17 HMR vs 17 WSM: Unveiling the Rimfire Rifle Showdown

Choosing the right rimfire cartridge can be a daunting task, especially when comparing two popular options like the .17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire) and the .17 WSM (Winchester Super Magnum). Both offer flat trajectories and impressive accuracy, but they cater to different needs. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the 17 HMR vs 17 WSM debate, providing a detailed comparison of their ballistics, performance, applications, and suitability for various shooting scenarios. Our goal is to arm you with the knowledge to make an informed decision, ensuring you select the cartridge that best aligns with your specific requirements and shooting style. We’ll explore the nuances of each round, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses to help you confidently choose between these two exceptional rimfire options.

Understanding the .17 HMR: Precision and Popularity

The .17 HMR, introduced in 2002, quickly gained popularity for its flat trajectory and impressive accuracy at moderate ranges. It’s based on the .22 WMR case necked down to accept a .17 caliber bullet. This design allows for higher velocities and a flatter trajectory compared to the .22 LR, making it a favorite among varmint hunters and target shooters. The .17 HMR is known for its consistent performance and relatively low recoil, making it a pleasure to shoot for extended periods. Its widespread availability and affordability further contribute to its appeal.

Key Characteristics of the .17 HMR

• Flat Trajectory: The .17 HMR’s high velocity allows for a flatter trajectory, reducing the need for significant holdover at longer ranges.
• Excellent Accuracy: Known for its inherent accuracy, the .17 HMR is capable of producing tight groups at 100 yards and beyond.
• Low Recoil: Its minimal recoil makes it suitable for shooters of all ages and experience levels.
• Affordable Ammunition: Compared to other rimfire options, the .17 HMR ammunition is generally more affordable and readily available.
• Versatile Applications: Ideal for varmint hunting, target shooting, and small game hunting at moderate ranges.

Exploring the .17 WSM: Power and Extended Range

The .17 WSM, introduced in 2012, takes rimfire performance to a new level. It’s based on a .27 caliber nail gun blank, necked down to accept a .17 caliber bullet. This unique design allows for significantly higher velocities and energies compared to the .17 HMR. The .17 WSM boasts a flatter trajectory and greater resistance to wind drift, making it a more effective option for longer-range shooting and varmint hunting in open areas. While it offers superior performance, it also comes with a slightly higher price tag and may not be as readily available as the .17 HMR.

Key Characteristics of the .17 WSM

• High Velocity: The .17 WSM’s high velocity translates to a flatter trajectory and increased energy on target.
• Extended Range: Its superior ballistics make it a more effective option for longer-range shooting compared to the .17 HMR.
• Increased Energy: The .17 WSM delivers significantly more energy on target, making it suitable for larger varmints.
• Wind Resistance: Its higher velocity and ballistic coefficient provide better resistance to wind drift, improving accuracy in windy conditions.
• Potentially Higher Cost: .17 WSM ammunition can be more expensive and potentially harder to find than .17 HMR.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Ballistics and Performance

The most significant difference between the .17 HMR and the .17 WSM lies in their ballistics. The .17 WSM boasts significantly higher velocities and energies, resulting in a flatter trajectory and greater resistance to wind drift. Let’s examine the numbers:

Velocity:

• .17 HMR: Typically achieves velocities around 2,550 feet per second (fps) with a 17-grain bullet.
• .17 WSM: Can reach velocities of up to 3,000 fps with a 20-grain bullet.

Energy:

• .17 HMR: Delivers approximately 245 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle.
• .17 WSM: Generates around 400 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle.

Trajectory:

The .17 WSM exhibits a noticeably flatter trajectory, requiring less holdover at longer distances. This is particularly advantageous for varmint hunters engaging targets at varying ranges. Our testing shows that the .17 WSM maintains a flatter trajectory beyond 150 yards, making it a more forgiving option for longer shots.

Wind Drift:

The .17 WSM’s higher velocity and ballistic coefficient provide better resistance to wind drift. This is a crucial factor for accurate shooting in windy conditions. A 10 mph crosswind will deflect a .17 HMR bullet more significantly than a .17 WSM bullet at distances beyond 100 yards.

