17 HMRs: Henry’s Lever Gun Vs. Savage and Ruger Bolt Actions

It has been said in the industry that "when all else fails, invent a caliber." Part and parcel of any highly new-product driven industry is the constant attempt to invent new lines of price and performance where none exist in a tangible, real-world sense. One fairly recent cartridge development that has gained traction and popularity is the Hornady 17 Magnum Rimfire introduced in 2002. It is remarkable in many respects, gaining distinction as the first successful rimfire cartridge to hit the market in over 40 years. The last rimfire considered to be a "successful"

What no chronograph or battery of test targets can show is the fun factor. Though subjective, we came up with our fun-factor winner. The Henry lever-action H001TV Octagon barrel repeater ($550, top) was the shortest, fastest-handling rifle of the bunch, had the best figured wood, and surprised us with its crisp trigger. However, the Savage Classic ($566, middle) had a great trigger, was affordable and shot well with some ammos. The Ruger 77/17 bolt-action ($749, bottom), like the Henry, also got our top grade of ‘A’ for its big-gun feel and accuracy, and we preferred it slightly over the Savage because of its magazine.