Introduction: The .17 Caliber Showdown
For precision shooters and small game hunters, the .17 caliber rimfire cartridges offer a compelling blend of accuracy, flat trajectory, and manageable recoil. Among the most popular contenders in this category are the .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) and the .17 Hornady Mach 2 (HM2). Both cartridges have carved out niches for themselves, but understanding their differences is crucial for selecting the right tool for the job. This comprehensive comparison delves into the nuances of each cartridge, examining their ballistics, performance, applications, and overall suitability for various shooting scenarios.
Historical Context and Development
.17 HMR: A Magnum Rimfire Revolution
The .17 HMR, introduced by Hornady in 2002, was designed to address the limitations of the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR) in terms of trajectory and accuracy. By necking down a .22 WMR case to accept a .17 caliber bullet, Hornady created a cartridge with a significantly flatter trajectory and improved ballistic coefficient. The .17 HMR quickly gained popularity among varmint hunters and target shooters who appreciated its long-range capabilities and minimal wind drift.
.17 HM2: The Mach 2 Marvel
The .17 HM2, also known as the .17 Mach 2, was developed shortly after the .17 HMR as a less expensive and lower-powered alternative. Based on the .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) case, necked down to .17 caliber, the .17 HM2 offers a flatter trajectory than the .22 LR while maintaining a similar recoil level. Its primary appeal lies in its affordability and suitability for close-range varmint hunting and target shooting.
Ballistics and Performance: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Velocity and Energy
One of the most significant differences between the .17 HMR and the .17 HM2 lies in their velocity and energy. The .17 HMR typically launches a 17-grain bullet at around 2,550 feet per second (fps), generating approximately 245 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle. In contrast, the .17 HM2 propels a 17-grain bullet at around 2,100 fps, producing approximately 166 foot-pounds of energy.
This difference in velocity and energy translates to a flatter trajectory and greater downrange power for the .17 HMR. The .17 HMR maintains its velocity and energy more effectively over longer distances, making it a better choice for shots beyond 100 yards.
Trajectory
The flatter trajectory of the .17 HMR is a key advantage, especially for varmint hunting where precise shot placement is crucial. A typical .17 HMR load will drop approximately 1.7 inches at 100 yards when zeroed at 50 yards. In comparison, the .17 HM2 will drop around 2.7 inches under the same conditions. While this difference may seem small, it can be significant when shooting at small targets or in windy conditions.
The flatter trajectory of the .17 HMR also reduces the need for holdover adjustments at longer ranges, making it easier to achieve accurate shots. This is particularly beneficial for hunters who may not have the time or opportunity to range their targets precisely.
Accuracy
Both the .17 HMR and the .17 HM2 are capable of excellent accuracy in a well-maintained rifle. However, the .17 HMR generally has a slight edge in terms of inherent accuracy, due in part to its higher velocity and more stable bullet flight. It’s not unusual to see .17 HMR rifles consistently producing sub-MOA (minute of angle) groups at 100 yards, especially with high-quality ammunition.
The .17 HM2 is also capable of good accuracy, but it may be more sensitive to variations in ammunition and rifle quality. While it may not consistently achieve sub-MOA accuracy, it can still deliver very respectable groups at shorter ranges, making it suitable for target shooting and close-range varmint hunting.
Wind Drift
Wind drift is another critical factor to consider, especially when shooting in open areas or on windy days. The .17 HMR’s higher velocity and ballistic coefficient make it less susceptible to wind drift than the .17 HM2. This means that the .17 HMR will maintain its trajectory more effectively in windy conditions, resulting in more accurate shots.
For example, a 10 mph crosswind will typically cause the .17 HMR to drift approximately 1.5 inches at 100 yards, while the .17 HM2 will drift around 2.0 inches under the same conditions. This difference can be significant when shooting at small targets or at longer ranges.
Applications: Where Each Cartridge Shines
.17 HMR: The Long-Range Varmint Hunter
The .17 HMR is ideally suited for varmint hunting at longer ranges, where its flat trajectory, high velocity, and minimal wind drift provide a significant advantage. It’s a popular choice for targeting animals such as prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and rabbits at distances of 100 yards or more.
The .17 HMR is also a good option for target shooting, particularly at longer ranges. Its accuracy and flat trajectory make it a fun and challenging cartridge to shoot, and it’s often used in rimfire competitions.
