What Does a 17 HMR Compare To?
The 17 HMR is a high-velocity rimfire cartridge often compared to other small-game rounds like the .22 LR and .22 WMR, excelling in flatter trajectory and greater accuracy at longer distances, although at a higher cost.
Introduction to the .17 HMR
The .17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire) has gained significant popularity among varmint hunters and target shooters for its impressive ballistic performance. But what does a 17 HMR compare to? It’s essential to understand its strengths and weaknesses relative to other common rimfire cartridges to determine if it’s the right choice for your needs. The .17 HMR offers a significant step up in velocity and accuracy compared to the ubiquitous .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR), but also carries a different price point and availability. Understanding these trade-offs is key.
Background of Rimfire Cartridges
Rimfire cartridges, named for their primer being located in the rim of the cartridge, have been a staple in small-game hunting and target shooting for over a century. The .22 LR is perhaps the most well-known, praised for its affordability and low recoil. However, its trajectory is significantly curved at longer distances. The .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR) was introduced to address some of these shortcomings, offering higher velocity and energy. The .17 HMR then sought to improve upon the .22 WMR even further, focusing on flatter trajectories and enhanced accuracy.
Benefits of the .17 HMR
- Flatter Trajectory: This is perhaps the most significant advantage. The .17 HMR’s high velocity translates to a much flatter trajectory than the .22 LR or .22 WMR, making it easier to hit targets at varying distances without significant holdover.
- Increased Accuracy: The .17 HMR is known for its excellent accuracy, often attributed to its boat-tail bullets and higher velocities. This makes it a popular choice for target shooting and varmint hunting where precision is critical.
- Greater Range: While still a rimfire cartridge, the .17 HMR offers a longer effective range than the .22 LR, and arguably the .22 WMR, making it suitable for engaging targets at distances beyond 100 yards.
Drawbacks of the .17 HMR
- Cost: Ammunition for the .17 HMR is generally more expensive than .22 LR or .22 WMR.
- Wind Drift: Despite its high velocity, the lightweight bullets of the .17 HMR are susceptible to wind drift, which can affect accuracy, especially at longer ranges.
- Terminal Ballistics: While effective on small game, the .17 HMR’s small caliber and lightweight bullet can sometimes result in less consistent terminal ballistics compared to the .22 WMR.
- Noise: It’s significantly louder than a .22 LR.
.17 HMR vs. .22 LR vs. .22 WMR: A Comparison
| Feature | .17 HMR | .22 LR | .22 WMR |
|---|---|---|---|
| —————- | ———————— | ————————– | ————————- |
| Velocity | High (2500+ fps) | Low (1200-1600 fps) | Medium (1800-2000 fps) |
| Trajectory | Flatter | Curved | Medium |
| Accuracy | Excellent | Good | Good |
| Effective Range | 150+ yards | 75 yards | 125 yards |
| Cost | High | Low | Medium |
| Recoil | Very Low | Very Low | Low |
| Common Uses | Varmint hunting, target shooting | Plinking, small game hunting | Varmint hunting, self-defense |
Ideal Uses for the .17 HMR
Given its characteristics, the .17 HMR excels in the following scenarios:
- Varmint Hunting: Groundhogs, prairie dogs, and other small varmints are prime targets for the .17 HMR.
- Target Shooting: The accuracy and flat trajectory make it a good choice for target shooting at moderate distances.
- Situations where precision is paramount: If hitting small targets at distance is essential, the .17 HMR delivers better results than a .22LR.
Common Mistakes When Using a .17 HMR
- Underestimating Wind Drift: As mentioned, the lightweight bullets are prone to wind drift. Always factor in wind conditions when shooting at longer distances.
- Choosing the Wrong Ammunition: Different .17 HMR loads are available, each with slightly different ballistic characteristics. Select the load that best suits your intended use.
- Ignoring Cleaning: Like all firearms, the .17 HMR requires regular cleaning to maintain accuracy and reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common bullet weights for a .17 HMR?
The most common bullet weight for a .17 HMR is 17 grains. However, some manufacturers offer loads with slightly heavier or lighter bullets, typically ranging from 15.5 to 20 grains.
How does the .17 HMR perform against larger varmints like raccoons?
While the .17 HMR can be used on raccoons, it’s generally considered underpowered for ethical and reliable kills. Larger caliber rimfire or centerfire cartridges are often preferred for this purpose. Shot placement is absolutely critical.
Is the .17 HMR a good choice for self-defense?
No. The .17 HMR is not generally recommended for self-defense. Its small caliber and relatively low stopping power make it less effective than larger caliber firearms. While deadly, it is not ideal.
What is the typical effective range of a .17 HMR rifle?
The typical effective range of a .17 HMR rifle is around 150 yards. However, this can vary depending on factors such as wind conditions, ammunition type, and the shooter’s skill. Many experienced shooters can and do extend that range.
Does the .17 HMR have more recoil than a .22 LR?
The .17 HMR has slightly more recoil than a .22 LR, but the difference is minimal and generally unnoticeable to most shooters. Both are considered to have very low recoil.
Can I convert a .22 LR rifle to shoot .17 HMR?
No, it is not possible to simply convert a .22 LR rifle to shoot .17 HMR. The cartridges have different dimensions and require different chamber and barrel specifications. Any attempt to fire a .17 HMR in a .22 LR firearm could result in serious injury or damage to the firearm.
How does the .17 HMR compare to centerfire cartridges of similar size?
While sharing a similar bullet diameter with some centerfire cartridges (like the .17 Hornet), the .17 HMR has significantly less power and range. Centerfire cartridges are generally more suitable for larger game and longer-range shooting. It’s also worth noting that centerfire cartridges are reloadable, something the 17 HMR cannot do.
What kind of scope is best suited for a .17 HMR rifle?
A scope with a magnification range of 3-9x or 4-12x is often recommended for .17 HMR rifles. Adjustable parallax is also beneficial for precise shooting at varying distances.
Is it safe to shoot .17 HMR ammunition in a .17 HM2 rifle?
No. The .17 HMR and .17 HM2 are different cartridges with different chamber pressures and dimensions. Shooting .17 HMR ammunition in a .17 HM2 rifle could result in a dangerous explosion.
How accurate is the .17 HMR compared to a .223 Remington?
The .223 Remington centerfire cartridge is more accurate at significantly longer ranges than the .17 HMR. However, within the .17 HMR’s effective range (around 150 yards), the accuracy can be comparable, depending on rifle quality and shooter skill.
Are there any rimfire cartridges that are more powerful than the .17 HMR?
Yes, the .17 Winchester Super Magnum (.17 WSM) is more powerful than the .17 HMR. It boasts higher velocities and energy, extending its effective range and terminal performance.
Does the .17 HMR require a different cleaning solvent than a .22 LR?
While some shooters use the same solvent for both, it is generally recommended to use a solvent specifically designed for rimfire ammunition. This is because rimfire ammunition can leave different types of fouling compared to centerfire ammunition.