When comparing the .17 HMR and the .17 Hornet, both have unique strengths. These two cartridges are popular among hunters and shooting enthusiasts alike.
Understanding the differences between the. 17 HMR and the. 17 Hornet can help you make an informed choice. The. 17 HMR, introduced by Hornady in 2002, is known for its accuracy and affordability. It’s a rimfire cartridge, making it suitable for small game and varmint hunting.
On the other hand, the. 17 Hornet, also developed by Hornady, offers higher velocity and more power. It’s a centerfire cartridge, designed for longer ranges and larger targets. By comparing these two options, you can decide which one best fits your needs for accuracy, range, and budget.
.17 Hmr Overview
The .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) is a popular small-caliber cartridge. It is known for its accuracy and high velocity. Let’s dive into its origins and characteristics.
Development And Origin
The .17 HMR was introduced by Hornady in 2002. It was developed from the .22 Magnum case. This modification allowed it to shoot smaller, faster bullets. It quickly gained popularity among varmint hunters. Its precision made it ideal for small game hunting. The cartridge filled a niche for high-speed, low-recoil shooting.
General Characteristics
The .17 HMR has impressive ballistics for its size. It uses a .17 caliber bullet. The bullet weight ranges from 15 to 20 grains. It has a muzzle velocity of around 2,500 feet per second. This speed results in a flat trajectory. Shooters appreciate its accuracy at longer ranges. The .17 HMR also has low recoil. This makes it easy to shoot for extended periods. It is ideal for novice shooters and experienced marksmen alike.
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.17 Hornet Overview
The .17 Hornet is a popular rifle cartridge. It is designed for small game hunting and varmint control. This cartridge is known for its accuracy and high velocity. Here, we will discuss its development, origin, and general characteristics.
Development And Origin
The .17 Hornet was developed in the early 1950s. It was created by P.O. Ackley, a well-known gunsmith. He modified the .22 Hornet case by necking it down to .17 caliber. The goal was to create a faster, more accurate varmint round.
In 2012, Hornady Manufacturing introduced a commercial version. This version standardized the cartridge. It offered improved performance and consistency. Today, the .17 Hornet is widely used by hunters and sport shooters.
General Characteristics
The .17 Hornet offers several key features:
- Caliber: .17
- Case Type: Rimmed, bottleneck
- Bullet Weight: 20 to 25 grains
- Muzzle Velocity: Approximately 3,650 feet per second
- Muzzle Energy: Around 600 foot-pounds
This cartridge is suitable for small game and varmint hunting. It provides a flat trajectory and excellent accuracy. The recoil is minimal, making it easy to shoot. The .17 Hornet is also known for its low noise level.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .17 |
| Case Type | Rimmed, bottleneck |
| Bullet Weight | 20 to 25 grains |
| Muzzle Velocity | Approximately 3,650 feet per second |
| Muzzle Energy | Around 600 foot-pounds |
The .17 Hornet is perfect for those seeking a precise and powerful round. It is a reliable choice for small game and varmint hunting. With its high velocity and low recoil, it is a favorite among many shooters.
Ballistic Performance
Understanding the ballistic performance of the .17 HMR and .17 Hornet is crucial for shooters. Both these rounds are popular for small game hunting and target shooting. This section explores how each cartridge performs in terms of speed, energy, and trajectory.
.17 Hmr Ballistics
The .17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire) is known for its high speed and accuracy. It was developed from the .22 Magnum. This rimfire cartridge offers impressive ballistic performance for its size.
- Muzzle Velocity: Approximately 2,550 feet per second
- Muzzle Energy: Around 245 foot-pounds
- Trajectory: Flatter trajectory up to 150 yards
These characteristics make the .17 HMR suitable for small game hunting and varmint control. Its high speed allows for precise shots at longer ranges. The flat trajectory reduces the need for holdover adjustments.
.17 Hornet Ballistics
The .17 Hornet offers a step up in performance compared to the .17 HMR. This centerfire cartridge provides higher velocity and energy, making it a favorite among varmint hunters.
- Muzzle Velocity: Approximately 3,650 feet per second
- Muzzle Energy: Around 800 foot-pounds
- Trajectory: Very flat trajectory up to 300 yards
With these ballistics, the .17 Hornet excels in long-range shooting. It delivers more energy, ensuring effective hits on larger varmints. The higher velocity also means less wind drift, enhancing accuracy.
Comparing both cartridges, the .17 HMR is excellent for short to medium ranges. The .17 Hornet, on the other hand, shines at longer distances with greater stopping power.
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Accuracy
The accuracy of a rifle cartridge is crucial for any shooter. Whether you’re targeting small game or participating in competitive shooting, the precision of your shots can make all the difference. Comparing the .17 HMR and .17 Hornet reveals some interesting insights into their performance.
