Originally Posted by
CalHunter
If it fits your needs, just buy it. I bought a Savage 93 laminated stock in 17 HMR and have been able to find ammo in the stores. From what I can see, 17 HMR looks like the ammo supply in stores is going to be fairly stable (necessary prerequisite for a rimfire round). I haven't seen 17 WSM ammo in the stores yet and don't recall seeing any of the BMag rifles but wasn't looking for the rifles. If 17 WSM ammo becomes stable also, I will probably look for a rifle and buy one, just because. 17 WSM ammo and rifles may be more available in your part of the country. If you already have more than one 22lr in your gunsafe, one more 17 rimfire isn't going to upset the applecart.
I also have a Savage 93 in 17HMR and love it. I can say I've rarely been in a store and not seen 17HMR on the shelf over the past year...but I have yet to see a single box of the 17WSM or a Bmag rifle on a shelf anyway (and as my wife reminds me often, I spend way too much time in these stores...LOL). All of that being said, if I came across a good deal and the urge overtook me I'd probably buy a 17WSM just because I can...fortunately (or unfortunately) for me, as a lefty less rifles walk into my path...but a much higher percentage of them go home with me...LOL