.17 hmr Barrel length for best value.

[AmericanGunner]

Hello, i just joined the forum and was looking to get some thoughts for a new rifle i was planning on getting.
I been for the longest time wanting to get a small caliber rifle to add to my collection, for plinking and for hunting small game.
I knew i wanted to get a .17 hmr but wasnt sure what rifle i would want.
I finally decided on choose a Browning T-bolt.
The one thing im still bouncing around in my mind is which barrel length i should get.
It comes in 20" and 22" and a older model had a 16.5".
I really like the smaller 16.5" but they dont make that length anymore and id like to get a newer model anyway.
The 20" barrel is what i was planning on getting but i am able to get a barrel length of 22" for around $200 cheaper.
Paying $200 less would not be the main reason for me buying the 22" model. Instead I would like to buy a 16.5" and replace the 22" with it and attaching a suppressor to give it that few inches more.

I feel like i would save some money and be able to have the longer barrel and a short barrel which would give me the best of both worlds. I guess i want to get some thoughts from others who may have some experience with the 17 hmr and maybe even the rifle im interested in before i go and make the purchase.

What do you all think about my rational?

 

[Alguapo]

I have the Savage 93R17 w/22 in. barrel and the CZ 17 HMR American with the 24 in. barrel. Both pretty accurate at 100 yds. I wish the CZ was a bull barrel but it's not. Just a slight bit tighter group with the CZ. When you figure out witch one you want try the different brand of ammo. My CZ loves the CCI A17 and the Savage likes the Hornady 17 grainers. Good luck. Also play with the torque settings on the stock. Never shot a Browning. The 17 HMR is a fun round.

 

[Mark M.]

I went with the Anachutz 1517 with a 18" barrel, optimal barrel length for the 17 hmr is about 19 inches, i don't think you could go wrong with the browning. But in the end, it's all about personal preference. The Anschutz is extremely accurate and come with an excellent trigger, plus I was looking for something suppressor ready, a real blast to shoot.

 

[Tommie]

Years ago VarmintAl did a barrel length test for 17HMR velocity. From what I recall, @Mark M. is correct.