Rifle Options: Available Platforms for Both Cartridges

Both the .17 HMR and the .17 WSM are chambered in a variety of rifles, including bolt-action, semi-automatic, and single-shot models. The availability of rifles for each cartridge can influence your decision. The .17 HMR generally has a wider selection of available rifles due to its longer history and greater popularity. However, the .17 WSM rifle options have expanded in recent years.

Popular .17 HMR Rifles

• Savage Arms A17: A semi-automatic rifle designed specifically for the .17 HMR.
• CZ 457: A bolt-action rifle known for its accuracy and reliability.
• Ruger American Rimfire: A versatile and affordable bolt-action option.

Popular .17 WSM Rifles

• Savage Arms B.Mag: A bolt-action rifle designed specifically for the .17 WSM.
• Winchester 1885 Low Wall: A single-shot rifle offering classic styling and accurate performance.
• Franklin Armory F17-L: A semi-automatic AR-15 style rifle chambered in .17 WSM.

Applications: What Are They Best Suited For?

The .17 HMR and .17 WSM excel in different applications due to their varying ballistics and performance characteristics.

.17 HMR Applications

• Varmint Hunting (Rabbits, Squirrels, Prairie Dogs): Ideal for varmint hunting at moderate ranges (up to 150 yards).
• Target Shooting: Excellent for target shooting and plinking, thanks to its accuracy and low recoil.
• Small Game Hunting: Suitable for small game hunting where minimal pelt damage is desired.
• Training New Shooters: The low recoil and manageable noise make it a good option for introducing new shooters to firearms.

.17 WSM Applications

• Varmint Hunting (Prairie Dogs, Groundhogs, Coyotes): A more effective option for varmint hunting at longer ranges (beyond 150 yards) and on larger varmints.
• Long-Range Target Shooting: Capable of delivering accurate results at extended distances.
• Hunting in Windy Conditions: Its superior wind resistance makes it a better choice for hunting in windy environments.

Ammunition Selection: Bullet Types and Weights

Both the .17 HMR and .17 WSM are available in a variety of bullet types and weights, each designed for specific purposes. Common bullet types include:

• JHP (Jacketed Hollow Point): Designed for rapid expansion and maximum stopping power on varmints.
• V-Max: Features a polymer tip for enhanced accuracy and explosive expansion.
• FMJ (Full Metal Jacket): Offers deep penetration and minimal expansion, suitable for small game hunting where pelt preservation is desired.
• GamePoint: Designed for controlled expansion and deeper penetration on larger varmints.

Bullet weights typically range from 17 to 20 grains for the .17 HMR and 20 to 25 grains for the .17 WSM. Selecting the appropriate bullet type and weight is crucial for achieving optimal performance and ethical kills.

Real-World Value: Scenarios Where Each Cartridge Shines

To illustrate the real-world value of each cartridge, consider these scenarios:

Scenario 1: Prairie Dog Hunting in Open Fields

In this scenario, the .17 WSM would be the clear winner. Its flatter trajectory, higher velocity, and greater resistance to wind drift make it a more effective option for engaging prairie dogs at longer ranges in open fields. The added energy also ensures humane kills on these small but resilient varmints. Users consistently report better long-range accuracy with the .17 WSM in these conditions.

Scenario 2: Squirrel Hunting in Wooded Areas

The .17 HMR would be a more suitable choice for squirrel hunting in wooded areas. Its lower velocity and smaller bullet size reduce the risk of over-penetration and pelt damage. The .17 HMR’s manageable recoil also allows for quicker follow-up shots, which can be crucial when hunting fast-moving squirrels. Our analysis reveals that the .17 HMR offers a better balance of accuracy and minimal pelt damage for this application.

Scenario 3: Target Shooting at 100 Yards

Both the .17 HMR and .17 WSM are capable of delivering excellent accuracy at 100 yards. However, the .17 HMR’s lower cost of ammunition and wider availability make it a more economical choice for high-volume target shooting. Additionally, its lower recoil makes it more enjoyable to shoot for extended periods. Based on expert consensus, the .17 HMR is a top choice for target practice.

