Butler Creek Savage A17 .17HMR 25 Round Rifle Magazine Review

Let’s Dive into Butler Creek Savage A17 .17HMR 25 Round Rifle Magazine

The Butler Creek Savage A17 .17HMR 25 Round Rifle Magazine promises to significantly boost the capacity of your Savage A17 rifle, providing a considerable advantage for various shooting activities. Manufactured by Butler Creek, this magazine aims to offer reliable feeding and increased firepower, streamlining your shooting experience. I was always frustrated with the standard 10-round magazine that came with my A17. Constantly reloading during prairie dog hunts was killing my momentum.

I craved a high-capacity option that wouldn’t sacrifice reliability. Several competitors offered similar high-capacity magazines, but I ultimately chose the Butler Creek due to its reputation for quality and the integrated loading assist lever. My initial impressions were of solid construction and thoughtful design, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. Was I excited? Absolutely.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Savage A17 .17HMR 25 Round Rifle Magazine to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test was at the local shooting range. I primarily targeted paper targets at 50 and 100 yards. The magazine performed flawlessly during the initial testing. Loading was significantly easier with the integrated loading assist, and feeding was smooth without any noticeable jams or misfires.

During an afternoon session at the range, a light drizzle started. While the magazine functioned fine, I did notice that the polymer became slightly slippery when wet, requiring a firmer grip. Overall, the Butler Creek Savage A17 .17HMR 25 Round Rifle Magazine was easy to use, although the full capacity made it slightly bulkier. After the first session, I was impressed, but long-term reliability was still a question.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Butler Creek Savage A17 .17HMR 25 Round Rifle Magazine has proven to be generally reliable. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through it. I’ve noticed only a couple of feeding issues, which I suspect were due to a specific brand of ammunition. There are some minor scuff marks on the polymer body, but no significant signs of wear.

I’ve found that cleaning the magazine after each range visit helps maintain its optimal performance. A simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth removes any residue and keeps the spring functioning smoothly. Compared to the factory 10-round magazine, the Butler Creek offers a far superior shooting experience due to the increased capacity. I can spend more time focusing on my shots and less time reloading, making my range sessions more enjoyable.

Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Savage A17 .17HMR 25 Round Rifle Magazine

Specifications

The Butler Creek Savage A17 .17HMR 25 Round Rifle Magazine is designed specifically for the Savage A17 rifle, chambered in .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (.17HMR). It boasts a capacity of 25 rounds, significantly increasing the rifle’s firepower. The magazine features a black polymer body, stainless steel spring, and metal header and feed lips. A remaining round indicator on the side allows you to quickly assess the magazine’s ammo level.

• Caliber: .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (.17HMR): This dictates the ammunition the magazine can hold.
• Capacity: 25 Rounds: The high capacity reduces the frequency of reloading.
• Material: Polymer body, Stainless Steel Spring, Metal Header and Feed Lips: These materials are selected for durability and reliable feeding.
• Features: Loading assist lever, Remaining round indicator: These features add to the usability of the magazine.

Performance & Functionality

The Butler Creek Savage A17 .17HMR 25 Round Rifle Magazine performs admirably in its primary function: reliably feeding ammunition to the Savage A17 rifle. Its enhanced capacity is a huge plus for varmint hunting and extended range sessions. Occasionally, I experienced a failure to feed when the magazine was fully loaded. It was easily remedied by tapping the magazine.

The loading assist lever significantly speeds up the loading process. The only drawback is the added bulk compared to the standard magazine. It generally meets expectations. The increased capacity and ease of loading outweigh the slight decrease in handling.

Design & Ergonomics

The magazine’s polymer construction contributes to its relatively light weight, even when fully loaded. The ergonomic design fits comfortably in the hand during loading, thanks to the assist lever. The polymer body feels sturdy, but lacks the premium feel of some metal magazines.

The loading assist lever makes loading incredibly easy. The magazine inserts and locks into the rifle smoothly, with no excessive play. The remaining round indicator is a nice touch, though it can be a bit difficult to read in low light conditions. The design is functional and user-friendly, but could benefit from some refinement in materials and finish.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Butler Creek Savage A17 .17HMR 25 Round Rifle Magazine should last for many years. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the spring are essential for maintaining optimal performance. The polymer body is resistant to most common solvents and oils, making cleaning relatively straightforward. The stainless steel spring resists corrosion, even in humid environments.

Disassembly for deep cleaning is relatively simple, requiring only a few basic tools. Replacement springs are readily available should the original ever wear out. The magazine is relatively durable. It offers a reasonable lifespan with proper maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Butler Creek Savage A17 .17HMR 25 Round Rifle Magazine doesn’t require any specific accessories, as it is a standalone product. However, some users might consider purchasing a magazine loader to further simplify the loading process, especially during extended shooting sessions. The magazine is designed specifically for the Savage A17 rifle and is not compatible with other firearms.

There are no readily available aftermarket modifications for the magazine itself. It is designed to work with the existing Savage A17 platform. The ability to connect two magazines together for double the firepower is an interesting feature. No other specific customization options are currently available.

Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Savage A17 .17HMR 25 Round Rifle Magazine

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Who Should Buy Butler Creek Savage A17 .17HMR 25 Round Rifle Magazine?

The Butler Creek Savage A17 .17HMR 25 Round Rifle Magazine is perfect for varmint hunters, target shooters, and anyone who enjoys extended shooting sessions with their Savage A17 rifle. Its high capacity and loading assist lever make it an excellent choice for those seeking to minimize reloading time and maximize their shooting enjoyment. Anyone who dislikes constant reloading will find this magazine a great upgrade.

Those who prioritize lightweight gear or require extreme durability might want to consider other options. Shooters who prefer a more streamlined profile on their rifle might find the magazine’s added bulk to be a drawback. A magazine loader would be a helpful addition for those who frequently shoot large volumes of ammunition.

Conclusion on Butler Creek Savage A17 .17HMR 25 Round Rifle Magazine

The Butler Creek Savage A17 .17HMR 25 Round Rifle Magazine is a worthwhile upgrade for any Savage A17 owner seeking increased capacity and ease of loading. While the polymer construction may not be as robust as metal alternatives, the magazine’s overall performance and functionality are impressive. The price of $58.79 is reasonable, considering the benefits it offers.

I would personally recommend the Butler Creek Savage A17 .17HMR 25 Round Rifle Magazine to anyone looking to enhance their shooting experience with the Savage A17. It’s a reliable and convenient accessory that significantly improves the rifle’s overall usability. Upgrade your A17 today and spend more time shooting and less time reloading!