Bullet Flight: Understanding Performance
The 17 HMR Unveiled
The 17 HMR, introduced by Hornady in 2002, quickly gained popularity for its accuracy and flat trajectory. This cartridge pushes a relatively light bullet at impressive speeds for a rimfire.
Muzzle Velocity: The 17 HMR typically clocks a muzzle velocity somewhere in the neighborhood of a fast 2,550 feet per second (FPS) to approximately 2,650 FPS, depending on the specific bullet weight and manufacturer.
Bullet Weights: The 17 HMR is most commonly found in bullet weights ranging from 15.5 to 20 grains. The most popular choices tend to be in the 17-grain range, striking a balance between velocity, trajectory, and wind resistance.
Effective Range: This round offers a practical effective range that stretches to around 150 yards or a bit beyond for precise shooting. While it can certainly reach farther, the bullet drop becomes more pronounced, requiring significant compensation.
Trajectory: The 17 HMR is known for its relatively flat trajectory, making it easier to hit targets at varying distances. At 100 yards, it exhibits minimal bullet drop, a characteristic that contributes significantly to its user-friendliness.
The 17 WSM’s Capabilities
The 17 WSM, launched by Winchester in 2013, represents a significant step up in performance, aiming to provide a rimfire option with greater range and power.
Muzzle Velocity: The 17 WSM stands out with considerably higher muzzle velocities. The typical range lands between 3,000 to 3,000 FPS, again, depending on the bullet used. This significantly higher velocity sets it apart from its 17 HMR counterpart.
Bullet Weights: The 17 WSM generally uses slightly heavier bullets, typically ranging from 20 to 25 grains. While still lightweight, these bullets benefit from the added energy generated by the higher velocities.
Effective Range: The 17 WSM’s extended effective range is a major draw. The increased velocity and flatter trajectory allow for accurate shots out to about 200 yards or even further, which is quite impressive for a rimfire.
Trajectory: The 17 WSM maintains an even flatter trajectory, which is a direct result of its superior speed. This flatter trajectory reduces the need for holdover at longer distances, making it easier to consistently hit targets.
To summarize, the 17 WSM is a faster and more powerful round, giving you greater range and less bullet drop. The 17 HMR is a bit slower but still has a very respectable trajectory and excels at closer ranges.
The 17 HMR’s Advantages
Several key characteristics give the 17 HMR an edge in certain scenarios. Its strengths contribute to its enduring appeal among shooters.
Tolerant Recoil: The 17 HMR generates minimal recoil, making it exceptionally easy to handle. This translates to faster follow-up shots and a more comfortable shooting experience, especially for new shooters or those sensitive to recoil.
Cost-Effective: Ammunition for the 17 HMR is generally more affordable than the 17 WSM, which can be a significant factor for shooters who spend a lot of time at the range.
Widespread Availability: The 17 HMR is widely available in both rifles and ammunition. This makes it easier to find both components. Whether at your local gun store or online, you are more likely to find it on the shelves.
Exceptional Accuracy: The 17 HMR is renowned for its inherent accuracy, particularly at shorter to moderate ranges. Many rifles chambered for this round are capable of shooting incredibly tight groups, making it a perfect choice for target shooting and varmint control where precision is critical.
Barrel Longevity: The 17 HMR generally offers a longer barrel life when compared to the faster-moving 17 WSM. The lower pressures and velocities help extend the lifespan of the barrel, which means you can enjoy it for many years.
The 17 WSM’s Compelling Benefits
While the 17 HMR possesses a plethora of advantages, the 17 WSM brings its own impressive set of strengths to the table.
Superior Velocity and Kinetic Energy: The most significant advantage of the 17 WSM is its higher velocity, which also translates into more kinetic energy at the muzzle and downrange. This extra power provides a flatter trajectory and increases the effectiveness of the bullet, making it a better choice for longer-range shots.
Flat-Shooting Design: The flat trajectory resulting from the increased velocity of the 17 WSM is a boon for long-range shooting. The flatter trajectory allows for less holdover at extended distances, improving the chances of first-shot hits.
