A Look at the Origins
The .17 Hornet
The crisp air of dawn, the rustling of unseen creatures in the tall grass, the anticipation of a successful hunt – these are the moments that draw varmint hunters to their passion. But before the hunt can begin, a crucial decision must be made: selecting the right cartridge. Among the popular choices, the .17 Hornet and the .17 HMR stand out, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages. This article dives deep into a comprehensive comparison, helping you determine which of these .17 caliber powerhouses is the perfect fit for your varmint hunting needs. We will explore everything from ballistics to practical performance, equipping you with the knowledge to make an informed choice.
The .17 HMR
Before diving into the technical aspects, it’s essential to understand the history and development of both the .17 Hornet and the .17 HMR. This context provides a foundation for understanding their respective strengths and weaknesses.
Exploring the Technical Specifications
Case Design and Construction
The .17 Hornet, a centerfire cartridge, traces its roots back to the classic .22 Hornet. Enthusiasts and wildcatters recognized the potential of a smaller, faster bullet. The idea was to create a cartridge with a flatter trajectory and less wind drift than the .22 Hornet, ideal for varmint hunting at longer distances. It was later standardized, and the results were impressive. The .17 Hornet offers a level of performance that can reach out and touch targets further away. The development showcases a commitment to adapting the classic cartridge to improve performance.
Bullet Characteristics
The key to understanding the .17 Hornet vs HMR debate lies in the technical details of their design and performance. We will now closely examine various technical specifications to analyze their comparative strengths and weaknesses:
Velocity and Energy Profiles
Both cartridges fire bullets with a diameter of .172 inches. However, the bullet weights typically used vary. The .17 Hornet usually utilizes bullets weighing from twenty to twenty-five grains, while the .17 HMR typically uses bullets in the fifteen to twenty-grain range. This influences the trajectory and energy delivered. The range of bullet types is important to consider as well. Both are available in various constructions, including hollow points and varmint-specific designs optimized for rapid expansion upon impact. This offers shooters choices based on the varmint types they plan to hunt.
Trajectory Considerations
The .17 Hornet boasts a higher muzzle velocity compared to the .17 HMR. The .17 Hornet can achieve velocities in excess of three thousand feet per second (fps), depending on the load and barrel length. The .17 HMR typically reaches velocities closer to two thousand six hundred fps. This difference in velocity translates to a flatter trajectory and less bullet drop at longer distances for the .17 Hornet. Consequently, the .17 Hornet delivers significantly more energy at the muzzle and throughout its effective range. This gives the .17 Hornet an advantage when engaging varmints at extended distances.
External Ballistics – A Detailed Overview
The .17 Hornet’s flatter trajectory is a significant advantage in varmint hunting. With a lower bullet drop, shooters can hold a more consistent point of aim over a wider range. The .17 HMR, while still relatively flat shooting for a rimfire, exhibits more bullet drop at extended ranges. This requires more precise holdover adjustments. Ballistic calculations using trajectory charts or online tools are crucial for both cartridges, but the .17 Hornet’s flatter trajectory simplifies long-range engagements.
Performance in the Field: A Practical Analysis
Accuracy Under the Scope
Examining the external ballistics will underscore the differences further. Wind drift, in particular, becomes more pronounced at longer distances for the .17 HMR. The higher ballistic coefficient of some .17 Hornet bullets also contributes to better resistance against wind. This allows for more accurate shots in windy conditions. Energy retention is another key factor; the .17 Hornet retains more energy at extended ranges, providing a more effective terminal effect on the target.
Managing Recoil
Theoretical specifications are just one part of the picture. Understanding how the .17 Hornet and .17 HMR perform in practical hunting scenarios is critical.
Ammunition Availability and Associated Costs
The accuracy of both cartridges is generally very good, but differences exist. The .17 Hornet, with quality rifles and ammunition, can achieve sub-minute-of-angle (MOA) groups at one hundred yards and beyond. The .17 HMR is also known for excellent accuracy, often capable of sub-MOA groups, though its effective range is typically shorter. Accuracy depends greatly on the rifle, ammunition, and shooter skill. The better ballistics, including a flatter trajectory, often translate to better long-range accuracy with the .17 Hornet.
Rifle Choices and the Impact on Budget
Recoil is another important consideration, especially for new shooters or those planning to take multiple shots during a hunt. The .17 HMR, being a smaller cartridge with less powder, produces very little recoil. The .17 Hornet, while still having relatively mild recoil, generates a noticeable push. The .17 Hornet’s slightly stronger recoil might lead to a longer time to recover the sight picture for follow-up shots, however the differences are subtle.
Sound and Muzzle Blast Considerations
The cost and availability of ammunition significantly impact the overall shooting experience. The .17 HMR ammunition is widely available and generally less expensive than .17 Hornet ammunition. This can make the .17 HMR a more budget-friendly choice for plinking and frequent shooting. The .17 Hornet ammunition, while more costly, is still relatively easy to find, especially from major manufacturers.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
The .17 Hornet
Both the .17 Hornet and .17 HMR offer a variety of rifles. The .17 HMR rifles are extremely popular, leading to a wide selection of bolt-action and semi-automatic models at various price points. The .17 Hornet rifles, while less numerous, are often available in higher-quality bolt-action configurations. The cost of a rifle can affect which cartridge is more appealing to shooters.
The .17 HMR
Noise is another environmental consideration. The .17 HMR is generally quieter than the .17 Hornet, which has a sharper report. This can be an important factor, especially when hunting near populated areas. Sound suppressors are an option for both cartridges, but the .17 Hornet might benefit more due to its louder muzzle blast.
Matching Cartridge to Purpose: Tailoring Your Choice
Best Suited to
To make an informed decision, consider the strengths and weaknesses of each cartridge.
In Summary
The .17 Hornet offers several clear advantages: Higher velocity and a flatter trajectory enhance long-range performance, making it suitable for varminting at extended distances. The .17 Hornet delivers more energy on target, increasing the chance of a humane and effective kill. Reloading is another attractive aspect for some, offering the possibility of customizing loads. However, .17 Hornet has some disadvantages. Ammunition is more expensive than the .17 HMR, and the recoil is noticeable.
In Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Making the Right Choice
The .17 HMR’s advantages revolve around affordability and ease of use. The lower cost of ammunition and the availability of a wider variety of rifles make it accessible to many shooters. Recoil is minimal, enhancing the shooting experience, especially for younger or less experienced hunters. Nevertheless, the .17 HMR has limitations. The effective range is generally shorter than the .17 Hornet, and it’s more susceptible to wind.
