Model 93 extended magazine release
I got a new 93R17 BTVLSS and I like it a lot, it's a pleasure to shoot. This is also truly a left-handed rifle, with bolt and safety on the left, and the stock even has a left cast-off, a feature that is usually only found on expensive guns.
The only things I didn't like, like most, are the bottom metal and short action screws - which I will replace shortly, and the magazine and its release/latch.
I have a bit of experience with fitting magazines, so I was able to make the mags load smoothly even with the bolt closed, not to wobble around that much, and feed without failure. I think Savage should spend some time re-designing them, their shape is more suited for the straight .22 than the bottle-necked .17HMR.
I also added an extension to the magazine release, to make it easier on the finger, and to keep the finger out of the way when the mag falls out. I found a lot of good info on this forum while I was setting up my rifle and wanted to give back by sharing my experience on a topic that I couldn't find much info on.
I made it with metal-hardened epoxy putty and shaped it around a tooth-paste cap to make it round and add texture. So far it feels very solid and works great.
Here are the pictures.
http://i1369.photobucket.com/albums/...psdf03e27e.jpg
http://i1369.photobucket.com/albums/...pse99c35f1.jpg
http://i1369.photobucket.com/albums/...ps14f9fa85.jpg
