases for fast scope mounting (install time under 5 minutes)
- Chambered in flat-shooting .17 HMR for small varmints up to 150 yards
Trade-offs
- Proprietary 10-round rotary magazine (Savage Part 109500) – replacements cost ~$45 and are not interchangeable with other .17 HMR models
- Fixed, non-bedded synthetic stock lacks full-length aluminum bedding block for potential precision
- 22-inch barrel length makes it 2.5 inches longer than some compact varmint rifles, slightly less maneuverable in dense brush or a UTV cab
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Savage B17 F Left-Hand Bolt-Action Rifle? It's a purpose-built, left-ported bolt-action rimfire rifle chambered in .17 HMR, specifically designed for southpaw shooters and built around a rigid, drilled-and-tapped receiver that simplifies optics installation.
What is the Savage B17 F used for?
It's a dedicated predator and small varmint control rifle, optimized for ranges between 75 and 150 yards where its flat-shooting .17 HMR cartridge excels.
The B17 F's 22-inch button-rifled barrel provides the correct velocity for the .17 HMR's 20-grain V-Max load, and the included two-piece Weaver bases get a scope mounted quickly for dawn or dusk sit-and-wait hunting.
How does the Savage B17 F compare to the Stevens 334?
The B17 F is superior for rimfire-specific precision and ergonomics, but the Stevens 334 in .308 Win is the clear choice for centerfire power and range.
The Stevens platform is built for higher-pressure cartridges like .243 Win and .308 Win, resulting in a heavier, more robust action. Conversely, the B17 F's action is scaled specifically for the .17 HMR, offering a smoother, lighter bolt cycle that's better suited for high-volume, low-recoil shooting on prairie dogs or crows, where 100 rounds in an afternoon isn't uncommon. The Stevens rifle is the tool for deer or hogs.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6.2 pounds (2.81 kg) unloaded with an overall length of 41.5 inches.
Its 22-inch barrel contributes significantly to the balance and overall handling. The fixed synthetic stock has a length of pull (LOP) of 13.75 inches, which is a standard hunting fit for most adult shooters, though youth or smaller-framed individuals may find a slip-on butt pad necessary for proper cheek weld.
Who is this NOT for?
It's not for a right-handed shooter unless they are teaching a left-handed partner or child.
The bolt handle and port are reversed, which makes it awkward and slow for a right-handed shooter to operate compared to a standard right-hand model. Furthermore, budget-conscious shooters looking for a multi-caliber trainer should look for a .22 LR conversion kit option—the B17 F's proprietary action is locked to the .17 HMR cartridge. This isn't a general-purpose plinker.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one 10-round rotary magazine, two two-piece Weaver scope bases, and the necessary mounting hardware.
It does not include scope rings, a scope, a sling, or a case. That 10-round magazine is proprietary to the B17 series, so have a spare on hand; unlike many clip-fed .17 HMRs available, you can't simply use a .22 WMR magazine in a pinch.
Is the Savage B17 F worth it at $328.99?
Yes, at $328.99, it's a justifiable expense for a dedicated left-handed shooter requiring a reliable, accurate .17 HMR platform out of the box, but it demands you add the cost of a quality scope.
The price gets you the AccuTrigger system—adjustable from approximately 2.5 to 6 pounds—and a receiver ready for a base. It's more expensive than some right-hand .17 HMR options but serves an underserved market. Consider this the entry point for a functional rig; total cost with a Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40mm scope and rings will land closer to $550. It's a focused tool.
Key attributes
| upc | 062654708404 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 70840 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Matte Blued |
| barrel length | 21" |
| caliber/gauge | .17 HM2 |
| capacity | 10 + 1 |
| length | 42 |
| number of magazines | 1 10 rd. Rotary Magazine |
| package height | 6.0 |
| package width | 3.2 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Tang |
| shipping weight | 7.05 |
| sights | Drilled & Tapped |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket .17 HMR magazines?
- No. Savage B17 F rifles use a proprietary 10-round rotary magazine specific to this model series. You cannot use magazines from the A17 semi-auto model or from other brands like Ruger or CZ. Always order Savage part 109500 for factory replacements.
- Does it fit a standard AR-15 cleaning rod?
- No, you need a .17 caliber cleaning rod. A standard .223/5.56 caliber rod will not fit down the bore. Use a one-piece .17 cal rod and appropriate patches to avoid damaging the button-rifled barrel.
- Can the AccuTrigger be adjusted by the user?
- Yes, using the provided tool or a small hex wrench. It is adjustable from approximately 2.5 lbs to 6 lbs. Always perform function/safety checks after any adjustment and follow Savage's manual procedure to do it safely.
- What is the action screw torque specification?
- Savage recommends 30-35 inch-pounds for the front action screw and 15-20 inch-pounds for the rear screw. Do not over-tighten. Use a calibrated in-lb torque wrench, not a standard socket wrench.
- Is the synthetic stock pillar-bedded?
- No, it is not. The B17 F receiver sits directly in a molded channel in the synthetic stock. For maximum precision potential beyond 150 yards, some shooters choose to free-float the barrel by relieving material in the forend channel or upgrading to an <a href="/products/stevens-334-243win-20-3rd-black/">aftermarket chassis system</a>.