Choosing the right rimfire cartridge can be tricky, especially when faced with popular options like the 17 HMR, .22 Magnum, and .22 LR. Each offers distinct advantages and disadvantages, making the "best" choice highly dependent on intended use. This detailed comparison will help you understand the key differences and decide which cartridge best suits your needs.
Ballistics: Power, Velocity, and Range
Let's start with the core differences: the ballistic performance.
| Cartridge | Caliber | Muzzle Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lbs) | Effective Range (yards) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| .22 LR | .22 inch | ~1100 - 1200 | ~130 - 150 | ~50 - 75 |
| .22 Magnum | .22 inch | ~1400 - 1500 | ~200 - 250 | ~100 - 150 |
| 17 HMR | .17 inch | ~2500 - 2600 | ~300 - 350 | ~150 - 200 |
Key Observations:
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Velocity & Energy: The 17 HMR significantly surpasses both the .22 Magnum and .22 LR in terms of muzzle velocity and energy. This translates to flatter trajectory and greater range. The .22 Magnum offers a noticeable increase in power over the .22 LR.
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Effective Range: The 17 HMR boasts the longest effective range, followed by the .22 Magnum, and then the .22 LR. This is directly related to the higher velocity and energy.
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Trajectory: The higher velocity of the 17 HMR and .22 Magnum results in flatter trajectories compared to the .22 LR, making long-range shots more accurate.
Applications: Hunting, Target Shooting, and Pest Control
The ideal cartridge depends heavily on your application:
Hunting:
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Small Game: All three cartridges are suitable for small game hunting, such as rabbits, squirrels, and groundhogs. However, the 17 HMR's increased power and range make it the preferred choice for longer shots and larger prey. The .22 Magnum is a solid alternative for close- to mid-range hunting. The .22 LR, while effective at close range, may lack the stopping power for larger animals.
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Predator Control: The 17 HMR is an excellent choice for predator control due to its flat trajectory and potent energy. The .22 Magnum can also be effective, though the 17 HMR generally delivers superior results.
Target Shooting:
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Accuracy: All three cartridges can be used for target shooting, with the .22 LR being the most common and economical option. The 17 HMR and .22 Magnum offer greater precision at longer ranges.
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Cost: The .22 LR significantly outperforms the other two in terms of cost per round, making it ideal for high-volume target practice.
Pest Control:
- Effectiveness: The 17 HMR's higher energy makes it a more effective choice for pest control, especially for varmints like rats and gophers, offering quicker, cleaner kills. The .22 Magnum offers a good balance between effectiveness and cost.
Ammunition Cost and Availability
Ammunition cost plays a crucial role in the decision-making process:
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.22 LR: Remains the most economical option, with readily available ammunition at a significantly lower price point than the 17 HMR and .22 Magnum.
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.22 Magnum: Presents a moderate cost increase compared to the .22 LR, but usually less expensive than the 17 HMR.
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17 HMR: Generally the most expensive of the three, impacting the overall cost of shooting.
Rifle Considerations: Weight, Recoil, and Features
The rifle you choose should complement the cartridge's capabilities.
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.22 LR: Often used in lightweight rifles, producing minimal recoil.
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.22 Magnum: Generally found in slightly heavier rifles to manage the increased recoil compared to .22 LR.
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17 HMR: Commonly used in rifles designed for its higher velocity and energy, often lighter than rifles chambered in .22 Magnum.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cartridge
The choice between the 17 HMR, .22 Magnum, and .22 LR ultimately hinges on your specific needs and priorities.
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.22 LR: Best for plinking, inexpensive target practice, and small game hunting at close ranges.
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.22 Magnum: A good compromise for hunting and pest control, offering more power than the .22 LR at a reasonable cost.
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17 HMR: Ideal for long-range accuracy, hunting larger small game, and predator control. However, it's more expensive to shoot.
Careful consideration of these factors will help you select the ideal rimfire cartridge to meet your requirements. Happy shooting!
