Bergara BMR-X Steel Review: A Precision Rimfire Rifle

As a shooter who typically prefers higher-caliber rifles, I’ve never really been a fan of the .22LR. Sure, I’ve used them, but they’ve never quite impressed me. Most .22LR handguns I’ve shot tend to jam, and I never truly respected the caliber. However, after spending some time with the Bergara BMR-X Steel, I’ve gained a new appreciation for rimfire rifles.

The BMR-X Steel offers more than just basic functionality; it brings precision, reliability, and features that are typically reserved for higher-caliber rifles, making it a strong contender in the world of rimfire rifles.

Bergara BMR-X Steel Overview

The Bergara BMR-X Steel is designed for precision shooting, available in .22LR, .22 WMR, and .17 HMR. With a starting price of $719, it’s positioned as an entry into precision rimfire shooting while still offering a set of features that elevate it beyond your average plinking rifle.

At the core of the BMR-X Steel is an 18-inch heavy #6 profile steel barrel. This barrel’s additional weight helps provide extra stability, which translates to improved accuracy, particularly for those using the rifle in competitive settings. While some shooters may not appreciate the heavier feel, for those prioritizing precision, the added weight is definitely an asset.

Stock and Ergonomics

The stock of the BMR-X Steel is designed with comfort and stability in mind. It comes with an adjustable length-of-pull, a vertical grip, and a flat forend. These features enhance ergonomics, ensuring that the rifle is comfortable to hold and helps you find a solid, steady shooting position. The design is similar to Bergara’s full-size precision rifles, just scaled down for rimfire use.

Performance and Action

Bergara’s Micro Rimfire action is known for its smooth cycling, and the BMR-X Steel is no exception. This rifle cycles efficiently, which is key to maintaining accuracy over extended periods of use. The match chamber features tight tolerances, allowing for better precision and ensuring that the rifle delivers consistent performance.

Trigger

The trigger pull on the BMR-X Steel is one of its standout features. Right out of the box, the trigger weight is a solid 2 to 2.5 pounds, providing a light, crisp break that enhances accuracy. The light trigger is ideal for precision shooting, where every ounce of movement counts. Additionally, the rifle comes with the Bergara Performance Trigger, which is externally adjustable, so you can fine-tune the pull weight to your personal preference.

Optics and Accessories

For optics, I mounted the Leupold VX-3HD 1.5-5x20 on the BMR-X Steel. The clarity and performance of this optic pair well with the rifle’s capabilities. While I happened to have some Leupold 30mm scope rings available, I typically rely on Monstrum products for my optics and mounts. Monstrum offers a wide variety of products, including scopes, mounts, red dots, and other shooting accessories.

Range Performance

At the range, the BMR-X Steel performed excellently. Thanks to the heavier barrel and adjustable stock, the rifle was incredibly stable, making it easy to hold steady for tight groupings. The trigger’s crisp break allowed for clean shots, and the smooth cycling of the action ensured that I didn’t experience any hiccups during rapid fire. The combination of these features gave me confidence in the rifle’s ability to perform, especially for precision shooting.

The BMR-X Steel delivered on its promise of accuracy, and it was clear that this rifle is built for more than just casual plinking. Whether you’re looking to get into competitive shooting or just want to improve your precision, this rifle offers a lot of value for rimfire enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts

The Bergara BMR-X Steel is a rifle that has made me rethink my stance on .22LR. With its solid accuracy, precision features like the adjustable stock and performance trigger, and the tight tolerances of the match chamber, it stands out as a top-tier rimfire rifle. Whether you’re stepping up your rimfire game for competition or just want a solid rifle for range shooting, the BMR-X Steel delivers on all fronts.