Superior Wind Resistance: The higher velocity of the 17 WSM translates to superior wind resistance. This means it is less affected by the wind, allowing you to make accurate shots even in breezy conditions.
Enhanced Terminal Effects: The greater kinetic energy of the 17 WSM can result in more devastating terminal effects on target, particularly on larger varmints or at longer ranges.
Considering Potential Drawbacks
Every cartridge has potential drawbacks, aspects that can impact performance and suitability.
The 17 HMR’s Limitations
Range Restrictions: The 17 HMR’s effective range is more limited than that of the 17 WSM. At longer ranges, the bullet drop becomes more pronounced, and the bullet’s energy diminishes.
Vulnerability to Wind: The 17 HMR is relatively susceptible to wind drift, especially at longer distances. This can complicate accurate shots in windy conditions.
Energy Depletion: The 17 HMR’s energy dissipates more quickly over distance when compared to the 17 WSM, leading to less effective terminal performance at extended ranges.
The 17 WSM’s Considerations
Higher Recoil: While the 17 WSM still offers a low recoil experience, it is notably higher than that of the 17 HMR. This may not pose an issue for experienced shooters, but it could be a consideration for those sensitive to recoil.
Ammunition Costs: 17 WSM ammunition is typically more expensive than 17 HMR ammunition. This increased cost can factor into range time and hunting practice.
Limited Rifle Choices: Although becoming more common, the selection of rifles chambered for the 17 WSM isn’t as vast as that of the 17 HMR.
Barrel Life: Due to the higher pressures and velocities, the 17 WSM’s barrel life is typically shorter than that of the 17 HMR. This is a cost to consider, especially for shooters who put a lot of rounds through their rifles.
Finding the Perfect Application
Knowing how each cartridge excels helps you to choose the right round for the task at hand. Let’s look at how each round shines in the real world.
Optimal Uses for the 17 HMR
Small Game Hunting: The 17 HMR is a phenomenal round for hunting small game like rabbits, squirrels, and prairie dogs. Its flat trajectory, high accuracy, and relatively low cost make it a superb choice for these types of hunting.
Target Shooting: The 17 HMR’s pinpoint accuracy makes it a perfect choice for target shooting at ranges where precision is paramount.
Plinking Fun: With its affordability and ease of use, the 17 HMR is a joy to shoot for plinking.
The 17 WSM’s Premier Applications
Varmint Control: The greater power and range of the 17 WSM shine in varmint control scenarios. This includes coyotes, groundhogs, and other varmints where a longer-range, harder-hitting round is needed.
Pest Management: Its long-range potential makes the 17 WSM an excellent choice for managing pests across large properties.
Long-Range Shooting: If your shooting goals involve stretching the range of your rimfire rifle, the 17 WSM provides you with the performance necessary for accurate shots at extended distances.
Rifles, Ammo, and the Path Forward
Once you’ve chosen your favorite cartridge, it’s time to consider your rifle options and ammo choices. Rifle selection is key: Both cartridges are offered in a variety of rifles, including bolt-action and semi-automatic models. Reputable brands such as Savage Arms, Ruger, and Browning produce rifles chambered for both the 17 HMR and the 17 WSM. When it comes to ammo, you will see a variety of bullet types for both calibers. Most commonly you will find hollow points and polymer-tipped bullets.
Choosing between the 17 WSM and the 17 HMR is about aligning your goals with the cartridge’s strengths. If you plan to hunt small game at closer ranges and value affordability and ease of use, the 17 HMR is an excellent option. If you need greater range, power, and wind resistance for hunting larger varmints, the 17 WSM is the superior choice. By understanding the characteristics of each round, you can select the right rimfire cartridge to match your specific shooting needs.
Don’t hesitate to do your own research and take a look at the rifles that you find to your liking. Visit your local gun store to get a feel for the rifles and ammo in person. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both rounds and see which one performs better for you. The next time you’re at the range, try a few rounds and start enjoying the great world of rimfire shooting!
