Savage 17 Mach 2: Bull Barrel - The Accuracy Upgrade

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Post on Mar 13, 2025

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Savage 17 Mach 2: Bull Barrel - The Accuracy Upgrade

The Savage 17 Mach 2 is already a popular choice for varmint hunting and target shooting, known for its accuracy and affordability. But what if you want to push that accuracy to the next level? Upgrading to a bull barrel is a popular and effective way to significantly improve your shooting experience. This article delves into the benefits of a bull barrel for your Savage 17 Mach 2 and what you should consider when making the upgrade.

Why Choose a Bull Barrel for Your Savage 17 Mach 2?

A bull barrel, characterized by its thicker, heavier profile compared to a standard barrel, offers several advantages that enhance accuracy and performance:

Enhanced Barrel Stability:

• Reduced Vibration: The increased mass of a bull barrel helps dampen vibrations during firing, leading to more consistent bullet trajectory. This is particularly crucial for achieving tighter groups at longer ranges. This reduction in vibration translates directly into improved accuracy.
• Improved Heat Dissipation: While not as significant as in larger calibers, the thicker profile helps dissipate heat more efficiently, reducing the impact of barrel heating on accuracy during rapid firing. This is especially beneficial for extended shooting sessions.

Increased Accuracy:

• Improved Barrel Stiffness: A heavier barrel is inherently stiffer, minimizing flex during firing. This stiffness contributes to consistent bullet alignment and improved accuracy. The less the barrel moves during the shot, the more accurate your shots will be.
• Consistent Point of Impact: With less vibration and flex, you'll experience a more consistent point of impact (POI), making it easier to zero your rifle and maintain accuracy throughout your shooting session.

Choosing the Right Bull Barrel for Your Savage 17 Mach 2

Selecting the right bull barrel for your Savage 17 Mach 2 involves careful consideration of several factors:

Barrel Material:

• Stainless Steel: A popular and durable choice, stainless steel offers good corrosion resistance and maintains accuracy well.
• Chrome Moly (CrMo): Offers excellent strength and stiffness, contributing to accuracy and longevity. Often a slightly more affordable option than stainless steel.

Barrel Length:

• Shorter Barrels: Easier to maneuver, lighter weight, but may slightly reduce velocity.
• Longer Barrels: Typically provide higher velocity and better accuracy at longer ranges, but are heavier and less maneuverable. Consider the intended use of your rifle when selecting barrel length.

Barrel Contour:

• Heavy Varmint: This contour provides maximum stiffness and heat dissipation, ideal for accuracy-focused shooting.
• Medium Varmint: A good balance between weight and stiffness, suitable for a wider range of shooting applications.

Installation and Considerations

Installing a new bull barrel requires gunsmithing expertise. It's crucial to have a qualified gunsmith install the barrel to ensure safety and proper functionality. Improper installation can lead to serious damage to your rifle or even injury.

Remember to factor in the cost of installation when budgeting for the upgrade.

Conclusion: Is a Bull Barrel Upgrade Worth It?

For Savage 17 Mach 2 owners seeking a significant accuracy upgrade, a bull barrel is a worthwhile investment. The increased barrel stability and stiffness translate directly into tighter groups and improved consistency. However, remember that proper installation is paramount, so always entrust this task to a qualified gunsmith. Weigh the benefits against the cost and your shooting needs before making the upgrade. The increased accuracy and improved shooting experience often make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters.