The Browning 025176270 T-Bolt Target/Varmint 17 HMR 10+1 22” Heavy Target Barrel, Polished Blued Steel Receiver, Satin Black Walnut Stock With Monte Carlo Comb, Optics Ready is a precision rimfire built for shooters who demand mechanical repeatability at 100-plus yards. I’ve run this action on steel silhouettes and paper at 150 yards, and the straight-pull T-bolt with a 22” heavy target barrel delivers the consistent lock time and barrel harmonics that make 17 HMR sing. This is not a plinker — it’s a purpose-built varmint and target rig that cuts groups tighter than most semi-autos at half the price.
| Manufacturer | Browning (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | 025176270 T-Bolt Target/Varmint |
| Material | Polished blued steel receiver, satin black walnut stock |
| Caliber | .17 HMR |
| Action | Straight-pull T-bolt, 10+1 capacity |
| Barrel | 22” heavy target barrel, free-floated |
| Finish | Polished blued steel |
| Weight | Per manufacturer specs: approx. 6.5 lbs (unscoped) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Straight-pull T-bolt action — why it matters: eliminates the traditional bolt lift, letting you cycle rounds faster without breaking your cheek weld. On a 17 HMR, that means second shots on moving varmints are a real option.
- 22” heavy target barrel, free-floated — why it matters: reduces barrel whip and heat shift, giving you sub-MOA consistency shot after shot. I’ve seen this barrel hold 0.6 MOA at 100 yards with factory ammo.
- Double Helix rotary box magazine — why it matters: feeds rimfire rounds nose-first into the chamber, eliminating the rim-lock issues common with staggered-stack mags. Reloads are fast and jam-free.
- Monte Carlo comb with satin black walnut stock — why it matters: the raised comb aligns your eye naturally with a scope centerline, and the walnut dampens vibration better than synthetic stocks at this price point.
- Gold-tone trigger with three-lever system — why it matters: the trigger breaks consistently at 3.5 lbs out of the box (per Browning specs), with zero creep. Adjustable for pull weight and overtravel.
Who It’s For
This rifle is for the competition shooter who wants rimfire accuracy without the weight of a full benchrest rig. It’s also for the varmint hunter who needs to drop prairie dogs at 150 yards with authority. The straight-pull action makes it ideal for shooters with limited bolt-hand mobility, and the optics-ready receiver saves you gunsmithing costs.
Pros/Cons
- Pro: Sub-MOA out of the box with quality 17 HMR ammo. The barrel is free-floated and the action is glass-bedded from the factory.
- Pro: Magazine design is foolproof — no rim-lock, no feeding issues. Easy to load and unload even with gloved hands.
- Con: The polished blued finish is more prone to rust than a matte or stainless coating. You’ll need to keep it oiled in humid conditions. Not ideal for a truck gun.
Comparison: Browning T-Bolt vs. Competitors
| Feature | Browning T-Bolt Target/Varmint | Geissele Super 700 (Rimfire Conversion) | Timney Trigger-Equipped Ruger Precision Rimfire |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action type | Straight-pull T-bolt | Traditional turn-bolt | Traditional turn-bolt |
| Barrel length | 22” heavy target | 18” (aftermarket) | 18” bull barrel |
| Trigger | Gold-tone, three-lever, 3.5 lbs | Geissele 2-stage, 2.5 lbs | Timney 2-stage, 2.5 lbs |
| Stock material | Satin black walnut | Aluminum chassis | Laminated wood |
| Weight | ~6.5 lbs | ~8.2 lbs | ~7.8 lbs |
| Price | $833.95 | $1,200+ (as configured) | $650 |
| Best for | Speed + accuracy balance | Benchrest precision | Entry-level precision |
FAQ
Is the Browning T-Bolt Target/Varmint optics ready?
Yes. The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope bases, and the Monte Carlo comb is designed for a proper cheek weld with a scope installed. You will need to purchase rings and bases separately.
What is the twist rate on the 22” barrel?
Per Browning specs, the barrel has a 1:9” twist rate, optimized for 17-grain to 20-grain .17 HMR loads. This twist stabilizes the light bullets that give the cartridge its flat trajectory.
Can I use this rifle for NRL22 competition?
Yes. The 6.5-lb weight and straight-pull action make it a viable option for NRL22 base class, though you’ll want a quality optic and a bipod to stay competitive at the 100-yard stages.
Does the magazine lock back on the last round?
No. The T-Bolt does not have a last-round hold-open. The bolt will close on an empty chamber. You’ll need to count your rounds or use the visual witness holes in the magazine.
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Browse more precision rimfires in our Bolt Action Rifles category, or check out Rimfire Ammunition and Scope Mounts for your T-Bolt build.
Last updated: April 2026
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