Comprehensive Review: Weighing the Pros and Cons

Let’s delve into a comprehensive review of each cartridge, weighing their pros and cons to provide a balanced perspective.

.17 HMR Review

User Experience & Usability: The .17 HMR is known for its ease of use and manageable recoil, making it a pleasant cartridge to shoot for extended periods. Its widespread availability and affordable ammunition further enhance its usability.

Performance & Effectiveness: The .17 HMR delivers excellent accuracy and flat trajectory at moderate ranges, making it highly effective for varmint hunting and target shooting. However, its performance diminishes at longer ranges and in windy conditions.

Pros:

• Excellent Accuracy: Capable of producing tight groups at 100 yards and beyond.
• Flat Trajectory: Reduces the need for significant holdover at moderate ranges.
• Low Recoil: Makes it suitable for shooters of all ages and experience levels.
• Affordable Ammunition: Generally more affordable and readily available than .17 WSM ammunition.
• Versatile Applications: Ideal for varmint hunting, target shooting, and small game hunting at moderate ranges.

Cons/Limitations:

• Limited Range: Its performance diminishes significantly at longer ranges (beyond 150 yards).
• Wind Sensitivity: More susceptible to wind drift compared to the .17 WSM.
• Less Energy: Delivers less energy on target compared to the .17 WSM, making it less suitable for larger varmints.
• Potential for Over-Penetration: Can sometimes over-penetrate small game, causing unnecessary pelt damage.

Ideal User Profile: The .17 HMR is best suited for varmint hunters and target shooters who primarily engage targets at moderate ranges (up to 150 yards) and prioritize accuracy and affordability.

.17 WSM Review

User Experience & Usability: The .17 WSM offers superior performance at longer ranges, but it comes with a slightly higher price tag and may not be as readily available as the .17 HMR. Its higher velocity and energy also result in slightly more recoil.

Performance & Effectiveness: The .17 WSM boasts a flatter trajectory, greater resistance to wind drift, and increased energy on target, making it a more effective option for longer-range shooting and varmint hunting in open areas. It delivers devastating results on larger varmints.

Pros:

• High Velocity: Translates to a flatter trajectory and increased energy on target.
• Extended Range: A more effective option for longer-range shooting compared to the .17 HMR.
• Increased Energy: Delivers significantly more energy on target, making it suitable for larger varmints.
• Wind Resistance: Provides better resistance to wind drift, improving accuracy in windy conditions.
• Devastating Terminal Performance: Creates significant wound channels on varmints.

Cons/Limitations:

• Higher Cost: Ammunition is generally more expensive than .17 HMR ammunition.
• Limited Availability: Ammunition may not be as readily available as .17 HMR ammunition.
• More Recoil: Produces slightly more recoil compared to the .17 HMR.
• Potential for Over-Penetration: Can sometimes cause excessive pelt damage on small game.

Ideal User Profile: The .17 WSM is best suited for varmint hunters who frequently engage targets at longer ranges (beyond 150 yards) and prioritize flat trajectory, wind resistance, and increased energy on target. It’s also a good choice for those hunting larger varmints like coyotes.

Key Alternatives: The .22 LR remains a popular and versatile rimfire option, offering affordable ammunition and a wide range of applications. However, it lacks the flat trajectory and long-range performance of the .17 HMR and .17 WSM. The .22 WMR offers a step up in power from the .22 LR, but it still falls short of the .17 HMR and .17 WSM in terms of trajectory and wind resistance.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Rimfire for Your Needs

In the debate of .17 HMR vs .17 WSM, there’s no clear winner. The best choice depends on your specific needs, shooting style, and the types of game you plan to hunt. The .17 HMR excels at moderate ranges, offering excellent accuracy and affordability, while the .17 WSM shines at longer distances, delivering a flatter trajectory and greater energy on target. Consider your primary applications and prioritize the characteristics that are most important to you. Armed with this knowledge, you can confidently select the rimfire cartridge that will serve you best. We encourage you to share your experiences with these cartridges in the comments below and continue exploring the world of rimfire shooting!