17 hm2

I have had many M2's... great little round.... probably the best squirrel cartridge ever... and most tend to be very accurate. I built one on a Savage MKII that was the most accurate rifle I have ever owned.
 
I have a Marlin 917M2, and it's the exact model of rifle I bought a few years ago...and made the mistake of selling. Tracked down another and like the first one, I'm going to put a Rifle Basix trigger in it. I've found 17M2 to be a remarkably accurate caliber, especially from this Marlin so yes..I'm a fan. Were ammo more readily available, there is a good chance I'd shoot 17M2 more than 22~even at a bit of a premium.

From a hunting perspective, I've been very impressed with it but admittedly, I haven't done much hunting WITH 17M2. Were I living in gopher country..I'm confident I would have a different perspective. I hear it absolutely shines on those things! :) Anyhow, it's no mistake that my avatar has been a photo of Hornady 17M2 ammo for a very long time, I'm very fond of the caliber.

As for what rifle to get? Well..I've bought 2 Marlin 917M2s now~so I guess you know what I'd suggest tracking down. I've never shot a Savage 17M2 but have only talked to one guy who owned one and it gave him some trouble. I've heard more positive than negative though.

A CZ452 in 17M2~well, I tried for almost 2 years to find one of those and gave up. However, seeing how the Marlins have shot I simply can't imagine how the CZ could be more accurate. I suppose it's possible..
 
My favourite calibre in my Sako Quad. Laser like up to 125 metres and consistent.

Only downsides, availability of ammo and choice and price. It is not 22LR!

I am still looking to build a Ruger 10/22 in Mach 2, I think it would be an excellent grouse gun.

Candocad.
 
Your not having much trouble convincing me... not it's just a matter of finding one what's the going rate for a savage or Marlin?

The Marlin (Blued, plain wood) wouldn't likely exceed about $250-$275. They were available in stainless with a grey laminated stock too, and they seem to fetch a bit more $.
 
I have a savage heavy barrel wood stock no accutrigger. It is extremely accurate. I love the cartridge. As said before it is they best squirrel round out there. I've used mine for small game hunting for edible game and have taken both fox and coyote. I wouldn't set out to hunt coyotes with one but he stopped and stared me down and I put a tiny bullet thru his eye. He dropped instantly. It's great on coons and beavers as well
Hopefully with Trump in the demand for 22 Lr will slow so they can do another run of mach2 ammo
I'd buy another rifle if a deal came along
 
I have owned six different rifles chambered in 17mach2, and I still own a Cooper, that is my favorite rifle for ground squirrels. Ammunition is not always easy to find, but I still have 15,000 rounds of the Eley loads on hand, so I am good for a few years .I bought most of my ammunition for $6 to $7 per box, and I have turned down $15, because Eley no longer makes 17mach2 ammunition.
 
It is still the best gopher round. Ever. After I took the father in law out to see my first savage in this caliber he had to have one. I got him a H&R and a marlin s/s heavy barrel. I prefer the savage with the regular barrel but the Marlins trigger does wear in after a bit and works well too. Most of mine shoot 1" groups at 100m if I keep my practice up. Easy to peg off prairie rats at 75-100m and if you are prone they don't know where it's coming from and stand up taller too see...too much fun.
I will probably list the second marlin s/s heavy bbl laminate stock one this spring.
 
It is still the best gopher round. Ever. After I took the father in law out to see my first savage in this caliber he had to have one. I got him a H&R and a marlin s/s heavy barrel. I prefer the savage with the regular barrel but the Marlins trigger does wear in after a bit and works well too. Most of mine shoot 1" groups at 100m if I keep my practice up. Easy to peg off prairie rats at 75-100m and if you are prone they don't know where it's coming from and stand up taller too see...too much fun.
I will probably list the second marlin s/s heavy bbl laminate stock one this spring.

I need another rimfire like I need a kick in the arse, but I've always kind of wanted an H&R in 17M2. It would digest 17M2 ammo at about the rate I can find the stuff. :) If your dad ever wants to get rid of his, drop me a line!
 
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