17 Mach 2

[G21Shooter]

Do you guys think the 17 Mach 2 has gained enough popularity to survive in the future?

Once the ammo is reasonably available again I am thinking about converting a 10/22 to the round. Just curious on what your guys opinion is on future availability.

Also Mach 2 10/22 pics would be cool if you got 'em.

[Spyder]

I think it's a pretty awesome little round, but since it's the same cost as 17HMR, there's no reason to not go with the faster one! ...

[MongooseV8]

I had one and loved it. However there were only 2 places making ammo and Eley stopped production like 6 years ago. CCI/Federal make all of it now but it can be super tough to find. It used to be half the price if 17HMR but now its getting kinda pricey. I think its on its way out, so I suggest a different project. Also most barrel makers stopped making 17HM2 barrels for semi autos because of case blowouts.

[G21Shooter]

I think it's a pretty awesome little round, but since it's the same cost as 17HMR, there's no reason to not go with the faster one! ...

The reason I am considering a Mach 2 is because it can be used in the semi auto 10/22 platform.

Guess we'll see how it does once the rimfire ammo shortage subsides.

[G21Shooter]

Also most barrel makers stopped making 17HM2 barrels for semi autos because of case blowouts.

What I gather if you use a heavy bolt handle it solves this issue. Maybe someone who is has a Mach 2 10/22 will chime in.

[MongooseV8]

Yeah that's true but the damage had already been done before that was realized. You can find barrels still but its not as easy at it once was. If you can secure yourself a case or 2 of Eley ammo I say go for it. Its a fantastic little round.

[Izzy43]

Yeah that's true but the damage had already been done before that was realized. You can find barrels still but its not as easy at it once was. If you can secure yourself a case or 2 of Eley ammo I say go for it. Its a fantastic little round.

Good advice. Stock up on the ammo first then convert the rifle otherwise you will just have an expensive club. Great round though but I think only one manufacturer is still making a rifle in that caliber, Savage as I remember. As far as the price of ammo its not bad considering the 17HM2 is nearly as accurate as mid-range .22lr match ammo and packs a lot more punch.

[wchutt]

Something like this?
Carbonfiber barrel, Leupold ultralight scope, Houge overmold, makes for a very light, flat shooting squirrel killer.

[Eric Mayer]

Do it!

First, there are way too many rifles out there for CCI to stop producing the ammunition. When you see it, grab a couple of cases and you'll be set for life (unless you shoot ground squirrels, then buy as much as you can).

I have the EA Brown heavy bolt conversion, with a Power Custom firing pin (I was having light strikes) and a factory contour, fluted barrel (I think it's a Green Mountain). I have had zero issues with this rifle, but I keep it clean and run some patches/clean the chamber after every 30 to 40 rounds.

Here are a few pictures of mine:

Tejon Ranch:


Tejon Ranch:


My buddy, Tom after shooting a cottontail:


Me with my Ruger and a small pile of ground squirrels (notice, eye protection, as well as gloves):


Ground Squirrel and Ruger 17HM2:


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I had a Whistle Pig barrel version before this and it blew up a few times due to firing out of battery. WP blamed the ammo, Hornady blamed the tightness of the chamber. Needless to say, WP does not sell the barrels any longer.

You can find the kit on Rimfire Central or Gunbroker occasionally, so keep looking. Otherwise, I know folks go with a heavier spring as well.

Eric

[G21Shooter]

Eric- thanks for sharing the pics and input. Nice looking rifle you have!

Hopefully Mach 2 ammo comes back soon so I can secure a couples cases and get to building a 10/22.

[MongooseV8]

I know its more costly but have you considered tracking down a 10/22 magnum for a 17HMR build? At least that way you can count on finding some ammo in the future.

[Spyder]

If looking for a 10/22 mag, I'd recommend going with one of the aftermarket makers. Tactical Machining I think does one, as does SelectFire LLC and I think even Magnum Research does it.

Will be cheaper than buying a whole gun, and probably stronger and better made.

[Eric Mayer]

Too add onto what Spyder said, the 10/22 Magnums are going for premium (around $750+), so built from the ground up like he suggests is probably a better idea. Volquartsen makes some nice ones as well.

G21, there is a guy in the classifieds here on CGN who is selling some ammo. It's a bit pricey, but it will get you started.

Eric

[wchutt]

Watch ebay for volquartsen bolts... occasionally pop up for good prices. I went the TM route for the receiver.

[Tripper]

before you convert, take a look at mine. in sig