To conduct range evaluations, I topped the rifle with a Redfield Revenge 6-18X 44 mm riflescope in quick-detach rings on Weaver-style bases. Since the chambering’s ballistics are comparable to those of center-fire cartridges, I opted to test the rifle via five consecutive, five-shot groups at 100 yards. Currently, there are three ammunition choices from Winchester; however, the 20-grain hollow-point was unavailable, so both polymer tip loads—20- and 25-grain—were utilized. The rifle preferred the 25-grain polymer tip load, averaging 0.65 inches for 25 shots, and the smallest groups of which both measured 0.58 inches. Chronographing revealed both loads slightly exceeded factory-published numbers, averaging 3,019 fps for the 20-grain polymer-tip load, 2,621 fps for the 25-grain version.

During testing several observations were made. First, a high-velocity chambering, coupled with a slender barrel profile, results in rapid heating—especially in hot, summer-like temperatures. Secondly, being no fan of the magazine catch/release of the Axis rifle, it made sense that I’d have reservations about the B.Mag’s setup, which mimics it. Determining whether or not the magazine is secured is difficult, and one must double check to ensure it is properly seated. Several times during testing the magazine, which seemed in place, fell out during recoil.

When pushing the bolt forward from the rearmost position, as in chambering a round, it can easily be short stoked; once the bolt lugs are in alignment with the bolt handle cutout of the stock, the bolt handle can rotate downward. Doing so mars/dents the stock. Further, during testing, the sling swivel stud, which had a Versapod attached to it, fell completely out of the stock—not the best thing to have happen on a varmint rifle, as the gun is likely to have a bipod affixed to it.

The increased noise over other rimfire rounds is immediately noticeable; hearing protection is a must (and should be worn at all times when shooting anyway). As for the cock-on-close action, it posed no obstacle for me to operate; however, this might prove problematic for younger shooters, or those with less physical strength.

With the B.Mag, Savage Arms has created a platform to meet the unique center-fire-like demands of the .17 WSM cartridge, all while maintaining the scale of a traditional rimfire rifle and exhibiting the accuracy for which the company is renowned. As I discovered, though, it’s not without its detractions. That being said, it will make a good, value-priced option for predator hunting or a “walking varminter.”

Manufacturer: Savage Arms; (413) 568-7001; savagearms.com
Caliber: .17 Win. Super Mag.
Action Type: bolt-action, rimfire repeating rifle
Barrel: 22" 4140 steel, light contour
Rifling: six-groove, 1:9" RH twist
Magazine: detachable, rotary-style; eight-round capacity
Sights: none; receiver drilled and tapped for scope bases
Trigger: single-stage; adjustable AccuTrigger; 2-lb., 13-oz. pull
Stock: black synthetic: length of pull, 1315⁄16"; drop at comb, 1"; drop at heel, 3/4"
Overall Length: 40¼"
Weight: 4 lbs., 8 ozs.
Accessories: lock, owner’s manual
Suggested Retail Price: $349