A couple of thoughts:
On paper, the 17 WSM(rimfire) is very interesting as a design. The case was based on a 26 caliber nail gun blank and the MVs published run from 2600 fps to 3000 fps.
However, I wonder at the timing of the release. We have seen a revival in the way people consider rimfires in terms of accuracy potential and performance, and, if you don't like to shag brass or work with small charges of powder, they are a blessing. That is why I like the 22 WMR so much (primarily for light varmint and vermin (and as a carry gun). I shoot more rimfires in practice than anything else.
The problem is that I am not the only one to think so, and it is difficult to find the ammo. It seems that many are buying rimfire defensively because so much has been snatched up by others. Sort of reminds you of the tulipmania.
It seems to me that the introduction of a new rimfire in a market where it is difficult to find any rimfire ammo and with only a few guns available is not the most astute market timing every made by a manufacturer. It mkes me wonder if the 17 WSMR will go the same way as the 5 mm Remington Magnum rimfire and become almost instantly obsolete. The 5mm was another cartridge that is very impressive on paper--but the timing was wrong IMHO.
Personally, I am not really very interested in it because I think that 17 caliber is just a bit light for me to use in the field. However, If I am wrong, I would be VERY interested in a 22 caliber based on the same case if it would come close to replicating, or bettering, 22 Hornet performance.
