Choosing the right cartridge can significantly impact your shooting experience. For small-game hunters and plinking enthusiasts, the .17 HMR and .17 Hornet often top the list. While both offer impressive accuracy and flat trajectories, understanding their key differences is crucial for making an informed decision. This in-depth comparison will help you determine which cartridge best suits your needs.
Ballistics: A Tale of Two Cartridges
The most significant difference between the .17 HMR and .17 Hornet lies in their ballistics. The .17 HMR, a rimfire cartridge, boasts a higher velocity, typically around 2550 fps (feet per second) with a 17-grain bullet. This translates to flatter trajectory and greater range, making it ideal for longer shots on small game.
The .17 Hornet, a centerfire cartridge, generally offers lower velocity, typically around 2400 fps with a 20-grain bullet. However, this slight velocity difference is often overshadowed by the significant differences in bullet weight and energy. The heavier bullet in the .17 Hornet delivers more stopping power, particularly important when hunting slightly larger game.
Velocity & Energy Comparison Table:
| Cartridge | Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lbs) | Bullet Weight (grains) |
|---|---|---|---|
| .17 HMR | ~2550 | ~200 | 17 |
| .17 Hornet | ~2400 | ~225 | 20 |
(Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on ammunition manufacturer and specific load.)
Recoil & Accuracy: A Shooter's Perspective
Recoil is minimal with both cartridges, making them suitable for new shooters and those sensitive to recoil. However, the .17 Hornet, being a centerfire, often experiences slightly more recoil due to the heavier bullet and more powerful charge. The difference is subtle but noticeable to experienced shooters.
Accuracy is excellent in both cartridges. With quality ammunition and a well-maintained rifle, both can deliver sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy at reasonable ranges. The choice here often comes down to personal preference and the shooter's skill level.
Cost & Availability: A Practical Consideration
The .17 HMR ammunition is generally less expensive and more readily available than .17 Hornet ammunition. This is largely due to the simpler rimfire design of the .17 HMR and its wider popularity. The higher cost and sometimes limited availability of .17 Hornet ammunition should be a factor in your decision-making process.
Hunting Applications: Small Game Specialists
Both cartridges excel at taking small game, such as rabbits, squirrels, and prairie dogs. The .17 HMR's higher velocity makes it preferable for longer shots, while the .17 Hornet's heavier bullet offers slightly better penetration and stopping power, especially on slightly larger targets or at closer ranges.
Rifle Choices: A Matching Pair
Both cartridges are available in a wide variety of rifles, from bolt-action to semi-automatic. Choosing the right rifle platform often comes down to personal preference and intended use. Researching specific rifle models and reading user reviews is highly recommended before making a purchase.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Champion
The choice between the .17 HMR and .17 Hornet depends on your specific needs and priorities. The .17 HMR offers higher velocity, flatter trajectory, greater range, and lower cost ammunition, making it ideal for long-range small-game hunting and plinking. The .17 Hornet provides more stopping power and potentially better accuracy at closer ranges, making it a compelling option for those prioritizing accuracy and heavier impact.
Ultimately, the "better" cartridge is subjective and depends on the individual shooter's preferences and intended applications. Careful consideration of the factors discussed above will lead you to the perfect choice for your next shooting adventure.
