The Savage A17 HM2 is a semi-automatic rimfire rifle chambered in .17 Hornady Mach 2 (HM2) with a 20-inch barrel. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Model: A17 
• Caliber: .17 HM2 
• Action Type: Semi-Auto 
• Barrel Length: 20 inches 
• Capacity: 10+1 rounds (includes rotary magazine) 
• Weight: 5.5 lbs 
• Overall Length: 39.5 inches 
• Twist Rate: 1 in 9 inches 
   

Detailed Features 

• Free-Floating Button Rifled Barrel: The free-float design isolates the barrel from the stock so that grip pressure does not change point of impact. 
• AccuTrigger Technology: Savage's user-adjustable AccuTrigger lets shooters set the pull weight within a defined range, giving a sharper break than most factory triggers at this price. 
• Carbon Steel Construction: Receiver and barrel are carbon steel, providing a durable platform without significant added weight. 
• Lightweight Design: At 5.5 lbs the rifle is easy to carry for extended varmint hunts or range sessions. 
   

Target Audience 

The .17 HM2 fills a specific niche between .22 LR and .17 HMR. It is flatter-shooting than .22 LR but uses a rimfire case, which keeps cost lower than centerfire alternatives. This rifle suits varmint hunters, pest-control work, and target shooters who want more reach than .22 LR without jumping to .17 HMR velocities. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

1. Hunting Small Game: The high velocity and flat trajectory make it well-suited for squirrels, rabbits, and other small animals at distances where .22 LR starts to drop noticeably. 
2. Target Shooting: The AccuTrigger and free-float barrel support consistent accuracy at the distances the caliber is designed for. 
3. Pest Control: Accurate shot placement with minimal overpenetration suits situations requiring precision without excessive power.

The Savage A17 HM2 gets good feedback from shooters who wanted more velocity and reach than .22 LR without the cost and noise of centerfire rimfire alternatives. The semi-auto action and 20-inch barrel combination is well-regarded for the caliber's purpose.

Accuracy is a consistent positive. Owners report that the free-float barrel and AccuTrigger combination delivers tight groups at ranges appropriate for .17 HM2, and most find the trigger noticeably better than other factory triggers in the price range.

Build quality is generally praised. The rifle feels solid and the ergonomics work for most adult shooters. Aftermarket accessory availability gets credit for those who want to add optics or other modifications.

The main complaints are ammunition compatibility and occasional feeding issues with certain brands. The .17 HM2 is a more finicky cartridge than .22 LR and the semi-auto action is sensitive to ammunition quality, which some owners discovered after purchase. A few users also note the weight is on the heavier side compared to other rimfire semi-autos, though at 5.5 lbs it is not dramatically heavy.

Overall sentiment is positive, with satisfaction leaning toward owners who were specifically seeking a .17 HM2 platform and understood the caliber's niche. Users who expected .22 LR reliability across all brands occasionally find the ammunition sensitivity frustrating.