I've wanted a 17FB for years, I unfortunately do not reload yet so that has pretty much killed the idea for me…I ended up with a CZ 527 221FB instead…a great option for building a 17FB is a .223 Howa Mini Action…it solves the extractor problem…Jefferson Outdoors makes several bottom metal options for them as well. Varminter Online Magazine has some good info as they did 2 FB builds using the Howa with great success.
I like the 17Rem as well but factory ammo for it is over $2/round from what I can find…I do think the FB is the optimal 17cal vs others.