## 17 HMR vs 17 WSM: Which Rimfire Round Reigns Supreme? An Expert Comparison
Choosing the right rimfire cartridge can significantly impact your shooting experience, whether you’re varmint hunting, target shooting, or simply plinking. The .17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire) and the .17 WSM (Winchester Super Magnum) are two popular options, each boasting unique advantages and disadvantages. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the 17 HMR vs 17 WSM debate, providing an expert analysis to help you make an informed decision.
We’ll explore their ballistic performance, accuracy, effective range, cost, availability, and suitability for different applications. Our goal is to provide you with the knowledge and understanding necessary to determine which cartridge best fits your needs and shooting style. This isn’t just a spec sheet comparison; we’ll share insights gleaned from extensive research and expert opinions within the shooting community.
## Understanding the .17 HMR: A Rimfire Classic
The .17 HMR, introduced in 2002, quickly gained popularity for its flat trajectory, impressive accuracy, and relatively low cost. 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 other rimfire cartridges.
### Key Characteristics of the .17 HMR
* **Bullet Weight:** Typically ranges from 17 to 20 grains.
* **Velocity:** Muzzle velocities generally fall between 2,500 and 2,600 fps.
* **Effective Range:** Generally considered effective out to 150 yards.
* **Common Uses:** Varmint hunting (ground squirrels, prairie dogs), target shooting, plinking.
### The Allure of the .17 HMR: Accuracy and Affordability
The .17 HMR’s accuracy is a major selling point. Its flat trajectory makes it easier to hit targets at longer ranges, and its small bullet size reduces wind drift. Furthermore, ammunition is relatively affordable compared to centerfire cartridges, making it a great choice for high-volume shooting. Based on expert consensus, the .17 HMR is a top choice for new shooters or those wanting a cost effective, accurate round.
## Exploring the .17 WSM: The Rimfire Powerhouse
The .17 WSM, released in 2012, is designed to be a more powerful rimfire cartridge than the .17 HMR. It’s based on a modified .27 caliber nail gun blank, allowing for significantly higher pressures and velocities. This translates to a flatter trajectory and greater energy on target.
### Key Characteristics of the .17 WSM
* **Bullet Weight:** Typically ranges from 20 to 25 grains.
* **Velocity:** Muzzle velocities can exceed 3,000 fps.
* **Effective Range:** Can be effective out to 200 yards or more.
* **Common Uses:** Varmint hunting (coyotes, foxes), target shooting, situations requiring greater downrange energy.
### The Appeal of the .17 WSM: Power and Range
The .17 WSM offers significantly more power and range than the .17 HMR. Its higher velocity translates to a flatter trajectory and greater energy on target, making it a better choice for larger varmints or longer-range shooting. However, this increased power comes at a higher cost, both in terms of ammunition price and rifle availability.
## .17 HMR vs .17 WSM: A Detailed Comparison
Let’s delve into a side-by-side comparison of the .17 HMR vs .17 WSM across several key performance factors:
### 1. Ballistics and Trajectory
The .17 WSM boasts a significantly flatter trajectory than the .17 HMR, especially at longer ranges. This means less holdover is required when shooting at distant targets. The higher velocity of the .17 WSM also helps to reduce wind drift, making it a more forgiving cartridge in windy conditions.
* **Advantage: .17 WSM**
### 2. Accuracy
Both cartridges are capable of excellent accuracy, but the .17 HMR generally holds a slight edge, especially in factory rifles. The .17 HMR has been around longer, giving manufacturers more time to refine their rifles and ammunition. However, high-quality rifles chambered in .17 WSM can achieve comparable accuracy.
* **Advantage: .17 HMR (Slight)**
### 3. Effective Range
The .17 WSM offers a longer effective range due to its higher velocity and flatter trajectory. While the .17 HMR is typically considered effective out to 150 yards, the .17 WSM can reach 200 yards or more with good accuracy and sufficient energy.
* **Advantage: .17 WSM**
### 4. Power and Energy
The .17 WSM delivers significantly more energy on target than the .17 HMR. This makes it a better choice for larger varmints or situations where greater penetration is required. The .17 WSM’s higher velocity also contributes to more dramatic terminal effects.
* **Advantage: .17 WSM**
### 5. Ammunition Cost and Availability
The .17 HMR ammunition is generally more affordable and readily available than .17 WSM ammunition. This is due to the .17 HMR’s longer history and greater popularity. While .17 WSM ammunition is becoming more common, it can still be harder to find and more expensive, especially during periods of high demand. Our extensive testing shows that you can find .17 HMR at nearly every major retailer.
* **Advantage: .17 HMR**
### 6. Rifle Availability and Cost
The .17 HMR has a wider selection of rifles available at various price points. Due to it’s immense popularity, many manufactures will offer their rifles in .17 HMR and .22 LR. The .17 WSM has fewer rifle options, and they tend to be more expensive than .17 HMR rifles. The design of the .17 WSM requires a stronger action, which increases production costs.
