Savage was the original company to put out the gun for the .17 Hornet. Ruger is also making their Model 77 in 17 Hornet.
Rifleridge's husband probably used a .17 HMR. I've got 2 .17 HMRs, and a .17 Fireball, so the .17 Hornet would be redundant for me. My .22 Hornet is neat, so the .17 Hornet should be a screamer!