You are correct case ruptures have happened on the 597. But the rifle can also fire out of battery. (Action stuck open slightly.) Mine has never exploded. But I never rapid fired the 597. And due to my experiences with the Magnum 10/22's I always checked after firing each round for case ruptures, action not closed completely, etc. I had the 597 not close completely on more than one occasion. And yes it would have fired had I not caught it.The problem seems to be ALL 17HMR Semi-Autos are considered unsafe. I know some makers stopped production a while ago due to too many failures. The main failure seems to be case ruptures in dirty chambers. The recall is supposed to effect all semi-autos and no bolt guns. The Remington recall states semi-autos only. I know of some major problems with the Excel MR-17, they have a long and very bad history of blown cases. About the only rifle that does not have a lot of trouble is the Volquartsen. Most 17HMR shooters will tell you the rifles shoot best with a some what dirty barrel. My Savage 93R17 BTVS won't group well until I shoot 20 or so rounds after a complete cleaning.
Remington seems to be low balling on the buy back. I believe the cost on the 597 is about double the buy back offer.
CCI recalled some 17HMR ammo, but I'm unsure of what loadings.
Ron M.
FYI - My 597 was about $275 OTD (laminate 17HMR). Heard others have paid $370 or more for one. I should not have to eat $25. But guess I am luckier than others though.
I will actually be glad to finally get rid of it. I couldn't sell it since I was concerned who ever bought it might get injured.
Walt