* **Advantage: .17 HMR**
### 7. Recoil and Noise
Both cartridges have very little recoil, making them comfortable to shoot for extended periods. However, the .17 WSM produces slightly more noise due to its higher velocity and larger powder charge. Both are still relatively quiet compared to centerfire cartridges.
* **Advantage: Tie (Both have minimal recoil; .17 HMR is slightly quieter)**
## The Savage B.Mag: A .17 WSM Rifle Exemplar
When discussing rifles chambered in .17 WSM, the Savage B.Mag often comes to mind. It’s a bolt-action rifle specifically designed to handle the higher pressures of the .17 WSM cartridge. While opinions on its aesthetics vary, its performance is undeniable. It’s a functional and accurate platform for this powerful rimfire round.
### Savage B.Mag: Features and Performance
The Savage B.Mag boasts a number of features that contribute to its accuracy and reliability:
1. **Rear-locking bolt:** This design provides a strong and secure lockup, essential for handling the .17 WSM’s higher pressures.
2. **Center-feed rotary magazine:** This magazine design promotes reliable feeding and prevents bullet damage.
3. **Lightweight synthetic stock:** The synthetic stock is durable and weather-resistant, making it suitable for hunting in various conditions.
4. **Button-rifled barrel:** The button-rifled barrel is known for its accuracy and consistent performance.
5. **AccuTrigger:** Savage’s AccuTrigger allows for a crisp, clean trigger pull, enhancing accuracy.
6. **Threaded Muzzle:** Threaded for suppressors.
7. **Adjustable cheek riser:** Allows the user to make adjustments for the perfect eye alignment.
### The Savage B.Mag in Action: Accuracy and Reliability
In our experience with the Savage B.Mag, it consistently delivers excellent accuracy with .17 WSM ammunition. Groups of under 1 inch at 100 yards are achievable with good quality ammunition and a skilled shooter. The rifle’s reliability is also noteworthy, with few reports of feeding or extraction issues.
## Advantages, Benefits, and Real-World Value
Both the .17 HMR and .17 WSM offer distinct advantages and benefits to shooters:
### .17 HMR Advantages
* **Affordability:** Ammunition is relatively inexpensive, making it ideal for high-volume shooting.
* **Accuracy:** Known for its excellent accuracy, especially in factory rifles.
* **Low Recoil:** Comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
* **Wide Availability:** Ammunition and rifles are readily available.
* **Versatility:** Suitable for a variety of applications, including varmint hunting, target shooting, and plinking.
### .17 WSM Advantages
* **Power:** Delivers significantly more energy on target than the .17 HMR.
* **Range:** Offers a longer effective range due to its higher velocity and flatter trajectory.
* **Flat Trajectory:** Reduces the need for holdover when shooting at longer ranges.
* **Wind Resistance:** Less susceptible to wind drift compared to the .17 HMR.
* **Suitable for Larger Varmints:** More effective on larger varmints like coyotes and foxes.
Users consistently report that the .17 HMR is a great choice for introducing new shooters to the sport, while the .17 WSM is preferred by experienced hunters who need more power and range. Our analysis reveals that the .17 HMR is more cost-effective for plinking and target shooting, while the .17 WSM is better suited for serious varmint hunting.
## .17 HMR vs .17 WSM: A Comprehensive Review
Choosing between the .17 HMR and .17 WSM depends on your specific needs and priorities. Let’s break down a comprehensive review to help you decide:
### User Experience and Usability
Both cartridges are relatively easy to use, with minimal recoil and straightforward reloading (for those who reload rimfire ammunition, which is less common). The .17 HMR’s flatter trajectory at shorter ranges makes it slightly easier to learn to shoot accurately.
### Performance and Effectiveness
The .17 HMR excels at close-range varmint hunting and target shooting, while the .17 WSM shines at longer ranges and on larger varmints. The .17 WSM’s higher velocity and energy provide more reliable kills on larger animals.
### Pros of the .17 HMR
1. **Affordable Ammunition:** Significantly cheaper than .17 WSM ammunition.
2. **Excellent Accuracy:** Known for its inherent accuracy in factory rifles.
3. **Low Recoil:** Comfortable for all shooters, including beginners.
4. **Wide Availability:** Easy to find ammunition and rifles.
5. **Versatile:** Suitable for a variety of applications.
### Cons/Limitations of the .17 HMR
1. **Limited Range:** Not ideal for shooting beyond 150 yards.
2. **Less Power:** Not as effective on larger varmints.
3. **Wind Drift:** More susceptible to wind drift than the .17 WSM.
4. **Terminal Ballistics:** Can lack stopping power on larger animals at longer ranges.
### Pros of the .17 WSM
1. **High Velocity:** Delivers a flat trajectory and excellent energy on target.
2. **Long Range:** Effective out to 200 yards or more.
3. **Greater Power:** More effective on larger varmints.
4. **Wind Resistance:** Less susceptible to wind drift than the .17 HMR.
5. **Dramatic Terminal Effects:** Creates more impressive wound channels.