Furthermore, the .17 HMR can be used for pest control, such as eliminating rats or other small rodents around farms or rural properties. Its relatively low noise level and minimal risk of ricochet make it a safer option than centerfire cartridges in populated areas.
.17 HM2: The Affordable Close-Range Option
The .17 HM2 is best suited for close-range varmint hunting and target shooting, where its lower cost and manageable recoil make it an attractive option. It’s a good choice for targeting animals such as squirrels, chipmunks, and rabbits at distances of up to 75 yards.
The .17 HM2 is also a popular choice for introducing young or recoil-sensitive shooters to the world of rimfire shooting. Its low recoil and manageable noise level make it a comfortable and enjoyable cartridge to shoot, helping to build confidence and develop good shooting habits.
Additionally, the .17 HM2 can be used for plinking and recreational shooting. Its low cost per round makes it an affordable option for high-volume shooting, and its accuracy and flat trajectory provide a satisfying shooting experience.
Ammunition Availability and Cost
One of the most significant factors to consider when choosing between the .17 HMR and the .17 HM2 is the availability and cost of ammunition. The .17 HMR is significantly more popular than the .17 HM2, and ammunition is therefore more readily available and generally less expensive.
.17 HMR ammunition can be found at most sporting goods stores and online retailers, and it’s typically available in a variety of bullet weights and styles. In contrast, .17 HM2 ammunition may be more difficult to find, and it may only be available in a limited selection of bullet types.
The cost per round for .17 HMR ammunition is typically around 20-30 cents, while the cost per round for .17 HM2 ammunition can be higher, sometimes exceeding 40 cents. This difference in cost can be significant, especially for high-volume shooters.
Rifle Availability and Cost
The availability and cost of rifles chambered in .17 HMR and .17 HM2 are also important considerations. The .17 HMR is a much more popular cartridge, and there are therefore more rifles available in this caliber.
Rifles chambered in .17 HMR can be found from a wide range of manufacturers, including Savage, Ruger, CZ, and Marlin. These rifles are typically available in a variety of styles, including bolt-action, semi-automatic, and single-shot.
Rifles chambered in .17 HM2 are less common, and they may only be available from a limited number of manufacturers. These rifles are typically bolt-action, and they may be more difficult to find than .17 HMR rifles.
The cost of rifles chambered in .17 HMR and .17 HM2 can vary depending on the manufacturer, style, and features. However, .17 HMR rifles are generally more affordable than .17 HM2 rifles, due to their greater popularity and wider availability.
Recoil and Noise
Both the .17 HMR and the .17 HM2 have very low recoil, making them comfortable to shoot for shooters of all ages and experience levels. However, the .17 HM2 has slightly less recoil than the .17 HMR, due to its lower velocity and energy.
The noise level of both cartridges is also relatively low, making them suitable for shooting in areas where noise is a concern. However, the .17 HMR is slightly louder than the .17 HM2, due to its higher velocity and larger powder charge.
Pros and Cons: A Quick Summary
.17 HMR
Pros:
- Flatter trajectory
- Higher velocity and energy
- Better accuracy at longer ranges
- Less wind drift
- More readily available ammunition
- Wider selection of rifles
Cons:
- More expensive ammunition
- Slightly more recoil
- Slightly louder
.17 HM2
Pros:
- Less expensive ammunition (potentially, but less available)
- Slightly less recoil
- Slightly quieter
Cons:
- Less flat trajectory
- Lower velocity and energy
- Less accuracy at longer ranges
- More wind drift
- Less readily available ammunition
- Limited selection of rifles
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cartridge for Your Needs
The choice between the .17 HMR and the .17 HM2 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a cartridge with a flat trajectory, high velocity, and excellent accuracy at longer ranges, the .17 HMR is the clear choice. It’s a versatile cartridge that’s well-suited for varmint hunting, target shooting, and pest control.
However, if you’re looking for a more affordable and lower-recoil option for close-range varmint hunting and target shooting, the .17 HM2 may be a better choice. It’s a good option for introducing young or recoil-sensitive shooters to the world of rimfire shooting, and it’s also suitable for plinking and recreational shooting.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which cartridge is right for you is to try them both out and see which one you prefer. Consider your budget, shooting style, and intended applications, and then choose the cartridge that best meets your needs.
