Learn more about .17 HMR Ammo
The History of the .17 HMR Cartridge
Introduced by Hornady in 2002 and developed in collaboration with Marlin and Ruger, the .17 HMR was engineered to outperform traditional rimfire options like the .22 Long Rifle and .22 WMR. Built on a .22 Magnum case necked down to accept a .17 caliber (4.5mm) bullet, the cartridge achieves muzzle velocities exceeding 2,500 feet per second, nearly double that of the standard .22 LR. Since its launch, it has gained widespread popularity among small game hunters and precision shooters alike.
What Is .17 HMR Best Used For?
Introduced by Hornady in 2002 and developed in collaboration with Marlin and Ruger, the .17 HMR was engineered to outperform traditional rimfire options like the .22 Long Rifle and .22 WMR. Built on a .22 Magnum case necked down to accept a .17 caliber (4.5mm) bullet, the cartridge achieves muzzle velocities exceeding 2,500 feet per second, nearly double that of the standard .22 LR. Since its launch, it has gained widespread popularity among small game hunters and precision shooters alike.
The .17 HMR excels in multiple shooting applications where speed, precision, and accuracy are critical:
Varmint Hunting - With its high velocity and flat trajectory, the .17 HMR is ideal for hunting small game such as prairie dogs, groundhogs, rabbits, and squirrels. It provides enough terminal energy for effective results while minimizing over-penetration and ricochet risks.
Target Shooting - Perfect for both hobbyists and competitors, the .17 HMR offers tight grouping and minimal recoil at 100 to 200 yards. It’s also an excellent training round for new or younger shooters looking to practice long-range skills.
Pest Control - Farmers, ranchers, and property owners trust the .17 HMR for humane and effective pest control, helping manage rodents and other small nuisance animals without endangering nearby livestock.
Note: The .17 HMR is not recommended for larger game like deer or coyotes due to its light projectile and limited stopping power.
.17 HMR vs. .22 LR – Which Is Better?
When comparing .17 HMR to .22 LR, here are the key differences:
Velocity: .17 HMR averages around 2,500 fps, far surpassing the .22 LR’s 1,100–1,300 fps.
Accuracy: The aerodynamic bullet and higher speed of the .17 HMR offer superior accuracy, especially beyond 100 yards.
Power: While the .22 LR has heavier bullets, the .17 HMR’s speed and explosive terminal effect give it an edge in power and long-range effectiveness.
Versatility: The .22 LR remains more economical and quieter, but the .17 HMR outperforms it in most ballistic categories.
How Much Does .17 HMR Ammo Cost?
Cost is a key factor when choosing between rimfire cartridges:
.17 HMR price per round: $0.30–$0.50
.22 LR price per round: $0.05–$0.12
Centerfire ammo: $1.00+ per round
While more expensive than .22 LR, the .17 HMR offers high-performance shooting at a much lower cost than centerfire options—making it a smart choice for shooters who demand precision without breaking the bank.
Why Purchase .17 HMR Ammo from Palmetto State Armory?
Whether you're looking to improve your long-range accuracy or need a reliable round for pest control, .17 HMR ammunition delivers unmatched performance in the rimfire category. Browse our selection of top brands like Hornady, CCI, and Winchester to find the best .17 HMR ammo for your needs.