Introduction
The world of rimfire rifles offers a unique blend of accuracy, affordability, and versatility. Within this realm, the .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (.17 HMR) cartridge has carved a significant niche, captivating shooters with its impressive flat trajectory and remarkable downrange performance. It’s the perfect choice for those seeking pinpoint accuracy, minimal recoil, and the satisfaction of hitting targets with consistent precision. In the forefront of this rimfire revolution is the Bergara HMR 17 HMR, a rifle designed to deliver exceptional accuracy and a truly enjoyable shooting experience. This article dives deep into the features, performance, and applications of this exceptional firearm, exploring why the Bergara HMR 17 HMR deserves a place in your shooting arsenal.
Overview of the .17 HMR Cartridge
The .17 HMR cartridge, born from a collaboration between Hornady and Sturm, Ruger, quickly gained traction upon its introduction. It was a clear evolution of the .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR), providing a flatter trajectory, significantly higher velocities, and enhanced terminal performance. Unlike its slower counterparts, the .17 HMR sends a small, lightweight bullet screaming downrange at speeds exceeding two and a half times the speed of sound. This translates to less wind drift and a remarkably flat trajectory, making it a superb choice for target shooting, varmint hunting, and small game hunting at moderate distances. The .17 HMR’s energy on impact is also considerably greater than a .22 LR, creating cleaner, more effective kills.
Features and Specifications
The Bergara HMR line, built upon the reputation of Bergara’s precision centerfire rifles, elevates the rimfire experience. Bergara, a Spanish manufacturer, is synonymous with high-quality barrels and impeccable craftsmanship. The HMR series, including the Bergara HMR 17 HMR, reflects this dedication to accuracy and performance. The rifle is not just another rimfire; it’s a precision tool engineered for consistent and reliable results.
The Action
The heart of the Bergara HMR 17 HMR is undoubtedly its action. The bolt action is engineered with precision and built to deliver smooth cycling. The smooth operation contributes to both the rifle’s feel and its accuracy. The Bergara action is known for its tight tolerances and consistent performance, crucial elements for achieving the high degree of accuracy desired in a rifle of this caliber. The metal construction used in the action is robust and durable, giving the rifle a long-lasting life.
The Barrel
The barrel is another critical component of the Bergara HMR 17 HMR. Bergara is renowned for the quality of its barrels. This rifle typically features a barrel with a carefully crafted contour, contributing to its overall balance and accuracy. The barrel is expertly rifled to promote bullet stability, and the resulting accuracy is exceptional. Furthermore, many models have a threaded muzzle, ready for the addition of a suppressor or muzzle device, adding even more versatility to its design.
The Stock
The stock is built with the shooter in mind. The stock material, often a high-quality composite or fiberglass reinforced polymer, offers a balance of durability and comfort. The design is often enhanced with features that benefit the shooter, such as an adjustable comb or cheek piece, allowing for a personalized fit and optimized eye alignment with the scope. This careful attention to ergonomics ensures that the rifle feels natural in hand and encourages consistent shooting form. The bedding of the action into the stock is also carefully executed, contributing to the rifle’s inherent accuracy.
The Trigger
The trigger plays a significant role in the overall accuracy of any rifle. The Bergara HMR 17 HMR usually comes equipped with an adjustable trigger, designed to break cleanly and consistently. The ability to fine-tune the trigger pull weight is a definite advantage, allowing shooters to customize the trigger to their individual preferences and improve their shooting performance. This adjustability is something that separates this rifle from many other rimfires.
Magazine and Other Features
Magazine design and functionality are also essential. The rifle features a magazine with a capacity that allows the shooter to enjoy multiple shots before reloading. The magazines used in the Bergara HMR 17 HMR are generally reliable, ensuring consistent feeding of ammunition, providing fewer issues and a better experience at the range.
In addition to its core components, the Bergara HMR 17 HMR offers other practical features. The receiver is often drilled and tapped, providing a secure platform for mounting scopes. The overall balance of the rifle is another area where the rifle excels. The weight is balanced and easy to manage, helping to reduce shooter fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
Accuracy and Performance
But how does the Bergara HMR 17 HMR actually perform in the real world? The rifle’s accuracy is a major selling point, and the results speak for themselves. Groupings at distances of 50 and 100 yards are typically tight, reflecting the quality of the barrel and the overall design of the rifle. The rifle’s accuracy depends on many factors, including the ammunition used, the skill of the shooter, and environmental conditions. However, the Bergara HMR 17 HMR provides a solid foundation for accurate shooting, allowing skilled shooters to place shots with remarkable precision. Testing methods include, but are not limited to, firing five-shot groups at a particular distance from a bench.
Pros and Cons
What are the benefits of choosing this rifle? The advantages are numerous. First, it provides excellent accuracy potential. The rifle’s design, combined with the flat trajectory of the .17 HMR cartridge, makes for outstanding performance at distance. Second, the stock is both ergonomic and comfortable, allowing for extended shooting without fatigue. The overall build quality is outstanding, and the rifle feels solid and reliable. The Bergara HMR 17 HMR is a reliable shooter with minimal malfunctions and smooth action. The value offered, given the quality of the components, is also very favorable.
Are there any drawbacks? While the rifle offers many advantages, there are a few considerations. Some shooters might find that the rifle is slightly heavier than other rimfire rifles on the market, but the extra weight enhances stability. The price may be a bit higher than some entry-level .22 LR rifles, but the increased accuracy and features justify the cost. The .17 HMR cartridge is also more expensive than .22 LR, but the improved performance often justifies the added expense.
Applications and Uses
The Bergara HMR 17 HMR is a versatile rifle with multiple applications. It excels as a target rifle, capable of achieving impressive groups on paper targets. The rifle’s precision also makes it an excellent choice for varmint hunting, where the flat trajectory and downrange energy are essential for effective harvests. It’s a natural choice for small game hunting as well, providing enough power and accuracy for rabbits, squirrels, and other small game. It is also a fantastic platform for training.
Competition
How does it compare to other rifles? Competitors such as the Savage B22 FV-SR and the CZ 457 Varmint provide alternative options. The Bergara HMR 17 HMR usually distinguishes itself through its meticulous engineering and high-quality barrel. The price points and feature sets vary, depending on the individual configurations. The Bergara typically offers the highest level of accuracy and often comes with more ergonomic features. This rifle is an excellent value, given its premium features.
Maintenance and Care
Proper care is crucial for preserving the rifle’s performance and extending its lifespan. After each shooting session, the barrel should be cleaned using appropriate cleaning rods and solvents. The bolt and action should be lubricated regularly to ensure smooth function. The rifle should be stored in a secure place when not in use, protecting it from damage. Regular maintenance ensures consistent accuracy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bergara HMR 17 HMR is a testament to how well-designed a rimfire rifle can be. Its combination of accuracy, ergonomic design, and build quality makes it a top-tier choice for shooters looking for precision performance. The flat trajectory of the .17 HMR cartridge, combined with Bergara’s dedication to quality, makes this rifle a pleasure to shoot. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter, a hunter, or a target shooting enthusiast, the Bergara HMR 17 HMR will provide many years of excellent service. If you are searching for an accurate, reliable, and enjoyable shooting experience, the Bergara HMR 17 HMR deserves your consideration.