Range Capabilities
The range capabilities of these cartridges differ significantly. The .17 HMR is effective up to 200 yards. Its lightweight bullet and higher velocity support this range. On the other hand, the .17 Hornet excels at longer distances. It maintains accuracy up to 300 yards. This advantage comes from its higher muzzle velocity and better ballistic coefficient.
| Cartridge | Effective Range | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| .17 HMR | Up to 200 yards | Small game and varmint |
| .17 Hornet | Up to 300 yards | Long-range varmint |
Consistency
Consistency in accuracy is vital. The .17 HMR offers reliable performance within its effective range. Its flat trajectory supports this consistency. The .17 Hornet, with its higher velocity, provides even better consistency at longer ranges. This makes it a preferred choice for long-distance shooting. Each cartridge has its strengths. Choosing between them depends on your specific needs.
Hunting Applications
The .17 HMR and .17 Hornet are popular choices for hunting. Both cartridges offer precision and effectiveness in different hunting scenarios. Understanding their hunting applications can help hunters choose the best option for their needs.
Small Game
The .17 HMR is excellent for small game hunting. Its small, fast-moving bullet provides minimal meat damage. This makes it ideal for hunting rabbits and squirrels. The lightweight design of the .17 HMR offers less recoil, enhancing accuracy for small targets.
The .17 Hornet also performs well for small game. Its slightly larger bullet delivers a bit more energy. This can be beneficial when targeting slightly larger small game. The .17 Hornet offers greater range, which can be useful in open fields.
Varmint Control
For varmint control, the .17 HMR shines with its high velocity. It is perfect for eliminating pests like prairie dogs and groundhogs. The flat trajectory of the .17 HMR ensures precise shots at moderate distances.
The .17 Hornet is a powerhouse for larger varmints. It delivers higher energy, making it suitable for coyotes and foxes. The extended range of the .17 Hornet allows hunters to take shots from further away. This can be crucial in open terrain where distance matters.
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Cost And Availability
When comparing the .17 HMR and the .17 Hornet, cost and availability play crucial roles. Understanding the pricing and rifle options helps in making an informed decision. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Ammo Pricing
The .17 HMR ammo is widely available and generally cheaper. It is known for its affordability and ease of access. A box of 50 rounds typically costs between $12 to $16.
On the other hand, the .17 Hornet ammo is more specialized. It is less common and tends to be pricier. A box of 25 rounds can cost around $25 to $30. The higher price reflects its performance and niche market.
Rifle Options
Rifles chambered in .17 HMR are quite popular. Many manufacturers offer a variety of models. These rifles are generally more budget-friendly. You can find decent quality rifles starting at $200.
In contrast, .17 Hornet rifles are less common. They are often more expensive due to their specialized nature. Prices for these rifles usually start around $600. This higher cost is due to the precision and quality required for the .17 Hornet’s performance.
Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right option based on your needs and budget.
Pros And Cons
Choosing between the .17 HMR and the .17 Hornet can be challenging. Both have unique strengths and weaknesses. Understanding their pros and cons helps make an informed decision.
Advantages Of .17 Hmr
The .17 HMR is known for its accuracy and low recoil. Here are some of its main advantages:
- Accuracy: The .17 HMR is extremely accurate, making it ideal for small game hunting.
- Low Recoil: It has minimal recoil, making it easy to shoot.
- Cost-Effective: Ammo for the .17 HMR is generally cheaper than the .17 Hornet.
- Availability: It is widely available in most gun shops.
Advantages Of .17 Hornet
The .17 Hornet offers higher velocity and longer range. Here are some of its key benefits:
- Higher Velocity: The .17 Hornet shoots faster, providing better trajectory.
- Longer Range: It has a longer effective range than the .17 HMR.
- Versatility: Suitable for both small game and varmint hunting.
- Energy: The .17 Hornet carries more energy, making it effective for larger targets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Main Differences Between 17 Hmr And 17 Hornet?
The 17 HMR is a rimfire round. The 17 Hornet is a centerfire round.
Which Is More Accurate, 17 Hmr Or 17 Hornet?
Both can be accurate. The 17 Hornet typically offers better long-range accuracy.
Is 17 Hmr Cheaper Than 17 Hornet?
Yes, 17 HMR ammo is generally cheaper. 17 Hornet ammo costs more due to centerfire design.
Which Has More Stopping Power, 17 Hmr Or 17 Hornet?
The 17 Hornet has more stopping power. It has a higher velocity and larger energy impact.
Can You Hunt Larger Game With 17 Hornet?
Yes, 17 Hornet is better for hunting larger game. It has more power and range compared to 17 HMR.
Conclusion
Both. 17 HMR and. 17 Hornet have unique advantages. The. 17 HMR is ideal for short-range shooting and small game. The. 17 Hornet offers better performance for longer distances. Choose based on your specific needs and preferences. Each rifle provides great accuracy and precision.
Selecting the right one depends on your shooting goals. For short-range, go with. 17 HMR. For longer distances, select. 17 Hornet. Both are excellent options for different shooting scenarios. Happy shooting and stay safe!