OSU Sig: Sadly I have been along on Varmint Safaris over the last 18 - 19 years where all manner of "issues" have arisen with the 17 HMR cartridge and 17 HMR Rifles (both bolt actions AND semi-auto!)!
I have endured many split necks in my bolt guns and revolver along with some separated heads and the like but I have also seen first hand two Ruger 77/17 HMR's that have suffered blown up stocks and blown up magazines!
And then there are the out of battery detonations that my friends with Volquartsens and Magnum Research 17 HMR's have suffered over the years.
Now, this year, two of my Hunting partners with the AR-15 looking 17 WSM's are suffering out of battery detonations with their 17 WSM's!
Bottom line is wear shooting glasses and try to keep the chambers of the semi-auto 17 HMR's and 17 WSM's "clean"?
And if you hear a funny sounding round at discharge in your bolt action 17 HMR stop firing and check the bore for obstruction!
Be safe out there.
Hold into the wind
VarmintGuy
