Choosing the right rimfire cartridge can significantly impact your shooting experience, whether you're hunting small game or enjoying target practice. Two popular choices often top the list: the venerable .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR) and the newer, high-velocity .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (.17 HMR). This in-depth comparison will help you decide which cartridge best suits your needs.
Understanding the Contenders: .22 WMR and .17 HMR
Both the .22 WMR and .17 HMR are rimfire cartridges, meaning the primer is located in the rim of the cartridge case. However, their performance characteristics differ significantly.
.22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR)
- Ballistics: The .22 WMR boasts greater power and stopping power than the .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR), making it effective against small game like rabbits, squirrels, and prairie dogs. Its heavier bullet also offers better wind resistance at longer ranges. Typical velocities range from 1400 to 2200 feet per second (fps), depending on the ammunition.
- Versatility: Available in a wide variety of bullet weights, types (hollow point, full metal jacket, etc.), and applications making it suitable for hunting, plinking, and even some pest control.
- Cost: Generally more expensive than .22 LR, but less costly than .17 HMR ammunition.
- Recoil: Noticeably more recoil than .22 LR, but manageable for most shooters.
.17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (.17 HMR)
- Ballistics: The .17 HMR is known for its exceptional speed and flat trajectory. Velocities often exceed 2500 fps, resulting in a very accurate, long-range option. This makes it exceptionally effective for varmint hunting and target shooting at extended distances.
- Accuracy: The lighter bullet and higher velocity contributes to impressive accuracy, even at ranges beyond what's typical for .22 LR or .22 WMR.
- Cost: Generally more expensive per round than .22 WMR, largely due to the specialized manufacturing process for its smaller bullet.
- Recoil: Comparatively lighter recoil than .22 WMR, making it pleasant to shoot for extended periods.
- Hunting Applications: While effective for small game, the smaller bullet diameter may be less effective for larger animals compared to .22 WMR.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Key Differences
| Feature | .22 WMR | .17 HMR |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 inches (5.6mm) | .17 inches (4.5mm) |
| Velocity | 1400-2200 fps | 2500+ fps |
| Energy | Higher | Lower |
| Stopping Power | Higher | Lower |
| Accuracy | Good | Excellent |
| Range | Moderate | Longer |
| Cost | Moderate | Higher |
| Recoil | Moderate | Low |
| Hunting | Rabbits, squirrels, prairie dogs | Rabbits, squirrels, prairie dogs, varmints |
| Target Shooting | Suitable | Excellent |
Choosing the Right Cartridge: Factors to Consider
The best cartridge depends heavily on your intended use:
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Hunting Small Game: For hunting larger small game like rabbits or groundhogs, the .22 WMR's greater stopping power is often preferred. However, the .17 HMR's flat trajectory and accuracy make it ideal for longer shots at smaller animals.
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Varmint Hunting: The .17 HMR's high velocity and accuracy are perfect for varmint hunting at extended ranges.
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Target Shooting: Both cartridges are capable of excellent accuracy, but the .17 HMR's flat trajectory makes it slightly superior at longer ranges.
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Budget: The .22 WMR generally has lower ammunition costs compared to .17 HMR.
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Recoil Sensitivity: Shooters sensitive to recoil may find the .17 HMR more pleasant to shoot for longer periods.
Case Study: Field Testing Results
(Note: This section would ideally include real-world data from field testing both cartridges in similar conditions. Include details like accuracy at various ranges, bullet impact, etc. This data would need to be generated through independent testing.)
Conclusion: The Verdict
The choice between .22 WMR and .17 HMR ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities. The .22 WMR offers superior stopping power and is often more budget-friendly, while the .17 HMR boasts exceptional accuracy, speed, and longer range. Carefully consider the factors discussed above before making your decision. Both cartridges represent excellent choices within their respective niches.