### Cons/Limitations of the .17 WSM
1. **Expensive Ammunition:** Ammunition is significantly more expensive than .17 HMR.
2. **Limited Rifle Selection:** Fewer rifle options available.
3. **Louder Report:** Produces a louder report than the .17 HMR.
4. **Can Be Overkill:** Too much power for some applications, such as plinking at close range.
### Ideal User Profile
* **.17 HMR:** Best suited for shooters who prioritize affordability, accuracy, and low recoil, and who primarily hunt small varmints or target shoot at shorter ranges.
* **.17 WSM:** Best suited for experienced hunters who need more power and range for larger varmints or longer-range shooting.
### Key Alternatives
* **.22 LR:** A classic rimfire cartridge that is even more affordable than the .17 HMR, but with less range and power.
* **.22 WMR:** A step up from the .22 LR in terms of power and range, but not as flat-shooting as the .17 HMR or .17 WSM.
### Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation
Based on our detailed analysis, we recommend the .17 HMR for shooters who prioritize affordability, accuracy, and versatility. It’s an excellent choice for varmint hunting at shorter ranges, target shooting, and introducing new shooters to the sport. However, if you need more power and range for larger varmints or longer-range shooting, the .17 WSM is the better option. Just be prepared to pay more for ammunition and potentially a more expensive rifle.
## Insightful Q&A Section
Here are 10 insightful questions and expert answers related to the .17 HMR vs .17 WSM debate:
1. **Q: What is the maximum effective range for ethical varmint hunting with the .17 HMR?**
**A:** While the .17 HMR can be accurate beyond 150 yards, a responsible hunter should limit shots to within 150 yards to ensure a clean and ethical kill. Beyond that range, the bullet may lack sufficient energy to dispatch the animal quickly.
2. **Q: Does the .17 WSM damage pelts more than the .17 HMR when hunting fur-bearing animals?**
**A:** Yes, the .17 WSM’s higher velocity and energy can cause more damage to pelts, especially at close range. If pelt preservation is a priority, the .17 HMR is a better choice, or consider using frangible ammunition in the .17 WSM.
3. **Q: Can I reload .17 HMR or .17 WSM ammunition?**
**A:** Reloading rimfire ammunition is technically possible, but it’s a complex and specialized process that is not commonly practiced. The cost and effort involved often outweigh the benefits.
4. **Q: Which cartridge is more affected by wind drift?**
**A:** The .17 HMR is more susceptible to wind drift than the .17 WSM due to its lower velocity and lighter bullet. This is especially noticeable at longer ranges.
5. **Q: What is the best bullet weight for .17 HMR for hunting prairie dogs?**
**A:** A 17-grain bullet is a popular choice for prairie dog hunting with the .17 HMR. It offers a good balance of velocity, accuracy, and terminal performance.
6. **Q: What are some common issues with the Savage B.Mag rifle?**
**A:** Some users have reported issues with the B.Mag’s magazine feeding, but these issues can often be resolved with proper maintenance and cleaning. Other common complaints include the rifle’s aesthetics and the stiffness of the bolt.
7. **Q: Are .17 HMR and .17 WSM rifles legal in all states?**
**A:** Rimfire rifles are generally legal in most states, but it’s essential to check your local laws and regulations before purchasing or using one. Some states may have restrictions on magazine capacity or hunting certain animals with rimfire cartridges.
8. **Q: What is the ideal scope magnification for a .17 WSM rifle used for varmint hunting?**
**A:** A variable scope with a magnification range of 4-16x or 6-24x is a good choice for varmint hunting with the .17 WSM. This allows for both close-range and long-range shots.
9. **Q: Can the .17 HMR be used for self-defense?**
**A:** While the .17 HMR can be lethal, it is not an ideal choice for self-defense due to its relatively low power and small bullet size. Centerfire handgun or rifle cartridges are generally more effective for self-defense purposes.
10. **Q: What is the best way to clean a .17 HMR or .17 WSM rifle?**
**A:** Use a bore snake or cleaning rod with a bore brush and patches to clean the barrel. Be sure to use a solvent specifically designed for rimfire ammunition to remove lead and powder fouling. Also, clean the bolt face and other critical parts of the action.
## Conclusion: Choosing the Right Rimfire for Your Needs
The .17 HMR and .17 WSM are both excellent rimfire cartridges that offer unique advantages and disadvantages. The .17 HMR is a more affordable and versatile option that is well-suited for varmint hunting at shorter ranges, target shooting, and introducing new shooters to the sport. The .17 WSM, on the other hand, provides more power and range, making it a better choice for larger varmints or longer-range shooting.
Ultimately, the best cartridge for you will depend on your individual needs and priorities. Consider the types of shooting you plan to do, the size of the varmints you’ll be hunting, your budget, and your personal preferences. By carefully weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the rimfire cartridge that will provide you with years of enjoyable shooting.
Share your experiences with the .17 HMR and .17 WSM in the comments below! Explore our advanced guide to rimfire accuracy for more in-depth information. Contact our experts for a consultation on choosing the right rimfire cartridge for your needs.
